Talk of the town: So do they both use Olive oil?

IS THERE something going on in Portobello that we should know about?

Popeye's caf has been a popular draw on the High Street for years, but the name of the barber and hairdresser that has switched to new premises just two doors away has got tongues wagging - Bluto and Olive's.

Is it just coincidence? What are the odds on Swee' Pea's children's clothes shop opening soon?

The little grey cells will spark better after a spa THERE's nothing like a relaxing day out at a spa to ease the stress of everyday life - and now a local company is offering the same relaxation for stressed brains.

Edinburgh's very own life coach specialist, Talking Sparks, is running a half-day Mind Spa session at Jury's Inn on Saturday June 25, from 2-5pm.

The afternoon event is billed as "an experience that will leave people feeling inspired, motivated and ready to embrace new habits", and offering individuals the opportunity to take some time out and absorb some fresh ideas on changing negatives to positives.

No word yet on whether there is a discount for embattled tram workers.

Rankin ranks his priorities

FANS of crime author Ian Rankin will no doubt be delighted to hear the author is putting the finishing touches to his latest novel - more delighted than the writer himself.

Taking to Twitter yesterday, the Rebus scribe announced "editorial feedback on the new novel has arrived. Girding my loins to go through the densely-typed 12-page document...", which was followed some five hours later with, "After reading through the 12-page editorial critique of my new book, I needed a walk."

Rankin went on to reveal the tight timetable for the publication: "I delivered the book on 30 May; comments came back to me today; I have end of June deadline for any changes/rewrites. That's why I am a) on Twitter, and b) listening to new music purchases."

A cash crisis converted

IF THE cost of a summer holiday is looking steep, help is at hand.

Homes in Edinburgh are sitting on at least 330-worth of unwanted goods, according to a new survey by Cash Converters.

The firm said 76 per cent of residents have valuable redundant items that could make them cash.

Nathan Sermon, business development manager for Edinburgh, said: "We're keen to show how you can make money from items you already own, as we all continue to feel the pinch and look to raise some extra cash."