Around town: Fundraisers give cash to kids' charity

STAFF from the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) in Dalkeith have raised almost £5000 for an Edinburgh children's charity.

Over the past year, SQA staff have raised the money for the Sick Kids Friends Foundation through activities including quiz nights, fun runs, bake sales, raffles, competitions and a sponsored sky dive.

Dr Janet Brown, SQA chief executive, said: "The Sick Kids Friends' Foundation is a fantastic charity."

Performers to take a bow

VISITORS to Holyrood Park will be able to step back in time this weekend.

The Historic Scotland Ranger Service is holding a special event between 11am and 3pm on Sunday recreating royal pastimes of old.

The event will feature costumed performers as well as archers and falconers.

Open day for arts school

THE Edinburgh Montessori Arts School is holding an open day.

The school will open to visitors on Saturday from 10am until 3pm.

The school recently moved to new premises at Mill House, Tower Mains Studios, 18N Liberton Brae, Edinburgh. EMAS provides education for one to 12-year-olds.

Meet at Leith Walk for a stroll

The Leith Walk walking group will meet at the foot of Leith Walk at 11am on Sunday to walk to Portobello or along the Water of Leith. All are welcome to the group, which holds monthly, easy, sociable strolls. For information call Dave Poyner, 07714-284 756, or just turn up.

Residents get help to make Juniper green

RESIDENTS in Juniper Green will be advised on how to minimise their energy bills at an event next weekend.

Experts will be informing people on how to reduce their carbon footprint at Juniper Green Parish Church next Saturday, from 2pm to 4pm. The event is free.

Anyone interested in attending the event can find more information online at www.junipergreencc.org.uk.

Da Vinci show will broadcast live from Capital

The opening of Leonardo da Vinci: Painter at the Court of Milan at the National Gallery will be beamed live to cinemas across the UK on Tuesday, November 8.

"Leonardo Live" will give art lovers the opportunity to share in the excitement of viewing the exhibition before it opens to the general public.

The exhibition brings together the largest ever number of da Vinci's paintings, including some never seen before in the UK and will be presented by Tim Marlow and Mariella Frostrup.