ISSUE 315 — OUT TOMORROW!
As you read this, advance copies of the March Spurtle are already spreading in all directions across the barony like confused pedestrians trying to cross York Place.
Page 1 begins with the word ‘Last’ and ends with the word ‘objections’. In-between there are thoughts on green flags and where not to find one, Edinburgh’s air and where not to breathe it, proactive approaches to Picardy Place, and a hippopotamus in a hamster cage.
OFFICIALS RECOMMEND REFUSAL FOR JOSEPH PEARCE SEATING
Officials have recommended that the application to install temporary seating outside the Category A-listed 23 Elm Row be refused (21/05858/FUL). Councillors on the Development Management Subcommittee are due to consider the case on 2 March.
The applicant proposes a timber-decked outdoor seating area outside the Joseph Pearce bar and restaurant, with a pergola type structure for coverage.
Stumped – reward for information
Dear Spurtle,
I am sure you are familiar with the 'waste land' behind Drummond Lawn Tennis Club.
Some five years ago in that wasteland – see attached photos – I planted a plum tree, which disliked our garden nearby.
Last year it cropped for the first time – many baskets of blushing pink plums which were enjoyed by those walking up the lane.
Yesterday I found it a stump, first sawn and then snapped off. Deliberate, not casual. But why?
May I offer a £50 reward to anyone who can identify the tree cutter so that I can approach that person and ask that the tree be replaced?
Hugh Lockhart
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(Tel. 0131 556 3743)
[Address supplied but redacted by the Spurtle.]
EDUCATION
EDUCATION:—A delicate balancing act.
BROUGHTON SUNSET
BROUGHTON SUNSET:—Early again.
ISSUE 314 – OUT TOMORROW!
As you read this, advance copies of the February Spurtle are already fanning out across the barony like invitations to a Downing Street after-work work meeting for people who won’t be doing any work at it.
Page 1 jumps straight into a controversial development, grinding teeth, and serious crime before lightening the tone with coffee-and-cake news and ways to help local kids get lost in the countryside.