Konect Balerno September 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016

FEATUREs

Local History: Redhall Castle and House The Other Forth Crossings Village People: Ian Renwick s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

plus local businesses, community information and more!

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton & Ratho

Land of Carpets offer free estimates and fitting.

We can also arrange expert fitting service with over 30 years experience.

Underlay is 10mm only £2.00 per sq/m NOT TO BE BEATEN!!

Broxburn Twist range available in 14 new colours and is 100% Bleach Cleanable. Only £4.99 per square metre! (quote Konect to receive deal)

Balterio & Egger Laminate from £9.99 per square metre!

(FREE Underlay and Beading when quote Konect)

visit us at: www.land-of-carpets.co.uk

CALL US ON: 01506 853723 Come and visit our huge collection of carpets in store at: Land of Carpets | 46-48 East Main Street | Broxburn | EH52 5AE KONECT BALERNO 2

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FEATURE

M ess age from the e d itor

FEATUREs Redhall Castle and House The Other For th Crossing

08 30

ummer’s more or less over and we’re settling back into routine – and it’s school and college open-day season, so if you’ve got offspring who will be moving up to the next stage next year it’s time to plan the round of open days already!

For those moving on to university this month, Pat Banfill has some advice in her monthly “Thought” for Konect on p26.

REGULARS Village People Money Matter s Thought for the Month Gardens Foodpicks (NEW column!)

Recipe

13 16 26 45 54 56

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku

50

Doors Open takes place annually across the country in September and many buildings in Edinburgh are open on the weekend of 24/25th. Locally, Harmeny House on Mansefield Road, Balerno, will be open for visitors on the 24th from 11am-4pm

COMMUNITY What’s on & Useful Information Clubs & Classes

58 60

S

Don’t forget to send in your events for the What’s On pages if you’re involved in any events locally, or have a charity project that would benefit from local promotion, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

63

Advertising Enquiries JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print.

Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print.

The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. Copies are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Front cover: Painting by Ian Renwick, see Village People p13.

Photo by Suzanne Green.

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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Find out about a career in Fostering at our monthly drop-in events: 5-7pm, first Thursday, every month at Waverley Court, Edinburgh EH8 8BG.

0800 174 833

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/fostering

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• • • •

Nursery for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years Flexible childcare options Full and part-time sessions Small, home-from-home nursery, in the heart of the community • Large learning garden • Range of childcare vouchers accepted the bees knees • Wraparound service to/from Currie Primary Nursery nursery Opening hours: Mon- Fri 7.30am-5.30pm

Enquiries: tel: 07770 060 373 email: thebeeskneesplaygroup@virginmedia.com www.thebeeskneesnursery.co.uk

Currie Community Centre, 280 Lanark Road West, Currie, EH14 5RU

Iyengar Yoga in Juniper Green Class is every Thursday 7-8.30 pm. at Juniper Green Church Hall Class starts 15/09/16. Taster class FREE for newcomers

Iyengar yoga is suitable for everyone, whatever age or fitness level, helps us maintain flexibility, health and wellbeing, and cope with the stresses of modern day life.

For more information contact Maureen on 07557 506244 or email: maureen.clarke.44@hotmail.co.uk.

The world is waiting for the next big thing Come and see how your child can be Grounded in Scotland Ready for the World

O P E N D AY S AT U R D AY 2 4 S E P T E M B E R 2 016 Please contact us for further details:

FEE A SSIS TANCE AVAIL ABLE . TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. The Edinburgh Academy is a registered charity, no SC 016999

@EDINBURGHACAD 0131 624 4987 | W W W. ED I N B U RG H AC A D EM Y.O RG .U K

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PAT’S TUTORING

FREE CONSULTATION

Pat Fletcher is a fully qualified professional teacher with 10+ years’ experience as a highly recommended tutor. Pat is registered with GTC Scotland and is a PVG Scheme Member.     

ONE TO ONE

ENGLISH TUITION

Total privacy and confidentiality 60 minute one-to-one teaching sessions Identifies strengths / areas to be developed Develops skills / strategies to improve learning Regular feedback for parents / guardians

MATHS TUITION

HOMEWORK SUPPORT

ASSESSMENT

EXAM PREPARATION

Contact Pat on 07835 996052 or 0131 449 5521 www.patstutoring.co.uk KONECT BALERNO 6

OPEN MORNING

SATURDAY 8 OCTOBER 2016 9.30am–12.30pm

Principal’s Address 9.30am

INStILLING CoNfIDeNCe INSPIRING INDIVIDUALS Choice for S5 and S6 pupils of SQA Qualifications or International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School Bus pick-up at Haymarket Station West Lothian School Bus stops at East Whitburn, West Calder, Livingston, East Calder, Kirknewton, Bol o Bere and Balerno Up to 100% financial support available for P7 and S1 entry George Watson’s College Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk

www.gwc.org.uk

Redhall Castle and House

Home to a diplomat involved in nation-shaping moments in Scottish history; seige and destruction by Oliver Cromwell’s canons; gracious country estate with beautiful pleasure gardens: the history of Redhall Estate beside the Water of Leith in Craiglockhart shapes the environment today and provides various points of interest on a walk along the Water of Leith.

On a small promontory where the Water of Leith meanders in a c-shape, a castle was built in the 13th century, using local red sandstone – Red Hall. Protected on three sides by sheer drops down to the river, it was accessible on only one side, making it a good defensive position. Its early history is lost in the mists of time but in 1533 it was acquired by a certain Adam Otterburn, a man whose name is not well-known but who, behind the scenes, played an influential role in shaping Scottish politics during the turbulent years of the Rough Wooing. Much scheming and politicking was doubtless done on this site - the entertaining of Sir George Douglas of the Red Douglas family is mentioned in correspondence from the time, during the struggle for the guardianship of the young James V).

The castle passed through marriage to a family named Hamilton, who were in possession of KONECT BALERNO 8

it when Oliver Cromwell and his forces arrived in 1650. They set up their canons on the other side of the Water of Leith, and laid siege to the castle. Sir James Hamilton, with 60 men, held his castle for two days until they ran out of ammunition and Cromwell’s troops got close enough to blow it up. It was never rebuilt and lay in ruins until the estate was purchased by George Inglis of Auchendinny a century later. George commissioned the building of Redhall House nearby, using stones from the ruined castle. (The site of the castle today is still just an empty rough grassy area between Redhall House and the Water of Leith). The reclaimed stone was covered with harling. Inglis’ project also included a stable block, a doo’cot, a walled garden and ornamental gardens.

Redhall ceased to be a graceful country home in the first part of the 20th century. It was purchased by the Edinburgh Corporation and in 1944 became a children’s home. Two other schools for children with additional needs were built in the grounds, and latterly it was used as a staff training centre for the Ciry of Edinburgh council. But it has now been empty and boarded up for almost 10 years.

The grounds immediately around the house have been developed into a housing estate. The

Sir Adam Otterburn of Redhall He was reputed to be “the wisest man in Scotland” during the turbulent years of Rough Wooing; Adam Otterburn was a Common Clerk in Edinburgh, Provost of the City seven times, Lord of the Council for Civil Causes and a Judge in the Court of Session; he sat in the Scots Parliament from 1523 and in the Privy Council from 1524; he was King’s Advocate (to James V) from 1524-1538, and was sent on diplomatic missions to England at least 14 times. He was secretary to Mary of Guise and Regent Arran.

He was involved border peace treaty negotiations in an attempt to stop border raids. He played a key role in the struggle between Arran and Douglas for the guardianship of the young James V, and when James died, he was involved in marriage propositions for James’ baby daughter Mary, Queen of Scots. On Henry VIII’s scheme to marry his son Edward to Mary, Otterburn is reported to have said to the English Ambassador: “If your lad were a las, and our las were a lad, be so ernest in this mateir, and could you be content that our lad should mary your las and so be King of England? Well, if you had the las and we the lad we could be well content with it, but I cannot beleve that your naycon coulde agree to have a Scotte to be kyng of England. And lykewise I assure you that our naycon, being a stout naycon, will never agree to have an Englishman to be king of Scotland. And though the whole nobility of the realm would consent unto it. yet our common people, and the stones in the street would rise and rebel against it.”

Otterburn died after an assault in Edinburgh by a servant of Regent Arran on 3 July 1548, “sore hurt on the head and his servant slain at his heels.” A family from Annestoun near Lanark were charged with treason for his murder.

Redhall Walled Garden: Scottish Association for Mental Health George Inglis’ beautiful 18th century walled garden, next to the Water of Leith below the house, is now owned by the Scottish Assocuation for Mental Health (SAMH). There is a beautiful herb garden, a sunken garden, ponds and a replica iron age roundhouse. SAMH offers training here in horticulture, conservation, maintenance skills, ITC/admin and life skills for people with mental health problems, supporting 50-55 trainees at any given time. The garden is open to the public Monday-Friday 9am-4pm to drop by and enjoy the garden, purchase plants, compost and woodchip. See www.samh.org.uk developers renovated Inglis’ doo’cot, an interested feature of which is Adam Otterburn’s 16th century armourial panel built into one side of it, which Inglis salvaged from the castle. The stable blocks have also been incorporated into the housing development. Sadly though there are still no plans for the restoration or conversion of the big house itself.

PICTURES: Left - Redhall House has been empty for 10 years, its development plans still uncertain.

Above - the 18th century Doo’cot at Redhall.

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UPVC Door Canopies Professionally manufactured and installed

from only ÂŁ349 available in White, Oak & Rosewood

All Doors are supplied with Door Handles, Letter Plates and a Multi Point Locking System

We are a long established family business. For some friendly advice or a no obligation quote:

Call 01506 655202

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all major credit cards accepted

PLEASE BROWSE OUR 100% 5 STAR CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS ON FACEBOOK BELOW: ANDERSONREMOVALS

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7 Day Membership: £68.75 per month 6 Day Members: £61.88 per month, 5 Day Members: £51.56 per month Young Adult (18-19): £15 per month, Young Adult (20-21): £20 per month, Young Adult (22-25): £30 per month, Young Adult (26-30): £40 per month 12 ROUND MEMBERSHIP FOR £300 – contact us for details With the SGL affiliation fee of £12.60 Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

TRIAL ROUNDS FOR PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS AT £10.00 Club: 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri Pro shop: 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun

Email: manager@baberton.co.uk Website: www.babertongc.com

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IAN RENWICK: CAPTURING SCOTLAND’S NATURAL BEAUTY

by Suzanne Green

Ian cites Monet and Turner as his early influences.

More recently he has appreciated the work of McIntosh Patrick, John Houston and Ian Fleming. He often chooses landscapes with trees, panoramas with mountains or gently rolling hills as his subject matter. He also paints seascapes and harbours. “Townscapes”, for example the Old Town with its many closes – especially in contrast to the Georgian New Town – are also of interest.

He normally paints in oil, acrylic or gouash.

The painting knife probably features more than the brush in most of his work. “Years ago, in the mid 1970s, I became frustrated by the brush,” says Ian, “because it just wasn’t doing what I wanted it to do. At that point I developed my knife technique, and I think it allows me to do a much better job of representing the mood and atmosphere.”

Born and raised in Edinburgh, landscape artist Ian Renwick has lived in Balerno since 1977. He and his wife Fiona raised three children and they have three grandchildren.

“For as long as I can remember,” says Ian Renwick, “I have always been interested in drawing and painting.” In Ian’s third year of secondary school, his fine pen and ink drawings were published in the school magazine after weekly hillwalking outings he took part in through an Adventure course.

Although he would have enjoyed going to art college, the emphasis in the 1960s was on getting into a trade. So Ian did an apprenticeship as a marine engineer and then worked as an engineer officer for a shipping company. Later he joined the Merchant Navy and headed for the Far East. “When I came home, it was as if I was seeing Edinburgh for the first time,” he says. “At age 20 I had a new appreciation for where I’d grown up, and started working at capturing Edinburgh scenes with pen and ink.”

Ian prefers to paint en plein air, when weather conditions permit. “This can be so rewarding in terms of capturing the tones and colours of the scene,” he explains, “but can be a challenge with our varying Scottish climate.”

Recently retired, Ian worked as an engineer for the railway companies. In later years he was a contractor, which meant he could spend more time painting when he was in-between contracts.

He is a member of the Pentland Art Club, and has appreciated the various workshops and informal training the club has offered. Over the years, he has also done a couple of evening courses at the Edinburgh College of Art. His work has been exhibited at the Edinburgh Gallery on Dundas Street (giclee prints) and also at the Holroyd Gallery in Ballachulish. You can purchase Ian’s work at the Colinton Arts shop, and he will have small paintings available for sale on 4 September (rain date 11 September) at the “Art in the Park” event in Colinton.

For more information visit: www.ianrenwickarts.com or contact Ian at ianrenwick@blueyonder.co.uk

Picture: Ian Renwick.

Photo by Suzanne Green.

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Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

SPLASH BATHROOMS 164 Lanark Rd West, Currie

Tel: 0131 449 9585

When quality counts

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

Jack Watson JOINERY Est. 1985

RELIABLE EXPERIENCED LOCAL JOINER NO JOB TOO SMALL CALL FOR A QUOTE

Tel: 0131 449 3730 Mob: 07711916317

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Email jackwatson30@gmail.com

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DELL ROOFING

A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno

Currie Established 22 years

● 24 HOUR CALL OUT ● FREE ESTIMATES ● INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN ● MAINTENANCE WORK WELCOME ● FELT ROOF WORK ● POINTING ● SLATING &TILING ● CHIMNEYS AND GUTTERS

0131 449 7193 or 07594 355109 www.dellroofing.co.uk

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All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

MONEY MATTERS

Savings Rates: When you thought it could not get any worse.

by Personal Money Management

In 1997 the Labour government decided to transfer the setting of the Bank of England base rate from the government to the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) at the Bank of England.

It was thought the government could manipulate it for political reasons and hence the reason for the transfer.

In March 2009 the Governor of the Bank of England reduced the bank rate to 0.5%, the lowest rate ever at that point.

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In August 2016 he reduced it to 0.25%, to the dismay of every saver in the UK. What Does It Mean?

A) Annuities:- These are where you give a provider a sum of money and you receive an income for life. The amount you get depends on the gilt rate and this is linked to Bank of England base rate, so at present annuity rates are at an all-time low.

B) Savings:- Rates are also at an all-time low.

This means your savings are not keeping up with inflation so every day the buying power of your money is reducing. So what should you do? The solution is to move part of your savings to a low risk diverse portfolio to hopefully keep pace with inflation.

C) Mortgages:- It is not all doom and gloom because if you are seeking a new mortgage rate you’re your lender ‘should’ be offering you one of the lowest rates ever. Unfortunately, lenders are usually very slow to reduce their rates following a cut in the Bank of England base rate.

Written by Dr PM Marshall, PhD, DipPFS, AFPC

contact alex on:

01506 203200 | 07798 530 247 e: info@aklimos.com www.aklimos.com available for Weddings and all special occasions

follow us at AK Limos we are licensed by West Lothian Council

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IRONING AID

Free pick-up & delivery - next day service

0131 538 5223 07877 381940

The Clean Team

Covering Clackmannanshire, Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothians and Perth & Kinross

Professional oven cleaning service: ovens, ranges, hob, BBQ, microwaves or extractor unit.

Give us a call for a free no obligation quote

New name, same great service! Alba Oven Cleaning is now part of The Clean Team

www.drycleanteam.co.uk tel 01506 432100

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Time to make some space?

Bethany’s decluttering, downsizing or full clearance service can help.

With our personal and professional approach, you have peace of mind that the things you no longer need will benefit someone in need.

Help us turn empty houses into welcoming homes. To discuss your requirements, please call our dedicated team on 0131 561 8946.

Bethany Christian Trust is a limited company registered in Scotland. Company No: 228528. Charity No: SC003783.

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C and W Cleaning Services www.cwcleaningservices.co.uk

0131 334 2080 Livingston 0800 695 1101

Edinburgh

Your local Blinds ■ Carpets ■ Rugs ■ Upholstery ■ specialists Quick drying carpets and upholstery Same day blind cleaning available

Soft furnishings made to measure Specialising in Curtains, Blinds, Bedcovers, Headboards and Cushions

We have a choice of affordable fabrics and wallpaper to suit all tastes Call Sheena: 0131 3314390 ∙ 07840 960880 forthfabrics@hotmail.co.uk ∙ www.forthfabrics.com

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Pain free dental care with the magic wand!

A lot of people are put off visiting the dentist because they need to have an injection. Because of this we have invested in the wand.

The wand is a computerized anesthetic delivery system which ensures patients can be numbed up pain free, unlike normal injections.

The wand also does not leave you feeling numb for hours after.

We now use the wand as part of our dental care and patients tell us how much it has transformed their dental experience.

TEL: 0131 449 5545

If you don’t like injections you have to try the wand.

www.balernodentalcare.co.uk LATE NIGHT APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

J U N I P E R

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£ 25.00 £ 25.00 £ 45.00 £ 60.00

Introductory Offer 10% DISCOUNT. Please quote Konect offer when booking.

BOXED GIFT VOUCHERS NOW AVAILABLE

Appointments: 0131 478 4777

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624A Lanark Road, Juniper Green, Edinburgh EH14 5EW KONECT BALERNO 22

A straighter smile for adults ...

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After

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Straighter teeth can often only take six months at No9

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If you would like an appointment please give us a call, we would love to see you

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Finalist in

www.broxburndentist.com KONECT BALERNO 23

Professional Make up now available!!

Book in with one of our experts today Scottish hair & Beauty Awards Beauty Salon Of The Year

Open Tues-Sat

Late night Tues & Thurs

For an appointment call: 0131-449-9690 or Book online 24/7 @ www.thelilacrooms.co.uk or Download our salon App. 7A Pentland View Court, Currie, EH14 5NP (Opp. the doctors surgery)

CLEARVUE OPTICIANS VISION HEALTH CARE

NAIL SERVICES NOW AVAILABLE TUESDAY & THURDAYS NIGHTS CALL ON: 07749 503 946 REFLEXOLOGY & INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE AVAILABLE FRIDAYS CALL ON: 07926 986 944

0131 451 5133

46a BAVELAW RD, BALERNO OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – SATURDAY (OPEN LATE TUES & THUR - CLOSED WED) Check out our daily, weekly & monthly deal and posts at tony-harpers-hairstudio

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60 Bryce Road, Currie, EH14 5LD Tel: 0131 449 6889 | Fax: 0131 449 3011 Email: enquiries@clearvueopticians.co.uk Opening Times: Monday - Friday: 9.00am - 5.00pm

Fairbairn & Laing hair design

6 Lanark Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1TQ

0131 629 0708

info@fairbairnlainghairdesign.co.uk

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Colouring & perming Until 31st October 2016

Stylists:

Ann, Paula, Gail, Hilary & Lesley with over 30 years experience Fairbairn & Laing Hair Design

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Parenting with elastic, not string!

by Pat Banfill

Sometime in September, many families will be packing the car with essential items for a young person who is starting their next stage of life as a student.

Mugs, bedding towels clothes, music etc will be crammed in and the family will start off on a journey that started 18 years ago.

The goal of parenting is to help the children make the journey to independence. When they are young they need everything done for them, but in the primary and teenage years they need us to move from being carers and controllers to being consultants who offer advice and then stand back and let the young people make the decisions and experience the consequences. This is where the elastic comes in. if we use string it will become too taut and snap, whereas there is give in elastic, and hard though it is to watch they learn from mistakes and near misses, learning to gauge risk as they are allowed more autonomy.

So when the day comes to see your young person off to university, college, a new job or travelling there will be excitement, sadness, anticipation and concern. They will make new friends and have new opportunities and things will have changed because they will have passed a milestone on the road to independence… and that is how it should be!

Pat Banfill, Pastoral Assistant, St Mungo’s Church Balerno. www.stmungos.org

BALERNO VILLAGE NURSERY 

Balerno Community Centre 7-11 Main Street, Balerno

TEL: 0131 451 5756

Email: Thevillageplaygroup@outlook.com

Back by popular demand: PLAY ZONE for 2-3 year olds Available Mon-Fri 8.45am - 11.15 am

Konect is the Number One advertising platform for Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho, with an 85% advert repeat ratio.

To be included, see contact details on page 3

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Providers of Quality Afforable Childcare for children from 6 weeks to P2, graded “very Good” by The Care Inspectorate.

Please telephone, email or call in to view the nursery, No appointment necessary.

305 Lanark Road, Edinburgh, EH14 2LL E: lanarkroadnursery@hotmail.co.uk

• Family run business since 1995 • Care for children from 6 weeks to 5 years • Edinburgh Council partner for pre-school education • Funding up to £2,160 available towards pre-school places • Three large outdoor gardens • Extensive open plan indoor space • Off street drop off area

September – Spring and sing you way into autumn this year with West Lothian!

Summer is a distant memory, the leaves are changing colour, and autumn is definitely on its way. Don’t worry though, because West Lothian always has something for you to do, whether you like activities, theatre, shopping or food and drink!

Check out Livingston’s newest addition, JumpStation Trampoline Park! Made up of over 80 interconnected trampolines, JumpStation is tailored to suit people of all ages and skill groups.

With 14 different dedicated activity zones, it is great fun for all the family, and a fantastic way to make exercise more enjoyable.

are crammed into one spectacular show. Maybe you’re an 80s rock child, who would enjoy Simple Minded at Howden Park on the 3rd September, a tribute act very close to the real thing! Or if you just prefer a bit of traditional Scottish music, then look no further than Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham: Le Grand Anniversaire, having worked together for forty years, they will be playing at Howden Park Centre on 23rd September, it’s definitely not one to miss! For more information on these events and ticket prices, visit our website!!

Enjoy a bit of music? Well then you’re in luck because between the amazing shows at both Howden Park Centre and Bathgate Regal Theatre we’ll have you up and singing along. Why not spend a Night at the Musicals at the Regal on the 2nd September, where all your favourite musicals

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit: www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook.com/VisitWestLothian Twitter. com: @teamwestlothian KONECT BALERNO 27

HYPNOTHERAPY ease, simplicity, results Shonagh M Terry

NCH, Dip Cad, SHF, CNHC, FCIPD

Hypnotherapy is a technique to enable you to become totally relaxed and accepting of a new way of being, responding to or behaving, in a situation.

I can help you with: Anxiety & Stress Weight management Habits & Phobias For more information, please get in touch

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For information on hair & beauty courses

info@access2balance.co.uk

Contact : 0131 334 6427 Info @acft.co.uk

Based in Kirknewton

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BEAUTY BOX

Minx Shellac pedicures manicures waxing, tinting Party lashes & extensions spray tanning and facials

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Tuesday-Saturday Late night Thursday

Spray tans only £15 Contact Hazel Gordon on

T: 0131 449 2991 M: 07800 736135

Konect is also read by over 40,000 households in West Lothian every month. If you do business in West Lothian, Konect should be your first port of call.

See contact details on page 3

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Mobile: 07984 660 491 Salon: 0131 449 5999 Shellac Tinting with this advert Massage Facials Waxing Manicures & Pedicures Fake Bake Spray Tans Lycon Hot Wax/ Intimate Waxing ilash Semi Permanent Lashes (2-3 weeks) § Party Lashes (2-3 days) § § § § § § § § §

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The Other Forth Crossings The Forth Replacement Crossing is nearly done, with the platforms almost joined up on the magnificent new cable stayed bridge. But bridges aren’t the only way the Forth has been crossed.

• There are the silly records – German Helmut Pohle piloted the first Junkers 88 across the Forth in 1939, and in 1785 an Italian named Vincenzo Lunardi did the same in an air balloon but entirely by accident!

• More seriously there were the tunnels. A tunnel was carefully considered before the new bridge was decided on, but that would not have been the first.

• The first tunnel was in 1590, when a brilliant engineer built an artificial island in the middle of the Forth, and then tunnelled from Culross in Fife following a coal seam to the new island. Boats docked at the island and took the coal directly from the top of the mineshaft to places such as Portugal, Norway, the Baltic and France. Undersea mining was an amazing achievement.

• Not everyone was amazed - James VI, the witchhunting king - was invited to inspect the Culross tunnel in 1617. He walked down the length of the well-ventilated tunnel and then thought the island was a trap he had been lured into and he threatened the coal merchant with treason. The tunnel flooded in 1625.

• There were at least a dozen serious proposals, plans and projects for tunnels under the Forth between 1790 and 1960, some of them truly grand.

• There was even talk in 1954 of a £5.3 million “Forth Tube”, in which traffic would pass through a 2800ft reinforced concrete tube.

It was declared a brilliant idea, but was

KONECT BALERNO 30

scrapped in favour of the Forth Road Bridge, which opened in September 1964.

• But only one tunnel ever made it from one side of the Forth to the other. The tunnel was dug by the National Coal Board in 1964 and finally filled in and obliterated from all but a few memories in 1982. The tunnel transported coal mined in Fife to the the Kinneil processing facilities. It was never intended for public use, and meandered around following the coal seam geology from Bo’ness to Valleyfield in Fife. Two teams tunnelled towards each other from Fife and Kinneil in cramped and difficult conditions. After months of digging and at a depth of 500 metres, using manual measurements from Ordnance Survey benchmarks, the teams met with a difference of 5 cm, which is basically a perfect result. The National Coal Board had intended that the tunnel might give Kinneil another century of working life, but neither geology nor politics worked out as the miners had hoped.

Kinneil was closed in 1982.

BRUSHSTROKES

K.MELVILLE PAINTER / DECORATOR INTERIOR, EXTERIOR, PRIVATE, COMMERCIAL, INSURANCE WORK

TEL: 0131 451 5372 MOB: 0797 192 3397 Email: brushstrokes@blueyonder.co.uk 66 Forthview Crescent, Currie, EH14 5QT

MARK REECE

PAINTER & DECORATOR CURRIE

Internal and External work Over 20 years experience Free estimates

0131 466 0304 07745 398014

Kitchens supplied and fitted UPVC fascias and gutters Doors and Windows - wood/UPVC Built-in wardrobes • Misted d/g units replaced

All Joinery & Glazing Free estimates

0131 449 3714

e. robertmcneilljoiner@virginmedia.com

BILL REID & SON DOMESTIC HEATING & PLUMBING

0131 449 5538 07710 458739 2 Turner Avenue Balerno KONECT BALERNO 31

KONECT BALERNO 32

Double Glazing Doctor Four Seasons Scotland Limited

The Lothians finest...

• If we can’t fix it - it can’t be fixed.

• Does your conservatory leak?

• Do you have broken locks, hinges handles?

• Are your sealed units misted or broken?

• Is your original supplier no longer in business or just won’t honour your existing guarantee?

Don’t panic. Call the Good Doctor now and get a clean bill of health!

Keep your existing windows & upgrade to our energy saving glass.

Your Local Home Improvement Company.

four seasons

The Conservatory Complex and Innovation Studio: Riccarton Garden Centre, Riccarton Mains Rd, Currie Mon - Fri 10am - 4pm, Sat - Sun 11am - 4pm.

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Scotland Limited

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ALEX HUNTER & SON PLUMBERS

Family Business 24 Hour Emergency

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For all jobs, big or small just SIMPLY call!

Darren Wemyss

Electrician P.A.T. Testing e: simplyelectrical@contractor.net

t: 07563 548348

Look on facebook page for deals of the week! www.facebook.com/SimplyElectricalElectrician KONECT BALERNO 34

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Tel: 0131 334 2080 Mob: 07768 632867 Ask for Kerr Middleton Rhone cleaning & repairs - cast iron or plastic Roof repairs - tiles or slates Moss removal, pressure washing Free estimates & advice given Over 35 years experience

For a FREE no obligation quote please contact:

0131 478 7339

www.kitchenspainted.com

33 East Main Street, Broxburn, EH52BEFORE 5AB

AFTER

Gerry Aitken Painter and Decorator Juniper Green

Tel: 07798 565321 Ames Taping Coving Artexing Interior Exterior 25 years Experience KONECT BALERNO 35

Music for you on your doorstep The Balerno Music Festival - 23rd September- 9th October Go no further than your own neighbourhood and find a music festival with a delicious choice of Scottish celebrities blended with your own local favourites.

New to the format this year is a series of interactive concerts which feature our local groups. ‘Come and Play’ invites you to join musicians looking for a chance to play with others. From 9.30-12.00 on 24th September have a session under the direction of Francis Cummings, Director of Music for Sistema, Scotland.

In the afternoon, ‘Come and Sing Queen’ with the Pentland Singers and rehearse for the evening performance of ‘Come and Hear Queen’. Try something new! This may be a life changing opportunity!

After a busy day, relax with David Cairns and enjoy his Cabaret as he celebrates famous Scottish artists past and present. Enjoy the music of stars such as Deacon Blue and Wet, Wet Wet. For the first time we are delighted to include Juniper Green Parish Church into the festival family. Richard Michael BEM, one of Scotland’s most accomplished musicians, will present an exhilarating performance of ‘My Life in Music’.

Richard has influenced a generation of young KONECT BALERNO 36

people with his innovative methods of teaching, especially in his work with the Fife Youth Jazz Orchestra.

With a further 24 events on the menu you’re sure to find an event to suit your musical tastes as well as fun for all the family.

It’s easier this year to book online. Visit our website www.balernomusicfestival.org.uk for further details.

Or buy the tickets in person at our local outlets: Balerno Parish Church Office, weekdays 09.0012.00; at the Balerno Farmer’s Market.

Contact Fiona Gilroy for information about ‘Come and Play’ -0131 449 6230 or 07970441231.

Calling All Players, Singers and Tutors There is a great opportunity for young learners to perform their best pieces in front of a friendly, family audience at the Balerno Music Festival Tutors please get in touch for further information and bring your students along to give them a valuable experience which will boost their confidence and help with their learning.

Contact Irene Rogerson 0131 449 4044 or irenerogerson@btinternet as soon as possible and by 31st September.

FOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS • uPVC Door Repairs

• Local Locksmith over 10 years

• Emergency Entry Locksmith

• Trustworthy, friendly and Reliable

• Replacement Locks & Lock Repair • All work guaranteed for 12 months • Burglar Prevention Advice

• Fixed Competitive Prices

• Window Locks

• Fast Response

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• Family Run Business

Call Tom on: 01506 238048 or 07542 781131 www.westlothianlocksmith.com KONECT BALERNO 37

David Hastings Building Surveyor BSc Hons., M.C.I.O.B., R.Maps., AMiAS Thinking of having your house/office altered or extended or garage/loft converted?

I provide expert advice on all building projects with a free consultation to determine viability.

Professional expertise in: · Preparation of specification and drawings · Submission for Planning approval and Building Warrant · Assistance with competitive tenders and selection of contractors · Site and financial supervision to final account and certification · Energy & Sustainability issues · Building Maintenance & Defect surveys · Health & Safety to comply with CDM Regs April 2015

Tel: 07803 289714

email: wmachastings@gmail.com

WEIR GAS SERVICES Former Scottish Gas engineer

Tel:

07981 366 988

Central heating - service, repairs Gas fires, cookers, hobs installation, service & repairs General Plumbing services Garden taps, washing machines, dishwashers Landlord safety inspections email : lesweir@blueyonder.co.uk

To be included please call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

KONECT BALERNO 38

Red Hot

WINDOWS Unit 1, Mosshall Ind Estate Blackburn, EH47 7LY

01506 630036

Loca family l -ru busine n ss

redhotwindows@btconnect.com

■ Supply and fit windows and doors ■ Trade welcome Major credit cards accepted See website and facebook page compliant for photos of our work www.facebook.com/redhotwindows www.redhotwindows.co.uk

Fairmilehead’s leading Roofing Specialists “Going the Extra Mile” Slating & Tiling Flat Roofing

Fairmile Roofing

.com

OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Single Ply Roofing Lead Work Pointing, Guttering Rough Casting, Harling Emergency Roofing Services FREE ESTIMATES WITH PHOTOS

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SUPPORT YOUR NUMBER 1 ROOFER

0131 445 7787 Mob: 07837 628 654 Info@fairmileroofing.com www.fairmileroofing.com Office: 108/9 Biggar Road Fairmilehead EH10 7DU

WE ARE MEMBER’S OF

Single Ply

Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats

Buster the Dog

Established in May 2006, we provide first-class holiday accommodation for up to 35 feline guests.

Single and double cabins, as well as large cabins for families, each comprises an upper sleeping area (heated in winter) with an exercise run below.

A collection and drop-off service is available Fully licensed and insured

Proprietors: Pam and Bill Clark Phone: 0131 333 1636 Email: mail@claylandscottagecattery.co.uk Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.

www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk

COMPANION DOG SHOW Held under Kennel Club Regulations By

THE SCOTTISH NEWFOUNDLAND CLUB SUNDAY 4th SEPTEMBER 2016 FROM NOON AT HUMBIE HOLDINGS, Nr WILKIESTON,

BY KIRKNEWTON, WEST LOTHIAN EH27 8DS Entries are £5 per dog for 1st class entered plus £1 per for all subsequent entry with same dog Judges – Morag Burton— Tartandug Sarah Brown for Welfare and Junior Handling Classes Judging commences at 1.00 pm

Enquiries to Davy Lyall 0131 333 4980 Wullie Burt 01506 652966

Rosettes 1st to 4th

Trophies Best In 40 Show KONECT BALERNO

Reserve Best In Show

Best Puppy Best Veteran

LAW’S PAWS

DOG DAYCARE & HOME BOARDING

Tel: 07807 856 940

• Quality Dog Walking/Daycare • Home boarding in our country farmhouse • Experienced & knowledgeable dog handler • Professional service • Disclosure Scotland and insured • Trustworthy & reliable • Exercised on 7 acres of secure private land

HAPPY SCAMPERS

1 Humbie Holdings Kirknewton, EH27 8DS

www.happyscampers.co.uk

Our family run practice is celebrating 15 years at the heart of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, developing close bonds within the community. We are a single centre clinic with all medical, surgical, diagnostic and dental facilities in house with no need to travel between branches.

Open 6 days a week with full emergency cover 24/7 through our specialised emergency provider. Our dedicated team of experienced vets and fully qualified nurses look forward to meeting you and your pets.

Currie, Balerno and surrounding areas (based in currie)

One to one walks Group walks Boarding Fully insured Pick up and drop off facility

Contact Alan: 07596 537870 email: Laws-Paws@hotmail.com

Professional & reliable dog walking service Morning & Afternoon Walks Full day care Phone : 07398

684740

Email: lauren@walkswithlauren.co.uk

www.walkswithlauren.co.uk

• Fully equipped in house surgical theatre • Separate fully equipped dental station • In-house laboratory machine and microscopy • X-ray • Ultrasound • Endoscopy • ECG See our website for more details including sample pricing.

5 RICCARTON MAINS ROAD, CURRIE, MIDLOTHIAN, EH14 5PX

T: 0131 451 5111 W: www.pentlandvetclinic.com KONECT BALERNO 41



Ratho Auto Services Servicing, Diagnostics, Tyres, Pre-Purchase Checks, Sales

John Plimmer

Auto Technician Konect is also read by over 40,000 households in West Lothian every month. If you do business in West Lothian, Konect should be your first port of call.

See contact details on page 3

MEDIA PACK

KONECT BALERNO 42

73 Station Road Ratho Station EH28 8OP

0131 333 5353 07784 537356

Free Collection & Delivery Service MOTs arranged

Opening Times:

Mon to Fri 08:30 to 17:30 Saturday 09:00 to 13:00

Unit 18, Camps Industrial Estate, East Calder, EH27 8DF

01506 880373 07729 284784

e: info@bodyshopedinburgh.co.uk Vehicle Body Repair • Paint Refinishing • Alloy Wheel Refurbishment

Free estimates available • All work fully guaranteed

We now stock and fit Alloy Gators PROTECT • ENHANCE • CUSTOMISE

Kerb the Gator not the Alloy

£120 fitted incl VAT for all 4 Gators

10% Discount

bodyshopedinburgh

(excluding Alloy Gators)

Servicing on all makes and models of vehicles from just £99

Call 0131

449 2139

for service you can trust • MOT VOSA green traffic light test station • Budget, midrange or premium tyres fitted • Brakes, exhausts and repairs

Balerno Garage 8 Deanpark Brae, Balerno EH14 7DZ KONECT BALERNO 43

SEPTEMBER SALE AT

RICCARTON GARDEN CENTRE

25% OFF

All herbaceous (deciduous perennials) & all ceramic pots

Autumn bedding packs (pansies, violas & primroses) RRP £3.29 4 BOXES FOR £10

COFFEE SHOP Tel: 0131 449 4004

Riccarton Garden Centre & Coffee Shop

@riccarton@gc

Open 7 days • huge car park • Riccarton Mains Rd (nr Heriot Watt)

Enjoy your garden for longer this summer Summer is fading but you can still get plenty out of your garden. Get your autumn bedding plants in from Riccarton Garden Centre, invest in a chimenea, pull on a warm jumper and keep enjoying the garden you’ve worked so hard on.

Michaelmas daisies make great autumn colour from Sept to November, put them in a pot or border.

Other plants for good autumn colour are autumn pansies, violas and even cyclamen. Cyclamen need a bit of care as it gets colder, so plant in pots that you can move into shelter for the inevitable early cold-snaps.

The Abbey garden furniture set with square dining table. Robust, natural timber for year-round use. 10-year guarantee against rot. Perfect for informal outdoor dining. Available from Champfleurie, Linlithgow.

KONECT BALERNO 44

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

Mulch

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

www.champfleurieestate.co.uk

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

KONECT BALERNO 45

Tag Cleaning Services Local window and gutter cleaning service

Established over 30 years Free quotations on request Tel : 0131 449 2807 (Office) Neil : 07711 581 384 (Mob) www.TagCleaningServices.co.uk

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

KONECT BALERNO 46

For all Installations repairs and services

S & D Fences Based in Balerno

Either new builds or repairs Highly competetive rates Reliable and experienced

Call Derek 07725 417276 or email: dal05@btinternet.com

Call us today: 07596 068455 or 0800 9708641

KONECT BALERNO 47

DUNFERMLINE 01383 741980 PENICUIK 01968 670061 Make Over your Garden with Beatsons this Summer!

Pitreavie Crescent, Pitreavie Ind. Est., Dunfermline, KY11 8UA Eastfield Drive, Eastfield Ind. Est., Penicuik, EH26 8BA

Artificial Grass

Sahara Natural Paving

£14.00 per m

d

²

Calibrate

£16p.9er9m²

2.4m x 2.5m Decking Kit Railway Sleepers

m

x2400m

200x100

£14

.50

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J Includes Screws Boards & Decking

www.beatsons.co.uk KONECT BALERNO 48

Est. 2005

For all your gardening needs: including tree & hedge cutting, grass mowing, slabbing, fencing, turfing, contract work, general maintenance and much, much more.

Free estimates.

D.GREAVES Contact Colin Spence 21 Broomhall Gardens, EH12 7QA T: 0131 334 8602 M: 07720 843446 E: csgardening92@yahoo.co.uk or csgardening@fsmail.net

LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Removals Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more....

Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com KONECT BALERNO 49

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the October edition of konect

Across 1 Alcove (6) 4 Pieces of wood (6) 9 Family name (7) 10 Not outer (5) 11 Pry (5) 12 Compel (7) 13 Most definitely (11) 18 Group (7) 20 Male relative (5) 22 Mistake (5) 23 Observed (7) 24 Thawed (6) 25 Light wind (6) Down 1 Fight back (6) 3 Liquid soap (7) 5 Robber (5) 6 Middle (7) 7 Inspect (6) 8 Recalling (11) 14 Impartial (7) 15 Latitude zero degrees (7) 16 Squeal (6) 17 Aggravate (6) 19 Abrupt (5) 21 Form of transport (5)

SUDOKU

Sudoku solution on page 62

KONECT BALERNO 50

Porteous Funeral Directors - New Premises charge, to local community groups for meetings.

Our already well-established premises at 553 Lanark Road is now a showroom for headstones and other memorial products.

Our newly-opened, purpose-built premises at 589 Lanark Road in Juniper Green now offer a comprehensive service for families within the local community.

Our bright modern facilities provide a peaceful setting where you can discuss arrangements and spend time with your loved one if you wish.

We are also proud to offer families the use of a dedicated Service Room which seats up to 60 people and has audio visual and web-casting options.

We know that business hours are difficult for some, so we are also open on a Saturday from 9am to 1pm and are available on Saturday afternoons and Sundays by appointment.

Alternatively, you may feel more comfortable within your own surroundings, so we are happy to meet you at home at a time that is convenient for you.

Porteous Family Funeral Directors: Proud to Serve the Local Community

It is an ideal setting for religious or non religious funeral services but can also be made available, at no

Juniper Green Branch - 589 Lanark Road, EH14 5DA - 0131 453 4535 Juniper Green Memorial Showroom: 553 Lanark Road, EH14 5DE - 0131 453 4535 Colinton Branch - 7 Bridge Road, EH13 0LH - 0131 441 6500 Blackhall Branch - 14 Telford Road, EH4 2BA - 0131 332 3609 Also incorporating Bonnyrigg Funeral Directors 60 High Street, EH19 2AB - 0131 654 1988

porteousfunerals.com

R E PA I R S , S A L E S , S PA R E S & S E R V I C I N G Full supply, delivery and installations of new integrated and free standing appliances Washing Machines • Cookers • Tumble Dryers Dishwashers • Vaccum Cleaners We repair & service all of the major brands: • Bosch • Hoover • Hotpoint • Beko • Neff • Siemens • Lamona • And many more Email: appliancesofedinburgh@hotmail.com Web: www.appliancesofedinburgh.co.uk KONECT BALERNO 52

400 Lanark Road West, Currie

Boiler Repair Boiler Service Boiler Replacement Full Central Heating Installation Gas Safety Certificates PAT - Portable Appliance Testing Boiler Service Contracts Power Flushing

0131 564 0940

info@lsheating.com www.lsheating.com KONECT BALERNO 53

Foodinburgh Foodpicks September

1

2

3

4

1. Fo rk & Field Gastropub

Fork & Field opened to much excitement last month. West Lothian desperately needs more independent restaurants and Fork & Field fits the bill nicely, located in the former Torphichen Arms in Mid Calder. The new owners also own The Jolly Botanist and a group of other successful bars and restaurants in Edinburgh, so we are in safe hands. Inside a complete refurb has taken place and there’s now a well-lit conservatory and beer garden. Good times await us all in there I think!

2. New Seafood Restaurant Cadiz

Heading into the very heart of Edinburgh now.

The owners of the very reliable tapas restaurant Cafe Andaluz have renovated the first floor and have brought us an entirely new seafood restaurant. Cadiz is a classy place overlooking George Street, serving cocktails and seafood. We recommend the prawns with black garlic aioli to start, and the langoustines for main.

3. G in Tasting at Heads & Tales I f you’re a gin lover, you must visit Heads &

Tales Bar! The home of Edinburgh Gin, Heads & Tales Bar is located beneath The Huxley. This basement bar is classy as you like with table service and knowledgeable waiters only too keen to help you extend your gin knowledge.

Book in for their gin tasting and you can spend an hour in one of their booths tasting four different gins - £20 without appetisers/£25 with appetisers.

5 5. O ne Of Edinburgh’s Best Kept Secrets

Most of us can reel off a series of the best restaurants in Edinburgh. You might include The Kitchin, Wedgewood, Norn, Castle Terrace or Ondine in your list, but what about The Stockbridge Restaurant? This husband and wife run restaurant in a basement in, you’ve guessed it, Stockbridge is easily missed. We’ve had some of our favourite dishes here, and think of it as fine dining without the fuss. We highly recommend it for cosy romantic meals this Autumn (if there’s pork on the menu, do not hesitate, it’s excellent!)

4. Burgers and Beers Grillhouse

Freakshakes have arrived in Edinburgh! These fully loaded milkshakes are full of calories, topped off with cream, and include garnishes like cookies, donuts, pretzels and a variety of sauces. If you’re on the Royal Mile, pop into Burgers and Beers Grillhouse to try their Nutella and Pretzel version. Oh, and they have a burger with peanut butter on it too - have that as well!

KONECT BALERNO 54

www.foodinburgh.com is a leading Edinburgh food site. In a new monthly column for Konect Foodinburgh’s blogger Erica Douglas will provide us with inspiration on where to eat and drink next in Edinburgh and West Lothian. Join the Foodinburgh Supper Club for a monthly digest and offers for some of their favourite monthly choices.

535 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE

Family Run Local Italian Restaurant For reservations & enquiries:

Tel: 0131 442 2715 or Email: ristorantealborgo@hotmail.co.uk www.alborgo.tk Lunch 12-2pm 2 course £9.50 ● 3 course £11.50 Dinner 5.30pm onwards Closed Mondays

Kids Menu And introducing Kids

Now available 2 courses £5.95 3 courses £7.95

539 Lanark Road, Juniper Green

0131 453 3643 Fish & Chips Pizzas Kebabs Pastas

Homemade Ice-Cream Beers, Wines & Cider Off Sales

Home Delivery available 5-10pm Opening Hours: every day 4.30-11.30pm Mon-Sat 4.30-11.00pm Sunday

Pizza Parties

Christmas Party Nights @ Livi FC

2nd and 3rd December (fully booked) 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th,18th and 23rd Dec £35 per person including 2 drink tokens pp Special Sunday price for 11th & 18th December only £28 pp!

Private Parties

Want to hold your own company Christmas party?

Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite

Nowring offe Book now for a fabulous Xmas!

Join us in the Almondvale Suite for an evening of mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff.

BYO

Call to reserve your table

B

Lunches Home made soup, filled rolls and bacon rolls available all day (sit in or takeaway)

Home Baking Breakfasts from 8am Afternoon Teas (booking required) Cake and Sugar Craft Classes Celebration Cakes Made To Order

Outside Catering

Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multicourse meals for large numbers.

563 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DB

Tel 01506 412232 yvonne@foodcreations.co.uk facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations

Evening Meals

Thurs to Sun 6pm - 9pm

@Food_Creations

Open Daily

Tel: 0131 6100665 | Mobile: 07773 978923 Email: info@mollys.co

www.mollys.co KONECT BALERNO 55

Wild food

by Anne Pinkerton September is a wonderful time for gathering food from the wild. A time out in the landscape with the fields being harvested, swallows gathering to fly south, the buzz of insects in grass, the smell of crushed stinging nettles and being covered in sticky willie seeds are all part of the process.

If you take the children blackberry picking they probably eat more than goes in their basket. The Edinburgh September holiday Monday is often a good day to go looking for your free harvest.

There are many good fruits to be found in byways and along canal footpaths - places reasonably free of pollution from exhaust emissions and safe for pickers.

Many preserves can be made from free fruit. Raspberry vinegar, sloe gin, elderberry wine and jelly, rose hip jam and rowan berry jelly to go with dark meats are all part of the autumn wild harvest. Cobb nuts and sometimes walnuts can be found and there is the more specialized pleasure to be had from mushroom hunting. This needs more knowledge because some fungi are really poisonous.

There are guided tours led by people from Valvona and Crolla around Edinburgh. Cepes and apricot-coloured chanterelle are both splendid in omelettes or meat dishes.

KONECT BALERNO 56

Raspberry Vinegar Put the raspberries in a glass or china bowl. Cover with white wine or cider vinegar. Seal with cling wrap. Leave over night or up to 1 day.

Drain and pour the vinegar over another similar weight of fruit.

The next day do as before; drain and using a third quantity of fruit steep the vinegar for a third time.

After three sessions the colour will be beautiful and the flavour strong. Bottle and cork tightly. Keep in a cool dark place.

Use for salad dressings, a comforting drink diluted with hot water or in enriching sauces for duck or game dishes. It gives the sour we all seem to enjoy in sweet and sour sauces.

Make Bramble Jelly if you don’t like pips in your teeth You need at least 1kg of fruit to make the project worthwhile; throw in some cooking apples if you need to top-up the brambles.

Put all the fruit in a pan with a little water and bring, covered, gently to the boil. Line a bowl with a clean tea towel or muslin. Pour in all the fruit and juice. Hang up to drip overnight or till there is no more juice.

Measure the juice and for every pint add 450g sugar. Bring the juice and sugar mixture slowly to the boil, stirring to ensure the sugar melts. Then boil rapidly till setting point is achieved. Pour into sterile, warmed, glass jars and cover.

Setting point can be tested for by putting a little of the “jelly” on a cold plate (put it in the fridge for a few minutes or as you start cooking) and seeing if the edges of the blob wrinkle up when you try to push with your finger. If you have one, use a jam thermometer.

Jelly variations Elderberry Jelly - Use elderberries half and half with their weight of cooking apples. Try not to leave too much stalk with the fruit. Strip the berries off their sprays with a fork.

Stew them to release their juices and continue as for bramble jelly.

Hedge Row Jelly - Use the same method as for bramble jelly but gather a mixture of fruits. Crabb apples, rose hips, hawthorn berries, elderberries, a few sloes and even blayberries (bilberries) if you find them. A few cooking apples will help make the fruit go further; but the flavour will be less intense.

Rowanberry Jelly -Just as above but use only rowan berries.

Pot in small jars as this is best with meat dishes rather than spread on bread and butter.

Sloe Gin – make it now for Christmas Extract the flavour from these otherwise bitter small fruits of the black thorn bush.

Prick each sloe with a needle and put as many in a glass bottle as you can. A gin bottle is perfect. Fill with gin and cork. Leave to extract the juice and flavour from the sloes for three months. Do this in September and it will be ready for Christmas.

Decant into another bottle and add some sugar syrup to taste.

Use 450g sugar dissolved in 1 pint of water. Re-cork and use to warm yourself after a long Boxing Day walk, or pour over ice cream or mix with fizzy wine for a Kir Royal if you use champagne. (The fruit can be saved and put in cabbage dishes or stews).

You can also make a cordial from elderberries by this method. Pack them tightly into a wide necked jar such as you may have from pickled beetroot or onions. Then add vodka, light rum or gin. Sweeten the strained liquid three months later, as with the sloe gin.

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Currie Bank of Scotland Closure Gordon Macdonald. MSP for Edinburgh Pentlands, this month led a delegation of local councillors, members of Currie Community Council and representatives of the local business community in a meeting with the Edinburgh Director of the Bank of Scotland to discuss the proposed closure of its Currie branch.

The branch is due to close on the 2nd of November and this was an opportunity for those present to highlight their concerns directly to the senior management of the bank regarding the impact on residents and small businesses.

Mr MacDonald is angry at the decision, commenting, “Banks are an integral part of our community and it is disappointing that despite representations about the adverse impact on

the local community, the Bank of Scotland still intends to proceed with the closure. It was the taxpayers who bailed-out the banks after the banking crash of 2008; is this the way the banks thank the local community?”

Bank officials conceded that the branch was “a busy enough wee unit”, that it had, on average, 4,400 transactions per month and that there were other branches that are not as profitable that will remain open.

Mr Macdonald noted, “I also understand that the bank has a freehold over the property and that it would likely attract a lot of interest when it is put on the open market. 11% of the account holders at the branch do not bank anywhere else and will be left high and dry due to the closure.”

At the end of an hour long discussion the bank was asked to supply its impact assessment on the closure, which is required by the British Bankers Association.

Press release supplied by the office of Gordon Macdonald MSP.

Gordon MacDonald MSP

Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Pentlands Constituency

ADVICE SURGERIES Wester Hailes Library 1st Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Pentland Community Centre 4th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Carrickvale Community Centre 2nd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Ratho Community Centre 5th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Currie Library 3rd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

How to contact Gordon MacDonald MSP: Email: Gordon.Macdonald.msp@scottish.parliament.uk Phone: Parliamentary office 0131 348 5741 Letter: Gordon Macdonald MSP, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP Appointment: Held in the Holyrood office. Home visits are available for people who cannot travel.

Please note there are no surgeries during public & bank holidays

www.gordonmacdonaldmsp.info KONECT BALERNO 58

WHAT’S ON and Useful Information Pentland Inspirations Art & Photographic Competition Entries open until 30th September 2016. See www.pentlandhills.org Every entrant will receive a voucher entitling them to a 15% discount on frames from Mount Parnassus Picture Framing, Currie. Prizes will be awarded at a ceremony in November.

Art: Paintings can be framed or unframed but must be mounted on stiff card. Maximum canvas size 56cm x 41cm (22” x 16”).You can submit one painting.

Photographs: There are three categories you can enter: landscape, biodiversity (plants and animals), or activity.

You can submit up to three photographs which are to be sent electronically via email or sent on a CD (no DVDs please). Photographs should always be taken at the largest size available on your camera and jpeg quality should be set to best or fine. Emails should not exceed 3MB in size, please send each photograph separately if needed along with entry form (Entry forms will be available from end of July via the website to download or to pick up from the visitor centres in the Regional Park.

The entries will form an inspiring exhibition which will be on tour from December 2016 to May 2017 at various venues across Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Saturday 10th September

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

library information Balerno Library 1 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ. T: 0131 529 5500.

E: balerno.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times: Mon & Wed: 1- 8pm | Tues & Fri: 10am -5pm | Saturday: 10am-2pm.

Currie Library 210 Lanark Road West, Currie EH14 5NX. T: 0131 529 5609.

E: currie.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times: Mon & Wed: 1- 8pm | Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10am-5pm | Saturday: 10am-5pm.

Ratho Library 6 School Wynd, Ratho EH28 8TT. T: 0131 333 5297.

E: ratho.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Find us on Facebook, Ratho library.

Opening times: Mon & Wed 1-8pm | Tues, Thurs & Fri 10am-5pm | Sat 10am-5pm. Regular events at Ratho Library (for fortnightly and monthly events please contact the library for this month’s dates): Knit and Natter every Mon 2-4pm. Book Group every second Wed 2-3.30. Glitzlit Girls’ Group every Wed 5.45-6.30.

Book Bug: rhymes and songs for parents and under 5s every Thursday10.15-10.45. Stories and crafts for 5-7 year olds every Thursday 3.30-4.30. Adult colouring group alternative Friday 10.30-12.00pm. We are happy to arrange computer courses for beginners and learning how to use E-Books on demand.

Balerno Farmers’ Market Main Street (pedestrianised), Balerno, 9am – 1pm.

Saturday 24th September

Juniper Green Farmer’s Market Juniper Green Village Hall, Juniper Park Road at the end of Baberton Avenue. 9am – 1pm.

Balerno Village Screen Fri 9th September 7.30 pm: Eddie the Eagle (PG) Sat 10th September 3.30 pm: Zootropolis (PG) Sat 10th September 7.30pm: The Revenant (15) As part of the Balerno Music Festival: Fri 30th September 7.30pm: Amy (15) Sat 1st October 2pm: The Jungle Book (PG) Sat 1st October 2pm 7.30pm: Love and Mercy (12A) Venues: St. Joseph’s Church Hall and Ogston Hall, Balerno. Tickets available at: www.balernovillagescreen. co.uk. Programme and timings subject to change.

Please check website for details.

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clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more...

BALERNO Wildfire Explorer Scouts

Meet in Balerno High School. Fridays 7.15 - 9.15pm. 14 – 18yrs.

Contact: Gordon Simpson 0131 477 3116.

Email leaders@wildfire-explorers.org.uk

DadZone

At St Mungo’s Church, Ladycroft. Saturdays 9 -10.30am for Dads and male carers and their 0-4 year olds. Toys crafts, refreshments.

Dates for 2015: 29th August, 12th September, 17th October, 31st October, 28th November and 12th December. All welcome. For more info email balernodadzone@gmail.com or search Facebook for the online group.

Balerno Monday Club

Non-denominational club for over 55s. Our meetings are held in St Joseph’s Centre at Balerno Parish Church at 2pm on the first and third Mondays of the month from September to May. Different speakers, activities and outings each session, please contact the Club for syllabus details.

Beginners Yoga Classes

No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road, Currie Wednesday 7.45pm at Forth View Crescent Scout Hall, Currie Monday 6pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Any questions please contact Monica karmayoga@btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432.

Balerno Girls’ Brigade

Ogston Hall in Balerno Parish Church Tuesdays 6.30 - 7.30pm. Contact Marion Milne on 0131 449 4441 or email marion724@talktalk.net

51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno)

Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall. Contact John Henderson on 07941 637262

Currie Rugby Football Club

Malleny Park Minis (P1-7) Sundays 10.30am - 12pm. Contact 0131 449 2432 www.currierugby.org

Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums

Balerno Community Centre Every Friday 7pm-9.30pm. New members welcome.

Free tuition on pipes or drums Phone 0131 4495133.

Balerno Village Nursery

Balerno Community Centre Available 8am - 6pm, 5 days a week. Preschool play from age 2 years. Breakfast / Afterschool Club up to 8 years. Full or part time childcare . Call 0131 451 5756

Pilates Classes

Balerno Parish Church - Mondays 7.30 - 8.30pm - Intermediate/Advanced 8.30 - 9.30pm - Beginners/Post Beginners Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com

Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness

Mondays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Thursdays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Fridays 10am at Balerno Parish Church Hall Contact 0131 477 7733. www.bf4f.org.uk

Adult daytime swim club

Balerno High School Contact Balerno Community Education Office on 0131 477 7733 for more info.

KONECT BALERNO 60

Pentland Art Club

Meet at Balerno High School Art Room Every Thursday 7.30 - 9.30pm Demonstrations, speakers, work evenings; All mediums; New members welcome. Please contact E Thomson on 0131 333 4662.

Pentland Flower Club

Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7pm (excluding January, February, July and August); Visitors and new members are always welcome.

Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146.

Children’s swim scheme

Balerno High School Tues, Wed and Fri pm; Sat and Sun am. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info.

Compass Playgroup

Dean Park Primary Pre-School Centre. 2-5 years, wide variety of activities. Mon to Thurs (school term time only) 9:00am - 11.45am.

Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery. Call 0131 449 4530 (during opening hours) for more information or email info@compassplaygroup.com

Balerno Baby and Toddler Group

Balerno Parish Church Hall 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. For children 0-5 years and their carers. Term-time Thursdays 9.30 - 11.30am.

Balerno Parish Church Guild

Balerno Parish Church New Hall First and third Wednesdays (commencing October) at 7.30pm Varied syllabus with many interesting speakers; Tea/coffee is served at the end of the meeting. New members and visitors warmly welcomed

Balerno Folk Club

Held on the last Tuesday of each month in Balerno Bowling Club Doors open 8pm; Evening begins 8.20pm; Guest artist on stage at 8.30pm; Members and guests welcome. For further info contact Morag Dunbar on 0131 449 5014 or John Stirling on 0131 449 3456.

Balerno SWI

Balerno Community Centre 7.30pm First Tuesday of every month (except July & August). We usually have a speaker but we also have “in house” evenings; There is usually some business to be discussed and we enjoy a “cuppa” whilst chatting; New members or visitors welcome, just come along

Minis @St Mungo’s

Group for babies and toddlers with their carers on term time.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 - 11.30am in St Mungo’s church building, Ladycroft, Balerno; All welcome. For more information see www.stmungos.org

Pilates Classes

Balerno Scouts Hall: Tuesdays 9.10am to 10.00am (mixed).

Kirknewton Village Hall: Tuesdays 6.45pm to 7.35pm (Improvers and Intermediates); Thursdays 9.10am to 10.00am (Intermediates) and 10.10am to 11.00am (Beginners and Improvers). For more details contact elise@ekpilates.co.uk. You’ll also find me on facebook.com/ekpilates.

CURRIE Currie Youth Club

Various activities and facilities: Nursery, Football, After-school care, ballet, dog training youth club, craft, Taekwondo, parties, Saturday morning cafe, rooms for hire. See facebook page Currie Community Centre.

Arts & Crafts Group

Art Room 1, Currie Community High School Thursdays 7.15 - 9pm - from 18th September to 27th November (except 16th October). We are a small, friendly group (of all ages) and new members will be made very welcome. £35 for the 10week term or £5 per session, if paid on the night. Fee covers all materials, equipment and refreshments. For more information please email: phoenixarts@hotmail.com or tel: 07934 495488.

Bridge Club

Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June. For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 5314.

Coffee and Craft

Currie High School, Sun Room Mon 7 - 9pm Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new. All welcome. £2.00 per night; Refreshments are included.

Air Cadets 2463 (Currie & Balerno) Squadron Forthview Crescent Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm. 0131 449 7449 for more info.

Currie Playgroup

Currie Baptist Church Hall Preschool play from age 2 years Mon-Fri, 8.45 - 11.45am (term time) £6.50 per child per morning Wraparound and Lunch Club for children attending Currie Nursery Wrap around £5.00; Lunch club £2.00 See www.currieplaygroup.co.uk

42nd Pentland Scout Group Currie

Forth View Crescent, Currie Cubs Monday 6.15 – 7.45pm. Call Andrew 07876567552.

Scouts Monday 7.45 – 9.15pm. Call Ross 07729714445.

Beavers Friday 6.30 – 7.30pm. Call Sharon 07810 201680. www.42ndpentland.scoutsites.org.uk

The Octagon Club

For Adults with Special Needs and Learning Difficulties Meets in Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie, 7 - 9pm on Wednesday Evenings from mid September until June for table tennis, snooker, badminton, table games, “tuck shop” etc.

Contact Alastair Hardie on 0131 453 3556

Baby Group

Currie Library Thursdays 2.00 - 3.30pm Come along for an informal tea or coffee and chat with other parents and babies. 50p per week.

Karate

Currie High School; Mondays 7.30 - 9pm Adults and Children over 6 years.

Please contact 0131 449 3510 or 0131 445 2945 for more info or email patricia.shearer@edinburgh.gov.uk

Currie & District Local History Society

Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie Visitors welcome; For further information contact Douglas N Lowe on 0131 449 4349 or douglaslowe51@btinternet.com

Currie SWI

Meet in the Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie On the second Tuesday of each month (except July and August) at 7.15pm. New members and visitors welcome

Boys Brigade - 65th Edinburgh (Currie) Company

Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Anchors (Boys P2 & P3) - Thursday 6 - 7pm Juniors (Boys P4, P5 & P6) - Thursday 7 - 8.30pm Company/Seniors (Boys P7 - S6) - Sundays 6.30 – 8.30pm For more info email 65edinburghbb@gmail.com or see website 65edinburgh.boys-brigade.org.uk

Messy Church at Currie Kirk

Usually the last Friday of the month 2 - 3.30pm for children from Pram to Primary age, accompanied by an adult. Crafts, stories, games and fun. Please register through

www.curriekirk.org or currie_kirk@btconnect.com Tel 0131 451 5141.

Currie Baby and Toddler Group

Gibson Craig Hall Friday 9.30 - 11.30am (term time only). Adults £2.00; Kids go free Parents/Grandparents/Carers/Childminders are all very welcome; Snack provided for the kids and tea and coffee for the adults Loads of space to play

Balerno and District Ramblers

Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Car Park, Lanark Rd West 9.15am for 9.30am start. Contact M Timmins 0131 449 4525 or A Blyth 0131 629 3644. Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start. Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666.

Book Group

Currie Library First Wednesday of each month at 7.00pm.

Beginners Yoga Classes

No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road, Currie Wednesday 7.45pm at Forth View Crescent Scout Hall, Currie Monday 6pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall Any questions please contact Monica, email: karmayoga@ btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432

Corner Cafe Book Club

At the Corner Cafe, 120 Lanark Road West, Currie Meet 27th of every month at 7.45. Informal friendly group, all welcome, we read a mixture of classics and popular books. £3 per session.

Fitsteps

Fun and effective dance fitness class inspired and created by Strictly Come Dancing stars Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite. Learn the steps from Tango, Jive, Viennese Waltz, Samba and many more, without the need of a partner. Thursday 7.30-8.15pm, Currie High School, Edinburgh, £5 per person. For more info call Lianne on 07737 927463 www.facebook.com/moveitdanceandfitsteps

Angela’s Fitness

Currie High School METAFIT: Thursdays 6:15pm-6:45pm. A 30 min full body workout.

Great for weight loss, toning, improving strength and power.

Burn fat in your sleep with Metafit. ABS BLAST: Thursdays: 6:45pm–7:15pm. 30 min core workout to strengthen your abs and lower back. £4 per class or £15 for 5 classes, mix&match. Both classes are suitable for any fitness levels & ages as options of exercises are given. For more info please contact Angela on: angelasfitness@live. co.uk; tel: 07845705819; www.facebook.com/angelassfitnesscurrie

Macular Society, Pentland Group

Group for visually impaired people, 2nd Friday of every month in Currie Library at 2pm. Audio Book Group meets 1st Monday of every month in Currie Library at 2.15 pm. I-Pad tuition group for visually impaired people all other Mondays in Currie Library at 2.15pm

JUNIPER GREEN Juniper Green Nursery Playgroup

Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 07948 554889 or see website at www.junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk

31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green) 45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers - Wed 6.30pm Cubs - Mon 7.00pm Cubs - Tues 6.30pm Scouts - Fri 7.00pm Contact - Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043

Juniper Green SWI

Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 0131 539 9886.

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Pentland Bridge Club

Audrey on 07952 159227 to register. Children’s classes also in Leith and Wynchburgh. Adults classes in Edinburgh and Broxburn.

The club meets on Thursday evenings (7pm to c. 10.30 pm) throughout the year to play duplicate bridge at St Margaret’s Hall, Juniper Green (EH14 5DG). It welcomes approaches from existing bridge players of all standards (note: it does not undertake teaching). Prospective new members are welcome to come along for a trial evening (free) to see if it suits them. Please contact Jean Newport (449 2028) or John Mendum (453 3202) if interested.

Pilates Classes

RATHO

NUstArt West Art Group

Susan Douglas Pilates

Ratho Community Centre Mon 5.55pm – 6.55pm. See www.douglaspilates.co.uk

Ratho WRI

Meet in Ratho Community Centre on second Wednesday of each month (except July & August) from 7pm to 9pm. New members and visitors welcome. Contact 0131 333 4862 for information.

Ratho Scouts, Cubs & Beavers

Ratho Community Centre Beavers: Tuesdays 6.30pm - 7.30pm (age 6-8) Cubs: Fridays 7pm - 8.30pm (age 8-10.5) Scouts: 7pm - 8.45pm. (age 10.5 -14)

Kirknewton Village Hall: Tuesdays 6.45pm to 7.35pm (Improvers and Intermediates); Thursdays 9.10am to 10.00am (Intermediates) and 10.10am to 11.00am (Beginners and Improvers). For more details contact elise@ekpilates.co.uk. You’ll also find me on facebook.com/ekpilates.

WHALE Arts Agency, 30 Westburn Grove, EH14 2SA Fridays 10.30am – 1.30pm. Friendly and very supportive self-led art group would welcome new members, both male & female, to join them on Friday mornings. Bring your own paints & brushes, or make use of class materials. £4 per session, but note that weekly fees are due to help pay room rental costs even for a missed class. For further details phone 0131 453 5294, or join us one morning for coffee and a chat.

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk.

Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details. www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Ratho Ravers

Ratho Community Centre Mon 10am-12pm. Exercising body and mind for the over fifties. £3 per class. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

Solution to August Crossword Across: 7 Static, 8 Battle, 9 Grim, 10 Envelope, 11 Economy, 13 Untie, 15 Cobra, 17 Cottage, 20 Upstream, 21 Sure, 23 Unkind, 24 Needed.

Parent & Toddlers Group

Community Centre Tues and Thurs 10am-12noon. Under 3s. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

Down: 1 Star, 2 Stamen, 3 Screams, 4 Above, 5 Stolen, 6 Flipping, 12 Chopping, 14 Command, 16 Retain, 18 Tested, 19 Mends, 22 Rues.

Art Club

Ratho Community Centre Tues 7-9pm. Adult Multimedia Club. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

50 Plus Group

Varied programme of activities/outings New members welcome – meet fortnightly at Ratho Community Centre. Members 50p, non-members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055

Solution to Sudoku Page 50

Scouts

All meet at the Community Centre, meeting times are as follows: Beavers: Tuesdays 6.30pm - 7.30pm (age 6-8) Cubs: Fridays 7pm - 8.30pm (age 8-10.5) Scouts: 7pm - 8.45pm. (age 10.5-14)

OTHER AREAS Potter Around

Art and craft studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton EH27 8DD Drop in anytime for ceramic painting and decopatch or have fun playing with clay. Book both adults and children’s parties in a wide range of arts and crafts. Open the first Tuesday of each month for those who prefer evening. Book into one of our many workshops including candle making, potter’s wheel, felting, jewellery and glass fusion. Regular classes include oil painting for both adults and children and our Kids Art Club on a Friday afternoon as well as the Warhammer Club on a Saturday afternoon. We take commission for painted pottery and artwork and we have a gift shop selling hand made items from jewellery through to art. Look out for our summer workshops running for children through the holidays. For more information call 01506 238961, email chat@ potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk www.facebook.com/ PotterAround

Irish Dancing

St. Nicholas Church, Calder Road, Sighthill New children’s class for ages 4 and upwards on Wednesdays from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. First class is FREE then £4 per class. Contact

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Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer, 07854 492638, hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Aerials Kinnear Aerials 53 Appliance Repair Appliances of Edinburgh 52 Bathrooms 1st Choice Living 12 Ken Dunton 14 Splash Bathrooms 14 Beauty ACT Beauty & Hair Academy 28 Beauty Box 28 Beauty Secrets 29 Glow Gorgeous by Miss T 25 Juniper Beauty Room 22 Blacksmith D & I Blacksmiths 46 Builder Almond Building Company 38 Building Surveyor David Hastings 38 Cafe/Tearoom Molly’s 55 Cake Maker Molly’s 55 Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh 43 Car Sales Hermiston Motors 32 Juniper Green Garage 42 Car Service & Repair Autocare Solutions 42 Balerno Garage 43 Hermiston Motors 32 Ratho Auto Services 42 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services 20 Carpets & Flooring Land of Carpets 2 Pentland Carpets 20 Catering Food Creations 55 Charity Bethany Christian Trust 19 Children’s Activities/Entertainment The Bees Knees Nursery 5 Children’s Nursery Balerno Village Nursery 26 Lanark Road Nursery Chiropody/Podiatry Pentland Footcare 29 Cleaning Services Cleaning and Maintenance 34 Cleaning Doctor 18 Daily Poppins 18 Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance 28 Council Services Edinburgh City Council Fostering 4 Craft Shop & Classes Coo Creations 5 Decorating Graham & Brown 4 Dentist Balerno Dental Care 22 Currie Dental Care 25 No 9 Dental 23 Doors UPVC Doors 10

Double Glazing Repair Double Glazing Doctor 34 Double Glazing Repairs 35 Dressmaking/Alterations Coo Creations 5 Traci Anderson Dress Maker 25 Electrician A&A Electrical 14 MT Electrical 10 Simply Electrical 34 Spark Electrical Solutions 52 Sykes Electrical 37 Fencing/Gates S & D Fences 46 Financial Services Personal Money Management 16 Fitness - Personal Training KM Fitness 23 Fitness Classes Maureen Clark Iyengar Yoga 5 Florist Vicky’s Flowers 28 Funeral Director Porteous Funeral Directors 51 Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd 46 Garden & Landscaping Beatson’s 48 CS Gardening 49 D Greaves 49 Evergreen Gardening Services 47 Riccarton Garden Centre 44 Garden Buildings Champfleurie Estate Ltd 45 Woodford Timber Scotland 46 Glazier R McNeill Joiner & Glazer 31 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 12 Hairdresser Fairbairn & Laing Hair Salon 25 Hairtech 29 Tony Harper Hairdressers 24 Heating Services L & S Heating 53 Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) AK Stretch Limousines 17 Insurance Glenavon Insurance Ltd 5 Ironing Services Ironing Aid 18 Joiner GK Wilson Joiner 31 Jack Watson Joiner 14 R McNeill Joiner & Glazer 31 Kitchens Ian Merriman Ltd 35 Ken Dunton 14 Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith 34 Edinburgh Locksmith 37 Mobility Ableworld 21 Med -Ecosse 33 Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland 17 MSP/MP Gordon Macdonald MSP 58

Optician Clear Vue Optician 24 Oven Cleaner The Clean Team 18 Painter/Decorator Alistair McLellan 31 Brushstrokes 31 Gerry Aitken 35 Mark Reece 31 Paving Alpine Paving 48 Pet Services Claylands Cattery 40 Happy Scampers 41 Law’s Paws 41 Walks with Lauren 41 Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering 14 Plumbing Services Alex Hunter Plumbers 34 Bill Reid & Son 31 Jim Gladstone 31 Shandon Plumbing 53 Weir Plumbing 38 Property Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance 34 Removals Anderson Transport 11 Restaurant Al Borgo 55 Roofing Dell Roofing 14 Fairmile Roofing 39 Thomson Roofing Services 15 School Edinburgh Academy 5 George Heriot’s School 6 George Watson’s College 7 Soft Furnishings Blind Design 20 Forth Fabrics 20 Stairlifts Pentland Carpets 20 Takeaway Pentland Fry 55 Taxi & Private Hire Capital Cars 17 Tiling Service with a Tile 38 Tree Surgery Delisle Tree Surgeons 49 Maxwell Tree Care 48 Tuition Pat Fletcher Tutoring 6 Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic 41 Wallpaper Graham & Brown 4 Wedding Services Vicky’s Flowers 28 Window Cleaning Tag Cleaning 46 Windows 1st Choice Living 12 Double Glazing Repairs 35 Four Seasons 64 Red Hot Windows 38

KONECT BALERNO 63

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