Konect Balerno June 2024

LOCAL HISTORY:

LOCAL WALK:

SPOTLIGHT:

PLUS: MONEY MATTERS, HEALTH, Real Life, CLUBS & CLASSES, and MUCH more inside!

here is a lovely summery feel to this June issue, and a different walk to enjoy when you can grab a few sunny hours - not in the hills this time but a short drive towards West Calder, at Cobbinshaw Reservoir. It’s a location that may easily be overlooked for a more spectacular hill walk but as usual William Weir skilfully points out all the birdsong and wildlife to be enjoyed there.

We have a summer update from Balerno Pharmacy with Nicole’s top summer health tips, and a local history feature which I hope you find interesting. I enjoyed Suzanne’s take on the northern lights show in her Real Life column this month! And the Money Matters column is the last one from Personal Money Management: Peter is retiring. After an incredible 12 years of sharing his expertise every month in Konect, his column will be missed and we wish him all the very best in retirement.

As ever, you will find everything you need for home and garden in the pages of this magazine. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

As I emerge from the car, I am immediately met with the sweet aroma of warm spring air drifting over open country on a slight breeze.

The air is filled with the gently lilting, descending, laid-back song of willow warblers. The bubbling, haunting call of a curlew echoes across the plain laid out below.

I pause to take in the uninterrupted vista. I can see clearly to Tinto Hill (the highest point in Lanarkshire) in the south and, turning to my left, the profile of the Pentlands lies off to the north-east beyond Cobbinshaw Reservoir –my destination today. Cobbinshaw lies just five miles south of West Calder and was built by engineer James Jardine to feed the Union Canal. Although I am only twenty minutes or so from home, the big country views conjure the sensation of having been transported somewhere altogether more remote.

Having taken a small access road half a mile north of Woolfords, I’m parked in a layby beneath the forest plantation of Pearie Law. It’s a peaceful morning as I tramp down the tarmac in the direction of the reservoir. Red

campion and cuckooflower are in bloom by the roadside. A meadow pipit alights on a power line above. Soon, I am crossing a bridge over the railway line and arrive at a farmstead by the shore. Here, swallows swoop over the gardens and the song of blackbird and chaffinch reverberates through the trees.

I make my way over to the water’s edge and watch as anglers set out in small motorboats, puttering forth into open water. Lines are cast, rods arcing through the air, as gigantic wind turbines wheel silently on the horizon behind. I head down to the causeway that separates the southern quarter of the reservoir from the main body of water. As I make my way across, I feel the south-westerly breeze pick up and it ushers the clouds on sufficiently for the sun to break through, imbuing a little warmth and dressing the water’s wind-rippled surface in shimmering gold. Water breaks against stone in gentle, hollow slaps. Greylag geese are grazing on a promontory opposite. A small group take off, circling past. A redshank whirs by too, propelled by rapid wingbeats.

Once across, I head up the rise to another steading, then bear right, down towards a second, shorter, causeway. Here I spot more geese, Canada geese this time, who take to the water, meandering in my direction. A tufted duck forages in an inlet and is soon joined by another small flotilla of geese. A lapwing executes tumbling, diving aerial acrobatics whilst emitting surreal radio-tuner whistles, perhaps to distract the gulls, who soar the thermals above, from an egg-laden nest.

I sit on a large stone at the side of the causeway and pull out my notebook. The only sounds I can hear are the honk of the geese, the lapping of water, and the

song of a lark high over the fields nearby. If I were mixing a tonic of sounds to relax and nourish the soul, I could scarcely think of a better combination. Suppressing the urge to close my eyes and drift off, I make to set off again and, looking up, see two oystercatchers have alighted on the path ahead, looking splendid in their black and white attire with long, lipstick-red bill and legs. They retreat, flapscurry fashion, as approach.

I continue over rough pasture and, coming over a rise, the rust-red form of Tarbrax bing looms into view like a volcanic cone. In the foreground, a flock of sheep with young lambs regard me quizzically. Soon I reach a rough track which I join, heading west. This takes me past the remnants of old mine workings and, farther on, some ruined buildings standing forlorn, the windfarm as their backdrop – old and new juxtaposed. I am back at the railway now and cross a footbridge before turning right at a sign marked ‘0.7m to Cobbinshaw’. The path is also intriguingly signposted ‘The Fairy Path’. The reason for this soon becomes apparent - tree stumps decorated as fairy houses line the route and bring a smile as I pass. As well as its more mystical inhabitants, the railway siding is populated by rowan, birch, and goat willow – the catkins of the latter each a tiny explosion of pollen-laden bristles. Boughs are a-buzz with bees gathering nectar. An orange tip butterfly flaps by.

Before long, I am back at the access road and ascend back towards the car, thoughts elevated by this delightful walk. This area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and it’s easy to see why, with the wonderful variety of landscape, flora and fauna to be found here. As I cast my eye back the way I came, a low rumble signals the passage of the West Coast Line. I turn and continue back towards the car and the warblers sing me home.

The walk is approx. 3 miles over mostly level terrain and can be completed in 1-1.5 hrs, but it’s worth allowing a little longer for stops.

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.

Last month, on that momentous night that Miss Aurora Borealis sashayed across our Edinburgh skies, I was at the cinema watching Ryan Gosling falling off tall buildings, rolling cars and being set on fire (again and again).

Later, getting ready for bed, I saw some beautiful photos on Facebook posted by local friends. But from our home we couldn’t see any purple or green splashes in the sky - and we were too tired to venture out again.

The next day there were lots more photos on Facebook. Some particularly dramatic ones were posted by a friend in the US. “These were taken in Scotland!” she said. “I hope you saw the aurora?”

“Well, no, but I did enjoy the film.”

Feeling disappointed, I wanted to find out what causes the Northern Lights - and hopefully work out when I might have another opportunity to see them. So I asked my husband, the physics graduate. He explained that the Aurora Borealis occurs when there is an electrical storm on the sun, and the released particles interact with gases in our atmosphere.

I learned a bit more online. Solar

activity varies, depending on where it’s at on its 11-year cycle. Currently, we are about half way through this cycle. The closer we get to “Solar Maximum”, the more chaotic and tangled the sun’s magnetic field becomes. Eventually the sun blows giant bubbles (chewing gum?), which explode, sending out a stream of solar particles.

Once these particles reach our atmosphere, they interact with oxygen and nitrogen, resulting in the beautiful colours we (some of us) see. There’s not been a solar storm of the recent one’s magnitude since 2003.

In the late 1980s, when I was newly married and still had a lot to learn about the UK, I had the opportunity to view what I expected to be another beautiful natural light show. Though it can be seen in the North of England, this phenomenon is not referred to as the “Northern Lights”, but rather the Blackpool Illuminations.

My new family members were keen that I should see this spectacle. So a trip was planned, and I looked forward to seeing something breathtaking. I did wonder why we had to drive to Blackpool to see the Illuminations. Perhaps we needed to ascend a hill there so we’d have the best view in the North of England? My anticipation grew as the trip got nearer. Although I didn’t know exactly what to expect ...

My expectations were much grander than the reality! I’d thought I was going to see something like the Aurora Borealis. But what I saw looked like cheap Christmas lights strung up along the waterfront. I tried to tactfully explain my disappointment to my in-laws; they tried not to laugh.

That was more than 30 years ago, so maybe I’d be more impressed now. And maybe, as we approach the Solar Maximum, we’ll see an even more spectacular natural light show than the one I recently missed.

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

L&G BALERNO PHARMACYHow

your village pharmacy can be your lifeline this summer

Nothing beats the vibrant, carefree feeling that our village takes on over the summer. Long sunny days, and balmy nights (and the odd Scottish rain shower) get us back into the great outdoors.

But every season brings its own mishaps, misfortunes and minor health concerns. Fortunately, Balerno Pharmacy is prepared and ready to help, offering a range of essential services to keep you safe, healthy, and back to enjoying all that summer has to offer. They have the know-how to advise, treat, or refer you to a specialist if they can’t

help – meaning you get the right care, from the right people as soon as possible. What is the most important healthcare issue of the summer?

Suncare is paramount. It’s the single most important thing you can do over the summer to look after your health – not only to prevent sunburn, but to protect you from concerns in the future. We all know by now how dangerous unprotected exposure to the sun can be for all of us – and that goes for Scottish sun, not just holidays-abroad sun! We have a wide variety of sunscreens available of different SPF levels, tailored to different skin types.

Summer brings its share of coughs and sneezes – what’s the best thing to do if you’re feeling under the weather?

Summer brings it all; allergies pop up again, itchy rashes appear from nowhere and summer colds arrive when you least expect them. But we’ve got you covered! There’s no need for an appointment, so just pop in – we’re always happy to chat through whatever’s bothering you. Whether you want to be prepared for allergies or need treatment for an insect bite, pharmacist Nicole and the team will give you expert advice and treatment, letting you get back to enjoying those long summer days.

I’ve booked my holidays! What do I need to think about healthwise?

It’s always exciting having travel plans! We can make sure you are completely prepared, no matter whether you’re staycationing or globetrotting. We can give advice on travel vaccinations, help put together a first aid kit, stock you up with suncream or sort you out with helpful medication, so you can go on your adventures worry-free!

Why visit Balerno Pharmacy with my summer health concerns?

If you’re looking for a warm, friendly team, that go above and beyond to support your healthcare, then come along and see us. We’ve got time to listen to your concerns, provide reassurance, and offer personalised care (and with no need for an appointment, you know you can drop in anytime that suits you). It’s really important to us you feel valued and supported. We don’t see ourselves as just a place to pick up prescriptions – our aim is to be at the heart of the community, as your easy-to-access gateway for support, advice and treatment for your health and wellbeing. We also offer free delivery and have an app which makes managing prescriptions a (summer) breeze. We want to keep you smiling while the sun is shining!

Come and see us for summer healthcare advice.

Balerno Pharmacist Nicole’s TOP TIPS for summer adventures

• Check your sun cream is in date! We can all be guilty of just using that bottle of sun lotion that’s been at the back of the bathroom cabinet since we can’t remember when. Stock up on new suncream and don’t forget a sun hat and glasses!

• Don’t forget about your lips. Good lip UV protection can reduce the likelihood of a cold sore flare up.

• Pulling out those once-a-year summer sandals can play havoc with your heels and toes. Stock up on really good blister plasters, which you can use preventatively too.

• Whether you’re at home or abroad –don’t forget the insect repellent spray and in tick removal kits.

• Spending more time outside can mean cuts and grazes. Pack an antiseptic cream.

• Unfortunately we can all get ill on holiday – take along ibruprofen and paracetamol, and don’t forget the loperamide and rehydration salts for dicky stomachs!

L&G Balerno Pharmacy 24 Main Street, Balerno, Edinburgh, EH14 7EH 0131 449 5477

www.lindsayandgilmour.co.uk www.facebook.com/LindsayGilmourPharmacy

TONY HARPER’S HAIR STUDIO

To book an appointment please phone the salon on 0131 451 5133 and leave a message that includes your name, phone number and your stylists name and they will call you back within 48 hours.

Or text Jenny on 07860 222343 Or text Sam on 07749 503946 For nail appointments contact Sam

We would like to thank all our regular customers for their ongoing support, and welcome all our new customers.

Check out our daily, weekly & monthly deal and posts at tony-harpers-hairstudio

For updates please see our Facebook page and salon windows

Tennis is an increasingly popular game in Scotland. The latest figures produced by the Lawn Tennis Association show that 324,000 adults in Scotland played tennis in the year to August 2023, a rise of 25% compared with the previous 12 months.

This enthusiasm for tennis is also seen in our children with 37,000 participating every week. Tennis Scotland has the vision to “grow tennis by making it relevant, accessible, welcoming and enjoyable.” Statistics show that they are succeeding in their goals.

As Physiotherapists, we frequently get asked about the condition “Tennis Elbow” and the first thing we always point out is that most people who get this problem do not play tennis. In fact, racket sports are only thought to be the cause of 5 in every 100 cases of Tennis Elbow. This overuse condition is linked to repeated movement of the wrist and arm. It can affect people of all ages but is most common in adults between 30 – 60 years old, with men and women equally affected. Jobs or hobbies that involved repetitive movements such as plumbing, painting, or gardening can contribute to developing a Tennis Elbow, but often there is no clear cause. Playing racket sports can increase the risk, particularly if you play for more than 2 hours per day. Poor technique particularly on backhand shots or using poor equipment, such as an overly heavy racket or a racket with an incorrect grip size, will also increase the risk of developing this condition.

As pain is made worse by lifting, gripping or twisting movements of the arm it is sensible to try to avoid these to help the tendon heal. Ice can be a good pain reliever for Tennis Elbow. A bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel applied to the tender area for 10 minutes twice a day can make a difference. Painkillers or anti-inflammatory medication can be used but evidence suggests that they do not improve the condition in the long term and they do have the risk of side effects.

Symptoms present as pain at the outside of the elbow that can travel down the forearm to the wrist. This pain can be particularly noticeable on shaking hands, turning a door handle or even holding a mug of coffee. The pain that develops is caused by damage to the muscles and tendons which extend your wrist and straighten your fingers. It can be acutely painful to touch the point at the elbow where the tendon joins the bone.

Physiotherapy has been shown to be helpful in the treatment of Tennis Elbow. Massage, utrasound, exercises and advice on a phased return to sports and activity can all help recovery. A Physiotherapist can also give advice on appropriate supports and splints to help the elbow until the symptoms settle. A steroid injection into the affected tendon can give good relief from pain in the short term (6 weeks) but has potential side effects, including making the condition worse. For long term benefit, Physiotherapy has shown to be superior to injection. Please do not suffer with this condition. We Physios are happy to help you get back to doing what you want to do, including tennis!

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

We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care, winning more awards than any other provider in the last three years.

If you’re considering a care home, call 0131 516 7418 or visit careuk.com/edinburgh

Trusted to care Cairdean House care home, Colinton Murrayside care home, Corstorphine Lauder Lodge care home, Portobello

The world of wine is constantly changing and evolving, never staying still! There are new vintages to discover and new grape varieties to taste. That’s one of the reasons I love studying wine.

Spanish wine producers are realising that change and evolution is essential to survive. Many vineyards will struggle to survive the extremes of temperature and drought already impacting Europe. There are several innovative pioneers in Spain who are proactively looking at ways to bring in a reliable crop, but also how to employ more sustainable practices in the vineyard and winery.

In recent years, abandoned vineyards are being reclaimed by grandchildren reclaiming and revitalising the family vineyards that once thrived under the care of their grandparents. This phenomenon is particularly notable in regions like La Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and Priorat, where wine has long been a cornerstone of cultural and economic life.

The movement is driven by a deep sense of heritage and a desire to preserve family legacies. Many of these vineyards had fallen into neglect as younger generations pursued careers in urban areas or different fields. However, a growing appreciation for sustainable agriculture, coupled with a resurgence in the popularity of artisanal and organic wines, has inspired a new generation to return to their roots.

In the 1950’s many vineyards were abandoned, and the vines left. Today, the grandchildren of these former wine makers have reclaimed the abandoned vineyards! The sites will be overgrown, but beneath the tangle of vines are now ‘old vines’ over the age of 70.

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

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Juniper Green

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It’s that time of year when adult birds are busy providing for what is likely a quickly growing brood of babies. This female stonechat was definitely bringing home a tasty (if you’re a bird) snack for her young, who would’ve been tucked away in the heather, out of my sight.

Why are they called stonechats? Well, for once it makes sense, their call sounds like two stones being tapped together. They’re a fairly common bird, with populations being a mix of resident and migratory birds. Quite often the male of the species is the more striking looking, usually to attract a mate, however I find the female stonechat a bonnie wee bird and she was far more keen to have her picture taken than he was!

This was taken at Sheriffmuir, which is behind Dunblane, however you can find these little rock dwellers (that’s what part of their latin name, Saixcola, translates to) in heathlands all over the country so places like the Pentlands are ideal for them. During lockdown there was a pair on the reed beds in Wester Inch, so they really can turn up anywhere.

I also saw and heard plenty skylark, which is always a joy as you watch them parachute down through the sky. It was brilliant to have my first cuckoo encounter of the year too, a true sign of spring’s arrival and the start of the challenge of getting a good picture of them. So far, cuckoo 1 - Clare 0.

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

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

HULY HILL AND THE NEWBRIDGE CHARIOT

Have you ever sat in the traffic by the BP garage at the bottom of Cliftonhall Road in Newbridge waiting to get onto the roundabout, and wondered what that strange little hill is, surrounded by the low stone wall?

It’s one of several tantalising clues that this area was a very important focal point for thousands of years. The wee hill, Huly Hill, is a bronze age burial mound (tumulus) dating from around 2500BC. Three standing stones surround it within the fenced area, and there is a fourth stone the other side of the motorway. The area beside Edinburgh Airport runway, the end of which is just half a mile from our tumulus, was a burial ground where cists dating from the around the fifth century AD have been found, along with another standing stone, the Cat Stane, which has been there for thousands of years.

We don’t know which of these various monuments are related to each other, if any. The stones around our tumulus may have been part of complete stone circles; it has never been subject to detailed modern archaeological study, although was opened in 1830 when a spearhead or dagger, animal charcoal and small fragments of bones were found.

Within the grassy circle the din of the roads is muted; the hustle and bustle of the interchange, the industrial estate with its heavy traffic, the garage ... all seem to fade. Viewed from the footbridge over the motorway, it sits broodingly mysterious in the modern landscape, its three

stones standing eloquently silent sentry as they have for countless years.

The fact that Huly Hill survived for millennia suggests it was very important. Which may be why this spot was chosen some two thousand years later for a very important burial – a Celtic chariot. When the Edinburgh Exchange estate was being built at Newbridge in 2001, remains of a chariot were found under what is now the commercial unit just before the turning for … Chariot Drive. It had been buried intact, most likely as part of a human burial (although no trace of a body remained), in the fifth or early fourth century BC.

To find out more I contacted Dr Fraser Hunter, Principal Curator of Iron Age and Roman Collections at the National Museum of Scotland. “Owning a chariot at all at that time was like owning a Ferrari - especially this one, which was built for speed” he says. The two-wheeled chariot was designed to be pulled by two horses (although as he points out, Iron Age horses would look like ponies to our eyes). So this was the burial of someone undoubtedly wealthy and possibly of special social status. Detailed study of the remains revealed a utility vehicle that had worked hard, showing wear and tear and replacement parts. The wheels are not a matching set, being of slightly different diameter, rim form and fastenings, so one of them may have been a replacement. The iron tyres were well worn; some of the fixings where the harness attached to the yoke look like replacement parts.

But particularly intriguing is that the Newbridge chariot burial has more in common with continental burial rites than British ones. Chariot burials have been found

in Yorkshire where the chariots were dismantled before being buried. The Scottish one however was intact, in common with chariot burials on continental Europe. It was buried up to its axle with slots cut in the ground for the wheels, before being covered with earth. Dr Hunter says, “This chariot is unique in Scotland and extremely rare in Britain. The best parallels are in France and Belgium, showing the wide-ranging contacts at the time.”

So Scotland was not cut-off on the fringes of Europe, but had links with the continent even then – as a few other features of this chariot show. The horses’ bridle bits (undecorated twolink snaffle bits) are unusual for Iron Age Britain but common in France and Belgium. The chariot itself however was of British manufacture, so this wasn’t a visitor from the continent. As Dr Hunter explains, “Vehicles need suspension if they are to move at any speed. On the continent, this was achieved by various metal fittings which suspended the body of the chariot and allowed it to “float” and absorb the shock. In Britain, no such metal fittings are found. Instead, organic components were used – either a rawhide floor which absorbs the bounce, or by hanging the chariot body off leather straps.” Similarly, there were no nails to hold the tyres to the wheels, which indicate British make as continental chariots of the period used nails.

So our Newbridge burial could have been someone who spent time on the continent. We don’t know why people buried chariots - it’s easy to speculate but difficult to establish facts. But we do know that Newbridge was a special site for a significant person.

The Newbridge Chariot Replica

A replica of the Newbridge Chariot was made in 2007. The iron tyres for the replica were forged by local blacksmith Pete Hill of Ratho Byers Forge. Pete recalls, “We did some of the work in exactly the same manner as the original craftsman would have, with the forge anvil and hammer. The shaping into the ring was done using a modern roller and the tyres were joined using modern techniques to ensure accuracy of size. The most interesting aspect for me was the privilege of touching and inspecting ironwork of such an age, made by someone much like me, working in more or less the same manner centuries later. While some of the equipment has changed, the processes of thinning, stretching, punching and joining iron - or nowadays steel - have remained unchanged since the dawn of the iron age. If you could transport a smith through time either back or forward, they would recognise the work and tools and would no doubt share an immediate connection with the craftsman of the time.”

See www.nms.ac.uk/explore-ourcollections/stories/scottish-historyand-archaeology/newbridge-chariotreconstruction for further information.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, Konect editor. First published in Konect March 2016, updated May 2024.

Image with permission of National Museums of Scotland

THE FINAL ARTICLE

Over many years, too many to mention I have advised you on many aspects of your financial planning, including:

1. Income Tax (IT)

2. Inheritance Tax (IHT)

3. Power of Attorney (PoA)

4. Individual Savings Accounts (ISA)

5. Personal Pension Plans (PPP)

6. Venture Capital Trust (VCT)

7. Enterprise Investment Schemes (EIS)

Unfortunately, I will have to hang up my adviser hat for two reasons:

a) I am two months from my eightieth birthday

b) I have been diagnosed with an aortic aneurysm

I hope your finances have benefited from my articles and you have enjoyed reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them.

Dr Peter D Marshall has contributed the Konect Money Matters column every month for 12 years. It has been a much-valued column which will be missed by us all. We wish him all the very best in his retirement..

JUNE SUDOKUS (HARD*) (EASY)

JUNE CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Well known (6), 4. Long curtains (6), 9. Grandparent (7), 10. Concur (5), 11. Flavour (5), 12. Loosening (7), 13. Marvellous (11), 18. Season’s crop (7), 20. Star sign (5), 22. Bet (5), 23. One of the three r’s (7), 24. Go back (6), 25. Alcove (6).

DOWN: 1. Brawls (6), 2. Breakfast, dinner etc (5), 3. Remove clothes (7), 5. Respond (5), 6. Piece (7), 7. Vehicle used on snow (6), 8. Make, produce (11), 14. Type of piano (7), 15. Turn aside (7), 16. Light rainfall (6), 17. Tree branches (6), 19. Mistake (5), 21. Elevate (5).

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

SUNDAY 9TH JUNE

Open Day at Almondell

WED 5TH & THUY 6TH JUNE

Eras Tour! - Calling all Swifties! Come and prepare for the Eras Tour with us at Currie Library! Make friendship bracelets, paper rings, write your own song, design a microphone/ cardigan, Taylor Swift colouring ins, karaoke, quiz, take pictures with Eras archways, show us your outfits! 2.00pm – 5.00pm at Currie Library.

SAT 8TH JUNE

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

Model Engineering Centre - A fantastic family day out, with train rides on their new extended track through the woodland. Tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, picnic area. 10.30 –4.00pm. Drumshoreland Muir, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF

SUNDAY 22ND JUNE

Summer Meadows - Join us for a walk through the Dells to discover and learn about the wildflowers that grow there. The walk goes through ancient woodland and open meadow and looks at the diverse range of plants and flowers found there. Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road, EH14 1TQ. 1.30 – 3.30pm. £7 or FREE for members, book at: www.waterofleith.org.uk

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.

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

PALM DEMENTIA CAFE - The PALM cafe is held on the last Tuesday of the month from 3.00-4.15pm 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 £3. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see www. bridgewebs.com/pentland/ or email mthjkb@gmail.com

ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON

CLUB - St Cuthbert’s Badminton Club was created about 1946. It meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton. It is non-competitive and meets on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. For details, call Archie Clark on 0131 449 4703.

THE MEETING PLACE - A community cafe for those 65 and over and all unpaid carers. Every Monday 10am - 4pm. 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/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.

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

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

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 (9.1511.15) cost

£13 which includes a snack. No parent duties required. For more information:

W: www.junipergreenplaygroup. vpweb.co.uk

E: junipergreenplaygroup@ hotmail.co.uk

T: 07308 033386

PENTLAND SINGERS

COMMUNITY CHOIRRehearsals every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Balerno Parish Church. Singing a wide range of choral music, with local

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

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

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: www. pentlandjuniors.org or email: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com

CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE

You can find us on Facebook. For information call Deeanne on 07885 612583.

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. Please visit: www.primesportsphysio.co.uk to book classes. Email: hello@ primesportsphysio.co.uk for more info.

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ACROSS: 7. Mediterranean, 8. Revealed, 9. Anti, 10. Advance, 12. Refer, 14. Study, 16. Warmest, 19. Zinc, 20. Lemonade, 22. Demonstration.

- 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

DOWN: 1. Here, 2. Cinema, 3. Reflect, 4. Crude, 5. Inhale, 6. Tactless, 11. Detailed, 13. Hammers, 15. Doctor, 17. Minute, 18. Blush, 21. Drop.

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• 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

• Book Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm

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

Tel: Ratho Community Centre 0131 333 1055.

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

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.

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

ACROSS: 7. Mediterranean, 8. Revealed, 9. Anti, 10. Advance, 12. Refer, 14. Study, 16. Warmest, 19. Zinc, 20. Lemonade, 22. Demonstration.

DOWN: 1. Here, 2. Cinema, 3. Reflect, 4. Crude, 5. Inhale, 6. Tactless, 11. Detailed, 13. Hammers, 15. Doctor, 17. Minute, 18. Blush, 21. Drop.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKUS ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON PAGE 46

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT. SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

Chocolate Sorbet

Lighter than ice cream, refreshing and gluten-free!

Ingredients:

• 100g good quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids) broken into pieces

• 100ml filtered or mineral water

• 60g cocoa powder

For the sugar syrup:

• 250ml filtered or mineral water

• 150g caster sugar

Prep time: 15 mins.

Freezing time: 3-4 hours plus chilling time

Serves 4-6

Method:

1. Prepare the sugar syrup by placing the sugar and water into a saucepan. Bring to the boil without stirring and leave to simmer until the sugar crystals have dissolved (about 5 minutes). Remove from the heat.

2. Melt the dark chocolate in a heat-proof bowl suspended over a saucepan of justsimmering water. When it has melted add the 100ml water and reheat until warm. Whisk in the cocoa, then add the melted

chocolate, whisking together until smooth.

3. Let the mixture cool, then chill it by placing the bowl of sorbet mixture over a bowl of water filled with ice cubes. Stir occasionally but don’t let any water splash into the sorbet mix.

4. For the smoothest results churn the chilled mixture in an ice cream maker until ready. If you don’t have an ice cream maker then place the mixture in a shallow bowl and freeze it in the coldest part of the freezer. Take it out every hour and whisk it to break up the ice crystals. Made this way it will have a slightly more granular texture, but it will still be delicious.

5. Remove from the freezer about twenty minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions:

• Although this is lovely on its own you could try serving it with:

• Strawberries dipped in melted chocolate, then chilled.

• Rich butter shortbread (obviously not if you’re on a gluten-free diet!).

• With a glass of coffee, chocolate or mint liqueur poured over.