Community News: Lloyds chief to address parliament

Lloyds Banking Group chairman Sir Winfried Bischoff is among the speakers at conference of business leaders and politicians at the Scottish Parliament tomorrow.

He will address the sixth annual "Business in the Parliament" event, which will focus on private and public sector co-operation to re-build the economy and avoid another recession, against a background of budget cuts.

Inspectors' praise for 'hard-working' staff

Cranley Craiglockhart Nursery has received a glowing report from HM Inspectorate of Education and the Care Commision.

Inspectors identified confident and motivated children who are making very good progress in their learning, a welcoming and caring ethos and positive relationships between staff and children.

They also praised the enthusiastic and hard-working staff and the "vision and commitment" of all staff to continuous improvement.

Artist exhibits Spanish works

AN exhibition of paintings by artist Michael Robson is on at the Central Music Library, George IV Bridge, until November 30.

The show of landscapes from Chelva, Spain, is part of the 2010 Hispanic Arts Festival.

Nursery axe parents make silent protest

PARENTS campaigning against proposed nursery closures held a silent protest during an education committee meeting at the City Chambers.

Children and parents from thePrincess Elizabeth Nursery held a silent protest sat in the public gallery with posters saying Kids Not Trams.

The nursery faces the axe, along with High School Yards. Councillor Angela Blacklock, Labour's spokeswoman for early years, said: "This will disadvantage children who need extra help."

Digging up past glories

AN archeological summit with speakers from the Lothians and the Scottish Borders is being held next Saturday at Queen Margaret University.

Ten short talks at the conference will examine recent archeological discoveries in the region. The event runs from 9am-5pm and costs up to 20.

It's Close to Christmas

THE Real Mary King's Close will offer special Christmas on the Closes tours throughout December.

Costumed guides will show visitors a traditional Christmas on the closes from the 16th to 19th centuries, between December 3 and 19. Tickets are available on 0845 070 6244.