konect the
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Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton August 2012
WIN A treatment at
Juniper Beauty Room, Juniper Green
Crossword Competition
Feature Article
Riccarton Arms Hotel It’s Makeover Time
PLUS local businesses, community information and more!
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Message from the Editor
www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory
www.konectdirectory.co.uk
Hello neighbours As Guest Editor this month, I’m delighted to welcome you to the August issue of the Konect Directory. Summer holidays are here, and there’s plenty to do, despite the worst the weather can throw at us! Perhaps you’ll be inspired by Pat Banfill to make a memory this summer, or by Tony Foster to see what’s happening in Edinburgh as Festival Time fast approaches. Don’t forget that children eat free at The Riccarton Arms Hotel during the holidays. Have a great time, whatever you decide to do!
month, you could win a treatment to the value of £30 at Juniper Beauty Room, Juniper Green, so try your luck with the crossword on page 38.
Congratulations to William Gordon of Currie who won the crossword competition in the last issue. This
The Konect Directory welcomes contributions such as old photographs, or short articles of local interest. The Editor reserves the right to edit any articles submitted for publication.
Contents Feature Article Riccarton House Local Walk Pets Recipe Children & Family
8 22 32 42 40
Thanks for reading the Konect Directory and for supporting local businesses!
Emma Merchant
Emma Merchant, Guest Editor emma@konectdirectory.co.uk 07762 817194
Competitions & puzzles Prize crossword Sudoku Community What’s on Useful information Clubs & Classes Index of Advertisers
38 38 49 49 52 54
The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton. Copies are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.
Advertising enquiries: Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk
Design by Kumo Ink Ltd 01506 209 946 studio@kumoink.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
Front cover photograph by Jenny Thomson: The Riccarton Arms
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time of music Nur turing a life
To book your complimentary class, call 0131 669 6004 or email alison.rankin@ monkeymusic.co.uk
®
Music classes for babies and young children! Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy.
Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds It’s fun, formative and a great way of making friends!
www.monkeymusic.co.uk
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To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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I provide expert advice on all building projects with a free consultation to determine viability.
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To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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Riccarton House By Emma Merchant
T
here is a makeover in store for the Riccarton Arms Hotel that will be more than just cosmetic!
The hotel has recently come under new management and you can expect great things to come. Some changes are already evident, but further major improvements will be carried out during the autumn. New managers, Gill McIntee and Ben Smith have already successfully managed the Kinleith Arms in Juniper Green for seven years. Together they brought it up to a high standard and these days it is a thriving local pub. They will continue to oversee the Kinleith Arms, but now they are bringing their skills and experience to the Riccarton Arms Hotel in Currie too. “We want to establish the Riccarton Arms Hotel as the place to come in Currie. You won’t be disappointed, whether you are looking for a cosy romantic corner by the fire, somewhere to share a special birthday meal, or a lively place to meet with friends,“ Ben tells me. Families with children will find a friendly welcome too. Children are allowed in the bar area until 9pm if the family are dining in. And hill walkers (and their dogs) will find a great place to relax after a visit to the Pentland Hills. By October the transformation should be complete. When Gill and Ben took over the Riccarton Arms in February this year, the building and the business were both in need of refreshment. “We do love a challenge,” says Gill, with a smile. “When the brewery, Heineken, approached us to see whether we would be interested in taking over the pub we were intrigued, and came to have a look round. We came into a building that was cold, dark and dingy. Everything was run
1) down. Nothing worked. In the kitchens the friers were burnt out, the dishwasher was broken, and the canopy that extracts fumes was completely dead. The electric wiring throughout the building was dangerous, the toilets were ancient and the décor was largely untouched since the 1970’s.” Even so, Ben and Gill were undaunted. They both agreed that this was just the challenge they were looking for. “The first job was to clean – everything! We inherited a great team of staff at the Riccarton. They had been struggling on courageously for some time, but they lacked the right tools, and were rather demoralised. We bought one of our team a pack of dusters on our first day here, and she nearly threw a party! They have already done a fantastic job. The pub is now immaculate, and everyone is happier, and proud of the changes we are all making.” “Since we took over, we have been chipping away at improvements. We installed new outdoor seating, repaired all the lighting, brought the wine cellar up to standard, and refurbished a fullyfunctioning kitchen.” “We then turned our attention to food. We have four amazing chefs who are continually developing a first class
Images 1) Riccarton Arms Hotel as it is today– look out for the transformation this Autumn!
2) Gill and Ben look forward to welcoming you.
restaurant menu. They are absolutely passionate about providing excellent food, and insist on making everything themselves - chutneys, mayonnaises, everything. We’re not allowed to buy any ready-made foods! All produce must be locally sourced, and of the best quality. They are quite determined to put the Riccarton Arms Hotel on the culinary map!”
make the whole pub a cosier, pleasanter place to be.
Over the autumn the exterior of the pub will be freshly painted, and smart new signage will go up. The main entrance will move to the front of the building.
Built in the 1830’s, the building lies in the oldest part of Currie, close to Currie Kirk, and was originally one of three neighbouring farms known as Wester Currie, Mid Currie and East Currie farmhouses. Wester Currie Farmhouse became a coaching inn in 1874, changing its name then to the Riccarton Arms Inn. Several Victorian photographs of the Inn remain, showing that while Currie has spread and altered over the years, The Riccarton has changed little.
“We think this will be much more welcoming than the current side entrance, and returns the door to its original position. Inside, we’ve decided to keep the old stone fireplace. It’s hard work to maintain every morning, but it’s so lovely, and nothing can replace a crackling fire on a cold winter evening.”
“We still operate as an inn, and have five rooms for guests wishing to stay overnight; three doubles, one twin and one single. All the guest rooms will be redecorated and provided with new bathrooms, but in the meantime they are all beautifully clean and available for use.”
All Gill and Ben’s improvements are carefully designed to restore or retain the original character of the building as much as possible.
With the Bar fully stocked, good food available, renovation round the corner and a friendly welcome, there is much to celebrate. So, everyone, raise your glasses to Gill and Ben, of the Riccarton Arms Hotel!
“I’m really interested in the history of the building, and excited about what we’ll find during the works,” says Ben. “In the smaller bar room, we intend to take the walls back to the original stone, and have them attractively pointed. They are covered with hollow cladding at the moment. We’ve no idea what lies in the cavities behind.”
(And don’t forget - children eat free during the summer holidays between 12pm and 6pm Monday to Friday with an adult eating from the full menu.)
“I just hope the workmen don’t uncover any old ghosties!” laughs Gill. Any old ghosties should be extremely comfortable, should they decide to take up residence. New carpet in the smaller bar room, new wooden floor in the larger bar, new seating layout, new windows, fresh decoration, new toilets and warm central heating throughout will complete the transformation and
2)
THE RICCARTON ARMS Under New Management
TM
TM
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KONECT SWB 92x128_AW 06/07/2012 11:28 Page 1
Working with ex-servicemen and women
www.scottishwarblinded.org
WHO DO WE SERVE? Scottish War Blinded provides assistance to ex-servicemen and women of the armed forces who now live with a visual impairment that may or may not be related to active service. WHAT DO WE PROVIDE? We offer a wide range of activities at the award-winning Linburn Centre, located in Wilkieston. Our facilities include a craft workshop, art space, training gym, skills kitchen, IT centre, and media lounge.
Our Outreach Service provides one-to-one support for members in a local community setting. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER? For more information on all of our services and becoming a member, please call us today on 0131 333 1369 or e-mail: enquiries@scottishwarblinded.org Scottish Charity No SC002652
To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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Konnect (MAY2012).ai
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21/05/2012
09:47
Roll on Summer!
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It’s time to think about who’s going to do the garden this year. Who's going to trim the hedges, cut the grass, weed the beds and prune the shrubs and roses in the short amount of weekend time you have? We’ve been looking after these elements for our customers for over 14 years. We have a hard working, honest and knowledgeable team who are on hand to carry out the tasks you just don't have the time, or energy to do yourself. Our GardenCare plans are designed around you, your budget and requirements. We can arrange all your gardening needs. Just give us a call and we'll do the rest.
CY
CMY
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Call 0800 9700 415 or check us out online. www.taurusgardening.com
LANDSCAPING • LAWNCARE • MAINTENANCE
MAXWELL TREE CARE PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGERY FULLY INSURED
For all aspects of tree surgery Contact: PAUL MAXWELL Cert Arb. (RFS)
0131 478 0853 or 07890 017159 e. info@maxwelltreecare.net www.maxwelltreecare.net
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Action for lifting our spirits in wet summers!
H
asn’t it been wet this summer! We all long for a summer which is warmer, drier and with fewer midges than we have experienced so far in 2012. Summer is a time when we hope to spend days outdoors, being able to enjoy activities that are not too expensive, and feeling more relaxed because our routines are less demanding. We even dream of being able to sit outside on a calm, sunny evening. But this year, many of us have been disappointed to see so little sunshine. We may be struggling to keep bored children occupied without spending lots of money, our spirits may be a little low, and we may be feeling a bit fed up. In addition, some of us may not have been able to go away on holiday, for any number of reasons. What can we do to raise our spirits?
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For the remainder of these summer months, we can decide to make something of the season by setting out to create a good, fun memory or a special activity, for someone that we care about. We could decide to learn something new ourselves, or teach something new to a family member or a neighbour. We could just decide to offer help to someone we know who could do with a hand. These are the things which will enable us to look back over the summer of 2012, and know that it was fun and worthwhile. Almost as good as getting a suntan! Make a memory. Learn something new. Look outwards. Make the season special. Pat Banfill, Pastoral Assistant, St Mungo’s Church, Balerno. www.stmungos.org
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Chiropody by Claire Claire Monkman WMS Ch(hons), MPSPract
Mobile Chiropodist in Currie, Balerno and the surrounding area
Chiropody Treatments Manicures Spa Pedicures HPC Registered Gift Vouchers available For an appointment in your own home ring Claire on
0131 478 7037 or 07786 516513
To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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G BEATSON ELECTRICAL Currie
Free Estimates Tel: 0131 466 0214 Mob: 07732 866 983
N O W
O PE N
Email: gbeatsonelectrical@hotmail .co.uk
The WEAVERS
2/7 Corslet Place, Currie, EH14 5LS
UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP Gavin and Elaine welcome you along to their new pub with friendly atmosphere, music, Sky Sports, pool table, darts.
Small ad,
BIG impact
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To be included, please call Jenny on 07824 469266 or email jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk
Fresh natural healthy energy
Vegetarian & Free-from foods Local & Seasonal • Superfoods & Raw foods • Fairtrade, Organic & Ethical • Friendly advice
Regular entertainment look out for local posters for full details. Free Function Hall for hire contact theweaverspub@live.co.uk Find us on facebook
Free delivery for online orders over £15
Shop online at www.realfoods.co.uk opening times Mon-Thurs 3pm-11pm ,Fri 3pm-12.30am Sat 12 noon-1am Sun 12.30pm - 11pm
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37 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3JU 8 Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JH
Vegetarian • Fairtrade • Special diet • Organic
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EQUITY RELEASE By Personal Money Management WHAT IS IT? Equity release is a means by which you can release some of the cash that is tied up in your home in the form of a loan. You can choose to enjoy a cash lump sum, a regular income for life or even a combination of both. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? In the current climate retired people who have been using interest from savings to supplement their income have found that the interest rates have collapsed and hence their income has reduced. In these cases, provided that they are a home owner, then they can use equity release to supplement their income. THE CONDITIONS FOR EQUITY RELEASE You must be a home owner aged at least 60. The amount of money you can release depends on your age and the value of your property. BENEFITS You retain full ownership of your home and are free to live in it for as long as you like. Interest on the loan accrues at a fixed rate until the
property is sold and then the total loan plus the interest accrued must be paid to the equity release provider. DISADVANTAGES The big disadvantage is that your heirs will on your death inherit less because they will not benefit from the full value of your property, it will simply be the full value of the property less the loan and the interest that has accrued during your lifetime. EQUITY RELEASE SHOULD ONLY BE USED AS A LAST RESORT AFTER YOU HAVE CONSIDERED ALL OTHER SOURCES OF CAPITAL AND/OR INCOME. That said, in many cases it is the ideal solution to a problem for people who are property rich and cash or income poor. Equity Release should not be entered into lightly and the appropriate professional advisers must always be consulted. Written by: Dr Peter Marshall PhD, DipPFS, AFPC Personal Money Management, tel: 0131 538 7390
Giving High Quality, Independent, Financial Advice to Individuals and Businesses for 40 years Investment
Pensions Estate Planning Protection Mortgages
188 Lanark Road West, Currie, Edinburgh, EH14 5NX Principal: Dr Peter M Marshall PhD DipPFS AFPC T: 0131 538 7390 E: info@personalmm.co.uk www.personalmm.co.uk 18
Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority
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Howden Grange Financial Services Limited
A
n advisor with Howden Grange Financial Services, Robin Gregson of Baberton Mains has 30 years’ experience in the financial services industry. He decided earlier this year to join Howden Grange Financial Services, and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this mortgage advice service. From releasing equity to getting your first home or just moving up the property ladder, Robin is experienced in a wide range of industry options and is well-suited to know which of today’s low interest financial services products will best suit your situation. It can be difficult to know where to go for professional and truly independent advice, but as a local resident with a wealth of experience and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, Robin Gregson of Howden Grange is your first port of call. Call him on 07985 650 228.
To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
HOWDENGRANGE
FINANCIAL SERVICES LIMITED
v Free Mortgage and Life Cover advice v Face to face or telephone appointments at a time to suit you v First time buyers, home movers, remortgages, new build and buy to let v Access to whole market of providers v Protection and general insurance
Locally-run consultancy. For a no-obligation appointment, call Robin on 07985 650228 or email robin@hgfs.co.uk Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
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KEITH DAVIDSON DESIGN custom metalwork & design
BLACKSMITH
Ian Merriman Ltd Hn Pne Kitn
ENGINEERING
BE FO RE
FABRICATION RAILINGS GATES FURNITURE RESTORATION
T: 01506 880395 M: 07870598229
TELEPHONE ENGINEER
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Visit Our New Website: www.keithdavidsondesign.com
New sockets fitted for phone, internet or sky •••• Removal of unsightly old wiring and sockets •••• Repair to internal phone and broadband faults •••• Old style phones converted to work on UK sockets I CAN SUPPLY AND INSTALL Easy to use big button amplified hearing aid compatible phone with hands free calling •••• Loud audio phone ringers with flash indicators
Free estimates – no call out charge
Contact John McGraw Tel : 0131 555 1314 Mob : 07771 927796
ALL AREAS – PROMPT - RELIABLE 20
Rejuvinate your old kitchen units and furniture. Have them hand painted in a colour of your choice. Ian Merriman Ltd 0131 478 7339
ian@kitchenspainted.com
www.kitchenspainted.com
73 Riccarton Mains Road, Currie, EH14 5ND
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Tag Cleaning Services Local window and gutter cleaning service
Established over 30 years Free quotations on request Tel : 0131 449 2807 (Office) Neil : 07711 581 384 (Mob) www.TagCleaningServices.co.uk
Quintessential
IRONING AID
Free pick-up & delivery - next day service
0131 538 5223 07877 381940
Now doing a CARPET CLEANING SERVICE
To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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Hermiston Circuit
Karen Murray sneaks some exercise on a sunny afternoon
A
s many of you may be aware I am a woman with perhaps more to do than there are hours in the day, but as they say if you want something done ask a busy person. That being said, I still like to fit in a walk when and if I can - I need it for the exercise, mental space and also because, fool that I am I signed up for the Race for Life, so getting a little fitter would be handy! I have a number of walking routes up my sleeve that I can often incorporate into the day if luck is on my side, and when out and about for work recently I had a spare half hour that coincided with a rare sunny afternoon. It’s a simple little walk but very pretty on a sunny day. Park the car in Hermiston Village and walk along Gogar Station Road away from the main A71 roundabout and over the bridge that goes over the canal. There are steps down to the canal path, signed to Ratho one way and to the City Centre the other. It is also cycle path 754, so watch out for cyclists!
Head toward Ratho and of course if you have all the time in the world, you can simply keep on walking and you’ll reach Ratho and ultimately the Falkirk Wheel. However, for this walk you follow the canal path until the next exit, enjoying the flora and fauna along the way as well as a little history and a bit of science! On one of the bridges you will see a note saying ‘Near this spot John Scott Russell discovered the solitary wave in August 1834’. What you may well wonder is a solitary wave? Google to the rescue - the young Scottish engineer named in the plaque was conducting experiments on the canal to determine the most efficient design for canal boats and made a remarkable scientific discovery, which he called ‘the wave of transition’. He noticed that when the boat drawn by horses suddenly stopped, the mass of water in the channel which had been put in motion did not. It rolled forward in the form of ‘a large solitary elevation’ and continued along the course of the canal. History and science aside, coming up from the canal at the next exit brings you onto Hermiston House Road, a single track road that bends and twists between the A71 and Gogarbank. Turn right and follow the road to Gogarbank. It is usually fairly quiet but
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do be aware of potential traffic and they don’t always expect walkers! At the T-junction, take a right again, walking along Gogarbank Road- same rules apply. You will see the Forth Rail Bridge if you look to the left and get some lovely views across the oil seed rape fields of yellow over to Fife. You will also walk past the Suntrap Garden, a hidden gem of a garden well worth a visit if you’re passing during opening times and have some time to spare.
Suntrap Garden
Suntrap Garden is maintained by volunteers and open to the pub lic on Tuesdays and Fridays (10.30 to 16.00) and at weekends (12.30 to 16.00).
Once more at the next T-junction it is another right and onto Gogar Station Road. This will bring you back to bridge over the canal completing the circle. I hopped back in my car and continued my workday, secretly wishing I had a spare couple of hours to walk the canal route into the city centre on such a lovely afternoon. Maybe next time?
To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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BABERTON GOLF CLUB Special 2012 Offers on Full, Midweek and Young Adult Memberships from August 2012
Midweek Membership. Play Mon—Fri, £135 with NO ENTRY FEE Young Adult (Age 18—30) Membership. From £63 with NO ENTRY FEE Full Membrships £180 plus entry fee which can be paid over 5 years Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge! Number of places are limited so to book your discounted trial round (£10) and for further details phone Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon—Fri Pro shop on 0131 453 3555 Sat—Sun email: manager@baberton.co.uk website: www.babertongolfclub.com Be part of the changing face of golf at Baberton!
If you would like to smile with confidence, like our patients
here, come and have a chat.
9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB
We are happy to organise payment plans or finance if this is helpful.
If you would like an appointment please give us a call, we would love to see you
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0131 477 1167
BRUSHSTROKES
K.MELVILLE PAINTER / DECORATOR INTERIOR, EXTERIOR, PRIVATE, COMMERCIAL, INSURANCE WORK
TEL: 0131 451 5372 MOB: 0797 192 3397
Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com
Email: brushstrokes@blueyonder.co.uk 66 Forthview Crescent, Currie, EH14 5QT
A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service
Alan: 07969 929327
or email alskie@hotmail.com
Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy
07966 695595
Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance
Gerry Aitken Painter and Decorator Juniper Green
Tel: 07798 565321 Ames Taping Coving Artexing Interior Exterior 25 years Experience
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B EDWARDS TILING SPECIALIST LOCAL WALL AND FLOOR TILER
All aspects of tiling undertaken including Kitchens, Bathrooms & Conservatories
BILL REID & SON DOMESTIC HEATING & PLUMBING
0131 449 5538 07710 458739 2 Turner Avenue Balerno
Using ceramics, porcelain, natural stone & mosaics Professional & friendly service
For a free estimate call Barry Mobile: 07944 176663 Home: 01506 432159
alan young designs ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES
Are you considering a building project ? We provide a simple and cost-effective service to homeowners requiring drawings for Planning Permission and Building Warrant approvals. All types of domestic alterations, conversions and extensions considered.
Alistair McLellan of Balerno
Painter & Decorator Interior · Exterior No job too small · Free estimates
Contact us now for a free quotation and advice
Tel: 0131 451 5394 Mobile: 07894 703020
Brown’s Plumbing
ALEX HUNTER & SON PLUMBERS
0131 476 3754 07966733087 alanyoungdesigns@virginmedia.com
Plumbing – Heating – Gasworks
From tap washers to re-plumbs We undertake all plumbing work
Family Business 24 Hour Emergency
0131 441 2098 • 07831 519003
0131 478 5356 07720 890 226 Free estimates To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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Anyone for Flyball? Alex Parsley, Katie Wardell, Skye and Brecon
T
he last thing many teachers want to do in the holidays, is go to school. But for Alex Parsley, teacher at Dean Park Primary School, learning is something of an obsession. He, his girlfriend Katie Wardell, and pupils Brecon and Skye study relentlessly several evenings a week, and most weekends too, all year round. “Brecon and Skye are intelligent, athletic and obsessive learners - as long as tennis balls are involved!” laughs Alex. Fortunately, tennis balls do feature heavily in the flyball training and agility classes at the Broxburn Dog Training Club where Alex, Katie and their two border collies are enthusiastic attenders. You may have seen them in action this May, during the impressive flyball and agility display on Balerno Gala Day. “The aim of flyball, is for the dogs to run as fast as possible, leaping over a course of obstacles to reach a tennis ball and bring it back. It’s very exciting for everyone, dogs and owners alike. Brecon starts barking the minute the course is being set out – he just can’t wait to get started. Agility training is a more controlled sport. The dog has to jump over hurdles, go through tunnels and weave in and out of poles. It’s harder to learn.” The passion for flyball first began for Alex, when, just starting his teaching career, he bought Skye, now five, as a puppy. “I knew that flyball and agility training was something that interested me, and that’s why I chose to keep border collies. They are reliable, easy to train, fit and fast. But they come with a great responsibility. You have to keep them occupied and exercised mentally as well as physically. They get very frustrated and destructive if they are allowed to become bored. People sometimes buy a border collie, fail to remember this, and then wonder why their dog is wrecking the house.”
assembly. She is particularly sensitive to nervous children, and becomes very calm when they are near.” “Brecon is tricoloured (black, white and brown). He wouldn’t enjoy being taken to school at all, as he prefers the company of other dogs. He is constantly active and naturally skinny. He loves water, but unlike Skye who likes retrieving objects thrown for her into the water, Brecon prefers just to stand very still in it, up to his neck, shivering!” I would always recommend anyone wanting a dog, to go to a respected breeder. Brecon came from Worcester, where well known breeder and trainer of working sheepdogs, Andy Nickless, keeps a large number of border collies on his farm steading. “I took Skye with me to Andy’s steading, just to let her see what she was bred to do. The dogs there are pretty much able to roam freely, with all ages running around together in a pack. It’s not often you get the chance to see dogs in such a natural environment and it was amazing to watch them. There were twenty or thirty dogs in the pack when we visited. When Andy stood in front of them and gave the command, the dogs immediately lined up in front of him. Astonishingly, they do this in exactly the same order, every single time!” In March this year, Broxburn Dog Training Club were winners of the Crufts flyball competition. Visit their website to learn more about the sport: www.broxburndogtrainingclub.co.uk
“Skye is a black and white collie. She’s quite laid back, and is very good at relating to children. Because she’s so gentle, and the children seem to love her, I sometimes take her in to school. She is quite happy to be with three hundred noisy pupils at school
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Looking for a new accountant?
0131 202 9888 Edinburgh EH12 8AT
Elmslies
solicitors and estate agents
44 Palmerston Place Edinburgh EH12 5BJ Tel: 0131 225 5484
Specialising in the purchase and sale of property we provide you with a comprehensive package including:
Free Valuations Advertising in the ESPC Choice of schedule styles Free initial meeting No charge for unsuccessful offers Competitive charges
We can also prepare Wills and Continuing and Welfare Powers of Attorney. www.elmslies.co.uk mail@elmslies.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
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Vet’s Tip:
Socialising Dogs - What it Really Means
T
he term socialisation gets banded about a lot, however, not many people really understand what it involves or how important it is. The majority of dogs I see for behavioural help, have had too little socialisation as puppies and this has affected them for the rest of their lives. To properly socialise a puppy means to gently expose them to all the things they will experience in everyday life. It is all about positive associations. This goes well beyond meeting people and other dogs - it includes different sights, sounds, smells and experiences. Puppies have a critical time-frame for development and must experience all these things before they turn sixteen weeks old at the very latest, otherwise the opportunity is lost and makes rehabilitation difficult. At puppy classes I use the phrase ‘The Rule of Twelve’ which
states that a puppy should be exposed to twelve different types of people, twelve different sorts of dogs, twelve different sounds and so on by the age of twelve weeks. A common mistake in socialising, is to let your puppy greet every single dog they meet and allow them to do what they want. Unsupervised play is the cause of a lot of problems, and can end up with dogs enjoying the thrill of winding up other dogs or becoming aggressive if they are the one being bullied. Socialisation is all about good experiences that set puppies up to be happy well-balanced dogs. Pet’s Tip written by Joanne Drysdale BSc - dog behaviourist at Edinburgh Dog Training, based in Kirknewton and Balerno. Group classes in Currie. See www.joannedrysdale.co.uk
Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats
Established in May 2006, we provide first-class holiday accommodation for up to 35 feline guests. Single and double cabins, as well as large cabins for families, each comprises an upper sleeping area (heated in winter) with an exercise run below. A collection and drop-off service is available Fully licensed and insured
Proprietors: Pam and Bill Clark Phone: 0131 333 1636 Email: mail@claylandscottagecattery.co.uk Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.
www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk
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Tail Wagging Dog Walking Working or on holiday?
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33
D.A. WARD MOTOR ENGINEERS Repairs M.O.T Testing Exhausts
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To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
35
Macmillan Cancer Support
H
elping people affected by cancer in West Lothian
It’s a sad but true fact that 1 in 3 of us will be diagnosed with cancer at some time in our life and for the people who have cancer it’s often the toughest fight of their life. Macmillan Cancer Support is here for those people – and for their friends of family to help them on the journey from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond. .... for however long they want our support. Around 29,000 people are diagnosed with cancer every year in Scotland – and just under 1000 of them live in West Lothian. Macmillan offers support in many ways. Most people have heard about our Macmillan Nurses who give much more than just medical help – they offer emotional and practical support too in so many different ways. Macmillan also helps financially. It’s expensive to have cancer. Our Benefits Advisors help people are claim the benefits they are entitled to. We also give Macmillan Grants for people who are struggling to pay the cost of heating their homes or transport to hospital for their vital treatment. If you have questions about cancer why not visit the Macmillan Information and Support Centre at Carmondean Library, Livingston to speak to the team there. Alternatively you can go online at macmillan.org.uk or call our Support Line on 0800 808 00 00. Macmillan’s Information and Support service is available to everyone – not just people who have cancer. Your local Macmillan Benefits team is based in Bathgate and can be contacted by calling 01506 282900. If you have cancer or are a carer for someone with cancer please give them a call to find out which benefits you are entitled to. If you have cancer and are not currently receiving support from Macmillan ask your GP to refer you to Macmillan. There is a Macmillan Centre in St John’s Hospital, Livingston.
36
World’s Biggest Coffee Morning at Carmondean last year.
WE NEED YOUR HELP! ey it needs Macmillan gets 96% of the mon cted by to fund its services for people affe– that cancer from voluntary donations means people like you! ning The World’s Biggest Coffee Mor est is Macmillan Cancer Support’s bigg le to hold a fundraising event. We ask peopIn 2011, 160 coffee morning for Macmillan. raising people signed up in West Lothian, le affected over £34,000 to help local peop by cancer. Biggest Being part of Macmillan’s World’s. Take Coffee Morning is a piece of cake details. a look on our website for more a Coffee Once you sign up we’ll send you of the Morning kit to help you ever step e, or at your way. Why not have one at hom ? Our main work and get everyone involved is 28th date for Coffee Morning this year to hold one September but you can choose on whichever date suits you. millan’s For more information about Macand to sign World’s Biggest Coffee Morning website or up to host you own one visit our call us on 0300 1000 200. www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee
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When you feel like shouting, try calling instead. Your very own I T expert is just one phone call away. Making sure your PC is on it’s best behaviour is a lot easier when you have someone on hand who’ll come out to your home or office. We won’t bamboozle you with techy jargon, we will just get down to the job in hand at fixing your PC. We are a local and friendly business. In fact using us is a bit like having your very own IT expert, that’s just one phone call away. Get sorted now at sortmypc.
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29/09/2011 18:00
Gordon Macdonald MSP Member of the Scottish Parliament for
Edinburgh Pentlands Constituency
ADVICE SURGERIES
Wester Hailes Library
1st Monday of the Month at 6.30pm
Carrickvale Community Centre
2nd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm
3rd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm
Pentland Community Centre
4th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm
Currie Library
Ratho Community Centre
5th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm
How to contact Gordon Macdonald MSP: 1. By email:
Gordon.Macdonald.msp@scottish.parliament.uk
2. By phone:
Local office: 0131 466 5810 or Parliamentary office: 0131 348 5741
3. By letter:
Gordon Macdonald MSP, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh EH99 1SP
4. By appointment: These are held in the local office see www.gordonmacdonaldmsp.info 5. Home visits are available for those people who cannot travel. PLEASE NOTE THERE ARE NO SURGERIES DURING PUBLIC AND BANK HOLIDAYS
To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
37
Prize Crossword
Win a treatment at Juniper Beauty Room, Juniper Green (see advert, pg. 14) Across 1. 3. 9. 10. 11. 13. 15. 17.
2
1
20. 21. 22. 23.
Cut short (4) Adversary (8) Error (7) Board game (5) Very eager (12) Informal (6) Small piece of food (6) Books giving meanings of words (12) Relating to the moon (5) Absence of sound (7) Moving very fast (8) Spheres (4)
1. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Business (8) Start of (5) Written in rhyme (6) Now and then (12) Protect the eyes (7) Throw (4) Produced (12)
Down
3
4
5
6
7
8 10
9
11
12 14
13
15 16
17
18
19 20
21
22
12. Small bunches or groups (8) 14. Physics or chemistry (7)
23
16. Untie (6) 18. Lying within (5) 19. Add to (4)
Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 15th August 2012.
Sudoku
Sudoku solution on page 44
38
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Honey Pot Ceramics Be amazed at what you can do...
● paint your own pottery ● make your own cosmetics ● design your own jewellery ● try out other craft activities ● birthday party packages ● preschool messy play sessions Clay course for children in the summer holidays Holiday activities & regular workshops See website for details and bookings
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To be included, please call Jenny on 07824 469266 or email jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
39
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It works, but is it safe? 10% oCfof sts Labonopruesrentation t en
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Tel: 0131 477 7447 or Freephone: 0800 953 0356 Fax: 0131 477 7448 Email: info@dsykeselectrical.co.uk Web: www.dsykeselectrical.co.uk
Down: 1 Strap, 2 Altered, 3 Miscellaneous, 4 Divide, 5 Encyclopaedia, 6 Growl, 7 Reserve, 11 Federal, 13 Failure, 14 Utters, 16 Masts, 17 Naked. 40
Solution to Sudoku
Solution July 12 crossword
Across: 1 Slammed, 5 Eager, 8 Rites, 9 Vicious, 10 Perpendicular, 11 Fiddle, 12 Coffee, 15 Demonstration, 18 Restore, 19 Drunk, 20 Lists, 21 Seaweed.
Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewtonk, EH27 8DD. Editor :Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk
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To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
41
Food for August
My own Special Birthday Meal By Anne Pinkerton
I
n my family we have a tradition: on your birthday you can choose the menu for the main meal that day. My birthday is in August and ever since I can remember, the main dish I request has always been the same:- beef stew with runner beans. When I was a child we lived in Wiltshire, south England, and my Mother was a demon vegetable gardener. This was partly her pleasure, but also to give us a variety of food that was just not available in those days at the small village shop. The beans were from the garden, as were the carrots.
early days, for dessert, frozen Findus raspberry mouse. And I always asked for my birthday cake to be chocolate. Here are the recipes for my birthday favourites. My children have chosen many different birthday meals, reflecting their changing taste in food. What would your family go for I wonder?
The carrots were thinnings, and really sweet, and the beans were Scarlet Runners, grown up hazel bean poles at the end of the garden near the field. I have read since, that this type of bean came from Mexico in the 17th Century, and was first grown for its lovely scarlet or red and white flowers and attractive climbing habit. Runner beans then became a popular food for the Victorians. Now there are several varities, some of which will grow in Scotland. But they are all tender, and a freak early frost can kill them in August, as I know to my sorrow. Runner beans are most delicious eaten as fresh as possible. They are in the shops from April, flown in from Zambia, but they are not quite as nice, so I try my luck growing them every year.
500gm Stewing Beef trimmed and cut in bite sized cubes (Ask the butcher for Skirt, shin or hough beef cuts. These are the best cuts for slow stewing, but other stewing beef will make a good dish.) 100gm beef dripping, or half and half dripping and olive oil 500gm sliced in rings onions 500gm scraped or peeled, sliced carrots Plain flour, salt, black pepper and a bay leaf if liked
The rest of the birthday meal was new potatoes with mint, and in the 42
Beef Stew (This is an economical dish and you can even use more vegetables or a little less meat. Serve with new or plain boiled potatoes and lightly cooked, finely sliced runner beans.)
In a large heavy- bottomed pan heat the fat/oil till smoking and fry the onions till browning but NOT burnt. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon, to metal colander or sieve placed over an oven proof casserole. This will let you collect any juices. Reserve as much fat as possible and use this to fry the carrots. Again drain them and use the reheated fat
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to fry the beef in batches. Do not try to cook all the beef at once as it will cool the pan and the meat will be tough by the time it is browned .If you are running out of oil/fat melt a little more to cook the beef. Drain the beef and add it to the casserole. Add any juice collected from the casserole to the fat in the pan and use as much plain flour as you need to soak it all up. You should have something which looks like dry bread crumbs. Over a low heat, slowly work in about a pint and a half of water; it will be a thick sauce. Bring to the boil. Try to avoid lumps, although they will cook out in the end in the oven. Pour the “gravy” into the casserole. There should be enough to cover the rest of the ingredients. If there is not, add some more water, season lightly, add the bay leaf if you like. Cover and cook in a very slow oven 130°C or slow cooker for 3 to 4 hours. Check the seasoning. The stew will be dark brown, glossy and because of the proportion of vegetables, slightly sweet. (It will be even better if you split the cooking time and re- heat it the next day.) Cream for the runner beans ½ pint double cream Fresh Tarragon, Summer Savoury, Clove of Garlic, or Parsley Put the herb of choice and the cream into a heavy bottomed pan. Bring slowly to the boil and then set aside to cool, leaving the herb to steep. Lightly cook any green beans you like, and just as you serve them, pour over the flavoured cream and turn the beans in it. To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
Coconut Beans Green beans 1inch slice creamed coconut Tabasco Top and tail the beans, rinse and put them in a pan with a little water clinging to them. Add the coconut and 2 or 3 drops of Tabasco Sauce. Heat so that the creamed coconut melts and makes a sauce for the beans. Put a closely fitting lid on the pan and cook gently till the beans are bright green but covered in a spicy sauce. Findus Frozen Foods have long gone, engulfed by some other food giant, I expect. Making a fruit mouse is a bit long winded and needs more time than most household cooks have today. However, here is a delicious pudding I learned for raspberries. Lady R’s Raspberry Cream 450gm Raspberries 1 pint double cream Little icing sugar 150gm Caster Sugar. Put the fruit in a shallow over-proof dish. The dish needs to be large enough to allow at least an inch more depth above the raspberries. If liked, sprinkle a little icing sugar over the fruit. Half whip the cream. It must be beginning to thicken but not yet stiff. Spread the cream over the fruit in an even layer; try not to let any fruit poke through. Cover all the cream in a thin, even layer of caster sugar, about 3 to 4 mm.
43
Food for August Continued
Either melt the sugar to caramel under a VERY hot grill. Most domestic grills will not do this without cooking the cream;. Or use a gas torch to melt the sugar just as you can for crème brulée. You should end up with a glassy caramel surface on the cream. The gas torch is the sort sold in B&Q as a plumber’s blow -lamp. Some do not like being used upside down. You will have to tilt the dish, not as complicated as it sounds. There are special cook’s torches sold in cook shops, but at many times the price. They do not do the job any better! Making caramel is fun, but do take care; if hot sugar gets on your skin it can burn you badly. This part of the process is not suitable for children to undertake.
have a light dropping mixture. Add milk or cold coffee to achieve this consistency. Put the mixture into either 2 lined sandwich cake tins, or all of it into one 8inch lined cake tin. Bake at 160°C or 350°F, a moderate oven, for between 20 to 40 minutes. Test with a skewer, it should come out clean. If you listen the cake will be silent. If it is still bubbling it is not quite cooked. Leave to cool .When cold, if you made one cake, cut it in two. Otherwise sandwich the two shallow cakes together with blackcurrant or black cherry jam and whipped cream, or Nutella or with chocolate butter icing.
Chocolate Cake 3 large eggs lightly beaten Their weight in Butter and Sugar, The same weight as the eggs of:half-and-half plain flour/cocoa powder, sifted twice. To this you must add baking powder at the rate of 1 tea-spoon full to each 4oz or 110gm of dry goods. (If you use self-raising flour instead of plain, add baking powder at half this rate.) A little milk, or cold coffee. Cream the butter and sugar together using an electric beater, Kenwood or blender. Add alternately egg and flour/cocoa, mixing lightly till all the ingredients are used. You should 44
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45
Art in the Park: A Village Affair…
O
n Sunday September 2nd Art in the Park, brought to you by Colinton Village Events (CVE) Group, will transform historic Spylaw Park into a playground of activities, shows and stalls guaranteed to entertain locals and visitors alike. In the event of a bad weather forecast, the alternate date is September 9th, thus doubling our chance of a sunny day! The fair will run from 11am to 5pm and we are very pleased to announce the participation of St. David’s Brass Band in our opening ceremony with a 20-piece band marching through the Park. And if you miss that, you can catch the band later on in the Performance Area! Antiques in the Park is a new addition to the annual event and will be brought to you by Mark Medcalf FRICS of Mark Medcalf Associates (Chartered Art and Antique Surveyors). Mark has lived in the Colinton/ Juniper Green area since 1985 and is kindly donating his time and expertise on the day. Two items can be valued for £5 (£3 for one item) with proceeds being used to fund subsequent CVE Group community events and projects. A good quality
46
photograph will suffice for larger items. Tickets can be bought in advance at Colinton Arts, 52 Bridge Road. Our large arts and crafts section will offer a huge variety of handmade goods, ranging from original paintings, prints, jewellery, woodcraft, photography and cards as well as a range of home-baking. For our young visitors there will be a dedicated children’s area with messy play by Messy Munchkins, a variety of craft-making activities, and even a coconut shy by CVE Group. If that’s not enough, there will be a fun dog show with an agility course (run by Citidogs Crèche), an allday performance area, and delicious food including burgers, pizza, home baking, gourmet coffee and ice-cream. Potential stallholders and performers should contact us at colintonvillage@gmail.com and we will do our best to accommodate requests, space permitting. Volunteers are also needed on the day – please let us know if you would like to help for a few hours.
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Family business established over 40 years
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Fun With Kites!
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Useful Info + What’s On? August
Balerno Library information 1 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ 0131 529 5500 balerno.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times 1.00pm - 8.00pm Mon & Wed: Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Bookgroup – Last Monday of the month, 6.307.30pm Bookbug (rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers) – Fortnightly on a Monday, 2-2.30pm Under fives storytime – Fortnightly on a Tuesday, 10-10.30am Currie Library information 210 Lanark Road West, Currie, EH14 5NX 0131 529 5609 currie.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times Mon & Wed: 1.00pm - 8.00pm Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Bookbug (rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers) – Fortnightly on a Friday, 10-10.30am Bookgroup – 1st Wednesday of the month, 7-8pm Tiger Tales – stories and crafts for school-aged children - Fridays 2-2.30pm The Pentlands Medical Centre 44 Pentland View, Currie, EH14 5QB 0131 449 2142 To include your event here, please email hj@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638 School Term dates (from www.westlothian.gov.uk) Summer / Winter (Term 1) Tue 21/8/12 - Fri 21/12/12 Autumn Holiday Mon 17/9/12 - Tue 18/9/12 Mid-term Mon 15/10/12 - Mon 22/10/12 Balerno Music Festival The Fifth Balerno Music Festival is coming soon. Tickets are now on sale. Come and enjoy yourself while supporting this community venture.While the Parish Church plays a major part in organising the festival this is very much a community event involving local organizations and individuals in the community.This year’s festival runs from 26th September – 14th October. There is variety with plenty for the young as well as for the not so young. In addition to the usual avenues for ticket sales (at Farmers Markets, online or by post) tickets are on sale from the church office and are often on sale during tea and coffee after the 10.00 service on a Sunday. See To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
http://www.balernomusicfestival.org.uk or pick up a paper copy, for details of the programme and how to obtain tickets. Cycle Safari Balerno To Leith Hosted by: Saint Marnock Branch When: Wednesday 08 August 2012 10:30AM Cost: £18 (Members), £20 (Non Members) Come and join us for a gentle bike ride along the Water of Leith Walkway - we’ll even provide bikes and helmets! It’s a leisurely 12 mile cycle downhill passing through dramatic steep-sided glens, patches of dense woodland and several of the old industrial villages. We’ll stop at regular intervals to enjoy the scenery and find out more about specific points of interest. We’ll visit the Water of Leith Visitor Centre for a look at the exhibition and then it’s on to lunch at the Gallery of Modern Art before heading to Leith. For further information about this event please contact: Ms Amanda Fraser amanda.fraser@oddfellows.co.uk Telephone: 07729 563538 Balerno Group – Ramblers Scotland Weekend Walks: Meet at the Pentland View Car Park (PVCP) at 8.50 am for a 9 am start unless otherwise stated. Midweek Walks: We have an active midweek walk programme with walks usually taking place on a Wednesday. Please contact A Blyth (0131 449 5020) or K Gordon (0131 449 2534) for details.. We regret that NO dogs are allowed on our walks. £7.50 Saturday 11th August Balerno Farmers Market Main Street (padestrianised), Balerno, 9am – 1pm. Saturday 25th August Juniper Green Farmers Market The Dental Surgery Car Park, 577 Lanark Road, opposite Juniper Avenue, Juniper Green. 9am – 1pm. to exhibit their The Pentland Art Club are preparing show starts on al annu The er. summ this work again Currie, near Hall, t Scou the in 2012 st Augu Saturday on. Stati l Petro ld Somerfie in your busy Ideal for a quiet reflective moment one and it is every to open be will We dule. sche st from 10 free! We open on Saturday 11 Augu from 2.30 am till 8.30 pm, Sunday 12th - 16th ed by Gordon pm - 8.30. The preview is to be open The Pentland Art MacDonald (MSP for Pentlands). in term time at Club gathers on Thursday evenings don’t just do Balerno High School at 7.30pm. Wegive us hands painting, we invite guests along to their magic! on demonstrations on how they work sorts of new By joining a club, it can lead to all beginnings!
49
Inside & Out By Tony Foster
T
his year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe truly promises to be the greatest show on earth with more artists performing more work, in more venues, than ever before. Launching the 2012 programme Kath M Mainland, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society said: “I am delighted to be able to launch the 2012 Edinburgh Festival Fringe Programme. This promises to be the most exciting and exhilarating Fringe yet. This year sees 2,695 shows in 279 venues across the city, which is 6% more than ever before. “This is the Year of Creative Scotland and it is the year in which the world’s greatest sporting event, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, happens in London while the world’s greatest cultural event takes place in Edinburgh.
campaigning and in Tony Benn: Will and Testament the former Minister shares some of his life experience. Two shows talking about the media and the Leveson Inquiry are One Rogue Reporter where former tabloid journalist Rich Peppiat spills the beans of his former employers and Journos is the world premiere of Adam Jordan Donaldson’s new play all about the world of journalism. For the first time Old Vic New Voices have joined forces with Underbelly to bring a season of new work to Edinburgh. Glory Dazed tells the story of a squaddie trying to re-adjust to civilian life and trying to win his exwife back. One Hour Only is a debate in a brothel between a first time punter and a first time prostitute.
The 60th anniversary of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign is marked with La Clique Royale - The Queen’s Selection which promises to be better than the Royal Variety Performance. Maurice’s Jubilee sees Julian Glover and Sheila Reid in a brand new play by Nichola McAuliffe and Tea With The Old Queen tells the true story of the Queen Mother’s butler ‘Backstairs Billy’.
As usual the Fringe attracts some well known names to Edinburgh’s stages. Comedian and former Family Fortunes frontman Les Dennis stars in Jigsy, the story of a comedian with over 30 years in the business; Educating Rita has Matthew Kelly and Claire Sweeney take on the lead roles in Willy Russell’s famous play. Re-Animator The Musical based on HP Lovecraft’s seminal piece, will see George Wendt, better known as Norm from Cheers make his second trip to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
There’s plenty of politics at this year’s Fringe too. Comedians Jo Caulfield and Alistair Barrie will star in Robert Khan and Tom Salinsky’s show Coalition while, in a piece of new writing from Rab C Nesbitt creator Ian Pattison, Des Maclean will tell the story of former Scottish Socialist Party leader Tommy Sheridan in I, Tommy. Election: A Silent Comedy takes a slapstick approach to policy and
Once again the Fringe remains the home of comedy with established names like Alan Davies - Life is Pain here for the first time in a decade; Paul Merton’s Impro Chums will see him team up with Mike McShane, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster for an hour of improvised fun. Phill Jupitus - You’re Probably Wondering Why I’ve Asked You Here... is one of two shows the Never Mind
50
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The Buzzcocks team captain will be involved with at this year’s Fringe, the other being his free poetry show Phill Jupitus is Porky the Poet in 27 Years On. Rhod Gilbert: The Man With the Flaming Battenberg Tattoo sees a brand new show from the Fringe favourite; Sandi Toksvig Live: My Valentine will see the return of the comedian, novelist, actor, broadcaster, show-off and international treasure. Canadian favourite Greg Proops makes his return with a regular stand up show and with his well known Greg Proops Podcast: The Smartest Man in the World. As always at the Fringe there’s plenty for younger audiences including the bona fide celebrities like Elmo, Cookie Monster and Big Bird in Sesame Street Live – Elmo Makes Music. Dr Brown Brown Brown Brown Brown and His Singing Tiger will see the surrealist take his debut children’s show to Edinburgh. Kids shows come to the Fringe from all over the world: The American High School Theatre present Dr Seuss I Love You, whilst Flamenco for Kids promises to teach kids how to “Ole” with the best of them. Huggers – Free Festival Family Fun is a cabaret and on the top of a double-decker bus. Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure... For Kids! sees the multiaward winning beatboxer find himself a new sidekick and Fringe favourite The Enormous Turnip is back for a tenth year. As more and more media attention in Scotland is consumed by the forthcoming 2014 referendum there are a number of shows dealing with Scottish identity. Two of Scotland’s comedy perennials tackle the big questions in Vladimir McTavish and Keir McAllister Look at the State of Scotland. Glasvegas – The Original 1977 Musical tells the story of Scotland’s other city and Communicado’s Tam O’Shanter brings To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638
together different pieces of Burns poetry to create a raucous piece of theatre. In total there are 47 countries countries represented at the 2012 Fringe. Canada gives us Return of the Lumberjacks which reunites comics Glenn Wool, Stuart Francis and Craig Campbell after they first performed at the Fringe as the lumberjacks 15 years ago. Italian shows include Waiting For Godot sequel We Are Not Here and Joseph, a live dance show using chatroulette and image manipulation. Talking of other countries if you do want to escape the Olympics and the Fringe there is a great day out for enthusiasts of Italian Cars and Bikes at Hopetoun House on Sunday 12th August. This is the only experience in Scotland bringing together Italian cars and bikes in the setting of the country’s finest stately home. Come and see your favourite Italian automobiles from Lamborghini to Fiat and Ducati to Lambretta set against the stunning architecture and grounds of Hopetoun. Enjoy club displays, trade stands, Italian themed food and drink as well as exploring the grounds of Hopetoun – details can be found at www.hopetoun.co.uk
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Clubs and Classes
sports, hobbies, learning, support groups and more... Zumba with Laura Dee Mon and Fri 9.30 – 10.30am Juniper Green Church Hall Tues 20.30 to 21.30 Balerno High School Thurs 19.00 – 20.00 Scout Hall, Lanark Rd West, Currie For more info contact zumbamamaz@hotmail.co.uk or call Laura on 07976 694 077 After School Club at Honey Pot Ceramics Fridays 1-5pm term time. Arts and crafts, each week there is a specific project which could include clay, jewellery or cosmetics. £10, booking essential. Pre-School Messy Play At Honey Pot Ceramics. Every Monday. Thursday and Wednesday from 10-11am. Bring your little one along for some glittering, sticking, stamping and lots and lots of messy fun. Booking essential. See www.honeypotceramics.com or call 0131 333 6348 for more info on both clubs. Kirknewton Riding and Trekking Hacks, treks, pony rides, saddle club. Call Kirsty on 07702 118360 or see www.kirknewtonridingandtrekkingcentre.co.uk
Potter Around
Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD For all class bookings and more information call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk Stories and Crafts for wee ones Mondays 10.30am-11.30am Storytelling followed by a related craft activity. £4.50 a session which includes tea/coffee and biscuits for parents. Warhammer Club Fridays 2.30 – 5pm/ £4.50 if you are bringing models and brushes,; £7.50 get a model and brush to keep. Craft Club Fridays 1.30 – 3.30pm Different arts/crafts projects each week incl. Glass, clay. Paintingm, jewellery. £10, all materials, drink and snack supplied. Scrapbooking club Alternate Thursdays 7.30 – 9.30pm. £7.50 includes tea/ coffer/biscuits. Basic materials will be provided. Jewellery Workshops Alternate Tuesdays, 7-9pm. £15, booking essential. Oil painting classes with Kirsty McDiarmid. Mondays 7-9pm, Thursdays 10.30am- 12.30pm
BABERTON 172nd Pentland Scouts (Baberton)
BALERNO Minis @St Mungo’s Group for babies and toddlers with their carers on term time Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10am to 11.30am in St Mungo’s church building, Ladycroft, Balerno. All welcome. For more information visit www.stmungos.org Balerno Parish Church Guild Balerno Parish Church New Hall First and third Wednesdays (commencing October) at 7.30pm.Varied syllabus with many interesting speakers. Tea/coffee is served at the end of the meeting. New members or visitors warmly welcomed.
Balerno Folk Club Held on the last Tuesday of each month in Balerno Bowling Club. Doors open 8pm; Evening begins 8.20pm; Guest artist on stage at 8.30pm. Members and guests welcome. For further info contact Morag Dunbar on 0131 449 5014 or John Stirling on 0131 449 3456. Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums Balerno Community Centre every Friday 7pm-9.30pm. New members welcome. Tuition free on pipes or drums Phone 0131 4495133 Compass Playgroup Dean Park Primary Pre-School Centre. 2-5 years, wide variety of activities. Mon to Thurs (school term time only) 9:00am-11.45am. Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery. Call 0131 449 4530 (during opening hours) for more information or email info@ compassplaygroup.com Balerno Art Club Meet at Balerno High School Art Room every Thursday 7.30 – 9.30pm. Demonstrations, speakers, work evenings. All mediums. New members welcome, please contact Janet Dyer on 0131 449 3767 or Marion John on 01506 880428. Balerno SWRI Balerno Community Centre First Tuesday of every month (ex Jul & Aug) 7 30pm in. We usually have a speaker but we also have “in house” evenings. There is usually some business to be discussed and we enjoy a “cuppa” whilst chatting. New members or visitors welcome, just come along. Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness Mondays 10am Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternate Thursdays 10am Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternate Fridays 10am Balerno Parish Church Hall Contact 0131 477 7733 www.bf4f.org.uk Children’s swim scheme Balerno High School Tues, Wed and Fri pm, Sat and Sun am Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info Under The Trees Nature Club Last Sunday of every month in Balerno. 0-6 year olds: 10.30-11.30am, 7-13 year olds: 12.302.30. £2.00 per child. To book your place and find out more information contact: jess@underthetrees.co.uk, or tel: 07854 490550 Pilates Plus New mat & equipment Pilates class led by Physiotherapist. All levels are welcome, classes will be progressive & challenging. Classes start soon: Thursdays 10-11am @ Currie Rugby Club, Balerno. To register please contact: tessa@pilatesplusphysio.co.uk or phone 07971778962. For more information www.pilatesplusphysio.co.uk (ask about our introductory offer). Pentland Flower Club Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7.15pm (excluding January, February, July and August). Visitors and new members are always welcome. Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146.
51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno) Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall Contact Lawrence Mitchell on 0131 449 4680 Rookie Lifesaving Balerno Community High School For swimmers aged 10 - 14 years. Alternate Thursdays 6pm - 8pm. For further information contact the Community Education Office on 0131 477 7733 Balerno Baby and Toddler Group Balerno Parish Church Hall, 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. For children 0-5 years and their carers. Termtime Thurs 9.45am - 11.30am. Currie Rugby Football Club Malleny Park Minis (P1-7) Sundays 10.30am - 12pm Contact 0131 449 2432 www.currierugby.org Adult daytime swim club Balerno High School. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info
CURRIE
Air Cadets 2463 (Currie & Balerno) Squadron Forthview Crescent Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm. 0131 449 7449 for more info 42nd Pentland Scouts (Currie) Balerno and District Ramblers Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Carpark, Lanark Rd West, at 9.15am for 9.30am start. Contact K. Gordon 0131 449 2534 or A Blyth 0131 449 5020 Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start. Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666. Baby Group Currie Library Thursdays 2.00 - 3.30pm. Come along for an informal tea.coffee and chat with other parents and babies. 50p/week. Topic for 19th August - Baby resuscitation Bridge Club Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June. For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 3527.
Coffee and Craft Currie Youth Club Monday 7pm -9pm. Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new. All welcome. £2.00 per night refreshments are included.
Currie & District Local History Society Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Mr P.D. Cowlishaw on 0131 449 2520 or pdcowlishaw@hotmail.com
The Octagon Club for Adults with Special Needs and Learning Difficulties. Meets in the Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie, 7 - 9pm on Wednesday Evenings from mid September until June for table tennis, snooker, badminton, table games and “tuck shop” etc. Contact Alastair Hardie on 0131 453 3556.
Currie SWRI - NEW! Meet in the Masonic Hall, 3 Riccarton Mains Road, Currie, on the second Tuesday of each month (except July and August) at 7.15pm. New members and visitors welcome.
Currie Baby and Toddler Group Gibson Craig Hall Friday 9.30 am - 11.30 am (term time only). Adults £1.50, kids go free. Parents/Grandparents/Carers/Childminders are all very welcome. Snack provided for the kids and tea and coffee for the adults. Loads of space to play. Currie Youth Club Various activities and facilities available including Gym Teds for childern, Sound and Music room, Youth club facilities Sports hall Playgroup Lunch club and Football teams. See http://cyc.smartchange.org/ Sarah Byers Kettle/Zumba Mon - Kettlebells - Currie High School - 7.15 - 8 pm Tues - Zumba - Currie Youth Club 9.30 - 10.30 am Thurs - Zumba - Currie High school 6.30 - 7.30 pm Fri - Zumba/Kettlebell Mix - Currie Youth club - 9.3010.30am Boys Brigade - 65th Edinburgh (Currie) Company Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Anchors (Boys P2 & P3) – Thursday 6.00-7.00 pm Juniors (Boys P4, P5 & P6) – Thursday 7.00-8.30 pm Company/Seniors (Boys P7 – S6) – Friday 7.00 – 9.15 pm For further info contact Jim Webber on 451 5112. Karate Currie High School Mondays 7.30 - 9pm. Adults and Children over 6 years. Please contact 0131 449 3510 or 0131 445 2945 for more info or email patricia.shearer@edinburgh.gov.uk
Book Group Currie Library. First Wednesday of each month 7.00pm
JUNIPER GREEN 31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green) 45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers Wednesdays 6.30pm Cubs Mondays 7.00pm Scouts Fridays 7.00pm Contact: Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043 Juniper Green SWRI Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road, EH14 5DX Contact 0131 539 9886 Juniper Green Nursery Playgroup Juniper Green Community Centre, 1 Juniper Park Road, EH14 5DX. Contact 07948 554889 or see website at www.junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk
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Index of Advertisers Accessories Stick and Cane Shop 23 Aerials Aerial Man 19 Architect/Architectural Services Alan Young Designs 27 B&B Jan Dick 15 Bathrooms Splash Bathrooms 21 Beauty Juniper Beauty Room 14 Nails by Gayle 4 Panache Nails 15 The Lilac Rooms 15 Blacksmith Keith Davidson Design 20 Builder Dean Jones Building Services 41 EH1 Contracts Ltd 25 Building Surveyor David Hastings 6 Car repair The Wheel Specialist 5 Colin Nixon 35 Car Sales Hermiston Motors 47 Juniper Green Garage 34 Car Service/Repair Chips Away 34 D A Ward 34 Motor Engineer Hope Scott Garage 29 Carpet Cleaning Cleaning Doctor Edinburgh SW 2 Hydro Kleen Scotland 13 Carpets Murrayfield Carpets 13 Cattery Claylands Cattery 32 Charity Scottish War Blinded 11 Childcare North Edinburgh Childcare 37 Children’s Activities Monkey Music 4 Chiropodist Claire Monkman Chiropody 15 Cleaning Service Tag Cleaning 21 Alba Oven Cleaning 21 Fiona House Cleaning 21 Computer repair Simply Fix It 7 Sort My PC 37 Dentist
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24 4 26 26 16 40 31 19 31 18 39 15 16 25 4 12 28 24 33 15 12 4 5 6 21 27 16 16 26 34 45 37 27 26
Gerry Aitken 26 Ian Merriman Ltd 20 Pet Services Happy Scampers 32 Tail Wagging Dog Walking 33 Photographer itsPhotographic 33 Physiotherapy SportsActive 39 Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering 26 Plumbing Services Jim Gladstone 26 Shandon Plumbing 6 Alexander Hunter Plumbers 27 Bill Reid & Son 27 Browns Plumbing 27 Weir Plumbing 6 Printing Kumo Ink Ltd 33 Public House Bridge Inn 56 Kinleith Arms 10 Riccarton Arms 10 Tanners 45 The Blue Goose 17 The Grey Horse 17 The Weavers 16 Restaurant Bridge Inn 56 Tanners 45 The Grey Horse 17 Roofing Storm-Shield 55 Sewing Services & Supplies Mary’s Patch 11 Soft Furnishings Quintessential 21 Solicitor Elmslies 31 Telephone Engineer Alistair McLellan phone 27 John McGraw Telephone Engineer 20 Tiler Barry Edwards Tiling 27 Therapy Scotland Therapy 4 Tree Surgeon Delisle Tree Surgeons 12 Maxwell Tree Care 12 Vet Pentland veterinary clinic 33 Websites Kumo Ink Ltd 33 Wheel repair The Wheel Specialist 5
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