Konect Balerno April 2020

APRIL 2020

INTERIORS: HEALTH:

SCIENCE COLUMN:

IDEAS AND SOLUTIONS FOR

LOCALtraffic issues

P39 TO OUR APRIL EDITION

O

ur world has changed.

Let’s look out for each other, adhere strictly to guidance on health and social behaviour and pull through this together.

Reading through the columns, most of which were written by contributors before “social distancing” was part of our everyday vocabulary, is a reminder of a normality that already seems distant. Every topic is touched in some way by Covid-19, but there will be a new normal eventually. For example, the Local Lab column is about the A70 traffic problem; but since we have discovered a whole lot of home-working is do-able when required, will we even need to go back to the same level of traffic as before? That will be ours to choose. Whereas the health column Your Bike and You suddenly seems even more relevant as the gyms are closed and more people dusting off their bikes!

Most of the local businesses whose adverts brighten the pages of this magazine on a regular basis can’t carry on as usual and livelihoods are in danger. Please support local businesses when you can. Check what they are offering - many are adapting and finding different ways to offer their services.

Or just hanging on tight until they can trade again. Please lend your support in whatever way you can. Reciprocally, many businesses are reaching out to help with special services and offers to the most vulnerable in our communities.

THIS ISSUE Local Lab: Ideas & Solutions for Local Traffic Issues................................................... 8 Health: Your Bike and You...........................19 Community: Pesticide Free Balerno...........24 Puzzles...........................................................32 Money Matters...............................................37 Interiors: Ready for Spring...........................39 Notes from a Small Village...........................45 Local People: Finding My Rhythm in Teaching!.......................................................46 Clubs & Classes............................................47 Charity: Held in Our Hearts..........................51

Thanks for reading Konect, stay safe through the storm.

Konect 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.

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

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BALERNO | 5

GERRY AITKEN

Painter & Decorator Juniper Green

Get in touch for a FREE Estimate: T: 07798 565 321 • E: junigig@aol.com

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

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Kitchens supplied and fitted Doors and Windows - wood/UPVC Built-in wardrobes • Misted d/g units replaced Custom made gates: cedar, hardwood & softwood supplied & fitted All Joinery & Glazing Free estimates 0131 449 3714 e: rabmcneill62@gmail.com

BRUSHSTROKES

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

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Est. 1976

John A Brazil

Roofing & Flat Roof Specialist ALL ASPECTS OF ROOFING WORK (Includes 10 year warranty)

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BALERNO | 7

WEIR GAS SERVICES Former Scottish Gas engineer

Tel:

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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

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0131 477 1167 Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com

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LOCAL LAB

Creating ideas and solutions for local traffic issues Professor Guy Walker specialises in human factors engineering research. He recognises that solutions to transportation problems require a multi-disciplinary approach, one which puts people, the ‘civil’, very much back into civil engineering. Over the last few months Guy has been supervising a group of 5th year undergraduate civil engineering students working with residents and community groups to help solve traffic congestion in Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green.

Tell us a bit about the problem… Along the A70, we have inherited a road system that evolved from lanes serving local villages and farms a century ago and, as the city’s draft ‘City Plan 2030’ foresees even more local development, the future threatens even more commuters, cars and congestion.

How were the students involved? The students hosted meetings in local libraries, cafes and schools to discover what local traffic issues need the most urgent attention.

They were told about some specific issues, from improving public transport connectivity to dealing with rat-running and on street parking. After time they found a much more complicated picture; just getting to the shops is becoming more and more difficult for many.

And the community? In February, the students presented the results of their work at a public meeting in Currie at which over 100 people attended, including MSPs and Councillors. The traffic problems were grouped into six main concerns, and the audience of local people was asked to prioritise areas and suggest mitigation measures.

The event sparked extensive discussion on an emotive issue, with positive feedback on how the students are working closely with the @KonectMagazines

Professor Guy Walker

community to come up with solutions. Among the solutions was an ‘Education Corridor’, which suggests identifying and designating streets that can accommodate cycle priority lanes creating smarter routes to school and the university. This idea was particularly well received by the community, and the local schools, with the redevelopment of Currie Community high school an excellent opportunity to look at how young people get themselves to school in a sustainable, healthy and safe way.

What will happen next? With the help of leading traffic data services company Tracsis, and using microsimulation software provided

by Systra, Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green now have a ‘digital twin’ to rival those normally created for large cities. Once the community feedback from the meeting has been analysed, the Heriot-Watt students hope to use the simulation model to test out various scenarios that could become a template for solutions to congestion problems in other locations. Follow up meetings are already planned between the university and the campus’s three local community councils.

If you would like any further information, please contact Professor Guy Walker G.H.Walker@hw.ac.uk

The Local Lab column is contributed by Heriot-Watt University to engage the public in a range of their research projects.

BALERNO | 9

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Est. 2005

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

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HEALTH

Your Bike and You “I want to ride my bicycle; I want to ride my bike” sang Freddie Mercury of the rock group Queen back in 1978. He’s not alone as each year we in Britain cycle about 5 billion kilometres. To prevent injury, it is important to ensure that your bike is the best fit for you so what should you look for?

Frame size - When you straddle the bicycle frame with your feet flat on the ground you should be able to comfortably clear the crossbar or “top tube” of a gent’s bike. Ladies who want a bike with the traditional “stepthrough” frame can get a good indication of suitable frame size by trying a gent’s bike first.

Once you have an appropriate frame size, think about the 3 points of contact the human body has with the bike – hands, feet and backside. Our body weight is spread over these relatively small points so correct positioning will improve comfort when cycling.

Saddle Height - Your saddle should be high enough that your knee is almost, but not completely, straight at the bottom of each pedal stroke. Riding with a “soft” knee like this ensures that the knee is not repeatedly overextended with each revolution of the pedals as this would stress the ilio-tibial band, stress the hamstring tendons and increase loading on the patellofemoral joint all resulting in knee pain. Riding with a saddle which is too low will inhibit leg power making you an inefficient cyclist and will also stress the quadriceps tendon again giving knee pain. Your saddle is too low if you can get both feet flat on the ground while sitting on the saddle.

Saddle size - Saddles come is 3 standard widths and it is well worth ensuring that you have the best fit for your anatomy as determined by the width of your ischial tuberosities or “sit bones”. @KonectMagazines

Handlebars - Handlebar height depends on personal preference but remember that lower bars require more body flexibility and promote a more aerodynamic riding style whereas higher bars reduce spinal flexion and therefore reduce neck, back and wrist strain. Handlebars should be the same width as your shoulders. If wider, then arms and chest create a large area for wind resistance to slow down speed of travel but if arms are too close together it becomes harder to breathe properly.

Pedals - Toe clips keep the ball of the foot over the pedal axle for an efficient cycling technique. The position of the toe clips is important. If rotated towards the bike there will be extra rotation of the shin bone resulting in knee pain, particularly around the knee cap.

If the toe clips are rotated away from the bike frame this causes external rotation of the shin giving pain on the inside of the knee.

Get on Your Bike! - An ill-fitting bike can be the cause of knee, back, neck, shoulder, and wrist pain. Time spent ensuring the anatomy of your bike is a best fit for your own anatomy will help you stay on your bike to get fit, have fun and avoid unnecessary pain. We all want that!

The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk BALERNO | 19

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BALERNO | 21

Taking Taking the Stress Taking the the Stress Stress out outof ofLiving Living Alone Alone out of Living Alone

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Sutton Care Solutions’ services are also available to those entitled to Council Care at Home Services.

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BALERNO | 23

PESTICIDE-FREE BALERNO The use of glyphosate for weed-killing in Balerno has been suspended for 2020, and the local campaign group behind the ban are setting up an Environmental Weeding Group for the village to deal with weeds in an environmentally friendly way.

Glyphosate is under worldwide investigation for its links to human and animal health problems, including cancer.

We feel real urgency now more than ever as this chemical can cause respiratory problems and is unnecessary when there are safer ways of weeding.

The Council’s Transport and Environment committee heard our passionate plea last month to put health first and to make people, pets and the environment an absolute priority where we live, work and play. At this stage they are not offering an alternative, so the new Environmental Weeding Group will operate as a group and remove weeds around Balerno safely.

Many local Health and Beauty salons are adapting to survive social distancing.

Check their online sites for updates on what they are doing, and support them if you can by getting gift vouchers, facial kits and or beauty treatments.

24 | BALERNO

Now, with every one of us propelled into the most apprehensive unknown territory of our lifetimes regarding health, we must take every positive action we can to support our communities. Supporting our individual immune system and maximising our respiratory health is something we can do right away by supporting initiatives such as Pesticide Free Balerno.

Although there are necessary limitations on the activities we normally, do we can make a positive difference. We can use this time to connect with each other remotely and still work together on an individual basis to help larger causes. We can @KonectMagazines

stay connected, contribute positively in our neighbourhood and weed outside our house on our pavements and even do our whole street!

If you live outside the Pesticide-Free Zone and want to protect your family’s and pet’s health and use your time wisely, you can ask the council not to apply this chemical where you live and let them know that you or your neighbours would prefer to remove your own weeds.

If you live in the Pesticide Free Zone of Balerno we still need to remove our own weeds for now, but do not have to worry about the council applying glyphosate any more.

• Help support our Volunteer Weeding Group who cannot go out as a group together at this time but can go out individually or as family units to weed safely Volunteer to weed outside your house and let us know of your achievements. Send in your before and after photos for our page • Ask your private gardener or contractor what chemical they use and research it yourself or contact us to find out risks to your health and ask them to use safe alternatives or hand weed • Engage with us and tell us about your own health issues which may be connected to exposure • Follow us on Instagram and find out how to garden and weed without resorting to harmful chemicals • Send in your hints and tips and any ideas you have • Take time to hand weed outside neighbours’ houses if they need help. (At a safe social distance and with suitable precautionary safety measures) • Share the initiative with anyone you chat to on phone/social media we can hopefully inspire other communities to do the same • Spread the word about our good news story!

Most of us now realise that weeds are the first source of food for our pollinators which are in desperate decline and feel we have a duty to protect .

We are also considerate to those who need our help with weed removal and we @KonectMagazines

are happy to be contacted and assist and operate around the present social distancing requirements Let’s help the health and environment of our community within the constraints necessary, inspire other communities to follow and who knows Edinburgh may well do its own weeding this year after all!!

Contact pesticidefreebalerno@gmail.com or 07979717485 for further information and to be part of the remote Individual Weeding Group!

You will be made most welcome remotely online or by phone and your help will be gratefully appreciated.

Follow us on Instagram @pesticidefree.balerno This article was contributed by Pesticide Free Balerno BALERNO | 25

HEALTH

Paediatrics: Visual Development When we are born, vision is poor. The eyes develop to mature varying ocular functions.

The level of vision someone has matures in the ‘plastic period’ (first seven years of life). ‘Vision’ is independent of glasses ‘prescription’. Problems need detection and management ASAP. How does ‘vision’ develop? The brain dictates vision, with the eyes collecting information.

This process happens via the Visual Pathway, running from the eye to the visual cortex at the back of the head. The neural connections of this pathway mature in the early years, gradually improving vision as a result. This is dependent on the quality of information the eyes provide. The best information results when light focuses perfectly in the eye.

What are the common problems with visual development? How do you know if there is a problem? The most common problems are long-sightedness or a big difference

28 | BALERNO

between the eyes. This can lead to squints and lazy eyes, hindering visual development. It is often not apparent that something is wrong. Only a sight test can properly detect a visual problem and ascertain the need for glasses.

What do glasses do? In the case of young children, the reason for glasses is very much prescriptive. Wearing the glasses makes sure that light is focused properly in each eye. This then provides excellent information to the brain and vision develops. The quicker this is done, the quicker the visual problem is managed.

What is the cost for this? Sight tests are free in Scotland, funded by the NHS. Typically, the cost of frames and lenses is covered by an NHS optical voucher. Repairs and replacements are also generally covered by an NHS Repair Voucher.

This article was contributed by Jonathan Jennett of Clearvue Opticians, 60 Bryce Road, Currie, EH14 5LD.

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PARENTING

Getting glasses!

When my littlest came home from nursery after a preschool eye check with a letter saying we should take her to an optician…to say I was surprised would be an understatement. She could see just fine. She was getting on great at preschool. I would have known if she needed glasses… wouldn’t I? But I also knew if she did need glasses this was going to be a big milestone for her. And our first step was taking her to the right place. Somewhere that would make the experience positive and where I felt I could trust what they were doing. So after a glowing recommendation we took her to Clearvue Opticians in Currie.

We talked about everything that might happen before we went, and watched an episode of Topsy and Tim where Tim gets glasses. We arrived in plenty of time so that she could check the place out and she had good fun spotting Harry Potter-style glasses.

But despite our best efforts when she sat down in an unfamiliar room full of crazy looking instruments she took one look at me and said “Mummy, I’m a bit scared”.

My heart was in a puddle on the floor. I wanted to scoop her up and do my mummy thing.

The only thing that allowed me to stand on the sidelines was seeing that she was in @KonectMagazines

such good hands; the optometrist Jonathan was absolutely amazing with her.

I’d been sold on the place after reading he had a special qualification in Paediatric Eye Care but nothing can tell you what a person will really be like.

He was so calm and talked to her (and us) about everything he was doing…and answered all of our endless questions.

By the time all was said and done she was so happy with herself.

Now if it were me facing the prospect of getting glasses I’d be thinking of it as a fun opportunity in accessorizing.

I wasn’t so sure that’s how she’d see it. I was worried about her being vulnerable to teasing, about them being uncomfortable or her not wanting to wear them. She’s only 4 but…fourmones are a real thing!

In the end I think if it had turned out she didn’t need glasses she would have been disappointed.

We headed out to The Centre, Livingston to get her kitted out and she now has her very own glasses case and cleaning cloth. And it’s amazing how many “glasses buddies” she has found in the family and at preschool to make her feel like she is part of a special club.

As it turns out the biggest problem has been perfecting the art of wearing glasses and an Alice band at the same time!

I’ve never had glasses so this has been a learning curve - for both of us! I’m so glad we did a bit of research into local opticians and took her to just the right place to start her on this journey.

The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls.

BALERNO | 29

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BALERNO | 31

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats

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

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

Solution in the May edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Not private (6), 4. One belonging to a club (6), 9. Endure (7), 10. Book of maps (5), 11. Surplus (5), 12. Design (7), 13. Discontinued (11), 18. Withdraw (7), 20. Living (5), 22. Concerning (5), 23. Outside light (7), 24. Removing (6), 25. Two wheeled vehicles (6).

DOWN: 1. Mailed (6), 2. Destroyed by fire (5), 3. Copy (7), 5. Precise (5), 6. Accept as true (7), 7. Climbing up (6), 8. Frantically (11), 14. Interconnected system (7), 15. Clearly (7), 16. Chicken meat (6), 17. Racket game (6), 19. Consumed (5), 21. Perfect (5).

SUDOKU

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.

Solution on Page 49

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Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Pet Services pages.

Contacts details are on page 3.

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

Auto Technician

0131 333 5353 07784 537356

Free Collection & Delivery Service MOTs arranged 73 Station Road, Ratho Station, EH28 8OP

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MONEY MATTERS

INHERITANCE TAX AND HOW TO REDUCE IT (PART TWO)

The difference between Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion is the width of a prison wall and hence anything that follows is using tax avoidance and NOT tax evasion.

In last month’s article I discussed using Whole of Life Plans and Capital Investment Bonds to reduce Inheritance Tax (IHT). I will now discuss two additional products that can be used to reduce IHT. 3) Invest a lump sum in an Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and provided you live for 2 years after the investment is made and hold the EIS at date of death, the money in the EIS scheme is outside your estate. Investing in an EIS has two other tax advantages in that you get a 30% tax credit on any amount invested in an EIS. In addition, you can defer any Capital Gains due until you sell the EIS. If,

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however you actually hold the EIS at the date of death then the Capital Gains is ignored.

The main disadvantage with an EIS is they are relatively high risk.

4) The final product to avoid IHT is a Capital Preservation Plan which are of a lower risk than an EIS but do not have the two additional tax advantages mention above.

Again, provided you live two years from the date you invested in the CPP and you hold it at your death, then the original capital AND any growth is outside your estate for IHT. This a relatively low risk product which uses Business Property Relief and has an estimated return of between 3-4%. This is an estimated return and not a guaranteed return.

The main aim is to maintain the buying power of the capital against inflation.

As ever, IHT planning is not simple but it is well worth doing if you have an IHT problem and always seek specialist independent financial advice.

The Money Matters column is contributed

by Personal Money Matters. This month’s column by Dr Peter M Marshall.

BALERNO | 37

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INTERIORS

Get your home ready

for

Warmer days, new blooming buds, and vocal birds. Nature is dropping plenty of clues that spring is well on the way.

While you’re getting started on your springcleaning duties and the wardrobe overhaul, now’s also the perfect time to pay your interior some attention and freshen it up ready for the warmer months.

Here’s 6 ways to bid farewell to winter and liven up your living room in time for spring.

Remove the layers - Now’s the ideal time to remove those thick, woollen throws you’ve had on hand for the chilly winter nights. Wash or dry-clean these extra layer and pack them away for when winter rolls around again. If you enjoy snuggling under a blanket of an evening, consider a lighter linen throw with a touch of colour or pattern that ties into your spring look.

Refresh your furnishings - In winter, our interiors tend to be shut up more with the heating on and limited amount of fresh air as we bunker down. Now that we can open up the house more regularly to allow the spring breeze to enter, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your furnishings too. Both leather and fabric upholstery can benefit from a regular clean.

You’ll notice the material appears more vibrant, it will smell fresher, and you can get rid of any unsightly stains.

Swap out heavy rugs - The feeling of a thick woollen rug underfoot in winter is sublime, but with warmer days on the way you could consider livening up your living room with a lighter rug or nothing at all. This gives you an opportunity to have your rugs professionally cleaned as well as shop for a new look! @KonectMagazines

Add a touch of green The indoor plant trend looks like it’s here to stay and with good reason. Indoor plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your living room and freshen up the space. Dress your living room with a few pots or accessorise with large leafy branches in a generous vase.

Accessorise with seasonal items - Accessories are the most cost-effective way to style your interiors seasonally. Change up your colour scheme with some spring cushions. Invest in a collection of beautiful vases for your spring blooms. Change up your artwork or replace lamp shades from dark and moody to bright and fresh. Before you mix in your new season’s accessories, remember to declutter and store away or donate those you haven’t used.

Freshen up your playlist - To get you in the styling mood, freshen up your playlist with some spring tunes on Alexa. Music is a great way to reinforce the feeling you’re trying to create in your interiors. It also has a profound effect on your own attitude, giving you a little extra spring in your step this Springtime.

This feature was contributed by Derek Lamb.

Derek runs Harvey Bruce Interiors, showroom in Uphall at G4 Williamson’s Garden Centre Mains Holdings, Uphall EH52 6PA. Free Parking, wheelchair/buggy friendly. Also online shop at www.harveybruce.co.uk BALERNO | 39

40 | BALERNO

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BALERNO | 41

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BALERNO | 43

44 | BALERNO

@KonectMagazines

I’ve lived in Balerno since 1991. It’s home. But Illinois, the American state where I grew up, is also home. I think of myself as a transplant – uprooted from the rich, dark farmland in the Midwest, and replanted in harder, rockier UK soil. Though I feel quite at home here, growing up in a place with different customs means that I don’t always see things in the same way as my neighbour.

PUPPY DOG FRIENDLINESS “Have a nice day.” I hear someone at the next table spouting this with a mock American accent. “It’s so nauseating.

Especially because you know they’ve been trained to parrot it and don’t really mean it!”

But that’s the thing. They really do mean it. At least, most of the time they do. Sure, retail staff are encouraged to wish their customers well.

But they’ve also been raised in a ‘glass half-full’ culture, where puppy dog friendliness comes pretty naturally. So, in addition to making good business sense, it just feels right. Customers feel welcomed and valued and staff have a more rewarding day when they actually make human contact, rather than just taking a faceless person’s money – while assuring them that it’s ‘no problem’.

I remember a shopping trip to a K-Mart on my husband’s first visit to my country. As we walked towards the entrance, a curly-haired lady in jeans and a big jumper was gathering trollies in the car park. “Hello,” she called. “How are you?”

“Just fine,” I returned. “And how are you today?”

When we were safely inside, my husband turned and asked me, “Who was that? Your cousin?”

Laughing, I explained that showing an interest was normal here.

Of course, there are Brits who are chatty and friendly, and love nothing better than to get to know the person behind the till. And there are reserved Americans who would quickly exit a @KonectMagazines

shop when faced with a salesperson who tried to engage them in conversation. But, in general, Americans are brought up to show an interest in others and be positive.

Ask someone in Scotland how he is and he’ll probably say ‘not bad’, ‘could be worse’ or ‘surviving’. An American will usually smile and answer, ‘fine’. But then, if she knows you well, she might continue with: “Well, actually, I’ve had a really rough day, the kids are off school with a sick bug and the dishwasher’s broken down.”

“Aha,” you may think. “That just proves that she has been programmed to say ‘fine’ when she doesn’t mean it at all!” And I see your point. However, speaking from my own experience, the ‘fine’ comes out first because I want to be pleasant. Then, because I was also taught to be honest, I soon feel compelled to give at least a few details of why I am not completely ‘fine’. I want to be real with people … but not ruin their day.

At the completion of the K-Mart trip the man at the till asked my husband, “So what’s new with you?” My other half looked at me with eyes that shouted help! I took over, equipped with years of experience of chewin’ the fat.

To be continued next issue …

Notes from a small village is contributed

by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.

BALERNO | 45

PHOTO CREDIT: Suzanne Green

Matt Grieve:

Finding my rhyt hm in te achi ng!

Originally from Carnoustie, Matt Grieve is a nursery teacher at Dean Park Primary School in Balerno. He enjoys working as part of a team with an age group full of wonder and fun. Matt, who considers music a big influence in his life, lives in the city centre with his partner.

Matt Grieve knew from the time he was in primary school that he wanted to be a teacher.

Maybe that’s why he didn’t give up even though he was initially turned down by a teacher training course. There have been a few twists and turns on the path to his goal, but today he can’t help smiling when he describes his job as a nursery teacher at Dean Park.

When he didn’t get into teacher training, he pursued other courses of study, but nothing worked out. So he did what young people sometimes do when they need time to think: he backpacked round Australia for a few months. When Matt returned, he did a classroom assistant course. With classroom experience, he applied again for teacher training and was successful.

Throughout this time music was important to Matt. Since the age of 14 he’d played in bands – first, as a drummer and then later as a guitarist.

For a few years he worked in a record shop, where he became familiar with all kinds of music.

Matt played guitar for a band called the Mink Stoles, which split up in 2019. “Though the band had to break up, I still record under that name,” he says.

Last June Matt set himself a goal of releasing one song a week for a year. “I’ve recorded a lot – I’m currently on song 27,” he says. Quite an ambitious goal, when you consider the energy 46 | BALERNO

he puts into teaching.

In 2006 Matt landed his first job as a teacher at Dean Park Primary School in Balerno.

“It was a great year,” he says. “Those P6 kids were amazing – they were so easy to work with. Mrs Watson was my mentor and I learned a lot from her.”

After passing his probation year, Matt got a temporary job as a P5 teacher at Dean Park.

After that he took a job in the nursery, and he’s never looked back.

Matt holds an MA in Education, and did a oneyear course studying Frederick Froebel, whose ideals have influenced children’s education for 200 years. In addition to working as a nursery teacher in Balerno, he works two days a week at St Leonard’s Nursery School, where he is headteacher. “You can go to work in the worst mood ever,” he says, “but because of the children’s joy, it just can’t stay.”

“Unlike primary age kids, the children choose what they want to do – art, baking or a picnic in the woods! We do follow a curriculum, but the only thing we insist upon is story time.”

Stories … reading. That strikes the right note with me!

The Local People column is contributed

by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters. @KonectMagazines

CLUBS & CLASSES

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

BALERNO NEW A FITNESS MEDLEY! A medley of different exercise formats.

These include exercises inspired

by Mixed Martial Arts, Steps, Yoga/ Pilates. Thurs 8pm in Balerno Community Centre.

Contact Heidi on 07982 205111 or at heidi.instructor@gmail.com PHYSIO-LED PILATES AND RELAXATION CLASSES Prime Sports Physio Clinic, 46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno. Comprehensive timetable of classes available during daytime and evening in pilates and relaxation, including specialist classes in antenatal & postnatal pilates, pilates for men, for skiing as well as mixed level pilates, relaxation for teenagers. For more information and to book please contact www.primesportsphysio.co.uk or call 0131 449 6128.

HARTBEEPS Currie Community Centre on a Monday 10am for confident walkers to preschool; 11am for sitting to walking babies; 12.15pm for newborn to sitting babies. For info please contact jo.douglas@ hartbeeps.com, Joanne Douglas 07736 457265.

HULLABALOO Music classes for babies and toddlers with their carers.

At Hullabaloo the focus is on having lots of fun with colourful props, toys and musical instruments. Through favourite songs and rhymes, children will develop early musical skills including a sense of beat, rhythm and pitch. Fridays 9.30am (term time), Wednesday 12.45pm (babies) - Balerno Scout Hall.

E: info@mcmillanyoungmusicians. co.uk W: www.mcmillanyoungmusicians. co.uk/hullabaloo YOUNG@HEART For older people in Balerno, Currie and Juniper Green.

We meet at 10am on a Tuesday at the Ogston Hall, St Joseph’s centre, Main St, Balerno for some gentle exercises then tea and coffee break. We then have various activities. Cost £2 per week for the tea and coffee break and £15 a year for membership, paid in 2 instalments. For more information please contact Mary Laing on 0131 449 3523 or email me on yackadoo@ hotmail.co.uk for more information.

BALERNO PARISH CHURCH Come and be part of the heart of the community which meets every Sunday at 10 am in the Main street www.balernochurch.org.uk HAILES SWIMMING CLUB Galas, coaching and development lessons for 7-15 year olds at Balerno, Currie,

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and Forrester pools. For further details contact membership@ hailesswimclub.co.uk ST MUNGO’S BALERNO Come be part of our vibrant church community which meets every Sunday, 10.30am @ Balerno High School www.stmungos.org PIYO LIVE! Pilates + Yoga + Nonstop Movement.

Stretch, Strengthen & Sweat, all in one workout!

Tues 9am in Balerno Scout Hall.

Other classes available in Currie.

Contact Heidi on 07982 205111 or at heidi.instructor@gmail.com WILDFIRE EXPLORER SCOUTS Meet in Balerno High School.

Fridays 7.15 - 9.15pm. 14 – 18yrs.

Contact: Gordon Simpson 0131 477 3116. Email leaders@wildfireexplorers.org.uk 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.

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 COMMUNITY CENTRE VILLAGE NURSERY Open Mon to Fri 7.30am to 6pm - 50 weeks of the year. Offering family centred childcare from 6 weeks to 5 years.

We provide AM, PM and All Day Care, also Wraparound Care for Dean Park Nursery and Dean Park Primary School to include children to the end of P3. Please email thevillageplaygroup@outlook.com or tel 0131 451 5756.

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 449 2101.

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 Fri (school term time only) 8:55-11.40am. Early Drop Off, Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery. Afternoon sessions available for Pre-school children.

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.

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

BALERNO | 47

BALERNO ...cont.

IN THE DITCH QUILTERS Balerno Community Centre. Monthly workshops covering different quilting topics, third Wednesday of the month from 7:15pm. Annual membership £24.00. Contact Maureen Murray on 0131 336 0053 for further details.

GIRLGUIDING Rainbows on Monday evenings. Full information and meeting times can be obtained from Edinburgh Head Quarters on 0131 225 4154.

PALM CAFÉ St Jospeh’s Centre, last Tues of the month 2.30pm4pm. A social group cafe for people with dementia and their carers, for informal support and information.

Serving the communities of Balerno, Juniper Green and Currie. For more information contact Kay Latimer 0131 449 6186 or email kaylatimer@btopenworld.com BALERNO PARISH CHURCH Come and join us for regular all age worship on Sunday mornings at 10am followed by refreshments in St Joseph’s. Check www. balernochurch.org.uk for all other events and worship information.

THE MILL CAFÉ A community café run mainly by volunteers in the St Joseph’s Centre at the heart of Balerno. Open Tuesday-Friday 9.30am-2.00pm serving teas, coffees, homebaking and snack lunches. (Times may vary during school holidays)

CURRIE EDINBURGH MAVERICKS KORFBALL CLUB Try korfball with Edinburgh Mavericks! Korfball is a mixed-gender sport with similarities to basketball and netball. Edinburgh Mavericks have 2 teams competing in the Scottish Korfball League, and train twice a week at Oriam. We welcome beginners and new players to all our sessions, men and women of all ages - so if you’re looking for a new sports club or way to keep fit, give korfball a try! Your first 3 sessions are free. Oriam, Heriot Watt University Campus, Currie, EH14 4AS. Wednesdays 7pm-8.30pm and Thursdays 8pm – 10.30pm.

Contact edmavericks@gmail.com or facebook.com/edinburghmavericks BRIDGE Tuition for absolute beginners. Every Tuesday evening in the Currie Community Centre on Lanark Road West. 7pm to 9pm. £3 table money. Just turn up if you’re interested. If you need more info contact Johnny 0131 623 5135, 07450 521997, intro-bridge@hotmail.co.uk NETHER CURRIE PTA BADMINTON CLUB Nether Currie Primary School, Wed evenings 7 9pm from September to March. For info contact Gordon Porteous 0131 538 1959.

48 | BALERNO

INTRODUCTION TO BRIDGE For absolute beginners and social players who wish to graduate to club and competition play.

Free. All adults over 21 welcome.

Ideal for retirees looking for a new interest. Every Tuesday 3:45pm to 4:45pm Community room Currie Library. First meeting 3rd September 2019. Just turn up if you feel like it. Or contact Johnny on 0131 623 5135.

Text 07450 521 997. Email introbridge@hotmail.co.uk HARTBEEPS Currie Community Centre on a Monday. 10am for confident walkers to preschool; 11am for sitting to walking babies; 12.15pm for newborn to sitting babies. For info please contact jo.douglas@ hartbeeps.com, Joanne Douglas 07736 457265.

PIYO LIVE! Pilates + Yoga + Nonstop movement. Stretch, Strengthen & Sweat, All in one workout!! Fri 9:15am Currie Community Centre (Theatre Hall). Contact Heidi on 07982205111 or at heidi.instructor@ gmail.com DEPEVAK EXPLORER SCOUT UNIT 45 Lanark Road West, Currie, Wednesday 7.15 – 9.15pm SLIMMING WORLD - LOSE WEIGHT WITHOUT FEELING HUNGRY Come and join us every Wednesday at 7:30pm in Currie Community Centre on Lanark Road West, and every Saturday at 7:30am & 9:30am in Currie Scout Hall, Forthview Crescent. Contact Kim 07921 380711 for more information.

HAILES SWIMMING CLUB Galas, coaching and development lessons for 7-15 year olds at Balerno, Currie, and Forrester pools. For further details contact membership@ hailesswimclub.co.uk CURRIE COMMUNITY CENTRE 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 10-week 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 The club is played at the Gibson Craig back Hall on a Monday, 1.30pm. For more information contact the Chairman on 0131 449 3527.

COFFEE AND CRAFT Currie community Centre Mon 7-9pm.

Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new. All welcome. £1 per person per night.

AIR CADETS 2463 (CURRIE & BALERNO) SQUADRON Forthview Crescent. Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm.

0131 449 7449 for more info.

CURRIE PLAYGROUPCurrie 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 Fee 07771 370748.

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 Terry Maloney 0751 466 4292 CURRIE & DISTRICT LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie - Visitors welcome; For further information contact Douglas Lowe on 0131 449 4349 or douglaslowe51@btinternet.com 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 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 St Margaret’s Hall, Juniper Green.

Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall, Balerno.

Any questions please contact Monica, email: karmayoga@ btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432

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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.

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.

MESSY CHURCH Second and last Fridays of the month from 2-4.30pm in the Gibson Craig Halls. We will meet from the second Friday in September until the second Friday in December then from the second Friday in January until the second Friday in June. All ages are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult who stays with them. For further information, contact Louise on 466 3472 or Easter on 449 4719

JUNIPER GREEN JUNIPER GREEN TENNIS CLUB This small, friendly LTA affiliated tennis club in the heart of Juniper Green is open to all. There’s an extensive junior coaching programme and sessions for adults on Fridays throughout the season. Follow us on Facebook www.facebook. com/junipergreentennisclub/ or for membership details etc see www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/ JuniperGreenTennisClub JUNIPER GREEN NURSERY PLAYGROUP Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 07308 033386 or see website at www. junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk JUNIPER GREEN BOARDGAMERS We meet 2nd and 4th Friday of the month, 6pm-9pm in Juniper Green Parish Church Hall C We currently ask for £1.00 per person to cover the cost of the hall (£2.00 non-members - First visit FREE!).

Everyone welcome, suitable for kids over 10y/o. Children must be with an adult, and the adult must stay and play too. For more information and dates for this month, please contact Eric (eric@ericonline.co.uk) or find us on Facebook using “Juniper Green Board-Gamers”.

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 - Hamish Leal on 0131 449 3288.

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

PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB The club meets at 7pm on Thursday evenings throughout the year to play duplicate bridge at St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green. Prospective new members are welcome to come along to see if it suits them.

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If interested, please contact Ken Brown 0131 449 5314 email mthkjb@gmail.com.

RATHO LUNCH CLUB FOR OLDER PEOPLE Third Thursday of each month at Ratho Community Centre.

Run by Queensferry Care through the support of Tesco Bags of Help, The Almond Neighbourhood Partnership and RCCC. Starting at 12noon, for more info and to register interest please call 0131 331 5570.

RATHO SWI 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) RATHO RAVERS Ratho Community Centre. Thurs 10am12pm. Exercising body and mind for the over fifties. £3 per class. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

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.

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, nonmembers £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055 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) TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION AT WWW.KONECT.SCOT

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Charmed, 5. Edged, 8. Eases, 9. Vicious, 10. Perpendicular, 11. Easily, 12. Molars, 15. Demonstration, 18. Explode, 19. Deals, 20. Steps, 21. Deafens.

DOWN: 1. Creep, 2. Absorbs, 3. Miscellaneous, 4. Divide, 5. Encyclopaedia, 6. Growl, 7. Deserts, 11. Endless, 13. Agitate, 14. Attend, 16. Maple, 17. Noses.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 32

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