Students make their way in Access scheme

STUDENTS are today being rewarded for their part in the Access to Industry scheme, which supports those leaving care, or tackling substance misuse or homelessness.

A total of 62 people were due to receive certificates at a ceremony at the Festival Theatre. Student Alex Farquhar McNicholl, 17, from Burdiehouse, achieved six SQA qualifications.

She said: "I feel so proud of myself. It feels great to be on a career path and going somewhere with my life."

Health board chooses chief

THE appointment of a new medical director for NHS Lothian has been rubber stamped.

The organisation's board meeting formally agreed that Dr David Farquharson should succeed Dr Charles Swainson in what is one of the most important roles in the Scottish NHS.

Hawks the focus of talk

THERE's the chance to learn about sparrowhawks in Edinburgh at a free talk at the Royal Botanic Garden on August 3.

Tracey Stewart and Keith Morton of RSPB Scotland will talk about the garden's residents and their nests. No booking is required, but for more information call 0131-317 4189.

Football initiative nets support

An Edinburgh-based business has become the latest sponsor of Street Soccer Scotland.

ProNetExpert, a global IT consultancy in Leith, has provided four laptops and IT support tothe football initiative, which has its head office in Easter Road stadium.

Under-5s guide to city gets update

A GUIDEBOOK that gives parents ideas for what to do with young children in Edinburgh has been revamped for 2011-12.

Edinburgh for Under Fives is a unique guide to making the most of the Capital and its surroundings.

The book, priced at 7.95, is available from Waterstones, The Edinburgh Bookshop, Blackwell's, Bohemia, Loopy Lorna's and on the website www.efuf.co.uk

Capital hotel serves up cash for kids' charity

A CHEQUE for more than 1300 has been donated to the founders of an Edinburgh children's charity.

Staff at Caledonian Hilton yesterday presented 1366 to Bill and Valerie Simpson, founders of Children with Cancer and Leukaemia, Advice and Support for Parents (CCLASP).

To mark the donation, some of the children and families who benefit from CCLASP's services were also invited to a special children's afternoon tea in the hotel's restaurant.