News
Launch of Inspire Awards for 2026
We are delighted to launch this year’s Inspire Awards celebrating the hard work, commitment and achievements of East Lothian Council employees.
They recognise individuals and teams making an exceptional contribution to our organisation's work for the benefit of the communities we serve.
Any employee can nominate colleagues who they believe have gone the extra mile to deliver excellent service or make a positive difference to the delivery of high-quality services.
Chief Executive Laurence Rockey said:
“Last year’s inaugural Inspire Awards ceremony was a fantastic occasion, when we celebrated the professionalism and commitment of so many colleagues across the council. We had some great feedback on the awards and I’m really looking forward to the event taking place for a second successive year.
“There have been more brilliant achievements and successes over the last year and, despite a very challenging operating environment, our employees continue to demonstrate a relentless focus on providing the highest standard of service to East Lothian communities, highlighting our council values of Enabling, Leading and Caring in action.
“Please do take a look at the award categories and think about who you would like to nominate – we would love to hear from you.
“Everybody who lives, works in - or visits - East Lothian relies on at least some of the varied and essential services we provide. That’s why our Inspire Awards are a great way of recognising the excellent work that takes place 365 days of the year.”
Who is eligible to be nominated?
Any East Lothian Council or East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership employee can be nominated. Any employee can make a nomination.
How will the winners be decided?
Nominations will be judged by a panel including the Executive Leadership Team, Provost and a Trade Union representative.
How will the winners be announced?
All finalists will be invited to a ceremony in Haddington Corn Exchange on the afternoon of Monday 26 October, where winners will then be announced. Details and photographs will then be published in Inform.
How can I make a nomination?
Employees can make as many nominations as they wish across seven different categories. This can be done using an online form from today until 5pm on Wednesday, 2 September.
What are the categories?
- Customer Excellence Award - an individual or team who has truly excelled in supporting and helping others, contributing to the delivery of quality service.
- Community Focus Award - an individual or team making a difference in the community by working collaboratively and effectively with our partners and local groups.
- Unsung Hero Award - an individual who works selflessly and shows dedication to their role without seeking recognition or acclaim.
- One Council Award - an individual or team who personifies our council values of Enabling, Leading and Caring by working collaboratively with colleagues in different areas to achieve shared outcomes.
- Sustainability and Efficiency Award - an individual or team who champions sustainability - whether it’s in relation to improving services, doing things more efficiently or protecting and enhancing the environment.
- Innovation Award - an individual or team demonstrating an innovative and inspirational approach in their work for the council to deliver for customers and communities.
- Team of the year - an award which recognises the importance of effective teamwork and employees working together to ensure continuous improvement, with a clear focus on getting things done for the benefit of others.
- Council employee of the year - this award will be presented to an outstanding employee nominated in one or more of the categories above. It recognises a standout and inspirational individual who has truly gone the extra mile to carry out their work to the highest level and whose efforts have been praised widely by their colleagues.
Employee survey: thank you
A huge thank you to all 2,329 colleagues who completed our recent employee survey, either online or on paper. We appreciate you taking the time to share your views and ideas.
Your feedback is incredibly valuable and will help shape improvements across our council. We will begin reviewing the results and suggestions once they become available next month, with the full survey findings set to be shared in the coming months.
Most importantly, this survey will lead to action. Every Service Manager will be asked to identify three key actions for their teams based on the results, with progress reviewed regularly by the Corporate Leadership Team to ensure accountability and follow-through.
You may remember the question, "What one thing would you change about the council if you were Chief Executive?". Laurence will be responding to the key themes and suggestions raised, so look out for further updates soon.
Finally, thank you for helping support a local cause. Following participants’ votes, East Lothian Foodbank will receive £500 through supplier Community Benefits funding.
Thank you again for getting involved. We look forward to sharing the results and next steps with you soon.
Hayley Barnett
Head of Corporate Support
Willie Innes Way officially opened
The new road through part of the former Cockenzie Power Station site was officially opened and named after our former Council Leader, the late Willie Innes, with his daughter Gillian invited to come along and perform the official ribbon cutting.
Many colleagues will have worked with Willie, who was Council Leader from 2012 until he sadly passed away in October 2021.
Current Council Leader Norman Hampshire said: “It was an honour to meet Willie’s son Craig, daughter Gillian and granddaughters Hanna and Isla to officially open this new road. Under Willie’s leadership, East Lothian Council bought the former Cockenzie Power Station site for economic and community benefit and that’s why this road has been named after him as a lasting tribute to all he did for East Lothian.”
Willie’s daughter Gillian McEwan said: “I was really pleased to help cut the ribbon today on behalf of all the family. We’re very proud of what dad achieved during his time as a community councillor, local councillor and Council Leader and to have a road named after him is a real honour and something the family really appreciates.”
The new road links the Alder Road junction on the B6371 approach to Cockenzie with the existing B1348 Edinburgh Road. It has been built with the support of Hub South East by contractor Balfour Beatty on our behalf as part of the wider work to bring the industrial site up to standard for redevelopment. It largely follows the route of an original service road to the former power station coal plant and is designed to ease pressure on existing roads in the community in preparation for potential new commercial and other developments on the former power station and coal store sites.
We purchased the former ScottishPower site in 2018 to support ambitions to promote economic growth and create employment opportunities.
You can read the full story on our website.
Over £1m saved from counter fraud action: report now
We have a duty to safeguard public money. We expect the highest standards of conduct and integrity from everyone who deals with us. This includes employees, elected members, contractors and the public.
If you suspect that any person or organisation has committed a fraud that involves our council, you can report it in confidence online. This includes:
- tenancy and housing fraud
- Council tax discount fraud
You don’t have to identify yourself or provide personal information, just information about the type of fraud and who has committed it. You can also upload documents or photographs as evidence. Our specialist Corporate Fraud Officer will consider all information.
Fraudulent claims and behaviours affect communities by reducing the amount of money available to fund council services or reducing availability of housing for people who are in genuine need.
A report to Audit and Governance committee in June highlighted the costs highlighting that, in the last year, our Counter Fraud Officer Debbie McKinlay has investigated in excess of 1,500 cases and provided estimated savings of approximately £1,044,470.15, through National Fraud Initiative work and staff reporting, while bringing back into use six council properties. The positive impacts of this work were highlighted in national media.
Find out more about reporting fraud: www.eastlothian.gov.uk/report-fraud
East Lothian learners congratulated on exam results
The number of East Lothian pupils achieving five or more National 5 qualifications is at its highest level since 2022 according to analysis of Qualifications Scotland (QS) Attainment Statistics for 2025/26 published recently.
2782 candidates achieved 14,999 awards, an increase on the previous year (2757/ 14,365). Qualifications Scotland awards include National 2 to National 5, Higher, Advanced Higher and ungraded Skills for Work courses.
Analysis was carried out compared to 2024/25 results and the historical five-year average 2015-2019, a period unaffected by alternative certification models adopted during Covid-19.
Overall the percentage achieving A-C awards across all levels was in line with the 2024/25 at 83.4% (compared to 83.5%) and above the five-year historical average.
Key highlights by QS level are:
National 2, 3 and 4
Young people achieved more National 2, 3 and 4 awards this year compared to last. The number of pupils presented increased from 1501 to 1561, with the number of awards they achieved also increasing from 3504 in 24/25 to 3615 this year. The qualifications are made up of units which are internally assessed as pass or fail at school or college level then externally quality-assured by QS.
National 5
The number of pupils achieving five or more National 5 qualifications is at its highest level since 2022. 79% achieved A-C grades, broadly in line with 2025 (79.6%) and an increase of two percentage points on the five-year average (77%). The pass rate for English was in line with the previous year (89%) while Maths increased by three percentage points on 2025 at 75%, the third successive year of rises in the subject and 11 percentage points above the five-year average (64%). East Lothian’s National 5 pass rates are in line with the national average.
Higher
While the number of pupils sitting Highers was in line with previous years and the five-year average (74% of the cohort), there was an increase in the numbers achieving A-C grades (78% compared to 77%). The pass rate at English increased from 74% in 2025 to 80% which is in line with the five-year average. Pass rates for Maths fell from 80% last year to 75% this, which remains above the five-year average (74%). East Lothian’s Higher pass rates are above the national average for the second year in a row.
Advanced Higher
The number of S6 pupils presented for an Advanced Higher increased to 48% from 47% compared with the previous year and slightly below the five-year average (50%). 72% achieved A-C grades, an increase of 4 percentage points on the previous year.
Attainment gap
The attainment gap between students living in the most and least disadvantaged areas increased across National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels compared to the previous year. The difference at National 5 was 15 percentage points (11pp in 24/25), 19 percentage points at Higher (compared with 13pp) and 13 percentage points (7pp in previous year).
Find the full results from our website.
Catering team retains Silver Award for school meals
Our catering team have been honoured for their amazing work with the Food for Life Served Here (FFLSH) silver award.
As a result of their efforts, our council retained its silver status for the fifth year in a row in the award scheme run by Soil Association Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government.
Around 5000 nutritious, sustainable and locally-sourced Food for Life meals are served in our 37 primary schools and nurseries every day.
The FFLSH accolade was presented following an independent assessment and inspection to ensure the food being served in schools is good for pupils’ health, the environment and the local economy.
As an FFLSH silver award holder, we must spend at least five per cent of the ingredients budget for this service on organic produce and support local producers. This is in addition to meeting the FFLSH bronze award standards, which includes freshly preparing a minimum of 75 per cent of dishes using fresh, whole and minimally processed ingredients.
Meals also have to be free from undesirable trans fats, sweeteners and additives, and use free range eggs, higher welfare meat, and ingredients from sustainable and ethical sources.
Vanessa Sanal, Service Manager with Facilities Management Services, said: “Facilities Management are extremely proud to have retained the Food for Life Served Here silver award. This achievement reflects the team's ongoing commitment to providing quality, nutritious, and sustainably sourced food for children across East Lothian’s 37 primary schools and nurseries.
“Retaining this award demonstrates our dedication to supporting health, wellbeing, and positive food experiences for those we serve every day.”
We helped to achieve silver status by purchasing Scottish organic milk and dairy products, switching to locally produced organic flour from Mungoswells Farm in Drem, and introducing initiatives such as dining hall education displays to help children understand food provenance and healthy eating.
Our FFLSH silver award was first attained in 2022. Prior to this, a bronze award had been held since 2013.
Whitecraig Primary School shortlisted for national award
Recognition for an outstanding learning environment
Whitecraig Primary School has been shortlisted for the Pupil/Student Experience Award at the Learning Places Scotland 2026 Awards.
The Learning Places Scotland Awards are part of the annual Learning Places Scotland and EdTech Scotland event, delivered in partnership with the Scottish Government. The awards celebrate the people, projects and partnerships that are helping to shape learning environments across Scotland.
Celebrating positive pupil experiences
The Pupil/Student Experience Award recognises projects that have made a significant positive impact on learners. This includes initiatives that support inclusive learning, wellbeing, digital innovation and learner engagement.
The nomination for Whitecraig Primary School reflects the hard work, commitment and collaboration of everyone involved to deliver the project and create an environment that supports and inspires young people.
A building designed to support learning
Head Teacher, Viv Short highlighted the impact the new school building has had on pupils and the wider community.
She said: "The new school building is truly special. Its spaces allow curiosity to flourish, confidence to grow and new possibilities for every young person to be supported in the best way they can be.
"Whitecraig Primary School has always been at the heart of its community and our new building strengthens that connection, providing a welcoming place for families, partners and neighbours to come together.
"We are immensely proud and deeply thankful to everyone who has helped make it possible."
The winners of the Learning Places Scotland 2026 Awards will be announced at an event in Glasgow on 3 November.
Three teams reach APSE award finals
Three council service areas have been chosen as finalists in this year’s APSE (Association for Public Service Excellence) awards, which recognise the outstanding work taking place in local authorities across the UK and celebrate excellence in frontline service delivery.
We are finalists in the Best Climate Action or Decarbonisation Initiative, Best Service Team of the Year (Technical Services) and Best Service Team of the Year (Cemetery and Crematorium) categories. The winners will be announced in September.
Council Leader Norman Hampshire said: “Well done to everyone who has been involved in these projects. The nominations are well deserved and it is welcome recognition for all the hard work that goes on in our teams right across the council. All of these service areas are delivering initiatives that are making a real difference to our residents, our environment and our communities. East Lothian would not be the wonderful place it is without the hard work of our council staff. Good luck to all our finalists!”
Technical Services Team of the Year
The Technical Services Team of the Year nomination is for Fleet Services. The team has delivered a major expansion of in‑house Additional Support Needs (ASN) transport in response to rising demand, taxi market failure and climate pressures. Investment in wheelchair‑accessible buses, workforce growth and modern apprenticeships now provides safer, more inclusive, lower‑carbon transport for over 40 additional ASN pupils. Growth has generated significant value with average savings of £3,516 per user, equating to around £141,000 per year for 40 users, while strengthening local employment and long‑term skills sustainability.
Best Climate Action or Decarbonisation Initiative
The Best Climate Action or Decarbonisation Initiative nomination is for the East Lothian Climate Forest, an ambitious programme driving climate action at landscape scale. One of Scotland's first Climate Forests, it aims to plant two million trees across East Lothian by 2031 through a partnership involving landowners, developers, communities and our council. More than 247,000 trees have already been planted in East Lothian, guided by our Tree and Woodland Strategy. By increasing carbon capture, enhancing biodiversity and creating healthier, more resilient landscapes and places, the Climate Forest is helping shape a sustainable future for East Lothian.
Service Team of the Year
The Service Team of the Year nomination is for our Bereavement Team. Since January 2024, they have delivered a significant transformation of burial and bereavement services across East Lothian, modernising the service while protecting and improving the support provided to stakeholders. The team has transformed from a once lengthy, paper-heavy service to a modern, digitally-led operation that puts families first at the most difficult times.
Burial capacity in the west of East Lothian has been doubled through structured scheduling, while the introduction of a modern digital booking system now provides streamlined, consistent information across the service. Historical burial records dating back to the 1800s have been digitised across 39 cemetery sites, with 24 sites also being fully drone imaged, helping to safeguard this important information for future generations and significantly improving access to records.
Alongside this transformation, a dedicated headstone health and safety inspection programme is now underway across East Lothian cemeteries, risk assessing every headstone and ensuring failed headstones have a proactive plan to be made safe. The transformation has not just been about systems and processes. Strong relationships with funeral directors and monumental masons have developed and strengthened, supported by a dedicated bereavement line and open-door approach that puts families, communication and compassionate service at the forefront of the service.
More details of the APSE Awards is on their website.
New customer service office in Musselburgh
A new customer services office will open to the public in Musselburgh on Thursday 27 August following closure of the Brunton Hall.
A decision was made last year to close and mothball the Brunton Hall, due to the presence of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) which is unaffordable to repair.
The Musselburgh customer services and community housing teams will be working from their new location of 141 High Street, the former Citizens Advice Bureau.
The new office will open at 11am on 27 August. Opening hours thereafter will be Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9am to 5pm, Wednesday 10am to 5pm and Friday 9am to 4pm.
A number of teams have already been relocated to alternative accommodation, with the Brunton Theatre Trust relocating its main base to the Corn Exchange in Haddington while continuing to provide high quality cultural experiences in Musselburgh with a programme of events primarily at Northesk Church and Loretto Theatre.
Meanwhile, we’re progressing with work to ensure future accommodation for the arts in Musselburgh by exploring opportunities to finance a replacement of the Brunton Hall. The focus is on finding an affordable solution for alternative accommodation to maintain all the associated cultural, economic and social benefits that has been delivered at the Brunton Hall over many years.
Justice Social Work will be moving to accommodation within Fisherrow Community Centre on Thursday 20 August.
The Brunton will be closed to the public from 27 August.
Main refurbishment of Loch Centre to begin in October
The main refurbishment works at the Loch Centre are scheduled to begin in early October as part of a £5 million repair and revitalisation project.
The timetable has been drawn up following the appointment of Algo Construction Scotland as the contractor to carry out these improvements at the Tranent facility.
Advance works are due to start at the end of August and be completed by the end of September with the centre remaining open during this period.
The start of the main works in early October will require the centre to be closed for a year. Following a comprehensive review, it was previously determined that a year-long closure for the final phase of the project was the safest and most economical way to undertake the essential repairs.
Extensive work has already been completed on heating systems and other services at the centre which constituted the project’s first phase.
Funding for the renovation has come from our council’s capital budget.
Bill Axon, Chief Executive of Enjoy Leisure, said: “The Loch Centre in Tranent is a well-loved facility, so it’s brilliant that we’re now nearing the start of the main refurbishment. These essential works will modernise the Loch Centre and help ensure we can continue to meet the needs of local communities and visitors for many years to come.
“As part of our preparations for the temporary closure, we’ve been working to accommodate our clubs, classes and other activities across our other Enjoy Leisure venues wherever possible.
“We also want to provide our colleagues and our community with a clear and firm assurance regarding the Loch Centre team’s future. We're fully committed to protecting the livelihoods of our dedicated workforce throughout the refurbishment; therefore, we guarantee there will be no enforced job losses resulting from the temporary closure. We've developed a comprehensive plan to redeploy our team members across our other facilities, ensuring they remain supported and fully integrated into our operations while we transform your centre into a venue for the future.”
Secondary students start school year with individual laptop
All of our secondary pupils will start the new school year with their own laptop following successful roll-out of the council’s 1:1 devices project.
Throughout 2025/26, our council officers worked with all seven secondary schools to introduce individual Chromebooks as part of the authority’s Learning, Connected project. The team used a phased approach starting with Dunbar Grammar and completing the year at Ross High School.
Learning, Connected was developed to increase access to technology in schools, improve digital literacy and help learners access resources tailored to their needs and pace. A new web-filtering system on all Chromebooks provides a protected online environment whether they are used in school, at home or on any other network. A stakeholder agreement outlines expectations of all parties, including learners, parents and carers, for caring for the device and online behaviours.
Staff have already been offered support and will continue to have the opportunity to take part in general and bespoke training to upskill and embed digital technology in their teaching and the curriculum.
Alongside the increase in devices for secondary schools, primary school stocks increased to one Chromebook for every two pupils. The project has been funded from the council’s existing education IT budgets and careful management of the devices’ lifespans.
Read the full story on our website.
Celebrating the successful launch of our new website
Our new website successfully went live on 16 June, marking a major milestone in our digital transformation journey and providing a modern digital front door to council services.
The launch followed months of collaboration across our council, with colleagues designing and improving content, migrating pages, creating better user journeys and testing the site.
Importantly, the website launched on time, with no disruption to services and a seamless experience for our communities.
Delivering better outcomes for residents
The new website makes it easier for residents to find information and access services online, supporting our ambitions for digital-by-default services, greater efficiency and more sustainable ways of working. Early feedback suggests these improvements are already making a difference.
One resident said: "The new website looks great, but what I really like is how easy it was to get to my destination page. The user journey is so much better. Bravo!"
Another commented: "Very clear and easy-to-follow website instructions – even for an old person like me who hates doing stuff online!"
Project reflections
Strategic Change Team Manager, Nicky Aitken said: “We feel the key to our success has been communication and collaboration. Building relationships with the web editors from the early stages has been key to keeping them informed on what is happening and what was required of them. Forging a strong relationship with transparent and regular communication with our supplier Big Blue Door has also been invaluable.”
Feedback from the Web Strategic Oversight Group (WebSOG) has been highly positive, with members describing the new website as cleaner, clearer and easier to navigate. The project was recognised for being delivered on time, highlighting the strong partnership and collaboration between the project team, web editors, and our supplier Big Blue Door as a major factor in achieving a successful transition.
A member of the WebSOG said: “The Web team were really helpful and always available for support which was much appreciated.”
Training and support was also received positively by the team, indicating a preference for in-person training and protected leaning time to get to grips with the new system and create the new website. Overall, feedback so far has been positive and constructive, with further benefits likely to be realised through continued support, in-person training and ongoing content reviews.
A collaborative success
This achievement reflects the dedication of colleagues across our organisation. Thank you to our Departmental Web Editors, Web Strategic Oversight Group, IT, Strategic Change and Customer Services teams, and delivery partner Big Blue Door, whose expertise and commitment helped make the programme a success.
Special thanks go to Laura Hall (Web Manager), Nicky Aitken (Team Manager Strategic Change), Raymond McGill (Service Manager and Project Sponsor), and Megan Waddell (Change Manager) - this project would not have been possible without their leadership, expertise and commitment to improving digital services for our residents. Thank you!
Continuous improvement
The new website has been designed to evolve. As residents and colleagues continue to use the site, we will identify opportunities to make content clearer, improve user journeys and refine how information is organised.
The Web Team will continue to monitor website performance, analyse feedback and usage, and make ongoing enhancements to navigation and content. We encourage staff to share feedback from customers and services. If something isn't easy to find, a page title could be clearer, or a customer journey can be improved, please contact your departmental web editors or contact the Web Team at webteam@eastlothian.gov.uk.
Next steps
Over the coming months, the Web Team will continue to support our network of Web Editors and provide training for new Web Editors, while working with LocalGov Drupal community to take advantage of future enhancements and innovations.
The project team will also develop a case study to capture lessons learned and gather feedback from both colleagues and residents, helping to shape future improvements and showcase the benefits delivered through the programme.
Together, we've delivered a website our residents can be proud of, a platform our services can build upon, and a digital foundation that will support East Lothian for years to come. Thank you again to all involved!
What's On
What’s on in our museums
Our museums are FREE to visit and open for the summer season through until the end of September. Look out for our exciting new exhibitions, events and drop in activities for families.
Exhibitions
The Art of Balance in Nature
Selected works as part of the tenth European Land Art Festival and Stone Stacking Championships 2026.
Sunday 28 June to Sunday 16 August
Open Wednesday to Sunday 1pm to 5pm.
Free admission.
Dunbar Town House Museum & Gallery, High Street, Dunbar EH42 1ER
Landmark exhibition at John Gray Centre
John Bellany HRSA
Acrylic on canvas Cockenzie Harbour by John Bellany
Internationally renowned artist John Bellany HRSA, born in Port Seton, painted large scale, distinctive and often deeply personal works exploring themes including East Lothian’s fishing communities.
Curated by John’s wife Helen Bellany, and his lifelong friend Alexander Moffat RSA, the exhibition combines works on loan from the Royal Scottish Academy with private collections and works held by our council. It includes large and rarely seen work.
This exhibition is part of the RSA200: Celebrating Together partnership project. Throughout 2026 the Royal Scottish Academy, the oldest artist-run institution in Scotland, is celebrating its 200th birthday.
It is running between Friday 17 April and Saturday 19 September.
Open Thursday and Friday from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 1pm and 1.30pm to 4pm.
Free admission.
John Gray Centre - Museum, 15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX.
Place names of East Lothian: A journey through time
The settlement of East Linton was recorded as Lintun in 1127, which means 'farm by the torrent', from Old English tūn 'substantial farm' and hlynn 'torrent'. The hlynn is the waterfall which tumbles over what are now called the Linn Rocks. By about 1840 the village had become known as East Linton, to distinguish it from Linton in Peeblesshire, now known as West Linton.
What about Dunbar? Lamer Street? Friarscroft?
What does it mean? Where did the names come from?
Dunbar & District History Society’s latest exhibition is based on the online publication, ‘Place-names of East Lothian: A journey through time’, researched by History Society member Liz Curtis. The exhibition presents a selection of names and their meaning from North Berwick to Dunglass and is supported by artefacts and historical images.
Liz said: "Over thousands of years, a succession of different peoples arrived in East Lothian, mostly seeking the excellent agricultural land. They spoke different languages – Brittonic, Old English, Old Norse (Scandinavian), Gaelic, and Norman French. Then Scots developed locally, based on Old English. Each group named the land in their own way. They adopted the place-names of their predecessors or adapted them or created new names. As a result, East Lothian has a wonderfully varied collection of place-names, which illuminate our history.’
The full version of the online publication can be found on the Scottish Place-Name Society’s website.
Open Wednesday to Sunday 1pm to 5pm.
Free admission.
Dunbar Town House Museum & Gallery, High Street, Dunbar EH42 1ER.
A Gude Fechter – John Muir the Campaigner
Farmer, inventor, botanist, geologist, explorer, mountaineer, writer and pioneer of nature conservation
(John Muir. The Story of My Boyhood and Youth, 1913)
“The battle we have fought, and are still fighting for the forests is a part of the eternal conflict between right and wrong...” John Muir
A love of nature, which began at an early age as a young boy growing up in Dunbar sparked a lifelong passion and desire to protect wild places; John’s fight for the environment earned him the title of father of the National Parks and pioneer of the conservation movement, and continuing inspiration for millions.
Here we look at some of the early influences and campaigns in Dunbar, at the later battles that he fought, and we will be considering some of the local environmental issues facing the town of his birth today.
April to June. Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and Sunday 1pm to 5pm.
Free admission
John Muir’s Birthplace, High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ.
Haven
Pop into Prestongrange to see an inspiring display of jewellery by designer/maker, Eleanor Symms, who uses reclaimed materials to create her work. In the summer of 2024 Eleanor worked on a project at Morrisons Haven where she gathered waste and organic materials. Her aim is to learn more about ways to use and combine organic and other waste materials and explore how to make wearable, ornamental pieces, prototypes that could be disassembled, reassembled or returned to nature.
Open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4.30pm until the end of September.
Prestongrange Museum, Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX.
Coastal Communities Museum
Come and visit our fascinating local museum located in the seaside town of North Berwick. We’re run entirely by enthusiastic volunteers and our aim is to enable locals and visitors to explore the culture and heritage of the coastal communities that make up East Lothian’s North Berwick coastal ward.
Agricultural life is an important part of the Coastal Ward in East Lothian and we are showcasing a new display of farm implements from the past including seed broadcasters, sheep shears, a hand plough and even a ‘foster mother’. Come along and find out more about this curiously named device! These tools offer a fascinating glimpse into the working lives and rural traditions that helped shape our local community.
This year’s Collectors’ Corner will showcase a charming and unusual collection of old button hooks. Among them are several examples of ‘trench art’ – objects transformed with creativity and care, each with its own story to tell.
In the Children’s Area, our much-loved (and very well-worn!) pirate costumes have been topped up, ready for another season of imaginative adventures on Treasure Island. We’ve also restocked the ever-popular colouring postcards. After running low at the end of last season, we’re pleased to say that crabs, puffins and stags are once again back on the shelves. Our popular rope tying display is back for another year – master the art of nautical knots and discover the difference between a Bowline and a Sheet Bend.
Open Wednesday to Saturday from 11am to 4pm.
Free admission.
Coastal Communities Museum School Road, North Berwick, EH39 4JU.
Echoes of the Past
Do you remember Musselburgh in the 1950s through to the 90s? If so come to the exhibition to be reminded and tell us more of what it was like then for you. If you are younger then do come along and see what it was like for your parents and grandparents.
Open Thursday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4pm.
Free admission.
Musselburgh Museum, 65 High St, Musselburgh EH21 7BZ.
Events
Wee Wednesdays
Wednesday mornings at Prestongrange Museum (10am to 10.30am) Free Bookbug for 0 to 5s and their parents/carers. Followed by craft activity, £1 per child.
Prestongrange Museum, Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX.
Our museums:
15 Lodge Street, Haddington, EH41 3DX
Thursday and Friday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm
Saturday 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 4pm
126 High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1JJ
Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm
Sunday 1pm to 5pm
High Street, Dunbar, EH42 1ER
Wednesday to Sunday 1pm to 5pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)
Morrison’s Haven, Prestonpans, EH32 9RX
Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 4.30pm
(from Wednesday 2 April to Sunday 28 September)
School Road, North Berwick, EH39 4JU
Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 4pm
(from Wednesday 9 April to Saturday 25 October)
65 High St, Musselburgh EH21 7BZ
Thursday to Saturday 10.30am to 4pm
(from Thursday 3 April to Saturday 27 September)
Join the Big Fit Walk 2026
We're delighted to let you know that the Big Fit Walk will be taking place on Wednesday 7 October in Haddington.
The Big Fit Walk is a fun, inclusive community event that encourages people of all ages and abilities to get active, enjoy the outdoors and connect with others. Whether you're a regular walker or simply looking for an opportunity to get out and about, there will be a range of guided walks led by volunteers to suit different fitness levels and abilities.
Participants will be able to choose from a selection of routes, ranging from gentle, short walks to longer and more challenging options. All walks will be led by trained volunteers from Ageing Well who will help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
The event is a great opportunity to:
- get active and improve your wellbeing
- meet new people and enjoy social connections
- explore local walking routes around Haddington
- take part in a positive and supportive community event
The Big Fit Walk will start from the Aubigny Sports Centre in Mill Wynd, Haddington, with registration at 10am for a 10.30am start. You can choose between a:
- gentle – 15/20 minute walk
- bronze – 30 minute walk
- silver – 45 minute walk or
- gold – 60 minute walk
Refreshments will be available on the day. No need to book but you can ask for more information by calling Parvine at Ageing Well on 07718 117585 or email pwoodger@eastlothian.gov.uk
We hope you can help make this year's Big Fit Walk another successful and enjoyable event.
Our People
Farewell Graham - Clerk of Works retires after 50 years
After playing a key role in some of the biggest construction projects in East Lothian, Graham Irvine has retired after more than 50 years with our council.
Graham was a Clerk of Works for the last 35 years of his service, helping to ensure new buildings met their planning and safety specifications.
And before that he spent 15 years as a joiner, maintaining council properties across the county.
But the Longniddry resident doesn’t intend to put his feet up, with plans instead to climb Munros and devote more time pursuing his passion for coastal rowing.
Graham, 67, said: “Working for the council has been a big part of my life. In many ways, it’s like leaving a family. I haven’t got a bad word to say about anybody I’ve worked with over the years. Everyone has been really great, really friendly, but I just decided it was the right moment to go.”
After growing up in Carberry Mains, Graham attended Musselburgh Grammar School before leaving at 16 and starting work on the family farm.
He said: “My dad said to me I shouldn’t stay on the farm and should get a trade, so I started with the council as an apprentice joiner in January 1976, attending Jewel and Esk Valley College at the same time.
“I worked as a joiner until 1991, mostly carrying out maintenance work on council homes. I enjoyed it but decided I wanted a new challenge and did a two-year HNC in Building Inspection and Supervision at Glasgow College of Building and Printing. That got me the role as a Clerk of Works.”
On the ball
For more than three decades, Graham has been involved in building projects large and small, including major housing developments and the construction of new schools.
He said: “I was first on site at Blindwells when the work started and there was nothing there. Now it’s this huge development with its own school. My last jobs have been the council properties in Longniddry Village and the expansion to the nursery at Longniddry Primary.
“As a Clerk of Works, you’re the eyes and ears for the architect to make sure the job is done properly to their specifications and drawings. Everything has to meet the criteria which was passed at the planning stage. You have to be on the ball and careful with what you do. You’re responsible for the building until the handover date. That means being on site to see what’s happening, with weekly or daily visits depending on the project, and making regular reports back to the architect or whoever the client is.
“As part of a team of four Clerk of Works, we were always very busy. We had to be able to cover each other’s job if required so you had to be up to speed on everything.”
Advances in technology provided the biggest changes that Graham witnessed during his long career. He said: “I started with carbon paper and maybe a photocopier. Now it’s all computers and phones. It’s been hard to keep up with sometimes, but my partner Alison was able to keep me right whenever I got stuck with it.”
After moving to a three-day week when he turned 66, the father-of-three decided to retire and completed his final day on 6 August.
He said: “My first grandchild is due two weeks after I retire but I’ve already told my daughter I’ll be too busy to do much babysitting! Coastal rowing, which is basically sprint racing in the sea, has been my weekend hobby for many years and I intend to do more of that. I row for two clubs and help to look after and repair the boats.”
Outstanding contribution
Now a fixture in the sport’s over-60s competitions, Graham has rowed for the South East of Scotland in freshwater sprints and even competed in the World Championships.
He added: “The rowing keeps you fit and I intend to get back into climbing Munros again. I won’t be lying on the couch all day and watching TV that’s for sure!”
Stephen Akers, Team Manager - Design and Programme Management, said: “Graham had an incredible career spanning over 50 years with our council. He provided a quality service through his care, commitment and personal approach to his work. There is an almost endless list of council buildings that are now safer and better places to be because of Graham’s involvement and keen eye during various construction works.
“He was a well-respected member of our Clerk of Works team and will be sorely missed. We thank Graham for his outstanding contribution and wish him a well-deserved long and happy retirement.”
Amenity Services praised over new play area in Tranent
Our Amenity Services team were hailed for their wonderful work creating a new play area in Tranent which opened earlier this month.
Youngsters were delighted with their efforts after visiting the Crookston Willow Play Area, which is located on greenspace off Lindores Drive behind the George Johnstone Centre.
The facility was constructed by members of the Play Squad within Amenity Services.
A number of Amenity Services colleagues behind the project were joined by Councillor Colin McGinn and local children at the official opening ceremony held on 5 August.
The main area features equipment for a range of ages and abilities including a flying fox (cableway), ‘hammock seat’, a selection of swings, a wheelchair-accessible seesaw and roundabout, a climbing frame unit and climbing net structure. New seating and benches along with sections of rubber safety surfacing to improve accessibility and inclusivity have also been added.
Cllr Colin McGinn was joined by council colleagues and local children at the opening event
A much-loved willow tree now forms a scenic backdrop for the playpark while the creation of a circular seat around its trunk has made it a key feature.
A second nearby area boasts ‘play-on-the-way’ wooden climbing as well as balance and stepping-stone structures to enhance the greenspace immediately to the south which links towards the Tranent Wombles’ community garden.
Designed to be a challenging, exciting and inclusive space for toddlers to teens, the facility was funded by a Scottish Government Playparks Renewal Funding allocation.
The play area represents phase one of the redevelopment of the greenspace which was already being used by Choose Play for a popular summer programmes of pop-up events. Phase two will involve biodiversity enhancements such as wildflower, tree and hedgerow planting, and could also involve establishing a community growing space.
Green Corner
Gardening for a changing climate: Angus Campbell offers horticultural advice
Angus Campbell has worked in horticulture with our council for 38 years, with the last 17 spent as Head Operative at our plant nursery in Prestonpans.
While overseeing all stages of the growing process, he specialises in designing, producing, and maintaining seasonal planting displays that enhance public spaces across the county.
For this edition of Inform, Angus offers the benefit of his vast experience with advice and tips on horticulture as we face changing weather patterns due to climate change.
Colour, impact and creativity
A planter in High Street, Haddington
Gardening and horticulture are evolving as we adapt to hotter, drier summers and increasingly unpredictable weather. For those of us involved in maintaining public spaces, town centre features and floral displays, the challenge is to combine colour, impact and creativity with plants that can perform well in challenging conditions.
One of the most important things we can do is choose plants that are suited to the conditions they are going to face. Annual plants can be particularly effective when creating high-impact seasonal displays. They give us the opportunity to introduce strong blocks of colour, different textures and varying heights, while allowing displays to be changed from year to year.
When selecting plants, I look for varieties that can cope with periods of heat and dry weather once established while still providing a long-lasting display. Plants with good drought tolerance can help reduce the pressure on watering, particularly in exposed locations. A successful planter doesn't necessarily need dozens of different plants. A simple combination of height, colour, texture and trailing plants can create a much stronger visual effect.
I like to think about the display from different viewpoints and consider how it will look from a distance as well as close up. Taller plants can provide structure at the back or centre, while lower-growing and trailing plants help soften the edges. Using repetition can also make a display feel much more impressive. Repeating the same colour or plant combination through a series of planters creates continuity and helps tie an area together.
Good planting doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Sometimes a few well-positioned containers, a colourful border or a carefully planned display can completely transform an area. When advising community groups, I always encourage them to think about what will work for their location. Consider how much sun the area receives, how exposed it is, how easy it is to water and maintain, and what type of display will have the biggest impact.
Improving the soil
Water management is becoming increasingly important. Newly planted areas need particular attention while they establish, but good preparation can make a big difference. Improving the soil, using organic matter and applying mulch can help retain moisture. Watering thoroughly and at the right times is generally more beneficial than frequent light watering. Most importantly, we should aim to establish plants well so that they become more resilient and able to cope with periods of dry weather.
Changing climate presents challenges, but it also gives us an opportunity to rethink how we approach horticulture. We can continue to create colourful, imaginative and eye-catching displays while making sensible choices about the plants we use and the way we manage them. For me, good horticulture is about much more than simply putting plants in the ground. It's about creating spaces that people notice, enjoy and take pride in. Whether it's a large public display, a community planter or a small garden border, the right combination of plants, colour and creativity can make a real difference to how a place feels.
Planters in Tranent
There is also something very important that shouldn't be overlooked when we talk about colourful planting - the feel-good factor. Colourful flowers and well-maintained green spaces can have a positive effect on how people feel about their surroundings. A bright planter, vibrant border or colourful town-centre display can lift an otherwise ordinary space and give people something to enjoy as they go about their day. For communities, these displays can create a real sense of pride and belonging. They can make people stop and take notice, encourage conversations, and bring people together around something positive. It's not just about making somewhere look attractive. Creating welcoming, colourful spaces can contribute to community wellbeing by helping people feel connected to where they live and proud of their local environment.
For me, that's one of the most rewarding things about horticulture. You may plant a border or create a display and see the plants grow, but the real reward is seeing people's reactions - someone stopping to take a photograph, a resident commenting on the flowers, or a community group taking pride in what they have created. Colour can brighten a place, but it can also brighten people's day.
A Ranger Writes: yellowhammers
Our Countryside Rangers have a wealth of knowledge on the places, plants and species that call East Lothian home. In this issue, Ranger Richard English tells us about yellowhammers.
August is not a month we usually associate with birdsong. Generally, birds make a whole lot more noise during spring and early summer, when they’re establishing their territories. However, many species will sing throughout the summer and one of these is the yellowhammer. The call of the yellowhammer is a distinctive one, which is relatively easy to identify once you’ve heard it a few times. It’s often rendered as “A-little-bit-of-bread-and-no-cheese”. It’s maybe less fanciful to describe the song as a series of repeated short notes followed by a drawn-out wheeze which is lower in tone. Admittedly, this last note has a vaguely cheese-like quality about it (if you squint your ears), so maybe it’s not too fanciful after all.
Male yellowhammers will usually sing from prominent perches, often on top of hedges or bushes, and are a very distinctive sight. In many respects it can appear as fairly plain being a chestnut brown, sparrow-sized bird. The relatively long tail can distinguish it from other similar birds, but the bright yellow head is what really sets it apart. It almost looks as if a relatively boring-looking bird has been dipped head-first into a pot of yellow paint. The male’s chest and belly may also be brightly coloured and, while young birds and females are less obvious, they can still show signs of yellow about the head and breast.
Yellowhammer female
The yellowhammer is very much a bird of farmland, preferring open arable areas with plentiful hedgerows and scrub. They nest close to or on the ground, in quiet concealed locations. Unfortunately, this makes the nest vulnerable to predation from other birds and small mammals. They are predominantly seed eaters, although during the summer months the diet, especially of young birds, will also include invertebrates such as caterpillars, spiders, beetles and worms.
Yellowhammers feature strongly in culture and folklore, perhaps unsurprisingly for a species that must have been fairly common in pre-industrial times. Several works by Beethoven were said to have been inspired by the bird’s song, including the famous opening to the Fifth Symphony. The title of Burns’ poem “The Yellow, Yellow Yorlin” is based on an old Scottish name for the bird. Weirdly for such an innocuous bird, it was associated with evil in many areas of Scotland. In the Highlands it was known as the Devil’s Bird and was said to take a drop of the devil’s blood each May Day.
Yellowhammer male
Sadly, yellowhammer numbers have dropped alarmingly in recent decades, which may be related to changes in farming practices and a reduction in hedgerows. One particular issue seems to be the scarcity of seeds over winter, linked to fewer fields left as stubble and increased reliance on winter crops. There is some evidence that providing game cover and species-rich field margins can go some way to alleviating the problem. Despite these issues, the yellowhammer remains a relatively common sight, and sound, around the rural areas of East Lothian.
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Countryside Ranger on the service’s Facebook or Instagram pages. You’ll find news and information to help you make the most of your time in our coast and countryside spaces as well as beautiful photography of the species that live here.
Facebook: @ELCrangers
Instagram: @elcrangers
Partnership
Our council is first in Scotland to train teams in safeguarding scheme
We've become the first council in Scotland to train our teams and partners in Ask for Angela, a simple and effective safeguarding scheme.
Easy and discrete alert
Ask for Angela offers people an easy and discrete way of letting staff know they feel unsafe without further explanation. It’s advertised using posters and promotional materials (as pictured, right) within participating venues; staff can help visitors to safely leave the premises, call a taxi or contact a friend, alert security or contact police if required.
While Ask for Angela is known for being used in pubs and entertainment spaces, we believe the principles of being able to quietly signal that you need help are really important. That’s why we’ll be rolling out Ask for Angela amongst our own East Lothian Council services delivering frontline services such as our community centres and libraries, housing and social work teams, as well as helping other partners in East Lothian to do the same.
Wide range of partners
Our Licensing Standards Officer Karen Harling worked with Ask for Angela to deliver a ‘train the trainer’ session with 40 people attending from a wide range of departments, enjoyLeisure, Volunteer Centre East Lothian, Substance Support Scotland, East and Midlothian Public Protection and licensed premises. Feedback after the event showed that the majority of people attending would feel very confident responding to issues in their venue and very knowledgeable about the Ask for Angela scheme.
They will now start to roll out what they have learned and raise awareness in their areas as part of a coordinated approach. Further training and development of Ask for Angela will also take place across East Lothian’s licensed premises to compliment a safer night time economy.
Positive response
Iwona Kossek, Director of Ask for Angela said: "It was a real pleasure to deliver this training and see such a positive response from everyone who attended. The level of engagement throughout the session was fantastic, with attendees demonstrating a genuine commitment to learning how they can play their part in creating safer, more welcoming environments for everyone.”
Find out more
Find out more about Ask for Angela from their website or contact Karen Harling to find out more about East Lothian’s roll-out.
Going for Gold at the Duke of Edinburgh Awards
More than 600 young people from across Scotland gathered at the Palace of Holyroodhouse this summer to celebrate gaining their Gold Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award.
Amongst them were five East Lothian youngsters who'd achieved the scheme's highest level and council colleagues who help to deliver the programme in East Lothian.
The celebration in June was attended by His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh and featured inspiring speakers including Olympic curler Bruce Mouat, strongman Luke Stoltman, model and activist Eunice Olumide MBE and wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan MBE. Each shared personal stories of overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities, highlighting the values at the heart of DofE.
One of the highlights of the day was hearing from Gold Award holder Isla Ranger, who spoke about her journey from Bronze to Gold. Through volunteering with her local Beaver Scouts group, achieving Grade eight Violin, taking part in physical activities and completing expeditions, Isla developed confidence, resilience and a passion for the outdoors, which has inspired her studies in Earth and Environmental Science at university.
Marie Waddell
Her story was a powerful reminder that DofE is about much more than completing sections and gaining certificates. It helps young people develop valuable life skills including teamwork, leadership, problem-solving and resilience, qualities that support future education, employment and personal growth.
Truly unforgettable
Marie Waddell, Project Officer with East Lothian Works, said: “As the new Award Verifier for East Lothian, attending the celebration provided a fantastic opportunity to see first-hand the impact of DofE on young people's lives. Every Gold Award holder began their journey at Bronze level, and their success demonstrates the benefits of progressing through Silver and Gold.
“As a Project Officer with East Lothian Works, I see the value that DofE brings in helping young people develop skills that support their future employability and aspirations. I would like to thank the schools, DofE centres, volunteers and Leaders who dedicate their time to supporting participants throughout their Award journey.
“We are here to support all Duke of Edinburgh participants across East Lothian and would encourage every young person to consider taking the next step and 'Go for Gold'. The journey is challenging, but the rewards, including the opportunity to celebrate at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, are truly unforgettable.”
Find out more
Find out more about Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme online or contact dofe@eastlothian.gov.uk.
Help shape the future of Adult Support and Protection
Do you, or someone you know, have lived experience of Adult Support and Protection (ASP) services in East Lothian and Midlothian?
We are inviting people with lived experience of ASP to share their views as part of an important new advocacy project. CAPS Independent Advocacy is setting up local groups to gather feedback from people who have been involved in the ASP process. Participants will have the opportunity to speak directly about their experiences.
The project aims to understand what worked well, identify areas for improvement and help shape future services to ensure people continue to feel safe, supported and protected. Every experience shared will contribute to making the process better for others in the future.
A thank-you voucher will be offered to those who take part.
For more information, or to express an interest in joining a group, contact Elli at elli@capsadvocacy.org or call/text 07948 740 164.
People with lived experience make a difference. Let your voice be heard!