Tracy Gilbert MP has welcomed significant UK-wide investment in community renewable energy projects, which will deliver tangible benefits for local communities in Scotland.
The Great British Energy initiative is backing a total of £4 million into the UK’s community energy sector, supporting 48 community energy projects across Scotland, including two major developments in Edinburgh North and Leith.
Granton Project CIC – Harnessing solar power for community growth, receiving £70,043.
Edinburgh Community Solar Co-op (Phase 3) – Developing local solar capacity, awarded £484,500.
Tracy Gilbert MP said:“These investments demonstrate the UK Government’s commitment to renewable energy and to supporting communities across the country. I am pleased that two of these are in my constituency in Edinburgh North and Leith, which is becoming a true renewables hub.
“The projects will not only generate clean energy but also empower local communities with long-term benefits. Initiatives like these are helping to build a greener, more sustainable future for everyone.”
The Great British Energy investment is part of a wider effort to drive community energy generation growth across Scotland and the UK, ensuring that local areas can take an active role in the renewable energy transition.
The Forth Awards, presented by Livingston Designer Outlet, has announced tickets are now on sale for listeners and fans to join the star-studded ceremony this autumn.
Taking place at The Usher Hall on 13th November 2025, the awards show will feature performances from top names in music and entertainment, whilst honouring and celebrating community heroes.
Tickets now on sale from £28.60 via forth1.com and The Usher Hall Box Office
Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult
One of the biggest nights in Edinburgh’s music calendar, The Forth Awards honours local heroes and organisations going over and above for their community, as well as a top-secret line-up of celebrities from across music and entertainment.
Previous winners and performances include Lewis Capaldi, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Deacon Blue, Amy Macdonald, Erasure and Simple Minds, with the line-up kept secret until the day itself.
Hosted by Boogie and Arlene from Forth 1’s breakfast show, the afternoon show is the perfect start to winter festivities, with fans, listeners and guests packing out the Capital’s Usher Hall to enjoy music, comedy and musical theatre performances.
Plus, the awards panel reviews hundreds of listener nominations for categories that recognise those who go the extra mile in communities across Edinburgh and the Lothians – from the best teachers, restaurants and workplaces as well as the Forth Cash for Kids award.
Richie Jeffrey, Commercial Events Manager from Hits Radio Scotland said, “We are so proud that The Forth Awards at The Usher Hall is back again and we can’t wait to reveal a stunning line up and, of course, some wonderful winners.
“Tickets are selling fast as always so if people want to come and join in the fun, they should act now.
“It’s always a spectacular afternoon filled with fun and laughter, and amazing celebrations of outstanding achievement from Edinburgh and the Lothians.”
The Forth Awards 2025 Categories
The Forth Best Artist Award with Victor Paris
The Forth Best Restaurant Award with Saltire
The Forth Contribution to Music Award with The Liquid Room
Edinburgh-based business owner, Sophie – who runs Premier Broadway alongside her parents – tells her story of success in the local community
Sophie features in a six-part photography and mini docu-series that follows the stories of local corner shop bosses from across Great Britain
The series spotlights local Bosses as you’ve never seen them before – as research shows over a third of Brits consider the corner shop an essential part of their daily life
Shot by award-winning director Ross Bolidai, and photographer Serena Brown, the series celebrates corner shop bosses in a new light
Launching the series to celebrate 125 years in Great Britain, Coca-Cola is also giving back to local communities – with each boss from the series nominating a local cause to receive a five-figure donation
An Edinburgh retailer has been chosen as one of the stars of a major new campaign by Coca-Cola, spotlighting the invaluable role that corner shops – and the real people behind the counter – play in their local communities.
Sophie Williams, who runs Premier Broadway in Edinburgh alongside her parents, is one of six business owners from across the country that will feature in the campaign, including a new portrait and docu-series shot by multi-award-winning director Ross Bolidai and National Portrait Gallery photographer Serena Brown.
The short film reveals Sophie’s multigenerational story of family, community, and resilience. Sophie’s parents – Dennis and Linda – built their shop through decades of change, serving their neighbours with trust and consistency for 41 years.
Now, Sophie – a former theatre professional – is stepping into the spotlight, bringing new energy, social media flair, and fresh ideas to a business that raised her.
As well as being the subject of her own micro-documentary, Sophie’s face will be proudly on display on Out of Home advertisement spots across Edinburgh, signifying the importance of corner shops and their owners to their local communities, as Coca-Cola celebrates 125 years of its products being sold in Great Britain, hand-in-hand with local retailers.
It comes as corner shops play an increasingly important role in daily life despite the struggles of the high street, with over a third (34%) of people across Great Britain saying their corner shop is an essential resource in their everyday life, according to research by Coca-Cola.
Almost a quarter (23%) of Brits said they depend on corner shops more than any other retailer, and despite only recently being recognised as ‘key workers’, corner shop owners have been embedded at the heart of British communities for over a century.
Made in Edinburgh: Sophie’s Story
Founded by Dennis and his parents in 1983, the Williams’ corner shop has been at the heart of their Edinburgh community. Having originally met at the cash and carry Dennis and Linda built something far more meaningful than just a business, testament to the relentless dedication to the people of Edinburgh.
Now their daughter Sophie, an experienced theatrical performer, is bringing fresh energy to the store – from viral TikTok videos to online delivery apps for a new generation of customers.
Although the Williams’ business has grown immensely over its 41 years – what hasn’t changed is their passion, customer service, and unrelenting work ethic.
With Sophie at the helm, she is driven to continue the family legacy – and to show how heritage and innovation can thrive side by side.
Sophie’s role as a Coca-Cola Boss and the content series
Sophie and her family have been immortalised by talented Gen Z photographer Serena Brown, known for her work on bringing the stories of real people to the front of her camera lens. Brown produced a gallery of photos celebrating the commitment, heritage, know-how and personalities behind Britain’s corner shop counters.
Meanwhile, director Ross Bolidai produced the moving mini-documentaries pulling the curtain back on the people we see every day, but perhaps don’t know much about.
Sophie Williams, running Premier Broadway, Edinburgh alongside her parents, said:“For 41 years, Premier Broadway has been more than a store; it’s been a cornerstone of our family and community.
“Our passion goes beyond transaction, embodying a belief that the shop does not just belong to us – but to everyone it serves.
“As we join Coca-Cola’s latest campaign, we are reminded of the dedication my parents have shown since 1983, and the legacy we continue to build in Edinburgh.
“Their expertise, combined with my fresh perspective, social media presence, and innovative ideas, ensures our commitment to keeping the store vibrant for future generations to enjoy.”
Dusan Stojankic, Vice President and General Manager of Great Britain & Ireland at Coca-Cola said: “We’re proud to be celebrating 125 years since Coca-Cola was first served in Great Britain, and with 97% of our products sold here manufactured and bottled here, we’re invested in local communities.
“‘The Bosses’ series is an ode to that, celebrating the businessmen and women ushering in a new era for the vastly underestimated corner shop.
“We’ll continue to champion and mentor community retailers far into the future, and hope they continue to find a sense of camaraderie through our network.”
With a legacy spanning 125 years in Great Britain, The Coca-Cola Company is committed to supporting local communities – with each boss from the series nominating a local cause to receive a five-figure donation.
For more information or to view the content, please visit:
TOGETHER WE REPAIR: EDINBURGH INTERNATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL
I met a nice couple after our Citizen Group’s performances at the Book Festival on Monday. Time was really tight at the end of the evening – we must have been among the last to leave the Edinburgh Futures Institute – and I’m sorry we didn’t have longer to discuss the event, but thanks for being so kind about it!
As I explained the other night, we had to pare our contributions right back to three minute slots due to time constraints. I think my original draft was over six minutes, but with careful editing (i.e. removing large chunks of swearie words!) I got it down to the required length.
So as promised, here is my Stories and Scran contribution How May I Help You? I am really chuffed that you enjoyed the piece so much and I do hope you’ll enjoy reading it again.
Stories and Scran is a real community event and I know my fellow Citizen writers get just as much pleasure from participating at the event as I do – there’s always a very warm and welcoming atmosphere and audiences are invariably supportive. It’s that enthusiasm that makes Stories and Scran so special.
It was nice to meet you, and who knows – maybe we’ll do it all over again next year!
HOW MANY I HELP YOU?
I was sitting in a queue of morning rush hour traffic when I was startled by a loud blast on a horn. I thought the traffic had moved again while I had been daydreaming, but no: the driver alongside me was pointing down to the back of my car.
Confused, I wound down my window. “Your back tyre is flat”, he called across.
Fortunately there is a big AutoCare Centre just along the road and I was able to trundle along there. The tyre was completely flat now and the wheel made a horrible squealing noise as it rumbled along.
I parked and approached the Reception Desk. John was in charge. I know this because he wore a big badge with his name on it – and he also answered the phone many times while I waited to be seen.
“Good morning AutoCare Centre, John speaking, how may I help you? Ah yes, Mr Wilson. The Zafira, wasn’t it? Let me check …”
I don’t know what John checked. He didn’t move, or even look at a screen. He stood, eyes closed, in a trance-like state for ages … maybe he was psychic?
“Mr Wilson? Sorry about that, sir. Yes, the lads are on it now. Can you give us a call back around lunchtime? … I do realise that, sir, but we have been very busy this morning … yes, I’ll call you back with an update. Of course … Yes, you have a nice day now …
Maybe I imagined it, but I’m sure he muttered: “Phone you back? Aye,right!”
Barely had John put the phone down than it was ringing again. “Good morning, Autocare Centre, John speaking how may … ah hello, Mrs Hill I was just going to call you. Great minds think alike, eh?
“Some bad news, I’m afraid – we are still waiting for parts … yes, six weeks IS a long time but we have to get the parts sent over from France you see … I do understand, Mrs Hill, but between Covid and Brexit … yes, yes, I can only apologise. You know what the French are like … I will chase them up again the second I put the phone down. I’ll call you right back … ‘
He put the phone down, gave a mighty sigh and raised his eyes. “Be with you in a second, sir,” he told me. “Help yourself to a complimentary tea or coff …”
The phone rang again. “Good morning Autocare Centre, John … och it’s just you, Benny!. How you doin’, my man? Are yous busy down there – we’re rushed off our feet here …’
I did fancy a coffee but a lengthy queue was building up behind me and I didn’t want to lose my place.
After quite a while, one customer had had enough. “This is bloody ridiculous!” he said in a very loud voice.
I heard it, the whole queue heard it, the tyre fitters in the workshop heard it – but John was oblivious. His conversation went on and on …
Finally, he glanced up … “Sorry, Benny, I’ll have to love you and leave you … we’re stowed oot the door here!”
I WAS NEXT!
“Sorry about your wait, sir, we’ve been UNBELIEVABLY busy this morning. Now, what can I do for you? What appears to be the problem?
Now, I would have thought that the problem would have been fairly obvious to John, but I pointed to my shredded tyre.
“Ah yes, we’ll take a look at that for you. The lads are busy just now but have a seat and we’ll get it up on a ramp as soon as we can. Help yourself to a coff …
The telephone rang again.
“Good morning, AutoCare Centre, J …Nearly afternoon? What a quick morning it’s been! Ah yes, Mrs Hill! Ye’ll no’ believe this – I was just going to call you …
Introducing our first workshop for New Scots in Edinburgh
Join our free Sustainable Cooking Workshop to meet new people, practise your English, and take part in something meaningful!
Together we will explore the rich tradition of Ukrainian Borsch, a flavourful sour soup made with meat stock, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, cherished across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia.
Come be a part of a powerful experience that unites community, culture, and cause.
Date: 14 June 2025 (Saturday)
Time: 12:45 – 14:45
Venue: Heart of Newhaven Community Centre
Address: 4-6 Main Street, Newhaven, Edinburgh, EH6 4HY
Language: English and Ukrainian
Open to: New Scots aged 18 or over who have a basic understanding of English
New Initiative to Breathe New Life into Underfunded GrassrootsFootball Pitches across Scotland
The Best Worst Pitch initiative will provide line painting and pitch maintenance equipment, as well as maintenance training to 50 grassroots clubs across the UK
The initiative addresses the lack of funding dedicated to pitch maintenance, which the brand has experienced during the Best Worst Team campaign
By helping make the pitch lines visible again, the initiative celebrates the volunteers who make grassroots football not only possible but playable—reinforcing Specsavers’ commitment to supporting the grassroots football community and the vital role clear vision plays both on and off the pitch.
Specsavers has partnered with Scottish international stars, Kirsty Smith and Erin Cuthbert to launch the Best Worst Pitch initiative.
Open to clubs across the UK, the initiative will provide 50 teams who are most in need with professional line painting equipment and GPS pitch mapping, pitch maintenance equipment, as well as maintenance training to help them maintain their pitches through the next season and beyond.
Clear and accurate line markings are vital not just for ensuring structure and fairness in the game, but also for helping players and officials navigate the pitch-enhancing visibility, spatial awareness, and overall safety throughout play.
Kirsty Smith added:“Grassroots football is the heart and soul of the game. It’s important that we back the communities and dedicated volunteers who keep it running.
“I remember how tough it was playing on a rough pitch, but it didn’t hold me back, it just made me realise how important these pitches are.
This is a campaign I’m really proud of – The Best Worst Pitch initiative will ensure that pitches are in the best condition possible so that everyone can enjoy using them.”
The announcement comes as UK football governing bodies have recently highlighted that maintaining grassroots pitches across the UK is one of the main issues facing the sport.
With councils stretched for funding, the responsibility for maintaining club pitches, often falls on dedicated members of the grassroots football community.
It’s a challenge Specsavers has seen up close, having renewed its’ sponsorship deal with the Scottish FA, to become the Official Eye and Ear Care Partner.
The deal will see the 24-year partnership continue for the rest of the season as Specsavers strives to support the growth of Scottish football in both the men’s and women’s game.
Erin Cuthbert added: “I called my papa “Net Man”. He’s no longer with us but he was always there, two hours early putting the nets up and sorting the pitch out.
“It’s little efforts like that that keep grassroots football alive. It’s absolutely vital that we get it right at this level so that young players can improve and have a better chance of succeeding in the sport.”
Specsavers have also documented the difficulties of grassroots teams through the Best Worst Team campaign—highlighting the real struggles faced at pitch level and further underlining the brand’s long-standing commitment to supporting the grassroots football community.
Speaking about the struggles of pitch maintenance, Chairman of current Specsavers Best Worst Team, Tunley Athletic, Craig Doughty said: “It’s a real slog sometimes – every week, rain or shine, I’m out there doing two full laps of the pitch just to get the lines marked.
“The equipment we’ve got is ancient—it clogs, it leaks, and it takes twice as long as it should. On dark evenings or when the wind’s howling, it feels like it takes forever. But I do it because I love this club—it means everything to the community.”
In addition to providing equipment, Specsavers is also offering training and education to the selected clubs—aiming to tackle some of the long-term challenges faced by grassroots teams and the volunteers who maintain their pitches.
The ultimate goal is to improve the quality and longevity of these pitches, ensuring local communities can continue to enjoy them for many matches to come.
Kim Bull, PR and Social Lead, commented: “Over the last two seasons supporting clubs that need a bit of help with their eyes and ears, as well as their game, we’ve noticed the effort that goes into keeping grassroots clubs running.
“People like Craig, who quietly put in the hard work behind the scenes to keep pitches playable, is what grassroots football is all about.
“This initiative means we can support more clubs and communities, like Tunley.
“By making faded lines more visible, we’re helping players to see the beautiful game more clearly. And hopefully make fewer mistakes!”
To have a chance of being part of the Best Worst Pitch initiative and help improve the quality of your local club’s football pitch, apply online here.
In this exhibition I share oil paintings that are part of getting to ‘know my place’, Granton, after moving here in November 2023. Its harbour, seascapes, and community mean a lot to me. Touch me deep in a place called ‘home’.
Home to gusty winds ruffling waters, to wild swimming in Wardie bay whatever the weather, to boats rowing or sailing on the Firth of Forth, to bonfires on the beach under a full moon, to romantic strolls to Cramond, to families and folks playing, smiling, taking dogs out, meeting friends, working, and much more.
I hope these depictions of Granton, seen through my eyes, heart, and brush, are ones in which you recognize parts of the place and community that touch you too. Or, if you are not local, that they convey their particular beauty and energy.
(half of proceeds to be shared between Medical Aid for Palestine and Granton Hub)
(Short term parking beside and beyond Granton Hub)
Three for the sea: dance performance and workshop
Sunday 30 March: 1.30 – 4pm
This event forms part of an ongoing movement inquiry into local coastal environments, and the emotions, histories, futures, stories, bodies, and ecosytems they create. It will be led and performed by Monica de Ioanni, Alena Ageeva and Juliet Henderson.
