Community News: Eighty new jobs in store at Sainsbury's

New additions include a pizza bar, more clothing and homeware and a new cafe.

The 71,000 sq ft store was officially opened by representatives from St Columba's Hospice in Edinburgh - a local charity partner.

The store at Craigleith Retail Park has raised more than 4,000 for the hospice in the last three months through in-store donations and fundraising by staff.

Store manager David Bainbridge said: "We are really pleased to be bringing an even better shopping experience to our customes in the area, who can expect more choice but the same excellent service."

Driver hailed

A DRIVER for Lothian Buses has been recognised for his willingness to help disabled people access public transport.

Alec Cameron was selected from 1600 drivers for the Happiest To Help award from city disabled charity ECAS.

One tribute to the driver, who works on the 47 route, stated: "You feel it is a personal service rather than a timetabled bus service.

"He is always happy to answer questions and waits for the elderly passengers to sit down before he drives off."

Pupils to link up for planting

LEITH schools are being drafted in to help plant bulbs on the links in preparation for next spring.

Leith Links Community Council hopes to organise a series of planting sessions in the week beginning November 8, providing the bulbs and advice on planting techniques.

Charity turns office into gallery for new display

Edinburgh Voluntary Organisations' Council (Evoc) launches its new ArtSpace exhibition titled Sounds+Visions this Friday.

The group, which works in partnership with Libertus, Moredun Library Youth Group, and the Sassy Mums group, will launch the exibition at its Ashley Place offices in Bonnington.

Director, Ella Simpson, said: "We have a busy office here at Evoc.

"We hope we can use this as an opportunity to encourage folk to pause for a moment and reflect on what could be very different perspectives."

Take your first steps at dance taster classes

The Siamsoir Academy of Performance Irish Dance is to launch the first of its taster classes for the price of just 1.

The dance troupe will offer dancers of all abilities, including beginners, the chance to explore traditional Irish dance at The Trinity Studio, Leith Education Community Centre.

The academy also works with schools and community groups to help budding dance stars.

Sharing secrets of the universe

ASTRONOMERS will be on hand to reveal how what goes on "up there" is having an impact on life "down here" at the Capital's Royal Observatory on Wednesday.

During the event, astronomers and engineers will be available to talk about the work that they do, and how it impacts on life for us here on Earth.

Andrew to sing for his supper

BRITISH singer-songwriter Andrew James is set to play a live performance at George Street eatery The Living Room. James, whose professional music career was boosted by TV performances on ITV and BBC, will play at the restaurant on October 28.