Balerno Konect Sept14

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SEPTEMBER 2014

WIN!

A Nikon d3200 or Canon IXUS150!

Bathgate Photography competition

FEATURES

Three boats-a-sailing The Seagull Trust, Ratho

Village People: Jenny Robertson Do you know the story of Wojtek, the war hero bear?

Juniper Green Farmers Market

S& OFFER ERS H C U O V cal from lo ses s e busin

New venue plus local businesses, community information and more!

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton & Ratho

Message Contents from the Editor Features

Local live music The Seagull Trust Juniper Green Farmer's Market

8 22 56

Regulars

The three red boats on the Union Canal at Ratho are a familiar site to anyone who lives or works near the canal or uses it for leisure. They are owned by the Seagull Trust and we found out more about the work of the charity this month. They are always in need of volunteers, see the article on page 22 and get in touch with them if you can help.

Juniper Green Farmers Market moves to a new venue this month, see the article on page 56 for details.

Enterprising Bathgate and BG Photography have teamed up to organise a photography competition with fantastic prizes for snaps which capture “Bathgate Life.� So head across to Bathgate with your camera, whether for work, visiting family/friends or shopping and see page 11 for competition details.

Our regular walk feature, Thought for the Month, Village People, Money Matters and other columns are all here this month as well as various updates on local life. Remember if you're involved in a community group or not-for-profit club locally, details can be listed free of charge in the back of Konect. See page 69 for details.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638

Village People 32 Money Matters 38 Thought for the Month 41 Walk 44 Recipe 54

Competitions and Puzzles Bathgate Photography Competition 11 Crossword and Sudoku 48 Kids Puzzles 64

Community What's on Useful Information Clubs & Classes

62 62 66 Index of Advertisers 70

Advertising enquiries Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print

www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory @KonectDirectory The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho.

Copies are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Front cover image: Seagull Trust, Ratho

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

SEPTEMBER SALE AT

RICCARTON GARDEN CENTRE

25% OFF

All shrubs, trees and ceramic pots

Autumn bedding packs (pansies, violas &

primroses) RRP £3.29 4 BOXES FOR £10

COFFEE SHOP

2 FULL SCOTTISH BREAKFASTS FOR THE PRICE OF 1 (Mon-Fri 9.15-11.30am) 0131 449 4004

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

Beginners Yoga Classes

The perfect way to help you relax, improve your posture and flexibility and much more.

No experience needed (18+) -­‐ £6 per class

Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall Currie Wednesday 7.45pm Pentland Scouts Hall Currie Wednesday 2pm at Juniper Green Village Hall

Any questions please contact Monica Tel: 07986600432 Email: karmayoga@btinternet.com 4 konect

MORNINGSIDE, PENTLAND, COLINTON AND NOW BALERNO T: 0131 441 4581 E: morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk

ACTIVE BEGINNINGS Clifton Hall School Nursery for children aged 3-5 years old

Take advantage of the Pre-School Partnership Grant of £2,100 per year, currently available towards Nursery Fees

Open Day Friday 17th October 1-3pm

Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LQ • Tel: 0131 333 1359 • office@cliftonhall.org.uk • www.cliftonhall.org.uk konect 5

SPECIAL OFFER THIS AUTUMN

10% OFF

ALL MECHANICAL WORK £5 OFF ANY TYRE MOT & INTERIM SERVICE FROM £85

SCOTLAND GARAGE OF THE YEAR 2013

Offer valid until 31st March 2015

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

MOT LOWEST PRICES THROUGH EDINBURGH Servicing AND THE LOTHIANS Tyres GIVE US A CALL ON: Brakes 0131 346 0737 Suspension/Steering Exhaust WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE THAT’S OUR GUARANTEE Clutch repairs 68 Stevenson Road, Edinburgh, EH11 2SG D&G Autocare Livingston Tel: 01506 444595

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A school built giving on

Open Morning

Saturday, 27 September 2014 9.45am – 1.00pm Presentation in the School Hall at 10.00am Crèche available from 9.45am – 12.30pm George Heriot’s provides an all through co-education. We give each individual child a safe, positive, caring environment to thrive academically, on a personal level and through our vast range of extra curricular activities. We’re proud to welcome children from all walks of life. Foundation, Bursary and Scholarship places are available.

For further information please contact the Admissions Office: t: 0131 229 7263 e: admissions@george-heriots.com www.george-heriots.com

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Feature

Local Live Music There's nothing quite like the atmosphere at a live music gig. Of course we're lucky to live close enough to a major city to be able to go to whatever style of gig we like. But don't overlook what there is right here in the villages - a couple of venues locally host live music each month Grey Horse, Balerno Andy Chung (Scottish Folk music) once a month and Maid of the Forth Stompers (jazz) once a month. September dates are: Andy Chung Sunday 14th Sept from 4pm Maid of the Forth Stompers Sunday 21st September 3.00 - 5.30pm (Live jazz) The Grey Horse also hosts the “Tuesday Club”, an open folk music session on the first Tuesday of every month held by Balerno Folk Club.

Andy Chung Tanners, Juniper Green Two regular bands, the Applebeggars (Sept date to be confirmed) and Rocka Hillybillies September date is Saturday 20th from 8pm.

West Lothian has an active music scene with many home-grown bands, and pubs hosting live music. Howden Park Centre is dedicated to music and theatre with a varied programme. It underwent a major redevelopment just over 5 years ago and now boasts a 296 seat auditorium, multifunction spaces and a new bar/bistro. See their advert for upcoming events.

20 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH

www.paulschineseexpress.co.uk

LIVE MUSIC

Sunday 14th September

Andy Chung 4pm

Sunday 21st September

Maid of the Forth Stompers 3-5.30 pm Runner-Up FREE ADMISSION

0131 449 2888

2014

20 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH 8 konect

Closed for major refurbishment RE-OPENING SOON NEW MENUS:

CHINESE BUFFET SUNDAY ROAST STEAK NIGHT BAR MEALS KIDS MEALS FAMILY FRIENDLY

WATCH OUT FOR OUR ALL NEW RESTAURANT

OPENING SOON

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SEASON HIGHLIGHTS * September 3 | THEATRE | Wendy Hoose 6 | MUSIC | The Simon & Garfunkel Story 11 | MUSIC | Beverley Craven 13 | MUSIC | Johnny Cash Roadshow 14 | THEATRE | On Our Way To Lisbon 18 | MUSIC | Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham 26 | MAGIC | Paul Daniels & Debbie McGee 27 | MUSIC | Brenda Cochrane

October 5 | MUSIC | Bay City Rollers - Starring Les McKeown 12 | MUSIC | Home Grown - showcasing new local talent: Yvonne Hastie + Andy Robertson 18 | THEATRE | Old Macdonald Had A Farm 22 | THEATRE | Dirty Dusting 24 | COMEDY | Daniel Sloss - Really..?!

25 | MUSIC | The Music of the Hollies

October continued...

26 | FAMILY FUN | Halloween Disco 31 | THEATRE | The Moonlit Road and other Ghostly Tales

November 15 | MUSIC | Dancing Queen The Show 22 | MUSIC | Oxana Lesnichaya - Russian Bolshoi 23 | MUSIC | Sarah McQuaid

December 12-28 | THEATRE | Cinderella 19 | MUSIC | Festive Brass with Whitburn Band 20 | MUSIC | Jazz on a Christmas Evening 30 | MUSIC | Skerryvore 30 | PARTY | Nicht Afore Ceilidh 31 | PARTY | Hogmanay Party Ceilidh January 4-6 | THEATRE | The Singing Kettle

* Community performances, dance classes, talks and art workshops also available.

Howden Park Centre, Livingston

West Lothian, EH54 6AE 4 Star Arts Centre - parkland setting, art gallery and bar/bistro.

Box Office: 01506 777666 howdenparkcentre.co.uk konect 9

They like to encourage original musicians (non tributes) and have a “Home Grown” concert programme which showcases up and coming local talented performers.

DreadnoughtRock in Bathgate is the only venue set up as a dedicated music venue in West Lothian with a permanent stage and inhouse sound system. Every Friday and Saturday nights they host live music – and it's no small undertaking to put on up to three bands on two consecutive nights. Manager Alan has been in the nightclub scene for 18 years and reckons he has a good feel for what does and doesn't work.

He lists some of the bands that perform regularly here - The King Lot, COhoLiC, The Black Lights, The Amorettes, Penfold and more.

“We have our regular bands, and we also like to give space to lesser known or new bands. We realise it can be hard for a new band to break through and get a gig, and we often put them in with a couple of better-known bands. It's a balance between using popular bands who have a good following, which is essential for us

as a business, and keeping things fresh by getting different acts in,” Alan explains.

Liam Corbett of the Livingston band The Begbies (www.facebook.com/thebegbies) knows all about chasing gigs, although now they are well-established with a large following and lucky enough to play regularly. “We've played pretty much everywhere there is to play locally,” says Liam, reeling off the names: Club Earth, Da Vinci's, The Harvester, The Tower, Paraffin Lamp, HMV Livingston, Chalmers, Foundry Bathgate, Dreadnought...” The Harvie is their “home” pub, where they play most often.

“That's where we started, it has always been really supportive and is usually packed when we play there. When we had a gig at King Tut's [Glasgow] the other week we took 110 people with us from Livi! A couple of buses. We actually tend to play in Edinburgh or Glasgow more often than locally.”

So what can people expect when they go to one of their gigs? “Chaos!” says Liam. “Really, there's always a great atmosphere, you never know what's going to happen!”

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Are you an amateur photographer or a photography enthusiast?

ETI T

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If so, then this is the competition for you!

Enterprising Bathgate in conjunction with BG Photography have organised a competition entitled ‘Bathgate Life’.

Photographers of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels are invited to enter.

Theme:

Bathgate Life – Capture an image you think depicts a small piece of Life in Bathgate, its architecture, landscape, history, residents, work or play.

Categories:

Up to 16 years of age and over 16 years of age.

PRIZES

The winner in each category receives a Nikon d3200 camera The runner-up in each category receives a Canon IXUS 150

So go on grab your camera and start shooting!!!!

Entries must be submitted by 31st October 2014 Full details of the competition, how to submit your entry + terms and conditions can be found on the Enterprising Bathgate website www.enterprisingbathgate.com or pop in to BG Photography, George Street, Bathgate. konect 11

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konect 15

Bifold Doors: The new kid on the block

by ekco

The beauty of fitting bifold doors as opposed to standard patio doors is the sense of freedom they give. To illustrate the point for all DIY enthusiasts out there, imagine poring over the most up to date power drill in your local hardware store.

You know the one. It has a high torque ratio, 10 different speeds and an ergonomically designed grip – real value for money.

elephant in the room. Scotland isn’t as warm as some other countries. But of course you knew that already. The good news is that bifold doors have a thermal efficiency rating which far exceeds UK building standards so they’ll keep you cool in summer and toasty warm in winter. And, don’t forget that by saving energy, you’ll be doing your bit for the planet too.

However, it’s not actually the drill itself you really need is it? What you’re really looking for is a hole!

Likewise with bifold doors what you actually get as an end result is the abundance of fresh air and open space not possible with sliding patio doors.

However, there are many more benefits to be had and these are just some of the reasons why bifold doors are becoming so popular.

Safety first. This is a great feature for those with small children. Bifold doors are fitted with safety seals between the doors which keeps little fingers out. Pity we couldn’t fit them on the biscuit tin!

Panoramic, uninterrupted view. There’s not much fun in gazing out of your open patio doors onto a perfectly manicured lawn, only to have a barrier run vertically from the top frame to the bottom. With bifold doors you can have a totally clear view of the garden and see how all your hard work has paid off Easy to open and close. I don’t know about you but we’ve found after a few years that most patio doors start to resist being opened. It’s as if they feel they’ve done their bit and quite simply can’t be bothered any more. Bifold doors have a unique gliding system which means they’ll be as effortless to open in twenty years as they are now.

Exceptionally warm. It’s time to get rid of the

16 konect

Safe as houses. Bifold doors have an 8-point locking system they meet Police ‘Secured by Design’ standards. No more sneaking in the back door after a night out to avoid bumping into the neighbours.

Minimal maintenance. As they’re made from aluminium bifold doors require virtually no maintenance and will be in tip-top condition for years to come which is why they come with a 20 year guarantee.

Huge colour choice. For those who live in conservation areas this is great news. It means that you can have your bifold doors fitted with an appropriate external colour to keep local planners happy, whist having a contrasting colour on the inside.

All points to consider when the time comes to replace your patio doors.

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home.

And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN MAKE YOUR IDEAS COME TO LIFE CALL OUR DESIGN TEAM ON

01506 857 007 www.ekco.co.uk EDINBURGH 0131 343 6007 Abbeyhill Industrial Estate EH8 8HL

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UPHALL 01506 857 007 54 West Main Street EH52 5DW

konect 17

Secondhand Mobility – is it a good idea?

by Ableworld Broxburn There are a couple of things to look out for when considering secondhand mobility products: Is it safe? If electrical or battery operated, get the product checked by a reliable engineer.

How much is it? Often secondhand products are available from a “Direct Seller” out of the national press at a highly inflated price. Beds, for instance at £2,000 plus, scooters at up to £4000 and folding scooters at way above the going price locally. When Ableworld are selling brand new beds for under £500 and folding scooters for under £600, is it really worth risking secondhand?

Mobility scooters and power chairs can pose major problems in terms of ongoing costs when purchased secondhand. Some retailers sell second hand, and if you’re buying from one of these ensure you get a computer printout of the state of the batteries (all reputable dealers have battery testing equipment) or a written guarantee that new batteries have been put on the product - with a minimum six-month product, parts and labour warranty. As with all second hand equipment it’s Buyer Beware – bear in mind that there are reputable dealers like Ableworld out there that sell brand new scooters for under £600 or road scooters (over 4 mph) for under £1000 with full warranty.

If you’re trading in a scooter beware of the selling price of the new scooter - often the more disreputable dealers will give you a “fair price” for your product but then sell the new product at an inflated price - always check other dealers’ prices.

You may be better off selling your product privately and buying the new product from a reputable company.

Riser Recliner Chairs can pose health issues ensure the chair is clean and has been chemically treated to ensure no infectious bacteria have been left from a previous owner. With “super bugs” and “MRSA” going around, have it cleaned and treated.

If you’re buying from a dealer ensure you have in writing that it has been cleaned and sprayed with a relevant chemical treatment. Also remember to get a minimum of 6 months written warranty for parts and labour. Do not overpay - you can get a brand new riser recliner chair from a reputable dealer like Ableworld from under £400.

If you really do want to buy secondhand, we suggest buying from a dealer who has engineering back up or getting the product checked before purchase.

If you’re unsure call your local Broxburn store on 01506 856565 FREE Highway Code for Mobility Scooters and Users!

Everything you need to know in order to stay safe whilst using an electric mobility scooter, the DVLA registration process and advice on insurance.

Pick up your FREE, easy to use, illustrated Highway Code today from Ableworld Broxburn, 2 Dunnet Way, East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5NN (formerly Mark Wallace Motors) Telephone: 01506 856565

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LOG CABINS • PLAY EQUIPMENT • GATES • FENCING • DECKING • TRELLIS

Like us on Facebook

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Woodford Timber Products (Scotland) Ltd Williamson's Garden Centre, Houston Mains, Uphall Broxburn, EH52 6PA Tel: 01506 238115 Fax: 01506 238116 www.woodfordtimber.com email: woodfordtimberproducts@gmail.com

20 konect

GARDEN BUILDINGS Sheds Garages Potting Sheds Summerhouses Playhouses Fencing and Decking 12 Houston Mains Holdings Dechmont, EH52 6PA

Tel 01506 811880 or 07710 429928 garden.buildings@hotmail.co.uk www.gardenbuildingswestlothian.co.uk

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

konect 21

Charity of the Month

Three Boats-a-Sailing!

James Arthur helps out on the boats on the Union Canal at Ratho for the Seagull Trust Three red wide-beamed boats have been gently chugging their way up and down the Union Canal virtually every day this summer – sometimes several times a day! These are part of the Seagull Trust Cruises fleet, which has been operating for nearly forty years from its base at Ratho.

This national charity provides free trips for anyone with special needs whatever their age. Run entirely by volunteers, the boats are fully accessible with lifts, which can accommodate even the largest wheelchairs.

Since it began in the 1970s the charity has carried thousands of passengers and for many of them this is a welcome break from the four walls of their homes, care homes or nursing homes. Last year was the busiest ever, and 2014 looks like another record breaker.

There are four branches – Ratho, Falkirk, Kirkintilloch and Inverness – each staffed by teams of volunteers.

Most have had no previous ‘canal’ experience but are soon working happily - providing teas, helping folk on and off the boats, and steering the craft. Operating from April until October it takes a tremendous number of volunteers to keep up with the demand.

But that is one of the problems facing STC; they need more people to ensure the trips can take place. With respect to some of those lending a hand, they are now getting on a bit and fresh young blood is required. It doesn’t mean a heavy commitment – one day a week, even at the weekend. Evening trips are also popular and after a full day of cruising a fresh new crew in the evening would be welcome.

Volunteering for Seagull Trust Cruises covers so many skills, some of which can be taught, while others come with the newcomers. Engineering, fund raising, and organisational skills are just some of the needs - although those handy with a paintbrush are also welcome.

Who is this for? The range of people carried by STC boats is quite astonishing. Elderly passengers predominate, but children are also welcomed onboard, especially for the Santa Cruises in

22 konect

December. The principle aim is to help those with special needs. Some passengers can’t walk far and this is the ideal opportunity to get out into the countryside. Others suffer from greater disabilities or have mental problems – dementia sufferers gain a lot of pleasure from this gentle form of activity.

And so do their families. It isn’t just organised groups who call on the services of STC. Sometimes it is a family group, perhaps celebrating a special occasion, and the accessibility of the boats mean that elderly or infirm members can join in.

How much does it cost? The bottom line is that it is free to users, but the charity relies entirely on donations or gifts. Some groups give generously but others simply can’t afford to pay, especially if they have had to hire transport. Several local organisations and charities give financial support when they can, which covers the major costs of fuel and insurances. STC members give talks and their work is rewarded by generous donations; and other groups hold events on behalf of STC. But the hope is that companies might look to STC to offer financial help or sponsorship.

Funding for maintenance and new parts is a major concern. Which is why volunteers carry out a winter programme of repairs and refurbishment. This is where funding for special projects is so vitally important.

STC has a dry dock facility and each year each boat uses it for checks and painting. But it’s open to the elements, and last winter the bad weather meant some work was delayed. Some form of cover is essential, and would mean others could use the dock – providing an income for the charity.

The boats are also getting a lot of use; in fact one of them at Ratho could do with being replaced while another needs a new engine. Like so many charities today STC is finding funds hard to come by.

But it all comes down to keeping those three red boats chugging up and down the canal. If you can help then you’d be very welcome. Pop down to the base, behind the Bridge Inn, and have a look.

Or simply walk along the towpath one morning and watch the boats. Take a look at the passengers. Many will be in wheelchairs, some may seem unconnected to the world passing them by, but look at the faces and the smiles.

Trust members have numerous tales from their journeys, such as the ninety year old who was the life and soul of her birthday party, the Rainbow group who spent the entire trip studying and painting, the Children from Chernobyl who marvelled at the woodlands lining the water, and the hyper active teenagers who were mesmerised by the slow pace of the boat. More specifically there was the wheelchair-bound teenager who was terrified at the prospect of coming aboard.

Eyes shut tight at first; he was soon spotted taking a sneaky peek from behind his hands. By journey’s end he cried again, this time because he didn’t want to leave. His family reported that the positive effect of the calming trip stayed with him for weeks. They were so grateful.

If you can help keep those three boats a sailing then please call the STC Chairman, David Mieras on 0131 445 2022. Or pay a visit one morning.

konect 23

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Outskirts of Edinburgh.

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Perfect occasions.

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ful beautgir ounds WEDDINGS . ACCOMMODATION . EVENTS . CONFERENCES . MEETINGS Edinburgh Conference Centre Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS T: 0131 451 3115 | E: info@edinburgh-conference.com | www.edinburgh-conference-weddings.com

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Ladies & Gents Hairstyling

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Marriott Hotel, 111 Glasgow Road, Edinburgh, EH12 8NF konect 25

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Shortlisted for the Conservative Composite Smile Makeover.... the only Scottish dentist shortlisted this year.

“I genuinely believe he is someone that honestly care and most importantly will not compromise his high professional standards while ensuring he achieves the right results for the patient.”

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Judge, Aesthetic Dentistry Awards

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Hairtech 0131 449 2991 17 Bryce Rd, Currie, EH14 5LT

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Minx pedicures manicures waxing, tinting eyelash extensions spray tanning and facials shellac £20 (soak-off free)

Contact Hazel Gordon on T: 0131 449 2991 M: 07800 736135 konect 27

FOR ALL YOUR MOBILITY NEEDS Whether you need help to get around the house or out and about, our experienced team can help with all your mobility needs.

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0131 440 4225 Showroom Opening Times Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Unit 13-16, 32 Dryden Road, Bilston Glen Industrial Estate, Loanhead, Edinburgh, EH20 9LZ www.med-ecosse.co.uk medeco67@aol.com

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BABERTON GOLF CLUB SPECIAL 2014 LIMITED OFFERS ON MEMBERSHIPS See the fantastic new clubhouse and course improvements!

Full Memberships—CONTACT US FOR SPECIAL LIMITED OFFER WITH ENTRY FEE REDUCED 6 Day Play Sun—Fri, Midweek Play Mon—Fri, Young Adult (Age 18—30) Membership. NO ENTRY FEE Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

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Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon—Fri email: manager@baberton.co.uk

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BILL REID & SON

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

NO JOB TOO SMALL CALL FOR A QUOTE

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The Lothians finest...

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• Does your conservatory leak?

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• Are your sealed units misted or broken?

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

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

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Village People

Jenny Robertson: Do you know the story of Wojtek, the war hero bear?

by Suzanne Green

Jenny Robertson's books Did you know that this year’s Edinburgh Book Festival featured an author who lives in our community?

Jenny Robertson, author of some 35 books, lives in Juniper Green with her husband, Stuart. She recently spoke at the Festival’s “Animal War Heroes” event, reading from her book Wojtek, the War Hero Bear.

As we shared a pot of tea, I asked Jenny to tell me about her life and writings. She grew up in Glasgow, and while still at school began writing to a Polish woman in a displaced person’s camp in Germany.

Later she went to Germany and worked with a Catholic charity that helped refugees. She visited her pen friend in the camp, which motivated her to learn Polish. Back at Glasgow University, she was further encouraged to learn the language by a “nice young student”, who was studying Slavonic languages. They married in 1966.

“Poland has had a huge impact on my life,” Jenny says. “I spent a year there in the Communist era on a British Council scholarship. My books about the Warsaw ghetto, along with the two published this year, Wojtek, the War Hero Bear (Birlinn) and From the Volga to the Clyde (Fleming Publications) tell stories I have garnered over many years.”

Jenny Robertson (Photo by Suzanne Green)

Wojtek is the true story of the life and adventures of a little orphaned bear that Polish soldiers brought with them as they escaped Stalin’s Russia. They raised Wojtek, and he became their friend and companion. From the Volga to the Clyde is a book of memories from war-time Poland, and includes the stories of relatives of people living in Juniper Green and Balerno.

From 1991 to 1998 Jenny and Stuart (an Episcopal priest) lived in Russia. Jenny taught English and later, when she had learned Russian, taught Bible as well. Together they established the first Anglican church in St. Petersburg since the Russian Revolution. Jenny comments, “Our interest in Russia, reflected in several of my books, came from our concern about people of faith – mainly Christians and Jews – persecuted under Communism.

“I’ve known a fair bit of loss myself, and I wonder if that’s why I often write about loss. For much of my life I’ve been housebound, so I’ve used the opportunity to write.”

Jenny and Stuart moved to Juniper Green in 1996, but have only lived in the community full time since 2005. Mother of two and grandmother, Jenny has coped with caring for a parent with Parkinson’s disease, as well as a daughter with schizophrenia.

She has also lived through breast cancer, and writes about her experience in Uninvited Guest (Triangle/ SPCK), a book of poems and reflections.

Currently Jenny is working on a novel – the first in a series of five – about a 13-year-old boy living in the country now called West Ukraine after the First World War.

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Main Contractor Specialist in: • Renovations • Extensions • Attic & garage conversions

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Office: 0131 466 5364 Mobile: 07813 973 960 Email: info@scottbuildingcontracts.com Web: www.scottbuildingcontracts.com konect 33

0131 466 3290 • 07779 720 653 www.thecurtainstudio.co.uk ailsa@thecurtainstudio.co.uk

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

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0131 278 0521

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We offer the following services: Kitchens Conversions Double Glazing Conservatories All Joinery Work All Trades Contractors

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You’ll be amazed

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Kitchens

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This is where Four Seasons excel. From design, using our in-house architectural services, through to completion every project is overseen by an allocated Project Manager who will keep you informed of progress at all times.

Four Seasons currently have 8 major projects at various stages of construction underway and we are happy for any potential new clients to view our work.

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konect 37

Money Matters

Defined Benefit Pensions Transfers - Last Chance

By Personal Money Management Flexible Pensions

The retirement landscape was radically overhauled

by George Osborne in the March budget when he opened up a new world of flexible pensions, but not for all. If you are in what is called a Defined Contribution (DC) scheme, from April 2015 you will be able to take 25% of your pension fund as a tax free lump sum and with the remaining 75% you can take as much or as little as you like (age 55 onwards). Additionally, when you die the full remainder will go to whoever you wish.

The sting in the tail

However, if you are in a Defined Benefit (DB) scheme then you will have no flexibility as your pension is determined by the scheme rules.

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This means you will be given a pension paid for life but it stops when you die.

Last chance

With some DB schemes there may be the option to transfer from the DB scheme to a DC scheme and take advantage of the new flexibility.

However, the government has dictated they are going to stop some public sector schemes e.g. the NHS, Teacher’s and Armed Forces, from transferring from DB to DC schemes as of April 2015. Hence, if the flexibility appeals to you, you will need to act quickly or you will miss the boat.

Warning

Transferring from a Defined Benefit scheme to a Defined Contribution scheme will NOT be suitable for many, but for those whose circumstances merit the transfer the flexibility will be greatly beneficial.

Probably more than any other financial decision you make you must take professional advice on whether to transfer or not from a financial adviser who is specifically qualified to give advice on pension transfers.

Written by Dr PM Marshall. PhD, DipPFS, AFPC

When you feel like shouting, try calling instead.

Your very own I T expert is just one phone call away.

Making sure your PC is on it’s best behaviour is a lot easier when you have someone on hand who’ll come out to your home or office. We won’t bamboozle you with techy jargon, we will just get down to the job in hand at fixing your PC. We are a local and friendly business. In fact using us is a bit like having your very own IT expert, that’s just one phone call away.

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40 konect

Thought for the Month

Work Life Balance

By Pat Banfill

How often do you hear the frustrated cry, "I haven’t got enough time"? The pressure to do an increasing number of work activities more and more rapidly is all pervasive, but do we become better by working harder? There are proper restraints that need to be placed on our work so that we remain healthy.

Some tips:

We need to work out our priorities ie we need to develop our inner lives, and include rest in this (which will stem from our basic beliefs about the meaning of life), then give enough time to our core relationships, our partners, children, family, friends, and then to our work and other activities.

Refuse excessive work demands

Arnold Bennett remarked, ‘ We shall never have more time. We have, and always have had, all the time there is’. So we have to use our time well now and not wait until things are quieter.

And enjoy life!

Speak and listen to your partner every day Keep in touch with your children, even when they have left home.

Keep up with a small group of friends Keep one day free of work Review your work life balance annually so that you are busy enough and not bored Pat Banfill, Pastoral Assistant, St Mungo’s Church, Balerno. www.stmungos.org

konect 41

Tag Cleaning Services Local window and gutter cleaning service

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

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

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

Free estimates.

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

Contact Colin Spence 21 Broomhall Gardens, EH12 7QA Phone 0131 334 8602 Mobile 07720 843446 Email csgardening92@yahoo.co.uk or csgardening@fsmail.net Find us on Facebook

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Konnect (JAN2014).ai

1

20/01/2014

14:04

Our Five point Grass Care Programme includes: 1.

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Hollow tining, raking off, removal of tining plugs andlawn sand moss treatment – Early Spring (March/early April).

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4.

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A walk into history

Shale oil bings make for wonderful walks with fantastic views Karen Murray headed up Tarbrax bing to see what she could see Visiting a friend in Tarbrax I have often enjoyed the wonderful scenery that this old mining village is situated among, musing it would be a good place for a walk, but never actually managing the walk.

However, one late summer evening said friend and I managed to fit in the walk before the supper, and I was very glad we did, as the view is stunning from the top of the Tarbrax bing.

Tarbrax is technically just in South Lanarkshire, off the A70 on the road to Carnwath. It is now a very small village but was originally built around a shale mine as housing for the miners in the middle of the 19th Century.

The estate from whence Tarbrax gets its name - the Lawhead Tarbrax estate - was once owned

by David Souter Robertson, a founder of modern Accountancy.

The village was originally based around Tarbrax Castle, nothing of which remains today, but remains

of the shale oil industry are in abundance.

The mining days were the heyday of the village however and there were more houses than currently exist today. You can get to the path leading up to the bing from all areas of the village – take your pick and head along the path.

The terrain is a little uneven but not too bad and you will see evidence of brickwork from the old mining villages as you walk. Some of the bricks have been used to make some crude artwork – probably by local kids, but we noticed and admired.

There are two main paths up to the bing so you can make your walk circular by taking one and returning on the other. The climb is steady at first, but becomes quite steep for the latter part and to get to the summit the last bit is off the path over some rougher ground. The main paths are red dirt tracks and are apparently very good for mountain biking, if that is more your thing.

The bing is not very high and from the village itself, it is about a half hour walk to the top, fairly strenuous but totally worth it.

The day we had chosen, after so many beautiful long summer evenings was actually a little glowering, but that added to the scene as the clouds gathered ominously around us.

The full 360 degree view is stunning with Cobbinshaw Reservoir clearly seen down to the right when Tarbrax village is behind you and further around the village of Woolfords nestles in the trees due south.

Turning around you can view the Pentland hills to the East and finally Tarbrax itself. If you look Image left: At the top of the bing with Tarbrax in the background

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Shale Oil Bings Interestingly in the UK, shale bings are found only in and around the county of West Lothian.

There are 19 bings still in existence although they have been unworked for years. The industrial exploitation of oil-bearing rocks has created a unique landscape with its own distinctive flora and fauna and many bings have become nature reserves.

Image: Scottish Shale closely you can see the remains of where the old shale oil works buildings were once situated and also the many more miner’s cottages of Tarbrax.

The old mine head areas are clearly visible from this distance and viewpoint and had the weather been a little kinder we may have spent even more time on the top taking in the surroundings.

As it was the wind was whipping up and bringing those glowering clouds ever closer so we opted for descent via the other path and made our way down the red dirt track picking up pace and getting the heart rate up, as we raced the rain.

We won and a lovely supper was enjoyed as rain fell outside.

539 Lanark Road, Juniper Green

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konect 45

Your Local Balerno Locksmith     

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A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

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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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146 Turnhouse Rd, Corstorphine

Specialists in

Home Extensions & Brick Stone work

All aspects of building work undertaken including bricklaying, stonework lime pointing, extensions, driveways and garden walls.

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Approved hedgehog installer.

No more gutter cleaning konect 47

Puzzles Crossword

Solution in the October edition of konect 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

12 13

14

15

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17

18

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20 21

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Across 1 In addition (4) 3 Greets (8) 9 Painful condition (7) 10 Childminder (5) 11 Developments (12) 14 Appropriate (3) 16 Braid hair (5) 17 Winter sport (3) 18 Purposefully (12) 21 Time-piece (5) 22 Distinctive (7) 23 Moving very fast (8) 24 Questions (4) Down 1 From the United States (8) 2 Tantrum (5) 4 Used for seeing (3) 5 Condensed (12) 6 Parts of an hour (7) 7 Speaks (4) 8 Talented (12) 12 Delete (5) 13 Two wheeled vehicles (8) 15 Rigid support frame (7) 19 Departs (5) 20 In debt (4) 22 Male child (3)

5 Condensed (12)

13 Two wheeled vehicles (8)

6 Parts of an hour (7)

15 Rigid support frame (7)

7 Speaks (4)

19 Departs Sudoku (5)

8 Talented (12)

20 In debt (4)

12 Delete (5)

48 konect

Sudoku solution on page 69

22 Male child (3)

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50 konect

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Gerry Aitken Painter and Decorator Juniper Green Local, Friendly Dog Grooming Service

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

Large & Small Breeds Evening & Weekend Appointments also available

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konect 53

Recipe and Food Notes

Plums and Lamb

by Anne Pinkerton

It's been a good year for growing in Scotland and September is a wonderful month for eating local produce. There is an abundance of fruit and veg and it's the time of year for preserving and storing the harvest.

You don't have to grow your own to do this. Go shopping with an open mind and you may find reduced produce which you can turn into jam, jelly, chutney or just freeze for later. Last month I had the satisfaction of making bargain strawberry jam from half price lemons and berries with the addition of a few redcurrants from the garden. Any cheap fruit or veg can become delicious chutney using staples from the store cupboard.

Most veg requires some work such as blanching before it can be frozen but blackberries, currants, plumbs, raspberries, gooseberries and damsons can be put in bags and just stored in the freezer. For the best results cook from frozen with the amount of sugar you prefer.

Plums are very versatile. They come in all colours from pale green through golden yellow to a red that is so dark it is nearly black. Damsons can count as plums and be used in the same ways. They are at their best now and can be cooked in either sweet or savoury recipes. The only fiddle is cutting them in half to remove the stone, but these can be left in when stewing the fruit as it enhances the flavour.

Pies, crumbles, upside-down cake puddings, fools, mousses or best of all sweet pizza are all great ways of cooking the autumn bounty. Bottled fruit, plum jam, damson cheese or chutney all help fill the cupboards.

Plums go well with meat too. Pork, venison or rabbit are traditional but this lamb recipe is worth trying.

Lamb with plums Joint of lamb (half shoulder or leg but best end of neck is good too).

1 cup red wine 10 dark skinned plums Couple of cloves garlic, 1 red onion; both chopped Salt, black pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, a little sugar

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Method In a deep casserole, brown the meat with a little butter add the wine and cook gently, covered in either a 160oC oven or on the top, for about ½ hour. Turn the meat occasionally. Add the plums, onion and garlic. Cook till tender ½ to ¾ hour more.

Remove the meat and keep warm, skim the fat from the juice and season. Not too much sugar. Pour a little over the meat and serve the rest separately.

Serve with plain boiled new or small potatoes and a baked ratatouille made from onion, courgettes, aubergine and peppers. With this offer a saffron yogurt sauce which you make first or the day before: Take a pinch of saffron strands and soak in just enough boiling water to cover (hardly any). Steep for 10 minutes.

Crush a clove of garlic, squeeze a lemon and add all to 225g thick Greek yogurt (5% fat is best). Leave to thicken in the fridge for a few hours or up to a day.

The colours look like autumn and the flavours go together.

Celebrate Christmas with Food Creations Christmas Party Nights

Our party nights include a fabulous 3 Course Christmas Dinner, crackers and, of course, music music music. We set the atmosphere for a Christmas party you will cherish and enjoy!

£32.95 per head ** SPECIAL OFFER **

Book and pay before the end of September for the special rate of only £29 per person!

We have festive party nights available at the following locations Harburn Golf Club (West Calder) Kingsknowe Golf Club (Edinburgh) Bathgate Golf Club Uphall Golf Club Livingston Football Club Party Dates - 5th and 6th Dec; 12th and 13th Dec; 19th and 20th Dec

Private Parties

Want to hold your own company Christmas party?

Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Christmas Day Celebrations Christmas Day lunches are available at Kingsknowe and Harburn Golf Clubs 1:30pm for 2:00pm.

Only £38 per head

Children under 12 half price and children under 5 eat for free!

Book now for a fabulous Christmas!

Go online at www.foodcreations.co.uk/xmas14 Email xmas14@foodcreations.co.uk Tel 01506 412232 konect 55

Local life

Juniper Green Market at Village Hall On Saturday 27 September Juniper Green Community Market will be in a new location.

a chance to buttonhole community and city councillors.

Some stalls will occupy part of the Village Hall Garden, with others indoors in the hall where coffee and rolls can be bought. In rough weather the entire market can go inside.

By regularly attending the market you will help build it up so that it can expand again to offer a wider range of products than at present. Juniper Green market already offers produce otherwise unobtainable in the village, in some cases only to be found in city centre shops. It deserves your support, as this will be a poorer and duller place to live if we lose this valuable amenity.

Apart from the obvious advantages of being able to take shelter from the wind, rain and snow of winter, when you buy refreshments you will be able to relax and chat with friends while seated in comfort.

Another big plus for the change of venue will be the ease of parking away from the congestion of Lanark Road.

Best of all, perhaps, will be the proximity of the new site to Baberton Mains whose residents will find the market far more accessible than it was at the Dental Surgery car park.

It’s no secret that the market has been struggling to attract sufficient custom to bring in more stallholders. However, the excellent Cedar Cottage meats stall has established a loyal following, while the German cakes, desserts, breads and savouries on the StÜrtebaker stall are enormously popular, so that you need to arrive early to find your favourite treat still available.

We hope the new venue will make it easier for locals to patronise the market and urge you to support this valuable community initiative, which not only brings people together, providing an opportunity for neighbours to socialise, but also provides

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Come along to the Juniper Green Village Hall, Juniper Park Road, at the end of Baberton Avenue, Saturday 27th September, 9.00 am to 1.00 pm.

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Alistair McLellan of Balerno

Painter & Decorator Interior 路 Exterior No job too small 路 Free estimates

Tel: 0131 451 5394 Mobile: 07894 703020 0131 477 1167 Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com

BRUSHSTROKES

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

TEL: 0131 451 5372 MOB: 0797 192 3397 Email: brushstrokes@blueyonder.co.uk 66 Forthview Crescent, Currie, EH14 5QT 58 konect

Appliances of

Edinburgh

0131 300 0746 • 07768 914991 Sales, Spares, Repairs & Servicing Washing Machines Cookers Tumble Dryers Dishwashers & Vacuum Cleaners 400 Lanark Road West, Currie

Most makes & models konect 59

Local life

Curriemuirend Park Representation progress You may remember that when the Local Development Plan was published last year by the City of Edinburgh Council, Curriemuirend Park was included as a proposed site for housing development.

to prepare a new Local Development Plan, LDP2.

Despite the results of the feasibility study, and the huge number of objections to the original plans, Curriemuirend is still included in this new plan as a suitable site for a housing development.

Subsequently, a feasibility study commissioned by the council concluded that development of the site was not currently economically viable.

The fact that LDP2 is considered to be a new plan also means that all the representations made last year are no longer valid, and those who object to the plan, or particular parts of it, must make their views known again. The new representation period runs from 22nd August to 3rd October, and residents are urged to make their views known.

At that time, there was an allowed period during which representations could be made. Over 2200 were made about various parts of the plan, 488 of which related to the plans for Curriemuirend Park, all but 2 being against development.

However the Scottish Government then decided that housing requirements needed to be increased, and as a result, the City of Edinburgh Council had

For more information on these proposals and the representation process, please visit www. curriemuirend.co.uk

DONATE YOUR FURNITURE AND ELECTRICALS and we’ll pick up your items for FREE

Your unwanted furniture and electricals can help us fight back against heart disease. We collect all sorts of items: • • • • •

Sofas, beds, tables, chairs TVs, Hi-Fi’s Washing machines, fridges Small electrical items Games consoles, docking stations

Call 0131 341 2992 or book online at bhf.org.uk/collection Please don’t be disappointed if we are unable to accept items for reasons of safety or quality © British Heart Foundation, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

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Your Local Florist Delivering to Edinburgh and The Lothians

We can supply arrangements for all occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, funerals, parties & weddings For all your flower needs!

Julie Keir t: 0131 344 9439 m: 07738 063080 w: www.flowersbyjak.com e: jules@flowersbyjak.com konect 61

What’s On and Useful Information

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638 Sunday 31st August Art in the Park Colinton's annual event in Spylaw Park including a range of entertainments, an array of art/craft stalls, programme of live performances, old fashioned games, fun activities for children and adults at our Kidzone, and a hugely popular dog show. 11am – 5pm.

(If weather is bad it will be moved to Sunday 7th Sept).

Saturday 13th September

Sunday 14th September From Fire and Ice The explosive geological history of the Pentland Hills. Come on this circular walk to discover the surprising story of how the Pentland Hills were formed over thousands of years. Meet at Threipmuir Car Park. Time:10:00 – 15:00 Booking essential. Bring sturdy footwear and waterproofs. Grade of walk: Easy, 8 miles (13 km), negligible ascent. Suitable for over 16 years.

For further information contact the Pentland Hills Regional Park Service on 0131 529 2401. Cost: Free

Friday 19th September Fashion evening at Currie High School In the Assembly Hall, from 7.00pm.

See article opposite.

Library Information Balerno Library 1 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ 0131 529 5500 e. balerno.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

Opening times Mon & Wed: Tues & Fri: Saturday:

1.00pm - 8.00pm 10.00am - 5.00pm 10.00am - 2.00pm

Currie Library 210 Lanark Road West, Currie EH14 5NX 0131 529 5609 e. currie.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

Opening times

Mon & Wed: Tues, Thurs & Fri: Saturday:

1.00pm - 8.00pm 10.00am - 5.00pm 10.00am - 5.00pm

Ratho Library 6 School Wynd, Ratho EH28 8TT 0131 333 5297 e: ratho.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Find us on Facebook, Ratho library.

Opening times Mon & Wed 1-8pm | Tues, Thurs & Fri 10am-5pm | Sat 10am-5pm

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Balerno Village Screen

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

Friday 19th September The Grand Budapast Hotel Cert 15, 7.30 pm Ogston Hall

Saturday 20th September The Lego Movie Cert U, 2.30pm Ogston Hall Philomena Cert 12A, 7.30pm Ogston Hall

Tickets available at www.balernovillagescreen.com, The Mill Cafe and Balerno Post Office, Mon 4th August

Saturday 27th September Juniper Green Farmer's Market Please note new venue – Juniper Green Village Hall, Juniper Park Road at the end of Baberton Avenue. 9am – 1pm. See article and map on page 56.

Regular events at Ratho Library (for fortnightly and monthly events please contact the library for this month's dates) : Mon: Knit and Natter, weekly 2 to 4pm

Chatter Books, for 8 to 12 year olds 3.45 to 4.45pm

(first Monday of the month) Wed: Glitz Lit Girls, P6 to S2 weekly 6 to 6.45pm

Duke of Edinburgh, weekly 14+ 6.45 to 7.30pm Thur: Book and a Blether, adults. Book chat and coffee.

Fortnightly Bookbug, weekly 0 to 4 years, 10.15 to 11am Fri: Library Link, fortnightly, 10.30 to 12.00

Tiger Tales, crafts and stories 4 to 8 years + parents.

Fortnightly Sat: Children's Craft Club, fortnightly 2 to 2.45pm.

Craft and Chat Adults Club, bring your own project.

Fortnightly 3 to 4.30pm

Bookbugs Bookbug delivers free story, song and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and preschool children in local libraries, working in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust.

Useful Numbers The Pentlands Medical Centre 44 Pentland View, Currie, EH14 5QB 0131 449 2142

Event

Fashion evening at Currie High School Currie Community High School are hosting a Fashion Evening on Friday, 19 September 2014, in the Assembly Hall, from 7.00pm.

The idea is that you bring all your new/nearly new clothes (laundered and preferably on a hanger) that you no longer need/want into the High School marked for the attention of Maggie Anderson any time between now and 16th September 2014, and then come along on the night where all the clothes will be displayed and hopefully you can find yourself some nice new outfits for a suitable donation.

Tea, coffee, juice and biscuits will also be served for a small donation and we hope it will turn into a real community social event. All funds raised will be used to purchase new equipment for the school.

There is no entry fee so please tell all your family, friends and neighbours and we look forward to welcoming you on the night.

Maggie Anderson, 0131 449 2165 Maggie.anderson@currie.edin.sch.uk

Gordon Macdonald MSP Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Pentlands Constituency

Pentlands MSP - ADVICE SURGERIES Wester Hailes Library

1st Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Carrickvale Community Centre

2nd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Currie Library

3rd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Pentland Community Centre

4th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Ratho Community Centre

5th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

See details @ www.gordonmacdonaldmsp.info konect 63

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Currie FC - come and join us Currie FC is a long established club run by local volunteers in the heart of the Balerno/Currie/ Juniper Green/Baberton community. The club offers boys and girls of all ages and ability the opportunity to play organised football with their friends.

We are always on the look-out for boys and girls to join our teams, right through from our soccer schools (from p2), to older age groups.

See www.currierugby.org

Est. 34 yrs

At Juniper Green, Colinton, Fairmilehead, Bruntsfield, Liberton, Nether Currie Drama and Film Projects, CasQng Agency, Performance, Friendships, Confidence.

Classes in Balerno New Classes starting in Currie

Age 5-­‐17

07.00 For details call JULIE on 0131-­‐453-­‐3284 or e-­‐mail info@thedramastudio.com www.thedramastudio.com > Venues and Times

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Clubs & Classes

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

BABERTON 172nd Pentland Scouts (Baberton)

BALERNO DadZone NEW! At St Mungo's Church, Ladycroft.

Saturdays 9 -10.30am for Dads and male carers and their 0-4 year olds. Toys crafts, refreshments. Dates for 2014: 30 Aug, 4 Oct, 1Nov, 13 Dec. All welcome. For more info email balernodadzone@gmail.com or search Facebook for the online group.

Balerno Monday Club NEW! 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. Contact tbc

Beginners Yoga Classes NEW! No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall Currie.

Wednesday 7.45pm Pentland Scouts Hall Currie Wednesday 2pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Any questions please contact Monica, Email: karmayoga@btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432

Monkey Music Mondays (term time) Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church Jiggety-Jig (2+): 9.30am Heigh-Ho (1 – 2 years): 10.10am Rock ‘n’ Roll (Babies from 12 weeks): 10.45am E: morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk P: 0131 441 4581

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

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

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Pilates Classes Balerno Parish Church - Mondays 6.35 - 7.35pm - Post Beginners/Intermediate 1 7.35 - 8.35pm - Intermediate 2/Advanced 8.35 - 9.35pm - Beginners Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com

Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness Mondays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Thursdays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Fridays 10am at Balerno Parish Church Hall Contact 0131 477 7733 www.bf4f.org.uk

Adult daytime swim club Balerno High School Contact Balerno Community Education Office on 0131 477 7733 for more info

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

51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno) Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall. Contact Lawrence Mitchell on 0131 449 4680

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

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 Denise Cunningham on 0131 449 3468

Compass Playgroup Dean Park Primary Pre-School Centre 2-5 years, wide variety of activities Mon to Thurs (school term time only) 9:00am - 11.45am Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery Call 0131 449 4530 (during opening hours) for more information or email info@compassplaygroup.com

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

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

Pyjama Drama Balerno Scout Hall, Ladycroft.

Creative and imaginative play sessions for children aged 2-5 years Tues (Classes during term and out of term) 10am – Raindrops & Rainbows (2 – 4 yrs) Contact Louise on 0131 516 3099 or louisek@ pyjamadrama.com

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

Balerno SWRI 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

Pentland Flower Club Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7.15pm (excluding January, February, July and August); Visitors and new members are always welcome Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146

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

continued on page 68 ...

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CURRIE Kettle Class NEW! Currie High School Mondays 7.15-8pm. £4.50 per class.

Sarah's fitness, Tel 07540 894287 or email sarahhardie@hotmail.co.uk.

Arts & Crafts Group NEW! 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.

Fitsteps - Get fit 'Strictly style!'

Ballroom and Latin dance fitness class - no partner required Wed 6.15 - 7.00pm Inveralmond Community High School - £4 Wed 7.30-8.15pm St Mary's Hall, Bathgate - £4 Thurs 7.30-8.15pm Currie Community High School - £4.50 Classes start week beginning 6th Jan 2014 For more info contact Lianne on 07737 927463 Email: moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Like us on facebook

Bridge Club Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June.

For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 3527

Chat’n' Chill for S1-S6 Teenage Café Church Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Games, Café, Chat Every second Friday 4-6 pm. Contact Viola on 07806 806920 for more info.

Currie Youth Club Various activities and facilities available including Gym Teds for childern Sound and Music room; Youth club facilities Sports hall Playgroup Lunch club and Football teams. See http://cyc.smartchange.org

Coffee and Craft Currie High School, Sun Room Mon 7 - 9pm Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new.

All welcome. £2.00 per night; Refreshments are included

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Currie Playgroup Currie Baptist Church Hall Preschool play from age 3 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 Beavers: Tuesdays 18.15 - 19.30pm call Martin Elliot 07752 182793 Cubs: Mondays 18.15 - 19.45pm call Wendy McEwan 07773 446694 Scouts: Mondays 19.45 - 21.45pm call Ross Brown 07729 714445

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

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

Contact Alastair Hardie on 0131 453 3556

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

Karate Currie High School; Mondays 7.30 - 9pm Adults and Children over 6 years Please contact 0131 449 3510 or 0131 445 2945 for more info or email patricia.shearer@edinburgh.gov.uk

Currie & District Local History Society Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the GibsonCraig Hall in Currie Visitors welcome; For further information contact Douglas N Lowe on 0131 449 4349 or douglaslowe51@btinternet.com

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

Boys Brigade - 65th Edinburgh (Currie) Company Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Anchors (Boys P2 & P3) Thursday 6 - 7pm Juniors (Boys P4, P5 & P6) Thursday 7 - 8.30pm Company/Seniors (Boys P7 - S6) Friday 7 - 9.15pm For further info contact Jim Webber on 0131 451 5112

Balerno and District Ramblers Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Car Park, Lanark Rd West at 9.15am for 9.30am start Contact K Gordon 0131 449 2534 or A Blyth 0131 449 5020 Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666

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

Messy Church at Currie Kirk Usually the last Friday of the month 2 - 3.30pm for children from Pram to Primary age, accompanied by an adult Crafts, stories, games and fun Please register through www.curriekirk.org or currie_kirk@btconnect.com or tel 0131 451 5141

Book Group Currie Library First Wednesday of each month at 7.00pm

JUNIPER GREEN Tutoring NEW! One-to-One Tutoring Primary - s1 / s2; Maths / English. Very exp.

Primary Teacher & Tutor. Contact Pat on 0131 449 5521 or 07835 996052

Beginners Yoga Classes NEW! No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall Currie.

Wednesday 7.45pm Pentland Scouts Hall Currie Wednesday 2pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Any questions please contact Monica, Email: karmayoga@btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432

Ratho Ravers

Pilates Classes

Ratho Community Centre Mon 10am-12pm. Exercising body and mind for the over fifties. £3 per class.

For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055

Juniper Green Parish Church - Thursdays 7.45 - 8.45pm - Beginners/Post Beginners Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com

31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green)

Parent & Toddlers Group Community Centre Tues and Thurs10am12noon. Under 3s. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055

45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers - Wednesdays 6.30pm Cubs - Mondays 7.00pm Cubs - Tuesdays 6.30pm Scouts - Fridays 7.00pm Contact - Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043

Susan Douglas Pilates Ratho Community Centre Mon 5.55pm – 6.55pm.

See www.douglaspilates.co.uk

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

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

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

50 Plus Group Varied programme of activities/outings.

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

RATHO Ratho WRI Meet in Ratho Community Centre on second Wednesday of each month (except July & August) from 7pm to 9pm.

New members and visitors welcome. Contact 0131 333 4862 for information.

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

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Daytime Pilates Classes Kirknewton Village Hall Thursdays 9.10am to 10.00am Kirknewton Green Room: Fridays 9.10am to 10.00am Whether you just want to move more and improve your muscle tone, or whether you want to enhance another sport you enjoy…

Spaces are limited so to find out more, book a taster session or learn about other classes contact me on elise@ekpilates.co.uk. You’ll also find me on facebook.com/ekpilates or www.ekpilates.co.uk

Potter Around Studio at Overton Farm Kirknewton, EH27 8DD Clubs including oil painting for both children and adults; jewellery workshops; fused glass; candle making; knitting; scrapbooking; kids craft club; Warhammer club Craft shop, beads, children’s parties, baby prints and more. Plus drop in any time for pottery painting For all class times, bookings and more information call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk

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

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

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

OTHER AREAS

S

Across: 1 Starve, 4 Doodle, 9 Complex, 10 Salad, 11 Extra, 12 Matches, 13 Appointment, 18 Deposit, 20 Night, 22 Olive, 23 Outcome, 24 System, 25 Grasps

Down: 1 Secret, 2 Admit, 3 Volcano, 5 Onset, 6 Dolphin, 7 Eldest, 8 Examination, 14 Puppies, 15 Monster, 16 Idiots, 17 Utters, 19 Swede, 21 Grows

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

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

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Index of Advertisers Aerials Aerial Man 39 Appliance Repairs Appliances of Edinburgh 59 Arts Centre Howden Park Centre 9 Bathrooms Ekco 17 Ken Dunton 58 Splash Bathrooms 12 Beauty Beauty Box 27 Juniper Beauty Room 26 Skin Elegance 25 Soprano Ice 26 Bedrooms Studio 54 15 Building Services Almond Building Company 12 Dean Jones Building Services 47 EH1 Contracts Ltd 47 Four Seasons 37 Scott Building Contracts 33 Cafe Molly's 7 Car Bodywork Chips Away 51 Finishing Touch 50 Smart Tech Vehicle Solutions 49 The Wheel Specialist 51 Car Sales Colin Nixon 72 Hermiston Motor Co 2 Juniper Green Garage 49 Car Service and Repair Colin Nixon 72 D&G Autocare 6 DSL Auto Repair Centre 50 Hermiston Motor Co 2 Ratho Auto Services 49 Car Valeting RD Car Care - Mobile Valeting 49 Carpet Cleaning & Upholstery C & W Cleaning Services 34 Hydro Kleen Scotland 14 Carpets James Erskine Interiors 34 Pentland Carpets 14 Catering Food Creations 55 Cattery Claylands Cottage Cattery 53 Charity British Heart Foundation 60 Children's Activities Drama Studio 65 Jane Goulding School of Dance 65 Monkey Music 5 Village Playgroup 65 Children's Entertainment Stina Sparkles 4 Chiropody and Podiatry Pentland Footcare 27 Cleaning Services Daily Poppins 34 Computer Support Sort My PC 39 Tec-Support 39

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Conferences and Events Heriot Watt Conference Centre 24 Dentist Balerno Dental Care 24 No 9 Dental Practice 27 Double Glazing Double Glazing Doctor 30 Double Glazing Repairs 46 Four Seasons 36 Red Hot Windows 30 Electrician A&A Electrical Solutions 46 Altech Electrical 12 D Sykes Electrical Contractors 59 Simply Electrical 52 Financial Services PMM 38 Fitness Centre for Sport and Exercise 10 KM Fitness 29 Sarah's Fitness 25 Florist Flowers by Jak 61 Vicky's flowers 61 Funeral Directors Porteous Funeral Directors 41 Garage Doors Max's Garage Doors 21 Garden & Landscaping Capital Gardening Services 21 CS Gardening & Landscaping 42 D Greaves 43 Garden Buildings 21 Riccarton Garden Centre 4 Taurus Gardening 43 Woodford Timber Products 20 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 29 Hairdresser CM Hair 25 Hairtech 27 Tony Harper's Hair Studio 25 Handyman Bits 'n' Pieces 7 Home Improvements Four Seasons 37 Ian Merriman Ltd 58 Ken Dunton 58 MH Developments 10 Symington Elder 35 Weatherproof 13 Ironing Services Ironing Aid 35 Joiner Central Scotland Joinery 40 Dean Jones Building Services 47 GK Wilson Joinery 43 Jack Watson Joinery 30 Kitchens Ekco 17 Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith 58 Caledonian Locksmiths 46 Mobility Ableworld 19 Med -Ecosse 28 MSP Gordon Macdonald MSP 63

Oven Cleaning Shiny Bright Ovens 52 The Clean Team 35 Painter/Decorator ACM Decorating 7 Alistair McLellan 58 Brushstrokes 58 Gerry Aitken 52 Pet Services Claylands Cottage Cattery 53 Currie Dog Grooming 52 Happy Scampers 53 Tufty's Dog Grooming Salon 53 Physiotherapy Centre for Sport and Exercise 10 Picture Framing Colinton Arts 61 Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering 42 Playgroup Village Playgroup 65 Plumbing Services Alex Hunter & Son 52 Bill Reid & Son 30 Jim Gladstone 49 Shandon Plumbing 46 Weir Gas Services 46 Property Maintenance Cleaning & Maintenance 43 Public House Grey Horse 8 Restaurant Al Borgo 45 Paul's Chinese Express 8 Roofing Dell Roofing 12 EH1 Contracts Ltd 47 Fairmile Roofing 57 KM Contracts 6 Thomson Roofing Services 31 School Clifton Hall School 5 George Heriot's 7 George Watson's 71 Soft Furnishings Blind Design 34 James Erskine Interiors 35 The Curtain Studio 34 Tracey Victoria 15 Takeaway Pentland Fry 45 Telephone Engineer John McGraw 12 Tiler Barry Edwards Tiling 42 Tree Surgery DeLisle Tree Surgeon 21 Maxwell Tree Care 21 Upholsterer James Erskine Interiors 35 Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic 53 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 50 The Wheel Specialist 51 Window Cleaner Tag Cleaning Services 42 Windows Double Glazing Doctor 30 Four Seasons 37 Red Hot Windows 30 Yoga Karma Yoga 4

Open mORnInG

SaTuRDaY 4 OcTOBeR 2014 9.30am–12.30pm

Principal’s Address 9.30am

One SchOOl, One campuS

www.gwc.org.uk choice of International Baccalaureate Diploma programme or SQa Qualifications for S5/S6 pupils School Bus pick-up at haymarket Station West lothian School Bus stops at east Whitburn, West calder, livingston, east calder, Kirknewton, Bol o Bere and Balerno Financial help available for p7 and S1 entry, including free places George Watson’s college Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk konect 71

COLIN NIXON MOT SALES & SERVICE CENTRE

Looking for a quality, reliable second hand car?

Come to a local well-established business for honest advice and excellent customer service.

On-site selection of pre-selected quality, low-mileage vehicles ... or tell us what you need and we will source a suitable vehicle to your specification and budget

All vehicles have had our stringent pre-sales service 12 month warranty* We only deal with good quality cars so you can buy with confidence

Tel: 01506 882 185 Email: info@colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Web: colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Edinburgh Road, East Calder EH53 0ET

ESTABLISHED OVER 25 YEARS *some vehicles excepted