Konect Balerno November 2015 by Konect Magazines

NOVEMBER 2015

See page 66 for

FIREWORKS EVENTS FEATUREs

s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

Jen Crook: - the warm up for Antarctica Village People - Lynne Campbell: Art, Life and Africa First Pentland Book Festival - in Currie and Juniper Green Local Christmas fairs and market plus local businesses, community information and more!

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton & Ratho

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WALK

M essag e fro m t h e e d ito r his month I met someone T locally spends a lot of time training on the climbing walls

FEATUREs Jen Crook: the war m up for Antarctica 08 Pentland Book Festival 35 REGULARS

at Ratho Climbing Centre. She is training to be the first woman to walk solo unsupported to the south pole. When you consider that far fewer people have ever been to the south pole than have been to the summit of Everest, this is a massive undertaking! We’ll be keeping in touch with her to see how the training goes – the first part of which you can read about on pages 8 and 9 and consider contributing to the charities she is supporting.

Village People Thought for the Month Money Matter s Walk Recipe

It’s the season for autumn fayres and Christmas fayres, shopping nights and a host of other fund raising events, many of which we’ve listed in the What’s On pages, so try and do some Christmas shopping at these events and support the charities and groups the are raising money for.

What’s on Useful Infor mation Clubs & Classes

16 18 34 28 60

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword Sudoku

64 64

COMMUNITY

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

The first Pentland Book Festival launches this month with a line-up of authors at venues in Juniper Green and Currie. This promises to be a great addition to this area’s range of festivals! See page 35 for details.

Advertising Enquiries

All our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading Konect and for supporting local businesses and people.

JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

65 66 67 78

CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print. Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print.

Cover photograph by Jenny Thomson: Autumn colour on Curriehill Road, Currie.

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The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. Copies /KonectDirectory are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

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FEATURE

Jen Crook Scotland – the warm-up for Antarctica

LOCAL resident Jen Crook is training to be the first woman to do a solo unsupported walk to the South Pole and back from the edge of Antarctica. A keen sportswoman, she kicks off her training this winter with a two-month hike from the south to the north of Scotland during the harshest time of the year, taking in a few mountains along the way... “Conditions in the mountains in Scotland in winter can be pretty harsh,” explains Jen. “A snow-covered mountain range is not to be tackled without the right experience and equipment.” She’s no stranger to mountains though. She became hooked on them when she came to Scotland to study theoretical physics at St Andrews, joined the RAF Reserves, becoming involved in Search and Rescue. She fell in love with Scotland’s wide open spaces, the mountains and the lack of population pressure. And how did she end up near Edinburgh? “After St Andrews I did a post-graduate degree in photography and film at Edinburgh University and set up a photography and film business. Wedding photography is my bread-and-butter income, and I get various interesting film assignments and climbing photography work. I was in the States earlier this year filming Sarah Outen [a woman who rowed, kayaked and cycled around the globe] as she set out to row across the Atlantic. I needed to find new accommodation near Edinburgh for when I returned, so I searched on the internet for places to rent within five miles of Ratho Climbing Centre!” Branding it her “Scottish Adventure - the Winter Slog,” Jen is using this trip, (the first of several including one to Iceland next year), to practice trip planning, sponsorship and fund raising. She’ll be accompanied for the two month hike

Jen Crook by her Labrador, Haggis. “As I get more and more into the planning of this I realise that it has pretty much become my job now. The wedding photography business goes quiet over winter so this is a good time to do my first long hike.” Haggis was a rehomed dog who, when she came to Jen, was obese and unfit. But after two and a half years of living with Jen, who spends as much time as possible climbing and hiking, Haggis is now very fit and healthy and loves the hills. Charity fund raising is a major part of the expedition and Jen takes it very seriously. “As a small child I was motivated to raise money for charities, making things and selling them. During my teenage years though I think I was too busy rebelling against everything and everybody! But when I started looking at charities to support for this trip I surprised myself by how much I really, really care. If I have the opportunity to raise a lot of money for charity then there’s no question, I’m doing it.” She spent a long time deciding which to support for this trip, trawling the Charities Register. The two which resonated with her were International Animal Rescue and Soi Dog Foundation. “It seems fitting, especially since Haggis is coming with me on this trip, to pick animal charities this time.” She has secured sponsorship from Ruffwear for Haggis’ gear, and

from Lowe Alpine and Rab outdoor clothing for herself. If Jen ultimately succeeds in her Antarctic expedition (planned for 2017/18) she will be only the fourth person ever to have done it unsupported, and the other three were men. Is it the challenge of being the first woman to do it that motivates her? “Yes there is definitely an element of that – being the first. The excitement of thinking ‘is this even possible?’ if no other woman has ever done it. The thought of walking on terrain that no other human has ever walked on.” Did she grow up on stories polar explorers? “No, but I read ‘Race to the Pole’ and that set me thinking. So I was more inspired by Ben Fogle than by Scott or Shackleton!” She also read about Cas and Jonesy, two Australians who were the first to do the trip unsupported from outside help in 2012. “I realised that I was so focussed on my film business, and concentrating on how it was going to develop in the future in a career in film, that I was loosing the spark that had set me on that course in the first place. I was living in the future instead of the present. I’d been wondering about tackling Antarctica for several years and after reading about Cas and Jonesy I just decided to commit to it and go for it.” The charities that Jen picks for the Antarctica trip will probably be peoplerelated – drugs/alchohol issues, or anything else that stops people from achieving their goals in life. In the meantime, the Winter Slog through Scotland is kicking off mid January and Jen is busy preparing. She would love for people to join her and Haggis for parts of it to increase awareness of the trip, have fun out in the hills and increase the money raised.

Follow her on Twitter twitter.com/JenCrookFilms Read more about her Scottish Adventure here: http://jencrook.com/scottish-adventure---thewinter-slog.php Donate here: http://paypal.me/JenCrook https://www.justgiving.com/Jen-Crook/ https://www.razoo.com/story/Scottishadventure k

Haggis in some of her Ruffwear hiking gear.

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village people by Suzanne Green

Art, Life and Africa Balerno resident Lynne Campbell works part-time as a Marketing Coordinator for a software company. She is married to Jim, a Chartered Accountant, and they are the parents of Ross (21) and Joanna (19). “I’ve been drawing and painting since I was a child,” says Lynne Campbell. “It has always been my main interest. But I didn’t go to art college. When I was in high school, the careers advice was: get a degree and do art in your spare time.” Lynne studied German and Business Studies at Edinburgh University before embarking on an IT sales and marketing career. Art was still important to her, but she didn’t find it easy to work full-time and paint in her spare time. Setting up, cleaning brushes and putting everything away again takes time! When she took a career break to start a family, Lynne decided it was time to look into an art course. “I had always regretted not going to art college,” she says, “so I enrolled in an Open College of the Arts painting course – similar to Open University. I worked when the children were sleeping, or at school and nursery.” Once a month Lynne went to the Leith School of Art, where her tutor was Juniper Green artist Jacqueline Watt. “She was very inspirational,” Lynne comments. “Jacqueline used to say: ‘If art’s not a struggle, you’re not doing it right’, words I still find encouraging when a piece isn’t coming along as I’d hoped! “Creating art makes me feel fulfilled. I love going up the Pentlands with the dog, a flask of coffee and a sketch pad. Yet it’s the thing that I do ‘if I have time’– I don’t prioritize it. Nevertheless, I will be able to carve out more time now that the kids are older and I am working just three days a week.” Lynne loves working with colour and using oils. She also enjoys doing pet portraits (mostly dogs), 16

using pastels. “It’s fun trying to capture their character,” she says. “I try to find the underlying structure of their face and then have fun drawing in the fur and all the colour variations you see if you look closely. People love their pets, and I enjoy seeing the satisfaction these portraits give them.” Other commissions have included mountain views, seascapes and even someone’s nursing home. Currently Lynne is preparing to lead a team from her church to visit Challenge Ministries in Swaziland. “A friend of mine helps to lead this amazing organisation,” she explains, “which is involved in orphan care, drug rehabilitation and community development. My son, Ross, has volunteered there twice, and last year our whole family went out to visit him. In October our team of 11 will get the opportunity to observe the projects first-hand.” Lynne is very enthusiastic about this chance to “see the African Church in action”. Let’s keep our eyes open for hints of Africa in her upcoming works of art.

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WALK

In among the bulrushes Karen Murray takes the lead from a friend and finds a new path

Always one in search of a new place to ramble, I was delighted to join a friend when she suggested a new woodland walk that had appeared near where she lives. West Mains is a new development of some mighty grand houses on the edge of West Lothian between West Calder and Woolfords. They have been built as part of a West Lothian initiative known as Lowland Crofting Development, whereby these rural houses are built on the understanding that footpaths and woodland area are created too. In this case over 100 acres of new woodland has been planted as well as several kilometres of footpaths. We parked up in a wee lay-by on the opposite to the where the pathways are and where a lovely new map shows the various paths you can take. Presumably planted to mature as these new houses mature, a new woodland area has been established with gritted pathways, ponds and native trees. It is all currently very young woodland and the day we ventured out was not the best weatherwise, but never ones to be deterred, we struck boldly forth to see where these newly laid paths would take us. The first path skirts the edge of a field with the newly planted trees on the other side. On an early autumn slightly misty, drizzly day, this path was ideal for leaf-kicking as we marched along, me reminiscing about all the leaves I kicked as a child: my favourite autumn activity, combined with bramble picking. We did try the latter but a distinct lack of sun had delayed the ripening of the said berries and we were maybe a week or so too early.

After around 15 minutes of strolling and chatting, the path split in two and as we hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t retained the information from the map in our heads, we randomly selected the right hand option and were soon delighted to come upon one of the ponds that have been included in the woodland development. It may be a small thing, but the pond was filled with bulrushes and somehow that seemed a little magical to me. There is something I just love about bulrushes... The pond spills over to a babbling brook with lots of foliage shading its banks and once more there is a choice of paths. My friend has wandered this woodland a couple of times and knew roughly which path led where, but we decided just to go with how we felt and make a rough circuit of the woodland, enjoying the views, the dog walkers, the foliage and the companionship of a good friend accompanying you on a walk. The latter led me to contemplate my walking habits. While I do enjoy some alone time walking so that I can relax and clear my head, my preference is definitely for company. I enjoy the exercise, the fresh air and the scenery, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all much more enjoyable when shared, partly I think because a trouble shared is a trouble halved as they say. Walking alone can salve the soul and clear the

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mind, but a good old gossip and sharing of the dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cares can be quite cathartic. Combine this with the exercise for body that the walk is giving you and why would you not want to grab those moments when you can? My friend and I could have gone shopping, headed to the cinema or enjoyed lunch out, but a good brisk walk in the countryside while chatting was the best medicine for that day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we had coffee and cake afterwards so all was good!

new which makes it a great spot for revisiting. On our return to the car, we decided to check out the trail on the layby side of the wood just for some added exercise. That too was an extra little amble that was quite different from the first walk as the trees were fully mature, the terrain grassy and uneven and the gradient quite steep. Worth the extra circuit though as it made us feel we deserved the coffee and cake.

Going back the walk, the paths in this new woodland walk do all circumnavigate the new-build houses in some respect and each time you visit, you could take a different route and spot something

You can find this little gem off the A704 around 2 miles from West Calder. The settlement is called West Mains Crofts and the new pathways and woodland surround the new houses.

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Electrician P.A.T. Testing e: simplyelectrical@contractor.net

t: 07563 548348

Look on facebook page for deals of the week! www.facebook.com/SimplyElectricalElectrician

WEIR GAS SERVICES Former Scottish Gas engineer

Tel:

07981 366 988

Central heating - service, repairs Gas fires, cookers, hobs installation, service & repairs General Plumbing services Garden taps, washing machines, dishwashers Landlord safety inspections email : lesweir@blueyonder.co.uk

Kitchens supplied and fitted UPVC fascias and gutters Doors and Windows - wood/UPVC Built-in wardrobes â&#x20AC;˘ Misted d/g units replaced

All Joinery & Glazing Free estimates

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ABLEWORLD

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MT ELECTRICAL Domestic, commercial, industrial

Mark Tilbrook

e: hello@mtelectricians.co.uk w: www.mtelectricians.co.uk

Willy Erskine

We pride ourselves on our honest, reliable service

Electrical Engineer m: 07772753945

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David Hastings Building Surveyor BSc Hons., M.C.I.O.B., R.Maps., AMiAS

t: 07803 289714 e: wmachastings@gmail.com Thinking of having your house/office altered or extended or garage/loft converted? Call for free consultation. · · · · ·

We offer professional expertise in: Health & Safety to comply with CDM Regs April 2015 Preparation of Specification & Drawings Submission for Planning & Building Warrant Approvals Site & Financial Control Energy & Sustainability Issues

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Tel: 0131 451 5394 Mobile: 07894 703020

BRUSHSTROKES

K.MELVILLE PAINTER / DECORATOR INTERIOR, EXTERIOR, PRIVATE, COMMERCIAL, INSURANCE WORK

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DELL ROOFING Currie Established 22 years

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146 Turnhouse Rd, Corstorphine

Specialists in

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All aspects of building work undertaken including bricklaying, stonework lime pointing, extensions, driveways and garden walls.

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MONEY MATTERS

To buy or not to buy: Lloyds Banking Group by Personal Money Management

The government saved Lloyds from collapse in 2009 and is now reducing part of its remaining 10.97% stake through a general offering. George Osborne said, and I quote “I don’t want the shares to go to city institutions I want them to go to members of the public”.

As an incentive members of the public will be offered a 5% discount on the share price at the time of the sale. In addition if you hold onto your shares for at least 12 months you will get an extra 1 share for every 10 you hold and hence taking the two incentives together it is basically a discount of 15%.

The sting in the tail The treasury have said that they want to give preference to small shareholders and hence priority will go for those investing £1,000 or less and the bonus share incentive will be capped at £200 per investor.

Should I invest in Lloyds?

What’s on offer?

Not an easy question. Since many readers of this column will have already invested in ISAs with a diverse portfolio it could be worthwhile putting £1,000 aside in the Lloyds sell off. However as always financial advice should be sought.

The shares will not go on sale until the spring and applications can be made online or by post. Whether you end up buying the shares or not it is probably sensible to register an interest by going to www.gov.uk/lloydsshares/location. This does not commit you to buy the shares.

Written by Dr PM Marshall, PhD, DipPFS, AFPC

FEATURE

Pentlands Book Festival 2015 PROGRAMME IN CURRIE & JUNIPER GREEN 23rd - 28th November

The first Pentlands Book Festival will be taking place in November with authors appearing at different venues in Currie and Juniper Green as part of Book Week Scotland. It has been organised by local book-lovers, Juniper Green and Currie Community Councils and we hope it will be the start of many such events in our local area. All events are free. Donations welcomed. Monday 23rd November 18:30-20:00: Currie Library, Anne Donovan in conversation: the prize-winning Scottish author talks about short story writing. (Adult and young adult) Tuesday 24th November 11:00-13:00: National Library of Scotland, George IV Bridge, Our History in the National Library: come and see the special books and manuscripts of our area held at the National Library. Strictly limited to 12. Book at 0131 453-4517 19:30-21:30: Juniper Green Bowling Club, Christine de Luca and Diana Hendry: Wine, Women and Song: an entertaining evening of poetry, music and wine-tasting. (Adult) Wednesday 25th November 13:00-15:00: Juniper Green Village Hall and then out for a walk. Baberton Mains History on the Hoof: hear how a local group produced a history book, then explore the hilly area with Muriel Adam and Liz Beevers. 14:00-15:00: Currie Library, Teddy Bears’ Sleepover: for 3-5 year olds. Bring your secondmost-loved toy (and a parent/guardian) to hear

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some stories before leaving your teddy in the library for a sleepover. See what they get up to overnight on Flickr. 18:30-20:00: Currie Library, Janice Galloway in conversation: one of Scotland’s most notable writers of fiction, novelist and short story writer Janice Galloway discusses her work. (Adult and young adult) Thursday 26th November 10:00-11:00: Juniper Green Parish Church Hall 2, Teddy Bears’ Sleepover: for 3-5 year olds. Bring your second-most-loved toy (and a parent/guardian) to hear some stories before leaving your teddy in the church for a sleepover. See what they get up to overnight on Flickr. 15:30-16:30: Currie Library, Alan Bissett in conversation: Daily Record’s “46th hottest man in Scotland” will discuss his latest novel and cast an unsparing eye over Scottish society. Sectarianism will be scorched. (Adult and young adult) 20:00-21:00: Tanners Pub Juniper Green, Vicki Jarrett: No place like home! Vicki‘s novel and collection of stories have both been shortlisted for literary prizes. She went to Juniper Green Primary School, so expect some local colour. (Adult) Friday 27th November 20:00-21:00: Porteous’ Service Room 589 Lanark Road, Stevie White and Fin Cramb: Peter Pan in Pictures: Stevie, a graphic novelist, and Fin, a colourist, tell and show how a Scottish classic is given graphic form. (Adult and family) Saturday 28th November 14:00-16:00: Gibson Craig Hall, Currie, Donald Smith: Tea, Music and Scottish Tales: storytelling and afternoon tea with accordion music from Calum Marwick. (Adult and family) 19:30-20:30: Juniper Green Parish Church Hall 2, Nick Barley: Making a Difference: the Director of the Edinburgh International Book Festival takes us behind the scenes. (Adult) Tickets & information from: www.pentlandsbookfestival.co.uk or from Currie Library (0131 529 5609) or 495 Lanark Road Juniper Green FACEBOOK: Pentlands Book Festival

COLIN NIXON MOT SALES & SERVICE CENTRE

Looking for a quality, reliable second hand car? Come to a local well-established business for honest advice and excellent customer service.

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MINDFUSE COACHING & CONSULTANCY THERAPEUTIC & TRANSFORMATIONAL COACHING SOLUTIONS

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Take the first step to changing your life! Call Betsy on 07792 729 069 or email betsyanderson@mindfuse.solutions KONECT

Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats

Established in May 2006, we provide first-class holiday accommodation for up to 35 feline guests. Single and double cabins, as well as large cabins for families, each comprises an upper sleeping area (heated in winter) with an exercise run below. A collection and drop-off service is available Fully licensed and insured

Proprietors: Pam and Bill Clark Phone: 0131 333 1636 Email: mail@claylandscottagecattery.co.uk Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.

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Buster the Dog

Do you have any old blankets, duvets, towels, sheets - anything that can be used for making beds for rescue dogs? (no feather duvets please)

I collect items for donation, please contact me, Linda, at

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

Landscaping Award

Local landscaper Andy Shaw recently won a nationwide landscaping competition run by Travis Perkins, building and landscape suppliers. Their High 5 Competition was designed to find the best landscaping job in Britain. The competition was fronted by TV’s Melinda Messenger. Andy Shaw and business partner Chris Wright caught the eye of Cowboy Builders presenter Melinda and the Travis Perkins High 5 judges with their beautiful work which showcased an impressive multi-level garden using different materials. The prize was lunch with Melinda at the glamorous Kensington Roof Gardens, and a luxury city break for two. Hundreds of entries flooded in and the judges were blown away by a variety work which included innovative use of materials, creative paving and beautiful planting. A total of five regional winners were crowned, from Scotland, Wales, Northern, Central and Southern England. Andy says, “I love my work and take a lot of pride in it, so to be honoured like this is really special. I’m not sure what’s better - winning the prize or getting to meet Melinda Messenger!” Melinda Messenger adds: “Travis Perkins wanted to see the best landscaping the country has to offer and the entries we received confirmed the quality of work that’s going on all over the country. Picking the winners was incredibly hard, but Andy’s entry stood out. I really enjoyed meeting him to say ‘well done’ in person - now I need to see if he’s free to come k and transform my garden!”

S & D Fences Either new builds or repairs Highly competetive rates Reliable and experienced

Call Derek 07725 417276 or email: dal05@btinternet.com

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk

Andy Shaw accepts the Travis Perkins High 5 project award.

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GARDEN BUILDINGS Sheds Garages Potting Sheds Summerhouses Playhouses Fencing and Decking 12 Houston Mains Holdings Dechmont, EH52 6PA

Tel 01506 811880 or 07710 429928 garden.buildings@hotmail.co.uk www.gardenbuildingswestlothian.co.uk

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There’s life in your unwanted furniture and electricals

FREE & FAST COLLECTION You may not want your old sofa, table or fridge, but we do. We’ll collect them from your home and find them a new life. Your donations will fund our pioneering research and help save lives.

BOOK A FREE & FAST COLLECTION:

CALL BHF EDINBURGH STORE 0131 341 2992 bhf.org.uk/collection © British Heart Foundation, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

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544 Lanark Road Juniper Green & Bruntsfield - Dalkeith Stockbridge - Forrest Road Waverley Steps - Corstorphine

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Balerno

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

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a family run business for over 30 years

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Ratho Auto Services Servicing, Diagnostics, Tyres, Pre-Purchase Checks, Sales

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400 LANARK ROAD WEST, CURRIE

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COMMUNITY

Balerno Parish Church Christmas Fair 2015 The frosts are nipping, gloves and hats are being dug out of drawers and the mince pies are stacked high on the shelves! This can only mean one thing… the countdown to Christmas has begun! Balerno Parish Church are once more delighted to invite you to come along, be merry and celebrate the start of the Christmas season with our fantastic Christmas Fair. As always it is very much a family affair and we are pleased to say that as with previous years, children get in for FREE! This year’s fair will run on Saturday 28th November, from 1pm to 3.30pm in Balerno High School and festivities will kick off with a return of our fun-tastic “Reindeer Rampage”. We invite all children who wish to participate, to don reindeer antlers and jingle some bells - with their parent’s/ guardians if they wish - and run a short route (starting at Balerno Parish Church and ending at Balerno High School) to celebrate the opening of the Christmas Fair. Please congregate in the church garden from 12.45pm. Reindeer antlers will be available to buy on the day for £1.50 if you don’t have your own! There will be lots of opportunities to start, or if you are super organised, complete your Christmas shopping at the many stalls offering a wide selection of Christmas gifts. Refreshments will be

available and there is a host of FREE entertainment for young and old including The Balerno Parish Church Jubilate Group who are busy working on some new and entertaining interpretations of Christmas tunes. After their recent roaring success with Bohemian Rhapsody we can’t wait! The Fair is a great way to keep the kids happy on a cold November afternoon. Santa will once more take a break from his busy schedule to visit the children during the Fair in our very own pop up grotto. There will also be face painting, hair wraps, games, a quiz, winter craft and much more. It promises to be another fun-filled afternoon and the perfect way to kick off the run up to Christmas and help raise some money for our nominated charities! This year’s charities are the Balerno Play Park Improvement Project, the Mercy Corps and The St Joseph Centre. So why not spend some family time together, take the chance to catch up with friends or pop along for some festive cheer! We are pleased this year to be offering another Raffle at the fair, with many prizes to be won. Please contact Clare Dow if you have something you would like to offer up as a prize or if you have any general enquiries: Contact Clare Dow claremdow@ gmail.com or 0131-4497892. We invite you to join in the festive fun and look forward to seeing you on the day – Christmas starts here!

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home. And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

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Recipe & Food Notes by Anne Pinkerton

Cookery Myth Busters 3 Be jammy

Equipment Heavy bottomed pan. (If enamel it must not be chipped because the acid from fruit will react with it and taint the jam) Measuring jug A couple of small plates put in the fridge before you start. Long handled wooden spoon Glass jars, warmed in the oven at 80C. You can re-use jars of any shape you like. My children think me really sad; I even have favourite old pots from long lost products such as Sunny Spread and the moulded jars from Rose’s lime marmalade! Jam covers. I prefer cellophane (these come from Lakeland but also many other shops). For jelly: A boiled clean cotton cloth. Method Simple jam is made from fruit weight for weight with sugar e.g. 1lb fruit to 1lb sugar. Some fruit is easier to set than others because they all have different amounts of pectin, the setting agent. This can be corrected by using lemon juice, so if you see a recipe specifying it don’t cut it out. Jelly is made by cooking fruit gently till the juices run and then dripping it over-night through a cloth and collecting and measuring the liquid. Then you need 1 lb sugar to 1 pint of liquid.

I love making jam, it appeals to the squirrel in me! There is nothing to be worried about when tackling making jam - you don’t need special equipment despite the marketing of shops. Nor does it have to be done in one go, leaving jars and jars to be stashed away to last till next year. All you need is a little time. You must have all the equipment and the jars scrupulously clean. You must measure liquids and fruit properly … and you must enjoy the whole process!

rt. You can Late autumn is a good timee toof sta t you make wha som perhaps think of giving uch as. stm hri C as presents to friends at ght in theM p. sho bou ff more personal than stu 60

Sugar Any modern white sugar makes good jam. Brown sugar will change the taste and may create scum. Caster sugar will drop to the bottom of the pan and perhaps burn if you don’t mix it enough. Preserving sugar is good but not always available and is expensive. It’s best to warm your sugar in the oven with the jars. This keeps the fruit at right temperature and keeps the boiling time to a minimum, giving the best coloured jam. Fruit Most fruits and some vegetables (marrow) will make jam but some are more worthwhile than others. Fruit should be just ripe and in good condition. Dried fruit such as apricot makes delicious conserve, and rhubarb and ginger is traditional. Frozen fruit, your own or brought in, is convenient if you fancy raspberry jam in January. Or you can look out for it in the supermarket. Strawberry is the favourite but is the most difficult to get a good set. Apple makes the best jelly along with red current and is the basis of herb jellies such as mint jelly to eat with lamb. KONECT

Frozen Mixed Berry Jam 1 bag frozen mixed berries, and its weight in sugar. Method:

Leave to go cold. Label, perhaps using coloured pens or paper labels. You can also use metal lids but they need to have been scalded in boiling water.

Let the fruit defrost in the pan you intend to cook in, perhaps over night. Put a couple of plates in the fridge. Warm the sugar and the clean jars. Bring the fruit gently to the boil. Add the warmed sugar and mix together till the sugar dissolves. Re-boil and continue on a high heat for about 8-10 minutes. Keep mixing the sides to the middle. Draw off the heat and test for setting by dribbling a little “jam” on a cold plate. If, after a minute , the edge of the sample puckers up and keeps its shape it is setting. This may need two or three tests. The cold plate speeds the process. When you have a set take off the heat. Fill the warm jars with a jug, taking care to avoid spills; the jam is hot and could burn you.

Boiling jam

Cover with cellophane and secure with rubber band.

Xmas 2015

Celebrate Christmas with Food Creations at Harburn Golf Club, Uphall Golf Club, Livingston FC or Kingsknowe Golf Club

KONECT

Special Livingston Offer!

Book the 12th or 18th at Livingston FC’s Almondvale Suite by 15th November and get the special price of only £30 per person!

tes Party Da Dec th 5 & 4th Dec 11th & 12th c De th 19 18th &

Book now for a fabulou s Xmas!

Join us at one of our very special party nights for a fabulous 3 course dinner, decorations, glitter, great fun and music by Roadrunner.

Venue dressing by

Go online at www.foodcreations.co.uk/xmas15 Email xmas15@foodcreations.co.uk

or call 01506 412232

facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations @Food_Creations 61

Xmas bookings now being taken

Bar Meals 12 - 3 daily Evening meals 5 - 9:30 Sunday Brunch - includes Sunday roast

Live Music

1st Nov - Robertson Court 8th Nov - Jazz 15th Nov - Mak-a-Din 22nd Nov - David Fettes 29th Nov - Andy Chung

Malt of the Month Lothians Pub Of The Year Runner-up 2015 4 years in a row

Ledaig 10yo

0131 449 2888

www.greyhorsebalerno.com

20 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH

CHINESE COTTAGE 0131 629 2126 Restaurant and Takeaway

Wed-Sun 5pm-9.30pm

0131 629 2126 07872 300202

Deliveries now available 20 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH

www.paulschineseexpress.co.uk

KONECT

Many of West Lothian’s visitor attractions are charities – have fun and help them out! Enjoy a wonderful day of adventure and play at Almond Valley, West Lothian’s most popular paid admission attraction or visit Hopetoun House, Scotland’s finest stately home and a place of outstanding natural beauty which has been home to the Hope family since 1699. A recent addition to the area is the Larder West Lothian’s first bespoke cook school which offers a variety of cooking classes for children and adults including Italian, Greek and Mexican cook and dine nights - their professional chef will show participants how to cook the perfect three course meal.

Other local tourism-related charities include Annet House, Linlithgow Union Canal Society, The Regal Community Theatre in Bathgate and The Five Sisters Zoo Rescue and Conservation, to name a few. It’s only through donations and the work of volunteers that many of these organisations are able to open their doors and offer reduced or no entrance fees and to host the huge variety of discounted and free events that take place in West Lothian throughout the year.

Believe it or not, all of these are local registered charities that not only offer a great day out but would welcome your donations or volunteer support to help them deliver their charitable purposes, include preserving West Lothian’s heritage and promoting learning.

email: visitwestlothian@westlothian.gov.uk.

If you would like to offer help to any of these organisations, contact Visit West Lothian on 01506 283 090.

www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook.com/VisitWestLothian Twitter.com/teamwestlothian

Gordon MacDonald MSP

Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Pentlands Constituency

ADVICE SURGERIES Wester Hailes Library 1st Monday of the Month at 6.30pm Carrickvale Community Centre 2nd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm Currie Library 3rd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm Pentland Community Centre 4th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm Ratho Community Centre 5th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

How to contact Gordon MacDonald MSP Email: Gordon.Macdonald.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Phone: Parliamentary office 0131 348 5741 Letter: Gordon Macdonald MSP, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP Appointment: Held in the Holyrood office. Home visits are available for people who cannot travel. Please note there are no surgeries during public & bank holidays

www.gordonmacdonaldmsp.info KONECT

Nowring offe

Evening Meals

Thurs to Sun 6pm - 9pm

BYO

Call to reserve your table

Lunches Home made soup, filled rolls and bacon rolls available all day (sit in or takeaway)

Home Baking Breakfasts from 8am Afternoon Teas (booking required) Cake and Sugar Craft Classes Celebration Cakes Made To Order 563 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DB

Open Daily

Tel: 0131 6100665 | Mobile: 07773 978923 Email: info@mollys.co

www.mollys.co 63

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD Solution in the December edition of konect

Across 1 Brass instrument (7) 5 Two wheeled transport (5) 8 More fortunate (7) 9 Room under the eaves (5) 10 Not sour (5) 11 Adore, revere (7) 12 Come to an end (6) 14 Irritates, annoys (6) 17 Used for cigarettes (7) 19 Seashell (5) 22 Regulations (5) 23 Holiday home (7) 24 Found in the spine (5) 25 Ruin (7) Down 1 Informs (5) 2 Male relative (5) 3 Artist (7) 4 Flung (6) 5 Seat (5) 6 Fasteners (7) 7 Gets away (7) 12 Went into (7) 13 Small stones (7) 15 Accompanies (7) 16 Compelled (6) 18 Supports for broken bones (5) 20 Not ever (5) 21 Useful (5)

SUDOKU Sudoku solution on page 69

KONECT

COMMUNITY

Winter Market :

nk r Hailes Foodba in aid of Weste

Currie Kirk Mission and Outreach committee are organising a Winter Market, to be held in Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie on Sat 21st Nov, 6 – 9pm.

Tickets will be £5 which includes a glass of wine and mince pie/shortbread. An ideal evening for some early Christmas shopping or just a chance to socialise with a glass of wine and friends! The Winter Market will have a number of varied stalls and goods for sale - Phoenix Cards, Usborne Books, Avon, jewellery, candles, and other quality crafts. All the profits will go to the Foodbank run by Holy Trinity Church, Wester Hailes. At our Harvest Thanksgiving service Angela Thomson, Centre Manager of the Trinity Centre spoke about the work done by the Foodbank and the wide breadth of the people who are relying on the service. Having listened to Angela the committee decided that this is something that we’d like to support. We will also be collecting items for the Foodbank on the night – all donations welcome. For more information or tickets please contact Fiona Pigott on 07584 678990 or email: f.pigott@blueyonder.co.uk

Linwater Lodge A new luxurious self-catering Lodge sleeping 4/5 in 2 en-suite bedrooms. • Fully fitted kitchen, diner and lounge opening onto large decking– dogs welcome with lovely walks adjoining. • Ideal accommodation for friends or relations visiting, or for attending Rugby Internationals at Murrayfield •Great access to Edinburgh by tram from Ingliston Park and Ride See website for more information.

Tel: 0131 333 3326 www.linwater.co.uk

Linwater Caravan Park, West Clifton, East Calder, EH53 0HT KONECT

WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information Fireworks events November 2015 Currie CBDRT Fireworks George IV Park in Currie. Thursday 5th November. Gates open 6.30pm, fireworks start 7.15pm. Adults £5, accompanying children free. Teens £1 donation please. Deer Park Golf Course Road, Livingston, Golf Course Road, Livingston, EH54 8AB. Thursday 5th November 7.30pm. £5/£15 for family (admits 4).

Saturday 21st November Christmas Craft Day – in aid of the Maggie Centre at the Western General Learn how to make cards and other Christmas goods. Class from 10.30am – 12noon. £12 per person, all materials included. Christmas crafts for sale and refreshments available if you want to just drop-in. To book please call Pauline Nicol on 07917 816558. Saturday 21st November Juniper Green playgroup Xmas fair Juniper green village hall 1-3pm. Amazing Raffle prizes, Tombola, Stalls, Santa, Meet the Shetland pony, and so much more. Saturday 21st November

Callendar House Callendar Park, Falkirk, FK1 1YR. Thursday 5th November 6.30pm. Live music will be provided by Dionne Hickey and The Tonkerers. Free entry.

Winter Market – in aid of Wester Hailes Foodbank Gibson Craig Hall, Currie, 6pm-9pm – see page 65 for details.

Livingston Cricket Club Turpie & Co Sports Ground, Murieston Valley. Saturday 7th November 7.30pm. Free entry, donation buckets.

Juniper Green Farmer’s Market Juniper Green Village Hall, Juniper Park Road at the end of Baberton Avenue. 9am – 1pm.

Linlithgow Rugby Club Mains Park, Mains Road, Linlithgow. Saturday 7th November 7.30pm. Entry £5 or £15 for family (admits 5).

Balerno Parish Church Christmas Fair 1pm to 3.30pm in Balerno High School. Festivities kick off with a return of our fun-tastic “Reindeer Rampage” (congregate in the church garden from 12.45pm if you with to participate, reindeer antlers will be available to buy on the day for £1.50 if you don’t have your own!) Lots of stalls offering a wide selection of Christmas gifts. Refreshments will be available and there is a host of FREE entertainment for young and old.

Hopetoun House Queensferry, EH30 9SL. Saturday 7th November Gates open from 4pm, preshow entertainment, fireworks display approx 6.30pm. Adults £13, Children £6.50 (aged 4 – 15).

Saturday 28th November

Tuesday 6th November

Balerno Village Screen

“The Life of an Army Chaplain” Hosted by Currie Kirk Guild, a talk by Rev Maynard Cole CF. 10am in the Gibson Craig Halls and all visitors and new members are very welcome.

NOVEMBER: Friday 27th November From Scotland with Love (no cert) 7.30pm Ogston Hall

Saturday 14th November

Saturday 28th November Minions (cert U) 4pm St Joseph’s

42nd Pentland Scout Group Jumble Sale Forth View Crescent EH14 5QP @ 12-2pm. £1-50 per adult. 50p child including coffee - tea - squash & biscuit. Saturday 14th November Balerno Farmers’ Market Main Street (pedestrianised), Balerno, 9am – 1pm. Apple Day special! Come and press your own apple juice; apple pie competition; fruit trees for sale; expert apple advice; children’s crafts. Tuesday 17th November “Snow Poles in the Winter” Hosted by Currie Kirk Guild, a talk by Rev Dr John

Munro. John was our locum minister until June this year. 7.30pm in the Gibson Craig Halls and all visitors and new members are very welcome.

The Legend of Barney Thompson Cert 15 7.30pm St Joseph’s - presented by Douglas Lindsay, author of book on which the film is based. Tickets available at www.balernovillagescreen.com, The Mill Cafe and Balerno Post Office. Venues: The Ogston Hall and St.Joseph’s Hall, Balerno. Programme and timings subject to change. Please check website for details.

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

KONECT

clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... BALERNO Wildfire Explorer Scouts Meet in Balerno High School. Fridays 7.15 - 9.15pm. 14 – 18yrs. Contact: Gordon Simpson 0131 477 3116. Email leaders@wildfire-explorers.org.uk

DadZone At St Mungo’s Church, Ladycroft. Saturdays 9 -10.30am for Dads and male carers and their 0-4 year olds. Toys crafts, refreshments. Dates for 2015: 29th August, 12th September, 17th October, 31st October, 28th November and 12th December. All welcome. For more info email balernodadzone@gmail.com or search Facebook for the online group.

Balerno Monday Club Non-denominational club for over 55s. Our meetings are held in St Joseph’s Centre at Balerno Parish Church at 2pm on the first and third Mondays of the month from September to May. Different speakers, activities and outings each session, please contact the Club for syllabus details.

Beginners Yoga Classes No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road, Currie Wednesday 7.45pm at Forth View Crescent Scout Hall, Currie Monday 6pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Any questions please contact Monica on karmayoga@btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432.

Balerno Girls’ Brigade Ogston Hall in Balerno Parish Church Tuesdays 6.30 - 7.30pm. Contact Marion Milne on 0131 449 4441 or email marion724@talktalk.net

51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno) Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall. Contact John Henderson on 07941 637262

Currie Rugby Football Club Malleny Park Minis (P1-7) Sundays 10.30am - 12pm. Contact 0131 449 2432 www.currierugby.org

Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums Balerno Community Centre Every Friday 7pm-9.30pm. New members welcome. Free tuition on pipes or drums Phone 0131 4495133.

Balerno Village Nursery Balerno Community Centre Available 8am - 6pm, 5 days a week. Preschool play from age 2 years Breakfast / Afterschool Club up to 8 years. Full or part time childcare Call 0131 451 5756

Pilates Classes Balerno Parish Church - Mondays 7.30 - 8.30pm - Intermediate/Advanced 8.30 - 9.30pm - Beginners/Post Beginners Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com KONECT

Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness Mondays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Thursdays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Fridays 10am at Balerno Parish Church Hall Contact 0131 477 7733. www.bf4f.org.uk

Adult daytime swim club Balerno High School Contact Balerno Community Education Office on 0131 477 7733 for more info.

Pentland Art Club Meet at Balerno High School Art Room Every Thursday 7.30 - 9.30pm Demonstrations, speakers, work evenings; All mediums; New members welcome. Please contact E Thomson on 0131 333 4662.

Pentland Flower Club Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7pm (excluding January, February, July and August); Visitors and new members are always welcome. Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146.

Children’s swim scheme Balerno High School Tues, Wed and Fri pm; Sat and Sun am. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info.

Compass Playgroup Dean Park Primary Pre-School Centre. 2-5 years, wide variety of activities. Mon to Thurs (school term time only) 9:00am - 11.45am. Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery. Call 0131 449 4530 (during opening hours) for more information or email info@compassplaygroup.com

Balerno Baby and Toddler Group Balerno Parish Church Hall 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. For children 0-5 years and their carers. Term-time Thursdays 9.30 - 11.30am.

Balerno Parish Church Guild Balerno Parish Church New Hall First and third Wednesdays (commencing October) at 7.30pm Varied syllabus with many interesting speakers; Tea/coffee is served at the end of the meeting. New members and visitors warmly welcomed

Balerno Folk Club Held on the last Tuesday of each month in Balerno Bowling Club Doors open 8pm; Evening begins 8.20pm; Guest artist on stage at 8.30pm; Members and guests welcome. For further info contact Morag Dunbar on 0131 449 5014 or John Stirling on 0131 449 3456.

Balerno SWRI Balerno Community Centre 7.30pm First Tuesday of every month (except July & August). We usually have a speaker but we also have “in house” evenings; There is usually some business to be discussed and we enjoy a “cuppa” whilst chatting; New members or visitors welcome, just come along

Minis @St Mungo’s Group for babies and toddlers with their carers on term time. Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 - 11.30am in St Mungo’s church building, Ladycroft, Balerno; All welcome. For more information see www.stmungos.org

clubs & classes

CURRIE Sarah’s Fitness

Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie Visitors welcome; For further information contact Douglas N Lowe on 0131 449 4349 or douglaslowe51@btinternet.com

Currie SWRI

Currie High School Cardio Dance Mix Mondays 6.30-7.15pm £4 per class. Kettle Class Mondays 7.15-8pm. £4.50 per class. Sarah’s fitness. Tel 07540 894287 or email sarahhardie@hotmail.co.uk

Meet in the Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie On the second Tuesday of each month (except July and August) at 7.15pm. New members and visitors welcome

Chat’n’ Chill for S1-S6 Teenage Café Church Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie. Games, Café, Chat. Every second Friday 4-6 pm. Contact Viola on 07806 806920 for more info.

Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Anchors (Boys P2 & P3) - Thursday 6 - 7pm Juniors (Boys P4, P5 & P6) - Thursday 7 - 8.30pm Company/Seniors (Boys P7 - S6) - Friday 7 - 9.15pm For further info contact Jim Webber on 0131 451 5112

Currie Youth Club

Messy Church at Currie Kirk

Various activities and facilities available including Gym Teds for childern Sound and Music room; Youth club facilities Sports hall Playgroup Lunch club and Football teams. See http://cyc.smartchange.org

Usually the last Friday of the month 2 - 3.30pm for children from Pram to Primary age, accompanied by an adult. Crafts, stories, games and fun. Please register through www.curriekirk.org or currie_kirk@btconnect.com Tel 0131 451 5141.

Arts & Crafts Group Art Room 1, Currie Community High School Thursdays 7.15 - 9pm - from 18th September to 27th November (except 16th October). We are a small, friendly group (of all ages) and new members will be made very welcome. £35 for the 10-week term or £5 per session, if paid on the night. Fee covers all materials, equipment and refreshments. For more information please email: phoenixarts@hotmail.com or tel: 07934 495488.

Bridge Club Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June. For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 3527.

Coffee and Craft Currie High School, Sun Room Mon 7 - 9pm Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new. All welcome. £2.00 per night; Refreshments are included.

Air Cadets 2463 (Currie & Balerno) Squadron Forthview Crescent Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm. 0131 449 7449 for more info.

Currie Playgroup Currie Baptist Church Hall Preschool play from age 2 years Mon-Fri, 8.45 - 11.45am (term time) £6.50 per child per morning Wraparound and Lunch Club for children attending Currie Nursery Wrap around £5.00; Lunch club £2.00 See www.currieplaygroup.co.uk

42nd Pentland Scout Group Currie Forth View Crescent, Currie Cubs Monday 6.15 – 7.45pm. Call Andrew 07876567552. Scouts Monday 7.45 – 9.15pm. Call Ross 07729714445. Beavers Friday 6.30 – 7.30pm. Call Sharon 07810 201680. www.42ndpentland.scoutsites.org.uk

The Octagon Club For Adults with Special Needs and Learning Difficulties Meets in Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie, 7 - 9pm on Wednesday Evenings from mid September until June for table tennis, snooker, badminton, table games, “tuck shop” etc. Contact Alastair Hardie on 0131 453 3556

Baby Group Currie Library Thursdays 2.00 - 3.30pm Come along for an informal tea or coffee and chat with other parents and babies. 50p per week.

Karate Currie High School; Mondays 7.30 - 9pm Adults and Children over 6 years. Please contact 0131 449 3510 or 0131 445 2945 for more info or email patricia.shearer@edinburgh.gov.uk

Currie & District Local History Society

Boys Brigade - 65th Edinburgh (Currie) Company

Currie Baby and Toddler Group Gibson Craig Hall Friday 9.30 - 11.30am (term time only). Adults £2.00; Kids go free Parents/Grandparents/Carers/Childminders are all very welcome; Snack provided for the kids and tea and coffee for the adults Loads of space to play

Balerno and District Ramblers Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Car Park, Lanark Rd West 9.15am for 9.30am start. Contact M Timmins 0131 449 4525 or A Blyth 0131 629 3644. Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start. Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666.

Book Group Currie Library First Wednesday of each month at 7.00pm.

Beginners Yoga Classes No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road, Currie Wednesday 7.45pm at Forth View Crescent Scout Hall, Currie Monday 6pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall Any questions please contact Monica, email: karmayoga@btinternet. com Tel: 07986 600432

Corner Cafe Book Club At the Corner Cafe, 120 Lanark Road West, Currie Meet 27th of every month at 7.45. Informal friendly group, all welcome, we read a mixture of classics and popular books. £3 per session.

Fitsteps Fun and effective dance fitness class inspired and created by Strictly Come Dancing stars Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite. Learn the steps from Tango, Jive, Viennese Waltz, Samba and many more, without the need of a partner. Thursday 7.30-8.15pm, Currie High School, Edinburgh, £5 per person. For more info call Lianne on 07737 927463 www.facebook.com/moveitdanceandfitsteps

JUNIPER GREEN Pilates Classes Juniper Green Parish Church - Thursdays 7.30 - 8.30pm - Post Beginners/Intermediate 8.30 - 9.30pm - Beginners class Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com

Juniper Green Nursery Playgroup Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 07948 554889 or see website at www.junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk

KONECT

31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green)

Daytime Pilates Classes

45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers - Wed 6.30pm Cubs - Mon 7.00pm Cubs - Tues 6.30pm Scouts - Fri 7.00pm Contact - Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043

Thursdays in Kirknewton Village Hall: 9.10am to 10.00am 10.10am to 11.00am for beginners For more details contact elise@ekpilates.co.uk. You’ll also find me on facebook.com/ekpilates.

Juniper Green SWRI Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 0131 539 9886.

RATHO Susan Douglas Pilates Ratho Community Centre Mon 5.55pm – 6.55pm. See www.douglaspilates.co.uk

Ratho WRI Meet in Ratho Community Centre on second Wednesday of each month (except July & August) from 7pm to 9pm. New members and visitors welcome. Contact 0131 333 4862 for information.

Ratho Scouts, Cubs & Beavers Ratho Community Centre Beavers: Tuesdays 6.30pm - 7.30pm (age 6-8) Cubs: Fridays 7pm - 8.30pm (age 8-10.5) Scouts: 7pm - 8.45pm. (age 10.5 -14)

Ratho Ravers

NUstArt West Art Group WHALE Arts Agency, 30 Westburn Grove, EH14 2SA Fridays 10.30am – 1.30pm. Friendly and very supportive self-led art group would welcome new members, both male & female, to join them on Friday mornings. Bring your own paints & brushes, or make use of class materials. £4 per session, but note that weekly fees are due to help pay room rental costs even for a missed class. For further details phone 0131 453 5294, or join us one morning for coffee and a chat.

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details. www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Solution to October Crossword Across: 1 Straws, 4 Heated, 9 Neutral, 10 Tired, 11 Teeth, 12 Unaware, 13 Competition, 18 Grandma, 20 Awful, 22 Organ, 23 Extract, 24 Easier, 25 Breezy. Down: 1 Sanity, 2 Route, 3 Worship, 5 Extra, 6 Tornado, 7 Dodged, 8 Illustrated, 14 Oranges, 15 Tractor, 16 Ignore, 17 Glitzy, 19 Dunce, 21 Flare.

Ratho Community Centre Mon 10am-12pm. Exercising body and mind for the over fifties. £3 per class. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

Parent & Toddlers Group Community Centre Tues and Thurs 10am-12noon. Under 3s. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

Art Club Ratho Community Centre Tues 7-9pm. Adult Multimedia Club. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

50 Plus Group Varied programme of activities/outings New members welcome – meet fortnightly at Ratho Community Centre. Members 50p, non-members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055

Solution to Sudoku Page 64

Scouts All meet at the Community Centre, meeting times are as follows: Beavers: Tuesdays 6.30pm - 7.30pm (age 6-8) Cubs: Fridays 7pm - 8.30pm (age 8-10.5) Scouts: 7pm - 8.45pm. (age 10.5-14)

OTHER AREAS Potter Around Art and craft studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton EH27 8DD Drop in anytime for ceramic painting and decopatch or have fun playing with clay. Book both adults and children’s parties in a wide range of arts and crafts. Open the first Tuesday of each month for those who prefer evening. Book into one of our many workshops including candle making, potter’s wheel, felting, jewellery and glass fusion. Regular classes include oil painting for both adults and children and our Kids Art Club on a Friday afternoon as well as the Warhammer Club on a Saturday afternoon. We take commission for painted pottery and artwork and we have a gift shop selling hand made items from jewellery through to art. Look out for our summer workshops running for children through the holidays. For more information call 01506 238961, email chat@potteraround. co.uk . www.potteraround.co.uk www.facebook.com/PotterAround

Irish Dancing St. Nicholas Church, Calder Road, Sighthill New children’s class for ages 4 and upwards on Wednesdays from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. First class is FREE then £4 per class. Contact Audrey on 07952 159227 to register. Children’s classes also in Leith and Wynchburgh. Adults classes in Edinburgh and Broxburn. KONECT

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer, 07854 492638, hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accommodation Linwater Caravan Park Aerials Kinnear Aerials Appliance Repair Appliances of Edinburgh Bathrooms 1st Choice Living Duffy Mclean Ekco Ken Dunton Splash Bathrooms Beauty Beauty Box Juniper Beauty Room Blacksmith D & I Blacksmiths Builder Almond Building Company Dean Jones Building Services Building Surveyor David Hastings Cafe/Tearoom Molly’s Cake Maker Molly’s Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh Car Sales Colin Nixon Hermiston Motors Hope Scott Garage Car Service & Repair Autocare Solutions Balerno Garage Chips Away Colin Nixon Hermiston Motors Hope Scott Garage Ratho Auto Services Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Aquatec C and W Cleaning Services Hydro Kleen Scotland Carpets & Flooring Pentland Carpets Catering Food Creations Charity British Heart Foundation Children’s Nursery Balerno Village Nursery Chimney Services Flaming Brilliant Chimney Services Chiropody/Podiatry Pentland Footcare Chiropractor ABC Chiropractic Cleaning Services Cleaning and Maintenance Cleaning Doctor Cleanleeness Daily Poppins House Proud Strata Cleaning Limited Coal Merchant J & A Hasties & Son Coalmerchant Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance Mindfuse Coaching Solutions Computer Services Simply Fix It Sort My PC Craft Shop & Classes Coo Creations Dentist Balerno Dental Care Currie Dental Care No 9 Dental Riccarton Dental Practice

65 50 57 30 51 59 40 12 20 25 22 30 33 32 63 63 56 36 2 54 56 55 55 36 2 54 54 57 41 41 5 61 44 6 15 24 23 49 46 6 17 41 48 15 18 37 45 23 14 24 25 21 4

Double Glazing Repair Double Glazing Doctor Double Glazing Repairs Dressmaking/Alterations Coo Creations Electrician A&A Electrical Altech Electrical MT Electrical Simply Electrical Spark Electrical Solutions Sykes Electrical Fencing/Gates LTC Fencing S & D Fences Financial Services Personal Money Management Fitness Classes Centre for Sport and Exercise Fitness - Personal Training Streamline Personal Training Florist Flowers by Jak Vicky’s Flowers Williamsons Food & Groceries Real Foods Funeral Director Porteous Funeral Directors Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd Garden & Landscaping Capital Garden Services CS Gardening D Greaves Ladies Who Garden Garden Buildings Garden Buildings Glazier R McNeill Joiner & Glazer Golf Club Baberton Golf Club Gym/Health Club EICA Marriott Dalmahoy Hairdresser Hairtech Tony Harper Hairdressers Health/Fitness KM Fitness Heating Services L & S Heating Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) Pixo Van Rental Homes for Sale CALA Homes Ironing Services Ironing Aid Joiner Adriatik Sula GK Wilson Joiner Jack Watson Joiner R McNeill Joiner & Glazer Kitchens Duffy Mclean Ekco Ian Merriman Ltd Ken Dunton S & S Home Improvements Lighting Optical Lighting Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith Caledonian Locksmith Mobility Ableworld Med-Ecosse MSP/MP Gordon Macdonald MSP

10 32 14 15 12 32 30 51 33 4 42 34 24 20 18 17 46 72 19 42 42 43 49 43 43 30 44 4 11 20 20 21 53 22 13 41 12 46 30 30 51 59 12 40 71 40 40 53 31 47

Optician Clear Vue Optical Oven Cleaner The Clean Team Painter/Decorator Alistair McLellan Brushstrokes Gerry Aitken Paving Alpine Paving Edinburgh Paving Company W Tarmacadam Pet Services Claylands Cattery Currie Dog Grooming Happy Scampers Milrig Kennels Coxydene Farm Feeds Physiotherapy Centre for Sport and Exercise Picture Framing Colinton Arts Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering Plumbing Services Bill Reid & Son Currievale Plumbing Jim Gladstone Shandon Plumbing Weir Plumbing Premises to rent Gilchrist property Property Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance Public House The Grey Horse Restaurant Al Borgo Marriott Dalmahoy The Grey Horse Roofing Dell Roofing Fairmile Roofing Thomson Roofing Services Security Services GLD Security i Fire - Fire & Security Soft Furnishings Blind Design James Erskine Interiors Storage Unit Storedge Takeaway Pentland Fry Telecoms Services John McGraw Tiling Mark Hay Tiling Tree Surgery Delisle Tree Surgeons Maxwell Tree Care Upholsterer James Erskine Interiors Venue Edinburgh Corn Exchange Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic Wedding Services Flowers by Jak I Do Productions Vicky’s Flowers Window Cleaning Tag Cleaning Windows 1st Choice Living Double Glazing Repairs Four Seasons Red Hot Windows

20 41 32 32 53 49 48 32 38 38 39 39 38 24 17 46 15 10 30 53 30 14 49 62 62 11 62 32 27 52 6 5 14 14 22 62 10 10 43 49 57 7 39 18 15 17 49 30 32 26 40

63 KONECT

KONECT

*Applies to UK mainland orders only and does not include wholesale bulk items

Fresh • local • seasonal • value

37 Broughton Street, Edinburgh EH1 3JU 8 Brougham Street, Tollcross Edinburgh EH3 9JH

FREE UK delivery for online orders £29 or over*

Shop online at www.realfoods.co.uk

Providing wholefoods to the nation for over 50 years

Whilst you might not be putting silver sixpences in your plum puddings anymore, you can still get a sterling range of high quality baking ingredients at Real Foods.

• Ingredients – in a range of sizes from 25g to 25kg, with less cost per kilo the more you buy.

• Organic – products packed by us that you can buy with confidence because we invest in Soil Association certification.

• More – choice for you from a range of over 500 own brand organic products available to buy in-store or online.

Many of us still like to use imperial when measuring out our ingredients, and you can be assured that you still get great savings today at Real Foods when you’re buying them in metric units, with the same high quality we’ve always worked hard to provide.

Real Foods were supplying high quality organic baking ingredients when they could still be bought using pounds paid in pennies. Weights, measures and currency systems may have changed since Real Foods first opened its doors, but one thing has never changed when it comes to Real Foods own brand pre-packed products, the more you buy, the less you pay per kilo.

All you need for a merry organic Christmas pudding

We’re no Scrooges, past, present or future, when it comes to savings on organic ingredients you can trust.

iStockphoto@duncan1890