Konect Balerno February 2025

LOCAL HISTORY: HEALTH:

RECIPE:

elcome to the February 2025 issue of Konect, the first one for this year.

We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things local and focusing our articles on all that is best about our local area. William Weir’s walk feature on Calderwood reminds us that we don’t have to go far to find different experiences, even places we may be familiar with. He shares his winter wonderland walk there last month.

Suzanne’s Real Life column encourages us to try something new this year. She mentions pilates was her new thing last year, and coincidentally, the health column this month is all about pilates. While the promise of a “whole new body” is too good to be true, finding a new class for exercise or other interest is always a good thing! So do check the Clubs & Classes section at the back of Konect for ideas.

There is much more of course! Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month.

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

LORD COCKBURN OF BONALY TOWER

“I set up my rural household goods at Bonaly, in the Parish of Colinton by the northern base of the Pentland Hills; and unless some avenging angel shall expel me, I shall never leave that paradise.”

Thus wrote Lord Henry Thomas Cockburn (1779-1854) in his famous Memorials of His Time, of Bonaly Tower on the edge of the Pentland Hills. Cockburn bought the land with its farm house in 1811 from the trustees of James Gillespie (1726-97), the snuffmaker of Spylaw and founder of James Gillespie’s School. The tower was designed for him by his friend and eminent Edinburgh architect William H Playfair in 1836.

Henry Cockburn was born on 26th October 1779 in one of the flats on the east side of Parliament Square in the High Street of the Royal Mile. His father, a somewhat distant figure, was Sheriff of Midlothian and a Baron of the Exchequer. Of his mother he wrote in his Memorials:

“My mother was the best woman I have ever known. If I were to survive her a thousand years, I should still have a deep and grateful recollection of her kindness, piety, her devotion to her family, and her earnest gentle, and Christian anxiety for their happiness in this life and the life to come.”

ten days in which I was not flogged, at least once.’ He studied law at Edinburgh University rising in that profession to become a judge, Whig reformer and conservationist then Lord Advocate and Solicitor General for Scotland.

“One of Cockburn’s notable court cases was his defence of Dr Robert Knox the anatomist, who had unquestioningly accepted corpses from the infamous body snatchers Burke and Hare”

He was educated at the High School and explained: ‘six hours a day were spent on Latin ... out of the whole four years of my attendance there were probably not

He was described by Thomas Carlyle (1795-1881) as, ‘small, solid and genuine.... a gentleman, I should say and perfectly in the Scotch type, perhaps the very last of the peculiar species’. One of Cockburn’s notable court cases was his defence of Dr Robert Knox the anatomist, who had unquestioningly accepted corpses from the infamous body snatchers Burke and Hare. Sir Walter Scott accused Knox “of trading deep in human flesh”. Although Cockburn gained Knox vindication it was not without disgrace; Knox had to leave the city. In 1822 Cockburn’s success in the defence of Stuart of Dunearn for killing Alexander Boswell in a duel was hailed in the House of Commons as: ‘The speech that had not been surpassed by any effort in the whole range of ancient or modern forensic eloquence’. In 1828, following the Burk and Hare murders, Cockburn again exhibited his brilliance in his successful defence of Helen MacDougal, Burke’s mistress.

Cockburn was appointed SolicitorGeneral for Scotland in 1830 in the same year as his friend and fellow judge Francis Jeffrey (1773-1850) was appointed Lord Advocate by the Whig Prime Minister, Earl Grey. In 1831 he was elected Lord Rector of Glasgow University and in 1834 he was elevated to the Bench as Lord Cockburn.

Cockburn and Jeffrey were strong supporters of Parliamentary reform and drafted the First Scottish Reform Bill which was enacted in 1834. For Whigs it meant the enfranchisement for those of ‘property and intelligence’ – householders who paid £10 rates or landowners. It increased the Scottish electorate from 5000 to 60,000 but excluded the working class and, fearing a step too far towards democracy, Cockburn said: ‘It is impossible to exaggerate the ecstasy of Scotland where to be sure it is like liberty given to slaves’. However, in his old age and looking back to these halcyon days he cautioned against a future which would bring Reform Bills ‘every twenty years or less’ and: ‘I wish I could believe that any people who have obtained the means of engrossing supreme power can be induced by education to refrain from grasping it.’

In his later years he wrote Life of Jeffrey (published posthumously in 1856). His Journal, 1831-44 in two volumes in 1874 and his autobiographical, Memorials of his Time give a highly descriptive and humorous descriptions of Edinburgh and the numerous ‘intelligentsia’ of its ‘Golden Age’.

He died peacefully at his country retreat Bonaly Tower on 26th April 1854 soon after returning home from Ayr where he had been engaged in the Justiciary Court. He was buried in Dean Cemetery. His statue, by William Brodie in 1863 is in the northeast corner of Parliament Hall in Edinburgh.

In addition to his strong support of parliamentary reform Cockburn’s legacy to Edinburgh was his intense dedication to the preservation of medieval Edinburgh. He saved John Knox’s House from destruction in 1816 during the road-widening proposals for the High Street and was saddened by the tree-felling in Bellevue

LORD COCKBURN

From the etching in Crombie’s Modern Athenians

and Drumsheugh when new building projects were proposed.

His name is best known today from the work of the Cockburn Association (The Edinburgh Civic Trust) founded in 1875 which is dedicated to ‘the maintenance and improvement of the amenity of the City of Edinburgh and its neighbourhood.’

The Cockburn Conservation Trust (1978) ‘acquires, restores and sells neglected buildings of historic or architectural interest in Edinburgh.’ Cockburn Street formed in 1856 which runs from the High Street in the Royal Mile in a curve downhill to Market Street was named in his honour.

This article was contributed by David Dick, who lives in Craiglockhart. First printed in Konect in 2018

SHOW YOURSELF

SOME

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all about couples. This year, spend some time on yourself.

BIG YOURSELF UP - Silence the negative voices in your head by paying yourself some compliments – just as you would a friend. Congratulate yourself for a job well done or for having the courage to tackle something difficult. And compliment others too - lavishing praise on others can boost self-esteem.

BUY YOURSELF A GIFT - Got your eye on a fabulous pair of shoes? Buy them! Or pick out a gorgeous bouquet for yourself. Or book a hair appointment and splash out on a new colour or style.

TAKE A WALK - Make some time for a stroll outdoors, even a short one, and just be at one with your thoughts. Really take notice of what’s around you and take some invigorating deep breaths.

COOK SOMETHING YUMMY - Try out a dish you’ve been meaning to create for a while and make it just for you rather than for a dinner party. It might be so successful you decide to get friends around to enjoy it another time.

HAVE A GOOD CLEAR-OUT - Eliminating things that don’t bring you joy is good for the soul. Dive into your wardrobe, clear out all those clothes that no longer fit, and take them to a charity shop so someone else can enjoy them.

PULL THE PLUG ON SOCIAL MEDIA and you’ll love yourself for it. Social media can make for a lot of dissatisfaction about your own life, so strictly limit it.

“A

Whole New Body”

As we move away from winter towards spring, it is an ideal time to think about our fitness and how we might want to improve it.

Joseph Pilates is famous for saying that if you take up Pilates as a form of exercise, “In 10 sessions, you will feel the difference. In 20 sessions, you will see the difference. And in 30 sessions, you will have a whole new body.” That sounds wonderful, but what is it all about?

Pilates has become very popular and in recent years we have seen such an increase in the opportunities to participate in Pilates classes across Edinburgh. We asked Amy Kellagher, a Chartered Physiotherapist and qualified Pilates instructor, who works at the McNaughton Physiogrange.

WHAT IS PILATES? It takes its name from the late Joseph Pilates, who developed exercises that focused on developing the body’s core muscles to improve body awareness and posture. These exercises are based on biomechanical principles backed up by medical research.

Mat work Pilates is mainly performed lying on a mat and involves specific controlled strengthening exercises for the muscles that support your spine from your neck to your pelvis. It uses breathing to coordinate each movement.

THE 8 PRINCIPLES OF PILATES ARE:

Effective breathing - to release any tension and stiffness in the body

Concentration - to promote correct alignment and body awareness

Control– muscle control is important when working against gravity in mat work exercises

Centering – Pilates exercises facilitate core muscle strength

Precision – precipitates greater awareness and control of movement

Flow – even continuous flowing movements are encouraged

Integrated Isolation – helps you recognise, then correct, poor movement patterns

Routine – repetition leads to greater skill and benefits

WHY DO PHYSIOTHERAPISTS RECOMMEND AND TEACH PILATES?

Pilates has been accepted and researched by Physiotherapists because it is seen as an intelligent form of exercise that is safe for all ages and abilities. Research shows that a first episode of a simple low back pain resolves within 6 weeks. The alarming fact is that 80% of those people who have simple back pain will go on to have a second episode within 3-12 months. One of the problems thought to contribute to this recurrence is weak core muscles. It is well documented that the muscles trained in Pilates help to support the spinal joints to help prevent recurrence of back pain.

HOW TO GET STARTED? Make sure you do your research and find a suitably qualified Pilates instructor. It is beneficial to have a Pilates trained Chartered Physiotherapist to get the best of both worlds if you have had or suffer from back problems. Discuss with your Pilates instructor whether a 1 to 1 session may be sensible initially or whether you can go straight into a class situation.

As Joseph Pilates has also said:-

“Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. In order to achieve happiness, it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. If at the age of 30 you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If at 60 you are supple and strong then you are young.”

Do consider whether Pilates can help you have both a happy and healthy 2025 – maybe a whole new body awaits!

The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh physiogrange.co.uk

Lemon Pot Puddings

These delicious individual hot lemon puddings are the perfect sweet treat after a hearty winter supper or Sunday lunch.

Ingredients:

• 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing

• 175g golden caster sugar

• Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (you will need about 120ml lemon juice)

• 4 medium eggs, separated

• 75g plain flour

• 130ml milk

• 2 tbsp flaked almonds

• Icing sugar, for dusting

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180oC/fan 160oC/gas mark 4. Grease six 175ml ovenproof ramekin dishes with butter.

2. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Beat in the lemon zest then beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. Sift over half the plain flour and fold in, then fold in the lemon juice and milk. Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in. Gradually fold the egg whites into the mixture.

3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared ramekin dishes and sprinkle over the flaked almonds. Place the dishes in a large roasting tin and pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden on top. Serve immediately, dusted with icing sugar.

Makes 6 | Ready in 40 mins

TIP - These puddings will form a lovely layer of thick lemon custard under the sponge topping so take care not to overcook them. They will still have a slight wobble in the centre.

We’ve just returned from an incredible trip to Japan. Our adventure was filled with sights, sounds, flavours and new experiences.

One tasty revelation was Sake, a drink I’ve generally not had much exposure to and one I wouldn’t normally gravitate towards. But, when in Rome…in this case, Japan, we decided to try it, and we loved it!

Sake, Japan’s iconic rice wine, is a drink steeped in tradition and craftsmanship. But what is Sake and what makes it so special? The production process for Sake is more akin to beer brewing than wine production. Sake is made with polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold. The starch inside the rice grains is converted into sugar which is then fermented into alcohol. The rice is polished to remove its outer layers and the polish effects the final Sake’s flavour profile.

There are different styles of Sake which are versatile and can be enjoyed warm, cold or at room temperature. Premium Sake, like Ginjo or Daiginjo are best served chilled in small ceramic cups, to enhance their fruit and floral profile. Like still wine, Sake is available as a dry or sweet product.

Before going to Japan, I hadn’t realised how versatile Sake is. I am excited to try the different styles and flavours and explore new food pairings. While we won’t be going to Japan again soon, I think we will try and bring some of the colours home.

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

Isn’t it interesting that we wish one another a “happy new year” long after singing Auld Lang Syne – for weeks after boxing up the Christmas decorations and returning them to the loft.

Regardless of what’s going on in our world and various concerns about issues in our own country, we hope that 2025 will be a good year. It would be wonderful to see peace achieved in at least one area where war is currently raging. And, on a personal level, we also hope to see growth and progress in our own life and in the lives of those we know and love, occasions to celebrate, good health and maybe even some fun surprises in the next 12 months.

I’m focusing on the “new” in “Happy New Year”. I’ve not exactly made any new year’s resolutions. This tradition seems to be becoming less popular - social media posts regularly tell us that we don’t need to strive to improve, we are “enough” as we are, we shouldn’t load ourselves up with goals and then feel guilty when we can’t achieve them. Although I agree that it’s good to

be realistic, I love the promise that a new year holds, the “clean slate” potential!

If you live in Balerno, you too may have been delighted to see snow falling early morning on New Year’s Day. I stood at our glass patio door and watched as sleet turned to big white snowflakes that quickly covered our garden and bedecked the trees. It was a wonderful illustration of the “it’s all fresh and new” theme.

Signing up for a Pilates class was a new thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it has been a positive change. I may not be as proficient as many in the class, I struggle to do some of the stretches because of a knee issue, and I sometimes have a hard time resisting dancing to the background music when I should be listening to the instructor. But I know the exercise is doing me good. I’m not sure what new thing(s) I will do/ encounter this year, but I will keep my eyes and ears open for them.

When my eldest daughter was in primary school, she decided to try something new. I heard about it from another mum, who had been at the school to watch her daughter do Highland dancing in an assembly. “I didn’t know your girl did it too,” she said. So I explained that she didn’t, although she was in a ballet class. “That’s strange,” said my friend. “At the assembly the children who took Highland dance lessons were invited to go to the centre of the floor and perform. I thought your daughter did rather well.”

Later I asked my child why she had done this. “Oh,” she said. “I thought the teacher said, “Will all children who would like to do Highland dancing please come forward now? So I went.”

Do something new this new year.

real LIFE 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.

SUZANNE GREEN

FEBRUARY SUDOKUS (HARD*) (EASY)

FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Fasten to (6), 4. Enquiring (6), 9. Reduce length (7), 10. Loosen (5), 11. More (5), 12. Stretches (7), 13. Twisted together (11), 18. Requiring (7), 20. Not inner (5), 22. Assists (5), 23.Needingadrink(7),24.Hurried(6),25.Stopped(6).

DOWN: 1. Reply (6), 2. Type of fish (5), 3. Small country house (7), 5. A trick (5), 6. Severe (7), 7. Lubricate (6), 8. Enquire into (11), 14. Used for sewing (7), 15. Worship (7), 16. Fasten (6), 17. Ragged (6), 19. Hand out (5), 21. Trials (5).

* We have added an extra sudoku puzzle this month due to popular demand! Let us know what you think

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

^^^ Easy sudoku solution on page 45

Hard sudoku solution on page

^^^ Solution in the MARCH edition of Konect

a winter wonderland

With the hum of the snack van generator in my ears, I join the path from Oakbank car park by the A71, heading towards Calderwood. The snows that blew in with the New Year still lie one week on, crunching, compacted and re-frozen beneath my feet.

Initially, I follow the path along by the main road. The route takes me down some steps, over the Linhouse Water gushing below, and roughly parallels the main road until joining a small access road heading towards the main part of Calderwood. After clocking the temperature (-3oC), I’d been wondering whether this was the best day for my walk. But how wrong am I. The freezing temperatures have rendered the everyday fascinating. The roadside bushes

bear remnant snow dotted along their branches like balls of cotton wool. Ploughed snow lies at the side of the road in great dirty, icy blocks looking like quartzite boulders, surfaces furred with centimetre-long ice fronds. Concentric ice bubbles in one puddle look like the Yellowstone hot spring in monochrome, another is like an abstract painting; even the smallest of twigs are spiked with ice crystals as if cut from rare geodes.

Following the signs for Calderwood and then the green waymarkers, I bear right at an intersection, keeping to the main path. It is then the sound of the Murieston Water that I hear, far below to my left. Mature and stately trees guard the route at intervals. At one point I turn a corner to find a beech tree staring at me. Staring? Multiple ‘eyes’ are peering eerily at me from the near side of the trunk. Not real eyes of course – these are the places where branches have been shed as the tree has grown, leaving eye shapes. In fact, since at this latitude branch growth occurs predominantly on the southfacing side of the trunk, these features can be used to determine which direction is south. I take out my phone to check and find the bearing is remarkably accurate.

Soon, I am passing through birch woods, the low sun casting long shadows of the slender trunks across the snow. Gradually, I become aware of many small birds in the trees around me, flitting from tree to tree, constantly calling, feasting on the catkins. It’s hard to make them out, but I notice they have finch-like beaks, and a deep notch in the tail. It’s not until one alights on a branch right above my head

that I can truly appreciate their beauty. Blushed with crimson on the forehead, chin (below a little black ‘beard’) and upper breast, fading into a pale belly almost as white as the snow – they’re redpolls! A flock of forty or so are gradually working their way through the forest past where I am standing. Their plumage makes them appear slightly embarrassed at being caught gorging themselves, but they need not be. They are on the UK red list of bird species and, particularly in these conditions, need any boost they can get. Intrigued, I pick one of the catkins. It disintegrates between my fingers into a thousand seeds which fall to pepper the snow at my feet, and I immediately appreciate the bounty on offer here.

The woods give way more open country - scrubland dotted with lichen-encrusted hawthorn - which today feels more like Siberian tundra. I pass a stance of tall pines on a little hill before descending to meet the path coming from Mid Calder (another possible starting point for this walk). I turn right at an information board to begin the return leg and soon pass a frozen pond. Opposite the pond, I take a small detour off to the left. I duck under a fallen birch and down, down I go. Thankfully, the snow-covered slope is kind to me and I arrive, dignity intact, standing by the Linhouse Water at a bend in the river. Opposite is a little waterfall created by a small burn draining into the river from height. Today, however… today it is Narnia. The week of freezing weather has created a miniature cathedral of ice. Three-foot icicles glisten behind a thin curtain of falling

GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!

water and hang all around like chaotic crystal organ pipes. Below, while the central stream remains unfrozen, on either side the rocks are a coated in a cascade of clear ice formations, all the way down to the river below. And it’s not just the waterfall itself; along the far bank to the left, arrays of icicles hang in multiple rows like dragon’s teeth, while to my right the frozen river surface reflects the winter sun like hammered bronze.

I just stand there for a while, absorbing the scene around me, reluctant to pull myself away. I thank my luck for happening upon this enchanting experience. Eventually, I start back towards the car, my step a little lighter as I go. You know, it just goes to show, you could jet off to Lapland or Val d’Isère, but sometimes Winter Wonderland is to be found right here, on our doorstep.

Calderwood is part of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park and has been designated a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’ for its mix of ancient woodland, grassland and wetland. Be prepared for walking on rough tracks.

This article was contributed by William Weir. William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.

SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm.

THURSDAY 27TH FEBRUARY

Balerno & District Schools Pipe Band

Fundraising Concert - Enjoy an evening of Scottish music with performances from our talented pipe band and other special local performers. Balerno High School 7-9pm doors open 6.30pm, tickets £10 (children/teens free) at the door or email bdspbconcert@gmail.com

What’s on …

All meets are in Edinburgh Pentlands (formerly Juniper Green) Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road 10.00am12noon. New members welcome.

Further details from our Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk

1-3pm - Textile Repair Lab with Dianne Miller. Suitable for beginners / intermediate sewers. replace zips/buttons and repair rips/holes in your or woven garments using a range of creative techniques including visible/invisible mending Please bring one or two damaged textile items to repair. have a more advanced atelier workshop for experienced sewers in

February 2025

WEDNESDAY 5TH FEBRUARY - “West Lothian’s UFOs” an illustrated talk by Ian Wark.

WEDNESDAY 19TH FEBRUARY - “The National Trust of Scotland” an illustrated talk by Claire Grant.

What’s on …

Calendar of free events - please book online or email to enquire

February 2025

Mental Health Mondays 7-9pm on 10th & 17th February

please book online or email to enquire

Related social events with a mental health and wellbeing focus. Come along to meet new people and help inform our plans for this regular new group. Tea, coffee, juice & biscuits available. Book a space or just turn up.

7-9pm on 10th & 17th February with a mental health and wellbeing focus. people and help inform our plans for this coffee, juice & biscuits available. up.

8-9pm - Menopause Chat - wellbeing info and during menopause. Drop in or book your space. a charity and we welcome your donations when you attend!

Wednesday 19th 7.30-9.30pm / Friday 21st 2.30-4.30pm

7.30-9.30pm / Friday 21st 2.30-4.30pm bags - All materials are supplied, booking Wed evenings, ages 12+ welcome on

Textile Repair

hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com www.hub531.appointedd.com Mondays 7-9pm on 10th & 17th February events with a mental health and wellbeing focus. meet new people and help inform our plans for this group. Tea, coffee, juice & biscuits available. just turn up. 19th 7.30-9.30pm / Friday 21st 2.30-4.30pm Tote bags - All materials are supplied, booking only for Wed evenings, ages 12+ welcome on session.

Calendar of free events - please book online or email to enquire

CALENDAR OF FREE EVENTS

- please book online or email to enquire

7-9pm on 10th & 17th February Related social events with a mental health and wellbeing focus. Come along to meet new people and help inform our plans for this ee, juice & biscuits available.

Monthly Craft - Tote bags - All materials are supplied, booking essential. Adults only for Wed evenings, ages 12+ welcome on Friday afternoon session.

Saturday 22nd 1-3pm - Textile Repair Lab with Dianne Spottiswood Miller. Suitable for beginners / intermediate sewers. Learn how to replace zips/buttons and repair rips/holes in your favourite knitted or woven garments using a range of creative hand sewing techniques including visible/invisible mending methods. Please bring one or two damaged textile items to repair. (please note, we will have a more advanced atelier workshop for experienced sewers in March)

Suitable for beginners / intermediate sewers. zips/buttons and repair rips/holes in your woven garments using a range of creative including visible/invisible mending one or two damaged textile items to repair. advanced atelier workshop for experienced sewers in

Hub@531 is run by a charity and we welcome your donations when you attend!

CONTACT THE HUB hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com

Wednesday 19th 7.30-9.30pm / Friday 21st 2.30-4.30pm - All materials are supplied, booking essential. Adults only for Wed evenings, ages 12+ welcome on

BOOK THE HUB www.hub531.appointedd.com

Pentlands Community Space SCO049766

with Dianne

Tuesday 25th 8-9pm - Menopause Chat - wellbeing info and support for during menopause. Drop in or book your space.

Spottiswood Miller. Suitable for beginners / intermediate sewers. Learn how to replace zips/buttons and repair rips/holes in your favourite knitted or woven garments using a range of creative hand sewing techniques including visible/invisible mending methods. Please bring one or two damaged textile items to repair. (please note, we will have a more advanced atelier workshop for experienced sewers in - wellbeing info and support for during menopause. Drop in or book your space.

Menopause Chat - wellbeing info and menopause. Drop in or book your space.

Hub@531 is run by a charity and we welcome your donations when you attend!

WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH - “Staffa” an illustrated talk by Karen McCormack. Pentlands Community Space SCO049766

Hub@531 is run by a charity and we welcome your donations when you attend!

and we welcome your donations when you attend!

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.

CONTACT THE HUB hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com

BOOK THE HUB www.hub531.appointedd.com

EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

CONTACT THE HUB hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com

BOOK THE HUB www.hub531.appointedd.com

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

LOTHIAN OVAL RACING CLUBCommunity Stockcar Radio Control Car Club. Monday nights. 6.00pm10.00pm. £6 per meeting. Douglas Hall, Dalmahoy, EH27 8EB. E: info@theracehall.co.uk or T: 07972 702642

BALERNO PARISH CHURCH

GUILD - We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from October to March. There are interesting talks, activities and fellowship. 7.30pm, The Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church.

ORIAM WALKING FOOTBALL

CLUB - We run a local Walking Football Club, established in 2015, for women aged 40+ and men aged 50+. Our sessions, which are very much mixed ability, take place at Oriam Sports Centre, Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS, on a Mon and Fri 12:30-1:30pm, and Wed at 12-1pm We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.40 but we do have monthly membership schemes available. Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@ btinternet.com

RATHO LUNCH CLUB - Lunch club for older residents living in Ratho & Ratho Station. Pop in for great company, great food, great value. Run by Queensferry Care, Ratho Lunch Club is held the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month 12-2.00pm at Ratho Community Centre. The Ratho Ravers meet 10.00am-12noon and many enjoy light exercise and company before lunch is served.

PALM DEMENTIA CAFE - The PALM cafe is held on the last Tuesday of the month from 3.004.15pm in the St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno. The cafe serves the communities of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, providing a space for people with dementia and their carers to meet others for support and social contact. Activities include music, movement, reminiscence and craft. A small voluntary donation is requested to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information please contact Clare Dow on

claremdow@gmail.com

FLAGGY FRIDAYS - Does your child have an interest in flags of the world? Come and join us for Flaggy Fridays! Each week we will focus on a different flag of the world. In just 30 minutes we’ll learn a brief summary of the flag’s history, why a flag has its colours, layout, its old flag(s) then end with a fun quiz! First class FREE trial. Online Zoom club. Email flaggyfridays@gmail. com to join

ADULT ART CLASSES & SOCIAL - Free taster class! Learn Art in a relaxed, friendly environment. Based on the drawing theories of Betty Edwards - this class is appropriate for all levels. Our teacher Jane holds a BA from Hallam University with over 25 years experience teaching art, design and photography. Come develop your core skills and have a cuppa with others who share a love of Art. Thursdays 10.00am-12.00pm, Currie Community Centre, 280 Lanark Road West. W: justvillagesocialevents.co.uk E:nicole@justvillagesocialevents.co.uk

THE HUB@531 - Community space in the heart of Juniper Green village, offering regular groups and events and hireable meeting / small event space. Social activities and clubs for all ages, including Come for a Cuppa, Book Bug, Knitting, Yoga and much more. 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE. See hub531.appointedd.com for information and to book activities. Facebook: “The Hub at 531”

BALERNO SWI - We meet on the first Tuesday each month from September to May in Balerno Community Centre at 7:30pm, when we have speakers or demonstrations followed by a cuppa and time to chat. Anyone interested can see more about us on our Facebook page, “Balerno SWI”

PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUBCome and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 7pm. Table money £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see W: bridgewebs.com/pentland E: mthjkb@gmail.com

ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - The Club was formed about 1946 and meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue,

Colinton on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. It is non-competitive. For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145

THE MEETING PLACE - A community cafe for those 65 and over and all unpaid carers. Every Monday 10.00am - 4.00pm. Lunch £5 if you wish and ALL refreshments free. Free exercise classes, bingo, dominoes, crafting and much more. 99 Forthview Crescent, 42nd Pentland Scout Hall. For info contact: themeetingplacejcb@gmail.com

BALERNO RAMBLERS

WEEKEND GROUP - A busy walking group with a programme of interesting walks in a variety of locations. Some walks may be more challenging than the midweek programme.

W: www.ramblers.org.uk/balerno or, www.facebook.com/BalernoRamblers

E: enquiries@balernoramblers.org.uk

BALERNO RAMBLERS

MIDWEEK GROUP - Meet for walks in Lothians, Fife, Borders and further afield. For walk details contact M.Timmins on 07917878955. Follow Balerno Ramblers on Facebook.

JUNIPER GREEN NURSERY

PLAYGROUP - Juniper Green Community Centre. We are a small friendly playgroup with very experienced staff. We take children who are from 2 to 3 years old for morning sessions (9.15-11.15) cost £13 which includes a snack. No parent duties required. For more information:

W: junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb. co.uk

E: junipergreenplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk

T: 07308 033386

PENTLAND SINGERS

COMMUNITY CHOIR - Rehearsals every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Balerno Parish Church. Singing a wide range of choral music, with local concerts twice a year, no previous experience required and new members always warmly welcomed. Actively seeking new members. Further information:

W: www.pentlandsingers.org.uk

E: pentland_singers@yahoo.co.uk

KNIT ‘N’ KNATTER - Ratho Library, Ratho Commuity Centre, Thursdays 2pm to 4pm. Tea & coffee provided. Bring along your wooly creations. Ratho Library 0131 333 5297.

PENTLAND JUNIOR

SINGERS - Rehearsals every Tuesday 6-7pm, Balerno Parish Church. For young people aged 8 to 14. Come and sing a wide array of choral music in a fun and supportive environment. More information: W: www.pentlandjuniors.org or E: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE

- Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs 6.00-7.30pm. Company Section (P7-S6) Sun 6.30- 8.30pm Gibson Craig Hall, Currie. Contact 65edinburghbb@gmail. com or 07730 414371.

RATHO COMMUNITY CENTRE

• Gentle Exercise Group, every Thurs from 10am-12 noon

• Gentle Exercise Group, every Thurs from 10am-12 noon

• 50+ Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm

ACROSS: 1. Eels, 3. Checkers, 9. Contact, 10. Nicer, 11. Achievements, 14. Gem, 16. Paths, 17. Dye, 18. Explanations, 21. Comma, 22. Showing, 23. Domestic, 24. Ends.

• Book Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm

PILATES, YOGA, STRENGTH & FITNESS CLASSES - at Prime Sports Physio & Pilates Studio & Gym - Our expert physios, Pilates & yoga instructors and personal trainers offer a programme of 22 classes per week to promote wellbeing, health, strength and fitness. We’re delighted to now offer a monthly class membership as well as individual class bookings. Visit: primesportsphysio.co.uk to book classes. E: hello@primesportsphysio.co.uk for more info.

BARREFusion - A Barre class with a twist! Elements of Ballet & Yoga. Includes signature Fuse moves, Cardio bursts & Strength work. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or pre-book at www.bookwhen.com/ heidimacdonaldfitness. Fridays 9:15am, Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church. For further details: M: 07982205111 E: heidi.instructor@gmail.com

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Eels, 3. Checkers, 9. Contact, 10. Nicer, 11. Achievements, 14. Gem, 16. Paths, 17. Dye, 18. Explanations, 21. Comma, 22. Showing, 23. Domestic, 24. Ends.

DOWN: 1. Exchange, 2. Lunch, 4. Hit, 5. Conversation, 6. Excited, 7. Sure, 8. Caterpillars, 12. Eaten, 13. Messages, 15. Maximum, 19. Onion, 20. Iced, 22. Ski.

• Knit and Natter Group Thurs from 2pm-4pm

Tel: Ratho Community Centre 0131 333 1055

SOLUTIONS TO FEBRUARY SUDOKUS ON PAGE 38

JUNIPER GREEN BOARDGAMERS - Family and kids friendly board-game group open to all. Come join us to play all sorts of board-games. Children are free with any adult (£3/adut) Meetings every 2nd Friday 6pm to 9pm see boardjg.co.uk for details of contact eric@boardjg.co.uk

PENTLAND CALEDONIA

PIPES AND DRUMS - Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums are looking for new members, players or learners. We teach pipes and drums free. We meet in Balerno Community Centre every Friday 7pm - 9.30pm. You can find us on Facebook. For information call Deeanne on 07885 612583

JUNIPER GREEN TENNIS CLUB - This small friendly LTA affiliated club in the heart of Juniper Green is open to all to join. There’s an extensive junior coaching programme, as well as adult coaching and social sessions. For membership check out our website clubspark.lta.org.uk/ JuniperGreenTennisClub and follow us on Facebook.com/ junipergreentennis. We look forward to welcoming you!

PARACISE - Gentle to moderate exercise to music you’ll love. Working on balance, mobility, flexibility & posture. All STANDING. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or pre-book at bookwhen. com/heidimacdonaldfitness Wednesdays 10:45am Balerno Scout Hall - bring water. For further details call Heidi on 07982 205111

.

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 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. E: balernoartclub@gmail.com T: 07591990020

Insta: @everychildisanartist_

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 KONECT. SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

DOWN: 1. Exchange, 2. Lunch, 4. Hit, 5. Conversation, 6. Excited, 7. Sure, 8. Caterpillars, 12. Eaten, 13. Messages, 15. Maximum, 19. Onion, 20. Iced, 22. Ski.

SOLUTIONS TO FEBRUARY SUDOKUS ON PAGE 38

WE APOLOGISE TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THE DELAYS IN OPENING, IT IS OUTWITH OUR CONTROL. WE AIM TO BE OPEN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE