Local news: Top cyclist shapes up for 500-mile trip

ROUND-the-world cyclist Mark Beaumont is turning to Edinburgh Napier University to help him prepare for his next big challenge.

The 28-year-old is part of a six-man team training for a tough 500-mile rowing trip through the Canadian Arctic.

He will use Edinburgh Napier's new environmental chamber to help him prepare for the extreme polar conditions.

The chamber is designed to help athletes acclimatise to different environments.

Party to cheer charity drive

A WELCOME home party is to take place for a man who is driving round the UK in a vintage car for charity.

Alan Biggar will raise thousands of pounds for children's charities by taking on the challenge in the Morgan sports car.

The party will take place on June 6 at the Roxburghe Hotel.

Awards to honour innovation

JUDGING has begun on 25 local entries for an innovation contest.

The Edinburgh Bio-Quarter launched the awards to attract the best medical and scientific inventions.

Ten winners will collect 1000 for their businesses from the organisation.

It's full steam ahead for day with Thomas

A THOMAS the Tank Engine themed event is taking place this weekend at the Bo'ness & Kinneil Railway in West Lothian.

Among the activities on offer for families is a rail journey on one of the friends of Thomas the Tank Engine, entertainers, face painting, bouncy castles and competitions.

Tickets for the event can be booked at www.srps.org.uk/thomas or by calling 08444 77 1000.

Tea house set to toast Amnesty with party

A RENOWNED city tea house is to hold an event to celebrate human rights movement Amnesty.

Loopy Lorna's in Morningside will stage the "Amnestea" party on May 27 in partnership with Edinburgh St Mark's.

The organisation's chairwoman, Jessica Wade, said: "Our group is celebrating because of all that Amnesty has achieved over the past 50 years.

"I hope that in another 50 years, there will be no need for Amnesty to exist."

Appeal for volunteers

ORGANISERS have issued an appeal for volunteers to help run Clermiston and Drumbrae Children's Gala next Saturday.

Stewards are needed to co-ordinate the parade for two hours from 11.30pm and also at Drumbrae Leisure Centre from 11am until 2pm. The Gala Queen will be crowned at 1pm.