Konect Balerno September 2023

SPOTLIGHT: STUDIO AWA : ELEVATING YOUR HOME

LOCAL WALK: CLUBS & CLASSES:

As summer fades to autumn, William Weir has contributed a lovely local walk to enjoy in Poet’s Glen, Currie, along with some quotes from “The Departure of Summer” from the poet himself. The walk starts and finishes in the centre of Currie where there are of course plenty of places to enjoy well-deserved refreshments after your walk and make the most of this lovely season. Browse the What’s On and Clubs & Classes sections for plenty of ideas for events and activities in the local area as the new terms gets underway, and remember if you are involved in clubs or events locally and would like to share them with the local community, drop me a line with the details for inclusion in the next issue. There is a focus on the Pentland Probus clubs this month, both the men’s and ladies’ groups.

If you are considering getting an extension or alteration to you home, do speak first to local architect and design studio, Studio AWA. They feature as the business spotlight on pages 18-19 and have a portfolio of fantastic work locally that you can speak to them about.

I hope you enjoy the magazine and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

GERRY AITKEN

Painter & Decorator

Juniper Green

Get in touch for a FREE Estimate:

T: 07798 565 321 • E: junigig@aol.com

Summer, fareweel, wi’ a’ your flow’rs, Fareweel to a’ your sunny show’rs; An’ fareweel a’ ye birken bow’rs, Wi’ leaves sae green James Thomson (from ‘The Departure of Summer’)

As I cross the bridge over the river, I look up and see Currie Kirk ahead. Following in the direction of my gaze, I climb the steps to join the Water of Leith walkway, heading downstream - but I am not for the beaten path today. After a short way, as the new housing development looms, a sign marked ‘To the Pentland Hills’ invites me to divert off uphill to the right. I follow it, the sound of the cascading waters of the Kinleith Burn filling my ears.

I am entering the ‘Poet’s Glen’. Named after Currie’s own weaver-poet, James Thomson (1763 - 1832). This short, quiet walk retraces Thomson’s steps, incorporating elements of the nature and local farming life that inspired his verse.

It’s humid and I feel the weight of foliage all around me. Brambles burgeon, fruit forming. On my right, a small metal bridge traverses the burn, but I continue straight on, going up more steps until I emerge at Blinkbonny Road, which I follow round a bend to the right. Just as the road begins to straighten out, I cross and take a rough stony track leading up between a stone wall and the adjacent field. Blue tits alarm in the hedgerow as I pass. The path lies lower than the field, giving me a hare’s-eye view - first of grassy pasture, then of the golden barley of Lennox Lea - ripe for harvest, ears bending under their own weight as if reflecting, heads bowed, upon the summer past and the harvest to come.

After a while, the track leads me through a gap in the wall and the sound of rushing water returns. I emerge by a secluded pond fringed by tall trees and step onto a little

wooden bridge over the small spillway that feeds the burn. I stare down into the clear, still water where minnows dart, and, lulled, become lost in my thoughts, cradled within this green crucible. Over to my left, a blizzard of small flies hangs in a chaotic cloud over the water. Mesmerised, I begin to trace the path of individual insects and find that, in fact, each is following purposely a path back and forth, only when superimposed does the movement appear random. Order emerges from chaos. Squawk! I start and look up to see a heron alight with unexpected deftness in high branches beyond. I set off again and skirt around the pond, passing beneath mature beeches, the route now bordering fields to my left. A young family of wrens alight on a sycamore stump, the young calling incessantly. In low hazel, I notice nuts are beginning to form. A robin chastises me from a nearby holly bush, as if to portray the voice of future winter, reminding me that summer can’t last forever.

I emerge onto what is the eastern end of Harlaw Road and go right, crossing a stone bridge over the burn before passing the farmstead at Middle Kinleith, once Thomson’s home. This is now a gentle country lane stroll, fields on either side - the Pentland skyline to my left, that of the awakening city distant to my right. Swallows arc overhead, making the most of the insect

bounty, for in a few short weeks, like summer, they too must depart. A rabbit hops hesitantly across the road ahead. I turn right to descend the hill at Kirkgate. Within the hedgerow it is written that the season is turning a corner too. Blossoms of chamomile crowd on the field’s fringes, air thick with their calming scent, each yellow centre bright as a miniature summer sun. Meanwhile, rose hips shine in deepest maple-leaf red by the road.

The vista of our city spreads out before me, warming in the morning light, shaking off a misty blanket. Human bustle grows as I descend towards the village, until the welcoming sight of Currie Kirk greets me once more, standing steadfast within the churchyard. Like the seasons, I have come full circle, back to where I started. Following time in contemplation here, where Thomson wove his cloth and his words, I feel ready to embrace the season’s change and look forward to autumn’s arrival with natural wonders all its own. As for summer, I bid it a fond farewell - leaving the last words to Thomson:

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.

[I] hope again to see the day I’ll lift mine eyes, Where light shines in its purest ray, Beyond the skies.

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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.

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SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

Solution in the October edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Look sulky (4), 3. Trader (8), 9. Saved (7), 10. Tacks (5). 11. Concerns numbers (12), 14. Not working (3), 16. One hundred centimetres (5), 17. Glimpse (3), 18. Recognition (12), 21. Solitary (5), 22. Alleviate (7), 23. Poured onto salad (8), 24. In addition (4).

DOWN: 1. Found in Egypt (8), 2. Distressed (5), 4. Finish (3), 5. Substantial (12), 6. e.g. dogs and cats (7), 7. Throw (4), 8. Self-service stores (12), 12. Loft (5), 13. Twists and turns (8), 15. Condemn (7), 19. Perfect (5), 20. Hairless (4), 22. Move quickly (3).

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ACROSS: 1. Look sulky (4), 3. Trader (8), 9. Saved (7), 10. Tacks (5). 11. Concerns numbers (12), 14. Not working (3), 16. One hundred centimetres (5), 17. Glimpse (3), 18. Recognition (12), 21. Solitary (5), 22. Alleviate (7), 23. Poured onto salad (8), 24. In addition (4).

Solution in the October edition of Konect

DOWN: 1. Found in Egypt (8), 2. Distressed (5), 4. Finish (3), 5. Substantial (12), 6. e.g. dogs and cats (7), 7. Throw (4), 8. Self-service stores (12), 12. Loft (5), 13. Twists and turns (8), 15. Condemn (7), 19. Perfect (5), 20. Hairless (4), 22. Move quickly (3).

SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

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Solution in the October edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Look sulky (4), 3. Trader (8), 9. Saved (7), 10. Tacks (5). 11. Concerns numbers (12), 14. Not working (3), 16. One hundred centimetres (5), 17. Glimpse (3), 18. Recognition (12), 21. Solitary (5), 22. Alleviate (7), 23. Poured onto salad (8), 24. In addition (4).

DOWN: 1. Found in Egypt (8), 2. Distressed (5), 4. Finish (3), 5. Substantial (12), 6. e.g. dogs and cats (7), 7. Throw (4), 8. Self-service stores (12), 12. Loft (5), 13. Twists and turns (8), 15. Condemn (7), 19. Perfect (5), 20. Hairless (4), 22. Move quickly (3).

ACROSS: 11. Concerns numbers (12), 14. Not working (3), 16. One hundred centimetres (5), 17. Glimpse (3), 18. Recognition (12), 21. Solitary (5), 22. Alleviate (7), 23. Poured onto salad (8), 24. In addition (4).

Solution in the October edition of Konect

DOWN: 5. Substantial (12), 6. e.g. dogs and cats (7), 7. Throw (4), 8. Self-service stores (12), 12. Loft (5), 13. Twists and turns (8), 15. Condemn (7), 19. Perfect (5), 20. Hairless (4), 22. Move quickly (3).

REVOLUTIONISE YOUR BATHING EXPERIENCE

Take advantage of a free BMAS home visit and consultation to make your bathroom a safer, more accessible, more enjoyable place to be.

Bathrooms are an essential part of our homes. They are a place where we freshen up, relax, and unwind.

However, for some people, bathrooms can be a hazardous place, especially if they are not designed with accessibility in mind. The dangers of a bathroom with poor accessibility cannot be over-stated, and it’s high time that we started taking them seriously. One of the biggest risks of an inaccessible bathroom is falls. According to the NHS, falls are the most common cause of accidents in the home, with bathrooms being a particular danger zone. Slippery surfaces, uneven floors, and poorly placed fixtures can all contribute to falls, which can result in serious injuries, especially for the elderly or those with disabilities.

Another risk is difficulty accessing the bathroom. For people with mobility issues, navigating through

narrow doorways or trying to use a bathtub can be a real challenge. This can lead to a loss of independence and dignity, as well as physical strain and discomfort.

Fortunately, there are ways to address these dangers and make your bathroom a safer and more accessible place. One solution is to have a free home visit and consultation with a professional who specialises in accessible bathroom design. These experts can evaluate your bathroom and provide customised recommendations based on your needs, budget, and preferences.

Some of the changes that might be suggested include:

• Installing grab bars

• Widening doorways

• Removing tripping hazards

• Replacing a traditional bathtub with a walkin shower.

These modifications can not only reduce the risk of falls and injuries but also make it easier and more comfortable for people to use the bathroom.

If you or a loved one is struggling with an inaccessible bathroom, don’t wait until an accident happens. Contact Bathing Mobility Advisory Service to schedule a free home visit and consultation.

Contact:

Bathing Mobility Advisory Service

7a Grange Road EH9 1UH and Dobbies, Lasswade EH18 1AZ

bathingmobility.co.uk

Many of us will know what it is like to break a bone. Statistics tell us that about 132 out of every 10,000 of us will break a bone every year and of these, about half will be admitted to hospital for treatment. A fracture is a partial or complete break in a bone.

Fractures can be caused by simple falls, trauma such as a car accident, or as the direct result of a blow or kick to the body. Overuse, where repetitive motion tires muscles and places more force on the bone than it can cope with can cause a stress fracture. These kinds of fractures are seen in athletes such as runners or footballers who can get a stress fracture in their shin or foot bones. Fractures can also occur when the bone is of insufficient strength to cope with the load due to an underlying health condition such as Osteoporosis or Cancer.

Many fractures are instantly very painful and will prevent you from moving the injured area. There can be swelling and bruising around the injury. There may also be deformity where the limb looks to be at an odd angle or part of the bone may puncture through the skin which is called an open fracture. The most common way to diagnose a fracture is x-ray, which can show exactly where the fracture is and what type it is. Knowing the type of fracture is necessary to decide on the best form of treatment. Common types of fracture are:

Greenstick - found in children where the break is incomplete and only on one side of the bone causing the other side to bend just like a break in a young tree branch.

Transverse - the break line is straight across the bone.

Oblique - the break is diagonally across the bone.

Compression - the bone is crushed so it looks wider or flatter on x-ray. This can often be seen in Osteoporosis.

Comminuted - the bone is broken into 3 or more pieces.

Segmental - the same bone is broken in 2 places so there is a “floating” piece.

Avulsion - a tendon or ligament pulls off a small piece of bone.

The goal of treatment is to get the pieces of bone in the right place and give them time to heal while also giving appropriate pain relief, preventing any complications and restoring normal use again. This may involve rest in a splint or cast to prevent the bone from moving while it heals or may be surgery to fix the bones together to allow them to heal properly. Bones will heal in about 6 - 8 weeks but this can vary a lot depending on how old you are, your overall health and the type of fracture you have.

Do follow the advice you get on any exercises to do to keep the joints around the broken bone mobile while the bone heals. This will help you recover and get back to full function quickly.

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

STUDIO AWA : ELEVATING YOUR HOME WITH CONSIDERED CONTEMPORARY DESIGN

When it comes to extending or refurbishing your home, finding the perfect balance between aesthetics, functionality, and personal well-being is crucial. Studio AWA, a design-led practice founded by award winning architect Anya Wilson, offers creative design, expertly delivered: enhancing your lives while adding lasting value to your homes.

We are really happy with the finished product which has met the objectives of our brief and gone some way beyond. Our home has been transformed to provide us with a more modern, brighter and open plan living space. We would be happy to recommend Studio AWA to anyone.”

The Murdochs, Balerno

DESIGNING FOR WELL-BEING:

At Studio AWA, you - the client - always take centre stage. Every family has a unique set of challenges and aspirations for living spaces that require intelligent solutions. Anya actively engages with you to understand your lifestyle, preferences, and future plans, believing that a thorough understanding of your ambitions is the foundation for delivering beautiful spaces that promote positive well-being. Whether it’s creating a cosy snug for relaxation or a light, bright heart of the house for family gatherings, Anya tailors her designs to fulfil your aspirations.

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR HOME: Space is a valuable resource, and maximising its potential is fundamental to Anya’s approach to architecture: additional floorspace in the form of a new extension is not always required. Reconfiguring existing unloved spaces can often bring a new lease of life into your home, transforming underutilised rooms into functional, purposeful spaces. By thoughtfully adapting floor plans and introducing innovative storage solutions, Anya creates efficient designs that maximise space without compromising on aesthetics.

CONTROLLING COSTS:

Studio AWA is committed to careful cost control throughout your project to ensure adherence to your budget. Anya finds costeffective solutions without compromising on quality, transparently communicates expenses and provides a worry-free renovation or extension experience. You can confidently bring your vision to life within your agreed budget.

Anya is an experienced, creative and very detail-focused architect who understands making the most out or space, light and function. We are delighted with our completed extension (functional as well as stylish) and it is even better than we had hoped.”

The Thomsons, Craiglockhart

ENERGY-EFFICIENT DESIGN: Studio AWA adopts a holistic approach to sustainability, taking into consideration a range of factors including energy efficiency and renewables such as heat pumps and PV panels, providing you with a comfortable, environmentally conscious home.

COMMITMENT TO CRAFTSMANSHIP:

Anya takes pride in her attention to detail. She carefully selects the design and construction team to ensure a high quality of craftsmanship. From selecting the right products and materials to refining bespoke architectural elements, her devotion to craft shows in every aspect of her work.

Contact us if you are looking to extend or refurbish your house: info@studioawa.uk

We offer packages to advise on options and feasibility as early as possible in your journey:

PROJECT PLANNING WORKSHOP: £150

A meeting at your home to answer all queries regarding your proposed house project

NEEDS + OPTIONS ANALYSIS: £1,500

In depth consultation meeting, brief development, report and up to 3 design solutions presented

Make a booking and receive our Project Process Plan together with your Premeeting Questionnaire

Contact: info@studioawa.uk | studioawa.uk

APPROACHING RETIREMENT: ANNUITY OR DRAWDOWN?

As you go from the accumulation stage (i.e. you have put money into your pension) to the decumulation stage (i.e. withdrawing income from your pension to replace income from employment) you have a choice to make which will affect your future and that of your loved ones.

ANNUITY - An annuity is a product sold by an insurance company that pays you a guaranteed income for life in return for your pension. Obviously, this is inflexible. There are different annuity options available. You can choose to buy an annuity that increases each year an “escalating” annuity. The aim here is to keep pace with inflation. If you are in poor health or have lifestyle factors

e.g. a smoker which would limit your life expectancy you could quality for a better rate i.e., an “enhanced” annuity.

It is advisable to consult an Independent Financial Adviser who is regulated to search the whole annuity market, to get you the best possible deal.

INCOME DRAWDOWN - “Drawdown” is the other main option to defined contribution savers who build up their own retirement pot. Drawdown offers you flexibility, hence you can tailor your withdrawals to suit your needs. Your fund will also remain invested, meaning it has the potential to grow over the long term.

It is also possible to pass on your drawdown fund entirely tax-free to your nominated beneficiaries if you die before the age of 75. If you die after that point, your fund will be taxed in the same way as income when your beneficiary (or beneficiaries) makes a withdrawal.

The Money Matters column is contributed by Personal Money Management. This month’s article is by Dr Peter M Marshall.

How much of your day has to do with food? Thinking about it, buying it, preparing it, fretting about the fats or carbs in it, savouring it, dealing with leftovers, daydreaming about more food … I realised a long time ago that I was fairly consumed with what I consumed! Some people eat to survive. For others, like me, thoughts of breakfast get us out of bed in the morning!

How do you decide what to make for dinner?

Do you take a look in your fridge and cupboards to see what you have? Do you plan out a week’s worth of menus at a time? Do you go one step further and organise an entire month’s worth of evening meals: spaghetti carbonara every Monday night, salmon fillets on Tuesday nights, chilli on Wednesdays … Do you consult your family? Or do you get hit with a craving in the middle of the day and then move heaven and earth to get the ingredients before it’s time to start cooking?

I saw a cartoon on Facebook where a guy is down on one knee proposing, and he says to the girl, “Will you decide what’s for dinner for the rest of my life?” It made me smile. If, like me, you are the head chef in your house, I imagine there have been plenty of days when you’ve felt uninspired to cook anything. This happens to me from time to time, foodie though I am!

When my kids were growing up, I’d sometimes consult them about what to make. But they’d either 1) not have any suggestions, or 2) propose a meal that required lots of effort. Trying to be helpful, my husband would say, “Whatever you want – as long as there’s enough.”

Then a friend told me that, because she was working full-time and raising kids, her recipe for success was organising seven menus and then making those same meals

week by week. I could see how this would remove pressure from the cook. You know what you are preparing on any day of the week, so you have your ingredients. You don’t have to study a recipe. (You’ve made this meal 262 times!) It saves you money too, my friend enthused. It keeps you from impulse buying.

But even though I could see her rationale, and believed it probably would be less stressful and reduce my weekly food shop bill, I just could not do it! To be locked into a routine where you basically eat the same seven meals again and again and again… well, it sounded like a punishment. I felt that if I adopted my friend’s approach, I would be choosing monotony, sentencing myself to a creativity-free kitchen.

These days I enjoy a bit of routine, while continuing to be a free spirit in the kitchen. And, of course, I’m very aware that it’s a blessing to be able to choose what, when, and how much we eat. With that in mind, the dilemma of what to make for dinner is very much a First World problem.

IFOOD 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.

WEIR GAS SERVICES

Most of us have a dusty bottle or two of something alcoholic in a cupboard and wonder when the right time to open it is. Here are a few things to consider.

Firstly, not all bottles of wine are designed for aging. Supermarkets select wine for their customers to enjoy upon purchase. While some of the wines, usually the red wines could develop a little more over a 3 –5 years period, generally you should enjoy them sooner rather than later.

Fruity white and rose wine should be drunk and enjoyed within a year of purchase as they are a snapshot of a season. If the description reads ‘fresh, floral, fruity’ then enjoy now. If left too long, those fresh fruity notes will fade and sour.

Prosecco and Prosecco Rose should be drunk within a year to eighteen months of purchase, so if you have a bottle gathering dust in the wine rack, pop it in the fridge and enjoy!

Non-vintage Champagne, Cava and Crémant sparkling wines, will be delicious when purchased, usually showing crisp green apple notes and with complex brioche or baked bread character. These wines are balanced and delicious and you could keep these in the wine rack for 3-7 years. Vintage Champagne is slightly different. Vintage Champagne is not made every year. It is only made in exceptional years and not all Champagne houses will make it. Vintage Champagne can be kept for 10, 30 or even 60 years!

Have fun looking through your wine rack!

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

Seeing roe deer around the small amounts of woodland we have isn’t uncommon but they can be very wary and tend to hide in the trees. Given the early hour, there weren’t many people around so they didn’t run off at the first crack of a twig, they waited until at least the second accidental misstep before taking cover.

We’re so used to seeing footage of the red deer rut, with huge stags roaring and chasing other males across the hills. This usually takes place in October through to November but we’re actual-ly in the middle of the roe deer rut now, with the males (also known as bucks) becoming more ag-gressive to retain their territory and breeding rights with the does. Their antlers aren’t as impres-sive as red deer but they can still do a serious amount of damage to a rival male if it came to it.

With the current absence of large carnivores, they have no natural predators and along with the red deer are native to Scotland with numbers of around 200-350k. Whilst they tend to be found in woodland, as we encroach and build on their habitat, it is becoming more common to see them in urban areas across the country.

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

No I-deer! Ok, I apologise, that was a terrible joke. One morning in July I gave up on trying to sleep at about 6am and went for a little wander around Wester Inch.

Est. 2005

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SEPTEMBER SUDOKU SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

SATURDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER

Farmers Market

Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm

SUNDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER

Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - All welcome. Free admission and parking. Extended train route, train rides £5 first ride, £2 subsequent rides. Driver Experience £8. Picnic Areas. Refreshments and toilets. Open 10.30am to 4.00pm. Edinburgh Society of Model Engineers, The Almondell Model Engineering Centre Drumshoreland Muir, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF.

SUNDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

Hannah heads to the hills - With Water of Leith Conservation Trust and Friends of the Pentlands. A guided walk connecting the Water of Leith to the Pentland Hills. Meet at start of the Water of Leith Walkway by Balerno High School, Bridge Road, Balerno. The walk will go to Currie, then up Poet’s Glen into the Pentlands, to Harlaw reservoir and back along the road to Balerno – approx 6 miles and 4 hours to complete. Book at www.waterofleith.org.uk Cost: £7, or free to Water of Leith Conservation Members. 10.00am - 2.00pm

PENTLAND PROBUS CLUB

EVENTS - All meets are in Juniper Green Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road 10.00am - 12noon. New members welcome. Further details from our Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk

• WED 6TH SEPT: “Oman - the vital unknown war 1965-75.” An illustrated talk by Brigadier

Ian Gardiner

• WED 20TH SEPT: “The Holy Trinity Food Bank.” An illustrated talk by Fiona Watson

• WED 4TH OCT: “Members’ mini talks.” Three of our members will give us a short talk

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.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

13. See page 46 for solutions.

What is Probus? Is it for you?

Probus Clubs provide an opportunity for retired professional and business people to meet and enjoy the company of similar minded people who live locally. Originating in the 1960’s, the clubs provide a continuation of social activity for men and women entering retirement and who suddenly find themselves cut off from the daily activity of working life.

THE PENTLAND PROBUS CLUB, founded in 1982, provides an opportunity for retired or semi-retired men to meet socially on a regular basis at a local venue. Members come from Balerno in the west to Colinton and Kingsknowe in the east.

Our meetings are held on a Wednesday morning throughout the year when members meet for coffee from 10.00. Twice monthly speaker events are arranged from September to May on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at the Juniper Green Parish Church Hall finishing at 12.00 noon. On other Wednesdays very popular coffee mornings take place at the Kinleith Mill, Juniper Green, ending at 11.30. Our programme includes a morning outing to places of interest twice a year and

a full day outing when wives and partners are welcome.

The speaker programme will start again on Wednesday 6th September when we will welcome back Brigadier Ian Gardiner to talk about ‘Oman – The Vital Unknown War 1965-1975’. Subsequent presentations this year will include “Holy Trinity Foodbank “Arctic Convoys,” and “Housing Disabled Veterans.”

If you would like to find out more why not try one of our meetings or coffee mornings where you will be made very welcome. Full details of membership can be had by contacting the Secretary: Leslie Hannaford (0131 453 3012) or email: lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk

There is also a PENTLAND LADIES PROBUS CLUB founded in 2006 which meets for coffee and a speaker programme on the 4th Tuesday of the months September through to May. Meetings are at the Gibson Craig Halls, Lanark Road West, Currie from 10.00. If you would like to visit for a morning coffee, prospective members will be made very welcome – the programme starts on Tuesday 26th September with ‘The Wee Museum of Memory’ and follows with ‘Lothian Sound TN’ and ‘Ramsay Cornish Auction House’. If you would like more information please contact the Secretary: Barbara Hannaford (0131 453 3012) or email: barbarahannaford@blueyonder.co.uk

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

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

SLIMMING WORLD - Come and join our group this week to find out more about how Food Optimising can work for you, no matter your lifestyle! My groups run -

• Wednesdays 7.00pm, Currie Community Centre, 280 Lanark Road West. Currie, EH14 5RU

• Saturdays 8.30am and 10am, Currie Scout Hall, Forthview Road, Currie, EH14 5QR

Contact Donna 07981 564989 for more information

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 mid-week 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 prebook at www.bookwhen. com/heidimacdonaldfitness

Fridays 9:15am Juniper Green Scout Hall (nr Sainsburys). 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

NEW PILATES CLASS WITH INNAFITNESS -

Mondays 9.30 - 10.15 at Gibson Craig Hall, Currie Kirk. Pilates is for EVERYONE whatever level of fitness, age or ability to help you build strength, flexibility and overall well-being.

• Progressive approach. Teaching good movement skills.

• Small class sizes and friendly atmosphere.

• Beginners, Intermediate and Over 50’s suitable sessions.

Visit InnaFitness.com or Call: 07825 164927 to reserve your space in our class.

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 please look at our webpage: www.junipergreenplaygroup. vpweb.co.uk and contact us by emailing junipergreenplaygroup@ hotmail.co.uk or phone 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: www. pentlandsingers.org.uk or email: 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 - 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

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

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

PiYo - A fusion of Yoga & Pilates & Non-stop movement. A total body workout. Muscle sculpting, Core firming, Strength, Flexibility. Working towards a stronger you. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or pre-book at bookwhen. com/heidimacdonaldfitness

Tuesdays 9am Balerno Scout Hall - bring a mat & water. For further details call Heidi on 07982 205111

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

Tel: Ratho Community Centre 0131 333 1055

JUNIPER GREEN BOARDGAMERS

ACROSS: 1. Decide, 4. Fences, 9. Swollen, 10. Tiara, 11. Earth, 12. Oranges, 13. Countryside, 18. Exiting, 20. Reply, 22. Eaten, 23. Nearest, 24. Endure, 25. Stream.

DOWN: 1. Dispel, 2. Choir, 3. Dolphin, 5. Extra, 6. Changed, 7. Sparse, 8. Encouraging, 14. Omitted, 15. Servant, 16. Delete, 17. System, 19. Inner, 21. Piece.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

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 7pm9.30pm. You can find us on Facebook. For information call Deeanne on 612583

PILATES, YOGA, STRENGTH & FITNESS

CLASSES - at Prime Sports

PARACISE - Gentle to moderate exercise to music you’ll love. Working on balance, mobility, flexibility & posture. All STANDING. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or prebook 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.

ACROSS: 1. Decide, 4. Fences, 9. Swollen, 10. Tiara, 11. Earth, 12. Oranges, 13. Countryside, 18. Exiting, 20. Reply, 22. Eaten, 23. Nearest, 24. Endure, 25. Stream.

DOWN: 1. Dispel, 2. Choir, 3. Dolphin, 5. Extra, 6. Changed, 7. Sparse, 8. Encouraging, 14. Omitted, 15. Servant, 16. Delete, 17. System, 19. Inner, 21. Piece.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 43

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:

Alan Stewart Design

M: 07729 911858

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

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.

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.

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:

Alan Stewart Design

M: 07729 911858

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com