Leith has something to be proud of.

Recently, Leith has been granted permission to fly it's flag, after 92 years. The Coat of Arms came to Leith from France, circa 1050. But after the merging of the burgh with Edinburgh in 1920, it reverted back to the Lord Lyon's office and was soon forgotten. The crest features Mary and Jesus in a sailing boat, topped with a phrase "Persevere" and below a scroll saying "Sigillum Oppidi De Leith" – "the seal of the town of Leith". 

However, a few years ago a version of the arms reappear on the Welcome to Leith sign, which was appropriately placed at Pilrig - the traditional Leith boundary. Then another breakthrough followed, in Leith Academy being permitted to use the Arms to celebrate its 450th anniversary, with the inclusion of books at the bottom of the shield. Councillor Munn coupled with Mr. Alex Wilson, a local resident and historian and a 582 signed petition began the process of reinstating the flag under the charge of Leith Neighbour Partnership. Aptly, the petition was presented at the City Chambers in Edinburgh, which has a stained glass window of the Arms.

Cllr Munn, who has been involved throughout the whole process, believes 

"it is a very positive thing to happen. Leith had and retains a distinct identity and the Coat of Arms forms part of that identity. I think it is important to celebrate that identity and it will be great to have the Arms back and to see them more widely used throughout Leith". 

Thus, in Spring it is expected Leith Neighbour Partnership will have ownership of the Arms. The design itself will be almost identical to the original, except a small colour change of the galley, to show the new ownership of the arms.

The Arms are an iconic symbol of Leith's history, culture and goals. And hopefully, the Leith community will embrace the arms as a representation of themselves - a past symbol for the present and future to be proud of. 

I WANT OUT!

It's a beautiful Saturday morning and instead of watching the soaps' catchups (a guilty pleasure/secret), I want out. I want out of my sitting room confinements and escape the box in the corner. But, I don't want to move far. I might be more energetic than usual, but not like an energise bunny. And I'm broke. Out of the Blue Drill Hall has the answer to all my woes, it's hosting it's Flea Market. This free event is held on the last Saturday of each month in Out of the Blue Drill Hall on Dalmeny St. 

I absolutely love the Flea Market. There is always such a great buzz - the variety of clients, including a few four-legged, the numerous stalls, the music and the friendly vendors. But obviously, the star of the show is the countless bargains on offer, in music, furniture, clothes and more. Check out some of the weird and wonderful stuff on offer. 

And now, the real predicament, what to buy and can I afford it? 

..... and then I noticed tarot card reading happening in a corner of the market. Maybe, she can help £3 for 3 cards or 12 cards for £10. BARGAIN! Did I say I love this place. 

And after all the rumanagings, negetiotions and purchasing, a stop off at the Drill Hall Cafe is a must. Waffles and maple syrup for only £4, more bargains, but let me say the quality didn't suffer. All there food is homemade and let me use the culinery expression, very yummy. 

So, all in all, a purchase, food and my future being told for under £10. BARGAIN! And while I didn't get to see the dramas of the Eastend or Weatherfield, I spent an amazing morning in my area, Leith. 

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