LOCAL WALK:
HEALTH:
PLUS: real life, puzzles, CLUBS & CLASSES, what’s on, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!
We often start the year with a focus on health and fitness; all too often by February the will is fading! So our health feature in this issue looks at the wonderful facility that is parkrun - a free, organised, weekly walk or jog within the Heriot-Watt campus, at Holyrood, Cramond and a few other locations in the area. It’s on every Saturday, and is a lovely supportive community if you’re looking for a way to incorporate more movement in your life without pressure.
With all our usual columns included, it’s great to be back publishing after the festive break, and I hope you enjoy Konect this month. We have a new column, “The Lazy Gardener’s Diary,” all about easy, low maintenance food production and general care of small garden spaces and wildlife.
William Weir’s walk feature in Livingston doubles as Local Environment notes, with his wonderful descriptions as ever of the nature to be enjoyed. Getting outdoors for an hour is an antidote to many things, and we have so many paths and trails to enjoy without needing to go far at all. Make a batch of the Brownie Bite Energy Balls from Nutrition Scotland on the recipe page and take them for a mid-walk treat!
We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things local with you!
At George Heriot’s School, our values matter.
We deliver a sector-leading education, one which creates kind young people who think independently, work hard, and discover their full potential in an inclusive environment.
Visit george-heriots.com and apply for a place for your child today.
George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust. Scottish Charity Number SC011463.
Every Saturday morning a little before 9:30am, a small crowd gathers at Oriam Sports Centre in the Heriot Watt University Campus, and in a few other locations in the surrounding area.
Many dressed in what could be described as “garish casual” attire, and sometimes with a fun dress-up or two thrown in, they are meeting to walk or jog an organised scenic 5km trail through the park.
This is parkrun and parkwalk. It’s a global phenomenon that has been responsible for transforming the mental and physical health of countless people over the past 21 years. Parkrun and parkwalk are the same event: you choose to either walk or run the route.
It’s seemingly incredibly simple: the opportunity to walk or jog once a week and at informal yet organised event. It’s completely free to participate, the trail is fully marshalled, there is the option of
recording your time if you wish, going to a nearby cafe for breakfast afterwards, or going straight home.
What’s the attraction? Why has the simple act of meeting for a walk or jog with a bunch of people you don’t know (yet) become such a successful and well-loved institution? There are currently nearly 900 parkrun locations in the UK, with 80 in Scotland; more are being added regularly.
Since its beginnings in England in 2004 parkrun has managed to maintain an informality combined with excellent organisation. Their strapline is “free, for everyone, forever.” For people who want to walk or run with others but are anxious about joining a group,
parkrun and parkwalk perfectly strike the balance. You can turn up and be part of it without joining a group, or having to introduce yourself in any way, or committing to attendance. You can participate alone, or with a friend; you’re encouraged to register, but can go anonymously; attend once, or go every week – nobody is counting except you. Take your dog and your kids; go to one closest home or visit one the other side of the country.
It’s a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and completely judgement-free. People of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels participate. Walk, walk/jog, or run flat out, it’s entirely up to you. There is always a tail-walker so you are never alone at the back. (If you’re very fast you may be alone at the front, but there are marshals to guide you!).
And it can become addictive! Some people travel all over the country - and the worldchasing different parkrun challenges. Some people reach 100 parkruns (or more!) and complete it with balloons and celebration cakes to share; some quietly complete their 100th without telling anyone. You genuinely run your own run, or walk your own walk. The magic of parkrun is that the way you do it is the right way for you, and you will be fully supported by the community regardless.
An article on parkrun and parkwalk would not be complete without mentioning the volunteers who make it happen every week. As a free event, parkrun relies entirely on volunteers to check the course, marshals directing the way and applauding participants, time-keepers, tail-walkers and a host of other roles. People volunteer for many reasons; I have spoken to some who do it to give back as parkrun has helped them turn their own lives around in some way; some do it for the camaraderie and community; some want to be part of parkrun without actually running or walking. Whatever the reasons, everyone who volunteers, either one-off or regularly, is making an enormous contribution to a community which is quietly changing lives for the better.
If you are looking for a way to improve your mental and physical health this year, try parkrun on Saturday. Register at parkrun.org.uk and rock up at one of the locations below.
All commence at 9:30am every Saturday morning. There is a pre-event briefing so aim to arrive by around 9:15am if you have not been before. If the weather is bad, please check each parkrun Facebook page for updates in case of cancellation. It is unlikely to be cancelled for a bit of rain, but ice or snow may stop play.
• Oriam parkrun
- All details at parkrun.org.uk/oriam
Updates at facebook.com (Search ‘Oriam parkrun’)
• Livingston parkrun
- All details at parkrun.org.uk/ livingston
Updates at facebook.com/ livingstonparkrun
• Auldcathie District parkrun
- All details at parkrun.org.uk/ auldcathiedistrict
Updates at facebook.com/ auldcathiedistrictparkrun
• Edinburgh parkrun (Edinburgh Promenade, Cramond)
- All details at parkrun.org.uk/ edinburgh.
Updates at facebook.com/ edinburghparkrun
• Holyrood parkrun
- All details at parkrun.org.uk/ holyrood
Updates at facebook.com/ holyroodparkrun
A map of all events is at the main parkrun website: www.parkrun.org.uk
This article was written by Helen-Jane, editor of Konect magazines, who recently discovered the joy of parkrun!
BIG Impact
To be included in Konect, please contact us. Our details are on page 3.
Isn’t it interesting that we wish one another a “happy new year” long after singing Auld Lang Syne – for weeks after boxing up the Christmas decorations and returning them to the loft.
Regardless of what’s going on in our world and various concerns about issues in our own country, we hope that 2025 will be a good year. It would be wonderful to see peace achieved in at least one area where war is currently raging. And, on a personal level, we also hope to see growth and progress in our own life and in the lives of those we know and love, occasions to celebrate, good health and maybe even some fun surprises in the next 12 months.
I’m focusing on the “new” in “Happy New Year”. I’ve not exactly made any new year’s resolutions. This tradition seems to be becoming less popular - social media posts regularly tell us that we don’t need to strive to improve, we are “enough” as we are, we shouldn’t load ourselves up with goals and then feel guilty when we can’t achieve them. Although I agree that it’s good to
be realistic, I love the promise that a new year holds, the “clean slate” potential!
If you live in Balerno, you too may have been delighted to see snow falling early morning on New Year’s Day. I stood at our glass patio door and watched as sleet turned to big white snowflakes that quickly covered our garden and bedecked the trees. It was a wonderful illustration of the “it’s all fresh and new” theme.
Signing up for a Pilates class was a new thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it has been a positive change. I may not be as proficient as many in the class, I struggle to do some of the stretches because of a knee issue, and I sometimes have a hard time resisting dancing to the background music when I should be listening to the instructor. But I know the exercise is doing me good. I’m not sure what new thing(s) I will do/ encounter this year, but I will keep my eyes and ears open for them.
When my eldest daughter was in primary school, she decided to try something new. I heard about it from another mum, who had been at the school to watch her daughter do Highland dancing in an assembly. “I didn’t know your girl did it too,” she said. So I explained that she didn’t, although she was in a ballet class. “That’s strange,” said my friend. “At the assembly the children who took Highland dance lessons were invited to go to the centre of the floor and perform. I thought your daughter did rather well.”
Later I asked my child why she had done this. “Oh,” she said. “I thought the teacher said, “Will all children who would like to do Highland dancing please come forward now? So I went.”
Do something new this new year.
real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.
SUZANNE GREEN
As the memories of January’s festivities fade behind us, the weather turns colder, it is time to turn our thoughts to 5 April.
The tax year will still end on 5 April (Easter Sunday in 2026). Some of the measures of the Budget 2025 are not due to take effect until 2028 or later. Even so, there is plenty to consider now in terms of year-end tax planning. For example:
• Threshold planning: The Budget did nothing to remove the anomalies in the income tax system created by arbitrary thresholds. The most significant of these are:
- The high-income child benefit charge threshold starting at £60,000
- The £100,000 threshold at which the personal allowance begins to be tapered.
- As the tax year end nears, and estimating your 2025/26 income becomes easier, there can be opportunities to either sidestep the thresholds or take advantage of gaining tax relief at the high rates they create.
• Inheritance tax (IHT): In the Budget, the IHT nil rate band (£325,000) was frozen for another year (to April 2031). That makes it even more important that you do not waste your yearly gift exemptions – the £3,000 annual exemption, £250 small gifts exemption, and the least understood, but potentially most valuable exemption, for normal expenditure gifts.
• Marriage Allowances: If you or your spouse/ civil partner had income below the personal allowance in 2021/22 you have until 5 April 2026 to claim the marriage allowance for that year (£1,260), which could produce a tax saving of up to £252.
• ISA Allowance: Making use of your tax-free savings allowance.
There are many other points to consider but do take advice before taking action.
Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.
The Money Matters column was contributed by Mark Galloway, Independent Financial Adviser at Scotia Wealth Management and based in Balerno.
Parsnip and apple combine deliciously in this seasonal soup. If you like a creamy texture just serve with some vegan yoghurt and toasted almonds! Apples are so versatile in cooking, they’re great in both savoury and sweet dishes. They add sweetness and can be grated into breads, scones, curry or tomato sauces.
Ingredients:
• 1 tbsp of olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic finely chopped or crushed
• 600g parsnips – diced
• 600g Bramley or Braeburn apples – peeled and diced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp dried sage
• Salt and pepper
Method:
• 1.5-2L of vegan stock
1. Heat the oil in a large pan and add the prepared vegetables and apples. Cook for about 5 minutes
2. Add the vegan stock and sage. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables and apples are soft
3. Remove soup form the heat and blitz with a hand blender until smooth. Add cider vinegar and stir well
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve and enjoy!
These energy balls are perfect for snacking and carrying on the go! Packed with slow release carbohydrates in the oats, they’ll give you the energy boost you need! Plus- chocolate flavour and no baking required, what more could you ask for?! Various ingredients can be added to the basic recipe, like nut butters or desiccated coconut. You can use Medjool dates instead of honey if you have a food processor or blender- just make sure to check the consistency so you’re able to roll into balls that will keep their shape!
Ingredients:
• 90g oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 3 tbsp cacao powder
• Water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp honey
Method:
1. In a bowl mix together the oats, cocoa powder, vanilla extract and honey
2. Add a tablespoon of water if needed, to help the mixture ball together
3. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll into a ball. Repeat until you have approximately 12 balls Keep in an air-tight container for up to 10 days
Both recipes supplied by Nutrition Scotland www.nutritionscotland.org
In collaboration with Dr Laura Wyness (RNutr), the Registered Nutritionists at Nutrition Scotland helped to create the Scottish Eatwell Guide, the first Scottish adaptation of the UK Eatwell Guide. By showcasing the wide range of delicious and nutritious foods available in Scotland, we hope to inspire individuals to adopt a healthy, balanced diet, while also celebrating Scotland’s natural larder. We aim to promote better health outcomes, promote environmental discussions and bolster the economy through the consumption of locally sourced produce.
One of the quickest and easiest ways you can improve your wine drink experience is to upgrade your wine glass!
When I started studying wine at ‘wine school’, we used an ISO standard wine glass. It meant that the glass would not influence the tasting and we could focus on grape variety, aromas, flavours and writing tasting notes.
I decided it was time to start experimenting with different glasses. Could a wine glass really influence the way a wine tastes? You might not believe it, but it can!
My (non-scientific!) experiment involved two bottles of white wine: an oaked chardonnay and an unoaked, crisp grapefruit bright Riesling. I purchased a chardonnay glass and a Riesling glass from Riedel and poured each wine into the wrong glass. The wines tasted the way it should. There was nothing wrong with the way the wines tasted. I then sampled the wine in the correct wine glass - wow! What a difference!
Both wines transformed! The chardonnay glass, a wide, goldfish like goblet glass, encourages you to smile while drinking. The wine to washes across the whole of the palate. The oaked chardonnay’s flavour and texture were enhanced. The acidy in balance. The Riesling glass, like a flute glass, had focused the wine onto the tip of the tongue - ideal when tasting Riesling, but not a creamy character chardonnay! Likewise, the Riesling benefited from the change in glass. The wine became laser focused and balanced.
Give it a try! Treat yourself to a new wine glass and try your favourite wine in it – can you taste a difference?
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
www.aquateccarpetcleaning.co.uk
FEBRUARY CROSSWORD
^^^ Solution in the MARCH edition
ACROSS: 7. Red fruit (6), 8. An agreement (6), 9. Water activity (4), 10. Pieces (8), 11. Non-attendance (7), 13. Slightly inebriated (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Brine (7), 20. Holding tightly (8), 21. Pain (4), 22. Customer (6), 23. Soak up (6).
DOWN: 1. Spider’s trap (6), 2. Tepid (4), 3. Neat (7), 4. Begin (5), 5. Determined (8), 6. Smells badly (6), 12. Supplied with (8), 14. Line drawing (7), 16. Infrequently (6), 18. Cling to (6), 19. Unclean (5), 21. Plus (4).
FEBRUARY SUDOKU
Hello readers! I hope you enjoy reading about my experiments, and failures, trying to grow nutritious free food at the lowest cost possible and with the least human energy inputs.
In this new regular column I’ll write about what’s occurring in and around the underplanted orchard in Campbell Park (Colinton) where I volunteer. I hope to share some permaculture ideas along the way. I may suggest things you could try in your own garden to reduce the time spent weeding, and increase the time spent simply marvelling at nature’s many rewards.
January is a wonderfully lazy time for most gardeners when it’s important to rest and reflect.
My thoughts turn once more to the birds. It was heartening to meet so many completely new volunteers who came along to the November Bird Box Building Workshops in Campbell Park, having read about them here first.
Our aim was to build and install 37 bird boxes for approximately 6 different species: great tits, blue tits, starlings, robins, kestrels and tawny owls. I’m delighted to report that the first 33 boxes are already in place. The remaining boxes, for tawny owls or kestrels, are more complicated and will be completed by the Pentland Men’s Shed before the nesting season starts in March.
On January 23-25 the RSPB had their annual ‘Big Bird Count’ weekend. That
date may have passed by the time of this publication, but the Campbell Park ‘Big Bird (Box) Count’ has no expiry date! The boxes are clearly numbered 1 – 33 and are attached to most of the large trees around the park’s perimeter on three sides. Hopefully by this time next year we’ll be counting more birds as well as more boxes! If you’d like to have a bird box self-assembly kit or fully assembled bird box for your own garden, email focampbellpark@gmail.com (while stocks last).
You may also like to check out this link to a You Tube Channel called GrowVeg.com (youtu.be/GmN4WzYHNWI ). They recently posted a helpful 14-minute video titled: “The Lazy Gardener’s Best Vegetables to Grow in 2026”.
Happy planning.
This column is contributed by Shona Harrower. Shona lives in Colinton and is passionate about low maintenance food production. She is Chair of the Friends of Campbell Park (FCP)
SMALL AD
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
The sun has yet to breach the horizon and it’s bitterly cold, a thin layer of snow covering the ground, as I make my way across the park from Livingston FC Community Club towards the reservoir.
It’s not long before I reach the water’s edge, but instead of the waterlily patchwork of summer I am met with a three-acre expanse of ice, product of the past week’s freezing temperatures. In that moment, I realise that today my search for the usually abundant water birds may be in vain.
Created in the 1970s, Eliburn Reservoir acts as both a flood prevention measure and a water source for the town of Livingston. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife and is a popular course fishing site, stocked with trout, carp and other species. And it’s as I round a corner approaching one of the numerous fishing platforms that I encounter a wonderful sight that makes my morning.
The entire reservoir is not frozen over after all. At the edge of a triangular inlet, an area roughly twenty metres by ten is free of ice and within it are congregated the reservoir’s entire population of waterfowl. The contrast with the otherwise deserted icesheet is stark.
Today, this is The Centre of Livingston’s bird world. There are adult swans, impossibly white, accompanied by two immature birds - last year’s cygnets. There are ubiquitous mallards too, tufted ducks dapper in white and jet black, coots, moorhens, and the diminutive dabchicks (little grebes) who dive shyly below the surface when I first appear.
The swans are the chief icebreakers of this collective; they have the weight and strength to break through the newly frozen surface before the ice becomes too thick. Drawn by these openings and the need to feed, other species follow suit and it is only by their continual movement that the surface remains ice free. There’s certainly much motion this morning. Ducks dabble back and forth, periodically hauling themselves up on to the edge of the ice to shake and preen. A coot high-steps across the ice on large, lobed feet, like a snorkeler who has forgotten to remove his flippers. One of the young swans tests its wings enthusiastically with a great whooshing of air.
After a while I pull myself away from this engaging scene and continue onwards. Past the dam at the reservoir’s western end the terrain drops away, and the path descends into pinewoods. A woodpecker drums somewhere in the tops. I make my way down through the trees to pick up the Lochshot Burn path. It’s easy walking along this well-made path, accompanied by relaxing babbling of the burn. Within one curve of the waterway stand nine mysterious snow-dusted figures, waiting in the cold - the Livingston Stone Circle, a modern take on the neolithic.
Where the burn flows into the River Almond I bear left and continue along the river in pleasantly wooded surroundings,
stopping on my way to admire the delicate almond-rose hues of a female bullfinch in the overhanging branches. Soon I reach a bridge, which extends Livingston Village’s Main Street across the river. Glancing up to my left I see the historic Livingston Inn and saunter up for a closer look. The Inn dates from c1760 and Robert Burns is reputed to have stayed here. From here you can walk along Main Street and rejoin the river path, accessed just after Bloom Place. The trail then passes through the elongated expanse of Livingston Village Park where the trees on all sides are alive with the calls of a host of winter birds - goldfinch, blue tit, great tit, coal tit and robin. Towards the eastern end of the park, I track away from the water, picking up the Alderstone Path which skips north past the Geddes House business centre where I turn west, making for Cousland Road. Passing briefly through Cousland Woods and a residential street I follow a sign for the Folly Burn path, spiralling up and over a footbridge then on to Peel Park.
Peel Park takes its name from the original Peel of Livingston, a moated, fortified tower house
dating back to the 12th century. All that now remains is a grassy mound marking the site. Adjacent are the ruins of Livingston House which stood here from the 17th to 19th centuries. Today, snow lies upon the cracked and weathered walls, or what’s left of them. I wander through the ruin, pausing in front of the old hearth. In my mind’s eye I am transported back three hundred years to a dark, cold January day when the fire roaring within would have been a welcome sight for the returning residents. Perhaps even Burns himself may have come to call?
GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!
I cross the Folly Burn, following a path northwest beneath Eliburn Road and through some residential streets to join Kirk Road Strip running west. This leads me into Old Livingston Wood. It’s mid-morning now and the sky has cleared to azure blue. The low sun shines through bare birches, casting long shadows across the path, alternating with white snow like one long bar code. Soon, I’m back at the reservoir’s eastern shore. Glancing across the ice, I notice a family now feeding the ducks and swans and, smiling, return to my starting point.
Allow 1.5 -2hrs (6 km), all paths are well surfaced.
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.
MONDAY 9TH FEBRUARY
Historic Water of Leith Mills – an Artist’s View - Water of Leith Conservation Trust Member Talk. Alan Lucas, son of the artist Edwin G. Lucas, takes us on a trip down the Water of Leith from Currie, via Juniper Green and Colinton Dell, to Slateford. His talk is richly illustrated by his father’s paintings, made during the 1930s-40s, together with historic and contemporary photographs of the same scenes. Expect to see many of the mills that used to operate on this stretch of the river. 7.00pm, Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Rd, Edinburgh, EH14 1TQ. £7, MEMBERS FREE. Booking and info at: www.waterofleith.org.uk/whats-on
THURSDAY 12TH FEBRUARY
Craft Felting Creations - Join us at The Hub@531 for a social evening of cosy craft - this time we’re felting with Pauline. Anyone over 18 is welcome to come along. No previous experience necessary and all materials and guidance will be provided. Tea, coffee and nibbles will be provided, and as we like to provide a chance to enjoy a child free evening, please feel free to bring your own tipple to enjoy! This crafting event is free of charge but we welcome your optional donation. 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green. 7.30pm - 9.30pm, BOOKING ESSENTIAL via: hub531.appointedd.com
SATURDAY 14TH FEBRUARY
Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm
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
WED 4TH FEB - “The Worlds End Murders” an illustrated talk by Tom Wood.
WED 18TH FEB - “The Cuban Missile Crisis” a talk by Roy Johnston
WED 4TH MAR - “A Virtual Walk Through 1950 & 1960’s Edinburgh” an illustrated talk by Stuart Sinclair
SUNDAY 15TH FEBRUARY
Car Boot Sale, Ravelrig Riding for the Disabled - 12noon - 3.00pm, Rolls, soup, baking and drinks for sale. £20 a pitch in our new arena. 21 Ravelrig Gait, Balerno, EH14 7NH To book please contact fundraising@ ravelrig-rda.org.uk or call 0131 449 7994
TUESDAY 17TH FEBRUARY
Cosy Camp - How to be cosy outside in winter (with pancakes). This pancake day join us in the wood to create the ultimate cosy camp, complete with outside cookery area. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Rd, Edinburgh, EH14 1TQ. £7 per child, accompanying adult free. Booking and info at: www.waterofleith.org.uk/whats-on
THURSDAY 19TH FEBRUARY
Mud! - A playful outdoor event where children can dig, splash, and explore nature in the messiest, most joyful way. 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Rd, Edinburgh, EH14 1TQ. £7 per child, accompanying adult free. Booking and info at: waterofleith.org.uk/whats-on
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.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
ALL EARS BOOK CLUB - We meet monthly on a Wednesday evening at The Hub@531. We’re different from your usual book club as we listen, rather than read. What do we listen to? Anything that appeals: fiction, non-fiction, politics, history, the possibilities are endless. Come and join us and become part of our story! Find us on Facebook, or email Mairi or Liz on allearsbookclub@gmail.com for more information.
DALMENY ART AND CRAFT
GROUP - We meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month in Dalmeny Church Hall at 2.00pm. Various crafts practised including quilting and bobbin lacemaking and 2 artists. All welcome.
LOTHIAN OVAL RACING CLUBCommunity 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 12.00-1.00pm and 8.30-9.30pm We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.62 but we do have monthly membership schemes available. Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@ btinternet.com
RATHO LUNCH CLUB - Lunch club for older residents living in Ratho & Ratho Station. Pop in for great company, great food, great value. Run by Queensferry Care,
Ratho Lunch Club is held the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month 12-2.00pm at Ratho Community Centre. The Ratho Ravers meet 10.00am-12noon and many enjoy light exercise and company before lunch is served.
PALM DEMENTIA CAFE - The PALM cafe is held on the last Tuesday of the month from 3.004.15pm in the St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno. The cafe serves the communities of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, providing a space for people with dementia and their carers to meet others for support and social contact. Activities include music, movement, reminiscence and craft. A small voluntary donation is requested to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information please contact Clare Dow on claremdow@gmail.com
FLAGGY FRIDAYS - Does your child have an interest in flags of the world? Come and join us for Flaggy Fridays! Each week we will focus on a different flag of the world. In just 30 minutes we’ll learn a brief summary of the flag’s history, why a flag has its colours, layout, its old flag(s) then end with a fun quiz! First class FREE trial. Online Zoom club. Email flaggyfridays@gmail.com to join
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 CLUBCome and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 6.45pm. 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 P. Harper on 07738 486416. Follow Balerno Ramblers on Facebook.
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
CURRIE 65TH BOYS
BRIGADE - Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs 6.00-7.30pm. Company Section (P7-S6) Sun 6.30- 8.30pm, Gibson Craig Hall, Currie.
E: 65edinburghbb@gmail.com T: 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
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 DECEMBER CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Breeze, 8. Reckon, 9. Ugly, 10. Subtract, 11. October, 13. Needy, 15. Twice, 17. Staying, 20. Pamphlet, 21. Aids, 22. Hovers, 23. Opened. DOWN: 1. Tragic, 2. Deny, 3. Measles, 4. Probe, 5. Scarcely, 6. Forced, 12. Occupied, 14. Station, 16. Weapon, 18. Nodded, 19. Close, 21. Apex.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P13/33
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. (EASY) (HARD)
