Talk of the Town: Beware of the perils of tackling big freeze

AMID complaints about lack of gritting of pavements, the Scottish Government seems keen to encourage people to take matters into their own hands by clearing the footpath outside their homes.

A spokesman said ministers wanted to dispel the "urban myth" that householders could somehow find themselves liable for any subsequent accidents if they shovelled away the snow.

And yesterday the News reported how SNP Councillor Norman Work suggested residents should clear snow and ice themselves.

But anyone who does decide to tackle the icy conditions might want to learn from the example of the hapless official who decided during a cold snap in 2003 to clear the steps of Bute House, the First Minister's official residence in Charlotte Square, using boiling water.

The water froze solid immediately, making the steps even more treacherous than before, as proved when the then First Minister Jack McConnell fell and cut his head. He needed three stitches over his left eye.

Add a bit of glamour Mrs Putin-style at charity auction

WHILE Siberian-style weather is blowing across the city, another note from Talk of the Town's Russian correspondent.

A forthcoming charity auction in aid of The Royal Blind School will feature the chance to buy a silver pendant like one of those snapped up by Vladimir Putin's wife, Lyudmila, during the G8 summit at Gleneagles in 2005.

The original gold pendant was designed by jeweller Joanna Thomson for a "craft fair" organised by Cherie Blair for the partners of delegates to the G8. Mrs Putin snapped it up along with several other matching items.

Now Ms Thomson has designed a similar one – this time in silver – for the school auction, part of a fundraising "Dine in the Dark" evening which will be held at Cringletie House Hotel, just south of Edinburgh, on 4 February.

It's all in a good cause – funds will go towards the school's appeal to build a new residential centre at Craigmillar Park. For tickets or more information call 01721 725 750 or e-mail [email protected].

Star guest serves up surprise

CHRISTMAS can be the toughest time of year to be homeless and it is with that in mind that St Catherine's Convent in Lauriston Place lays on its annual festive meal between Christmas and Hogmanay. The meal is open to everyone regardless of faith or means and this year was made particularly special by a surprise guest – Scottish actor John Cairney. Talk of the Town hears Glasgow's Mr Cairney, whose stage and screen credits include Macbeth, Jason and the Argonauts and The Avengers, rolled up his sleeves and helped serve up the luncheon and later gave a "wonderful" seasonal Burns recital.