Around town: Dine out on TV cooking show success

CHANNEL 4 has launched a search to find Edinburgh contestants for its popular foodie programme Come Dine With Me.

Successful applicants will be asked to throw a dinner party for four strangers who will in turn compete to prepare the best meal, be the best host and provide the best all-round dinner experience.

Budding chefs must be at least 18 years old and be available for filming on September 27.

Interested hosts should call 08712 444 142.

AMNESTY International has announced the shortlist for this year's Freedom of Expression Award for the most outstanding Fringe play with a human rights message.

No Child, a story about a New York school; Speechless, about twins who communicate in a secret language; Roadkill, about sex trafficking; and Lockerbie: Unfinished Business about a father's fight for truth will battle it out at a ceremony on Thursday.

POLICE today warned motorists to be on their guard against thieves and vandals following a spate of vehicle crimes.

Officers recorded 11 offences involving vehicles in the Marchmont area last month, including three which were stolen.

Another seven vehicles were targeted by thieves, while another was vandalised.

Between April and June, a total of 344 car thefts and attempted thefts took place in the Capital, a fall against the same period in the previous year when 397 such incidents were reported.

A NEW sports and leisurewear shop has opened in the Capital.

The first Conte of Florence franchise in the UK has opened in Jeffrey Street.

The company has been designing and manufacturing sports and leisurewear since 1952.

A COMMUNITY safety centre in the Capital has been given a 2000 funding boost.

The Risk Factory has been awarded the cash by the Gas Safety Trust for an "interactive house scenario", including a kitchen with a gas cooker, faulty combi-boiler, gas meter and CO alarm to teach young people about house dangers.

THE Scottish Storytelling Centre has launched its programme for the next three months.

The What's On guide features the regular monthly Storytelling Cafs, Tiny Tales and Story Space events, plus new events.

Among them will be a storytelling session inspired by the centre's current Masharef: Vistas exhibition.