Konect Balerno July 2026

JULY 2026

LOCAL WALK: WINE TASTING: LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

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

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elcome to the July issue of Konect!

This issue touches on a huge range of topics and activities, all rooted in the local area, which we can get involved with thanks to the energy, care and expertise of local people. From volunteering opportunities on the Union Canal, the annual Pentlands art trail, the opportunity to enter your crafts or produce into the Currie Show, a local walk to explore and much more besides!

We’re just heading into the school summer holidays, and there is plenty going on locally over the summer for all the family, see the What’s On section.

Full of information and services supporting our health, happiness, home, entertainment and more, all in the local area, I hope you enjoy Konect this month!

P26 Local History: The Lang and Winding Whang....................................................................8 Health: Strike Oil............................................... 14 Money Matters: Child Trust Funds .............16 Recipe: Turkey & Courgette Burgers.......... 26 Wine Tasting: Pimm’s...................................... 28 Lazy Gardner’s Diary: A forest garden....... 34 Local Environment: Help for hedgehogs... 36 Local Walk: The Shale Trail............................ 38 Puzzles................................................................ 40 Charity: Seagull Trust Cruises ..................... 41 What’s On: July Events................................... 43

COVER IMAGE: Seagull Trust Cruises: Call for volunteers! - See page 41

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

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

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0131 0131 603 603 0449 0449

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LOCAL HISTORY

THE LANG AND WINDING WHANG: The Lanark Road then and now

Little more than a dirt track for millenia, the route of the Lanark Road has seen plenty of action since prehistory, at times on the edge of momentus events.

In 1666, the Scottish Royal Army marched from Slateford to Currie past some landmarks familiar today, en route to the Battle of Rullion Green in the Pentland Hills.

From this massacre of Covenanter rebels, flashing forwards nearly three hundred years to the most recent war, the same route became a tar-covered road and was a navigational aid for bombers, with bomb craters to prove it.

Between these bookends of violence the Lanark Road has been a prosaic constant to local life. Change was slow. Until relatively recently the biggest worry tended to be the cost of keeping the road passable to foot traffic and pack animals.

From the 1700s major roads in Scotland were constructed as ‘toll roads’, paid for by the local landowners. Contractors were appointed for construction, and ‘roadmen’ employed for maintenance including shifting horse manure into piles in little stone laybys (since it was ‘laid by’ i.e. put aside to deal with later). Constant upkeep was needed, and just as now, budgets were always a concern. From the mid-1700s the road had improved to the point where wheeled carts could operate instead of just pack horses, thanks to a series of Turnpike Acts.

A toll had to be paid to use the Lanark Road, the sum depending on the goods and the wagon loads involved. There were stiff penalties for any who tried to evade paying dues by slipping through fields or along side roads. To stop such evasions, additional toll bars known as check-bars were often erected on these side roads. With improved surfaces came wagons carrying valuable freight, and so attacks by robbers increased.

One particularly colourful local character was Captain Will Baillie, known as the “Gentleman Gypsy”, a Romany skilled at disguise who often adopted the persona of an educated, rich man. Baillie was famous for gestures of generosity and care towards the poor, while helping himself with style to the money of the better-off.

Another kind of criminality was foiled by two stone breakers working on the Lang Whang, recorded as becoming suspicious of a load of straw driven by two other men.

Following the drivers into Jenny’s Inn they overheard conversation which confirmed their suspicions – there were corpses in the wagon, stolen from Lanark Graveyard! The criminals had hoped to sell the corpses to the medical school in Edinburgh, but were captured by the excise man at Balerno.

Currie Toll House

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By 1790 the whole Lanark Road had been completed and for the next fifty years it was a busy through route connecting the capital with the cotton mills of New Lanark.

In 1791 the minister of Currie parish wrote in glowing terms of the now-complete Lanark Road. He remarked that it was now possible for a single cart to carry 150 stones of hay in the charge of two horses and one man, where forty years earlier fifteen horses and seven men had been needed to transport the same load, as carts became bogged down in the mud if too heavily laden.

The minster reported with approval that stage coaches now ran twice a week between Edinburgh and Lanark, but he was not universally impressed with better transport links: “Till within these few years the people of this parish were sober, industrious and economical. The vices of the capital, however, are beginning to spread fast among them, and those baneful articles to the poor, tea and whisky, will soon produce that corruption of morals and debility of constitution which are already so severely felt in many parishes, and which must soon materially injure the real strength and population of Scotland.”

The toll points continued until quite late in the 19th century, and the first edition Ordnance Survey maps (of the 1850s) show their position - often chains over the road, and a wee bothie or house for the Toll Keeper or his employee to watch out and operate the barrier. We don’t know what accommodation the toll keeper in Currie had for the first 90 years, but in 1840 the toll house (pictured) was built, and it stood until the 1960s at the junction of Riccarton Mains Road and Lanark Road West. Today the position of the well serving the house is marked on the footpath.

A precursor of things to come appeared on the road north of Currie in the 1820s and 1830s – steam coaches! These puffing monsters polarised opinion, but the naysayers got the

upper hand with their claims that lives were endangered by the panic induced in passing horses. The perception of danger was so widespread that steam coaches were withdrawn throughout the Edinburgh region, to the great relief of stagecoach, canal and train operators.

As the railway network expanded through the 1840s there was a three-way fight between road, rail and canal transport. Many stage coach operators protested about the size of the toll dues they were forced to pay and were given reductions to allow them to stay in business. By 1847 one coach operator, James Waterston - who ran his service between his inn at Little Vantage and Edinburgh - was struggling. He reported that his coach had been off the road for six months due to the high cost of feeding his horses, but that if the road trustees would further cut his rates of toll per horse he might restart it.

Despite this, all coach services ceased shortly after the opening of the Caledonian Railway in February 1848. The railway effectively sidelined the road west of Balerno, the 20 mile section we call the “Lang Whang” which runs across high bleak moorland to Carnwath.

So as you’re driving along the Lanark Road in peak hour traffic spare a thought for our forbears. They contended with mud and potholes, footpads and occasionally soldiers, had the effort of a 1000 foot climb, and had to cajole their beasts all the way to distant Lanark!

Location of the Currie Toll House today

This article was written by Helen-Jane, editor of Konect magazines, and was first printed in Konect in 2011. Sources: Shaw, D (1989) The Balerno Branch and the Caley in Edinburgh, Oakwood Press. Balerno SWRI (1967) Balerno, the village and district.

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STRIKE

OIL

The health takeaways of six different cooking and salad oils.

VEGETABLE: Considered healthier to cook with oil than butter, which is high in saturated fat. Vegetable oil, often made of rapeseed, has a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking at high temperatures. The smoke point is when the fatty acids break down, releasing free radicals linked to cell damage.

RAPESEED: This oil contains high levels of heart-healthy unsaturated fats and is lower in saturated fats than any other oil. It may help reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease and is a good source of vitamin E. As with other oils, cold-pressed tends to be best for health.

SUNFLOWER: Look for a sunflower oil that’s high in monounsaturates, meaning it has more oleic acid, potentially beneficial in lowering cholesterol and heart disease risk.

It’s also rich in vitamin E and is versatile in the kitchen.

AVOCADO: Also high in oleic acid and vitamin E, avocado oil is good for dressing salads and cooking at high temperatures.

COCONUT: Coconut oil is high in saturated fats, so can contribute to high cholesterol.

While research has suggested it could treat Alzheimer's, more evidence is needed.

OLIVE OLIVE: lauded as a superfood, olive oil is rich in polyphenols, which may protect against cancer and heart disease. Its high levels of monounsaturated fats may help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Research has indicated it might cut the risk of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Go for extravirgin, though its low smoke point makes it best suited to salad dressings.

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The Treasury has announced a new campaign aimed at reducing the number of unclaimed Child Trust Funds.

The UK’s Child Trust Funds (CTFs), which were established for children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011. Over the period of the scheme, the UK government paid £2 billion into accounts for 6.3 million children, with most of them receiving a single payment of £250.

When CTFs were launched, there were no plans for what would happen at age 18. Matured CTFs that were not claimed continued in a post-CTF limbo with the same tax benefits until they were claimed or transferred into an ISA. A HMRC report shows there were over 750,000 unclaimed matured CTFs. The Treasury has now decided to write to all

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21-year-olds with unclaimed CTFs “in a bid to reunite account holders with their accounts”.

If you want to track down a CTF now, the starting point is the HMRC locator tool, (www.gov.uk/child-trust-funds/find-achild-trust-fund) which gives the name of the CTF provider, but not its value.

If you want help to review the investments, you should arrange to meet a financial adviser.

Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.

The Money Matters column was contributed

by Mark Galloway, Independent Financial Adviser at Scotia Wealth Management and based in Balerno.

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RECIPE & FOOD NOTES

Turkey and Courgette Burgers With BBQ season in full swing, these burgers are simple to make and a great alternative to a beef burger for something a little different. Alternatively, you could make the mixture into meatballs instead of burgers and serve with pasta and a tomato sauce!

Serves 2 Ingredients:

• ½ large courgette (grated) • 250g 2% fat turkey mince • 2 spring onions (diced)

• 1 tbsp. fresh herbs of choice (we used parsley and chives, but coriander or mint also work well) • 1 garlic clove (crushed) • 20g plain flour

Method:

1. Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/Gas Mark 6.

2. After grating the courgette, try and squeeze out as much liquid as possible

using your hands then add the courgette to a mixing bowl.

3. Add the rest of the ingredients to the bowl and mix together well.

4. Using your hands, mould the mixture into burgers. You can either make two large patties or four small ones using these quantities.

5. Put the burgers onto a baking tray and place in the oven for around 20-25 minutes until cooked through. They can also be cooked on the BBQ. 6. Serve in wholemeal rolls or pitta breads with salad and homemade potato wedges!

Recipe supplied by Nutrition Scotland www.nutritionscotland.org 26 | BALERNO

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In the way mulled wine is synonymous with winter and cold weather, so too is summer, garden parties and Pimm’s No. 1 Cup. A cool, refreshing, long drink, Pimm’s is a delicious alternative to wine and feels more sophisticated than punch. I first tasted Pimm’s at a summer wedding reception; it is very easy to drink and very easy to forget it is a gin-based spirit!

Proudly displaying the Royal Warrant on its crisp white label, Pimm’s is the quintessential Great British summer drink. It has been served at Wimbledon since 1971 and evokes images of lazy hazy summer days. Developed by James Pimm in London in the mid-19th century, today Pimm’s has a Scottish connection; the gin-based spirit is distilled in Fife! It is made using a closely guarded secret recipe that apparently only 6 people know. It started out as a health remedy to aid digestion (of oysters!) but is now one of the UK’s most popular summer drinks brands. On the nose it is easy to detect fragrant orange, warm spices like clove and herbal botanicals.

The classic way to prepare Pimm’s No. 1. is in a tall glass or pitcher.

Serve three parts lemonade to one part Pimm’s and pour over sliced summer fruits, cucumber and ice.

GERRY AITKEN

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

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Why Grow A Forest Garden?

Last month I encouraged readers to “Grow Your Own Food Forest” to try to help alleviate future food shortages. However, that’s just one of many reasons why small urban forest gardens can be so beneficial.

Before exploring some of the other benefits, bear in mind that a forest garden doesn’t need to look like the forests growing all along the Water of Leith. It just needs to take inspiration from them and what we observe in nature is an integrated system comprising of different layers:

1. Canopy nut trees (pine, beech, oak, sweet chestnut).

2. Sub canopy fruit trees (apple, plum, pear) 3. Shrub understory (currants, gooseberry, raspberry) 4. Herbaceous perennials that die back in autumn and regrow from their roots or crowns each spring e.g. alliums, rhubarb, daylilies, lemon balm, comfrey, asparagus, skirret, some brassicas, all hostas) 5. Ground cover to stabilise the soil and stop unwanted weed seeds emerging (wild strawberries, nasturtium, purslane, selfheal, red clover, aromatics) 6. Roots (oxalis, artichokes) 7. Climbers to use the trees and shrubs for structure (vines, legumes) 8. FUN GUYS: underground mycorrhizal fungi form symbiotic relationships with the roots of most plants and saprotrophic fungi are the unsung ecological heroes decomposing dead organic matter into plant food.

These layers make forests cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter which is why they are so much more resilient

to drought and flood than most urban gardens. The forest floor woodchip and composted leaf mulch acts like a sponge catching and releasing moisture as required.

Most of us won’t have enough space for ALL of the typical forest layers, especially not the high nut trees, and it’s possible to create a self-supporting system with as few as 3 layers provide that one of them is a fruit tree.

All of your food grown at home will be far more nutritious than anything bought in a supermarket simply by virtue of having been picked and eaten fresh before the nutrients have had time to degrade (which happens a lot quicker than you might think).

Growing your own should also benefit your wallet provide that you include some expensive crops such as perennial salad leaves and berries.

Pest problems also tend to be fewer in forest gardens because perennial plants are much more resilient to slug damage than young annual seedlings and their deeper roots mean they need less watering too. The reduced soil disturbance from not digging in annuals each year is also better for the soil structure and life, which is why forest gardens are so much more biodiverse than most other habitats.

However the main benefit to the lazy gardener is that forest gardens can become very low maintenance and selfsustaining once they are established. Of course, establishing a forest garden is hard work, but once it settles in after a year or two, it just keeps giving back year after year with minimal input from humans.

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) 34 | BALERNO

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Hedgehogs in the UK are classified as vulnerable to extinction. We have lost one third of the population in the past 10 years, due primarily to habitat destruction and road traffic.

They thrive in gardens and suburban habitats, and with just a few changes you can make a big difference to their chances of survival:

Avoid using pesticides and slug pellets.

Hedgehogs feed on slugs, snails, worms, caterpillars and insects. Using pesticides not only reduces the food available to hedgehogs, but can also seriously effect a hedgehog’s health and ability to breed. Use organic methods instead. Keep a corner of your garden wild, with log piles to provide natural food and shelter.

If you have a fence around your property, you can make your garden more accessible by making a hedgehog hole. Add 13cm x 13cm square gaps at the bottom of boundary fences and walls to allow hedgehogs easy access.

Encourage hedgehogs into your garden, but never move one in from another area, as it may have a nest of dependent hoglets that you would be condemning to death.

Whilst supplementary feeding isn’t always advised, it can make a big difference to a hedgehog during a particularly cold or dry spell. A shallow dish of water and a wet meatbased dog or cat food is the best thing to supply. Please don’t put out bread and milk – bread is very low in energy and hard to digest and hedgehogs are lactose intolerant.

Make or buy a hedgehog home to offer a hibernation site that is safer from predators in 36 | BALERNO

the winter. It may also be used as a nesting box for a mother and her hoglets in the warmer months.

Check areas thoroughly for hedgehogs and other wildlife before strimming or mowing.

If using robotic lawnmowers check areas carefully before use and never set them to run at night.

Dispose of litter responsibly. Every year hedgehogs are injured by litter and starve to death after getting trapped in discarded rubbish.

Take care on the roads at night. Thousands of hedgehogs die on our roads every year.

Most active at night, they are often attracted to the heat of the road and may need to cross several on their nighttime foray for food. Whilst curling into a ball is an effective technique against predators, it doesn’t work against cars.

If you have found a hedgehog that is injured or obviously unwell, please check the SSPCA website for immediate steps to take and call their helpline on 03000 999 999, open from 8am to 8pm every day.

The information in this article is taken from the Scottish Wildlife Trust scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk , British Hedgehog Conservation Society britishhedgehogs.org.uk, and SSPCA scottishspca.org

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– THE PATHWAY OF SCOTLAND’S OIL RUSH With longer days ahead over the summer, there is perhaps time to go a little further afield for a longer walk. Cutting across West Lothian, the “Shale Trail” is a waymarked route which can be picked up in various locations, or do the whole 16 mile stretch – and you’re never far from a coffee stop as it passes through various towns and villages.

Described on the dedicated website as “The pathway of Scotland’s Oil Rush,” the Shale Trail commemorates various human, social and industrial aspects of the all-consuming industry which dominated West Lothian for 100 years from the 1860s to the 1960s.

The pink bings that characterise the skylines are the most visible monuments to the industry, but there is more than meets the eye.

The Shale Trail is a wonderful way to learn about it. It takes in various sites of significance and is punctuated by information signage with stories highlighting aspects of the industry and local life. There is a children’s version as well, with material prepared by local school children.

This walk for Konect covers the western one third of the trail, from West Calder to Howden in Livingston. West Calder is easily accessible

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for starting the walk, and has plenty of refreshment options for when you return.

Start on the Main Street of West Calder, at the memorial bench in front of the old Co-op clock. This is the location of the first story on the trail; read the stories on the website as you go along. From here, walk up Northfield Court, where a footpath heads off the road and down towards Five Sisters bing which you can see in the distance. Follow the well-surfaced path through until it comes out onto the road, Tenant’s March.

Turn right on the footpath, and the trail now follows the road for a while, turning left onto Mossend and continuing up to

Trail follows the River Almond, passes the Civic Centre and continues along the river.

At Howden Bridge, pause to see and read about the Howden Rock Ramp, a fascinating wildlife engineering project that is bringing salmon and other wildlife back up the Almond – an extraordinary achievement given the Almond used to be so polluted by industry that it had a chemical smell as it ran though Livingston.

the new housing estate. This estate is at the site of the historic mining hamlet of Mossend. The Trail story at this point tells about the original village – and its football team.

A little further along the road, you’ll spot the sign indicating the trail turns left, leaving the road. It take you down some steps through a small wooded area, then skirts some fields.

Crossing the B7015, it takes you alongside Breich Water, and it’s a very pleasant stretch of the trail on a good surfaced path, all the way through the fields to the point where Breich Water joins the River Almond. Here you cross a bridge and continue alongside the Almond, striking across more or less open ground with some nice wooded areas.

The path is well marked although it was quite muddy in places here when I did this walk.

You eventually arrive at Almond Pools, the site of the former Livingston Quarry. The Trail story here explains how these tranquil pools, now a wildlife haven, were created when the Almond was diverted away from the shale deposits for the quarrying. It’s a lovely peaceful spot.

Shortly past the pools, the trail takes you up onto the road (Simpson Parkway) briefly then turns down the footpath into Livingston Village, through Thirlfield Wynd and out by Almond Valley Heritage Centre. Follow the sign through the housing into the historic heart of old Livingston Village. Here, before heading down Charlesfield Lane on the Trail, you can indulge in some refreshments at the historic Livingston Inn. From Livingston Village, the

Howden is about a third of the way along the Shale Trail. It’s a good spot to get back on the road and get a bus back to the car in West Calder, if you don’t feel like retracing your steps back along the trail. If you choose to do the whole trail, there are varied landscapes and scenery to enjoy, including the climb up to the Camps Viaduct, a stretch along the old railway line and a section of the Union Canal through the striking landscape of the bings between Broxburn and Winchburgh.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

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(HARD*)

JULY CROSSWORD

^^^ Hard sudoku solution on page 45

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

JULY SUDOKUS

* We have added an extra sudoku puzzle this month due to popular demand! Let us know what you think

On the limate and nature risis ^^^ Crossword solution in the AUGUST edition ACROSS: 1. One of the seasons (6), 4. Heaviness (6), 9. Massive (7), 10. Beside (5), 11. Surrounded by (5), 12. Tenth month (7), 13. Powerful optical instruments (11), 18.Anguish(7),20.Complete(5),22.Livelydance(5), 23. Disorder (7), 24. Female sibling (6), 25. Lively (6).

DOWN: 1. A horse for example (6), 2. Rhythm (5), 3.Personincharge(7),5.Precise(5),6.Farewell(4-3), 7. Big cats (6), 8. Protest (11), 14. Rude remarks (7), 15. External (7), 6. Modifies (6), 17. Tired (6), 19. Astound (5), 21. Brass instruments (5).

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Juniper Green Film screening followed by discussion The Hub@531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE Saturday 4 July 2026 @ 5pm - 7pm www.nebriefing.org

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CAN YOU HELP FLOAT OUR BOATS? Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho branch is calling on members of the community to become volunteers and help support its mission of providing free canal cruising for people with additional needs including those with disabilities, long-term health conditions, older adults, or experiencing social isolation.

For decades, the charity has brought enjoyment, companionship, and unforgettable experiences to thousands of passengers from across central Scotland and as far north as Dundee to the Borders. To continue delivering these valuable services, the Trust is seeking enthusiastic new volunteers to join its dedicated Ratho team.

Volunteers can develop new skills, gain valuable experience, meet new people, and become part of a friendly and supportive team. Many volunteers also find the role highly rewarding, knowing that their contribution helps provide opportunities and experiences that many passengers would otherwise be unable to enjoy.

Volunteering opportunities are available both on board and ashore. Whether assisting passengers during cruises, helping with boat operations, supporting fundraising activities, or providing administrative assistance, every volunteer plays an important role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for guests.

As demand for cruises continues to grow, the need for additional volunteers has never been greater. By joining Seagull Trust Cruises, volunteers can help ensure that vulnerable and isolated individuals continue to enjoy access to safe, inclusive, and memorable days on Scotland’s waterways.

No previous boating experience is required, as full training and ongoing support are provided. The charity welcomes people from all backgrounds who are willing to give a little of their time to make a difference in the lives of others.

Volunteering with Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho branch offers many personal benefits.

Anyone interested in learning more about volunteering opportunities is encouraged to get in touch with Seagull Trust Cruises. A few hours of your time could make a lasting difference to someone else’s life while providing a rewarding and enjoyable experience for you.

Interested in being part of the team?

For more information email Diana at rathovolunteers@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk

This article was contributed by Seagull Trust Cruises, Canalside, Baird Road, Ratho, EH28 8RA | Scottish Charity No. SC027163.

BALERNO | 41

Green Note Jazz Club Attracts International Talent

Green Note Jazz Club in Juniper Green continues to bring high-quality live jazz to the local community, attracting enthusiastic audiences and outstanding musicians from Scotland, across the UK and beyond.

On 16th July, Green Note presents renowned New York saxophonist Frank Perowsky alongside celebrated Scottish trumpeter Colin Steele, bringing together international and local talent for what promises to be a memorable evening.

The international theme continues on 6TH AUGUST, when Brazilian bassist Mario Caribe leads a quintet celebrating the music of bossa nova legend Antônio Carlos Jobim. Looking further ahead, the club has also announced a special appearance by New York saxophone star Greg Abate in October.

Club founder John Elliott said, “We’re delighted that musicians of this calibre are willing to travel to Juniper Green. Our aim is to combine internationally recognised artists with the warmth and accessibility of a local community venue.”

The club welcomes both dedicated jazz listeners and newcomers. Discount promotional codes are regularly offered to subscribers on the club’s email list.

Further information, tickets and email-list sign-up details are available at greennote.club and @junipergreennote on social media.

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CURRIE HORTICULTURAL SHOW – SOMETHING TO SHOW OFF? 29th August: Currie Horticultural Show, at Balerno High School. Open to the public to admire the entries made by members of the community from 1.30pm - 4.00pm.

Entry to the show on 29th is £3 - cash preferred.

If you live or work in Currie, Balerno, Juniper Green, Baberton Mains, Colinton, Kirknewton or Ratho, please consider entering. If you like to grow flowers, fruit or vegetables, then there will be a category for you. If you are less green fingered and like to spend your time baking or making then have a look at the Baking and Crafts section in the schedule.

There is a category for everyone!

You can access the website currieshow. weebly.com to see what should be up for competition, and printed schedules are in various outlets in the area free of charge.

HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AT WATER OF LEITH VISITOR CENTRE. £7 per child unless otherwise noted below.

More info and booking essential via: www.waterofleith.org.uk/whats-on • THU 2ND JULY - Survival Skills for 5-10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • TUE 7TH JULY - Island Adventurers 8-12 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • THU 9TH JULY - Fairy Folk for 3-6 year olds, 10-11.30am. £5 • TUE 14TH JULY - Polinators Everywhere for 5 -10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • THUR 16TH JULY - River Dipping for 5-10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • TUE 21ND JULY - Extreme River Dipping for 8-12 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • THU 23RD JULY - Splash! for 3-6 year olds.

10am – 11.30am £5 • TUE 28TH JULY - Summer Discovery for 5-10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • THU 30ST JULY - Trash to Treasure for 5-10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • TUE 4TH AUG - River Dipping for 5-10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm • THU 6TH AUG - Art in the Woods for 5-10 year olds 1.30 – 3.30pm SATURDAY 4TH JULY Screening – People’s Emergency Briefing Join us for a free community screening of this 50 minute climate emergency documentary film, featuring Chris Packham and other well known faces, focused on the immediate issues that face the UK in terms of climate and nature loss, and the action that people should be demanding from those in government. Our screening will be supported by Mike Harrower from Greenpeace who will lead a post film discussion about the issues raised. All welcome but please book online at hub531.appointedd.com . The Hub@531, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE. [see poster on p40]

SATURDAY 4TH JULY Wilding! - Natasha and Peter Stewart will be offering lots of creative ideas, for all ages, to improve habitats for wildlife in your own garden or community area. Drop in at The Hub@531, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE to find out more about simple things you can do to help your own environment be more welcoming for nature such as making your garden hedgehog friendly and putting up bird boxes. There will be some of Peter’s handmade bird boxes for sale.

SUNDAY 5TH JULY Newbridge & Ratho Station Farmer’s Market Fresh produce, craft and street food. 11am - 3pm at Newbridge Bowling Club, 19 Old Liston Road, Newbridge, EH28 8SS. First Sunday of each month.

SATURDAY 11TH JULY Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm.

SATURDAY 18TH JULY Flower Walk in Campbell Park - Join our monthly Saturday flower walks with our Biodiversity Officer Jonathan. As part of our plant-monitoring work he will be walking around the park and welcomes anyone two would like to join him. It’s a great way to help support our annual plant survey, learn to recognise edible plants, grasses, wildflowers, shrubs and trees, and enjoy a gentle, informative walk in the park.

Bring a phone with a plant ID app and a x10 hand lens if you have them; a small selection on plant id books will also be available. 10.30am to12noon.

Meet at the pavillion, Campbell Park, Woodhall Road, EH13 0PJ. SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - Model Railway, train rides, drive-a-loco, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, toilets and picnic area. 10.30am – 4.00pm. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF.

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. BALERNO | 43

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

COMPASS PLAYGROUP Are you looking for a nurturing childcare setting in Balerno?

Compass Playgroup provides a fun, safe, and supportive environment where little ones learn through play and grow in confidence. Children aged 2-5; Aligned to Edinburgh Council School Calendar; Caring, Experienced and Qualified Staff; Regulated by the Care Inspectorate; Morning session £18, full day £25. Find out more and register your interest.

W: www.compassplaygroup.com E: membership.compass@gmail.com BALERNO FOLK CLUB Based in Balerno Bowling Club, Ladycroft, Balerno. Held on last Tuesday of January - June, then summer break then September November. Nothing in December.

Doors open 7.45pm. Start time 8.15pm. Each month we feature a booked act; in January we have a Burns Night. Entrance: Members £7, Non-members £10. Contact trishs46@yahoo.co.uk 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 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 44 | BALERNO

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 Alan Davies on 07568 723303.

Email: alan_davis@live.co.uk 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 3.00-4.15pm 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 CLUB Come 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. @KonectMagazines

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 6.007.30pm. Company Section (P7S6) 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. @KonectMagazines

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 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 JUNE CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Banana, 8. Shrewd, 9. Meet, 10. Flapping, 11. Journal, 13. Truly, 15. Often, 17. Closest, 20. Scholars, 21. Urge, 23. Laughs, 24. Eighty.

DOWN: 1. Rare, 2. Banter, 3. Halfway, 4. Usual, 5. Proper, 6. Dwindles, 12. Official, 14. Clasped, 16. Enough, 18. Smudge, 19. False, 22. Gate.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P40

(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

PENTLANDS OPEN STUDIOS ART TRAIL

Twenty-five professional artists and makers will throw open their studios and exhibition venues across Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Colinton on 15th - 16th August for the annual Pentlands Open Studios Art Trail.

Visitors are invited to meet the artists, watch work in progress and buy directly from the makers.

The trail spans painting, ceramics, jewellery, printmaking, textiles and sculpture, with new pieces on show throughout the weekend.

We show here a simplified trail map highlighting all 12 venues. Entry is free and studios will be open from 10.00am to 4.00pm on both days.

The Pentlands Open Studios website carries artist profiles, venue details and an interactive map, with suggested routes by foot, bike, car or free e-bike rickshaw. A full-colour trail booklet will

46 | BALERNO

be available online from July, with printed copies also on offer. Those who sign up to the mailing list can receive occasional updates on artist stories and trail news.

Organisers are appealing for volunteers to help direct visitors along the route over the weekend.

Anyone able to spare a couple of hours on either day should email volunteers@postudios.org Find out more at postudios.org or follow @Penlandsopenstudios on Facebook and Instagram.

MAP KEY

Water of Leith

Numbered Studio/ Exhibition Venue

Walkway and National Cycle Route 75

Art Trail Information Hub

Landmark Building

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