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Number 168 July/August 2019

SPEAKING UP FOR , LOCHEND AND Published by The Ripple on behalf of the community INSIDE MP calls for drug Volunteer drivers New starts law changes wanted at Ripple page 3 page 4 page 7

ORGANISATIONS FOCUS ON AFFORDABLE FAMILY FUN

By Liz Fer guson Lochend Football Academy and families at the annual children get the chance to show how magical science is offering Football & influx of festivals. It can learn how to perform a little can be. All the tricks can A RANGE of groups are Training Camps 9.30am- be hard to know where to magic themselves and receive also be performed by the lined up to provide summer 2.30pm Monday to Thursday start with all that’s on offer a balloon animal to take children when they go home. activities for local children and 9.30am-12.30 Fridays and right now you may be home. Games With James sees Potato rocket launcher and young people designed throughout the school overwhelmed by choice or by award-winning comedian and anyone? to ensure the school holidays holidays starting 1st July. The cost or even by that feeling UK board gaming champion can be both fun-filled and camps are open to 7-14 years that our festivals, wonderful James Cook invite children For more information on the affordable. olds and costs range from £20 as they are, are really for to play board games live on above activities contact Craigentinny Community daily to £65 weekly. tourists and for us it’s just stage. Buckaroo, Guess Who, providers on: Centre is offering a playscheme And while there may be no about getting through the Hungry Hippos and more The Ripple 0131 554 0422 for P1’s to P7’s from Tuesday such thing as a free lunch, crowds and business done like you've never seen Craigentinny Community 9th till Thursday 25th July, the Ripple is offering free as usual. it before. Suitable for age 10am till 2pm, with a wide dinners at their Tuesday and However, come August four 5+. At Play With Your Centre 0131 661 9404 range of activities including Thursday evening youth weeks of school holidays may Food award-winning Irish Lochend Football Academy arts, crafts and games. On clubs. Young people from P7 be starting to drain your ideas comedian and scientist Donal 07802 883641 Wednesdays 10, 17 and 24th to S4 are invited to join their on how to affordably keep Vaughan performs amazing Free Festival 2019 July from 6.30-8pm young open programme at Restalrig your children safe, happy and tricks using only things you www.freefestival.co.uk/shows people from 10 to 14 years Lochend Community Hub entertained. The Free Festival find around the house to can enjoy baking, sports and running from 6-8pm on might be just the answer so games at the Craigentinny Tuesdays and Thursdays from here is just a small sample of Centre and on 25th July 16th July through to 8th what’s available at city centre families are welcome to sample August. Tuesday sessions also venues. life on the wild side on a day offer arts, games and other CeilidhKids at the Fringe trip to Blair Drummond Safari activities while on Thursdays provides fun Scottish dancing Park. it’s chill out with food and for all the family, suitable for a film time. families with children aged For those who wish to 3-7, Fantastic Magic Show travel further afield there will For Kids promises lots of be lots to entertain children fun-filled participation where M c G

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Y 24 hour friendly established Tel: 0131 554 7777 service over 20 years Mob: 07508 178 433 139/141 Restalrig Road ‘Safe secure EH7 6HW and reliable’ 2 The Speaker, July/August 2019 HAVE YOUR SAY!

THE SPEAKER is published by If you would like your letter The Ripple Project to appear in the paper it 198 Restalrig Road South must include your name and Edinburgh EH7 6DZ address, although these may Scottish Charity No. SC024973 be withheld from publication Company Limited by Guarantee No. 214364 at your request. 0131 554 0422 Say what you think – write to The Speaker. [email protected] Send your letters to: www.rippleproject.co.uk The Editor, The Speaker, Raise local issues, celebrate achievements, put forward 198 Restalrig Road South suggestions. Help make sure The Speaker is the kind of Edinburgh EH7 6DZ Editor Liz Ferguson newspaper you want to read. E-mail: [email protected] Phone 07876 178734 Email [email protected] Post 198 Restalrig Road South Lothian Region Bus Cuts Edinburgh EH7 6DZ Dear Speaker who stay there and rely on they’re for tourists and better Advertising Donna Gilfillan it? areas. But we can’t have that! and Production 019 68 673229 I am writing to you to Lothian Region has not Paul Maher [email protected] complain about Lothian consulted anyone about it. Fleming Place Region bus services. The Once again the area which I The Speaker invited Copy deadline • number 15 bus which goes up stay in gets its services cut. to comment for September issue Friday 16th August where I stay in Fleming Place There are plenty services for on this issue. However at the is to be stopped. What about certain areas which could be time of going to press they had Printed by D C Thomson & Co Ltd the OAPs and disabled people cut, ie 26 44, 23 and 27. But failed to respond. Distributed by Out of Hand

The Speaker is an independent community newspaper which aims to provide a forum for free speech and debate, an effective method COMMUNITY POLICE REPORTING of information sharing and a way to celebrate local achievement. Community involvement is key to its success and any individual Hello from your local with a unique register number numerous events advertised or group within Restalrig, Lochend, Craigentinny and surrounding Community Officers: • your contact details and on Twitter that you can attend local area is welcome to contribute. The views expressed in The registered number being with your bike to have this Speaker are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the SUMMER is here, well maybe! passed to the Bike Register done, otherwise please phone Editor or Publishers. Please note copy may be edited. Any letter or Thinking of enjoying a bit of along with a description of your Community Police article which is considered libellous will not be published and cycling? Please remember to your bike and any other Officers at or individuals will be protected from personal attack. wear a helmet. Lock your identifying features Police Stations and we can cycle even when leaving it for • the Bike Register will arrange to have this done. a short period of time. We contact you via email Any questions? Come along recommend using a D-lock providing details of your to our Police and a cable to pass it through account. Surgery at The the front wheel. We would Bike marking greatly Hub – Coffee encourage you to have your improves our chances of with a Copper at bike marked and join the Bike identifying an owner of a 12.30pm on Register. The process involves: recovered bike as well as 12th July and • your bike being marked deterring thieves. There are 2nd August. The Speaker, July/August 2019 3

THE DRUGS LAWS DON’T WORK Take up an interest with Ecas Tommy 1100 drugs-related deaths in So what mechanisms were Ecas is a local charity that supports people with physical Sheppard MP Scotland in 2018. there to review if the laws are disabilities. We run a wide range of weekly activities for Edinburgh Overwhelmingly these working in Scotland? I am one throughout the year, such as art and crafts, swimming, yoga, East writes: deaths did not need to happen. of a cross party group of MPs seated tai chi, music for fun, reading and creative writing and Too many neighbourhoods who pushed for and secured a computing. Our activities are open to physically disabled IF YOU’VE been suffer from the side effects comprehensive inquiry into the adults living in Edinburgh and the Lothians and cost £2.30 able to bear of the drugs trade. Antisocial subject by the Scottish Affairs per week. following the circus that is the behaviour in stairs and in the Select Committee. Over recent All groups are fully accessible and led by fully trained staff, Tory party leadership contest, street. Used needles and other weeks, I and other committee materials are supplied and no experience necessary. Clients you might now be thinking paraphernalia discarded in members have been hearing who meet a set criteria may also get assistance with that pretty much all politicians communal spaces. Thefts and evidence from experts, people transport costs. Why not give one of our activities a try? have taken drugs at some house break-ins to pay for with lived experience of Ecas also provides a befriending service as well as small point. Cannabis, cocaine and addictions. All of these have addiction and others about grants for non-statutory items to assist those with disabilities. even the odd opium pipe at an an impact, often on people how drugs policies in Scotland To find out more or join an activity please call Janice on Iranian wedding have made who have no connection have been working – or, 0131 475 2344 or email [email protected] appearances. to drugs. The toll on our maybe more accurately, not Of course not all politicians communities is sometimes all working. have taken drugs – but plenty too easy to see and dealers, People are dying. We can’t have. And that is what is so people whose criminal keep waging a War on Drugs galling about the hypocrisy of activities often extend well that we can never, ever win. those defending the outdated beyond drugs, don’t have We have to move away from laws governing controlled to care. criminalisation and adopt substances. The assumption It’s all too tempting as an harm reduction as our chief underneath this seems to MP not to speak out on the aim. In countries where this be something like this: need to change approach. has been done, such as Canada it’s fine for a public school Opponents and journalists in or Portugal, the number of boy to dabble. A youthful search of an easy headline drugs-related deaths has indiscretion. But woe betide can distort views in order reduced sharply and, contrary the kid from Lochend or to discredit. But I took the to what opponents of this Restalrig who is caught in decision over a year ago that approach claim, there has been possession. this really matters – so much no increase in the number A drugs conviction can so that it was time to put my of people consuming drugs. blight a young person’s head above the parapet. The Only 10% of users have a prospects, condemning them main law regulating controlled problem with drugs. It’s very to the choice between low paid substances hasn’t seriously often those who have already work or a life of crime. Over been reviewed for nearly fifty been let down by society who and over, conviction after years. The Misuse of Drugs become ‘problem’ users – conviction, this unhappy truth Act 1971 is no longer fit for people who’ve experienced is borne out. And of course purpose. Drugs laws still trauma in childhood or who drugs kill people. As I write operate on a whole UK basis have mental illness. Surely this, the latest statistics aren’t and are set at Westminster that’s sign enough that our out but it’s widely expected (not at the Scottish priority needs to be treatment that they’ll show more than Parliament). rather than punishment?

Craigentinny & Meadowbank Community Council Report

AT OUR AGM last month we We have not decided yet our neighbours to check what reviewed all the work which where it will be but we will be actions we can take together. was carried out by the looking for somewhere with a One important point of note Community Council and where little easier access via bus lines is the Community Council we thought we could do more. etc. Also we will meet at 7pm election in the autumn where We hope that with the new which should make it you can Neighbourhood Networks easier for residents of choose to initiative we will be able the area to take part. get more to get in touch with more In the next few involved organisations in the area and months we will be with the work together to help each looking at more community. other in helping residents here. clean-ups, more There will be We also decided that we engagement with local groups more information available on will be looking for a different to see where we can help and the council website about how To advertise in the Speaker contact Donna on 01968 673229 or email venue to have our meetings. we will also be working with to proceed. [email protected] 4 The Speaker, July/August 2019 News from St Margaret’s News from St Ninian’s

Summer Services the meantime we continue Sunday Best DURING the summer our as normal. If you have any CONGRATULATIONS to the Family Services will be led by enquiries please phone the children, pictured right in our Locum Minister Douglas church office on 0131 554 all their splendour, after Paterson and the Worship Team 7400 or check our websites:- receiving First Holy and will consist of our usual https://twitter.com/SRestalrig , Communion recently at variety of inclusive worship. https://stmargarets Sunday Mass. Please do join us if you can. restalrig.co.uk/ or our new Sunshine from Leith Our search for a new minister email address – info@ At 1pm on Sunday, 28th continues and because of stmargarets-restalrig.co.uk July a coach will pick up the holidays we will be Have a wonderful summer. partygoers outside the church interviewing applicants in We hope the weather is kind to and whisk them to the August for the position. In you all, whatever you do. grounds of Nunraw Abbey near Haddington. A family picnic is being organised by parishioners of St Mary’s, News from Willowbrae Leith. walls, the Vatican's majestic from each other have lain Parish Church Summer Holidays halls”. The highlight of a since 1978 his predecessors, We hope the sun finds you rather chaotic museums Paul VI and John Paul I. Pope THE schools have broken up information. as all of us, including our tour was the Sistine Chapel. Francis speaks most weeks on for the summer holidays and In June we held an informal groups, take a well-earned St Peter’s Basilica is vast a Wednesday and there were most of the organisations and social evening when one of summer break. The Over-60s with the centre open to the ranks of plastic seats in St groups who use our premises our members, Andrew Carter, meet again on Mondays in thousands of visitors and Peter’s Square – but to reserve for their meetings are also gave an informative and August and the Open Door pilgrims. There were pews at tickets you have to fax. The having a break after what amusing talk about the church re-opens Friday, 26th July. the side aisles including at prize for climbing 551 steps has been, for us, a somewhat in Scotland in earlier centuries. Roman Holiday the tomb of dear St John Paul of various widths and different few months because In common with other On a first visit to the Eternal II, the first Pope to visit these tightness to the top of the of the closure of our upper Church of Scotland City last month, a parishioner islands. Behind the statue of dome – the lift only goes hall. We thank all our hall congregations we are now visited, as the old hymn says, St Andrew were steps to the halfway – is looking down users for their patience during looking at decisions taken “The golden roof, the marble tombs of other Popes; across St Peter’s Square. this time. As yet we don’t during the recent General have a firm date for the hall Assembly which have the becoming available for use, potential to reshape the Church but we are making plans for of Scotland at every level. booking arrangements etc. We wish all who lead our VOLUNTEER DRIVERS WANTED Please watch our notice organisations and all the boards and website school staff who educate our Can you spare a couple of hours a week? https://www.willowbrae children a restful break during parishchurch.org/ for the summer. We are currently looking for volunteer drivers to assist staff in providing transport for our members to and from the Seagrove Centre in Fleming Place News from Christ Church If you have your own transport and are interested in joining us, please get in touch IT’S time for Holiday Bible Also this July we’ll be on 0131 553 714 7 Club - well, soon it will be. running our drop-in café “Backpackers” will be running again. The church (in Britwell North Edinburgh Dementia Care e Meet at Restalrig Lochend at the end of the school Crescent) will be open Tuesday Community Hub 198 Restalrig Road South holidays from Tuesday 6th to Thursday from 10am until Edinburgh EH7 6DZ August to Friday 9th August, 2pm. Pop in and have a cuppa This is a fun, friendly, FREE from 10am till 12.30pm. It’s and a chat with Ray, Kathleen exercise session for mothers, for P1-P7s, but there will and the gang. DOORS OPEN DAY parents and guardians with also be a family fun day on On Sundays we’ll be looking children in buggies. Suitable Saturday 10th August from at the life of the famous King 28th September for all levels of ability. 11am till 1pm for all the David in the mornings, 10am – 4pm For more information family. There’ll be free including a David v Goliath St Margaret’s www.jogscotland.org.uk breakfast on Tuesday to Friday sermon on 14th July. And if Restalrig Please contact the leader from 9am and lunch on you’re interested in learning before attending your Saturday. As always there will about the life of Jesus and why first session [email protected] be lots of fun, games, crafts he is so important to the Come along to Restalrig Village on Doors Open and drama as the children history of the world, a good Day to enjoy a guided tour of the Village, learn about Jesus. You should place to start is by reading the Churchyard, Church and St ’s Chapel. receive a registration form Gospel of Mark; and then Films will be running in the church and we’ll through your door, but if not come along on Sunday have a new attraction this year, Music from To advertise in the Speaker just pop along (an adult will evenings at 6pm as we start a St Margaret’s. contact Donna on need to sign). new series from Mark’s gospel. 01968 673229 or email [email protected] The Speaker, July/August 2019 5 News from your local Councillors

Cllr Joan Griffiths Cllr John Mclellan

PEOPLE Know positively support them in their work STUDENT flats sale. The timescale for work on St How supports locally. If you would like to know get a lot of Margaret’s House has also lengthened children, young more about the organisation’s people very hot and whatever plans are produced people and their work log on to their web site under the collar nothing will happen for at least two families in www.peopleknowhow.org Since the but being so years, but the go-ahead for building on northeast new garden waste service started in close to the city the Boots site could make the volume Edinburgh October 2018 Edinburgh residents centre with good of student accommodation more of an transition from have helped the Council turn more bus services, issue in the future. One advantage primary to high than 9,000 tonnes of garden waste Road is student developments have is that most school. They into compost, which is used on proving highly students don’t have a car, so more help individuals access the digital farms, gardens and green spaces. If attractive to developers. A block of homes on Meadowbank is likely to world and assist communities to you want to have your garden waste 198 study bedrooms on the site of the lead to more pressure on parking. The shape their areas through community picked up during our next service old Boots opticians was approved in architects’ answer is to turn it into a consultations and empowerment. year which starts in October, you June and there are concerns that “cycling village” in which bike use is Their work has really developed should sign up or renew your permit with student flats included in the encouraged and parking spaces limited, in the Craigentinny area over the by 2pm on 7th August. The Council permissions in principle granted for but whether the new residents buy into past few years and they remain has held the subscription fee at £25. the Meadowbank Stadium and St the concept remains to be seen. The committed to the local community. Letters will be sent to all (67,435) Margaret’s House sites it will change proposed introduction of controlled They are a charitable organisation current users of the service advising the character of the district beyond parking in North Willowbrae might and have developed links with them on how to renew their permits. recognition. With the universities help, but then residents will have to Craigentinny & Meadowbank Letters will also go out to households becoming an increasingly vital part of pay for a permit to park on the street. Community Council. They were who are eligible for the service but the Edinburgh economy, the students And with no current plan to include originally based at Edinburgh Palette, haven't yet signed up or expressed have to live somewhere, but tensions Marionville in the controlled zone, any Meadowbank House and have been an interest. A wee heads up – next are inevitable when there is an equally overspill parking from Meadowbank keen to move back to the area. year there will be a change to the pressing shortage of affordable housing. is likely to be towards Restalrig with They were delighted to be offered May Day Bank Holiday from Monday In response to this, the team working pedestrian access through an extended accommodation as part of the 4th May to Friday 8th May to on the masterplan for the land Clockmill Lane to Smokey Brae. Student Community Space in the London coincide with the 75th Anniversary surrounding the new sports centre has flats or not, the district will be busier Road Mixed Use Development. Many of VE Day. Hope you have a lovely ruled out student flats and is instead than ever. Contact 0131 529 4395 or students routinely work with People summer break. Contact me at concentrating on homes for rent and [email protected] Know How by way of volunteering, [email protected] or internships and placements and on 0131 529 4019. Cllr Alex Staniforth Cllr Ian Campbell AS OF this Now I feel that if I leave the committee month I will I have two years experience on it to no longer be help advise on policy and process but UNFORTUNATELY Councillor Campbell is currently a permanent the freedom to better advise on how unwell and therefore unable to contribute a column member of to achieve a specific result. If anyone to the Speaker or to attend any of his surgeries. Any Planning wishes to email me on any forthcoming constituents who are in need of assistance should Committee. This planning matter they can expect me to contact Debbie Marshall on 0131 469 3781 or at is a decision I’ve say more than, “I cannot comment,” in [email protected] taken because the future! I was at Edinburgh Pride on our ward is in a Saturday 22nd and was thrilled to see unique position – with Ian Campbell so many people supporting an inclusive unwell, all three of the currently and diverse Scotland in the nation’s regularly active councillors are on capital. The announcement the Planning Committee. This means the Thursday before that the government ward has an unusually strong voice on was delaying any reform to the Gender applications once they actually come Recognition Act and that it would before the committee but that before be weak reform even when it does BACK AT THE HUB! they do – during the complaints process eventually come was, of course, chief etc – there is no ward councillor that in many people’s minds. I hope the Welfare rights, housing and debt advice is in a position to comment on them. SNP government will change its at the Restalrig Lochend Community Hub This has been frustrating for the mind, accept the result of the original Wednesdays ward, in particular with controversial extensive public consultation and send applications such as the recent student a message that they want Scotland to To book an appointment with James call accommodation on London Road. I be a progressive nation. Summer is Granton Information Centre on have endeavoured to give general coming so I’ll end by wishing you all 0131 551 2459 or 0131 552 0458 advice regarding how planning works a happy summer season. If you have Free, impartial and confidential advice but have been unable to take a public anything you need contact me at stance on forthcoming applications. [email protected] 6 The Speaker, July/August 2019 VOLUNTEERS RECOGNISED FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO DEMENTIA CARE

Susan Cull, Manager of Our gardening project has North Edinburgh Dementia also been supported by pupils Care writes: from Craigentinny Primary School as we continue with WE CELEBRATED Volunteers our intergenerational work. Week throughout the first week We have found that our in June to show appreciation members are engaging well to all our dedicated volunteers with the pupils and look who are at the heart of our forward to welcoming them service delivery. back after the summer. Each day our members are supported by volunteers who bring a wealth of skills to support staff in delivering stimulating activities as well as administration, kitchen support and our volunteer chef who prepares and cooks lunch meals for all our members Intergenerational work clearly enjoyed by all each day. Our volunteers were awarded Cath Norman recognised for Brian Roberts and Susan opportunity to enjoy the contribution to garden project with a certificate and a small Davidson also received a company of our staff and gift to show our thanks for award as she has been the Special Recognition Inspiring members. If you have your giving us their time and pioneer of our gardening Volunteer Award for their own transport and are engaging so well with our project and encourages all our essential role in our service interested in joining us, members. Some of our members to engage with this delivery. please get in touch on volunteers have also been therapeutic activity. Cath has If you can spare a couple 0131 553 7147. awarded a Special Recognition supported our members in of hours a week, we are Inspiring Volunteer Award by transforming our garden to a currently looking for Volunteer Edinburgh for all bright, peaceful place full of volunteer drivers to assist their hard work. colour, scent and wildlife. Now Brian Roberts and Susan staff in providing transport Cath Norman received an we just need the good weather Davidson received Inspiring for our members to and from environmental/conservation to enjoy it! Volunteer awards the centre. This is a great

Knitting Network

Every Tuesday 2-3.30pm Restalrig Lochend Community Hub

Hear all the latest yarns at this thriving fun and friendly group for all ages. So whether you’re a needle novice or a knitting wiz whatever your age and whatever your knowledge come along to your local Knitting Network for the chance to chill, chat, socialise and get creative over a tea or coffee. Needles, wool and patterns are available free to get you started or you can bring your own. Only 50p per person to cover tea/coffee/ biscuits. The Speaker, July/August 2019 7 LEITH ACADEMY LOOKS BACK ON A SUCCESSFUL YEAR

EXAMS are over, school’s Studies included trips to out and Leith Academy staff the Scottish Parliament and and pupils can now reflect a visit to the school from on a busy and diverse Tommy Sheppard MP to talk academic year packed about his role representing full of fun and learning Edinburgh East at opportunities. Westminster. The MP also With a tradition going spoke on topics relevant back to 1560 Leith Academy to the pupils’ forthcoming pupils have witnessed many assignments, ranging from turbulent times and historical the minimum wage to whether Tommy Sheppard MP discussed hot topics of the day with pupils moments down the centuries, the NHS should be responsible during school visit so it is no surprise that in for looking after those in 2018/19 exposure to and society who make bad lifestyle the opportunity to collaborate All S1 pupils also had the discussion of the politics of choices. with Edinburgh Dance College, chance to take part in Hip A taste of LA Hip Hop the day was very much on On the artistic front the providing students with an Hop taster sessions with the the agenda. school’s dance department had outstanding opportunity to high energy level Ashley Jack three performances of the improve their technique and Dance School. The artistic musical School of Rock at the performance level. year was rounded off with Festival Theatre Studio from 19th to 21st June. A cast of 50 pupils worked incredibly hard for seven months to successfully create and perfom a highly entertaining show.

Opportunities for all: Traditional Building Skills Workshop forms Leith Academy pupils rock the School of Rock musical part of school’s diverse curriculum New Faces Join Ripple’s Youth Work Team

RIPPLE Youth Services Support/Youth Worker with people can be themselves and Manager Danielle Ward is very Lothian Autistic Society. Three feel accepted.” pleased to welcome two new weeks into his new post Jack Other developments in recruits to the Ripple youth said: “I am really enjoying the Ripple’s Youth Work work team. The new starts getting to know everyone and programme include children’s will be working to deliver the project as a whole. I hope drama group Ripple Xpress an extensive summer youth that young people that come moving from McLaren Halls programme as well as to the Ripple see us as another up to the Hub. It is also supporting Ripple’s many avenue that they can go down getting a little revamp in terms regular clubs throughout for support or guidance and of its target age group which the year. see that we are grown-ups that will now be P5-S1. In August Danielle said: “Having joined are there if they need or want Ripple will also launch a brand the Ripple Project in December someone to speak to.” new group Lads Night In 2018 I’ve loved every minute Sessional Youth Worker which will be a boys’ club for of my first six months here. Jack Brown Diane McGhie comes to Diane McGhie P6-S3. Danielle said: “ Since The building [The Hub] itself is Ripple following successful we already run a Girls Night always busy and there is just with new sessional youth completion of her Community and hearing all their different In it seems only fair!” The a great atmosphere about the worker Diane McGhie. Education Degree at the stories. My hope is that the Lads Night In group will focus place. The Ripple staff, youth Londoner Jack brings a wide University of the West of young people enjoy coming to on cooking and group sports work team and young people range of experience to his new Scotland. During her degree the Ripple Project and having and games. have all been fab and I’m now post including four months course Diane undertook a that safe place to chill out For more information on delighted to introduce two working in Kenya as team 12 week placement with the with friends where they can any of Ripple’s children or new members to the team.” leader of a girls’ employability project. She said: “In terms of have fun, possibly learn some youth groups please see the Jack Brown has recently programme, a spell as a youth work I enjoy being able new things and make new back page of the Speaker or joined the organisation as a high school Pupil Support to interact with the different friends. I hope the Ripple is call the Ripple on 0131 554 Part-time Youth Worker along Worker in Edinburgh and age groups of young people just somewhere where young 0422 and press option 2. 8 The Speaker, July/August 2019 BUDDY CAN YOU SPARE THE TIME?

Ripple Buddies Project who attend, as it gives them Co-ordinator Gemma Elder a place where they can belong writes: and have fun when things are difficult in other parts of Got an issue or RIPPLE Buddies are looking their lives. problem? for new volunteers aged 14-19 Ripple Buddies is a very Need a chat? to begin after the school fun and rewarding project to summer holidays. We are volunteer with and many of Coffee with a Copper looking for volunteer ‘buddies’ our volunteers have decided 12.30-1.30pm (peer mentors) to younger to go on to study or work in Fridays 12th July children who are experiencing related fields. It is a great way and 2nd August some sort of to get training, at the Hub difficulty in their experience and 198 Restalrig Road South Just drop in lives. Volunteers references that might will be paired help you in work or one-to-one with a child within further education, or simply to a small group and will attend enjoy yourself and feel good one after school club per week. about helping others. Fit the Hub The role involves building a Further information and the positive relationship with the application form can be found into Your children, by attending reliably at http://rippleproject.co.uk/ Fitness Plan and spending your time ripple-youth-services/ripple- talking and playing with them. buddies-project/ or you can Get fitter This can make a massive contact Gemma Elder at Have fun difference to the children [email protected] Burn calories Exercise For All Wednesday 10am Boxercise Wednesday 6.30 – 7.30pm Walking Groups Thursday 9.15 & 10am Just turn up or call 0131 554 0422

H ub Grub Café Book Exchange Grab a coffee. Have a read. Find a book you like and take it home to finish it for free . There’s nothing like a really good read so why not pop in to see the great range of titles in the Hub Grub Book Exchange? Monday-Friday 11-1.30pm We have limited storage space so unfortunately are unable to accept bulk donations of books.

To advertise in the Speaker contact Donna on 01968 673229 or email [email protected] The Speaker, July/August 2019 9 MORE WAYS TO MEATLESS Mexican Bean Burgers Catherine Fyfe ANutr – Food theirs soon and in the past need to be aware of their and Health Development month Sainsbury’s has opened salt content. A nationwide Worker at Edinburgh their first ‘meat free’ butcher survey conducted by Action Community Food writes: in London. This in addition to on Salt found that many meat You can create your own lower salt meat free alternative at almost all supermarkets now free alternatives were higher home with these easy and cheap to make Mexican Bean IN PREVIOUS Speaker articles stocking products such as in salt than their meat Burgers. Serve with fresh homemade salsa and guacamole. we have discussed Sustainable ‘Bloody Beetroot Burgers’, counterparts with 28% diets, Vegetarianism, ‘Shroomdogs’ and ‘Jackfruit exceeding their maximum Ingredients Veganism and Flexitarians . Pulled Pork’. salt reduction targets. In the 2 tbsp oil This is in response to the Meat alternatives however UK adults are recommended 1 red onion significant benefits of reduced aren’t new. As we know to consume no more than spring onions meat consumption on the veggie burgers and sausages 6g of salt per day (about a 4 garlic cloves environment, animal welfare have been in supermarkets for teaspoon) as overconsumption 2 x 400g can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained and our health. In fact a years. These new products can raise our risk of high 100g breadcrumbs recent poll showed that 52% however are targeted at meat blood pressure which in turn 2 tsp mild chili powder (or any other seasoning you may of the UK population are eaters and aim to simulate the can increase risk of heart have such as smoked paprika, cumin or coriander) now reducing their meat texture and flavours of meat disease and stroke. The survey 1 lime consumption with data to almost fool people into found that vegetarian burgers 1 small bunch coriander, stalks and leaves chopped suggesting that 36% of thinking there is no contained on average more 6 wholemeal burger buns British meat eaters are now difference. With the growing salt than meat burger patties, purchasing specialist vegan popularity and accessibility with meat free bacon being Method products. of these products it is now the biggest culprit for high 1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan, add the onion and spring Reducing our meat suggested that by 2040 salt containing more than onion, season and fry over a gentle heat until softened. consumption has never been most of the meat we will 3.2g of salt per 100g. In fact 2. Add the garlic and fry for a further two to three minutes. easier with the emergence of consume will not come from Gregg’s Vegan Sausage roll 3. Tip into a bowl, add the beans and mash together. ‘meat free’ alternatives filling slaughtered animals. It is contains 1.9g salt per portion 4. Leave to cool slightly then season with preferred spices supermarket shelves and believed that 25% will be compared to the meat sausage and add a squeeze of lime juice. food outlets. Earlier this year from plant-based vegan roll at 1.6g per portion. 5. Wet your hands slightly then shape into 6 burger patties. Gregg’s announced they products and 35% will be The NHS food labelling Have some breadcrumbs on a plate and cover the patties. would be launching a ‘Vegan grown artificially in vats. The guidelines tell us that if a 6. Place on a baking tray and grill for 4-5 minutes on each Sausage Roll’ in response benefits of adopting a more food product is higher than side. to consumer demand and a plant-based diet are widely 1.5g salt per 100g it is 7. While the burgers are cooking, you can choose to make petition by PETA. Other food known. They tend to be lower therefore deemed to be high up a lime and yoghurt dressing, some guacamole or salsa. chains and outlets have been in calories, saturated fat and in salt whereas if it is lower 8. Serve together with a side salad. following suit with Burger higher in fibre, which can than 0.3g it is low in salt. We ¢ King and KFC providing new help us keep to a healthy should all look out for the veggie and vegan alternative weight, lower the risk of heart traffic light labels on food becoming a big part of our reduce or completely cut out burgers. Marks and Spencer disease, type 2 diabetes and packaging and what is food system and culture meat from our diet, we should also launched their ‘Plant certain cancers such as bowel. suggested as the portion size as the best alternative to always follow the Eat Well Kitchen’ range earlier this When it comes to meat eg half of the product. help lower our overall Guide (below left). The Eat year, with Tesco set to launch alternatives, we do however Meat substitutes are now consumption of meat. Well Guide displays that at Although there is still an issue least two-thirds of our diet with a high salt content in should be plant-based these products, it is still including at least five encouraged that we all do portions of fruit and veg a what we can to reduce our day, opting for wholegrain meat consumption and find carbohydrates and increased alternatives that suit us best. consumption of beans, lentils Whether we decide to and pulses.

Leith Academy 0131 554 0606 [email protected]

August dates for your diary

6 SQA results issued to pupils 12 Staff resume (In-service Day) 13 In-service Day 14 Pupils resume 21 S1/4/6/prefects, SLT, House Heads Photographs 10 The Speaker, July/August 2019

Lochend Seniors Events At Library Computer Group “Space Chase” , this year’s children’s Summer Reading Challenge will be blasting off over the school holidays. Call Computer Training in to Piershill Library to sign up for your Mission. for anyone over 50 We will be having a series of free children’s craft sessions Every Thursday 2- 4pm over the school holiday period – 3pm every Thursday and Restalrig Lochend Friday – from 4th July to 9th August. Community Hub 198 Restalrig Road South Musselburgh Camera Club will be having a display of its work in our entrance hall from 27th July to 10th August. Only £1 a session All of our regular events will still be happening over the Just pop in any summer: Thursday to try it out Monday: every second Monday the Library Book Group will meet between 6.30pm and 7.30pm. Date for July and August are 1st, 15th and 29th July, 12th and 26th August.

Wednesday: 2pm Bookbug Rhymetime – songs and rhymes for under 4 year olds and their parents and carers. Wednesday: 5.30pm NHS Stop Smoking Support Group – free, friendly and confidential help and advice to help you To advertise in the to stop smoking. Speaker, support your Friday: 10.30am Story Time – come and join us as we roll community, reach your out the Magic Story Rug for fun and adventures. target market and take advantage of our Please note that at all library children’s events children aged extremely competitive 8 or under must be accompanied by a parent/carer aged 12 rates contact Donna on or over. Piershill Library, 30 Piersfield Terrace, Edinburgh 01968 673229 or email EH8 7BQ telephone 0131 529 5685. [email protected]

WEE SPEAKER’S CORNER

STARt colouring TIME TO LEGO AND HAVE FUN By Dawn Baxter online. Remember to check out the Book Festival Village from 10th August to I hope we have as good a summer this 26th. There are lots of free events and year as last, I really enjoyed that day! activities for young readers or just enjoy Sometimes it is hard to tell if summer has an ice-cream and a picnic in Charlotte really arrived. The only clue I can give Square Gardens. I hope you have a lovely you is the rain feels warmer. Anyway summer break and I leave you with a nothing can dampen the festival spirit of few riddles. Edinburgh in July and August. You won’t 1. What goes up and never comes down? have to look very hard for something 2. I’m full of keys but I can’t open any interesting to see or do. You may have door. What am I? already spotted Oor Wullie in various 3. John’s mother had three children. The guises around the town, Edinburgh is first was named April, the next was one of five host cities taking part in named May. What was the name of the Scotland’s first national public art trail. third child? Oor Wullie will be putting his buckets 4. What kind of coat can only be put on to good use in raising awareness and when wet? funds for Scotland’s children’s hospital 5. What occurs once in a minute, twice in charities including Edinburgh Children’s a moment, and never in one thousand Hospital charity. For more info go to years? www.oorwullie.com And more trail fun, 6. If you are running in a race and you Edinburgh Zoo has over 30 sculptures pass the person in second place, what throughout the park, all made from Lego place are you in? bricks. Over one million bricks have been 7. What is full of holes but can still hold used to make life-size models of ocean water? dwelling creatures. Check the zoo website Answers. 1. Your age 2. A piano. 3. John for admission costs etc. You will find lots of course! 4. A coat of paint. 5. The letter of info on all the summer festival fun M. 6. Second place. 7. A sponge. The Speaker, July/August 2019 11

St Margaret’s Christ Church Parish Church (Free Church Thee LunLunchnch Clubb Restalrig of Scotland) Sunday Service Britwell Crescent FreshFrresh ccookedooked hhotot memealsals ffoforor ppeopleeople 660+0+ 10.30am Sunday Morning Good News Team 10.30am 11.00am with crèche and Join The RippleRippple Lunchnch Clubub Creche 10.30am Sunday School Tea/Coffee after service Great selection of low cost freshly att RestalrigResttalriig LochendLochhend CommunityCommmunity HubHub Sunday Evening Communion last Sunday 6.00pm made meals and delicious 1981 RestalrigRestalrig RoadRoad SouthSSouth every month Tea and coffee homebaking. Friendly atmosphere. available after both Come alone or bring a friend. MondayMonday ttoo FFridayriday St Ninian’s services setsset ppricerice ofof £4.50£4.50 pperer ddayay RC Church Prayer meeting 11.00-1.30 Monday to Friday forfor 2 cocourses,ourses, tea/coffeetea/coffffee andand bbiscuits.iscuitss. Wed 7.30pm Restalrig Lochend Community Hub Marionville Rd LLunchunch seservedrvved aatt 111.30am.1.30am. 198 Restalrig Road South Sunday Mass OpenOpen toto aanyonenyone ooverver 660.0. 10.15am Weeklyeekly bbookingooking requiredrequired inin advance,advance, comecome anyany day/sday/s oror allall week.week. Children’s Liturgy Wilson Memorial (filled rolls and Church Craigentinny TransportTransporrt availableavailable wwithinithin tthehe refreshments after Mass) corner of Moira Terrace RRestalrigestalrig LLochendochend CCraigentinnyrraigentinny Polish Mass 1pm Exercise for Everyone and Kekewich Avenue aandnd PiPiershillershill aareas.rreas. There is now Mass at Sunday Worship11.00am at Restalrig Lochend Community Hub SubjectSubbjject ttoo spacesspaces bbeingeing aavailable.vailable. 10am every day (Creche and children’s 198 Restalrig Road South Door-to-doorDoor-to-ddoor chargecharge ofof 50p50p perper dayday except Wednesday programme provided) 0131 554 0422 Tea/coffee afterwards CAALLLL 01310131 555454 00422422 FFOROR MMOREORE IINFORMATIONNFORMATION & Fr Syriac Palakudiyil TTOO JOIN,JOIN, OROR DROPDROP ININ ANDAND SEE FORFOR YOURSELF.YOOURSELF. Bible Study - 6.30pm Every Wednesday 10.00am to 10.45am Parish House (3rd Sunday of month) £2.50 per session 12 Marionville Drive 0131 661 2867 Mid-Week Quiet Time 07504 802 728 The Church is open for Just turn up and join us! Lochend Toddler Group [email protected] quiet reflection every Varied fun exercise suitable for men Hall Bookings Wednesday and women of all ages 0131 554 9788 11.00am to 12 noon is run by local parents and open to parent/carers A congregation of the United and pre-schoolers from babies upwards. Free Church of Scotland The group meets Monday mornings Willowbrae [email protected] Parish Church www.wilsonmemorial.org.uk 9.30am – 11.30am Do you like reading? 1 Willowbrae Road Restalrig Lochend Community Hub Sunday Worship Join us in the village halls, Restalrig 198 Restalrig Road South 10am – Prayers before Last Tuesday of the month 10am or Service In Church Centre Last Thursday of the month 10.30am Come along to find out more during the For more information contact above times. 10.30am – Morning [email protected] New members warmly welcomed. Service local groups advertise on this page or ring 0131 554 7400 £2.50 per session per family, children’s Refreshments and free of charge snacks included. fellowship in the 0131 554 0422 Everyone welcome Hall after the Service

Craigentinny/Lochend Social Centre Programme 9 Loaning Road Edinburgh EH7 6JE Centre Programme – Castle Hall (CH) Main Hall (MH) Disco Room (DR) Lounge (L) Youth Club Floor (YCF)

Monday Wednesday Friday Playgroup 9am-12pm (MH) 2 ½-5yrs Playgroup 9am-12pm (MH) 2 ½-5yrs Playgroup 9a m-12pm (MH) 2 ½-5yrs The Alma Project (Art Group) 11.45am-1.45pm Guitar Group 9.30am-12pm (Disco Room) Art Class 10am-12pm (CH) (Lounge & CH) DP Jewellery 10am-12pm (CH) Kids Dance Class 1.30pm-3.30pm (MH) Monday Social Club 12.30pm-3.30pm 50+ (MH) The Alma Project (Creative Writing) 12-2pm (Lounge) Polish School for children 1.15pm-4.30pm Kids Dance Class 3.45pm-7.45pm (CH) Kids Dance Class 3.45p m-7.30pm (CH) (CH, Art Room, Classroom & Lounge) Youth Club 6pm-8pm (YCF& MH) P3-P7 Youth Club 7.00pm-8.30pm (MH & YC Floors) P6-S1 Craigy Boot Camp 7.30pm-8pm (CH) Beat Breakerz Dance Class 4pm-5.45pm (MH) Olive Tree Madrasah (Classroom) 5pm-7pm Age 3-7 and 8-16 years Saturday Community Council 7pm-8.30pm (Lounge) last Junior Youth Club 10a m-12pm (MH) P1-P3 Wednesday of each month Tuesday Polish School for children 9.45am-2.15pm (Disco Olive Tree Madrasah (Classroom) 5pm-7pm Playgroup 9am-12pm (MH) 2 ½-5yrs Rm & Art Rm) Jewellery 10am-12pm (CH) Polish School for children 9.45am-2.15pm (CH, Art Digital Skills Class 9.30am-12.30pm Thursday Room, Classroom & Lounge) (New Art Rm, YCF) Playgroup 9a m-12pm (MH) 2 ½-5yrs The Alma Project (Art Studio) 12.30pm-2.30pm (CH) Slimming World-9am-12noon (CH) Carpet Bowls 1pm-4pm (MH) The Alma Project 1pm-3pm (Clay & Batik) (CH) Kid Dance Class 2.45pm-6pm (CH) Kids Dance Class 3.30pm-6.45pm (CH The centre is also available to let for private parties Kids Dance Class 6pm-730pm (MH) Kids Dance Class 4.15pm-5pm (MH) and community events. Free wi-fi for all users. Craigie Boot Camp 7pm-8pm (CH) Line Dancing 6.45pm-8.45pm (MH) Karate 8.15pm-9.15pm (CH) Craigie Boot Camp 7-8pm (CH) Contact Archie or Donna 0131 661 9404 for further details www.joininedinburgh.org/craigentinny 12 The Speaker, July/August 2019 Restalrig Lochend Community Hub 198 Restalrig Road South, Edinburgh 0131 554 0422

July/August Daily Open Programme A Hub of activity you can join in with

ay y – Frid Hub Grub Café Monda Open Monday – Friday 11am – 1.30pm. café Our community café offers tasty, affordable homemade food, hot and cold drinks and somewhere sociable for you to meet and eat. Free internet access for café customers. Lunch Club for Older People Monday – Friday 11.30am – advance booking required. 60+. £4.50 per day. Two delicious and nutritious courses, plus tea/coffee and biscuits. Door-to-door transport available in Restalrig/Lochend/Craigentinny area if required. 50p return journey. For more info or to book call 0131 554 0422.

day Toddler Group (returns 19 August) day Healthy Hub Walking Group Mon 9.30am – 11.30am. Parent-led group. hurs Half-hour walks 9.15am and 10am start. Plenty of toys and activities for under 5s. T Gather at the Hub and join in on our free Thursday £2.50 per family per session for children’s snacks. walks to meet new friends, improve your fitness and Dixie Saltires Line Dancing discover local landscapes and places of interest. £3 per week. Wear comfortable shoes. See notice page 8. 10.30am – 11.30am. Absolute beginners/beginners Caring Soles 11.30am – 12.30pm. Improvers. Footcare service. 10am – 2.pm. Appointments only. Girls Only Drop In To make appointment call 0131 447 4520. 6.30pm – 8pm 11 to 16 years. Lochend Seniors Computer Group 50+ computer training. 2 – 4pm. £1. Bring your own device or laptop. Ripple Xpress Drama Group day Buggy Walk ues 10am. Come on a buggy walk with 3.30pm – 5pm. P5 to S1. At the Hub. T Route 10 Rollers. (see notice page 4) ROSP Drop in Youth Café (returns 22 August) Knitting Network Thursdays 7.30pm – 9pm. S3 – S6. 2pm – 3.30pm all ages and abilities welcome. Wide range of activities and workshops provided by We have wool and needles to get you started. Just Ripple youth work team and other partners. drop in. 50p per session for tea/coffee and biscuits For summer youth activities at the Hub Hub 198 Drop In Youth Café (returns 20 August) see front page. 6.30pm – 8pm. P7 to S2. For summer youth activities at the Hub see front page. ay Community Policing Team Surgery Frid 12 July & 2 August. 12.30 – 1.30pm. Ripple Project Friday Club 60+ social club day Exercise for Everyone 1pm start. £1 per session. dnes 10am – 10.45am. £2.50. 30 August Karaoke afternoon with Danny We Suitable for men and women of all ages. Feelgood. Singing optional, just Just turn up. come and enjoy the music. Granton Information Centre Free welfare rights, housing and debt advice. To book an appointment call James on 0131 551 2459 or 0131 552 0458. See notice page 5. Boxercise for Beginners 6.30pm – 7.30pm. Boxing moves combined with circuit training. Thank you for reading this July/August Suitable for beginners. No booking required. issue of the Speaker. We will be back £4 per class or £20 for block of 6 sessions. in September.

Politicians’ Surgeries Ash Denham MSP Cllr Joan Griffiths Cllr McLellan Tommy Sheppard MP Monday 29th July Friday 30th August Monday 8th July Friday 5th July & 26th August 12.00 to 1.00pm & 12th August & 2nd August 12.00pm 12.00 to 1.00pm 1.00pm to 2.00pm