Category: North Edinburgh News

‘An inspirational force of nature’: Tributes pour in for Doddie Weir

My Name5 Doddie Foundation:

We are deeply saddened to share the news that our founder Doddie Weir has died. Doddie was a force of nature, a great family man, tremendous rugby player and loved and respected by all who knew him.

Our thoughts are with Kathy, Hamish, Angus and Ben and we know you will join us in sending them our love and best wishes at this time.

Jill Douglas, CEO of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and close friend of Doddie’s said: “Doddie enjoyed a full life full of fun and love. And it was this approach to life which shone through in his determination to make a difference and help others when he was diagnosed with motor neuron disease.

“He inspired us every day with his positivity and energy and was fully committed to the work of the Foundation he launched with his close friends in November 2017. My Name’5 Doddie Foundation continues to shine a light on MND and the need to seek meaningful treatments and one day, a cure for this devastating disease.

“The Foundation has raised significant funds through the amazing efforts of our incredible supporters and has committed £8 million to MND research over this time. We have also given considerable funds to people living with MND and their families to help them live as fulfilled a life as possible.

“With Doddie’s enthusiasm and drive, we have collaborated with other stakeholders within the MND community and firmly established the Foundation as a trusted, influential and well supported charity.

“And our vision of a world free of MND remains at the heart of our strategy. As we look to the future, we will honour Doddie’s name and deliver on his legacy. There is much still to do and with your support, we will continue our work, remaining true to the values and ambition of our founder.”

MND Scotland:

We are deeply saddened to hear that Scotland rugby legend, Doddie Weir, has died aged 52 from motor neuron disease (MND).  

The former British and Irish Lion, announced his diagnosis of MND on Global MND Awareness Day (21st June) 2017, and went on to raise an incredible amount of awareness of the disease by sharing his journey.  

Doddie won the hearts of the Scottish public with his humour and positive attitude, and inspired them to join our cause, so that one day we will find a cure. 

Following his devastating diagnosis, Doddie set up the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, to fund research into finding treatments and a cure. The foundation has also helped families living with MND in Scotland, by donating almost half a million pounds over five years to MND Scotland’s grants programme, which helps relieve some of the financial burden that comes with living with the disease. 

Doddie dedicated so much of his time to raising awareness of the illness, particularly through his moving BBC Documentary ‘One More Try’, his appearances on BBC Breakfast with fellow sports stars Rob Burrow and Stephen Darby, and in his most recent book ‘Doddie’s Diary’. 

In 2021, Doddie joined forces with MND Scotland, the MND Association, other people living with MND, and neurologists, to call on the UK Government to invest £50 million over five years into targeted MND research.

The petition started in his name received over 110,000 signatures in support of the ‘United to End MND’ campaign and led to a debate in UK Parliament. Thanks to the incredible efforts of all involved in the campaign, the UK Government announced its commitment to investing £50 million into targeted MND research in November 2021.  

Doddie’s tireless efforts to create change will leave a lasting legacy. We will continue fighting in his memory, and for everyone else we have lost. Together, we will beat MND.  

Rachel Maitland, Chief Executive of MND Scotland, said: “Doddie Weir was a huge inspiration who will be missed by so many. His bravery in sharing his experience of living with MND helped raise vital awareness across the country and beyond.  

“The My Name’5 Doddie Foundation contributed vital funds towards MND Scotland’s grants programme, which provides essential financial support to families affected by MND in Scotland.

“Together, we called on the UK Government to invest £50 million into targeted MND research, through our United to End MND campaign. The success of this campaign brings new hope of finding meaningful treatments and a cure sooner.  MND does not wait for anyone and now we have another person taken too soon because of this cruel disease.   

“We cannot thank Doddie enough for his support and contribution to improving the lives of those living with MND, and for all he did for the cause. 

“I wish to offer my deepest condolences to Doddie’s family, friends and the foundation at this extremely difficult time.” 

Scottish Rugby issued a statement on behalf of the Weir family:

Rob Burrow MBE:

So sad to hear the news of the passing of my mnd hero Doddie Weir. I’m sorry to say, how many more warriors die before this stupid government give the 50m they said they would give.

I’m absolutely gutted to see my friendly giraffe die. You are the reason for being so positive RIP

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon:

This is so terribly sad. Doddie was one of our nation’s sporting legends, but the brave way he responded to MND surpassed anything ever achieved on the rugby pitch.

He refused to let it dim his spirit and did so much to help others. My condolences to his loved ones. #RIPDoddie

MND Association:

We’re sorry to hear that Doddie Weir OBE has died. Since sharing his MND diagnosis in 2017, Doddie became an inspiration to many, raising awareness and campaigning tirelessly on behalf of those with MND.

Our thoughts are with Doddie’s wife Kathy, his 3 sons, family and friends.

Healthy Tip: Your Heart & Staying Warm This Winter

Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK

Healthy Heart Tip: Your Heart & Staying Warm This Winter 

During the winter months the risk of having a heart attack or stroke increases. It is important to know what the risks are and to put measures in place to ensure you and your family stay safe.

A drop in environmental temperature reduces your body temperature and the heart must work harder to keep you warm which increases your heart rate. In addition, in cold weather, blood vessels contract to minimise heat loss, which increases blood pressure.

While this is a natural process, it can be a cause for concern in those who are more vulnerable such as adults over 65, those with long-term health conditions, and those who are overweight and live less healthy lifestyles.

With the cost of living increasing and energy prices inflated in comparison to previous years, relying on your heating to keep toasty and warm this winter might not be an option for everyone. It is important to keep warm both inside and outside of your home and do what you can to support your heart health over winter.

Here we outline some practical and cost-effective ways to protect your heart and stay warm this winter:

Staying warm indoors

Reduce the impact of the cold weather by keeping your house heated to a minimum of 18°C, use your thermostat to ensure the inside temperature doesn’t drop below this. Make yourself regular hot meals and drinks, you could set an alarm for every hour to remind you to get up and make a cuppa.

Warming, winter soups are a great idea in the winter, opt for these and warming stews for meals rather than something cold like a sandwich. Try some at home exercises to warm your core body temperature or consider a seated pedal exerciser to keep your legs moving, which will help keep you warm while seated.

You could buddy up with another household to reduce your heating bills, have a day at your house and then the next day go to theirs – you could even share the cooking!

Staying warm outdoors

On really cold days, it is better to stay indoors if you fall into the vulnerable categories, but on milder winter days make sure you use layers to keep warm when outside and don’t forget your hat, gloves, and scarf.

It is better to be overdressed and have to remove layers than find yourself cold when far from home. Plan respite stops when out and about, by nipping into a friend’s house for a hot drink or making use of low-cost offers from supermarkets and cafes for vulnerable age groups.

For example, Asda have announced they are offering soup, bread and unlimited hot drinks to over 60’s throughout November and December this year, have a look at local options like this near you.

If you opt for outdoor walks to remain active, keep these up through winter when the weather allows (wrapping up for the occasion) as we know regular exercise keeps our heat healthy.

Nourish your heart from the inside

Reduce your risk of heart disease by eating a healthy diet. During the winter months it can be tempting to reach for less healthy, comfort foods, but making sure we continue to eat well can protect our heart.

Prioritise eating lots of fibre rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, oats and wholegrain foods like brown rice and pasta. Choose lean meats and fish, including one portion of oily fish per week (such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and trout).

Avoid consuming too much saturated fat by opting for low-fat dairy products and cooking with heart-healthy olive oil. Be mindful of how much alcohol you are consuming and look at stopping smoking if this is relevant, as both are risk factors for cardiovascular illness.

Being aware of the risk factors for heart health during the colder months is key for keeping yourself and your family safe. Be sure to check in on vulnerable relatives or neighbours as it is harder for elderly people to regulate their own body temperature. If you have some to spare, you could consider dropping off a warming meal to a vulnerable person or inviting them round for a meal.

For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for our weekly healthy tips at www.heartresearch.org.uk/healthy-tips.

Suzanne Taylor is latest artist to take up residence at Gleneagles Townhouse

Scottish artist, Suzanne Taylor, is the latest in a series of artists to exhibit at the Townhouse. Her collection, “Visual Ticks”, will be available to view until the 4th of December.

“Visual Ticks” is a collection of hand-crafted collages which bring together unique elements of vintage nostalgia. The collages are made up of ready-made images Taylor found through countless hours spent in second hand bookstores searching for the perfect elements to put together.

Suzanne studied at Glasgow University and went on to gain her Masters in Fine Art from Glasgow School of Art where she now teaches. She began making collages as a way of formulating her final ideas and compositions for paintings. Taylor loved the medium so much that the collages then became the final piece, as she felt the idea she was trying to encapsulate in a painting was better conveyed within her collages.

Suzanne’s work follows themes of femininity, sexuality, consumption, and climate change and is Taylor’s ode to the glamour years. Her work certainly encourages a sense of nostalgia to the pre digital era and its aesthetics and culture.

The collages are made from a selection of images that may relate in some sense but contradict in others. Taylor describes them as “a visual oxymoron with uncanny tendencies”; some images are in complete opposition to one another whereas others somehow have a relationship to one another if you look close enough. Her pieces play with social ideas both current and past, such as one of a carefree dancer placed in a kitchen, which is symbolic of 1950’s female servitude. The size of the images she chooses is just as important as the image itself, and plays a huge part in how she puts together her final compositions.

Taylor recently exhibited at Saatchi as part of The Other Art Fair in London. Suzanne Taylor’s works are now available to view until the 4th of December at Gleneagles Townhouse, St Andrew Square for Townhouse members, hotel guests and diners at the Spence.

gleneaglestownhouse.com / suzannetaylor.art

Leith Creative Trail this Saturday

Welcome to Leith Creative Trail – A day when you can hit up the best of Leith’s Markets and Open Studios.

It will be a jammy time, when you can visit some of Leith’s wonderful creative venues, filled to the brim of artists and craftspeople selling and exhibiting their products. 

Take the trail in whatever order you desire. We recommend starting at Coburg House Open Studios, scooting to Leith Farmers Market, hopping up to see Ruth Lesile at Custom Lane, sliding across the road to Edinburgh Open Workshop Makers Market and then meandering your way through to Out of the Blue – Drill Hall Market.  

Experience the Water of Leith, Quay and the vibrant, sunny (100% guaranteed) streets of Leith with fresh eyes.

Ready to get planning? You can download a digital map HERE, or can also pick up a paper copy of the map at any of the participating venues.

Follow @leithcreativetrail for all the updates and some groovy content! 

Grab the bargain! Make the most of early Cyber Monday deals

Shoppers looking for a bargain are being advised to make the most of Cyber Monday deals with tips on how to make the most of the event:

Anxious Brits who are worried about Christmas spending costs are being advised to start shopping early to make the most of early sales this November.

The frugal team at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have revealed 10 top tips for shoppers to follow to help them grab the best deals and spare the extra cash.

With the biggest sales event of the year soon approaching, shoppers are being advised to browse carefully and plan early to secure the best bargains available.

As the cost-of-living crisis deepens this winter, a large number of retailers have launched special discount events from the start of November to help people grab the best deals throughout the entire month.

Many of these deals are taking place online due to changing shopping habits, with eager shoppers being encouraged to start early to avoid lengthy online queues and gain early access to the top deals.

Making accounts before the discounts go live and setting up your banking details before the discount event are just some of the savvy tips shoppers can follow to make the most out of the seasonal offers.

Rebecca Bebbington, online consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “With the cost-of-living crisis deepening this winter, many are worried about the costs of the festive spending period.

“We’re advising people to start shopping as early as possible – Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great opportunities to grab a bargain and save on buying Christmas gifts by shopping in advance.

“Using simple shopping tactics such as having a plan in place on what you want to buy and keeping an eye out for special deals on social media can help buyers to check off the Christmas list without breaking the bank.”

“However, we’re noticing brands offering discount codes and reducing their prices as early as now so it’s best to get on top of these special deals at the earliest possibility.”

Here are 10 useful ways for shoppers to make the most of Cyber Monday from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk:

  1. Start early

Many retailers now start their sales up to a week or two before the big day. Keep an eye for bargains in the lead up to Black Friday and Cyber Monday in order to not miss out on a great bargain.

  1. Have a plan

Calculating what you want to buy, the price you want to buy it at, and where you want to get it from is essential if you want to avoid any stressful situations on the day. Try to set a budget to help control overspending, especially in the run-up to Christmas.

  1. Hold off the impulse buys

Impulse buying on Black Friday can be a dangerous game, so creating a list of products to purchase prior to the sales can help to avoid any impulse purchases.

  1. Use discount codes

Many retailers allow shoppers to use multiple discount codes at the checkout, so there is no harm in checking voucher websites for an extra few quid off an item. Even if there aren’t any codes to use, voucher sites may reveal exclusive deals only available through them.

  1. Research the price

More than often, retailers can sometimes change the original price of products before big sales to make them appear to be a better deal. So make sure to evaluate the prices in the lead up to Black Friday to make sure you get more for your buck.

  1. Make accounts in advance

Online retailers typically ask shoppers to create accounts in order to purchase products. Creating these accounts early can save precious time at the checkouts, before items quickly become out of stock.

  1. Check the returns policy

It’s vital to check the returns policy for any items bought both in-store and online. Most stores will offer you a full refund or exchange however, they’re not obliged to so it’s always best to check with the retailer before you buy.

  1. Remember Cyber Monday

If you’re busy on Black Friday, don’t panic. Due to the rising popularity of the seasonal discount event as well as the marketing opportunities for companies, deals usually span the weekend and into Cyber Monday too.

  1. Don’t use a debit card

When you’re buying items during the sales, try to use a credit card or a trusted payment system. This provides extra protection when shopping on the web especially on sites that may not be protected while making it easier to manage monthly payments if you don’t have the full amount in the bank.

  1. Monitor social media

A quick scroll of the Instagram, Twitter or Facebook feed can reveal some offers and discounts exclusive to social media users. Brands will also provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding stock, opening times and even how busy their retail stores are.

For more money-saving tips head over to NetVoucherCodes.co.uk.

Randolph Hill colleagues recognised at 2002 Scottish Care Awards

Two care professionals representing Randolph Hill nursing homes have been given accolades at this year’s Scottish Care Awards held earlier this month.

Matthew McCanny, Manager of the group’sKirk Lane Nursing Home in Livingston, was named this year’s Positive Impact award winner, whileSharai Chingoma, Deputy Manager at its Blenham House Nursing Home in Edinburgh, was one of three finalists in the Nurse of the Year category.

Matthew received a number of glowing testimonials for his uplifting contribution towards residents, families, staff and the wider community served by Kirk Lane. This included one from resident Chris Cosgrove, who asked Randolph Hill to nominate Matthew for looking after her so well since arriving at the home. Chris also attended the Scottish Care Awards dinner and ceremony, where she was overjoyed to see Matthew receive his award.

Sharai’s name was put forward by colleagues within the Randolph Hill group, because of the exceptional relationships she has built with residents, families and staff as well as her positivity and dedication in learning and teaching others excellence in nursing care delivery.

Randolph Hill currently cares for more than 350 residents and employs over 600 members of staff at its seven sites across east and central Scotland.

Randolph Hill Managing Director Peter McCormick said: “We’re delighted with the achievements of Matthew and Sharai at this year’s Scottish Care Awards.

“They are both dedicated professionals who are admired by the residents in their care, the residents’ families, and their fellow colleagues. I warmly congratulate them on their success which recognises their commitment and dedication to their important roles.”

Amazon boost for community football club

A community football club in Bonnyrigg has received a £5,000 donation from the team at Amazon Development Centre Scotland in Edinburgh.

Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club trains teams from ages 5 to 20 years old with the aim of creating social opportunities for children and young people in the community.

The donation from Amazon will be used to allow the club to offer one to one counselling and support for those that reach out for help. 

Oliver Masting, Managing Director at Amazon Development Centre Scotland, said: “Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club is a pillar of the community in Midlothian and we are pleased to support the club’s staff, players and volunteers with this donation.”

Trish Sime from Bonnyrigg Rose Community Football Club, added: “I want to say a big thank you to the team at Amazon for choosing us to receive this support. It’s allowed us to offer help to both children and adults.

“People have contacted us to access the support – so in effect it’s been a lifeline for some people.” 

MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, Colin Beattie, added: ““I am pleased to see local football club Bonnyrigg Rose receive this donation from Amazon Development Centre Scotland and for the club’s work to be recognised in this way. This funding will go a long way to ensure it can continue its great work.”

Community donations are one of several ways in which Amazon supports the communities in and around its operating locations across the UK.

Amazon provides students, teachers and parents with free computer science and STEM education programmes and has teamed up with charity partner Magic Breakfast to deliver more than six million healthy breakfasts to children at risk of hunger in disadvantaged areas of the country.

Vittoria on the Bridge named best independent Italian in the UK

Much-loved Edinburgh institution recognised by the Papa Industry Awards

For the second year in a row, family-owned Edinburgh restaurant Vittoria on the Bridge has been awarded ‘Best Independent Italian Restaurant in Britain’ by The Papa Industry Awards.

Situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town on George IV Bridge, the much-loved eatery has been serving up delicious, authentic Italian cuisine since it opened its doors in 2007.

The well-known industry awards celebrate restaurants serving very best Italian food, bringing friends and family together over authentic dishes and a shared love of Italian cuisine. Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner for almost 15 years, Vittoria on the Bridge was recognised as a strong family business which has become a favourite with both Edinburgh locals and tourists alike.

Vittoria’s menu is full of comforting Italian classics with some recipes – like the Tagliatelle Vittoria and Lasagna di Mamma – having been in the family and served in their restaurants since the 1970s. They source the very best of Italian ingredients to create authentic cuisine, bringing a true taste of Italy to Scotland.

Alberto Crolla, Director of the Vittoria Group, said: “We are extremely proud to have won this award two years in a row now. We feel so lucky to do what we love and to share incredible Italian food with everyone who walks through the door at Vittoria.

“Awards like this are testament to the team and their hard work and determination to provide an excellent service for customers when they visit into our restaurant. It’s great to be recognised for this especially after the challenges of the last two years.”

The Crolla family have been at the forefront of Italian hospitality in the capital since Vittoria on the Walk first opened by Nonno Alberto in Leith more than 50 years ago. Now three generations of the family have expanded the Vittoria group across the city.

These award-winning restaurants, run by sons Alberto and Leandro, each offer something unique while honouring the traditions of great Italian hospitality with artisan suppliers and winemakers bringing authentic Italian dining to stylish and comfortable surroundings. 

For more information on Vittoria on The Bridge, please visit: 

https://www.vittoriagroup.co.uk/vittoriabridge/ follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vittoriaedinburgh/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VittoriaEd/.

To book: 

https://dishcult.com/restaurant/vittoriaonthebridge?sortOrder=0&page=1&bookingDate=2022-11-25&covers=2&promotionId=0

Dobbies expands relationship with John Lewis Partnership in Edinburgh

 John Lewis click and collect orders can now be picked up from selected Dobbies’ stores. Customers at Dobbies in Edinburgh and little dobbies in Stockbridge can now collect their John Lewis parcels in store.  

This expands the relationship between Dobbies and the John Lewis Partnership after it was announced in July that Waitrose would have a dedicated area offering more than 2,000 products in 50 of the garden centre’s foodhalls. The roll out is already underway having been launched in 12 Dobbies’ stores, including Edinburgh. 

Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “We’re committed to providing convenience to our customers and this new collaboration enables us to further develop this focus. It’s important that we share a commitment to great value, quality and customer service with our partners.

“We hope our customers in Edinburgh find this new development beneficial.” 

Ged Keogh-Peters, Director of Supply Chain Planning & Development for the John Lewis Partnership, adds: “The introduction of click and collect further strengthens our partnership with Dobbies and underlines our ambition to find new ways to be more convenient for our customers. 

“The service is growing in popularity every year with customers increasingly wanting the ease of being able to pick up their order at a time and place which works for them.”   

Dobbies is the latest retailer to join the existing network of over 350 John Lewis and Waitrose Click & Collect points, along with over 800 Co-op, Shell and Booths locations. 

The other Dobbies’ stores offering Click & Collect are Dunfermline, Aberdeen, Gillingham, Atherstone, Brighton, and little dobbies in Westbourne Grove, London.