North Edinburgh News – Page 6 – The NEN

New Zealand Team gifts silver fern to Glasgow as living legacy of 2026 Commonwealth Games

A silver fern gifted by the New Zealand Team is to take root at Glasgow Botanic Gardens as a lasting symbol of friendship between Glasgow and Aotearoa New Zealand during the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The fern was formally presented to the Lord Provost of Glasgow at Kibble Palace in the Botanic Gardens on day eight of competition of the Games, which is bringing athletes, teams, visitors and supporters from across the Commonwealth to Glasgow.

The gift was made by Te Kapa o Aotearoa, the New Zealand Team, whose New Zealand House has been based nearby at Òran Mór throughout the Games.

The fern and accompanying plaque recognises the warm welcome extended by Glasgow and create a legacy for residents and visitors to enjoy when visiting the iconic Victorian glasshouse.

The plaque reads:

‘During the Games, New Zealand House stood across the road at Òran Mór, where Glasgow welcomed us with warmth and generosity.

‘This fern stands as a living symbol of friendship, unity and shared pride between Aotearoa New Zealand and Scotland.

Ko Tātou Katoa – The Fern is All of Us.’

The fern is an Alsophila dealbata, also known as Cyathea dealbata or ponga, by the Maoris. The silver fern is deeply associated with New Zealand sporting teams and is recognised as a symbol of New Zealand national identity.

It has been planted in the centre of the Kibble Palace glasshouse, home to an internationally significant collection and the Plant Heritage UK National Collection of tree ferns, alongside existing silver ferns that have already grown to more than ten feet high.

Lord Provost of Glasgow, Cllr Jacqueline McLaren, said; “This is a thoughtful and generous gift from the New Zealand Team and a beautiful reminder of the friendships being formed in Glasgow through the Commonwealth Games.

“The silver fern will be a living legacy of these Games and of the warm relationship between Scotland and Aotearoa New Zealand.”

Nicki Nicol, CEO, New Zealand Olympic Committee, said; “This Silver Fern is a small gesture of thanks for the warmth and generosity Glasgow has shown the New Zealand Team throughout the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

“We wanted to leave something lasting that reflects the friendship we’ve shared and the connections formed during our time here.

“As a symbol that is deeply important to New Zealanders, we hope this fern stands as a reminder of the bond between our nations and the New Zealand Team for many years to come.”

New Zealand have put in a solid performance during the Games with a tally of more than 20 medals so far before competition comes in an end today – Sunday 2 August.

Edinburgh artist prepares for National Galleries showcase

An Edinburgh artist who transforms local landscapes and architecture into stunning prints has been selected to showcase his work at National Galleries Scotland: Portrait.

Callum Russell, who completed a Masters in Contemporary Art at the Edinburgh College of Art after studying Illustration at Falmouth School of Art, specialises in paper cutting and lino printing, creating prints inspired by the distinctive landscapes, industrial buildings and green spaces in and around the city and beyond.

Next weekend, Callum will join over 40 of Scotland’s leading independent makers, artists and designers at the Tea Green Events Summer Market at National Galleries Scotland: Portrait. Open to the public and free to attend, the two-day event runs on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 August (10am – 5pm).

Now in its 12th year, Dundee-based Tea Green Events, owned by Dundee jeweller Joanne MacFadyen, has become one of Scotland’s leading platforms for independent designers, attracting thousands of visitors to markets across the country. The Edinburgh event will feature everything from artwork, textiles and ceramics to jewellery and stationery.

Callum, who creates his work from a home studio in Edinburgh, has also exhibited at Tea Green markets at V&A Dundee and Kelvingrove Art Gallery.

He said, “Initially I got into printmaking purely as a way of making copies of my papercut images, but I soon fell in love with lino cutting and printing as a process in itself. I have always been inspired by cities, urban and industrial settings, from black-and-white, almost cinematic images of the cranes at Leith Docks to the shadows and commuters of Waverley Railway Station.

“However, I’m fortunate to live in a city with so many natural and colourful landscapes like Holyrood Park, Greyfriars Bobby, Arthur’s Seat and The Meadows so I’m increasingly incorporating these spaces, which have a different appeal.”

Joanne said, “We are excited to once again be returning to National Galleries: Portrait, a truly spectacular space and the perfect backdrop to show off the cream of Scotland’s creative talent, including many designers and makers who, like Callum, live, work and take their inspiration from the capital and its surroundings.

“Due to the large number of tourists visiting Edinburgh over the summer, the market also takes Scotland’s talent to a global level, celebrating the very best of Scottish craftsmanship.”

Callum added, “It’s always a delight to exhibit at Tea Green markets and a genuine privilege to be considered amongst other creatives at such a high standard.

“They are so well curated, held in some of Scotland’s most stunning spaces and, as a result, attracting visitors with a genuine interest in art and creativity, which really adds something to the event. And more than ever, it’s a real joy to interact with the public, to talk to them about my work and to get feedback on what I do.”

Festival of Politics: Scotland’s Disability Summit – What Next?

The Scottish Parliament and the Cross-Party Group on Disability held the second summit for people with disabilities from right across Scotland earlier this year.

Join Festival of Politics event ‘Scotland’s Disability Summit – what next?’ to discuss what any new Cross-Party Group on Disability should raise during the new Parliamentary session.

Panellists include: @lkmulvagh, Meryl-Anne Williams, and Dr Richard Brunner of @UofGlasgow.

Fri 28 Aug – 4.30pm

https://ow.ly/BXY850Zsh7T

Chair: Carol Mochan MSP, Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee

Panellists:

Meryl-Anne Williams is a TV personality, content creator and winner of BBC’s The Traitors Series One. She uses her platform to raise awareness of dwarfism, champion disability inclusion and advocate for animal welfare, while sharing honest, family-centred content with her online community. Meryl was a keynote speaker at Scotland’s Disability Summit held at the Scottish Parliament in February 2026.

Lucy Mulvagh is the CEO of Disability Equality Scotland, a national member-led organisation for disabled people. Prior to this, Lucy was a Director at the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland (the ALLIANCE). She previously worked for the Scottish Recovery Network and in international human rights. Lucy is also the Convener of Engender, Scotland’s feminist membership organisation, and a Royal Scottish Academy Fellow.

Dr Richard Brunner is a Research Fellow at the Centre for Disability Research, Department of Sociology, University of Glasgow. In this role, Richard leads a long-term research collaboration with Glasgow Disability Alliance to challenge barriers to disabled people’s’ equality in Scotland.

More than a Sunday Market at Leith Community Croft

More than ever, we need to take back control of our food system.

Recent droughts and extreme weather have highlighted just how fragile our food supply chains have become. When food travels thousands of miles to reach our plates, we’re left vulnerable to climate shocks, rising costs and global uncertainty.

Our market is part of the solution. By supporting local growers, producers and community food businesses, you’re helping to build a stronger, fairer and more resilient food system right here in our community.

Every pound spent supports local livelihoods, keeps money circulating in the local economy, reduces food miles and helps ensure that good food remains accessible to everyone.

This market is also a celebration of diversity, bringing together producers, cultures, flavours and traditions that reflect the richness of our community. It’s a place to connect with the people who grow, make and share our food, and to be part of a movement that values sustainability, fairness and local self-reliance.

In a time of climate uncertainty, supporting local food isn’t just a shopping choice. It’s an investment in our collective future.

Join us, support your local producers, and help build a food system that works for people, place and planet.

Corstorphine Library: Activities for last full week of school holidays

It’s the last full week of the summer holidays, and we’ve got a few more special events on for you.

We’re super excited to host Danyah Miller for an amazing storytelling session on Tuesday afternoon. Come in and help inspire some truly great tales with her and a magic carpet!

This is best for ages 4-7 but older and younger children can definitely still enjoy it, as can the whole family!

Remember to book your place on Eventbrite. with the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/once-upon-a-what-with…

On Wednesday at 3:30pm, join Kali from Edinburgh Zoo for a story, lots of facts, and a fun activity all related to sloths and armadillos.

Join us for our Library Afternoon Tea at 2:30pm on Friday. We will be talking about books, colouring in, and enjoying a warm drink, juice and some snacks.

Just like every Saturday, we have Junior Board Games on at 2pm. Discover a new game or play an old favourite with your family, other library users, and maybe a member of staff!

We also have Bookbug on for your wee ones, including our fortnightly Saturday session. Tuesday and Saturday are at 11am, Wednesday is at 2pm.

2026 is the National Year of Reading

#GoAllIn

Gyle Shopping Centre thieves snared in police operation

Community Police Officers were on plain clothes patrols at Gyle Shopping Centre recently.

They were supported by the watchful

retail staff and apprehended 3 light fingered customers.

Two were issued with Recorded Police Warnings and another was arrested and charged with 16 linked offences.

Lord Provost officially opens iconic Floral Clock for 2026

The Lord Provost has officially unveiled Edinburgh’s Floral Clock in West Princes Street Gardens, revealing a striking new design celebrating the 20th anniversary of Trellis.

Joined by representatives from the charity, the Lord Provost marked the completion of the display, which took a team of three gardeners six weeks to create.

Comprising around 35,000 colourful flowers and plants across a 200-square-metre display, this year’s Floral Clock has been co-designed with Trellis to celebrate the charity’s work improving mental and physical wellbeing through gardening, plants and connecting with nature.

For the past 20 years, Trellis has supported people to recover from ill health, overcome adversity and build confidence through therapeutic gardening. In the last year alone, the charity has helped more than 1,000 people across Edinburgh and the Lothians improve their health and wellbeing, while supporting communities to create green spaces in hospitals, GP surgeries, schools, prisons, and other community settings.

The 2026 design highlights the positive impact of gardening for wellbeing, inviting visitors to pause, reflect and connect with nature in the heart of the city.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “The Floral Clock is one of Edinburgh’s most treasured landmarks, delighting residents and visitors alike for more than 120 years. Every year, it showcases the incredible talent and dedication of our Parks team while celebrating the people and organisations who make a positive contribution to our city.

I”t is particularly fitting that this year’s design recognises Trellis and the life-changing work they do to improve health and wellbeing through gardening.

“I hope everyone visiting West Princes Street Gardens takes a moment to enjoy this beautiful display and reflect on the power of nature to bring people together.”

Fiona Thackeray, chief executive at Trellis, said: “Through our work, we have seen first-hand the transformative changes that can be achieved by connecting with nature, creating something beautiful and unique outdoors, and meeting other people taking action to manage their own health and wellbeing.

“Over the last 20 years we have supported over 15,000 people across Edinburgh and the surrounding area through therapeutic horticulture. Alongside those we have directly supported, the wider impact is far-reaching.

“From the communities benefiting from the gardens and greenscapes created, to the families of those supported, the impact of the work Trellis does is ever growing, thanks to the support from our donors and funders.

“Receiving this recognition from the City of Edinburgh Council to commemorate the incredible work done by our volunteers and team members is absolutely incredible and we hope it will allow us to continue supporting people in need in the future.”

First created in 1903 by Edinburgh’s then Parks Superintendent, John McHattie, the Floral Clock is the oldest of its kind in the world.

Originally featuring only an hour hand, a minute hand was added in 1904, followed by the famous cuckoo mechanism in 1952. Operated mechanically and wound by hand until 1972, it has celebrated charities, organisations and notable individuals through its annual designs for almost 80 years.

Previous themes have honoured the Girl Guides Association, Robert Louis Stevenson and Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to mark her Golden Jubilee. In its centenary year in 2003, the Floral Clock received a Gold Medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Swinney: FM: Glasgow Games have shown Scotland at its best

Lasting impact and legacy of inclusivity and innovation

First Minister John Swinney has praised the success of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and said its legacy will be long-lasting and far reaching.

The First Minister paid tribute to people in Glasgow and across Scotland for embracing the Games, welcoming visiting nations and celebrating inclusivity.

He said the 2026 Games had ‘set a new standard’ for the future through innovative approaches and thanked everyone involved in delivering an outstanding event.

Speaking ahead of attending the Closing Ceremony at the Ovo Hydro, the First Minister commented: “The success of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games has shown Scotland at its very best. We have welcomed athletes and supporters from the 74 nations and come together in an outstanding celebration of sport and diversity.

“We have enjoyed watching athletes competing at the highest level, breaking records and inspiring many of us to take part in sporting activities ourselves. The 2026 Games will leave a positive legacy of vital infrastructure upgrades to sporting facilities which will benefit individuals, communities and clubs in Glasgow, particularly at the grassroots level.

“People who have travelled to Scotland for the Games have experienced our world-class hospitality, which has been an excellent boost for our tourism sector and wider economy.

“It was only possible with Glasgow stepping in at short notice that we’ve been able to protect this special event. The reimagined model of these Games will help them continue into the future, creating hosting opportunities for other Commonwealth countries – with a focus on inclusivity and innovative approaches to reduce the environmental impact.

“Scotland continues to demonstrate its strength as a host of major international sporting events, with the Tour de France Grand Depart in Edinburgh in 2027, and UEFA EURO 2028, which we will co-host.”

Sign up for Portobello Beach Race

SUNDAY 30th AUGUST at 10am

Portobello Beach Race 2026

Join Portobello Running Club on Sunday 30 August at 10:00am for four miles of racing along Portobello Beach at low tide.

Every finisher will receive a bespoke wooden Portobello Beach Race keyring as a lasting memento of the day.

All proceeds will support two fantastic good causes:

Equal access to sporting enrichment activities at Towerbank Primary School
Fresh Start, helping people who have experienced homelessness establish themselves in their new homes

There is plenty more to look forward to:

£50 Up & Running vouchers for both our male and female winners
More fantastic winners’ prizes
A huge variety of spot prizes, giving runners throughout the field the chance to win
A raffle featuring more than £400 worth of prizes
A delicious community bake sale

The race is friendly, inclusive and welcoming to runners of all abilities. Come along to race, support brilliant local causes and enjoy a fantastic morning on the beach!

Entry is £10:

https://www.entrycentral.com/Portobello-Beach-Race

Please share the event and help us make this year’s Portobello Beach Race our best yet!

Cramond Association: Litter pick tomorrow

August’s litter pick will be this Sunday, 2nd August.

We’ll meet outside Barnton Post Office at 10am and target the local area.

We’ll be finished by 11am.

All equipment is provided, but please bring a Hi Viz if possible.

Everyone is welcome, hope to see you there!