Tag: City Chambers

Scotland pauses for reflection on Remembrance Sunday

First Minister John Swinney joined the Rt Hon Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge, as well as veterans, military personnel, and others yesterday to remember the fallen on Remembrance Sunday.

The RAF Central Scotland Pipes and Drums led a parade from Edinburgh Castle to the City Chambers at 10:30am, followed by veterans, Tri-Service Cadets and Highland and Lowland Bands of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, and representatives from the three Armed Services.

The One O’Clock Gun then fired at 11am from Edinburgh Castle, as the country fell silent for two minutes in memory of those who have fallen in conflicts over the years. 

The Rev Dr Scott M Rennie MA BD STM FRSA, Minister, St Giles’ Cathedral, then led a short service of Remembrance.

Photo caption:- Senior heads of the three Services laid wreaths.

Wreaths were then laid at the Stone of Remembrance by the First Minister, the Lord Provost, Kenneth Gibson MSP, Presiding Officer, The Scottish Parliament, The Rt Hon Douglas Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Scotland, Chiefs of all three Armed Services, Brigadier Andy Muddiman ADC RM, Naval Regional Commander Scotland & Northern Ireland, Major General Nick Thomas CBE, General Officer Scotland, Air Commodore Mark Northover MBE ADC RAF, Air Officer Scotland, Rear Admiral Mark Beverstock, National President of The Royal British Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, Ms Sheila Elrick, National President, The Royal British Legion Scotland, Women’s Section, veterans associations and others.

Photo caption:- 100 year old WW2 veteran George McLeod laid the Kings Own Scottish Borderers wreath.

Commenting on Remembrance Sunday, the CEO of The Royal British Legion Scotland, Dr Claire Armstrong, OBE, said: “From the First World War to the complex conflicts of today, our duty to remember those who served remains absolute.

“Generation after generation, members of our Armed Forces community have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedoms and defend our way of life. We carry their legacy forward not just through modern remembrance, but by actively renewing our shared hope for a peaceful future.” 

Photo caption:- First Minister John Sweeney laid the Government Wreath

First Minister John Swinney said: “It was an honour to lay a wreath at the Stone of Remembrance to commemorate all those who have lost their lives in conflict.

“The people of Scotland will always remember and honour those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedom and values.”

Photo caption:- BKA Coy, 5 SCOTS on Parade

Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander laid a wreath on behalf of the UK Government at the Annual Service of Remembrance in Edinburgh. 

He joined the Edinburgh Lord Provost’s Wreath Laying Party from 11am at the Stone of Remembrance, Edinburgh City Chambers, alongside members of the military, veterans and community leaders, to honour the service and sacrifice of British Armed Forces personnel, veterans and their families, past and present.

Speaking ahead of the service, Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander said: “Remembrance Sunday is a moment for the whole country to pause and remember the men and women who gave their lives for our freedoms, and to give thanks to our veterans, our serving personnel, and the families who stand behind them. 

“In Edinburgh, I will be proud to stand alongside our veterans, members of our armed forces, and community leaders from across Scotland to honour their service and sacrifice.

“We owe a debt to those who have served that can never be fully repaid, and we will continue to honour it, in Scotland and across the United Kingdom. The UK Government’s commitment to our armed forces is unwavering.”

Following the wreath laying, Mr Alexander joined  the procession to St Giles’ Cathedral, piped by a pupil from George Heriot’s School, for a special Remembrance Sunday service. He gave a reading of Psalm 120, ‘A Song of Ascents,’ before attending a reception at Edinburgh City Chambers. 

Meanwhile, John Grady MP, Parliamentary Private Secretary to HM Treasury laid a wreath on behalf of the UK Government at Glasgow’s Remembrance Sunday service in George Square.

In London, the National Service of Remembrance was held at the Cenotaph on Whitehall, London, attended by the Prime Minister, senior members of the Cabinet and other political leaders.

Greens and Lib Dem councillors host National Emergency Briefing in City Chambers tomorrow

Edinburgh Green Councillors and Edinburgh Liberal Democrat councillors are jointly hosting a screening and discussion of the National Emergency Briefing. The event, in Edinburgh City Chambers, is tomorrow – Wednesday 7th October – and all 63 Edinburgh councillors have been invited to attend.

The screening and discussion, facilitated by Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) shows a 40-minute film on the climate and nature emergencies, presented by ecologist Chris Packham, followed by a facilitated discussion on the issues raised.

Speaking ahead of the screening, Liberal Democrat group leader Councillor Ed Thornley, one of the hosts of the event, said: “The Climate Emergency is having very real impact in Edinburgh – flooding and extreme rainfall are serious and growing concerns in my own part of the city.

“So, I’m delighted to be working cross-party to host this important screening and discussion so that councillors from all parties can come together and discuss what that means for our city and how we can move forward together.”

Co-host Councillor Ben Parker, Edinburgh Greens co-convenor, said: “The climate and nature emergencies are the most important issues of our time.

“We know that the impacts are already being felt across the world, and here in Edinburgh. It is so important that all elected members are knowledgeable about how climate change will impact on our lives and what we need to do differently to keep people safe and ensure we have a planet to pass on to future generations.

“I hope that we see a good turnout from councillors for this important screening.”

Mark Dowey, Hub Manager at the Edinburgh Community Climate Action Network (ECCAN) said: “In Edinburgh, communities are leading the way in responding to the climate and nature crisis.

“This briefing gives councillors from across the political spectrum a unique opportunity to come together, reflect on the challenges we face, and discuss what they mean for Edinburgh.

“ECCAN is pleased to support that conversation and help strengthen the connection between decision-making in the city and the community action already happening on the ground.”

Winners Revealed at Asian Art Awards Ceremony

Hundreds of Asian artists from dozens of Fringe shows gathered at the City Chambers this week for the Asian Art Awards 2026. 

With so much international talent on the Fringe programme it was no surprise that 2026 was another vintage year and, with the majority of winners still in town to collect their awards in person, there is still time to see most of them. The awards were presented by Richard Lewis, Chair of the Asian Art Fund Scotland and Chris Snow, Head of Artist Services at the Fringe, in partnership with WU Asia Pacific.

The irresistible “2Shoulderpads: Galaxy Train” from Japan (pictured above) won Outstanding Show for their zany poetic musical based on Japanese classical literature. Their only costume is … two shoulder pads each. “The Palestinian Circus: Step and a Half” (pictured) were one of the runners up, winning over the reviewing team with their talent, upbeat attitude and message of Peace.

It was also a strong year for Scottish representation. The Outstanding Youth Show award was won by Our Town Needs a Nando’s with the all-Scottish and all-female cast bringing tremendous energy and fun to the stage.

Scottish Tamil actress Lovely Selwyn burst into tears on receiving her award, exclaiming “this is our Oscar”! Outstanding Drama award was won by Tether with a cast from Scotland and Korea while the Outstanding Children’s Show award was won by “Shhh! (A Wordless Comedy)” from Vietnam but with one of the three cast members originally from Scotland. 

Finally, a Highly Commended award was received in the Youth category by the Edinburgh-based Nikkan Dance Academy for their show “Kahi: The Inner Us – Explore the Soul”, bringing traditional Indian dance to the Fringe.

Japanese Grandma Funeral starring Japanese American Kento Morita won best comedy, while the Outstanding Individual Performance was won by Cheeyang Ng from Singapore with Legendary, a musical seamlessly blending Chinese mythology and queer legacy. Outstanding Dance Show was won by Samurai and Oiran of Japan.

The Asian Arts Special Award was won by The Lady Prince Consort, a classic Chinese opera about a young wife who disguises herself as a man (Mulan-style) to save her husband, with (almost) tragic consequences. Although performed in Mandarin with subtitles, it was both beautiful and hilariously funny, and sadly only played for one night at the Queens Hall.

The Asian Art Awards at the Edinburgh Fringe have been running since 2014 with a vision of bringing Asian artists together to celebrate and promote their talents. At a time of rising tensions between east and west, art plays a vital role in bringing nations and communities together.

Winners – 2026 Asian Art Awards

Outstanding Show

Winner: 2ShoulderPads: Galaxy Train, 2ShoulderPads. (Japan)

Highly Commended: 

  • The Palestinian Circus: Step and a Half, Underbelly and The Palestinian Circus with Medical Aid for Palestine (Palestine) 
  • YOAH, Underbelly, Cirquework and Cluster Arts (Japan)

Outstanding Musical or Comedy Show

Winner: Japanese Grandma Funeral, Kento Morita. (USA)

Highly Commended: 

  • Hater, Brava Guava, UK
  • Olivia Xing: Baby of Colour., Olivia Xing. (China) 

Outstanding Dance Show

Winner: Samurai and Oiran, Asakusa Kaguwa (Japan) 

Highly Commended: 

Strange Tales from Liaozhai, Yuerge Dance Theatre / Shanghai International Dance Center Theater. (China) 

Outstanding Drama

Winner: Tether, Wonder Fools and Theatre SAN (Scotland/Republic of Korea)

Highly Commended:

  • LANDSFRAU, Doris Crea Collective (Performed by Mariann Yar) (Germany)
  • Olympic Hopefuls, in vivo Productions (USA)
  • Why English?, Vibhinna Ramdev (India) 

Outstanding Youth Show

Winner: Our Town Needs a Nando’s, Hot Mess Productions (Scotland)

Highly Commended: 

  • Kahi, The Inner Us – Explore the Soul, Nikkan Dance Academy, (India/Scotland) 

Outstanding Children’s Show

Winner: Shhh! (A Wordless Comedy), Lang Spot Vietnam (Vietnam)

Outstanding Individual Performance

Winner: Cheeyang Ng, Legendary(Singapore) 

Highly Commended: 

  • Seonju Jang, The Renaissance of Spring: Samsara and Shroop Directed and Choreographed by Yu-mi Kim. Jajack Movement and the Art Support & Incubation Dept., GGCF (Republic of Korea)
  • Emma Tsoi, He Wants Kids, She Doesn’t, BF Productions. (Hong Kong) 
  • Aarushi Agni, EMOJI: The Hieroglyphs Of Our Time…. (USA)

Asian Arts Special Award

Winner: The Lady Prince Consort Anqing Zaifen Huangmei Opera Theatre (China)

Highly Commended: 

  • R/evolution(s), Dance Base Yokohama/Conan Amok (Japan)

Also shortlisted was The Princess Gives Her Lover a Sword by Guangdong Chao Opera Institute (China)

For further information please contact organiser Asha Trivedy of Asian Art Fund Scotland via contact@asianartfundscotland.org and 07511209053 or trustee Jim Orr on 07718 666452.

Asianartfundscotland.org – @aaa_edfringe on IG

St John Scotland unveils 300th Public Access Defibrillator in Edinburgh

St John Scotland has unveiled its 300th Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) in Edinburgh city centre, marking a major milestone in the charity’s work to improve access to lifesaving equipment across the city. 

The defibrillator was officially unveiled by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh during Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June 2026), a fitting moment to recognise the dedication and commitment of St John Scotland’s Edinburgh volunteers, whose efforts help make communities in the city safer every day. St John Scotland is now working with the local area to identify the best location for it.

PADs play a crucial role in improving survival rates from out‑of‑hospital cardiac arrest. Having a defibrillator nearby, and people confident enough to use it, can make the difference between life and death while emergency services are on their way. For every PAD St John Scotland help place, volunteers provide CPR and defibrillator training to the hosts.

The installation of the 300th defibrillator in Edinburgh reflects years of sustained effort by St John Scotland volunteers in the city, working alongside local partners, communities and supporters to identify gaps in provision and help make lifesaving equipment more accessible.

The unveiling also recognised the long‑standing support of Mike Pinkerton, whose work with St John Scotland has raised over £20,000 to support the expansion of community lifesaving initiatives across Edinburgh.

The Lord Provost of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge, said: “This impressive milestone is a testament to the power of community action and the incredible long-standing support for St John Scotland.

“Reaching 300 Public Access Defibrillators across Edinburgh is a fantastic achievement that the city can be truly proud of. It reflects the dedication and generosity of volunteers, partners, and supporters who give their time to help protect lives in their communities. Across the city St John Scotland public access defibrillators have been used to save lives.”

“I hope this success inspires even more organisations and community groups to get involved and explore hosting a Public Access Defibrillator at their building. “

John Craig, Edinburgh Chair of St John Scotland, said: “Reaching 300 Public Access Defibrillators in Edinburgh is a huge milestone for us, but it’s one that simply wouldn’t be possible without our amazing volunteers.

“From installing and maintaining defibrillators to delivering training and raising awareness in their communities and much more, their commitment saves lives every day. It’s especially fitting to celebrate this during Volunteers’ Week.”

Mike Pinkerton said: “I know how lucky I am to still be here and to be able to do my bit for such a worthwhile cause. I’m also lucky to have had such great support from St John Scotland and their incredible team of volunteers.

“Of course, we hope these defibrillators are never needed but the truth is they will be and, when they are, we know we’re giving someone suffering a cardiac arrest the best possible chance of survival.”

St John Scotland’s volunteers give thousands of hours each year to support communities across Edinburgh and the rest of Scotland, delivering essential CPR education, transporting vulnerable patients to and from vital treatment and helping to build confidence in lifesaving skills.

With the support of existing host organisations across the city, St John Scotland has been able to expand access to lifesaving equipment in local communities. The charity is aiming to inspire more businesses, community groups and local organisations to host future defibrillators.

The charity continues to work towards its goal of safer, more resilient communities, ensuring that defibrillators are not only available, but visible, accessible and supported by training.

All registered PADs can be found at https://www.defibfinder.uk/

St John Scotland is encouraging people across Edinburgh to consider placing a PAD in their local area. Find out more at: 

https://www.stjohnscotland.org.uk/public-access-defibrillators

Edinburgh by-elections will take place in September

Two by-elections will be held in the Southside/Newington and Portobello/Craigmillar wards following the resignations of Councillors Simita Kumar and Kate Campbell.

Residents will go to the polls on Thursday 3 September to elect one new councillor in each ward. The current electorate is 24,304 for Southside/Newington and 27,347 for Portobello/Craigmillar. 

SNP councillors Campbell and Kumar were elected to the Scottish Parliament in May’s elections.

Green councillor Kayleigh Kinross-O’Neill, was also elected to Holyrood through the list system but she has decided to ‘double up’, serving as an MSP whilst also remaining a councillor in Forth ward until next year’s council elections.

On 15 July the formal Notice of Election will be published, and the Election Timetable, Election Notices and Nomination Papers will all be accessible on the Council website.

Returning Officer for Edinburgh, Paul Lawrence said: “I’d like to thank Councillors Kumar and Campbell for their service as elected members and I wish them all the best in their new roles at Holyrood.

“We’ll now begin preparing for these by-elections to make sure our residents are able to make their voices heard and elect their new representatives to the City Chambers.

“I’d urge everyone in these wards to make sure they are registered to vote and to check that they have asked for a postal or proxy vote if that is what they need.”

Details on how to register to vote or request a postal vote and other key information can be found on the Council website. 

Nomination papers can be submitted from 10am on 16 July until 4pm on 31 July to the Returning Officer in the City Chambers. 

Candidates will be confirmed after nominations close on 31 July.

Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm on Thursday 3 September.

The election will use the Single Transferable Vote (STV) system where voters rank candidates in order of preference rather than using a single cross. Voters can rank as many or as few candidates as they like.

The deadline to register to vote in these by-elections is 18 August. For new postal vote applications, it’s 19 August and for new proxy votes it’s 26 August.

Homes or Homecomings? European voices join Edinburgh debate on tourism pressures

A major public discussion on the future of tourism in Edinburgh will take place at the City Chambers on 12 May, bringing together European experts, local practitioners, and community voices to address one of the most pressing issues facing historic cities today.

Hosted by the Cockburn Association as part of the Festival of Europe, Homes or Homecomings? Managing Tourism Tensions with European Partners will explore how cities can balance the economic benefits of tourism with the needs of residents.

Tourism remains central to Edinburgh’s economy and identity, but increasing visitor numbers have placed growing pressure on housing, infrastructure, and everyday life in the city centre. The event will present new research on tourism impacts in Edinburgh while drawing on European case studies to examine how other historic cities are responding to similar challenges.

Speakers include academics and practitioners working across the UK and Europe, alongside representatives from business and community-led organisations. The discussion will consider issues such as short-term lets, housing availability, and how to sustain living communities in globally recognised heritage destinations.

The event is open to the public and will bring together policymakers, researchers, residents, and those working in tourism and heritage.

Event details:

  • Date: Tuesday, 12 May
  • Venue: City Chambers, Edinburgh
  • Host: The Cockburn Association
  • Part of: Festival of Europe programme

Tickets and further information are available via Eventbrite.

Register on Eventbrite

Full Circle expedition: Veterans sail into Leith carrying Invictus Games Flag on 2,000-mile UK adventure

Two traditionally rigged tall ships, Spirit of Falmouth and Pellew, crewed by a rotating team of 70 wounded, injured and sick (WIS) veterans and serving personnel, sailed into Leith, yesterday (Thursday 23 April) as part of the Full Circle Expedition.

The voyage, coordinated by local veteran sailing charity Turn to Starboard and delivered in partnership with Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, aims to raise £300,000 so the charity can purchase a second tall ship to support more veterans facing PTSD, physical injury, isolation and a loss of confidence.

Founded by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event that uses competitive sport to support the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS service personnel and veterans, bringing together nations from around the world to share their journeys of resilience.

Full Circle set sail from Falmouth on 17 March 2026 and will travel anticlockwise around the UK, stopping at 22 ports in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, before returning to Falmouth on 11 June 2026.

The voyage will carry the Invictus Games Flag around the UK, building momentum towards the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 one-year-to-go event at the NEC in July 2026.

The crew is expected to dock in Leith for eight days. There, the Invictus Flag will be handed over to the City of Edinburgh and raised to honour the crew, local veterans and all of those competing at the Invictus Games. Formalities will also a civic drinks reception hosted by the Lord Provost at the City Chambers.

Further engagements across the visit will include a commemorative Anzac Day wreath laying at Edinburgh Castle, live music and cultural gatherings, and a series of community visits such as to SS Explorer and the Poppy Factory.

Sir Nick Hine, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Marine Sector, said: “At Babcock, supporting veterans is a responsibility we take seriously. Leaving the Armed Forces can be challenging, particularly for those who are wounded, injured or sick, which is why initiatives like Full Circle are so important in helping to restore confidence, purpose and connection. 

“We are proud to sponsor the Leith stop on this remarkable journey, backing a programme that recognises service in a meaningful, practical way and helps veterans to thrive long after their time in uniform.”

To donate to Full Circle and help Turn to Starboard purchase a second tall ship, so that the charity can support more veterans facing challenges such as PTSD, physical injury, isolation and loss of confidence. visit: 

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/t2sfullcircle

Sally Terry, CEO of Turn to Starboard said: “This expedition brings together two organisations committed to empowering veterans through challenge, camaraderie and community, each united in the belief that adventure can be truly transformative.

“While Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 harnesses the spirit of sport to inspire recovery and rehabilitation, Turn to Starboard draws on the unique challenges of life at sea to rebuild confidence, restore purpose and help veterans navigate life with intention and fulfilment.

“More than a voyage, this expedition is a powerful story of courage, service and renewal, showing how adventure and the sea can heal, inspire and bring people together.

“We can’t wait to bring this inspiring message to Leith to reach more veterans and highlight their challenges and remarkable achievements.

“The journey is divided into five legs, with a crew changeover for each one: Falmouth to Chatham, Chatham to Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Oban, Oban to Liverpool, and Liverpool back to Falmouth.”

Paul Miller, Army veteran and skipper of Spirit of Falmouth, said: “Being part of this expedition fills me with real pride. It has reminded me how far I’ve come in my own recovery and how much further we can all go together.

“Sailing the Invictus Games Flag around the UK is deeply meaningful. It represents courage, determination and community – values that we must hold on to after military service ends.

“Taking the Invictus Flag on this journey feels especially meaningful. It carries the hopes of so many people rebuilding their lives through courage and community. Seeing Turn to Starboard and the Invictus Games come together in this way is powerful – every mile we sail, and every donation raised, helps build resilience and support the veteran community.”

Full Circle forms part of the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 Impact Programme. Through teamwork, challenge and time at sea, the expedition will help inspire the recovery and rehabilitation of WIS veterans who are suffering from trauma as a result of their service.

Captain Lee Hazard RN, Director of Special Projects, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027 said: “With the Invictus Games Flag onboard, these remarkable veterans led by Turn to Starboard will utilise their military skills to sail with purpose and skill. Full Circle shows that recovery doesn’t only happen on the field of play – it happens through challenge, connection and community.

“As we build towards Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, the Full Circle Expedition is helping the nation see the strength and resilience of those who serve today and those who have served before them.”

To follow the expedition on social media, visit:

www.turntostarboard.co.uk and www.invictusgames2027.org; and follow progress through Instagram (@fullcirclet2s and @Birmingham_2027), TikTok (fullcirclet2s and weareinvictusgames), Facebook (Full Circle T2S and Invictus Games Birmingham 2027), X (@Birmingham2027) and LinkedIn (Turn to Starboard and Invictus Games Birmingham 2027).

Turn to Starboard would like to thank Babcock International Group for their support of the Leith Stop as well as the Invictus Games Foundation, Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, principal partner ATCO and our founding partner AirTanker; and partners – Team Forces, Palo Alto, Forces Support and Just Giving ; and official supporters – Aku, Gill, Morrisons, Mustang Survival, NSSLGlobal and SunGod for supporting the Full Circle Expedition.

PICTURES: Gareth Davies

Councillors prevented from discussing hunger striking Palestine protestors

GREENS CONCERN OVER FREEDOM OF SPEECH CONSTRAINTS

Councillors in Edinburgh were not allowed to debate a Green motion at Thursday’s full council meeting due to concerns over the latest UK Government guidance around proscribed organisations.

Instead, Green Councillors withdrew the motion following pressure from other political parties who demanded that there should be no discussion – citing fear of arrest under anti-terror legislation.

The motion, prompted by people undertaking hunger strikes to protest their treatment in prison, stated that the Council “opposes the curtailing of human rights, intimidation, discrimination and victimisation of those currently imprisoned as a result of opposing genocide”, and “expresses concern for the health, wellbeing and human rights of prisoners who have undertaken hunger strikes”.

Due to concerns that being seen to provide moral support for a proscribed organisation – now classed as a terrorist offence – could open the entire Council to a criminal offence charge, the Lord Provost took the unusual step of changing the Council meeting process to remove the opportunity for debate.

However, both the Labour and Conservative groups proposed that the motion should instead be withdrawn, citing fear of risk of arrest from individual councillors.

Cllr Alys Mumford, who was due to move the motion, said: “If we needed any further proof that Labour’s obsession with cracking down on protest has gone too far, it is this.

“We’ve already seen countless protestors criminalised and arrested for peacefully holding pieces of paper, and now elected members of Scotland’s capital city are prevented from even discussing a motion highlighting important issues of human rights.”

Cllr Mumford continued: “Just yesterday we saw pro-Palestinian activists in Bristol being cleared of aggravated burglary, with lawyers instead comparing them to Suffragettes for their actions to protest UK involvement in the ongoing genocide in Palestine.

“This should highlight the ludicrous nature of anti-terror legislation being used in this way by the UK Government. For Councillors to be unable to discuss whether or not we agree with the UK Government is antithetical to everything we are supposed to uphold as a nation of free speech and democracy.”

In withdrawing the motion, co-convener of the Green Group Chas Booth said: ““Lord Provost, thank you, reluctantly our group has made the decision to withdraw the motion at 8.1 on the agenda.

“We understand from advice that the motion is competent as re-drafted and we have been advised the risk of considering the motion is very low. However, we appreciate that there are individual councillors in other parties who are uncomfortable with the situation, and we feel a duty of care towards our colleagues.

“We regret that the council is facing this situation, and we remain concerned about the impact on democracy and freedom of speech message.”

Speaking about the withdrawal, Cllr Mumford said: “This motion was simply meant to be a way to express our support for human rights, and for the ongoing plight of people being mistreated in UK prisons. Instead, it has descended into a surreal conversation about what we can and cannot say within the City Chambers.

“We hope that – despite being unable to say what we want to during the meeting – this situation will serve to highlight the fight of the hunger strikers for humane treatment, and make people think twice about the ramifications of restricting the rights to protest in the UK.”

Edinburgh’s Cockburn Association ready for another 150 years of campaigning

The Cockburn Association, Edinburgh’s oldest conservation body, yesterday celebrated its 150th anniversary in Edinburgh’s City Chambers. 

In celebratory mood, a diverse mix of the charity’s members and supporters from civic society, academia and business gathered to champion its achievements over a long history of campaigning. 

Edinburgh could well have been criss-crossed by inner city motorways, had it not been for the efforts of the Cockburn Association, according to the opening address by the The Rt. Honourable Lord Provost, and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh, Councillor Robert Aldridge.  

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, said: “Over the last 15 decades, the Cockburn Association has played an important role in shaping public policy and in protecting and enhancing our ancient built and natural heritage.

“On behalf of the city I would like to congratulate and thank the Cockburn Association for 150 years of achievements, a milestone that stands is testament to the continuing commitment, enthusiasm, and talent of all of those involved at all levels of the organisation. As we celebrate this anniversary,  we can also look forward with confidence, knowing the Association will continue its work.”

The Association’s Chair, Dr Lesley Martin, compering the event, revealed how the Association’s namesake, Lord Henry Cockburn, had written a famous – or infamous – letter to the then Lord Provost in 1849.

It expressed concern about the planned “monstrosities” that would irreparably damage the city’s “beauty and amenity”. Dr Martin went on to emphasise that the role of the modern Association was to fulfil the charity’s civic function, bringing together diverse interests in productive conversations. 

Chair, Lesley Martin, elected in May this year said: “In fulfilling our role as Edinburgh’s civic trust, the Cockburn Association must aim to include as wide a range of voices as possible and to try to ensure that the quieter, less powerful voices are heard, and listened to”.

The Association’s long history has seen successive waves of modernisation, most recently its wooing of younger trustees and volunteers and the appointment of the current all-female leadership team for the first time in its history.

The Association’s Director Rowan Brown, lauded the role of volunteers and their role in the Association’s success. She said: “Edinburgh has been shaped by ordinary citizens willing to stand up for its built and natural heritage, access to green spaces, dramatic beauty and unique identity.

“As we celebrate our 150th year, our book Campaigning for Edinburgh honours that legacy, illustrates the Edinburgh that might have been and challenges us to think boldly about the city we want to create for future generations.”

“The Cockburn has been built on civic action for civic good, and there are few better examples than the monumental collective seventy year contribution of the Association’s Archival Volunteer Team – Ann Stark, Ruby Dickson, Alan, Margaret Jessop, Lexi Christian and Doreen Parker – who have protected, catalogued, researched and shared the contents of the Cockburn Association’s vast archive.”

Dr Martin ended by putting the charity’s success down to its unique breadth of interests, its focus on “pragmatic solutions” its people, and its streadfast devotion to campaigning for a better future for Edinburgh.

Edinburgh hosts International Fair Trade Towns Conference

Last weekend, Edinburgh welcomed delegates from across the globe for the 18th International Fair Trade Towns Conference, a three-day event dedicated to strengthening the international movement for fair and sustainable trade. 

The event opened on Friday 30 August with a reception at the City Chambers, chaired by Rachel Farey of the Edinburgh City Fair Trade Group. Among the speakers were Foysol Choudhury MSP, Labour’s spokesperson for Culture, Europe and International Development; Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron; Thembisile Mnisi from Drakenstein Municipality in South Africa; and Louise Davies from the Scottish Fair Trade Forum. 

Delegates also visited the Scottish Parliament, where they joined a Q&A session with Foysol Choudhury MSP and Sarah Boyack MSP.

The visit set the tone for the week, with Mr Choudhury opening the programme by reflecting on Scotland’s achievements: “In 2023, Scotland marked 10 years as a Fair Trade Nation, a milestone reflecting the dedication of communities, campaigners, and businesses working to make trade fair, just, and sustainable.

“Today, we continue to champion Fair Trade with pride, and I am delighted that Edinburgh is at the heart of that journey.” 

This year’s conference theme, “Your Town, Our World: Fair Trade Communities & Local Action to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals”, framed discussions on how local initiatives can contribute to global system change. Delegates took part in interactive workshops on climate action, wellbeing economies, youth engagement, digitalisation and the power of storytelling in driving social change. 

Closing the weekend, Mr Choudhury added: “Fair Trade has always shown us that local action can drive global change, and the stories we are hearing here in Edinburgh prove just that.

“I am proud that Scotland is hosting this conversation, and I look forward to seeing the collaborations and commitments that emerge from this weekend.”