Magnificent and life-affirming

As we prepare for the curtain to come down on the Edinburgh festival, there is sadness that this wonderful event is coming to a close, but there is also cause for celebration.

The 70th hosting of the festival has been as special as we hoped, scaling new heights as this cultural extravaganza further enhances the global reputation of Scotland’s capital city. And yesterday The Scotsman, itself marking its 200th birthday, was honoured again to lend its name to the Fringe First awards, which recognise and reward outstanding new writing showcased at the festival. We wish the winners every success for the future, as they try to follow in the footsteps of predecessors for whom a Scotsman Fringe First was the big break. Our theatre critic, Joyce Mcmillan, also celebrates an anniversary this year, her 40th covering the Fringe. “It’s the most magnificent life-affirming festival if you’re lucky enough to have a chance to see some of the finest work,” she said.

Who could have put it better? And it’s not over yet. If you are in the capital this weekend, make the most of Edinburgh at its very best.