Dell Directory March 2024

WHAT'S ON:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

CHARITY:

employment opportunities, volunteering opportunities, social and sports clubs – the March issue of The Dell Directory offers a sample of the sort of opportunities we’re lucky to have in abundance in the local area. Spring is the season of hope and opportunity, and as we emerge from winter, whether it’s getting out in nature, clubs and classes to get involved in, organisations helping others and looking for volunteers to do so – there are plenty of ways to enhance our lives, in whatever measure we can manage.

Along with all our regular knowledgeable and entertaining local contributors, there are Spotlight features on some excellent local businesses. The recipe this month is an extended feature on Easter food and eggsincluding the humble omelette. When I was a student living in the south of France, an old French lady I used to visit told me I should not get married until I could make a perfect omelette!

As usual many businesses have exclusive offers and discounts for Dell Directory readers, so check their adverts and remember to mention the mag when you contact them.

Thanks as ever for reading The Dell Directory and supporting local businesses and organisations.

The Dell Directory is delivered monthly to 5,500 homes in the Colinton, Craiglockhart and Kingsknowe areas. It is also

Looking for a new rewarding volunteering opportunity in 2024?

Seagull Trust at Ratho are also proposing some TASTER SESSIONS CRUISES for those thinking about volunteering, but not too sure if it’s really for them. If you are interested in putting your toe in the water (not literally) give Stuart a call on 07847 611398. He will be delighted to hear from you.

Seagull Trust Cruises, who run free canal cruises for the elderly, infirm and those with special needs are looking for new volunteers at their Ratho base.

The charity runs more than 2000 cruises per annum from four bases in Scotland (Ratho, Falkirk, Kirkintilloch & Inverness), regularly taking around 22,000 passengers onto our canals for short morning or afternoon cruises. Many of these cruises run from Ratho, where Seagull have three specially designed wheelchair-friendly boats operating 7 days a week in the summer. But many of the volunteers only give one day, or even just one morning, each week, so the amount of time you want to give is entirely up to you.

Volunteering with Seagull can cover a variety of roles depending on your interests. Whether you want to get involved with running the boats (no experience needed as full training is given), or simply wish to help host our passengers by talking with them over a cup of tea, there is much to do alongside our existing team of some 90+ Ratho volunteers. You may have an interest in maintenance, engineering, or be a wizard at wielding a paintbrush; you may have an interest in admin, or want to work from home in your own time. No matter your interest there will be a role for you at Seagull Trust Cruises.

Among the benefits that getting involved brings to the volunteers, experiencing the enjoyment that our passengers get from their

cruise is exceptionally heart-warming. As one care home operator says:

“Over the years, we have been on many trips with Seagull Trust Cruises and quite simply, the trips are brilliant.

“The residents love it and the volunteers are so lovely and so helpful. We value the work that Seagull Trust Cruises does because the trips are memorable for our residents and are frequently and fondly talked about.”

Stuart Rennie, Chairman at Seagull Ratho, has been volunteering on the Union Canal for over 15 years, and highlights that the canal is a community of its very own. Everyone you pass on the tow path smiles or waves as you travel past at a leisurely 4 mph. It really is an opportunity to slow down from today’s hectic lifestyle, while bringing a bit of enjoyment to the passengers and their carers alike.

If you would like get involved, or to know more about volunteering with Seagull Trust Cruises, have a look at their website at www.seagulltrust.org.uk or email

RathoVolunteer@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk

This article was contributed by the Seagull Trust Cruises, a charity registered in Scotland SC013757.

Join Care UK’s nationwide ‘Big Dementia Conversation’

Did you know that more than 920,000 people in the UK live with Dementia, yet 77% of people feel there are still misconceptions surrounding the condition* ?

Despite our increased knowledge of dementia in recent years, many feel in the dark about what to expect following a diagnosis, and what’s more, many still feel uncomfortable, or even embarrassed, talking about the lesser-known symptoms.

Let’s get talking

‘ The Big Dementia Conversation’ is all about encouraging people to talk about some of the most difficult topics associated with dementia. Our online advice hub takes a closer look at some of the less-talkedabout symptoms of dementia, with expert advice from our dementia specialists on how to navigate them.

We’re here for you

At Care UK, our dementia specialists continue to work with academic partners and respected leaders in the field, to develop a holistic and forwardthinking approach to the delivery of dementia care. We’re always looking for new ways to support families caring for a loved one with dementia, and we recognise the importance of helping you to navigate through some of the more challenging stages.

Visit our website for further information by scanning the QR code.

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

*According to a survey of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by OnePoll between 25th September and 2nd October 2023.

What can be done to help a Trigger Finger or Thumb?

A Trigger Finger is a painful condition that can really affect what we are able to do. I remember an anatomy Professor explaining years ago that, as far as function is concerned, the thumb is half the hand and that the thumb and index finger are 90%. Anyone with a Trigger Finger or thumb will agree – activities can be really difficult when you cannot reliably bend or straighten a finger. So, what causes this condition, also known as Stenosing Tenosynovitis, and how can we treat it?

We have long tendons that attach the muscles in our forearms to the bones in our fingers so that we can bend or straighten every joint in our hand. These tendons are long cords that run through a protective sheath. If the tendon becomes irritated or damaged it can form a nodule which catches on the sheath, instead of gliding smoothly with movement. The catching or clicking sensation you get with a Trigger Finger is caused by a nodule in the flexor tendon getting caught in the sheath. This can make it difficult to bend and straighten your finger and they may even get stuck in a bent position. The nodule in the tendon may suddenly break free, releasing the finger, like the release of a trigger, so that the finger will straighten. You may be able to feel a sore lump in the palm of your hand

at the base of the affected finger which is the nodule in the tendon.

This condition is most common between the ages of 40 - 60 and affects more women than men. People with some health conditions like Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis and low Thyroid levels can be more prone to developing a Trigger Finger. You may also be more prone to developing this if your job involves repetitive finger and thumb movements such as musicians, farmers and industrial workers.

It can be seen in children, often between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, affecting their ability to straighten their thumb. In the case of children, it is rarely painful and often will get better on its own.

A Trigger Finger in adults may get better on its own with rest and medication such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Physiotherapy advice on the appropriate stretches and strengthening exercises will help the tendon settle and manipulation / massage will help any hand stiffness recover also. Splinting the affected finger at night time can help reduce pain and rest the tendon.

If these measures do not help then a steroid injection can be beneficial with a success rate of 75%. If one injection does not quite clear the condition, another can be given. Sometimes though, surgery is needed to remove the nodule and allow the affected finger or thumb to move properly again.

A Trigger Finger can be a real nuisance – we need our fingers for so many activities in daily life. It is well worth seeking help – there is much that can be done.

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

Mercedes Gleitze is a name that has been largely lost to history, but she was the first British woman to swim the English Channel, and was the first person to complete many other incredible swims around the world, including the Straits of Gibraltar, the Dardanelles, and the distance between Robben Island and Cape Town.

In 1929, she tackled the Firth of Forth, completing an incredible swim from Gullane to Dysart, swimming non-stop for 11 hours 22 minutes. The following year, she was back in Edinburgh to showcase her remarkable endurance skills at the iconic Infirmary Street Baths (now Dovecot Studios), swimming for an astonishing 26 hours straight in front of 7,000 spectators. In celebration of International Women’s Day, a new biopic Vindication Swim opens in cinemas across the UK on the 8th March. The film depicts Mercedes’ struggle in overcoming both the cold waters of the English Channel and the oppressive society of 1920s England. However, after a rival comes forward claiming to have

accomplished the same feat, Mercedes is forced into battle to retain her record and her legacy.

Written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Elliott Hasler, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of a woman who dared to dream beyond the confines of her era. The film’s release on the 8th March invites Edinburgh residents to join the nationwide audience in commemorating International Women’s Day while paying homage to a local connection that shaped Gleitze’s remarkable legacy.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a sports fan, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Vindication Swim promises a cinematic experience that celebrates not only the achievements of Mercedes Gleitze, but also the collective strength and determination of women who have left an indelible mark on our world.

Details for screenings can be found at vindicationswimfilm.com or @vindicationswimfilm on social media

Whilst a swim across the Forth is beyond the reach of most, those who fancy a dip in the Firth of Forth can do so in the company of members of the West Lothian Dippers. The group offers the chance to connect with local swimmers, share and recommend good areas to swim and make swim friends. They say, “We love taking new folk into the water safely. Over the years we’ve watched many new swimmers progress in confidence. We’re such a welcoming community and always have fun together. We’re so lucky having great swim spots accessible to us. The Forth is a great spot with the views of the bridges. It is an estuary though with lots going on so tides and currents are always assessed first. Everyone knows the benefits of cold water swimming, but we get to see it first hand with our Dippers. New members are always welcome. Everyone swims at their own risk.” Find them on facebook @West Lothian Dippers

This article was contributed by Relsah Films, with additional local information from West Lothian Dippers.

Pioneering swimmer, Mercedes Gleitze, returns to Edinburgh in a new film almost a century after her incredible endurance swim here.

FROM INSPIRATION TO INSTALLATION: KITCHEN RENOVATION

Are you planning to renovate your kitchen this year? For many of us, entertaining over Christmas and other holiday periods focuses the mind on what we’d like to improve. And no room does this more than the kitchen!

Before you race off to spend hours looking at kitchen showrooms, local kitchen and home designer, Sarah Maguire of Raison Home, shares her advice on the top 3 things you need to think about first:

1. Fix the flow - Make sure your room works for your needs. Look at the doorways, the sightlines, the routes through and consider what needs to change. Sometimes it can be an easy fix, such as changing the direction or type of door. Other times it can be more fundamental and you may want to consult an architect to help solve the problem areas.

As a professional kitchen designer, I work with clients in their own homes rather than a show room. This allows us to chat through their unique space and how it is used, understand any technical or layout challenges, and agree on the best use of the space. Often clients have decided to remove a wall to open the space, or to swap the kitchen and living rooms to optimise the flow and light. Sometimes it’s changing a window or taking out a door to make the flow of the space work so much better.

2. Get some inspiration - Pinterest and social media are great sources of inspiration but the most popular pictures will be the most fashionable. If you want to create a timeless kitchen space then be careful of trends in the

hard finishes (floors, cabinet colours, worktops). These hard finishes are the most expensive and difficult to change. Bring the trends in areas that can be changed and updated as the years go, such as cabinet handles, lighting, and accessories. This does not mean your space needs to be neutral or boring.

There are so many ways to bring personality and interest into your space. I love advising clients on the small details that make their design unique and reflective of their own character and style. For some inspiration, follow my social media @RaisonHomeEdinburgh

3. Know your Budget - Let’s face it, life is full of compromises, and you need to know your budget to be able to make good choices. If your budget is very tight for a kitchen renovation, it’s better to spend it on the best quality cabinets and hard finishes rather than very expensive high-end appliances. You won’t want to replace your cabinets after only a few years, while upgrading appliances later is much easier and will help you manage your budget now.

If you’re looking for a hands-on and passionate designer to guide you through your kitchen project, Sarah would love to help. She offers an end-to-end kitchen renovation service, from inspiration to installation. To hear more, contact Sarah at Sarah.Maguire@ RaisonHome.com or visit raisonhome.com/en-gb/ to book a design consultation.

This article was contributed by Raison Home Edinburgh. Contact Sarah Maguire at edinburgh@raisonhome.com for more information.

Recently my husband and I were visiting his parents for the weekend and I took my mum-in-law out for lunch. She suggested a pub she’d been to before, so off we went.

As we entered, I noticed big TV screens dotted about the place where (mostly) men were watching the football. We probably should have left then, but we followed the barman to the restaurant area (a large, empty, cold room. “I thought you’d been here before,” I said to Mum. “Oh yes, I have – but that was about 40 years ago.”

Despite being told when we booked that we could get a light lunch there, nothing on the menu quite fit that description. In the end we went for the ‘three bar snacks to share’ option: mini tacos, spicy chicken wings and nachos. The wings were good, the mini tacos were passable. The nachos were … dire. Tortilla chips, spread out in a shallow pottery dish –maybe to give the illusion they had been in the oven – topped with large chunks of spring onion and cold artificial cheese sauce. And yet when the barman asked if all was OK, I did

the British thing and said, “Yes, thanks.” I told Mum what nachos are meant to be like and said it would have been better to have a bag of plain tortilla chips than what we’d been given. She said, “Well, I’m not saying anything.” And I probably wouldn’t have either. Except, when I asked for the bill, the barman asked me again, “Was everything all right?”

“Can I be honest about the nachos?” He sorted of nodded, so I continued, “They were really disappointing – I’ve had better nachos at the cinema. They use that artificial cheese sauce too, but at least it’s warm.

“You know, it’s not that difficult to make nachos. You just top some tortilla chips with grated cheese, add some chopped tomatoes, onions and jalapeños and put them in the oven. To make them more special you can spread the chips with refried beans before adding the toppings and baking.”

He listened to me and said he’d have a word with the chef. A few minutes later he came back with the bill. I announced to Mum that they weren’t charging us for the nachos.

That, of course, was the right response from the pub. But it never would have happened if I hadn’t spoken up. It helps that I was raised in a country where it’s normal to express your dissatisfaction, as well as your praise, for goods or services you pay for. How else are you going to encourage good customer service?

According to The Institute of Customer Service (ICS), customer satisfaction is at its lowest level since 2015 – and falling at the fastest pace on record.

Is anyone surprised? I’m not. I bought a large kitchen appliance recently and chased four different staff members around the showroom before one served me. He tried to avoid making eye contact with me.

But I won.

real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.

SUZANNE GREEN

MARCH CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the April edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Tidy (4), 3. Uneducated (8), 9. Not man-made (7), 10. Tummy button (5), 11. Premature (5), 12. Pacific and Atlantic (6), 14. Stitching (6), 16. Not present (6), 19. Vegetable (6), 21. Big cat (5), 24. Heartbeat (5), 25. Frightened (7), 26. Less than twenty (8), 27. Second-hand (4).

DOWN: 1. Rubbish (8), 2. Performer (5), 4. Faster than canter (6), 5. 28grams approx. (5), 6. Move forwards (7), 7. Cash register (4), 8. Used for drawing (6), 13. Surprised (8), 15. Made from fleece (7), 17. Double-cross (6), 18. Hot beverage (6), 20. Representative (5), 22. Presents (5), 23. Unlocked (4).

MARCH SUDOKU

Mark your diary, the 13th March is ‘International Riesling Day’! Riesling is a white grape variety that’s been grown in Germany for hundreds of years. The variety has taken root very successfully in Australia, New Zealand, France, Austria and the USA.

There are many incredible and contrasting styles of Riesling to try with the best in the world coming from the Mosel River region in Germany. Here the vines are grown on the inhospitably steep south facing slate hills where the vines are warmed by the late afternoon sun.

Rieslings produced in the Clare and Eden Valley in Australia tend to be dry while German Pradikat Rieslings are sweet. They also express an amazing range of sensations in your mouth, dry Rieslings can be austere and dry and while others rich and oily. Riesling will always be high in acidity making it great for pairing with food.

One of the incredible things about German Riesling is its longevity. The wine if carefully stored can last for decades. When I started to learn about wine tasting, I tried a 20 year old bottle. I wasn’t sure what to expect, I certainly didn’t expect the strong diesel aroma and taste! The fresh lime and citrus found in a young Riesling had faded and the wine matured into an oily and characterful wine. I have to admit, I didn’t especially enjoy the wine but it was a really interesting and memorable experience!

Try a young Riesling, look for fruit flavours like nectarine, apple and pear. Beyond the primary fruits you might notice honeycomb, jasmine and maybe a hint of diesel!

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

Spring, re-birth and a festival of fertility after the lean times of winter all contribute to our celebration rituals of Easter. The two main foods in Christian Europe have been lamb and eggs, symbols of hope and plenty for millennia.

Many traditions of decorating eggs, making breads enriched with eggs, exchanging gifts of eggs and eating spring lamb can be directly traced to ancient pagan Gods of Greece and the Middle East.

The giving of chocolate eggs has been a huge marketing opportunity for the confectionery industry; the fantastically elaborate gold and bejewelled eggs given by the Tsars to their family are perhaps the most luxurious gift eggs; but the tradition of decorating eggs can still be enjoyed by you and your children with a few hard boiled eggs and poster paint. Then they can be rolled downhill till the shells crack off! In Greece they dye eggs dark red and bake them into a nest of rich milk-bread. The Italians make an egg rich cake and in Germany they dye eggs and make special bread with fruit, poppy seeds and marzipan. Eggs are very easy to digest and are a nourishing food. In Larousse Gastronomique

(The French Dictionary of Food) there are 30 pages of recipes for eggs, either poached or boiled and made interesting by the addition of anything from foie gras and truffles, a cheese sauce or okra and prawns.

Temperature is critical when cooking eggs. Storing eggs in the fridge makes it even more difficult to get things just right. Most houses don’t have a cool, airy larder, but if you can, try to keep eggs away from a fridge. As the shell is semi-permeable, eggs absorb the flavours around them and the fridge taste is often what makes people dislike boiled or poached eggs.

The most difficult egg dish to prepare perfectly is the most simple. It is the subject of a wonderful essay by Elizabeth David and the test piece in the 2014 Helen Mirren film “The Hundred Foot Journey”; an omelette. It is worth learning the tricks because an omelette and a salad is a perfect, quick meal.

This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.

Ingredients

• Per person:- 2 large fresh eggs

• Walnut sized lump of butter, salt, pepper a splash of cold water

• Chopped chives or parsley or marigold petals

Method

Heat a small frying pan. (There are many expensive, specifically designed pans to make omelettes; they are lovely tools but are not necessary)

1. Crack the eggs into a mug or small bowl. Add a grind of pepper, a pinch of salt and a splash of cold water. If you like add the chopped herbs and mix it well with a fork. Have everything else you want for the meal ready.

2. Now cook the omelette: Melt the butter in the pan but don’t let it become brown. Pour in the mixed eggs really quickly and using the fork, pull the setting sides of the egg mixture to the middle of the pan. How set you want the finished dish is very personal; I like the last bit just not quite set. Hold the pan above your plate and roll the omelette on to it. The whole operation will take about 3 minutes!

Eggs can become the most amazing pudding; from meringues to soufflés, roulades or baked custard. Whipped eggs trap air which expands on cooking and as the protein sets a light structure is supported.

Perhaps one of the cleverest egg dishes is Norwegian Omelette, otherwise known as Baked Alaska.

Ingredients

• Plain madeira sponge cake, from which you cut a good 2” thick slice

• Blackcurrant or raspberry jam

• A block of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, cut so its footprint is just smaller than the cake. Keep it in the freezer till the last minute

• The whites of 3 large eggs

• 6oz sugar

Method

Heat the oven to 180oC

1. Make the meringue: Whip the whites till stiff and then with the beater still turning gradually add the sugar and continue beating till the meringue is really thick and stands in peaks. The rest is a fast assembly job!

2. Put the cake on a shallow oven proof dish. Spread with jam. Do not let it dribble down the sides.

3. Place the block of ice cream on top and then cover the whole lot with a thick layer of meringue.

4. Bake for 10 minutes till the spikes of meringue are a pale biscuit colour. The cake and meringue are insulation and the trapped air prevents the ice-cream melting.

5. Decorate it with flowers for Easter!

Eyes to the skies

It’s the time of year when most birdwatchers are keeping their eyes and ears out for our returning migrants. One of the most eagerly anticipated (apart from puffins) is the osprey.

This was taken in the Trossachs but there are birds in the Lothians too. After over wintering in Spain, Portgual, and Africa, they undertake the long journey back to the UK to breed, usually around mid March. Designed for fishing, they have an oily plumage which helps prevent them from being waterlogged. They have zygodactyl feet and their toes form the shape of an X, able to swing back and forth and line up with either the back or front set of toes as needed. They make best use of this once they’ve got a fish in their talons to make their grip more secure, they also turn said fish so it’s positioned head first which helps with aerodynamics.

Following years of persecution, predominantly through illegal egg collection, the osprey bounced back from the brink of extinction.

If you’re looking to spot one, they’re fairly

widespread over the country and I’ve seen one at Threipmuir Reservoir. They look very gull like when in flight but once you see their size in comparison, you won’t make that mistake again. They’re our 3rd biggest bird of prey, only smaller than the golden or white tailed eagles. I’m already counting down the days until these majestic birds are back for the summer (hopefully they bring some sunshine too!).

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

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

ST CUTHBERT'S PLAYGROUP - 10.00am11.30am - 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 - Held in St Cuthberts Church Hall every second Tuesday afternoon between 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Please contact Ken McLeod on 0131 466 0888 for more information.

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.

PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB - Come 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

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.colintonparish.com/colinton-literary-society.html

COFFEE, CAKE AND COMPANY - Drop in for a free coffee between 10.30am and 12pm on Mondays from 4th September 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 MUM RUNS - We are a small group of local women (not just Mums!) 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 8am 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 (from 19th September), 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

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.

PUPPY & ADOLESCENT DOGS GROUP CLASSES - A great way to socialise and learn all the basic obedience tricks for your pup. Group classes take place in a puppy-proof

garden at 2 Woodfield Park. It’s a block of 5 classes spread over 5 weeks. Classes take place on either Saturday or Sunday morning and last for 45 min. For more information visit headstartdogtraining.com or call 07366 464040

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

THE SWING CAFÉ - Tues to Sat 10.00am-2.00pm. Please come for breakfast (10.00am-12.00noon), 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 dairy-free options. Under 12s are invited to enjoy a children's menu. Sit in or take away. We look forward to welcoming you.

DESTINATION JUDO @ CRAIGLOCKHART - Craiglockhart sports Centre. Wednesdays 3.45pm (5-8 year olds) and 4.30pm (9+ year olds). Judo is a dynamic sport based on a combination of balance, co-ordinationation and reaction. Most importantly judo helps children become more self aware, disciplined, and polite. Of course we teach all this in a fun way. For information please email callum@destinationjudo.com or call 0131 467 9043.

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Perhaps, 5. Cycle, 8. Shampoo, 9. Exact, 10. Extra, 11. Kitchen, 12. Honest, 14. Glides, 17. Raisins, 19. Noble, 22. Olive, 23. Elegant, 24. Rural, 25. Pitcher.

COLINTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY - Want to know about local history?

W: www.colintonhistory.org

ACROSS: 1. Perhaps, 5. Cycle, 8. Shampoo, 9. Exact, 10. Extra, 11. Kitchen, 12. Honest, 14. Glides, 17. Raisins, 19. Noble, 22. Olive, 23. Elegant, 24. Rural, 25. Pitcher.

E: enquiries@colintonhistory.org

DOWN: 1. Piste, 2 .Roast, 3. Appears, 4. Shocks, 5. Chest, 6. Crashed, 7. Extends, 12. Harbour, 13. Noisier, 15. Lenient, 16. Asleep, 18. Ideal, 20. Brash, 21. Enter.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

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:

DOWN: 1. Piste, 2 .Roast, 3. Appears, 4. Shocks, 5. Chest, 6. Crashed, 7. Extends, 12. Harbour, 13. Noisier, 15. Lenient, 16. Asleep, 18. Ideal, 20. Brash, 21. Enter.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PAGE 27

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

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

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.

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.

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

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design

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.

T: 07729 911858

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 FURTHER INFORMATION.

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

SATURDAY 9TH MARCH

Mini Figure Painting - Drop in and join Juniper Green Board Gamers who will be running an afternoon of mini figure painting at the Hub, 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DJ. 1-5pm Ideal for high school age and older. Free of charge but you are welcome to make a donation to support the Hub. Book at hub531.appointedd.com or by email hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com

SATURDAY 16TH MARCH

Charity Crafters Pop Up Sale - Currie Library, 10.30am and 2.00pm. Proceeds of sale go to local good causes.

WEDNESDAY 20TH MARCH

Volunteers Day at Campbell Park9.00am-3.00pm at Campbell Park, Colinton. All are welcome to turn up and join volunteers from Friends of Campbell Park, Natwest community volunteers, and Bonaly Primary P5 year group. Under guidance of the City of Edinburgh Council Parks Dept, we are transforming the main entrance into a beautifully planted border. All volunteers over the age of 18 will be offered refreshments in the Colinton Inn after the work is done, around 3.00pm. For more information or to register interest in FCP events, please send an email to: focampbellpark@gmail.com. If you would like to be added to our WhatsApp members group, please include your name and mobile number. Follow our web page at www.Facebook/FOCPK

SATURDAY 30TH MARCH

Redhall Spring Hop - Family fun day, entry by donation. Cafe/home baking, garden tours and masterclass, spud & spoon race, crafts for kids, raffle, plant sale. 1-4pm. Proceeds in aid of Scottish Association for Mental Health. Redhall Walled Garden, 97 Lanark Road, EH14 2LZ

SUNDAY 31ST MARCH

Spring Fling in the Park - With Colinton Village Enterprise SCIO. Join us in Spylaw Park, Colinton, to kick start this year’s seasonal gatherings with our Spring Fling on Easter Sunday, 2pm to 5pm. *Hard-boiled egg decorating *Egg rolling shute *Egg & spoon slalom *Pit Stop Café refreshments. Chat to CVE’s trustees as we continue our journey toward a Community Heritage Hub in The Shed (ex coach-house)!

MONDAY1ST APRIL

Picnic, Easter Egg Hunt and Mural Unveiling in Campbell Park - With Friends of Campbell Park.12.00 - 2.00pm. BYO/share picnic, with Easter Egg rolling games, and unveiling of the latest public artwork by Chris Rutterford - our much anticipated 'Container Mural'. All are welcome to just turn up. For more information or to register interest in FCP events, please send an email to: focampbellpark@gmail.com. If you would like to be added to our WhatsApp members group, please include your name and mobile number. Follow our web page at www.Facebook/FOCPK

Save the dates for visiting historic Spylaw Park in all seasons:

• SUN 31ST MARCH - Easter Spring Fling

• SAT 15TH JUNE - Repair Café (celebrating Great Big Green Week)

• SAT 31ST AUGUST (or Saturday 7th September) - Art in the Park

• DECEMBER (Date TBC) - Christmas in the Park

You can look out for what’s on offer on Facebook and at www.cventerprise.org or contact us at colintonvillage@gmail.com

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 MARCH - “The Nelson Monument and Calton Hill Curiosities”, an illustrated talk by Jackie Sangster.

• WED 7TH FEBRUARY - “The Shetland Bus”, an illustrated talk by Kay Hay.

• WED 20TH MARCH - “Prostate Scotland - Current Projects,” an illustrated talk by Elaine Stewart.

• WED 3RD APRIL - “Pirate Radio,” an illustrated talk by James Gentles

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

EMAILEDITOR@KONECT.SCOTBY15TH OFTHE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.