9am Briefing: Pensioner in hospital after blaze

A 74-year-old woman was taken to hospital after a fire broke out in her Edinburgh home.

Fire crews were called out to her Inverleith Row flat just before 1.40am this morning after a pan caught fire.

The elderly woman was treated for smoke inhalation at the ERI.

JK tops magazine poll

HARRY Potter author JK Rowling was today named as the most influential woman in the UK by leading magazine editors.

The writer, who recently donated 10 million to set up a new multiple sclerosis research clinic in Edinburgh, was chosen for her writing skills, tenacity to succeed and philanthropic nature, the National Magazine Company said.

Pop star turned fashion designer Victoria Beckham was the runner-up with the Queen in third place.

Dusherra wows crowds

Thousands of spectators gathered to watch three giant effigies burn against the night sky on top of Calton Hill in Edinburgh last night.

The spectacle was part of the Hindu festival of Dusherra to celebrate the triumph of good over evil.