Konect Balerno August 2021 by Konect Magazines

AUGUST 2021

THE SEASONAL TOUCH: LOCAL HISTORY:

BATTLE OF

SPOTLIGHT:

RULLION

GREEN

PLUS: MONEY MATTERS, HEALTH & BEAUTY, puzzles, and more local features inside! The monthly community magazine for Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton & Ratho

P15

s I write this we’re still in the wonderful spell of warm weather that has made the staycation season very pleasant, and exploration of the local area continues! I headed up into the Pentlands one hot day, on the trail of the Battle of Rullion Green. It’s nice to have a focus for a walk sometimes but I mostly just wanted to write a local history article - it’s been a while since I published one. With a local business spotlight on EMG Autos – and thanks to Stuart and his daughter for the cracking cover photo! - and all our usual columns, I hope you enjoy this issue. We try to keep them practical, relevant, entertaining and interesting. As ever, please let me know what you think and get in touch if you have an interesting story you’d like to share with the local community.

Local History: Battle of Rullion Green..............8 Spotlight: EMG Autos........................................ 11 Recipe: Gluten-Free Vegan Tropical Oat Bars................................................................ 14 Wine tasting: Pimms.......................................... 15 Health: Do I need and X-ray........................... 21 Money Matters: HMRC codes and alphabet soup..................................................... 28 The Seasonal Touch: There’s no place like home.................................................. 30 Local Environment: What long ears you have............................................................... 34 Puzzles.................................................................. 38 Turning over a new leaf.................................... 42

COVER IMAGE: Spotlight: Balerno resident Stuart Wightman, see P11.

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638 @KonectMagazines

Konect is delivered monthly to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe BALERNO | 3

Edinburgh Bespoke Renovations

‘All aspects of interior & exterior improvements’  Bathrooms  Attic conversions  Kitchen  House extensions  Tiling  Summer houses  Flooring  Decking & Patios  Plastering  Rendering

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.

www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk

4 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 5

6 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

BILL REID & SON

DOMESTIC HEATING & PLUMBING 0131 449 5538 07710 458739 2 Turner Avenue Balerno

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 7

THE BATTLE OF

RULLION GREEN If the hills could talk, they would have some incredible stories to tell. The Pentland Hills have seen a lot of action, and this month I went looking for the site of the battle which is commemorated by the large obelisk outside Dreghorn Barracks in Colinton – the Battle of Rullion Green. The Battle took place in the Pentlands in 1666 and was the culmination of decades of a specific religious struggle in Scotland. Scotland had broadly always viewed monarchs as the first among equals when it came to religious matters. But James VI strongly believed in and pushed the concept of the divine right of kings, i.e. that the monarch is not accountable to his people or parliament, but has authority direct from God alone and is therefore only accountable to God. In terms of the Kirk, this implied that the king was spiritual head of the church. James’ successors pushed this too. And that was the sticking point. Thousands of Scots signed a pledge in 1638 called the National Covenant, resisting the changes imposed on the Kirk. It was a struggle for religious freedom. Those involved in the resistance movement were known as the Convenanters. It caused decades of struggle, suffering and torture, especially during the reigns of King Charles I and II. Failure to swear an oath declaring loyalty to the King and, crucially, his position as head of the church, led to torture and execution of many Covenanters.

Battle of Rullion Green Memorial at Dreghorn Barracks, Colinton 8 | BALERNO THE DELL

The battle here in South West Edinburgh in 1666 was a final showdown for the Convenanters, sparked when an elderly man in Kirkcudbrightshire was beaten by soldiers for not having enough money to pay the fine for failing to attend Government-approved church. It was one of many such cruelties, but this time the event sparked an organised rising. A troop of around 3000 Convenanters - a mixture of professional soldiers and @KonectMagazines

ordinary citizens under the experienced leadership of a Colonel James Wallace - assembled from Dumfries and Galloway, Ayrshire and Lanarkshire and headed to Edinburgh with the aim of petitioning the Government again, and hoping to get more support and volunteers for their cause. They took an arduous route in terrible weather via Bathgate, with a good number getting disheartened and deserting on the way. They got as far as Colinton on 27th November 1666, when they heard that the gates of Edinburgh were armed with canons against them, and there was no support forthcoming. Many more deserted and left. Wallace reluctantly turned the remains of his army back, planning to retreat back to the safety of the west.

The way west, however, was blocked by a Government army which had been sent to pursue them. It was led by General Tom Dalziel of House of the Binns. So the Convenanters headed east and then south instead, towards Biggar (roughly along the current A702) using line of the Pentland Hills as cover. They halted at Rullion Green, just south west of Flotterstone, to rest, regroup and wait for stragglers. They had dwindled to around 900 men.

Convenantors put up a stiff fight but were vastly outnumbered. Fifty died on the slopes of Rullion Green, and the rest fled over Turnhouse Hill and into the bleak winter’s night in the hills. Some were shot as they fled. Residents in the surrounding areas tended to wounded survivors. Women came out from Edinburgh the next day to wrap the dead and prepare them for burial. Some died from their wounds whilst trying to get home. Many were buried in the graveyards in Penicuik and Glencorse. Others were taken prisoner and hanged at Mercat Cross in Edinburgh. Over the course of the next couple of months, Covenantors all over Scotland were hanged or transported to slavery in the West Indies and American colonies. It was the end of the uprising and a period of violent repression against the Covenanters ensued. The actions of Tam Dalziel after the Pentland Rising earned him the sobriquet “Bluidy Tam”.

They clashed around Glencorse and Turnhouse Hill. The Covenantors had the advantage of high ground and held off the vanguard, but when the rest of the government force arrived, there were around 3000 armed men. The

You can walk through to Glencorse from this side of the Pentlands, which is exactly what Dalziel and the government forces did that day. Clear waymarked routes from Harlaw in Balerno or Bonaly lead to Glencorse, and from there you can keep walking to Turnhouse Hill. (There are signs to Scald Law, and Turnhouse is on the way). Or you can walk from Threipmuir via Loganlea. It’s a little trickier to get to Rullion Green itself; I don’t believe there is a waymarked path from Glencorse – if there is I couldn’t find it. I took the picture of Rullion Green from the gate at Rullion Green farm, which is private property, but did not walk across the field.

MAIN IMAGE: The slope of Rullion Green, with Turnhouse Hill in the background

This article was contributed by Helen-Jane, editor of Konect magazines. With thanks to thereformation.info and Historic Environment Scotland for background on the battle.

A vanguard of Dalziel’s army was in Currie at the time and, learning of the route the Convenantors had taken, decided to cut straight through the hills and intercept them.

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 9

10 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

Stuart and his daughter

“I’m a dad, first and foremost,” says Balerno resident Stuart Wightman of EMG Autos, when I ask him what he does when he’s not at work. I caught up with Stuart just as he was back maintenance, and when the owner needs to at the garage last month after a spell off with change, Stuart knows the car intimately and has Covid, to see how things have been going for full confidence in selling it on to a new owner. the business. The reviews speak for themselves: Stuart has run EMG Autos since 2011, when “Absolutely brilliant service, Stuart came and he set it up in Saughton Mains Drive and picked up my car and took it into the garage named the business after his grandad. After for repairs and brought it back when finished. leaving Balerno High School, Stuart served The price was great value for all the work he an apprenticeship with Western Mercedes, had done and I felt safe and trusted what he then worked for Brian Miller Porsche. When an had to say, very honest man. Would highly opportunity came up for him to set up his own recommend and would defo use again.” garage, he was ready for “I bought a used car from it. “I’d always liked finance this place about a month and business, besides I’d like to thank my team for ago and was massively the practical mechanics all their hard work in pulling impressed. Stuart couldn’t work. And for my own us through, they have been have been more helpful and garage, I wanted everything knows his stuff, but done just right - to charge incredible and deserve that clearly equally was neither pushy a fair price for a good job. I recognition. And I’d like to nor condescending. He even wanted to offer a personal thank my local customers for serviced the car and had it touch, and for my customers after we’d agreed to be able to put their belief their support for the business, valeted on the sale. Can’t fault the in me.” especially during the past guy and would happily do Now with a team of five, business with him again: 18 months ” he has been successful highly recommended!” in building the business’ Back to his off-duty activities, Stuart is very reputation based on being trustworthy and active in the Balerno community where he grew offering outstanding, friendly customer service. up, and likes to support other local businesses. It’s been a tough time over the past 18 months, He can be found in one of the local pubs, or as for so many local businesses, but Stuart eating out with his daughter, or on the golf pivoted to develop the used car sales side of course at Dalmahoy. the business, and the same ethos seems to “I’d like to thank my team for all their hard work have been a winning approach. in pulling us through, they have been incredible “We sold 57 cars in the past four months,” he and deserve that recognition. And I’d like to says. “We deal in cars with low mileage, a full thank my local customers for their support for the service history and 2 keys.” Some of the used business, especially during the past 18 months.” cars they sell are vehicles that EMG Autos have looked after themselves for the service and See www.emgautosedinburgh.co.uk @KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 11

Keith Wales

WINDOW CLEANING

Reliable 4 weekly service

0131 449 4379 • 07895 916800 www.kwaleswindowcleaning.co.uk

12 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

IRONING AID

Free pick-up & delivery - next day service

0131 538 5223 07877 381940

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 13

FOOD & DRINK

Naturally sweetened

It’s back to school this month and the perennial search for easy, healthy packed lunch snacks. This is a perfect naturally sweetened flapjack-style bar ideal for packed lunches, graband-go breakfasts or as a healthy pick-me-up snack. The combination of slow-releasing oats, seeds and protein powder with the fresh and dried mango keeps the body energised throughout the day. Ideal as a pre- or post-workout snack. The bars will keep in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to three months. A healthy alternative to shopbought snack bars for children and adults!

Ingredients:

• 250g dried mango slices, without sugar, chopped • 3 limes • 200g frozen or fresh mango chunks • 150ml (1⁄4 pint) light olive oil • 175g gluten-free rolled oats • 175g self-raising gluten-free flour • 30g / 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, optional • 1⁄2 tsp baking powder • 30g mixed seeds (e.g. sunflower, sesame, pumpkin) • 100g desiccated coconut

Nutrition:

* Per serving: 254kcal, Fat 15.2g (of which saturates 5g), Carbohydrate 23.7g (of which sugars 7.6g), Protein 3.6g. 14 | BALERNO

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan /gas mark 4. 2. Place the dried mango pieces in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Leave for 15 minutes to soften, then drain. 3. Zest then juice the limes. 4. Place half of the dried mango in a food processor with the fresh mango, lime juice, lime zest and oil, and process to form a thick puree. 5. Place the oats, flour, protein powder, baking powder, seeds and coconut in a large bowl. Stir in the remaining dried mango. Pour in the puree and mix thoroughly. 6. Spoon the mixture into a greased and lined baking tin that is approximately 25cm by 30cm. Bake in an oven for 30 minutes until golden brown. Leave to cool in the tin then cut into slices.

Makes 16 bars • Preparation time: 15 minutes • Soaking time: 15 minutes • Cooking time: 30 minutes @KonectMagazines

Pimm's No.1 Cup

In the way mulled wine is synonymous with winter and cold weather, so too is summer, garden parties and Pimm’s No. 1 Cup. A cool, refreshing, long drink, Pimm’s is a delicious alternative to wine and feels more sophisticated than punch. I first tasted Pimm’s at a summer wedding reception; it is very easy to drink and very easy to forget it is a gin-based spirit! Proudly displaying the Royal Warrant on its crisp white label, Pimm’s is the quintessential Great British summer drink. It has been served at Wimbledon since 1971 and evokes images of lazy hazy summer days. Developed by James Pimm in London in the mid-19th century, today Pimm’s has a Scottish connection; the ginbased spirit is distilled in Fife! It is made using a closely guarded secret recipe that apparently only 6 people know. It started out as a health remedy to aid digestion (of oysters!) but is now

@KonectMagazines

one of the UK’s most popular summer drinks brands. On the nose it is easy to detect fragrant orange, warm spices like clove and herbal botanicals.

The classic way to prepare Pimm’s No. 1. is in a tall glass or pitcher. Serve 3 parts lemonade to 1 part Pimm’s and pour over sliced summer fruits, cucumber and ice. Wimbledon may have finished but I think there will be enough of the summer left to justify having a bottle of Pimm’s No. 1 in your drinks cabinet. The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her 3 children. She is a Sommelier Wine & Spirit Specialist who runs Swirl Sip Socialise, an online wine tasting business which connects friends and family across the UK.

BALERNO | 15

Photo by Joanne Frette

WINE TASTING

16 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 17

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 19

Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) This condition is caused by the Varicella Zoster Virus. This comes from a previous infection I.e Chickenpox. It lies dormant in the body but can then reactivate. This is in the form of Herpes Zoster or ‘Shingles’. HZO is caused when the ophthalmic division of the Trigeminal nerve is affected. What are the risk factors? People who have low immune systems either naturally or from medication are at risk. HIV/AIDS is quite a common pre-disposing factor. Increasing age has a higher incidence. What are the symptoms? Pain, altered sensation and sometimes headache on the affected side. A feeling of being generally unwell and maybe a fever also.

20 | BALERNO

What are the signs? Red painful rash and vesicles on forehead and upper eyelid of the affected side. Lesion on the side of the tip of the nose – Hutchinsons’s Sign. Oedema around the eye. If the eyes are involved: A red eye can be present, due to Conjunctivitis, Episcleritis, Scleritis, Uveitis or Keratitis. Patients are also at a low risk to secondary Glaucoma. How is it treated?

Normally anti-virals are prescribed to treat urgently. Px’s can have post-herpetic neuralgia which can last a considerable amount of time. Complications can still arise years later. So, the quicker the onset of treatment, the better. Rest, eating well and hydration are important also. Advice if virus is active Stay away from older people, pregnant women and children who haven’t had chicken pox yet. This article was contributed by Jonathan Jennett of Clearvue Opticians, 60 Bryce Road, Currie, EH14 5LD.

@KonectMagazines

Reference: College of Optometrists Guidelines

EYE HEALTH

HEALTH

Do I need an

X-RAY?

This is a question Physiotherapists often get asked and the answer depends on the response to two further questions: 1. Clinically, what are we looking for? 2. Will the result change the proposed management of the problem?

These questions are very important. Before any type of investigation, such as x-ray, MRI scan or CT scan, there must be a clear clinical question to be answered to ensure that the best investigation is being used. Patients often believe that a single x-ray or MRI scan will show everything in enough detail to give a definitive diagnosis but this is not the case – they have to be targeted. The correct test must be done to get the answer needed. So, how might this work for the following conditions? I have low back pain – do I need an x-ray? If a patient has constant low back pain, a history of osteoporosis, and the clinical question is could this be an insufficiency fracture, where bone density is poor and a fracture has developed, then an x-ray would be indicated. Knowing a fracture is there would change the advice on management and follow-up.

If the situation was different, in that the patient had low back pain on and off for several weeks after lifting plant pots in the garden and mechanical back pain was suspected, an x-ray would simply show the bones of the back with a level of wear and tear at the joints as expected for their age. This would not change the management advice of keep moving and the pain will settle in 4 – 6 weeks. An x-ray is not needed. I have sprained my ankle – does it need an x-ray? In this case we have specific guidelines to help the decision making. The Ottawa rules for x-ray of the ankle were developed in 1992 in an effort to provide simple clear guidelines for clinicians as an aid to decision making to help avoid unnecessary x-rays. The guidelines suggest an x-ray is needed after an ankle sprain if there is: • Bony tenderness on palpation along the posterior aspect of the lower 6cm of the lateral malleolus (fibula) or the medial malleolus (tibia) • Inability to walk four weight bearing steps at time of injury or in the A & E department An ankle fracture is treated by immobilising the ankle for long enough to allow the bone to heal. An ankle ligament sprain is best treated with gentle exercise, so it is important to know the difference. Many of us know the expression “rules are made to be broken.” Sometimes a clinician may advise an x-ray even although the Ottawa ankle rules suggest it is not needed. This can be due to unusually high levels of pain or swelling. If you have any doubts about your own ankle after a bad sprain, seek medical advice. You may need an x-ray, or you may not, but in whichever case you should always be reassured by the clinical reasoning, understanding why the decision to x-ray or not to x-ray was made. The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 21

22 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 23

26 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 27

MONEY MATTERS

HMRC TAX CODES AND ALPHABET SOUP “In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes” Benjamin Franklin 1789. I have yet to meet a person who is not surprised when they receive their first payslip. Gross pay: This is the total amount of money you have earned in the pay period (a week, a month depending on your contract) PAYE (Pay As You Earn): Your employer is required by law to collect money on behalf of Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC). N.I. (National Insurance): Your employer is required by law to deduct a percentage of your gross pay and send it to the government in the form of National Insurance (NI). These monies are used to provide benefit such as state pension (SP) and health services (NHS). Net Pay: This is the money you actually receive. The UK Tax Year: This runs from 6th April of one year to the 5th April of the subsequent year.

28 | BALERNO

Personal Allowance (APA): You can earn money up to your personal allowance and not pay tax on it. Tax Code: This relatively simple concept gets incredibly complicated in practice. It is an attempt to allow your employer to deduct the “correct” amount of tax. If it is correct, you will not have to fill a tax return at the end of the tax year. PAYE P45 Form: When you stop working for an employer you will be given a P45 form which will inform you and HMRC of income you have earned and the income tax and the NI withheld by your employer during that tax year. PAYE P60 Form: Given by your employer at tax year end, it provides details of earned income, income tax and National Insurance withheld from your gross income. Tax Return: Hopefully you will not need to do a tax return but if you do your P45/P60 will be essential so don’t lose them!! “Getting Money Back From HMRC”: Yes, it can be done! The Money Matters column is contributed by Personal Money Management. This month’s article is by Dr Peter M Marshall.

@KonectMagazines

Local, friendly and reliable service

0131 477 1167 Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 29

I’ve been off adventuring this month. I might be passionate about all things ‘home’ but my thirty-year ‘past life’ in the travel industry has left its mark and this travel junkie loves nothing more than hearing the words ‘This is your captain speaking welcome aboard!’ However, with travel restrictions still upon us, I switched jet engines for the motor variety and headed south, touching down in the land of the mighty pasty and cream tea. I love exploring Cornwall with its gorgeous beaches, incredible food, pretty ports and dramatic landscapes - whatever the weather! Yes, holidays have a lot to offer but as the trip ends, despite my wanderlust spirit, I’m always ready to come home. There’s nothing quite like that first cuppa, the comfort of your own bed and the sanctuary of a space created just for you. Despite my drive to discover pastures new, there comes a point in any trip where I begin to crave the soothing surroundings of home. Turning the corner into my street there’s always a sense of relief that it’s pretty much exactly as I left it. There’s reassurance in the familiar and the psychology behind it is clear. We’re much more likely to feel safe and comforted by our surroundings if they’re well known to us. The primitive part of our brain reminds us that we’ve survived exposure to this place before. Someone, something or 30 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

MARK REECE

PAINTER & DECORATOR CURRIE

Internal and External work Over 20 years experience Free estimates

0131 466 0304 07745 398014

somewhere familiar is less likely to hurt you expectedly and so you’re drawn back towards it. Travelling inspires us and can fill our minds with countless decor and gardening ideas. The fun part though is trying them out back at the ranch. Recent events have forced us to spend more time in our home than we ever thought possible so it seems reasonable that we’d seize any chance to escape it. While a change of scenery can undoubtedly do us the power of good, it transpires that returning to our haven and re-establishing the rhythm of life at home is equally important. These past many months have taught us the importance of a good routine and its impact on our sense of wellbeing. Whether that’s sticking to a beneficial bedtime or mindfully watering your plants, it all helps. Yes, it seems there’s a lot to be gained by getting away but, in the end, there’s no place like home. 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

BALERNO | 31

32 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

Est. 2005

For all your gardening needs: including tree & hedge cutting, grass mowing, slabbing, fencing, general maintenance and much, much more. Free estimates.

Contact Colin Spence 21 Broomhall Gardens, EH12 7QA T: 0131 334 8602 M: 07720 843446 E: csgardening92@yahoo.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 33

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

What long ears you have We’re all familiar with the story of the tortoise and the hare but did you know the brown hare can reach speeds of up to 45mph if running from predators. Sorry tortoise, but you don’t stand a chance! Whilst brown hares were an introduced species, this dates back to the Roman times (or even earlier) and are therefore considered a naturalised species, meaning they receive the same protection through wildlife acts as our native species. Sadly, brown hare are the victims of wildlife crime through an activity known as hare coursing. I’ll spare everyone the grim details but it’s important to me to let people know of these activities, which unfortunately does go on in the Lothians. They can be found in a huge variety of habitats from wide open fields, cutting their way through the grass to dense woodland. A great time to see them is in early spring, when you might be lucky enough to see them boxing. This is one of their mating rituals and is usually a female rebuking the 34 | BALERNO

advances of an amorous male. It can be a prolonged affair, and I’ve watched them cover huge distances in the fields as the flirting continues. This hare was photographed in local fields and as it ran closer, I held my breath in case it heard me, but it thankfully passed in front, and scampered off into the distance leaving me with a lovely memory of a wonderful encounter. This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes. Follow them on Facebook @ScottishSistersPhotography @KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 35

36 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

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 10 Years Experience

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 37

PUZZLES

WEIR GAS SERVICES Former Scottish Gas engineer

CROSSWORD

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

BRUSHSTROKES

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

^^^ Solution in the September edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Take away (6), 8. Irish lochs (6), 9. Couch (4), 10. Wraps around (8), 11. Disregarded (7), 13. Hard, strong alloy (5), 15. Hints (5), 17. Supply (7), 20 Easy going (8), 21. Ashen (4), 23. Heavy mass (6), 24. Woken up (6). DOWN: 1. Nothing (4), 2. Vegetable (6), 3. Umpire (7), 4 Drudge (5), 5. Type of fish (6), 6. Tends sheep (8), 12. Ran very fast (8) 14. Authors (7), 16. Power, stamina (6) 18. Gas (6), 19. Prickly plants (5), 22. Untruths (4).

^^^ Sudoku solution on page 46

SUDOKU

38 | BALERNO

TEL: 0131 451 5372 MOB: 0797 192 3397 Email: brushstrokes@blueyonder.co.uk 66 Forthview Crescent, Currie, EH14 5QT

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

@KonectMagazines

DSYKES Electrical Contractors

IT WORKS, BUT IS IT SAFE?

10%

DISC O on lab UNT our w ith this a dvert

Be Safe, Stay Safe – use D. Sykes Electrical for all your electrical maintenance and repairs

We are an Approved Certifier of Construction, certified to carry out work requiring a building warrant

0131 477 7447

info@dsykeselectrical.co.uk | www.dsykeselectrical.co.uk | 24 Bridge Road, Colinton EH13 0LQ

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 39

40 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

YOUR LOCAL BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS SPECIALIST ✓ Friendly local service

✓ Options for every budget

✓ Price includes measuring & fitting

• I provide expert advice on the best window solutions • Flexible appointment times • Blinds & curtains made right here in the UK

“Clearly very high quality and we really love them!” R Parker, customer

Over 1000 products, including Faux Wood Venetians from £88

• Ask me about multi-blind discounts • I won’t be beaten on price*

Call me for a free in-home appointment: Graeme Hodge 07488352449 *Based on the same size, spec & levels of service.

@KonectMagazines

Edinburgh

BALERNO | 41

TURNING OVER A NEW LEAF

Clean and Green: STEPS TOWARDS A PLASTIC-FREE BATHROOM

Have a look around your bathroom. If yours is anything like mine, it will be full of plastic containers. From bottles of soap, shampoo and conditioner to tubes of toothpaste and tubs of cream, toiletries can be rather environmentally unfriendly. Fortunately, it is possible to stay clean and be green. There are many easy ways to reduce the amount of plastic in your bathroom. Resist the temptation to throw out everything plastic and instead try making one swap at a time. Here are some ideas to help.

Clean Body - Cut down on plastic bottles by replacing liquid soap and shower gel with bars of soap. Choose bars made from natural ingredients in environmentally friendly packaging, such as cardboard or paper. Instead of using wipes or cotton wool to remove make-up and clean your face, try using a flannel or reusable cotton pads. Replace your plastic mesh sponge with a natural, biodegradable sponge.

Plastic-free alternatives to deodorant rollons are also available. They often come in cardboard tubes, or as crystals in jars. Invest in a stainless-steel safety razor instead of buying plastic, disposable razors. Only the blade needs to be replaced, so the extra cost will be worth it in the long term. Instead of disposable emery boards, try a reusable nail file made from metal or glass. Clean Hair - Shampoo and conditioner bars are now widely available. Most come in cardboard or paper packaging. As with soap, choose one made from natural, biodegradable ingredients. Replace your plastic comb or brush with a wooden one. 42 | BALERNO

If soap and shampoo bars do not suit you or your family, consider using a brand that offers refills like Bio-D or Faith in Nature.

Other - Apparently, every plastic toothbrush you have ever owned still exists. Imagine how many toothbrushes must be scattered across the planet! Bamboo toothbrushes are a good alternative; they are widely available and can be composted. Many still have nylon bristles, so these should be removed with plyers before composting. Toothpaste tubes cannot be recycled. Alternatives are available, such as paste in a jar, tablets or a powder, though not all contain fluoride which is recommended for maintaining healthy teeth. Plastic-free mouthwashes, dental floss and interdental brushes are also available.

Another great swap is recycled toilet paper, wrapped in paper instead of plastic. These are available in supermarkets. Alternatively, try ordering in bulk online. Recycling - Remember to recycle plastic bottles from the bathroom. Despite the lack of recycling information on some packaging, many plastic bottles in the bathroom can be recycled – maybe introduce a recycling bin upstairs. Finally, choose natural, biodegradable products.

This month, why not try a plastic-free alternative in your bathroom – my first step was a bar of soap instead of liquid soaps. I found it easy and haven’t looked back. “Turning Over a New Leaf” is a new column contributed by Jo Johnson, a Balerno resident who aims to share her research and shopping choices each month for manageable steps to a greener life. (Artwork by Nikki Forrest of Memorybox Paintings) For more ideas, follow me on Facebook www.facebook/anewleaf

@KonectMagazines

ASK YOUR PHARMACIST

NEW IDEAS at your local pharmacy Is your bathroom, or your teenagers’ bathroom, overflowing with plastic bottles and containers? You could come into the pharmacy and take a look at some of our new ranges that come with no plastic packaging. • Toothpaste tubes are one of the hardest things to recycle, try our new ‘Truthpaste’ which comes in glass jars in delicious peppermint & spearmint flavour, with charcoal for extra whitening, or the children’s version in mild mint • Shampoo and conditioner is available in bars, lavender & geranium, with argan oil and there’s an orange and lavender shaving bar • Soap, in many fragrances with no packaging at all, smells fantastic! • Jasmine and rose or mint scented deodorants, in a cardboard tube • We also have some lovely loofahs There is a range of more environmentally friendly household products too, with fully recycled paper products and dilutable cleaning materials to make up in your own reusable bottles.

Our Tisserand range of essential oil products can help you combat stress and other worries with packages designed to help you ‘De-stress’, ‘Sleep well’ and ‘Be Happy’. Other natural products include local, prizewinning Pentland honey made by bees working with pollen and nectar very local to where we live and so helpful in combatting allergies. We also carry a range of Burt’s bees lip, hand and skin products with an especially lovely range for expectant Mums including ‘Mama Bee’s Belly Butter’ – rich and moisturising.

This column was contributed by Colinton Village Pharmacy, 46a Bridge Road, Colinton. @KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 43

Got a story? WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL! If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby..... get in touch via

editor@konect.scot

GERRY AITKEN

Painter & Decorator Juniper Green

Get in touch for a FREE Estimate: T: 07798 565 321 • E: junigig@aol.com

Kitchens supplied and fitted Doors and Windows - wood/UPVC Built-in wardrobes • Misted d/g units replaced Custom made gates: cedar, hardwood & softwood supplied & fitted All Joinery & Glazing Free estimates 0131 449 3714 e: rabmcneill62@gmail.com

and we may be able to share it. (You need to live and/or work in the Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton, or Ratho area to be featured in Konect)

44 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

BALERNO | 45

SOLUTIONS

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... YOGA ZOO EDINBURGH – YOGA FOR KIDS @ ORIAM (HERIOT WATT) - Movement and mindfulness for kids! Do you have a little yogi in your family? Did your child become a “Cosmic Kids” devotee in 2020? Are you looking for something new to entertain your little ones? Yoga Zoo kids Yoga classes start in August. Classes for p1-3 and p4-7. Mondays and Thursdays from 3.45pm. Please visit: www.yogazooedinburgh.com to book. PiYo - Yoga + Pilates + Nonstop Movement = Stretch + Strengthen + Sweat! All in ONE workout!! All abilities welcome. Live! Classes - Tuesday 9am Balerno Scout Hall and Friday 9am Currie Bowling Club. Virtual! Classes (Zoom) Monday & Wednesday 19:30. For further details see Facebook.com/ HeidiMacdonaldFitness PARACISE - Low-intensity, gentle exercise class (45 min) with NO floor work. Suits those who find regular fitness classes too demanding, or returning to exercise. Wednesday 10:45 Balerno Scout Hall and Friday 10:15 Currie Bowling Club. For further details see Facebook.com/ HeidiMacdonaldFitness BALERNO ART CLUB This club suits children who thrive by being creative and individual. Online learning will focus on technique, pencil work and colour. Outdoor classes 46 | BALERNO

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

will be a visual appreciation of colour, depth and nature through pencil and other mixed media like watercolours. We encourage individuality and celebrating being your own true artist. First class is a FREE trial. Email: balernoartclub@gmail.com Text: 07591 990020 Instagram @annieandcarasonlineclasses BALERNO DANCE FITNESS - This class suits children who like to be active, whilst having fun. Online learning will focus on musicality and learning dance routines to your the children’s favourite music within the comfort of your own home. Outdoor Dance Fitness can enjoy the benefits of having more space outdoors in nature, whilst learning Dance Fitness routines together as a group. First class is a FREE trial.

ACROSS: 1. Chateau, 5. Raced, 8. Identical, 9. Ode, 10. Eaten, 12. Mirrors, 13. Relationships, 15. Instant, 17. Ahead, 19. Who, 20. Ambulance, 22. Yield, 23. Enthral. DOWN: 1. Crime, 2. Ale, 3. Extinct, 4. Uncomfortable, 5. Ruler, 6. Crocodile, 7. Dresses, 11. Telescope, 13. Railway, 14. Scarlet, 16. Award, 18. Dwell, 21 Nor.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 38

Email: balernoartclub@gmail.com Text: 07591990020 Instagram: @annieandcarasonlineclasses To include your Club or Class, please email details, up to 75 words, to editor@ konect.scot Not-for-profit groups are FREE. There is a small charge for businesses. See www.konect.scot for information.

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com

@KonectMagazines