Local news: Group offers taste of home with recipes

Justice Minister Kenny MacAskill and Councillor Louise Lang have helped launch a book of recipes from elderly Edinburgh residents who are originally from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Mauritius.

The book was compiled by the Milan Senior Welfare Organisation, which provides a lunch club, befriending, advice and advocacy. It is available from [email protected] or 0131-475 2307. Proceeds will go towards the running of the group.

Models spice up fundraiser

There will be a competition for aspiring fashion models at Britannia Spice Restaurant, on March 6.

The event will raise money for charities including Alzheimer Scotland. Outfits will be available for participants to model. For more information contact 07817-057 078.

Classic look for less at fair

There will be an affordable vintage fair at the Out of the Blue Drill Hall in Dalmeny Street on March 5.

The event, which runs from 11am to 4pm, is a touring fair, set up by former Selfridges stylist Judy Berger. It offers clothing and accessories dating from the 1920s to the 1980s. Entry is 2/1.

Director's biblical talk in city

FILM director Norman Stone will talk about his new film The Book That Changed The World - celebrating the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible - after a special screening of the historical docu-drama at New College on The Mound on Thursday at 4pm.

Care centre motors ahead with new link

A LINK between a city car dealer and charity could generate thousands of pounds for local cancer patients.

Maggie's Centre at the Western General has teamed up with the John Clark Motor Group for fundraising.

The company's charity champion Stuart Miller said: "During the illness of a close relative, I became aware that somewhere for the patient to go and relax, away from the sterility of the wards, would be beneficial."

Epilepsy charity hit by plummeting donations

A SHARP drop in donations for an epilepsy charity has led to an overall fall in income for the organisation.

Epilepsy Scotland, which helps sufferers across Edinburgh, received only 400,000 in donations and legacies in 2010, compared with more than 1 million the year before.

Membership fees also halved for the charity, down to 30,000, but charity officials were able to secure an increase in grants.

The numbers were revealed in its annual report.