PAGE 2 PAGE 7 Healthy beginnings Business is booming Work on East Lothian Community Businesses snap up units at Hospital is well under way new Brewery Park offices

PAGE 5 East Lothian PAGE16 Can you give Put your best the gift of time? foot forward Make a real difference Take the first step in your community to a healthier through volunteering lifestyle

www.eastlothian.gov.uk SPRING 2017 Living NEWS FROM YOUR COUNCIL Council budget will protect vital services Three per cent increase Centre, £1.1 million for a new Port Seton Sports Hall and an £850,000 upgrade of in council tax as millions Haddington Corn Exchange. committed to schools, Agreement was also given for a five-year, £85 million council housing programme housing and transport coupled with almost £59 million of investment in housing modernisation AST Lothian Council agreed its and extensions. budget last month which includes The council is also making an additional a major investment of £169 million investment of £1.8 million in adult services in capital projects across and a further £300,000 in children’s services. Ethe county. The council’s spending plans are firmly Resources have been allocated for new focused on maintaining high-quality public schools, adult and children’s services, services while managing finances prudently affordable homes and transport in the face of a £2.9 million reduction in the initiatives, including: Revenue Support Grant received from the l around £97 million of investment over Scottish Government – which makes up three years in new, upgraded or expanded the bulk of the council’s income. schools – including the new Wallyford and To achieve a balanced budget, the council In 2017/18, council tax is expected to Above: an additional £1.8m for Letham primary schools, an additional will use £2.5 million of its reserves. Savings generate around £54 million – around adult services protecting secondary school for the Musselburgh of around £1.85 million will be made in 23 per cent of East Lothian Council’s essential care services. area and an extension to Dunbar the council’s staffing budget over the budget of around £233 million. Crookston Care Home, Tranent Grammar School next three years in addition to a 2016/17 SG Multiplier ELC 2017/18 l £9.8 million of investment over three transformational change programme Band years for initiatives to help to accelerate which will realise efficiencies of around Council Tax increase Increase 3% Council Tax economic growth in the county £2.4 million. A £745.08 £0.00 £22.35 £767.43 l £16.25m for roads improvements over For the first time since 2008-09, East B £869.26 £0.00 £26.08 £895.34 the next three years Lothian Council has decided to increase l £1.5 million towards preparatory work/ council tax. As a result of this decision, C £993.44 £0.00 £29.80 £1,023.24 design in connection with the new East all households will pay an additional D £1,117.62 £0.00 £33.53 £1,151.15 Linton railway station three per cent equivalent to an extra 65p E £1,365.98 £102.45 £44.05 £1,512.48 l a £5.5 million investment in per week for a Band D property. upgrades to IT systems in Separately, the Scottish F £1,614.34 £201.79 £54.49 £1,870.62 schools and across the Ambitious Government has increased G £1,862.70 £325.97 £65.66 £2,254.33 council Draft Council the level of council tax H £2,235.24 £502.93 £82.14 £2,820.31 l £1.1 million for Plan unveiled across the highest Whitecraig Community See pages 8-9 banded properties E to H. *Excludes water and waste water charges set by Scottish Water

INSIDE: School improvements • Housing developments • Superfast broadband • Universal Credit 2 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017

Work on East Lothian Community Hospital well under way

HEALTH secretary Shona Robison important step forward for the Board chair Councillor Donald MSP marked the official start of community in East Lothian, and Grant added: “We have listened works on the new £70 million with work now under way, we to what matters most to people East Lothian Community Hospital are a step closer to seeing this throughout the extensive at a special ceremony earlier vital new facility become a planning process and with this this year. reality.” invaluable input of the The works, which are being David Small, chief officer, East community, patients, families, undertaken in partnership with Lothian Health and Social Care third-sector organisations and Hub South East Scotland Ltd, Partnership, added: “This is an staff, we will have a facility we Morrison Construction, NHS extremely exciting time for the can be proud of.” Lothian and East Lothian Health communities of East Lothian and It is anticipated work will be and Social Care Partnership, joined-up health and social care completed by 2019. will deliver a modern hospital services in East Lothian. on the Roodlands Hospital site “This project will allow our in Haddington, helping to staff to continue to provide TO FIND out more, go to improve the quality of care safe, effective healthcare and www.eastlothian.gov.uk/ in East Lothian. rehabilitation.” eastlothiancommunity Councillor Donald Grant, far left, chair of East Lothian IJB, joins Ms Robison said: “This is an East Lothian Integration Joint hospital health minister Shona Robinson and project managers on site

CONTACT Living East Lothian, Communications and Getting the most out of Marketing, John Muir House, Haddington EH41 3HA Tel: 01620 827743 your medical services E-mail: living@ eastlothian.gov.uk OST of us understand through the practice website is Web: www.eastlothian. that health centres increasingly common. gov.uk are under pressure. There is a nationwide WEBSITES Main photography: Mproblem in recruiting new GPs All our practices have websites, Mark Jackson and our population is growing. which will let you know about People are living longer, too, surgeries and clinics, who’s who, Living is designed by which is great. This is mainly how to order repeat prescriptions, Connect Publications, due to having good lifelong and news about the practice. Studio 2001, Mile End, healthcare, but it also means more OTHER SOURCES OF HELP pharmacist (and increasingly they Our frontline staff at reception Paisley PA1 1JS. people than ever need services, Many surgeries also offer phone will be able to prescribe themselves) can give you good general advice. Web: www.connect support and advice from their consultations with a GP so that you and, if not, you can ask to see the They can put you in touch with the communications.co.uk local practice. Practices have don’t have to come into the surgery pharmacist at your local chemist. medical professional you need to responded to this in a variety of when you or someone you are talk to quickly. They are trained to Printed by Newsquest ways but they all centre on having a looking after is feeling unwell. EYES AND TEETH guide you through the system in a (Herald & Times) Ltd on range of medical and frontline staff Speaking to a doctor on the phone If you have an eye infection or professional, confidential and behalf of East Lothian available to signpost you quickly to can help the GP to understand disease, you should visit your friendly way. Council the services that you need. whether you need an emergency optician. If you have a dental East Lothian Health and Social We realised that you don’t always appointment at the surgery or abscess or oral infection, go to your Care clinical director Dr Jonathan This publication is available need to come into the surgery to hospital, a home visit or would be dentist immediately. They are the Turvill said: “We want to make sure in Braille, large print, audio speak to an appropriate health better to stay at home for a couple specialists and can prescribe the people get the best support from and community languages professional and when you do of days before maybe coming into appropriate treatment. Opticians our medical practices, and part of on request. For more come in, you don’t always need to the surgery. You can also get help (also known as optometrists) have this lies with you. We’re trying to information, please see a GP to get the treatment and and advice from NHS 24 on 111 close links with medical eye get people to understand that they telephone: 01620 827199 support you need. Not all surgeries when your practice is closed. specialists at the Eye Pavilion. don’t always need to see a GP – operate in the same way, but most there are lots of specialist medical have a range of health professionals PHARMACISTS REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS professionals in every practice who who can treat and support you Pharmacists can give you advice Again, practices have different might be able to help you quicker. quickly. For example: about what medication to take for ways of dealing with repeat “They will always refer you on to ●● advanced nurse practitioners a range of common problems, prescriptions, so ask the reception a GP or hospital promptly, if they Please remember to recycle ●● district nurses including coughs and colds, skin team for more information or think it is necessary. We are asking your copy of Living ●● midwives and/or health visitors conditions, headaches and go online and find out more from for your help to make sure that © East Lothian Council 2017 ●● counsellors emergency contraception. Some the practice’s website. Ordering we all get the best out of our ●● pharmacists. surgeries have their own your prescriptions online medical practice.”

Web: www.eastlothian.gov.uk E-mail: [email protected] Twitter: @ELCouncil Tel: 01620 827827 Living East Lothian 3 Spring 2017 News Universal Credit Going back The Council is actively engaging with the UK and Scottish Governments to the future on the impact of the Universal Credit and devolved social security powers

IN the Year of History, NIVERSAL Credit was Heritage and Archaeology, introduced by the East Lothian Museums Department of Work service is keen to hear from and Pensions (DWP) in residents and groups about Uline with decisions taken by the what stories and events UK Government. we should be recording for The council had no say in these the future. decisions, but we are working East Lothian Council has hard to help people who have dedicated staff who are keen been affected by welfare reform. to help you preserve the Since the DWP implemented its stories and experiences that digital roll-out of Universal Credit shape our society. in East Lothian, the council has Advice on how to store clear evidence of the negative your own collections: we impacts being experienced. can help you, either For example, the length of time individually or as a group, some people are left waiting for understand the basics of benefits payments means they what you need to do to are experiencing considerable ensure that what you are financial hardships. Also, there making survives for many has been a significant rise in rent years to come. arrears due to Universal Credit. A forum for connecting to We can help you to set up a other groups with different direct debit so the housing interests but who also have a element of Universal Credit is story to tell: we can put you made directly to your landlord. in touch with other groups, Indeed, the Scottish Government to share ideas. has been consulting on a Oral history recording: not all similar arrangement nationally history is solid. The richest under new devolved social Advice on Universal Credit payments is available from specialist support staff at the council elements can sometimes just security powers. be the stories, the feelings, East Lothian Council Leader Scottish Governments about the impacting on our housing on managing money and help to the memories that people Willie Innes said: “The impact of the Universal Credit Full revenue account and all our access support. carry with them. There is so introduction of Universal Credit Service rollout and the design and tenants and service users.” For information about much that can be done to has made life more difficult for a deployment of devolved social Council staff have been helping Universal Credit, contact stop that experience from lot more people, both in terms of security powers. Universal Credit applicants with Musselburgh Job Centre Plus on disappearing. managing their new monthly We know that one of the their on-line applications and can 0345 606 0265. A place to showcase what combined benefits payment and unfortunate by-products of provide advice on Council Tax If you want advice on Council you have, who you are: this having to make separate Universal Credit is that more Reduction applications. Tax or rent payments, contact can be letters, handicrafts, applications for council tax people are struggling to pay their Tenancy Support officers East Lothian Council on 01620 photographs, toys, clothing, reduction and housing benefits. rent and council tax because of provide advice to tenants on 827730 (council tenants) or furniture or books. We can “ East Lothian Council is actively delayed payments and problems paying rent from Universal Credit 01620 827729 (other tenants and give you a safe space to engaging with both the UK and with budgeting. This, in turn, is payments. We can provide advice owner-occupiers). display these and share them with other people. A safe place for the collections to be made Local transport companies accessible: the council has stores where we keep sign up to be ECO Stars archives and museum artefacts and we are happy A NUMBER of local fleet operators encourages and helps operators of to discuss what might be have signed up to the ECO Stars HGVs, buses, coaches, vans and worth keeping. Fleet Recognition Scheme, which taxis to run fleets in the most This free service means aims to help fleet operators efficient and green way. that your legacy survives. improve efficiency and reduce fuel “The free scheme provides While the items may be consumption and emissions. guidance for making improvements physically within the It is a scheme adopted by many and also recognises best council’s control, it is only council areas across the UK, as well operational practices. The ultimate acting on behalf of the as several cities in Europe. aim is to reduce fuel consumption community to ensure things Cabinet member for which carries the double benefits are well looked after. Environment Councillor Norman of fewer vehicle emissions and Local companies have signed up to the new ECO Stars scheme Hampshire said: “ECO Stars reducing operators costs.” 4 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017

Gullane Primary pupils Giving young people a voice join a Countryside Ranger to raise awareness of dog fouling campaign THE East Lothian Champions board members headed to Board gives care-experienced Belfast for National Care Day and young people the platform to took part in a range of events talk directly to local authority aimed at raising awareness. This staff, elected members and included a working breakfast service providers to ensure with Belfast Lord Mayor decisions which affect their lives Alderman Brian Kingston and are informed by their own addressing an event at Stormont. experiences in the care system. Another 11 East Lothian More than 15,500 young representatives attended a people are growing up in care in ‘Carelidh’ in Glasgow and met Scotland and many report that young people from across the UK they feel judged and isolated as and Ireland. Other ventures a result of being in care. include producing a documentary But the Champions Board is with Queen Margaret University helping to change that. Last April, about their experiences at school it received £250,000 in funding while in the care system which from the Life Changes Trust and they presented at a Head the board is already putting it to Teachers Conference. They are good use. also advising on consultations for Last month, three champion the Care Standard Act.

From drama to dance, there’s plenty of fun for everyone!

All the world’s a stage for local residents! Green dog walkers Volunteers show their colours in new friendly EAST Lothian Council’s Arts Service East Lothian Youth Theatre provides a range of fun and Network offers drama classes approach to changing attitudes about fouling creative activities for residents. for ages five to 18. These fun Joining a group can have a positive classes allow young people to impact on health and wellbeing by experience creative movement, REEN Dog Walkers From 1 April, the Countryside set up by East Lothian Council. building self-confidence, mimes to music and structured (GDW) is a non- Rangers are launching GDW I think it’s vital that all dog developing skills, reducing social improvisation. confrontational, initially at Gullane Bents and walkers should clear up after isolation and above all, having fun. Move It! dance classes for ages friendly way Yellowcraig with community their dogs whether it is in the The Brunton in Musselburgh has three to 18 offer the chance to Gto change attitudes about representatives from long grass, on a pathway or a thriving community arts scene have fun and stay healthy while dog fouling. Macmerry and Pencaitland also wherever. Being a member of with three active drama groups. learning street dance and break Volunteers wear a GDW expressing interest in adopting PDWA I know that it is an Brunton Players meet on a dance moves. armband which signifies that the scheme. Dog fouling is the offence not to pick up after your Monday evening and it is open to For those interested in taking they have “Taken the Pledge” to No 1 complaint raised with the dog and it’s also an offence to all adults, regardless of previous dance a little bit further there is always: Countryside Rangers. leave bagged foul lying around experience. East Lothian Youth Dance Company ●● clean up after their dog Alasdair Chalmers, from Take and not disposed of properly. I Acting Up is for older adults who for S1 plus. The Company use ●● carry extra dog waste bags the Lead, said: “I am a dog am very happy to act as a wish to socialise with other people contemporary and street dance. ●● be happy to be approached to trainer as well as a dog walker member of the GDW scheme and develop drama skills. They ‘lend’ a dog waste bag to those covering the area from Aberlady here in East Lothian and to meet on Wednesday mornings. The without to North Berwick, and I am one encourage others to sign up.” Thursday Group is the newest THERE IS a small charge for ●● be a friendly reminder to of the first members of the The GDW armband acts as a group for mixed ability adults. each activity. For more details, other dog walkers to clean up Professional Dog Walking friendly reminder to please pick Active Arts’ daytime creative contact the Arts Service on after their dogs. Association (PDWA) that was up after your dog. 0131 665 9900 / artsservice@ activities provide a chance to meet eastlothian.gov.uk new people and try new things. Living East Lothian 5 Spring 2017 News

Can you give the gift of time? VOLUNTEERING is all about volunteers to becoming a volunteer outside of work. provides that “warm, cosy, making a difference – to battlefield tour guide. Former GP Ken Hare lives in feel-good feeling” of giving other people, to communities, The Give the Gift of Time Dunbar and volunteers with back to a community he has to you! campaign encourages local Dunbar Community Bakery. belonged to for a long time. We are good at volunteering individuals to take up these The bakery is community STRiVE provides support, in East Lothian – around opportunities, helping those owned and its volunteers learning and development 13 per cent of residents in need but also to use or make the difference between opportunities for individuals volunteered at least once a develop their own skills, make the high street bakery being and organisations throughout week last year, and yet many friends, build networks, gain financially viable or having to East Lothian. causes still require your help. confidence, use their time well close its doors. There are hundreds of At the beginning of and experience the ‘feel good They run market stalls at volunteering opportunities February there were more factor’ that comes from weekends, paint the shop, currently available to suit than 250 volunteering volunteering. and undertake many other everyone. opportunities being Employers are also being roles. Ken volunteers as a advertised throughout the encouraged to look at how delivery driver doing an county with 190 different they can enable volunteering early morning round to local FIND OUT more at local charities, with by supporting specific shops, cafes and the local http://strive.me.uk or call Former GP Ken Hare on his bakery opportunities on offer projects in work time or primary schools. 0131 665 3300. delivery round ranging from befriending encouraging employees to He says his contribution

New service will give Prestonpans residents access to alternative banking service Credit union launched

BRAND new Capital Credit Union counter service is now available at the council offices Aat Aldhammer House in Prestonpans High Street on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Council Leader Willie Innes said: “This exciting new development has come about thanks to partnership working between the We need your help now! council and Capital Credit Union. “As a council, we felt it was important to try to facilitate an East Lothian Council needs to alternative banking service for Prestonpans residents, following the recruit around 20 new foster shocking closure of the Royal Bank carers – as quickly as possible. of Scotland branch in the High Street. “We lobbied against this move as it means there are no bank Norma Godek, our Fostering Team them - helping them to feel safe, branches in Prestonpans despite a Leader, says: loved and nurtured in your home. growing population. ‘Fostering with East Lothian ‘We are looking for new foster “Working with Capital Credit Marlene Shiels, Capital Credit Union and Council Leader Willie Innes Council means great support, carers to train but are also keen to Union has meant that at least local launch the new credit union service in Prestonpans great training and a good financial hear from anyone who is already residents have an accessible package. More importantly, as part trained as a foster carer, who maybe alternative rather than travelling to between Capital Credit Union personal and face-to-face contact is of our fostering team, you’ll be has taken a break or is currently other towns to do their banking. and East Lothian Council, which still hugely important in the doing something fantastic, helping between placements with another children and young people from East fostering agency. Please get in touch “The credit union is a different will serve local communities financial services sector. Lothian to stay in East Lothian, close as soon as you can, we are waiting type of financial service. It offers offering access to our full range of “We already have hundreds of to the people who are important to to take your call or email.’ savings, loans and mortgages and saving and loan products. We are members in East Lothian and links other services in an ethical, not- committing staff and resources to with various employers and we for-profit way. I’m sure this service our Prestonpans office to fill the look forward to growing our To find out more phone us on 01620 827 643 will be very welcome for gap left by mainstream banks as membership base in the area.” Prestonpans residents.” or visit East Lothian Council’s fostering Marlene Shiels, Capital Credit web site at www.eastlothian.gov.uk/fostering Union Chief Executive, said: “This “I’m sure this service will be very is a really important partnership welcome for Prestonpans residents” 6 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017

School improvements under way ORK will shortly The council will procure the Richard Park, Hub South East’s begin to extend Artist’s impression expansion works via the existing Operations Director, said: “This is a Dunbar Grammar of the new Wallyford PPP Project contract with Innovate major investment in education for School. Expansion Primary School East Lothian Limited, at a total cost our client, East Lothian Council, Wof the school building is required of £10.38 million. and we are delighted to be working to meet the increasing school Meanwhile, the new Wallyford in partnership to ensure its roll and further housing Primary School is on the way with successful delivery. developments in the local area. Morrison Construction appointed “The new Wallyford Primary Phase one of the improvement as the preferred contractor to build will allow pupils and staff to enjoy works, which included expanding the new school, which is likely to be modern, fit-for-purpose facilities the pupil social space to create a completed by autumn 2018. and the community will big, bright and airy space to eat and The £18.6 million phase one of benefit from investment in the meet, was completed in the the new school, being built as part local area. summer of 2016. of the new St Clements Wells “We look forward to further A planning application for phase development on the outskirts of developing this project to make two works was submitted to East the village, is currently in its these plans a reality.” Lothian Council on 31 January, and planning stages. A planning East Lothian Council’s Cabinet construction of the extension with a dedicated IT space, social uses. A new full-sized, all- application has been submitted Member for Education and is scheduled to begin in May, additional PE changing rooms, and weather sports pitch in the grounds outlining detailed proposals for the Children’s Services, Councillor with completion expected by new suited accommodation for of the school is also planned. new facility which will initially Shamin Akhtar, added: “This is August 2018. pupil and learning support. Extensive alterations will also be provide 28 classrooms, as well as great news for the local community The project comprises a new two- At the heart of the new made to the existing school 120 pre-school places. of Wallyford and will be hugely storey L-shaped block to the east accommodation will be a large building to maximise the use of A further phase, to be developed welcomed by all. side of the school, which will covered “social hub” – a flexible existing spaces and will provide later, could see space constructed for “The new school will provide include additional general multi-use space that can be used additional science labs, technology an eventual primary and pre-school facilities that will not only enhance classrooms and staff bases, a new for a variety of purposes including rooms, a new drama studio school roll of more than 1,300, one the educational provision for the home economics department, a group and individual teaching, and more craft, design and of the biggest, if not the biggest, pupils but also include all members new library and learning centre presentations, eating and other technology spaces. primary schools in the country. of the local community.”

East Lothian to host Ironman 70.3 event IT’S time for East Lothian fitness Looking to grow your fanatics to get in some serious training as the inaugural Ironman 70.3 Scotland will take place in business in 2017? East Lothian and Edinburgh on Sunday 2 July. Business Gateway East Lothian can provide support with: Some 2,000 athletes are anticipated to head to the county l Business planning and strategy reviews for this inaugural race. l E-commerce The route starts at Gosford l Marketing and branding House and features a 1.2-mile l Packaging (1.9km) sea swim from Gosford Sands followed by a 56-mile We also have some grant assistance available (90.1km) bike ride on closed as marshals and feed station Details of road closures will be roads through the countryside of staff, creating a real buzz in widely publicised in advance. For further details contact Fiona Edgar, East Lothian and Midlothian and the villages and towns the If you are planning a public Business Growth Officer on: on to Holyrood Park. courses visit. event, you should contact the [email protected] or 01620 827176 Ironman is one of the first Ironman provides donations to SSAG via the council website public events to be coordinated local clubs who support the event www.eastlothian.gov.uk or email by the Strategic Safety Advisory with volunteers, with more [email protected] Group (SSAG) which is chaired by details available on the website. East Lothian Council. An event of this scale can only MORE INFORMATION Ironman has become a major be delivered safely using closed www.ironman.com/ spectator event wherever it takes roads planned to minimise local edinburgh70.3 place, with local volunteers acting disruption as far as possible. Living East Lothian 7 Spring 2017 News

Business booming at Brewery Park offices Enterprising mix of tenants at Haddington’s exciting new development

he Brewery Park Online Business Centre, which features 10 individual payments offices for rent in the Tcentre of Haddington, is well and for schools truly open for business – with new tenants settling in. help busy The offices, designed as affordable space for small families businesses, in the heart of Haddington, were formerly council EAST Lothian’s Cashless offices and made available Catering system for following a review of secondary schools meals accommodation needs. Based gives parents or guardians opposite East Lothian Council’s the opportunity to deposit HQ the offices have been developed funds on their child’s card by East Lothian Land Ltd, the not- through an internet payment. for-profit company that developed There are a number of Macmerry Business Park. advantages with this system Here’s just a flavour of some of including no last-minute the exciting new businesses panic on Monday mornings waiting for your call in their brand searching for loose change new Brewery Park offices: for hungry kids off to school. Rural Housing Scotland is a It is also a safer system as no national charity that works to cash is being carried. secure the development of Payments can be made up to affordable housing. It works with Alan from McSense and Rebecca 8am for immediate use later communities to take advantage of and Nicky from StonehillSalt that day. opportunities such as the Rural are just two of the businesses The council’s school meals Housing Fund to develop housing in the new Brewery Park site service supplies 410,000 which is community owned and secondary school pupils with controlled, as well as helping lunch each year, and in all six them to work in partnership with accountant Alan Webb FCA An award-winning social Haddington since its inception secondary schools there is a others such as local councils. For meanwhile handles tax and enterprise supporting children and in 2008, the agency is run by morning break service every more information go to www. technical support. Their company, young people to reach their Rebecca Salt and Nicky Stonehill, day where pupils can choose ruralhousingscotland.org The Hayhoe Webb Partnership potential, Lead a Bright Future who have worked together in from a selection of hot and McSence Care at Home is part of provides the full range of provides a holistic range of services public relations for over 16 years. cold snacks and a range of the McSence Group, an award- accountancy services. For more for young people to enhance As well as media relations, they hot and cold drinks. winning community business, information, visit www. their wellbeing, enterprise and life handle profile management, School meals is just one social enterprise and charity, which thehayhoewebbpartnership.co.uk skills, supporting them to be event organisation and social service that can be paid now includes At Home in East or call Paul on 01620 826060. successful. Many of the media strategy. Recently, they online. Responding to local Lothian (AHiEL). It provides G Brown Stonemason Ltd young people they help are handled the PR campaign for the residents’ preferences, the comprehensive personal care, specialises in the conservation of disengaging from school and may East Lothian Food and Drink council has a range of services companionship and home help historic and listed buildings, using be facing social, emotional or BID, working alongside East that can be paid online. services and has a Care Inspectorate the finest traditional materials. behavioural challenges. An Lothian Council and the BID It is not just more five-star rating. If you are interested The company works closely with example of one of their successful steering group. convenient for the customer in receiving care services from archaeologists, conservation projects can be seen at www. They were also involved but also helps to put more McSense Care at Home or would architects and engineers to ensure buddybearfriends.com. with launching the new East money back into services like a career in the industry, call each completed project reflects The aim of ‘Buddy Bear Friends’ Lothian, Scotland’s Food & Drink through reduced bank 01620 826335 or email tracey-ann. the building’s original heritage. is to provide a whole school County brand initiative. charges. [email protected] It also works with local community approach to support www.stonehillsalt.co.uk New Brewery Park tenant Paul authorities, trusts and Historic young children to be a buddy, not Hayhoe helps hotels, pubs, guest Scotland. Projects have included a bully. FOR MORE houses and restaurants to boost Penicuik House, Ballencrieff For more information go to MORE INFORMATION information, email Anyone interested in schoolcatering@ their business with specialist Castle, Braemar Castle and www.leadabrightfuture.com accounting, bookkeeping and many more. Contact www. StonehillSalt PR is a finding out more about eastlothian.gov.uk or the new business space call 01620 827811 consulting services. Paul is a former gbrownstonemasons.uk or e-mail communications consultancy should contact estates@ hotel and pub manager as well as a [email protected] or specialising in arts, publishing, eastlothian.gov.uk qualified accountant. Chartered tel: 01620 861 683 heritage and tourism. Based in 8 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017

Our goals The Council Plan 2012-2017 included about 80 commitments. All of these have either been achieved or are at advanced stages of Ambitious being achieved. Despite working with constrained budgets, investment has been made in innovative services that can form the Draft basis for further service improvements in future year. These included: ●● East Lothian Works – delivering employability Council services aimed at increasing employment opportunities and delivering East Lothian’s Young Workforce strategy ●● the establishment of the Plan innovative, award-winning East Lothian Food and Drink Business Improvement District ●● the innovative partnership between the council’s Education service, Edinburgh College and Queen Margaret University, which has created a Our vision is for East Lothian to be even Council Plan sets out strategic goals suite of vocational academies that will make the biggest impact in subjects such as Tourism & more prosperous, safe and sustainable, with in delivering these key themes and Hospitality, Care and objectives: Technology and Construction a dynamic and thriving economy that enables ●● Reduce unemployment and ●● the creation of the new improve the employability of East communication provision at our people and communities to flourish Lothian’s workforce. Meadowpark providing ●● Reduce the attainment gap and high-quality facilities and HE council has approved account of the opportunities Council Plan are: raise the attainment and experiences for young people an ambitious new five- presented by the platform of ●● Growing our Economy achievement of our children and with additional needs year Draft Council Plan policies and achievements created ●● Growing our People young people. ●● ELSIE – the award-winning which builds on the through previous Council Plans and ●● Growing our ●● Improve the life chances of the ‘Hospital in the Home’ service Tambition and achievements of the new developments such as the City Communities most vulnerable people in our delivered providing support 2012-2017 Council Plan. Region Deal. ●● Growing our society. for older people to stay in It is set within the context of the It sets out the objectives that are Capacity. ●● Extend community engagement their homes rather than be continuing financial, demographic key to realising the council’s vision “Reducing inequalities and decision making and increase admitted to or stay longer and policy challenges faced by the for East Lothian. within and across our community and individual in hospital council. However, it also takes The objectives of the Draft communities” is resilience. ●● the delivery of the new the overarching ●● Deliver transformational waste collection service has “The council is committed to maintaining objective that change and harness resulted in a significant runs through the opportunities increase in the level of high-quality public services that are t h e w h o l e technology offers recycled waste from 44 per Plan. Improve in the provision of cent to over 50 per cent. used and valued by all residents” The Draft employability services.

government elections on 4 May l To change or cancel existing Are you ready to vote in May’s council election? 2017, you must: postal or proxy applications you l be registered to vote in Scotland must apply by 18 April 2017 THE next council elections will be elections in Scotland. When you cast between candidates and ensure that by 17 April 2017 l To vote by proxy at these held on Thursday 4 May 2017. your vote, rather than placing the the councillors elected reflect the l be 16 years of age or over on elections you must apply by Following the Local Government traditional X on the ballot paper you support proportionally from voters. polling day 25 April 2017. Boundary Commission’s review of will list the candidates in order of Voters can vote for candidates from l be a British citizen, a qualifying councillor numbers and boundary preference using numbers, placing the same party, from different Commonwealth citizen, or a CONTACT: arrangements, East Lothian Council a 1 in the box next to your first parties or for independent citizen of another European Union Lothian Valuation Joint Board will, following this election, have choice, a 2 next to your second candidates (if any). country. 17A South Gyle Crescent 22 councillors across six wards: choice and so on. You can make as These elections will be counted You can register to vote online Edinburgh, EH12 9EB many or as few choices as you wish. electronically. at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Tel: 0131 344 2500 HOW TO VOTE STV is a system of proportional l To vote by post at these Web: www.lothian-vjb.gov.uk THE Single Transferable Vote (STV) representation that aims to give the REGISTER TO VOTE elections you must apply by Email: enquiries@lothian-vjb. system is used for the local council voter the widest choice possible TO vote in the Scottish local 18 April 2017 gov.uk Living East Lothian 9 Spring 2017 News

Door of opportunity East Lothian Council is helping to make housing affordable through a range of options to buy or rent

WHAT IS ‘AFFORDABLE determined by your income level. house application form. Further HOUSING?’ information from your local Affordable housing is housing to NEW HOMES RECENTLY housing office (01620 827827). buy or rent for those on a low AVAILABLE TO BUY OR RENT 3. Cockenzie – The Chimneys Increase community resilience or moderate income. Affordable Housing to buy in: Eight one-bedroomed, 23 two- housing in East Lothian comes 1. North Berwick – Mains Farm and bedroomed and four three- in a variety of tenures and is sold Gilsland bedroomed properties for social or rented out at less than Fourteen three-bedroom semi- rent through East Lothian Housing market prices. detached and terraced properties Association. Contact: (for for sale at £159,600. All of these have information) ELHA on 01620 825032. TYPES OF AFFORDABLE been purchased by families 4. Dunbar – Bayswell Road HOUSING IN EAST LOTHIAN approved by East Lothian Council. Six one-bedroomed and 12 two- Most affordable housing in East 2. Haddington – Saxon Fields bedroomed properties for social Lothian is social rent provided Twenty properties discounted for rent through East Lothian Housing mainly as council houses or by sale, two-bedroomed terraced at Association. Contact: (for Housing Associations. Recently an £112,282. Contact Persimmon information) ELHA on 01620 825032. Raise attainment increasing number of properties Homes (01620 670206) 5. North Berwick – Russell Walk are available for “mid-market rent.” 3. Haddington – Burnell Park Eighteen council houses for These are usually more expensive Some three-bedroomed properties allocation in 2018. Contact: local than council or Housing Association remain at £124,875. Contact: Avant housing office. Despite difficult financial population on its own. The council rents but cost less than similar-sized Homes (01620 807488) circumstances faced by the council, needs to be: houses for private rent. Housing to FUTURE MID-MARKET RENT all the commitments made in the ●● an enabling and empowering buy comes in various types: Housing for rent in: PROJECTS current (2012-2017) Plan have either authority working together with ●● Shared equity: which means North Berwick – Mains Farm 1. North Berwick Mains Farm been achieved or are at advanced its citizens and communities, that the government provides a A mixture of one, two and three- and Gilsland stages. But more still needs to be businesses and voluntary groups proportion of the cost (up to 40 per bedroom houses for social rent. In Fourteen two-bedroomed houses done to continue the drive towards and other public sector partners to cent) and this must be repaid when this phase; 10 council houses and 16 on Mains Farm and six one and achieving the vision of East Lothian deliver the solutions that work best the house is sold. This reduces through Dunedin-Canmore two-bedroomed flats and two, two- to be even more prosperous, safe for East Lothian monthly mortgage payments. Housing Association. bedroomed bungalows on and sustainable with a dynamic and ●● a more entrepreneurial ●● Shared ownership: where the Gilsland. Contact: Dunedin- thriving economy that enables our authority, developing new ways of house is part-owned by someone FUTURE SOCIAL HOUSING Canmore (0131 478 8888). Further people and communities to flourish. ensuring services are provided else, usually a Housing Association, PROJECTS information from your local The council is committed to effectively and efficiently and you pay a combination of rent 1. Musselburgh – Eskmills housing office (01620 827827). maintaining high-quality public ●● a digital authority, fully and a mortgage. You can gradually Dunedin Canmore Housing 2. Macmerry – Westbank Road services that are used and valued by embracing and exploiting buy out the association’s share of Association will be providing 31 one 19 properties for mid-market rent all residents such as schools, services opportunities to use technology to the property. and two-bedroomed amenity – 14 two-bedroomed terraced for vulnerable children, adults and deliver services. ●● Discounted for sale housing is properties suitable for the over-55s. houses and five three-bedroomed older people, maintaining roads and This Draft Council Plan will be similar to shared equity but is Contact: ELC. Further information semi-detached properties with own pavements, street lighting and reviewed following the May 2017 operated by East Lothian Council. from your local housing office garden area. Contact: LAR Housing refuse collection services. council elections. Please note that special (01620 827827). Trust (01383 745650). However, the Draft Council A final version of the Council conditions may be attached to the 2. Musselburgh – Pinkie Mains 3. Dunbar – Kings Court Plan is based on the understanding Plan 2017-2022 will be adopted purchase or rental of these types of Thirty-five council houses for Four mid-market rent two- that East Lothian Council cannot taking into account the new council housing. Eligibility criteria for mid- allocation. Contact: Local housing bedroomed properties available address the diverse needs of our administration’s manifesto. market rent, for example, will be office. Put this area on your council May/June.

‘Buddy’ project to help the vulnerable with assessments FOR the last few years, sick and have had to appeal. assessment, they should get volunteer to ‘buddy’ applicants notes. They also help to and disabled people have Citizen’s Advice Musselburgh in touch with the bureau to through the assessment ensure good communications had to attend health is offering much needed discuss what they may be able process. This would involve afterwards between the assessments in order to prove support to people attending to do next. coming to the CAB for training; applicant, the DWP and they’re eligible for disability this sort of health assessment. meeting with the applicant; the CAB. benefits. Musselburgh CAB will introduce Could you be a CAB buddy? getting to know them, and People often find these you to a “buddy” who will go Musselburgh CAB is looking for helping them to prepare them assessments, formerly run by with you to the assessment. volunteers in a new project for the assessment. FOR MORE information, ATOS Healthcare, quite difficult They will offer support and act designed to help vulnerable and Buddies attend the please contact The Buddy and stressful and some claimants as a witness to the assessment. disabled people get the help assessment with their project on 0131 665 1141 or email info@musselburghcab. have had their entitlement If people are unhappy with they need. They are asking local applicant to support them casonline.org.uk stopped after assessment the DWP’s decision after the people to come forward and at the assessment and take 10 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017

Twenty’s plenty! FOLLOWING an 18-month trial Council was approached by a in three local communities, number of local residents the council has now agreed to concerned about road safety make 20mph the within their areas. permanent speed “ Transportation limit in the colleagues made Muirpark area of site visits and Tranent, Whin regularly Park, Cockenzie assessed traffic and on flow and speed Lochbridge both before and Road, North during the Berwick. trial period. Councillor “These lower Michael Veitch, Roads limits are welcomed by and Transport pedestrians and other road spokesperson, said: “The users, including cyclists.” Join in with the Ed-Splorers at Dunbar’s Bleachingfield Centre Puppet festival back to fire imaginations

HE Puppet Animation storytelling theatre with shadow Festival is the UK’s largest puppetry. performing arts event for Clydebuilt Puppet Theatre’s children. Dinosaur Detectives at the Fraser TEast Lothian Council’s Arts Centre in Tranent (Friday 7 April) Service is bringing the festival back uses large-scale projections Superfast broadband continues again this year, with shows in alongside rod puppets and shadow Dunbar, Haddington, Musselburgh, play to tell the story of The to roll out across East Lothian North Berwick and Tranent Dinosaur Detectives who discover a throughout the Easter holidays. secret doorway; inside there are a MORE than 9,000 households online services as well as Giddy Aunt’s A Stone’s Throw, a number of cases containing stories and businesses across East faster uploads and downloads. modern-day fairy tale about a little of the people who discovered Lothian can now access Sara Budge, Programme girl who throws a stone at the sun dinosaur bones in Victorian times. high-speed fibre services Director for Digital Scotland and knocks it down, blends shadow For ages five and over. thanks to the Digital Scotland Superfast Broadband, said: “It’s puppetry and live music with You can get snipping too! At The Superfast Broadband great news that many movement and storytelling in a tale Zoom Club’s Cut Out Animation programme. residents and businesses in for children aged five and over. It’s Workshop at the John Gray Centre To benefit from the faster East Lothian are now able to at The Brunton in Musselburgh on in Haddington (Thursday 13 April), connection speeds, residents receive fibre broadband thanks Saturday 1 April. you can chop and change paper need to sign up for a fibre to the programme. IpDip Theatre’s Head in the Clouds characters and create an animated service with their chosen “The difference that fibre is at the John Gray Centre in film using paper people and stop provider, as upgrades aren’t broadband can make is Haddington (Monday 3 April). This motion techniques to help them automatic. amazing. Once signed up with fun tale for children aged up to five inquisitive young mouse who leap into life. More coverage is set to a service provider, it will give is inspired by William Wordsworth’s loves adventures and soon finds Fusing hands-on making with follow as the roll-out much more flexibility whether poetry and the landscape of himself on a bizarre intergalactic digital technology, this workshop continues. Areas now live it’s at work or in the home.” Cumbria, and follows the story of mission! This fun show is for ages will help participants understand thanks to the programme Cirrus, a dog with a very important four and over. the basics of animation and see the include East Linton, Dirleton, job: to keep watch on the sheep. At The Bleachingfield Centre in human body and its abilities in a Athelstaneford, Inveresk and CHECK THE interactive At North Berwick Community Dunbar, you can see Sir Moustache new way. Dunbar. map on the Digital Centre, you can see Folding Puppet Bristleby and the Ed-Splorers from All tickets £5, £4 child (except The Scotland website www. Fibre broadband offers fast Company’s tale of Brier Rose Charlotte Hastings and Company Brunton, which is £7, £6 child). scotlandsuperfast.com/ and reliable broadband where-when/ to find out (Tuesday 4 April). Based upon the (Thursday 6 April). Sir Moustache Workshop £4, ages five-eight. connections and there are if you can get the service. Brothers Grimm version of Sleeping and the Eds are experts in all things many suppliers in the Further information is also Beauty, Little Brier Rose is suitable natural, cultural and historical, and out more and marketplace to choose from. It available on Twitter @ for ages five and over. have travelled the world exploring TO FIND to book tickets, visit enables multiple users to ScotSuperfast or Facebook Mousetale Puppets presents exotic lands having many thebrunton.co.uk or call at www.facebook.com/ connect to the internet at high Oscar’s Amazing Space Adventure at marvellous adventures along the The Brunton box office on scotlandsuperfast speeds and get better access to Haddington’s Corn Exchange way. This show for ages four and 0131 665 2240. (Wednesday 5 April). Oscar is an over blends visual and verbal Living East Lothian 11 Spring 2017 News

Celebrate Easter in East Lothian EAST Lothian Tourism Awards add to success Attraction Group is working to promote East Lothian’s amazing attractions this Easter. The group, which of healthcare project features a host of five-star visitor attractions, including the Scottish Seabird Centre, HE new arrangements contractors are already hard at National Museum of Flight, for the integration of work on site at Roodlands. Musselburgh Racecourse and Health and Social Care Our ELSIE (East Lothian Service the John Gray Centre, works came into effect on for Integrated care of the Elderly) collaboratively to highlight the T1 April 2016. was cited as an example of great days out to be had on This was when East Lothian national best practice by Audit our doorstep. Health and Social Care Partnership Scotland and they also won the Keep your eyes peeled this (ELHSCP) took over responsibility NHS Lothian Team of the Year Easter for adverts on STV and for local health and adult social Award. Our Council adult home online, which feature families care services formerly delivered care team won Team of The Year at from across the region, and through East Lothian Council and the Council’s Star Awards health and social care services. We development of the new structure. check out Visit East Lothian’s East Lothian Community We are also extending have also ensured that “This has put us in a very strong Facebook page for the chance Health Partnership. Prestonpans Health Centre and professional leadership for all staff position to begin work on forming to win a weekly prize. A wide This is an exciting time, offering finalising proposals for is built into the structure. the integrated teams that will help range of fantastic prizes will huge opportunities to examine improvements at Cockenzie East Lothian Health and Social us to deliver joined up services be on offer including behind- how health and social care Health Centre. Care Director David Small said: that will help up to achieve best the-scenes tours, champagne partners in East Lothian can work We have just completed our “We’ve done a lot this year and health, best care and best value for experiences, family swims, together to streamline the way we tendering process for specialist possibly our biggest achievement our communities. Bass Rock boat trips and more. do things, adopt more innovative support and help to live at home is starting work on the “As we look forward we have Have you visited all of East practices and use the skills of a services and our Day Centre construction of the new significant challenges in 2017/18 Lothian’s amazing attractions? combined workforce to deliver Improvement plan has been Community Hospital. and beyond including living ●● Coastal Communities even better outcomes for the agreed by the IJB and now has to “This has been a huge team within our budgets, improving Museum, North Berwick people of East Lothian. secure the necessary funding. effort. I am proud of our staff and our performance on some key ●● Dirleton Castle & Gardens It’s been a big first year for Our joint management team is stakeholder engagement on the targets, especially delayed ●● Dunbar Leisure Pool ELHSCP. Work is now under way now almost complete which structure of the management team. discharge and changing the way ●● Dunbar Town House on the new East Lothian means we now have service Staff, unions and stakeholders our services are provided in order Museum & Gallery Community Hospital – the managers responsible for both all played a large role in the to meet our outcomes.” ●● Foxlake Adventures, Dunbar ●● Glenkinchie Distillery, Pencaitland ●● Inveresk Lodge Garden, Musselburgh ●● John Gray Centre, All paths lead to benefits of the outdoors Haddington ●● John Muir’s Birthplace, MORE than £2 million has been As well as capital funding from Dunbar spent improving the network of the council, additional match ●● Musselburgh Museum paths and cycle routes across East funding came from Sustrans ●● Musselburgh Racecourse Lothian – and statistics show Community Links, SEStran, Paths ●● National Museum of Flight, increasing numbers of people are For All, community councils, East Fortune using them. landowner contributions, Scottish ●● Newhailes, Mussselburgh East Lothian has a long history Forestry Grants Scheme, Nortrail, ●● Preston Mill, East Linton of walking routes and rights Scottish Natural Heritage, Tyne ●● Prestongrange Museum, of way, which took people to Esk Leader, Viridor, Scottish Rural Prestonpans and from the mines and fields Development Programme and ●● Scottish Seabird Centre, and along old trade routes from many others. North Berwick the harbours. The core path network currently ●● Seton Colegiate Church, Building from this strong consists of 340km of paths, Port Seton tradition, East Lothian Council has which include: ●● St Mary’s Church, developed a connected network of ●● The John Muir Way, now part of Haddington core paths and active travel routes the 215km national coast-to-coast ●● Tantallon Castle, North for walking, cycling and horse route across Central Scotland from Councillor Norman Hampshire joins funding partner Sustrans Berwick riding, for people of all ages Dunbar to Helensburgh and local residents at the improved Pencaitland path ●● Tree-ditions, Stenton and abilities. ●● Haddington – Longniddry ●● The Brunton, Musselburgh. Considerable improvement Railway Walk, which forms part of Last month further upgrading 4km to more durable ‘Ultitrec’ works have also taken place to National Cycle Route 76 work to the Pencaitland Railway surface which has improved this many existing core paths around ●● Pencaitland Railway Walk Path was completed thanks to a popular path for all users, FOR MORE information the county. Between 2000 and (National Cycle Route 196) Sustrans Scotland project funded encouraging people to get out and on what’s on around East Lothian, look out for an 2016 more than £2.2 million has ●● Whitecraig – Smeaton Railway by Transport Scotland and about in their local area, explore East Lothian Attractions been spent on path development Path, which forms part of National delivered in partnership with East and enjoy the countryside, and leaflet or visit www. in East Lothian with two-thirds of Cycle Route 1 connecting Dalkeith Lothian Council. The award of improve health, wellbeing and visiteastlothian.org this coming from external sources. to Edinburgh. £267,000 was spent on upgrading physical activity. 12 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017 Young musicians get studio time to record LJAM, East Lothian’s Youth talent, but the bands benefit from competition at the High School, Music Forum, has teamed valuable studio time that would which the group won. up with Edinburgh College normally cost a considerable amount Band member Louie McAlpine on a project that offers of money. The majority of those said: “We’re used to playing live. Eyoung musicians the chance to taking part are approaching the end We’ve not played in a recording make a recording of their music in of their secondary education. This studio before. It’s a really different a professional environment. project gives them the chance to see experience – you need to be spot on.” ELjam provides a network for what we offer before they consider Jack Rendall agreed, adding: “The information about music their next steps.” experience was great – we felt a lot opportunities for young people Iain Bruce, Youth Music Forum more professional.” aged up to 25, reaching across East Development Worker, said: “This Bruce Kellagher said: “Music is Lothian and further afield, and offers project is a fantastic addition to the definitely something I’m interested support for young musicians, Gregor Kelly, Bruce Kellagher, range of opportunities offered or in, and I’m thinking about it as an provides performance opportunities Louie McAlpine and Jack promoted by ELjam. Allowing young option now.” Gregor Kelly agreed, and encourages participation in Rendall of Winter’s Wolves musicians access to free recording saying: “I’m thinking about other high-quality, music-making time undoubtedly fills a gap in things for after school, but I’d like to activities. to lay down a number of tracks, Mark Forshaw, Lecturer in Sound provision, as evidenced by keep up my music.” The project, which has been running before returning for their second Production at Edinburgh College, the overwhelming response we since December, sees young bands session to add extra parts and refine said: “This project has had a very received to this project.” offered valuable free studio time at the recordings. The college’s Sound positive outcome for both the college Winter’s Wolves are a band For more information on ELjam, call the Arts Service the college’s Milton Road Campus. Production students work on the and the musicians. Not only do our from North Berwick who have taken on 0131 665 9900 or email At the first session, the young recording, before giving the bands a students gain valuable experience in part in the project. They formed in [email protected] musicians are invited into the studio completed production of their music. working with enthusiastic young September for a Battle of the Bands

FREE ENERGY ADVICE Get free, impartial advice from Changeworks Energy Advisors. Book your slot now. We have 30 years experience of providing energy advice and are working with local Citizens Advice Bureaux. Our Advisors can help you to: • Save money on your heating and energy bills • Sort out complicated heating and energy billing problems • Find the cheapest gas/electricity tariff and supplier • Avoid gas or electricity disconnection • Sort out gas or electricity supplier debt Girls allowed! To book an appointment pop in or phone. Please bring along your most recent gas and/or electricity bill and up-to-date meter readings. TEN S4 girls from Musselburgh further education or training. The with a further fashion show in Grammar, Preston Lodge High girls spend the mornings working collaboration with Edinburgh School, Ross High and Dunbar on employability which includes College for parents, teachers and Grammar are learning about the visits to employers and writing friends, with the girls wearing Haddington CAB, 46 Court Street, Haddington world of fashion thanks to the CVs. They will also achieve a First their own creations, with hair, Tel: 01620 824471 programme, “Girls Allowed” Aid certificate. The afternoon make up and photography Wednesdays, 29th March, 26th April, 31st May, 28th June offered by East Lothian Works in session is delivered by Jacqui designed by college students. partnership with Jacqui Burke’s Burke’s Fashion School where This is just one of many offers Musselburgh CAB Fashion School in Dunbar. they are designing and making of pre-vocational programmes (Currently at Fisherrow Centre, South St, Musselburgh EH21 6AT) The programme, which started their own garments. The girls are available to school pupils. Tel: 0131 653 2748/2544 in January, is aimed at supporting also learning how to cat walk and For more information please Fridays 31st March, 28th April, 26th May, 30th June students to make a successful took part in a fashion show. visit www/eastlothian.gov.uk/ transition from school to work, The programme ends in April skillscentre Living East Lothian 13 Spring 2017 News

N May, the village of East Linton will be celebrating Judith Priest and David Affleck the life of Robert Noble, of Dunpender Community Council RSA, SSA, as 12 May marks planning artist’s centenary event Ithe centenary of his death. A prolific artist and one of the leaders of the outdoor school of painting in Scotland, Noble lived and painted in and around East Linton for much of his life. The Community Council is formulating the programme of events for the centenary celebrations, along with the Leisurely Horticultural Society, the Art Club, the Primary School, pursuits Prestonkirk Church, East Lothian Council Landscape and EAST Lothian residents benefit Countryside Department, and from an abundance of sports more than three dozen and leisure facilities across the local people who have given county and their increasing donations towards the popularity is clearly evident in production of a book showcasing enjoyleisure’s visitor numbers. Noble’s paintings, with text In 2016, enjoyleisure – written by Duncan McMillan and which delivers services on Alexander Moffat RSA. behalf of East Lothian “We are very grateful that all Council – received more than these local residents have given 1.2 million visits to its leisure us funding towards what will be facilities. This included over a permanent record of Noble’s 300,000 swim sessions, work and will be a wonderful 116,000 gym visits and historical resource for the A Noble cause 140,000 fitness class future“, said Judith Priest, attendances. In addition, more the chair of Dunpender East Linton celebrates centenary of artist’s death than 7,000 children developed Community Council. skills and techniques by “An exhibition of Noble’s work in East Linton given by gravestone has been restored by outdoors. We want to show the attending weekly coached paintings will be launched at the Alexander Moffat, RSA; the East Lothian Council; and there important role that Robert Noble activity sessions in John Gray Centre on 12 May; there primary school is planning will be an art competition open to played in the development of gymnastics, trampolining, will be a talk on Noble’s life and outdoor painting sessions; his those interested in painting painting around East Linton.” judo, karate, climbing and swimming lessons. Customers visited the cafés, soft play areas and attended birthday parties. They Shop local: It pays to support your retailers booked rounds of golf; hired badminton, squash DID you shop local in the run-up to initiatives the council has in place and tennis courts and the festive season? We know that to support local businesses. attended training sessions, many of you did because we Our Business Gateway officers events and competitions in received around 7,000 entries to are on hand to provide a huge range the sports halls, swimming the 2016 Christmas Shop Local of advice and support to anyone pools, athletics track and competition. looking to get a business idea off outdoor pitches. Our two main prize winners were the ground or to grow an existing The sports centres also Anne Covey from Pencaitland, business. welcomed visits from school whose winning entry came from We also have a programme of pupils, sports clubs, the Maple Tree in Haddington, and support, part funded by the performing athletes, walking Susan Black from East Linton who European Regional Development groups, weight loss groups, shopped at Gibson’s in Haddington Fund, offering free one-to-one local community groups, to win. The top prizes were £150 specialist advice in these areas: societies and special needs worth of local shopping vouchers. ●● HR groups who enjoyed engaging There were many more winners ●● web development and in physical and recreational each receiving £50 of local shopping e-commerce Councillor John McMillan presents lucky East Linton resident Susan leisure activities. vouchers. Entries came in from all ●● social media Black with her prize of local shopping vouchers The appeal of enjoying over East Lothian, Edinburgh and ●● marketing sports, leisure and fitness the Scottish Borders and we even ●● branding awarded its 300th loan. The higher amount will be pursuits is for all ages, with had one winner from Suffolk who ●● IT security and safety Since its formation, ELI Ltd linked to job creation and impact customers ranging from just a is looking forward to returning to ●● product packaging. has awarded loans to the value of on the local economy. few weeks old to those East Lothian to spend his winnings! £2.5 million which has helped to approaching their century. This year, more than 100 retailers 300 LOANS AWARDED create more than 600 jobs in the So if you haven’t already, across East Lothian took part in the East Lothian Investments Ltd local economy. FOR MORE information visit your local sports facility about any of our scheme. Look out for the popular (ELI Ltd), the not-for-profit The company has also just or go online and discover the business support, contact Shop Local competition returning company that offers interest-free announced an increase in the economicdevelopment@ opportunities available: later this year. loans to start-ups and businesses ceiling for loan applications up eastlothian.gov.uk www.enjoyleisure.com Shop Local is just one of the based within the county, has just from £10,000 to £25,000. 14 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017

An eggs-cellent selection Get crafty at East Lothian of things to do this Easter libraries this Easter break across the libraries

HERE’S a wide range of library and John Gray Centre. a Shrinkie Charm. Limited activities for children spaces available, book in at our libraries this MUSSELBURGH – Easter Crafts, advance with the library. Easter. All our libraries Friday 7 April 2.30pm. Throughout the holidays there Twill have colouring-in and will also be The Great Wallyford simple craft activities available NORTH BERWICK – Easter Crafts, Egg Hunt – find the eggs during the Easter school Thursday 13 April 10am-11am. hidden throughout the library holidays, from Monday 3 to and you’ll receive a mini egg Thursday 13 April. Please note ORMISTON – Drop-in crafts. and free entry into a prize draw. that all libraries will be closed Easter Reading Challenge, in for the Easter bank holiday conjunction with Ormiston FOR ALL the latest weekend, Fri 14 – Mon 17 April. Primary School. information on our events, visit www.eastlothian.gov. What’s on in your libraries: PORT SETON – Easter Crafts, uk/info/427/libraries DUNBAR – Drop-in crafts and Friday 7 April 2.30pm-3.30pm, Easter treasure hunt. Ages 5-11. Limited spaces “THESE FOOLISH THINGS” visiting the people they will be of our 12 libraries over the next available, book in advance with Are you interested in visiting care working with. If interested please few months. EAST LINTON – Drop-in crafts. the library. homes, day centres and libraries to contact Trina Gavan, Area After the walk we’ll enjoy a engage with older people and Librarian/Customer Services cup of tea or coffee in the library GULLANE – Drop-in crafts. PRESTONPANS – Easter Crafts, those suffering from dementia? Officer, [email protected] and discuss the chosen theme. Tuesday 4 April 2.30pm – Training will be given in the use of tel: 01620 820682 The walks will last from 30-60 HADDINGTON – Drop-in crafts 3.30pm, Ages 5-11. reminiscence collections to enable minutes, adults only. Numbers offering children of all ages the volunteers to feel confident in “WALK AND TALK” are limited. chance to make their very own TRANENT – Easter Crafts, Friday understanding the creative If you’re interested in walking and Details are available from your pair of bunny ears! There will 7 April 2.15pm-3.15pm, Ages 5-11. potential of everyday items. books, then look out for our library or contact Trina Gavan, also be a design an Easter egg Volunteers should be prepared to “Walk and Talk” events, starting Area Librarian/Customer Services competition and an Easter WALLYFORD – Easter Crafts, spend a few hours a month soon. A series of short walks are Officer, [email protected]. treasure hunt around the Thursday 6 April 3.30pm. Make developing relationships and planned to start and finish at each uk tel: 01620 820682

Learn for free with All aboard libraries online the wake DID you know that our TRANSPARENT LANGUAGE Library service offers access ONLINE provides an effective, to hundreds of e-learning fun, and engaging experience at Foxlake courses on subjects including for language learners of all business and office skills, levels. It offers unlimited career development, arts, access to courses in more crafts and creative writing? than 100 languages, as well as Beginner English for UNIVERSAL CLASS offers more speakers of 24 languages. than 500 non-credit courses You can learn to listen, speak, from exercise and fitness, to read and write in your chosen computers and technology. languages. With real instructors guiding the learning, video-based These courses are completely lessons, graded lesson tests and free for library members: all AFTER the huge success of some of the most talented yourself. Try out the Foxfall certificates of achievement, you you need is your library last year’s event, the Foxlake wakeboarders from across the Course, the UK’s only rope can enjoy an engaging and membership number and Outdoor Festival returns world to compete, this is a course constructed over water, measurable learning experience. a valid email address. bigger and better for 2017, further growth of Scotland’s or get on your wet suit and give having been extended to a biggest wakeboard event. This is wakeboarding a try, or if you ARTISTSWORKS FOR LIBRARIES Don’t have internet access at full weekend across 20 and the perfect opportunity to enjoy prefer to stay dry, hop on and offers users everything you home? Remember that you can 21 May 2017. and watch the thrills of master a segway! need for musical and artistic use library PCs and wi-fi free Many of the hugely popular professional wakeboarding. instruction, from introduction to of charge. elements of last year’s event The weekend is all about advanced performance level, will return, including the getting the family active THERE WILL also be a through self-paced video Industry Wake Parks who will outdoors, so you will have the music stage, comedy stage lessons from Grammy Award- FIND OUT more at and a Kids’ Zone. Full details www.eastlothian.gov.uk/ once again run an Industry Pro chance to try out some of East winning music and artistic at: www.foxlake.co.uk info/200498/etraining Wakeboard Tour Event. Bringing Lothian’s outdoor adventures for professionals. Living East Lothian 15 Spring 2017 News

Museums are embracing the 2017 Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology

Find out about the Sierra IN the Year of History, Heritage ANGUS MILLER, GEO WALKS – flowers and mini-beasts that Club founded by John and Archaeology 2017, we GEOLOGY WALK, HARBOUR TO inhabit the Prestongrange site. Muir 125 years ago celebrate the richness of East BELHAVEN Learn some surprising facts, hear Lothian’s intriguing history, 1.30pm-3.30/4pm from John natural sounds, and share your America’s oldest and largest John Gray Centre, 15 Lodge impressive cultural heritage and Muir’s Birthplace. £5 per person own sightings! Plus, go on our grassroots environmental Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX fascinating archaeology at (suitable for 12+ years). specially created walks to spot organisation. Muir’s legacy is still www.johngraycentre.org exciting exhibitions and events. A short walk along the Dunbar animals and plants in their very much alive today with a East Lothian became involved in coastal path, to explore the natural habitats. rapidly growing following. a conflict between England and East Lothian Council Museums different kinds of rock and the Scotland in the 1600s known as have secured funding through evidence of past activity. We’ll ‘TREASURED MEMORIES’ – DIGGING UP DUNBAR the Rough Wooing. Key events and places including Haddington Museums Galleries Scotland for find the remains of several IS NO APRIL FOOL! Wednesday 5 July to Saturday Priory, and the Battle of Pinkie events across East Lothian during volcanoes, about 340 million From Saturday 1 April 30 September 2017. Dunbar will all be explored in detail. Festival of Museums on the years old – lava flows, layers of Coastal Communities Museum, Town House Museum & Gallery, weekend of Saturday 20 and ash, in-filled vents and intrusions. School Road, North Berwick, EH39 High St, Dunbar EH42 1ER www. JOHN MUIR & GEOLOGY Sunday 21 May 2017. Distance 4km. £5 per person. 4JU www.coastalmuseum.org eastlothian.gov.uk/museums July to September Most likely each and every one of Ten thousand years of history will John Muir’s Birthplace, JOHN MUIR & GEOLOGY – DEEP A NOBLE GATHERING us will have special memories be showcased in this exhibition of 126 High Street, Dunbar TIME AND SCOTLAND’S TIME Saturday 20 May, 10.30am to associated with North Berwick archaeological discovery. EH42 1JJ. www.jmbt.org.uk LORDS, BEACH EXPLORATION 12.30pm, John Gray Centre, 15 and the surrounding villages. The John Muir & Geology will AND GEOLOGY WALKS WILL BE Lodge St, Haddington, EH41 3DX Coastal Communities Museum has ROUGH WOOING explore the hero who helped IN DUNBAR! Join us at the fascinating Noble brought together an array of Saturday 15 July to Tuesday to unravel Dunbar’s Saturday 20 May 2017 Gathering to explore the work of artefacts, which will spark 17 October 2017 geological history. East Linton painter, Robert Noble personal memories and make DYNAMIC EARTH HANDS ON RA RSA, PSSA (1857–1917) who the visitor aware of events DEMONSTRATIONS AND CRAFTS inspired many artists to paint relating to the history, heritage Deep Time and Scotland’s Time outdoors in the East Lothian and social culture of the area. Lords at Dunbar Town House countryside. Alexander Moffat Museum and Gallery, 10am- OBE RSA will deliver a talk on the MALTING AND BREWING IN 4pm. Donations welcome. painter and there will be a tour of FISHERROW AND The earth is 4,600 million years the major exhibition (being held MUSSELBURGH old. Come along and make your between 13 May and 5 July in the Saturday 1 April to Sunday 28 very own earth clock. What does John Gray Centre) to mark the May 2017. Musselburgh it have to do with meteorites, centenary of the painter’s death. Museum, 65 High Street, moon rocks and radioactive Musselburgh, EH21 7BZ. bananas? Can you fit the VINTAGE GALA DAY 0131 665 6642 www. extinction of the dinosaurs Saturday 20 May, 12noon to musselburghmuseum.org.uk (65 million years ago) and the 4pm. Prestongrange Museum, Discover the history of the ONLINE TODAY evolution of humans (two million Morrisons Haven, Prestonpans Honest Toun from earliest Opening up the digital world for people with hearing loss years ago)? times, through its Roman EH32 9RX Not everyone has the confidence to go online and use the internet. We can help you make a start. We Join us for a special time- settlement and medieval will help you to build skills and confidence and demonstrate why using the internet is a positive thing.

ANGUS MILLER, GEO WALKS - travelling gala day celebrating 65 upheaval, to its former valuable Learn how to: FAMILIES BEACH EXPLORATION: years since the Pithead Baths industrial mill complex, • Communicate with family and friends all over the world PEBBLES AND CLIFFS. opened in 1952! Come dressed up thriving agricultural, mining • Make life easier by shopping and paying bills online 11am-12/12.30pm from John and enjoy Prestongrange at its and fishing communities. • Use comparison websites to get the best deals and save you money • Find answers to any questions about any topic Muir’s Birthplace. £5 per family bustling best! Musselburgh Museum will be You can tell us what you would like to learn and we will show you how. Head down to the beach to focusing on the history of explore Dunbar’s rocky story. EXHIBITIONS: malting and brewing in April and Date Location Time Where did all these pebbles May, followed by celebrations 24th March Haddington Library 11am - 1pm come from? How many different for the 60th anniversary of 2017 types can we find? Each pebble WILD PRESTONGRANGE: Fisherrow Yacht Club. contains clues to the past, telling us ENCOUNTER THE ANIMALS AND Dunbar Library 2.30-4.30pm about the volcanoes and rivers PLANTS OF PRESTONGRANGE SIERRA CLUB 125 YEARS that used to be here and helped Saturday 1 April to Saturday 30 Friday 21 April to Friday 30 make Dunbar special. We’ll explore September 2017. Prestongrange June 2017. John Muir’s Please contact us to register for one of our free sessions and give it a go! the rocks on the shore and look at Museum, Morison’s Haven, Birthplace, 126 High Street, 07939 169 150 the cliffs, to work out all the Prestonpans, EH32 9RX. 0131 Dunbar, EH42 1JJ. [email protected] different things that have 653 2904 www.eastlothian.gov. www.jmbt.org.uk actiononhearingloss.org.uk/onlinetoday happened in the past – and uk/museums John Muir helped found the Action on Hearing Loss is the trading name of The Royal National Institute for Deaf People. what’s going to happen next! Discover the animals, plants, Sierra Club in 1892. Today it is A registeredAction on Hearingcharity inLoss England is the tradingand Wales name (207720) of The Royal and Scotland National (SC038926)Institute for Deaf A1369/1216 People. A registered charity in England and Wales (207720) and Scotland (SC038926) A1209/0116 16 Living East Lothian News Spring 2017 Take steps towards Unmissable film and live theatre screenings at a healthier lifestyle The Brunton HANGES Healthy Living If you’d like to get active, this doesn’t have Getting back to cycling is also THE Big Screen returns this Project is supported by a great way to improve your season with a feast of the NHS and the to mean a strenuous trip to the gym or a big fitness and overall wellbeing. must-see cinema hits and live Scottish Government’s hike. How about a walk or cycle instead? CHANGES offer a free cycling theatre performances. CLegacy 2014 Physical Activity programme in Musselburgh Encounter chills, thrills and Fund. The project’s aim is to to ease themselves in, and build from Walkin’ East Lothian, which with bikes and helmets provided toe-tapping entertainment inspire and motivate people to up their fitness. The good news is offers a full-body exercise that's to support participants to with our specially selected become more active through there’s some help to get started easy on the joints and suitable improve their cycling skills. blockbusters and experience walks and cycling programmes. on the way to being more active! for all ages and fitness levels. Sessions are on Wednesday, the best of the West End Consider the benefits: regular CHANGES lead free, short, Nordic walking was originally a Thursday or Sunday mornings. streamed live to the heart of physical activity has been shown friendly group Health Walks summer training regime for cross- the Honest Toun. Pick from a to lower the risk of early death, throughout East Lothian led by country skiers. OTHER ACTIVITIES include spectacular line-up of help control weight and reduce trained volunteers. One participant It’s based on using specially gentle exercise, Tai Chi and theatre, dance and film and the risk of heart disease, stroke, recently said: “I find these walks designed walking poles in a way buddy walks. For details and settle in for an array of type 2 diabetes, depression, some very beneficial, getting me fitter that harnesses the power of the to book your place, email first-class performances from types of cancer and a host of and more toned. It is nice meeting upper body to propel you forward healthyliving@changeschp. the comfort and splendour of other conditions. It helps to keep new people and getting to know as you walk. It is now a recognised org.uk or call Heather at The Brunton's Venue 1. your brain active and lowers the them through walking.” way to turn a walk into whole body CHANGES on 0131 653 1080. risk of hip fractures. Walking is a A new class is Nordic Walking exercise that can be done by More ideas available at www.activeeastlothian.co.uk FILMS: perfect start for people who wish run in partnership with volunteers anybody anywhere. All films start at 7.30pm unless otherwise stated. Tickets are £7.50 (£6.50) n Wednesday 29 March A United Kingdom (12A) n Wednesday 5 April Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (12A) n Wednesday 12 April T2: Trainspotting (18) n Wednesday 19 April Silence (15) n Wednesday 26 April La La Land (12A)

LIVE THEATRE: n Twelfth Night (12A) Thursday 6 April 7pm £13.50 (£11.50) Tamsin Greig is Malvolia in a new twist on Shakespeare’s classic comedy. n NTLive: Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead Thursday 20 April 7.15pm £13.50 (£11.50) Join us as we explore the local countryside Tom Stoppard’s brilliant comedy set against the EAST Lothian has a large network the river on its journey's end to the round trip of about 8km will take n 16 September (morning): backdrop of Hamlet. of core paths that are maintained sea. Watch it change from river to about 2.5 hours. Levenhall Links; Andy Stevenson n The Royal Opera: Otello by volunteer path wardens, along estuary and learn about its history (andrew_stevenson1963@live. Wednesday 28 June 7.15pm with the East Lothian Council and wildlife along the way. n 8 August (evening): Hopes co.uk), Duncan Priddle (dpriddle@ £15 (£12.50) Countryside Service. Path wardens Towards Dunbar the wildlife Reservoir circuit; David Habgood eastlothian.gov.uk) Verdi's passionate retelling of lead walks along a selection of gets exotic! ([email protected]) Come and discover Levenhall Links. Shakespeare's great tragedy these paths and you are invited to Meet at the water treatment plant Learn how a former dumping of jealousy and murder. join them. Please contact them n 20 May (morning): Bolton to at West Hopes (NT558634) for a ground for industrial waste has closer to these dates to receive Gifford (Pedlar’s way); Graham and stroll around Hopes Reservoir been transformed into one of East exact timing and start locations. Maxine Pettigrew (pettigrew enjoying the scenery, history and Lothian’s prime birding hot spots. ALL TICKETS are [email protected]) wildlife. The walk is about 6km and The walk will be principally on available from n 22 April (morning): East Linton This walk offers a mix of history, will take about two hours. Some of level ground, though it can be The Brunton on to Dunbar (River Tyne path); wildlife, spring flowers and 0131 665 2240 or the ascents are fairly steep but exposed. Please bring binoculars if www.thebrunton.co.uk Thomas Bower (tom@tbower. sweeping views, following the short and the path on the north you have them. Expected length for plus.com) Colstoun water upstream to Gifford side of the reservoir is narrow and the event two-three hours, Join the path warden and follow and then above Colstoun Mill. The traverses a fairly steep slope. covering up to 5km.