Dell Directory May 2025

May 2025

WINE TASTING:

LOCAL WALK: FOOD & DRINK:

P36

W

ith summer approaching, it’s much easier to get out and about in the beautiful environment we are lucky to have all around us. The walk feature this month was contributed by a local walker who shares her experience of completing the whole length of the Water of Leith walkway in manageable sections, with the all-important cafe recommendations for each section.

Pentlands Open Studios, the new local art trail, have provided an update for their inaugural weekend coming up this summer (see page 40) and also on the What’s On page you will find the usual rich offerings of diverse activities in the area to get involved with this month.

As ever, you will find everything you need for home, health, garden and entertainment in the pages of The Dell Directory. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

Local Walk: Water of Leith in slow motion.........8 Health: Stroke – know the signs.........................12 Wine: Anything But Chardonnay?.....................20 Spotlight onAccess4Lofts....................................22 realLIFE......................................................................26 Puzzles.......................................................................28 Recipe: Flourless Cookies...................................30 Local Environment: My dippers have disappeared.............................................................36 What’s On: Pentland Open Studios.................40 What’s On: May Events........................................42

COVER IMAGE: May: Rhododendron flower heads in full bloom.

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

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along the Water of Leith Walkway…

WITH PLENTY OF STOPS FOR COFFEE

I was all geared up to go into the Royal Infirmary for a heart procedure, when, a week before d-day, a phone call from the hospital informed me that my admission had been postponed by a month. Plans fell apart, dismay and frustration set in; I needed an enjoyable project to keep me going, to regain some control. That’s when I remembered the Water of Leith Walkway.

If you’re very fit, you can stride or cycle along the 13 miles of the Walkway from Balerno to Leith in a day. If you’re super-fit, you could run it in a couple of hours. Never super-fit and no longer even very fit, I needed to

spin the walk out in short sections over my four weeks-a-waiting.

The Water of Leith Visitor Centre in Slateford sells a very useful leaflet for the route, which contains a map and information about the path - distances between main locations, which sections are suitable for wheelchair users etc.

It also describes many of the interesting places along the route and says you might be lucky and see a kingfisher or an otter.

I decided to treat the walk a bit like a jigsaw. It didn’t matter what order I did the sections in, as long as I put all the ‘pieces’ together by the end. Armed with the guide, I started at Currie because I thought I could manage to walk the two plus miles to Colinton, where I would meet a friend for coffee at the Swing Cafe.

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It was a lovely walk, along the route of the old railway line with the river below sometimes calm, sometimes noisy and tumbling. On either side there were old tangled woodlands draped in ivy. I could stop whenever I wanted to rest once just in time to catch sight of a heron flying low over the water - and to talk to passers by. I tried to imagine the busy mills along the route and the train, nicknamed the Balerno Tug, chuffing and puffing around a bend. A short detour, through Spylaw Park in Colinton, took me to the Kirk, with its sympathetic

I started my next section at the Water of Leith Visitor Centre, where there’s a small shop, toilets and a welcoming, reasonably priced cafe. I aimed to finish at Roseburn Terrace, two to three miles away. The first stretch of the walk hugged the river, with a cemetery and allotments on one side and glimpses, through the trees, of the prison on the other. Quite suddenly the walk opened out and I’d arrived in Saughton Park. Here I cheated a bit and followed the signposts to the courtyard. More toilets and another attractive good value cafe the Four Square Park Cafe - which funds help for homeless people. From the courtyard you can walk through the formal rose gardens and on into the Conservatory, which is a little haven, with its bust of Mahatma Ghandi ‘Apostle of Non-Violence’, its exotic plants and a pond full of fish. You might even be tempted to sit down and take off your shoes and socks, like

the man I spoke to who often comes in his lunch break to relax and unwind. This would be a good place to finish, but today I felt well enough to continue. The path rejoined the tree-shaded river, passed by Balgreen Croquet Club and then came to a short tunnel. I went through the tunnel, under a railway bridge, crossed the river, and there I was in a different world, with Murrayfield Stadium dominating the view. Roseburn Public Park is right next to the stadium and the little Rose Bean cafe is right next to the Water of Leith path, not far from my destination. With the sun shining and a view of the attractive Friends of Roseburn mural and open playing fields in front of me, it was the perfect place to sit outside, enjoying a coffee.

For the third piece of the jigsaw, I went back to the start, in Balerno, and walked as far as Currie in the company of the rushing, swirling water. At one point, there was a mallard family heading across the water, and further on, a dipper bobbed on a stone in the river. I stopped at THE DELL | 9

CREDIT: All image by Jane Forster

statue of a young Robert Louis Stevenson outside, and welcoming Swing Cafe inside. My friend was waiting, the coffee was brewing and the scones were delicious.

Currie Kirk, where you can get coffee or tea and a selection of tempting home baking all at a bargain price although it’s only open on a Saturday afternoon, during the summer months.

Where next? My son was home and he’s a good walking companion, so we set our sights on completing the section from Roseburn Terrace to the end in Leith, knowing there were several places where we could shorten the walk if I was finding it too much. I expected this section to be much more built up, so was surprised that there were still many tree covered banks and a couple of lovely open spaces, with benches where we could sit and enjoy the peace and beauty, with hardly a building in sight. A highlight was Dean Village, with its jumble of quirky, colourful buildings, so unlike the grey formality of the New Town nearby. The flow of the river continued to be varied, sometimes slow, almost sluggish, but then bubbling and rushing. There were several weirs, reminders of the numerous mills dotted along this section. And, standing in the river, there were tall men; tall, naked men, part of sculptor, Andrew Gormley’s 6 Times project. As we approached the end of the walk, the banks were more built up with flats and graffiti-daubed warehouses, before finally opening out into Leith itself, with its busy waterfront and invitation to adventure into the world beyond our shores. There are lots of attractive cafes in Leith. We chose Printwork’s Coffee in Constitution Street, serving a range of interesting cakes, snacks and drinks, and situated right next to our town-bound tram stop.

And so, with a week to go until my hospital admission, I reached the final piece of the jigsaw. My destination was the same as on my first stretch, the Swing Cafe in Colinton, but this time I started from the Water of Leith Centre.

Leaving behind the buildings and the noise of traffic on the Lanark Road, I re-entered a world of tall, twisted old trees, tangled with ivy and holly. The path wended its way, sometimes climbing above the river, then descending steps to run alongside it. There were several bridges and forks in the path, giving opportunities to vary the route or leave the walk early. There were open spaces and weirs, a little grotto and views of Redhall Walled Garden - more reminders of the industrial past, mingled 10 | THE DELL

here with the genteel living of wealthy families. Finally, I re-joined the route of the old railway line and soon arrived at the Colinton tunnel, with its impressive mural, based on Stevenson’s evocative ‘From a Railway Carriage’ poem. From there it was a short walk to the Swing Cafe, where my friend was waiting to share in a celebration lunch leek and potato soup or cranberry and brie panini, which would it be?

I never saw a kingfisher or an otter, but slow motion along the Water of Leith Walkway exceeded my expectations, with its wonderful variety of nature and history and art works. It’s a great walk to try in short sections and it’s on our doorstep. As for my hospital admission, once again I was all geared up…and then I tested positive for covid!

This walk article was contributed by Jane Forster. Jane has lived in Balerno for over 50 years, and since retiring she has enjoyed travel abroad, volunteering and hill walking, especially with the Balerno Ramblers.

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STR

KES:

There are different types of strokes.

The most common is an ischaemic stroke, caused by a clot which cuts off blood flow to part of the brain. A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when there is bleeding in or around the brain. The third kind is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or mini-stroke, the result of a temporary blockage. It usually clears within 24 hours but is a warning you could have a more serious attack. Always go to A&E, even if symptoms go away.

YOU CAN LOWER YOUR RISK - The biggest risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure

which is not something you will be aware of without testing. High cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, drinking and being overweight also increase the danger.

AN IRREGULAR HEARTBEAT IS A RED FLAG - Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common heart rhythm disorder, means you’re five times more likely to have a stroke. If your heart seems to flutter, beat fast or skip a beat, see your GP. ACT FAST - Clot-busting drugs have to be given within four and a half hours of a stroke in most cases.

The acronym FAST is used to remember the most common signs of a stroke. F for Face, in particular drooping on one side, A for Arms (can you raise them?) and S for Speech, which could be slurred. T means Time – if you notice any of the first three signs, call the emergency services immediately.

This article was contributed by Susannah Hickling

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Offer ends 31st May 2025

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WINE

You might think you don’t like Chardonnay, but have you tried Chablis?

Ironically, Chablis is 100% Chardonnay, yet even the staunchest Chardonnay sceptics often fall for its charm!

Chardonnay is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world. It’s incredibly versatile, you’ll find it in age worthy Champagne as well as massproduced supermarket bottles. Growers like its adaptability, while winemakers love it for its neutrality; it’s the ultimate blank canvas.

Some producers age Chardonnay in heavily toasted oak barrels, which can mellow its natural crisp acidity and bring out rich, buttery notes. Done well, the finished product is luxurious, rich and memorable. Done poorly, it can be cloying, overpowering and memorable for the wrong reasons!

Now to Chablis. Grown in the cool, limestonerich soils of northern Burgundy, around the town of Chablis. Here, Chardonnay is crisp, elegant, and precise. The region is divided into four quality levels: Petit Chablis, Chablis, Premier Cru, and Grand Cru. As you move up the ladder, the wines become more complex, textured, and age-worthy.

What sets Chablis apart is its signature minerality, often described as flinty or chalky, which comes from the region’s ancient Kimmeridgian limestone soils.

Expect flavours of citrus zest, green apple, white flowers, and a racy acidity that’s mouthwatering and pure.

Chablis is all about finesse. It is Chardonnay stripped back.

There’s no overpowering oak, just a beautiful expression of grape and terroir. If you’ve sworn off Chardonnay, Chablis might just be your perfect exception!

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 20 | THE DELL

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Upgrade your Storage Solutions Have you ever looked around your home and thought, “’We could do with more space?” or are you about to have a tidy up, but don’t want to throw everything out? Well, the answer could be to make more use of the space you’ve already got, literally under your own roof.

For many home owners, the loft is an underutilised area because it can be difficult and dangerous to reach. Edinburgh-based loft ladder installer, Access4Lofts, whose slogan is ‘Creating Space The Easy Way’ can change all that, often in less than a day.

Access4Lofts Edinburgh is owned by Dale Lewis. Much of the work he carries out is for growing families. “I know how crucial storage space can be for large families,” says Dale.

“I also find that a large percentage of my clients are retired people looking for the safest access to their loft available.”

Dale advises that with space at such a premium, it makes sense to make the most of your loft. “Installing a loft ladder is quick and affordable. It’s less expensive than a garden shed and it means you don’t have to store everything out of the house.”

Access4Lofts provides a free survey and quote service so you can find out what is achievable with your loft area. For the full works, customers can get a retractable 3-section ladder, a new hatch, a floating floor over the loft insulation and lighting.

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Some homeowners who perhaps inherited an old loft ladder, may want to consider an upgrade as in many homes the loft hatch and ladder are out of date compared to what’s on offer now. “The new ladders are springassisted and lighter so they’re much easier to use,” he says. “The ladders can also come with a safety handrail and there is an option of wide-tread wooden steps. There’s really no need for anyone to be struggling in and out of the loft any more.”

Freeing up a room currently clogged with clutter can save a lot of trouble and expense, as Dale explains, “Some people looking for more space consider moving to a bigger home but this needn’t be necessary. People are surprised by the amount of space a loft can create - we can even include shelving to maximise the space.”

Access4Lofts is an approved Which?

Trusted Trader which means they have been assessed by Which? and passed their stringent checks. For added confidence, Access4Lofts has full public liability insurance and all ladders and work carried out comes with a Lifetime Guarantee.

Call Dale now to book a free survey and quotation on 0131 241 1413, or visit www.Access4Lofts.co.uk/Edinburgh

You can also find them on Facebook as ‘Access4Lofts Edinburgh’.

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SUZANN E GREEN

I

haditainteresting birthday last month.

And I sn’t that we wish one learned aI’m younger I thought another “happy newthan year” long I was. after singing Auld Lang Syne – for weeks after boxing up the Christmas You see, I have this unfortunate habit decorations and at returning to the loft. of “aging myself” the start them of a new year.

I think about the age I’mgoing goingon toin turn April Regardless of what’s ourinworld and to soften the about blow when I actually and then, various concerns issues in our reach that number, I start to think of own country, we hope that 2025 willmyself be a as already being that age. good year.

It would be wonderful to see Although this mayinhave some psychological peace achieved at least one area where benefits, it’s alsoraging. rather dangerous.

Having war is currently And, on a personal advanced my hope age prematurely, when level, we also to see growth and my birthday does arrive sometimes get progress in our own life Iand in the lives confused - and advance myself anothertoyear! of those we know and love, occasions good health and maybe even Icelebrate, love my springtime birthday.

Edinburgh somegets fun surprises in in the nextAnd 12 months. often a lot of sun April. family and friends do their to make me feel special.

I’m focusing onbest the “new” in “Happy New All I have to do is receive the adulation, gifts Year”. I’ve not exactly made any new year’s and plans with grace, gratitude that resolutions.

This tradition seemsand to be surprised look. becoming“who less me?” popular - social media posts regularly tell the us that we don’t need to strive In our home birthday person is asked to to improve, are “enough” as we are, we make a list ofwe gift ideas.

If the list is obeyed, loaddon’t ourselves with goals and itshouldn’t means you have toup pretend you love something that you have useachieve for andthem. don’t then feel guilty when we no can’t even like! IThe downside that to Although agree that it’sisgood

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THE DELL DIRECTORY MAY, 2025 BALERNO | FEBRUARY,| 2025

be realistic, I loveany thereal promise that a(And newI you will not have surprises. like has been mentioned yearsurprises, holds, theas“clean slate” potential!in a previous column.)

If you live in Balerno, you too may have been I’m glad I no longer have to think about delighted to see snow falling early morning children’s birthdays. of our (now on New Year’s Day. IWhen stoodone at our glass adult) kids was she was invited to three patio door and little watched as sleet turned to birthday all on that the same day.

A big whiteparties snowflakes quickly covered sensible mother havethe encouraged hera our garden and would bedecked trees. It was to choose one or evenoftwo them attend. wonderful illustration theof“it’s all to fresh and Not I determined to get my child to all new”me. theme. three. So what if they were all taking place in Signing up forof a Pilates classI was a car. new different parts Edinburgh? had a thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it Years later I don’t remember much about has been a positive change. I may not be as that day. But I do recall that at party one, proficient as many in the class, I struggle to or maybe two, the birthday boy’s mum do some of the stretches because of a knee brought out a cake topped with Teletubbies issue, and I sometimes have a hard time decorations. resisting dancing to the background music My kids had watched Teletubbies on TV, but when I should be listening to the instructor. at that particular time there was a controversy But I know the exercise is doing me good. about programme.

One article I’m notthe sure what new thing(s) I willimplied do/ that watching Laa Laa and friends encounter this year, but I will keepwould my eyes rot andthem. urged parents to make andkids’ earsbrains, open for better choices. So I followed the advice, When my eldest daughter was inwere primary explaining to my child that there better school,toshe decided to try something new. I things watch. heard about it fromwhen another whopiped had Imagine my horror my mum, daughter been at the school to watch her daughter up, “Oh no! Teletubbies! They are bad for do Highland assembly.

“I you.”

I tried todancing laugh it in off,an and explain to didn’t know didBut it too,” she said. the mum withyour the girl cake. she didn’t look So I explained that sheworse. didn’t, although she happy.

And then it got was in a ballet class. “That’s strange,” said Worried we’d be late for the next party, I tried my friend. “At the assembly the children who to hurry my daughter, telling her to go say took Highland dance lessons were invited thank you to her friend and his parents. to go to the centre of the floor and perform. I But she knew that guests received thought your daughter didnormally rather well.” a little party bag of goodies at the end of the Later I- asked mywasn’t child about why she had done event and she to miss out. this.

“Oh,” she said.

“I thought the teacher She ran up to her little host, hand out, and said, “Will all“Richard, children the whobag!” would like to doa demanded, We made Highland dancing please come forward hasty exit. now? So I went.”

When we finally arrived home that day, I Do something newand thisdrank new year. made a pot of tea three mugfuls in quick succession. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green.

Suzanne, freelance writer/editor, in real LIFE isa contributed

by Suzannelives Green.

Balerno and writes regularly for Konect.

Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor.

She is She is married Andy and theytwo have two married to Andytoand they have adult adult daughters. daughters.

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(HARD*)

MAY CROSSWORD

^^^ Cossword solution in the JUNE edition

ACROSS: 7. Scratch (6), 8. Lower spine (6), 9. Settee (4), 10. Very young frogs (8), 11. Normally (7), 13. Closes (5), 15. Not heavy (5), 17. Moves up (7), 20. Keeps you dry (8), 21. Coffee shop (4), 23. Aggravates (6), 24. End (6).

DOWN: 1 Repeat (4), 2 .Yellow fruit (6), 3. e.g. snake (7), 4 Scottish river (5), 5 Level (6), 6. Skilled (8), 12. Dieting (8), 14. Mortified (7), 16. Terror (6), 18. Getaway (6), 19. Dental care (5), 22. Blaze (4).

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^^^ Hard sudoku solution on page 45

(EASY) ^^^ Easy sudoku solution on page 45

MAY SUDOKUS

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FOOD & DRINK

Flourless

Cookies Home bake treats with just a small number of ingredients so you know exactly what you’re eating! These quick and easy flourless cookies are an ideal recipe for kids to make. Perfect for those on a gluten-free diet, their unique texture makes for a different and delicious cookie experience for everyone!

Flourless Chocolate Cookies These flourless cookies get their volume from whipped egg whites (like a meringue) instead of grains, making them glutenfree and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. A chocolate chip in each bite adds to the rich chocolate flavour.

Melt-in-your-mouth delicious

Method: 1. Preheat oven to 180oC. 2. Line 2 large baking sheets with baking paper and lightly grease.

3. Combine sugar, cocoa powder and salt in a medium bowl. Beat egg whites in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Add vanilla. Fold in the cocoa powder mixture with a rubber spatula until combined. Fold in chocolate chips (or chunks).

4. Drop the batter by tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 5cm between each cookie. Bake, one sheet at a time, until the cookies are just beginning to crack on top, 12 to 14 minutes. Let cool slightly on the tray before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Ingredients: • 1 cup sugar • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 1/8 teaspoon salt • 2 large egg whites • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips or chunks, chopped

Peanut Butter

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Recipes and images from eatingwell.com

Ingredients:

Method:

• 1 large egg

1. Position rack in middle of oven; preheat to 180oC.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup smooth natural peanut butter • 1/2 cup light brown sugar

• 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2. Line two baking sheets with baking paper. Whisk egg and salt in a medium bowl. Stir in peanut butter, brown sugar and chocolate chips until combined. Place slightly rounded tablespoons of dough about 5cm apart on the prepared baking sheets.

3. Use a fork to flatten each cookie to a 4.5cm diameter by gently pressing in a crisscross pattern.

4. Bake the cookies one sheet at a time until just set, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, about 20 minutes. Repeat with the remaining cookies.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

I’ve been struggling to get back in to photography since I returned from Kenya and I thought going to visit my dipper family location on the River Avon might help. Sadly, despite sitting for around an hour I didn’t see them.

I could see the nest in the usual spot but there wasn’t any evidence of chicks or busy parents who should be bringing food to their young at this time of year.

There’s something incredibly calming about sitting by the river, listening to the wrens and grey wagtails filling the air with their calls. Watching the insects drifting along, following the flow of the water and bees buzzing their way over the banks, looking for the early sources of food like dandelions. It’s exciting to see the first wood anemone (white flowers with a yellow centre) emerging on the woodland floor before making way for bluebells.

Add a dipper to the mix and it’s a perfect way to spend some time. I’m hoping maybe it was bad timing, they can spend a while looking for food and even standing underneath the nest for ages before finally taking it up to the chicks.

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They like fast flowing river and they can walk under water on the hunt for food, seeking out mayflies, small fish, and other insects. They usually have two clutches of nests, so perhaps something happened to the first and they’ll be back for round two in a few weeks.

This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.

Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.

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Our local columnists are all experts in their fields and provide much-valued expertise and ideas every month.

We have scope in Konect Queensferry for columns on health and beauty, property, money advice and food. We are also open to suggestions for topics that would be of value to the community.

Sharing your expertise via a column is a great way of raising your profile as a business. If you are interested in taking out an advertising package with Konect, and would like to raise your profile via a column, please contact me for information on space available: Helen-Jane, Konect editor,

editor@konect.scot

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SAVE THE DATE

After a successful open call, the Pentlands Open Studios (POSt) art trail is excited to announce its inaugural event, taking place over the weekend of 30th-31st August 2025.

The trail invites art lovers to explore the breathtaking upper valley of the Water of Leith, winding through the picturesque villages of Colinton, Juniper Green, Currie, and Balerno.

This event will showcase the work of 18 professional artists and makers, offering a rare opportunity to experience their work up close in the creative spaces where it is made.

In addition to painters, visitors will have the chance to experience the work of artists specializing in a variety of mediums, including artist bookmaking, printmaking, jewellery design, and textile art doll-making. The full list of participating artists will be announced on the POSt website in May.

Donated exhibition spaces on the trail Include:

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend, celebrating creativity, community, and the stunning natural beauty of the Pentlands.

The event offers an exceptional opportunity to support local artists and makers, while also enjoying the rich history and charm of this picturesque region.

Created by local volunteers, the POSt art trail provides a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with artists in their own studios, see live demonstrations, and purchase original works directly from the creators. The trail features diverse studio spaces, including six working artist studios and four generously donated exhibition spaces.

• Craw’s Nest, Currie – A private business space hosting three artists, complete with kitchen and toilet facilities, conveniently located just off Lanark Road West.

• Colinton Village Enterprise ‘Shed’ – A charming, charity-owned space housed in historic stone stables within Spylaw Park.

Visitors will enjoy the possibility of a pop-up café and toilet facilities.

• Hub@531, Juniper Green – A welcoming community-owned venue on Lanark Road, equipped with kitchen and toilet amenities, ideal for a relaxed and engaging visit.

• Malleny Garden, Balerno – The beautiful National Trust for Scotland property offering a unique setting for art displays within its greenhouse.

A printed brochure and map will be available to help visitors navigate the trail, showing how the studios are linked via the scenic Water of Leith Walkway. The brochure will also include information on public transport routes, making it easy for cyclists, pedestrians, and those using public transit to plan their visit. Local landmarks will be highlighted to guide visitors along the way.

Interested in helping out? Volunteers are warmly welcome to assist in both preparing for and running the event. Those wishing to contribute can find more information on the POSt website.

For more information, updates, and a list of participating artists, visit: Linktr.ee/POStudios This article was contributed by Pentlands Open Studios.

Examples of work by local founding artists, Pen Reid, Gill Walton, Susie Wilson, Ron Burnett, Jacqueline Watt, Jenny Matthews

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SATURDAY 10TH MAY Plant Sale - Pick up some bargain plants and help the Water of Leith Conservation Trust! The courtyard of the Visitor Centre will be transformed in to a sea of greenery with hundreds (if not thousands) of plants for sale. We’ll have bedding plants, trees, shrubs, perennials, wildflowers, edible plants and houseplants, all at some of the best prices you’ll find in Edinburgh! No need to book just turn up on the day. Free entry, bring cash for the plants. 11am to 1pm – or until we sell out! We do sell out quickly of the popular items! Don’t forget to bring bags or boxes to carry your items home. Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Rd, EH14 1TQ. www.waterofleith.org.uk SATURDAY 10TH MAY Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm 13TH MAY TO 3RD JUNE ACE IT Digital Skills - Join us at Currie Library on Tuesday mornings for friendly, free digital skills coaching for over 50s. Whether you’re a total beginner or just need a refresher, we’re here to help with phones, tablets, email, and more. Drop in and boost your confidence with everyday tech!

10.00am until 12.00pm.

SUNDAY 18TH MAY Spring Concert by Colinton Orchestra - Polwarth Parish Church at 7.30pm. All are welcome. Entry by Donation (suggested £8) Refreshments will be served during the interval. Further details at www.colintontochestra.org.uk

SUNDAY 25TH MAY The Big Lunch - Campbell Park, Colinton. See poster opposite > > > FRIDAY 6TH & SATURDAY 7TH JUNE Currie Beer and Curry Festival - 40 tasty real ales, lager, wines, cider, prosecco and alcohol-free offerings. Live music. Organised by Currie, Balerno and District Round Table and volunteers. All profits are given to local charities and good causes. Currie Community Centre, 6.00pm – midnight. Tickets in advance at cbdrt.com/events/beer-festival/2025/

All meets are in Edinburgh Pentlands (formerly 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 7TH MAY: “Building a Brand - Woodrow’s of Edinburgh” an illustrated talk by Megan Brown.

WED 21ST MAY: MEMBERS ONLY: 10.30am - 12 noon, members AGM followed by lunch at The Kinleith Mill bar/restaurant, Juniper Green.

THE CLUB TAKES A SUMMER BREAK AND WILL RESUME IN SEPTEMBER ***

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 ISSUE. 42 | THE DELL

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

COLINTON BROWNIES Spaces available to join now (Monday evenings). At Girl Guiding’s Colinton Brownie units we welcome all girls to explore their creative side, get out and about into the great outdoors and start to learn to look after themselves, others and our world.

Girls aged 7-10 years have fun, learning and adventure. For info about joining now contact: colintonbrownieslist@gmail.com GLENLOCKHART PROBUS CLUB - For ex-business men and women. We meet to hear talks, mostly by outside speakers, on a wide range of subjects.

The venue is Mortonhall Garden Centre, at 10.30am. on the last Thursday in the month, January to November. Occasionally there are additional outings. Contact: E. glenlockhartprobus@outlook.com ORIAM WALKING FOOTBALL CLUB - We run a local Walking Football Club, established in 2015, for women aged 40+ and men aged 50+. Our sessions, which are very much mixed ability, take place at Oriam Sports Centre, Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS, on a Mon, Wed and Fri 12:30-1:30pm. We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.20 but we do have monthly membership schemes available.

Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@ btinternet.com OXGANGS WRITE AWAY! WRITERS' GROUP - Whether you are a beginner or not, wouldbe novelist, journal-writer or poet, come along and share, learn, be inspired or simply listen. We meet at Oxgangs Library every 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6.00pm - free tea/coffee and biscuits too! For more information, contact Robert Carroll Robert.

Carroll@edinburgh.gov.uk or katiemoon7754@gmail.com 44 | THE DELL

REDHALL WALKING GROUP A gentle walking group exploring areas such as the Union Canal, Colinton Dell and the Water of Leith. Improve your health and wellbeing and meet new people.

Meet at Redhall Walled Garden entrance on main road at 97 Lanark Road. Mondays 10.00am - 11.30am Fun, friendly and free.

Contact: emily@elgt.org.uk or 07943 530806.

Facebook @GreenspaceTrust ST CUTHBERT'S PLAYGROUP - 10.00am - 11.30am - Every Monday during school term time. £2 per family. Toys, snacks and a fun songs! St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue, Colinton. Contact Rev Nicki McNelly for more information: stcuthbertsrector@gmail.com FORGET ME NOTES - The Forget Me Notes Project is a charity that uses music to build community and combat isolation in a variety of settings On the first and third Monday of each month - 2.00pm - 4.00pm in St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue, Colinton.

Join us when you can, for an hour of music and memories, followed by refreshments. All welcome. Please contact Rev Nicki for more information: stcuthbertsrector@gmail.com (www.forgetmenotes.org.uk) COLINTON FRIENDLY BRIDGE CLUB - Colinton Cottage Homes’ Hall every Monday from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Please contact Ken McLeod on 0131 466 0888 for more information.

TEA AND TOTS - Stay and play for ages 0-5 with their parent/ carer - all are welcome! Toys, crafts, refreshments, song-time and more. Every Thursday during school term time, 10am-11.30am at Redeemer Church, 64 Bridge Road, Colinton, EH13 OLQ. FREE. E:admin@redeemeredinburgh.org T: 0131 441 7327

ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - The Club was formed about 1946 and meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. It is noncompetitive. For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145.

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 £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see www.bridgewebs.com/ pentland or email mthkjb@gmail.com.

COLINTON LITERARY SOCIETY - Meetings start with coffee, tea and wine at 7.30pm and are held at Dreghorn Hall, 22 Dreghorn Loan, EH13 0DE. Full programme details are at www.colinton-parish.com/ colinton-literary-society.html COFFEE, CAKE AND COMPANY - Drop in for a free coffee between 10.30am and 12pm on Mondays at Redeemer Church Edinburgh, 64 Bridge Road EH13 0LT. We are mostly retired people, but all ages are welcome! More details at redeemeredinburgh.org/ccc THIS WOMAN RUNS - We are a small group of local women who support and empower each other to be healthier and happier. We meet Wednesday’s at 7.30pm at the bottom of Thorburn Road, or Sunday’s at 8.00am in Spylaw Park for a quick warm up, 30-minute run at the pace of chat/your pace, and then a gentle cool down. We’d love to see you there! All free, run by friendly local volunteers www.thismumruns.co.uk/joina-local-run WAVERLEY SPEAKERS CLUB - Meets in Morningside Parish Church, fortnightly on Tuesdays

at 7.15pm. Our aim is to improve members’ public speaking skills in a supportive atmosphere. Each evening has three prepared speeches of eight minutes, evaluated constructively by another member. Eight impromptu short speeches follow, also evaluated. New members will be made most welcome.

Contact Douglas.Lothian@ lenlothian.com LOCAL FLORAL ART CLUB - Sit back and enjoy relaxing evenings watching a floral demonstration with lively & interesting chat.

You might even win one of the arrangements. Meet: Boroughmuir Rugby Club, Meggatland, off Colinton Road EH14 1AS. 7.15pm 9.00pm on the 1st Monday of the month from September.

Trial first visit only £5. Wine/ tea/coffee available. Contact: Joyce Rutherford on 0131 443 2536 or joyce.rutherford@ btinternet.com COLINTON SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB Come and join us on alternate Thursday evenings from September to March for an evening of fun dancing to live music. We meet in St Cuthbert's Church Hall Colinton from 7.45pm to 9.15pm.

Dances are called but as this is not a teaching class some knowledge of Scottish Country Dance steps and figures is beneficial. For further details phone 07751186359 or 07483814988.

THE SWING CAFÉ - Tues to Sat 10.00am-2.00pm. Please come for breakfast (10.00am12.00noon), lunch (12noon -2.00pm) or some delicious home baking (available all day). We welcome groups

and if you would like to book a table, please contact 07514 689258. There are glutenfree, vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options. Under 12s are invited to enjoy a children's menu. Sit in or take away. We look forward to welcoming you.

COLINTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY - Want to know about local history?

W: www.colintonhistory.org E:enquiries@colintonhistory.org COLINTON GARDEN CLUB - Club members share their love of gardening, gardens and nature, and work together to preserve and add value to our quality of life here in south-west Edinburgh. Monthly members’ meetings on a Monday, in the upper Hall, Dreghorn Loan and start at 8.00pm. We are a friendly and thriving club and new members are very welcome, plus outings and events. The annual subscription is £10.00. per household.

For more information see: W: colintongardens.org.uk E: membership@ colintongardens.org.uk LUNCHCLUB - Every Wednesday 1pm – 3pm, 3 courses £4. Spaces are limited, first come first served.

Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firhill Drive, EH13 9EU. Please visit: oxgangsneighbourhoodcentre.org.uk PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP - Tuesdays, am session and pm session for two age groups (all under 5s). Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firhill Drive, EH13 9EU. T: 0131 466 0678 E:oxgangs neighbourhoodcentre @gmail.com

SOLUTION TO APRIL CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Boater, 8. Attack, 9. Ugly, 10. Dramatic, 11. Italics, 13. Nippy, 15. Trout, 17. Untying, 20. Orchards, 21. Myth, 22. Blends, 23. Author.

DOWN: 1. Nought, 2. Stay, 3. Predict, 4. Banal, 5. Steadily, 6. Scrimp, 12. Laughing, 14. Unusual, 16. Rarely, 18. Notion, 19. Crush, 21. Mute.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKUS ON PAGE 28

(EASY)

OXGANGS NEIGHBOUR CENTRE CAFÉ - 10.00am to 1.00pm.

Bacon rolls, baked potatoes, toasties,specials, teas, coffees and cake. Sit in or takeaway.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT.SCOT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

(HARD)

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