Talk of the Town: This choir isn’t going anywhere

PERHAPS their songs could include the Jailhouse Rock, Folsom Prison Blues, or even a rendition of Stiltskin’s Inside.Either way, the UK’s first prison choir has had a positive impact on inmates and staff alike.

Addiewell Prison’s vocal section was introduced earlier this year, and now that it’s had time to bed in, organisers say it has helped “lower stress levels” in the jail.

Unfortunately for the choir, touring opportunities are limited.

Quality of watering holes is a matter of taste

AS soon as the Scottish Cup draw was made earlier this week, there was great excitement among the supporters of one famous Scottish club.

Fans of Partick Thistle were eagerly anticipating a trip to face Spartans at their new ground in Ainslie Park, the first time the two clubs have met competitively.

And while the fixture is now in doubt after an administration error that could see the north Edinburgh club thrown out of the tournament, that hasn’t stopped talk of the game on the Jags’ websites.

When one fan inquired if the local pubs were up to the same standard of those in Gorgie and Leith, one forum user said: “In the Doocot and the Gunner you have a couple of pleasant wine bars nearby.

“And for the more trendy feel there is Spiers bar just up the road.”

Salmond briefly promoted

IT was Annabel Goldie’s last opportunity to put Alex Salmond on the spot at First Minister’s Questions before she steps down as Tory leader.

But when Mr Salmond said how much he would miss their exchanges, it obviously threw her off balance. “I thank the Prime Minister,” she said.

“Don’t encourage him,” shouted another MSP. Ms Goldie quickly recovered and quipped: “It’s good to give him a taste of what will never be.”

Bizarre beauty tips

FILLING socks with moisturising cream, putting toothpaste on spots and shaving legs with hair conditioner are among secret tips employed by city women to stay beautiful.

A survey of 400 females in the Capital found they were increasingly turning to bizarre methods. A quarter put cold teaspoons on their eyes to reduce puffiness, while 20 per cent know about putting sugar on soap to help the skin.

A similar survey of men in the city is not expected to render similar results.