Konect Balerno August 2025

AUGUST 2025

FEATURE:

LOCAL WALK:

WINE:

A journey in more ways than one!

PLUS: real life, puzzles, CLUBS & CLASSES, what’s on, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

2 | BALERNO

Y

ou will have noticed the Commonwealth War Graves signs dotted around the city at various cemeteries – all over the country in fact but how much do you know about them?

With 2025 marking the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Days, a local resident who works for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has contributed an informative feature about the sites and the work of the Commission, see pages 8-9.

As schools go back later in August, remember there are also adult learning opportunities locally and it’s never too late to pick up new skills, as well as taking up new hobbies and interests as the routine gets back to normal. See the Clubs & Classes pages for ideas locally, there is something for everyone!

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

Feature: What do you know about Commonwealth War Graves?...................... 8 Recipe: Apricots with pistachio brittle.....14 Wine: Notes of summer rain......................16 Walk: Colzium...............................................22 Puzzles..................................................30 / 39 Local Environment: Being Breezy............32 realLIFE.........................................................38 What’s On: August.......................................42 Clubs & Classes.................................... 44-45 Puzzle Solutions...........................................45 What is Probus? Is it for you?....................46

COVER IMAGE: Summery Treats!

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

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

IMAGE CREDIT: William Weir

P22

4 | BALERNO

ies

JU

Friday 12 September 1pm-3pm

sar

IL ES T 7 F E N U N 02 E 2 OZ F R LY

openDAY

Bur

ava

ilab

le f

Join us for a guided tour of our wonderful school and grounds with an opportunity to meet the students, teachers and Headteacher and discover what Clifton Hall can offer your child.

Clifton Hall treats each pupil as an individual and we seek to personalise their education so that they can benefit from being given the opportunity to shine. With this structure, we can discover talents, care and nurture and help to assist in the development of character and self-belief.

or

Aug

ust

202

6e

ntr

y

NURSERY • JUNIOR • SENIOR

www.cliftonhall.com Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LQ 0131 333 1359 • office@cliftonhall.org.uk

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

We can visit your office / home or please drop into our office at Bridge Road to speak t o u s ….

^ĞůĞĐƚŝŽŶ ŽĨ ZĞĨƵƌďŝƐŚĞĚ W Ɛ ĂŶĚ >ĂƉƚŽƉƐ ĨŽƌ ^ĂůĞ Ͳ &ƌŽŵ άϭϱϬ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

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

➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

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

Call us on 0131 510 9300 or email: info@worx24.co.uk ϯϬͲϯϮ ƌŝĚŐĞ ZŽĂĚ͕ ĚŝŶďƵƌŐŚ͕ ,ϭϯ Ϭ>Y BALERNO | 5

6 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 7

what do you know about them?

The Commonwealth War Graves signs are a familiar sight; from large CWGC war cemeteries and memorials to single headstones in remote churchyards, you’re never too far away from one of our sites.

But how much do you know about the war graves, and who maintains them? Did you know you can book informative tours, or arrange a talk for your group? With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of both VE Day and VJ Day, it’s time to learn more about these sites in our communities.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) was founded by Sir Fabian Ware in 1917, and is responsible for commemorating all Commonwealth war dead from both World Wars individually and equally.

We care for war graves at 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries around the world, commemorating 1.7 million individuals.

Our global estate is run by a multinational and multilingual workforce numbering approximately 1,300, the vast majority of whom are gardeners and stone masons.

Since our establishment by Royal Charter we have constructed 2,500 war cemeteries and plots, erected headstones over graves and where the remains are missing, inscribed the names of the dead on permanent memorials. More than a million 8 | BALERNO

burials are now commemorated at military and civil sites around the world.

Despite being set up over 100 years ago our work is still relevant today as we amend records, search for missing names, build new memorials and where historical inequalities in commemoration are found, ensuring all those who fell are equally remembered. Additionally, war dead are still being identified and when this happens the individual is buried with full military honours. Their name is then removed from the memorial to the missing where they had previously been remembered as they now have their own grave and headstone.

We also have a duty to ensure our sites remain well visited so remembrance of the war dead continues, creating information centres, volunteering opportunities and education programmes designed to engage and educate generations to come.

In Scotland alone we commemorate over 21,000 casualties. Amongst these is the youngest casualty of WWII, 14 year old Reginald Earnshaw who is here in Edinburgh. His grave is in Comely Bank cemetery (you can read his story on our website). In addition to those from the

UK we care for the graves of numerous Americans, Canadians, Norwegians, Poles and Czechs plus a further 15 other nationalities. In short, you’re never far from the grave of a Commonwealth casualty.

host of roles including ‘Eyes On Hands On’ (these are the people who after training, monitor and clean some of the War Graves), researchers, tour guides and speakers.

There are 32 cemeteries in Edinburgh that have CWGC War graves/commemorations, including local cemeteries: Currie Parish Church (containing 7), Dalmahoy (St Mary) Episcopalian Churchyard (2), Ratho Cemetery (3), Colinton parish (20), Kirkliston (7), South Queensferry (189), Winchburgh (7).

JOIN A TOUR OR REQUEST A TALK - You can arrange to join a free

Locating cemeteries anywhere in the world can be done easily with our app: ‘Commonwealth War Graves’.

We also have the For Evermore app, an excellent resource where individual’s stories are told in more detail. It’s a wonderful tool not just for research, you can upload your own CWGC casualties’ stories. www.cwgc.org/stories/home We are fortunate to have volunteers in a

War Graves Tour to find out more about the work of the CWGC. The list of available tours is on the website at www.cwgc.org/visit-us/ events-tours-and-talks, and is updated regularly when tours are added.

You can also request a free talk about the Commission for your group. There are four talks to choose from: an introduction to our work; CWGC gardening; Architecture; Archives. So, if you know of a group who may be interested in having a talk please do get in touch.

If you’re interested in knowing more please go to our website www.cwgc.org.uk

This article was contributed by Elaine Edwards. Elaine is the Public Engagement Co-ordinator for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Scotland, East & North. If you would like to know more, drop Elaine an email at elaine.edwards@cwgc.org BALERNO | 9

10 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 11

TONY HARPER’S

HAIR STUDIO

46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno

To book an appointment please phone the salon on

0131 451 5133

and leave a message with your name, phone number and your stylist’s name and they will call you back within 48 hours

For updates please see our Facebook page and salon windows

12 | BALERNO

SHOWER SAFELY WITH A BMAS BATHROOM WALK-IN SHOWER ROOMS AND BATHROOMS , DESIGNED AND INSTALLED

Visit our Showroom at Dobbies Lasswade Call for your FREE home visit

0131 241 2447 bathingmobility.co.uk

BALERNO | 13

FOOD & DRINK

This is a perfect light summer pudding. The pistachio brittle stores well, so feel free to make a lot of it.

Ring the changes and use plums in place of apricots.

Serves 4 | Prep 25 minutes Cooking time 30-35 minutes, plus cooling Ingredients: • 6 apricots (or plums), stoned and quartered • Juice of ½ orange • 1 heaped tbsp honey For the pistachio brittle • 100g caster sugar • 2 tbsp water • 80g unsalted shelled pistachios, roughly chopped For the cream • 200ml double cream of choice • ½ tsp ground cardamom

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C, fan 170°C, Gas 5 and line two baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Start by making the brittle. Put the sugar and water in a small saucepan over a low heat.

Bring to the boil, swirling the pan until the sugar has dissolved. Continue cooking the sugar for about 10 minutes – it will change colour from light golden to deep amber. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn – it’s a fine line! Once it reaches deep amber, remove from the heat and add the pistachios, stirring to coat the nuts, then pour onto one of the lined baking trays while still malleable. Set aside to cool – it will need about 15-20 minutes to set fully before you can crack it into pieces.

3. Next, lay the apricot quarters on the other lined baking tray. Pour over the orange juice and honey, and mix well. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until tender. Let them cool for 15 minutes before serving.

4. While the apricots are in the oven, whisk together the cream and cardamom to a thick dropping consistency.

5. Once the apricots are cooked, spoon a couple of dollops of cream onto a small plate, create a well in the middle using the back of a spoon, and then spoon a few apricots in followed by a drizzle of their juices. Top with the brittle and serve.

Recipe extracted from ‘Cooking Fast and Slow’ by Natalia Rudin, published by Penguin Life, price £25, with photography by Issy Croker.

14 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 15

WINE TASTING

I love the smell of the garden after a summer rainstorm. Wet gravel and earth, saturated plants and refreshed grass.

Even the tarmac and felt roofs—baking hot just moments before—seem to sigh as the rain hits. When the rain stops and the steam start to rise, the air fills with a beautiful scent. It’s the smell of wet soil and wet flagstones, it’s mineral, flinty, leafy and damp… it’s petrichor.

Petrichor comes from the Ancient Greek words petro (stone) and *ichor* (the golden fluid said to run in the veins of the gods).

It’s the aroma released when rain hits dry ground.

In wine, I look for this same sense of minerality, flint, ozone, wet stone. It’s a tasting note I love spotting on a label, and it appears in both reds and whites.

My favourite white wines with this character include Austrian Riesling and Sancerre.

Both are grown in cooler climates, often on stony soils that lend a savoury, rain-on-rock quality. I remember the first time I tasted Sancerre, the aroma triggered a memory of walking through a herb garden after a summer storm.

Petrichor isn’t just for whites. Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley can smell like a forest floor after rainfall with leafy, earthy and mineral notes. Look for wine from Chinon or Saumur-Champigny. Even lighter reds like Nerello Mascalese from Mount Etna can offer that same lifted, volcanic freshness.

Petrichor is the silver lining after the rain!

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 16 | BALERNO

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

BALERNO | 17

18 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 19

GERRY AITKEN Painter & Decorator Juniper Green

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

20 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 21

The sweet smell of meadow grass fills the air and a chaffinch rain-calls as the grey cloud base rolls overhead. I exit the small car park at the western end of Harperrig Reservoir and begin to walk along the narrow tarmac road away from the water.

The coolness of the breeze drifting off the hills is immediately refreshing. This is forestry land and, as I walk, I notice how recent clearing now affords more open views up the slopes of West Cairn Hill. A few isolated bare trunks have been left here and there, punctuating the landscape like totems.

The warble-trills of wrens ring out all around. The scattered debris

of the felled pines has left a habitat ideally suited to them – the nooks and crannies of branch, root and stump perfect for foraging and nesting. One wren is alarm calling furiously and as my eyes settle on the source of the sound, I see a jay rise from a tangle of branches and flap off. Was its raid successful? Just then, a squeak emerges from the undergrowth by my feet – quite likely a vole, but one who remains concealed.

The road’s borders burst with the colour of wildflowers - from the creams of clover and meadowsweet to the pretty pinks of common spotted orchid, and from vetchling’s ochre to rosebay willowherb’s vibrant magenta. The tiny delicate lilac heads of germander speedwell are also a delight, two long stamens projecting from each little flower like antennae.

Never-still meadow pipits perch on power lines above me, alighting on the wires only to take off again and bob through the air to the next section, tracking my progress yet not letting me get too close.

After a kilometre or so I am aware of a small meandering burn to my left. Literally narrow enough to jump across in places, this is the Water of Leith in its uppermost reaches, having been formed from the confluence of the East, West and Mid Burns on the slopes above Colzium farm. Before long, I reach the entrance to the farm road

22 | BALERNO

and it’s time to turn around, but not before taking some time to rest on the pillowy tufts of grass overlooking a pretty bend in the river. The sun begins to emerge between gaps in the cloud. It’s a perfect spot for contemplation and I gaze down at the dark water flowing by, thinking of the journey it will take, down to the reservoir and on, past our homes, through the centre of the city, growing all the while - eventually to emerge into the Firth at Leith.

This has been the simplest of walks, and easy out-and-back, but one which can nevertheless take you on a journey in more ways than one. It was here that I walked with my son during GET THE ROUTE the first lockdown ON OS MAPS! - at that time the furthest we could travel. It was here we heard our first cuckoo of that spring…. that spring when, in our enforced slowdown, despite the anguish and fear we witnessed nature’s beauty unfold perhaps in greater detail and clarity than any other in living memory. It will never cease to amaze me how even a simple walk like this can help us gain that kind of perspective. Colzium still does for me.

CREDIT: All image by William Weir

Heading back, on reaching a blue gate part way back to the reservoir, I take a detour uphill along the forestry road for about a mile. The sun is pleasantly warm on my back as I ascend. There is barely a sound, bar the gentle background hum of insects. I watch an electric-blue damselfly hawk over a small pool by the path. The occasional cricket chirrups. A sense of deep peace descends.

There are more orchids here, great swathes of tall daisies too. With the flowers come the butterflies – common blue, northern brown argus and small copper all flutter around me as I walk, some of the twentytwo species of butterfly that can be found in the Pentlands.

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

BALERNO | 23

26 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 27

28 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 29

58mm Vertical [LEFT]

AUGUST CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the SEPTEMBER edition

ACROSS: 7. Improve (6), 8. Picked (6), 9.Assists (4), 10. Obstinate (8), 11. Happier (7), 13. Joint (5), 15. Higher than (5), 17. Searched (7), 20. Keeps you dry (8), 21. Musical instrument (4), 22. Alcove (6), 23. Star sign (6).

DOWN: 1. Long for (6), 2. Enemies (4), 3 Broken (7), 4. Clean thoroughly (5), 5. Merges (8), 6. Fuel (6), 12. Went backward (8), 14. Organise (7), 16. Abundant (6), 18. Consuming (6), 19. Nearby (5) 21. Light (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 45

AUGUST SUDOKU

30 | BALERNO

ADD SOLUTION DETAILS

BALERNO | 31

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been to the Isle of May but I think my visit in June this year was my favourite for weather conditions. It was pretty windy and watching the puffins was a sheer joy. They looked like they were loving every second of it as they hovered in the wind, trying to back themselves in to where they wanted to land.

Some puffins nailed the landing straight away. Others hovered for ages, misjudged it, or got pushed off course entirely. A few overshot their burrows and had to make an undignified U-turn. One came in sideways and almost collided with a razorbill, who wasn’t impressed.

I’d made my way to one of my favourite spots on the island, Bishops Cove and stayed put for a while, just watching the constant activity.

The sound of wings as the birds whoosh past you, the calls of the kittiwakes nesting on the cliffs, and the occasional squabble.

Depending how far they’ve had to go for fish, puffins can land pretty close before heading back to the burrow. What made it funnier was the sand eels they were holding in their beaks were flapping about — as if they had minds of their own and were trying to escape mid-air.

32 | BALERNO

There’s always a lot going on if you stop and watch for a while. I didn’t take as many photos as usual, but it didn’t matter. Sometimes it’s just good to observe.

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.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

BALERNO | 33

34 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 35

Est. 2005

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

Free estimates.

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

36 | BALERNO

• Full garden design and build service • Planting design • Plant sourcing • Planting service

Please get in touch for a free design consultation 07940 517 215 | judy@goodgardendesign.co.uk

www.goodgardendesign.co.uk

BALERNO | 37

SUZANN E GREEN

T I

hree years ago I accepted my sn’thusband’s it interesting that wetowish one challenge backpack another a “happy newof year” long an 80-mile section the beautiful after singing Auld Lang Syne – for South West Coast Path.

We’d weeks after boxing Winn’s up the Christmas been inspired

by Raynor book, The decorations and returning them the loft.

Salt Path – though, thankfully, wetowould be able to afford campsites along the way.

Regardless of what’s going on in our world and variousthat concerns about issues in our Accepting challenge meant getting own wesaid hope that 2025 willme be to a fit.

Mycountry, husband this would help enjoy experience.

I started walking good the year.

It would beSowonderful to see up to Harlaw Reservoir threeone times a week peace achieved in at least area where with a rucsac onraging. my back.

Initially, I wasn’t war is currently And, on a personal carrying But mygrowth helpfuland husband level, wevery alsomuch. hope to see kept adding more weight to the rucsac. progress in our own life and in the livesI also worked at losing And whentoit of those we know andweight. love, occasions was time togood go, I health felt confident I could carry celebrate, and maybe even 20 pounds on my back because lost that some fun surprises in the next 12I’dmonths. much through dieting!

I’m focusing on the “new” in “Happy New We setI’ve off bright and early from Year”. not exactly made anyEdinburgh new year’s Airport one July resolutions.

Thismorning, tradition bound seemsfor to be Newquay. (Later, when friends asked me becoming less popular - social media posts why we didn’t drive to Cornwall, I explained regularly tell us that we don’t need to strive that we couldn’t figure out how we’d get our to improve, we are “enough” as we are, we car into a rucsac.) Newquay Airport was shouldn’t load ourselves up with goals and small, but the security team was thorough! then feel guilty when wefrom can’tthe achieve them.

Eventually we emerged building and Although I agree that it’s good to boarded a bus for Padstow.

38

BALERNO | FEBRUARY, 2025 BALERNO | AUGUST, 2025 38 | BALERNO

be realistic, I love on thecheese promise that a new There we lunched and onion year holds, the “clean slate” potential! pasties in the sunshine before starting our walk. was too hot for hiking – thehave UK been If youItlive inaBalerno, you too may was goingto into a heatwave – but off morning we went delighted see snow falling early anyway.

We’d been the path for glass four days on New Year’s Day.on I stood at our when I noticed sign indicating were to patio door andawatched as sleetwe turned approaching Newquay.

Alarmed, called out, big white snowflakes that quicklyIcovered “We’re goingand thebedecked wrong way!” our garden the trees. It was a wonderful of the “it’s all “The freshbus and “No, we’re illustration fine,” said my husband. new”us theme. took north, which is why we are seeing Newquay agreed we’d from Signing upagain. for a We Pilates class waswalk a new Padstow to St Ives, remember?”

I tried hard thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it not be bothered the fact Ithat were hasto been a positivebychange. maywe not be as now covering on foot distance had to proficient as many inathe class, that I struggle already done! do somebeen of the stretches because of a knee So began 15-day trekhave along the South issue, andour I sometimes a hard time West Coast Path. Ittowas wonderful, but resisting dancing thepretty background music quite at times.

My desire forinstructor. adventure whentough I should be listening to the was But Icertainly know thesatisfied! exercise is doing me good.

I’m not surebiggest what new thing(s)was I willadjusting do/ One of the challenges encounter but Ithe willweight keep my my rucsac,this andyear, reducing in it,eyes so and the earsstraps openwouldn’t for them.dig into my shoulders. that At onemy point, we bought flip-flops a surf When eldest daughter was infrom primary shop (the only sort of shop along the path) school, she decided to try something new. I and cutabout themitup withanother a pen knife. idea heard from mum,My who had was a piece of the foam under each beenthat at the school to watch her daughter shoulder strapdancing would ease pain. Sadly, do Highland in anthe assembly.

“I it didn’t when we didn’t work. know The youronly girl real did itrelief too,”came she said. removed about that threeshe pounds kit – including So I explained didn’t,ofalthough she a cheeky lip gloss and“That’s mascara – from my was in a ballet class. strange,” said pack and posted all home. the children who my friend.

“At theitassembly In herHighland book Raynor describes than took dance lessonshow weremore invited one remarked, “Walking the CoastI to gofellow to thehiker centre of the floor and perform.

Path at your My did husband I were thought yourage?!!” daughter ratherand well.”

10 years older than the Winns when we did it Later I asked ... no one saidmy thatchild to us.why she had done this. “Oh,” she said. “I thought the teacher But remember the who comment oneto do said,I do “Will all children wouldoflike young woman I metplease on the come path, when Highland dancing forward Inow? explained we were backpacking from So I went.”

Padstow to St Ives. She sized me up and Do something new this new year. said, “Respect!” real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green.

Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect.

Balerno and writes regularly for Konect.

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

AUGUST SUDOKU (HARD*)

Crossword and Sudoku (EASY*) can be found on p30. See p45 for solutions.

BALERNO | 39

40 | BALERNO

BALERNO | 41

MONDAYS & TUESDAYS DURING AUGUST Selah - A place of rest and renewal Currie Community Church, 16 Kirkgate, Currie, from 10.00am to 2.00pm. A volunteer run community cafe, designed not just as another cafe, but also a meeting place to share with, and listen to each other, and perhaps also to meet God. PAY AS YOU ARE ABLE. HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT WATER OF LEITH VISITOR CENTRE All 1.30pm to 3.30pm and £7 PER CHILD unless otherwise noted below. More info and booking essential via: www.waterofleith.org.uk/whats-on • TUE 5TH AUG - River Dipping for 5-10 year olds • THU 7TH AUG - Butterflies & Bugs for 5-10 year olds THURSDAY 7TH AUGUST Bunting Sewing Workshop With textile artist Dianne Spottiswood Miller. This creative, sustainable textiles workshop for ages 7-12 years will develop your kids’ sewing survival skills whilst advocating for positive action on climate change within our community.

FREE, donations welcome. The Hub@531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green.

1.00pm - 3.30pm. Book at hub531.appointedd.com SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST Farmers Market Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm 42 | BALERNO

SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST Contemplate Colinton Join our Ranger Dan from the Water of Leith Conservation Trust on a guided litter pick, as we contemplate all things Colinton.

Learn about the history of the area as well as our conservation team which looks after and maintains this stretch of the river. Meet on the walkway, by the SW Edinburgh Tool Library Hub at: maps.app.goo.gl/ ZHJ3e2F1EHNRR4y37 1.30pm – 3.30pm, £7, MEMBERS FREE. More info and booking essential via: www.waterofleith.org.uk/whats-on SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST Watercolour Workshop With Jenny Matthews RSW. Join Jenny at the Hub@531 and create your own seasoninspired watercolour. All abilities welcome, materials and tuition provided. FREE, donations welcome. The Hub@531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green. 2.00 - 4.00pm. Book at hub531.appointedd.com SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST Currie Horticultural Society Annual Show - 1.30pm - 4.00pm in Balerno Community High School. ADMISSION £3.

More info can be found on: www.currieshow.weebly.com SATURDAY 30TH & SUNDAY 31ST AUGUST Pentlands Open Studio (POSt) Art Trail Explore the vibrant creativity of 18 professional artists across 10 studio locations. Plan your route in advance using our Art Trail map – see map and all details at postudios.org Painters, printmakers, textile artists, jewellery makers, and more will be ready to welcome you. The trail is about four miles from Balerno to Colinton, the scenic path along the old railway is flat and perfect for walking or cycling. You can also hop on/off Lothian buses (44, 45, 16) with a day ticket or use contactless for even more savings

with capping. Make a stop at the Pit Stop Café in Colinton, which serves as our info hub with brochures, maps, and toilets.

Collect stamps from studios and enter our prize draw for artist vouchers or wine! The Art Trail weekend is a not-for-profit even run by Pentlands Arts Festivals CIC. SATURDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER Gin with Flynn Evening Ravelrig RDA – join us in our brand new indoor arena, meet Flynn and his friends, find out about our wonderful charity and enjoy some great food and drink! With Pentland Hills Gin, fizz and beef or veggie chilli. Raffle and licensed bar (non alch options available). All proceeds are in aid of Ravelrig RDA. 7.00pm, £20 per ticket, must be purchased in advance from manager@ravelrig-rda-org.uk or call 07444 27419

Pentland Probus Club events Meet in Edinburgh Pentlands Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road from 10.00am - 12noon.

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME. Further details from Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford on 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk WEDNESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER “The World’s End Murders”, an illustrated talk by Tom Wood WEDNESDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER “Building & Flying our own Aircraft”, an illustrated talk by Gerard Lohan

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FORPROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

BALERNO | 43

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

LOTHIAN OVAL RACING CLUB Community Stockcar Radio Control Car Club. Monday nights. 6.00pm10.00pm. £6 per meeting. Douglas Hall, Dalmahoy, EH27 8EB. E: info@theracehall.co.uk or T: 07972 702642 BALERNO PARISH CHURCH GUILD - We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from October to March. There are interesting talks, activities and fellowship. 7.30pm, The Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church.

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 and Fri 12:30-1:30pm, and Wed at 12-1pm We’d love to see new teammates coming along.

Sessions are priced at £4.40 but we do have monthly membership schemes available. Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@btinternet.com RATHO LUNCH CLUB - Lunch club for older residents living in Ratho & Ratho Station. Pop in for great company, great food, great value. Run by Queensferry Care, Ratho Lunch Club is held the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month 12-2.00pm at Ratho Community Centre. The Ratho Ravers meet 10.00am-12noon and many enjoy light exercise and company before lunch is served.

PALM DEMENTIA CAFE - The PALM cafe is held on the last Tuesday of the month from 3.004.15pm in the St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno. The cafe serves the communities of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, providing a space for people with dementia and their carers to meet others for support and social contact. Activities include music, movement, reminiscence and craft. A small voluntary donation 44 | BALERNO

is requested to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information please contact Clare Dow on claremdow@gmail.com FLAGGY FRIDAYS - Does your child have an interest in flags of the world? Come and join us for Flaggy Fridays! Each week we will focus on a different flag of the world. In just 30 minutes we’ll learn a brief summary of the flag’s history, why a flag has its colours, layout, its old flag(s) then end with a fun quiz! First class FREE trial. Online Zoom club. Email flaggyfridays@gmail.com to join THE HUB@531 - Community space in the heart of Juniper Green village, offering regular groups and events and hireable meeting / small event space. Social activities and clubs for all ages, including Come for a Cuppa, Book Bug, Knitting, Yoga and much more. 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE. See hub531.appointedd.com for information and to book activities.

Facebook: “The Hub at 531” BALERNO SWI - We meet on the first Tuesday each month from September to May in Balerno Community Centre at 7:30pm, when we have speakers or demonstrations followed by a cuppa and time to chat. Anyone interested can see more about us on our Facebook page, “Balerno SWI” PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB Come and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 7pm. Table money £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see W: bridgewebs.com/pentland E: mthkjb@gmail.com 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 non-competitive.

For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145.

THE MEETING PLACE - A community cafe for those 65 and over and all unpaid carers.

Every Monday 10.00am - 4.00pm.

Lunch £5 if you wish and ALL refreshments free. Free exercise

classes, bingo, dominoes, crafting and much more. 99 Forthview Crescent, 42nd Pentland Scout Hall. For info contact: themeetingplacejcb@gmail.com BALERNO RAMBLERS WEEKEND GROUP - A busy walking group with a programme of interesting walks in a variety of locations. Some walks may be more challenging than the midweek programme.

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

JUNIPER GREEN NURSERY PLAYGROUP - Juniper Green Community Centre. We are a small friendly playgroup with very experienced staff. We take children who are from 2 to 3 years old for morning sessions (9.15-11.15) cost £15 which includes a snack. No parent duties required. For more information please email: junipergreenplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk or call: 07308 033386 PENTLAND SINGERS COMMUNITY CHOIR - Rehearsals every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Balerno Parish Church. Singing a wide range of choral music, with local concerts twice a year, no previous experience required and new members always warmly welcomed. Actively seeking new members. Further information: W: www.pentlandsingers.org.uk E: pentland_singers@yahoo.co.uk KNIT ‘N’ KNATTER - Ratho Library, Ratho Commuity Centre, Thursdays 2pm to 4pm. Tea & coffee provided. Bring along your wooly creations. Ratho Library 0131 333 5297.

PENTLAND JUNIOR SINGERS - Rehearsals every Tuesday 6-7pm, Balerno Parish Church.

For young people aged 8 to 14.

Come and sing a wide array of choral music in a fun and supportive environment. More information: W: www.pentlandjuniors.org E: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com @KonectMagazines

CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE - Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs 6.00-7.30pm. Company Section (P7-S6) Sun 6.308.30pm Gibson Craig Hall, Currie.

Contact 65edinburghbb@gmail. com or 07730 414371.

RATHO COMMUNITY CENTRE • Gentle Exercise Group, every Thurs from 10am-12 noon • Gentle Exercise Group, every Thurs from 10am-12 noon • 50+ Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm • Book Group alternate Wed from 2pm-4pm • Knit and Natter Group Thurs from 2pm-4pm Tel: Ratho Community Centre 0131 333 1055.

JUNIPER GREEN BOARDGAMERS - Family and kids friendly board-game group open to all. Come join us to play all sorts of board-games.

Children are free with any adult (£3/adut) Meetings every 2nd Friday 6pm to 9pm see boardjg.co.uk for details of contact eric@boardjg.co.uk PENTLAND CALEDONIA PIPES AND DRUMS - Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums are looking for new members, players or learners. We teach pipes and drums free. We meet in Balerno Community Centre every Friday 7pm - 9.30pm.

You can find us on Facebook.

For information call Deeanne on 07885 612583.

JUNIPER GREEN TENNIS CLUB - This small friendly LTA affiliated club in the heart of Juniper Green is open to all to join. There’s an extensive junior coaching programme, as well as adult coaching and social sessions. For membership check out our website clubspark.lta.org.uk/ JuniperGreenTennisClub and follow us on Facebook.com/ junipergreentennis. We look forward to welcoming you!

PILATES, YOGA, STRENGTH & FITNESS CLASSES - at Prime Sports Physio & Pilates Studio & Gym - Our expert physios, Pilates & yoga @KonectMagazines

instructors and personal trainers offer a programme of 22 classes per week to promote wellbeing, health, strength and fitness.

We’re delighted to now offer a monthly class membership as well as individual class bookings.

Visit: primesportsphysio.co.uk to book classes.

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

BARREFusion - A Barre class with a twist! Elements of Ballet & Yoga. Includes signature Fuse moves, Cardio bursts & Strength work. Drop-in (contactless payments taken) or pre-book at www.bookwhen.com/ heidimacdonaldfitness. Fridays 9:15am, Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church. For further details: M: 07982205111 E: heidi.instructor@gmail.com PARACISE - Gentle to moderate exercise to music you’ll love. Working on balance, mobility, flexibility & posture.

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

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

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

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

E: balernoartclub@gmail.com T: 07591990020 Insta: @everychildisanartist_

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, 9 Heir, 10 Sculptor, 11 Capsule, 13 Untie, 15 Scent, 17 Average, 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23 Stolen, 24 Nearly.

DOWN: 1 Dime, 2 Yearns, 3 Falsely, 4 Syrup, 5 Happen, 6 Allowing, 12 Accurate, 14 Evident, 16 Neatly, 18 Repeal, 19 Agent, 22 Rile.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P30/39

(EASY)

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 INFO.

(HARD)

BALERNO | 45

What is Probus?

Is it for you?

Are you a retired or semi-retired man? Do you have or can you make spare time on a Wednesday morning? If the answer to these questions is ‘Yes’ then maybe the Pentland Probus Club meeting throughout the year could be for you.

From September to May there is a Speaker Programme on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays starting at 10am until noon in the hall at Edinburgh Pentlands Parish Church in Juniper Green. On other Wednesdays members meet for coffee/tea at The Kinleith Mill, Juniper Green from 10am until 11.30. The morning provides a relaxed opportunity to discuss the issues of the day, travel down Memory Lane or anything else that comes to mind.

The Club year starts with the Speaker progamme on 3rd September when we will hear how the ‘World’s End’ Murders’ were solved. A fortnight later follows the story of a group of local volunteers who constructed

and fly their own WW1 Sopwith aircraft from Kirknewton Air Field. More presentations and talks on a wide range of interesting subjects will follow.

Members come mostly from an area stretching from Balerno through Currie and Juniper Green to Baberton, Colinton and Kingsknowe so there is a good chance that new members will know at least one of the current membership. If not you soon will as we are a very friendly and sociable group.

Details of speaker meetings are included in the ‘What’s On’ pages of this magazine. There is a separate Ladies’ Probus Club locally and other Probus clubs throughout Edinburgh.

Full details of membership can be had by contacting the Secretary: Leslie Hannaford (0131 453 3012) or email: lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk 46 | BALERNO

WE APOLOGISE TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THE DELAYS IN OPENING, IT IS OUTWITH OUR CONTROL. WE AIM TO BE OPEN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE