MARCH 2020
SCIENCE COLUMN:
CHARITY:
COULD YOU HOST A TEA PARTY?
WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS!
HEALTH:
P27 TO OUR MARCH EDITION
S
uzanne interviewed a most remarkable Balerno resident for the local people column, a gentleman
who found a great way to raise an astonishing amount of money for cancer
THIS ISSUE
charities. See the article on page 8. We have a charity article about tackling loneliness in Edinburgh, a reminder from the local Water of Leith Fishery officers about angling permits and an update from our neighbours in Colinton about the Scottish Water works on the river causing some disruption. Besides this, all our usual contributor columns are here. With a fantastic competition thanks to Gardening Scotland – a sure sign that spring must be nearly here! - and all our usual columns, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month. As ever, drop me a
Local People: Harith Ali.......................................8 Charity: Re-Engage, tackling loneliness........9 Competition: WIN tickets to Gardening Scotland................................................................ 19 Puzzles.................................................................. 26 Health: Carpal Tunnel Trouble....................... 27 The Seasonal Touch: Design by Nature..... 30 Local Lab: Imposter Phenemenon..............35 Money Matters...............................................41 Interiors: Video Doorbells.............................43 Notes from a Small Village...........................47 Recipe............................................................48 What’s On.......................................................50 Bridge Column..............................................52 Clubs & Classes................................................. 53
line and let me know!
COVER IMAGE: Fun with Mum: Mother’s Day is Sunday 22nd March
Konect is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. Copies are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.
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CHARLENE GAFFNEY
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PHOTO CREDIT: Suzanne Green
Harith Ali:
Showing his mettle
Since he started fundraising in 2009, Balerno resident Harith Ali has raised more than £50,000 for cancer research. A widower, Harith has two adult sons and a daughter, and four grandchildren.
Harith Ali’s family has been hard-hit by cancer. So it makes sense that his fundraising efforts over many years have been directed at hitting back at the disease. In 2008 Harith’s wife Linda, one of the UK’s top careers advisers of her day, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The following year he decided to help support cancer research. “As I’d been in the building business, I knew that scrap metal brings money,” he says. “So I started asking people to give me their old lawnmowers, steel beds and other scrap metal to sell. Over the next six years I raised £3,000 for the Marie Curie charity. They had been very helpful to Linda, who I lost in 2014.” The year before his wife died, Harith was diagnosed with bowel cancer. “So, for the last eight weeks of Linda’s life, we both had the illness,” he says. “I had a successful operation and then chemotherapy – and since then I have been in remission.” According to Harith there are more than 200 types of cancer. “It’s the big killer,” he says. “My mother and father, and several other relatives died of cancer. And at the moment I’m losing my brother to it. One of my sons had the disease, but he’s now in remission.” Word has spread about Harith’s fundraising. “People are happy to bring me their scrap metal,” he says. “It all goes into a trailer, and when I have a load, I take it away to sell. And every time I reach £3,000, I write a cheque to Cancer Research UK.” 8 | BALERNO
Metals such as copper, brass, aluminium and steel are the most valuable. Mixed scrap metal can still be sold, but for much less. Although the market fluctuates, copper can sell for £4,000 per tonne, while lead can fetch £800 per tonne. Harith has friends, including a roofer and a plumber, who help him collect the scrap metal. A registered Cancer Research supporter, Harith places collection boxes too. Two of these are in Edinburgh and the others are scattered around the Lothians. In 1964 Harith came from Iraq to study at Napier University, and later at Heriot Watt. He met Linda, and the couple married in 1971. Many years later, 73-year-old Harith continues to do what he can to fight an illness that has taken so much from him. “I’ve had cancer, hernia and knee operations, and my back is playing up,” he says. “How long will I fundraise? I don’t know. But it gives me pleasure to do something that benefits the human race.” To make a donation contact Harith on 07715 121112. He will collect items within a reasonable distance. Please note he cannot accept fridges, freezers, coolers, oil-filled heaters or washing machines. The Local People column is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters. @KonectMagazines
Cheers! Guests enjoying an afternoon tea party
Tackling loneliness in Edinburgh with tea and company Loneliness is one of the most invisible but debilitating issues in society today, but all across Edinburgh volunteers are working to ease social isolation among some of our most vulnerable residents – the over 75s. Re-engage, formerly known as Contact the Elderly, and its army of supporters tackle loneliness in this older generation through regular Sunday afternoon tea parties and other activities. The monthly events are usually hosted by a local volunteer in their home, and guests are chauffeured to and from the gatherings by volunteer drivers – a crucial service that solves any transport worries for those who have difficulty getting out and about. Scotland-wide there are now nearly 150 groups with more than 1000 guests whose lives are often transformed through this simple solution of some kindness and company over a cup of tea. In Edinburgh area there are already 26 groups meeting once a month throughout the city, including in the Currie & Colinton areas, but there is still a waiting list of guests, older people who are keen to get out of the house and enjoy an afternoon of chat, laughter and friendship. Re-engage is always looking for more volunteers so that they can develop even more groups. Lorna Dunbar, the charity’s support officer for the area says: “Social isolation is one of society’s biggest problems, especially among the older generation, but we see the huge difference social events like ours can make to someone who perhaps doesn’t have the chance to interact with others as much as they would like. “Getting out and about can often become more difficult in later years, hindering social activities, and meeting new friends can be a little intimidating. But our drivers take all the anxiety out of travel and can become firm friends with guests. Plus, the gatherings are small and intimate and everyone is just delighted to be part of the group.” “We’re always pleased to hear from anyone who @KonectMagazines
would like to join, particularly volunteer drivers who are vital to the success of Re-engage. We only ask them to devote a few hours a month to ensure our guests continue to enjoy their Sunday afternoon outing. “It’s a small commitment that makes a big difference and for anyone new to volunteering it’s an ideal way to get involved,” said Lorna. “We believe everyone should have the opportunity of a social life, no matter their age. Making friendships and meaningful connections is vital to well-being and our get-togethers can really help to enrich the lives of the older generation.” To find out more about becoming a volunteer with Re-engage, please contact Lorna Dunbar at lorna.dunbar@reengage.org.uk or telephone 01738 730249. • There are 5.4 million people in the UK who are over 75, and 2.2 million of them live alone • There are 1.2 million chronically lonely older people in the UK. • Over half a million older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all • Being lonely is miserable, but it can also have a very damaging affect on physical health and mental wellbeing: lonely people with poor social connections are more likely to suffer from dementia, heart disease and depression This article was contributed by Re-engage. Reengage (formerly Contact the Elderly) is a charity that is positive about older age and committed to fighting loneliness. BALERNO | 9
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Water of Leith Fisheries
Permits for the Water of Leith will soon be distributed to eight outlets. Fishing is free on the water fondly named “a silver thread in a ribbon of green” but you do need a permit to fish from April 1st to September 30th (both dates inclusive). Permits will be available at Molly’s Coffee Shop in Juniper Green, Post Offices at Balerno, Colinton and Currie, plus the Water of Leith Visitor Centre at 24 Lanark Road, Edinburgh EH14 1TQ. Orvis of 19 Hope Street EH2 4EL, Edinburgh Angling Centre at Unit E, Granton Retail Park, 65 West Harbour Road, Granton EH5 1PW and Gamefish, 4 Howe Street, Edinburgh EH3 6TD also carry permits along with City of Edinburgh Council, Forestry and Natural Heritage, Hermitage of Braid, 69a Braid Road, Edinburgh EH10 6JF. Distribution centres will be asked to display a poster indicating that permits are available. Nearly 500 permits were distributed last season with the Water of Leith Visitor Centre being the most popular pick up point. The fishery is managed by the Fishery Officers on behalf of and in partnership with City of Edinburgh Council, and officers are volunteers. They patrol the river regularly to check permits and offer helpful advice to anglers. They all carry badges of authorisation. James Stewart, treasurer, said permits are essential to ensure that anglers know the rules and comply with them. He added: “This helps to maintain the long term sustainability of the fishery. The river is no longer stocked with trout and we rely on anglers to uphold and promote the catch
The river is no longer stocked with trout and we rely on anglers to uphold and promote the catch and return policy @KonectMagazines
and return policy. “There is no fishing for any species out-with the season.” All fish must be returned and barbless hooks must be used at all times. Permits are non-transferable and must be carried at all times and produced on request. It is fly fishing from Balerno to Bogs Bridge in the Dells and from Bogs Bridge to Leith it is fly or bait fishing. Spinning and fixed line fishing is prohibited. Mr Stewart, who has been a Fishery Officers for more than three decades, said discarded line and tackle and all rubbish created by anglers should be removed from the river banks. Wet and flies size 14/18 with lines of 3lb breaking strain are recommended. So, if you are tying for the opening of the season then popular dry patterns include Adams, Grey Duster, Olive Quill, Rough Olive, and Klinkhammer. Popular wet flies on the river are Black Spider, Greenwels Spider, Cochy-Bondoh, Pheasant Tail Nymph and GoldRibbed Hare’s Ear Nymph. Stealth and caution are necessary, said Mr Stewart, and, in midsummer, the fishing can be best at dusk or after. As regards bait fishing maggots or small worms are best, fishing with a 3lb breaking strain and small hook.
This article was contributed by Nigel Duncan, Voluntary Fisheries Officer, Water of Leith
IMAGE: Water of Leith, near Currie BALERNO | 13
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2020!
Spring is almost here so it’s time to step outdoors and start getting the garden in shape for the warm days ahead.
Everywhere you look new shoots are unfolding that will soon fill the garden with lush leaves, bountiful colour and gorgeous scents. A good tidy-up is needed so that you can enjoy these at their best. Dead foliage and fallen leaves that have piled up during the winter should be cleared away and early weeds removed before they have a chance to spread.
Flower borders should be filling up now with plants that are reappearing after their winter rest. Once they’ve grown into large clumps, many different kinds of plants including hostas, irises, agapanthuses and sedums can be dug up and divided to fill gaps elsewhere. If your garden lacks early colour, then pots of spring bulbs will soon give it a lift and if you add primroses in places where the soil stays damp and doesn’t dry out during the summer then these will soon multiply. If you don’t have room for a veg patch, then raised beds or even large pots filled with multi-purpose compost will provide enough space for tasty crops of easy-to-grow favourites including salads, herbs and peas. Finding plants that are suited to the soil, aspect and growing conditions in your garden is your best guarantee of success and one of the easiest ways to do that is by visiting Gardening Scotland where as well as gorgeous plants and inspirational show gardens you can find all kinds of experts ready to offer advice.
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Want to know how to tackle a shady corner, find a climber to cover an unsightly fence, choose a tree for a small garden or turn a tired lawn into a wildflower meadow? Then you are guaranteed to find someone at Gardening Scotland who can answer these questions and many more. But that’s not all, the show is also a fantastic day out, with live music, huge craft pavilion selling one-off artworks and original jewellery, exhibitors selling every kind of home and lifestyle accessory, artisan food and afternoon teas. Find your way to the Secret Gin Garden and sample the cocktails on offer or head with your kids to the Big Back Garden for tree climbing adventures and all kinds of family fun. Gardening Scotland 2020 will take place from Friday, 29th May until Sunday, 31st May at the Royal Highland Centre Edinburgh. For tickets and travel information visit www.gardeningscotland.com We have 10 PAIRS of tickets to Gardening Scotland 2020 to give away to Konect readers! Simply answer the following question:
WHERE WILL GARDENING SCOTLAND 2020 TAKE PLACE? Send your entry to win@konect.scot to arrive no later than 20th March 2020. Please include your full name and postcode. Winners will be drawn at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter.
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PUZZLES
CROSSWORD
Solution in the April edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Bewitched (7), 5. Trimmed (5) 8. Loosens (5), 9. Evil (7), 10. Vertical (13), 11. Without trouble (6), 12. Teeth (6), 15. Display (13), 18. Detonate (7), 19. Business transactions (5), 20. Stairs (5), 21. Destroys hearing (7). DOWN: 1. Crawl (5), 2. Soaks up (7), 3. Sundry items (13), 4. Split (6), 5. Book of facts (13), 6. Guttural noise (5), 7. Arid regions (7), 11. Perpetual (7), 13. Shake briskly (7), 14. To be present at (6), 16. Type of syrup (5), 17. Facial features (5).
Solution on Page 55
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HEALTH
Carpal Tunnel Trouble? If you have had trouble with your Carpal Tunnel in the past you will fully understand how frustrating it can be. We all need our sleep so being woken up by pain or tingling in your wrist and hand is never fun. What exactly is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and what can help? The Carpal Tunnel is the name given to the narrow passageway in the wrist, about 2.5 cm wide. The floor and sides of this tunnel are formed by the small bones in the wrist called Carpal bones. The top surface is a strong fibrous structure called the Flexor Retinaculum. The tunnel contains the Median nerve and 9 tendons to the hand. Problems develop if the nerve becomes pinched in the tunnel. This pressure could be caused by swelling of the tendons or because of arthritic changes in the wrist. CTS is a common problem with about 5% of the population affected. It is more common in women than men and can be associated with certain conditions such as pregnancy, Diabetes or Thyroid conditions.
Symptoms of CTS can be mild, only felt on certain activities with the hand returning to normal quickly. Typical symptoms include pain or tingling in the hand which mainly affect the thumb, index and long fingers. Symptoms can progress to cause numbness of the hand and muscle weakness which causes problems with writing, the ability to dress or to grip a phone – all important activities for quality of life! In fact, if compression is severe, pain may well feel less than it did, but function is worse. The good news is that approximately one third of cases of CTS will get better on their own, but this may take up to a year. If CTS is associated with an underlying medical @KonectMagazines
condition, treatment for that can help such as adjusting medication for an underactive thyroid.
Physiotherapy assessment can help ensure that the diagnosis is correct, as a problem in your neck can mimic CTS symptoms. Once the condition and severity is identified, treatment can be planned. This can include provision of a resting splint for use at night to help ensure the Median nerve is not further irritated by sleeping with your wrist flexed. Night splints also seem to reduce the level of pain felt in the day. Modifying activities that may be aggravating the nerve such as typing or DIY is useful. Exercises which mobilise the wrist and strengthen the tendons are very important to help settle CTS and prevent recurrence. A steroid injection into the Carpal Tunnel can be used to settle local inflammation, reduce pain and allow exercises to be done more comfortably. If management and medication fail to help, surgery is an option to release pressure from the Median nerve. Surgery will usually be considered if you have had symptoms for 6 months and no response to Physio but will be considered sooner if there is significant muscle weakness. CTS is a common problem but can be helped and knowing what to do can make a real difference. The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk BALERNO | 27
Natural colours
After months of being cooped up inside, this time of year often sees us desperate to reconnect with nature. We’re keenly searching for signs of growth, evidence that spring is truly here.
I’m so lucky living in Balerno. Beautiful countryside on my doorstep and a garden helps too. But what if your access to nature is less easy? Can you sense it within your home? Did you know that we humans are hard wired to connect with other living or natural things? We feel an improved sense of wellbeing when we do and it makes sense. Consider our evolutionary process and its ties to the great outdoors. It was the only home we knew. An approach often seen in large, public spaces is ‘biophilic’ design. It uses an abundance of natural elements - plants, exposed brick, pebbles, natural wood etc, creating a relaxed ambience for occupants. It’s a technique that’s easy to implement at home too, especially if you’re thinking about a spring update. Here are some ideas you might want to include. Whether it’s a bowl, a basket, table mats or a rug, why not include a touch of wicker, seagrass, rattan or jute for some added rustic charm. Natural wood is ideal too. From furniture to knick-knacks, wood is your friend. How about a decorative piece of driftwood? Even that big pile of logs by your fireplace counts! Use decorative pebbles in your candle holders, in a shallow bowl or around the tops of larger planters. Turn scenic holiday snaps into wall 30 | BALERNO
decor or seek out nature inspired art. Anything depicting the living world will fit perfectly with your theme. Who knew macrame would be such a huge trend again? It’s the perfect way to add a natural element - hanging planters, wall hangings or a simple cushion. What’s more natural than plain old cotton? Another fabulous, fully sustainable, natural material which is making a big comeback is cork. Table mats, pin boards, cupboard door knobs, kitchen accessories and more. Look out for beautiful smoked cork with it’s distinctive marbled pattern – gorgeous! The take-away? You don’t have to redecorate your whole house (although if you are...hello seagrass wallpaper!) No, just a little natural element here and there and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes. The Seasonal Touch column is contributed by Lynn McMurray, Balerno resident and enthusiast of all things ‘home,’ serving the local community and beyond with her home & gift business The Seasonal Touch. www.theseasonaltouch.co.uk @KonectMagazines
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BALERNO | 33
Scottish Water works on Water of Leith an update from the Community Council Scottish Water’s project along the Water of Leith is unquestionably essential for the whole city, but serious concerns have been highlighted about their procedural handling and the operational details. Complaints have been made about heavy vehicles driving through Colinton village and passing Bonaly Primary School at potentially dangerous speeds on a very narrow road at times when children are about, and exceptionally poor communications surround Scottish Water’s planning application for a siteworks compound on the old Station area. Despite the fact this will close the car park serving the Water of Leith walkway and Spylaw Park for months with serious consequences for the public and especially for the Tunnel Project, their planning application includes highly misleading statements such as “…(will) not impact on the public’s access…” and “…parking will continue to be provided elsewhere…” Early discussions could have avoided this. Though we now have contact with the contractors, our Community Council has never been consulted – our initial contact being a Water of Leith Conservation Trust meeting to which we had to invite ourselves! Scottish Water is a Statutory Corporation, an unelected body accountable to the public through the Scottish Government, both of which have a responsibility to meet the Government’s own clear policies on community involvement, health and safety, planning, etc, which apply to us all. While we are pleased they have amended their proposals, their belated public consultation was so poor that the Community Council will be making a formal representation to Scottish Water and the Scottish Government.
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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This article was contributed by Colinton Community Council. For further information please contact Tom McDonald, Chair, Colinton Community Council; email: tom.mcdonald@ colintoncc.org.uk. Phone: 07984 464 802. www.colintoncc.org.uk; Facebook: colintoncc; Twitter: @colintoncc; secretary@colintoncc.org.uk 34 | BALERNO
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LOCAL LAB
Dr Mioara Cristea is exploring imposter phenomenon. As someone who feels like an imposter herself, she was initially inspired to examine the impact of the phenomenon on academics’ wellbeing as well as the strategies used by senior executives to deal with imposterism. Mioara is beginning to look at how the phenomenon affects young people and their ability to thrive in school, college and University. What is imposter phenomenon?: Imposter phenomenon is “a subjective and unfounded perception of one’s own intellectual inadequacy”. In other words, feeling like you don’t belong, don’t deserve your accomplishments or job and thinking that people will discover you are a fraud. The most common characteristics of the imposter are self-doubt, fear of failure, need for social approval, and inability to internalise success. Who does it affect?: It affects different groups of people: medical students, academics, software developers, marketing managers, executives; though it seems to be more widespread among women as well as Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME), groups. In a recent study looking at around 300 senior executives in the UK, we discovered imposter phenomenon was more common among female and younger participants. Interestingly, it is also more common for those leading small teams than large ones. How does it affect people’s lives?: Individuals experience burnout, emotional exhaustion, depression and poor wellbeing. They will exhibit behaviours like over preparation or procrastination; they are more likely to set lower professional expectations, accept jobs below their skill set and keep a low profile in their workplace. This can lead to loss of motivation, less likelihood of going for promotions and less job satisfaction. Finding it difficult to be themselves in the workplace impacts on their relationships with colleagues, leading in some cases to a strong feeling of loneliness and isolation. @KonectMagazines
What are your future research plans?: I have a particular interest in young people coming from poor socio-economic backgrounds, who may feel like they do not belong in school. These youngsters are more likely to drop out of high school or dismiss the idea of going into further or higher education. I’m also interested in looking at the experience of imposterism among people getting back into work after being made redundant, such as having to learning new sets of skills in a highly digitalised world. Why do you consider yourself an imposter?: I was the first in my family to go to university and do a PhD. Coming from a modest background, my parents had very high expectations in regard to my academic results. I always felt that my grades were never good enough for them and that left a lasting impact on my perception of my own abilities. I internalised the idea that in order to be “lovable” I need to achieve. It soon became a self-perpetuating cycle which was reinforced by societal stereotypes about what it meant being a woman in a rather traditional Romanian society. If you’d like to know more about Mioara’s research, and chat to her in person, you can see her take part in this year’s FameLab competition at the Three Sisters’ pub in Edinburgh on Wednesday 11th March. Email hwengage@hw.ac.uk for further information. The Local Lab column is contributed by Heriot-Watt University to engage the public in a range of their research projects. BALERNO | 35
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MONEY MATTERS
INHERITANCE TAX AND HOW TO REDUCE IT (PART ONE)
The difference between Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion is the width of a prison wall and hence anything that follows is using tax avoidance and NOT tax evasion. As the Labour Chancellor Roy Jenkins was quoted to say, “Inheritance Tax is broadly speaking a voluntary levy paid by those who distrust their heirs more than they dislike the Inland Revenue.” There is no reason why people should not legally arrange their affairs to avoid paying Inheritance Tax. 1. A Whole of Life policy on joint lives has an annual premium guaranteed not to increase, and will pay out a guaranteed lump sum on the death of the second life assured. The amount of the guaranteed lump sum would be equal to any potential Inheritance Tax due and paid immediately on death to the Inland
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Revenue to pay the Inheritance Tax. The Inland Revenue love this because they get the Inheritance Tax due immediately on the death. The benefit for beneficiary is that they inherit the TOTAL estate of the deceased.
2. A Capital Investment Bond is a product into which you gift a lump sum equal to the amount you wish to shelter from potential Inheritance Tax. The bond is written in trust and provided the donor lives for 7 years, the whole amount is outside of their estate as far as Inheritance Tax is concerned. More importantly any growth is outside the estate from day one. One of the major insurance companies now have a product where “you really can have your cake and eat it” with a product that allows beneficiaries access to the money while you are alive. In next month’s article I will discuss two other products that allow you to legally avoid paying Inheritance Tax on your death. The Money Matters column is contributed by Personal Money Matters. This month’s column by Dr Peter M Marshall.
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HOMES AND GARDENS
Video Doorbells - should you get one? We have seen a number of good arrests across Edinburgh recently where video or smart doorbells have assisted police in quickly identifying those responsible for committing housebreaking and other crimes.
Video or smart doorbells use inbuilt cameras and other smart technology to provide the extra security of CCTV - but in a compact and often less expensive package than a full domestic CCTV system. They are installed in place of an existing doorbell and provide an audible ring for you to hear, but will also alert you on your phone or smart device, providing you with video surveillance and means of recording and capturing images.
later. In most occasions this will be legitimate people such as delivery drivers, canvassers, and people you may know coming to visit. However it could capture those at your property who have criminal intent and their images could be all important to the police as part of their investigation.
There are a variety of similar products on the market with most offering the same set of features. We would always encourage you to research crime prevention products carefully and look for products that have ‘Secured by Design’ accreditation or rating.
Good Deterrent : Video doorbells can be a great deterrent, stopping a potential housebreaker before they do any damage to your property. Simply seeing a video doorbell may be enough for a criminal to look elsewhere. If they do try and break-in, or succeed in forcing entry, the video doorbell could have captured good images of the culprit(s) and be valuable evidence for the police in their efforts to identify and arrest them.
They can be wireless or hard wired and many offer additional features such as being able to speak to delivery drivers and visitors via the inclusion of microphones and speakers.
Some of the advantages are:
You’ll Know Who’s There : You know who is at your door without you having to open it. This keeps you safe from those who you might not want to come into contact with – you don’t even have get close to the door to find out who’s there. You will be armed with all the information you need to decide whether to answer or not.
Speak To Visitors : You are able to speak to visitors without having to open the door. This can be done from inside your home or many miles away from it since the video doorbell system works through your smart device.
Review Footage : If a visitor doesn’t want to be ‘spotted’ and knocks on the door instead, video doorbells still capture images that you can check
Image Quality : Most work extremely well during both day and night, also ensuring the capture of good, high definition images of people approaching your home.
Installing a video doorbell should be considered part of a suite of crime prevention measures for your home. It alone will not prevent entry to your property, but it can be an important tool to identify who was responsible for criminality and also act as a deterrent. For information and guidance on using CCTV at your home please also visit the Information Commissioner’s Office website For more information on home security and how best to protect your home and belongings, please visit the Police Scotland website here or contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on ‘101’ for assistance.
This article was published by Police Scotland in Edinburgh via Neighbour Alert, February 2020. Neighbourhood Alert is a community messaging system solution for police forces, local authorities and Neighbourhood Watch. @KonectMagazines
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BALERNO | 45
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I’ve lived in Balerno since 1991. It’s home. But Illinois, the American state where I grew up, is also home. I think of myself as a transplant – uprooted from the rich, dark farmland in the Midwest, and replanted in harder, rockier UK soil. Though I feel quite at home here, growing up in a place with different customs means that I don’t always see things in the same way as my neighbour. One of my greatest achievements since settling in this country is overcoming my embarrassment at saying toilet. Yes, you heard me right. It’s just not a word Americans use. I was taught to say bathroom, perhaps because in the US there is normally a tub in that room too. Here it is not unusual to find that people have a “little room” containing just a toilet and sink. This is called a half-bath in America – anything to avoid that embarrassing word: toilet. Some UK homes have an even smaller little room. There’s no sink … just that, ehhm, toilet, and then you have to proceed to the bathroom to wash your hands. So there is absolutely no doubt about what happens in that room, and I don’t know any Americans who would have one! In the States a lot of people say restroom – another polite way to say toilet. Once when my mother was visiting us, she came to see me at my workplace. At some point she asked my colleague Rachel where she could find the restroom. But unfortunately the staffroom was known as the restroom. It was located up a flight of stairs and Rachel, wanting to save my mother from this exertion, said, “You don’t have to go to the restroom. You can just have a seat at my desk.” This threw my poor mother into a panic as she tried desperately to make herself understood! Eventually she made things clear and was escorted to the loo. @KonectMagazines
Sometimes it’s the person from the UK who says the wrong thing. I knew a guy from Maryland who married a girl from Glasgow. On Jan’s first trip to the US, all of Rob’s family gathered at a restaurant to meet his bride-to-be. “Where’s the toilet?” she asked Rob. Unheard, she asked again, a little louder. The table went silent and the guests became uncomfortable. Rob’s granny kicked him under the table. “Tell her she can’t say that here,” she hissed. “What’s wrong?” asked a puzzled Jan. “What’d I say?” I confess that my aversion to the t-word used to be so severe that I imagined I saw it when it wasn’t there! At this point I must mention the seemingly unrelated fact that in America the signs outside empty buildings read: “For Rent” or “To Lease”. They do not say “To Let”. So when I suddenly began seeing “TO LET” signs on every street corner, they were unfamiliar. And because there never seemed to be a big enough gap between the two words, my brain supplied the missing “I”. All around me were signs proudly proclaiming: TOILET. Had the people in my new country no shame? To be continued next issue … Notes from a small village is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters. BALERNO | 47
FOOD & DRINK
An ideal starter or light supper!
Spinach & Ricotta Dumplings
A tasty and simple meat-free dish that is ideal for a starter or light supper. Serve with warmed ciabatta bread to mop up the creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
• 225g baby spinach leaves • 150g ricotta • 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley • 50g grated Parmesan • 100g plain flour • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed • 2 medium eggs, beaten • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 50g butter • 6 tbsp crème fraiche • 2 tsp freshly chopped chives • Salad leaves and cherry tomatoes, to serve
Tip:
Serve the dumplings with a ready-made tomato and herb pasta sauce instead of the creamy sauce, if liked.
Serves 4 as a starter, 2 as a main course. Ready in 1 hour 48 | BALERNO
Method: 1. Place the spinach in a large metal colander set over the sink. Pour over boiling water to wilt. Refresh under cold water, drain well then squeeze firmly with your hands to remove any excess moisture. 2. Roughly chop the spinach and place in a large mixing bowl. Add the ricotta, parsley, Parmesan, flour, garlic and eggs. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and mix to a soft dough. 3. Using clean damp hands, divide and shape the mixture into about 12 walnut-sized balls. Chill for 30 minutes. 4. Bring a large pan of lightly salted water to the boil. Gently add the dumplings. They will drop to the bottom at first then slowly rise to the top. Once they have risen to the top, cook for a further minute. Remove with a slotted spoon and divide between 2 or 4 warmed dishes. 5. Melt the butter in a small pan. Stir in the crème fraiche and simmer to make a creamy sauce. Pour the sauce around the dumplings. Garnish with chopped chives and serve with salad leaves and cherry tomatoes. @KonectMagazines
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BALERNO | 49
Spring Concert Monday 23rd March 7.30 pm SATURDAY 7TH MARCH Balerno Fairtrade Fair - As part of national Fairtrade Fortnight, Balerno Village Fairtrade Group are holding a fair from 10.00am to 12.00 noon in Balerno Parish Church Halls. In addition to stalls selling Fair Trade goods there will be children’s activities, information stalls and the ever popular smoothie bike. The winning entries from the schools Fairtrade art competition will be on display. The prizes will be presented at the event. Refreshments and homemaking will be available. Everyone is welcome. MONDAY 9TH MARCH Currie & District Local History Society Talk - “The Last Spike; The Building of the first Transcontinental Railway across the USA.” Speaker Mr James Waugh. Gibson Craig Memorial Hall at 7.30pm SATURDAY 14TH MARCH Balerno Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9am -1pm. FRIDAY 20TH MARCH Map and Compass Training Course - Beginnerlevel course in reading a map and using a compass, run by the Pentland Hills Regional Park. For beginners or people needing a refresher: basic skills for navigating when walking in the countryside. We will study reading a map, orienting the map, using paces to judge distance, knowing your compass, and taking a compass bearing for navigation in bad weather. Course is £45, book via eventbrite (search “Pentland Hills Regional Park”) and takes place at Harlaw House Visitor Centre, Harlaw Road, Balerno, EH14 7AS. Other dates available WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL Breeding Bird Survey - Help the Pentland Rangers survey Bonaly moorland to see how well our feathered friends are doing. Meet: Bonaly Country Park, Time: 6:30am – 8:30am. Bring: waterproofs, sturdy footwear and binoculars if you have them.
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www.colintonchoir.org
The Passion of Christ An Oratorio by Arthur Somervell featuring the voices of aspiring young soloists
Memorial Hall Merchiston Castle School Admission Free All Welcome Refreshments Retiring Collection
BALERNO VILLAGE SCREEN FRIDAY 27TH MARCH • Jojo Rabbit (12A), 7.30pm SATURDAY 27TH MARCH • Abominable (U), 2.30pm • Knives Out (12A), 7.30pm VENUE: St. Joseph’s Church Hall & Ogston Hall, Balerno TICKETS: www.balernovillagescreen.com and at The Mill Cafe. Programme and timings subject to change.
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
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Polkemmet are open daily, with a wide variety of well-marked paths and trails for all the family.
At Polkemmet, head along to the Scottish Owl Centre, one of West Lothian’s Hidden Gems, which is open throughout March from 11.30am.
Starting in Livingston at Howden Park Centre, Classic Clapton, a recreation of Clapton’s stage show and greatest hits, including his work as part of a succession of bands and as a solo artist, takes place on Saturday 21st March, which is sure to be a fun evening for the music fans!
Also on the 21st, in Linlithgow, the Linlithgow Heritage Trust is holding an Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair at Linlithgow Academy. Open from 9am, you can get your antiques valued with all proceeds from admission going towards the new Linlithgow Museum. With Spring arriving this month, why not take a visit to one of West Lothian’s country parks? Beecraigs, Almondell & Calderwood and
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Looking a little further ahead, with Easter just around the corner Almond Valley are holding their Easter Eggcitement events from 4th April – with a variety of fun trails all-round the farm, as well as the opportunity to spot some cute new arrivals!
Make sure you keep an eye out for the release of the latest Visit West Lothian Visitor guide in early April, featuring the fantastic winner of the #MyWestLothian photography competition – the perfect companion for planning great days out across West Lothian! Follow us on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian
BALERNO | 51
BRIDGE COLUMN
Checkback Stayman Checkback is a refined form of Stayman to be used after a 1NT opener’s rebid. The objective is to find a fit in the majors if that is still possible. A while back my Pentland partner and I decided to add it to our repertoire. Needless to say, suitable opportunities then dried up like snow in the desert. However, one evening I spotted what seemed like a perfect chance. In an uncontested auction my partner in third seat opened 1C. I responded 1H having 10 HCP and four cards in both majors. My partner’s rebid was 1NT. I could hardly wait to bid 2C and finally deploy it, but the Alert card didn’t immediately appear. Clearly my partner was worried that I had forgotten about Checkback and was simply supporting his clubs. However, he did, after an agonising pause, twig the truth. He held three of each major and bid, quite rightly, 3H. For a short interlude I was delighted and bid 4H. The happiness was cut short when he laid down his hand and I saw we only had the undesirable Moysian (4-3) fit. And went one down when 3NT made fairly easily. My bad. My mental shorthand that Checkback was just Stayman for a 1NT rebid turned out to be inadequate. Checkback is to find a 5-3 major fit (in Acol) and not 4-4 which was not possible in this case anyway. If partner had four hearts he would have supported hearts immediately and he also couldn’t have four spades because his first bid would then have been spades. Like standard Stayman, Checkback is both a statement and a question. The moral is - Don’t ask the question when the answer is irrelevant. They say you get a new convention wrong three times before you finally master it. One down, two to go.
Edinburgh Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra (EMGO), enthusiastic amateur musicians, come together each week to further their skills in orchestral playing under the guidance of their musical director, Michael Graham. Our instruments are from the plucked string family – mainly (but not exclusively) mandolins, mandolas and guitars – and our repertoire is drawn from a wide range of musical genres spanning classical to popular, baroque to contemporary, and dipping into many different cultures along the way. If you are interested in finding out more about the orchestra, details can be found on our website: www.emgo.org.uk and on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ EdinburghMandolinGuitarOrchestra EMGO is excited to host, for the first time, the bi-annual festival for the Banjo, Mandolin and Guitar Federation (BMGF) to be held at Merchiston Castle School 27th29th March 2020.
The Festival comprises of concerts, workshops, informal playing and contests and some music and craft stalls. Full details of the venue and all weekend events at: www.banjomandolinguitar.org/rally The opening concert on Friday 27th March features Laura Beth Salter and Jenn Butterworth, fresh from Celtic Connections, supported by The Rob Mairs Trio. Advance concert tickets can be booked online at: www.britishbmgfederation.eventsmart.com
The Bridge Column is written by John Samson who lives in Currie and is a member of the Pentland Bridge Club 52 | BALERNO
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CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... BALERNO PHYSIO-LED PILATES AND RELAXATION CLASSES Prime Sports Physio Clinic, 46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno. Comprehensive timetable of classes available during daytime and evening in pilates and relaxation, including specialist classes in antenatal & postnatal pilates, pilates for men, for skiing as well as mixed level pilates, relaxation for teenagers. For more information and to book please contact www.primesportsphysio.co.uk or call 0131 449 6128. HARTBEEPS Currie Community Centre on a Monday 10am for confident walkers to preschool; 11am for sitting to walking babies; 12.15pm for newborn to sitting babies. For info please contact jo.douglas@ hartbeeps.com, Joanne Douglas 07736 457265. HULLABALOO Music classes for babies and toddlers with their carers. At Hullabaloo the focus is on having lots of fun with colourful props, toys and musical instruments. Through favourite songs and rhymes, children will develop early musical skills including a sense of beat, rhythm and pitch. Fridays 9.30am (term time), Wednesday 12.45pm (babies) - Balerno Scout Hall. E: info@mcmillanyoungmusicians. co.uk W: www.mcmillanyoungmusicians. co.uk/hullabaloo YOUNG@HEART For older people in Balerno, Currie and Juniper Green. We meet at 10am on a Tuesday at the Ogston Hall, St Joseph’s centre, Main St, Balerno for some gentle exercises then tea and coffee break. We then have various activities. Cost £2 per week for the tea and coffee break and £15 a year for membership, paid in 2 instalments. For more information please contact Mary Laing on 0131 449 3523 or email me on yackadoo@hotmail. co.uk for more information. BALERNO PARISH CHURCH Come and be part of the heart of the community which meets every Sunday at 10 am in the Main street www.balernochurch.org.uk HAILES SWIMMING CLUB Galas, coaching and development lessons for 7-15 year olds at Balerno, Currie, and Forrester pools. For further details contact membership@ hailesswimclub.co.uk ST MUNGO’S BALERNO Come be part of our vibrant church community which meets every Sunday, 10.30am @ Balerno High School www.stmungos.org
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PIYO LIVE! Pilates + Yoga+ Nonstop movement. Stretch, Strengthen & Sweat, all in one workout! Tues 9am in Balerno Scout Hall and Thurs 8pm in Balerno Community Centre. Other classes available in Currie. Contact Heidi on 07982 205111 or at heidi.instructor@gmail.com WILDFIRE EXPLORER SCOUTS Meet in Balerno High School. Fridays 7.15 - 9.15pm. 14 – 18yrs. Contact: Gordon Simpson 0131 477 3116. Email leaders@wildfireexplorers.org.uk 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. 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 COMMUNITY CENTRE VILLAGE NURSERY Open Mon to Fri 7.30am to 6pm - 50 weeks of the year. Offering family centred childcare from 6 weeks to 5 years. We provide AM, PM and All Day Care, also Wraparound Care for Dean Park Nursery and Dean Park Primary School to include children to the end of P3. Please email thevillageplaygroup@outlook.com or tel 0131 451 5756 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 449 2101. 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 Fri (school term time only) 8:55-11.40am. Early Drop Off, Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery. Afternoon sessions available for Pre-school children. 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. BALERNO SWI 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
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BALERNO ...cont. IN THE DITCH QUILTERS Balerno Community Centre. Monthly workshops covering different quilting topics, third Wednesday of the month from 7:15pm. Annual membership £24.00. Contact Maureen Murray on 0131 336 0053 for further details. GIRLGUIDING Rainbows on Monday evenings. Full information and meeting times can be obtained from Edinburgh Head Quarters on 0131 225 4154. PALM CAFÉ St Jospeh’s Centre, last Tues of the month 2.30pm4pm. A social group cafe for people with dementia and their carers, for informal support and information. Serving the communities of Balerno, Juniper Green and Currie. For more information contact Kay Latimer 0131 449 6186 or email kaylatimer@btopenworld.com BALERNO PARISH CHURCH Come and join us for regular all age worship on Sunday mornings at 10am followed by refreshments in St Joseph’s. Check www. balernochurch.org.uk for all other events and worship information. THE MILL CAFÉ A community café run mainly by volunteers in the St Joseph’s Centre at the heart of Balerno. Open Tuesday-Friday 9.30am-2.00pm serving teas, coffees, homebaking and snack lunches. (Times may vary during school holidays)
CURRIE EDINBURGH MAVERICKS KORFBALL CLUB Try korfball with Edinburgh Mavericks! Korfball is a mixed-gender sport with similarities to basketball and netball. Edinburgh Mavericks have 2 teams competing in the Scottish Korfball League, and train twice a week at Oriam. We welcome beginners and new players to all our sessions, men and women of all ages - so if you’re looking for a new sports club or way to keep fit, give korfball a try! Your first 3 sessions are free. Oriam, Heriot Watt University Campus, Currie, EH14 4AS. Wednesdays 7pm-8.30pm and Thursdays 8pm – 10.30pm. Contact edmavericks@gmail.com or facebook.com/edinburghmavericks BRIDGE Tuition for absolute beginners. Every Tuesday evening in the Currie Community Centre on Lanark Road West. 7pm to 9pm. £3 table money. Just turn up if you’re interested. If you need more info contact Johnny 0131 623 5135, 07450 521997, intro-bridge@hotmail.co.uk NETHER CURRIE PTA BADMINTON CLUB Nether Currie Primary School, Wed evenings 7 9pm from September to March. For info contact Gordon Porteous 0131 538 1959.
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INTRODUCTION TO BRIDGE For absolute beginners and social players who wish to graduate to club and competition play. Free. All adults over 21 welcome. Ideal for retirees looking for a new interest. Every Tuesday 3:45pm to 4:45pm Community room Currie Library. First meeting 3rd September 2019. Just turn up if you feel like it. Or contact Johnny on 0131 623 5135. Text 07450 521 997. Email introbridge@hotmail.co.uk HARTBEEPS Currie Community Centre on a Monday. 10am for confident walkers to preschool; 11am for sitting to walking babies; 12.15pm for newborn to sitting babies. For info please contact jo.douglas@ hartbeeps.com, Joanne Douglas 07736 457265. PIYO LIVE! Pilates + Yoga + Nonstop movement. Stretch, Strengthen & Sweat, All in one workout!! Fri 9:15am Currie Community Centre (Theatre Hall). Contact Heidi on 07982205111 or at heidi.instructor@ gmail.com DEPEVAK EXPLORER SCOUT UNIT 45 Lanark Road West, Currie, Wednesday 7.15 – 9.15pm SLIMMING WORLD - LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT FEELING HUNGRY Come and join us every Wednesday at 7:30pm in Currie Community Centre on Lanark Road West, and every Saturday at 7:30am & 9:30am in Currie Scout Hall, Forthview Crescent. Contact Kim 07921 380711 for more information. HAILES SWIMMING CLUB Galas, coaching and development lessons for 7-15 year olds at Balerno, Currie, and Forrester pools. For further details contact membership@ hailesswimclub.co.uk CURRIE COMMUNITY CENTRE Various activities and facilities: Nursery, Football, After-school care, ballet, dog training youth club, craft, Taekwondo, parties, Saturday morning cafe, rooms for hire. See facebook page. Currie Community Centre. 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 The club is played at the Gibson Craig back Hall on a Monday, 1.30pm. For more information contact the Chairman on 0131 449 3527. COFFEE AND CRAFT Currie community Centre Mon 7-9pm. Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new. All welcome. £1 per person per night. AIR CADETS 2463 (CURRIE & BALERNO) SQUADRON Forthview Crescent. Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm. 0131 449 7449 for more info.
CURRIE PLAYGROUPCurrie 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 Fee 07771 370748. 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 Terry Maloney 0751 466 4292 CURRIE & DISTRICT LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie - Visitors welcome; For further information contact Douglas Lowe on 0131 449 4349 or douglaslowe51@btinternet.com BOYS BRIGADE - 65TH EDINBURGH (CURRIE) COMPANY 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) Sundays 6.30 – 8.30pm For more info email 65edinburghbb@gmail.com or see website 65edinburgh.boys-brigade. org.uk 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 St Margaret’s Hall, Juniper Green. Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall, Balerno. Any questions please contact Monica, email: karmayoga@ btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432
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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. MACULAR SOCIETY, PENTLAND GROUP Group for visually impaired people, 2nd Friday of every month in Currie Library at 2pm. Audio Book Group meets 1st Monday of every month in Currie Library at 2.15 pm. I-Pad tuition group for visually impaired people all other Mondays in Currie Library at 2.15pm. MESSY CHURCH Second and last Fridays of the month from 2-4.30pm in the Gibson Craig Halls. We will meet from the second Friday in September until the second Friday in December then from the second Friday in January until the second Friday in June. All ages are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult who stays with them. For further information, contact Louise on 466 3472 or Easter on 449 4719
JUNIPER GREEN JUNIPER GREEN TENNIS CLUB This small, friendly LTA affiliated tennis club in the heart of Juniper Green is open to all. There’s an extensive junior coaching programme and sessions for adults on Fridays throughout the season. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook. com/junipergreentennisclub/ or for membership details etc see www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/ JuniperGreenTennisClub JUNIPER GREEN NURSERY PLAYGROUP Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 07308 033386 or see website at www. junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk JUNIPER GREEN BOARDGAMERS We meet 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, 6pm-9pm in Juniper Green Parish Church Hall C We currently ask for £1.00 per person to cover the cost of the hall (£2.00 non-members - First visit FREE!). Everyone welcome, suitable for kids over 10y/o. Children must be with an adult, and the adult must stay and play too. For more information and dates for this month, please contact Eric (eric@ericonline.co.uk) or find us on Facebook using “Juniper Green Board-Gamers”. 31ST PENTLAND SCOUTS (JUNIPER GREEN) 45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers - Wed 6.30pm. Cubs - Mon 7.00pm. Cubs - Tues 6.30pm. Scouts - Fri 7.00pm. Contact - Hamish Leal on 0131 449 3288. JUNIPER GREEN SWI Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 0131 539 9886. PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB The club meets at 7pm on Thursday evenings throughout the year to play duplicate bridge at St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green. Prospective new members are welcome to come along to see if it suits them.
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If interested, please contact Ken Brown 0131 449 5314 email mthkjb@gmail.com.
RATHO LUNCH CLUB FOR OLDER PEOPLE Third Thursday of each month at Ratho Community Centre. Run by Queensferry Care through the support of Tesco Bags of Help, The Almond Neighbourhood Partnership and RCCC. Starting at 12noon, for more info and to register interest please call 0131 331 5570. RATHO SWI 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 Ratho Community Centre. Thurs 10am12pm. 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, nonmembers £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055 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) TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AT WWW.KONECT.SCOT
SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 1. Post, 3. Shortest, 9. Relaxed, 10. Queue, 11. Mathematical, 14. Dew, 16. Irate, 17. Tie, 18. Nevertheless, 21. Treat, 22. Bathing, 23. Meddling, 24. Asks. DOWN: 1. Pyramids, 2. Split, 4. Hod, 5. Requirements, 6. Elegant, 7. Trek, 8. Experimental, 12. Adapt, 13. Messages, 15. Weekend, 19. Exits, 20. Stem, 22. Ban.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 26
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