Around Town: F1 engineer's talk will not be the pits

A TALK by Formula One engineer Jock Clear is nearing a sell-out.

The Mercedes chief engineer is speaking at the Knowledge Festival, a new initiative set up by Heriot-Watt University's Edinburgh Conference Centre.

Lynne Geary, the centre's commercial operations manager, said tickets have been selling fast.

The talk by Mr Clear - a Heriot-Watt alumni - takes place on August 20 with tickets 5 and 3.

Businesses to battle it out for funding

BUSINESSES from across Scotland are to compete for funding at an event in the Capital.

The Connect Investment Conference is to be held at the George Hotel in November.

Technology companies will be able to secure up to 3 million at the event.

Entrants will receive mentoring support on effective pitching then present their company to potential investors.

Family festival full of fun at Craigmillar Castle

There will be a family festival at Craigmillar Castle on Sunday.

Costumed guides will be on hand and there will be medieval children's games, a craft stall and drop-in art workshop.

Countryside rangers will also run activities in Craigmillar Castle Park.

The event runs from 10am until 4pm.

Children go free, while entry for adults is included in the price of a castle ticket.

ESPC shows take centre stage

THE ESPC is to give away free tickets to Festival shows taking place in its George Street showroom.

The company is running a competition offering the free briefs. Customers can apply in the showroom or on its website.

Sally Army on the right tune

The Salvation Army's Ashbrook Centre is to benefit a second annual Gig in the Garden event.

The Ferry Road centre, which gives accommodation and support to 26 homeless people, will host the concert on August 28. Gates open at noon. Tickets available on 0131-552 5705.

Music night's got The Lot

BEAUTIFUL ballads and Scottish and Irish melodies are promised as part of an Edinburgh Fringe show next week.

Wendy Carle Taylor and Friends will perform Burns2Brel at The Lot, on the Grassmarket, on August 20 and 21.

For tickets, call 0131-226 0000.