The evening comprised of a number of races, taking in the excruciatingly steep and poorly-surfaced Victoria Street, before haring down George IV Bridge and swinging round Greyfriar’s Bobby. The entire loop might only be 1.3 miles, but it’s one of the toughest criterium courses in the country.

A criterium consists of lapping the course for a set length of time, then on expiry of that time a further designated number of laps. For the elite riders, as darkness began to fall, this meant an hour of circuit-after-circuit before a five lap sorting out.

Tactics play out over the entire length of the race, and so it proved with Scottish rider Evan Oliphant (riding for Endura Racing) heading out into the lead on his own after about half an hour. Kristian House of Rapha-Condor had sat in the main bunch which let Oliphant escape, before launching his own attack, and as the hour came and went he had been seen to gradually reel in the man out front, work with him for a couple of laps, before powering off on his own, and managing to stay ahead of the chasing pack for victory. Oliphant came home third, with the two main attackers of the evening being split by Aussie Cameron Meyer (who finished third last year).

While it’s always exciting to see top pros competing up close (and many making the cobbles up Victoria Street look flat, and the gradient level) perhaps the most entertaining part of the evening is the folding bike race.

Here competitors, dressed in ‘business’ attire (though the rules on this are fairly relaxed given most work cycling shoes to attach to clipless pedals), start Le Mans style, with their bikes folded 20 metres away from them. After the initial run and unfolding carnage there follows three laps of the circuit, with the riders here proving no less committed than the big-wheeled standard bike competitors.

But the night isn’t just about the racing. The atmosphere on the Grassmarket on a Saturday night is usually boisterous, but that never spills over into trouble at the event (save for a few who always try to spoil it for everyone), and for cyclists there is a true carnival atmosphere that the morning commute by bike just doesn’t provide. Here they can compete in timed trackstand competitions, or race of staic roller bikes.

The numbers in the crowds actually seemed a little down on last year – though a clash with the first day of the Tour, as well as a Spanish world cup quarter final, might have had something to do with that. Everyone who went will simply be hoping that it comes back for a third year in 2011, and I might personally be convinced to take part in the folding race again after sitting it out this year…

The Rangers Service based at Holyrood Park is inviting visitors to step back in time to find out about a selection of ancient sports and outdoor pursuits.

Interpretation Ranger Matt McCabe said: “We wanted to give visitors an opportunity to learn about some fascinating traditional outdoors activities which are less common today.

“They’ll have an opportunity to try their hand at archery, a favoured sport of kings and commoners through the ages. Falconry was another great pastime of centuries past and we’ll have a variety of fascinating birds of prey here for people to get right up close to. And if the weather and ground conditions permit, there will also be artificial lure coursing with Whippets.

“Our free ‘Royal Pursuits’ event from 11am to 3pm on the 18th July is an opportunity for visitors to learn about the long heritage of these various activities and their links to the rich past of Holyrood Park, together with its importance as a royal hunting ground.

“We’ll also be highlighting the fact that the range of interesting and unusual ways to enjoy the environment around you is immense and there’s always scope for finding new outdoors activities to enjoy.”

The Rangers Team is also extending a welcome to visitors who would like to join them on an informative guided walk around the Park exploring its history, archaeology and natural wonders.

The Ranger Team hopes visitors will also join them on an exploratory walk around Holyrood Park. Every Monday until the end of August there’s a gentle stroll or ‘Amble Around Arthur’, whilst those who enjoy a more moderate walk can take part in the ever popular ‘Arthur’s Secrets’ which takes place on Tuesdays until 28th September. Or if you’re feeling energetic enough why not come along on the strenuous ‘Arthur’s Adventure’ every Wednesday until 25th August. There’s a free walk suitable for all abilities!

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Whether it’s a cheap single use tent for a festival, or an ultra lightweight tent for backpacking, or a sturdy home from home for all the family,  there has never been a better selection and Halfords has everything you need for camping and carvanning.

We don’t really condone throwaway tents but it’s hard to argue with £12.99 for a night’s accommodation. However, if you want to spend a bit more and have the convenience of a pop-up tent, Gelert do one that pitches in just a few seconds, and is perfect for fun, festivals and camping without fuss. There’s £5 off at the moment, pricing this little gem at £29.99 and it comes in a range of funky colours so that you can find your tent amongst all the others.

If you’re looking for something to take into the hills, or on a long carry such as the West Highland Way, look at the size and weight. You don’t want to carry more than 2kg and the Gelert solo comes in at just 1.5kg. This is currently on offer at £29.99 with £10 off.

You should also look at the waterproofing (just in case). 1500mm hydrostatic head is the minimum but ideally you want 2000mm or 3000mm – the higher this figure, the more waterproof the tent is –  and the seams should be taped. This combination of lightweight poles and high performance material is what you pay for with the more expensive tents. They will also have better ventilation to prevent condensation and things like pockets for storing torches, books etc.

One of the best deals around at the moment though, must be in Halford’s tent packs. The Halfords Family Tent Pack includes a fantastic four-man tent, complete with all the accessories you will need for a great camping holiday. Included are four envelope sleeping bags, two double airbeds and two LED camping lights – the perfect kit for a great night’s sleep!

Easy to pitch, the tent is spacious and has standing height, meaning no more ducking inside! The tent is double-skinned, reducing condensation and improving insulation, and has two separate bedrooms. Previously priced at £239.99 this now has £150 off and is coming in at £89.99.

If you’re starting from scratch you may also want to buy a cookset kit. Again Halfords has the answer with this set for just £25 online price (£59.99 instore) It consists of a portable gas stove, 4 pans,  3 cooking utensils and 4 plastic food containers with a durable rucksack to store and carry all the items.

Prices quoted here are current online prices. Some are web exclusive so not available under Halford’s popular reserve and collect system. Well worth checking is the range of videos showing you how to put up your tent.

The heaviest residents in the Zoo, (likely to weigh 2 – 2.5 tonnes when fully grown), means that introducing two of these powerful and potentially dangerous animals can be a tricky operation.  Since Samir arrived at the beginning of May keepers have been working closely with him to get him settled in and relaxed in his new environment. When 18 month old Bertus arrived, keepers did consider a gradual introduction but due to his laid back nature, the decision was taken to integrate the two on the evening of his arrival. After much trepidation, keepers are relieved to report that the two have become firm friends and are acting just like brothers.

Sue Gaffing, Head Keeper for the rhinos said: “We’ve had Indian rhinos at Edinburgh Zoo since 2006 but when our males reach breeding age at about 5-6 years old they leave to start their breeding life in another zoo collection and are replaced by juveniles. In the wild, rhinos are solitary animals and only tend to come together to mate, but while they are young they can live happily alongside each other. But you are never quite sure how a new pair coming from different collections will get on. In the past, their have been dominance struggles but this pair have been totally different. Bertus is incredibly relaxed and his chilled attitude has really rubbed off on Samir who was pretty nervous when he arrived. They are now inseparable, following each other around as if they are attached by an invisible rope! It is truly lovely to see and both are obviously enjoying each others company.”

Part of the role staff at Edinburgh Zoo play in the rhino breeding programme is to train new arrivals so that routine medical checks can be carried out without stress. As Sue continues: “The shear size and design of a rhino presents its own challenges from an animal management perspective, Rhinos have skin as thick as 3cm in places, so simply getting a blood sample can be difficult. We use positive reinforcement training where the animal is rewarded for the behaviour we want. In the rhino’s case this allows us to get blood samples from behind the ear – the area where the skin is at its thinnest  – as well as to get them to lift their hooves for inspection as rhinos are notorious for problems with their feet.”

For keepers the arrival of the new rhino meant a fond farewell to Fanindra who at nearly six years old and at an age to start breeding, has left to start a new life. He has now gone to Rotterdam and next week will be introduced to a female and they will hopefully breed. And who knows, but his offspring could end up at Edinburgh Zoo in the future.

In the past Indian rhinos could be found across the entire northern part of the Indian sub-continent. But their biggest enemy has always been man and populations declining drastically due to habitat loss, hunting and poaching to the brink of extinction in the early 20^th century.

Listed as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) this means the Indian rhinoceros is considered to be facing a high risk of extinction in the wild.  This listing reflects the recent boost in wild population numbers from 200 to 2,575.

Running from Saturday 5th to Sunday 13th June to provide a full week, including two weekends, jam-packed with wild activities, locals in Edinburgh and the Lothians can enjoy a whole host of fun events, from attending renowned gardening shows and photographic exhibitions to learning how to be a wildlife detective in your own garden and discovering wildlife oases in the heart of the city centre.

Simon Milne, Chief Executive of the Scottish Wildlife Trust, said: “Now in its ninth year, the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s nationwide Wildlife Week aims to encourage people to explore their local parks, woodlands and seashores and perhaps even venture into the hills or take a boat trip – it’s all about discovering and enjoying the wonderful natural landscapes and native wildlife of Scotland.”

Many local rangers and organisations including the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World, and the Scottish Seabird Centre are hosting events throughout the week, and the Scottish Wildlife Trust is also hosting their own events on local wildlife reserves.

Julian Warman, Scottish Wildlife Trust’s Reserve Manager for South East Scotland, said: “We own and manage 18 wildlife reserves in the Edinburgh and Lothians area which are great examples of different wild habitats and the amazing wildlife that can thrive in Scotland.

“It’s easy to forget that these wonderful wild places exist so close to Edinburgh city centre and Wildlife Week is a great opportunity to get outdoors and enjoy them. Open days with experts on-hand to help are on offer at Bawsinch and Duddingston Wildlife Reserve, located next to Holyrood Park, on Sunday 6 and 13 June, and guided walks at Hermand Birchwood in West Calder on Tuesday 8th and Friday 11th June are perfect for individuals and families who want to know more about wildlife found right on their doorsteps and the country retreats on offer around or just outside the city.”

The Wildlife Week programme aims to provide something of interest for everyone, whatever their age, interests and abilities. Many activities are free. Some are aimed at families, some are for adults only. Some are early morning, listening to the dawn chorus, others run late into the night, looking for bats and badgers. People can learn new skills like wildlife planting or photography or can simply enjoy the wonder of the natural world around them. For Wildlife Week’s full programme of events, visit www.swt.org.uk/events.

With over 35,000 members already supporting their work, the Scottish Wildlife Trust is the largest charity dedicated to protecting all of Scotland’s wildlife for the future. The Scottish Wildlife Trust and Wildlife Week are supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery. As part of their mission to raise funds for charities in Scotland, 40p from each lottery ticket sold to a selection of charities in Scotland, including Scottish Wildlife Trust. Recently reaching a milestone of over £1million in support, Scottish Wildlife Trust can now do even more to protect Scotland’s wildlife thanks to People’s Postcode Lottery and its players.

There are two loops of different lengths, about 7 – 8 km and about 10 km, which form a figure of 8. If you feel like an even longer day out, you could miss out the track that joins the two loops and tackle a circular walk of 12 -1 3 km, starting at Barbauchlaw Mill, and going round by Gowanbank and Blackridge.

Barbauchlaw Mill is now a garden centre and you can leave your car in the upper car park. The road wends downhill along the route of the old drove road to Woodend Farm.

From there, a fingerpost sends you on the middle distance route, through kissing gates and gradually out to wilder and higher countryside. The climb is very slight and hardly noticed. A slight deviation up Eastcraigs Hill takes you up to the trig point at 249 feet, from where you have a good view to the south and the Pentland Hills.

Should you choose to continue north from Woodend, you will find a surprisingly pretty loop. The moorland is wild and you will see plenty of grouse and other birds, depending on the time of year.

The Wildlife Trust have seen to it that the grass verge here is only cut once a year to preserve the varieties of wild flowers. Shelter belts of beech and birch line the road and Scots Pine can be seen on the eastern horizon.

The towers and vents of the Gas Board’s Compressor Station at Easter Rigghead loom out of the forestscape as you approach Gowanbank. This gas pressurising plant is one of three in Scotland which form a vital part of the gas grid network covering Britain. From St. Fergus near Peterhead, gas is distributed south in 3′ diameter steel pipes through Kirriemuir, Bathgate and Beattock to the south of England, picking up supplies from Blackpool and Norfolk to the divided east and west coast routes on the way. The enormous vents you see release carefully controlled emissions from the RB211 jet engines which compress the gas as it heads south. Enough cubic feet to satisfy the needs of 10 million households pass through Easter Rigghead each day.

Spare a glance at the exceptional gate posts as you go by, turning left and following the road , eventually south past the farm of Heights. From here the views to the north are of the Perthshire monros, Stuc a Chroin and Ben Lomond.

As the road bends, you join the route of the shorter walks at Eastcraigshill. You can take the longer loop by the road down into Blackridge, or the shorter route west of Craigs Cottage, coming out at the park.

The only way from here to avoid the A89 is to catch a bus but at least there is a pavement all the way. The disused railway which would make a pleasanter return to Woodend has been taken into agricultural use, but you can cut down to Barbauchlaw Burn and back to the Mill through kissing gates just before the new housing development.

During the mating season large doughnut-shaped nesting rings and pebbles were placed in the enclosures by keepers. Within hours, the amusing courtship displays, whereby males presented females with a love token of a pebble, began.

Roslin Talbot, Head Keeper at Edinburgh Zoo said, “Edinburgh Zoo is one of the most successful captive breeding sites for gentoo penguins in Europe. Once the eggs are laid, we briefly remove them from the nest and write a 1 or 2 on it to know which was the first egg and which was the second. We keep careful records of every egg laid and then the chicks once they hatch.

This year, 108 eggs were laid and so far over 40 chicks have hatched. Last year 42 chicks went on to adulthood and the keepers are anticipating even more this year.

Those tuning into the ever-popular penguin cam at www.edinburghzoo.org.uk glimpse this year’s emerging chicks and check on their progress. Once the chicks hatch, they remain in the nest for a couple of months and are fed by both parents. The adult will hold onto partly digested food to feed its chick. When hungry, the young simply pecks on its parent’s beak. This causes the parent to ‘cough up’ the food they have been storing.

In the wild, and while their parents hunt for food, month old chicks form nursery groups known as creches. Once the chicks have grown adult feathers at about three months, the parents stop providing them food and they start to fend for themselves.

As an adult, the gentoo penguin is easily recognised by the wide white-stripe extending like a bonnet across the top of its head and bright orange beak. Gentoo penguins are the fastest underwater swimming bird.

Three king penguins from a Christian Salvesen expedition in January 1914 were the first penguins ever seen outside their South Atlantic homeland. There are three different kinds of penguin at the Zoo today. Currently there are 19 rockhoppers, 11 king penguins and 171 gentoo penguins. The daily penguin parade is still one of the most popular attractions at the Zoo. The parade began in 1951 when a keeper accidentally left the gate open. The penguins went for a short walk and then returned to their enclosure.

A. The winding river North Esk flows beneath and alongside the walkway where you start at Valleyfield Monument, near Penicuik. The Monument stands at the edge of an old paper mill and marks the grave of 309 French prisoners of war, who were imprisoned here during the Napoleonic wars.

From here, you pass the old Eskbridge Station and, a little beyond, you come to a tall metal gate on the left of the track.

B. Pass through the gate, taking the path leading to Beeslack Woods. The woods contain a mixture of native and ornamental trees and shrubs, planted in the old estate manner, and many wild flowers. Return to the walkway along the same track.

C. Auchendinny Station is one of several access points to the walkway, all well signposted. It was once a busy station that stood near an interlocking arrangement if two bridges and a tunnel shaped like a bowstring. Follow the trail through the Firth Tunnel.

D. From the tunnel, you will emerge onto the then span Firth Viaduct. This brick structure was designed by Thomas Bouch, who also designed the Tay Bridge.

Views from here are spectacular. The rolling Pentland Hills rise from the west and the River North Esk flows below. Some way over to the left, perched on a rocky promontory high above the river, is the 17th Century Woodhouselee Castle.

After crossing the viaduct, you enter what is known as the Tin Tunnel. This tunnel runs for around 200 yards and was built to prevent sparks from train and engine wheels igniting the gunpowder stores at Kirkkettle Mill. From here, continue until you see an access point sprout off to your left.

E. Follow the path uo the north embankment to a grassy slope. At the foot lies the River North Esk and the heart of Roslin Glen Country Park. Only the ruins are left of what was once the gunpowder mill and many small birds and animals, including deer, have made it their domain. The main track that winds its way through the woodland leads to the Rosewell -Roslin road.

Retrace your steps to the walkway and visit the opposit bank of the Esk. Continue towards Hawthornden Crossing, passing what was once Roslin Castle Station, walk under the next bridge and you will arrive in the Roslin Glen Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserve, famed for its broad leaved woodland.

F. Meandering through the reserve, you may see mink, fox or stoat. The mainly oak and hazel woodland has over 200 species of flowering plants, 60 species of breeding birds and a rich lichen flora.

G. At Hawthornden Crossing, turn left to leave the walkway, rather than going straight on to Bonnyrigg. Go down Polton Road and, on the left, about 500 yards from the crossing, you will come to the gateway to Hawthornden Castle, a writer’s retreat where Ian Rankin and others have rescued their works. Walk along Polton Road, keeping Midfield House on your right and, at the foot of Midfield’s exit drive on the left, there is a relatively unknown track which lies between two cottages and leads to Polton Village.

H. In Polton, turn left and cross the bridge at the foot of the hill and you will see two footpaths. Take the path on your left which leads you high above the Glen where you can explore the wild side of the River.

A short distance up the Glen, you may glimpse Hawthornden Castle, standing on a sheer sandstone cliff, towering at least 150 feet above the River. There are many waterfalls in this part of the Glen and many caves. Little has changed since Sir Walter Scott so admired the Glen.

Stay on this path to reach the mysterious Roslin Chapel and Roslin Castle. You can visit the attractions or have a cup of tea in the tearoom before returning home.

Unlike my vehicle, hedgehogs have the habit of moving at around two miles per hour but can still travel considerable distances as they forage for food at night. Hedgehogs eat a variety of food, including several species of slugs; preferring the tasty, grey, field ones to the somewhat bitter brown and black variety. However, they will even eat pet food that has been put out for them, although they do turn up their noses if it contains fish.

They will also gorge themselves on apples and any other fruit they can get their teeth into. Their diet enables them to survive the long hibernation from November to March. Early warm weather can induce them to wake up before this but this year the opposite is happening.

The hedgehog’s spines are hollow hairs made stiff with keratin. They aren’t poisonous  but normally come out when a hedgehog sheds baby spines and replaces them with adult spines, a process known as “quilling.”

Sadly, some people only see hedgehogs as squashed corpses in the middle of the road, so, when you are next out driving at night, remember the ‘Don’t Squash Me’ car sticker, for the survival of even one hedgehog can mean the survival of the whole species.

A population of the species, which could potentially cause serious damage if numbers increase, has been found breeding in pinewoods west of Inverness, including the Commission’s Boblainy Forest. Although occasional individuals have turned up in southern England, pine-tree lappets have never previously been found breeding in Britain, so the species might be a recent arrival or a previously undiscovered resident.

The pine-tree lappet (Dendrolimus pini) is a native of continental Europe, Russia and Asia, where the caterpillars feed mostly on Scots pine needles. The Forestry Commission is concerned that it could become a pest in this country. Its populations can increase significantly from time to time in parts of its range in Europe, leaving large areas of pine woodland stripped of foliage. Many trees die during severe outbreaks because the defoliation makes them susceptible to diseases, bark beetles and wood-boring insects.

Roddie Burgess, head of the Commission’s Plant Health Service, explained, “We are continuing research to try to determine the likelihood of pine-tree lappet being a previously unknown native species or a recent arrival in Scotland and, more importantly, to assess whether it poses a serious risk to Scotland’s pine and spruce forests.

“If the evidence points to the balance of probability being that it does pose a risk, we will look at the best way of taking early action to prevent it spreading further afield and potentially causing serious damage to our woodland environment and forest industries.

“Meanwhile, we are appealing to walkers and ramblers, many of whom are keen observers of wildlife, to keep an eye out for them this summer and report any sightings to us. This information will help us to keep track of their geographical spread and inform any decisions we might need to take.”

Mr Burgess added that it would be very helpful to the Commission to also receive digital photographs of any specimens seen, and any captured specimens if possible, for expert confirmation of their identity.

Reports of sightings, and any photographs, should be accompanied by as precise as possible a description of the spot where they were sighted or captured – preferably an Ordnance Survey grid reference.

Anyone who has captured a specimen should send a photograph and location report in the first instance, and meanwhile place the moth in a secure, rigid plastic container and telephone or email the Forestry Commission contact below for instructions about how and where to send it.

Pine-tree lappet is a large moth: the males have a wingspan of about 60mm (2.5 inches), while the females are larger at 80mm (3.2 inches). Males are a greyish or reddish brown with a white central spot in the middle of the wing and a jagged-edged band across the wing.

They are most likely to be found in or near woodland with a significant proportion of Scots pine trees, but they are also known to feed on other conifers common in Scotland, including Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), larch (Larix spp.) and lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta).

Anyone who thinks they have seen or captured a pine-tree lappet should contact Forestry Commission Scotland, by email to fcscotland@forestry.gsi.gov.uk or by telephone to 0131 314 6156.

Further information about the pine-tree lappet, including frequently asked questions, is available by following the “pests and diseases” link on the plant health pages of the Forestry Commission’s website, www.forestry.gov.uk/planthealth, and on the Forest Research website at www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pinetreelappet.

The Trust gets its welly boots on at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh with their own stand and will also be teaming up with the Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens and the Scottish Allotments and Gardens Society, on other stands too – celebrating the International Year of Biodiversity 2010.

Trust Nature expert Mr Lindsay Mackinlay said, “Plants provide essential food and shelter for all sorts of animals in all quarters of the country. We’ll be on hand at these special events, at the Royal Botanic Gardens, to tell you about how they encourage wildlife to thrive in the Trust’s gardens.

“We can also give some great tips on managing your own garden for the benefit of wildlife too.”

Visitors can get their own green fingers tinkering in the soil too, as there will be the chance to plant some seeds to take home.

For a full programme of all the events of the Festival, visit: www.sciencefestival.co.uk

Edinburgh solicitor Walter Clark has set himself an unusual challenge. He plans to run the London marathon togged out in an Indiana Jones outfit to raise funds for Tommy’s.

Walter says, “We think ourselves extremely lucky to have Adam and Zoe, but it has been a difficult road for us to get here, and needless to say for my wife Hazel especially.  We are therefore keen to do what we can to help and raise money for Tommy’s. As a special incentive for donations, I have promised my son Adam that I will run in an Indiana Jones outfit if we beat the target of £3000!”

When a pregnancy fails or a baby dies, the families affected can be devastated and often have a desperate need to know why. Frustrated at the lack of research that meant they could rarely answer this question, two obstetricians working in the maternity unit at St Thomas’ Hospital in London were inspired to start fundraising for more research into pregnancy problems. Soon, their cause was taken up by others and a charity affectionately known as ‘Tommy’s’ (after St Thomas’ Hospital) was born. That was 1992.

“At Tommy’s we believe it is unacceptable that one in four women will lose a baby during pregnancy and birth. Today, we lead the way in maternal and fetal research in the UK. To give every baby the best chance of being born healthy, we work to fund medical research into the causes of premature birth, stillbirth and miscarriage.

“We fund three research centres in the UK, including St Thomas’ in London, St Mary’s in Manchester and the recently established Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh, which focus their research efforts on different issues relating to

“We also feel it’s important to raise awareness of the facts and to provide free, accurate and up-to-date information for medical professionals and parents-to-be. This includes a dedicated telephone midwife service, a comprehensive website and free books and leaflets dedicated to promoting health in pregnancy and pre-pregnancy.

We are supported by people who want to do something about the lack of research and information around pregnancy issues like miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth.
We believe every parent has the right to a healthy pregnancy and baby. Our target is to halve the number of babies that die during pregnancy or birth by 2030.”

As a junior international orienteer, Walter is no stranger to hard training, but he has never had to run in fancy dress costume before. To make sure he carries out his promise, and to donate to this excellent cause, visit Walter’s Just Giving page. ]]> http://www.lothianlife.co.uk/2010/03/running-for-tommys/feed/ 0 http://www.lothianlife.co.uk/2010/02/edinburgh%e2%80%99s-unemployed-youths-go-wild-for-work/ http://www.lothianlife.co.uk/2010/02/edinburgh%e2%80%99s-unemployed-youths-go-wild-for-work/#comments Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:03:10 +0000 Nicola McGovern http://www.lothianlife.co.uk/?p=6365 Young people between 18 – 24 years old are being given the opportunity to gain valuable work experience helping to protect and conserve Scotland’s environment, thanks to the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s (SWT) leading participation in the UK Government’s new Future Jobs Fund.

The latest batch of Future Jobs Fund placements confirmed an additional 61 allocations for SWT, bringing a total of over 360 unemployed young people an opportunity to complete six-month employment contracts over the next two years.  The placements will be salaried at minimum wage thanks to the Future Jobs Fund.

Liam Cornwall, aged 21 from Dalkeith, who is now working with SWT’s Edinburgh and Midlothian Conservation Team, said,  “I had been unemployed for nine months before I was lucky enough to be given the chance to work outdoors with SWT.  Before that I had a bar job and, although it was long hours and hard work, I did enjoy earning my own money.  Being unemployed for so long was hard.  With no cash and my lack of work experience leading to constant rejections, you do begin to feel a bit worthless.

“The job placement with SWT and the Future Jobs Fund changes all that.  Working with the Dalkeith Conservation Team is brilliant and I’ve found something I really enjoy.  I look forward to going to work every day and being part of a team.  We do things like ring-marking and felling trees and restoring important habitats such as reed beds, and all our work helps to protect wildlife in some way.  It’s great to know that what I do is making a difference to the community around me.

“I now hope that the experience I am gaining with SWT will stand me in good stead for finding further employment.”

Currently the largest provider of Future Jobs Fund placements in Scotland, the boost in SWT’s ranks sees young people carry out tasks for the benefit of Scotland’s wildlife across all areas of the organisation, from practical conservation to administration.

SWT’s Director of Conservation, Jonny Hughes, said, “361 extra pairs of hands and feet make an incredible difference to the work SWT can achieve for the protection and conservation of Scotland’s wildlife.  Most of our new employees will join our conservation teams who maintain our 123 wildlife reserves. They may also take on contract work in the wider community to help people protect or make the most of the wildlife around them.  This can include anything from felling dangerous trees and removing non-native species to constructing boardwalks and viewing platforms.  We also hope to have more office-based placements in future, providing opportunities to gain experience in administration processes and data management.

“The Futures Job Fund is a huge success because it delivers real benefits to young people and communities. While SWT gains extra manpower to allow us to do even more for Scotland’s wildlife, the young people involved are getting real jobs which boosts their confidence and morale after periods of unemployment and gives them the opportunity to gain skills to help secure rewarding careers in the future.”

Launched in October 2009, the Future Jobs Fund aims to create 170,000 jobs throughout the UK, which deliver real benefits to communities.  Primarily aimed at 18-24 year olds, the Government, as part of the Young Person’s Guarantee, has pledged that from early 2010, everyone between 18 and 24 who has been looking for work for a year will get an offer of a job, work experience, or training lasting at least 6 months.

SWT is the largest membership organisation dedicated to protecting all of Scotland’s wildlife.  The Trust manages 18 wildlife reserves across Edinburgh and the Lothians, which are all open to the public.  For more information or to become a member, visit www.swt.org.uk.

The race was inaugurated in 1970 by Burns Scott and Jimmy Jardine, ostensibly to celebrate the story of the Saltire appearing in the sky over Carnethy Hill to inspire an exhausted Scottish army at the battle of Roslin in 1302. At first it began at Penicuik Park and the runners ran along the road and ascended Carnethy Hill only, a distance of some  miles. Two years later, Scald Law was added.  In 1980 the weather was so bad that the organisers called it off, but confident runners, who had travelled from far and wide, ran the race unofficially.

From 1981, the course was extended to take in the 5 hills. With around 500 runners taking part these days, the start and finish have been located in the field below the hill, rather than having runners on the road from the school. A fleet of buses takes the runners to the encampment at Silverburn and back. They first run up Scald Law, then East Kip and West Kip, then Black Hill and down to the Howe before the long, hard slog up Carnethy itself and the painful descent. All in all it’s 6 miles and 2500’ of climb. As the runners are not on the tourist path, they are not causing permanent damage but the original descent from Carnethy down the scree slope was beginning to make its mark and now a marked route has to be followed which changes slightly each year.

Jimmy himself has run in every race, making this year his 40th, a unique achievement. That takes some doing. Jimmy from Lochaber A. C. has run many races in less than the hour but now in his seventies, it takes a little longer. A well kent face, there is no shortage of encouragement for him on the hills and he acknowledges it all with a cheery smile.

Joining him in this 40th year’s celebrations were 5 people who joined the 21 Club, people who have competed in 21 races and who are presented with an engraved quaich to honour the occasion.

Amongst them this year is the first woman to join this dedicated  club, Pat McLoughlan from Westerlands  and there was a bottle of champagne awaiting her as she crossed the finish line. How much of it was used to wash off the mud and how much to drink is anyone’s guess.

The Carnethy 5 race really kicks off the hill running season and this year there are 185 races in the calendar, which is compiled by the Scotttish Hill Runners Association. These races cover the whole of the country, from Wideford Hill in Orkney to Criffel Hill near  Dumfries.

For further information on hill running see the Scottish Hill Runners website.

Under-fives in East Lothian are being invited to go wild with the National Trust for Scotland at its historic Newhailes estate, from March this year.

The conservation charity is launching its Nature Nippers group which is designed to give preschool children the chance to explore nature and the outdoors. Newhailes already runs a similar programme of activities for older 8-12 year old children, known as Nature Detectives.

Under the careful guidance of Lothian Area Ranger, Hannah Levene, children under five and their carers can explore the rich wildlife to be found at Newhailes, play nature-themed games and get creative with craft projects.

The group will meet on the first Wednesday of every month, and its activities will change as the seasons do. The first session (Wednesday 3 March, 10.00 until 11.00) focuses on spring and the way the natural world changes around this time of year.

In April, the Nippers will celebrate Easter by finding out about eggs and nests, while at the height of summer in July they’ll search the grounds for butterflies and bugs.

Hannah said,  “Getting out into nature is a great experience for young children. They learn so much about the world around them and get really excited about their latest discoveries – whether those are bugs, birds or bluebells. As a conservation charity, we hope that by nurturing children’s fascination with nature, we’ll establish an enthusiasm for the environment around them that will last a lifetime.”

As at least some of the group’s activities always take place outside, wellies and warm, waterproof clothes are a must and all children must to be accompanied by an adult.

Sessions run from 10:00 to 11:00 at the Newhailes Visitor Centre and cost £2.  For more information, contact the property on 0844 493 2124 or email hlevene@nts.org.uk.

If you are sharp enough, or out in a sailing boat or kayak, you might manage to catch sight of  these mammals, with their dog-like faces, swimming near Dunbar and Gullane or around the Bass Rock. Being very shy, they tend to vanish at the slightest sound of a boat’s engine.

You can tell them apart as the common seal has a longer muzzle and a patchy appearance.

Common seals mate and give birth to their pups in the water, while the grey seal gives birth on sandbanks and many can be seen across the water in Aberlady Bay during the pupping season, (October-November). On the following high tide, they are quite capable of swimming straight away, returning to the sands to suckle.

When older, they hunt for inshore fish offering no competition to the Scottish fishing industry, although they can also be seen scavenging around fishing boats in harbours.

Whether on land or water, seals should be given a wide berth – they are capable of inflicting a savage bite, especially a protective mother.

Dr Maggie Keegan, Conservation Officer at SWT, said, “The Scottish Wildlife Trust believes that the construction of the 3-hole golf course will have a significant negative impact on the Firth of Forth SSSI. There has been inadequate information provided in the Environmental Statement to give us confidence that the proposed mitigation, required as a result of the construction and operation of the proposed development, will compensate for the loss of this nationally important habitat.”

In its objection letter to East Lothian Council, SWT also states that the benefits to the wider economy are uncertain and cannot be a clear justification for the loss of this fragile sand dune system and associated vegetation.

SWT has urged East Lothian Council to recognise its duty under The Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act 2004 to “further the conservation of biodiversity” and reject this application. Failure to do so would also undermine local biodiversity action plans that recognise coastal habitats such as sand dunes, as being under pressure from development like Renaissance’s application.

• The full objection letter sent to East Lothian Council can be download at www.swt.org.uk

Depending where you start, you could take your bike by train to Currie as we did. From there, we headed right at the Post Office, past the Kirk and along Kirk Gate until we reached the cross-roads between Wester and Kinleith. From there, we continued to the top of the hill and onto a recognised mountain bike trail.

The Pentland Hills afford mountain bikers some excellent tops to conquer – the ridge from Caerketton to West Kip is superb and the scenery spectacular. Looking north, Edinburgh was spread out like a tapestry at the mouth of the Firth of Forth. To the east a fertile plain rolled gently to the coastal resort of Dunbar, our destination.

We spent two hours pitting ourselves against the elements before the tricky descent to Glencorse reservoir and thence to Flotterstone and the Visitor Centre. After a well-earned cup of tea, we continued to Silverburn, beneath the highest of the Pentland tops, Scald Law at 1898 feet and the start of the Penicuik to Dalkeith cycleway.

The cycleway has been created from a former railway line which ceased to function in 1967. Most of the route is easy going with a whin dust finish while the more recent sections in the Bonnyrigg and Dalkeith area are asphalt. We dipped down towards the River North Esk and joined the cycleway at Valleyfield monument, where the sun made a rare appearance. It is worth mentioning that the cycleway makes use of several bridges and tunnels, some of which are up to 200 yards long, so a torch is advisable.

After the first of the long tunnels we emerged onto the Firth viaduct, a huge, ten-span brick and masonry structure which straddles a 150 foot gorge above the swirling North Esk. The designed of this viaduct, Thomas Bouch, was the same man who designed the ill fated Tay Bridge.

At the other side, it was lights on again as we entered the mouth of what is known locally as the ‘Tin Tunnel’. This tunnel was built to stop the sparks from train and engine wheels igniting the gunpowder stores at Kirkkettle Mill. There were few glimpses of the pipistrelle bat in this secretive terrain and we were relieved to emerge into the sunshine once more.

A rough dirt trail took us to Roslin Glen Country Park. We resisted the temptation to take the main track out of the woodland and onto the Rosewell -Roslin Road, instead doubling back to cross the river and rejoin the cycleway. The trail twists and turns through various species of trees: oak, ash, gean, hazel and scots pine to name a few. We also glimpsed some roe deer who were out during the day.

We bypassed Rosewell, crossed the Hawthornden Crossing and continued through Dalhousie Chesters to Bonnyrigg. By now we felt that time might be against us but we still took in the views from the high single span of the Glenesk viaduct. Upriver, the tops of Melville Castle poked through the trees and to the south stood the tall water tower near Dalkeith’s Cemetary Road.

Perhaps it was the views that spurred us on towards Sherriffhall Doo-cot, Newton Church Tower and the coast at Musselburgh. Here we left the cycleway and took the minor road to Prestonpans. From here to Longniddry, the route alternated between cycleway and minor roads but from Longniddry to Haddington it was cycle path all the way.

We had a quick bite to eat here before crossing Victoria Bridge and taking the minor road past Stevenson House and Traprain Law. This impressive hill which stands alone on the flat, fertile plain was once a volcano and the site of an old hill fort. We spent an hour exploring the ruins of Hailes Castle before setting off again to Stenton. We were enthralled to find a few steep gradients on the way.

Pedal power took us along the B6370 and across the A1 where we picked up the cliff top trail into Dunbar.

Overall we had had an enjoyable grand tour of the Lothians, blessed with wonderful weather and views.

From Dunbar, you should be able to hop on another train back to Edinburgh if necessary.

“I got to know a few mountainous areas in Scotland. Then my folks gave me the SMC Munro Guide for Christmas when I was 26. I don’t know if it’s a guy thing, the lists, but the book was an eye-opener. I saw so many places that just had to be visited!”

Starting in 1989 with Ben Cheonzie, near Crieff, it took Steven 3 years to complete his first round. “It was a case of going through the book and finding a nice easy one to finish with. I chose Fionn Bheinn near Achnasheen and went my Mum and our dogs, but in the end the mist came down and the views were non-existent. We went up Schiehallion on the way back, the sun was out and it was wonderful.

If it hadn’t been for that book I would never have been out to the island munros or done the In-Pinn (Inaccessible Pinnacle) on Skye because I suffer from vertigo.”

While most people who complete the challenge continue to walk their favourite hills, Steven soon found he had 50 munros under his belt, so why not complete the round again? This time he finished on Sgurr nan Gillean after completing the Skye munros. As his fitness improved, he began to run and was thus able to take in longer runs and multiple munros in a day – the most being an exhausting 15. During the nineties, he was notching up a round a year and in 2003 he went in to the record books when he finished his 11th round.

As for the Corbetts (2500 footers), he’s done most of them too and admits they have taken him to some new parts of the country, but doesn’t see himself doing the Grahams (2000-2500 footers). Steven doesn’t find it at all boring going over the same hills again and again. They are like friends and you don’t get bored with friends. Also, he points out that different weather conditions and times of day mean the hills are never the same twice.

Familiarity has obviously made things easier as he is less likely to get lost and more likely to take the best line, but planning is also part of the trick. He will set off with the car already packed on Friday night after work. By keeping notes of his times he can judge whether his fitness is holding out  and plan approriate routes. A long day out on the hills requires stamina and know-how and Steven has both, especially since getting the hill running bug.

Having moved to Hillend with his partner, Steven met another runner out on the hill, who suggested he joined a club and try some races. Only a few hill races are up munros, so it seemed like a good way to find some new routes. He joined Carnethy, which is loosely based in Edinburgh and the Lothians, and ran his first hill race at North Berwick Law. He came 6th and helped win the team prize. This seemed like good fun. “I like to let go on the descents and go hell for leather,” he says. “In hill running circles, everyone knows your strengths and weaknesses and people know I’m not so good at going up.”

He doesn’t rate cross country or road racing because he says he isn’t fast enough on the flat and surprisingly doesn’t orienteer either. But, having won the A class of the Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon last year with John Ascroft, he is set to run the elite class this year – that will be around 70km and 4000m climb over the two days, carrying all food and cooking gear, clothing, tent and sleeping bags. He denies being competitive but how can you believe him?

As you can imagine, there isn’t much time for other sports but he’s done some climbing – up to Grade 7 and occasional mountain biking. For relaxation he rates a chat with friends and a good pint.

Steven’s exploits have earned him huge respect in the hill walking and running fraternities and he has been taking other people out on the hills as a guide. He has also recently been persuaded to write “Classic Hill Runs and Races in Scotland” for Pocket Mountains – a book outlining his favourite hill races and runs – and hopefully this will attract more guiding. He admits he would like to get away from the computer a bit more but any remaining ambitions don’t sound too greedy. He just wants to stay fit enough to keep enjoying the hills – and no doubt clock up a few more ’rounds’.

You can keep up to date with Steven’s exploits on his website www.stevenfallon.co.uk

Go Ape, recent winners of the much sought after Santander Small to Medium Size Business of the Year accolade at the National Business Awards 2009, is inviting everyone to enter a competition to name the three new crossings. To enter, check out the pictures of the crossings on the Go Ape website come up with a suitably adventurous name and then email your suggestions to competitions@goape.co.uk.

The new crossings include a twisting bridge made up of super-strong wire and round logs, and a crossing consisting of wooden steps between wires from which tree trekkers can jump, or step, to make their way across.

Bring out your inner ape!

Go Ape is a giant obstacle course set high up in the treetops. Gorillas (over 18s) and Baboons (10-17 year olds) alike get to spend approximately three hours monkeying around high up in the canopy, some 40ft above the forest floor. Adventurers are kitted out with harnesses, pulleys and carabiners and given a safety briefing before being let loose into the forest canopy. The course has five separate sections and each section is made up of obstacles such as ladders, walkways, bridges and tunnels. Each section begins with a rope ladder climb into the treetops and ends with an adrenalin pumping zip back down to the ground.