John Gibson: It's a feat in Fiat shrine for the SCO

Published on Friday 5 February 2010 08:33

THE Italian job. The Edinburgh-based Scottish Chamber Orchestra are bound for Turin on 23 February, their first appearance overseas with their new Principal Conductor, Robin Ticciati.

They'll perform in one of Italy's top concert halls, the Lingotto Auditorium. A venue with a hallowed history, was built by Fiat between 1916-23, when the company's production line operated on five floors.

Before it closed in 1982, the building had featured in several films, including The Italian Job (1969). On days like those, Fiats had the run of the roads

Quincy Jones wrote the movie's memorable theme, sung by Matt Monro, who drove a bus before making it in showbusiness. So did Happy Howden.

Seat's safe, Nigel

They've been dishing the dirt again this week on Nigel Griffiths. The Labour MP for Edinburgh South, the monkey still clinging to his back for his alleged indiscretions in a House of Commons office, is standing down at the General Election.

There is, however, one house where his seat will be forever safe, the Jolly pizzeria in Elm Row.

Says owner Vito Alongi: "Mr Griffiths and his wife have been long-time customers here but we haven't seen them lately. He knows we'll be keeping his seat warm."

Winged Willie

The boy can't help it. Dolled up like a tailor's dummy in RAF blue for the photo shoot of a wings presentation from his dad, there was still a touch of the wally about Prince William.

Hunk he ain't in a family that's short of them. It has to be in the genes.

A motley monarchy when you survey the gang . . . Prince Edward for a start, then Prince Andy, his paunch an unsightly mark of the good life. We won't drag the Kents into it. They're all picking up over-generous pocket money from the taxpayer.

What brought all this on? Oh yes . . . Willie the wally and prospective war hero, who keeps having himself plonked into photo shoots organised by his minders. Acres of room on that manly RAF chest for ribbons and medals.

You're right, a mere serf, I shouldn't be having a tilt.

Wally hasn't done me any harm. He's got his wings. I haven't.