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It’s okay to talk – but how easy is it to actually find someone you’re comfortable talking to? This seems particularly challenging for men, which is why the charity Andy’s Man Club is growing at such a rapid rate. A national charity but with groups all over the country, there are groups in South Gyle and Merchiston, as well as many other locations across the area within easy reach of home or work. See the feature on pages 8 – 10.
We’re excited about a new distillery producing whisky and rum, in the historic village of Blackness. Read about Blackness Bay Distillery on page 13, they offer quirky and original tours with the option to eat at the renowned Lobster Pot afterwards.
The regular health column from McNaughton Physiogrange is all about lower back pain, which few of us will ever escape entirely! Alison has taken a new advice book published by the WHO in December, and condensed its 274 pages into 500 words for us here – see page 16 for her column, top quality advice as ever.
I hope you enjoy the magazine this month as much as I have enjoyed putting it together this month!
Monday evenings between 7pm and 9pm: the time when men are most vulnerable to losing their lives by suicide.
So discovered the founders of Andy’s Man Club, a club set up initially for male suicide prevention, and which has rapidly become much broader than that.
Andy’s Man Club meets at an ever-increasing number of towns and villages across Scotland, every Monday night from 7pm to 9pm.
It’s a place where men can come and talk about absolutely anything that is bothering them. Work, debt, relationships, health, loneliness, and all the feelings that culturally you’ve been conditioned to believe you should just deal with alone.
While it’s hard to say with any certainty why male suicide is much higher than female, it’s thought that men’s reluctance or inability to talk about their struggles is a major contributing factor.
Andy’s Man Club provides a space to talk in a safe, sympathetic and non-judgemental environment alongside other men who have taken exactly that same step through the venue door on a Monday night.
“ I hit rock bottom at Christmas last year, my world as I knew it fell apart. I started going to Andy’s Man Club in the new year. It was one of the hardest things that I have ever done! But I am glad to say that it has been one of the best. Listening to each different guy’s story has given me a new perspective and outlook. It has given me the context that I needed to gather my thoughts and prepare for my next chapter with positivity ”
“The more we can normalise talking about things, the better,” says Alex McClintock, Head of Groups in Scotland.
A, has been attending Andy’s Man Club since January 2024
“Despite a lot of progress in recent years, men are still expected to be the strong one, to “man up,” deal with their problems alone and not show their feelings. If you’re a certain age you may remember as a kid being threatened, ‘If you cry, I’ll give you something to cry about!’ and there are elements of this attitude that persist.”
The exponential growth of the charity in Scotland speaks for itself of how utterly essential it is proving to be. September marks seven years since Alex helped facilitate the first Andy’s Man Club in Perth. There are now 42 across Scotland; that’s a new one opening every couple of months.
The charity is named after Andy Roberts, a young man from Halifax (Yorkshire) who took his own life in 2016. His mum and brotherin-law opened up a room in Halifax later that year and invited men to come and talk. At the first meeting, nine men turned up; this year, all
across the UK 4,600 men attend their local Andy’s Man Club.
G has been attending AMC since March 2023.
“I had been off work for a while and had no motivation to do anything and felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders. I wanted to shut the world out. I had seen a thing on social media promoting Andy’s Man Club, I contacted the Facebook page and went along in March of last year. I haven’t missed a Monday night since. AMC sets me up for the week, I like seeing the journey every man takes when they walk through the doors for the first time, and see them start to recover and get stronger week by week and hope I’m playing a part in helping them like others helped me. I would encourage anyone who is feeling down or just not themselves to come along to a meeting. It’s good to talk”
“ I could always speak, but over the last 18 months AMC has taught me how to talk and open up about how I am feeling instead of hiding away ”
K, has been attending Andy’s Man Club since February 2023
Alex became involved when he had hit rock bottom personally and had made an attempt on his own life. He went to his first Andy’s Man Club meeting in Halifax and spoke about things he had never shared with anyone. He went with his friend of 20 years. “We thought we knew everything about each others’ lives, until we went to Andy’s Man Club together. He was gobsmacked by what I had to say, he’d had no idea what I had been going through.” Having experienced the transformative power of talking, Alex became a passionate advocate for Andy’s Man Club and went on to formally become the charity’s development champion in Scotland.
You don’t need to have mental health challenges or to be desperate before attending Andy’s Man Club. It’s much better to go before you get that low.
“It sets you up for the week,” says Alex. “Instead of dreading Mondays, it’s now my best day as I get to go to my Club and I look forward to it.” For the majority of men who attend, it becomes a regular habit, a constant therapy - much like going to the gym regularly but for maintaining good mental health instead of physical. The benefits of just going and getting stuff of your chest regularly is immense. And it not only helps you; you’re helping other men by sharing your problems so that they too know they are not alone. There is no need to book, no need to give your name or contact details and no need even to speak if you don’t feel up for it. It’s not unusual for men to come for a few weeks and just listen before sharing their own situations. Simply turn up and get tea and biscuits. What is the worst that could happen?
The charity’s aim is for there to be 1500 clubs all across the UK, so that men have no excuse not to come!
• If you are feeling low for any reason, get along to an Andy’s Man Club near you next Monday! We have listed all the local ones*. >>>
• If you are interested in opening a branch of Andy’s Man Club locally please contact info@andysmanclub.co.uk
• If you are able offer a venue free of charge for a Club to run on a Monday evening, please contact info@ andysmanclub. co.uk. There is always a need for venues in order to keep up with surging demand for the Clubs to run.
ALWAYS FREE, ALWAYS 7 pm - 9 pm , EVERY MONDAY NIGHT (EXCEPT BANK HOLIDAYS)
ARMADALE: Armadale Partnership Centre, North Street, Armadale, EH48 3QB
BATHGATE: Regal Reconnect Theatre, 24 - 34 North Bridge St, Bathgate, EH48 4PS
BROXBURN: Entrance B, Strathbrock Community Centre, 189A West Main St, Broxburn, EH52 5LH
DALGETY BAY: That Place in The Bay, 10a Ridge Way, Dalgety Bay, KY11 9JN
DUNFERMLINE (SOUTH): Dunfermline Sports Club, McKane Park, Limekilns Road, Dunfermline, KY12 7XA
DUNFERMLINE (NORTH): Townhill
Bowling Club, Green Street, Townhill, Dunfermline, KY12 0HE
EDINBURGH (MERCHISTON): North Merchiston Club, Watson Crescent, Edinburgh, EH11 1EP
EDINBURGH (SOUTH GYLE): Upstairs food quarter, The Space to Be, Gyle Shopping Centre, Edinburgh, EH12 9JY
KIRKLISTON: STARTING SEPTEMBER!
LINLITHGOW: COMING SOON!
LIVINGSTON #1: Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Livingston EH54 5BP
LIVINGSTON #2: Livingston Cricket Club, 10A Murieston Valley, Liinvgston EH54 9HB
ROSYTH: Rosyth Eats, 115 Queensferry Road, Rosyth, KY11 2PS
For more information about Andy’s Man Club, please visit andysmanclub.co.uk
This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after speaking with Alex McClintock, Head of Groups Scotland for Andy’s Man Club, and with an attendee of a West Lothian Andy’s Man Club. Helen-Jane is the Editor of Konect magazines
Sometimes I find a bottle of wine that is so good and such amazing value, I must share it!
Not long after our wedding, my husband and I took a holiday to Lake Garda. It’s a beautiful place, with incredible scenery and food. If you look at my holiday photos, you’ll see the gorgeous lake and dramatic mountains. Unlike most holiday photos from the area, you’ll also see lots of photos of stainless-steel fermenting tanks and grape presses, I love visiting wineries!
When I found a bottle of wine from the vineyards around Lake Garda in Lidl, I had to buy it. Vigna Lago from the Lugana region in the Southern banks of Lake Garda is the perfect white wine for the summer. It is an
unoaked, white wine, with plenty of pear, pineapple, floral and citrus notes on the nose. When you taste the wine, the flavours continue to the palate but the wine has a soft, richer than expected finish that makes this really easy to drink. It’s the perfect wine to pair with summer foods, perhaps grilled fish, shellfish or chicken salads. Not only is this wine delicious, it’s also fantastic value at only £8.99 a bottle.
Serve the wine chilled, but not too cold, and take a moment to swirl the glass and pop your nose in, can you smell the pear and pineapple notes? I enjoyed a glass with smoked salmon and cream cheese on sourdough bread, it was perfect!
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
Blackness Bay Distillery is a newly opened craft business in the oldest building in Blackness on Sea village. We are a family-run business committed to the culture, history and traditions of the area.
The distillery produces whisky and rum in traditional twin copper stills in the time-honoured way, using Scottish malted barley from Alloa to produce single malt, single cask batches of whisky each with its individual characteristics. Our rums are produced directly from raw sugar cane molasses. These are fermented and distilled adding spices and botanicals to produce a range of rums including Flower of Scotland Pink Rum containing rose petals,
heather buds, and thistle flowers; a Jacobite Dark Spiced “Outlandish “ Rum; a white Blackness Bay Navy Rum; and Oak Aged Rum. After some hesitation by the authorities, the distillery has recently been granted the trademark “Mary Queen of Scotch “ for its single malt Scotch whisky, which is currently maturing in oak barrels in our cellars.
We specialise in unique quirky tours of our distillery culminating if required in a meal at our award-winning pub/restaurant, The Lobster Pot, already well-known for its seafood. Tours include the history of the locality, its Jacobite connections and association with Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors also learn about the history of craft distilling in Scotland and see how it is still conducted lagely unchanged.
Perfect for parties, locals and visitors alike. Book now at www.blacknessbaydistillery.co.uk
Blackness Bay Distillery, Shore Road, Blackness on Sea, Linlithgow, EH49 7NL
“Blackness Bay Distillery”
AUGUST SUDOKUS (HARD*) (EASY)
AUGUST CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Not moving (6), 8. Conflict (6), 9. Horrible (4), 10. Wrapper for letter (8), 11. Thrift (7), 13. Loosen (5), 15. Type of snake (5), 17. Country dwelling (7), 20. Against the current (8), 21. Certain (4), 23. Cruel (6), 24. Necessary (6).
DOWN: 1. Celestial body (4), 2. Part of a flower (6), 3. Shrieks (7), 4. Higher up (5), 5. Pinched (6), 6. Tossing (8), 12. Hacking (8), 14. Order (7), 16. Keep (6), 18. Examined (6), 19. Fixes (5), 22. Regrets (4).
* We have added an extra sudoku puzzle this month due to popular demand! Let us know what you think
Low back pain is incredibly common. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) figures, it affects 619 million people globally and it is estimated that this number will rise to 843 million by 2050, driven by both an increasing population and an older population.
It is the condition for which WHO suggests rehabilitation will benefit the greatest number of people. Knowing what to do to help is really important for recovery. So, what do we know about low back pain (LBP) and what can help?
LBP refers to any pain felt between the lower edge of the ribs and the buttocks. It can affect any age group but is most common between the ages of 50 – 55. It is more common in women than men but will affect most of us at some point in our life. For any given year, about one third of the adult population of the UK will have an episode of low back pain - that means 18.8 million of us!
The good news is that most low back pain, 90% of cases, are non-specific or mechanical low back pain where a muscle, joint or connective tissue has been irritated. Specific low back pain is caused by a particular disease or known structural problem and only accounts for 10% of cases. Examples would include a known fracture, pain referred from another problem such as a kidney infection, or a cancer.
An episode of back pain can be a frustrating and sometimes scary experience. Suddenly developing pain and muscle spasm that makes moving difficult and going to work impossible is understandably upsetting. The indignity of having to try to lasso your foot with underwear in an attempt to get dressed is not fun and some find that wearing socks
is simply not worth the effort as the pain of bending forwards is too much.
The good news is that 90% of people with non-specific low back pain find that their symptoms settle in 4 – 6 weeks, or even sooner, with self-help treatment methods such as over the counter medication and trying to stay active. WHO recommend physiotherapy to improve muscle strength and advise on appropriate exercises. They also recognise the benefits of local treatment such as massage and spinal mobilisation/ manipulation in helping recovery. Their guidelines point out that the current evidence advises against the use of lumbar braces or supports as limiting movement encourages spinal muscles to weaken. WHO also advise avoiding opiate painkillers as opiates can be associated with overdose, addiction and constipation. In fact, a hot pack has been proved to be more effective for LBP than codeine.
We know that LBP is the leading cause of disability globally. We know that for the majority of cases a specific cause will not be found but LBP still has a huge effect on quality of life for you and your family. We know that rehabilitation works. Hands on therapy, education and advice, and the appropriate exercises will all make a difference to recovery. Please do let physiotherapy help you.
The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk
Ididn’t vote in the recent General Election. Not because I was conflicted about who to vote for, not because I’m apathetic, and not because I don’t value the suffering and sacrifice of my sisters who won me the right to vote.
I didn’t vote because I’m a permanent resident of UK, not a citizen. So I was not allowed to cast a ballot. Funny when you consider that I’ve lived in this country nearly 40 years - worked, paid taxes, raised a family, served in the community...
And yet I can vote in the upcoming US Presidential election. I have that right and responsibility even though I don’t live in the States and my home country is a place I recognise less and less as the years go by.
Watching the major parties in US politics become increasingly polarised has been shocking. I’ve heard their relationship described as tribal. I don’t think things are as blatant here. But that doesn’t mean they can’t go that way - especially if we don’t take care to ensure we are respectful, even when we disagree.
Yesterday one of my Facebook friends wrongly interpreted one of my posts as political. This surprised him as he knows I try really hard not to express my political views or get into discussions about politics on social media platforms. It’s just not a very good idea.
Respectful debate seems to be a thing of the past. And even general conversations about political issues - or anything controversial - appear to be impossible on social media.
‘Discussions’ on Facebook are actually a series of monologues. One person after another posts a long spiel, their point of view and - in their opinion - the only point of view. Often their comments are disrespectful of anyone who thinks differently. Sometimes they are abusive.
I’ve heard that good conversation is like sitting in a circle and passing a ball from person to person. The one holding the ball has the floor briefly and then they pass it to another person. The people who are not holding the ball listen to the one holding it. They may disagree, but they have the option of doing so in a respectful way. They can even choose to be gracious, ie “I see where you’re coming from there, but I tend to think...’
I’ve always thought of conversation as an opportunity to learn, not just as a platform to assert my own thoughts and views. If you cannot learn through talking with someone, if there is not even the smallest chance that your view about a subject could be enlightened or altered, then you are not getting your money’s worth when it comes to conversing.
real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.
The top of Currie’s Kirkgate is the starting point for my foray into the Pentlands today, a westerly morning breeze bringing a welcome coolness to the air as I set off.
I begin by taking the stony track that continues uphill from the end of Kirkgate, following the sign indicating ‘Glencorse Reservoir 2.5M’. Wildflowers are in joyful abundance by the sides of the path as I ascend, from wild roses in delicate pinks and whites, to tangles of meadow vetchling, swathes of swaying yellow loosestrife, and the exquisite spear-shaped flower clusters of common spotted orchid. This floral spectacle is sound-tracked by cheerful calls of chaffinch, chiff-chaff and yellowhammer. Gradually, as I near open country, the beeches by the path give way to birch and Scots pine. A small, crystal-clear burn meanders beneath the open canopy to my left. Then, leaving the trees and hedgerows behind, I follow the path over heathland towards Maiden’s Cleuch, traversing what was once the old Malleny Rifle range. I admire Carnethy Hill’s camouflage colours between the green of Bell’s Hill and the darker slopes of Black Hill.
A skylark, larger than expected when seen close-up, alights on the drystone wall just ahead. It has a beak jammed full of insects and, despite this mouthful, is calling to its young to come and be fed. It stays close as I pass, parental instinct stronger than the fear of my presence. Soon, the air fills with the sound of larks all around. I see a kestrel speed through the air in the distance, rust-red wings catching the morning sun. It’s not close enough to silence the larks though.
Once over the col at Maiden’s Cleugh, the view opens up south-eastward down the valley to Glencorse Reservoir, with its pine-topped Swallows-and-Amazons island tempting
in the distance. A bench by the shore would make a nice lunch stop were it later in the day, but today, just before reaching the reservoir, I turn sharply left and upslope, following the sign marked ‘Colinton by Bonaly’, heading over Knightfield Rig. Pausing to catch my breath, I turn to look back and am rewarded with a fine vista of the Pentland range, extending from Turnhouse Hill all the way to Scald Law and the Kips.
I continue through the valley between Harbour Hill and Capelaw Hill for a mile or so. On reaching a conifer plantation, I pass through a gate on my left, following the sign to Bonaly. Emerging from the trees, I find myself by the spillway of Bonaly reservoir - smaller, and a little more windswept in character than Glencorse. I perch on the concrete parapet and scan around. An angler stands on the far shore, while little grebes and tufted duck dabble and dive amongst rafts of water plants that patchwork the surface. Closer by, a pied wagtail pecks amongst the shingle at the water’s edge and, as I sit contemplating this scene, a female mallard glides in to land in the shallows and begins to waddle up the beach towards me. She is clearly accustomed to taking advantage of the crumbs tossed by the walkers and cyclists who stop here. I make my apologies that I have no such treats this time before setting off on my way again.
Coming over the rise at the northern end of the reservoir, a panoramic view of the city is revealed, which I soak in at leisure during an easy descent down the next section of path. On reaching the woods above Bonaly car park (another possible starting point for this walk), I take a left, following the sign for Torduff Reservoir. The root-latticed path leads me along the wood’s southern edge and, on emerging from the trees, I bear left. Initially, rocky bluffs shield the steep-sided reservoir from view, their southern slopes blushed with the purples of foxgloves and early flowering heather. Then, the sheltered waters of Torduff’s southern reaches come in to view, still and dark below banks of dense bracken and bramble. A burn runs from the higher altitude Clubbidean Reservoir down to Torduff and, with the sound of its gushing falls in my ears, I begin my ascent to the fourth and final reservoir of the day.
The roadway takes me up the northern side of the Clubbiedean dam, beneath power lines that fizz and crackle, before turning left at the little lodge and café to continue along the northern shore. Here, the tranquil Clubbiedean offers up its own host of life. Three swans are gracefully navigating the calm waters, mature woods their backdrop. The song of willow warblers fills the air, each phrase beginning purposefully before seeming to drift off in an ever-descending lilting reverie, as if lulled by the very summers days which have brought them north once more. A goldfinch takes an impromptu bath in a puddle and swallows swoop and dive to collect insects over the adjacent fields.
The final leg of this walk is an easy roadside march taking me past the steadings of Easter and Middle Kinleith to arrive back once more where I started. This gives me time to reflect on the four reservoirs, each with its own different attributes and welcoming cast of characters - a little like the human towns which they serve and which we, living nearby, are lucky enough to call home.
The walk offers easy hillwalking along established tracks, paths and roads. Allow 3.5 – 4 hours.
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.
We were photographing foxes a few weeks ago and looking back through the images, it resurfaced a memory from our childhood. We were obsessed with the Animals of Farthing wood, whether it was the book, TV series or magazine, it was a huge deal for us and was probably what really sparked our love for wildlife.
Thinking about the storyline of the book, it somewhat predicted the future and the challenges wildlife has faced because of humans. For those unfamiliar with the premise, it follows a group of animals forced to move from their home, Farthing Wood, because humans were clearing the land to make way for houses. The book tracks their journey as they seek out a new home at a nature reserve called White Deer Park.
Listening back to the theme tune whilst writing this has given me a wonderful sense of nostalgia for when we raced home from school, ready to watch the next episode or devour the next issue of the magazine.
This Vixen in Edinburgh has done incredibly well to raise a beautiful family of four very healthy cubs, despite having a visible limp. We’ve been back to see them since I took this
shot and the group has nearly doubled in size. We couldn’t believe it when there were eight or nine foxes charging around, which now included a dog fox aka Dad, we suspect.
Did you know that foxes can retract their claws like a cat? I didn’t. Every day’s a school day!
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
CHILDREN’S SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT WATER OF LEITH VISITOR CENTRE
Activities include Fairy Folk, Water Force, Art in the Woods – various sessions for children of different ages. Tuesdays and Thursdays through the school holidays, 1:30 – 3:30pm. For more information and to book online please visit www.waterofleith.org.uk
SATURDAY 10TH AUGUST
Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm
SUNDAY 18TH AUGUST
Guided Wade -
Continuing our theme of hands on guided walks, Ranger Johnny will be leading you off the footpath and in to the river. See the river from a different perspective! This guided WADE from the Centre to Bogs bridge will showcase the heritage and wildlife of the river, from the river. Waders will be provided. This walk will be in the water on very rough, rocky and slippery terrain and participants will need to be fit and healthy to ensure safety. Note: if river levels are high it will be cancelled or postponed. 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
SATURDAY 31ST AUGUST
Art in the Park - (or Saturday 7th September if the weather is inclement). Arts and craft stalls, pop-up bar and food, music and dance, games and activities, fun dog show. Spylaw Park, 12.00noon - 5.00pm
SATURDAY 31ST AUGUST
Currie Show - Currie Horticultural Society’s 144th annual show. Balerno High School. 1.30 – 4.00pm. Come along and marvel at giant onions and gorgeous flowers, not to mention delicious-looking home baking and fantastic crafted items. You can then rest your legs and enjoy some tea, coffee, cake and biscuits in the cafe and buy some home baking. Admission £2, children free.
Has your child recently finished school? Are they applying for university places this year?
Congratulations to the young people (and to their parents)! Finishing High School means completing a very important stage of education and allows you to focus on the future.
If Higher Education is what your child is interested in, now is the time to find out about the application process and allocation of places. Especially courses which are in high demand, e.g. Computer Science, Mathematics, Medicine, Psychology or Business & Economics are not easy to get into.
The Higher/Advanced Higher results will be published by the SQA on 6 August 2024, but the English AQA and Pearson Edexcel are going to be available from 15 August. This means that Scottish students have a small head start on their English peers.
It is also worth considering that universities are given the results a day or two before they are
made available to students. The simple reason being that the admissions departments are at their busiest time of year in August and the clearing process depends on how many of the conditional offers are being confirmed. To help a little with the jargon:
• Students who already have their final results, e.g. those who finished school a year earlier, might be made “unconditional offers” as there is nothing more they need to add. These students just need to confirm if they accept the offer and they can then sit back and wait for the start of their first semester.
• Students who are still waiting for their results, i.e. most of the applicants, will be given a “conditional offer” based on their predicted grades provided by their schools. The conditional offers will then be converted into “unconditional” if the August results confirm the predicted grades. However, if the published results are not as good as expected, the offers can be withdrawn by the universities. This process frees places for “clearing”.
As an example of typical expectations, the University of Edinburgh standard entry requirements are AAAA in SQA Highers or A*AA in A Levels (39 points with 666 at HL in the International Baccalaureate). A “B” in Advanced Higher is often counted as an “A” in Higher, which is worth remembering!
The Clearing process offers remaining places at universities, which can be applied for on the first come, first served basis. However, it is worth pointing out that not all degree programmes and universities go into Clearing. For example, the MBChB Medicine Programme at Edinburgh University never goes into Clearing as they are oversubscribed every year. This will be similar for other universities and courses with a high level of interest.
How our service, BK Tutoring, can support you:
• curriculum-based online tuition in most highdemand school subjects
• preparing your personal statement for UCAS applications
• understanding the entry requirements for your chosen university and degree programme
• UCAT tuition for applicants to Medicine
This article was contributed by Dr Beata Kohlbek. Beata runs an online tutoring service. It brings experienced teachers to those pupils who want to get better in their school work, improve their grades or pass exams at a higher level. You can find BK Tutoring here: www.bktutoring.co.uk
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
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, Wed and Fri 12:30-1:30pm. We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.20 but we do have monthly membership schemes available. Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@btinternet.com
OXGANGS WRITE AWAY! WRITERS' GROUP
- Whether you are a beginner or not, would-be novelist, journal-writer or poet, come along and share, learn, be inspired or simply listen. We meet at Oxgangs Library every 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6.00pm - free tea/coffee and biscuits too! For more information, contact Robert Carroll Robert.Carroll@edinburgh.gov.uk or katiemoon7754@gmail.com
REDHALL WALKING GROUP - A gentle walking group exploring areas such as the Union Canal, Colinton Dell and the Water of Leith. Improve your health and wellbeing and meet new people. Meet at Redhall Walled Garden entrance on main road at 97 Lanark Road. Mondays 10.00am - 11.30am Fun, friendly and free. Contact: emily@elgt.org.uk or 07943 530806. Facebook @GreenspaceTrust
ST CUTHBERT'S PLAYGROUP - 10.00am
- 11.30am - Every Monday during school term time. £2 per family. Toys, snacks and a fun songs! St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue, Colinton. Contact Rev Nicki McNelly for more information: stcuthbertsrector@gmail.com
FORGET ME NOTES - The Forget Me Notes Project is a charity that uses music to build community and combat isolation in a variety of settings On the first and third Monday of each month - 2.00pm - 4.00pm in St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue, Colinton. Join us when you can, for an hour of music and memories, followed by refreshments. All welcome. Please contact Rev Nicki for more information: stcuthbertsrector@ gmail.com (www.forgetmenotes.org.uk)
COLINTON FRIENDLY BRIDGE CLUB - Colinton Cottage Homes’ Hall every Monday from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Please contact Ken McLeod on 0131 466 0888 for more information. Held in St Cuthberts Church Hall every second Tuesday afternoon between 2.00pm and 4.00pm.
TEA AND TOTS - Stay and play for ages 0-5
with their parent/carer - all are welcome! Toys, crafts, refreshments, song-time and more. Every Thursday during school term time, 10am-11.30am at Redeemer Church, 64 Bridge Road, Colinton, EH13 OLQ. FREE E: admin@redeemeredinburgh.org T: 0131 441 7327
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
COLINTON LITERARY SOCIETY - Meetings start with coffee, tea and wine at 7.30pm and are held at Dreghorn Hall, 22 Dreghorn Loan, EH13 0DE. Full programme details are at www.colinton-parish. com/colinton-literary-society.html
COFFEE, CAKE AND COMPANY - Drop in for a free coffee between 10.30am and 12pm on Mondays at Redeemer Church Edinburgh, 64 Bridge Road EH13 0LT. We are mostly retired people, but all ages are welcome! More details at redeemeredinburgh.org/ccc
THIS WOMAN RUNS - We are a small group of local women who support and empower each other to be healthier and happier. We meet Wednesday’s at 7.30pm at the bottom of Thorburn Road, or Sunday’s at 8.00am in Spylaw Park for a quick warm up, 30-minute run at the pace of chat/your pace, and then a gentle cool down. We’d love to see you there! All free, run by friendly local volunteers www.thismumruns.co.uk/join-a-local-run
WAVERLEY SPEAKERS CLUB - Meets in Morningside Parish Church, fortnightly on Tuesdays at 7.15pm. Our aim is to improve members’ public speaking skills in a supportive atmosphere. Each evening has three prepared speeches of eight minutes, evaluated constructively by another member. Eight impromptu short speeches follow, also evaluated. New members will be made most welcome. Contact i.wright237@btinternet.com or Douglas.Lothian@lenlothian.com
LOCAL FLORAL ART CLUB - Sit back and enjoy relaxing evenings watching a floral demonstration with lively & interesting chat. You might even win one of the arrangements. Meet: Boroughmuir Rugby Club, Meggatland, off Colinton Road EH14 1AS. 7.30pm - 9.30pm on the 1st Monday of the month from September. Wine/tea/coffee available. Contact: Joyce Rutherford on 0131 443 2536 or joyce.rutherford@btinternet.com
COLINTON SCOTTISH COUNTRY
DANCE CLUB - We meet fortnightly from September to end of March/beginning of April in St. Cuthbert’s Episcopal Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue from 7.45 - 9.15. We have an excellent teacher and live music so come and join us, with or without a partner, you’ll be made very welcome. Tel: 07751186359 or 07483814988.
THE SWING CAFÉ - Tues to Sat 10.00am2.00pm. Please come for breakfast (10.00am12.00noon), lunch (12noon -2.00pm) or some delicious home baking (available all day). We welcome groups and if you would like to book a table, please contact 07514 689258. There are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan and dairyfree options. Under 12s are invited to enjoy a children's menu. Sit in or take away. We look forward to welcoming you.
COLINTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETYWant to know about local history?
W: www.colintonhistory.org
E: enquiries@colintonhistory.org
COLINTON GARDEN CLUB - Club members share their love of gardening, gardens and nature, and work together to preserve and add value to our quality of life here in south-west Edinburgh. Monthly members’ meetings on a Monday, in the upper Hall, Dreghorn Loan and start at 8.00pm. We are a friendly and thriving club and new members are very welcome, plus outings and events. The annual subscription is £8.00.per household. For more information see: W: www.colintongardens.org.uk
E: membership@colintongardens.org.uk
LUNCHCLUB - Every Wednesday 1pm – 3pm, 3 courses £4. Spaces are limited, first come first served. Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firhill Drive, EH13 9EU. Please visit: oxgangsneighbourhoodcentre.org.uk
PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP - Tuesdays, am session and pm session for two age groups (all under 5s). Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firhill Drive, EH13 9EU. T: 0131 466 0678
E: oxgangsneighbourhoodcentre@gmail.com
OXGANGS NEIGHBOUR CENTRE
CAFÉ - 10.00am to 1.00pm. Bacon rolls, baked potatoes, toasties,specials, teas, coffees and cake. Sit in or takeaway.
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We are a welcoming, non-auditioning Community Choir and all are welcome to join us at the start of our new term for an Open Rehearsal at 7.00pm for 7.15pm on Monday 9th September in Memorial Hall at Merchiston Castle School.
No past experience of choral singing is required and there will be no pressure or commitment to join the choir. We rehearse on Monday evenings in the Memorial Hall from 7.15pm till 9.00pm - but it's not a problem if you can't be there for 7.15pm or have to leave a little bit early.
Our choir now has a mixed range of ages and runs social events so that we can all get to know each other better and make new members welcome.
Our Christmas Concert will be on Monday 9th December in the Memorial Hall. We will be singing the delightful A Light in the Stable by Alan Bullard, which tells the Christmas story through a blend of original settings and well known carols. We will also be singing other carols with audience participation. Please Save the Date and note that yes, it is on a Monday evening.
As always, we thank Merchiston Castle School for the use of the Memorial Hall and access to the School's Music Library.
For more information about our Choir and directions to the Memorial Hall or if you wish to contact us, please consult our website : www.colintonchoir.org or our Facebook page.
*SORRY!
A technical error meant that last month’s crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle board.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKUS ON PAGE 16
Art in the Park, Colinton’s Village Fair, will take place on Saturday August 31st or Saturday September 7th (alternate date in case of a bad weather forecast). If you are an artist or make handcrafted goods, please send an email to colintonvillage@gmail.com to register your interest and apply for a stall space.
It’s a busy time of year us as we make plans for this biennial gathering, which brings together artists and craft makers, musicians and performers, local community organisations, and activities galore, for the delectation and delight of neighbourhood residents, families and friends – and of course their pets!
Local donators, businesses and stallholders are already offering an amazing array of brilliant Tombola and Raffle prizes and we are grateful for any donations received.
The highlight for Colinton’s pooches – Bark in the Park – will once again be organised by skilled dog handlers Anne-Marie and Anita. Sheep will also make a return appearance, accompanied by handler Jenny whose sheep Jura actually won a rosette in 2022’s competition! Other highlights will include a pop-up bar with hot food provided by local restaurant, Dantes, and others. There will be live musical entertainment and performances from local dancers and musicians with Angela Watson’s School of Dance, Mhairi Hogg’s Highland Dancers and an Art in the Park favourite, Twisted Tails (a fabulous troupe of belly dancers). Games, activities, and special attractions for children will include Bastian, The Clumsy Magician and his Amazing Magic Show, invented during lockdown by a local resident, with his first launch at Art in the Park 2022. Old favourites, the well-loved coconut shy and the ever-popular stocks, will also feature.
Join us in Spylaw Park between 12pm and 5pm on August 31st (keep an eye out for updates on our Facebook page). www.facebook.com/ ColintonVillageEnterprise
To donate toward this event and/or to help us realise the project of renovating The Shed into a full-time community hub, please use the QR code >>>
