The Victorian splendour of Warrender Baths

Warrender Swim Centre in Marchmont holds a special place in our hearts, as it is where one of us learned to swim many many years ago. He still has his ‘Tadpole’ badge to prove it…

Now, after an extensive 6-month refurbishment, this historic listed swimming baths and fitness complex is reopen to the public.

First established in 1886, the centre has been a popular fixture of the local community ever since and has produced several swimming stars, most notably 1976 Montreal Olympics gold medallist David Wilkie.

Fitness centre at Warrender

As well as the pool, Warrender also features a sauna and fitness centre with the latest gym equipment, as well as trained staff who are able to provide coaching and training for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Now that Warrender is back in full operation, they are offering a special 6-week fitness membership for only £50 – perfect for those who may be looking to stay in shape during the Festival period!

With its proximity to the university and places like the Pleasance and the Meadows in the south side of the city, it offers an ideal fitness centre for those based nearby.

The special offer allows unlimited access to the pool, gym and sauna and is available to buy right up until 31st August 2010.

To find out more, call one of the Warrender Swim Centre team on +44(0)131 4470052 – and you can find out more about the centre on its website.

This will be the 31st running of the Edinburgh Seven Hills, a testing course of over 14 miles with over 2200 feet of ascent and descent, starting and finishing on Calton Hill.  A record 350 completed the course last year, and an even greater number are expected this time.  The event is split in two, with those of modest ambitions setting off (in The Challenge) half an hour earlier than the serious runners (in The Race).
 
As in recent years, those who complete the Seven Hills course having already completed the recent (full) Edinburgh marathon will receive a whisky double (miniature) to mark their completion of the Edinburgh Double for 2010.
 
Full details of the event can be found on the website www.seven-hills.org.uk and it’s not too late to enter – you can register on the day for £12. 

If you’re out for a walk at the weekend and see lots of people running up and down the hills, you’ll now know why.  Edinburgh Spotlight wishes everyone taking part good luck!

Your Healthy Living Show 2010

Amanda Hamilton

Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th June sees Your Healthy Living Show return to the George Street Assembly Rooms.  Tickets are currently available on a ‘buy one get one free’ basis until May 23rd and are available from the show’s website.  The aim of the show is to help consumers eat well, feel great and look healthier, naturally – without costing the earth.  

Following the success of the inaugural show last year, the fun, interactive and great-value two-day event will demonstrate that eating healthily and living naturally and can be inexpensive and easy.  

What’s On  

TV personality and qualified nutritionist, Amanda Hamilton, will be leading a series of Free Expert Talks throughout the weekend.  Best known for presenting BBC 2’s Sunday lifestyle show Something for the Weekend, Amanda is also an author, developed her own skincare range and studied Ayurvedic medicine and Yoga in the Himalayas.  Amanda will be offering advice on subjects close to her heart such as natural skincare, healthy effective weight loss and family health.  

Showcasing simply the best great food, including locally sourced, raw, organic and Fairtrade food and drink producers, the hugely popular Famers’ Market will return bigger than ever.  Giving visitors the chance to sample, taste and take home a wide range of produce will be the likes of Summer Harvest Oils, Coconoil and The Chocolate Tree.  Free wine tastings, guided by the UK’s first organic wine merchants, Vinceremos, will give visitors the chance to enjoy a selection of wines, while learning about the benefits of drinking organic. Celebrity chef and lifestyle TV presenter, Paul De Costa-Greaves will be hosting live cooking demos throughout both days, preparing simple, good-value and healthy meal options.  

Deanne Berry from GMTV

 Recognising that general fitness is a key part in promoting a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle, this year’s show is introducing a brand new Active Zone.  Hosted by experienced tutors and specialists from the Edinburgh area and beyond, a full programme of free sessions will give visitors the chance to try out simple Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi moves and sign up to regular classes available right on their doorstep.  Deanne Berry from GMTV and Eric Prydz fame will be teaching her famous dance routine.  

An extensive Complementary Therapy Centre will offer a range of treatments to experience, all carried out by award-winning Napier’s therapists at special reduced rates.  The Natural Beauty Zone features pioneers in the field, such as Live Native from Isle of Skye, offering tips on how to look after skin and hair organically, and giving free advice on natural cosmetics and make-up.   

Local Edinburgh health heroes Real Foods, Napier’s and Hannover Health will also be returning to offer free and practical advice, while expert exhibitors will be on hand to offer a range of services such as allergy testing and spinal checks, alongside free diet and nutrition advice.  

Back by popular demand is Jan de Vries, renowned author and therapist at the forefront of complimentary medicine, who will be joining Amanda for the series of free expert talks. Jan will be joined by local experts, celebrities and leading specialists such as Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s foremost nutritionist specialising in women’s health and Medical Herbalist Dee Atkinson of Napiers.  

Discounts, special offers, free samples and competitions will all be running throughout the show and all visitors will receive a free reusable natural cotton bag on arrival.  Tickets are now buy one get one free when booked before 23rd May 2010 or great value at just £5 on the door, concessions £3 and under 16’s are FREE when accompanied by a paying adult.  

For more information and to register for tickets visit: http://www.yourhealthyliving.co.uk/  

Follow the lead up to the event on twitter or join their facebook page

Learn to dance with Deanne Barry

There are two clean ups organised for this weekend of the area, the first being on Saturday by Keep Scotland Tidy and the second on Sunday covering the Gypsy Brae area .

In the meantime, enjoy a few photos of a glorious walk this morning in 15 degrees.

Enjoying the sunshine

Tide was out

Be sure to check tide times if walking out to Cramond Island

Cramond Boats

Bistro is open early, but gets sun outside from late morning

Council swept up this pile of debris

Judith Campbell's business

Award Winning Colour Me Beautiful Image Consultant Judith Campbell, set up Feel Brand New in 2007 and has been going from strength to strength, transforming both men and women in the Capital. “Managing your appearance is an important part of who you are. People who look good feel good, it’s as simple as that.”  Judith believes that by choosing colours and shapes that suit you and by wearing your clothes in the right way, your confidence grows and so do the many compliments you receive.

Consultation with Judith

People come though her studio doors in Newington feeling less than happy with the way they look, maybe they have become stuck in a rut, they have lost their way in knowing what suits them or they just feel it’s time for a revamp.  Whatever the reason as to why they are there, they always leave feeling transformed and much more positive about their appearance. What’s great about what Judith does, is that she offers tailor made style solutions for the individual.  You can select from short one to one consultations focusing on either colour, style or make up, go for the whole makeover package which includes wardrobe weeding and personal shopping or mix and match the services to get it right for you.  The choice is yours.
Judith is always taking Feel Brand New out and about all over the city. You will see her in various stores at the start of each season doing her fashion updates, giving people hints and tips on what’s hot and what’s not. She runs workshops on what not to wear for women’s groups, corporate clients and Edinburgh clubs and is always getting involved in various charity events and fashion shows.
“ I love what I do, it is so rewarding and I get to meet such a variety of fabulous people. I don’t have a typical client, it ranges from women to men and from 18 to 80yrs. Although my clients vary in size, shape and age, I can honestly say they all feel brand new after having invested time in themselves.”      

Great fashion advice

You can find out more about Feel Brand New on Judith’s website and you can watch Judith’s many style and make up tutorials on her youtube channel.  You can also follow her on twitter

Get fit with Craig Ali

Looking to improve your energy well-being? 

Want to reduce your back and neck pain? 

Need to manage your stress levels better? 

If so,  the Total Movement workshop covering Levels 1 & 2 can help achieve all of these and more.   Craig Ali is taking the session and  the investment is £45 per person. 25% of the fees of all Total Movement Workshops will be donated to Lynne McNicoll’s - It’s Good 2 Give charity,  which helps young cancer sufferers and their families. 

Craig  owns Craig Ali’s Total Health in Edinburgh which offers fitness training, lifestyle consultations, nutritional advice, motivation coaching and thai massage.  He is also personal trainer to Mark Beaumont and Mark Cooper. 

The date for your diary is Saturday 17th April and it runs from 10am – 1pm at Room 4 Health, Tiso, Commerical Street, Leith. 

Details of workshop 

The workshop is a very light and basic workout that can benefit anyone from inactive & injured people through to serious athletes. 

 The system has been designed to build energy, freedom of movement and performance whilst reducing stress and tension. Who is it for?: 

- People rehabing from minor or extreme injury
- Anyone looking to improve posture
- People with neck, back and joint problems/pain
- Anyone wanting to improve their health & energy
- Athletes looking to improve their sporting performance
- Fitness professionals wanting improve their knowledge on mobility,
strength, flexibility & movement 

Total Movement has been used to improve the health of a varied range of individuals from executives to pensioners. The programme has also been implemented to improve the performance of many top level sportsmen including martial artists, football players and ultra-endurance athletes. Craig currently used the system to help Mark Beaumont recover from his world record breaking cycle round the world and prepare him for his next ultra endurance event with great success. 

There are different levels of the system to be worked through but everyone has to start at level one to cover all the basics. The belief is that true strength and freedom of movement cannot be achieved unless basic breath control, joint mobility, flexibility and posture are achieved first. The order of the system is:
• Level 1: Breathing & Basic Mobility
• Level 2: Flexibility & Postural Strength
• Level 3: Advanced Mobility & Core Strength
• Level 4: Body Weight Strength
• Level 5: Strength Through Multi-Joint Movements
• Level 6: Advanced Strength Through Movement
• Level 7: Dynamic Strength & Plyometric Power (for athletes) 

Levels 1 & 2 cover breathing, mobility, flexibility & posture exercises to help improve energy, movement and function whilst reducing stress and tension. Many of the routines and exercises you would recognise from yoga, pilates and tai chi. 

You can also contact Craig Ali to find out more or book your space: craig@craigalihealth.com

Last weekend I attended a massage taster session as part of an open day at Yoga Stable in Montgomery Street Lane (at the rear of Elm Row on the section with Valvona & Crolla).   I was made aware of this deal through the massage therapist’s twitter stream.  I booked an appointment hoping it would be a good quality session and wasn’t disappointed.

Montgomery Street Lane

Onie is well qualified in a number of massage therapies and related fields and her prices are average for Edinburgh but her quality is exceptional.  Following on from my 2010 kick to get healthy, I am also going to  be treating myself to indulgent treatments such as massage, which also benefit my health and general well-being.

The Yoga Stable and the therapy room that Onie uses has a lovely atmosphere and I was transferred to an oasis of calm in the middle of the city.  No traffic noise can be heard from the treatment room.

Onie took my medical history and then I relaxed on the massage bed as she covered me in freshly heated towels before starting.

I had a deep therapeutic massage and Onie really knows how to make someone feel good.  I have used mainly male masseurs in the past as I prefer the firmer touch, but Onie was excellent and we found a pressure that worked well for both of us.

It was only a taster session and lasted 30 minutes, but I was so impressed with her skills, that I have booked a further 2 appointments over the next month or so and look forward to a full one hour treatment which I am sure will be more beneficial.

Onie does a lot of baby-related massage therapies and pre and post natal treatments (she is a mother of two herself), but for a normal deep tissue or Indian head massage, I can personally recommended her.

All her treatments and services can be found on her web page   or you can phone her on 07717 783 230.  Knot Stressed is also on facebook

Update April 2010

I have now had two excellent full hour massages from Onie and can report that the quality is fantastic.  My only problem is finding the energy to get off the massage table when my time is up – I am so relaxed!  I have been sleeping better, far less back pain and general well being is better.  I have just booked in my mum for a massage which I have every confidence she will enjoy.

Suitable for disabled?    Yes, the Yoga Stable and Onie’s room is on the ground floor, but you would have to discuss which treatments would be suitable if you couldn’t transfer to the massage table.

Entrance up the lane

Balanced Fitness and Physiotherapy is a wonderful well being centre at North West Circus Place,  Stockbridge.  The Balanced Fitness in the name is the ‘place to get fit’ and the Balanced Physiotherapy part  is the ‘place to get better’.

Determined to live a healthier life in 2010, I decided to make an appointment with one of the physiotherapists and was allocated Judith Paterson, but all of the staff are well qualified in different fields.

I have various aches and pains from numerous sports related injuries over the years and am aware that I need to correct my posture.  I discussed my past and present health with Judith who proceeded to recommend one or two exercises I could do dotted throughout my daily routine.

Typical treatment room

It was then suggested that the Bowen Technique would be appropriate to my health diagnosis and problems.  This is a holistic therapy which is only carried out after full assessment.  The Bowen Technique is gentle manipulation of soft tissue over specific points which often correspond with acupuncture points.  The treatment was conducted whilst I was fully clothed, but light and loose clothing is required to be worn.

Judith spoke through everything she was doing and at no time did I feel awkward or uncomfortable.  The process is slightly strange to those who have perhaps not received alternative treatments before, as Judith had to leave the room for a couple of minutes at a time after working one area to allow my body to respond.

My first session lasted 30 minutes and Judith was able to tell me several things about my health afterwards which made sense.  I did get full marks for being hydrated (I mainly drink water and herbal tea) but after my recent holiday abroad, my muscles were very tight.

Judith then showed me how to stand correctly and talked me through an exercise for my posture to make sure I was doing it the right way.  I liked how I was given two exercises to start with as in previous years I have found physios can bombard you with what you should do be doing all at once which leads you to being overwhelmed and not doing any of them.  Judith is a very approachable woman which is a necessity when dealing with health issues.

I was shown around the rest of the facilities and looked on impressively at the gym that is housed in the building.  You can get a fitness assessment from the relevant staff who will then help you work out an exercise programme suited for your needs.

Well equipped gym

I looked at the kettle bells and various other equipment in the gym whilst one of the trainers explained that they do a variety of strength and cardiovascular training, alongside yoga and pilates and have even devised a programme for circuit training on the Wii Fit.

It’s been a week since I visited for my treatment and I do feel better with fewer aches and pains.  My posture exercises have been completed daily when I’ve been at traffic lights or sitting on the bus and I have been endeavouring to stand correctly.  It’s taking a little getting used to, but I am getting there.

I am no medical sports expert and would have to research terms such as  ’sub maximal aerobic testing’  but have every confidence, that no matter which treatment you required, you would be dealt with professionally and competently by all of the staff working at this Stockbridge centre.

I am returning shortly for my next treatment and will chart my progress in this article.  It may be 11 weeks into 2010, but I am determined to live a healthier and fitter life this year and Balanced Fitness and Physiotherapy  are helping me achieve my aim.

35-37 North West Circus Place, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 6TW.  Telephone 0131 225 5390 and is next to Lindsay & Gilmour Chemist.

Suitable for disabled?  Yes, completely as there is ramp into the building and the rooms are on the ground floor.

There shall be several helpers so waiting time will be kept down.  Tea and coffee will be supplied along with some home-baking whilst you wait so come along and meet some new friends, help a good cause and have a treatment all in one night!
 
If you need more details please contact Margery Bambrick on – http://www.angelhealingwaters.com/   or Nicola Blyth at nicola1980s@hotmail.co.uk.

Edinburgh Spotlight has received treatment from both of the organisers and can vouch for the quality of their services.  With tea and cake on offer alongside the treatments, it doesn’t get much better!

This group event is run by Margery and Nicola who have a weekly donation drop in clinic in Edinburgh at the Prentice Centre with Reiki and Indian Head Massage (and occasional Reflexology) every Wednesday between 5.00pm and 8.00pm which is priced for those on low incomes.

Edinburgh Outdoor Experience

Graham Tiso’s Edinburgh Outdoor Experience in Leith is an excellent place for all your outdoor clothing and equipment needs.  Offering free parking on site, this branch of the chain suits some people more than their Rose Street shop in the middle of town.

They sell clothes in relation to what season it is and in visiting in February, they are selling winter fleeces and warm trousers.  All year round, they have an excellent range of travel accessories, backpacks, sleeping bags, shoes and walking boots.  The great thing about Tisos is that the staff are well qualified in recommending the right equipment for you.  It’s not about commissions here – just sound advice.

Rocky paths simulate the real world when trying out boots, but they obviously don’t have simulators for their watersports and rock climbing sections.

I have bought backpacks from here in the past and found it very helpful when the assistant loaded the pack I was buying with climbing gear to replicate the weight I would be carrying on my wordly travels.

There is no hard sell here and that is one of the reasons that makes this place so relaxed to shop in.

The Cairn Cafe

If you wish to relax even further, then head over to the Cairn Cafe at the rear of the store for the usual fayre of paninis, soups, tea, coffee and cakes.  All reasonably priced and perfect if you need to think about a purchase from the main store a little longer.

Room 4 Health occupies the first floor and offers a wide range of therapies, massage and yoga classes.

Suitable for disabled?   Yes, ground floor even access.

Angel

Margery Bambrick of Angel Healing Waters has just released details of her upcoming programmes involving her excellent Angel workshops and Reiki training.  

In the North of the city at the Prentice Centre, Margery helps run weekly drop in sessions in reiki, reflexology and indian head massage.  This is a fabulous service to those who are on a low income, run by volunteers, sessions are by donation.  Every Wednesday from 5pm. 

Reiki Awareness Night  on 15th February from 5.30pm – 8.30pm.  Cramond Kirk, Cramond Village.  This night is suitable for those who are qualified in Reiki or looking for more information before committing to a course.  We shall be working on a simple energy exercise and meditation and a Reiki Empowerment for all those attending.  There shall also be a discussion on Reiki andthe transitions it has gone through since it began with Dr Usui – The founder.  Cost-£12.00
 
 
Usui Tibetan Reiki Level One on Saturday 20th February from 9.30am-4.30pm
 There shall be a follow up day after this date and homework to be completed before certificate can be obtained.  This level can be used with the self, family and friends.  Please enquire for more details.  Cost- £90.00/Concessions available to those on low income. 

Healing and Abundance Angel Workshop on Saturday 27th February from 11am – 3.00pm.  Cramond Kirk Halls, Cramond Village.  During this workshop we shall work on ways to release negative patterns in our lives with the help of the Angels and to bring abundance and happiness into our lives.This workshop shall be filled with many relaxed exercises including Angel invocation and meditation and shall be unique for all those attending.  Cost-£35.00 

     
Monthly Angel Workshop and the next date  is Tuesday 2nd March from 5.30pm – 8.30pm.  Held at the Foundation For Planetary Healing/Shamanic Centre/ Portobello High Street.  These monthly workshops shall cover many exercises on working with Angels including meditation,  Angel stories, Angel Healing and much more.  Cost -£10.00
 
These Angel workshops do not follow any religious order and are suitable for people from all walks of life.   

Angel cloud

There were French supporters everywhere, determined to confuse the Scottish as they were wearing kilts and other pieces of Scottish attire, but were singing for France. 

Souvenir stall

There were souvenir stalls dotted along the street to Murrayfield selling a wide range of French and Scottish merchandise (at inflated prices).  From Haymarket, there were people holding signs by one of the sponsors, Famous Grouse, stating that everyone was walking the right way to the stadium and as we walked closer, how many minutes’ walk were left.  Although it would be quite hard to get lost on the way to Murrayfield with the 60,000 people heading there, it as a reassuring extra for the visitors. 

Murrayfield Hotel

Every pub was bursting at its seams, with some of the hotels on the main road providing tented beer gardens.  I had to laugh at the queues out of every chip shop en route as the French eagerly purchased their fish and chips and munched the food on the street.  Not quite to the standard of French cuisine, but when in Rome…….  There were groups of people having a pre match drink in available car parks, sections of the pavement etc.  Armed with a carry out, it was the visitors who made me realise they can do it so much better than us.  A group of men, complete with a rug, cheese and nibbles alongside twenty bottles of wine as opposed to some lager! 

Murrayfield Stadium

There was a carnival atmosphere at the ground thanks to the Famous Grouse tent which was blasting out Scottish music and offering everyone who entered a free dram.  This party continued once we were through the gates as the beer tents were busy and everyone was getting in the mood. 

The facilities just outside the actual ground are good with plenty of food choices, bars, merchandise tents and clear sign posts.  Alcohol is also available inside the ground as well as soft drinks. 

Definitely French

Before the match kicked off, rugby clips were played on the giant screens, pipe bands played familiar Scottish tunes and both the teams warmed up on the pitch.  At this stage, there were high hopes of a Scottish win  

Scotland warming up

I was pleased to see that the minute’s silence in rememberance of the legend Bill McLaren was observed by both sets of fans.  He will be fondly remembered. 

I had a crazy Frenchman seated behind me who murdered his national anthem whilst waving a flag.  What surprised me was that once the music to Flower of Scotland started, he produced a piece of paper with the lyrics on it and proceeded to murder ours aswell! 

French and proud

The game kicked off, with Scotland taking the lead after a couple of good attacks.  The electric atmosphere continued and the French went wild when they got their first try, taking the lead.  France continued on the score sheet and the end result was Scotland 9 – France 18. 

Scotland on the attack

Rugby is more expensive to attend than football, but it a wonderful family friendly day out.  Fans are seated together and there’s plenty of friendly banter to be had in the stands.  If you can get your hands on a ticket for the remaining England game at Murrayfield for this year’s cup, then I would grab them and not let go. 

Plan ahead for next year’s competition where we will host Ireland, Wales and Italy.  The Welsh are the best visiting fans by far as they seem to invade Edinburgh a week beforehand and turn the town into a procession of red. 

Popular choice of headwear

Suitable for disabled ?    Yes, Murrayfield is completely accessible with specific sections available for wheelchairs.  Please book ahead with the SRU.

Nina Barough CBE

Nina Barough is one amazing woman and is the founder of Walk the Walk which raises millions of pounds for cancer related charities.  You can read more about how it all started.  

This year’s Edinburgh Moonwalk takes place on Saturday 19th June 2010.  There are still spaces  for the 2010 Edinburgh Moonwalk but entries will close as soon as all the available spaces are taken and at latest, mid March. You can enter online here.  

In the last few years, the Scottish moonwalks have raised over £9 million for breast cancer causes in Scotland.  Why not take part yourself in 2010 ?  If you are not able to do the full 26 mile walk, there is the 13 mile option or you can volunteer.

Edinburgh Spotlight and their extended family have been involved with the Moonwalk for years by taking part and volunteering at the events.  This year will see us volunteer again and support all our readers who are taking part.

Nina kindly took some time out of her very busy schedule to answer some questions for us which we hope will spur you on in your training or assist you in making a decision on taking part.

This year sees the 5th Edinburgh Moonwalk take place.  Have you been impressed with what Scottish people have achieved in raising money for Walk the Walk ?

They have done a truly amazing job, to date our Moonwalk Edinburgh supporters and walkers  have raised over £9 million, you can already see where this money is making a difference and over the next few months we will be announcing more grants.  
 
Does the Edinburgh Moonwalk differ from other events in any way in terms of atmosphere / people taking part?

All our challenges are different and unique in their own way, but the Moonwalk Edinburgh is very dear to all of us at Walk the Walk and certainly we all love being up there in June.  The atmosphere on the night is wonderful, there is just such warmth and camaraderie, it makes the whole night feel like a huge tartan hug! 

When walking yourself for exercise, do you listen to music or prefer to walk without it? 

I actually prefer to walk without music. Depending on my mood and what type of work out I am going for, I sometimes I use the time to sort through problems, sometimes to come up with ideas, sometimes as a time of meditation and sometimes to just enjoy some me time in beautiful surroundings! 
 
If we were to look in your fridge right now, what would we find ? 

Lots and lots of organic green stuff, salads and vegetables, it might sound dull to many but I love eating well, I am a complete  health nut. Apart from lots of pots of assorted  vitamins there is a selection of fresh herbs I love them in salads,  fruit, soya sausages, eggs, olives, some delicious goats cheese and believe it or not a corsage from my wedding 5 years ago.  A friend wanted to take it back to America and put it in my fridge to keep it fresh, but she forgot it, so I put it in a jam jar and it has been there ever since!
 
If you have any spare time, what do you like to do to relax ?

Um… with a baby of 16 months and running the charity there’s not too much time for that, that’s were walking comes in, and I do love spending time with my family in North Devon.  
 
If you could transport yourself to any part of the world instantly for the day where would it be and why?

Kerala or Rajasthan in India, I love the country, the culture and above all the people.
 
What advice would you give any person who is thinking of doing this years’ Moonwalk but not yet convinced they can do it?

Anybody can do The Moonwalk you just have to decide that you want to do it. I have seen so many women and men over the years commit to taking part, with no idea of how they are actually going to achieve  it. Most of them have never done any regular exercise let alone taken part in a marathon, so you can imagine how exciting it is to see them cross the Finish Line. My motto is “if you think you can you will” so  just join up and be a part of a very wonderful and special night!
 
What’s the next on the agenda of your fund raising master plan ?
 
This year we have added our Celebrity SunWalk to our list of challenges which is a very different event for us. We are  in discussion to take the Moonwalk to both Ireland and America hopefully, and best of all if we can keep up our wonderful record of fundraising we can look at taking on some new projects. 

Thank you Nina, you are an inspiration to us all.

www.walkthewalk.org

Laughter Yoga

The class is run by Gail Bryden, founder of Your True Potential .

Laughter Yoga was developed by an Indian doctor, Dr Kataria, who recongnised that hearty laughter provides a great cardio workout, boosts your immune system, reduces pain and can help with weight loss; proving that laughter really is the best medicine.  Laughter sessions are based on the scientific fact that your body can’t tell the difference between real laughter and fake laughter, which means that you can benefit from all the physiological benefits, including getting fit by having a good laugh.  All you need to bring is an open mind and a childlike willingness to play.

The next 45 minute session is on 22nd of February at the Salisbury Centre at 7pm.  Cost is £10 (£8 concessions) call 0131 667 5438 to book.

More about the Salisbury Centre can be found here.

Mark Cooper

 
Mark Cooper is an extraordinary young man living in Edinburgh.  On the 1st of May, he will embark on an epic journey: running through Holland, Belgium, France and Spain completing 50 marathons in 56 days.  That’s a total of 1300 miles!  

Mark had his light bulb moment after running his first marathon a couple of months ago and it’s been non-stop on the campaign trail ever since.  He has been already featured in the press, and Edinburgh Spotlight decided that Mark, who has this gruelling challenge ahead of him, would be a perfect candidate for our Spotlight feature. 

Aged only 27, Mark wasn’t always so sporty.  He used to have late nights out drinking like any other young lad; and even used to smoke.  One day he decided to stop his unhealthy habits and get fit.  Mark started running short distances, slowly building up to 10km runs.  

Now he totals over 100 miles in a week, completing a marathon every Sunday; he covers the rest heading to and from his work and on evening runs.  He has full support of DLA Piper, the law firm he works for, who has been very generous in supplying Mark with some sponsorship to kick-start his campaign. 

Why is he doing all of this?  Mark is running for the Edinburgh Headway Group charity, who provided much needed comfort and reassurance  to him when his mother Sheila passed away from a brain haemorrage when he was only 14.  He aims to raise £25,000 so that Edinburgh Headway can continue to help other people cope with their losses through conditions that could affect anyone. 

Thinking about the challenge ahead

Mark has had a taster of a challenge already by cycling from John O’Groats to Land’s End with a work colleague for charity.  It was an incredible journey and one he will never forget.  Mark says he is happier on two feet that two wheels, and running has now become an enjoyable pastime. 

You will find him running through the streets of Edinburgh on a daily basis and also has a longer route to North Berwick via the John Muir way.  He also enjoys running on the Union Canal as it is so flat; in complete contrast he also loves running round Arthur’s Seat.  He says “I am so lucky to live in Edinburgh as the city is so inspirational for me to get up and go”. 

Mark describes himself as an average guy. Hardly average when you consider his commitment to the challenge ahead, but he is certainly humble, without a trace of arrogance or anything other than selfless motives.  He has a close support network consisting of family and friends who will be taking it in turns to be with him every step of the way. 

Edinburgh born and bred

Mark continues to raise awareness of his venture by competing in other running events in Edinburgh, such as the Bupa Winter Run at the beginning of the year, and his last event before he sets off: the Chris Hoy half marathon in April.  Mark also plays in a band, The Nature Boys who are performing a fundraising gig at The Three Sisters in the Cowgate on Friday 5th February.  Mark is also finalising plans with Meadowbank stadium to hold an event which will allow you to run a lap of the track with him, no matter how old you are,  as well as planned quiz nights and other events. 

Edinburgh Spotlight asked him how he was going to celebrate crossing the Spanish finishing line and he replied “I’ll give a big hug to all my family and perhaps have a wee beer to celebrate“.  We have every confidence that he will finish this course and no doubt immediately plan another one – Mark Cooper runs America ? 

Help received 

• Craig Ali, personal trainer to ultra endurance athlete Mark Beaumont provides Mark with training advice to get him in perfect shape for 1st of May. 
• Mhairi at Stride Orthotics donated her time and some orthotics to help Mark on his run
• Westwoods Health Club at Fettes College who granted membership to him so he could train indoors when he needed to
• Sandbaggers gave Mark a heart monitor
• Dr Andrew Murray, who gives Mark top medical advice.

Anthony Bibby's logo

Edinburgh Spotlight has helped Mark by putting him in touch with Anthony Bibby, who kindly designed his campaign logo.  Also, Peter Vardy helped out in magnificent style by supplying Mark’s support team with a van to drive the route in.  Julia Forsyth who owns Your Big Ears has helped out with marketing ideas and numerous other people via email.  No matter how small you can contribute, Mark would welcome your advice and support through this epic challenge he’s undertaking.     

Help still needed 

Mark is still in need of corporate sponsorship to help cover accommodation costs, food and water for the journey, but perhaps most important of all, six pairs of neutral running shoes and a GPS tracker!  

Prizes for raffles and quiz nights would also be appreciated. 

If you know of anyone who might be able to help regarding these requirements, please contact Mark on mark@runwithmark.com. 

Contact and updates 

There are many ways you can keep up to date with what Mark is doing. 

You can donate money via his Just Giving page and keep up to date with his challenge via his website. 

You can follow him on twitter or become a fan on his facebook page and read his diary surrounding the whole event via his blog. 

Good luck Mark!

Choosing somwhere to start is always difficult but The Braids would certainly be on the top of many lists. One of the aforementioned municipal courses, it sits on a hill high above the city and enjoys some of the best views in the entire ‘Home of Golf’.

Home of the Dispatch Trophy, a long-running team tournament in the city. The Braids provides a great test of golf and don’t for one minute be fooled by its lack of length by comparison to most modern courses. The fairways are lined by gorse bushes so accuracy is the key, especially on the back nine.

Silverknowes, down by the River Forth, is another venue well worth a visit if you prefer to stick to the public courses, with Carrick Knowe, Craigentinny, Portobello and Princes the other venues on that particular menu.

Ravelston Golf Club

Prestonfield, the course closest to the centre of the historic city, sits in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, with Duddingston, another of Edinburgh’s top clubs, close by, as is Craigmillar Park, home of a 72-hole amateur tournament won by Nick Faldo at the start of his career.

In 1761, members of the Bruntsfield Links Golf Society played over a course in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. These days, the course is out at Davidson’s Mains in the north west of the city, with its neighbour, Royal Burgess, another of the oldest golf clubs in the game.

Mortonhall, Turnhouse, Ravelston, Baberton and Liberton are other clubs within the city boundary while three others – Lothianburn, Swanston New and Torphin Hill – all sit at the foot of the Pentland Hills.

Add in some of the courses that are just a little bit out of Scotland’s Capital – the likes of Dalmahoy, Ratho Park, Broomieknowe, Glencorse and Kings Acre, for example – and you can see why Edinburgh is the perfect place for golf.

It is also the perfect base for anyone planning to play in East Lothian, the home of world-famous courses such as Muirfield, Gullane, Musselburgh, North Berwick and Dunbar.

Jets volleyball club

Edinburgh Jets Volleyball Club is the most active and social Scottish volleyball club and the most successful in Edinburgh.   They  are always looking for more people to play volleyball in Edinburgh.   They have volleyball sessions in Edinburgh for all levels from beginners with no experience  to players playing at national level in Scotland and Internationally.   So whether you have played before or not, you are more than welcome to join the volleyball club.

Junior and school sessions for under 18s  in Edinburgh also run and Jets are currently aiming to develop their Edinburgh Junior Volleyball Club into the best in Edinburgh and Scotland.   Jets are also looking for volunteers to join the club to fulfil other roles away from the playing side such as photographers, match day organizers and journalists.  Please contact them if you’re interested.

EVENT – Saturday 16th January 2010

This Saturday, Jets are hosting a showcase event in which 4 matches will take place starting at 9.45am.  Jets are taking this opportunity to raise money for charity – the chosen charity is ‘Cash for Kids’.

During the day there will be food and drink for sale.  All proceeds raised will go towards the chosen charity.  During the feature match of the day, there will be a 10 minute interval between Sets 2 and 3 to allow for more fundraising events and to also allow a bit of audience participation.

There is a packed day of important volleyball matches together with a relaxing night out at the Grassmarket Bar afterwards when the Wii competition will take place.

The schedule of the day is as follows:-     Venue – Broughton High School

 Match 1 – FBS 9.45am – Edinburgh Jets Vs City of Edinburgh – Division 1 Men

Match 2 – FBS 11.45am – Edinburgh Jets II Vs South Ayrshire – Division 1 Women

Match 3 – FBS 1.45pm – Edinburgh Jets I Vs North Lanarkshire – Division 1 Women

Match 4 – FBS 3.45pm – Edinburgh Jets III Vs City of Edinburgh II – Division 2 Women ***feature match***

Please help to drum up some support for Volleyball in Scotland a pop along to back your local team!   For More info, please visit http://bit.ly/5G8VpZ

Contact details

www.jetsvolleyball.co.uk

info@jetsvolleyball.co.uk

twitter: @jetsvc

Jets VC

Semi-professional football in Scotland is split into two different associations, Seniors (East of Scotland League and Highland) and Juniors, which is country-wide. While a lot of junior sides operate in the towns and villages in the Lothians, only one club play in the city – Edinburgh United, whose home is Paties Road, near Craiglockhart.

The senior ranks are where the bulk of Edinburgh teams can be found. Spartans, Edinburgh City, Lothian Thistle, Leith Athletic, Craigroyston, Tynecastle, and the quaintly-named Civil Service Strollers side all play in the East of Scotland League, along with Edinburgh University and Heriot-Watt University. Admission to games varies, but is usually between £2 and £5, while a couple of clubs operate free admission. A scan at the fixture list on the association’s website www.eastofscotlandfa.co.uk will show you who is playing where, and when.

Spartans have proved the most successful of the city sides in recent seasons, and have enjoyed some memorable adventures in the main Scottish Cup competition, playing against St Mirren and Livingston and managing to beat a string of Second and Third Division sides from the Scottish Football League. Their former home was City Park in north Edinburgh, but they have moved to an impressive new complex and clubhouse at Ainslie Park, near Pilton, which has been a welcome addition to the community. Their grass pitch hosts first-team games, but an adjacent synthetic pitch hosts local seven-a-side leagues and is hired out for eleven-a-side games.

Edinburgh City’s home is Meadowbank Stadium and they too have a good recent pedigree in the Scottish Cup. They are still in the 2010 competition and are due to replay Third Division Montrose with the promise of meeting Hibernian FC in the following round if they win.  Lothian Thistle have gone from strength to strength in recent seasons and play at Saughton Enclosure sports complex neat Balgreen on the west of the city. Thistle recently announced a tie-up with the famous Hutcheson Vale Boys Club and the flourishing club is riding high in the East of Scotland League.

Craigroyston play at St Mark’s Park, near Warriston, and although they were relegated to the First Division a couple of years back, the club have a proud history in the top-flight and are sure to be back there before long.

Tynecastle were founded just a few seasons ago, and come under the umbrella of the famous boys club of the same name, The East of Scotland side were formerly called Tollcross United, and play at Fernieside on the south side of Edinburgh, but since changing their name to Tynecastle they have become one of the emerging forces of the league.

Civil Service Strollers have a long and proud history and play at the impeccably-kept Muirhouse Sports Ground, while Leith Athletic also play at the same venue – the famous club having relocated and joined forces with the former occupants Edinburgh Athletic (previously Manor Thistle) in order to join the East of Scotland League. The two University sides have also done incredibly well in recent years, both winning silverware, which is a remarkable achievement given that many of the first-pick student players are absent during holiday times.

Many players previously signed with the professional clubs in Scotland find their way into the East of Scotland ranks, while for others the league proves a stepping stone to professional careers, so the standard is high and the football is good to watch. If you’re not in a position to fork out £20-plus to watch a Scottish Premier League match, a trip down to watch one of the East of Scotland or Junior games is a worthwhile experience.

It’s not an actualy 26 mile marathon, but a half one (13miles) with a 5km fun run option, so something suitable for most people.

If you don’t want to run, you can perhaps volunteer or just offer moral and vocal support by spectating.   Registration closes at 12 noon on Monday the 1st of March and places are limited so don’t delay in applying.

Meadows Marathon map

Schedule for the day

09:30 – Registration Opens
10:45 – Official 5km Warm Up
11:00 – 5km Start
11:30 – 5km Award Presentations
11:45 – Official Half Marathon
12:00 – Half Marathon Start
13:45 – Half Marathon Award Presentations
15:00 – Race Closes.

We can’t predict at this stage what the weather will be like, but prepare for rain, hail, sun or snow!

Ian McCaldon

A firm shake of the hand followed by a winning smile reveals the friendly and charming nature behind this ex-professional footballer’s imposing outward appearance. As he relates his life story to me, I’m struck both by how rich and varied this 35 year old’s experiences have already been; and also how much he loves the city he’s recently returned to.

McCaldon is back on home turf to start a personal training and motivational fitness business, and – with his positive manner and attitude – he is a walking advertisement for his service.

Born in Liverpool, McCaldon was brought up in Prestonpans and was signed to Livingston FC as goalkeeper by the time he was 21. A football career path followed, and he transferred to Oxford and Chester City before fate crossed his path on a holiday in Australia. Having met the “girl of his dreams” down under, he wasted no time in terminating his contract with the Chester club then living what some may call a dream life in Coral Bay in Western Australia, working as a kayak and snorkel tour guide.

“I was a beach bum!” laughs McCaldon. “It was a great lifestyle. I’d wake up each morning, pull on my shorts, no need for shoes; and my office was the ocean!”

A year later, he was off game fishing in New Zealand before his visa ran out and he found himself back on Scottish soil. A two-year stint at Ross County in Inverness followed.

“It was like a village in comparison” he recalls, “though I still enjoyed it. The fly-fishing and hillwalking were great and the Ironworks had a good music scene going on.”

In 2007, he retired from football and ended up in London, working as a bespoke furniture fitter for high-class clients in Mayfair, Kensington and Chelsea.

“It was my own choice” he says. “I’d lost the desire for football and had a string of injuries.”

It was at this stage of his life that McCaldon first started studying for his current career, taking a one year course in osteopathy.

“It was pretty tough” he admits. “With the furniture fitting and the studying, I had one day off a week. London burnt me out.”

Reassessing his goals, he realised what it was he wanted to focus on.

“It was like pieces of a jigsaw coming together. I’ve always been into fitness and also been able to motivate people. I had all the right tools and a network of friends and contacts that made being a personal trainer a pretty appealing option.”

Never one to procrastinate, McCaldon upped sticks and spent 6 weeks in Alicante on a course that saw him emerge with a master trainer certificate, equipped with a range of physical, psychological and motivational tools to help people become what they want to be.

I'm following my heart

And why Edinburgh?

“It feels in my heart like the right place to be” he replies. “Edinburgh’s got everything – culture, diversity, a great social life. There’s a buzz about the place at the moment – you can see it in places like Leith and with all the new shops and businesses opening up. Though my friends joke by asking me ‘how long are you back for?’, I’m following my heart.”

And with another broad smile and confident handshake, McCaldon takes his leave, with the air of a man who knows in his heart what he wants and – perhaps more importantly – with the belief in his own ability to make it happen.

After even a short time in his company, I have no doubt he will.

By Stuart Frew

Welcome to Hibernian Football Club, the Green and White side of the Edinburgh professional football scene. ‘The Hibees’ play at Easter Road Stadium in Leith and have a proud, honourable and intriguing history stretching all the way back to 1875!

Hibernian Football Club has been part of the fabric and culture of Scotland’s capital since it’s early inception. The club’s name is most usually abbreviated to ‘Hibs’ by fans and media alike. The club sports an impressive 17,500 seat facility in Easter Road Stadium where they play their home games

Hibs have traditionally played in green and white strips since their formation, a pointer back to the Irish origins of the club. These origins emanate and embrace Irish emigration into Scotland and its capital during the dark days of the Irish potato famine when many were displaced into the country and further afield around the world. The club badge has had several incarnations and it’s most recent one refers inclusively back to history and to the geographical placing of the organisation in its emblem of the Irish Harp, the castle depicting Edinburgh’s garrison and the ship signifying the port of Leith, respectively.

The club enjoys something of a high profile fan base amongst its regular faithful fans. Notably, author Irvine Welsh has featured the club in his novels on many a memorable occasion, even hitting celluloid in the case of Trainspotting. Singing duo The Proclaimers contributed a modern day and much loved theme to the Easter Road terraces in their emotional ballad Sunshine on Leith. Further regular literary mentions also abound in Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus stories in which his assistant is depicted as a ‘Hibby’.

So who are this team then?  What is the lifeblood that has characterised this green and white phenomenon since its inception? Let’s take a leisurely and enjoyable stroll the through the history book to find out a little more about its rich past.

The club was originally formed, largely by the efforts of Canon Hannon, an Irish priest originally hailing from County Roscommon, in the environs of St. Patrick’s Church in the heart of Edinburgh’s ‘Little Ireland’ of the day. The church still remains in the historic Cowgate area, now a world heritage site. The club’s famous name, ‘Hibernian’ was chosen for its reason of being the Roman word for Ireland, Hibernia. The initial and very laudable aim of the early club was to keep young Irish Catholic immigrants on the ‘straight and narrow’. To play for the Hibernians in those days entailed membership of the Catholic Young Men’s Society and an adherence to an abstemious lifestyle and regular attendance at Mass.

The early days of the club were characterised by the clubs ceaseless work in aid of charitable causes – looking after and tending the impoverished of the community from which the club rose.

Hibs became an early power in Scottish football despite some prejudice shown towards them by the authorities and within a few years were instrumental in the formation of Celtic in Glasgow and indeed a myriad of other teams of Irish heritage throughout Scotland.

Early mismanagement of the football club saw a temporary demise and hiatus in Hibernian’s history in 1891 when they ceased to exist for a single season. Before this however the club had managed to become ‘World Champions’ by defeating the mighty English giants Preston North End! Hibernian re-emerged a very different club, open and inclusive to all, masterminded by the drive, ambition and loving care of Philip Farmer (ancestor of present owner Sir Tom Farmer), and his associates.

In 1892, Hibernian Football Club moved into it’s present home, Easter Road, often known as ‘The Holy Ground’ from those early years and traditions, and the club never looked back. Hibs enjoyed some moderate success on their reformation but it is perhaps the 1950s that most ‘Hibbies’ would claim as the club’s golden era and undoubtedly the club’s most successful and romantic period. The Hibees helped revolutionise attacking forward play in this glorious decade with their world-famous and revered forward line ‘The Famous Five’, comprising of Gordon Smith, Bobby Johnstone, Lawrie Reilly, Eddie Turnbull and Willie Ormond. The ‘Five’ were renowned for their brilliant and dynamic attacking play which would often employ the five stars interchanging positions mid-game – unheard of in the rigid tactics of the time. The ace in the pack was undoubtedly right-winger Gordon Smith – who many rate as the best Scottish player of all-time, his mercurial talents wowing the big crowds of all persuasions of the day. The present day Easter Road Stadium still has a stand named in ‘Hibs’ greatest men’s’ honour.

In many ways the Famous Five gave the club its reputation for open and attractive play which still prevails. At various junctures over the years, perhaps in seasons of struggle, it was difficult to justify that image but let it be said that Hibs’ most memorable teams are still those that brought great excitement, exuberance and enjoyment to the terracing faithful. It is difficult to generalise but many of the club’s dedicated supporters still adhere to the notion of the team playing the ‘right’ way – the ‘Hibernian way’.

Amidst great excitement and huge crowds, The Famous Five and their talented teammates brought unprecedented success to Easter Road in the form of three Scottish Championship trophies. Nevertheless, the Scottish Cup still eluded this team of shining stars as it has done to this day since 1902, a notorious deficit in the history of the proud club.

Innovation has often been a feature of Hibs history and Hibs became the very first British club to take part in European Competition when they were admitted by invitation to enter the 1955 European Cup. The club acquitted themselves well in this inaugural foray onto the continent beating Rot-Weiss Essen 5-1 on aggregate before finally ending their involvement after being defeated by Stade Reims in the semi-final.

In the latter days of the 1950s’ with the swinging sixties about to be unleashed on an unsuspecting public, one of Hibs’ finest talents of all surfaced. English-born Joe Baker, a young centre forward, became the club’s most prolific scorer of all time and, unusual for the day, was eventually transferred in a big money move to Italian club Torino where he spent one stellar season alongside soon-to-be Manchester United and Scotland legend, Denis Law. The talented Baker, a player of great speed, dynamism and deadly finishing enjoyed a productive and much loved playing career and returned to the Hibernian fold eventually as a player and ultimately a match day host.

Hibs enjoyed a fine reputation in Europe during the 1960’s with many a famous victory for the men from Easter Road. Such giants of the game as Barcelona, Napoli and even Real Madrid in a specially arranged friendly, were unceremoniously put to the sword in cavalier style ‘down the slope’ by the men in green and white. The slope refers to the prominent dip that in those days reached from the centre of the Easter Road pitch fully nine feet to the north end of the playing surface.

Perhaps one of Hibernian FC’s most admired sides was the team of all talents of the early 1970s’ dubbed ‘Turnbull’s Tornadoes’ after Eddie Turnbull who returned to Easter Road as manager after a successful period in charge at Aberdeen. The team, whilst ultimately under-achieving and being broken up prematurely, played a hugely exciting brand of football and boasted two genuine world-class talents in John Brownlie, an early overlapping full-back of the day and the great Pat Stanton. Stanton – still a much loved and revered figure amongst the Easter Road faithful traces his Hibernian roots all the way back to Hibernian’s origins being a descendant of the important figure of Michael Whelahan, one of Hibs’ first on-field greats and a seminal figure in the formation of the club.

Turnbull’s Tornadoes won silverware on several occasions but it is perhaps one day in 1973 that they are best remembered for by Hibbies everywhere. On the first day of January that year, Hibs were indeed in celebratory mood as they demolished city rival Hearts to the tune of seven goals to nil at Tynecastle Stadium. That famous day is still very much a feature of the bragging rights between the two sets of Capital football supporters.

In the mid-seventies Hibs courted some controversy when they were again in innovatory mood in introducing sponsorship to the front of the club jersey. This earned the television company’s ire – curious when one thinks of the corporate nature of the present day game.

That era was probably most notable for another story that revolved around one very special man. Towards the end of the decade Hibs famously signed an errant George Best who was already poised for a journey of self-destruction. Paid out of Chairman Tom Hart’s own pocket, the Irish genius scattered a little much needed stardust around the club in a time of struggle before finally leaving the club for the United States and the next stage of his mercurial story.

There have been some enduring themes in Hibs history. Glory and frustration, along with the benevolence of the early years being just a few. In 1990 however, the spectre of mismanagement returned to the club when they faced financial ruin and anxious times which almost lead to closure. During that year, Wallace Mercer, the Chairman of Hearts, launched a proposed merger of the two city clubs under the banner of an attempt to challenge the two big Glasgow clubs, Celtic and Rangers. The proposal however was viewed as a hostile takeover and an attempt to close down Hearts’ old city rivals. It was at this time that the pressure group ‘Hands off Hibs’ was hastily formed in order to protect the club and ensure its survival.

Local businessman, Tom Farmer, (now Sir Tom) originally a Leith native, came forward to acquire a controlling interest in Hibernian FC. One of his quotes of the time was that he was ‘tired of seeing so many miserable faces around Leith’ bearing in mind the community was nigh ready to lose its old club. Here again was another twist in Hibs history with Sir Tom’s ancestry lining back to Phillip Farmer who had performed a similar deed in helping save the club in its early years.

Under the stewardship of Farmer and with a mobilised fan base, the club, after some desperate and worrying days eventually survived, being lauded as ‘The team who wouldn’t die’. For many present-day fans these were Hibs’ darkest hours until the daylight of survival was assured.

After a barren time of survival and existence, save for a magnificent Skol Cup win in 1991 for the enduring club, Hibs entered several seasons of consolidation and sometimes struggle. Former Scottish internationalist Alex McLeish was appointed manager but was unable to prevent the club dropping down a division in 1997-98. Hibs bounced back in fine style however under the on-field guidance of the talented former French internationalist Franck Sauzee and midfielder Russell Latapy. It was a return to an expansive style of play which was much lauded from the Easter Road terraces and the springboard for where the present day club finds it’s self placed.

Further progress was recorded under the managerial tutelage of new appointment, Tony Mowbray and the club enjoyed an ‘upward spiral’ with a galaxy of young stars breaking through into the first team at a similar time and playing quick, attractive and controlled football on the ground as preached by the philosophical Mowbray.

Many of that team are now spread far and wide but the legacy of the financial gain they brought to the club by way of transfer fees now sees the club in an enviable business position.

Hibernian FC

Another former hero returned in the shape of former midfield star, John Collins. Collins’ stay was a tempestuous one in many respects but saw the club record one of its happiest days ever with a League Cup win to the tune of 5-1 over a hapless Kilmarnock at Hampden in March 2007.

At the time of writing, another former player, John Hughes, is currently in the managerial hot-seat at Easter Road. Early on-field signs are encouraging but perhaps the bigger picture to be seen at this time is Hibernian Football Club’s financial surety – a feature that has not always been so during the Leith institution’s history. Reports indicate the final piece of the Easter Road redevelopment jigsaw, the replacing of the East Terracing will commence when it is prudent for the club to do so. In recent times Hibernian has also seen the construction of a magnificent new dedicated training complex at East Mains – the envy of many a club and a development that will see the club’s future progress for the coming decades.

One might say that Hibernian Football Club’s greatest days are yet to come…

‘Glory Glory to the Hibees!’

Heart of Midlothian were formed in 1874, the name is taken from the infamous Tollbooth jail which was the subject of Walters Scott’s novel and a crest remains in the Royal mile to this day. The early years of the club were relatively successful with the first win over Hibs coming in the v first game in 1875, a 3-1 victory. Hearts were one of the founder members of the Scottish League when it commenced in 1890 and that season won the first of their 7 Scottish cups. The league championship arrived shortly after in 1895 and again in 1897 sandwiching another Scottish cup victory in 1896 where Hibs were again beaten, in the final this time, by 3-1. One of Hearts’ first legends, Bobby Walker, made his debut for the club during this period and he was the first man to score 100 goals for Hearts. His influence was significant in the 1901 4-3 Scottish cup win over Celtic which became known as the “Walker” final.

The Scottish cup was won again in 1906 but it was the start of the 1914-15 season that there was real optimism that Hearts could again win the league. They won their first 8 league games but when war broke out in November 1914 the entire Hearts squad along with hundreds of fans enlisted with George Macrae’s “Sportsman’s Battalion”. They were the first British club to do so and by the time the war was over 7 players had lost their lives with 11 others injured. Despite sometimes undertaking night marches the night before games they led the league until the final 2 games which they lost to finish runners up by 4 points. The Hearts fans will never allow the memory of those who sacrificed their lives to be forgotten and a memorial was built in 1922 which will be returned to Haymarket on conclusion of the tramworks.

The inter war period was a difficult time for Hearts although there were some highlights, Barney Battles scoring 44 league goals in the 1930-31 season which remains the club record, and the record attendance at Tynecastle 53,396 in a cup game against Rangers. Following the second worlds war things began to look up for Hearts with the “terrible trio” Willie Bauld, Alfie Conn and Jimmy Wardhaugh playing together for the first time in 1948 in a 6-1 win over East Fife. However it was not until Dave Mackay made his debut that Hearts secured their first silverware since 1906 with the league cup in 1954. 2 years later the Scottish cup was added with a 3-1 win over Celtic with Cumming famously returning to the pitch after suffering a serious head injury. A further 3 league cups were to follow over the next 9 years but it was the league triumphs in 1958 and 1960 that put the seal on the most successful period in Hearts’ history.

Heartbreak was to follow though, in 1965 Hearts lost the league on the final day to Kilmarnock using the system of goal average. They successfully lobbied to change this to goal difference and unbelievably lost the league again on the final day in 1986 on this new system when they would have triumphed using goal average.

All of the years of pain were washed away in 1998 when Hearts won the Scottish Cup again, defeating Rangers 2-1 in the final, their first silverware for 36 years. A further Scottish cup was added in 2006 when Hearts beat Gretna on penalties. The real final that year however was the semi final when Hearts destroyed Hibs 4-0 to continue their run of no Scottish cups since 1902. The league season in 2006 had started promisingly with Hearts again winning their first 8 league games but that campaign ultimately ended in disappointment due to managerial changes but they did manage to split the old firm, the first time that had been achieved since 1995.

Discover the rich history and have a close-up view of the trees and wildlife.  Suitable for all the family.

Starts from Cammo Lodge Visitor Centre at 10am and will last approx 2 hours.

Cammo Tower

Suitable for disabled ?       No, the ground is uneven

Glasgow has been having parkruns for almost a year now and many Edinburgh people travelled through to take part.   There was a demand for the race to be run in the East and the four people who got together to start the Edinburgh Parkrun are Gary, Mark, Mitch and Alia.  They spent a lot of their free time finding a suitable venue for Edinburgh, working closely with the council.  News of the Edinburgh event spread purely by word of mouth and Edinburgh Parkrun has been popular since its start 4 weeks ago.

The event starts at 9.30am sharp every Saturday, starting on the Cramond to Silverknowes promenade near the Cramond end.  The number of runners taking part each week is around 200.  All abilities and ages are welcome, even those who wish to run with their pushchairs or dogs !

Parkrun Edinburgh, pre run warm up and chat

Runners congregate, warm up together and catch a quick chat, making this a very sociable event.  One of the organisers briefs runners who have not taken part before, explaining that it is a public path still and to make sure they collect their finishing token so that their time can be registered properly.

Warm Up

Briefing by Mitch

Everybody is then invited to join the starting line and given a 30 second countdown before  the race begins.  A lot of members of Edinburgh running clubs attend Parkrun and they can be found at the front of the pack, followed by people of all ages and speed behind them.

And they're off !

Helpful Volunteers

Lucy, 11 (pictured) chose to volunteer this week as she was unable to run through injury.  She was positively beaming and happy to be there but looking forward to getting back to taking part.

Edinburgh Parkrun needs a minimum of 10-12 stewards weekly to ensure the event runs smoothly.

As the runners cross the line, one of the organisers uses a special piece of equipment to register the times.  Other stewards then hand a numbered token (in the order that they finished ) to the runner that they can take to the timing station.  Here they are given their time and it’s registered on the computer.

Running to the finish line

Afterwards, people socialise at the nearby cafe at Cramond Harbour and pass on training tips and hints.

The first person through the finishing line this week was Neil Renault of City of Edinburgh Athletic Club with a very respectable time of 15 minutes 11 secs.  Renault says his best for the course is 14:59 but had just recently run two other 5km races.

I am sure it won’t be long before some runners from the Edinburgh branch are standing on podiums collecting medals.  Ruaridh Miller, 14, ran the 5km in a very respectable 17 minutes and 18 seconds !  Definitely a name to watch out for in the future.

Neil Renault, Nov 7th first place

Edinburgh Spotlight highly recommends getting involved with this wonderful FREE community event.  There’s a wonderful friendly atmosphere on the course and lots of encouragement for those just perhaps taking up running.  No egos anywhere to be seen.

You must register by 6pm the Friday night before you intend to run and this can be done HERE

Suitable for disabled ?    Yes, they allow people to walk the course, use wheelchairs etc.  If you wish to race in an adapted racing wheelchair, please contact the organisers prior to entry to accommodate any needs you may have.

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Portobello Baths

No catch, just download the voucher and you can swim, take a class or even a turkish bath for free !  Sessions in the gym are also available.

If you join at the end of the trial, the £35 normal fee is waived, so get in trim for Christmas  

On a delightfully warm June day a few months ago, I had the good fortune to do something that had been on my mind for some time now, whilst back on one of my many sojourns to Edinburgh. How many wonderful days and night’s have I spent in Hibernian FC’s new and old stadium watching those bright emerald green jerseys with the white sleeves, yet never ventured much beyond the stands for that couple of hours spent supporting my team from boyhood?

Hibernian

In truth, that’s not strictly accurate. Way back in 1978, whilst visiting with a friend, I wandered into the very different ‘ER’ of the day and was kindly taken on an impromptu tour by the then groundsman. My memories of that include an explanation of how the recent ban on alcohol in Scottish football had cleared the Easter Road match day aftermath of two skips full of empty bottles and cans. They also extend to a little tour through the players changing rooms and observing the Hibs youth team playing out a five-a-side training game. This tour was entirely due to one man’s hospitality but now things are a little different.

As you can see, a peek behind the scenes at the ‘new’ Easter Road was well overdue. With that I mind I was very happy to have my phone booking accepted for myself and my partner’s father, visiting from Canada, by the friendly and helpful club staff that June morning. A couple of hours later and we duly arrived to fulfil our booking and were ushered through to the man reception area where a group of people were already gathering for the Easter Road experience.

I was glad and happy to re-make the acquaintance of a friendly face in the tour guide Bill Bryson, something of an old Hibee friend by the good grace of the Internet. As we sat down for Billy to offer us his wide knowledge and intriguing stories about the club and its residence, it felt great to be ‘home’.

Artefacts on display

Of course the whole of the West Stand in which we sat was completely rebuilt and refurbished within the past decade. Space abounds in this new and modern facility and there was an airy atmosphere of potential for the numerous yet-to-used areas of this excellent resource. This is for the future however and we were there largely for history and plenty of it. Our friendly tour guide, Billy, did not disappoint in this respect.

There are many artefacts of Hibs’ hallowed history on show in the main tour environment, many lovingly kept and kindly bequeathed. Any visitor with half a heart cannot fail to be touched by some of the historic memorabilia proudly displayed here, including a whole section devoted to ‘The Prince of Wingers’ and arguably Hibernian’s finest ever player, the mercurial Gordon Smith.

They’re all here though, they really are. ‘The Gay Gordon’s’ forward line mates, Bobby Johnstone, Lawrie Reilly, Eddie Turnbull and Willie Ormond – The Famous Five are of course represented well. Hibs’ great English born centre-forward, Joe Baker – a personal favourite of mine – is here too, along with Pat Stanton, and the other ‘Turnbull’s Tornadoes’ as you might expect. A minor point here was that there was so much to read, learn and yes, revere (in my case) but so little time to do so due to the constraints of another tour which was to follow us. I could have spent the rest of that sunny June day in there learning historic things about the old club that I hadn’t been aware of previously.

A real source of nostalgia for me was the large model of the original ground complete with its huge East Terrace. I’ll admit to having been one of those youngsters ‘held up high on high daddy’s shoulders’ on that absolutely mountainous construction. How many out there remember ‘the big step’?

Changing Rooms

Easter Road Stadium

The tour was on the move and we passed along corridors lined with rare framed match day programmes. I wanted to dally – I wanted to read them all! A short video presentation punctuated the proceedings before we dropped down to the ‘business’ end of things – the areas the players inhabit. Even in this relatively new and modern environment the culture and ‘feel’ of match day pervades. Three green and white jerseys had been stealthily placed on hangers as we entered the player’s changing area. Murray – Stevenson – Bamba were not present but it was easy to imagine they were. (A tip here is that I believe many fans take along their own jersey with their own name on the back and hang them alongside their Hibs heroes’ jerseys for an original and one-off photo opportunity).The behind-the-scenes investigation passes through the corporate and media areas and what was originally the club gymnasium which has now relocated to the state-of-the-art facility in place down the road at East Mains.In this account we must leave a surprise or two for the visitor but let it be said that you will not be disappointed, especially when emerging down the player’s tunnel and out in the lion’s den of the Easter Road pitch. It’s probably the moment of the tour I’d dare suggest. Easter Road’s weekday business carries on as usual as you take in how it feels from the players dug-outs with lots of time for photography.

The tour draws to a close all-too-quickly. Underneath the Famous Five Stand we experience a lasting further tribute to the great old club and say our goodbyes to our guide, Billy, before emerging into the much updated and enlarged club store of today. It’s a time-honoured way to end any tour of any type but as well as a few Hibs goodies on show to buy, there’s always the possibility of bumping into a member of the Hibs playing or managerial staff in here as I’ve found out in the past.

Great memories upon each exit from stand

Famous fan on the Hibs 100 wall

The Easter Road tour is a fascinating dip into  over 130 years of Hibee and Edinburgh history and is worthwhile, not only for devoted ‘Hibbies’ like myself, but for anyone interested in understanding more about the social fabric of Scotland’s Capital. If you’re an individual just inquisitive or curious about how a modern professional sports club goes about its business in 2009, it’s of equal interest too.

The adult admission price for my visit was a very reasonable five pounds (concessions available) for the approximately seventy-minute tour. At the time of writing, the club operates the tours on Wednesdays only (more days in school holidays). Whether you’re an interested local observer or a visitor to Auld Reekie, make sure and pre-book your tour for this charming and absorbing walk through the past into the present on the Easter Road tour. You won’t regret it.

The doors to the pitch

Holyrood Palace from Arthur's Seat

Take a nice sunny Autumn day, some sandwiches, a drink and head for a walk up Arthurs Seat. The roads around the area are closed to cars on a Sunday (but you can still park nearby and walk).

Take any path up Arthur’s Seat, guaranteed a good view wherever you go. If you choose to walk to the summit, there is a well trodden path which you can see from the bottom. It can be very windy at the top.

You can walk for as little or as long as you want, as the paths go all the way around, up and down, over to Salisburys Crags.  Walks suggested are here .  The views of Edinburgh are stunning on a clear day, you can see all the way across the water to Fife, good views of the castle and Holyrood Palace.

We stopped and had our lunch on the top of Salisbury Crags and took in the lovely view.  There are no toilet facilities up Arthurs Seat, or places to buy a drink (although an ice cream vendor could make a killing up there on a sunny day) so time your trip wisely.

Salisbury Crags

They say if you’re a young female and you come and wash your face here with the morning dew on the 1st of May, you will be eternally beautiful. 

Suitable for disabled? There is a road all the way around Arthur’s Seat, with a path for walkers and joggers, so suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.  There are car parks at the top beside the Loch and lay bys that you can park in and enjoy the view

Castle from Arthur's Seat

Sunday 15^th November – 11am – 5.00pm

Edinburgh Shamanic Centre, Portobello High Street.

Programme includes :-

Learn how to work with you fifth dimensional chakras, cleansing and clearing them and raising our vibration.

Work with the Angels to bring healing to each other in the group and send healing to the planet at this important time.

We shall invoke the Archangels and Ascended Masters to bring healing to the planet and to help us on all levels.

We shall discuss orbs, what are these?  Share pictures of orbs.

Share Angel stories, build and Angel alter, make fun badges for each other and work with other fun exercises to make this a relaxed, fun day for all those attending.

This course shall be run by Margery Bambrick who is an Angel Teacher with the Diana Cooper School and also an Angel Practitioner.

For details and application forms please contact Margery on www.angelhealingwaters.com /0131 551 2560

Cost – £45.00

They have a range of foods that promotes natural, healthy, ethical shopping.

Real Food Stores, Edinburgh

Inside Real Foods

Well worth a visit, if you are in Edinburgh

Suitable for disabled ?     There are a few steps up to the Broughton Street branch, but the Tollcross branch is on ground level.

Cammo Tower

Cammo Tower is an old folly near Barnton.   To get there, take your car, or a bus to Barnton and head down Maybury Road and Cammo Gardens, till you get to Cammo Road  Follow that road as far as it goes and park your car in the car park.  There are some information boards and maps telling you what else is on the Cammo Estate.    You can clearly see Cammo Tower from Maybury Road if you are heading West out of town via Barnton.

SUITABLE FOR DISABLED ?     Unfortunately not, as you have to cross a field to get to the tower and the ground is uneven

The gardens were designed by Takashi Sawano and opened in August 2002, making it one of the largest Japanese gardens in the UK

I absolutely love visiting these gardens at different times of the year.  There are a couple of bamboo shelters, one of which affords wonderful views over the Forth estuary.  I have spent many an afternoon with picnic in hand, reading a book and enjoying this wonderful escape from hectic city life.

Other visitors range from pensioners taking a wee stroll, to mothers and their children exploring every nook and cranny of the beautifully landscaped hectare.

There is no admission charge to the grounds or this garden and with on site free parking, makes a wonderful alternative to the Botanics.  Dogs are not allowed in the garden (or Lauriston Castle grounds) or cyclists, so it really is a place for peacefulness and reflection.

I recommend visiting here at all times of the year, the changing colours are breathtaking.

Lauriston Castle,   2a Cramond Road South, Davidson’s Mains, EH4 5GD

Tel: 0131 336 2060

I’ll let the pics speak………..they are totally unedited as always.

They are offering a FREE swim or gym session by downloading a voucher  HERE  They are also offering a free months’ membership.  There are no contracts, so you really can try out the gym for free.

Visit the website  http://www.edinburghexcuses.co.uk/ for further information

I was driving a recovery vehicle and had a few women to pick up along the route, but all due to injury rather than them giving up.

The Castle and other buildings around town were lit up pink last night.

I managed to take a few pictures as I was helping out and you can start looking at them HERE and all my Edinburgh photos are HERE

Missed out this year ?  Why don’t you do the walk or volunteer for next year – all details at http://www.walkthewalk.org/Home

The Water of Leith runs through Dean Village and will take you all the way down to Leith via Stockbridge or 9  & 3/4 miles to Balerno in the other direction !

Dean Village is very photogenic

And there are a few benches that you could sit and read at or have your lunch.  It only takes a few minutes to walk to from the West End, down Bells Brae and under Dean Bridge.  Well worth a visit and a walk along the Water of Leith

Photos from a winter walk by Water of Leith / Stockbridge and Dean Village   HERE  aswell as the photos from today

Suitable for disabled ?    Not really, but there is a small section that is suitable for wheelchairs.  The Water of Leith has sets of steps   

 All my pictures of a little walk around Craiglockhart Hill are  HERE

Part of Napier University is up here and the buildings are fabulous in themselves, but also the views of Edinburgh are great.

I kind of did a circular route that took me down a different way I came up and back via the Craiglockhart Pond which is a great place to sit and watch the swans and ducks.

You can easy spend an hour or so walking around this area.  There’s a combination of steps and paths, but also suitable for dogs and bike riders.

If you start and end from Craiglockhart Terrace, you could continue your walk along the union canal which can be accessed nearby.

Suitable for disabled ?    Not the Craiglockhart Hill part, but you could drive to Napier Uni Campus car park and take in the views.

I just want to express my admiration for all those who took part in such hot conditions and I hope that the spectators encouraging runners helped a little.  A lot of people were running for charities, and raising lots of money for causes close to their hearts. 

Everyone who manned a water station was a volunteer and there was a great sense of community out there today.  A big thank you to everyone who I worked alongside, opening many many bottles of water and shouting out ‘lucozade’ a few thousand times !!

Who would have thought that the weather would have been so sunny ?   I really take my hat off to all those that finished at Musselburgh race course, especially those running in fancy dress / firefighter gear / marine uniform with kit bag !   If you’re not going to run next year, then why don’t you try volunteering at the marathon ?

I Love Edinburgh is very admirable of you all  

All my photos of today are   HERE

A couple of my favourites are here

Inverleith Park

This weekend sees the Edinburgh Taste Festival take place and if the weather continues, I can’t think of a better place to be.

Inverleith Park

I then cut across to the Botanics, but the West Gate is still shut, so you must enter via the North or East Gate still.

I enjoyed the lovely flowers and views.  I’ll just let the pictures speak for themselves.

Botanics

Botanics Flowers

Botanics

Athenian Acropolis – Calton Hill

Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s main hills, set right in the city centre.  It is unmistakable with its Athenian acropolis poking above the skyline.   It was never completed due to lack of funds.  More information HERE

You are allowed to climb all over it and it’s a favourite for tour groups to get their photo taken on it.

The views of Edinburgh from Calton Hill are outstanding.  You can see the skyline down Princes Street, over to the North – the sea and Fife.  You can see Leith and a great view of Arthurs Seat.    You can also climb the Nelson Monument and get an even better view – info HERE

You are also allowed to climb all over the canon that’s there – don’t be shy and pose for a great photo !

Walk up from the East End of Princes Street, various access points.

SUITABLE FOR DISABLED ?      Yes if you are travelling by car.  Enter via the access on Regent Road (just before the Old Royal High School) and drive up to the car park (free).  You will get good views from various sloping paths.

View from Calton Hill - South

East Gate Botanics

The gardens are beautiful at any time of the year, but at the moment, the signs of Spring are definately showing.

There are good facilities in the Botanics, including a cafe with outdoor seating area.  Benches are placed all over the gardens, so you can sit and soak up the atmosphere or the view of the Edinburgh skyline from the gardens

Children are positively encouraged to run around and enjoy the free space, chase the pigeons, feed the squirrels.

Admission is free, but some exhibitions and the hot houses charge (they are open 10 – 5 and you can get free entry from 4.30pm).  There is one free palm house which could give you an injection of heat on a cool day.

How to get there  -   There are regular public bus services (Lothian Buses 8, 23 or 27) to the East Gate on Inverleith Row)  just ask the driver to let you know when to get off. 

Suitable for disabled ?      Yes, there is a good network of smooth paths around the gardens, although there are a few slopes.  Also have a disabled toilet by the East gate and in the cafe  

If you are a little short on cash, but would like to benefit from Shiatsu Massage, then book inwith a student.  They charge from £11 – £16 per hour (for second year student).  I have had massages from both and found the student’s technique to be more than satisfactory for the money I paid.

 It takes a long time to qualify in shiatsu, all staff members are very dedicated.

SUITABLE FOR DISABLED ?      Yes, access is on ground floor and so are the treatment rooms, although Shiatsu is traditionally practised on a futon on the floor, but can be done in a chair.

It is beside the Botanical Gardens, so worth doing the two on the same day.  There is also an excellent childrens playground there (fenced so no dogs allowed in) that has soft flooring.

It is enjoyable at any time of the year, but the grassy slope in the summer months is perfect for reading a book in the sun.

Nearby, when you exit it’s West entrance, there is THE best place for ice cream.  Run by an Italian family, The Alonzi newsagent at the bottom of Comely Bank Avenue sells delicious home made on the premises Italian ice cream.  You can keep your Luca’s and Mackies, there is no other choice as far as I’m concerned.

You can get snacks and ice lollies within the park, or on the road between Inverleith Park and the Botanics in the summer month, but there are no public toilets in the park.

Inverleith Park in Winter

SUITABLE FOR DISABLED ?    Yes, there is path access (with slight incline) across the whole park and botanics.