Konect Balerno March 2024

MARCH 2024

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT: CHARITY:

MONEY MATTERS:

PLUS: MONEY MATTERS, HEALTH, puzzles, CLUBS & CLASSES, and MUCH more inside!

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mployment opportunities, volunteering opportunities, social and sports clubs – the March issue of Konect offers a sample of the sort of opportunities we’re lucky to have in abundance in the local area. Spring is the season of hope and opportunity, and as we emerge from winter, whether it’s getting out in nature, clubs and classes to get involved in, organisations helping others and looking for volunteers to do so – there are plenty of ways to enhance our lives, in whatever measure we can manage.

Along with all our regular knowledgeable and entertaining local contributors, there are Spotlight features on some excellent local businesses, and as usual many businesses have exclusive offers and discounts for Konect readers, so check their adverts and remember to mention Konect when you contact them.

Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

P22 Charity: Volunteering for Seagull Trust Cruises.....................................................................9 Health: Trigger Finger....................................... 16 Spotlight: From inspiration to installation..... 22 Wine: International Riesling Day.................... 28 Local Environment: Eyes to the Skies.......... 34 Money Matters: Inheritance Tax Blues....... 38 realLIFE................................................................ 40 Puzzles.................................................................. 42 What’s On............................................................. 42 Clubs & Classes...........................................44-45 Entertainment: Vindication Swim................... 46

COVER IMAGE: Are you looking for a rewarding volunteering opportunity? (p9)

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

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

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Seagull Trust at Ratho are also proposing some TASTER SESSIONS CRUISES for those thinking about volunteering, but not too sure if it’s really for them. If you are interested in putting your toe in the water (not literally) give Stuart a call on 07847 611398. He will be delighted to hear from you.

Looking for a new rewarding

volunteering opportunity in 2024?

Seagull Trust Cruises, who run free canal cruises for the elderly, infirm and those with special needs are looking for new volunteers at their Ratho base.

The charity runs more than 2000 cruises per annum from four bases in Scotland (Ratho, Falkirk, Kirkintilloch & Inverness), regularly taking around 22,000 passengers onto our canals for short morning or afternoon cruises.

Many of these cruises run from Ratho, where Seagull have three specially designed wheelchair-friendly boats operating 7 days a week in the summer. But many of the volunteers only give one day, or even just one morning, each week, so the amount of time you want to give is entirely up to you.

Volunteering with Seagull can cover a variety of roles depending on your interests. Whether you want to get involved with running the boats (no experience needed as full training is given), or simply wish to help host our passengers by talking with them over a cup of tea, there is much to do alongside our existing team of some 90+ Ratho volunteers. You may have an interest in maintenance, engineering, or be a wizard at wielding a paintbrush; you may have an interest in admin, or want to work from home in your own time. No matter your interest there will be a role for you at Seagull Trust Cruises.

Among the benefits that getting involved brings to the volunteers, experiencing the enjoyment that our passengers get from their

cruise is exceptionally heart-warming. As one care home operator says:

“Over the years, we have been on many trips with Seagull Trust Cruises and quite simply, the trips are brilliant.

“The residents love it and the volunteers are so lovely and so helpful. We value the work that Seagull Trust Cruises does because the trips are memorable for our residents and are frequently and fondly talked about.”

Stuart Rennie, Chairman at Seagull Ratho, has been volunteering on the Union Canal for over 15 years, and highlights that the canal is a community of its very own. Everyone you pass on the tow path smiles or waves as you travel past at a leisurely 4 mph. It really is an opportunity to slow down from today’s hectic lifestyle, while bringing a bit of enjoyment to the passengers and their carers alike.

If you would like get involved, or to know more about volunteering with Seagull Trust Cruises, have a look at their website at www.seagulltrust.org.uk or email RathoVolunteer@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk This article was contributed by the Seagull Trust Cruises, a charity registered in Scotland SC013757.

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HEALTH

What can be done to help a Trigger Finger or Thumb?

A Trigger Finger is a painful condition that can really affect what we are able to do. I remember an anatomy Professor explaining years ago that, as far as function is concerned, the thumb is half the hand and that the thumb and index finger are 90%.

Anyone with a Trigger Finger or thumb will agree – activities can be really difficult when you cannot reliably bend or straighten a finger. So, what causes this condition, also known as Stenosing Tenosynovitis, and how can we treat it?

We have long tendons that attach the muscles in our forearms to the bones in our fingers so that we can bend or straighten every joint in our hand. These tendons are long cords that run through a protective sheath. If the tendon becomes irritated or damaged it can form a nodule which catches on the sheath, instead of gliding smoothly with movement. The catching or clicking sensation you get with a Trigger Finger is caused by a nodule in the flexor tendon getting caught in the sheath. This can make it difficult to bend and straighten your finger and they may even get stuck in a bent position. The nodule in the tendon may suddenly break free, releasing the finger, like the release of a trigger, so that the finger will straighten. You may be able to feel a sore lump in the palm of your hand

at the base of the affected finger which is the nodule in the tendon.

This condition is most common between the ages of 40 - 60 and affects more women than men. People with some health conditions like Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis and low Thyroid levels can be more prone to developing a Trigger Finger. You may also be more prone to developing this if your job involves repetitive finger and thumb movements such as musicians, farmers and industrial workers.

It can be seen in children, often between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, affecting their ability to straighten their thumb. In the case of children, it is rarely painful and often will get better on its own.

A Trigger Finger in adults may get better on its own with rest and medication such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Physiotherapy advice on the appropriate stretches and strengthening exercises will help the tendon settle and manipulation / massage will help any hand stiffness recover also. Splinting the affected finger at night time can help reduce pain and rest the tendon.

If these measures do not help then a steroid injection can be beneficial with a success rate of 75%. If one injection does not quite clear the condition, another can be given. Sometimes though, surgery is needed to remove the nodule and allow the affected finger or thumb to move properly again.

A Trigger Finger can be a real nuisance – we need our fingers for so many activities in daily life. It is well worth seeking help – there is much that can be done.

The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk 16 | BALERNO

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FROM INSPIRATION TO INSTALLATION: KITCHEN RENOVATION

Are you planning to renovate your kitchen this year? For many of us, entertaining over Christmas and other holiday periods focuses the mind on what we’d like to improve. And no room does this more than the kitchen!

Before you race off to spend hours looking at kitchen showrooms, local kitchen and home designer, Sarah Maguire of Raison Home, shares her advice on the top 3 things you need to think about first: 1. Fix the flow - Make sure your room works for your needs. Look at the doorways, the sightlines, the routes through and consider what needs to change. Sometimes it can be an easy fix, such as changing the direction or type of door. Other times it can be more fundamental and you may want to consult an architect to help solve the problem areas.

As a professional kitchen designer, I work with clients in their own homes rather than a show room. This allows us to chat through their unique space and how it is used, understand any technical or layout challenges, and agree on the best use of the space. Often clients have decided to remove a wall to open the space, or to swap the kitchen and living rooms to optimise the flow and light. Sometimes it’s changing a window or taking out a door to make the flow of the space work so much better.

2. Get some inspiration - Pinterest and social media are great sources of inspiration but the most popular pictures will be the most fashionable. If you want to create a timeless kitchen space then be careful of trends in the

hard finishes (floors, cabinet colours, worktops).

These hard finishes are the most expensive and difficult to change. Bring the trends in areas that can be changed and updated as the years go, such as cabinet handles, lighting, and accessories. This does not mean your space needs to be neutral or boring.

There are so many ways to bring personality and interest into your space. I love advising clients on the small details that make their design unique and reflective of their own character and style. For some inspiration, follow my social media @RaisonHomeEdinburgh 3. Know your Budget - Let’s face it, life is full of compromises, and you need to know your budget to be able to make good choices.

If your budget is very tight for a kitchen renovation, it’s better to spend it on the best quality cabinets and hard finishes rather than very expensive high-end appliances. You won’t want to replace your cabinets after only a few years, while upgrading appliances later is much easier and will help you manage your budget now.

If you’re looking for a hands-on and passionate designer to guide you through your kitchen project, Sarah would love to help.

She offers an end-to-end kitchen renovation service, from inspiration to installation.

To hear more, contact Sarah at Sarah.Maguire@ RaisonHome.com or visit raisonhome.com/en-gb/ to book a design consultation.

This article was contributed by Raison Home Edinburgh. Contact Sarah Maguire at edinburgh@raisonhome.com for more information.

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WINE TASTING

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Mark your diary, the 13th March is ‘International Riesling Day’! Riesling is a white grape variety that’s been grown in Germany for hundreds of years. The variety has taken root very successfully in Australia, New Zealand, France, Austria and the USA. There are many incredible and contrasting styles of Riesling to try with the best in the world coming from the Mosel River region in Germany. Here the vines are grown on the inhospitably steep south facing slate hills where the vines are warmed by the late afternoon sun.

Rieslings produced in the Clare and Eden Valley in Australia tend to be dry while German Pradikat Rieslings are sweet. They also express an amazing range of sensations in your mouth, dry Rieslings can be austere and dry and while others rich and oily.

Riesling will always be high in acidity making it great for pairing with food.

One of the incredible things about German Riesling is its longevity. The wine if carefully stored can last for decades. When I started to learn about wine tasting, I tried a 20 year old bottle. I wasn’t sure what to expect, I certainly didn’t expect the strong diesel aroma and taste! The fresh lime and citrus found in a young Riesling had faded and the wine matured into an oily and characterful wine. I have to admit, I didn’t especially enjoy the wine but it was a really interesting and memorable experience!

Try a young Riesling, look for fruit flavours like nectarine, apple and pear. Beyond the primary fruits you might notice honeycomb, jasmine and maybe a hint of diesel!

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 28 | BALERNO

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Eyes to the skies It’s the time of year when most birdwatchers are keeping their eyes and ears out for our returning migrants. One of the most eagerly anticipated (apart from puffins) is the osprey.

This was taken in the Trossachs but there are birds in the Lothians too. After over wintering in Spain, Portgual, and Africa, they undertake the long journey back to the UK to breed, usually around mid March.

Designed for fishing, they have an oily plumage which helps prevent them from being waterlogged. They have zygodactyl feet and their toes form the shape of an X, able to swing back and forth and line up with either the back or front set of toes as needed. They make best use of this once they’ve got a fish in their talons to make their grip more secure, they also turn said fish so it’s positioned head first which helps with aerodynamics.

Following years of persecution, predominantly through illegal egg collection, the osprey bounced back from the brink of extinction.

If you’re looking to spot one, they’re fairly 34 | BALERNO

widespread over the country and I’ve seen one at Threipmuir Reservoir. They look very gull like when in flight but once you see their size in comparison, you won’t make that mistake again. They’re our 3rd biggest bird of prey, only smaller than the golden or white tailed eagles. I’m already counting down the days until these majestic birds are back for the summer (hopefully they bring some sunshine too!).

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

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MONEY MATTERS

I presume you have read and acted on my last month article and now have ‘excess’ money which may be liable to Inheritance Tax (IHT) at 40%.

They say that nothing is certain but death and taxes – however with some planning you can keep your heirs’ inheritance tax bill to a minimum.

IHT is paid at 40% on the assets you have at date of death over £325,000 (your personal pension is not included). Married couples can double this to £650,000.

If you leave your residential property to a direct descendant eg. child or grandchild, there is an additional £175,000 and for married couples £350,000, hence no IHT on estates up to £1,000,000.

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You can gift any amount, and provided you live seven years then the gift is outside your estate.

However, many people do not like this solution as they are worried they may need the money, for example for care home fees.

A better solution maybe to use what is called ‘Normal Expenditure Out of Income’. This means you can gift a regular amount and it is exempt.

There are three conditions that must be met: • The gift is made out of income • The giftor must have enough income left to maintain their standard of living.

• The gift is part of the giftor’s normal expenditure.

Personal Money Management has a “Checklist to pass on your assets.” A free copy is available, please email: info@personal.co.uk The Money Matters column is contributed by Personal Money Management. This month’s article is by Dr Peter M Marshall.

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SUZANN E GREEN

R

ecently my husband and I were visiting his parents for the weekend and I took my mum-in-law out for lunch. She suggested a pub she’d been to before, so off we went.

As we entered, I noticed big TV screens dotted about the place where (mostly) men were watching the football. We probably should have left then, but we followed the barman to the restaurant area (a large, empty, cold room.

“I thought you’d been here before,” I said to Mum. “Oh yes, I have – but that was about 40 years ago.”

Despite being told when we booked that we could get a light lunch there, nothing on the menu quite fit that description. In the end we went for the ‘three bar snacks to share’ option: mini tacos, spicy chicken wings and nachos.

The wings were good, the mini tacos were passable. The nachos were … dire. Tortilla chips, spread out in a shallow pottery dish – maybe to give the illusion they had been in the oven – topped with large chunks of spring onion and cold artificial cheese sauce. And yet when the barman asked if all was OK, I did

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the British thing and said, “Yes, thanks.”

I told Mum what nachos are meant to be like and said it would have been better to have a bag of plain tortilla chips than what we’d been given.

She said, “Well, I’m not saying anything.” And I probably wouldn’t have either. Except, when I asked for the bill, the barman asked me again, “Was everything all right?”

“Can I be honest about the nachos?” He sorted of nodded, so I continued, “They were really disappointing – I’ve had better nachos at the cinema. They use that artificial cheese sauce too, but at least it’s warm.

“You know, it’s not that difficult to make nachos.

You just top some tortilla chips with grated cheese, add some chopped tomatoes, onions and jalapeños and put them in the oven. To make them more special you can spread the chips with refried beans before adding the toppings and baking.”

He listened to me and said he’d have a word with the chef. A few minutes later he came back with the bill. I announced to Mum that they weren’t charging us for the nachos.

That, of course, was the right response from the pub. But it never would have happened if I hadn’t spoken up. It helps that I was raised in a country where it’s normal to express your dissatisfaction, as well as your praise, for goods or services you pay for. How else are you going to encourage good customer service?

According to The Institute of Customer Service (ICS), customer satisfaction is at its lowest level since 2015 – and falling at the fastest pace on record.

Is anyone surprised? I’m not. I bought a large kitchen appliance recently and chased four different staff members around the showroom before one served me. He tried to avoid making eye contact with me.

But I won. 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.

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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

MARCH CROSSWORD

SATURDAY 9TH MARCH Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm.

SATURDAY 9TH MARCH Mini Figure Painting - Drop in and join Juniper Green Board Gamers who will be running an afternoon of mini figure painting at the Hub, 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DJ. 1.00pm - 5.00pm Ideal for high school age and older. Ffree of charge but you are welcome to make a donation to support the Hub. Book at hub531.appointedd.com or by email hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com SATURDAY 16TH MARCH Charity Crafters Pop Up Sale - Currie Library, 10.30am and 2.00pm. Proceeds of sale go to local good causes.

SATURDAY 30TH MARCH Redhall Spring Hop - Family fun day, entry by donation. Cafe/home baking, garden tours and masterclass, spud & spoon race, crafts for kids, raffle, plant sale. 1.00pm 4.00pm. Proceeds in aid of Scottish Association for Mental Health. Redhall Walled Garden, 97 Lanark Road, EH14 2LZ.

^^^ Solution in the April edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Tidy (4), 3. Uneducated (8), 9. Not man-made (7), 10. Tummy button (5), 11. Premature (5), 12. Pacific and Atlantic (6), 14. Stitching (6), 16. Not present (6), 19. Vegetable (6), 21. Big cat (5), 24. Heartbeat (5), 25. Frightened (7), 26. Less than twenty (8), 27. Second-hand (4).

DOWN: 1. Rubbish (8), 2. Performer (5), 4. Faster than canter (6), 5. 28grams approx. (5), 6. Move forwards (7), 7. Cash register (4), 8. Used for drawing (6), 13. Surprised (8), 15. Made from fleece (7), 17. Double-cross (6), 18. Hot beverage (6), 20. Representative (5), 22. Presents (5), 23. Unlocked (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 45

MARCH SUDOKU

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PENTLAND PROBUS CLUB EVENTS All meets are in Juniper Green Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road 10.00am - 12noon. New members welcome.

Further details from our Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk • WED 6TH MARCH - “The Nelson Monument and Calton Hill Curiosities”, an illustrated talk by Jackie Sangster.

• WED 7TH FEBRUARY - “The Shetland Bus”, an illustrated talk by Kay Hay. • WED 20TH MARCH - “Prostate Scotland - Current Projects,” an illustrated talk by Elaine Stewart.

• WED 3RD APRIL - “Pirate Radio,” an illustrated talk by James Gentles WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ADD SOLUTION DETAILS ISSUE.

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

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 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 44 | BALERNO

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 mid-week programme.

W: www.ramblers.org.uk/balerno; or, www.facebook/BalernoRamblers 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 Juniper Green Scout Hall (nr Sainsburys). 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 sessions (9.15-11.15) cost £13 which includes a snack. No parent duties required. For more information: W: www.junipergreenplaygroup. vpweb.co.uk E: junipergreenplaygroup@ hotmail.co.uk T: 07308 033386 PENTLAND SINGERS COMMUNITY CHOIR Rehearsals every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Balerno Parish Church. Singing a wide range 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 young people aged 8 to 14. Come and sing a wide array of choral @KonectMagazines

music in a fun and supportive environment.

More information: www. pentlandjuniors.org or email: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com

a monthly class membership as well as individual class bookings. Please visit: www.primesportsphysio.co.uk SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY to book classes. Email: hello@ primesportsphysio.co.uk for CURRIE 65TH BOYS CROSSWORD more info.

BRIGADE - Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section PiYo - A fusion of Yoga & (P4-6) Thurs 6.00-7.30pm.

Pilates & Non-stop movement.

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Strength, Flexibility. Working Contact 65edinburghbb@ gmail.com or 07730 414371. towards a stronger you. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) RATHO COMMUNITY or pre-book at bookwhen.

CENTRE com/heidimacdonaldfitness • Gentle Exercise Group, Tuesdays 9am Balerno Scout every Thurs from 10am-12 Hall - bring a mat & water. For noon further details call Heidi on • Gentle Exercise Group, 07982 205111 every Thurs from 10am-12 ACROSS: noon1. Perhaps, 5. Cycle, 8. Shampoo, PARACISE - Gentle to 9. • Exact, Extra, 11.

Kitchen, 12.Wed Honest, 50+10.Group alternate moderate exercise to music 14. Glides, Raisins, 19. Noble, 22. Olive, from 17.

2pm-4pm you’ll love. Working on balance, 23.•Elegant, 24.

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Book Group alternate Wed mobility, flexibility & posture.

DOWN: 1. Piste, 2 .Roast, 3. Appears, from 2pm-4pm 4. Shocks, 5. Chest, 6. Crashed, 7. Extends, • Knit and Natter Group Thurs All STANDING. Drop-in 12. Harbour, 13. Noisier, 15. Lenient, (contactless payments taken) from 2pm-4pm 16. Asleep, 18. Ideal, 20. Brash, 21. Enter. or pre-book at bookwhen.

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Wednesdays 10:45am Balerno ON PAGE XX BOARDJUNIPER GREEN Scout Hall - bring water. For GAMERS - Family and kids further details call Heidi on friendly board-game group 07982 205111. open to all. Come join us to play all sorts of board-games.

ART CLUB - This club suits Children are free with any adult children who thrive by being (£3/adut) Meetings every 2nd creative and individual.

Friday 6pm to 9pm see boardjg. Online learning will focus on co.uk for details of contact eric@ technique, pencil work and boardjg.co.uk colour. Outdoor classes will be PENTLAND CALEDONIA a visual appreciation of colour, PIPES AND DRUMS - Pentland depth and nature through pencil Caledonia Pipes and Drums and other mixed media like are looking for new members, watercolours. We encourage players or learners. We teach individuality and celebrating pipes and drums free. We meet being your own true artist. First in Balerno Community Centre class is a FREE trial. every Friday - 9.30pm.

Disclaimer: The7pm publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused E: balernoartclub@gmail.com You can find us on Facebook. by in the printing of Deeanne an advertisement.

Forerror information call on T: 07591990020 We do not endorse any advertisers in 07885 612583.

Insta: @everychildisanartist_ this publication. All material is accepted PILATES, STRENGTH for publicationYOGA, on the understanding it is To include your Club or copyright free. No part of this publication & FITNESS CLASSES - at may be reproduced without prior Prime Sports Physio & consent of Class, please email details, the publisher. up to 75 words, to Pilates Studio & Gym - Our editor@konect.scot expert physios, Pilates & yoga Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, instructors and personal trainers Not-for-profit groups are West EH54 6GU.of 22 classes offerLothian a programme FREE. There is a small per weekDesign: to promote wellbeing, Magazine charge for businesses. See health, strength Alan Stewart Designand fitness. konect.scot for information.

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ACROSS: 1. Perhaps, 5. Cycle, 8. Shampoo, 9. Exact, 10. Extra, 11. Kitchen, 12. Honest, 14. Glides, 17. Raisins, 19. Noble, 22. Olive, 23. Elegant, 24. Rural, 25. Pitcher.

DOWN: 1. Piste, 2 .Roast, 3. Appears, 4. Shocks, 5. Chest, 6. Crashed, 7. Extends, 12. Harbour, 13. Noisier, 15. Lenient, 16. Asleep, 18. Ideal, 20. Brash, 21. Enter.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 42

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BALERNO | 45

ENTERTAINMENT

Pioneering swimmer, Mercedes Gleitze, returns to Edinburgh in a new film almost a century after her incredible endurance swim here.

Mercedes Gleitze is a name that has been largely lost to history, but she was the first British woman to swim the English Channel, and was the first person to complete many other incredible swims around the world, including the Straits of Gibraltar, the Dardanelles, and the distance between Robben Island and Cape Town.

In 1929, she tackled the Firth of Forth, completing an incredible swim from Gullane to Dysart, swimming non-stop for 11 hours 22 minutes. The following year, she was back in Edinburgh to showcase her remarkable endurance skills at the iconic Infirmary Street Baths (now Dovecot Studios), swimming for an astonishing 26 hours straight in front of 7,000 spectators.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, a new biopic Vindication Swim opens in cinemas across the UK on the 8th March. The film depicts Mercedes’ struggle in overcoming both the cold waters of the English Channel and the oppressive society of 1920s England.

However, after a rival comes forward claiming to have

46 | BALERNO

accomplished the same feat, Mercedes is forced into battle to retain her record and her legacy.

Written and directed by award-winning filmmaker Elliott Hasler, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of a woman who dared to dream beyond the confines of her era. The film’s release on the 8th March invites Edinburgh residents to join the nationwide audience in commemorating International Women’s Day while paying homage to a local connection that shaped Gleitze’s remarkable legacy.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a sports fan, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Vindication Swim promises a cinematic experience that celebrates not only the achievements of Mercedes Gleitze, but also the collective strength and determination of women who have left an indelible mark on our world.

Details for screenings can be found at vindicationswimfilm.com or @vindicationswimfilm on social media

Whilst a swim across the Forth is beyond the reach of most, those who fancy a dip in the Firth of Forth can do so in the company of members of the West Lothian Dippers. The group offers the chance to connect with local swimmers, share and recommend good areas to swim and make swim friends. They say, “We love taking new folk into the water safely. Over the years we’ve watched many new swimmers progress in confidence. We’re such a welcoming community and always have fun together.

We’re so lucky having great swim spots accessible to us. The Forth is a great spot with the views of the bridges. It is an estuary though with lots going on so tides and currents are always assessed first. Everyone knows the benefits of cold water swimming, but we get to see it first hand with our Dippers. New members are always welcome.

Everyone swims at their own risk.” Find them on facebook @West Lothian Dippers This article was contributed by Relsah Films, with additional local information from West Lothian Dippers.