Talk of the Town: Daisy's library gig is blooming popular

IT'S not often people will cross the North Sea to visit one of Edinburgh's libraries.

But fans from as far away as the Netherlands have snapped up free tickets to see teen pop sensation Daisy Dares You perform in the Central Library.

The city's library services planned the "intimate" gig for an audience of just 100, as a way of attracting more young people. Since then, 16-year-old Daisy's debut single has shot to number nine in the charts, and tickets have become like gold dust.

A council spokeswoman said: "It's a great chance to see her at the start of her career. We've had a lot of interest from teenage girls."

'Slippery Steve' may have to ferret around for new role

DEPUTY council leader Steve Cardownie's recent comments that the trams will be fit for "three men and a ferret" raised a few eyebrows – and Labour councillor Ian Murray wasn't going to miss the opportunity for a gag.

In a recent council meeting, he read from a constituent's letter who was less than happy about Cllr Cardownie's self-appointment as "ferret czar".

The letter, he said, was signed by "Francis Ferret, head ferret at Edinburgh Zoo".

But Cllr Murray said he had a better job suggestion for Cllr Cardownie. "He'd be better as head snake," he quipped.

Kai plays the name game

AS P Diddy, Katie Price and "the artist formerly known as Prince" know, there's no reason for a star to stick to the same, boring old name.

Edinburgh's Got Talent finalist Kai Thomas is obviously thinking along the same lines, after announcing he will now be known as Cailean McLean.

The change is almost a return to his roots, as he was born Colin McLean. Until recently, he was known as Colin at work and Kai for his performances at weddings, parties and concerts.

He hasn't quite perfected the diva-like behaviour we might expect from a star. In a rather modest e-mail to friends and fans, he writes: "I apologise for any confusion this change may cause."

Bright idea from provost

TORY leader David Cameron ran into problems when he decided to install a wind turbine on his London home.

But East Lothian provost Sheena Richardson hopes to have more success with her plans to put solar panels on her roof in Haddington.

She has applied for planning permission for the scheme, since she lives in a conservation area. She is already trying to set a good example by driving an eco-friendly hybrid car.

Cllr Richardson said: "The south side of my roof actually gets quite a lot of sun. It won't be enough to provide heating, but hopefully it will heat the water."