October 2016

October 2016

THE DELL DIRECTORY Your local community magazine & business directory.

What’s On • Clubs & Classes • Prize Crossword Monthly Recipe • Library Information • Local Businesses

ith over 25 years experience caring for older people across Scotland, Lindemann Healthcare was established in 1995, with the aim to deliver care services to older people with the highest quality, which we all deserve.

We believe that individuality should be the main basis of the care given within our Care Homes.

In a nursing environment great attention is paid to activities of daily living. Each resident receives a careful assessment to identify what his or her individualised care should be. This allows care plans to be constructed to meet their specific needs.

Our dedicated team aim to provide specialized care in a safe homely atmosphere where the residents are cared for with dignity and respect. This allows each resident to function at their optimum level where they can feel contented and “at home�.

Contact us:

Struan Lodge Nursing Home 54 Balgreen Avenue, Edinburgh EH12 5SU T: 0131 337 7477 F: 0131 337 8886 email:struan@lindemann-healthcare.co.uk website:www.lindemann-healthcare.co.uk

Thorburn Manor Nursing Home 2a Thorburn Road, Edinburgh EH13 0BQ T: 0131 441 6984 F: 0131 629 2298 email: thorburn@lindemann-healthcare.co.uk website: www.lindemann-healthcare.co.uk

We offer every resident, and their loved ones, the opportunity to participate in their care to a level of involvement that they choose.

We believe that our Care Homes should be therapeutic yet homelike environments where the resident can feel their individual needs are met with priority.

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Lorimer House Nursing Home 491 Lanark Roadm, Juniper Green, Edinburgh EH14 5DQ T: 0131 442 2123 F: 0131 453 4466 email: lorimer@lindemann-healthcare.co.uk website: www.lindemann-healthcare.co.uk

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We provide FREE quotations We provide FREE quotations All major debit and credit cards accepted We provide FREE quotations All major debit and credit cards accepted We provide FREE quotations Please contact us for more information All major debit and credit cards accepted Please contact us for more information 07712 654676 / 0131 669 5906 All major debit and credit cards accepted Please contact us for more information 07712 654676 / 0131 669 5906 info@smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk Please contact us for more information 07712 654676 / 0131 669 5906 info@smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk www.smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk 07712 654676 / 0131 669 5906 info@smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk www.smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk info@smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk www.smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk www.smartheatingedinburgh.co.uk

Special Offer RE-UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS  Quotes are FREE - and we come to you  Choose from a huge selection of fabrics  Collection, CALL and delivery in 2-4 weeks US NOW: 0131 447 3135

Hill Place, Edinburgh. EH10 4BD  We 6–10 have Church full repair services www.james-erskine.co.uk  French Polishing

Himalaya Twist Carpet  80% Wool 20% Nylon  Contract quality  40oz, 50oz

Prices for 40oz £23.99

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To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Inside this issue Security: Towards a Safer Business........................6 Finance: Benefits and Concessions............... 14/15 Pets: Microchipping Your Dog............................16 What's On.......................................................19 Health: OCD Awareness Week..........................20 Home & Interiors: Art Deco Style........................30 Recipe: Sweet Potato & Chick Pea Curry.............34 Support for Scottish Libraries.............................36 Gardening: Tools of the Trade..................... 38/39 Pentlands Book Festival.....................................40 Library Information..................................... 44/45 Prize Crossword & Solutions..............................47 Life List............................................................48 Useful Information............................................49 Business Index..................................................50 Welcome to the October Issue of The Dell Directory.

This month we celebrate Halloween, a great way to spend time with your children helping to carve out their pumpkins and getting ready for guising. To help you get started I have listed some Halloween Events on the What's On page for you.

I hope you enjoy reading through the magazine, there are lots of businesses that can help you with your home and garden projects. Thanks again for all the competition entries I do enjoy picking out a winner every month!

Til next month Ann, Editor.

Why not visit our website www.thedelldirectory.co.uk or if you would like to advertise Tel 07843 449 441 or via Email: thedelldirectoryedinburgh@gmail.com Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsible for loss, damage oromission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Dell 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 Dell Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. Publisher: The Dell Directory. Editor: Ann Brydon.

Please think of the environment when you have finished reading the magazine and recycle.

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36 SOME INFO ABOUT US: THE DELL DIRECTORY ADVERTISING & ACCOUNT ENQUIRIES: Tel: Ann on 07843 449 441 Email: thedelldirectoryedinburgh@gmail.com ARTWORK & DESIGN ENQUIRIES: Tel: Tony on 07595 711256 Email: tony.haughey@sky.com COMMUNITY EVENTS/ COMMUNITY NEW ENQUIRIES: Email: dellcommunityevents@gmail.com NEXT ISSUE DATES: NOVEMBER 2016 Copy deadline for artwork: 15th October.

Distribution Dates: 4th, 5th and 6th November.

DISTRIBUTION: This magazine is distributed to 4,500 homes in the Colinton and Craiglockhart areas every month.

There are 10 issues a year with two joint issues in the Summer (Jul/Aug ) & Winter (Dec/Jan).

The Dell Directory is distributed in the following areas:Colinton Mains, Dreghorn, Redford, Bonaly, Campbell Park, Woodhall, Torphin, Spylaw, Pentland and Craiglockhart.

Copies will also be available at our local Libraries Colinton and Oxgangs and some local shops. If you would like to receive a copy please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can also view the magazine online at www.thedelldirectory.co.uk.

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High quality timber garden products

Garden Sheds Garages/Workshops

Summerhouses

Childrens Play Houses

Dog Kennels Garden Stores

Lily Range

Harriet Range

Abbey Range Emily Range Garden Furniture

Arches

Swing Seats

Arbours

Log Edging Woodchip Planters

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Decking Kits

Gates

Open weekdays 9am till 5pm and Sat & Sun 11am till 3pm Specialists in High Quality Timber Products and Wood Fuels at Competitive Prices For comprehensive information on all of our products please visit our website

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Phone 01506 847999 - E-mail sales@champfleurie.co.uk - Champfleurie Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 6NB

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Computer Help!

PC Repair

At Your Home or Small Business Your Local Friendly Computer Expert        

PC running slow?

Computer won’t start?

Think you have a virus?

Need some hardware or software installed?

Problems with your WiFi? Data recovery Web design (non e-commerce) Tutoring

£30 for 1st hour, then £15 per half hour for Repairs.

Many jobs charged at fixed rate, just call for a quote.

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Call Colin on: 0131 441 7764 or 07948 350 577 www.colintonpcs.co.uk

LOOKING FOR A SMALLER ADVERT? Advertise here from only £36.00 for 2 months.

Mono and Colour options available.

For further information on prices call Ann on 07843 449 441

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Opening the door on your project...

So you’ve decided to carry out building work to your property. You may already have a clear vision, or equally it may be a vague notion that needs to be tested against reality.

Whatever the project, once instigated and assuming the involvement of skilled professionals and builder, it will typically follow a well-trodden path to completion.

But how do you get started along this path? Below are the most common questions that we get asked at initial consultations: 1/ What is the role of Architect and Engineer?

An Architect is often the first port of call and most are happy to visit on a no obligation basis, to discuss your ideas and assess their feasibility. Once appointed an Architect will guide you through all phases from concept to completion, though you don’t necessarily need to appoint them for the whole process.

For instance, some Clients opt to pass a project onto a trusted builder following Building Warrant approval. Projects involving alterations to the fabric of a building will require a Structural Engineer’s services.

2/ Will I need Planning or Building Warrant approval?

This largely depends on the project scope and the type and location of the property.

Internal alterations which do not affect a building’s outward appearance do not typically require Planning approval unless the building is listed. In addition, external changes which fall within defined parameters may be considered as Permitted Development, although this may not apply if you live in a Conservation Area. Most internal and external works, however will require a Building Warrant application to prove technical compliance with the Building Standards.

3/ How long will this take?

The duration will be subject to the size and complexity of the project, though generally

gaining the statutory consents can be quicker than you think and the construction process slightly longer. Based on my our recent experience, a small extension project can take at least 12 months from the first discussion through to completion.

4/ How can I establish the likely costs?

Firstly you should differentiate between your Project Budget, which will include the build cost, VAT and professional and statutory fees and the estimated construction cost (usually quoted without VAT). Once a design has been developed in more detail, it may be possible for your agent or a contractor to provide an indication of the likely construction cost, though as a rule it is only through the Tender process that this will be established. With good advice and a degree of flexibility, you should be able to bring something in within budget.

5/ What haven’t I considered?

Lastly (though this should be considered firstly) is how the energy performance of your property can be upgraded through the project. Improving thermal efficiency, increasing sunlight and reducing draughts, also contribute substantially towards your well-being and comfort. They should be viewed of equal importance as the creation of new rooms, to the enjoyment and value of your home and that’s even before we start to think about running costs!

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Colinton Building Services

Colinton Building Services carries out all aspects of general building and renovation work OUR SERVICES Our company provides the following services.

• House Extensions • Conservatories • Brick and Stone Walls • Attic Conversions • Garages • Driveways • Renovation work • Kitchens • Slabbing • L andscaping • Decking • Decoration Quality work at a Reasonable Price

Call for a FREE estimate or advice 0131 478 9359, 07714 951 810

T: 0131 212 5042 M: 07970 594 142 E: kmelectrical1@yahoo.com www.km-electrical.com • Full/partial rewires

• Landlord Certification

• Additional Sockets

• LED Lighting

• Security Lights

• Building Warrant Approved Contractor

• Fuse Board Upgrades • Smoke Alarms

• Maintenance

FIXED LABOUR COSTS - ALL WORK GUARANTEED

20 SPYLAW STREET, COLINTON EH13 0JX ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 20 YEARS

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Windows

quality bespoke hardwood windows to suit any style of property Energy efficient glazing Low maintenence Quality fittings Full design, manufacture and installation service

To find out more CALL US on 0345 050 5440 or visit our design centre.

Conservatory Design Centre 57 Comiston Road Edinburgh EH10 6AG Open 7 days 10am to 5pm

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Are your favourite chairs or sofas in need of a makeover?

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0131 662 6644 07727 224 072 Email : info@absoluteupholstery.biz www.absoluteupholstery.biz

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smcjoinery@hotmail.co.uk Telephone 0131 466 3494 ...............................................................................

Supply and fit kitchens Maintenance/ letting work All joinery work undertaken ●Kitchens ●Windows ●Doors ●Skirting ●Facings ●Ceilings ●Roofs ●Decking ●Fencing ●Double Glazing ........................................................

Free estimate All trades supplied Fully Insured Oxgangs Farm Loan Edinburgh EH13 9QD

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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

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To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Finance

By Ann Haldon

What Benefits And Concessions Are You Entitled To In Later Life? who have saved a small amount towards their retirement.

Single people and couples could receive up to £13.07 and £14.75 of Savings Credit per week respectively. You may be entitled to one or both elements if you’ve reached state pension age, and are on a low income.

As you grow older, you become entitled to certain age-related public benefits and concessions that can help with day-to-day living. The most obvious is the state retirement pension, but what are the other less wellknown top-ups and concessions that might be available?

Although pension credit is a well-established benefit, not everyone realises they are eligible to claim it, so it’s worth checking whether you’re missing out on this valuable supplement to your state pension.

Additionally, there may be local authority concessions available in the area where you live for adult education or fitness classes, for example. Here are some of the benefits that you might be missing out on, plus a brief guide as to the current eligibility criteria.

PENSION CREDIT There are two elements to pension credit – Guarantee Credit which guarantees a minimum income of £155.60 if you’re single, and £237.55 for couples. The second element, Savings Credit, is for people

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ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE Attendance Allowance is a benefit available to people aged 65 or older, who have care needs at home. You don’t have to receive professional care to be eligible for this benefit, and it’s often the case that a careprovider is a spouse or family member.

There are two different rates available, depending on the level of care needed: • Lower rate: £55.10 per week.

• Higher rate: £82.30 per week.

People who claim the lower rate often need help with washing and dressing, and the higher rate reflects greater care needs during the day and night.

CARER’S ALLOWANCE If you care for someone for 35 hours a week or more, and they are in receipt of certain benefits, you could get Carer’s Allowance at a weekly rate of £62.10. If you’re eligible, you will also automatically receive National Insurance credits.

It’s worth noting that Carer’s Allowance can affect other benefits that you and the person you are caring for receive, so you should factor

in the possibility that these may reduce or be taken away.

WINTER FUEL ALLOWANCE You can receive between £100 and £300 from the government to help with your winter heating bills. To qualify for the winter payment this year, you need to have been born before 5th May 1953. Once you’ve claimed, you should receive the payment automatically between November and December in future years.

COLD WEATHER PAYMENT If you’re in receipt of pension credit, you could also be eligible for a cold weather payment if the average temperature where you live falls, or is expected to fall, to 0°C. This must be for seven consecutive days between 1st November and 31st March, and the payment is £25 for each such period.

ANNUAL FLU VACCINATIONS The annual flu vaccination is free for anyone over the age of 65 years old. It is available in pharmacies as well as from your GP, and is usually provided between September and February each year.

TV LICENCE You can apply for a free TV licence if you are aged 75 and over. The government also offers concessions to older people in residential care, and the cost for a licence in these circumstances is £7.50.

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PUBLIC TRANSPORT Free bus pass There are various concessions available for older people using public transport. Both men and women are entitled to a bus pass at the female state pension age, giving free off-peak travel on local buses.

London 60+ Oyster card People over the age of 60 living in London, can apply for the 60+ London Oyster photo card, and enjoy free travel on London buses, tubes, and a range of other types of local transport.

Senior railcard and coachcard The senior railcard allows people aged 60 and over to save money on rail fares in the UK. There is a one-off cost to buy the card, and it is available online. The senior coachcard currently costs £10 plus £2 p&p, and will save you a third off standard fares in the UK if you

are over 60.

PRESCRIPTIONS Those aged over 60 are also entitled to free prescriptions and NHS sight tests. You will need to complete the back of your prescription and let the pharmacist know that you’re eligible – you may also need to provide proof of age in this respect.

LOCAL AUTHORITY FACILITIES Some local authorities provide free or discounted access for older people to their leisure and educational facilities.

You may find that your local sports and leisure centre offers concessions to people over state pension age, for fitness classes and swim sessions.

Additionally, some colleges provide discounts on daytime and evening classes for retired

people of state pension age and older.

The government website (www. gov.uk) is a good resource for finding out more about these benefits, and you may be able to make a claim for them online. https://www.gov.uk/pensioncredit https://www.gov.uk/attendanceallowance https://www.gov.uk/carersallowance https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuelpayment/overview h t t p s : / / w w w. g o v. u k / c o l d weather-payment h t t p s : / / w w w. g o v. u k / f r e e discount-tv-licence https://www.gov.uk/apply-forelderly-person-bus-pass http://www.nationalexpress. com/offers/coachcards/seniorcoachcard.aspx

COLINTON HAIR DESIGN LADIES, GENTS & CHILDREN WELCOME Now specialising in the latest technology of 100% human hair extensions. Fusion, Micro ring & Nano ring.

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THE FIREWORK CAFE For One Morning Only

On NOVEMBER 5th 2016 from 10 to 12.30

at Christchurch Hall, Holy Corner, Bruntsfield.

WALKIN’N’WOOFIN DOG WALKING SERVICES AND MUCH MORE • 1 TO 1 DOG WALKS • GROUP WALKS (MAXIMUM OF 4 DOGS) • AVAILABLE 7 DAYS A WEEK AT ANY TIME • TAXI SERVICE FOR DOGS • HOME VISITS FOR PUPS FOR THE ELDERLY CANINE • SERVICE TAILORED TO SUIT YOU AND YOUR DOGS NEEDS PHONE SIMON ON: 07713 151 487 EMAIL: INFO@WALKINNWOOFIN.CO.UK WWW.WALKINNWOOFIN.CO.UK

Microchipping your dog New legislation has made it compulsory to have your dog microchipped if it is eight weeks old or over. The government’s aim in introducing the new rules from 6th April 2016 is to relieve the pressure on local authorities and animal welfare charities to care for lost dogs.

The legislation also encourages responsible pet ownership, and helps to protect dogs in society generally. Microchipping your dog will make it easier for you to be reunited should they be lost or stolen, as your contact details are placed on an approved database.

How does microchipping work?

A tiny electronic chip is implanted under your dog’s skin, between the shoulder blades.

It contains a unique number which correlates with your contact details, so it’s important to make sure that these are up to date.

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Please support Marie Curie - enjoy an excellent cup of tea, coffee or hot chocolate accompanied by a home baked selection of scones and cakes.

CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY CORNER Puzzles, Colouring, Glitter Transfer, Lucky Dip. Make a Marie Curie Hat. GRAND TOMBOLA, CAKE & CRAFT STALLS

Stained glass, Jewellery, Candles, Pottery, Plants, Origami and Decorations.

ENTRY TICKET including refreshments £2.50 Children under 10 free

Charity reg. no.SC038731

PETS Microchipping doesn’t hurt your dog, and no anaesthetic is needed. It can be carried out by a vet, in pet retail outlets, re-homing centres, or via charity organisations such as Dogs Trust who carry out the procedure free of charge.

What if your dog isn’t microchipped?

If you don’t microchip your dog you risk a fine of £500, and even criminal prosecution in some cases. You’ll receive a warning notice giving you 21 days in which to comply. Dog wardens and other enforcers including community support officers have the right to seize your dog and make sure it is microchipped, and to reclaim the cost from you later.

It’s also a requirement under the new legislation that your contact details are kept up to date on the approved database. http://www.petplan.co.uk/microchip-dog-law-info/ https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/help-advice/ microchipping/microchipping-faq-page

By Ann Haldon

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Fr no-ob ee lig QUO ation TES

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Mulled Wine & Craft Evening Get an early start to the Festive period by enjoying mulled wine, mince pies, craft demonstration and some unique stalls to help you get your shopping under way!

Friday 18th November 2016 7.30pm Dell Room, Colinton Parish Church Tickets: ÂŁ10 includes refreshments Tickets from stableroom@hotmail.co.uk also available on Eventbrite

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WHAT’S ON

HERE THERE EVERYWHERE

ON YOUR DOORSTEP

HALLOWEEN EVENTS

Colinton Community Council (Public Meeting) Our next public meeting will be on Wednesday 5th October at 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Dreghorn Loan Hall.

All Colinton residents are very welcome to attend.

Agenda and minutes of previous meetings can be found at www.colintoncc.org.uk

Lauriston Castle Sunday 30th October from 10am to 1pm, £6 per person all families welcome all children must be accompanied by an adult. Arrive dressed up for Halloween and explore the castle a host of dastardly experiences await you! To book call 0131 228 1155.

Swanston Golf Club Open Day Friday 7th October – Come along and play a FREE round of Golf on the 18 hole or 9 hole Par3 Templar Course. Call us to book your tee time on 0131 445 2239 or email shop@swanston.co.uk. Swanston Golf Club has a family friendly clubhouse serving delicious food, and a variety of beers and wine.

The Edinburgh Dungeons 7th - October – 31st October Come face to face with The Real Jekyll and Hyde at “The Home of Halloween”, lots of scary fun. To book online visit http://www.thedungeons.com or call 0871 423 2250.

The Edinburgh Corn Exchange – Tel 0131 477 3500 Friday 14th October – “The Dolls”, first female duo of pure Scottish talent all the way from London’s West End.

Hopetoun House Bonfire and Fireworks Night Friday 29th October at 6.30pm (gates open at 4pm).

Come along and enjoy our spectacular fireworks display all set to music. With Hopetoun House as a magical backdrop it’s a great family event. There will be pre-show entertainment, great food stalls and a great bonfire to keep you warm! Ticket prices for Adults £13.00 and £7.00 for children. Under 3’s are free. For more information on tickets call 0131 331 2451 or email enquiries@hopetoun.co.uk.

Saturday 29th October - presenting the female singer “Birdy”, tickets start from £24.00. Over 14’s only.

Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre Sunday 30th October – Childrens’ Halloween Party 2-4pm. For more information call the centre on 0131 466 0678.

FURTHER A FIELD

CLOSER TO HOME Botanic Lights – Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh 13th October to 6th November 2015.

The award-winning Botanic Lights is returning this October and November, with a month of magical nights at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh. To book your tickets call 0844 573 8455 or online at www.botaniclights.co.uk

These details were correct at the time of printing but are subject to change. Please check directly with libraries.

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Health

By Alison Runham www.alison.runham.co.uk

OCD Awareness Week 9th-15th October

While people may joke about being “a bit OCD,” this trivialises a serious and potentially debilitating condition. OCD Awareness Week aims to correct the misconception that Obsessive Compulsive Disorder merely concerns harmless habits or quirks.

What Is OCD? 12 in every 1,000 people suffer from OCD, experiencing a range of compulsions, obsessional thoughts and repetitive behaviours that seriously affect their day-to-day life. On average it’s undiagnosed for 10-15 years, yet 50% of cases are severe, meaning symptoms occupy more than three hours a day.

Sufferers typically develop OCD in their late adolescence or twenties, but it affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. They may recognise their condition, yet find it hard to believe their compulsions won’t relieve their anxiety or prevent harm.

OCD’s four step cycle: 1. Obsession: intrusive, repetitive thoughts, images or impulses.

2. Anxiety: caused by the obsession. Paranoia or a feeling of over-responsibility may develop and sufferers may believe they or their loved ones are in danger from something harmless - or that their actions can prevent or cause unrelated harm.

3. Compulsion: behaviours or thoughts patients are

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compelled to repeat as a result of the anxiety – although often, they’re not realistically connected.

4. Temporary relief when the ‘necessary’ actions are completed.

Types of OCD • Checking: e.g. rechecking locked doors or checking that intrusive thoughts aren’t real memories.

• Contamination / Mental Contamination: a fear of germs or verbal abuse, which makes sufferers feel dirty/ unworthy.

• Hoarding unnecessary and/or excessive items.

• Ruminations (prolonged, time-consuming thoughts on harmless topics) or Intrusive Thoughts (disturbing and repetitive in nature, e.g. imagining violence).

What Causes OCD? Genetics: OCD seems to run in some families; this may be a genetic link or ‘learned behaviour’.

Brain differences: In some sufferers, imaging shows increased activity and blood flow in brain areas that handle emotional response and a lack of serotonin (a neurotransmitter influencing memory, mood and sleep).

Trauma and Emotional Upset: Suffering neglect, abuse, isolation or trauma such as a break-up or bereavement seems to increase vulnerability to developing OCD. Personality: Certain personality traits, such as perfectionism, may increase the likelihood of developing OCD. While many people exhibit OCDtype symptoms when stressed, OCD is only clinically diagnosed if symptoms:

• Consume over an hour a day.

• Cause significant distress.

• Interfere with ability to function in day-to-day life.

OCD symptoms may wax and wane, but if left untreated they usually become more severe.

Treating OCD Fortunately, OCD can usually be treated with professional help, although improvement may take several months.

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) encourages people to talk through their fears and behaviours and find healthier ways of thinking. Behavioural exercises including ERP (exposure and response prevention) support patients to face fears one at a time and let obsessive thoughts run their course without ‘correcting’ them with compulsive behaviours.

Over time, this challenging treatment can help patients reduce symptoms or sometimes achieve complete recovery.

Some people may need medication alongside or before CBT to relieve their anxiety enough to undertake therapy.

Medication: SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) increase serotonin levels. At higher doses they’re often highly effective in treating OCD, but need to be taken for 12 weeks before benefits are noticeable.

Patients with moderate or severe OCD may need long-term medication.

Further Information and Support: • OCD-UK: www.ocduk.org/ contact; Email: support@ ocduk.org; Tel: 0845 120 3778 or 0345 120 3778.

• OCD Action: www.ocdaction. org.uk; Email: support@ ocdaction.org.uk; Tel: 0845 390 6232

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EE FR O R Flat Roofing Slating & Roof Tiling Masonry & Stonework Leadwork Pointing Harling & Roughcasting Emergency Roof Service Lead and zinc works Award winning flat roofing specialist

Edinburgh Roofing Services are Edinburgh & the Lothian’s No. 1 recommended roof maintenance contractors. We have been in the roofing & building industry for over 20 years providing customers with a full range of roofing services. When you are looking for a roofing contractor who can be trusted to carry out any work to the highest standards from start to completion, Edinburgh Roofing Services are proud to be Scotland’s 1st Which?

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We are proud to be Scotland’s 1st Which?

Trusted Trader!

At the heart of Which? Trusted Traders is an endorsement scheme. It recognises reputable and trustworthy traders who successfully pass the Which? assessment process.

We achieved our prestigious reputation as one of Scotland’s premier roofing companies who always completes the job on time, to the highest standards

CPA Award winning contractor.

possible, with the best materials supplied and to within the client’s estimated budget.

We work daily throughout the city with customers ranging from private homeowners to big businesses and large housing associations. Call us today for your free estimate. No job is too big or too small.

No job is too small

0131 6 67 0 6 0 9 info@edinburghroofingservices.com www.edinburghroofingservices.com 58 Mayfield Road, Edinburgh EH9 2NH I N S U R A N C E B A C K E D G U A R A N T E E S To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441 23

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A Boarding and Day School for Boys aged 7- 18

INFORMATION MORNING Saturday 29 October 2016 JUNIOR FUN TASTER WEEKEND Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 November 2016 0131 312 2201 MERCHISTON.CO.UK

Recognised by the Inland Revenue as a Charity, number SC016580 Merchiston Castle School, Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH13 0PU, Scotland

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Merchiston is the only boys’ independent boarding and day school in Scotland offering the English curriculum, and has a global, outward-looking dimension. The School takes pride in specializing in the education of boys and preparing them for the world, developing aspirational, and sensitive, yet gentle-men! Think about a wonderfully caring and nurturing family environment, where they will learn to like learning more.

With an ethos based on traditional values, Merchiston encourages self-reliance and independence, as well as respect for and tolerance of others. The main objective is to motivate pupils to try their hardest and to strive to achieve the highest levels possible in all areas - firstly academic, then cultural, sporting, leadership, and simply living together as part of a community. Committed to leading students towards ‘personal excellence’, Merchiston has an impressive record of helping boys excel far beyond their expected results at GCSE/IGCSE and A Level.

The School also benefits from its strong links with local girls’ schools for drama and musical performances, other cultural events and social gatherings.

Outstanding off the field…

• 91% of pupils gained places at their first or second choice university* • 50% of pupils went to UK Russell Group Universities, Bath, Cambridge, Oxford St Andrews and leading international institutions* • SAT support clinics for applicants for American Universities.

In the past two years, many students have gained admission to Ivy League Universities such as Cornell and Brown • Top 5% of UK Schools for value-added, 2015 • 96% A*/A pass rate at GCSE* • Gradual progression to secondary teaching from Primary 6 • Best Head of Public School (runner-up)** *Based on Interim Results August 2016 **Tatler Schools Awards 2015

And on the field…

• No 1 UK Junior Golf School (ISGA, 2014/15 and 2015/16) • No 3 UK Tennis School (LTA, 2016) • U18 Scottish Schools Tennis Champions, 2016 - winners an impressive 7 out of 9 years • 64 Merchistonians capped at full international level (most recent –Sam Hidalgo-Clyne, 2015) • Representation in all of the 2015/16 Scottish National Rugby Teams • In 2015/16, there were 87 different teams, of all abilities, playing competitive fixtures across 16 sports: a total of 590 fixtures • 89% of all pupils, from 7-18, have represented the School in sport at some stage this year • New floodlit 2G Astroturf

Daily morning transport from various Edinburgh locations. %41148 75 43 54*0)1 2-,0) @MerchiNews

@MerchiSport

www.facebook.com/MerchistonEdinburgh

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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CLUBS & CLASSES EXERCISE & FITNESS AND CHILDRENS GROUPS Colinton Lawn Tennis Club 10 Westgarth Avenue.

Tel: 0131 441 1052 or 07779 010577 www.colintonltc.org.uk Colinton Bowling Club 49a Redford Road. Contact: 0131 441 2964 www.colintonbowlingclub.org.uk Colinton Mains Bowling Club 221 Oxgangs Road North (next to Colinton Mains Park). Outdoor bowling, adults only (age 16+), April-September. Dominoes and Whist off-season.

Contact: 0131 531 9796.

Gentle Yoga For people living with health conditions Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, Thursdays 3.30-4.30pm. Contact Joanna on 07436102726 or Joanna@kiccactive.org.uk Badminton Club Monday 8pm-10pm. Sept- March.

Contact: Archie Clark on 0131 449 4703.

Location: St Cuthberts Church Hall. Westgarth Av. Scottish Dancing Alternate Thursdays. 7.45pm- 9.15pm Sept- March.

Contact: Ann Dean on 0131 441 3729.

Location: St Cuthberts Church Hall. Westgarth Av. StableRoom Playgroups Happy and stimulating playgroups from 2-5 years old.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Colinton Parish Church.

9.15am- 11.45am. Term Time. Contact: 0131 477 9494 Email: stableroom@hotmail.co.uk StableRoom Baby and Toddler Group Thursdays 9.30 - 11.30am (during term time) at Colinton Parish Church, Dell Rd. Contact Tracey on 07813 123803 or Joanne on 07880 708706 Happy Faces Toddler Group Every Tuesday morning during term time – 9.30-11.30am. £1 admission.

Drop in. Colinton Parish Church.

Contact Stephanie Miller on 07731 001 018.

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Zumba Fitness Classes Progress Fitness classes in Colinton and Juniper Green Classes include Zumba, Zumba Step, Zumba Gold, High Intensity Interval Training, Yoga and Fitness Yoga.

For full details go to www.progressfitness.co.uk Colinton Baby & Toddler Group St Cuthberts Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue.

Mon 9.30-11.15am term time only. colintonbabyandtoddlergroup@yahoo.co.uk £2 admission on a drop-in basis.

COMPLEMENTARY FITNESS CLASSES www.complementaryfitness.co.uk Fitness Pilates – Tuesdays 7.30PM Join us if you’re ready to/continue to strengthen your core, improve strength and posture.

Classes in Craiglockhart Parish Church Hall, Craiglockhart Drive North, Edinburgh Resistance Training Workout – Wednesdays 9.30AM Classes in Dreghorn Loan Church Hall, Dreghorn Loan, Colinton, Edinburgh. Wear trainers, bring your resistance band, hand weights, mat and water, work out with us and improve your fitness, strength, metabolism etc.

New! Fitness Yoga Classes – Thursdays 6.35PM Improve core, strength, balance and flexibility.

Fitness Pilates – Thursdays 7.30PM A 6 week block to help you firm up, tone, strengthen, lengthen and improve core muscles, book your place/ come and join us.

Freestyle Fitness Yoga Stretch – Friday 9.30AM To help you improve your core, strength, posture, balance + flexibility. Stretch, improve and enjoy.

Pentland Kindergym Mon-Thurs: 1st class 9.30am-10.15, 2nd class 10.30-11.15. Ages, birth to pre- school. £2.50 (siblings) £1.25. Soft play with parents and sing song time!

Contact: adelebrownless@blueyonder.co.uk.

Or Pentland community centre tel: 0131 445 2871

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SOCIAL, LOCAL INTEREST & OTHER Friendly Bridge Colinton Cottage Homes. Every Tuesday. 2-4pm.

Contact: Ken McLeod on Tel 0131 466 0888 Colinton Garden Club Meets 4th Monday of every month.

Dreghorn Loan Hall 8.00pm. September to April.

Email: membership@colintongardens.org.uk www.colintongardens.org.uk Colinton Amateur Orchestral Society Meets Tuesday 7.30pm- 9.30pm.

Location: St Cuthberts Church Hall. Westgarth Av. Email: secretary@colintonorchestra.org.uk Colinton Townswomen Meets 2nd Thursday of every month from 2-4pm Location: St. Cuthberts Church, Westgarth Avenue.

Contact: Ann Gordon Tel: 0131 441 1600.

Colinton Local History Society Meets 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 8pm.

Amusing and Educational Speaker Programme.

Location: Dreghorn Loan Hall Contact: Bob Bell on 0131 441 4915 Colinton Singing Group “MOSTLY MADRIGALS” We are a small group who sing for pleasure fortnightly on Wednesday evenings. We currently have vacancies for Sopranos. Contact Sonia Duffy on 0131 441 7434

Morningside & Newington Floral Art Club Looking to do something new for autumn/winter?

Come along & enjoy relaxing evenings watching a floral demonstration with lively & interesting chat. You might even win one of the arrangements.Boroughmuir Rugby Football Club, Meggetland off Colinton Road EH14 1AS, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm approx on the 1st Monday of each month. Wine/tea/coffee available.

Colinton Literary Society The “Lit” meets Wednesdays (Oct-Mar) at 8pm Location Dreghorn Loan Hall Email: morag.l.marshall@btinternet.com Thanking you in advance, Morag Marshall Pentland Bridge Club Meets Thursdays at 6.45 for 7 p.m. - 10.30 p.m.

Location: St Margaret’s Hall, Juniper Green Bridge players can come along with a partner and will be made very welcome.

Contact: Jean Newport (0131 449 2028) or Ken Brown (0131 449 5314) Morningside & Newington Floral Art Meet 1st Monday of the month 7.30pm-9.15pm.

Boroughmuir Rugby Club (off Colinton Road.)

Contact Joyce Rutherford on 0131 443 2536 Military Wives Choir April - June. Free- no audition! Tues 6pm - 7.30pm.

Dreghorn Barracks Band Block. Tel 0131 310 2876 or email: edinburghmwc@gmail.com Edinburgh Popular Music Choir - Now Recruiting!

No experience needed. Need both men and women ages 18-80! Choir office Morningside School of Music 138 Comiston Road. Tel 0131 447 1117 Email: linda@polarflamemusic.com

These details were correct at the time of printing but are subject to change.

Please check directly with libraries.

DO YOU RUN A CLUB OR A CLASS? AND WOULD YOU LIKE TO LET MORE PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT IT? Send the details of your club or class to Ann at thedelldirectoryedinburgh@gmail.com Remember to put what the Club or Class is, dates and times and where it can be found and off course any contact details.

The Dell Directory is delivered monthly to 4,500 homes in the Colinton & Craiglockhart areas.

For more information contact: Ann on 07843 449 441 or email thedelldirectoryedinburgh@gmail.com To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Scott Findlay Plumbing & Heating Engineers 0131 669 9993

info@scottfindlay.co.uk

• Central heating & boiler specialist • Boiler servicing/repairs • All plumbing works

• Energy efficiency • Landlords service • Powerflushing

Local, long established. Our clients are with us for life and we constantly strive to ensure that this remains the case. Please call us for advice/free estimates.

FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 25 YEARS Scott Findlay Plumbing & Heating Ltd, 30 Kekewich Avenue EH7 6TY. www.scottfindlay.co.uk

0193 SF_HP ADVERT_MAR 16_V1AW.indd 1

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09/03/2016 21:28

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Currievale

Plumbing & Drainage Services Family Business over 15 years experience Reliable, experienced, local plumber.

No job too small.

All work guaranteed 10% discount on first job, please quote when phoning with this advert

Ovensmartz Specialist Oven Cleaning Residential & Commercial Your Local Independant Oven Cleaning Specialist

• Gutter cleaning • Blocked drains • Blocked toilets • Blocked sinks & baths • Outside tap fitted • Blocked Manholes • Burst pipes • Shower fitted & repaired • Storage tanks • New taps fitted & repaired • New installations • All Plumbing work carried out

Ovensmartz provides a first class service at realistic prices and no VAT. We only use non-toxic, environmentally safe solutions. We also clean Hobs, Aga’s, Ranges, Cooker Hoods/Extractors, Microwaves, and Fridge/Freezers.

Tel: 0131 449 3071 Mob: 07849 393 364

info@ovensmartz.co.uk

Call Ian at Ovensmartz today on 01506 202732 or 07551 633785

www.ovensmartz.co.uk

EDINBURGH TILE STUDIO 11 Howard Street | Edinburgh | EH3 5JP

Natural Stone | Porcelain | Mosiac | Glass | Hand-Made | Hand-Painted | Victorian | Encaustic DESIGN AND INSTALLATION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE.

e: enquiries@edinburghtilestudio.co.uk

t: 0131 629 3780

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

www.edinburghtilestudio.co.uk

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Home & Interiors Art Deco Style By Katherine Sorrell

DECADENT DECO

Art Deco never goes out of fashion – and, according to a recent survey, it’s the nation’s favourite design style. We take a look at the history of this glamorous, good-looking movement.

The Roaring Twenties – think jazz, flappers, slick automobiles, the talkies and skyscrapers: it was all about glamour, drama and modernity. Consumerism had arrived, and the timing was right for a new style.

Also known as Art Moderne, Jazz Moderne or simply Deco, Art Deco style was rooted in the world of pre-First World War leading French design, but only became widely recognised after the 1925 Paris Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes. French designers were combining classical features and rare, luxury materials with exciting new influences such as contemporary art, the exotic Ballets Russes and a fascination with all things Egyptian, as well as the art and artefacts of Japan, Africa, native America, Mexico and the Middle East.

Early Art Deco furniture was

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exclusive and luxurious, made from costly materials such as hardwoods, lacquer, mother of pearl, shark skin, tortoiseshell and leather, and frequently featured e x t r a v a g a n t veneering and inlaid decoration.

However, as the style spread, designers employed the latest technologies and less expensive materials, such as stainless steel, chrome and Bakelite plastic. In the States it became known as Streamlining, and its curvy lines were the musthave look for new buildings, with a fine example being the 102-storey Empire State Building, completed in 1931.

In terms of furniture, the Art Deco look was low and upright in design, featuring geometric outlines with rounded corners, and often the shell, fan or sunburst shapes that are key to this style. The coffee table and the cocktail cabinet had recently been invented. Fitted kitchens became increasingly widespread, while the Art Deco bathroom featured solid yet elegant shapes and glamorous looks, with plenty of chrome and bevelled-edge mirror.

To decorate walls, botanicals or geometrics were frequent motifs, while upmarket homes might have lacquer or wood panelling, mirror tiles or even trompe l’oeil murals. This was the era of parquet flooring, perhaps with the addition of a zebra skin or a boldly abstract rug.

High-end soft furnishings were

sumptuous and costly, with silk and velvet desirable. However, as the look filtered down, cotton, chenille and moquette gained in popularity, often featuring graphic patterns in bold colours or monochrome. The arrival of electric light and the widespread use of electric fittings resulted in striking design and the use of ground-breaking materials such as aluminium, plywood, tubular steel, plastic or pressed glass; typical styles included pendant lights made from marbled glass and hung from chains, ziggurat, shell or fan-shaped wall lights, and column-based table lamps boasting Art Deco motifs.

Accessories and ornaments were key, from Clarice Cliff’s ceramics to Bakelite radios, cocktail shakers and silver dressing table sets.

Over time Art Deco design became less sophisticated and more mass-produced and, especially in 1930s Britain, more utilitarian and suburban.

Though still ground-breaking, it was commercialised to the point of kitsch. House builders included rounded bay windows, doorways with stepped surrounds and garden gates with sunrise motifs. Brightly coloured zigzags, chevrons, exotic animals and stylised flowers were added to furnishings, accessories and homeware – and thus a luxurious look originally available only to the few became an everyday style found in ordinary homes.

Image - Artworks Art Deco bathroom, Original Style, 01392 473000; www.originalstyle.com

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IAN HODGSON & CO PAINTERS & DECORATORS Established 1980

We offer a complete decorating service.

All our tradesmen have City & Guilds and are fully insured.

For a quotation without obligation from your local decorator Phone 0131 441 6524 Where Quality Counts!

8 Fernielaw Avenue Edinburgh EH13 0EE Tel: 0131 441 6524 Mobile: 07876377738 Email: hodgson.ian@btinternet.com Website: www.ianhodgsonpaintersanddecorators.co.uk

HIGH QUALITY DECORATING AT A FAIR PRICE All Types Of Decorating Services Fast & Friendly Service Competitive Prices References Available No Job Too Small No Hidden Extras What We Quote Is What You Pay Residential & Commercial Fully Insured Call Marek today for your FREE quote

07746 266 222 or 0131 2582145 www.mgdecor.co.uk

70 Fernieside Crescent,Edinburgh EH17 7HR

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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Professional Haircare Shop

Tues Students & Seniors Discount 20% Free on Street Parking Available Ladies, Gents and Kids Welcome Free WIFI Online booking

SALON

STOCKIST

4 Craiglockhart Road North, Edinburgh EH14 1BU

0131 444 2727 www.kimodonnell.co.uk

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

Find us on Facebook

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Recipes/Food Notes Sweet Potato & Chick Pea Curry Serves 4

Ready in 45 minutes

A quick and easy vegetarian dish full of Indian flavour. If you don’t have all the spices just use 1-2 tbsp medium curry paste.

Serve with boiled basmati rice or warmed naan breads, if liked.

Ingredients: • 1 - 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed • 3cm piece fresh root ginger, peeled and grated • 1 large onion, peeled and chopped • 1 aubergine, cubed • 2 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground turmeric

• 2 tsp ground coriander

• 1/2 tsp hot chilli powder

• 3 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 500g carton passata (sieved tomatoes) • 400g can chick peas, drained and rinsed • 1 tsp garam masala

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Freshly chopped coriander, to garnish

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Heat the oil in a large deep frying pan and fry the garlic, ginger and onion over a medium heat for about 5 minutes until light golden. Stir in the aubergine and fry for a further 2 minutes.

Add all the spices to the pan and cook, stirring, for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sweet potatoes, the passata and 150ml water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potato is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Stir in the chick peas and garam masala and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer for a further few minutes. Serve in warmed bowls garnished with chopped coriander.

TIP For a chunkier sauce use a 400g can of chopped tomatoes and add 250ml water.

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Timber Window

Renovation

The Alternative to Timber Window Replacement

Recommended

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Sarah

Beeny

 Fix hard to operate or stuck shut windows  Eliminate draughts and rattles  Add value to your property  Lower your energy bills  Reduce outside noise

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

LISHED FO AB R ST

BRITAIN AT E RE

Call 0800 243 126 www.ventrolla.co.uk

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Arrange your FREE, no obligation survey and quotation today.

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£450,000

£450,000 to support Scottish libraries - 21 projects allocated funding to improve services.

Local libraries in Oxgangs, Wester Hailes, Sighthill, and Ratho will benefit from a range of projects across Scotland worth £450,000.

The funding will be shared between the Public Library Improvement Fund and other activities including the Scottish Government’s “Read, Write, Count” initiative, the “Every Child A Library Member” programme, a pilot to try out a new single library card, and Book Week Scotland events in libraries and national reading activities.

Furthermore, the First Minister recently launched her Reading Challenge which will encourage children to read more across all of Scotland.

These local projects will support the aims set out in the Libraries Strategy, such as libraries’ role in literacy, reading, culture and digital participation.

Local MSP Gordon Macdonald, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop, and Councillor Richard Lewis visited Wester Hailes Library to meet pupils who could benefit from the support for the Edinburgh Explorers project.

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Gordon Macdonald MSP commented, “The manner in which people use libraries is changing – users still borrow books, but increasingly libraries are becoming spaces for learning, and somewhere for creative activities and communitybased events. They have also become digital information hubs in addition to their role with traditional media. The Scottish Government have invested more than £2 million since 2014 in our public library strategy and this extra funding will keep libraries up to date with technology and ensure they continue to be relevant to the community across all age ranges”.

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A small family run business with an established customer base.

• House Cleaning • Commercial Cleaning • Ironing • Carpet Cleaning • Steam Cleaning Regular cleaning & special occassions catered for.

T: 0131 477 2062 fionashousecleaning.co.uk

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

37

Tools Of The Trade

by Pippa Greenwood

Autumn is well and truly here. There is plenty to do in the garden and if you want to make jobs as easy and speedy as possible, it is essential that you have the right equipment. Whether you are just out to buy a few new tools or are setting up a selection of equipment for the first time, it really does pay to choose the right things in the first place.

What you choose is going to depend to an extent on how often you are likely to do any one job and on the size and type of garden you have. It really is worth buying as good a quality garden tool as possible.

Poorly made and badly designed tools can work out a lot more expensive (and frustrating!) in the long run, so start with a few good ones and build up gradually.

Try handling any gardening tools before you buy them, so that you can ensure that they are the right size and weight for you and that

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the handles are comfortable to hold.

If the tools do carry a guarantee then make sure that you keep the receipt and any relevant label from the tool itself or else it may well be difficult to prove precisely when you bought it.

A good quality fork and spade are essential and they need to be sturdily built if they are to do jobs such as digging, turning over soil and so forth.

The neck and head of the spade should be moulded from one piece of metal for added strength. The shaft is usually constructed from wood or metal and make sure that it is firmly attached at both the head end and the handle. Some traditionalstyle garden tools may have wooden handles but most now have D-shaped plastic handles. Choose forks and blades whose metal parts have been treated to prevent rust.

A hand fork and trowel are essential for smaller jobs such as weeding or gardening in confined spaces, and they are also great for moving and dividing smaller plants, for planting bulbs and for mixing up small amounts of compost.

These are a tool where it is definitely worth feeling the handle to ensure that that the grip is comfortable.

Most garden centres offer stainless steel or coated steel garden tools. Stainless steel does not rust and many people find they move through the soil better, but the price is usually considerably higher. Coated steel tools are much cheaper and provided you keep them clean and oil them at the end of each season and periodically throughout the year, they last well.

A hoe is useful for weeding between small and established plants and for aerating the surface of the soil. Keep your

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hoe sharpened at regular intervals and it will last for ages and slide rapidly and easily through the soil. Most hoes have a 1.5 metre (5 foot) or longer shaft which is comfortable for most gardeners to use. However, if you are very tall, then longer ones may be available from some manufacturers. My favourite is the SpeedHoe, UK designed and with an unusual almost heartshaped head with a blade running around all edges and a pronged rear, making it the easiest and most effective hoe I’ve ever used.

A spring-tined rake is really useful because it has thin flexible wire tines which make it perfect for raking

up lightweight debris and fallen leaves or, of course, lawnmower clippings.

A garden rake can also be used to rake up leaves although the job is slightly harder, but its main use is to break up lumps of soil and help you to create a fine level area for sowing seed, whilst at the same time removing stones, lumps and other debris. You can then use the head of the rake to help level off the soil.

If you plan to grow vegetables, then a small hoe known as an onion hoe is an invaluable tool and allows you to weed quickly and easily, even between fairly closely spaced crops.

You can also use it to weed

in amongst ornamental plants of course. For really tight spaces and weeding between paving, and in gravel in asparagus beds etc, I’m addicted to my SpeedWeeder, a small redhandled tool l which is the best I have used for hoiking out dandelion roots in one piece too!

Visit Pippa’s website www. pippagreenwood.com and book Pippa for a gardening talk or peruse the really useful selection of Pippa’s favourite gardening items including Nemaslug to control slugs, pop-up crop covers, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, pull-out EasyTunnels, biocontrols for vine weevils, leatherjackets and chafergrubs, signed books and lots more.

RKB Home & Garden All internal & external work carried out, Including Painting & Decorating Plumbing, Electrical & Joinery repairs Silicon showers & worktops etc Fencing, Decking & Garden Maintenance and more... Free Estimates Based in Colinton over 10 years

Call Ross Thomson

07732 183 461 Tel: 0131 441 5971

We currently look after 450 gardens.

We’d love to look after yours.

0800 9700 415 www.taurusgardening.com Make your garden our business.

To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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The Pentlands Book Festival 2016 (PBF16) is an exciting chapter of over thirty book-related events in Colinton, Juniper Green and Currie. It is part of Book Week Scotland, which runs from Monday 21st November to Sunday 27th November 2016.

PBF16 is a celebration of words - in fiction, drama, poetry, music, mathematics (yes, maths!); words in crime, in history, in our food and in our landscape.

The Festival is packed with events for all ages, from Teddy Bears' sleepovers in Libraries to Macilvanney Prize-winning author Chris Brookmyre discussing his new novel, Black Widow. There will be authors from the fields of poetry and prose, fact and fiction, the practical and the philosophical.

In Colinton, Duncan Campbell will take up to twelve participants for a walk with Robert Louis Stevenson on the morning of 23rd November. Lady Joyce Caplan will present “Ae Fond Kiss”, a discussion of Robert Burns and women, in Colinton Library the same evening. Colinton Library will then open specially on 24th November for a "meet the local authors" morning, after which Ruth Shannon will talk about her cook book and, we hope, offer samples to satisfy the whetted appetites. Later, Carol Tweedie will speak on genealogy and her novel "Fair Isle Ghosts".

Although the Festival runs from 21st to 27th November, there are major pre-festival events too.

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Alan Bissett will perform his "Moira Monologues" at Tanners (Juniper Green) on Friday 11th November at 7.30 pm. On 17th November Professor Chris Sangwin will ask “How Round is your Pizza” at a meal in Al Borgo in Juniper Green and a guided poetry walk with Liz Beevers, will follow the work of Currie's poet James Thomson on 19th November.

Other speakers and hosts include Kathleen Jamie, Margaret Bennett, Alison Lindsay, Jennifer Robertson, Simon Radcliffe, Catherine Czerkawska, Tomi Adenakan and Professor Ian Campbell. Edinburgh Makar Christine de Luca will run a children’s poetry event "Tweet your Street" during the week and Dad's Rock will thrill kids at Juniper Green Parish Church.

A cash prize competition for authors between the ages of 12 and 18 is to write short story of 501 words, based on the theme of “A Big Mistake”. Invitations are being sent to our local high schools and details will also be available in local libraries. Prize winning entries will be announced and read at Juniper Green Parish Church on 26th November, when Professor Ian Campbell will speak on the topical subject of writing for prizes.

PBF16 has something for everyone. Events are free, but bookings are required via the PBF16 website or, in a couple instances, through the Libraries.

Everything you need to know can be found at www. pentlandsbookfestival.org. Come and join us!

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Plastering & Roofing

By Martin Scott

Plastering & Tiling

Roofing

Water damaged ceilings Walls renewed All cement work Harling & Roughcast Tiling - walls and floors

Flat roof specialists Slating, tiling, rones & gutters Chimney work Ridges renewed VELUX Windows

Insurance work welcome 24hr Service for Emergencies Mobile: 07709 469 465 Tel: 01383 841 366/ 0131 653 2043 www.martin-scott.org.uk

Mobile: 07969 769 153 email: lpg@blueyonder.co.uk

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CREATING BEAUTIFUL SMILES FOR LIFE

We are now registering NHS patients.

• Prevention & Oral Hygiene • Cosmetic Dentistry • Crowns • Bridges • Dental Implants • Veneers • Tooth Whitening • Dentures

DENPLAN CARE PAYMENTS OPTIONS AVAILABLE

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

TELEPHONE: 0131 441 2999

Opening Hours Mon: 8.30am - 7.30pm. Tues: 8.30am - 5.15pm.

Wed: 8.30am - 7pm. Thur: 8.30am - 5.15pm. Fri: 8.30am - 4.30pm.

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To advertise call Ann on 07843 449441

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LIBRARY INFORMATION OXGANGS LIBRARY 343 Oxgangs Road North, Edinburgh, EH13 9LY. Tel: 0131 529 5549 OUR OPENING TIMES: Mon-Wed 10am to 8pm, Thurs-Sat 10am to 5pm

KIDS & FAMILIES Share a story for under 5’s Mondays 10.30 – 11am Glitzlit Teen Reading Group Girls aged 10-14 Alternate Weds 6pm-7pm Chatterbooks Books, fun and snacks Ages 8-11, fortnightly Tuesdays 4pm-5pm Level-up Reading XP Gaming and reading for Teen boys Aged 10-14 Alternate Wednesdays 6pm-7pm Bookbug Rhymetime sessions 0 – 3 years plus parents/carers 10.30pm-11.00am alternate Wednesdays i.e May 4th & 18th (and ev. Fri & Sat) Crafty Fridays Ages 4 – 11 plus parents/carers 2.30 – 3.30pm Tiger Tales Story and craft sessions Ages 4 – 8 and their parents/carers Saturday 2.30pm 14th & 28th May

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Satellart Art and Science for 8-14year olds Alternate Saturdays at 2pm Homework Help Free printing & Photocopies Homework projects only

ADULTS Yap ‘n’ Yarn Every Tuesday 10.30am – 12.00pm Book Groups 1st Wed of the month Morning Group: 10.15am-11.00am Evening Group: 6.30pm- 7.30pm LearnIT computer course for Adults 6 week course(Contact library for info) Basic Computing help Drop-in Thursdays at 4pm-4.50pm Games Night Every Monday 6.15pm-7.15pm Personal Shopper, Housebound and Library Link Services available – contact library for details

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COLINTON LIBRARY 14 Thorburn Road, Edinburgh, EH13 0BQ. Tel: 0131 529 5603 OUR OPENING TIMES: Monday and Wednesday 1pm - 8pm Thursday, Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 2pm

LIBRARY EVENTS: BOOKBUGS Tuesdays 2.15pm-2:45pm Fridays 10:30am-11:00am and every Saturday 10:30am-11:00am TIGERTALES STORIES AND CRAFTS FOR 5-7YR OLDS First Sat of the month 10.30am-11.15pm BOOK GROUPS Last Tuesday of every month 2pm-3:30pm Last Wednesday of every month 6:30pm-7:30pm

CHATTERBOOKS READING GROUP FOR 8-12YR Third Tuesday of every month 3.45pm-4.45pm (during term time) FRIDAY CRAFTS CRAFT BASED FUN 5-12YR OLDS 3:30pm-4:30pm.

LEARN IT & FAMILY HISTORY Beginners computer classes including tablets and family history (contact library for details) CHILDREN’S KINITTING GROUP Ages 7+ Learn Knitting Skills with the library staff Wednesday’s 1.30pm to 2.30pm

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01592 800 541

www.destinationjudo.com WEDNESDAY 3.45pm - 6.00pm Craiglockhart Craiglockhart Sports Centre, 177 Colinton Road, Edinburgh Various Classes

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CROSSWORD

ENTER THE PRIZE CROSSWORD AND WIN £20.00 GIFT CARD. CLOSING DATE: 31ST OCTOBER 2016. Please complete and send your full name, address and telephone number to: The Dell Directory, 7 Firrhill Crescent, Edinburgh EH13 9DT or email your answers to thedelldirectoryedinburgh@gmail.com

Across 1. Main roof beams (7) 5. More (5) 8. Fabric or cloth (7) 9. Doing words (5) 10. Long, narrow hilltop (5) 11. Anguish (7) 12. One score (6) 14. Out of the country (6) 17. Timid (7) 19. Goes up (5) 22. Perfect (5) 23. Unsuccessful (7) 24. Distinguished (5) 25. Brighter (7) Down 1. Helicopter blade (5) 2. Mended (5) 3. Apparent (7) 4. Not moving (6) 5. Impish fairies (5) 6. Whirlwind (7) 7. Confident (7) 12. Tightness

13. Sincere (7) 15. On fire (7) 16. Practical (6)

18. Lubricated (5) 20. Crouch down (5) 21. Pointed weapon (5)

LAST MONTH’S SOLUTION Across 1 Recess 4 Sticks 9 Surname 10 Inner 11 Snoop 12 Enforce 13 Undoubtedly 18 Cluster 20 Uncle 22 Error 23 Noticed 24 Melted 25 Breeze.

Down 1 Resist 2 Cargo 3 Shampoo 5 Thief 6 Central 7 Survey 8 Remembering 14 Neutral 15 Equator 16 Scream 17 Needle 19 Terse 21 Cycle.

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The Life List Additives Fad-itives If you read the ingredients on most processed foods you’ll quickly learn two things: you need stronger reading glasses and those lists use language differently.

An anticaking agent sounds like early closing at the baker’s, while bulking agents immediately makes me think of pies, pasties or chips. Maybe those two agents could cancel one another out?

Surely stabilisers belong on a bicycle and what is a sweetener if not a bribe? (Doubly so, if the bribe is chocolate.) Food colouring - something you’d assume we could get from the actual food itself - actually dates back as least as far as the Egyptians! The only thing we used to consider to be an antioxidant, especially in a crowded room, was smoking.

When I see the words ‘flavour enhancers’

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I can’t help thinking of good old-fashioned condiments - most things perk up with a pinch of salt, or perhaps some brown sauce. (Not so good with desserts though.)

There can be no better thickener than Reality TV, which is also the biggest contradiction.

The only glazing agents I’m familiar with are egg white or glass - for entirely different reasons. Apparently there’s an additive called tracer gas, which naturally conjures up images of Brussel sprouts, cabbage or lentils. (And not just images.)

And a special mention must go to additive sulphur dioxide. Yes, it’s a preservative, and yes, it smells like a burnt match, but why oh why have some of us started spelling it with an ‘f’?

By Derek Thompson www.alongthewritelines.blogspot.co.uk

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USEFUL INFORMATION COMMUNITY REPRESENTATION

Edinburgh City Council – www.edinburgh.gov.uk Local Councillors: Colinton/Fairmilehead Elaine Aitken - Conservative - 0131 529 4282 Buckstone Primary, 3rd Monday Term Time 6.30pm Jason Rust - Conservative - 0131 529 4953 First Monday of the month: Oxgangs Library - 6.30pm and Colinton Library - 7.30pm Richard Lewis - SNP - 0131 529 4974 Bonaly Primary School – 1st Monday every month at 7pm (term time) Oxgangs Library – 3rd Monday every month at 7pm (term time) Colinton Amenity Association www.colinton-amentity.org.uk Colinton Community Council - www.colintoncc.org.uk Firrhill Community Council www.firrhillcommunitycouncil.btck.co.uk Pentland Community Centre - 0131 445 287 www.edinburgh.gov.uk LEISURE

Edinburgh Leisure – 0131 458 2100 www.edinburghleisure.co.uk MEDICAL

Colinton Pharmacy – 0131 441 2352 Mon-Fri: 9-1pm & 2-5.45pm. Sat: 9-5pm Colinton Mains Pharmacy – 0131 441 3388 Times- Monday - Friday 9am - 6pm.

Saturday- 9am- 1pm.

Closed daily between 1pm and 2pm.

Colinton Surgery – 0131 441 4555 www.colintonsurgery.co.uk - Mon- Fri 8am- 6pm Firrhill Medical Centre – 0131 441 3119 Mon- Fri 8am- 6pm Royal Infirmary – 0131 536 1000 www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk Sick Kids Hospital – 0131 536 0000 www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk NHS 24 – 08454 24 24 24 - www.nhs24.com PROPERTY

ESPC – 0131 624 8000 - www.espc.co.uk SAFETY

Association of Scottish Neighbourhood Watches – 01786 450 145, www.aosnw.co.uk Crimestoppers – 0800 555 111

POST OFFICES & LIBRARIES

Colinton Post Office – 0131 441 1003 www.postoffice.co.uk Mon-Fri 9am - 5.30pm. Sat 9am - 12.30pm Colinton Mains Post Office – 0131 441 2657 www.postoffice.co.uk Mon-Fri 9am - 5.30pm. Sat 9am - 12.30pm Colinton Library – 0131 529 5603 www.edinburgh.gov.uk Mon, Wed: 1pm - 8pm, Tue, Fri 10am - 5pm, Sat: 10am - 2pm. Sunday: Closed.

Oxgangs Library – 0131 529 5549 www.edinburgh.gov.uk Mon, Tues, Wed 10am - 8pm.

Thurs, Fri Sat 10am - 5pm. Sun - 1-5pm SCHOOLS

Bonaly Primary School – 0131 441 7211 www.bonaly.edin.sch.uk Colinton Primary School – 0131 441 1946 www.colintonprimaryschool.wordpress.com Firrhill High School – 0131 441 4501 www.firrhillhighschool.org.uk Merchiston Castle School – 0131 312 2200 www.merchiston.co.uk Oxgangs Primary School – 0131 441 3649 www.oxgangs.edin.sch.uk St Marks RC Primary School – Tel 0131 441 2948 www.st-marks.edin.sch.uk UTILITIES

Electricity Power Loss – 0845 27 27 999 www.sppowersystems.co.uk Gas Emergency – 0800 111 999 www.nationalgrid.com/uk/gas Scottish Water 24 hours – 0845 600 8855 www.scottishwater.co.uk Cleansing & Special Uplifts – 0131 666 2623 www.edinburgh.gov.uk (environmental health) TRAVEL & TRANSPORT

Train Times and Enquiries – 0845 748 49 50 www.networkrail.co.uk Edinburgh Airport – 0870 040 0007 www.edinburghairport.com Traveline Scotland – 0871 200 22 33 www.travelinescotland.com Lothian Buses – 0131 555 6363 www.lothianbuses.com

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS A quick and easy reference guide to all services in The Dell Directory ARCHITECTS Grigor Mitchell Andy Ross

8/9 31

ARIEL & SATELLITE SERVICES Kinnear Aerials Douglas S Mackay

28 37

BUILDING SERVICES Colinton Building Services J M Builders

10 21

CARPETS & CLEANING James Erskine

3

CHIROPODIST/PODIATRIST Colinton Chiropody

3

COMPUTER HELP/REPAIRS Colinton PC Solutions Capital PC Repairs

7 7

DENTIST Colinton Dental Practice DRIVEWAY SERVICES Driveway Cleaning Edinburgh

42 9

ELECTRICIAN KM Electrical D Sykes Electrical Bryter Electrical Ltd

10 12 17

FISH MERCHANT/SUPPLIER Marc Horsburgh

51

GARDENING FURNITURE Champfleurie Estate

5

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS Merchiston Castle School JOINERY SMC Joinery

12

JUDO CLASSES Destination Judo

46

MSP Gordon MacDonald

37

NURSERY Colinton Private Nursery

51

OVEN CLEANING The Clean Team 21 Ovensmartz 29 PAINTING & DECORATORS MG Décor Ian Hodgson & Co

31 31

PET WALKING SERVICES Walkin 'n' Woofin

16

PLASTERING SERVICES Martin Scott

41

PLASTERING SERVICES Stable Room Playgroup

17

PLUMBERS Shandon Plumbing Currievale Plumbing and Drainage

21 29

RESIDENTIAL ELDERLY CARE Thorburn Manor (Lindemann Healthcare)

GARDENING & LANDSCAPE SERVICES Taurus Gardening Ltd Luxury Lawns

7 48

GAS HEATING & SERVICING Smart Heating Edinburgh Scott Findlay & Heating Engineers Geoff Lennie Plumbing & Heating

RE-UPHOLSTERERS James Erskine Absolute Upholstery

3 28 41

ROOFING SERVICES Fairmile Roofing Edinburgh Roofing Services

HANDYMAN SERVICES RKB Home & Garden Taurus Gardening Ltd

38 38

HEARING SERVICES Edinburgh Hearing Practice

2

HAIRDRESSING Colinton Hair Design Kim O'Donnell Hairdressing

15 33

HOME SERVICES Fiona's House Cleaning Diamond Home Assist

37 48

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24+25

2 3 12 13 22+23

STONE MASONRY SERVICES Marionville Masonry

17

TILES Edinburgh Tile Stuido TREE SURGEONS Delisle Tree Solutions

43

WINDOWS & BLINDS Mozolowski Murray 11 Ventrolla 35 Portobello Blinds 51

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Colinton Private Nursery for children aged 3 months to 5 years Government funded pre–school places available.

Open Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm Part and full-time places available Experienced and Qualified staff Private garden and secure outdoor play area, well equiped to provide a stimulating and play learning environment For further information or to arrange a visit please telephone Judith McGuigan on 0131 477 7330

22 Dreghorn Loan, Edinburgh EH13 0DE

MARC HORSBURGH PITTENWEEM • FISH MERCHANT MARC IS SITUATED AT OXGANGS BROADWAY EVERY WEDNESDAY BETWEEN 08:10 AND 0900 AND AT COLINTON MAINS SHOPS FROM 12:20 UNTIL 12:55 SELLS: HADDOCK, COD, HERRING, KIPPERS, LEMON SOLE, TUNA, MACKEREL, TROUT, HALIBUT, SALMON

Quality, made to measure window blinds supplied and fitted at the best possible prices. Great range of styles. colours, patterns and materials available. Get in touch today to arrange a home visit - for free measurement, friendly and helpful advice and your no obligation quote.

Phone: 07967 580548 / 0131 669 4138 Email: info@portobelloblinds.co.uk Web: www.portobelloblinds.co.uk

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Do you STRUGGLE with your hearing?

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We also offer complimentary thorough hearing tests.

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Book your appointment today:

0131 629 1819 www.edinburghhearingpractice.co.uk 201 St Johns Road, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 7UU

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