IPA ( International Police Association) Executive visit to Edinburgh

Just when I thought it could not get any worse, it did ( the weather) today we had the heavens open, strong winds, fog,  perfect Scottish summer weather, and certainly a reason for calling off any proposed hose pipe ban.

However, it was a day out on the town for those members of the IPA international committee who were to see the sights.
Picked up at Newhaven Quay then headed to to Edinburgh Castle where we had access right into the heart of the Castle, unfortunately out onto the battlements which were open to the full force of the north westerly wind and rain - add that to the fog and all the usual wonderful sights from the Castle were totally obliterated.
The group had a brief presentation from the Military Police before checking out the Scottish Crown jewels, and then rejoining me in the mini bus.

Next stop was the Mercat Grill, Whitecraig, for superb soup and Turkish flatbread sandwiches, before heading to Glenkinchie Distillery, by Pencaitland, the most southern of all the Scottish distilleries, now owned by Diagio.    Must say that their own special double distilled and cask strength single malt, only available after a site visit is "bloody marvellous". Our visitors made themselves at home behind the bar -  but not sure how many would get a job at The Mercat.

 Duly fortified we set off again and within minutes the snores from the rear of the van were keeping me alert at the wheel,   however, their snooze was disturbed when I stopped off at Rosslyn Chapel, of Di Vinci Code fame and sent them off for a wee look.  Nice to know that his Lordship, the Earl of Rosslyn, a serving Police Officer, is a member of the IPA.

Despite the lateness of our arrival, and not having much time, they were fortunate enough to get a short tour of the Chapel,    would have been a shame to come all teh way from Canada, South America, and parts of Europe and not see such a famous site.

Long day so far, but the group headed back into Edinburgh for a final evening's get together dinner at the Mercat Bar, Haymarket, (possibly now the unofficial IPA meeting place in Edinburgh).

A safe journey home to all and "haste ye back".