Meet the Instagran: Former Edinburgh councillor Lesley Hinds, 62

Lesley Hinds, 62, spent more than 30 years at the frontline of city politics, working as a councillor in Edinburgh.

Originally from Dundee, the mum of three is now semi-retired and enjoys spending more time with her husband, Martin, and looking after her 22-month-old granddaughter.

Here, she shares some of her favourite family photos…

My gorgeous girls

The relationship between a mother and her children is so special. I worked a lot while the kids were growing up, so it’s nice to spend a bit more time with them now.

First came my son, Paul, who is now 38, and three years later he was joined by Rachel, now 35. Our third baby, Alice, 29, didn’t come along for another seven years, but the kids are all still close despite the age gap.

This photo of me with Rachel, left, and Alice was taken at their brother’s wedding in October 2015.

Family matters

My husband is originally from Liverpool and we often go on holiday with our extended Scouse family.

Here we all are, three generations, having fun together in the Borders. Well, three and a half – my daughter-in-law, Lucy, was pregnant with our first grandchild, Grace, who is now almost two.

Back to the ’80s

After originally training as a primary school teacher, I was elected as a councillor in 1984. This snap was taken when the results were announced – I can’t believe how young we both look!

Over the next 30 years I witnessed so many changes in British politics, from Thatcher to Tony Blair, and I can honestly say there was never a dull moment.

Even though I stepped down from Edinburgh City Council in 2017, I’m still involved with politics.