Konect Balerno August 2024

AUGUST 2024

CHARITY: HEALTH: SPOTLIGHT:

PLUS: LOCAL ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH, Real Life, CLUBS & CLASSES, and MUCH more inside!

2 | BALERNO

P34

I

t’s okay to talk – but how easy is it to actually find someone you’re comfortable talking to? This seems particularly challenging for men, which is why the charity Andy’s Man Club is growing at such a rapid rate. A national charity but with groups all over the country, there are groups in South Gyle and Merchiston, as well as many other locations across the area within easy reach of home or work.

See the feature on pages 8 – 10.

We’re excited about a new distillery producing whisky and rum, in the historic village of Blackness. Read about Blackness Bay Distillery on page 23, they offer quirky and original tours with the option to eat at the renowned Lobster Pot afterwards.

The regular health column from McNaughton Physiogrange is all about lower back pain, which few of us will ever escape entirely! Alison has taken a new advice book published by the WHO in December, and condensed its 274 pages into 500 words for us here – see page 16 for her column, top quality advice as ever.

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month as much as I have enjoyed putting it together this month!

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638

Charity: Andy’s Man Club...................................8 Spotlight: Lindsay Gilmour Pharmacy........14 Health: Help! Lower back pain......................16 Wine: A pleasure shared..................................22 Spotlight: Blackness Bay Distillery...............23 Real Life....................................................................28 Local Environment: Childhood memories..................................................................34 Local Walk: Four reservoirs loop..................42 Education: Applying to University................44 Puzzles......................................................................46 Clubs & Classes...................................................48

COVER IMAGE: Going through a storm? Come along to Andy’s Man Club - See p8-10 for more.

Konect is delivered monthly to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe BALERNO | 3

4 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 5

WE COVER COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC

WORCESTER ACCREDITED INSTALLER

your local experts for over 10 years in BATHROOM BOILER DESIGN AND INSTALLATION INSTALLATION AND REPAIRS

LUXURY KITCHEN FITTING

•OVER 1000 BOILERS INSTALLED • EMERGENCY CALL OUT 24 HOURS • FULLY QUALIFIED & GAS SAFE 5 star rated business - check out our reviews on Google sdplumbingandheating.com

6 | BALERNO

SCAN ME TO CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE 07453 285 843

BALERNO | 7

Monday evenings between 7pm and 9pm: the time when men are most vulnerable to losing their lives by suicide.

So discovered the founders of Andy’s Man Club, a club set up initially for male suicide prevention, and which has rapidly become much broader than that.

Andy’s Man Club meets at an ever-increasing number of towns and villages across Scotland, every Monday night from 7pm to 9pm.

It’s a place where men can come and talk about absolutely anything that is bothering them. Work, debt, relationships, health, loneliness, and all the feelings that culturally you’ve been conditioned to believe you should just deal with alone.

While it’s hard to say with any certainty why male suicide is much higher than female, it’s thought that men’s reluctance or inability to talk about their struggles is a major contributing factor.

Andy’s Man Club provides a space to talk in a safe, sympathetic and non-judgemental environment alongside other men who have “ I hit rock bottom at Christmas last year, my taken exactly that world as I knew it fell apart. I started going to same step through Andy’s Man Club in the new year. It was one of the the venue door on a hardest things that I have ever done! But I am glad Monday night.

to say that it has been one of the best. Listening to each different guy’s story has given me a new perspective and outlook. It has given me the context that I needed to gather my thoughts and prepare for my next chapter with positivity ”

The exponential growth of the charity in Scotland speaks for itself of how utterly essential it is proving to be.

September marks A, has been attending Andy’s Man Club “The more we can seven years since since January 2024 normalise talking Alex helped facilitate about things, the the first Andy’s Man better,” says Alex Club in Perth. There McClintock, Head of Groups in Scotland. are now 42 across Scotland; that’s a new one “Despite a lot of progress in recent years, opening every couple of months. men are still expected to be the strong one, to “man up,” deal with their problems alone and not show their feelings. If you’re a certain age you may remember as a kid being threatened, ‘If you cry, I’ll give you something to cry about!’ and there are elements of this attitude that persist.”

8 | BALERNO

The charity is named after Andy Roberts, a young man from Halifax (Yorkshire) who took his own life in 2016. His mum and brotherin-law opened up a room in Halifax later that year and invited men to come and talk. At the first meeting, nine men turned up; this year, all

across the UK 4,600 men attend their local Andy’s Man Club.

G has been attending AMC since March 2023.

“I had been off work for a while and had no motivation to do anything and felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders.

I wanted to shut the world out. I had seen a thing on social media promoting Andy’s Man Club, I contacted the Facebook page and went along in March of last year. I haven’t missed a Monday night since. AMC sets me up for the week, I like seeing the journey every man takes when they walk through the doors for the first time, and see them start to recover and get stronger week by week and hope I’m playing a part in helping them like others helped me. I would encourage anyone who is feeling down or just not themselves to come along to a meeting.

It’s good to talk”

“ I could always speak, but over the last 18 months AMC has taught me how to talk and open up about how I am feeling instead of hiding away ” K, has been attending Andy’s Man Club since February 2023 Alex became involved when he had hit rock bottom personally and had made an attempt on his own life. He went to his first Andy’s Man Club meeting in Halifax and spoke about things he had never shared with anyone. He went with his friend of 20 years. “We thought we knew everything about each others’ lives, until we went to Andy’s Man Club together. He was gobsmacked by what I had to say, he’d had no idea what I had been going through.”

Having experienced the transformative power of talking, Alex became a passionate advocate for Andy’s Man Club and went on to formally become the charity’s development champion in Scotland.

BALERNO | 9

“It sets you up for the week,” says Alex.

“Instead of dreading Mondays, it’s now my best day as I get to go to my Club and I look forward to it.” For the majority of men who attend, it becomes a regular habit, a constant therapy - much like going to the gym regularly but for maintaining good mental health instead of physical. The benefits of just going and getting stuff of your chest regularly is immense. And it not only helps you; you’re helping other men by sharing your problems so that they too know they are not alone.

There is no need to book, no need to give your name or contact details and no need even to speak if you don’t feel up for it.

It’s not unusual for men to come for a few weeks and just listen before sharing their own situations. Simply turn up and get tea and biscuits. What is the worst that could happen?

The charity’s aim is for there to be 1500 clubs all across the UK, so that men have no excuse not to come!

• If you are feeling low for any reason, get along to an Andy’s Man Club near you next Monday! We have listed all the local ones*. >>>

• If you are interested in opening a branch of Andy’s Man Club locally please contact info@andysmanclub.co.uk

• If you are able offer a venue free of charge for a Club to run on a Monday evening, please contact info@ andysmanclub. co.uk. There is always a need for venues in order to keep up with surging demand for the Clubs to run.

ALWAYS FREE, ALWAYS 7pm - 9pm, EVERY MONDAY NIGHT (EXCEPT BANK HOLIDAYS) ARMADALE: Armadale Partnership Centre, North Street, Armadale, EH48 3QB BATHGATE: Regal Reconnect Theatre, 24 - 34 North Bridge St, Bathgate, EH48 4PS BROXBURN: Entrance B, Strathbrock Community Centre, 189A West Main St, Broxburn, EH52 5LH DALGETY BAY: That Place in The Bay, 10a Ridge Way, Dalgety Bay, KY11 9JN DUNFERMLINE (SOUTH): Dunfermline Sports Club, McKane Park, Limekilns Road, Dunfermline, KY12 7XA DUNFERMLINE (NORTH): Townhill Bowling Club, Green Street, Townhill, Dunfermline, KY12 0HE EDINBURGH (MERCHISTON): North Merchiston Club, Watson Crescent, Edinburgh, EH11 1EP EDINBURGH (SOUTH GYLE): Upstairs food quarter, The Space to Be, Gyle Shopping Centre, Edinburgh, EH12 9JY KIRKLISTON: STARTING SEPTEMBER! LINLITHGOW: COMING SOON! LIVINGSTON #1: Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Livingston EH54 5BP LIVINGSTON #2: Livingston Cricket Club, 10A Murieston Valley, Liinvgston EH54 9HB ROSYTH: Rosyth Eats, 115 Queensferry Road, Rosyth, KY11 2PS For more information about Andy’s Man Club, please visit andysmanclub.co.uk

#ITSOKAYTOTALK #ANDYSMANCLUB

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after speaking with Alex McClintock, Head of Groups Scotland for Andy’s Man Club, and with an attendee of a West Lothian Andy’s Man Club. Helen-Jane is the Editor of Konect magazines 10 | BALERNO

*All group location details are correct at time of printing and may be subject to change. Please visit the Andy’s Man Club website ( www.andysmanclub.co.uk ) for the latest information.

You don’t need to have mental health challenges or to be desperate before attending Andy’s Man Club. It’s much better to go before you get that low.

BALERNO | 11

12 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 13

LINDSAY & GILMOUR PHARMACY: Small enough to care, big enough to make a difference Knowing you have a local pharmacy that you can rely on can make a huge difference to your health and wellbeing.

There’s nothing more reassuring than having experts just around the corner who want to listen and advise you on your health concerns and treat your ailments, no matter what stage of life you’re at – especially when GPs and hospitals are under so much pressure. Our pharmacy teams in Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green cover a wide geographical area while still giving you the local, tailored and friendly service that you can trust.

What does a Lindsay & Gilmour pharmacy offer your local community?

In addition to expert advice and treatment you can count on, we have our own dedicated app, which makes ordering and managing

prescriptions, and booking services a breeze. We’ve also successfully introduced several private services including ear wax removal and health checks, blood testing and vitamin B12 injections.

We really listen to what our customers say they need and shape our service and retail offering to fit. We’ve also all got great teams – friendly, caring and always ready to help, making it easier than ever to consult a health professional without the need for an appointment.

Nicole, Pharmacist and Manager at Balerno, Manager Linda and Pharmacist Zee at Currie and George Gilbert, Pharmacist and Manager at Juniper Green are all dedicated to the healthcare needs of their local area.

With George’s 30+ years in pharmacy, Nicole’s two

14 | BALERNO

decades in community pharmacy, and Linda’s extensive patient care experience that began as a community nurse in Edinburgh, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands!

What seasonal healthcare issues should we preparing for?

We’re almost out of peak allergy and sun damage season, but that doesn’t mean you should be complacent (even in rainy Scotland).

Whether at home or abroad, protect your skin with high factor suncream and make sure it’s in date – all our pharmacies have a great range in store, for all kinds of skin, so we’ll have the right product for you. If you’re jetting off for a late summer break, visit us for advice on travel vaccinations and putting together a first aid kit

with all the essentials for a drama-free holiday.

Looking ahead, schools are going back soon which can also mean the return of the hated head lice. Parents and carers dread dealing with the little beasties but we can help make it all a bit more manageable. From treatment to prevention, we’ve got the lot and are happy to talk you through it all (especially if it’s your first time dealing with them). With our help, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

The autumn school term inevitably means more coughs and sneezes for everyone. We can help you out with all the

over-the-counter remedies you might need to get you through those seasonal viruses and bugs – as well as preventative supplements to keep you and yours in good health. It’s also worth considering getting the flu vaccine too. If you’re not eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination or you don’t want to wait for an appointment, we can help. We’ve been specially trained to answer any concerns or questions you might have, and we can administer the vaccination to protect you and your family from this potentially serious virus.

Any final words?

At Lindsay & Gilmour Pharmacy Currie, Balerno

and Juniper Green, we are really passionate about our communities’ health and wellbeing and always keen to hear from you about what we’re doing well or could do better. We learn so much by talking to and getting to know our customers and patients.

We encourage you to come along to your local Lindsay & Gilmour pharmacy to talk to our teams. Whether it’s worries about your health, questions about our services or suggestions, we would love to hear from you. We are proud to be a part of your community and want to do the best we can for everyone in it – and the best way to do that, is to listen to you.

2 Pentland View Court, Currie, EH14 5NP 0131 449 2707 546 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DJ 0131 453 3130 24 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH 0131 449 5477 www.lindsayandgilmour.co.uk www.facebook.com/LindsayGilmourPharmacy BALERNO | 15

HEALTH

Low back pain is incredibly common. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) figures, it affects 619 million people globally and it is estimated that this number will rise to 843 million by 2050, driven by both an increasing population and an older population.

It is the condition for which WHO suggests rehabilitation will benefit the greatest number of people. Knowing what to do to help is really important for recovery. So, what do we know about low back pain (LBP) and what can help?

LBP refers to any pain felt between the lower edge of the ribs and the buttocks. It can affect any age group but is most common between the ages of 50 – 55. It is more common in women than men but will affect most of us at some point in our life. For any given year, about one third of the adult population of the UK will have an episode of low back pain - that means 18.8 million of us!

The good news is that most low back pain, 90% of cases, are non-specific or mechanical low back pain where a muscle, joint or connective tissue has been irritated. Specific low back pain is caused by a particular disease or known structural problem and only accounts for 10% of cases.

Examples would include a known fracture, pain referred from another problem such as a kidney infection, or a cancer.

An episode of back pain can be a frustrating and sometimes scary experience. Suddenly developing pain and muscle spasm that makes moving difficult and going to work impossible is understandably upsetting. The indignity of having to try to lasso your foot with underwear in an attempt to get dressed is not fun and some find that wearing socks 16 | BALERNO

is simply not worth the effort as the pain of bending forwards is too much.

The good news is that 90% of people with non-specific low back pain find that their symptoms settle in 4 – 6 weeks, or even sooner, with self-help treatment methods such as over the counter medication and trying to stay active. WHO recommend physiotherapy to improve muscle strength and advise on appropriate exercises. They also recognise the benefits of local treatment such as massage and spinal mobilisation/ manipulation in helping recovery. Their guidelines point out that the current evidence advises against the use of lumbar braces or supports as limiting movement encourages spinal muscles to weaken. WHO also advise avoiding opiate painkillers as opiates can be associated with overdose, addiction and constipation. In fact, a hot pack has been proved to be more effective for LBP than codeine.

We know that LBP is the leading cause of disability globally. We know that for the majority of cases a specific cause will not be found but LBP still has a huge effect on quality of life for you and your family.

We know that rehabilitation works. Hands on therapy, education and advice, and the appropriate exercises will all make a difference to recovery. Please do let physiotherapy help you.

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

BALERNO | 17

• Hands on physio treatment, exercise & rehabilitation • Acupuncture & Shockwave Therapy • Respiratory & Women’s Health Physio • New Mum MOT • Massage Therapy & Sports Massage • Pilates, Yoga, Strength & Gym Classes • Personal Training & 1:1 Pilates

TONY HARPER’S

HAIR STUDIO

To book an appointment please phone the salon on 0131 451 5133 and leave a message that includes your name, phone number and your stylists name and they will call you back within 48 hours.

Or text Jenny on 07860 222343 Or text Sam on 07749 503946 For nail appointments contact Sam We would like to thank all our regular customers for their ongoing support, and welcome all our new customers. out ourplease daily, weekly & monthly ForCheck updates see our Facebook page deal and posts at tony-harpers-hairstudio and salon windows

18 | BALERNO

46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno

BALERNO | 19

Support for PC’s, Laptops, Wi-Fi, Printers & software.

We can visit your office / home or please drop into our office at Bridge Road to speak to us…. ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Small Business Office 365 Business Email Video Conferencing VOIP Phones Virus Protection Cloud Storage Backup of Data Flexible IT Support

➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Home PC / Laptop Repair SSD Upgrade Virus Removal Data Backup Networking & Wi-Fi Adhoc Support

Call us on 0131 510 9300 or email: info@worx24.co.uk 30-32 Bridge Road, Edinburgh, EH13 0LQ

20 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 21

Sometimes I find a bottle of wine that is so good and such amazing value, I must share it!

unoaked, white wine, with plenty of pear, pineapple, floral and citrus notes on the nose. When you taste the wine, the flavours continue to the palate but the wine has a soft, richer than expected finish that makes this really easy to drink. It’s the perfect wine to pair with summer foods, perhaps grilled fish, shellfish or chicken salads. Not only is this wine delicious, it’s also fantastic value at only £8.99 a bottle.

When I found a bottle of wine from the vineyards around Lake Garda in Lidl, I had to buy it. Vigna Lago from the Lugana region in the Southern banks of Lake Garda is the perfect white wine for the summer. It is an

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

WINE TASTING

Not long after our wedding, my husband and I took a holiday to Lake Garda. It’s a beautiful place, with incredible scenery and food. If you look at my holiday photos, you’ll see the gorgeous lake and dramatic mountains.

Unlike most holiday photos from the area, you’ll also see lots of photos of stainless-steel fermenting tanks and grape presses, I love visiting wineries!

22 | BALERNO

Serve the wine chilled, but not too cold, and take a moment to swirl the glass and pop your nose in, can you smell the pear and pineapple notes? I enjoyed a glass with smoked salmon and cream cheese on sourdough bread, it was perfect!

heather buds, and thistle flowers; a Jacobite Dark Spiced “Outlandish “ Rum; a white Blackness Bay Navy Rum; and Oak Aged Rum. After some hesitation by the authorities, the distillery has recently been granted the trademark “Mary Queen of Scotch “ for its single malt Scotch whisky, which is currently maturing in oak barrels in our cellars.

Blackness Bay Distillery is a newly opened craft business in the oldest building in Blackness on Sea village. We are a family-run business committed to the culture, history and traditions of the area.

The distillery produces whisky and rum in traditional twin copper stills in the time-honoured way, using Scottish malted barley from Alloa to produce single malt, single cask batches of whisky each with its individual characteristics.

Our rums are produced directly from raw sugar cane molasses. These are fermented and distilled adding spices and botanicals to produce a range of rums including Flower of Scotland Pink Rum containing rose petals,

We specialise in unique quirky tours of our distillery culminating if required in a meal at our award-winning pub/restaurant, The Lobster Pot, already well-known for its seafood. Tours include the history of the locality, its Jacobite connections and association with Mary Queen of Scots. Visitors also learn about the history of craft distilling in Scotland and see how it is still conducted lagely unchanged.

Perfect for parties, locals and visitors alike.

Book now at www.blacknessbaydistillery.co.uk Blackness Bay Distillery, Shore Road, Blackness on Sea, Linlithgow, EH49 7NL “Blackness Bay Distillery”

BALERNO | 23

24 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 25

Yesterday one of my Facebook friends wrongly interpreted one of my posts as political. This surprised him as he knows I try really hard not to express my political views or get into discussions about politics on social media platforms. It’s just not a very good idea.

Respectful debate seems to be a thing of the past. And even general conversations about political issues - or anything controversial - appear to be impossible on social media.

SUZANN E GREEN

I

didn’t vote in the recent General Election. Not because I was conflicted about who to vote for, not because I’m apathetic, and not because I don’t value the suffering and sacrifice of my sisters who won me the right to vote.

I didn’t vote because I’m a permanent resident of UK, not a citizen. So I was not allowed to cast a ballot. Funny when you consider that I’ve lived in this country nearly 40 years - worked, paid taxes, raised a family, served in the community...

And yet I can vote in the upcoming US Presidential election. I have that right and responsibility even though I don’t live in the States and my home country is a place I recognise less and less as the years go by.

Watching the major parties in US politics become increasingly polarised has been shocking. I’ve heard their relationship described as tribal. I don’t think things are as blatant here. But that doesn’t mean they can’t go that way - especially if we don’t take care to ensure we are respectful, even when we disagree.

28

BALERNO | AUGUST, 2024

‘Discussions’ on Facebook are actually a series of monologues. One person after another posts a long spiel, their point of view and - in their opinion - the only point of view. Often their comments are disrespectful of anyone who thinks differently. Sometimes they are abusive.

I’ve heard that good conversation is like sitting in a circle and passing a ball from person to person. The one holding the ball has the floor briefly and then they pass it to another person. The people who are not holding the ball listen to the one holding it. They may disagree, but they have the option of doing so in a respectful way. They can even choose to be gracious, ie “I see where you’re coming from there, but I tend to think...’

I’ve always thought of conversation as an opportunity to learn, not just as a platform to assert my own thoughts and views. If you cannot learn through talking with someone, if there is not even the smallest chance that your view about a subject could be enlightened or altered, then you are not getting your money’s worth when it comes to conversing. real LIFE 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 | 29

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

30 | BALERNO

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 BALERNO | 31

32 | BALERNO

boiler cover plans from as little as £13.99 a month

Plumbing Heating Joinery Gas Fitting Maintenance Servicing & Repairs

We can offer 0% finance for your project*

Bathroom Design & Installation Specialists Landlord Gas Safety Checks Boiler Breakdown Cover Tel: 0131 441 7999 Mob: 07738 006 781 E-mail: admin@owengibbandsons.co.uk

34 Bridge Road Colinton, EH13 0LQ

*We are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FRN 947495. We are a credit broker and not a lender.

www.owengibbandsons.co.uk BALERNO | 33

We were photographing foxes a few weeks ago and looking back through the images, it resurfaced a memory from our childhood. We were obsessed with the Animals of Farthing wood, whether it was the book, TV series or magazine, it was a huge deal for us and was probably what really sparked our love for wildlife.

Thinking about the storyline of the book, it somewhat predicted the future and the challenges wildlife has faced because of humans. For those unfamiliar with the premise, it follows a group of animals forced to move from their home, Farthing Wood, because humans were clearing the land to make way for houses. The book tracks their journey as they seek out a new home at a nature reserve called White Deer Park.

Listening back to the theme tune whilst writing this has given me a wonderful sense of nostalgia for when we raced home from school, ready to watch the next episode or devour the next issue of the magazine.

This Vixen in Edinburgh has done incredibly well to raise a beautiful family of four very healthy cubs, despite having a visible limp.

We’ve been back to see them since I took this 34 | BALERNO

shot and the group has nearly doubled in size.

We couldn’t believe it when there were eight or nine foxes charging around, which now included a dog fox aka Dad, we suspect.

Did you know that foxes can retract their claws like a cat? I didn’t. Every day’s a school day!

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian.

Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Follow them on Facebook: @ScottishSistersPhotography

BALERNO | 35

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

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

36 | BALERNO

For all Installations repairs and services

BALERNO | 37

38 | BALERNO

Est. 2005

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

Free estimates.

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

BALERNO | 39

40 | BALERNO

10% OFF!

Quote “Konect” on your initial enquiry for a 10% discount Applies to services supplied by Taylor Roofs and Taylor Solar

BALERNO | 41

The top of Currie’s Kirkgate is the starting point for my foray into the Pentlands today, a westerly morning breeze bringing a welcome coolness to the air as I set off.

I begin by taking the stony track that continues uphill from the end of Kirkgate, following the sign indicating ‘Glencorse Reservoir 2.5M’.

Wildflowers are in joyful abundance by the sides of the path as I ascend, from wild roses in delicate pinks and whites, to tangles of meadow vetchling, swathes of swaying yellow loosestrife, and the exquisite spear-shaped flower clusters of common spotted orchid. This floral spectacle is sound-tracked by cheerful calls of chaffinch, chiff-chaff and yellowhammer.

Gradually, as I near open country, the beeches by the path give way to birch and Scots pine. A small, crystal-clear burn meanders beneath the open canopy to my left. Then, leaving the trees and hedgerows behind, I follow the path over heathland towards Maiden’s Cleuch, traversing what was once the old Malleny Rifle range.

I admire Carnethy Hill’s camouflage colours between the green of Bell’s Hill and the darker slopes of Black Hill.

A skylark, larger than expected when seen close-up, alights on the drystone wall just ahead.

It has a beak jammed full of insects and, despite this mouthful, is calling to its young to come and be fed. It stays close as I pass, parental instinct stronger than the fear of my presence. Soon, the air fills with the sound of larks all around. I see a kestrel speed through the air in the distance, rust-red wings catching the morning sun. It’s not close enough to silence the larks though.

Once over the col at Maiden’s Cleugh, the view opens up south-eastward down the valley to Glencorse Reservoir, with its pine-topped Swallows-and-Amazons island tempting in the distance. A bench by the shore would make a nice lunch stop were it later in the day, but today, just before reaching the reservoir, I turn sharply 42 | BALERNO

left and upslope, following the sign marked ‘Colinton by Bonaly’, heading over Knightfield Rig. Pausing to catch my breath, I turn to look back and am rewarded with a fine vista of the Pentland range, extending from Turnhouse Hill all the way to Scald Law and the Kips.

I continue through the valley between Harbour Hill and Capelaw Hill for a mile or so. On reaching a conifer plantation, I pass through a gate on my left, following the sign to Bonaly.

Emerging from the trees, I find myself by the spillway of Bonaly reservoir - smaller, and a little more windswept in character than Glencorse.

I perch on the concrete parapet and scan around. An angler stands on the far shore, while little grebes and tufted duck dabble and dive amongst rafts of water plants that patchwork the surface. Closer by, a pied wagtail pecks amongst the shingle at the water’s edge and, as I sit contemplating this scene, a female mallard glides in to land in the shallows and begins to waddle up the beach towards me. She is clearly accustomed to taking advantage of the crumbs tossed by the walkers and cyclists who stop here. I make my apologies that I have no such treats this time before setting off on my way again.

Coming over the rise at the northern end of the reservoir, a panoramic view of the city is revealed, which I soak in at leisure during an easy descent down the next section of path.

On reaching the woods above Bonaly car park (another possible starting point for this

walk), I take a left, following the sign for Torduff Reservoir. The root-latticed path leads me along the wood’s southern edge and, on emerging from the trees, I bear left.

Initially, rocky bluffs shield the steep-sided reservoir from view, their southern slopes blushed with the purples of foxgloves and early flowering heather. Then, the sheltered waters of Torduff’s southern reaches come in to view, still and dark below banks of dense bracken and bramble. A burn runs from the higher altitude Clubbidean Reservoir down to Torduff and, with the sound of its gushing falls in my ears, I begin my ascent to the fourth and final reservoir of the day.

The roadway takes me up the northern side of the Clubbiedean dam, beneath power lines that fizz and crackle, before turning left at the little lodge and café to continue along the northern shore. Here, the tranquil Clubbiedean offers up its own host of life.

Three swans are gracefully navigating the calm waters, mature woods their backdrop.

The song of willow warblers fills the air, each phrase beginning purposefully before seeming to drift off in an ever-descending lilting reverie, as if lulled by the very summers days which have brought them north once more. A goldfinch takes an impromptu bath in a puddle and swallows swoop and dive to collect insects over the adjacent fields.

The final leg of this walk is an easy roadside march taking me past the steadings of Easter and Middle Kinleith to arrive back once more where I started. This gives me time to reflect on the four reservoirs, each with its own different attributes and welcoming cast of characters - a little like the human towns which they serve and which we, living nearby, are lucky enough to call home.

Hands for Hire Cleaning Services All areas 7 days a week Weekly, fortnightly or daily Also maintenance, painting and landscaping jobs

Please call for a free quote Local business based in Currie Please contact Carol 07546 714865 handsforhirecleaningservices@gmail.com

The walk offers easy hillwalking along established tracks, paths and roads.

Allow 3.5 – 4 hours.

This article was contributed by William Weir.

William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.

BALERNO | 43

EDUCATION

Has your child recently finished school? Are they applying for university places this year?

Congratulations to the young people (and to their parents)! Finishing High School means completing a very important stage of education and allows you to focus on the future.

If Higher Education is what your child is interested in, now is the time to find out about the application process and allocation of places.

Especially courses which are in high demand, e.g. Computer Science, Mathematics, Medicine, Psychology or Business & Economics are not easy to get into.

The Higher/Advanced Higher results will be published by the SQA on 6 August 2024, but the English AQA and Pearson Edexcel are going to be available from 15 August. This means that Scottish students have a small head start on their English peers.

It is also worth considering that universities are given the results a day or two before they are

made available to students. The simple reason being that the admissions departments are at their busiest time of year in August and the clearing process depends on how many of the conditional offers are being confirmed.

To help a little with the jargon: • Students who already have their final results, e.g. those who finished school a year earlier, might be made “unconditional offers” as there is nothing more they need to add. These students just need to confirm if they accept the offer and they can then sit back and wait for the start of their first semester.

• Students who are still waiting for their results, i.e. most of the applicants, will be given a “conditional offer” based on their predicted grades provided by their schools. The conditional offers will then be converted into “unconditional” if the August results confirm the predicted grades. However, if the published results are not as good as expected, the offers can be withdrawn by the universities. This process frees places for “clearing”.

As an example of typical expectations, the University of Edinburgh standard entry requirements are AAAA in SQA Highers or A*AA in A Levels (39 points with 666 at HL in the International Baccalaureate). A “B” in Advanced Higher is often counted as an “A” in Higher, which is worth remembering!

The Clearing process offers remaining places at universities, which can be applied for on the first come, first served basis. However, it is worth pointing out that not all degree programmes and universities go into Clearing. For example, the MBChB Medicine Programme at Edinburgh University never goes into Clearing as they are oversubscribed every year. This will be similar for other universities and courses with a high level of interest.

How our service, BK Tutoring, can support you: • curriculum-based online tuition in most highdemand school subjects • preparing your personal statement for UCAS applications • understanding the entry requirements for your chosen university and degree programme • UCAT tuition for applicants to Medicine This article was contributed by Dr Beata Kohlbek. Beata runs an online tutoring service. It brings experienced teachers to those pupils who want to get better in their school work, improve their grades or pass exams at a higher level. You can find BK Tutoring here: www.bktutoring.co.uk

44 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 45

AUGUST CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the September edition of Konect

ACROSS: 7. Not moving (6), 8. Conflict (6), 9. Horrible (4), 10. Wrapper for letter (8), 11. Thrift (7), 13. Loosen (5), 15. Type of snake (5), 17. Country dwelling (7), 20. Against the current (8), 21. Certain (4), 23. Cruel (6), 24. Necessary (6).

DOWN: 1. Celestial body (4), 2. Part of a flower (6), 3. Shrieks (7), 4. Higher up (5), 5. Pinched (6), 6. Tossing (8), 12. Hacking (8), 14. Order (7), 16. Keep (6), 18. Examined (6), 19. Fixes (5), 22. Regrets (4).

46 | BALERNO

^^^ Hard sudoku solution on page 49

(HARD*) ^^^ Easy sudoku solution on page 49

AUGUST SUDOKUS (EASY)

* We have added an extra sudoku puzzle this month due to popular demand! Let us know what you think

BALERNO | 47

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

ORIAM WALKING FOOTBALL CLUB - We run a local Walking Football Club, established in 2015, for women aged 40+ and men aged 50+. Our sessions, which are very much mixed ability, take place at Oriam Sports Centre, HeriotWatt University, EH14 4AS, on a Mon, Wed and Fri 12:30-1:30pm.

We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.20 but we do have monthly membership schemes available.

Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@ btinternet.com RATHO LUNCH CLUB - Lunch club for older residents living in Ratho & Ratho Station. Pop in for great company, great food, great value. Run by Queensferry Care, Ratho Lunch Club is held the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month 12-2.00pm at Ratho Community Centre. The Ratho Ravers meet 10.00am-12noon and many enjoy light exercise and company before lunch is served.

PALM DEMENTIA CAFE - The PALM cafe is held on the last Tuesday of the month from 3.004.15pm in the St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno. The cafe serves the communities of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, providing a space for people with dementia and their carers to meet others for support and social contact. Activities include music, movement, reminiscence and craft. A small voluntary donation is requested to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information please contact Clare Dow on claremdow@gmail.com FLAGGY FRIDAYS - Does your child have an interest in flags of the world? Come and join us for Flaggy Fridays! Each week we will focus on a different flag of the world. In just 30 minutes we’ll learn a brief summary of the flag’s history, why a flag has its colours, layout, its old flag(s) then end with a fun quiz!

First class FREE trial. Online Zoom club. Email flaggyfridays@gmail. com to join 48 | BALERNO

ADULT ART CLASSES & SOCIAL - Free taster class!

Learn Art in a relaxed, friendly environment. Based on the drawing theories of Betty Edwards - this class is appropriate for all levels. Our teacher Jane holds a BA from Hallam University with over 25 years experience teaching art, design and photography.

Come develop your core skills and have a cuppa with others who share a love of Art. Thursdays 10.00am-12.00pm, Currie Community Centre 280 Lanark Road West.

W: justvillagesocialevents.co.uk E:nicole@justvillagesocialevents.co.uk THE HUB@531 - Community space in the heart of Juniper Green village, offering regular groups and events and hireable meeting / small event space. Social activities and clubs for all ages, including Come for a Cuppa, Book Bug, Knitting, Yoga and much more. 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE. See hub531.appointedd.com for information and to book activities.

Facebook: “The Hub at 531” BALERNO SWI - We meet on the first Tuesday each month from September to May in Balerno Community Centre at 7:30pm, when we have speakers or demonstrations followed by a cuppa and time to chat. Anyone interested can see more about us on our Facebook page, “Balerno SWI” PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB Come and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 7pm. Table money £3. Less experienced players made very welcome.

For further information see www. bridgewebs.com/pentland/ or email mthjkb@gmail.com ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - St Cuthbert’s Badminton Club was created about 1946.

It meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton. It is non-competitive and meets on Monday evenings at 8.00pm

between September and Easter.

For details, call Archie Clark on 0131 449 4703.

THE MEETING PLACE - A community cafe for those 65 and over and all unpaid carers. Every Monday 10am - 4pm. Lunch £5 if you wish and ALL refreshments free. Free exercise classes, bingo, dominoes, crafting and much more. 99 Forthview Crescent, 42nd Pentland Scout Hall. For info contact themeetingplacejcb@gmail.com BALERNO RAMBLERS WEEKEND GROUP - A busy walking group with a programme of interesting walks in a variety of locations. Some walks may be more challenging than the midweek programme.

W: ramblers.org.uk/balerno; or, facebook.com/Balerno-Ramblers E: enquiries@balernoramblers.org.uk BALERNO RAMBLERS MIDWEEK GROUP - Meet for walks in Lothians, Fife, Borders and further afield. For walk details contact M.Timmins on 07917878955. Follow Balerno Ramblers on Facebook.

BARREFusion - A Barre class with a twist! Elements of Ballet & Yoga. Includes signature Fuse moves, Cardio bursts & Strength work. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or pre-book at www.bookwhen.com/ heidimacdonaldfitness. Fridays 9:15am, Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church. For further details: M: 07982205111 E: heidi.instructor@gmail.com KNIT ‘N’ KNATTER - Ratho Library, Ratho Commuity Centre, Thursdays 2pm to 4pm. Tea & coffee provided. Bring along your wooly creations. Ratho Library 0131 333 5297.

JUNIPER GREEN NURSERY PLAYGROUP - Juniper Green Community Centre. We are a small friendly playgroup with very experienced staff. We take children who are from 2 to 3 years old for morning @KonectMagazines

sessions (9.15-11.15) cost £13 which includes a snack. No parent duties required.

For more information: W: www.junipergreenplaygroup.

JULY CROSSWORD* vpweb.co.uk E: junipergreenplaygroup@ hotmail.co.uk T: 07308O033386 O P S PENTLAND SINGERS O COMMUNITY CHOIR R Rehearsals every Tuesday at W Parish N G R O Church.

7.30pm in Balerno Singing a wide range Y of choral music, with local concerts twice a year, no previous experience required and new members always warmly welcomed.

Actively seeking new members.

Further information: W: www.pentlandsingers.org.uk E:pentland_singers@yahoo.co.uk PENTLAND JUNIOR SINGERS - Rehearsals every Tuesday 6-7pm, Balerno Parish Church. For *SORRY! young people aged 8 to 14. Come and sing a wide of that choral A technical errorarray meant last music in crossword a fun and supportive month’s was printed with the wrong puzzle environment.

Moreboard. information: www.pentlandjuniors.org or email: SOLUTION TO SUDOKU pentlandjuniors@gmail.com

ON PAGE XX CURRIE 65TH

BOYS BRIGADE - Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs 6.00-7.30pm. Company Section (P7-S6) Sun 6.30- 8.30pm Gibson Craig Hall, Currie.

Contact 65edinburghbb@gmail. com or 07730 414371.

RATHO COMMUNITY CENTRE • Gentle Exercise Group, every Thurs from 10am-12 noon • Gentle Exercise Group, every Thurs from 10am-12 noon • 50+ Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm • Book Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept • Knit andforNatter responsibility loss or Group damageThurs caused from 2pm-4pm by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We not endorse any advertisers Tel:doRatho Community Centrein this publication. All material is accepted 0131 333 1055. for publication on the understanding it is JUNIPER GREEN BOARDcopyright free.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without GAMERS - Family andprior kidsconsent of the publisher. friendly board-game group open to all. Come join Publications us to play all Publisher: Lothian Ltd.sorts of board-games.

Children are free Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. with any adult (£3/adut) Meetings every 2ndDesign: Friday 6pm to 9pm Magazine see boardjg.co.uk Alan Stewart Design for details of contact eric@boardjg.co.uk T: 07729 911858 @KonectMagazines

PENTLAND CALEDONIA PIPES AND DRUMS - Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums are looking for new members, players or learners. We teach pipes and drums free. We meet in Balerno Community Centre every Friday 7pm - 9.30pm.

You can find us on Facebook.

For information call Deeanne on 07885 612583.

PILATES, YOGA, STRENGTH & FITNESS CLASSES - at Prime Sports Physio & Pilates Studio & Gym - Our expert physios, Pilates & yoga instructors and personal trainers offer a programme of 22 classes per week to promote wellbeing, health, strength and fitness. We’re delighted to now offer a monthly class membership as well as individual class bookings. Please visit: www.primesportsphysio. co.uk to book classes.

E: hello@primesportsphysio.co.uk for more info.

PARACISE - Gentle to moderate exercise to music you’ll love.

Working on balance, mobility, flexibility & posture. All STANDING. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or pre-book at bookwhen. com/heidimacdonaldfitness Wednesdays 10:45am Balerno Scout Hall - bring water. For further details call Heidi on 07982 205111.

ART CLUB - This club suits children who thrive by being creative and individual. Online learning will focus on technique, pencil work and colour.

Outdoor classes will be a visual appreciation of colour, depth and nature through pencil and other mixed media like watercolours.

We encourage individuality and celebrating being your own true artist. First class is a FREE trial.

E: balernoartclub@gmail.com T: 07591990020 Insta: @everychildisanartist_ TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT. SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

JULY CROSSWORD* O O P S O R W R O N G Y

*SORRY!

A technical error meant that last month’s crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle board.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 46 XX

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

BALERNO | 49