Local news: Faith group leaders meet at chambers

A conference including 30 of Edinburgh's religious leaders and faith community representatives is being held today at the City Chambers.

The meeting is held annually during Interfaith week. Discussion topics will include the Scottish Government's Equalities Update, the city council's budget review especially those aspects affecting the elderly, a statement on Lothian and Borders Community Safety and Diversity, and spiritual care in NHS Lothian.

Canongate Kirk hosts cantata

THE city's Canongate Kirk will host a performance of one of Scotland's greatest contemporary works, James MacMillan's Seven Last Words from the Cross, on December 11.

The Calton Consort and The Rose Street Ensemble will perform the cantata detailing Christ's final words. Conductor Jason Orringe said: "We came together because we wanted make something special happen."

Festive decor at Springwell

A FESTIVE workshop inviting people to make their own special Christmas wreaths is being held on December 16.

Health All Round at Springwell House has invited a florist to run workshops showing people how to create the special decoration.

Places for the event must be booked.

Tree is little piece of Tony's Italian homeland

The owner of an Edinburgh wine bar has dug deep to bring a little piece of Italy to the Capital - by sourcing an olive tree from his home town.

The 12ft tree was transported more than 1200 miles to Divino Enoteca's Italian courtyard. Tony Crolla, owner of Divino Enoteca, said when it came to completing the look of the outside courtyard, his only thought was to bring over a tree from the tiny hilltop village of Picinisco, in the Lazio region south east of Rome.

Three's company raises 3000

THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised for two charities through a 25th anniversary triathlon. As part of the Edinburgh Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa's celebrations, 15 teams competed in swimming, running and cycling and raised 3000 for Maggie's and UNICEF.

Free entry to FACE fair

CANCER charity FACE will hold its annual Christmas fair in the Edinburgh Cancer Centre at the Western General Hospital.

The family event will feature stalls, games, entertainment and refreshments. Entry to the fair, which takes place on December 4 from 11am to 3pm, is free.