The Edinburgh Minute ⏰ Thursday 14 May 2026
Carjacker hunt after daylight knifepoint robbery, Tynecastle tension as Jam Tarts teeter on title triumph, pop-up charity shop on George Street + Stockbridge colonies yard sale this weekend
🌤️ Good morning Edinburgh. As the song goes: The talk of the toon are the boys in maroon, as a win for the Hearts' men's football team last night means they could win the league this weekend. And their women's team could also win their league the following weekend. Here’s Thursday's Edinburgh Minute.
🪧 Anti-racism campaigners are planning to protest the Scottish Parliament's new Reform MSPs as they are sworn in at Holyrood this morning. - Details here from Stand up to Racism Edinburgh.
🚨 Carjacker hunt after daylight knifepoint robbery: A man threatened a 22-year-old woman with a knife and stole her car from outside the Scotmid at Morvenside Close in Wester Hailes on Tuesday afternoon. - BBC Scotland News.
- Detective Inspector Robert Wallace said: "This was a very frightening experience for this woman who was simply trying to go to the shops when she was targeted. Thankfully she was uninjured. We are continuing significant enquiries to trace the two men responsible. This includes gathering and viewing CCTV footage from in and around the area. This is a busy area and I am confident that there were people nearby who haven’t yet spoken to police. I urge them to please get in touch."
- 'Community 'deeply shocked' after Edinburgh carjacking sees young woman robbed at knifepoint' - Rachel Fergusson, Evening News.
- "It’s terrifying to think how quickly an ordinary moment, parking your car to get shopping, can turn into something so dangerous. She’s safe, but deeply shaken. No one in our community should have to fear this kind of violence. If you were nearby on Tuesday afternoon and saw anything at all, please get in touch with Police Scotland via 101." - Local MP Scott Arthur.
🟡 Edinburgh council's local SNP group will elect a new leader after Simita Kumar confirmed she'll step down having been elected as the MSP for Edinburgh South Western last week. - Ross Chalmers in The Edinburgh Reporter.
🎮 Three local MPs have accused Edinburgh-based Grand Theft Auto developer Rockstar North of obstructing legal processes over alleged union-busting with 'silence and closed doors'. The firm previously denied any wrongdoing. - Victoria Phillips Kennedy, Eurogamer.
🛬 The arrivals hall at Edinburgh Airport has been described as 'very industrial and dated' and 'not the standard we aspire to' by its chief executive, while construction work continues on a 'transformational' new arrivals hall. - Alastair Dalton, The Scotsman.
🔐 A developer has resubmitted fresh plans to turn a block of flats in Tollcross into an aparthotel on Home Street. - Lee Dalgetty, Edinburgh Live.
🏗️ An update to yesterday's news about a high-rise stand-off halting the demolition of a block of flats in Muirhouse: councillor Lesley Macinnes (a member of the Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Committee) contacted the Minute to say: "At yesterday’s Housing Committee I asked for, and got, reassurance from Council officers that there is suitable accommodation being made available for the last resident, ahead of the demolition of the Oxcars and Inchmickery blocks," adding: "I am hopeful, based on the answer I got, that the resident will not be left to cope alone once the eviction process has concluded. Human aspect makes these decisions v difficult."
Hi Michael, can’t verify that as still ongoing discussion & processes between the resident & CEC. But I am hopeful, based on the answer I got, that the resident will not be left to cope alone once the eviction process has concluded. Human aspect makes these decisions v difficult.
— Cllr Lesley Macinnes (@lmacinnessnp) May 13, 2026
⚽️ Hearts face a final day showdown away to Celtic this weekend after winning their final home game of the season last night. Manager Derek McInnes insists: "I believe and have believed for a while we have a team that is capable of winning the league." - Ewan Murray, The Guardian.
- Hearts head coach Derek McInnes claims his side are 'up against everybody' after a 'disgusting' 99th-minute penalty winner for Celtic ensured the Scottish Premiership title race would go to a final-day decider on Saturday. - George O'Neill, BBC Scotland.
🛍️ A designer pop-up boutique featuring more than 1,500 donated items opens at 93 George Street today to support the Maggie’s cancer charity. - Rose Moncur, The Herald.
🏡 A £595,999 fourth-floor flat at the Quartermile with views over the Meadows tops April's most-viewed local homes on the ESPC property portal.
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🤝 Save The Community Wellbeing Collective in Wester Hailes - 'We are a community space run by the people, for the people - providing free, accessible art and wellbeing activities to Wester Hailes. To stop us having to close, we need to raise £15,400 by the end of July - please help where you can. (Deadline: 31 Jul)' - More details here, shared by Community Wellbeing Collective.
- ⮑ People have donated £2,200 since the fundraiser first appeared in the Minute yesterday morning. It was the most-clicked link in the newsletter.
☕ Edinburgh's best coffee shops need your vote! (Closing date 18th May) - 'After the anonymous judges awarded them in the 44 TOP UK coffee shops they need your vote for the best in Europe! HAWKER COFFEE / LITTLE FITZROY / BEATNIK / CAIRNGORM COFFEE / TANIFIKI Vote for your favourite from the UK winners at this link. ' - Thanks to a Minute subscriber for sharing this.
🎭 From Pitch to Theatre: Cowdenbeath FC’s Five-Star Night Out - 'Cowdenbeath comes to Edinburgh! The Lyceum welcomed Cowdenbeath FC to see Black Diamonds and the Blue Brazil, a moving play about their club and community. Calling it “one of the best Scottish theatre productions”⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐. Runs until 23 May.' - More details here, shared by Alice Pelan, The Royal Lyceum Edinburgh.
🤝 Free activities for unpaid carers - 'LifeCare supports unpaid carers—anyone caring for a loved one, friend or neighbour—with respite and free wellbeing activities. We run a full programme from our Stockbridge hub, plus a new drop-in watercolour class in Portobello. Come join us!' - More details here, shared by Claire, LifeCare.
🧘♂️ Online Zoom Forum: Paramahansa Yogananda: The Spiritual Vision and Influence in His Life and Work - 'There will be five talks, each of 12 minutes, followed by discussion among the speakers and the chair, followed by Q & A. Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026. Time: 7pm-9pm (UK time).' - More details here, shared by Neill Walker, Edinburgh International Centre for Spirituality and Peace.
🎉 Apply now for the ESHC Community Events Fund - 'Have you got an event you want to host? We've got the space! And some money! ESHC maintains our basement as a free venue for community groups in Edinburgh, and wants to directly support groups by providing funding to host their events in the space. (Deadline: 15 Aug)' - More details here, shared by ESHC.
💌 Join the Tales of Rowan Acre storybook snail mail club - 'For readers of all ages and anyone looking to slow down and spend less time on their screens. Every month, receive an enchanting story and accompanying illustration in the post and get lost in tales of sweet and mischievous little animals. (Deadline: 15 May)' - More details here, shared by Aude Ferrachat.
📚 Christian Aid Book Sale [Daily]
Today, Thu 14 May - 'Edinburgh book event of the year, the Christian Aid Book Sale is back at the New Town Church, located on George Street by St Andrews Square. Massive selection of second hand books, music, film and art run by volunteers, raising cash for a good cause.'
12pm to 6pm | Edinburgh New Town Church, EH2 2PA | FREE - More details here, shared by Morvern.
🎬 Edinburgh Shorts Showcase
Today, Thu 14 May - 'Tonight! Check out some awesome local short films and meet the filmmakers! Featuring films from 48 Hour Film Project and Screen Education Edinburgh, including cave witches, wild west soda, stolen pleasure toys and more!'
8pm to 10pm | Cameo Picturehouse, EH3 9LZ | £5 - More details here, shared by 48 Hour Film Project.
🛍️ Stockbridge Colonies Yard Sale
Sun 17 May - 'Come along to the Stockbridge Colonies Annual Yard Sale from 1pm on Sunday 17 May for home baking and food, crafts, art, books, vintage items, jewellery, clothes, bric a brac and more. Look out for the homes with decorations and please bring cash!'
1pm to 4pm | Stockbridge Colonies, EH3 5HT | FREE - More details here, shared by Alexandra Snowdon.
Jane Wood
👥 Body Doubling Co-working Event
Thu 21 May - 'Struggling with distraction while working from home? Join us for a structured co-working day, get stuff done, meet new people and stay focused.'
9am to 5pm | Foxglove Offices, EH6 7EZ | £9 - More details here, shared by a Minute reader.
🏢 Not Another Job Fair
Thu 21 May - 'Take the next step at the FUSE Retail & Hospitality Job Fair. Meet employers who are actively hiring, explore full time and part time roles, speak with multiple companies, and get expert CV and interview support.'
10am to 1pm | Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel, EH2 4HQ | FREE - More details here, shared by Kaitlin Yoder, Edinburgh FUSE.
🖼️ Art exhibition: Nordic Living launches limited edition lithograph collection from Edition Copenhagen
Thu 21 May - 'Nordic Living is launching a curated selection of original Edition Copenhagen stone lithographs - limited edition pieces from some of Denmark's best contemporary artists. All welcome to the launch, enjoy some drinks and discover something special.'
5pm to 12am | Nordic Living by Biehl, EH10 4DG | FREE - More details here, shared by Carrie.
💀 Dealings with Death and the Devil
Thu 21 May - 'A traditional storytelling show with tales that explore the consequences of coming face-to-face with forces beyond our control.'
7.30pm to 9pm | Leith Depot, EH6 5DT | £10 (£8 concessions) - More details here, shared by Kate.
🌿 Hilda Houseplant Hospital at the Houseplant Festival [Daily]
Fri 22 May - 'The Hilda Houseplant Hospital is popping up at Scotland's first ever Houseplant Festival by GreenAF at The Pitt - FREE for all ticket holders. Book a drop-off slot, bring your saddest plant, enjoy the festival, whilst we take care of it for you.'
11am to 5pm | The Pitt, EH5 1QD | FREE - More details here, shared by Rosanna, Hilda.
🍜 Cyrenians Indonesian Supper Club
Fri 22 May - 'Ruzita, from Singapore, grew up in a vibrant mix of indigenous food cultures. This supper club showcases Indonesian-inspired street dishes-Mie Bakso, Rendang, Gado-gado and Sambal Godok-shared over great food and conversation.'
7pm to 9pm | Coffee Saints, EH1 3AR | £38 - More details here, shared by Cyrenians.
🎹 Scotland's Forgotten Piano Pioneer: Dana Muller and Gary Steigerwalt play Helen Hopekirk
Fri 22 May - 'Hear the music of Helen Hopekirk, the forgotten piano pioneer who turned Scottish folk melodies into something extraordinary. Gary Steigerwalt and Dana Muller make a rare UK performance. 25% off for Edinburgh Minute Readers: EM-3223-GTGH-25.'
7.30pm to 9pm | The Parish Church of St Cuthbert, EH1 2EP | £14 - More details here, shared by Veronika Strelbitskaia, Helen Hopekirk Festival.
✍️ Auld Alliance Comics Festival
Fri 29 May - 'From 29 to 31 May, the Institut français d'Ecosse will host the Auld Alliance Comics Festival in partnership with La Belle Adventure bookshop! Come to meet acclaimed French and Scottish comics creators for talks, signings, and a live drawing show!'
4pm to 7pm | French Institute of Scotland, EH1 1RN | FREE - More details here, shared by a Minute reader.
❤️ R&J: The Edinburgh Pop-Up [Daily]
Sat 30 May - 'Romeo & Juliet is popping up in Edinburgh. On 30 & 31 May, we're taking over 25A Thistle Street for a weekend of beautifully designed social experiences for people who are ready to meet someone properly.'
10am to 10pm | POP UP with stoodio., EH2 1DX | £20-£30 - More details here, shared by Romeo & Juliet.
🎨 Forth Bridges Creative Trail [Daily]
Sat 30 May - 'A family-friendly arts and crafts trail offering a chance to meet 35+ artists/makers, at 11 venues around South Queensferry, Dalmeny and Bo'ness. The trail ncludes open studios, pop‑up exhibitions, workshops (paid) and school art displays.'
10am to 5pm | Rosebery Hall, EH30 9LL | FREE - More details here, shared by Forth Bridges Creative Trail Association.
🌳 Braid Burn Creative Writing Walk
Sat 30 May - 'Find inspiration in nature on this guided creative writing walk. Let's slow down together and take some time to reflect and create while walking along the beautiful Braid Burn in the Hermitage of Braid nature reserve.'
10.30am to 12pm | Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve, EH9 3HJ | £10 - More details here, shared by Cameo Marlatt.
🌼 Drawing & Weaving Workshop - Weave a Summer Garden
Sat 30 May - 'Learn to draw and weave an abstract garden landscape using a hand-loom! Join us for a day of mixed media drawing and tapestry weaving with artist Anuschka Barlas, inspired by the beautiful Dr. Neil's Garden. All materials and refreshments included.'
10.30am to 4.30pm | Dr Neil's Garden, EH15 3PX | £135 per day - More details here, shared by Anuschka Barlas.
🎉 QMU Community Open Day
Sat 30 May - 'Our free to attend Community Open Day returns to Queen Margaret University! Expect a fun, family‑friendly afternoon with creative activities, Therapets, den building and a chance to explore our campus and community spaces. No booking required.'
12pm to 3pm | Queen Margaret University, EH21 6UU | FREE - More details here, shared by Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh.
🍰 Baking Masterclass with Peter Sawkins
Sat 30 May - 'Great British Bake Off winner, Peter Sawkins, is partnering with Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy to host an intimate 'cook along' masterclass event. Learn to bake your own celebration cake, master the Croquembouche, and enjoy an intimate Q&A.'
2pm to 5pm | Edinburgh Food & Drink Academy, EH2 1JE | £140 - More details here, shared by a Minute reader.
🚲 Weird Wheels Extravaganza: Porty Community Energy hand cycle launch
Sun 31 May - 'Bring your bike & join us for a bike ride through Porty with many weird & wonderful bikes, helping us launch our new hand cycle for hire. Afterwards browse the stalls, try out a new bike, or take part in the mobility obstacle course. Family friendly.'
10.45am to 3pm | Porty Active Travel Hub, EH15 1BR | Free - More details here, shared by Porty Community Energy.
💿 Rise & Rave
Fri 31 July - 'Join us for a unique, early morning rave with live DJ on the decks spinning an electrifying mix of classic dance, trance, techno, house, pop, funk. Lose yourself in uplifting beats and feel-good energy. Dance, sweat, sing all before the day begins.'
7.30am to 9.30am | Leith Arches, EH6 8LY | See link from £6 - More details here, shared by Lisa Eardley-Brown.
📮 What's missing from the Minute? Got an event to share? Nothing's too local! Please share your local news and events here.
👀 The most-visited links from the last newsletter:
- 💰 Fundraiser aims to save Wester Hailes community centre.
- 🏠 Inside a 1960s council flat turned sanctuary in Newhaven.
- 🏗️ High-rise stand-off halts Muirhouse flats demolition.
- 🚈 New timetable for Edinburgh to East Lothian trains.
- 🚲 Safe school cycle route partially saved (+ new update here).
⏰ Thanks for reading edition number 911.
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