Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society announces street events activity for Fringe 2023

The popular street events programme is back for 2023 across three key city centre sites

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to announce details of the Fringe 2023 street events programme, a popular element of the festival experience. In 2022 56% of Fringe audiences watched street events performances, with iconic street scenes shared around the world across social media.

On the Royal Mile, family-friendly performers will take to the spaces of the High Street from 11:00 every day. Professional street performers from home and abroad will delight with a mix of theatre, comedy and circus skills.

In busker pitches dotted around the area, magic, music and sideshows will engage with audiences, with over 500 buskers performing over the festival. Living statues will deliver a range of surprises to those wandering by, with young children enthralled by the vibrant costumes while often confused by the seemingly impossible positions and shapes they take!

In a tradition dating back decades, each day at 10 am a street events draw will define the performances which will take place that day. A list of those performing will then be published on edfringe.com and shared across Fringe social media channels.

Working towards making the Fringe more accessible, the Fringe Society are again working with the team at Deaf Action, and BSL interpreted street performances will take place on various days throughout the Fringe, at the stage in West Parliament Square. 

On the Mound Precinct this year the Fringe Society are delighted to welcome Belhaven Brewery to the festival as a new sponsor. The Belhaven team will be running a bar within this popular space, for audiences to enjoy their award-winning beers while watching nearby performers.

A large circle pitch will be central to this space, for daily street performance across a huge range of artforms. The popular Taster Stage for Fringe acts will also return this year, with an opportunity for local community groups to perform over three days of the festival.

St James Quarter will once again be joining the street events programme this year following a successful debut in 2022. Supported by Essential Edinburgh, they will be showcasing Fringe artists by programming 33 busker performances during the festival.

Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival Society, said: “The street events programme is a must-see for residents and visitors alike, when these iconic streets of Edinburgh are host to street artists and buskers from all over the world; whether they’ve been performing for decades or a first timer, the Fringe street events showcases a range of talents, skills and styles guaranteed to lift your day!

“Bring the family, enjoy the sights and sounds, Fill Yer Boots, and don’t forget to tip performers!”

The return of the street events programme is being supported by EventScotland (part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate), and the City of Edinburgh Council.

Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “As one of Scotland’s most recognisable cultural assets, EventScotland is delighted to be supporting this year’s street events programme as it gets set to transform Edinburgh’s historic streets into a vibrant playground of creative energy and diverse imagination once again. 

“The street events provide a wonderful opportunity for both visitors and locals to sample a slice of something new, whilst enabling performers to showcase their incredible talent. They are a key part of Scotland’s portfolio of events and further strengthen the country’s position as a world-leading events destination”.

Councillor Val Walker, Culture and Communities Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “The street events programme is one of the most anticipated parts of the Festival Fringe and I am delighted to see it return for 2023.

“For a month the bustling streets of the capital are transformed by buskers and artists from around the world including family friendly performers who each bring a unique and exciting performance to all who pass by.

“The programme has something for everyone so make sure to take advantage of the array of talent on offer during the festival period”.

Susan Hewlett, Brand and Marketing Director, St James Quarter said: “We are delighted to once again partner with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society by hosting a curated selection of buskers to support our ‘St James Quarter Live’ music programme in August.

“We know our guests love to be entertained whilst they are in the Quarter and look forward to welcoming some of Edinburgh’s best unplugged music talent to the Galleria. The Fringe is Just Around the Quarter.”

The street events will be delivered by Unique Events, who are managing the programme on behalf of the Fringe Society, for the third year.

Free school uniform exchange opens at Fort Kinnaird

The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird has launched a free school uniform exchange that will run throughout the summer holidays to give parents good quality, pre-loved options for back to school and encourage more sustainable shopping habits.

The independent store, located between Trespass and WHSmith, is inviting locals to donate good quality school uniform items in exchange for something they need.

Everything from polo shirts and jumpers to school bags and shoes will be accepted and available for collection to help get little ones ready for the new term.

Sara Thomson, founder of The Leith Collective, said: “Parents often have to buy a whole new uniform at the start of the school year only to find their child has already outgrown it by the Christmas break. The clothing is often still in perfectly good condition and could easily do another child a turn.

“The uniform exchange is not only a practical response to the cost-of-living crisis, but it also promotes sustainable choices – a cause which lies at the heart of The Leith Collective. Anyone can use the exchange service, whether your budget is squeezed this year or you want to be more sustainable – our only ask is that the uniform or other school items are still in a good quality condition.”

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “This is a fantastic initiative which we know will go a long way to support our local community, while also helping our visitors to choose more sustainable options where they can.

“We’re proud to support an independent store like The Leith Collective, and it’s brilliant to see the new and different shopping opportunities Sara and the team are bringing to the centre.”

The school uniform exchange follows The Leith Collective’s successful winter coat exchange which had an overwhelming response and saw 7,000 donations at its stores, including Fort Kinnaird.

The Leith Collective showcases the work of more than 300 artists and makers from all over Scotland, brought together by a common aim to reuse, recycle, and reclaim, and resells items that may otherwise have been destined for landfill.

It has three stores located across Edinburgh and Glasgow, including Fort Kinnaird. All of its stores also host a range of creative workshops focused on sustainability.

Throughout the summer, The Leith Collective is also inviting school holiday clubs and community groups to take part in free one-hour sessions with tips and advice on how to live more sustainably, alongside the opportunity to learn about the running of the stores. For more information on this, email: Info@theleithcollective.com.

For more information about Fort Kinnaird: https://www.fortkinnaird.com/

Charity appeals to people of Edinburgh to become ‘Friends’ of NSPCC Scotland and help raise funds

The people of Edinburgh are being asked to become ‘Friends’ of NSPCC Scotland by signing up as a volunteer to help raise funds for the charity.

The children’s charity works in schools and communities across the country to protect children and prevent abuse and neglect, aiming to transform society for every childhood.

Around 90 per cent of the charity’s income comes from generous donations from the public, and its work could not continue without their help.

Last year (2022/23) the NSPCC run service, Childline, delivered 8,599 counselling sessions to children living in Scotland. The Childline bases in Aberdeen and Glasgow delivered 29,741 counselling sessions to children and young people across the UK.

The top five main concerns for children were mental and emotional health and wellbeing; family relationships; friendship issues; bullying and school/education problems.

In the same year, 70,379 children from 373 schools in Scotland took part in the NSPCC’s online Speak out Stay safe programme which teaches children how to recognise the signs of abuse and neglect and where to get help.

The NSPCC now needs to build a group of passionate volunteers in [Glasgow] they can call upon for an extra pair of hands to support at local events and initiatives.

People can also choose how they would like to get involved by creating a bespoke role for themselves related to their own hobbies and interests, and they can volunteer ‘as and when’ without the need for regular time commitments.

Sandra Jones, NSPCC Scotland Community Fundraising Manager, said: “The NSPCC couldn’t continue with its work without support from the public.

“Our amazing volunteers help us raise money and awareness of our vital work to support communities and protect children and young people.

“We need people who could spare a few hours to help at local fundraising and awareness events such as Childhood Day collections, acquiring prizes for events or assisting in-person events to make sure they run smoothly.

“This is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and enjoy new experiences and to be part of the NSPCC and our mission to end child cruelty.”

A key role for volunteers is to share news about the charity’s work with the public, organisations and in the local community, for example on social media, to help promote a positive image of the NSPCC and let people know about upcoming fundraising events and initiatives.

The NSPCC appreciates that work, family and friends come first and, with that in mind, this role offers flexibility to fit in with your lifestyle. Volunteers only need to commit to a couple of hours a month, but if they want to do more that would be great.

Volunteers get a designated point of contact, regular newsletters, ongoing support with the right information and tools including access to training opportunities through the volunteer portal, knowledge and learning, and a discount portal.

Jacqueline Jones from Glasgow helped at a recent Childhood Day collection on Buchanan Street. She said: “I heard about the NSPCC when my six-year-old was singing the Pantosaurus song one day after school.

“I realised the song passes some vital information on to children to help protect them and their bodies and from this moment I was a big fan of the charity!

“I was a little nervous about fundraising on the street but after being paired up and given some words of wisdom from Sandra I found my flow quickly and had an amazing time. I cannot wait to do it again.”

Jodie Cullen, an Operations Analyst at Morgan Stanley, also helped at the Childhood Day collection in Glasgow, she said: “It was such an amazing day; I really enjoyed my first experience of volunteering with the NSPCC, everyone was so welcoming and in great spirits.

“The arrival of the Rock Choir was a fantastic surprise and added to the already upbeat atmosphere!”

Some examples of volunteer roles include:

  • Community crafts – this involves using your crafting skills whether it’s knitting or making jewellery to create items to be sold or donated to raise funds for the NSPCC. This role could include a craft group you are already a part of, setting up a new group or joining an existing group, and selling your items at craft fairs organised by others or yourself.
  • Cookery – use your cookery skills to produce items that can be sold or donated.
  • Walking groups – this could involve an existing walking group or you could set up a new one to do sponsored walks, such as climb Ben Nevis in Scotland
  • Auctioneer volunteer – this could involve hosting an auction and presenting items for sale, keeping track of bids and concluding sales by striking a gavel when the highest bid has been reached
  • Community challenge events volunteer – this would involve using your practical skills to set up a new group or join an existing one and co-ordinate local or overseas challenge events such as mountain biking through the wilds of Iceland
  • Christmas volunteer – you could join our Walk for Children in December or attend a Childline Merry Little Christmas Concert or help collect donations at a festive event
  • Community quiz co-ordinator – including organising prizes and a local venue
  • Book scheme co-ordinator – includes organising donations of books from the local community which can be picked up by members of the public for a donation

While volunteering is suitable for a whole range of people, the NSPCC would be particularly keen to hear from people with the following qualities and skills:

  • Passionate about helping young people and children
  • Enthusiastic and personable
  • Work well within a team
  • Great communication and social skills

If you are interested, email: sandra.jones2@nspcc.org.uk

Any adult concerned about the welfare of a child or young person can call the NSPCC helpline for free on 0808 800 5000. Children can call Childline at any time on 0800 1111 or visit childline.org.uk.

Scran Academy Summer Sessions

EXCITING! Launching our packed & varied Summer Sessions for the young people we work with across Edinburgh.

Young people chose these activities themselves- so we offer safe spaces to gather, be & LAUGH!

Esp. our big Residential trip at @WistonLodge!

#YouthWork

RoSPA: E-bike battery fires are ‘ticking timebomb’

Following news that the fire in Cambridge that killed a mother and her children last Friday was likely caused by an e-bike battery, Nathan Davies, Head of Policy and Portfolio at RoSPA, said: “Fires from unregulated e-powered vehicle batteries are becoming commonplace and we are very concerned that we are sitting on a ticking timebomb of cases.

“It is only a matter of time until we see a battery failure cause a devastating large-scale fire in a block of flats, hotel or public space.

“Unfortunately, e-bike batteries are designed to be charged indoors, and mostly overnight. Critically, this is where the risk to life from a fire is the greatest.

“It doesn’t have to be this way. We have been using certified lithium-ion batteries safely for years, the technology is well understood and these can be manufactured to the correct standards.

“The problem lies in a series of failings in the supply of unregulated units, meaning products with poor construction can be supplied by internationally based sellers on third party platforms. Action needs to be taken to address this situation to prevent future deaths.

“We urge people to only buy from reputable sellers and to purchase electrical items from a known and trusted brand that complies with legislation. If you think your battery is faulty, damaged or you just aren’t sure, then we advise that you dispose of it at a waste centre, not in the bin.”

E-bike likely cause of Cambridge fire that killed mother and children – BBC News

City centre grinds to a halt as Scotland marks Royal Coronation

National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication

Scotland will mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla with a series of events in Edinburgh today.

The King, accompanied by The Queen, will be presented with the Honours of Scotland – Scotland’s crown jewels – at a National Service of Thanksgiving and Dedication at St Giles’ Cathedral.

The service will be preceded by a ‘People’s Procession’ of 100 people representing different aspects of Scottish life, which will travel from Edinburgh Castle to St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Royal Procession, which will travel to the Cathedral from the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Public opportunities will be available along the Royal Mile to view the procession, and the accompanying military bands and escorts.

The St Giles’ Service will be followed by a 21-Gun Salute fired from Edinburgh Castle and a flypast down the Royal Mile by the RAF Red Arrows.



The First Minister, Humza Yousaf, who is a republican, said: “Scotland will mark the visit of The King and Queen this week with a series of events to celebrate the Coronation, and I’m looking forward to representing the people of Scotland at today’s historic service at St Giles’ Cathedral.

“Those who wish to be involved will be able to follow TV or radio coverage of the proceedings, or view events in person along the Royal Mile. Space will be limited and a number of roads in the area will be closed, so I strongly encourage anyone attending to arrive early, use public transport if possible, and come prepared for whatever the weather may hold.”

Lord Lieutenant Robert Aldridge said: “The eyes of the world will be upon us once again as we mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla. I’m quite sure it will be another proud day for the Capital.

“Given the scale and significance of these ceremonial events, we have to be prepared for disruption across the city, but particularly in the Old Town. We’re working with our partners to manage this as best we can and to keep residents, businesses and visitors updated on the events.

“For those who wish to enjoy the Royal and People’s Processions, I urge you to please plan ahead and keep an eye on our website and social media channels for the latest advice and guidance.”

For the most up-to-date information, visit:

City Council’s dedicated webpages, 

www.gov.scot and 

www.royal.uk.

The @edintravel traffic information team will be monitoring the city’s roads, sharing the latest information on disruption and diversions on Twitter.

See also Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams.

Scotland’s Health Secretary marks 75th anniversary of the NHS

Staff thanked for their efforts and dedication

Health Secretary Michael Matheson has paid tribute to the staff who have helped deliver the NHS throughout its 75 year existence.

Mr Matheson praised the extraordinary efforts of those involved with the service, particularly in the recent years of the pandemic. He also expressed his gratitude to those whose spirit of innovation has helped the NHS adapt over the years.

He said: “We are fortunate beyond words to have a National Health Service free at the point of need for every single one of us. Looking around the globe, it is clear that what we accept as a basic human right is not enjoyed by the majority of the world’s population.

“On this day, the 75th anniversary of our NHS, I cannot express enough how grateful I am to the people who have delivered this extraordinary service through all these years.

“Working in the NHS has not always been easy – particularly during the covid pandemic, but along with their colleagues in social care, NHS staff worked in tremendously difficult circumstances to care for those who needed them. Together they saved countless lives and their contribution will never be forgotten.

“From the world’s first ‘test tube baby’, through to robotic surgery, and then vaccinations and treatments for Covid-19 being rolled out at incredible pace – our health service has always been ready to adapt to new technologies and scientific developments.

“That spirit of innovation will be ever more crucial in the years to come, as the NHS and social care face new and different challenges, and it’s something we are determined to harness here in Scotland.

“With the continued support of people across the country, and the unwavering dedication of NHS staff, I have no doubt the NHS will be celebrating many more anniversaries in the years to come.”

Pedestrian dies in Calder Road accident

A 21-year-old male pedestrian has died after being struck by a car on Calder Road. The incident happened around 7am this morning (Tuesday, 4 July).

The man was pronounced dead at the scene. The male driver of the silver Toyota Auris involved in the collision was uninjured.

The road was closed until around 12.10pm to allow for investigation at the scene.

Sergeant Barry Sommerville said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are working to establish the full circumstances and I would urge anyone who may have information which has not yet been passed to police to get in touch.

“We would also be keen to speak to anyone who may have dashcam footage from the area.

“Anyone with information can call 101, quoting reference 0497 of 4 July, 2023.”

Embark on an Epic Quest at Floors Castle

Join ‘The Broken Book – Mythical Monster Hunt’ and Protect the Realm from Legendary Creatures!

The grounds of Borders stately home Floors Castle are soon to transform into a world of interactive monster-hunting fun for all the family this summer, with an educational and exciting summer trail set within the magnificent grounds.

John Kerr, 3rd Duke of Roxburghe lived in Floors Castle until his death in 1804, over 220 years ago. Duke John was a great collector of many things, but his favourite thing to collect was books.

In the years following the duke’s death, most of the library was sold, but there was one book – The Great Book of Monsters, that was never accounted for. This book was very old indeed, and very valuable, and contained ancient knowledge on how to defeat and imprison many dangerous and terrible monsters.

Recently, around the Gardens and Grounds of Floors Castle, many of these beasts have been spotted. Somehow, they have escaped from the book …

From the 7th July and running 7 days a week (10am until 5pm) until 31st August, Floors Castle Summer Trail, promises monstrous thrills for adults and children alike, as they help to find them, capture them, and imprison them once again safely within its pages.

Everyone (adults & children) will need a ticket to participate in the Mythical Monster Hunt. Children’s tickets are £2 and adults will need either a valid Annual Pass, Castle Gardens & Grounds Broken Book Ticket (£18 online or £19.50 onsite) or a Gardens & Grounds Broken Book Ticket (£8). Last trail admission is 4pm.

All customers who have pre-purchased tickets online are advised to enter via the main Golden Gates (TD5 7RL) and pick up their trail booklets from the Gate Ticket Kiosk on arrival – these are essential for taking part in the trail.

*Adult Annual Pass Holders will receive unlimited free entry to the Mythical Monster Hunt as part of their Annual Pass scheme, however, ALL children taking part in the trail will require a trail ticket.

Monster Hunt tickets do not need to be booked in advance, tickets will be available to purchase on the day from both the Garden Ticket Kiosk and Golden Gates Ticket Kiosk.

For more details visit https://www.floorscastle.com/events/floors-summer-trail/