Tag: Royal Mile

Fundraiser Tom Gilzean remembered with Royal Mile sculpture 


A sculpture of legendary Edinburgh fundraiser Tom Gilzean has been unveiled on the Royal Mile to pay tribute to his extraordinary life and continue his legacy. 

Tom Gilzean was a decorated war veteran and charity stalwart who sadly died in November 2019 aged 99, having raised over £1million for good causes during his lifetime. 

Now, Tom’s charity Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity (ECHC) and Central Taxis have teamed up to celebrate his memory with a dedicated statue, ‘Oor Tom’, displayed in his favourite city fundraising spot. 

Tom became an iconic figure to both locals and tourists alike. Come rain or shine, he could be found on the Royal Mile or Princes Street, wearing his trademark tartan trews and shaking his collection cans to raise funds for the charity.

ECHC supports the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP). When asked why he fundraised 365 days a year in all weathers, Tom would simply say, “I just want to help the children.” 

Fiona Brian, fundraiser at ECHC, said: “Tom was an exceptional and inspirational ambassador of ECHC and we are immensely proud and privileged to have been his chosen charity.

“It is wonderful to be able to bring his sculpture to the streets of Edinburgh so all those who knew and were inspired by him can remember him and ensure his legacy lives on.

“We are enormously grateful to Central Taxis, the Lord Provost and Belhaven School Pipes and Drums for helping to make the day so special.”

Oor Tom was created by local artist Chris Rutterford to honour Tom and the thousands of children and their families who have been cared for by Edinburgh’s children’s hospital. Central Taxis funded the sculpture to raise further funds for seriously ill children and donated it to the city for everyone to enjoy. 

Murray Fleming from Central Taxis said: “We at Central Taxis are deeply honoured to have had the opportunity to collaborate with ECHC in commemorating the extraordinary contributions of Tom Gilzean.

“His selfless dedication to charitable causes is a testament to the spirit of community and giving that we hold dear. 

“This sculpture is not just a monument; it is a call to action for all of us to continue Tom’s incredible legacy of helping those in need. We hope that his presence on the Royal Mile serves as a lasting inspiration to both residents and visitors alike.” 

Oor Tom was originally on display on Princes Street as part of Oor Wullie’s BIG Bucket Trail – a nationwide art trail which raised money for Scotland’s children’s hospital charities, including ECHC.

To donate in Tom’s memory, visit: www.echcharity.org/oor-tom 

Tomorrow: Busk Against Brexit

Join Edinburgh’s Street Musicians And Make Yourself Heard!

European Movement in Scotland (EMiS) is asking members of the public to add their voice to the call for action at our Busk against Brexit event tomorrow – Tuesday 16th April.

We have a host of musicians lined up to entertain crowds on the Royal Mile, and outside Edinburgh City Chambers and the Scottish Parliament, on the 16th of April between 1pm and 4pm.

EMiS volunteers will be on hand to promote the ‘Face the Music’ campaign, which has already been supported by the iconic Proclaimers.

Later in the evening, Michelle Thomson MSP, in her capacity as the Convener of the Cross-Party Group on Music, will chair a roundtable event that brings politicians and music industry professionals together, to discuss the challenges facing the sector because of Brexit.

Ms Thompson said: “There can be no denying the impact Brexit has had on our cultural sector, and in particular on our world-class musicians.

“Any musical group who wishes to perform in Europe are now subjected to greatly increased cost and bureaucracy – some can absorb this additional red tape but most cannot and have stopped touring in the way they did previously.”

We are delighted to confirm our panel for the day:

• Pat Kane (Musician, journalist)

• Iona Fyfe (Musician)

• Alastair Mackie (Chief Executive of the RSNO)

• Colin Stuart (Head of External Affairs at the ISM)

• Findlay Johnson (Chief Operating Officer, AFEM)

The Scottish Government urged the UK Government soon after leaving the EU to negotiate visa-free access to the EU market for touring artists.

For example, the then Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop wrote to the UK Culture secretary asking the UK Government to work with the EU to explore where easements are possible. Nothing has changed. Touring artists are suffering because of new barriers since Brexit.

In urging the public to come along, enjoy the music and make themselves heard EMiS Chairperson David Clark said: “Music is a universal language that transcends borders, connecting people across Europe and beyond.

“The campaign is crucial as musicians now face too many barriers due to Brexit, threatening the exchange of artistic expression that defines our shared European identity.”

Make it a double: Scotch Whisky Experience wins two Dual Green Tourism awards

The Scotch Whisky Experience on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile proudly raise a glass as they achieve two Green Tourism Awards in recognition of the steps they have taken as a business to put sustainability at the forefront of strategy.

The result of this approach; The Scotch Whisky Experience are the first whisky attraction in Scotland to receive both the Green Tourism and Green Meeting Gold Awards. This accreditation highlights The Scotch Whisky Experience’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and to provide visitors with an immersive experience while striving to be as sustainable as possible.

Demonstrating the importance of sustainability for business growth, The Scotch Whisky Experience has also been awarded the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce High Growth Business of the Year Award 2024.

This accolade celebrates businesses demonstrating profitability, innovation, and growth. The Scotch Whisky Experience’s performance over the past twelve months, coupled with its £3.5 million investment in the visitor experience, demonstrates their unwavering commitment to sustainable business practices while telling the story of Scotland’s national drink.

According to a report by the Scotch Whisky Association, ‘the contribution of the Scotch whisky industry reached £7.1 bn in 2022 and is the second most productive sector in Scotland, just behind energy including renewables.’*

Susan Morrison, Chief Executive at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said: “We work hard to take positive actions across the whole business with a real focus on people, their experience and our environmental impact.

“We are very proud to have achieved GOLD status with Green Tourism while being recognised for substantial growth by Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.”

The Scotch Whisky Experience brings whisky to life, showcasing the heritage and craftsmanship behind the iconic spirit whilst actively continuing to put sustainability at the forefront of the business.

Learn about 17th century medicine this Edinburgh Science Festival 

The Real Mary King’s Close launches its brand-new Medical History Tours, a unique guided experience which takes guests on a journey through the fascinating development of medicine through time

Located beneath the Scottish capital’s iconic Royal Mile, The Real Mary King’s Close is launching a brand-new tour based on 17th century medicine this Edinburgh Science Festival.

The new Medical History Tour will explore the nature and development of Edinburgh’s last plague outbreak, as well as the stories of Scots who revolutionised medicine to make it what it is today. All whilst exploring Edinburgh’s iconic underground street.  

Edinburgh has famously been a focal point for medical innovation and experimentation. The city’s medical school is the oldest in the English-speaking world and was at the heart of the Scottish Enlightenment. While many amazing discoveries and advancements came from Edinburgh, like everywhere, some ideas were slightly strange…  

Guests will learn about everything from the unusual methods of diagnoses employed by local apothecaries – such as former resident of Mary King’s Close, Dr Arnott – to the city’s worst plague outbreak.

Due to overcrowding within the city walls, the plague permeated the area in 1645. Those suffering from the plague would hang a white sheet from their window to warn their neighbours to keep away, quarantining themselves while awaiting a visit from the Plague Doctor. 

Visitors will also learn about key moments in history that defined 19th century medicine, such as the formation of the Edinburgh Seven – an all-female group of aspiring doctors spearheaded by Sophia Jex-Blake, who fought for women’s education and the right to practice medicine.

The story of Dr James Barry is also highlighted on the tour, a renowned military surgeon who performed the first successful caesarean section in the British Empire. 

The celebrated attraction continues to provide both tourists and locals in Edinburgh with a fascinating glimpse into the city’s dark past. As a result, The Real Mary King’s Close has not only established itself as one of Edinburgh’s top tourist attractions, but as one of the UK’s most highly rated experiences on TripAdvisor.  

The new Medical History Tours from part of Edinburgh Science Festival, running from the 30th March to the 14th April.

Each year, the world-class Science Festival brings science to life through an exciting array of events, workshops, shows, and talks for all ages.

Whether you’re a science enthusiast, a curious mind, a creative or a family looking for an educational adventure, the Edinburgh Science Festival promises amazing and interactive experiences. 

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “We’re really looking forward to welcoming people to our brand-new Medical History Tours at The Real Mary King’s Close.

“On the tour, we delve into the fascinating history of the medical scene here in Edinburgh, hearing from pioneers in the field. Our team is passionate about telling powerful stories and educating people about Edinburgh’s rich history.

“We can’t wait to see new and familiar faces on the tour and look forward to inspiring the next generation of budding doctors!” 

Tours are available on Saturday 30th March, Saturday 6th April and Saturday 13th April.  

Tickets are £27 per adult / £22 per child. 

For more information and bookings please visit: https://www.realmarykingsclose.com/event/medical-history-tour/ 

Making Magical Memories for Mercy

Mercy Cuthbertson from North Tyneside is a six-year-old girl who has enjoyed a very special experience day in Edinburgh after Newcastle-based train operator Lumo learned of her passion for the company’s bright blue trains.

Mercy is bravely fighting an aggressive paediatric brain tumour. Her parents Lorraine and Paul have already raised more than £113,000 towards a target of £120,000 for some life-saving trials abroad.

Open access train operator Lumo contacted Mercy’s parents offering a special VIP day trip to Edinburgh where the family were invited to an exclusive performance at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in the city’s Royal Mile followed by a visit to Edinburgh Castle.

Richard Salkeld, Head of Communications and Partnerships at Lumo, said: “When we heard about Mercy’s story and her love of our trains, we began to create a truly memorable experience for her and her parents.

“We teamed up with Imaginate: The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival, the Scottish Storytelling Centre and Edinburgh Castle to help organise what was a very special action-packed visit to Edinburgh.

“As a company proudly based in Newcastle, we’re committed to supporting the communities on our route so today has been a joy to help make happen for Mercy.”

As part of the visit Mercy was invited into the driver’s cab after they arrived at Edinburgh Waverley where she posed for photographs with some of the onboard team from Lumo.

Mercy Cuthbertson travelling on a Lumo train

Lorraine Cuthbertson, Mercy’s mother, said: “Today has been incredible. We’ve been made to feel so welcome and enjoyed some magnificent magical moments that we’ll never forget. Mercy loved her visit to the driver’s cab on the train and meeting the unicorn at the Scottish Storytelling Centre.”

The whirlwind visit to Edinburgh was Mercy’s first time travelling on the all-electric Lumo train. She posed with a specially made giant ticket as a memento of her day before boarding at Newcastle on Friday morning.

Paul Cuthbertson, Mercy’s father, said: “She’s had a brilliant day and has been treated like royalty. It’s been so special, and I think everyone had a tear in her eye when she reached out and stroked the unicorn who she named Twinkle. Thanks to everyone who helped make today so unforgettable.”

Mercy’s fundraising campaign continues to receive generous support from people in the North East but has also received donations from around the world as her parents work tirelessly to raise funds in a bid to do all they can to help Mercy.

For anyone wishing to donate to Mercy’s campaign, they can visit here.

Holyrood Fashion Show highlights need for circular economy

Climate and sustainability groups from across Scotland staged a fashion show of upcycled outfits outside the Scottish Parliament today (22 February), to call on MSPs to support the Circular Economy Bill that’s being debated soon.

Models took to the catwalk in outfits including a dress made of bike inner tubes to highlight that 65% of our clothing is made from fossil fuel-based plastic, a cape made from plastic bottles collected from beach litter, and an electric cable headdress to highlight the impacts of mining for metals and lack of repair opportunities for electronic waste in Scotland.

The new law could change the way we use materials, driving action to reduce the amount we take from nature by keeping materials in use for as long as possible.

The groups sought to remind MSPs that to create a circular economy, everyone in Scotland needs access to repair and reuse services, as well as high-quality recycling services. Campaigners highlighted that systematic change is needed from the Scottish Government to make all the products we buy more sustainable and ensure big businesses are required to clean up the products they sell.

There are many organisations across Scotland trying to tackle this issue at a grassroots level, and they are calling for greater support to deliver on action that brings down climate emissions and builds community.

Kim Pratt, circular economy campaigner at Friends of the Earth Scotland, said: “Valuing our materials properly is essential to reduce the environmental destruction we’re causing, and as we’ve seen today it can be the jumping off point for so much creativity and community.

“The Circular Economy Bill is an exciting opportunity for Scotland to make real progress and build on the great work that is already happening. Reuse and repair offer people the chance to make affordable and green choices but far too few people have access to these services and those providing them need better support.

“We are currently using materials in a way that is driving climate breakdown whether that is single use plastics, electronic gadgets that break too soon or fast fashion piling up in landfill. Around half of Scotland’s emissions are not tackled by our existing climate targets because they don’t include imports.

“If consumption targets were brought in under the new circular economy law, Scotland would finally start taking responsibility for its global impact.”

Kim Blasco, from Plastic-free Scotland Communities said: “Plastic-free communities throughout Scotland are striving to promote circular behaviour among local businesses and the wider public.

“People are hearing the message and  behaviour change is happening, but not fast enough or at the scale necessary to tackle the urgent climate crisis. The Scottish Government must require businesses to embed circularity in the goods and services they provide, and a strong Circular Economy Bill is key to making this happen.”

Franciele Sobierai,  Communities Reduce Reuse and Recycle Project Coordinator at Edinburgh & Lothians Regional Equality Council (ELREC) said: “With the climate crisis getting worse, the need for a strong circular economy bill increases.

“We must shift away from rampant consumerism and redirect our efforts towards stronger communities which reuse and repair organisations can offer.

“Reuse organisations need more support from the Scottish Government. These efforts play a pivotal role in protecting our environment and helping people make more sustainable choices.

“Creating inclusive, diverse communities is vital to the fight against climate change. By empowering marginalised groups on our society through networks such as those created by community reuse projects, we can create a path towards a more environmentally conscious and inclusive future.”

Edinburgh heritage site transforms listed courtroom into new retail experience

The Real Mary King’s Close invests £200,000 in listed Burgh Courtroom following over a quarter of a million visitors in 2023  

The Real Mary King’s Close has completed an exciting renovation project, costing £200,000, to transform its listed Burgh Courtroom, located in Edinburgh’s City Chambers, into an impressive new retail experience on the Royal Mile, further improving the visitor journey at the top Edinburgh tourist attraction.

Following a complete redesign, the new design allows the original assets of the courtroom to stand out thanks to celebrated interior specialists, Lumsden Design.
Working with the symmetry of the room to accentuate details, the layout of the newly curated gift shop takes inspiration from Edinburgh’s 17th century market stalls, the Luckenbooths.

The Luckenbooths were the city’s first permanent shops. Situated on the Royal Mile across from St Giles Cathedral, they could be found just a stone’s throw away
from Mary King’s Close before the street was hidden beneath the City Chambers in 1753.

Excitingly, the new space also aims to improve the visitor experience. By connecting the guest journey from Mary King’s Close to the gift shop more seamlessly,
the Burgh Courtroom now provides an interesting new extension of the tour itself, with the history of the room being revealed to guests on tour for the very first time.

The popular attraction views the renovation work as an investment following its hugely successful year, with over a quarter of a million people visiting in 2023.
Much of The Real Mary King’s Close’s highest footfall came during the annual Fringe festival and the school holidays.

July saw a record-breaking number of visitors journey underground, with The Met Office reporting that it was the UK’s wettest July since 2009, and the sixth wettest July on record.

With the addition of exclusive monthly special tours in 2023, including a Herstory Tour for Women’s History Month in March and the Pride History Tour in June, visitors were able to learn from a wealth of fascinating social history experiences, providing a deeper insight into Edinburgh’s dark and fascinating past.

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: ‘Reflecting on knock-on effect of the pandemic on the tourism industry overall in recent years, we are delighted to see a consistent increase in our footfall.

“We want to invest in our fantastic Burgh Courtroom to ensure our guests are getting the highest quality visitor experience as possible. We’re really looking forward to seeing the gift shop transform to a space that is reminiscent of the time and feeds into the social history of Mary King’s Close itself.”

For more information about The Real Mary King’s Close, visit :

https://www.realmarykingsclose.com 

How people in Edinburgh can get FREE mince pies this Saturday

Members of the UK’s leading vegan charity, Viva!, will be handing out free mince pies at Royal Mile (High Street) in Edinburgh this Saturday (9 December), as part of their latest Christmas campaign. 

Staff and volunteers will be speaking to members of the public to encourage them to opt for a vegan Christmas this year, which campaigners say is the only way for Christmas to be truly cruelty-free. 

Every year in the UK, millions of turkeys are slaughtered for human consumption during the festive period. In addition to the turkeys who lose their lives, large numbers of pigs, salmon and other animals are killed just so that Brits can eat them. Viva! is taking to the streets to educate people that delicious vegan alternatives exist, so that no animals have to die this festive season. 

As well as handing out free mince pies, the team will be showing footage from Viva!’s undercover investigations that expose the reality of factory farming, as well as handing out leaflets and guides to help people transition to a vegan lifestyle. 

In addition to the event in Edinburgh on 8 December between 12 and 4pm, the team will also be taking this Christmas campaign toCardiff, Queen Street (3 – 7pm, 14 December 2023).  

Speaking of the upcoming Christmas tour, Viva!’s managing director, Laura Hellwig, said: “Every year, millions of animals are killed just so humans can eat them for Christmas dinner.

“These animals typically live short, unhappy lives in cramped conditions on factory farms. Given that Christmas is a time for love and compassion, it doesn’t feel right that this sentiment isn’t extended to the animals we share the planet with!  

“Viva! is encouraging people to choose kindness this Christmas by opting for plant-based alternatives to animal products. These vegan alternatives not only spare animals from suffering or death but they’re also better for the planet, as animal agriculture is a leading cause of the climate emergency.

“You can try out some delicious vegan festive recipes at viva.org.uk/xmas.” 

To find out more and get involved, head to Viva!’s website.

Police investigate series of attempted robberies around Royal Mile

UPDATE: A 32-year-old will be subject of a report to the Procurator Fiscal following attempted robberies in Edinburgh.

The incidents happened on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023, at St Mary’s Street, Market Street, Jeffrey Street and the High Street.

The man is due to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.

Detective Sergeant Steven Dick said: “We would like to thank the public for their assistance with our enquiries.”

Detectives are appealing for witnesses to contact them following a series of attempted robberies in the city centre. Four crimes have been reported but officers believe a further two incidents, one in Market Street and one in the Royal Mile, were not reported to police.

The reported incidents occurred between 6pm and 7pm on Tuesday, 10 October, 2023,  at St Mary’s Street, Market Street, Jeffrey Street and the High Street. They all involved a man threatening members of the public and attempting to obtain money from them.

The man is described as white, around 5 ft. 8 – 5ft. 10 inches in height, with a medium build and brown, unkempt hair. He has dark facial hair with a beard and moustache.

He was wearing a dark jacket, grey-coloured jogging trousers and dark shoes. The man spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Steven Dick said: “We believe other people were approached by this man near to the train station at Market Street and the Royal Mile at the junction with Jeffrey Street and I would ask them to contact us to report the circumstances.

“We are in the process of checking CCTV footage from the relevant areas but if anyone has any information about this man, please get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Police Scotland via 101, quoting incident number 3049 of 10 October 2023. Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.

Unfolded & Friends – Sustainable Pop Up Market in Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

 

Edinburgh-based leading sustainable clothing brand, Unfolded, is hosting the first ever Unfolded and Friends pop up event at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh on Sunday (15th October).

The free event is open to all and runs from 11am-4pm at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Hall (entrance from The Royal Mile via Cowgatehead). Alongside Unfolded will be other fantastic sustainable Scottish brands including Seilich Botanicals, Voxblock, Natural Sparkle and Scents of the Wild. 

In the past 18 months Unfolded has grown to a community of over 100k+ women across the UK, turned down three Dragons on Dragons Den and attracted wide acclaim for their affordable approach to sustainable fashion from media such as This Morning, Lorraine and Glamour magazine.  

The event gives shoppers the chance to preview, try and buy the brand new Unfolded collection, shop the brands first ever discounted sample sale, enjoy a free drink, meet the founders and discover a range of other fabulous Scottish sustainable focused brands.  

Hosted within Virgin Hotels Edinburgh’s beautifully restored Greyfriars Hall, a Gothic church with vaulted ceilings, it’s the perfect spot to experience a piece of classic Edinburgh while perusing the very best sustainable products Scotland has to offer. 

Unfolded is a local business well on its way to achieving a big mission – to change the way people shop and make the fashion industry more sustainable.  

Did you know that 30% of new clothes made this year will never be sold – that’s estimated to be a staggering 26 billion items of new clothing that is destined to go straight to landfill? 

Unfolded is challenging the industry by creating clothes without the waste and using the savings to create positive impact in the world. They do this by: 

  • Designing clothes in collaboration with Unfolded shoppers to ensure the only clothes created are ones that people actually want to buy 
  • Production doesn’t start till orders start being placed, allowing us to match supply and demand 
  • Clothes are delivered direct from our factories to our customers within 4-6 weeks – removing logistics wastage 

Making clothes in this way actually delivers cost savings and these are used to: 

  • Offer sustainable yet affordable clothes 
  • Pay garment workers better wages  
  • Create long term change by funding children in India to learn to read and write (our clothes are manufactured in India). 

Since launch eighteen months ago, Unfolded has already supported over 5,000 children in education. 

Cally Russell, co-founder of Unfolded explains more: “Unfolded is all about community and creating positive change by working together.

” This is why we decided to host Unfolded and Friends and can’t wait to meet people in person at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh on Sunday. Over the past 18 months our collaborative approach to sustainable fashion has started to change this industry and we look forward to more Edinburgh locals discovering there is another way to shop this weekend”. 

Mafalda Albuquerque, General Manager, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh said: “Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is a strong supporter of small, Scottish businesses.

“Our very own Curiosity Shop, delivered in partnership with Virgin Startup, features local sustainable brands and is extremely popular with our guests and so we know there will be huge excitement for the Unfolded and Friends market. 

“We look forward to welcoming Unfolded into Greyfriars Hall to give guests and locals the chance to browse its incredible collection of sustainable products. In keeping with chic Virgin style, the pieces aren’t just fabulous but good for the planet too.” 

After London the popup market tour will be heading to Oxford Street in London and then Manchester before the end of the year.  

Find out more about the Unfolded and Friends Pop Up Event here:

https://thisisunfolded.com/blogs/unfold/unfolded-friends-event-edinburgh