Atticsalt Pilates

By Victoria Bamber

As a society, we appear to be on a bit of a health kick. Gone are the days where a McDonald’s quarter pounder is followed by a couple of pints in the pub, a snooze at home and a takeaway from the local chippy for dinner. Edinburgh has woken up to a health revival, and with a vague sense of trepidation, I followed.  

Atticsalt studio

Of course, living a healthy lifestyle doesn’t just involve bypassing Greggs the bakers (unfortunately,) it also involves exercise. One of the less intimidating forms that Edinburgh has to offer is Pilates – designed to improve strength, flexibility and overall fitness levels, using a combination of breathing techniques, stretches and balancing activities.

Pilates session

Described as ‘one of the safest forms of exercise’, Pilates has built quite a reputation within the city – yet having no previous experience myself, I knew little of what to expect before attending my first class. The class under scrutiny was AtticSalt Pilates Studio, run and taught by Jo Munro. Situated on Thistle Street Lane just off Hanover Street, the studio has an excellent location in the heart of the city and was easy to navigate without the use of a map or perfect local knowledge.

The studio itself was exceptionally impressive and had a light, refreshing atmosphere complimented by high ceilings and contemporary decor. (Sweaty school gymnasiums and aerobics classes in the local village hall should take numerous leaves out of this professionally styled book.) At AtticSalt there are numerous styles of Pilates on offer, including equipment, mat and mother and baby classes depending on preference and ability. Bypassing the rather daunting yet wholly intriguing equipment studio; I opted for the mat class, where each member is presented with their own mat, cushion, Spikeyball (really) and elastic exercise band.

Pilates class

With room for around 12 participants, the mat class at AtticSalt Studio has an intimate feel to it without feeling too ‘on show’ or overcrowded. Beginning with foot stretching and breathing techniques, each exercise worked a different part of the body by sculpting poses and using toning techniques made ever more famous recently by Pippa Middleton and her increasingly admired behind. Although each position was challenging (and painful in places,) the stretches did feel rather satisfying and indeed managed to loosen tension in muscles which often seize up over the working day.

“Jo is an experienced and friendly teacher”

As a complete and probably very obvious novice, one of the main attractions of Pilates is the fact that each member of the class can undertake the poses at their own pace in a way that suits them best. As anticipated, a few participants had injuries which prevented them from achieving certain poses, yet Jo offered alternative pieces of equipment and adaptations of exercises in order to work around ailments, yet still allowing the guest to complete a thorough workout. One of the other appreciated aspects of the class was that each movement was fully explained and extra information supplied upon request. Harder elements were added for those who wished to challenge themselves further.

Coming in at around an hour, the Pilates class felt both demanding and challenging without exhausting or draining its participants. Designed to appeal to all ages and abilities, the style was not one which would have originally appealed to me, yet after taking part I can certainly see the attraction, although the lack of sweating or feeling out of breath at the end was a highly unusual and somewhat disconcerting feeling – although my muscles the next day did assure me I had in fact put some effort in at least.

Overall, I would recommend Pilates in general, but especially the AtticSalt Studio, for both an experienced friendly teacher and beautiful surroundings. AtticSalt Studio is reasonably priced, with professionalism and charm thrown in for free.

Further information:

You can contact the instructor Jo via her website and have a look at the varied timetable. 

City centre location

Images courtesy of Jo Munro.

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.

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.

Yesterday I went to the rugby at Murrayfield to see Scotland play France in their first game of this year’s RBS Six Nations.  I headed along early to soak up all the pre-match atmosphere and started to walk to the stadium from the West End. 

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.

  Edinburgh Moonwalk 2010 – Saturday 19th June

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!

At the heart of the biggest golfing region in Scotland, Edinburgh has a perfect mix when it comes to courses, a whole host of top-class members’ clubs being complemented by some of the top municipal layouts in the country.

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 is Scotland’s largest volleyball club fielding six teams in the Scottish National Volleyball League plus two teams in the Edinburgh District Volleyball League and various junior volleyball teams.  These teams compete in local volleyball competitions in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.  Jets Club is also affiliated to the Universities around Edinburgh and Scotland and the club has a wide international mix of volleyball players.

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

While the capital’s two football teams Hibs and Hearts are the main attractions in Edinburgh, lower-league football can make for an entertaining and vastly cheaper alternative, with many sides in the city playing in the semi-professional ranks.

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.

The annual Meadows Marathon is taking place this year on Sunday 7th March.

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!

Welcome to Hibernian Football Club!

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!’

BY PETER EDGELER

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.

Parkrun Edinburgh is a weekly free 5km running event organised by volunteers for runners of all abilities.  Parkrun was founded by Paul Sinton-Hewitt in England in 2004 and now it has weekly runs all over the country.

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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Edinburgh Leisure are doing another fantastic offer that leaves no excuses for not exercising.  Portobello swim centre is offering a FREE 7 DAY PASS to use all its’ facilities during November. 

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  

By guest writer – Stuart Frew

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

Here is the sunset I took at Silverknowes tonight.  My nieces were in paddling, people were windsurfing and a guy was swimming with his dog !  I know it was a lovely day, but was it really that warm ?

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

Edinburgh Leisure are saying that there are no more excuses for the month of September when it comes to exercising.

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

Just want to say a HUGE well done to all those that took part in last nights’ Moonwalk either as a walker or a volunteer.

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