Tag: Lord Provost Robert Aldridge

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.

Christmas tree lights up The Mound

Edinburgh’s iconic Christmas tree on the Mound was officially lit on Tuesday (18 November) in a special ceremony led by Lord Provost Robert Aldridge.

He was joined by representatives from Edinburgh Candlemakers, County Mayor of Vestland Jon Askeland, the Norwegian Embassy and the Norwegian Honorary Consulate General, marking the start of the city’s festive celebrations.

The event saw Lord Provost Robert Aldridge and County Mayor Jon Askeland come together to switch on the lights of the stunning 18-metre-tall tree. This cherished annual tradition celebrates the strong ties between Scotland and Norway, honouring the Scottish people’s unwavering support for Norway during World War II.

Gifted by Vestland (formerly Hordaland), the tree stands as a symbol of Norway’s gratitude for Scotland’s assistance during its darkest days.

The tradition of gifting the tree began in 1986, and although it has been sourced from Scotland since 2008, it remains a meaningful token of friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

Edinburgh’s Christmas officially opened on Saturday 15 November, and following last night’s Mound light night a number of community light switch on events will be taking place across the city.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge said: “The Christmas tree on the Mound is a cherished Edinburgh tradition, marking the start of the festive season and symbolising the enduring friendship between Scotland and Norway.

“The annual gift from Vestland is a heartfelt reminder of the solidarity shared since World War II, reflecting the universal values of friendship, compassion and unity. Sincere thanks to the people of Vestland for their continued generosity, as well as to our partners Field and Lawn for their support and Bernard Hunter for their kind donation of crane services.

“As Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations begin, the tree’s sparkling lights bring a festive glow to the city centre. With more community switch-on events planned across the city, residents and visitors are invited to share the joy, hope and goodwill that define this special time of year.”

County Mayor of Vestland, Norway Jon Askeland said: “Every year since 1986, Vestland County has gifted a Christmas tree to Edinburgh Christmas Market as a token of our close friendship.

“It is also seen as a gratitude for the support Scotland gave Norway during the Second World War when Scotland became a safe haven for Norwegian forces, sailors and civilians during the years of occupation.

“This Christmas tree remind us of what we share: resilience, generosity, and a love for community. It stands as a beacon of light and hope – values that unite us in challenging times and joyful ones alike.”

Dog and Cat Home hero honoured at Inspiring Volunteer Awards

Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home is celebrating one of its dedicated team members and volunteers, Wendy Loftus, who has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to animal welfare at this year’s Inspiring Volunteer Awards.

Wendy, who serves as a Data Analyst & Pet Food Drive Volunteer at the Home, has dedicated countless hours as a Data Analyst. She works closely with the Fundraising Administrator on data input for various campaigns, often managing time-consuming tasks.

Recently, Wendy also signed up as a Pet Food Drive volunteer, fundraising at local supermarkets to support the Pet Food Bank.

Her ability to engage with the public passionately about the Home’s work has been invaluable, and her collaborative spirit and innovative ideas have significantly contributed to the success of the charity’s different initiatives.

At a special ceremony at the City Chambers, Wendy received a certificate presented by Robert Aldridge, The Rt. Hon. Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh, in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the Home and the wider community.

Wendy commented: “I was brought up with the Edinburgh Dog & Cat Home being part of my life.

“It is nice to be able to give something back to a Charity that has given three generations of my family so much joy & pleasure over the years, with the dogs we’ve been allowed to rehome.”

Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, CEO of Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, added: “Wendy truly embodies the spirit of volunteering. Her dedication and warmth have brought comfort to countless animals and inspired our entire team.

“We’re thrilled that her efforts have been recognised at such a prestigious event.”

The Inspiring Volunteer Awards shine a spotlight on the individuals who make Edinburgh a better place through selfless service. Wendy’s recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the power of community-driven support for animal welfare.

To learn more about volunteering opportunities at Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home, visit www.edch.org.uk.

Bronze figurehead of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II unveiled at Royal Scots Monument

On Saturday 7 June 2025 HRH The Princess Royal, Patron of The Royal Scots Regimental Association, unveiled a bronze medallion containing a figurehead of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as a final addition to The Royal Scots Monument in Princes Street Gardens.  

The monument, originally unveiled on 26 July 1952, commemorates the service rendered by The Royal Scots (The Royal Regiment) to 16 monarchs from its founding in 1633 under a Royal Warrant from King Charles I until its amalgamation under Defence Review in 2006. The additional medallion marks the final monarch under whom the Regiment served.  

Her Royal Highness, accompanied by Councillor Robert Aldridge, the Right Honourable Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of Edinburgh, was met by the Chair of the Regimental Trustees, Brigadier (retd) George Lowder MBE, and by the Governor of Edinburgh Castle, Major General Robert Bruce CBE DSO.

The unveiling was attended by many former Royal Scots and their families as well as members of The Royal Scots Club and representatives of the City of Edinburgh Council.  A service of dedication was conducted by Reverend Dr Iain May, Chaplain to The Royal Scots Regimental Association.

In 2007 The Princess Royal, who was the Regiment’s Colonel in Chief from 1983 until 2006, had graciously unveiled an addition to the monument to mark the Regiment’s amalgamation, the final chapter in its history, and to acknowledge and commemorate the Regiment’s 373 years of proud and loyal service to Crown and Country.

After the unveiling, Her Royal Highness then spent time with former members of the Regiment before leaving for The Royal Scots Club in Abercromby Place where The Princess Royal graciously took the salute at the Club’s annual ceremony of Beating Retreat.

Brigadier George Lowder, Chair of the Regimental Trustees, said: “The Royal Scots have always been, and continue to be, very proud of their long service to Crown and country which is commemorated on this monument.  

“Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the last Sovereign under whom the Regiment served, appointed HRH The Princess Royal to be Colonel in Chief of The Royal Scots (The Royal Regiment) in 1983.  

“We have been greatly honoured, therefore, that The Princess Royal, whose long and continued connection with the Regiment we cherish, has unveiled this final addition to our monument today.”.

Lord Provost Celebrates Gracemount’s National Award-Winning Success

Edinburgh’s Gracemount Leisure Centre, recently named Scotland’s Centre of the Year at the prestigious ukactive awards, welcomed the Rt Hon Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge last week to recognise their outstanding achievement in community fitness and wellbeing.

The Edinburgh Leisure centre which has seen a remarkable 14% increase in visits between 2022 and 2023, received the distinguished visitor for a comprehensive tour led by Managers Craig Cassidy and Jen Murray. The visit highlighted the facility’s exceptional contribution to community health and inclusion.

“We’re so much more than just a gym or a swimming pool – it’s a friendly and bustling community hub at the heart of the local area,” said Craig Cassidy, Manager at Gracemount Leisure Centre.

“With staff who go out of their way to make customers feel at home, it’s somewhere people feel inspired and empowered to live happy, healthy and active lives.”

The centre’s recent success is attributed to several key initiatives:

  • A major gym refurbishment featuring new Life Fitness equipment, leading to a dramatic increase in class participation from 226 to 706 customers monthly
  • Development of an extensive Additional Support Needs (ASN) programme, including multi-sports activities, and specialised family swimming sessions which supports over 100 families, giving parents and children the opportunity to get active together in a supportive environment.
  • Implementation of their Active Communities programme, providing access to hundreds of people affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequality, and poverty. Working alongside community partners, such as health professionals and social workers, projects such as Steady Steps for people at risk of a fall; Open All Hours, which gives local young people free access to fun diversionary activities on a Friday night; and Looked After & Active for care experienced children and young people make an active life more accessible for local people who face barriers to participation.
  • Investment in staff development and wellbeing, resulting in exceptional customer service scores of 9.5/10

The ukactive awards, open to all UK fitness facilities from independent studios to national chains and leisure trusts, recognised Gracemount’s outstanding commitment to meeting community needs through a rigorous assessment process including written submissions, customer surveys, mystery shopping, and digital reviews.

Gracemount’s success is further evidenced by its above-industry-average member retention rate of 14.4 months, demonstrating its vital role in promoting sustained community health and wellness.

Mel Young MBE receives the Edinburgh Award 2024

The Homeless World Cup co-founder and social entrepreneur, Mel Young MBE, was officially presented with the coveted Edinburgh Award by the Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge.

The award was presented on Thursday evening (October 24) at a civic reception at the City Chambers.

Since 2007, the Edinburgh Award has celebrated individuals who have made a truly unique contribution to the city and brought the Capital to national and international attention.

Alongside family, friends and invited guests, Young received an engraved Loving Cup from the Lord Provost, an official award certificate, and a set of his handprints preserved in stone in the City Chambers quadrangle was unveiled.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, and Chair of the Edinburgh Award Panel, Robert Aldridge said: “It was a pleasure to present Mel Young with the Edinburgh Award yesterday evening. Mel’s handprints are now immortalised in stone at the City Chambers quadrangle, and he deservedly follows in the footsteps of some of the finest individuals associated with our great city.

“From The Homeless World Cup to The Big Issue in Scotland, his passion and dedication to changing lives and advocating for fairness is admirable and inspiring. Through his work he has represented the Capital with pride, dedication, and skill.

“I’d like to congratulate Mel on behalf of the city, and I’m sure he will continue to do great things, both here in Edinburgh and beyond.”

The Homeless World Cup co-founder, social entrepreneur and Recipient of the Edinburgh Award 2024, Mel Young MBE said: “I am honoured to receive the Edinburgh Award this year. Edinburgh is a stunning capital city, and I am proud to be one its citizens.

“The Homeless World Cup Foundation headquarters is in Edinburgh and our tournament connects people all over the globe. I would like to share this Award with the many hard-working people who have contributed to making the Homeless World Cup so impactful and successful.

 “Also, this Award belongs to the real heroes of our work, the homeless people themselves who change their own lives through their involvement with our tournament and our operations across the world.”

Edinburgh reflects on its past and looks to the future

The UNESCO International Day of Remembrance

Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Implementation Group

Edinburgh joined cities across the world yesterday in remembering the slave trade and its lasting impact on our society.

The UNESCO International Day of Remembrance, is an annual opportunity to reflect on the historic causes, methods and consequences of slavery.

A minutes silence was observed by many in Edinburgh including the Culture and Communities Special Committee at 11am, followed by an evening event at Cornerstone Centre, St John’s Church. 

The event, hosted by the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Implementation Group, and supported by the City of Edinburgh Council, remembered the victims of the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism and its legacy in our city, while honouring those who fought so hard for its abolition.

Lord Provost Robert Aldridge delivered a message of unity, which was followed poetry readings as part of Disrupting the Narrative from outgoing Edinburgh Makar Hannah Lavery, Jeda Pearl Lewis and Shasta Ali and a keynote speech by Briana Pegado, Author of Make Good Trouble: A Guide to the Energetics of Disruption.

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge said: “Today marked an important and poignant opportunity for us to reflect on our past, while reminding us that we must do everything in our power to ensure that such horrific and degrading exploitation can never, ever happen again.  

“Back in 2020, the Council agreed to address historic racial injustices in Edinburgh and stem modern day discrimination. This led to a comprehensive review, involving a huge amount of research and public consultation, and to a series of recommendations – one of which was for me to make a public apology on behalf of the city of Edinburgh. 

“I’m extremely grateful to the members of the Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Implementation Group for their ongoing commitment and support – helping us to ensure Edinburgh remains a welcoming and diverse city, where people from different backgrounds and beliefs can continue to get on well together.

Irene Mosota, Chair of the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Review Implementation Group, said: “As the City of Edinburgh marks the second-year observance of the UNESCO International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, it is a chance to inspire and give hope to our future generations as our city faces its troubling history.  

“The Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Implementation Group has a number of recommendations that require action to address this troubling past. This year must be the one we now make progress in delivering a future that is equitable for those who are forging a life in our city from both the trauma and privilege of our city’s past. 

“Though the slave trade has been abolished, its pernicious legacy persists, continuing to perpetuate racism, discrimination, social exclusion, and inequality. We all have the responsibility to confront and address racism promptly and firmly within our city. 

“Education is essential in reconciling with the past and is vital to our collective goal of creating a better, more inclusive future for everyone in our city.”

Lord Provost statement on Holocaust Memorial Day 2024

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge said: “Holocaust Memorial Day is an important reminder for us all of the millions of people who were murdered or were impacted by the Holocaust.

“We can also use this as an opportunity to remember all victims of genocide around the world. This remains a key chapter in our collective global history that we must learn from and together work towards a more tolerant and peaceful future.

“This year’s theme, ‘the Fragility of Freedom’ highlights how we can never become complacent about erosions of freedoms and the dark path that this leads down.

“This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda, this had been preceded by years of tension, violence and curtailing of freedoms.  

“On behalf of the city of Edinburgh I extend our heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Holocaust and all genocides, to the survivors who bravely shared their stories with the world, and those who are still impacted now.”

Lord Provost looks forward to 2024

The Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge takes a view on the year ahead

As the dust settles on what has been another exciting year, I have been looking ahead to what the next year holds for our city.

In 2024, we mark Edinburgh 900 which represents almost a millennium of shared history centred on our fantastic and fascinating city. I’m delighted that work is now underway to prepare for next year’s anniversary as the working group continue to meet over the coming months. I look forward to a great programme of events which will examine how Edinburgh came to be over the centuries, celebrate where it is now, and reflect its future ambitions and aspirations.

St Giles, one of our most famous landmarks, will also celebrate its 900th year as a working church in 2024. The Cathedral plays a central role in the city’s history and is a huge asset to both the Old Town and the nation. As a quiet space, it provides an important place to find peace and solace but also as a centre for civic services for which I am very grateful.

At the end of June, I’ll welcome His Majesty the King to the city for Royal Week where we’ll undertake the historic Ceremony of the Keys.  

With Armed Forces Day also in June and Remembrance Sunday in November, these are two key annual events in 2024 when I will reconfirm my commitment to our veterans and the significant service community here in Edinburgh.

The Edinburgh Fire Brigade will celebrate another important anniversary in 2024, marking 200 years since the first municipal fire service in the world was created. It was a pleasure to welcome HRH The Princess Royal to the McDonald Road Community Fire and Ambulance Station earlier this year, to mark the opening of the Museum of Scottish Fire Heritage. I would like to express my gratitude to all the emergency services in Edinburgh who do such a fantastic job keeping us all safe.

Edinburgh truly is an innovative global city, and we are privileged to enjoy such close relationships with cities across the world. In 2024, we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of our very first twinning with Munich. We have since gone on to twin with thirteen other cities around the globe, including Dunedin who we will celebrate fifty years with, and Florence who we will mark sixty years with. I look forward to marking these milestones in 2024 and fostering these valuable relationships in the years to come.

Like Edinburgh, the Polish city of Krakow is a UNESCO City of Literature and one of our partner cities. We have enjoyed a strong partnership with the city since 1995 and I look forward to renewing our friendship in 2024. I am similarly thrilled that the UNESCO Cities of Literature Conference will be held in Edinburgh next year, reaffirming our place as a world leading literary city.

Marking twenty years since the creation of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network when Edinburgh received its designation as the very first UNESCO City of Literature, we will welcome representatives from over forty other Literary Cities to celebrate the achievements of the past twenty years and plan for the future.

Finally, I’d like to draw attention to the fantastic volunteers and voluntary sector in the city. Alongside my Deputy Lieutenants, Volunteer Edinburgh and the Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations Council (EVOC), I have made several nominations from the community for a King’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2024. I look forward to seeing the results when they’re announced next year.

These are just a few of the exciting things that are in the pipeline for the year ahead.

As Lord Provost, it was my privilege to represent our wonderful city in 2023. I look forward to continuing to deliver on this work in 2024.

Warm Welcome: Scotland embraces India’s brightest minds with open arms

 The Consul General of India in Edinburgh, Mr. Bijay Selvaraj, has hosted a warm welcome event for new Indian students arriving in Scotland to pursue their academic aspirations (writes PRIYA CHADDA). 

Held on November 24, 2023, the event brought together prominent guests and  members of the Indian community to celebrate the achievements of these students and  welcome them to their new home away from home. 

Cllr Robert Aldridge, Lord Provost of Edinburgh, extended a warm welcome to the  students on behalf of the city, highlighting Edinburgh’s rich history, vibrant culture, and  welcoming atmosphere. The Lord Provost warmly greeted each student and engaged in  meaningful conversations, exemplifying Edinburgh’s commitment to embracing its  diverse student population. 

Dr. Sreevas Sahasranamam, Senior Lecturer at the University of Strathclyde, shared  his insights into the Scottish academic landscape and offered valuable advice to the  Indian students, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between personal,  academic, and professional well-being. His insights provided a roadmap for success,  both academically and personally. 

Gopalan Rajagopal, Head of TCS Scotland, offered insights into the growing  opportunities in the Scottish technology sector and emphasized the significance of AI in  shaping sustainable career paths. His perspective highlighted the dynamic and  promising nature of the Scottish tech industry and the relevance of AI in the current job  market. 

An INSA student leader from Edinburgh shared his personal experiences and  highlighted how INSA’s support has positively impacted his journey as a student in  Scotland. His firsthand account demonstrated the tangible impact of INSA’s efforts in  fostering a supportive environment for Indian students.

Enhancing the engagement of students and attendees, INSA organized a lively quiz  testing their knowledge of Indian culture and Scottish traditions. The quiz not only added  a touch of fun but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among the Indian students,  creating a sense of belonging and shared identity. 

INSA honored the remarkable contributions of Prof. Pankaj Pankaj, Personal Chair of  Computational Biomechanics and International Dean for South Asia, with a prestigious 

Lifetime Achievement Award. Prof. Pankaj’s unwavering dedication to education and his  unwavering support for Indian students have had a profound impact on countless  individuals, making him a true inspiration to the Indian student community. 

Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, Director Education India had an amazing speech thereafter. Her  speech highlighted compelling data reinforcing the strong cultural ties between the UK  and India, emphasizing how this enduring relationship contributes to the growth of the  UK economy. Her insights underscored the mutual benefits of cultural exchange and  collaboration between the two nations. 

Mr. Bijay Selvaraj, Consul General of India message to students focuses on reminding them of  India’s rich academic heritage, he expressed his unwavering confidence in their ability  to excel in their studies. His words of encouragement and support resonated with the  students, instilling a sense of pride in their academic heritage and fueling their  determination to succeed. 

Puneet Dwivedi, INSA Scotland President, aware everyone with the initiatives INSA is  working on tirelessly for the welfare of Indian students, and welcomed the students to  INSA’s current leadership team representing various Scottish universities and  encouraged them to join the organization as volunteers, contributing to the well-being of  fellow Indian students. His invitation highlighted the importance of peer support and the  role of INSA in fostering a sense of community among Indian students. 

INSA extends a heartfelt gratitude to the exemplary students – Priya Chadha from  Dundee University, Jayanth and Ninad from Edinburgh, and Jaimin Desai from Glasgow  University – along with a multitude of other dedicated volunteers who have selflessly  invested their time and effort in supporting Indian students transitioning from India to  Scotland. Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in guiding and assisting  countless students, making their journey to Scotland smoother and more enriching. 

INSA also expresses its deepest appreciation to the Consul General staff including  Shobna and Hari for their meticulous planning and execution of this warm welcome  event. Their unwavering dedication created a truly memorable experience for all  attendees, exemplifying the spirit of hospitality and inclusivity that Scotland extends to  its international students. 

The event concluded with a networking reception, providing an opportunity for the new  Indian students to connect with their peers, representatives from Indian organizations,  and other members of the Scottish community. The delectable snacks provided during the reception were an added touch that perfectly complemented the warm and  welcoming atmosphere. 

INSA (Indian National Students Association) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare  and advancement of Indian students in Scotland.

INSA provides a platform for Indian students  to connect, socialize, and engage with the wider community, fostering a sense of belonging and  support.