Tag: Sport

Ann Budge announces intention to step down as Hearts chairperson

Ann Budge has advised the Board that she will be stepping down from her role as Chair of the club in December of this year, following the 2025 AGM.  The search for a new Chair is now underway. 

Working with the Foundation of Hearts, and with the backing and commitment of the fans, Ann played a vital role in rescuing the club, enabling it to exit from administration in 2014. Since then, she has spent more than a decade driving Hearts forward and has been a pivotal figure in the club’s resurgence.

Under her leadership, and with the financial backing of fans, sponsors and benefactors –  once again proud to be associated with Hearts – the club has reestablished itself both on and off the pitch.

We have seen the delivery of a number of major infrastructure projects, including the Museum, the Memorial Garden, a new state-of-the-art pitch, and, of course, the magnificent new Main Stand incorporating the Tynecastle Park Hotel.

Investment in infrastructure has not stopped at Tynecastle, with substantial investment in facilities for our players, at all levels, up at Oriam.

Hearts has also reaffirmed its position as a community champion during Ann’s time in charge. With the saving of our charity, Big Hearts, coupled with the creation of our Community and Heritage Department, Hearts sits firmly at the very heart of the community.

Fans and the local community alike have access to community football for all ages, amazing educational opportunities through our Innovation Centre and a whole range of family support services through Big Hearts.

On the football front, Ann has also overseen the redevelopment of our youth academy, including the creation of our own performance school. She has also been totally committed to helping establish the Women’s game here in Scotland, ensuring comparable facilities for both men and women at Oriam.

During her tenure, our fans have had numerous visits to Hampden to support not just our men’s first team but also our women’s team. They have seen multiple third-place finishes in the league and have enjoyed many memorable European adventures, including the men’s first team securing European football for a historic three years in a row.

Reflecting on her decision to step down, Ann said; “This is something I have thought long and hard about. Having discussed this with the Board, I feel now is the right time to confirm that I intend to step down later this year.

“When I first got involved with the Foundation of Hearts in 2013, I could not have envisaged the journey it would take me on. Initially, the aim was to stabilize the Club before even thinking of growth. Now, 12-years later, as I look at where the club stands, I can allow myself to feel a sense of pride at what we have achieved.

“With Tony Bloom’s investment now complete, and the supporters ensconced as custodians of the club, I believe I have done what I set out to achieve.

“The appropriate time for reminiscing and saying goodbye will come after the AGM in December but until then, my full focus will remain on what it has always been, and that is doing my very best for Hearts and our fans.”

Chief Executive Officer Andrew McKinlay said; “It cannot be overstated just how much Ann has done for Heart of Midlothian and on behalf of everyone at the club, I extend both my thanks and my gratitude.

“As we get closer to December’s AGM we will update our supporters on our succession plans, but for now we will continue to enjoy and benefit from working with Ann until the end of her tenure as the club’s Chair.”

Foundation of Hearts Chairman Gerry Mallon said; “Ann will leave a remarkable legacy when she departs the club and we are extremely fortunate to have had 12 years of her knowledge and experience at the helm of Hearts.

“In particular, her participation during the birth of the Foundation of Hearts can never be downplayed, neither can the instrumental role she played in saving the club from the abyss and taking it back up to the top end of Scottish football.

“For that, I will be forever grateful to Ann, as I’m sure Hearts fans everywhere will be too.”

Wooden Spoon and LooseHeadz break two world records in rugby marathon

Last week in Mullingar FRC,Ireland, 96 rugby players set a world record the longest games of rugby. The marathon event ( which is currently being verified by Guinness World Records) raised funds for Wooden Spoon , LooseHeadz and The Lions Trust charities.

Scottish players included Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, Colin Stuart. Emma Riach, Hazel Malakoty, Lee Murru, Mark Kane, Murray Stewart, Paige Anastacia, Paul Sullivan, Simon Turner, Yvonne Tunnicliff.

Two teams have officially made rugby history at Mullingar RFC, Ireland where they completed the Longest Games of Rugby ever played, with the women’s team clocking an astonishing 26 hours and 33 minutes, and the men’s team pushing through to an incredible 34 hours and 48 minutes of continuous play.  (The footage from the matches is currently being verified by Guinness World Records.)

What began as an ambitious challenge turned into an unforgettable display of resilience, teamwork, and sheer determination as players faced extreme conditions over the two-day event.

With relentless heat beating down on Wednesday, several participants battled heatstroke, pushing their bodies to the limit. The local fire brigade came to the rescue, filling water baths on site to help players cool down and stay safe in the searing temperatures.

As night fell, a new challenge emerged: cold mist and damp air that settled in overnight. But the teams dug deep, supporting each other every step of the way.

As the sun rose on Thursday morning, exhaustion gave way to adrenaline, and with the finish line in sight, both teams summoned their final reserves of strength to break not one, but two world records.

Their historic achievement was celebrated in front of a roaring crowd at the Aviva Stadium last Friday evening as the British & Irish Lions took on Argentina.  The players were honoured at halftime with a pitch walk and greeted with thunderous applause as official world record holders.

So far, the event has raised an incredible £115,000 in support of three amazing charities: Wooden Spoon, LooseHeadz, and The Lions Trust, which will help save lives and support children through the power of rugby.

“This was about more than breaking records,” said Matt Bishop, Wooden Spoon player. “It was about community, perseverance, and doing something extraordinary to support causes we care deeply about.

“Every blister, bruise, and sleepless hour was worth it!”

Scotland was proudly represented on the field by Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, one of the most respected figures in Scottish women’s rugby history.

A key member of the original national side and number 12 on the roll of honour, Ali Mackenzie-Cooper earned 39 caps for Scotland, three as captain, and played in three World Cups. She was a standout in the famous 27-7 victory over France at the 1998 World Cup, where she was awarded Player of the Match, and also featured in Scotland’s Grand Slam win against England – a defining moment for Scottish rugby.

Beyond her illustrious playing career, Ali Mackenzie-Cooper has continued to shape the sport in Scotland as a specialist front-row coach, manager of the Scotland Women’s team, and as Treasurer of the Scottish Women’s Rugby Union (2005–2006). She was also instrumental in organising the 1994 Women’s Rugby World Cup – an event she and her team pulled together in just 90 days.

Sarah Webb, CEO , Wooden Spoon said: “We are incredibly grateful to every single player who took part in this extraordinary effort. Not only did they break world records – they’ve helped change lives.

“The funds raised will make a huge difference to the children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage that we support at  Wooden Spoon. This was a phenomenal act of grit, determination and community.”

A Big thank you to our sponsors who helped make The Longest Game happen : LMAX Exchange, ICS Mortgages, Canterbury, OPRO , NOCCO, d3 tape.

 Scottish players involved in the The Longest Game : Ali Mackenzie-Cooper, Colin Stuart. Emma Riach, Hazel Malakoty, Lee Murru, Mark Kane, Murray Stewart, Paige Anastacia, Paul Sullivan, Simon Turner, Yvonne Tunnicliff.

Outdoor experts name Wardie and Portobello beaches among the UK’s paddleboarding hotspots

TWO EDINBURGH BEACHES IN PADDLEBOARDING TOP TEN

Boscombe Pier has been named the best place in the UK for paddleboarding with a score of 9.73. Located in Bournemouth, the beach has an excellent water classification making it an ideal spot for paddleboarders.

With almost 1,700 hours of sunshine each year and an average wind speed of 8.63 m/s per 10m, the conditions are well-suited for getting out on the water.

Lessons and equipment are available at local rentals such as Sorted Surf School and there are several cafes and restaurants along the pier which are perfect for refuelling after a paddleboarding session.

Best paddleboarding spots in the UK:

RankLocationLocal AuthorityCountryWater classificationAverage annual sunshine hoursAverage annual rainfall (mm)Mean wind speed (m/s) per 10mPaddleboarding lessons Paddleboarding score /10
1Boscombe PierBournemouth, Christchurch and PooleEnglandExcellent1,6949198.36Yes9.73
2River DartDevonEnglandGood1,7299018.35Yes8.82
3WhitbyNorth YorkshireEnglandExcellent1,5679069.41Yes8.73
4Wardie BayCity of EdinburghScotlandExcellent1,4289338.56Yes8.37
5Cotswold Water ParkCotswoldsEnglandExcellent1,5147909.98Yes8.00
5Marazion BeachCornwallEnglandGood1,7531,0038.50Yes8.00
7Cullen BeachMorayScotlandExcellent1,4551,0059.73Yes7.55
8Portobello BeachCity of EdinburghScotlandSufficient

River Dart follows in second place with a score of 8.82. With over 1,700 hours of sunshine each year, the area benefits from plenty of bright days which are perfect for heading out on the water.

The location also has relatively low average annual rainfall and a mean wind speed of 8.35 m/s per 10m, making for stable paddleboarding conditions. Paddleboarding gear can be hired nearby from providers such as Totnes Kayaks and Paddle Devon.

Whitby completes the top three with a score of 8.73. Known for its excellent water quality, it offers clean and safe water conditions for paddleboarders to enjoy. With mean wind speeds of 9.41 m/s per 10m, it is a great spot for those looking for more challenging paddleboarding conditions.

Visitors can hire equipment and lessons from local experts, including providers like the Whitby Surf School.  

Edinburgh’s WARDIE BAY comes in a fine fourth and Portobello also features in the UK top ten, featuring eight on the list.

Sam Chadwick, author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors comments: “As the weather gets warmer, many are looking to go outside and enjoy the UK’s water.

“Paddleboarding is a fantastic way to experience the outdoors and there are several places across the UK to enjoy this activity, but safety is the most important thing.

“Since paddleboarding can involve being in deeper water, always wear a buoyancy aid no matter your swimming ability. Weather conditions can change quickly, and waters can rapidly become rough, so check the forecast before going out on the water. While on the paddleboard, keep the paddleboard leash securely attached to your ankle to ensure your board stays close by if you fall in. 

“Even on warm days, deep water can be cold so always opt for a wetsuit to keep your body warm in case you fall into the water. It’s also important to stay within designated paddleboarding zones and be mindful of other people enjoying the water nearby.

“Always paddleboard with a buddy, let someone know your plans and expected return time and remember to only paddleboard within your capabilities.”

‘Game changer’ for the nation?

£900 million investment in major sporting events and grassroots sport

  • Major sporting events and grassroots sport across the UK to benefit from over £900 million in funding, as part of government’s Plan for Change 
  • More than £500 million to support delivery of world class major sporting events hosted in the UK, including UEFA EURO 2028, Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes Grand Départs 2027 
  • At least £400 million to be invested in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities in communities across the country

Villages, towns and cities across the UK are set to benefit from a transformational investment of more than £900 million in sport, which will support a pipeline of major international events and deliver new grassroots facilities that can drive economic growth and inspire people of all ages to get active. 

The funding commitment, which was outlined in the Spending Review last week, has now been set out by Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy. 

It will see more than £500 million committed to supporting the delivery of a host of world class sporting events being held in the UK over the coming years, including:

  • The men’s and women’s Tour de France Grand Départs in 2027
  • Men’s UEFA EURO 2028 – alongside Ireland
  • The European Athletics Championships 2026 in Birmingham

These events are expected to deliver significant economic benefits, with EURO 2028 alone projected to generate up to £2.4 billion in socio-economic value across the UK. 

Work is also continuing with the Home Nation football associations (FA)s and devolved administrations to develop the bid for the UK to host the Women’s FIFA World Cup in 2035. 

In tandem at least £400 million will be invested in new and upgraded grassroots sport facilities that promote health, wellbeing and community cohesion. Work to remove the barriers to physical activity for under-represented groups, such as women and girls, people with disabilities, and ethnic minority communities will continue. 

Already, government funding has helped local clubs from Ayrshire to Anglesey, Strangford to Somerset, build new pitches and changing rooms, install floodlights, solar panels and goalposts; supporting a range of sports including football and rugby.  

Together, this strategic investment in sport will help to deliver on the government’s mission to kickstart economic growth by creating jobs, driving regional prosperity and encouraging visitors to the UK.

It is also designed to reduce barriers to opportunity, bring communities together through shared national moments and showcase the best of the UK to the world. 

Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, said: “Sport tells our national story in a way few other things can – uniting communities, inspiring millions, and showcasing our nation on the global stage.

“This major backing for world-class events will drive economic growth across the country, delivering on our Plan for Change. Coupled with strong investment into grassroots sport, we’re creating a complete pathway to allow the next generation of sporting heroes to train and take part in sport in communities across the UK.”

This investment is central to the government’s commitment to delivering major sporting events with pride and impact and stands alongside ongoing work with partners in the sport sector and across the UK.

The pipeline of major events already secured includes this Summer’s Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, the Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026, the ICC T20 Cricket women’s and men’s World Cups (in 2026 and 2030 respectively), the Invictus Games 2027 in Birmingham, and many other elite continental and world championships. 

Debbie Hewitt MBE, Chair of the UK and Ireland 2028 Board, said: “We welcome today’s announcement of significant investment in sport from the UK government, which marks a major boost to the successful delivery of UEFA EURO 2028.

“This commitment will not only help us stage a world-class tournament but also ensure that communities across the UK feel long-lasting benefits – from enhanced grassroots facilities to stronger local economies. 

“UEFA EURO 2028 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and with this investment, we are better placed than ever to deliver an event with pride, purpose and impact.”

Nick Webborn, Chair of UK Sport, said: “We welcome the government’s ongoing commitment to hosting the Tour De France, Tour De France Femmes and Euro 2028. These events have huge potential to drive economic growth, bring people together and inspire the next generation in communities across the UK. 

“We believe that live sport is a fundamental part of this country’s social fabric. We are really excited to be working with the government and support their commitment to secure the pipeline of big events beyond 2028 to ensure we can continue to reach, inspire and unite people in every corner of the country.”

Chair of Sport England, Chris Boardman said: “The government’s continued investment into grassroots sport facilities is welcome news; the nation’s pitches, pools and leisure centres play a pivotal role in keeping people moving.

“With every £1 invested in community sport and physical activity generating £4.20 in value for our economy, supporting grassroots facilities isn’t just good for public health — it’s a smart investment in the nation’s social and economic wellbeing.”

BBC ALBA brings historic Junior Cup Final to fans

BBC ALBA has secured the exclusive rights to air the Scottish Junior Cup Final – the annual tournament labelled the ‘Holy Grail’ in junior football.

Broadcasting from Broadwood Stadium in Cumbernauld, BBC ALBA Spòrs presenter, Micheal Steele, alongside commentator, Alex O’Henley, will bring viewers all the live action as Johnstone Burgh take on Tranent this afternoon (Sunday 1 June).

As both sides battle it out for the coveted piece of silverware, it’s set to be a high-stakes clash in one of junior football’s most prestigious competitions.

Johnstone Burgh midfielder Aaron Mason, who scored the winning goal against Largs Thistle to secure the Renfrewshire-side’s place in the Junior Cup Final for first time in 25 years, said: “It’s a great feeling to be playing in a Scottish Junior Cup Final, and to be part of it with my teammates representing a great football club means a lot. We’ve worked hard all season for this and now we have the chance to go make it count!”

Burgh last made it to the final in 2000 when they faced Whitburn Juniors at Partick Thistle’s Firhill. The game finished 2-2 with the East of Scotland League side going on to win on penalties.

Tranent celebrated reaching the Junior Cup Final for the first time in 90 years after a 3-2 aggregate win over Drumchapel United earlier this month. The East Lothian club have played in the final twice before, losing to Yoker Athletic in 1933 and then lifting the trophy two years later, with a 6-1 victory over Petershill at Ibrox.

Playing in the tournament for the first time since leaving the Junior leagues, Tranent defender, Euan Bauld, said: “It’s a great feeling to be in the final! We’ve had a month to look forward to it so all the boys are buzzing.

“It’s a massive day for the club as it’s 90 years since Tranent last won the Scottish Junior Cup. Hopefully we can do the town proud and bring home the trophy.”

The Junior Cup Final kicks off at 4.05pm, with BBC ALBA coverage from 4pm.

Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “The Scottish Junior Cup Final is a standout event in BBC ALBA’s spring sporting schedule that showcases the passion and commitment of the players – and their communities – at every level of the game.

“With two passionate clubs, with everything to play for, this year’s final promises all the drama and excitement that makes Junior football so unique and we’re proud to be able to showcase this iconic fixture to a wider audience across our channels.”

Watch the Scottish Junior Cup Final live or on demand on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer: 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002d34b

BBC ALBA broadcasts live coverage from Hampden for SWNT Nations League home finale tonight

BBC ALBA is set to air the latest League A UEFA Women’s Nations League fixture as Scotland Women’s National Team (SWNT) continue their campaign against Austria at Hampden tonight (Friday 30 May).

Broadcasting live on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer from 7.25pm ahead of kick off at 7.35pm, fans can join BBC Spòrs reporter and UEFA Scotland correspondent Alex O’Henley to watch the action unfold in this latest meeting between the two international sides. English commentary from Stuart Mitchell and Grant Scott will also be accessible via the ‘Red Button’.

Fiona MacKenzie, BBC ALBA commissioning editor, said: “BBC ALBA has been supporting SWNT’s Nations League campaign since the tournament kicked off earlier this year.

“We – along with so many others across the country – have followed the highs and lows of the international competition, and we’re excited to see how they perform in the penultimate league match against Austria this week.”

Following a 1-0 away defeat against the Austrian side in February, this highly anticipated rematch comes ahead of Scotland’s final second-leg battle against the Netherlands on 3 June at Tilburg.

Watch live or on demand on BBC ALBA and BBC iPlayer: 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002ctst

Tonight: Edinburgh Twirling Academy Spring Show

WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE – Doors Open 6.30pm

EDINBURGH TWIRLING ACADEMY SPRING SHOW🖤🌟

Reminder that our spring show displaying our competition girls hard work this season is TONIGHT!

Doors open 18:30 for a 19:00 start⏰

West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre🏡

Tickets are £5 entry £3 concessions🎟️

Can’t wait to see you all there🤩

Pitch Perfect: Specsavers partner with Scotland Internationals to launch Specsavers Best Worst Pitch

New Initiative to Breathe New Life into Underfunded Grassroots Football 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.

Craigie: Football Coaches Wanted!

Good afternoon @everyone

The club is looking to add to the coaching team.

If you know of any Parents, Uncles, Aunties, Brothers, Sisters, friends of the family etc, that may be interested then please reach out.

Alternately ask them to speak to myself (on below details) or Colin Dudgeon when down at the pitches.

Thanks,

Daz

🟡🔵🟡🔵

Teeing Off Through Time: New golf exhibition debuts as legendary Dispatch Trophy returns

A captivating new golf exhibition, ‘Teeing Off Through Time,‘ has been unveiled at Braid Hills Golf Course, coinciding with preparations for the milestone 125th Edinburgh Evening News Dispatch Trophy.

The exhibition celebrates Edinburgh’s rich golfing heritage just as the city’s most prestigious amateur team golf championship returns to Braid Hills.

The historic Dispatch Trophy, dating back to 1890, will commence on May 17th with the final scheduled for May 24th. This beloved tournament features a unique double foursome’s format with four-player teams and has been a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s golfing tradition for over 130 years, interrupted only by the two World Wars and the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘Teeing Off Through Time’ is the third exhibition in Edinburgh Leisure’s series celebrating Edinburgh 900 and is free to visitors in the foyer of Edinburgh Leisure’s Braid Hills golf course.

The exhibition chronicles Edinburgh’s pivotal role in golf’s origins, showcases Edinburgh Leisure’s six golf courses and their vibrant communities, explores the evolution of golf clubs, highlights the storied histories of the Dispatch Trophy and Gibson Cup, and provides information on joining Edinburgh Leisure’s golf club.

“With the Dispatch Trophy being played at the Braids, and the Scottish Open taking place at the Renaissance Club in July, we’re hoping there will be lots of golfers interested in paying the exhibition a visit,” said Kerry Teakle, PR Officer at Edinburgh Leisure, who has led the project.

“The timing couldn’t be better to celebrate our city’s tremendous golfing heritage.”

The exhibition will remain at Braid Hills until Thursday, May 29th, before moving to Silverknowes golf course. Golf enthusiasts will have another opportunity to view the exhibition from July 9-15 as part of the broader Edinburgh 900 Exhibition at St James Quarter, where it will be displayed in a unit on Leith Street, next to Mhor Bakery.

Edinburgh Leisure was selected to represent the “City of Leisure” theme at the St James Quarter exhibition. Their previous Edinburgh 900 exhibitions, ‘Great Lengths’ and ‘Your Health is for Life,’ which showcase the organisation’s 27-year commitment to promoting active lifestyles and the history of swimming pools in Edinburgh, will also be on display.

“Having the opportunity to again display our other Edinburgh 900 exhibitions alongside the newer golf exhibition at St James in July is the perfect opportunity to showcase all the great facilities we have,” Kerry added. “It also highlights Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes which supported 14,782 people in 2024-2025 who face significant barriers to physical activity, including those affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty – empowering participants to improve their health, wellbeing and quality of life.”

Edinburgh Leisure received funding for the exhibition as part of the prestigious Edinburgh 900 celebrations, a landmark initiative commemorating the city’s rich history spanning almost a millennium.

The full Edinburgh 900 programme examines the city’s evolution through commerce, conflict, faith, and finance, while celebrating Edinburgh’s present and envisioning its future aspirations.