Konect Balerno June 2025

JUNE 2025

LOCAL HISTORY:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT: LOCAL WALK:

PLUS: FOOD & DRINK, REAL LIFE, puzzles, CLUBS & CLASSES, and more FEATURES inside!

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he walk feature this month takes us into the Heriot-Watt campus, thanks as ever to our knowledgeable guide William Weir who shares his highlights of the flora and fauna, see pages 8-9. It’s nice to be reminded that there is a lovely series of carefully thought-out trails to be enjoyed right here on our doorstep within the campus.

Loneliness Awareness Week takes place in June, run by The Marmalade Trust who say, “It’s all about creating supportive communities by having open, honest conversations. Loneliness is a natural human emotion - we are hardwired to need social connections. By talking about it, we can support ourselves and others.” That’s an attractive vision for our villages! There is plenty going on this month, for all ages and interests. Browse the What’s On and all the Clubs & Classes. This section is a core part of Konect every month. There is something for everyone and we know it has made a difference to a lot people over the years.

I spent a very pleasant afternoon at Hopetoun House one day last month. I’d not written about it before, so thought it was time to highlight it as a place of interest not too far away and well worth a visit, see pages 8-9.

Local Walk: Around Heriot-Watt...........................8 realLIFE......................................................................14 Wine: Sancerre by any other name..................18 Puzzles.......................................................................34 Local Environment: Fluffballs on the move.......36 Local History: When the king ate turtle soup at Hopetoun.............................................38-39 What’s On: June Events...........................................40 What’s On: Home Organisation Workshop......42 What’s On: HUB@531 Green Week Events....43 Clubs & Classes................................................44-45 Puzzle Solutions......................................................45 Recipe: Making your food summery................46

As ever, thank you for reading Konect, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month!

COVER IMAGE: June: It’s summertime!

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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The dawn chorus is still in full swing. A joyful, chaotic choir of birdsong emanates from the campus’ Central Woodland and lifts my spirits as I begin my walk, striding along a sun-streaked path beneath the clear blue of a pristine spring morning.

There’s a wonderful array of paths and routes on offer through Heriot Watt’s landscaped grounds – the Discovery Trail, the Tree Trail, the Bird Trail, the Heritage Trail - which to choose?

Today, I’m doing a loop within a loop, to take in a selection of the best this local campus has to offer. Starting at Car Park K, I head south, soon coming to an old, whitewashed milestone (reclaimed from the A1 near Dunbar). Turning right here takes me through a grassy area of elegantly curved stone brochs. One of these sits atop a mound and I ascend to stand there a while, taking in the songs of chiff chaff, chaffinch and thrush, which echo from the woods through air thick with the heady scent of hawthorn.

At the halls of residence buildings, I bear left, entering the wood and passing beneath a

canopy of lime-green new leaves. Wild garlic is in abundance, each flowerhead an umbrella of delicate white star-like blooms. One clump is situated by some railings, a little way beyond which stand a neat array of gravestones. This peaceful spot is small burial ground once used by the Gibson-Craig family who, for centuries, owned the estate. The Heritage Trail and Tree Trail coincide here and lead me past a splendid array of specimens, from Mountain Hemlock of North America to Sawara Cypress of Japan. It’s a squirrel paradise; I watch one pair engaged in a spiral chase up a nearby trunk, the leader gripping a sprig of foliage between its teeth.

I emerge at the south-west corner of The Lawn, once overlooked by Riccarton House (now the site of the University Library). Here, a blackcap sings its twisting, turning song from the top of a large holly. Going past the library, I come to what was the fire pond for the old house, now home to an industrious moorhen who is busy adding material to its nest island. Enormous sequoiadendron, the giant redwoods - nature’s skyscrapers - stand sentinel here, their silent strength lending and air of calm as I pass beneath an elevated corridor to reach The Loch.

The centrepiece of the campus, The Loch is a beautifully landscaped oasis. Majestic trees and benevolent blue skies are reflected in its gently rippled surface. The sharp, high-pitched cry of a coot rings out from near a tree-topped island while a heron hunches on the far bank, watching as mallards dabble. Crossing the bridge at the eastern end, I stop by the

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shore as a family of Canada geese paddle over. They are remarkably bold and even seem keen to show off their brood – two adorable golden, fluffy goslings.

From here I cut diagonally across the grass, down some steps, and back beneath the elevated walkway, following signs for the chaplaincy. I turn left, then right to bring me back to The Lawn and trace its north and western edge. I’m back at the library now, but this time turn with my back to it and head west. On the right are tall oaks and Scots pine, their tops a cacophony of caw-ing from the resident rookery. Turning left at another halls of residence building, I cross the road (The Freeway) and strike out towards West Gait and the edge of the campus.

GET THE ROUTE ON Just before a ‘Road OS MAPS! closed’ sign, I turn onto a path which takes me to the north edge of the estate, following a wooded route parallel to the A71. In the shade, trunks of young rowan, beech and cherry are spotted with prettily patterned snails. Finally, the path turns parallel to Currhiehill Road again and, on reaching Boundary Road North, I turn left, back into the campus, following a pleasant, pine-lined forest path to arrive back at the brochs, and my starting point.

A university’s campus is in many ways a miniature community - a world within a world.

In the way Heriot-Watt have woven the natural fabric of the estate into theirs, I feel I’ve found many little worlds here today. Why not see which of them you can uncover?

Now a chance to really stretch the legs. Just before reaching Curriehill Road, I turn left and follow a wooded path uphill and round the perimeter of the campus. The cool shade of the trees is welcome as the sun arcs higher.

It’s also a chance to savour the joys of the late spring wood. Fragrant carpets of bluebells nod demurely as I pass. Two young woodpigeons cause a commotion in the branches high overhead, testing their wings on their nest. After some effort one fledges successfully, making off through the trees, wind whistling in its wings.

Shouts from a football match signal that I’m passing the Oriam. I round the back of the building and pass the car park which bustles with weekend sports club drop-offs. I cross the Avenue to walk alongside Boundary Road East, continuing on the verdant Hermiston Walk.

To my right is woodland again, dense with Rhododenron, Holly, Laburnum and Oak. The gentle trickle of a small stream is my relaxing

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.

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CREDIT: All image by William Weir

soundtrack. I then turn left to walk the length of the campus on Research Avenue North, the way lined with young lime trees, as willow warblers’ laidback calls drift across the fields.

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SUZANN E GREEN

IA

days ago I placed anone sn’t itfew interesting that we wish order at a well-known another a “happy new year” coffee long shop and theLang barista asked after singing Auld Syne – for if after he could name my Christmas coffee. weeks boxing up the Poor lad. He’d a loft. decorations andprobably returningnever themhad to the pet and desperately wanted to name Regardless of“OK,” what’sI said. going“Ionguess in our you world something! and various concerns about issues in our can call her Suzanne.” own country, we hope that 2025 will be a According to the stats, the average Brit good year. It would be wonderful to see spends over £2,000 each year in coffee peace achieved in at least one area where shops. I don’t think that’s me, but it’s likely war is currently raging. And, on a personal that I spend far more money on takeaway level, we also hope to see growth and coffees than I think I do. It seems such progress in our own life and in the lives a justifiable treat. Less than a fiver, no of those we and love, occasions calories, andknow the perfect antidote to a to cool, celebrate, good health and maybe even rainy climate! some fun surprises in the next 12 months.

It’s not the caffeine I crave. I drink decaf.

I’mthis focusing on theof “new” in “Happy At point some you will wrinkleNew your Year”.inI’ve not exactly made any newvery year’s nose disgust, but there are some resolutions.

This traditioncoffees seems to drinkable decaffeinated outbethere. becoming less - social media posts And most of thepopular well-known coffee places regularly tell usone. thatIt’s wesimple: don’t need to strive serve a good I prefer not are “enough” asI’d werather are, we to improve, lie awakewe at night, and also shouldn’t load ourselves up with not be addicted to caffeine.

(I’vegoals seenand how then feel guilty when can’t achieve coffee drinkers get awe headache if theythem. haven’t a fix that it’s day).

Althoughhad I agree good to

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FEBRUARY, BALERNO | JUNE, 2025 2025

realistic, I love theI could promise thatfour a new Ibe used to boast that drink cups of coffee and go slate” right topotential! sleep … I year holds, thethen “clean was young. But a day came when, after If you live in Balerno, you too may have been making this claim, I experienced my first delighted to see snow falling early morning caffeine-fuelled sleepless night. I guess I on New Year’s Day. I stood at our glass wasn’t young anymore. patio door and watched as sleet turned to Most of the time I drink coffee without milk. I big white snowflakes that quickly covered suppose that’s I’m antrees.

Americano. our garden andbecause bedecked the It was a Iwonderful don’t want a fancy coffee machine, illustration of the “it’s all fresh and because I don’t wish to get up whenever I new” theme. want another cup. Instead I make a large Signing up forcover a Pilates class a new cafetiere full, it with mywas ‘cafetiere thing for at the beginning of 2024. And it cosy’ andme have it with breakfast. hasI been change.sweet, I may not as Or drink ait positive with something so Ibe can proficient as many in the class, I struggle to appreciate how the slightly bitter taste do some of theand stretches becausethe of asweet knee contrasts with complements issue, and I sometimes have a hard time thing I’m eating. In restaurants I ask for resisting dancing tomy thedessert, background a black coffee with and music the when I says should beislistening to the server this no trouble for instructor. them. But But I knowitthe is doing me good. obviously is -exercise most seem to forget about I’m not surecoffee what new do/ delivering until thing(s) dessert Iiswill finished, encounter this year, butrequested.

I will keep When my eyes no matter what you’ve and happens, ears openI for this try them. really hard to ignore my cheesecake or warm brownie (with When my eldest daughter was in primary ice cream melting on top!) until the school, she decided to try somethingserver new. I remembers request.

In the case ofhad heard about my it from another mum, who melting I will try to their been at ice the cream, school to watch hercatch daughter eye to ask them again. Or I will get up from do Highland dancing in an assembly. “I the table and chase them. didn’t know your girl did it too,” she said.

If are on the road, you’re in a hurry Soyou I explained that she or didn’t, although she (and don’t class. need a“That’s decaf), you cansaid was inyou a ballet strange,” get a fairly“At decent coffee from of thewho my friend. the assembly theone children machines that dance big name coffee places took Highland lessons were invited install shops.

I bought one of these in I to go tointhe centre of the floor and perform.

Balerno recently, and I was sure I heard thought your daughter did rather well.” people laughing and clinking coffee cups Later I that asked my childHas whyanyone she had done inside machine. else had this.experience?

“Oh,” she said.

“I thought the teacher this Should we report it? said, “Willit all children who would likedoubt to do Perhaps was just a delusion - no Highland dancing please come forward brought on by overdosing on whatever now? So I is went.” chemical used in the decaffeinating process.

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.

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WINE

New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is powerful, vivid and distinctive. On the nose you find tropical fruit mixed with gooseberry and grapefruit, layered with floral honeysuckle.

The winemaker’s goal is to produce the best example of Sauvignon Blanc they can. They have explored every angle and produced a polished, precise expression of the grape variety. You’ll be forgiven for thinking this is the best example of Sauvignon Blanc available!

However, have you tried Sancerre?

Sancerre is Sauvignon Blanc grown in the Loire region of France. The wine is named after the place it comes from, rather than the grape variety. Here, the winemaker invites you to not only experience their best expression of the grape variety, but to taste where the wine comes from. This is the idea of ‘terroir’.

Sancerre from the northern hemisphere is less tropical in character than that produced in NZ. When I taste Sancerre, I’m reminded of a summer herb garden after the rain. There’s petrichor, wet stone, green herbaceous notes of broken leaf. Sancerre has an incredible freshness and minerality that I haven’t found anywhere else.

Generally, Sancerre and NZ Sauvignon Blanc are fermented in stainless steel tanks, rather than oak casks. The wine is dry, the acidity is racy and mouthwatering. Both styles can be enjoyed on their own or but also with food, I’d have either with shellfish, or a goat’s cheese salad.

Why not experiment? If you usually buy Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, why not try Sancerre and visa versa?

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 18 | BALERNO

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Few sights can melt a heart faster than a trail of tiny mallard ducklings wobbling after their mum.

Covered in soft yellow and brown down, these little paddlers are born adventurers. Mallards usually lay 8–13 eggs, and after about 28 days of incubation, all ducklings hatch within 24 hours of each other - because no one wants to be left behind!

Mallard ducklings are precocial, which means they’re up and moving almost immediately.

Within hours of hatching, they’re following mum to the nearest water source, learning to swim, dive, and dabble like pros. They might look like they’re just splashing about, but they’re busy picking up essential survival skills—and the odd water flea or two.

Staying warm is a full-time job when you’re a fluffy ping-pong ball, so ducklings huddle together or tuck under mum’s wings when they’re tired. While they can feed themselves from day one, mum keeps a watchful eye, warning them of danger and sometimes performing a very convincing “broken wing” act to lure predators away.

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In just two months, these fluffballs grow into fully feathered young ducks, ready to take their first flight. Until then, they’re busy exploring the world one paddle at a time adorable, curious, and just a bit clumsy.

So next time you see a family of mallards on your local pond, take a moment to admire the ducklings’ determination. They’re not just cute - they’re tiny dynamos navigating life’s big pond.

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

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WHEN THE KING ATE TURTLE SOUP AT HOPETOUN Way back in the mists of time, the hamlet of Abercorn was briefly the seat of the Bishop of the Picts; then the location of a medieval castle which was destroyed by the crown during the infamous spat between James II and the Black Douglas; then, on the former castle lands, the magnificent Hopetoun House was built, where King George IV dined as a friend.

Such is the cycle of fortune, and Hopetoun House, commissioned by a widowed Lady Hope for her son, is today a Georgian time capsule, a family home, a spectacular events venue, a film location, and a wonderful place to while away a summer’s day exploring both indoors and out.

The historic Hope family’s rise to prominence dates to when Sir James Hope (1614-1661) acted as lawyer for a lead mining heiress, Anne Foulis. Anne was defending her right to inherit her father’s lead mining fortune at Leadhills in Lanarkshire. Esteemed legal talent was in the family - James’ father was King’s Advocate for Charles I. Sir James won the case for Anne, client and lawyer fell in love, and married. Thus the valuable lead mines came into possession of the Hope family, giving their fortune and status a huge boost.

James and Anne’s son, John Hope, purchased the lands of Abercorn in 1678, where he planned to build a magnificent house for himself and his family.

He also purchased the Barony of Niddry Castle.

But tragedy struck before John managed to build his house.

At just 32 years of age, and

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with two very young children, John was one of many passengers lost at sea when HMS Gloucester, carrying the Duke of York and an entourage of courtiers to Edinburgh in 1682, was wrecked off the English coast. Family tradition has it that John gave up his place in a rescue boat for the Duke of York, sacrificing his own life for that of the future King. (The wreck was identified just three years ago, in June 2022, and Royal Museums Greenwich website provides fascinating detail about the journey and the shipwreck, rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/ hms-gloucester-shipwreck-history-james-ii) John’s widow Lady Margaret Hope took on management of the family businesses until their son Charles was of age. (He was just one year old when is father died). And, in 1699, on the occasion of Charles’ marriage, Margaret commissioned the building of Hopetoun House. Perhaps she and her husband had discussed the vision for it before he died, or perhaps the brief she gave the architect was entirely her own. In any case, she entrusted the work to the renowned Scottish architect William Bruce. Bruce’s work today remains in the central core of the original home. There were also formal gardens in French style behind the house.

Charles was created the first Earl of Hopetoun in 1703, just after he turned 21. The title was possibly granted in recognition of his father’s sacrifice for the Duke of York back in 1682. Charles decided to extend the house considerably, and in 1721 he commissioned William Adam to create a much grander, more palatial home. This is the house we see today.

The work took a long time – so long in fact that Charles didn’t live to see it completed, neither did William Adam. William’s sons John and Robert, also renowned architects, finished the interiors. The house was completed in 1767.

Many members of the Hope family had distinguished military and political careers.

The 4th Earl (1765 - 1823) was described

by Napoleon Bonaparte as one of the most formidable generals in the British Army - a compliment indeed from a brilliant military leader. There is a statue of the 4th Earl in the courtyard of Dundas House, the former headquarters of the Royal Bank of Scotland, of which he was Governor. He served as LordLieutenant of Linlithgowshire, as did several subsequent generations of the family. The 7th Earl was the first Governor General of Australia.

For a family with many close links to the royal family, Hopetoun has received only one royal visit. In 1822, George IV visited for lunch at the end of his state visit to Scotland. It was the first state visit to Scotland from a reigning British sovereign in 170 years. It was carefully stagemanaged by Sir Walter Scott and included a lot of tartan pageantry. Highland dress had been banned following the Jacobite rebellions, but the ban had been repealed some 40 years previously; the decision to dress the King in Highland outfits was seen as an act of reconciliation. On his last day in Edinburgh, the King arrived at Hopetoun House at 1:15pm where crowds were waiting (in the rain) to see

him and where a lavish, multi-course lunch had been prepared. But the King limited himself to some turtle soup and three glasses of wine. Using Lord Hopetoun’s sword, he then knighted Sir Henry Raeburn, the Scottish portraitist, and Captain Adam Ferguson, Keeper of the Regalia in Scotland, and within 2 hours he was off again, heading to Port Edgar where the Royal Yacht waited to take him back to London.

Uniquely, many of the rooms at Hopetoun remain unchanged from when they were built, so you get a peak into real Georgian style.

Much of the furniture is original, along with artwork collected by the various earls. Fans of the time-travel fantasy TV series Outlander flock to Hopetoun House as it was used as a filming location, but just a visit is in itself a form of timetravel - as you wander through the rooms you may as well be in Georgian times.

A visit is highly recommended. The excellent guides at Hopetoun can provide much more detail – guided tours are available at specific times as part of the entry fee. Besides the fascinating interiors, furniture, art and family stories, the grounds provide serene walking trails through a variety of designed landscapes.

There is of course an excellent tea room.

See www. hopetoun. co.uk. Open for the season until 28th September.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after a visit and guided tour of Hopetoun House.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines BALERNO | 39

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS!

FRIDAY 6TH & SATURDAY 7TH JUNE Currie Beer and Curry Festival - 40 tasty real ales, lager, wines, cider, prosecco and alcohol-free offerings. Live music. Organised by Currie, Balerno and District Round Table and volunteers. All profits are given to local charities and good causes. Currie Community Centre, 6.00pm – midnight. Tickets in advance at cbdrt.com/events/beer-festival/2025/ SATURDAY 7TH JUNE Great Big Green Week - A host of free activities, stalls and information at TheHub@531, from 10.00am – 2.30pm. Drop in to hear from Edinburgh Community Solar Cooperative. Book to attend our river adventures (sessions for children 8+ and adults) or to make your own beeswax food wraps.

FRIDAY 13TH JUNE Rock Art - Paint pebbles or learn how to wrap stones using string (Japanese stone wrapping), our multi generational craft gives an opportunity for old and young to get together and enjoy some creative time. Free, donations welcome. 2.30pm – 4.00pm at The Hub@531, Juniper Green. Book via The Hub@531 online at hub531.appointedd.com SATURDAY 14TH JUNE Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm WEDNESDAY 18TH JUNE Macrame plant pot holders - Join us to have a go at creating your own plant pot holders using twine. Free, donations welcome. 7.30pm – 9.30pm at The Hub@531, Juniper Green. Book via The Hub@531 online at hub531.appointedd.com

“Unearthed Edinburgh” photography competition, by Edinburgh Libraries Run by Edinburgh Libraries, the theme celebrates both the city’s wonderful green spaces and gardening as forces for creativity, resilience and connection.

We welcome photos which celebrate any green space in the city, from the Meadows to your window box! The competition is free to enter and open to all. All entries must be submitted via Edinburgh Collected (edinburghcollected.org) where they will become part of a community archive of Edinburgh memories.

Tell us in the accompanying description what makes the picture special to you and remember to add the tag “unearthed”. Entries will be judged on both their photographic merit and on the accompanying text.

There are fantastic prizes to be won!

• 1ST PRIZE – £100 book token • 2ND PRIZE – £50 book token • 3RD PRIZE – £25 book token The competition runs until 31 July 2025.

Make sure to read the Unearthed Edinburgh competition guidelines and terms and conditions - zurl.co/BvAtt - or if you have any queries, contact informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk SATURDAY 21ST JUNE Make Music Day Festival - At Currie Library. Completely different from a typical music festival, Make Music is open to anyone who wants to take part. Every kind of musician — young and old, amateur and professional, of every musical persuasion! If you are a local musician / group and would like to come and play please email your details at currie.library@ edinburgh.gov.uk. We will host live acts between 11.00am and 5.00pm.

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. 40 | BALERNO

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Drop In - Stalls

SAT 7TH JUNE - 10.00-11.30. Info, tasters, products to buy from Fairtrade, P Edinburgh Tool Library, Hub Gardening Group, Eco table, Co-op plus vegan Snacks to try + Fairtrade tea / coffee & cake

Edinburgh Community Solar Co-op

SAT 7TH JUNE - 11.45-12.15. Meet Edinburgh Community Solar Co-operative and find out what’s happening with solar power in our area, how to get involved, maybe even how to invest. Drop in.

Create Beeswax Wraps Sessions

SAT 7TH JUNE - Start at 13.15 or 14.00. Free 30 minute sessions to create own beeswax wrap, a more environmentally friendly alternative to plastic food wrapChild & parent session from 13.15-13.45 Adult (over 16) session from 14.00 - 14.30 Limited spaces, booking essential

Water of Leith (local) with Earth Calling

SAT 7TH JUNE - Join Earth Calling who will lead fun and informative guided explorations along the local stretch of the Water of Leith, sessions for everybody!

Booking essential.

River Dipping (ages 8+)

SAT 7TH JUNE - 10.00 - 11.00 (meet at 9.45 at the Hub@531). Children age 8+, prepare to get wet! Not just a stroll along the riverbank, but a chance to get into the river and take an up close look at what lives there!

Botanical Blether (16+)

SAT 7TH JUNE - 11.30 - 12.00 (meet at 11.15 at the Hub@531). Adults all ages (16+), join Gus for a botanical blether as you take a stroll along the riverside to explore the diversity of plants and animals that live there.

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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 44 | BALERNO

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 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 £13 which includes a snack. No parent duties required. For more information: W: junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb. co.uk E: junipergreenplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk T: 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. @KonectMagazines

More information: www.pentlandjuniors.org E: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE - Anchor Boys (P2-3) and SOLUTION TO MAY Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs CROSSWORD 6.00-7.30pm. Company Section (P7-S6) Sun 6.30- 8.30pm 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 ACROSS: 7. Scrape, 8. Lumbar, 9. Sofa, Tel:Tadpoles, Ratho Community Centre 10.

11. Usually, 13. Shuts, 15. Light, 17.

Ascends, 20. Umbrella, 21. Cafe, 0131 333 1055.

23. Annoys, 24. Expire.

JUNIPER GREEN BOARDDOWN: 1. Echo, 2. Banana, 3. Reptile, GAMERS - Family and kids 4.

Clyde, 5.board-game Smooth, 6. Talented, friendly group 12.

Slimming, 14.

Ashamed, 16. open to all. Come join usHorror, to 18. Escape, 19. Floss, 22. Fire. play all sorts of board-games.

Children are free any SOLUTION TOwith SUDOKU adult (£3/adut) Meetings every ON PAGE XX 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 Disclaimer: The publisher Juniper Green is opencannot to allaccept responsibility for loss damage caused to join. There’s anorextensive by error in the printing of an advertisement. junior coaching programme, We do not endorse any advertisers in as well as adult coaching this publication. All material is accepted and social sessions.

For for publication on the understanding it is membership our copyright free. Nocheck part of out this publication website clubspark.lta.org.uk/ may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

JuniperGreenTennisClub and follow us Lothian on Facebook.com/ Publisher: Publications Ltd. junipergreentennis.

We look Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, forward to welcoming West Lothian EH54 6GU. you!

PILATES, YOGA, STRENGTH Magazine Design: & FITNESS CLASSES - at Alan Stewart Design T: 07729Sports 911858 Physio & Prime @KonectMagazines

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_ 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 INFORMATION.

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Scrape, 8. Lumbar, 9. Sofa, 10. Tadpoles, 11. Usually, 13. Shuts, 15. Light, 17. Ascends, 20. Umbrella, 21. Cafe, 23. Annoys, 24. Expire.

DOWN: 1. Echo, 2. Banana, 3. Reptile, 4. Clyde, 5. Smooth, 6. Talented, 12. Slimming, 14. Ashamed, 16. Horror, 18. Escape, 19. Floss, 22. Fire.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 34

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

BALERNO | 45

FOOD & DRINK

Makingyourfoodfeel Summery To us in Scotland June is often the kindest month and with luck we can enjoy the wonderful very long days, flowers and food from the garden or allotment.

Gardeners may have their first new potatoes and broad beans, herbs will be well up and there are elderflowers, sorrel and garlic leaves we can harvest from the wild.

June is often a month people plan for outside events, galas and weddings. Summer celebration food is a British strength. Think of cold, decorated poached Scottish salmon, bowls of strawberries and meringues and puddings decorated with crystallized flowers or fruit. Rare roast beef sliced thin with tiny new potatoes and mint, followed by stewed apricots and cream are all simple and delicious.

This may all be a bit of a dream when you have a family to feed, not enough time and less in the budget than you hoped. There are still ways to make your food feel summery and leave you with to time to enjoy the long days and good weather if we get any.

PASTA WITH CREAM AND NEW VEGETABLES - Cook which ever shape of pasta you most enjoy and when it is ready have the following ready to add:

• A dash of olive oil • 1 egg beaten into ¼ pint double or whipping cream • Cooked asparagus chopped or new tiny broad beans or fresh peas just cooked.

• A rasher or 2 of thin crisp cooked bacon per person, broken up • Salt and a good grinding of black pepper • Chopped chives or mint or sorrel leaves.

Chose the herb which will go best with the veg you are eating. eg. mint with peas.

At the last moment add the veg, oil, herbs, bacon and then the cream and egg to the hot, drained pasta. Give it a quick mix to coat the pasta with the rest of the ingredients and there you 46 | BALERNO

Flower Petal Salad are…a quick summer meal making expensive ingredients go further and still tasting good.

FLOWERS IN FOOD - There are several flowers which are good to eat and when added to salads or as decoration to puddings give the dish a summery look, including nasturtiums, snapdragon, violas, borage, chive flowers and pot marigolds. For fun you can crystallize rose petals with egg white and caster sugar and use them on cakes. Both violets and roses can be found in the cake decorating shelves of the super-market.

ELDERFLOWER CORDIAL - On a dry day pick about 10 big heads of elderflowers. If you can, take them home quickly or keep them in a paper bag till you are there. This is because the dry flowers carry the yeast which will give the syrup a genuine flowery taste. If the flowers are wet they will make an unpleasant flavoured brew.

Put the elderflower heads in a heat proof bowl.

Slowly dissolve 450gm of sugar in ¾ pint of water. When this is done bring the syrup to the boil and then pour it over the elderflower heads.

Cover with a clean cloth and set aside to go cold.

Leave for a day to steep.

Bottle in a screw topped jar and keep in the fridge.

This can be diluted to taste with fizzy water, used to make elderflower water ice or be added to the fruit when cooking gooseberries.

This recipe and food notes were contributed

by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.

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