Konect Balerno May 2025

MAY 2025

LOCAL WALK:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

WINE TASTING:

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

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W

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

Pentlands Open Studios, the new local art trail, have provided an update for their inaugural weekend coming up this summer (see page 28) and also on the What’s On page you will find the usual rich offerings of diverse activities in the area to get involved with this month.

As ever, you will find everything you need for home, health, garden and entertainment in the pages of Konect.

Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

P18 Local Walk: Water of Leith in slow motion.........8 realLIFE......................................................................14 Wine: Anything But Chardonnay?.....................18 What’s On: Pentland Open Studios.................28 Puzzles...............................................................29 / 34 Local Environment: My dippers have

disappeared.............................................................36 Recipe: Flourless Cookies...................................40 What’s On..................................................................42 Clubs & Classes......................................................44 Puzzle Solutions......................................................45

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

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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along the Water of Leith Walkway…

WITH PLENTY OF STOPS FOR COFFEE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CREDIT: All image by Jane Forster

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TONY HARPER’S

HAIR STUDIO

46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno

To book an appointment please phone the salon on

0131 451 5133

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

For updates please see our Facebook page and salon windows

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SUZANN E GREEN

I

haditainteresting birthday last month.

Andone I sn’t that we wish learned aI’m younger than I thought another “happy new year” long I was. after singing Auld Lang Syne – for weeks after boxing up the Christmas You see, I have this unfortunate habit decorations andatreturning them to year. the loft. of “aging myself” the start of a new I think about the age I’mgoing goingon to turn in world April Regardless of what’s in our and to soften the blow I actually and then, various concerns aboutwhen issues in our reach that number, I start to think of myself own country, we hope that 2025 will be a as already being that age. good year.

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

Having war is currently And, on a personal advanced my age when my level, we also hopeprematurely, to see growth and birthday arrive sometimes getlives confused progressdoes in our ownI life and in the -ofand advance myself year! those we know andanother love, occasions to good health and maybe even Icelebrate, love my springtime birthday.

Edinburgh somegets fun surprises next 12 family months. often a lot of sunininthe April.

And and friends do their best to make me feel I’m focusing on the “new” in “Happyspecial.

New All I have do exactly is receive the adulation, gifts Year”.

I’vetonot made any new year’s and plans with grace, gratitude and resolutions.

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

If the list obeyed, load ourselves with goals and itshouldn’t means you don’t have toup pretend you love something that you have useachieve for and don’t then feel guilty when weno can’t them. even like! IThe downside that to Although agree that it’sisgood

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FEBRUARY, BALERNO | MAY, 2025 2025

be realistic, I love thereal promise that (And a new you will not have any surprises.

I like as“clean has been mentioned yearsurprises, holds, the slate” potential!in a previous column.)

If you live in Balerno, you too may have been I’m glad I no havefalling to think about delighted to longer see snow early morning children’s birthdays. one (now on New Year’s Day. When I stood at of ourour glass adult) kids was she was invitedturned to three patio door and little watched as sleet to birthday all on the day.

A big whiteparties snowflakes thatsame quickly covered sensible mother have the encouraged her a our garden and would bedecked trees. It was to choose one or evenoftwo them attend. wonderful illustration theof“it’s alltofresh and Not I determined to get my child to all new”me. theme. three. So what if they were all taking place in Signing up forofa Edinburgh?

Pilates class wasaacar. new different parts I had thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it Years later I don’t remember much about that has been a positive change. I may not be as day. But I do recall that at party one, or maybe proficient as many in the class, I struggle to two, the birthday boy’s mum brought out a do some of the stretches because of a knee cake topped with Teletubbies decorations. issue, and I sometimes have a hard time My kids had watched Teletubbies on TV, but resisting dancing to the background music at thatIparticular time there was a controversy when should be listening to the instructor. about the programme.

One articleme implied But I know the exercise is doing good. that watching Laa Laa friends would I’m not sure what newand thing(s) I will do/ rot kids’ brains,this andyear, urged to make better encounter butparents I will keep my eyes choices.

So I followed the advice, explaining and ears open for them. to my child that there were better things to When my eldest daughter was in primary watch. school, she decided to try new. I Imagine my horror when mysomething daughter piped heard it from another whoforhad up, “Ohabout no! Teletubbies!

Theymum, are bad been Iattried theto school watch daughter you.” laughto it off, andher explain to the do Highland an didn’t assembly.

“I mum with the dancing cake. Butinshe look happy. didn’tthen know your girl did it too,” she said.

And it got worse.

So I explained that she didn’t, although she Worried late for the next party, I said tried was in awe’d balletbeclass.

“That’s strange,” to hurry my daughter, telling her to go say my friend. “At the assembly the children who thank you to her friend and his parents. took Highland dance lessons were invited But she that guests to go to knew the centre of the normally floor andreceived perform. I a little party bag of goodies the end of the thought your daughter did at rather well.” event - and she wasn’t about to miss out.

Laterran I asked my little childhost, whyhand she had She up to her out, done and this.

“Oh,” she said.

“I thought the demanded, “Richard, the bag!” We teacher made a said, “Will hasty exit. all children who would like to do Highland dancing please come forward When we finally arrived home that day, I made now? So I went.” a pot of tea and drank three mugfuls in quick Do something new this new year. succession. 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.

• Hands on physio treatment, exercise & rehabilitation • Acupuncture & Shockwave Therapy • Respiratory & Women’s Health Physio • New Mum MOT • Massage Therapy & Sports Massage • Pilates, Yoga, Strength & Gym Classes • Personal Training & 1:1 Pilates

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WINE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com 18 | BALERNO

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GERRY AITKEN Painter & Decorator Juniper Green

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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

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SAVE THE DATE

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

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

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

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

Donated exhibition spaces on the trail Include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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MAY SUDOKU (HARD*) Support for PC’s, Laptops, Wi -Fi, Printers & software.

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

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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

MAY CROSSWORD APRIL CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the MAY JUNEedition edition

ACROSS: 7.Type 7. Scratch of hat (6),(6), 8. Lower 8. Assault spine (6), (6), Settee (4),(4), 10.10.

Very young (8), frogs 9. Not pretty Exciting 11.(8), Style of writing 11. Normally (7), 15.

13. Freshwater Closes (5), 15.

(7), 13. Cold (5), fishNot (5),heavy (5), Moves up (7), you are dry grown (8), here 17. Loosening (7),20.

20.Keeps Fruit trees 21. Coffee shop(4), (4), 22.

23. Aggravates (6), (6), 24. End (6).

(8), 21. Legend Mixes together 23. Writer (6).

DOWN: 1 Repeat (4), 2 .Yellow fruit (6), DOWN: 1. Zero 2. Remain (7), 3. e.g. snake (7),(6), 4 Scottish river(4), (5),3.5Foretell Level (6), 4.

Economise 6. Boring Skilled (5), (8), 5.

12.Evenly Dieting(8), (8),6.14.

Mortified (6), (7), 12.

Chuckling (8),Getaway 14. Uncommon 16. Seldom 16. Terror (6), 18.

(6), 19.(7), Dental care (5), 22. Blaze (4).(6), 19. Squash (5), 21. Dumb (4).

(6), 18. Idea

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 45

MAY SUDOKU APRIL SUDOKU

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ADD SOLUTION DETAILS

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FOOD & DRINK

Flourless

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

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

Melt-in-your-mouth delicious

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

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

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

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

Peanut Butter

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Recipes and images from eatingwell.com

Ingredients:

Method:

• 1 large egg

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

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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

• 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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

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

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

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SATURDAY 10TH MAY Plant Sale - Pick up some bargain plants and help the Water of Leith Conservation Trust! The courtyard of the Visitor Centre will be transformed in to a sea of greenery with hundreds (if not thousands) of plants for sale. We’ll have bedding plants, trees, shrubs, perennials, wildflowers, edible plants and houseplants, all at some of the best prices you’ll find in Edinburgh! No need to book just turn up on the day. Free entry, bring cash for the plants. 11.00am to 1.00pm – or until we sell out!

We do sell out quickly of the popular items! Don’t forget to bring bags or boxes to carry your items home. Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Road, EH14 1TQ. www.waterofleith.org.uk FRIDAYS FROM 9TH MAY Intricate Crochet - Complete a project with Penelope from Crowchez, come along over 4 weeks to develop your skills and work on a more intricate crochet project, perfect for improvers. 10.30-11.30am at The Hub@531, Juniper Green. Book via The Hub@531 online at hub531.appointedd.com SATURDAY 10TH MAY Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm. Printed Schedules for this year’s Currie Horticultural Society Show will be available free of charge at the May Balerno Farmers’ Market. The Schedule lists the categories of plants, flowers, fruit and vegetables, floral art, crafts and competitions for the younger members of the Show’s catchment area. It will be available in shops in the Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. Also on the website currieshow.weebly.com . This year’s show is Saturday 30th August at Balerno High School.

13TH MAY TO 3RD JUNE ACE IT Digital Skills - Join us at Currie Library on Tuesday mornings for friendly, free digital skills coaching for over 50s. Whether you’re a total beginner or just need a refresher, we’re here to help with phones, tablets, email, and more. Drop in and boost your confidence with everyday tech! 10.00am until 12.00pm.

SUNDAY 18TH MAY Spring Concert by Colinton Orchestra - Polwarth Parish Church at 7.30pm. All are welcome. Entry by Donation (suggested £8) Refreshments will be served during the interval. Further details at www.colintontochestra.org.uk SUNDAY 25TH MAY The Big Lunch - Campbell Park, Colinton, 12.00midday - 4.00pm. Bring a picnic and some food for sharing!

FRIDAY 6TH & SATURDAY 7TH JUNE Currie Beer and Curry Festival - 40 tasty real ales, lager, wines, cider, prosecco and alcohol-free offerings. Live music.

Organised by Currie, Balerno and District Round Table and volunteers. All profits are given to local charities and good causes. Currie Community Centre, 6.00pm – midnight. Tickets in advance at cbdrt.com/events/beer-festival/2025/

All meets are in Edinburgh Pentlands (formerly Juniper Green) Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road 10.00am - 12noon.

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME. Further details from our Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk WED 7TH MAY: “Building a Brand - Woodrow’s of Edinburgh” an illustrated talk by Megan Brown.

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

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

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. 42 | BALERNO

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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 and craft. A small voluntary donation is requested to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information please contact Clare Dow on 44 | BALERNO

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 ADULT ART CLASSES & SOCIAL - Free taster class! Learn Art in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Based on the drawing theories of Betty Edwards - this class is appropriate for all levels. Our teacher Jane holds a BA from Hallam University with over 25 years experience teaching art, design and photography. Come develop your core skills and have a cuppa with others who share a love of Art. Thursdays 10.00am-12.00pm, Currie Community Centre, 280 Lanark Road West.

W: justvillagesocialevents.co.uk E:nicole@justvillagesocialevents.co.uk 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. @KonectMagazines

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 or 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.

Contact 65edinburghbb@gmail. com or 07730 414371.

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

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

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

You can find us on Facebook.

For information call Deeanne on 07885 612583.

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

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 APRIL CROSSWORD

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

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

SOLUTION TO SUDOKUS ON PAGES *29 & 34

(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 INFORMATION.

(*HARD)

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