WISHING ALL OUR READERS A VERY COMPETITION: RECIPE:
For anyone planning a wedding, the stunning local venue Kingsfield Barn have a special Twilight Open Evening on this month, with a chance for one lucky couple to win your wedding venue on the night! See page 9 for details.
Look out too for the chance to WIN one of three £25 gift cards to spend with Queensferry business Anixi Gifts, who are celebrating winning a business award – see page 8 for details and to enter!
As ever there is plenty going on locally, check the What’s On and Clubs & Classes section. There is something for everyone and you’re sure to find an activity you can get involved in.
Wishing all our readers and customers a lovely Easter weekend. Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.
All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
is delivered to 7500 households in Queensferry, Kirkliston and Winchburgh. Copies are also left at libraries, community centres and other locations throughout the area. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe
£25 to spend at Anixi Gifts
Queensferry-based business Anixi Gifts is offering Konect readers the chance to win a £25 gift card!
Eva Giatili, the owner of jewellery & accessories brand Anixi, is celebrating winning a prestigious business award from Dragon’s Den star Theo Paphitis. The Small Business Sunday Award recognises innovative small businesses across the UK.
To share her success with the local community, Eva has teamed up with Konect to offer three readers the chance to win a £25 e-gift card to spend on her gorgeous products.
The name Anixi comes from the Greek word for Spring, capturing the essence of Eva’s beautiful handmade creations. Inspired by the vibrant energy of the season and the warmth of the Mediterranean lifestyle, each piece radiates happiness, positivity, love and new beginnings. To find out more about Anixi Gifts, visit: www.anixigifts.com
To enter the draw, simply answer the following question:
Which season does the word “Anixi” come from?
A: Summer
B: Autumn
C: Spring
Closing date for entries Friday 25th April 2025
Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code above to enter your answer. Winners will receive an e-gift card by email from Anixi Gifts. Full T&Cs are on our website.
Most of us have a favourite season and each of them brings promise and hope and a feeling of newness but it can’t be denied that, for many, there is absolutely nothing to compare with the arrival of spring.
After a few months of darkness and chill, this new season, full of cheer with the emergence of colourful flowers and brighter skies and that sense of newness and anticipation is a welcome change. As the clocks spring forward our mental health is positively impacted as brighter colours all around us lift our spirits. This is no accident as there are many studies telling us that increased sunlight enhances our sense of well being and can boost serotonin levels with the first glimpse of the sun.
While there are so many positives associated with those first spring days we should always remember that those flowers and that greenness that we value so much can only happen if we have rain. Very few of us would relish living in an environment that is always dry as, in no time at all, everything beautiful that we value in nature would wilt and die.
It’s important to remember that there is something to celebrate throughout the year and we can enjoy everything that each season brings. None of us would benefit from only coming to life during those short spring months and retreating home to hibernate so that we can get through the darker winter so let’s decide instead to enjoy everything and appreciate what every season brings.
The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is available for appointments at Forth Physio, Queensferry, and at Linlithgow Chiropractic. She is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk
A tight, lean, and mean 90-minute film feels like a relic from the past, as most mainstream films screening in our local cinemas typically clock in around the twohour mark.
However, writer David Koepp and director Steven Soderbergh have chosen to challenge the status quo with their latest spy thriller Black Bag, a 93-minute espionage tale that is immaculately paced and is a true nail-biter. George Woodhouse, magnificently portrayed by Michael Fassbender, is tasked with finding a mole suspected of betraying the nation by selling a valuable piece of software. However, when his wife, Kathryn Woodhouse, incredibly played by Cate Blanchett, comes under suspicion as the mole, George is tested as he must decide whether he is more loyal to his wife or his nation.
As the film progresses, we discover that this spy narrative resembles Tinker Tailor more than James Bond. Lines of dialogue referencing HMRC inject intrigue and suspense rather than groans of boredom. This film does not rely on massive chaotic shootouts or explosions to keep you engaged, although it does feature Pierce Brosnan screaming about how the software could end the war that Russia is embroiled in. While this isn’t much of an issue, I understand why making vague comments about the threat of Russia may seem like it’s dancing around the current political unrest and active conflict in Ukraine. Nevertheless, Black Bag is a genuinely thrilling spy film with incredible pacing, a brisk 93-minute runtime, and an engaging narrative.
In Cinemas Now
The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.
Ah, asparagus—spring’s green gift! Vibrant, snappy, and oh-so-delicious, but a known troublemaker for wine pairings. Fear not! With the right bottle, this tricky veg can sing in harmony with your glass. Here’s how to tackle it with style.
Sancerre: A Classic French Affair - For a foolproof match, look no further than a crisp Sancerre. The high acidity and flinty minerality of this Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc slice through asparagus’s grassy notes like a dream. The wine’s citrus zing elevates a simple dish of grilled asparagus with lemon and sea salt.
New World Sauvignon Blanc: A Zesty Alternative - If you prefer a more exuberant style, a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc—think Marlborough—brings a juicy, tropical twist. The passionfruit and gooseberry flavours counterbalance asparagus’s green edge beautifully. Try it alongside asparagus risotto finished with Parmesan and fresh herbs.
An Unexpected Hero: Grüner VeltlinerFor those seeking adventure beyond Sauvignon Blanc, Austria’s Grüner Veltliner is a knockout option and one of my favourite combos. Grüner’s signature white pepper spice and citrus lift work wonders with asparagus, particularly in a spring salad with goat’s cheese and toasted almonds!
A Recipe to Try: Asparagus & Goat’s Cheese Tart - Pair delicate puff pastry, creamy goat’s cheese, and roasted asparagus with any of the above wines for a match made in heaven. The tart’s richness tames the veg’s sharper notes, allowing your wine to shine.
So, don’t fear the spear—embrace asparagus season with the perfect pour!
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
APRIL CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7.Type of hat (6), 8. Assault (6), 9. Not pretty (4), 10. Exciting (8), 11. Style of writing (7), 13. Cold (5), 15. Freshwater fish (5), 17. Loosening (7), 20. Fruit trees are grown here (8), 21. Legend (4), 22. Mixes together (6), 23. Writer (6).
For such a small bird, there’s a lot to say about them.
Surprisingly, they’re not the smallest bird in the U.K. (that’s the goldcrest) Their scientific name is “Troglodyte” which means cave dweller, referencing their behaviour of building nests which only have a small opening. They’ll roost together in winter and up to 60 have been recorded in one box, their size is definitely a benefit to staying warm.
The males can build up to twelve nests in an effort to impress the ladies, who have the ultimate decision on whether he’s mastered the key wren DIY skills.
According to the Scottish Wildlife Trust, per unit weight, it sings at ten time the power of a crow-ing cockerel. Speaking of their song, if you’ve ever listened to it then you can appreciate how complex it is considering how short it usually is. Some sources say their song can contain up to 64 notes in just a few seconds.
This is a great time of year to hear them as they defend their territories and sing to attract a mate. I’ve always found them particularly tricky to photograph as they don’t hang around on an attrac-tive perch long before they’re back in the undergrowth looking for food, which is another reason why they might be called cave dwellers. They weigh about the same as a £1 coin, proving that powerful bird song isn’t about size.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
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Our Pink Lady is always ready to offer gardening advice and here she is suggesting that you grow some herbs in pots and try making Herbal Infusions.
Most herbs are happy in pots. Use a John Innes No 2 compost and a frostproof pot. Pots of herbs can be very ornamental in your garden and this is the perfect time of year to plant them or feed your existing ones.
Her favourite herbal infusion is a Lemon Verbena Tea. This herb needs to come indoors for the winter as it isn’t hardy, so growing it in a pot is the best thing to do.
Use a good bunch of freshly cut herbs infused in water just off the boil. You can gently dry the herbs in a cool oven and then store them for later use.
Peppermint and Spearmint make lovely infusions and she points out that growing mints in pots stops them spreading around your garden. She also says you should grow just one variety of mint in each pot to maintain their distinctive flavours.
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
Pink lady with her herb pots
Nectarine Tart
In season until the end of May, South African stone fruits, which include the sweet and succulent nectarines used here, are available when European varieties aren’t.
Serves 2
Preparation time 25-30 minutes, plus chilling Cooking time 30-35 minutes
Ingredients:
• 1 tbsp honey
• Fresh or dried lavender (optional)
• 2 South African nectarines, stones removed, sliced
• 40g toasted flaked almonds, plus extra to serve
• 1 sheet ready-rolled shortcrust pastry (rolled to 3mm/1/8in thick)
• 1 heaped tbsp raspberry jam
• Vanilla ice cream to serve
For more recipe inspiration, visit : www.southafricanfruit.co.uk
Method:
1. Line a baking tray with a sheet of greaseproof paper. Using a 16-18cm saucer or ring mould, draw a circular outline on the paper.
2. Drizzle the honey inside the circle and then sprinkle with lavender, if using.
3. Arrange the nectarine slices on top of the honey, allowing them to overlap slightly. Sprinkle the toasted flaked almonds over the nectarines.
4. Cut out a 20cm diameter circle from the rolled-out shortcrust pastry. Brush one side of the pastry with raspberry jam and place that side over the nectarines.
5. Tuck the pastry nicely around and over the nectarines, and press the edges down slightly with a fork.
6. Transfer the baking tray and tart to the fridge to chill for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas 4.
7. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven and cool slightly. Carefully turn the tart onto a plate and serve with vanilla ice cream and an extra sprinkling of toasted flaked almonds.
IMAGE CREDIT : Costas Millas
You will have to be of a certain ‘vintage’ to remember how derelict and unattractive the Union Canal had become by the 70’s and 80’s. Opened in 1822 to transport freight and passengers between Edinburgh and Glasgow, traffic quickly dwindled with the coming of the railway and by 1965 it was closed. Mud and rubbish accumulated, and parts were even deliberately filled in.
In 1975 Linlithgow Union Canal Society (LUCS) was formed and members began manually clearing the mud and waste. Through their example, funding for machine-clearing was eventually raised. Together with other groups they were a catalyst for the Millenium Project to re-open Scotland’s lowland canals. 2025 is LUCS 50th anniversary and we’d like you to come to the beautiful Manse Road Basin in Linlithgow to enjoy the fruits of five decades
of voluntary work and help us celebrate! Enjoy cruises (with the option of self-drive), our tearoom and Scotland’s only canal museum.
We open for the season on Saturday 12th April and have a programme of Easter weekday activities Monday 14th -18th April.
All these memorable days are provided by volunteers of all ages. We drive the boats, fix the engines, serve the teas etc. Come join in! You will have a skill we can use, and you will get a lot of satisfaction from being one of the ‘crew’.
VISIT US, JOIN US, SUPPORT US and be part of the next 50 years of LUCS success.
For any further information please email: info@lucs.org.uk, or visit: www.lucs.org.uk
This article was contributed by the Linlithgow Union Canal Society (LUCS). LUCS is a charity, registered in Scotland, No. SC011100.
FRI 11TH APRIL
Say it with Fairtrade flowers - Queensferry Fair Trade Group Floral demonstration and workshop. Make your own Easter table decoration, enjoy a light supper and info on Fairtrade. Queensferry Church Hall 7.009.00pm. Tickets via Eventbrite
SAT 12TH APRIL
Opening Day at Linlithgow Union Canal Society - Cruises re-start. See website at lucs.org.uk to book.
SAT 12TH AND SUN 13TH APRIL
Lothians Model Railway Exhibition - Make tracks for the Student Union at Heriot Watt University to visit the Lothians Model Railway Exhibition. Sixteen working layouts, trade support Lego railway for the kids, shunting puzzle for everyone, on site cafe and ample parking. Great day out for enthusiasts and families. 10.00am-4.30pm. 30 mins early entry for individuals with disabilities and sensory conditions. Adults £6, kids FREE with paying adult, free colour guide. More info www.lothianmodelrail.co.uk
MON 14TH TO FRI 18TH APRIL
Easter weekday activities at Linlithgow Union Canal Society - See website at lucs.org.uk
SUN 20TH APRIL
Kirkliston Village Market - A village market serving locals with quality produce and products from independent businesses in and around Kirkliston. Third Sunday of every month, corner of Manse Road/ Liston Place, 11.00am – 3.00pm. See kirklistonvillagemarket.com
WEDNESDAY 23RD APRIL
Twilight Open Evening at Kingsfield Barn - Experience the magic of a Kingfield Barn wedding at our Twilight Open Evening. Plus the chance to WIN YOUR WEDDING VENUE FOR FREE! See page 9 for details.
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
APRIL SUDOKU
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 11. See page 22 for solutions.
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 11. See page 22 for solutions.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
QUEENSFERRY TENNIS
CLUB - Queensferry Tennis
Club is a welcoming and vibrant community-based tennis club offering a friendly environment for tennis players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. QTC provides a space for social play, competitive matches, and coaching opportunities with Neil Harden from Deuce Academy. The club’s inclusive atmosphere fosters a strong sense of community, where members can come together to enjoy the sport while building lasting friendships. Please email queensferrytennis@gmail.com for more information
KIRKLISTON COMMUNITY CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS
- The benefits of being outdoors are well known and you don’t have to go far locally to enjoy it. Come and join in some activities with KCCV and help to maintain the village planters, a small orchard, wildflower area, public gardens and spaces as well as our monthly litter picks. We’re a small friendly group aiming to enhance Kirkliston. For more information contact www.kccv.org.uk or message 07925 383569
WINCHBURGH STORYTELLERS
- A chance to make friends and practice telling stories / hearing new tales, in a safe supportive space. Everyone’s welcome to come and listen and/ or participate. A story can be myth, legend, life story, fairy or folk tale- 10 minutes maximum. It’s all about oral storytelling, not reading aloud. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at Winchburgh Community Centre, 7.30pm to 9.00pm. For more information go to marytatterhoodtales.wordpress. com/winchburgh-storytellers
RUNTRIBE QUEENSFERRY - A free, friendly and sociable run club based in South Queensferry who meet every Tuesday 6.25pm at the Seal Monument. The aim of our club is not about time or distance, our aim is to run, socialise and have a good time whilst doing it.
We also go for an optional drink at the pub after our weekly session. To find out more, message Emily on 07395 817833 or follow on instagram @RunTribe_queensferry
YOGA & CHAIR MOBILITY
- Yoga: Fridays 09.30- 10.30. Kirkliston Community Centre. For mixed ability students. Classes include asana, movement, pranayama and relaxation.
Chair-Based Mobility. Tuesdays 1.00-2.00pm (with optional extra 30 mins for refreshments) Winchburgh Community Centre. A class for anyone who would prefer to sit. Includes some standing practice, breath work and mindful movement. Ideal for anyone with movement restrictions.
One-to-One sessions can be arranged in person or via zoom. For more info E: yogawithjo21@hotmail.com or, facebook.com/yogajostilwell
LITTLE ARTISTS ART CLUB
FRIDAYS - A relaxing class, to unwind & get creative before the weekend ahead. Fridays 12.45-1.45 South Queenferry P1-7. Each week we will focus on a different animal or nature piece, learning facts & working in two different age groups, pencil work in colour/monochrome. For information please contact 07591990020 or see Instagram everychildisanartist_
DANCE FITNESS - Wednesdays South Queensferry. P1-2, 3.003.40pm, P3-7, 3.40-4.30pm. Each week, we will learn a new routine together as a group, to some great music. Children will have the opportunity to suggest their favourite songs. Dance Fitness is for boys and girls of all ages. This class can either compliment your present dance school classes or be a brand new class for you.
HAPPY BODY STUDIO - PILATES & FITNESS - Pilates for all: Monday 18:00 & Thursday 9:30am. Kirkliston Community Centre.
Personal Training & 1:1 sessions available. Pilates is a form of movement that emphasises the activation & strengthening of the core muscles. Pilates can help us improve movement, ease general aches & pains & strengthen our core & stabilising muscles. Everyone can benefit from Pilates. Very suitable for beginners. To learn more visit: www.happybodystudio.com
WINCHBURGH WARRIORS
NETBALL CLUB - We are a recreational netball club for anyone over 18. We will support you whether it’s your first time, or it’s been a long time - we got you! Sessions are every Monday 18:45-19:45 at the Winchburgh Sport and Wellbeing Hub (Xcite). First session is free, then £4 thereafter. If you have any questions, drop us an email info. winchburghwarriors@gmail.com
ABERCORN CURLING CLUB
- Play weekly on Tuesday evenings at Kinross Ice Rink from September - March with league games and competitions to take part in. All ages and abilities welcome, from beginners to those who’ve curled before. No equipment needed for beginners. Transport can be provided. Fancy a go? Taster sessions can be arranged. It’s active, social and fun. For more information contact abercorncc@gmail.com
YOGA - Whilst moving our bodies in a way that feels good is important, it’s not the only thing that can improve wellbeing. In this Yoga class there will also be breathwork, discussion, meditation and more. It’s not some obscure practice that only the limber and enlightened can do, this is for everyone who has an urge to connect with themselves and their community. 9am Saturdays, Thomas Chalmers Centre, bookwhen.com/ramyoga. Pay as you feel - £1-£10 per class
CLEANFERRY - CleanFerry is a group of local volunteers dedicated to reducing the amount of litter in and around
MARCH
South Queensferry and Dalmeny. Evidence shows that cleaner environments have a positive impact on people’s wellbeing and more widely benefit the community. Whether you want to do meet
FRIENDS OF FERRY GLEN
- A volunteer garden team that maintains local areas through weeding and planting, as well as special projects. The group also enjoys tours, social outings and events together. Contact Neil mckinlayassociates@hotmail.co.uk
KIRKY CRAFTERS - Meet new friends and explore your creative side. Meet Thomas Chalmers Centre, The Square, Kirkliston. Fortnightly on a Monday except July and August. For more information please contact Ann on 0131 333 1834 or email ann_ denholm@btinternet.com
MARCH
*SORRY!
payable to cover the rent of the hall, snack for little ones and tea/ coffee for the adults. Just turn up, or for more information join the Facebook group, search “South Queensferry Baby and Toddler Group”
WINCHBURGH ART CLUB -
A technical error meant that last month’s crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle clues.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 21
We meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall. Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk
FRIENDSHIP CLUB
friendly group that meets at the residents lounge at 40 Shore Road, Queensferry to enjoy various entertainments eg. quizzes, games, occasional guest presenters and tea/ coffee/delicious cake. First Wed of each month, 2.003.30pm. £2 per meeting. For more information contact Lorna Russell on email lorna.russell@qccc.org.uk
WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS
CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment?
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.
SUPPER CLUB - Run by Queensferry Care, for people with a diagnosis of dementia, or other cognitive impairment, and their carer. This could be a family member, friend or neighbour. This is a unique service in that we support both the carer and the cared for person. It provides an opportunity to meet with others to enjoy an evening meal at The Haven (Queensferry) or a local restaurant. For information contact mail@qccc.org.uk
KIRKLISTON LUNCH CLUB
- Meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the Kirkliston Community Centre, 16-18 Queensferry Rd, Kirkliston EH29 9AQ. It is for any older person who’d like to meet and eat with others. The cost is no more than £5. Run by Queensferry Care, for more information please contact mail@qccc.org.uk
KIRKLISTON KNITTING
GROUP - From beginners to experienced knitters. Meet at Kirkliston Library on Mondays 1.30pm. 16 Station Road, Kirkliston, EH29 9BE.
*SORRY!
A technical error meant that last month’s crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle clues.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 21
TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT
Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Primary School (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk
NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT. SCOT FOR INFORMATION.
Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
