Talk of the Town: Performer using his head to coin it in

IN these tough economic times, getting the public to part with their money is a tough job.

It seems even street performers have had to up their game. No longer will simply standing very still for long periods earn you a crust. There has to be something new, or just plain bonkers.

Which is where "Buckethead" comes into his own. The memorable act has been spotted in Princes Street of late, standing on his head, which is in a bucket.

His sign informs passers-by that he does this for a living, and implores them not to try it at home, for obvious reasons.

His collection bucket would suggest his performance is delighting a fair few folk, although you have to wonder what he will do for an encore.

Consultant left counting the cost of criticism

ON the subject of money, as we face up to public sector cuts, independent consultants are probably not the country's most popular people.

When local authorities spend money on them, they quite often come in for criticism and it seems that some of the criticism has got to at least one of the firms employed by the city council.

During a presentation at the economic development committee by SQW Consulting on its work verifying the economic development unit's (EDU) annual audit, a representative of the company said with only a slight hint of disappointment: "Information was gathered by EDU staff rather than by an external consultant, which made a considerable difference to my fee."

Beating a path to new gaff

FROM consulting to cops... a Balerno bobby is saying farewell to his current beat as he sets off to combat the criminals of Corstorphine.

Pc Mike Smith moved from Balerno to Corstorphine yesterday. He said: "I'd just like to say goodbye and thank Balerno for a super time. I really will miss everyone and the place. It really has been a very happy time in my police service."

Diners get hot under collar

AS a city with some of the country's most fashionable eateries it is an accepted fact that folk in Edinburgh appreciate a good meal.

A recent survey, however, suggests that, as well as valuing quality, Scots are not shy about complaining if the food is not up to scratch - or up to temperature.

The poll revealed that the biggest cause of complaint was the temperature of main meals - which was even more annoying than poor service.

We suspect this is not a problem at Kismot, on St Leonard's Street - home to the world's hottest curry.