Local Round-up: Painting skills of the best put to test

THE country's top apprentice decorators will gather in the Capital to take part in a painting competition.

Run by ICI Paints, the competition will see more than 100 apprentices undertake a number of challenges at Telford College this Thursday before the final in June.

Painting and decorating curriculum leader at Telford, Alex Taylor, said: "This is the fourth year ICI have run this competition and we are delighted to be hosting it."

Taking note of good work

A NISSAN car dealer in the Capital has sponsored Lothian and Borders Police's drug awareness programme.

Alex F Noble Nissan will provide a Nissan Note car for PC John Cowan, from Dalkeith Police Station, who covers 1000 miles a month visiting the area's 78 schools.

Fight goes on to save park land

A MEETING to discuss how to save an under-threat section of Inverleith Park has been announced.

On May 18, concerned residents will meet at St Stephen's Comely Bank Church, between 7.30pm and 10.30pm, to discuss developers' plans for an old council depot.

College to host second Celtic festival

NEWBATTLE Abbey College will host its second Celtic Festival next weekend.

Building on the success of last year's event, which attracted more than 3,000 visitors, the 2011 Celtic Festival will feature many of last year's highlights, as well as a number of new attractions, including a food and drink tent, a children's tent as well as a dance tent.

The festival will take place on Saturday, May 21 from 11am to 5pm.

70,000 visitors find the answer in science

ORGANISERS of this year's Edinburgh International Science Festival say they have recorded another year of growth after receiving an estimated 70,000 visitors.

The 2011 festival featured a wide range of family events across the City Art Centre, Botanic Gardens and National Museum of Scotland.

Festival director Dr Simon Gage said: "The Edinburgh International Science Festival is going through an exciting period of growth supported by visitor numbers and excellent sponsors and partners."

Housing team is honoured

A CAPITAL-based housing provider has been shortlisted for a prestigious industry award.

Castle Rock Edinvar, whose HQ is in Hay Avenue, is up for the Large Housing Association of the Year award at the Scottish Home Awards.

The winner will be announced on June 9.