Tom - The Tartan Terror

Today I wore my tourist guide hat and wandered the streets of Edinburgh with my friend Charles showing him the many wonderful sights that my beautiful city has to offer.

Our whirlwind tour included the following attractions:-

1. A coffee and some chat in Valvona & Crolla on Elm Row.

2. A trip down to Leith where we saw seagulls fighting over scraps on the Water of Leith and a quick drink in the Carriers Quarters.

3. A climb up Calton Hill where, sadly, there wasn't much of a view because of the duff weather (that is not Charles in the photograph by the way!).

4. A jaunt to the Royal Mile where huge crowds and paparazzi had amassed to catch a glimpse of Her Maj.

5. A toddle along the West Bow and down to Victoria Street where we had another refreshment in the Bow Bar and met Midge who was 14 years old, a little scruffy but an absolute sweetie.

6. A trip to Mary King's Close.

7. A wander down to the Grassmarket where we had a root around in Armstrongs Vintage Emporium where there were lots of pretty things and some wonderful military regalia.

However, the highlight of the day was meeting Tom Gilzean on the Royal Mile who features in today's entry. Tom is a 92 year old ex soldier who now spends his time raising money for injured soldiers and sick children. Tom managed to raise £41,000 last year and he hopes to raise a further £50,000 this year for his two chosen charities. Tom's health isn't so good nowadays as he now suffers from diabetes and he told me there is a possibility he may lose both his legs and that's why he now has to use a motorised wheelchair to get around. He also told me that he would never give up his charitable work and would keep going to the end. Tom is one of those rare, inspirational characters and it was a privilege to meet him. You can read more about Tom here.

Note - There is a squeaky rat in Mary King's Close and it reminded me of Roz and her Dad :)