Why city is envy of the world

CHOOSING from the multitude of qualities that make Edinburgh the envy of others is a hard, but pleasurable, task. Of course, my memories, gathered over many years, have helped to shape my fondness for this great city.

The beauty of Edinburgh and its surrounds is undeniable. I spent many days in my early years in the Pentlands and on Blackford Hill. And who could tire of seeing the views of, and from, Arthur's Seat and Calton Hill?

In my life I've been very fortunate to visit some stunning places in the world. However, there's nothing quite like the pick-me-up you get standing at the brow of South St Andrew Street, taking in the blast of sea air and looking across the Firth to Fife.

Our built heritage also provides a unique backdrop for our everyday lives; which other city can boast sights such as Edinburgh Castle and the Forth Bridge? And a walk through Edinburgh is a feast for the imagination, with thoughts of long-gone days as they gentry strolled around the New Town or slightly less reputable characters crept through dark, windy closes.

The Royal Mile itself, with its recent addition of the fabulous statue of local poet Robert Fergusson, provides my favourite walk in the city. I also have a soft spot for the old Royal High School, where I was taught, and my father before me, and I'm delighted that it is going to be in use again. Whether or not my record for the half-mile run will stand for long is another question altogether!

The parks and green spaces that we have, such as Princes Street Gardens and the Botanics, are not just pleasant areas in which to relax with friends and family. They are tourist attractions in themselves and are just one of the many features that draw visitors here. The festival culture alone has secured Edinburgh's place as one of the finest hosts of arts on the planet.

I can't omit the people of Edinburgh themselves, with a well-deserved reputation for friendliness and acceptance. When the city twinned with Munich in 1954, the Germans were touched at the gesture, which took place less than a decade after the Second World War. We are also a caring, compassionate and inclusive city. As a minister, and a councillor, I have been privileged to witness at first-hand the efforts of our citizens on behalf of each other.

Edinburgh is changing rapidly. I have watched it transform from the quieter, and even insular, place it was in the 1940s, to the vibrant and cosmopolitan city it is now.

There is no higher aspiration, or honour, for me than to be the Lord Provost of our nation's capital. This is one of the world's most talked about cities, and has collected many awards in recent years. Our population has been growing, and many people from outwith the city choose to make this place their home.

I hope all of my fellow citizens - Edinburgh born or not - can feel the immense pride that I do in this city, the jewel in Scotland's crown.

• George Grubb is the Lord Provost of Edinburgh