TODAY –Monday 12 September at 3pm – there will be a Service to celebrate the life of The Queen and her connection to Scotland at St Giles Cathedral.
Those represented at the service include members of the public, friends, family members and representatives of the charities and organisations The Queen was affiliated to in Scotland.
The service will be led by the Reverend Calum MacLeod.
There will be limited space along the Royal Mile. Those wishing to attend are advised to allow plenty of time. Access may be restricted for safety reasons.
Her Majesty The Queen will then lie at rest at St Giles’ Cathedral following the service. Members of the public are anticipated to begin arriving to pay their respects from 5pm until tomorrow afternoon (Tuesday 13 September).
This is expected to cause further delays and road closures and Lothian advises customers to plan ahead.
Travellers should check Lothian’s service alerts page here or the app for the latest information.
Guidance has also been issued for how public can attend Her Majesty The Queen’s Lying-in-State at Westminster Hall:
Lying-in-State will take place from Wednesday 14 September until Monday 19 September
Public will be able to walk past The Queen’s coffin to pay respects
A ceremonial procession which precedes the Lying-in State will convey Her Majesty The Queen from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall
Members of the public will be able to pay their respects to Her Majesty The Queen at the Lying-in-State at The Palace of Westminster in London from Wednesday evening.
Ahead of that a ceremonial procession will take place on Wednesday afternoon that will see The Queen’s coffin travel from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster for the Lying-in-State.
Members of the public can watch the procession in person at the ceremonial viewing areas along the processional route, or at a screening site in Hyde Park.
At the Lying-in-State, The Queen’s closed coffin will rest on a raised platform, called a catafalque, in Westminster Hall and will be draped in the Royal Standard with the Orb and Sceptre placed on top.
Each corner of the platform will be guarded around the clock by a vigil of units from the Sovereign’s Bodyguard, the Household Division, or Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London.
The public will be able to file past the coffin 24 hours a day from 5pm on Wednesday 14 September until 6.30am on the day of the funeral – Monday 19 September.
Those wishing to attend will be required to queue for many hours, possibly overnight. Large crowds are expected and people are encouraged to check ahead, plan accordingly and be prepared for long wait times.
All those attending the Lying-in-State will go through airport-style security and there are tight restrictions on what you can take in, with only small bags permitted. Step-free access will be available for those who need it.
For those unable to travel, key moments of the ceremonial procession and the Lying-in-State will be broadcast on the BBC, Sky News and ITV.
Following the death of Her Majesty The Queen, all official flags, including the Union Flag, should be half-masted from as soon as possible until 08.00 the day following The Queen’s State Funeral. Flags may be flown overnight during this period but should remain at half-mast.
Official flags in this instance are defined as national flags of the home nations, Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories, Ensigns and Ships’ colours.
Any non-official flags flying or due to be flown, such as the Rainbow Flag or the Armed Forces Day Flag, should be taken down and replaced with a Union Flag at half-mast. Other official flags scheduled to be flown can be flown as normal, but at half-mast.
Half-mast means the flag is flown a third of the way down the flagpole from the top, with at least the height of the flag between the top of the flag and the top of the flagpole.
On poles that are more than 45° from the vertical, flags cannot be flown at half-mast and should not be flown at all.
The Union Flag must be flown the correct way up – in the half of the flag nearest the flagpole, the wider diagonal white stripe must be above the red diagonal stripe. Please see the College of Arms website
Royal Standard
The Royal Standard is never flown at half-mast even after the death of a monarch, as there is always a Sovereign on the throne and it would therefore be inappropriate for it to fly at half-mast.
The Union Flag will be flown at half mast on all Royal Residences.
UK PARLIAMENT
Following the announcement of the death of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the House of Commons, the House of Lords and everyone at UK Parliament extend their sympathies to the Royal Family.
Statement from the Speaker of the House of Commons, The Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay Hoyle:
‘For all of us, the Queen has been a constant presence in our lives – as familiar as a member of the family, yet one who has exercised a calm and steadying influence over our country. Most of us have never known a time when she was not there. Her death is not only a tragedy for the Royal family, but a terrible loss for us all.
During her 70 years on the throne – and even before that, as a teenager, reassuring and engaging with children and families disrupted by the Second World War – she has given our lives a sense of equilibrium. While her reign has been marked by dramatic changes in the world, Her Majesty has maintained her unwavering devotion to the UK, the British Overseas Territories and the Commonwealth of Nations – and her gentle authority and sound reason have been felt throughout.
She has travelled the world extensively, modernised the Royal family, and is credited with inventing the royal ‘walkabout’, which enabled her to meet people from all walks of life during her visits. As Head of State, she has provided advice and the benefit of long experience to 15 prime ministers during her reign – and met more than a quarter of all the American presidents in the history of the US.
The Queen has been involved in everything that is important to us and which makes us who we are – from state occasions to Royal weddings, and especially at Christmas, with her wise words and reflective annual message.
She has been a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother – but she has been our Queen, and we will miss her beyond measure.’
Statement from the Lord Speaker, The Rt Hon. Lord McFall of Alcluith:
‘Following the death of the Queen, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the nation and the whole Commonwealth is united in deep mourning.
For 70 years she has been a loyal and steadfast presence in the national life of the United Kingdom.
Her integrity, unique record of public service, deep sense of faith and commitment to her role have ensured that she will be regarded as a supreme example of a constitutional Monarch.
Her vital relationship with our Chamber, where the three elements of Parliament come together during the State Opening, ensures that she will be forever remembered and cherished by the House of Lords.
Today my thoughts, and indeed those of the whole House, will go out to His Majesty the King and to the members of the Royal family, for whom this feeling of loss will be profound.
Today the nation reflects on the service Queen Elizabeth II gave to the Crown and to her people, and gives thanks for her life.
Members may wish to be aware that information about arrangements for the House will be issued by Black Rod and the House authorities shortly.
In fondest remembrance of a Queen dedicated to Her nation and Her people.’
MPs will have the opportunity to pay tribute at a special parliamentary session at Westminster this afternoon:
Business
Tributes to Her late Majesty The Queen.
12:00pm – 10:00pm
ROYAL MOURNING
Following the death of Her Majesty The Queen, it is His Majesty The King’s wish that a period of Royal Mourning be observed from now until seven days after The Queen’s Funeral. The date of the Funeral will be confirmed in due course.
Royal Mourning will be observed by Members of the Royal Family, Royal Household staff and Representatives of the Royal Household on official duties, together with troops committed to Ceremonial Duties.
Flags at Royal Residences
Flags at Royal Residences were half masted yesterday, Thursday 8th September, and will remain half-masted until 0800hrs on the morning after the final day of Royal Mourning.
The half-masting of flags at Royal Residences does not apply to the Royal Standard and the Royal Standard in Scotland when The King is in residence, as they are always flown at full mast.
Guidance on flags at other public buildings has been issued by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
Royal Gun Salute
Royal Salutes will be fired in London today at 1300hrs BST in Hyde Park by The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and at the Tower of London by the Honourable Artillery Company. One round will be fired for each year of The Queen’s life.
Closure of the Royal Residences
Royal Residences will close until after The Queen’s Funeral. This includes The Queen’s Gallery and the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace, and The Queen’s Gallery in Edinburgh. Balmoral Castle and Sandringham House, The Queen’s private estates, will also close for this period. In addition, Hillsborough Castle, The Sovereign’s official residence in Northern Ireland, will be closed.
Floral Tributes at the Royal Residences
Following the death of Her Majesty The Queen, the following guidance is given to members of the public who wish to leave floral tributes at Royal Residences:
At Buckingham Palace members of the public will be guided to lay floral tributes at dedicated sites in The Green Park or Hyde Park. Flowers left outside the gates of Buckingham Palace will be moved to The Green Park Floral Tribute Garden by The Royal Parks. Further guidance will be issued by The Royal Parks.
At Windsor Castle, floral tributes can be left at Cambridge Gate on the Long Walk. These flowers will be brought inside the Castle every evening, and placed on the Castle Chapter grass on the south side of St George’s Chapel and Cambridge Drive.
At the Sandringham Estate, members of the public are encouraged to leave floral tributes at the Norwich Gates.
At Balmoral Castle, floral tributes can be left at the Main Gate.
At the Palace of Holyroodhouse, members of the public are encouraged to give floral tributes to the Wardens at the entrance to The Queen’s Gallery. Those flowers will be laid on the Forecourt grass in front of the North Turret of the Palace.
At Hillsborough Castle, floral tributes may be laid on the Castle Forecourt, in front of the main gates.
Information on Floral Tributes at other public buildings and locations will be issued by the Cabinet Office.
Books of Condolence at the Royal Residences
There are no physical Books of Condolence at the Royal Residences.
Since the early 1960s plans have been in place in the event of the death of the Queen. These have undergone numerous changes in the decades since. As Her Majesty the Queen died in Scotland, “Operation Unicorn” will now be triggered.
Details of “Operation Unicorn” were first reported to the public in 2019, although the codename appeared in the Scottish Parliament’s online papers in 2017.
Holyrood Palace, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Scottish Parliament will serve as the focal point of gatherings. A condolence book will be open to the public and set up at the Parliament building.
It’s reported that the Scottish Parliament will be suspended to allow authorities to prepare for the Queen’s state funeral.
The Queen’s coffin will initially lie in repose at the Palace of Holyrood, before being carried to St Giles’ Cathedral where there will be a service of reception.
Thousands of people are expected in Edinburgh to pay their respects and they will be encouraged to gather around the Scottish Parliament, Holyrood Palace and St Giles’ Cathedral.
More details to follow.
Edinburgh road closures and public transport information
Road closures are in place in the city centre, with further closures planned in the coming days.
We expect significant disruption in the city over the next few days. We will update this page with further details of which roads will be closing and public transport information.
This National Afternoon Tea Week, The Ivy on the Square, Edinburgh welcomes guests to experience its luxury afternoon tea offering
If you’re looking for a mid-afternoon indulgence this August, look no further than The Ivy on the Square’s new Laurent Perrier Summer Afternoon Tea, available every day from 3pm – 4:45pm.
The brasserie has partnered with Laurent Perrier to offer a glass of Rosé Champagne with its afternoon tea experience, which includes a delicious array of sandwiches, including Ivy Cure smoked salmon and cream cheese fingers, grilled chicken and truffle mayonnaise brioche and pickled cucumber, courgette and basil double decker rolls.
Freshly baked fruit scones are served with clotted cream, fresh strawberries and strawberry preserve, while the sweets include a chocolate plant pot, madeleine cake with lemon curd, red velvet raspberry cake and a strawberry milkshake, all accompanied by a choice of teas, infusions or coffees.
Summer Afternoon Tea starts from £28.95 per person, or £37.95 per person with a glass of Laurent Perrier Rosé Champagne, is available to enjoy in The Ivy on the Square’sluscious surroundings seven days a week and served between 3:00 – 4:45pm.
Police are appealing for the assistance of the public to help trace 41-year-old Michael Meehan who has been reported missing from Edinburgh.
Michael was last seen around 3.30 pm on Thursday, 21 July, 2022 on Rose Street, Edinburgh.
He is described as white, of slim build, around 6ft tall, with short grey hair, few teeth and has bad sunburn and blisters to his face. He speaks with an Irish accent and was wearing a dark coloured jacket, tracksuit bottoms and trainers although it is thought he may actually be barefoot.
Sergeant Jonathan Wilson, Gayfield Police Station, said: “Since Mr Meehan was reported missing, officers have been checking CCTV and making local enquiries in Edinburgh City Centre and Portobello where he is known to frequent, however, there have been no further sightings of him.
“We are concerned for his health and well-being and would appeal to anyone who has seen him recently or who may have information as to where he is to get in touch with police.”
Information can be passed to officers via 101. Please quote reference number 2159 of Thursday, 21 July, 2022
Military bands, veterans, and senior Armed Forces personnel will join a parade through Edinburgh’s centre tomorrow to show support for servicemen, women, and their families.
The Depute Lord Provost Cllr Lezley Cameron will take part in the event to celebrate Armed Forces Day, organised by Legion Scotland in partnership with the city council.
Starting in Charlotte Square, the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, Royal Air Force Central Scotland Pipes and Drums, and Legion Scotland standard bearers will lead the parade along George Street at 10:15am.
They will march to St Andrew Square for a short address by the Depute Lord Provost. This will be followed by entertainment from both bands, Legion Scotland Sweetheart Amy Hawthorn, Fiona Liddle, Jack Hinks and Maria Townley. There will also a variety of stalls, including from Poppyscotland, Legion Scotland, and other charities.
Formerly known as “Veterans Day”, the annual event is marked each year around the UK and is a chance to pay tribute to the Armed Forces community.
Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “This is a chance to come together and show our appreciation for all those who have served, past and present, and their families. It’s a day to remember the sacrifices that our Armed Forces make every day and commemorate their dedication and commitment.
“This is always an uplifting and morale-boosting event, and we’re especially delighted to return to normal after two difficult years. We’re pleased to be working with the City of Edinburgh Council and presenting an exciting and varied programme of entertainment.
“We’d encourage people throughout the city and beyond to come along, show their support, and enjoy a day out.”
This year’s celebration of street performance will feature new locations across the city centre, supported by a new Street Performer Charter, and partnership with TikTok
Today, 22 June, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society is delighted to launch a revamped and expanded street events offering for 2022, in the festival’s 75th anniversary year.
In addition to the long-established performance areas on the Royal Mile and the Mound Precinct, this year’s street events will also take place at new locations in EastPrinces Street Gardens, St Andrew Square, Multrees Walk, and Cathedral Square outside St James Quarter.
Visitors to the street events will be able to follow a route taking in each of the performance sites following a map within the official printed Fringe programme. The street events will be delivered by Unique Events, who are managing the programme on behalf of the Fringe Society, for the second year.
The return of the street events programme is being supported by EventScotland (part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate), and Creative Scotland, and the launch follows last week’s announcement of the Fringe Society’s new partnership with TikTok, which supports the expanded street events programme.
With activation planned across these sites, TikTok will provide a ‘taster stage’ in both St Andrew Square and Cathedral Square, where artists from registered Fringe shows can perform short snippets of their shows, giving festivalgoers a free taste of their performance.
TikTok will live stream from these stages, enabling artists to be found by digital audiences from around the world. On the Royal Mile, two new screens will stream the TikTok content, and will also be available free to registered artists to promote their show digitally, via digital posters on the screens.
Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival Society, said: “We are excited to reveal our new and expanded plans for this year’s Street Events, one of the most visible aspects of the Fringe, enjoyed by audiences every year. The new route will allow audiences to meander through Edinburgh’s majestic Old Town and New Town, while enjoying artists in different locations.”
As part of today’s launch, the Fringe Society has also published the Street Performer Charter, a set of values shared by the Fringe Society and the street performing community, as represented by the Street Performers’ Council.
The Charter, which includes commitments from the Fringe Society and street performers, will facilitate fair, open decision making between the two groups. Among its various commitments, the Charter works towards increasing accessibility of street events, taking social responsibility for pay, sustainability goals, and improving health, safety and mental wellbeing among street performers.
Shona McCarthy continued: “I’m incredibly pleased to see the publication of the new Street Events Charter, developed in collaboration with the Fringe Society, and the street performer community.
“The Fringe and street events are within each other’s DNA and part of the cultural heritage of beautiful Edinburgh. This collective step establishes a great template to work more collaboratively at ensuring the Fringe is the best possible version of itself for the next 75 years, both for artists and residents.”
A spokesperson for thestreet performing communitysaid: “The street performer charter marks a new chapter in what we anticipate will be an artist-led street festival for the people of Edinburgh and its many visitors to enjoy.
“We are excited to be working with the Fringe and their partners, to keep alive the long history of street performance that is at the heart of the Edinburgh Fringe, as we celebrate 75 years.”
Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “As one of Scotland’s most recognisable cultural assets, EventScotland is delighted to be supporting the return of the Fringe street events. It is an integral part of the festival, providing audiences with the chance to connect with performances and get a taste of the Fringe for free.
“Scotland is one of the best places in the world to experience events, and after the challenges of the last two years, now is the time to plan and enjoy experiences like the street events that stir the emotions and elevate your mood.”
James Stafford, Head of Partnerships & Community at TikTok, said: “The Edinburgh Fringe is a unique moment that brings together emerging artists in a celebration of creativity.
“Our partnership places TikTok’s global community at the heart of the iconic festival, and celebrates our joint belief that creativity is for everyone. TikTok is the home of entertainment and creativity and I know our community will welcome the opportunity to discover new artists, collaborate, and be inspired.”
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, said: “St James Quarter is a welcoming cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion and we’re passionate about supporting Edinburgh’s world-renowned cultural offering and its vibrant events calendar.
“It’s a privilege to be working with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society and we look forward to hosting some of the amazing street events on Cathedral Square.”
Virgin Hotels, the luxury lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, announces that its flagship restaurant and bar, Commons Club, located inside the newly opened Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, is now open.
The luxurious modern day social club will officially open to the public on Tuesday 14th June. For those eager to get ahead of the crowd, reservations can now be made directly on the hotel’s website at https://virginhotels.com/edinburgh/dine-and-drink/the-commons-club/.
Nestled across two floors, Commons Club is designed to be a playful yet sophisticated environment for guests to eat, drink and vibe in the heart of Edinburgh and will showcase contemporary Scottish seasonal cuisine using the freshest produce straight from Scotland’s local larder for diners.
Newly appointed Executive Chef, Steven Wilson, has created a menu that will cater to all tastes. For starters, guests can enjoy an array of stunning dishes including, Ceviche with line-caught & cured wild seabass, shaved fennel, dill, nashi pear & green olive puree; Wagyu Tataki with Scottish wagyu beef “Tataki style”, fried garlic, ponzu green onion puree & parsnip crisp and Risotto with Scottish farm spelt & barley risotto, baby morels, lightly-roasted almonds & shaved fresh summer truffle.
Moving onto mains, guests can choose between Halibut with pan-seared Gigha halibut, confit aromatic farm seasonal vegetables in a light saffron & Shetland blue mussels velouté; slow roast Perthshire chicken “dinner” with fondant potato, baby leek, morel mushrooms & fresh peas, crispy chicken & Pata Negra croquet, bread sauce, roast chicken jus & chive oil and Isle of Mull seaweed tortellini pasta filled with wild herb ricotta, clay oven-roasted artichoke, pea & feve etuvee, vegetarian parmesan air.
Guests can also explore a range of bespoke cocktails created with locality in mind, helping to bring a sense of Scotland into each of the flavours. From a ‘Breakfast in the Highlands’ made with Glenfiddich 15 Single Malt Whisky, Brown Butter, Toasted Oat Amontillado Sherry, Heather Honey and Bittered Sling Kensington Aromatic, to a ‘Queen Street’ made with Bacardi Carta Blanca Rum, Martini Reserva Ambrato, Lemon, Celery Bitters and Islay mist, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Commons Club is situated within the brand-new Virgin Hotels Edinburgh located in the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle. The finished hotel will feature 222 Chambers and Grand Chamber Suites and multiple dining and drinking outlets, all with their own unique space and distinct design.
Accompanying Commons Club later in the year will be Eve, a vibrant, all-day dining space, offering a progressive approach to late night entertainment in Edinburgh. The hotel site is also home to a 19th century church, known as Greyfriars Hall, that is being beautifully restored and repurposed as a special event venue. In addition, the hotel will offer a rooftop sanctuary with unobstructed Edinburgh Castle views.
Scott McArdle, General Manager of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, commented: “Edinburgh is such an iconic city and we’re thrilled it will be the home of our flagship restaurant and bar within the first Virgin Hotels in the UK and across Europe.
“Commons Club is a unique offering that will complement the current offering of the hotel. The food and drink menus will bring an array of local flavours to the table and can’t wait to welcome everyone in to try them.”
Steven Wilson, Executive Chef of Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, said: “After years of travelling the world and working in some unforgettable restaurants and hotels, I’m so excited to be back in my hometown and to be part of this iconic opening in Edinburgh.
“We really do have access to the highest quality local produce right on our doorstep in Scotland and that’s something the menu at Commons Club celebrates. Guests will enjoy our timeless menu that will continue to evolve with the seasons, keeping them coming back time and time again.”
All guests can sign up for the brand-wide guest preferences and loyalty program ‘The Know’, which grants a personalised hotel experience that allows for access to room upgrades, member rates, special events and a complimentary cocktail hour in Commons Club – all when booking directly with Virgin Hotels.
All Chambers and Suites have integrated tech capabilities, which can control lighting, thermostats, TVs, and order room service directly via the mobile app, Lucy which is exclusively available to Know members.
Lucy also gives guests the ability to check in prior to arrival and can be used as an access key to their Chambers. Chambers are also pet friendly, with complimentary ‘pet-menities’ available, including dog beds and food and water dishes.
The hotel has been developed and is owned by Flemyn and managed by Virgin Hotels.
Reservations for the hotel are also open and can be made directly on the hotel’s websitewww.virginhotels.com/edinburgh.
From June 24th to July 3rd, experience a free 10-day public event of fresh floral couture by local florists at St James Quarter – all in celebration of remarkable women.
World-renowned bespoke floral show Fleurs de Villes, is thrilled to announce the launch of its very first public showing in Scotland, in partnership with St James Quarter – Edinburgh’s chicest retail destination.
The show is open to the public from Friday June 24th, exactly one year on since St James Quarter opened its doors, when guests will be able to tour the self-guided exhibit until Sunday, July 3rd.
The FEMMES exhibition will showcase a series of fresh floral mannequins celebrating remarkable women around the world. Fleurs de Villes is proud to be working with local floral talent who will create these tributes based on an inspirational photo or painting of each woman.
Participating florists include Amanda Coghill, Border Blooms by Gail Watson + Bluebells Florist Crieff, Cassia Salvona Floral Design, Farima Perry Florals & Events, Floral Ambitions, Fruit Salad Flowers, Gillytree Studio, In Bloom Studio, KDM Event Styling & Floral Design, Narcissus Flowers, Ollie + Ivy, Penelope Fleur by KDM, Petals by the Shore, Quate & Co., Rogue Flowers, Rose & Ammi Flowers, Simpsons Florist, Wild Flowers, and Wildflower & Willow.
Visitors to St James Quarter can also shop for fresh blooms at a pop-up flower market on Saturday June 25th and visit the Fleurs de Villes JARDIN area that will host floral demonstrations and talks from Friday June 24th to Sunday June 26th.
The public are encouraged to vote for their favourite mannequin, and to enter a ‘snap and share’ social media contest for a chance to win tickets to “My Fair Lady” at the Edinburgh Playhouse.
(L-R: Frida Kahlo, Oprah Winfrey and Audrey Hepburn displays from past Fleurs de Villes FEMMES city exhibitions – Photo Credit: Fleurs de Villes)
Fleurs de Villes FEMMES at St James Quarter will feature these fifteen remarkable women of cultural significance and historical impact:
Annie Lennox – Scottish singer-songwriter Annie Lennox is one of the most successful celebrated artists of her generation. From her time in ’80s synthpop duo Eurythmics to her solo career, she has sold millions of records around the world, and is also known for her social activism and philanthropic works.
Isobel Wyley Hutchison – sponsored by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Scotswoman Isobel Wylie Hutchison overcame the constraints that her age, gender and class placed upon her, to become a solo Arctic adventurer, an accomplished botanist and a successful poet and writer.
Mary Queen of Scots – Perhaps the best-known figure in Scottish royal history, Mary Queen of Scots’ life, marital decisions, political actions including an alleged plot against Queen Elizabeth I, and subsequent execution has established her as a divisive and widely romanticised historical character, depicted in culture for centuries.
Karen Gillan – sponsored by FUSE. Scottish actress Karen Gillan has gained recognition for her work in film and television, including “Guardians of the Galaxy”, “Avengers”, and “Doctor Who.”
Eunice Olumide – Born in Edinburgh, Eunice Olumide is an international supermodel, broadcaster and curator who in 2017, was awarded an MBE for her contribution to Arts, Broadcasting and Charity work.
Eliza Doolittle, My Fair Lady mannequin – sponsored by Edinburgh Playhouse. This FEMME is inspired by the much-loved Cockney flower seller Eliza Doolittle played by the iconic Audrey Hepburn in the 1964 musical film. The Lincoln Center Theater’s multi-award-winning production of “My Fair Lady” will be playing at the Edinburgh Playhouse from December 14th 2022 to January 7th 2023.
Rose Ayling-Ellis – sponsored by Deaf Action. British Sign Language user Rose Lucinda Ayling-Ellis is best known for playing Frankie Lewis in BBC soap EastEnders, and her groundbreaking Strictly Come Dancing win with Giovanni Pernice in 2022.
Flora MacDonald – sponsored by Clarendon Fine Art Gallery. One of the most romantic characters in Scottish history, Flora Macdonald is best known for helping Bonnie Prince Charles Edward Stuart evade government troops after the Battle of Culloden in April 1746; since becoming immortalised in the famous 19th century “The Skye Boat Song” that narrates the getaway.
Megan Beveridge – sponsored by Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Megan Beveridge of the British Army made history by becoming the first serving female Lone Piper at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Edinburgh in 2016.
Marilyn Monroe – Actress, singer, and model Marilyn Monroe became one of the most popular sex symbols of the 1950s and early 1960s, and is still one of the world’s most enduring iconic figures.
Mary Somerville – Scottish science writer and self-taught polymath Mary Somerville became the first female member to be elected to The Royal Astronomical Society at a time when women were largely absent in scientific circles and their participation was discouraged.
Frida Kahlo – Possibly the most well-known female painter of modern times, Kahlo is famous for her ground-breaking self-portraits and works inspired by the nature and artefacts of her native Mexico.
Queen Victoria – Queen Victoria was the first English-born monarch of Great Britain to share her love of Scotland. Throughout her reign of 63 years she visited the country many times, and even inspired a trend for tartan and tweed across the kingdom.
Empress Xiaozhuangwen – The mother of the first Emperor of the Qing Empire, Empress Xiaozhuangwen proved to be a critical stabilising figure in her young son’s reign, remembered for her wisdom and insight.
Cleopatra – For almost 3 decades, Cleopatra VII served as the dominant ruler in her co-regencies. Her romantic liaisons, military alliances and supposed powers of seduction has earned her an enduring place in history and popular myth.
Audiences of all ages, cultures and genders will be able to learn more about these fascinating women by scanning the QR codes on signs adjacent to each floral sculpture that will link visitors to their incredible stories.
Proud sponsors of these FEMMES include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Clarendon Fine Art Gallery, Deaf Action, Edinburgh Playhouse, FUSE, Cash for Kids and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
Other highlights of the FEMMES exhibition within St James Quater include a selfie-invoking swing adorned with blooms, a floral cocktail menu at The Alchemist raising funds for charity Cash for Kids, a “flower-bombed” Maserati MC20, and ornate floral doorways at retailers Reiss, Miele, Juliet Rose, Thai Express, IOLLA and Clarendon Fine Art Gallery.
(L-R: Malala Yousafzai, Carline Astor, Grace Kelly displays from past Fleurs de Villes FEMMES city exhibitions – Photo Credit: Fleurs de Villes)
The partnership is part of St James Quarter’s ongoing commitment to provide a cultural and lifestyle hub for art, culture and fashion and offer opportunities for the local community to get involved with unique experiences. This activity follows on from a number of successful events over the last year including Edinburgh Style, Love Beauty and a seafood festival.
Visitors to St James Quarter will be able to view the floral exhibition in the main Galleria area while shopping with luxury retailers such as H beauty and Reiss or before a refreshment stop at cocktail bar and restaurant The Alchemist or food hall Bonnie & Wild. Guests will also be able to see other retailers unleash their inner botanist as stores get involved with the event with their own floral displays.
“We felt that this was the ideal time to launch Fleurs de Villes FEMMES as people are starved for in-real-life, tactile and inspirational experiences that they can enjoy safely with friends and family. The exhibit will offer the opportunity to learn about these important women who have left their mark on history and what better backdrop than a unique venue like St James Quarter,” says co-founder Tina Barkley. Co-founder Karen Marshall adds: “We are very excited to bring our event to Edinburgh for the very first time and to launch the new exhibition FEMMES at the iconic St James Quarter. Each of our shows is an entirely different experience, celebrating the local community and made possible by local partners like St James Quarter which support Fleurs de Villes events being freely and most beautifully open to the public. With such a diverse group of local florists and creative talents, we can’t wait to spread joy and tell the stories of these women, en fleurs, to honour each as truly remarkable.”
Nick Peel, Managing Director at St James Quarter, says: “We are delighted that Fleurs de Villes FEMMES is coming to Scotland for the first time and there’s no better place to showcase the series than St James Quarter, the hub of the capital city.
“We could not be more pleased to have Fleurs de Villes FEMMES grace our Galleria and celebrate inspirational women from across the globe in such a spectacular fashion.”
The global FEMMES tour visits four countries this year in these world-class destinations:
Miami, Bal Harbour Shops March 4-13, 2022
Chicago, 900 North Michigan Shops, March 30-April 3, 2022
Costa Mesa, South Coast Plaza, April 20-24, 2022
Toronto, Bloor-Yorkville, May 4-8, 2022
Montreal, Complex des Jardins and Quartier des Spectacles, May 20-29, 2022
Vancouver, Downtown, June 3-12, 2022
Edinburgh, St. James Quarter, June 24-July 3, 2022
Sydney, The Royal Botanic Garden, August 19-28, 2022
Saturday 28th & Sunday 29 May Ross Bandstand, Princes Street Gardens
StagEHd is a two day festival of theatre, celebrating the performing arts in Edinburgh.
Born out of a conversation about the commercialisation of Edinburgh’s public spaces, StagEHd is an open access, free-to-attend festival of theatre, featuring the best of Edinburgh’s independent, grassroots and community theatre companies.
The festival began partly as a response to the closure of the city’s arts spaces during the 2020 pandemic, by EGTG (Edinburgh Graduate Theatre Group) in collaboration with other community theatre companies in the city, as an opportunity to showcase homegrown talent to a local audience.
Young detectives have dusted off their maps and magnifying glasses for a 10k treasure hunt around Edinburgh’s city centre.
Veteran Fraser Rowand, from Granton, joined Poppyscotland to launch its first ever Poppy Quest, with his wife Susan, and children Rebecca, 11, Lucy, 10, and George, 8,
They are challenging people of all ages to test their observation skills and ingenuity – as well as their legs – and rediscover their city, while supporting Scotland’s Armed Forces community.
The event takes place on Saturday, June 11th and is open to individuals, groups and families. Walkers will be provided with a map and a series of questions to navigate a route around the city.
There will also be a special competition for teams of cadets, with a trophy for the fastest time with all questions answered correctly.
All funds raised will go to support Poppyscotland’s work, providing advice and support to former and current servicemen and women and their families.
Mr Rowand, a former Lance Corporal in the Scots Guards, served two tours of Afghanistan, and now works in Lady Haig’s Poppy Factory, in Edinburgh. He said: “The services Poppyscotland provides are really vital. Many veterans find it hard to adjust to ‘Civvy Street’, so we need to make sure support is there when they need it.
“We’re really looking forward to Poppy Quest – it’s a great way to spend time together and see Edinburgh in a new light.”
Gordon Michie, Poppyscotland’s Head of Fundraising, said: “Poppy Quest Edinburgh is set to be a fantastic day out and a chance to rediscover this great city. We’re encouraging families, groups and individuals of all ages to challenge themselves, stretching their minds and legs and finding hidden gems along the way.
“Starting in beautiful Princes Street Gardens, you can take your time, enjoy the scenery and architecture, and perhaps even enjoy a picnic en-route. Participants are welcome to bring their four-legged friends as well.
“Intrepid teams of cadets can also join the race against the clock to complete the course with all questions answered correctly.
“All funds raised will go to support our life-changing work with Scotland’s Armed Forces community. As we emerge from the pandemic, veterans and their families need support more than ever, whether that’s with housing, employment, or mental or physical health.
“No one who has served their country should be disadvantaged, and we want to make sure Poppyscotland is always there when they need us.”
Registration costs are £16 for adults and £5 for 13-18 year olds, while children aged 12 and under are free. All participants will receive a Poppy Quest medal, t-shirt, map and quiz, as well as a unique pin badge for those who raise over £100. For more information visit www.poppyscotland.org.uk.
