The Dell Directory September 2023

SPOTLIGHT: CLUBS & CLASSES:

LOCAL WALK:

STUDIO AWA : ELEVATING YOUR HOME

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. Curry in the Park is back on September 16th! See pages 8-9, and also 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. 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 1819 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.

The Dell Directory is delivered monthly to 5,500 homes in the Colinton, Craiglockhart and Kingsknowe areas. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe

Following improvements and upgrades to the building, we have been able to organise our event Pit Stop Café with the help of local, brilliant home-bakers and talented volunteers, who on each occasion - our easter Spring Fling, the Eurovision in the Park extravaganza, the Repair Café event, Music in the Park, and Wellbeing in the Park, created the perfect pop-up café for walkers, cyclists, and families in and around Colinton and along the Water of Leith walkway.

We are now eagerly preparing for our pièce de résistance in September - Curry in the Park! Past attendees still talk about the original and very successful Curry in the Park we hosted in 2019. We are delighted to announce that the dream team – CVE Trustee Ian Cowie, aka Mr Snax, his chef-in-arms Kim Khan of the Bonaly Store, and James & Iona Gulter at The Spylaw - have happily agreed

to repeat the fun on Saturday 16th September between 1.00pm and 5.00pm.

Ian and Kim will present authentic curries from the Punjab, while James and his team will select suitable local craft beers to accompany the food. CVE hopes to have an army of willing volunteers to help the whole day go with a swing. Please contact us if you want to get involved.

Tickets for Curry in the Park 2023 must be purchased in advance at a cost of £10.00 which will allow adults to have their own favourite dish, or a plate of choice curries for children to share.

As tickets will be limited to 400, make sure you secure your meal by purchasing tickets at the Bonaly Store, or online via bookwhen.com/cventerprise

Please contact us at colintonvillage@gmail.com with any queries. For latest news follow us on facebook.com/ColintonVillageEnterprise

This article was contributed by Colinton Village Enterprises, Scottish Charity (SC049496)

If you’ve had the good fortune to visit Spylaw Park in Colinton in recent months you may have found the Pit Stop Café – the latest venture of Colinton Village Enterprise SCIO, as we bring back to life the old coach house fondly known as the Shed in the Park.

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

Dementia advice from experts

One step at a time

A video guide to navigating dementia

Our new video guide offers expert advice to help you navigate dementia, from initial diagnosis, to living well with the condition and self-care tips for carers. Download the guide at careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time

Trusted to care

Cairdean House, Colinton Lauder Lodge, Portobello Murrayside, Corstophine careuk.com/edinburgh

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

Why is so important?

gut health

Over recent years there’s been an increasing focus on gut health in the media, but the genuine benefits of achieving and maintaining good gut flora are often misunderstood or overlooked.

When we think of our gut, our first thoughts quite naturally lean towards our digestion. But there are in fact a number of other significant benefits that are equally, if not more important for our health and wellbeing. One of the first questions I’ll often ask clients who seek my assistance for nutritional guidance, food intolerances or weight loss is “are you taking a probiotic supplement?”

Whilst it might not seem like the most obvious factor, the health of your gut plays a major role in determining not only the state of your digestion, (including common issues such as bloating, gas and discomfort), but also your body’s ability to burn or store fat, which foods you tend to favour the most, and surprisingly for many, your moods and emotions.

I help my clients to understand how and why this impacts their health, and how to find a probiotic that’s perfectly suited to their individual needs, helping them to enjoy less bloating, fewer cravings, and improved moods and mental focus. If you’d like to learn more, or to find out about how I can create a personalised approach towards your individual nutrition and health, simply get in touch and I’ll be happy to help.

This article was contributed by Sophie Louise, The Therapy Room, Woodhall Road, Colinton. See www.sophielouisehealth.com

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

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, is a freelance writer/editor. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.

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

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(You need to live and/or work in the Colinton, Craiglockhart, or Kingsknowe area to be featured in The Dell Directory)

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.

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.

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).

SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

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 AUGUST CROSSWORD

SATURDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER

Farmers Market

Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm

SATURDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER

Curry in the Park

Spylaw Park, Colinton, 1.00pm – 5.00pm. Authentic dishes from the Punjab with the Bonaly Store and Mr Snax. Craft beers from The Spylaw. Meal tickets £10 in advance from bookwhen.com/cventerprise

SUNDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER

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.

Hannah heads to the hills

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 42

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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

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

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 19651975.” 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

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

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It’s just a jump to the left…! Does anyone else feel like they’re living in a time warp these days? I don’t know if it’s a natural by-product of my age, watching my son finish high school or living in a post pandemic world but time seems to be running away from me like never before.

The days/weeks/months are rattling by yet I feel that personally I am moving slower and slower, like those dreams where you’re trying to run but can barely move. Normal everyday tasks seem to weigh me down at times and I’m even finding it hard to keep up with hobbies that I enjoy like writing (apologies for a beyond 11th hour deadline, Helen-Jane!).

Despite my best efforts to be “in the moment” I often find myself lamenting lack of time and feeling as though I’m having to run to just stand still.

I did make valuable time to spend a lovely evening with my “oldest & bestest” friends the other night where we went to see one of our favourite performers, Colin Cloud. If you’re unfamiliar with Colin’s work go check out “The Real Life Sherlock Holmes” – he is one of the most astounding, engaging and natural performers I’ve ever seen.

This was his first return to the Edinburgh Festival since 2019. His usual brand of amazing deductions and warm humour were very much in evidence, but this show also had a deeply serious, personal message as he shared his own struggles over the past few years and explained the real meaning of his show title After Dark.

In the course of his act, he said “Often we are so busy focussing on the things we’ve lost that we forget to concentrate on what we still have”. I’m not sure if it’s a famous quote or a Colin original (apologies for my lack of source citation!) but the words definitely struck a chord with me.

As my children have left school days behind them, I’ve been guilty of mourning the loss of those early years more than celebrating the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

As I’ve tidied through boxes of photos and memorabilia of events gone by and friends and relations sadly no longer here, I’ve found myself pining for the good old days rather than being grateful to have such happy memories and determined to make more. I’ve been guilty, most of all, of treating the present moment as though it were an endless To Do list of “stuff” rather than embracing the joy and potential of each moment.

My September goal is to work on that and do everything I can to re-connect to the here and now, making sure I make the most of every day, not just the high days and holidays. Time to dust off my dancing shoes for that next step to the right…

Lynne lives in Colinton with her husband and two children. She dreams of being a freelance writer when she grows up but mostly just avoids growing up!

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...

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 noncompetitive 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

- A new season of talks on a wide range of topics starts on Wednesday 11th October. The first talk is from well-known local speaker Kath Hay, who will tell the modern Nordic saga of the mysterious Shetland Bus. 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 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 CLUBMeets 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

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

COLINTON LOCAL HISTORY

SOCIETY - Want to know about local history?

W: www.colintonhistory.org

E: enquiries@colintonhistory.org

COLINTON GARDEN CLUBClub 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, plus outings and events.

For more information see:

W: www.colintongardens.org.uk

E: membership@colintongardens.org

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

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 WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.