With the clocks back an hour and the nights closing in, it’s the season of fireworks, fairy lights, torchlight processions, spicy hot drinks and plenty of local Christmas fairs to attend over the next couple of months.
Too many people across Edinburgh though will be feeling the cold too much as they have no permanent home. By ordering a Christmas tree this year from Caring Christmas Trees, you not only get a quality tree but funds go to Bethany Christian Trust to support homeless and vulnerable people. See page 9 for details.
Blackness Bay Distillery are running their competition for Konect readers again this month! For a chance to win a quirky distillery tasting tour for two, please see page 11!
It’s a good time to get some home improvements booked in of you’re wanting work done before Christmas. Please support local businesses and check the traders in these pages for quotes!
With all our usual columns, I hope you find the magazine interesting and useful this month.
BY LIAM ROTHERAM
All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
Remember, remember the 5th of November! See Page 20.
PHOTO
A Caring Christmas Tree at home
Bethany Christian Trust is asking tree shoppers to help people without a home this winter by choosing a Caring Christmas Tree.
Bringing festive warmth into your home with a Caring Christmas Tree helps to bring much needed care and support to some of Scotland’s most vulnerable people. Priced from £45 and sustainably grown in Scotland, shoppers can buy a Grade One Nordman fir tree, with 100% of all proceeds going directly to Bethany’s work to support homeless and vulnerable people this winter.
The funding from this social enterprise helps to provide outreach, drop-in support,
Dinner being served at the Rapid ReAccommodation Welcome Centre – a place to seek immediate and long-term help, out of homelessness.
shelter, befriending, new opportunities and professional support to thousands of people during the harsh winter months.
Caring Christmas Trees has been running in Scotland for almost 20 years. Last year the project sold an incredible 3,330 trees and raised £53,231 towards its work helping people in need across Scotland.
Regular Caring Christmas Tree customer Fiona said: “I’ve had a Caring Christmas tree for a number of years - I’m glad that my purchase of something that feels luxurious can help someone in need. My tree lasts through till Twelfth Night, it smells fantastic and when I go to pick it up there’s always a great sense of camaraderie amongst the team of volunteers. Everyone wins!”
Another regular customer said: “I just don’t think you can beat the combination of helping a very worthwhile charity and getting a beautiful tree. We keep coming back every year for just this reason. It’s a win win situation.”
Caring Christmas Trees are available to purchase online caringchristmastrees.com or by calling 0131 561 8948 from the 29th October. The trees will be ready for collection at various locations in Edinburgh, Livingston (Ladywell Baptist Church, Livingston, Cedarbank, EH54 6DR) Glasgow and Fife in November and December, with an option for delivery also in November and December in both Edinburgh and Glasgow.
This article was contributed by Bethany Christian Trust, www.bethanychristiantrust.com, a charity registered in Scotland number SC003783. For more information on Caring Christmas Trees see www.caringchristmastrees.com
PHOTO BY LIAM ROTHERAM
“We had a wine on holiday from the local bodega. It was 3 euros and tasted amazing. Where can I get it?”
It’s always hard to find the exact wine you had on holiday. When you do, it doesn’t taste the same. Instead, create new memories. Here is my shopping list for a Spanish themed evening with friends. I might even create a playlist on Spotify that sets the mood!
Penedès Cava, I like Codorniu a classic sparkling Cava with a digestive biscuit and apple character. It’s a great aperitif.
Rias Baixas Albariño, a white wine with bright acidity and tropical fruit notes. It goes perfectly with seafood dishes, like Gambaz.
Ribera del Duero Crianza, a red wine which is full bodied, rich and elegant, The Tempranillo grape has a quintessential Spanish flavour with notes of black cherry, leather and oak. Rioja region, Rioja Reserva, red wine with mellow spices, vanilla, oak and dusty cherry. A favourite wine of mine which I’d decant an hour before serving.
Jerrez Amontillado Sherry, medium dry in sweetness, hazelnuts, almonds, dried fruit
and orange peel. A classic wine of Spain that should be served slightly chilled.
TO EAT - I’d pick up a selection of hot and cold tapas. I’d serve gambas al ajillo (prawns sauteed in garlic, chilli and olive oil) and try and create my own patatas bravas and albondigas which are Spanish meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. I would of course have chorizo, jamón serrano, Manchego cheese and olives.
Many of the wines I listed as well as the deli cheeses and meats are readily available in local supermarkets. For a wider selection from a specific region, try Brindisa Spanish Foods, Lupe Pinto’s Deli in Edinburgh or Iberica Food online.
The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a Tasting Tour for Two!
The tour comprises the full 90-minute guided tour of Blackness Bay Distillery, taking in the history of Blackness and craft distilling of whisky and rum in Scotland through the ages to the present day, whilst sampling five or more of the products produced by hand on the premises.
The timeless method of the traditional Scottish twin copper pot still making of
whisky directly from malted barley is explained in detail with anecdotes of its perils and pleasures. The tour finishes with a toast to Mary Queen of Scots and her long connection to Blackness on Sea.
Winners every week through November! We are drawing a winning entry every week in November so there are four chances to win!
For the chance to win, simply answer the following question:
WHAT TYPE OF SPIRIT DOES BLACKNESS BAY DISTILLERY PRODUCE?
A) Rum B) Whisky C) Both Whisky & Rum
Closing date for entries Sat 30th November 2024
Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code to enter your answer. Winners will receive a tour voucher from Blackness Bay Distillery which must be used within four weeks of receipt. Full T&Cs are on our website.
Rita is a lawyer who is stuck in a dead-end job in Mexico. She is given a task that could change her life. She is enlisted by Emilia, a cartel leader who wants to fake their death and live her authentic life as the woman she’s always wanted to be.
France’s Oscar nomination for Best International Feature is one of the most unique films of the year, a crime redemption story featuring fantastic lead performances. Karla Sofía Gascón as Emilia is truly incredible. Giving a career-defining performance and one that deserves all the love come award season. In addition, Zoe Saldaña is wonderful and as someone so used to hearing her speak only in English, hearing her speak in Spanish was a shock. What I feel will be up for contention is the narrative. Some could view the thematic link, between the transition storyline and Emilia helping others find closure regarding cartel violence, to be problematic. However, I found the message to be that people can be forgiven, and anyone can do good and make positive change. It’s not perfect, though. I did find the ending to be kind of anti-climactic, and while it might be a hot take, I found Selena Gomez to be underwhelming.
Emilia Perez is a one-of-a-kind film. There is one aspect of the film that I haven’t even discussed, as I feel if you go in blind the opening scene will blow you away. This film should be on everyone’s watchlist.
In select cinemas from Oct 25th and available to stream on Netflix from Nov 13th .
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.
I just overheard a conversation between two women in a cafe who were discussing how they felt about their lives.
They flitted seamlessly from one subject to the next but the thread that ran through everything was how unpredictable life is, how expensive basic expenses have become and the sense they both had that when one domestic appliance breaks everything else seems to follow. The overwhelming sense was one of panic and a total lack of influence over their lives.
None of this is helped by the fact that the media is chock full of doom and gloom. No matter how many chats I have about the benefit of a digital detox where we just don’t listen to those headlines, some people find that too hard to do and are afraid of missing some vital information that they really need to have. I am certainly not dismissing the fact that an increasingly large number of people are finding day to day life harder and harder and feel that they can’t see even a glimmer of light in all this darkness.
But, difficult as it may be, developing a habit of seeing the good things in our lives, however small, is one of the most positive things we can ever do for ourselves. Gradually re-balancing our thinking and our focus is a powerful technique. Most of us have no influence at all on those global issues and the only thing we can do anything about is our own lives and maybe we can change those conversations with our friends to reflect that instead.
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
PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR A
CosyWinter
It’s time to start thinking about how to make your home a warm and welcoming haven for winter. With just a few changes, you can create a cosy atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing indoors and entertaining during the festive season.
Layer Up with Textures: Introduce rich, layered textures. Think about adding soft throws, chunky knit blankets, and velvet cushions to your living spaces. These tactile touches not only add warmth but also bring a sense of luxury and comfort to your home.
Winter Window Treatments: The right curtains or blinds are essential for keeping the cold at bay. Heavy, lined curtains or thermal blinds will help retain heat and make your home feel more snug. Opt for fabrics like wool, velvet, or thick linen in deep, rich colours to give your rooms a seasonal feel while also improving insulation.
Warm Lighting: Lighting plays a huge role in creating a cosy atmosphere. Swap out any harsh, bright lights for softer, warmer bulbs. Incorporating table lamps, floor lamps, or even some carefully placed candles can create a relaxed, intimate vibe that’s perfect for winter evenings.
Seasonal Accessories: A few well-placed decorative touches, such as scented candles, wreaths, or autumnal floral arrangements, can really bring the feel of winter indoors. Think about incorporating natural elements like pine cones, dried leaves, and berries for a seasonal touch. By making these simple adjustments, you can transform your home into a cosy retreat ready to face the colder weather. Whether you’re entertaining family or curling up for a quiet evening, these tips will ensure your home feels inviting and warm throughout the winter months.
The interiors column was contributed by Carla Mackay. Carla helps clients in Queensferry and the surrounding areas create beautiful, comfortable homes. www.carlamackayinteriors.co.uk
NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Factual books (13), 8.Announced (8), 9. Concerts (4), 10. Large church (7), 12. Main artery in the body (5), 14. Small dog (5), 16. Removal of data (7), 19. Unsuccessful (4), 20. Clapping (8), 22. Protest march (13).
DOWN: 1. Leg joint (4), 2. Rides a bike (6), 3. Frightened (7), 4. Used for digging (5), 5. Slowly (6), 6. Female child (8), 11. Remote (8), 13. Get ready (7), 15. Eight pints (6), 17. Begins (6), 18. Artificial (5), 21. Work hard (4).
The crossword solution will be published in the December edition
I haven’t been out on the local patch much lately and the plan for this month’s article was to use an image from my visit to the Isle of Bute today.
In my head, I’d have a picture of three otters doing a tap-dance on the rocks with an amusing story to go along with it. Unfortunately, wildlife doesn’t do what you want and apparently the otters didn’t get the tap dancing memo. It’s a bit rude, if you ask me. However, I was armed with the most delicious chocolate covered viennese whirl (or waltz, if you’re my husband. Not the type of dance I was looking for) and ambitions were high.
From this picture of a male stonechat, you can probably gather that my plans for the day didn’t quite work out. We did see an otter but we lost it as quickly as we found it, which is quite common with these mischievous mustelids.
We only had a few hours and otters can be tricky. I spent a week on Mull last month where I went nearly a whole week without seeing one, so a few hours was always
going to be a challenge. We did see plenty wildlife on our day out, including ravens, buzzards, eider ducks, a kingfisher, and too many herons. It was one of those days where you realise that wildlife watching can be more miss, than hit. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy this gorgeous wee bird instead.
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.
NOVEMBER SUDOKU
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 15. See page 21 for solutions.
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Houseplants are not just for Christmas but they do make lovely gifts. And for younger members of the family cacti, succulents and carnivorous plants are fascinating and very easy to look after… until they go off to university without their plants! But as we are now spending more time indoors with poorer weather and dark evenings, it is a good time to choose some new houseplants to cheer up and decorate your home. Also some old friends are maybe due to go on the compost heap as a kindness to you and them.
Most houseplants originally come from temperate rainforests and love the light levels we can offer them inside, but our rooms are generally too dry for them so they enjoy being arranged in a group to increase the humidity around them.
Keep them in their own pot covers so you can easily rearrange them or replace any poor ones. Some plants demand a warm room while other will cope with a cooler room. Jasmine, Hyacinth bulbs, Primroses and Cyclamen can be brought into a warm room when you have guests but pop them back into their cooler homes at night to make the flowers last longer.
The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER
Kirky Krafters Sale - The Church centre, The Square, Kirkliston. Festive and other craft items!
THURSDAYS 14TH, 21ST & 28TH NOV
Late Night Christmas Shopping at New Hopetoun Gardens - Wonderful selection of gifts, decorations and house plants. From 7.30pm, free parking out of town and no crowds! New Hopetoun Gardens, EH52 6QZ.
SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER
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
SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER
Autumn Concert - Linlithgow String Orchestra presents works by Vivaldi, Purcell and a Sequence for Remembrance. St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow. 7.00pm. Tickets £10/£8 on the door or in advance via linlithgowstringorchestra.uk
SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
Christmas Fair at Winchburgh Parish Church - Variety of local crafters selling handmade items and stocking fillers, as well as home baking, chocolate tombola and much, much more. Refreshments and breakfast rolls will be available throughout the fair. A warm welcome awaits. Winchburgh Parish Church, EH52 6TT, 10.00am – 1.00pm.
SATURDAY 23RD NOVEMBER
South of Kirkliston Village Litter Pick - With the Kirkliston Community Conservation Volunteers. Meeting at the water board facility opposite the entrance to Gateside. 10am. More info on facebook.com/kccvpage
THURSDAY 28TH NOVEMBER
Queensferry Christmas Lights Switch On - High Street, from 5.45pm. Featuring Queensferry Brass Band, Santa and his sleigh parade, local school choirs, local performers and Queensferry Pipes & Drums. Mulled wine & mince pies by RNLI.
FRIDAY 29TH NOV - SUNDAY 1ST DEC
Christmas Shopping Fair at Hopetoun House - Access via pre-booked tickets only at hopetoun.co.uk. Over 50 exhibitors, wonderful festive atmosphere and Christmas entertainment.
SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER
Kirkliston Christmas Lights Switch OnMain Street, from 5.00pm
SATURDAY 30TH NOVEMBER
Linlithgow Antique Vintage and Collectors Fair - Over 30 dealers, in Queen Margaret Hall, Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7JA. Early entry 9.00am £2,Public entry 10.00am til 3.00pm £1. Ample free parking, on-site catering disabled access. In aid of Linlithgow Heritage Trust. Contact Bob on 07946 045149
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SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
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
FERRY HARMONICS - Singing group for P7-S6 pupils. Singing is a great way to deal with stress, boost your confidence and build new skills in good company. We meet at the Queensferry Parish Church Hall, Fridays 16:00-16:45. Contact susan. mcphail@gmail.com or our Facebook page: ‘Ferry Harmonics’
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 CLUBPlay 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 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 new people, do something with friends, gain credit for your Duke of Edinburgh or simply feel good about helping the community CleanFerry is keen to welcome new volunteers. If interested email cleanferry2@gmail.com
SOUTH QUEENSFERRY BABY AND TODDLER GROUPThursdays 9.30am – 11.30am at the Church Hall on The Loan, SQ. Mums, Dad’s, Grandparents, Carers all welcome. A small fee of £3.00 is 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 -
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 - A 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, 2.00-3.30pm. £2 per meeting. For more information contact Lorna Russell on 0131 331 5570 or 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? 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
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
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
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