1 What is your earliest memory of Edinburgh? I remember going to Edinburgh from Leith by tram and walking along Princes Street. I thought it was brilliant. We didn't go there too often but always looked forward to it – still do.
2 What are your me
mories of school? I went to North Fort Street Primary in Leith. At the Queen's Coronation we were all taken up to the "Fort" for a party. We were all given a Coronation mug with some sweets and a pencil. The teacher told us never to use the rubber on the end – it meant we had made a mistake.
3 Where is your favourite place in Edinburgh and why? I love sitting at the Ross Bandstand on a sunny lunchtime listening to any music.
4 What are the best things about Edinburgh? It's like being in a city within a country park by the sea and never far from culture and history. I also love the people – they seem interested in their surroundings.
5 What would you change about the city? I wouldn't change a thing – everyone else is doing their worst to do that anyway. I was away from town for almost 40 years and saw changes happen only at a distance and on regular visits home.
6 Describe a perfect Edinburgh day/night out. I would walk from Gipsy Brae to Silverknowes before heading to the Cramond Inn for lunch. I'd enjoy a stroll up the banks of the river Almond before stopping for coffee at the Cramond Brig. I'd end my day with a pleasant evening meal with friends.
7 Which sports interest you? I enjoy football and my team is Hearts – they used to play football. I also have an interest in rugby and golf.
8 What was your most embarrassing moment? I remember my Boys' Brigade captain visited our house when he heard I was about to leave Leith to work in Birmingham. The house was always full with family each Sunday so we had to have this chat in the stairwell of the tenement. I still blush inwardly every time we meet.
9 What is your greatest achievement? I was able to give my two sons the opportunity of a good education.
10 Sum up Edinburgh in three words. People, culture, Leith.
The full article contains 403 words and appears in Edinburgh Evening News newspaper.
