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NEWS Local MP retires after 40 years page 3...

CASTLEVIEW BRING HISTORY TO LIFE

Hearts’ Goalkeeper Janos Balogh experiences breakfast with Niddrie Mill pupil, Jamie Robertson and St Francis pupil, Elesha George Eat your Hearts out page 8.... By Lauren Witherspoon hope that they can use it well. important. He told the Chronicle: just now, but with the lighter “It’s the most important food “This is a really great initiative for mornings coming, we’re expect- NIDDRIE MILL AND ST because the breakfast gives ener- a school in this area. It’s really ing more. And they eat for fun!” FRANCIS primary pupils wel- gy, not only for football, but for important to get a healthy break- Local MSP and Justice Secretary FORENSIC comed Hearts goalkeeper Janos school and this can help in class.” fast at the start of the school day Kenny MacAskill attended the FORTNIGHT Balogh to the launch of their St Francis Head teacher, and, in particular, in a primary launch and was delighted to see breakfast club last month. Margaret Duff, said: “We’re school. We’re delighted that we’re local organisations working Nairn’s oatcakes have teamed up absolutely delighted, Niddrie Mill involved and able to support it and together. with life and pensions company and ourselves, to be involved. I hope it’s a real success.” He told the Chronicle: “This is a Aegon to provide a healthy start to When we were offered the oppor- Teaching assistants Anne Raynes fantastic venture in an excellent the day as part of the Aegon tunity, we jumped at it. (Niddrie Mill) and Patricia Raynes joint campus school and we do breakfast club programme. “The pupils come in, they can eat (St Francis) have been key in get- know how important a good The Tynecastle goalkeeper something together and then they ting the breakfast club on the go. breakfast is to kids. explained the importance of a are ready and able for learning. Patricia explained that local food “The fact that we’ve got good healthy breakfast. He told the It’s not just the food, it’s the social store Lidl had also supported the partners on board; Hearts Football Chronicle: “I have learned in my integration and when the school initiative by supplying bread and Club, Aegon, Nairn’s and the city life that the most important food is bell goes they are not running late cereals. council is great. It’s about work- Mysteries solved the breakfast. They say eat break- and they are ready to start learn- The popularity at this early stage ing together, allowing those, espe- fast like a king! It’s good news ing. So it’s a joy for us to have.” is clear to see through the number cially from difficult homes, to be at ARTSPACE that the breakfast club is opening Nairn’s director Mark Laing of pupils accessing the breakfast able to access a good breakfast exhibition because it’s very important and highlighted why the partnership club. Patricia said: “We have and to be able to be all they can very good for the children and I with the primary schools is so around 28 to 29 pupils maximum be during the day at school.” page 10... 2 The Chronicle...April 2010

The Chronicle is an independent newspaper New benefits published by Craigmillar advice service Community Newspaper Eco nursery aims Limited (CCN Ltd.) for the people of for city’s Portobello/Craigmillar. cancer patients CCN Ltd. is a Private Limited Company funded for Green Flag A NEW SERVICE offering by the Edinburgh cancer patients, their Portobello/Craigmillar families and carers advice and sup- Neighbourhood port to help them secure statutory Partnership Fairer welfare benefits has been officially Scotland Fund. launched. A cancer diagnosis can have an enor- mous impact on someone’s income and many people don’t realise they are eligi- ble for financial help. Now workers at the new City of Edinburgh Macmillan Welfare Rights Partnership will identify statutory bene- The views expressed in fits and grants that people affected by the Chronicle are not cancer may be entitled to. necessarily those of the The service is a partnership between Editor or the Board of charity Macmillan Cancer Support and Directors. the City of Edinburgh Council. It has Editor: been funded by Macmillan with a grant Sally Fraser of £450,000 over the next three years. Elspeth Atkinson, Macmillan’s direc- Assistant Editor: tor for Scotland, said: “We know that Babs Burnett financial worries are a considerable Reporters: source of stress for people affected by Lauren Witherspoon cancer. Phil Harris “At a time when many people are Ewa Grabowiecka unable to work because they are unwell, J. Martyn Rodgers they face a rise in daily expenses, such Samantha Taylor as travel to hospital and increased Kelly Wade household fuel bills. Robin Harper MSP ‘stays and plays’ with teacher Suzanne Aitken and Moffat pupil Steven McGlone “This service will make a real differ- The Chronicle ence to people affected by cancer in Unit 9A Castlebrae Business Centre, By Sally Fraser Eco school we are currently work- help the children be aware of Edinburgh as it will help them to max- Peffer Place ing towards our first Green Flag nature and our environment.’ imise their income by claiming finan- Edinburgh EH16 4BB ROBIN HARPER MSP visited on our newly formed campus. In Parent Lizzie Aylett added: cial help they often do not know they Tel: 0131 661 0791 Moffat Early Years Campus order to do this and increase “The Eco theme worked well are entitled to.” e-mail: recently to help launch their Eco parental involvement we hosted and it was a great idea to have The service is based at The Advice [email protected] Stay and Play Day. an Eco Stay and Play Day for our the bird watching sheets to take Shop on South Bridge and sessions are Printed by: The local nursery school is children and families. home to reinforce the event.” also run from the Patient Information Scottish County Press working hard to achieve their first “This event has been a great The Eco-Schools programme is Centre at the Royal Infirmary of Delivered by: Green Flag. opportunity for our parents to see an international initiative Edinburgh. Premier Delivery Around 110 children and over 50 our recycled shed, which was designed to encourage schools to For more information, telephone Registered in Scotland parents and carers took part in the recently renovated by one of our take action for the environment. 0131 225 1255 or email Registration No. 205722 event. dads. Other activities on offer It is a recognised award scheme [email protected] Robin Harper said: “I thoroughly today included a bug hunt, recy- that accredits schools who make a enjoyed my visit to Moffat Early cling challenge, craft activities, commitment to continuously Years. The huge variety of activi- fair trade café, Macmillan pots of improve their environmental per- ADVERTISE COPY FOR ties for the children and the free- care, ‘greenfingers in the garden’ formance. It is also a learning ADVERTISE dom they have to move from one and a visit to our wormery in the resource that raises awareness of INCLUSION to the other at their own pace, and sensory garden. environmental and sustainable WITH THE the involvement of parents and “The hope is to raise awareness development issues through activ- IN THE children in the development of of environmental issues and to ities linked to curricular areas. CHRONICLE their environmental activities promote our ethos as an eco- The aim of the Eco-Schools pro- makes Moffat a very exciting friendly school, and we are gramme is to make environmental MAY place to be. delighted that Robin Harper could awareness and action an intrinsic “This event has been a great suc- come along to support us at our part of the life and ethos of the GREAT RATES & ISSUE MUST cess, and I am looking forward to launch event.” school for both pupils and for following them on their journey to Nursery pupil Ewan Aylett said: “I staff, and to engage the wider DISCOUNTS FOR REACH US not one but many Green Flags in liked making the bird feeders then community. the future.” hanging them on Granny’s rope.” The programme helps schools to BLOCK BOOKINGS The Moffat Early Years Another pupil added: “I liked improve the school's environ- BY: Campus is a newly formed nurs- the bug hunt and having my mum ment; reduce litter and waste; ery school with an integrated to help me.” reduce energy and water use; tel: MONDAY community approach to learning Parents and carers also enjoyed devise efficient was of travelling for the whole family, promoting the day. Bolorama Beattie told to and from school; promote 0131 661 0791 19th the development, well-being the Chronicle: “We really healthy lifestyles; encourage and early learning of all children enjoyed the activities, particu- active citizenship; build strong and their families. larly making the bird feeder and partnerships with a variety of email: APRIL Angela Paul, Head of Moffat planting the chestnuts. These community groups and develop [email protected] Early Years Campus, said: “As an types of activities will definitely international and global links. The Chronicle...April 2010 3 LOCAL MP RETIRES Protecting the AFTER 40 YEARS environment stood down and I was living in This reflects the fact the world has Portobello at the time. I was got more global and also that the selected to stand on Christmas Edinburgh economy has been Sunday 1968. The election was really successful over the last ten announced shortly after and in years meaning that a lot of people June 1970 I was elected to the have come to Edinburgh rather Edinburgh East seat. I have had than London or Birmingham. the great privilige of being the MP “The problems may have changed, for Edinburgh East ever since.” but the satisfaction I get from help- Gavin was appointed to the front ing people stays the same.” bench at the age of 30. After the There has to have been some dis- 1974 election Gavin was asked by appointments in a political career Harold Wilson to join the Cabinet spanning four decades. and became Minister for North But luckily for Gavin the disap- Sea Oil. During the Labour pointments have been few. He Government of ‘74-’79 Gavin explained: “A big disappointment served as Under Secretary of State for me was the closure of Phoenix in the Department of Energy and House in Portobello High Street. I Parliamentary Secretary at the fought a long-running campaign Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries for the services to stay in the area By Sally Fraser and Food. In 1992 he was Shadow and I thought it was a bad decision Secretary for Cultural Affairs to close it. It was handy for the DR GAVIN STRANG HAS under John Smith’s leadership and people of Craigmillar and announced his retirement ahead after the1997 Labour election win Portobello and the surrounding of the forthcoming Westminster Gavin became Cabinet Minister areas. It helped prevent fraud hav- election. for Transport during the early ing a local social security office The local MP, who has success- years of the Blair government. He where staff knew people and it fully defended his East Edinburgh joined the back benches in 1998 was easier to help local residents seat in ten general elections, has after Blair’s Cabinet reshuffle. who may have been having a family Portobello Power Station circa 1970s served the community for 40 The Chronicle asked Gavin what crisis of some sort and needed years and is the longest serving he considered his greatest advice quickly. The office was much By Phil Harris legacy. The legislation is there to Scottish MP. achievements during his time at more accessible for local people make sure we actively look for The Chronicle asked Gavin Westminster. He said: “I think one who now have to travel to Leith.” THE CITY OF EDINBURGH possible problems, so I have to when his interest in politics start- of the achievements that I’m most Looking to the future, Gavin Council has started a long run- stress that this is very much pre- ed: “I first started to have an inter- proud of during my time in said: “I really believe that the ning inspection of three former cautionary work. est in politics when I was at Parliament is introducing the 1987 emphasis for the future has to be industrial sites in the city. “The health and well-being of school, but it was really when I AIDS Control Act under the on education. There’s really noth- This “precautionary sampling” residents is paramount and we got to university that I got Private Member’s Bill. In the ing more important than trying to is being undertaken at the former will keep all of those in the affect- involved. It was around that time 1980s we had a very big AIDS help young people in school. sites of the Portobello Power ed areas informed as the investi- that I realised that the things that I problem in Edinburgh. I’m also There’s no getting away from the Station, Northfield Chemical gations proceed.” believed in were the things that proud that I played a main role in fact that some children come from Works and a former chemical To this extent the Council have the Labour Party supported. I joined securing legislation to enable difficult backgrounds and we need works in Abbeyhill. written to local residents to keep the Labour party in 1962. I came Shetland to have control over it’s to make it as easy as possible for Under law, local authorities are them informed of the works being from Perthshire so I was in the oil. In the 1980s, like a lot of other these children to succeed in their required to investigate the sites to undertaken. Young Socialists in Perth.”, he said. people, I was very concerned dur- education. identify, assess and check that The Portobello Power Station, Gavin continued: “My father ing the Cold War that there would “It’s important that Craigmillar they are safe for their current famous for its red brick façade, was a tenant farmer and I had be a nuclear war in Europe. I was retains it’s high school. It’s not uses. The current, detailed, stood at the junction between thought about going into farming, very active in the Campaign for practical for students to travel to inspection will take place over a Portobello High Street and but I decided that I wanted to be Nuclear Disarmament. other schools out of the area. It’s number of years with soil, gas and Kings Road and, apart from an agricultural scientist. I won a “Getting the new Edinburgh also important that the local high water samples all being taken and powering the area, was used to scholarship to do a diploma at Royal Infirmary on our doorstep school gets a very strong support analysed. The sample taking heat the local outdoor swim- Cambridge University and I then was also an important achieve- from the local authority. There are itself will only take a few days but ming pool. The Northfield came back to do a PhD at the ani- ment. It’s brought a growth in many dedicated teachers at accurate analysis can take several Chemical Works’ 120 foot chim- mal breeding research organisa- employment and hopefully that Castlebrae and it’s important that months. ney sat to the west of the area tion in the Kings Buildings in will have a knock-on effect in the they also get the maximum support.” The sites have been prioritised until it was demolished in the Edinburgh.” local area.” Although he admits he’s not par- according to various factors, Sixties. During this period Gavin was Gavin spoke of how he enjoys ticularly looking forward to retir- including where people are living, The Council confirmed that still active in the Labour Party and the constituency work involved in ing, when asked what his plans how the land has been previously work has begun and the samples keen to become a member of his job and especially his surger- are for the future, Gavin replied: used and environmental features, had been gathered from the Parliament. He explained: ies in Craigmillar and Portobello. “I’m a rather poor golfer, so I may e.g. watercourses. Portobello site and said they “There’s really quite a bit of luck He said: “As far as constituency try to improve on that! I got a dig- Councillor Robert Aldridge, hoped the first results of lab involved in becoming a Member is concerned, I’ve always regard- ital camera few years ago and Environment Leader at the City of analysis would be back during of Parliament and as I expected to ed my surgery as a very important have never made much use of it. I Edinburgh Council allayed con- June. be a candidate in Perthshire which thing. One of the most satisfying hope to change that. I’ve also got cerns at the launch of the project The Chronicle will update any was really unwinable for Labour things has been helping people a range of books that need read- saying: “There’s no reason to progress and if you have any and, at the age of 27, I was expect- with their problems. In the past ing. I am looking forward though to think there are specific concerns questions or concerns you can ing my first election to be fought the majority of people wanted spending more time with my new with these sites, but as with any contact the Environmental in a difficult seat to win. help with housing problems. grandson who’s six months old.” area that has an industrial her- Assessment Team on 0131 469 “As it happened the sitting mem- Nowadays, we get a lot of immi- The Chronicle wishes Gavin all itage, Edinburgh needs to consid- 5922 or environmentalassess- ber of Parliament, George Willis, gration and asylum enquiries. the best for his retirement. er the possibility of an unwanted [email protected] 4 The Chronicle...April 2010

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Care info: just a call away

OLDER PEOPLE IN EDINBURGH from local authorities, the private and vol- who need help accessing information on untary sector. care should now find help just a phone The service aims to simplify the process call away, thanks to a new information for anyone seeking information on care and service. support for either themselves or older rela- Care Information Scotland (CIS) offers a tives. The service will provide centrally single point of information - through one managed, accurate and up-to-date informa- phone number and web address - on the tion on what services are available, how to care available for older people throughout access them and costs. the country. It offers detailed information Care Information Scotland can be contact- for older people and their families on the ed on 08456 001 001 and online at range of community care services available www.careinfoscotland.co.uk.

ADVERTISEMENT Councillor Maureen Child Councillor Mike Bridgman Labour Councillor for SNP Councillor for Portobello/Craigmillar: Portobello/Craigmillar

Bingham Community Complex will be present to hear 1st Monday of the Month constituents’ 6.00pm onwards individual concerns Magdalene Community Centre 1st Monday of the Month 7.00pm onwards Every Monday (except Public Holidays) at Portobello Town Hall Castleview Community Centre, 2nd Monday of the Month 76 Craigmillar Castle Avenue at 5.30 pm 6.30pm onwards (until Portobello Library is refurbished) Councillor Maureen Child can also be contacted at : St. Francis Primary School City Chambers,, High Street, 3rd Monday of the Month Edinburgh, EH1 1YJ 6.30pm onwards (during school term) 0131 529 3268 e mail - [email protected] michael.bridgman @edinburgh.gov.uk The Chronicle...April 2010 5 Craigmillar Community Council update www.newcraigmillarcc.btik.com

A couple of conversations I had democracy and compromise is not of the consultation. recently got me thinking about always a bad thing. how Craigmillar Community If people do not wish to take up Council is perceived across the As part of the new planning con- this offer then I am disappointed whole of the Craigmillar area. We sultation regulations, we are that our efforts are in vain but I am cover from Bingham and informed of any large planning at a loss to see how we can be any Magdalene in the north to applications in the very early more open and democratic. We Edmonstone in the south and stages in order to gauge local reac- cannot please everyone all we can Newcraighall in the east to tions before it progresses to appli- do is try to take every opinion into Peffermill Road in the west. cation. In order to get opinions account and hopefully please the from the area affected, especially majority. Traditionally some areas have when we had no community coun- chosen to operate pretty much on cillors there, our planning sub- I have heard it said we are a their own and this is fine but what group decided to invite a represen- clique, maybe we are. To join you some of them don’t seem to tative from that community. must stay within the red line, realise is that sitting on the shown on the Community Council Community Council does not As these meetings are often held web site; http://www.newcraig- affect that independence, indeed it in limited accommodation we millarcc.btik.com/home.ikml and may even enable it to function bet- have to keep down the numbers must be on the electoral roll. But ter. attending and some have seen this wait; if you stay outside the red as not allowing the whole area to line and are not on the electoral We are a council, each of us sitting voice their opinion, this is why I roll you can still attend meetings there for our own reasons and with have taken this opportunity to as they are public. So, I’m afraid varied opinions but I know our stress these meetings are not part we fail miserably on the cliquish- common goal is to improve of the public consultation. Those ness stakes, maybe we are just a Greater Craigmillar. There are dis- representatives are invited in the ‘Community Council’ after all. agreements and sometimes we hope they may gather information Terry Tweed don’t get what we want but that is that will improve the public part Secretary CCC Health Secretary launches test programme to help young parents in Craigmillar By Babs Burnett programme who I have met today is really inspirational. A TEST PROGRAMME TO “This isn’t an untested pro- HELP young parents give their gramme - the evidence from pro- children a healthier start in life grammes already up-and-running was officially launched in in the US shows that it is improv- Craigmillar by Health Secretary ing prenatal health, increasing Nicola Sturgeon recently. employment for young mothers, The Family Nurse Partnership, resulting in fewer unintended inspired by similar programmes in pregnancies and helping to reduce the US, is being tested in the NHS child neglect.” Lothian area, where it is support- She added: “Having met some of ing first-time parents or single the families and nurses involved mums under the age of 19. today has left me in no doubt that The six family nurses will visit we will see the same kinds of ben- expectant mums every one or two efits here in Scotland too.” weeks during pregnancy and Melanie Hornett, Nurse Director throughout the first two years of at NHS Lothian, said: “Being their baby’s life, offering guidance pregnant and having a baby can be on child development, preventa- challenging for any mum. Every tive health measures, parenting parent wants to do the best for skills, breastfeeding, better diet their child and this programme is information and advice for moth- about helping them to do that. ers on education and employment. “We know that early emotional The Health Secretary met with care is crucial to the development some of the expectant parents and of a baby and that parenting skills the nurses at the programme’s are key to this. This programme base in Craigmillar. helps mums and dads to focus on Convener for Education, Children dren at risk, we need this kind of very pleased that NHS Lothian is Speaking at the launch, Ms and respond to the needs of their and Families at the City of intensive targeted work because developing this programme and Sturgeon said: “The enthusiasm baby as well as thinking about Edinburgh Council, added: “In leaving the child in an unsupport- we are looking forward to work- and commitment of the parents-to- themselves.” order to break the cycle of teenage ed family until the child goes to ing with the nurses and families be and the nurses involved in this Councillor Marilyne MacLaren, pregnancies and creation of chil- school leaves it too late. I am in this valuable scheme.” 6 The Chronicle...April 2010 Fairtrade award for Towerbank

Local schools battle it

ON 2 MARCH, TOWERBANK dled; it was great fun for both out over Burns Primary School hosted a very children and adults. The Just successful Fairtrade showcase World Shop came along and setup PRIMARY SCHOOL children individual performance of the . event and a great award cere- a stall laden with Fairtrade choco- from Newcraighall, Niddrie Mill evening while the top junior JUNIOR WINNERS mony as part of Fairtrade late geobars and other Fairtrade and Stoneyhill recently compet- award went to Newcraighall’s STONEYHILL: Fortnight. treats. ed in the keenly contested annu- Leah McCaughey with ‘Ma Cameron Sandilands Nursery, primary and secondary A short while later the Lord and al Burns competition, organised Hoggie’. NEWCRAIGHALL: schools from across the authority Lady Provost arrived and we and hosted by the Poosie Nansie The event attracted some 150 Leah McCaughey attended and showed everybody moved through to the gymnasium Burns Club in Newcraighall. supporters which included par- NIDDRIE MILL: their great work helping Fairtrade. to showcase the main event. The Standards were extremely high ents, grandparents, teachers and Reece Huth It was attended by MSPs, coun- ideas that some of the schools in this long-running competition friends of the participants. cillors, parents, the local commu- came up with to tell people about with the Flochart Hendry Shield Club spokesman, Bob Mitchell SENIOR WINNERS nity, international links and two the importance of Fairtrade was for the school with most points told the Chronicle: ‘The standards STONEYHILL: very special guests, the Lord and simply stunning and very enjoy- overall being awarded to just seem to get better every year, Glenn Anderson Lady Provost. Guests were wel- able. Newcraighall Primary School. it’s a huge scramble for tickets NEWCRAIGHALL: comed in by a variety of Primary After the presentations, the Lord Stoneyhill pupil Glenn these days. The kids were simply Jack Henderson 6 and 7 helpers. Provost took centre stage and Anderson’s rendition of ‘To a fantastic. Every school produced a NIDDRIE MILL: In the lower hall, the schools and delivered a short speech and Louse’ was deemed to be the best winning performance’ Savannah Kelbie shops that support fairtrade local- awarded Towerbank Primary and ly set up small exhibits on what Stenhouse Primary the best they had been doing to support Fairtrade school award. Well done Greengables pirates get and help Fairtrade become known everyone and keep up the great in the growing world. Scotmid work! treasure chests brought a wonderful bike that by Bella Baillie and made delicious smoothies made Alix Burns P7 from Fairtrade produce when ped- Towerbank Primary School.

NEWCRAIGHALL PRIMARY SCHOOL SPRING FAIR Saturday 8th May 10.00am to 1.00pm

Hamish the Bookstart Bear, visited Greengables ery children dressed up as pirates for the day. Parents Nursery School on their Pirate Party day. and carers came to see Hamish and everyone had Home Baking, Toys, Games, Hamish presented the three-year-old children with great fun singing pirate songs, ‘walking the plank’ Raffles, Face Painting etc.. their treasure chests from Bookstart and all the nurs- and searching for treasure! The Chronicle...April 2010 7 Waste not, want not

By Phil Harris and P5 were most responsive and what the community needs.” , interested. Then we started work- added Dale, P7. NIDDRIE MILL PRIMARY IS ing with professional town plan- Leah from P4 said: “We wanted taking steps to develop the waste ners and teachers to develop a les- bike areas, football pitches and gar- ground in front of their school son plan which we just recently dens.” with the help of Planning Aid finished. It’s been very interesting The children gave a presentation for Scotland. to evaluate that. to a selected audience of parents, Although this ground will eventu- “What we’re trying to do is community leaders and council ally become part of the PARC rede- engage children in understanding officials last month about how the velopment, the plans to begin work how everything is planned in the redeveloped land could provide a are over a year away and in the communities and the decision place for parents to pick them up the City of Edinburgh Council. that is out of our control. We’re meantime the school pupils would making processes around that. It after school and a healthy environ- Patricia Watson, Planning & working with the situation, it’s like something the community can falls under active citizenship and ment in which to have fun during Strategy Project Manager at City challenging but we’re doing what use. participation in communities, under- the evenings, weekends and holi- of Edinburgh Council was delight- we can. In the meantime the Lynn Wilson from Planning Aid standing that young people are asked days, an alternative to sitting in ed to hear the children were learn- ground could be used for some- commended Niddrie Mill teacher, how they like the community to and playing games. ing about planning. thing that the community can ben- Cheryl Borthwick and head look, what they would like to see.” All their presentations took into She told the Chronicle: “That efit from and obviously the school teacher Sadie Miller for the for- She added: “It’s about supporting account the money needed to obviously is a challenge and we children are the right people to get ward thinking and involvement in them from a very young age to develop the ground and under- had to make it clear to the school involved in that type of thing the project. Initially, they had been understand that we’re all responsi- stood the fact that budgets were and the children that things they because they’ll be using it more looking for one class to take the ble and we can all be responsible tight. Suggestions ranged from come up with can’t involve a huge than anybody else and it’s beside project forward but found the but we need the information to mazes to allotments, outdoor cine- budget as there isn’t really any the school. school, was so enthusiastic they make that happen.” mas to vegetable gardens and money spare at the moment and “They’ve come up with some involved pupils from P1 to P7. The children obviously enjoyed much more in between. All sug- we need to prioritise with what is fantastic ideas. The children them- Lynn told the Chronicle: “They the project too: “We’ve been gested healthy options including available. selves are very much appreciating looked at the past, present and the thinking about if we’re going to cycling or fruit and vegetables to “We do feel we should use the that there isn’t a huge budget and future through the window so we put something on the waste land be grown or eaten. ground that’s free which is waiting they’ve understood that in most of could get an understanding of how or not.”, said Brodie, P5. After the presentations the for development to happen. We the things that they came up with. much the children understood “We came up with some ideas children were awarded prizes of got to this position really because We’ll certainly do our very best to planning in the community. for fun fairs and parks for people recycled goods including cups of the state of the economy and listen to what they’re saying and “From this we realised that P4 to enjoy as we’re thinking about and pencil cases presented by development has slowed down but try to do something about it.” JKC/Cafe K A verse in the hand...

Mondays Boys Only group 12yrs + 6-8pm By Phil Harris that, building on the success of but we felt one using Scots words Tuesdays U12 Tuesday group 8-12yrs 6-8pm this year’s Carry A Poem cam- was unusual and entertaining. Tuesdays Oot N Aboot 6-9pm (street based) FEBRUARY SAW THE CARRY paign, the 2011 Citywide Reading So here is Castelview’s very own Wednesday Girls only group 12yrs + 6-8pm A POEM campaign, fronted by Campaign will focus on song Kashell Soave’s (P5) poem... Thursdays U12 Thursday group 8-12yrs 6-8pm Scottish actor Alan Cumming, lyrics and work in conjunction Fridays FU12 groups 8-12yrs 1.30-3.30pm promoting poetry in the capital with a similar Glasgow campaign. Fridays FCUK/Open All Hours S1+ 7-9pm with it being projected, animat- Ali Bowden, Director of the A Wee Lassie Saturdays Drama 5 years + 10am-12pm ed, discussed, recited, read and Edinburgh UNESCO City of carried around Edinburgh over Literature Trust said: “The Carry and a Moose All activities except Oot n Aboot Tuesday will the month. A Poem campaign has had such a take place in the Jack Kane Community Centre Children in the local area weren’t wonderful reception in Edinburgh, backward in coming forward and we are very excited about getting and are free. A wee lassie in her goon we received various poems from lyrical next year.” All groups for children 8-12 years also include a Running up and doon free healthy snack. schools in the area. Ian Rankin, author and Trustee, In particular Castleview Primary said: “I’m thrilled that song lyrics the hoose caught our attention setting out have been chosen as the focus for Greeting for her wee However, the JKC/Cafe K will be closed for the different subject matter for each next year’s reading campaign. poor moose Easter Public Holidays on Friday 2nd April, year including poems carried Great songwriters pack into a few Who was out and on Saturday 3rd April, Sunday 4th April and home by the children on specially verses or lines what it takes novel- Monday 5th April and Monday 19th April. created shoes, celebrating the ists hundreds of pages to say. The the loose Chinese Year of the Tiger or being first things I remember writing turned into Origami hats. were song lyrics, back when I was The wee lassie This, the fourth Citywide eleven or twelve. Song lyrics couldnae find her Castleview Reading Campaign co-ordinated helped get me interested in sto- by the Edinburgh UNESCO City ries.” wee poor moose of Literature Trust, has been the Full details of the 2011 Citywide because her wee Mondays P1-P3 group 3-5pm biggest yet and culminated in an Reading campaign, the fifth and poor moose found a Tuesdays P4-P7 group 3-5pm event at the Queens Hall in final reading campaign of this Fridays P4-P7 group 4.30-6.30pm new hoose Edinburgh raising over £12,000 nature co-ordinated by the City of Fridays Youth Group S1+ 7-9pm for victims of the Haiti earthquake Literature Trust, will be Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, announced later in the year. Visit That new hoose was a All activities will take place in Castleview said: “I’m totally overwhelmed at www.cityofliterature.com. hole where Community Centre and will include a free the generosity of the largest, The Chronicle is looking for- It took the moose healthy snack. loveliest Scottish audience for ward to reading more of the work to a loch poetry ever. The evening will stay from our young poets in 2011. It was really cauld This centre will also be closed during the public with me all my life.” Given the wealth of poetry avail- holidays (see above for dates). The Edinburgh UNESCO City of able we were hard pushed to for a hoose Literature Trust today announced choose one to add to this article 8 The Chronicle...April 2010 History comes to life at Castleview Primary

CRAIGMILLAR’S LONG history was brought to life on stage recently as Castleview Primary School presented their latest production, the Keymaster. The Keymaster tells the story of a supply teacher who arrives at the school and teaches the children about history events which hap- pened in or near to Craigmillar. P6 pupil Peter Brewser played the role of the Keymaster, he explained: “I enjoyed taking Castleview children on a journey through time starting off at Craigmillar Castle, then to the Battle of Prestonpans, the age of play. P7 pupil Annemarie Keymaster help children to learn steam, child labour in the Sneddon added: “Mrs Boyd about their community’s history in a Klondyke pit, the Suffragettes, choreographs the show and as I fun way and I am delighted that the and the evacuees in World War II. love to dance it is a wonderful audience reaction was so positive!” “We then travelled to the future opportunity for my friends and me The performance was attended where global warming had ruined to really expressive ourselves.” by many parents and family mem- our planet and all was dark. The chil- Head teacher Lindsey Robertson bers of pupils. Local councillor dren who travelled with me worked told the Chronicle: “I am very Mike Bridgman who was also in together with other young people proud of our senior school pupils. the audience, said: “It was a fan- across the world and made good Every year they are so keen to audi- tastic show - a great credit to the choices so that our planet survived.” tion for a lead role, and they school. I particularly enjoyed One of the time-travelling chil- rehearse a great deal in their own the depiction of the Battle of dren, Carrie-Anne Gillfillan of P6, time. It is, however, all made possi- Prestonpans as being between said her Dad had come to watch ble by the wonderful commitment two football commentators - it and being at Castleview gave her of the staff team at Castleview. would be good if all battles the chance to be in a “brilliant” “Performances such as the could be settled that way!”

ADVERTISEMENT The Chronicle...April 2010 9 VOXPOP: the future of the social club

THE PORTOBELLO BRITISH information since then leaves mem- LEGION is to close in April due bers still unsure of the future of the The remains of the old Craigmillar Hearts Supporters Club to a lack of members. club. A former member of the club Initially the insurance settlement explained that people weren’t using was allocated to PARC in order to the facilites and that it had become fund the replacement accommoda- “old fashioned”. They told the tion. Chronicle: “I still used it for the However, the council will now deal bingo on a Thursday night but now I with the replacement of the club. will have to travel down to Last year, the council’s finance and Musselburgh. resources committee approved the “In the summer I would just walk transfer of the old premises subject down to the legion but I won’t be to an agreement of price amongst able to do that anymore.” other things, and a commitment by The closure comes as another blow the council to identify replacement to social facilities in the community accommodation. after the Newcraighall Miners A council spokesperson told the Welfare Club was destroyed in a fire Chronicle: “The council is currently last July. working with Craigmillar Hearts The Craigmillar Hearts Supporter’s Supporters Club to establish a suit- Club also fell victim to fire in 2005. able premises for the club.” It was thought in 2008 that the club The Chronicle took to the streets would be rebuilt at a site in to ask local residents if they felt Greendykes, which raised the hopes there was still a need for a social of the local community, but a lack of club in the area. See below...

Robert White, North Peffer Place Anna Dunn, Ladynairn Ingrid Tait, Craigmillar “It’s part of the community, the social community. It’s like fam- “I have never used a social club but I definitely think it’s a vital “I thought they were building new social clubs here anyway. ily. I think it’s the recession is responsible for part of the demise thing; it’s something that helps bring people together if there is Basically there’s only a couple of places for people to socialise of the local clubs. The young people here at the Jewel Miners a place to meet. I think it’s [the demise of social clubs] due to now. I’m not sure if they will ever build a new Hearts club, but club use the facilities. When we have a bowling day here [at the people staying at home more and it’s cheaper to drink. You can probably a social club of some kind. I think they’ll do that.” Jewel Miners Club] the whole family comes and it’s great! And also meet people online now – a lot of people I know sit at home it’s needful for the community, especially when you know your and talk to people on the computer. I think that’s something to neighbours and friends. I think social clubs are essential.” do with it.”

Margaret Wright, Craigmillar Brian Woodcock, Niddrie Marischal Eric O’Donald, Craigmillar

“I think it’s very sad about the Hearts club, they should have “I think there is a need for more social clubs, definitely. There is “I did use the Hearts club at one time. I think they do need more tried to move it from where it was. I think it would be alright if none really anywhere for anybody to go to socialise. I mean clubs like that, yes. It keeps everybody in a happier environment and in a social club everybody knows each other - if you don’t they re-built in where it was. I think they should give the Hearts they’ve got the pub but it’s no really up to much. I would use you obviously get to know people. If you’re in a pub it’s hard to club back to the community. I must admit when the Hearts club them if they were still here. I think people aren’t going out as get to know people – you don’t want to say anything to people was there and there was events on I used to go to them and I much because of money, I mean I have been unemployed myself in the pub in case they tumbler you in the face. I think they think we need something like that.” for over a year now so money’s tight for me too now.” closed down because of money- everybody’s taking their cut.” 10 The Chronicle...April 2010 FORENSIC EXHIBITION GETS RESULTS A FORTNIGHT OF Forensic Those that were there on that day Photography took place at the appeared genuinely taken by top right: photographic John Maxwell Gallery, ART- recognising and remembering evidence SPACE last month, comprising some of the original buildings and far right: an impressive collection of over people that lived and worked in investigations are 40,000 individual still photos this area in days gone by. This underway taken of the local and surround- seemed to have particular mean- below: Andy Weddel ing areas over the decades of the ing for those with local knowledge being presented with 20th century. of Craigmillar and Portobello. a certificate by For the exhibition, organiser It has become popular in recent Sgt Toombs Johnni Stanton laid out the gallery times, to value local history in like a police incident and enquiry regional library exhibitions and room together with three comput- publications about researching ers and desks that provided public family histories. This is especially work stations with access to a CD- true in the last few years, with the ROM containing many of the development of digital technology 40,000 already uploaded pictures that has allowed local artists and that visitors could browse and regional museums to collect, view at their leisure. archive, and occasionally exhibit With access to the vast collection the written and pictorial records of of visual material, those with local ordinary people. knowledge were asked to con- Johnni told the Chronicle he tribute any relevant information started to make preparations for about the photographs as part of a the exhibition about 18 months study of the area and its residents. ago as a retiral project. The first The Chronicle was invited to gallery exhibition of this work review the exhibition. This proved to be a great success with included a guided tour of the the local public. A combination of exhibits and a chance to find out reminiscence and cataloguing that a bit more about what they brought relevant art work to the meant to the organisers, the community. locals and the gallery visitors. J.Martyn Rodgers

ADVERTISEMENT WHO WILL CHAMPION CRAIGMILLAR AFTER THE ELECTION?

George Kerevan is the SNP candidate for Edinburgh East in the General Election. He is the only candidate from the main parties who lives in the constituency – his home for the past 30 years. GEORGE KEREVAN’S The London parties are arguing over just how much to cut public spending. Yet Labour wants to spend £100 ELECTION PLEDGES: BILLION on new Trident submarines! I will always keep my home The only way to protect Scottish jobs and Scottish serv- ices is to elect more SNP MPs like George Kerevan. in the constituency. Because more Scot Nats means less cuts imposed by London. I will reply to every letter or phone call from a constituent If there is a hung parliament, with neither Labour nor THAT DAY. Conservatives able to dictate to the rest of us, SNP MPs will be in a very strong position to argue for Scotland, and for Craigmillar and Portobello. You will have a phone George Kerevan is a campaigning number you can reach me The only reason SNP MPs go to London is to champion on PERSONALLY. newspaper journalist and a former local Scottish interests – not to get ministerial careers. teacher of economics at Napier. The SNP is not just about independence. It is about cre- I will regularly attend He was local councillor for ating a fairer, safer and healthier local community. meetings of all the local Portobello for 12 years. community councils, George Kerevan says: “I am enthusiastic about the pro- neighbourhood associations posal to create a new Community Development Trust for and Craigmillar Regeneration He chaired the Edinburgh Tourist the Craigmillar area. In a time of recession our commu- Board and sat on the Edinburgh nity needs to keep moving forward. As MP for the area I Forum. Festival Council. will throw all my weight behind this exciting project.” I will champion the most Traditional politicians have failed to serve the people. He invented EDI, the main body vulnerable by fighting for better pensions and by behind PARC, which is now We need to elect not just politicians but local champions spearheading the regeneration like George Kerevan who listen to their constituents and opposing spending cuts in of Craigmillar. local community before anything else. our community. 11 The Chronicle...April 2010 Craigmillar Youth News This month, Castlebrae Community High School contributes to CYN. Amy Ireland entertains with a short story, ex-student Campbell Don gives the CYN lowdown on life at the West of Scotland University and the Eco-team meet Bee Gee Robin Gibb. Eco-team are the Beeʼs knees!

Campbell Don talks Castlebrae memories and student The Eco-team meet Bee Gee Robin Gibb at the Scottish parliment while recieving certificates. ‘The Walk’ by Amy Ireland life What are you up to now? Enjoying Sniffing my nose, I could feel the coldness and emptiness surrounding nearly trippin over aw the wires and pure getting blinded wi aw the lights. it? me. I could hear this horrible crunching noise, and it wisney till ah got What you runnin in like that for? I was so out of breath that ah couldny I’m at the University of the West of to the other end of the dark, frosty street that I noticed it was my frozen speak right it came out aw all wrong. I could smell the soup but wizney both- Scotland, studying Film-making and feet. I can just imagine myself sitting in my warm cosy hoose, sipping my ered as I knew there was something more important than that. Screen Writing and I’m having the ma ma’s tattie soup. Ah remember the last time I had it, it was braw. -There’s been, an accident, over at the bookies. best time of my life. I could see the traffic lights now, so Ah knew I was getting nearer and near- - What do u mean an accident? er. Every step I took it seemed to be getting further and further away. I could Before I knew it ma ma was half way over the field. So ah take it ah was What is your funniest memory of smell the dampness and by this point getting stuck wi the bairns. Castlebrae? I was getting soakin with the dirty snow coming off the cars as they flew It struck half five and by this point it was pitch black. I was getting more When Magoo told Ms Kelly his name by - trying to hurry up and get to the Fort as it was the countdown to and more worried as I still hadnt heard from them. I eventually decides to go was Oliver because he thought she was Christmas. The traffic was really bad now. It was from the Fort right down and get the bairn ready to take her over to see what is happening, but before a substitute teacher. and round the Niddrie area. As I approached Niddrie mill I walked round I knew it ma ma n da was in. They came in, sat doon and didny say nowt. I past the chippy and ah could see there was an ambulance owtside the book- was already sitting looking around the room, waiting for someone to say Who was your best teacher? ies. With the corner of my eye ah saw ma dads car and I knew it was his coz something. I liked most teachers, although just there is only one red ford galaxy in the Edinburgh area. So I ran coz I was -How is she? I muttered fastly. because they are nice people, it didn’t really worried then. I saw my dad coming round from the back of the motor It was a long reply but eventually ma ma said make them good teachers. Anyway, the and I stopped running as I knew he was okay. -It’s no lookin good. people that actually taught me where -What’s wrong da ? I couldn’t believe it, ah kept thinking what a shame somebody out there Mr Byrne and Dunlop. I said urgently. would be losing there wife, mum, grandmother and I was so lucky that I had -Is mum n that orite? all of my family still left. I don’t know what I will do when someone impor- Did you like Castlebrae? What did I was so scared and anxious of what the answer would be. tant to me dies especially at this time of year. you like / dislike? -Everything’s fine hen. It’s just an old lady has been knocked down and we The next day we got a phone call from the hospital saying that the woman Yeah, I had an amazing time there, think she is deed. had died peacefully in her sleep. I was a bit relieved as the doctor said she it’s not as bad as everyone thinks. The I couldn’t believe it, it’s just going to put a downer on Christmas. I ran died peacefully so she wasn’t in pain. At this point we were ready to go down only thing I disliked about CCHS was through the vennel of cleekim and ran over the field trying to dodge the dirt. to ma nan’s for Christmas dinner but no one could be bothered. My mum our reputation. Oh and when the As I was running I knew I was going the right way as the lights fi the decs and dad just sat infront of the TV and never moved the rest of the Christmas school waste money on all the wrong guided me over the sludgy, smellin field. I ran as fast as I could to ma hoose, holidays...... places. 12 The Chronicle...April 2010

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a hobby or interest into It’s simple. The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce can a business? give you all the support and training you need.

We are running a number of FREE workshops designed for anyone over 50 who is thinking about starting their own business or planning on becoming self-employed. These workshops will help you develop the skills you need to get your business off the ground - everything from developing your ideas, writing your business plan, developing a marketing plan and much more... WORKSHOPS

8th JUNE - Is self employment right for you? 15th JUNE - Ideas generation 22nd JUNE - Starting your own business and generating finance 30th JUNE - Starting your own consultancy 6th JULY - Self employment - Tax, Pension and Benefit Implications 13th JULY - E- Marketing

All workshops will be held at Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Capital House, 2 Festival Square, Edinburgh from 5.30pm - 7.30pm. Please contact Rebecca Burnett for further information on 0131 221 3190 or email [email protected] The Chronicle...April 2010 13

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Local businesses on your doorstep Handy Phone Numbers ACCOUNTANTS POLICE

DAVID SPENCE Craigmillar Police Station 661 3362 21 Blackchapel Close, Edinburgh EH15 3SJ Tel/Fax: 0131 657 1526 Mobile: 07947 277007 Email: [email protected] HEALTH SERVICES EFFICIENT & PRO-ACTIVE SERVICES – ACCOUNTS, TAX RETURNS, TAX PLANNING, PAYROLL & VAT. Craigmillar Medical Group 536 9500 CHEMISTS Durham Road Surgery 669 1153 Milton Surgery 549 7300 JOHN A. SMITH – DISPENSING CHEMIST Be WELL 657 4174 96 Niddrie Mains Road, Edinburgh EH16 4DT Tel: 0131 661 2578 Castle Project 669 0068 FREE PRESCRIPTION & DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE. PHONE 0131 661 2578 FOR FURTHER DETAILS. Greendykes Clinic 536 9650 Health Opportunities Team 468 4600 CHIROPODY/PODIATRY Link In 661 1240 SCHOOLS & NURSERIES THISTLE FOOTCARE Tudsbery Centre, Thistle Foundation, Niddrie Mains Road Tel: 0131 656 7345 Mobile: 07960 918 314 Brunstane Primary 669 4498 CORNS, CALLUS, NAIL CONDITIONS, SPORTS PODIATRY BIOMECHANICS Castleview Primary 661 6429 Newcraighall Primary 669 3598 COMPUTER & INTERNET SERVICES Niddrie Mill Primary 468 7025 FUTURE WEBB St. Francis Primary 621 6600 Local Business Castlebrae High 661 1282 Mobile: 07958 716 666 Email: [email protected] Web: www.futurewebb.co.uk Holy Rood High 661 5871 COMPLETE WEB DESIGN SERVICE – TRAINING & PC REPAIR SERVICE BY www.wizzengineer.co.uk Portobello High 669 2324 DRIVING INSTRUCTOR Moffat Early Years Campus 661 1401 Greengables Nursery 669 9083 LOCAL DRIVING INSTRUCTOR Haystax Nursery - Kidzcare 657 0590 Mobile: 07958 716 666 E: [email protected] Web: www.learndrivingskill.co.uk EXCELLENT RATES - BLOCK BOOKING DISCOUNT AVAILABLE- GAIN DRIVING SKILL TODAY - CITY OF EDINBURGH COUNCIL PROVIDED BY ADI INSTRUCTOR GARDEN & OUTDOORS Main Switchboard 200 2000 Local Office 529 3111 JR WITHERSPOON GARDEN SERVICES Craigmillar Social Work Dept 657 8500 Local Business Mobile: 07904 957754 E: [email protected] CHURCHES GARDENING SERVICES - PRIVATE & COMMERCIAL - OVER 25 YRS EXPERIENCE Bristo Memorial 657 3266 MUIR GARDEN SERVICES Local Business Niddrie Community Church 669 9400 Tel: 0131 661 5381 Mobile: 07986 922540 Richmond Craigmillar 661 6561 LOCAL GARDENER – 25 YRS EXPERIENCE – COMPETITIVE RATES - NO JOB TOO SMALL. St. Martin’s 657 9894 HANDYMAN SERVICES St. Teresa’s 661 2185 Thistle (Robin Chapel) 661 3366 ANDERSON WINDOW BLINDS & HANDYMAN SERVICES Wellsprings 657 1169 Local Business Mobile: 07733 166441 Email: [email protected] MISCELLANEOUS BLIND FITTING & HANDYMAN SERVICES – NO JOB TOO SMALL - FULLY INSURED – FREE ESTIMATES. K&L BLINDS Adult Learning Link 652 6324 Local Business Adult Student Link 661 1282 Tel: 0131 661 0115 Mobile: 07859 146632 LOCAL FAMILY BUISNESS-FREE HOME ESTIMATES-FREE DELIVERY-FREE FITTING-ALL WORK GUARANTEED ARTSPACE 659 4759 Bingham Community Centre 669 8778 HEALTH & HOMECARE Bingham & District 50+ Project 669 0606 Brenda House 669 6676 BLUEBIRD CARE EDINBURGH SOUTH Business Community Connections 652 0367 13, Castlebrae Business Centre, Peffer Place, Edinburgh EH16 4BB T: 0131 258 5006 M: 07766 826 041 FAX: 0131 258 9609 E: [email protected] www.bluebirdcare.co.uk Business Incubator Project 661 8888 A REALISTIC ALTERNATIVE TO RESIDENTIAL CARE. COMPLETELY FLEXIBLE. GOOD OLD-FASHIONED SERVICE. Caring in Craigmillar/Phonelink 659 2920 Castlerock Edinvar Housing Association 657 0600 NEWSPAPERS & PRINTERS Castleview Community Centre 661 4064 PRINT VISION Chronicle 661 0791 Unit 12, Peffer Place, Castlebrae Business Centre, Edinburgh EH16 4BB Craigmillar Ability Network 661 6677 Tel: 0131 661 8855 Email: [email protected] Community Learning & Development East 661 6834 FOR ALL YOUR PRINTING NEEDS - HEADED PAPER - POSTERS - LEAFLETS - ETC. Craigmillar Adventure Project (CAPRO) 652 1557 PLUMBERS Craigmillar Arts Centre 669 8432 Craigmillar Credit Union 661 9942 AQUARIUS PLUMBING 15% DISCOUNT FOR LOCAL RESIDENTS (SEE WEBSITE) Craigmillar Library 529 5597 Unit 5, Peffer Business Centre, North Peffer Place, Edinburgh EH16 4U2 Tel: 0131 656 6700 657 0500 MOB: 07532 160 657 E:[email protected] www.holyroodplumbers.co.uk Craigmillar Neighbourhood Alliance WOMEN PLUMBERS - GAS SAFE REGISTERED - NO CALL OUT CHARGE - FREE ESTIMATES Cre8te 661 8888 FIRST CALL PLUMBING Edinburgh Childcare Information Service 0800 032 0323 Tel: 0131 669 1007 MOB: 07831 632 799 E: [email protected] www.firstplumber.com Hays Business Centre 657 9475 LOCAL PLUMBER - NO CALL OUT CHARGE - 24-hr EMERGENCY - FREE ESTIMATES - Haywired Community IT Centre 669 1554 FULLY INSURED - ALL TRADES Hunters Hall Housing Co-op 657 3379 PROPERTY/LETTING AGENCIES Jack Kane Centre (Community Wing) 657 1595 Jack Kane Centre (Sports Wing) 669 0404 ABACUS PROPERTY Lloyds TSB Bank 661 2070 8-10 St Andrews Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AF Tel: 0131 661 5769 Mobile:07952 106 319 E: [email protected] Magdalene Community Centre 669 8760 LOCAL LETTING AGENTS AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Space Reception 659 4700 Thistle Foundation 661 3366 Say you saw it in the Chronicle! The Venchie 621 7620 To advertise your business here, call 661 0791 or e: [email protected] Work Track 620 6220 20% discount for CDBA members on all entries 14 The Chronicle...April 2010 Hands-on healing in Newcraighall

“We have two Healing Rooms in and is now doing a college so we came to see it and, as I’m an Edinburgh, on a Thursday night at course in media after doing architect by training, we had a Wellsprings and one in Moredun maybe nothing for years and good idea of what might be needed. also on a Thursday during the day, being really down. “It was in a state, it had been a based at a NHS Community “When people come in, they fill piano workshop for 15 years and Health Flat. in a simple form saying what their although it was kept dry it was “We have been open in need is, what their name is and alive with rats, had been quite run Edinburgh for four years and we any other relevant information.” down and had suffered some van- have seen quite a few hundred Formerly an electronics engi- dalism but we felt quite strongly people come through the door. neer, Tom and his wife Marjory that God was saying that we Each week there are usually about got involved in Healing Rooms should acquire it.” half a dozen people come in after returning from a spell in the David and his wife Maggie sold between the two rooms.” U.S. Having started reading about their house and in March 2007 Volunteers come from different and researching healing, Tom moved into a flat at the back of the churches and receive training came across the 80-year-old building. In addition to their own before taking part in the sessions. teachings of a man called John G. living accommodation, the reno- The Healing Room is open to Lake. vations created a large hall people of all faiths and beliefs. Tom continued: “When we came upstairs, guest space for visitors to Tom continued: “We have people back to Scotland, I asked a friend Wellsprings and also the Prayer By Babs Burnett Anderson. There are now over just walking by who see the sign to get me a car and the previous Room which is used by Healing 30 Healing Rooms across the and come in, people from the vil- owner of car was called John Lake Rooms. MANY PEOPLE MAY NOT BE country, all part of the interna- lage have come in, we’ve also got - I thought God was definitely try- The new space created also pro- aware of what a Healing Room tional organisation. a leaflet with stories of people ing to tell me something! We were vided new accommodation for the is and even those who do may Tom Morrow, Director of who have been healed.” initially based at a church in Regius Christian Primary school not know that the service is Healing Rooms for Edinburgh, He continued: “One such story Oxgangs and then moved to which was formerly based in offered locally at the told the Chronicle: “Anyone can is of a man who suffered from Wellsprings, David and Maggie Newington. Wellsprings Community in come to the Healing Room for depression and after seeing that have been very supportive.” David added: “Newcraighall has Newcraighall. physical or emotional healing. another person who had depres- David Hewitt, leader of the made the Wellsprings community The idea of Healing Rooms, They can just appear, no appoint- sion featured on the leaflet, Wellsprings Community, very welcome.” where people can go and ask for ment needed, we don’t really came to the Healing Rooms. He explained how the community More information about Healing emotional or physical healing, advertise as we’ve found the best was suicidal, he was going to came about: “My daughter origi- Rooms and Wellsprings can be began in the US in 1999, and advertising is word of mouth take his own life. He came in nally saw that the building was up found online at: was introduced to Scotland in when people hear the stories of and God met him and impacted for sale in 2006. We had hoped to www.healingrooms-scotland.com 2004 by Steven and Helen others who have been healed. his life. He went on to college open a house of prayer for a while, and www.wellspring.uk.net VOICE FROM VOICE FROM WESTMINSTER THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT The National Health Service was created al to rebuild on the site of the old Royal The schools in Craigmillar do a great The school building is old and needs to by the great reforming post-war govern- Infirmary. job. However, if you believe the papers be replaced. The commitment to a new ment, founded on the principle that people I have had occasion over the years to you’d think Scottish education was in high school is welcome but it’s under- should have access to health care accord- visit family in hospital, including again in meltdown. In the past few years I’ve had standable in the current financial situa- ing to their need, not their ability to pay. recent months. I never cease to be many opportunities to visit our local tion that it can’t be done just yet. Funding has been an issue from the astounded by what the NHS can achieve, schools and I have always been Notwithstanding that, Castlebrae is beginning. The National Health Service and by the quality of service provided by impressed by the good work carried out doing a grand job and in some practical was only two years old when its budget staff in our hospitals. Indeed I suspect that by staff and by the commitment of both areas is outstanding. was capped - 60 years ago this year, a ceil- our main Edinburgh hospitals, the Royal pupils and parents. Local primary schools are also doing ing was first imposed on NHS spending. and the Western, are among the best in the The success of our schools extends remarkably well. Just last month In the decades that followed, the NHS world. beyond formal teaching in the class- Castleview got a highly impressive has not always been properly funded. We Of course, we must continue to increase room. Our schools have much to con- review. Staff and pupils were praised can all remember back to when waiting spending on our health services, with an tribute to the community whether that is for their hard work and motivation. The times and waiting lists were long and get- emphasis on preventative medicine and through breakfast and after school clubs school can be proud. The new Niddrie ting longer, and there was a crisis every education. or through sporting facilities. Mill/St Francis School is a great new winter. In those days, people questioned More people than ever seem to be seri- Earlier this year, I paid a visit to the complex. The staff and pupils are equal- whether the NHS could survive. ously damaging themselves through brand new Holy Rood school. The new ly committed. The modern, up to date We now see Scotland’s NHS in much excessive alcohol consumption, not to building looks fantastic. What’s more, facilities are a massive improvement on better health. Since 1997, health spending mention the scale of our drugs problem. the school must be based on one of the the old schools. And, Newcraighall may per head doubled to record levels. Nearly a quarter of all deaths in Scotland best sites of any school in Scotland. be the smallest, but is by no means the Thousands of extra health staff were are attributed to smoking. And every year, There are outstanding views across least. employed, with better pay, improved con- hundreds of people get diseases that we Duddingston Loch and Arthur’s Seat. Other organisations and individuals in ditions, and new facilities to work in, know perfectly well how to prevent, like Things appear to be going very well and around Craigmillar are also doing owing to the largest building programme HIV. with the new building despite the odd great work for our youngsters. The for decades. The National Health Service is one of our glitch with the boiler during the recent Children’s Centre, the Moffat complex I recall well the campaign that we mount- proudest achievements. In these tough cold snap. The relationship that Holy and many more all work together to care ed to secure the building of the new economic times it will be vital to ensure Rood has built with a school in the vil- for and support the kids in the commu- Edinburgh Royal Infirmary at Little that the NHS can thrive in the years ahead. lage of Legho in Tanzania is inspiring. nity. We are well served by them all. France. At the time, a lot of the senior Gavin Strang MP I also met recently with the new head Kenny MacAskill MSP medical professionals supported a propos- Edinburgh East teacher and other staff at Castlebrae. Edinburgh East & Musselburgh 15 The Chronicle...April 2010 Eco-friendly entertainment at ARTSPACE

‘House of Hope’

By Samantha Taylor and a solar panel on top of it. this kind of thing." EDINBURGH STAR Y.F.C. Edinburgh Star are now based at There's a dynamo (generator) House of Hope, currently hotly- ARE looking for players age Duddingston Playing Fields, next Pedal power took on a new which means people can cycle tipped and hoping to play at this groups 2001, 2002, 2003 and the to Holy Rood High School meaning last month as ART- when the films are showing." year's T in the Park, talked to the age groups 2004 and 2005 for grounds. Ian continued: "We have SPACE played host to an envi- The event appeared at ART- Chronicle before the event. Band our Soccer Schools programme. excellent facilities and we are ronmentally-friendly 'cycle-in' SPACE as part of a collaboration member Joshua Rogers said: "We The club's Ian Fergus explained: looking to offer young players in cinema event. between Alchemy Arts and do mainly indie, with a little bit of "We are an SFA Quality Mark Club this large catchment area the best The 'green' film screen, known Phonica, who run live music rock in there. Tonight we're doing and offer excellent coaching opportu- possible start to there football pathway. as the Guerrilla, which is powered shows. a cover of I Got a Feeling by nities for young players. Our club "Our 2001 team plays in the Pele entirely by bikes, even came com- There were four bands playing Black Eyed Peas, and some focus is on Soccer 7s and 4s, football Division and is looking to recruit plete with a bicycle-fuelled ice on the Guerrilla's premier. Emma Florence and the Machine too." only and structured coaching on a goalkeeper and couple of out- cream freezer. Coleman, of ARTSPACE and The next screening for the cycle- Technique and Skills is our priority. field players to enhance this It is now set to travel all around the Phonica, described some of the in cinema will be on Easter Our coaching is led by our UEFA already talented squad. This squad capital showcasing different films. bands that were playing, she said: Sunday, across the city at North Licensed Head Coach who is support- is coached twice weekly and is Kate MacKay, of organisers "The last band is like hip-hop, Edinburgh Arts. Kate said: "It's ed by team coaches. going to Belgium this year, we Alchemy Arts, explained to the spoken word kind of thing. It's going to show old animations and "All are SFA qualified, First Aid also hope to start a second team at Chronicle how it works: "There something a bit different than just films, maybe silent films. We trained and fully Enhanced Disclosure this age group by the summer so are three trailers attached to the guitar stuff. The second band, might have a dance along checked members. We will also sup- please get in touch if interested." bikes which carry the equipment. House of Hope, is an up-and-com- Bollywood thing too. We're going port new coaches wanting to progress For further information contact It has a battery that stores power ing band, it's good to showcase to be in different places every time." and join our ambitious club." Edinburgh Star on 07897 814601. picturethis £50 voucher to be won This competition is brought to you by The Chronicle, with sponsorship from PARC. To grab your opportunity to win a prize, all you have to do is tell us WHERE THE PICTURE ON THE RIGHT IS and send your answer with your name and address to: The Chronicle, Unit 9a, Castlebrae Business Centre, Peffer Place, Edinburgh EH16 4BB or e: [email protected]

£50 of vouchers will be on offer to the person who guesses correctly. If there’s more than one person with the correct answer, we’ll draw for the winner. All the photos have been taken by the Chronicle to get everyone looking at Craigmillar in a different way. Closing date: Monday 19th April 2010 SPONSORED BY

March answer: ARTSPACE carpark Winner: Margaret Greiger, Castleview Drive 16 The Chronicle...April 2010 ...sport...sport...sport...sport...sport...sport... THAT’S A RELIEF! Castlebrae gets sporty

By Lauren Witherspoon Castlebrae. Over 100 pupils, staff and adult students took part in this event and helped SPORT RELIEF FEVER HIT Castlebrae raise £345 for Sports Relief. The enthusi- with staff and students donning their gym asm of the kids to raise money for such a kit and getting sporty for charity. worthy cause was second to none and those The school teamed up with Edinburgh who took part and helped organise, co-ordi- Leisure to provide a sports festival. nate and deliver the event should be proud Students took part in tennis, football, golf, of a job well done” rowing, and boxing, before setting off on Castlebrae PE teacher, Kelly Salter, was the Sports Relief mile in the afternoon. delighted to see everyone at the school take Edinburgh Leisure visited the school to part in the activities. She said: “It’s great to promote their Energize card. The card, see so many students passionate about aimed at 12 to 18 year olds, gives discounts Sport Relief. There is definitely some sport- on a number of activities at Edinburgh ing talent here at Castlebrae and today was Leisure sites as well as cinema and bowling. a chance to put that to good use.” Alan Reid, Sports Co-ordinator at Photos clockwise from top: students start off Castlebrae told the Chronicle: “Fridays fes- on the Sport Relief mile; Joe Murray spars for tival of sport and Sports Relief mile event Sport Relief; Hotshot Kevin Finlay; Student’s was well received by the youngsters at rowing power; Student on target for charity

Do you or your team have a sports story/event you’d like to see covered in the Chronicle? Call 0131 661 0791 or email: [email protected]