PLUS: real life, puzzles, CLUBS & CLASSES, what’s on, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!
With spring well underway after what felt like a long winter, the persistent march of the seasons put me in mind, while collating the articles for this issue, of the tireless effort and good works that go on in our communities to look after each other and to ensure there are opportunities for a good life for all. Local charitable organisation, Seagull Trust Cruises, have just launched a new offering - audio-described canal cruises, so that people who are blind or partially sighted can enjoy the beauty, history and tranquillity of the Union Canal; see page 9. The Open Door in Morningside are also featured, offering services for older people in the community and they cover residents in our area besides Morningside. Besides this, there is the usual fantastic variety of things going on this month, see the What’s On page.
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! If you are involved in community groups or events that you would like help publicising in future issues, please drop me a line, we’re here to help.
All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
NEW AUDIO-DESCRIBED UNION CANAL CRUISES
Seagull Trust Cruises at Ratho is proud to announce the launch of a new series of Audio Described Canal Cruises, developed in partnership with RNIB Scotland (Royal National Institute of Blind People).
This initiative marks a significant step forward to ensuring that people who are blind or partially sighted can enjoy the beauty, history and tranquillity of the Union Canal.
The Audio Described Cruises offer a rich, immersive journey. Over 50 tracks are triggered automatically by GPS and provide vivid, real time narration that brings the canal environment to life describing wildlife, historic landmarks, boat movements and the unique sounds and sensations of travelling by water.
Stuart Rennie, Immediate Past Chair of Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch, said the organisation is committed to removing barriers to participation. “Our mission has always been to offer free, therapeutic cruises for people who need them most. Working with RNIB Scotland allows us to extend that mission even further. These Audio Described Cruises open up the canal in a new way, ensuring that passengers are not restricted to their seats and are able to enjoy the open foredeck while still listening to the commentary on the wireless headsets.”
RNIB Scotland has supported the project with specialist guidance to ensure the narration meets the needs of blind and partially sighted passengers. Jane Coates, Senior Social Action Community Manager, RNIB Scotland,
welcomed the collaboration. “Accessible leisure opportunities are vital for wellbeing and social inclusion. We’re delighted to work with Seagull Trust Cruises to create an experience that is not only enjoyable but genuinely empowering.”
The cruises will run on selected dates throughout the season from the Ratho base, with advance booking recommended. As with all Seagull Trust Cruises outings, the Audio Described Cruises are completely free of charge, supported by volunteers and charitable donations.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to accessibility, community and the belief that Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage should be open to all.
For information and bookings, please contact: 07511 055081 or email: rathobookings@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk
This article was contributed by Seagull Trust Cruises, Canalside, Baird Rd, Ratho, EH28 8RA. Scottish charity number SC027163.
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
EDINBURGH MERCHISTON - Room A55, access from carpark off Mardale Crescent, Napier University, 10 Colinton Road, EH10 5DT EVERY MONDAY @ 7PM* *EXCLUDING BANK HOLIDAYS
To attend please call 0131 516 7133 or visit careuk.com/scotland Join
Cairdean House care home, Colinton Summer Fete
Saturday 27th June, 2pm - 4pm
Murrayside care home, Corstorphine Knit and natter
Last Tuesday of the month, 10:30am - 12 noon
Lauder Lodge care home, Portobello Dementia Cafe
First Monday of the month, 10am - 11am
Trusted to care
Are you missing out on tax relief for your pension contributions?
With Relief-at-Source (RAS) pension schemes your personal contributions are added to by the scheme claiming tax relief at the basicrate of tax, regardless of your actual tax rate. For example, a contribution of £80 will receive £20 basic-rate tax relief making a £100 gross contribution. Personal pensions are RAS schemes, as are some workplace pension schemes, notably NEST.
The RAS approach gives automatic basic-rate tax relief – even to non-taxpayers – but if you pay tax at more than basic-rate, you need to claim the extra relief due from HMRC. Using the same £100 gross contribution, if you are a higher-rate taxpayer, you would need to claim the balance of your tax relief (£22 if you are a Scottish higherrate taxpayer), either by contacting HMRC directly or via your self-assessment return.
The Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) assume, in practice, more than one in ten people currently do not make that claim to their personal disadvantage and to the benefit of the Treasury. This could be for a variety of reasons including a lack of knowledge or the fact that frozen tax thresholds have dragged many taxpayers into the higher-rate club.
If you think you might be one of those unwittingly helping the Chancellor, a simple starting point is to check with your financial adviser.
The value of your investment and any income from it can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested.
Tax treatment varies according to individual circumstances and is subject to change.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate tax advice.
The Money Matters column was contributed by Mark Galloway, Independent Financial Adviser at Scotia Wealth Management and based in Balerno.
White On
Among many colour-of-the-year announcements, one always stands out: the prediction from the Pantone Color Institute. This time, its colour of the year is a white hue called Cloud Dancer, described by Pantone as ‘airy’, ‘ethereal’ and ‘billowy’, ‘a whisper of calm in a noisy world’.
You can bring freshness and simplicity to your home with different shades of this most neutral of colours. Using white extensively, from walls and ceilings to furnishings, window treatments and perhaps even floors, is an easy way to create harmony and provide cohesion from room to room. White rooms feel bright and spacious. They also make a great backdrop for art, books, plants and decorative accessories.
WHERE TO USE IT: A white scheme can work well in both period and modern houses, and can help with small or dark rooms. Brilliant white paint used extensively, however, can make a space feel stark, especially when the room is north- or eastfacing. Choose a knockedback off-white (like Cloud Dancer) instead. Shades of white with an undertone of yellow or pink feel warmer.
CHOOSING YOUR SHADES:
Whites and nearwhites cover an enormous spectrum. Each one will look different in various lighting conditions, so try out sample pots, painted onto swatches of paper which you can move around.
Another consideration is the surface finish. These vary from chalky, matt emulsion to shiny gloss, and your choice will depend on the surface, how durable you need the paint to be and personal preference. Be guided by the manufacturer’s information and remember that combining different finishes of the same shade achieves a gently layered, sophisticated effect.
USE LAYERED TEXTURES: Textures bring an all-white room to life with subtly pleasing contrasts, from the grain of limed floorboards to the soft weave of linen, the
gleam of glazed ceramic to shaggy sheepskin. A successful white scheme carefully combines hard and soft, rough and smooth textures. For cosiness, add a soft rug to a hard floor or a woollen throw to a leather sofa. To emphasise light and space, consider elements such as satin-varnished floorboards, gloss-painted cupboard doors, sheer curtains and silk cushions.
CREATE INTEREST: Natural materials such as wood, wicker and terracotta complement pale hues, while brass, bronze or copper hardware adds warmth and shine. Wall art in matching frames, vases of flowers (dried or fresh) and plants with interesting shapes complete the look.
The Interiors column was contributed by Katherine Sorrell
www.aquateccarpetcleaning.co.uk
The Open Door in Morningside serves the local area by running an exceptionally friendly day service for older adults who otherwise might miss out on activities and social interaction.
Volunteers in Morningside started the Open Door over forty years ago as a café and meeting space. It has evolved into a careinspectorate rated quality day service for older adults. This includes your neighbours and family members who are experiencing dementia or simply can’t easily get out and about on their own. The Open Door is fully accessible for those using mobility aids, including wheelchairs. This day service brings care, love and laughter into daily life and helps support independent living. We promote mental and physical health and provide a hot lunch and community.
These sessions also provide important respite to carers/family members who otherwise would not get that break and we provide transport for those in our care. Our highly skilled and experienced staff and volunteers prioritise safety as well as enjoyment for those who attend, especially as their needs change over time.
Some members attend several sessions per week. Council funding and self-directed support may be available to pay the fees, but we also offer private places. The Open Door also offers community spaces for hire - for classes, workshops and meetings.
Open Monday to Friday, call us on 0131 447 9757 or email hello@theopendoor.org.uk to arrange a free session or come visit us during one of our May events.
MAY ACTIVITIES
Please join us for these free events in the Café upstairs:
• Wednesday 13th, 10.00am - 4.00pm: Coffee and Cake Home Baking (Pay what you like)
• Monday 18th, 4.00pm – 5.00pm: Power of Attorney Workshop
• Saturday 30th, 10.00am – 4.00pm: Maker’s Market Arts and Crafts fair
This article was contributed by The Open Door, 420 Morningside Rd, Edinburgh, EH10 5HY. www.theopendoor.org.uk Registered Charity SC007315.
Salmon and Herb Traybake
Light, vibrant and bursting with flavour, this fantastic midweek one-pot meal can be on the table within 30 minutes. Asparagus is at its peak in Scotland this month, and the first local radishes are available.
Preparation time 15 mins | Cooking time 15 mins | Serves 2
Ingredients:
• 50g butter, at room temperature
• 15g fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• 250g asparagus, woody ends trimmed
• 2 Scottish salmon fillets
• A handful of fresh radishes, trimmed and halved
• 1 slice of lemon, cut in half
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 courgette • 100g fresh or frozen peas
• 2 tbsp Opies Capers, drained.
• A few sprigs each of fresh dill and mint
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan 180°C, gas mark 6. Using a fork, mash the butter until soft, then add the parsley and season well. Roll the herby butter in greaseproof paper to create a small sausage shape and freeze for 15 minutes (Alternatively, prepare ahead of time and keep in the fridge until solid).
2. Place the asparagus into a large roasting tray and top with the salmon fillets before scattering the radish around the sides. Top each fillet with a lemon slice.
3. Remove the herb butter from the freezer and cut into four rounds, then divide between the salmon. Season well, cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
4. Using a peeler, slice the courgette into thin ribbons.
5. After 10 minutes in the oven, remove the tin and baste the salmon with the melted butter, then add the courgette ribbons and fresh peas to the tin and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes. If using frozen peas, cook these separately, drain and add to the tin prior to garnishing and serving.
6. Remove from the oven and scatter over the capers, fresh dill and mint and serve immediately.
This recipe is from www.bennettopie.com, where there is more recipe inspiration using the Opies range of products.
I love scallops! However, more than 95% of scallops in the UK are gathered by dredging the seabed. This damages the marine habitat, isn’t sustainable and generates unwanted bycatch. On a recent trip to Cornwall, I was thrilled to discover ‘Disco Scallops’ a sustainable scallop option!
What is a ‘disco’ scallop? A) A scallop wearing 70’s flares? B) One that enjoys disco dancing? or C) A sustainable way of catching scallops? The answer of course is C!
But what does a disco have to do with scallops and how on earth do I pair a disco scallop and wine?
The answer is quite fascinating and clever. Scallops are attracted to LED lights! By adding LED ‘disco lights’ to lobster and crab pots, scallops actively swim inside the pots! This prevents damage to the seafloor, ensures high quality catch and supports smaller businesses
working in the lobster and crab industry.
A disco scallop is excellent quality. I dined in a beautiful restaurant called Flora in Trelowarren, Cornwall. The scallops were exquisite! Locally sourced and carefully prepared. They were delicious. The texture was rich and buttery and the flavour was sweet. So, what to pair with disco scallops?
White wine with structure and elegance was required to support the flavour. A young, unoaked Chablis was the perfect choice. The Chablis region was once an ancient seabed, predominantly a mix of clay, chalk and fossilised oyster shells. As vines push roots through the soil, mineral character is picked up and reflected in the character of the wine. A great disco partner!
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
GERRY AITKEN
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THE LAZY GARDENER’S DIARY:
“To dig, or not to dig”, is a question I hear a lot these days.
According to Charles Dowding, the ‘No Dig Gardener’, the trick is to add about a four-inch layer of compost on top of undisturbed ground each year during the dormant winter months, and to plant into the raised bed you’ve created in the spring. Leaving the soil below undisturbed allows the worms and other soil life to carry on moving through their tunnels pulling down organic matter and nutrients, whilst allowing air to circulate underground and improving drainage around plant roots. The trick is to keep adding at least 4 inches of compost layer each year, then any airborne weed seeds are very easy to pull out by hand. Learning how to make compost helps keep the cost down. If persistent weeds like dandelions or horsetail emerge, Charles recommends loosening the soil around the tap root and pulling out as much as you can without disturbing the soil structure. You may have to repeat the process for up to 2 to 3 years in the case of horsetail, but each time you do, the root will be weakened and eventually dies off.
It’s also easy to create new raised beds on a lawn without any digging. Start with a couple of layers of overlapping brown cardboard on the grass. Create a temporary wooden frame using old fence planks or timbers. Fill with at least 6 inches of compost, topped with another 6 inches of mulch material, then plant. You’re now a lazy gardener.
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)
MAY SUDOKUS (HARD*) (EASY)
MAY CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Starchy vegetable (6), 8. Keep hold of (6), 9. Dish (4), 10. Quickly (8), 11. Modified (7), 13. Shell (5), 15. Swivel round (5), 17. Type of sword (7), 20. Semi-darkness (8), 21. Serene (4), 23. Jail (6), 24. Idea (6). DOWN: 1. Single handed (4), 2. Hit very hard (6), 3. Bragged (7), 4. Star sign (5), 5. Artist’s workroom (6), 6. Local languages (8), 12. Toward a lower place (8), 14. Fastenings (7), 16. Dash of liquid (6), 18. Find (6), 19. Extreme pain (5), 22. Stolen valuables (4).
* We have added an extra sudoku puzzle this month due to popular demand! Let us know what you think
Hard sudoku solution on page
^^^ Easy sudoku solution on page 45
^^^ Crossword solution in the JUNE edition
be realistic, I love the promise that a new year holds, the “clean slate” potential!
ISometimes you’ve just got to seize the moment! Even if it seems extravagant. I tried to explain this recently to my financially prudent husband.
sn’t it interesting that we wish one another a “happy new year” long after singing Auld Lang Syne – for weeks after boxing up the Christmas decorations and returning them to the loft.
Trinity College, my beloved alma mater, which later evolved into Trinity International University, announced in February that it was closing its doors for good. A big reunion was planned – for all alumni from all years – for late March. As in March 2026!
Regardless of what’s going on in our world and various concerns about issues in our own country, we hope that 2025 will be a good year. It would be wonderful to see peace achieved in at least one area where war is currently raging. And, on a personal level, we also hope to see growth and progress in our own life and in the lives of those we know and love, occasions to celebrate, good health and maybe even some fun surprises in the next 12 months.
Given Trinity is located in a suburb of Chicago, Illinois, USA, this was not much notice for former students like me who don’t live in the States. I dismissed the idea. But then my old friend Shirley, who lives in Washington state, started encouraging me not to give up on the idea. Now I haven’t seen Shirley in more than 40 years, but we are Facebook friends, so I know we still share a strong Christian faith and a wacky sense of humour.
I’m focusing on the “new” in “Happy New Year”. I’ve not exactly made any new year’s resolutions. This tradition seems to be becoming less popular - social media posts regularly tell us that we don’t need to strive to improve, we are “enough” as we are, we shouldn’t load ourselves up with goals and then feel guilty when we can’t achieve them. Although I agree that it’s good to
The reunion would take place over a weekend. Because I work alternate Saturdays, I checked the calendar. Hmm … I wasn’t working that Saturday.
Progress! Then I had a chat with my husband. I had to agree with him that it didn’t make any sense to spend the money on flights when I’d have to depart on a Thursday and arrive back in Edinburgh on the Sunday! It made even less sense considering we have to replace our car, which recently gave up the ghost. And we have wedding costs to help with. One might even say it was a crazy idea. But we agreed that it might be possible if I could get some overtime shifts.
If you live in Balerno, you too may have been delighted to see snow falling early morning on New Year’s Day. I stood at our glass patio door and watched as sleet turned to big white snowflakes that quickly covered our garden and bedecked the trees. It was a wonderful illustration of the “it’s all fresh and new” theme.
Signing up for a Pilates class was a new thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it has been a positive change. I may not be as proficient as many in the class, I struggle to do some of the stretches because of a knee issue, and I sometimes have a hard time resisting dancing to the background music when I should be listening to the instructor. But I know the exercise is doing me good. I’m not sure what new thing(s) I will do/ encounter this year, but I will keep my eyes and ears open for them.
Fortunately for me, if not for my fellow workers, staff illness meant there were a number of shifts that needed covering. So I started getting some overtime work. I told my friend Shirley that things were looking up!
In early March I thought I’d better dig out my passport. Now when did it expire? I opened it to the photo page and, to my horror, read that it had expired in February! To renew it I would have to have a photo taken, fill out a form, and post it to the US Embassy in London. The process was estimated to take three weeks. I looked at the calendar. If I sent it off the following day and it took three weeks to get the new one, it would arrive back on the day I’d need to fly to Chicago! Well, that’s it, I thought. At least I’d tried. But my daughter said, “Don’t give up, Mom! Send that passport away!”
When my eldest daughter was in primary school, she decided to try something new. I heard about it from another mum, who had been at the school to watch her daughter do Highland dancing in an assembly. “I didn’t know your girl did it too,” she said. So I explained that she didn’t, although she was in a ballet class. “That’s strange,” said my friend. “At the assembly the children who took Highland dance lessons were invited to go to the centre of the floor and perform. I thought your daughter did rather well.”
Later I asked my child why she had done this. “Oh,” she said. “I thought the teacher said, “Will all children who would like to do Highland dancing please come forward now? So I went.”
Do something new this new year.
Encouraged by youthful optimism, I followed her advice. And then I waited, worked overtime shifts, rearranged various appointments, and prayed that passport would arrive with me in time. Of course, not knowing whether or not it would, I couldn’t purchase my flights. That meant, due to what was happening in the Middle East, the cost continued to rise … and I couldn’t do anything about it.
Two days before I’d need to travel, the renewed passport arrived. I was working that day, but I went home for lunch, just in case a Special Delivery item came. I knew a signature would be required, and no one else was home. When I’d waited as long as I could, I locked up the house
real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.
SUZANNE GREEN
so I could head back to work. At that point the wee red Royal Mail van came down the road.
I got to the postie before he got to me! He had my passport! That night I bought my tickets and my travel insurance, and packed a carry-on bag. The next day I worked, and the day after that my husband dropped me off at Edinburgh Airport.
In Chicago I stayed in a hotel with Shirley and with my college roommate, Jodie. At the reunion I saw lots of old friends, as well as some much-loved former lecturers.
We talked about our time there in the late 1970s, caught up with one another on the joys and sadnesses in our lives since that time, ate Chicagoland pizza, and toured the campus one last time. I did not have time to recover from jet lag before boarding another plane and returning home.
Was it worth it? As they say in my home country, you betcha! It was worth every penny. realLIFE 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.
WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL! If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby..... get in touch via
and we may be able to share it. (You need to live and/or work in the Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton, or Ratho area to be featured in Konect)
Great BIG Green Week at Hub@531
Every June, thousands of events take place all over the UK, from repair cafes and nature walks to community clean ups and film screenings, the Great BIG Green Week brings communities together to share action that makes a difference. In 2025, more than a million people took part and the Hub@531 played a small part here is our SW corner of Edinburgh.
10th & 17th February health and wellbeing focus. and help inform our plans for this juice & biscuits available.
This year, between 5th and 14th of June, we plan to host even more events and activities, and we invite everyone to get involved and come along!
Saturday 6th June is our kick off event when we will host stalls including a plant sale from our own gardening group, interactive information with a local beekeeper, hands on with Edinburgh tool library, and a chance to browse and buy from the Fairtrade stall. Our own Hub@531 volunteers will be on hand to offer a cuppa, and a chance to make your own healthy dips. On the same day, we’re delighted to be joined once again by the team from Earth Calling, who will offer river dipping in the Water of Leith for young people, and a botanical blether along the river banks for adults.
Friday 21st 2.30-4.30pm materials are supplied, booking evenings, ages 12+ welcome on Repair Lab with Dianne beginners / intermediate sewers. and repair rips/holes in your using a range of creative visible/invisible mending damaged textile items to repair. atelier workshop for experienced sewers in
There will be family friendly crafts to book on 5th and 6th of June,
Chat - wellbeing info and Drop in or book your space.
and throughout the week, guest speakers including Edinburgh Thriving Greenspaces and author Helen Boden. On Sunday 7th June, we will screen the 2025 documentary film Ocean, with David Attenborough, and there will be a chance to join a post screening discussion on the issues raised. And watch out too for a local history walk on footpaths old and new, a temporary drop off point for Kids Love Clothes charity, and lots more.
Our full programme will be available very soon. Please take a look at our Facebook page “The Hub at 531” for full details of what’s on and how to book, or email hub531lanarkroad@gmail for more information.
This article was contributed by Annette Wilson, development officer at Hub@531
welcome your donations when you attend! Join us online for more articles, updates, reader offers and more!
SATURDAY 9TH MAY
Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm
SATURDAY 9TH MAY
Plant Sale - At Water of Leith Conservation Trust Visitor Centre. Visit our Plant Sale and pick up a bargain! Bedding plant, perennials, veggies, herbs, shrubs, wild flowers and so much more. Free entry, cash payments for plants please. 11.00am until we sell out (early pm). Water of Leith Visitor Centre. 24 Lanark Road, EH14 1TQ.
SUNDAY 17TH MAY
Family Meet a Pony Day - At Ravelrig RDA. Fun for all the family. Meet our ponies, tombola, human show jumping, games, face painting, biscuit decorating, hot rolls, soup, refreshments & baking, Adopt a Pony. To be held in our new indoor arena, 12midday - 3.00pm. Ravelrig RDA, 21 Ravelrig Gait, Balerno, EH14 7NH
SUNDAY 17TH MAY
Dan’s Donder – Roseburn to Saughton Guided Walk - With the Water of Leith Conservation Trust. A relaxed guided walk from Roseburn to Saughton with Ranger Dan, full of local stories and nature. Meet at Murrayfield Ice Rink. £7, members free. Booking and info at www.waterofleith.org.uk/ whats-on/
SATURDAY 23RD MAY
Ravelrig RDA at Balerno Gala - Come along on Gala Day between 1.00pm and 3.00pm to meet our ponies and volunteers and find out more about this wonderful charity in your community. Ravelrig RDA, 21 Ravelrig Gait, Balerno, EH14 7NH
SUN 17TH TO SAT 23RD MAY
Balerno Gala week and Gala Day For updates see www.facebook.com/ BalernoGala
Meet in Edinburgh Pentlands Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road from 10.00am - 12noon. NEW MEMBERS WELCOME.
Further details from Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford on 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk
WED 6TH MAY - “Edinburgh’s Hidden Sights - for Tourists,”. an illustrated talk by Karen McCormack
WED 20TH MAY - MEMBERS AGM followed by lunch at Kingsknowe Golf Club.
SATURDAY 30TH MAY
Plant Sale - At Redhall Walled Garden in aid of Scottish Action for Mental Health. Wide selection of herbaceous perennials. Pop up cafe, handmade crafts. 10.00am - 2.30pm. Redhall Walled Garden, 97 Lanark Road, EH14 2LZ
SUNDAY 31ST MAY
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
FRIDAY 5TH & SATURDAY 6TH JUNE
Currie Beer and Curry FestivalFeaturing 36 casks of independent beer ranging from light, citrus ales to rich porters and stouts, alongside a selection of ciders, lagers, wines and prosecco. LIVE MUSIC will include Bedlam House Band and Blue Soul (Fri) and Jammy Devils with Bob Miller and North Dogs (Sat). The curry, including a vegetarian option, will be prepared by the Kasbah in Marchmont. All money raised is donated to local charities and good causes. Currie Community Centre, 6.00pm – Midnight. Tickets in advance at cbdrt.com/events/beerfestival/2026/
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
BALERNO FOLK CLUB -
Based in Balerno Bowling Club, Ladycroft, Balerno. Held on last Tuesday of January - June, then summer break then SeptemberNovember. 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 morag@scotland-tour-guide.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 CLUBCommunity Stockcar Radio Control Car Club. Monday nights. 6.00pm10.00pm. £6 per meeting. Douglas Hall, Dalmahoy, EH27 8EB. E: info@theracehall.co.uk or T: 07972 702642
BALERNO PARISH CHURCH GUILD - We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from October to March. There are interesting talks, activities and fellowship. 7.30pm, The Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church.
ORIAM WALKING FOOTBALL CLUB - We run a local Walking Football Club, established in 2015, for women aged 40+ and men aged 50+. Our sessions, which are very much mixed ability, take place at Oriam Sports Centre, Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS, on a Mon and Fri 12.30-1.30pm, and Wed at 12.00-1.00pm and 8.30-9.30pm
We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.62 but we do have monthly membership schemes available. Please contact 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 CLUBCome and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 6.45pm. Table money £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see W: bridgewebs.com/pentland E: mthkjb@gmail.com
ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - The Club was formed about 1946 and meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. It is non-competitive. For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145.
THE MEETING PLACE - A community cafe for those 65 and over and all unpaid carers. Every Monday 10.00am - 4.00pm. Lunch £5 if you wish and ALL refreshments free. Free exercise classes, bingo, dominoes, crafting and much more. 99 Forthview Crescent, 42nd Pentland Scout Hall. For info contact: themeetingplacejcb@gmail.com
BALERNO RAMBLERS WEEKEND GROUP - A busy walking group with a programme of interesting walks in a variety of locations. Some walks may be more challenging than the midweek programme.
MIDWEEK GROUP - Meet for walks in Lothians, Fife, Borders and further afield. For walk details contact P. Harper on 07738 486416. Follow Balerno Ramblers on Facebook.
PENTLAND SINGERS COMMUNITY CHOIR - Rehearsals every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Balerno Parish Church. Singing a wide range of choral music, with local concerts twice a year, no previous experience required and new members always warmly welcomed. Actively seeking new members. Further information: W: www.pentlandsingers.org.uk E: pentland_singers@yahoo. co.uk
KNIT ‘N’ KNATTER - Ratho Library, Ratho Commuity Centre, Thursdays 2pm to 4pm. Tea & coffee provided. Bring along your wooly creations. Ratho Library 0131 333 5297
PENTLAND JUNIOR SINGERS
- Rehearsals every Tuesday 6-7pm, Balerno Parish Church. For young people aged 8 to 14. Come and sing a wide array of choral music in a fun and supportive environment. More information: W: www.pentlandjuniors.org E: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com
CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE
- Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs 6.007.30pm. 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
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_
TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT
NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT.SCOT FOR INFO. (EASY) (HARD)
PENTLANDS OPEN STUDIOS
WELCOMES A SPECIAL NEW VENUE TO THE 2026 ART TRAIL
The Pentlands Open Studios (POSt) is delighted to announce that it will be adding a very special venue to its other eleven wonderful Art Trail venues this year –the big room at Tiphereth’s Hoyland House.
Opened in 1993 as a charity (and part of the renowned Camphill international movement founded in 1940), Tiphereth supports adults with learning disabilities and autism by providing residential and day services with the aim of helping everyone make a meaningful contribution to the world by ‘Living, Working and Growing Together’.
‘We believe every individual deserves the opportunity to discover who they are and where life can take them’.
Tiphereth’s Hoyland House provides a wonderful exhibition space for four of our very special, professional artists – Martha Ellis, Jade Stout, Sandra Vick and The Leftbehinds. Come and enjoy a range of fantastic work within this beautiful setting.
Whilst there, you can also visit the fascinating print studio and shop, which sells the work produced by Tiphereth’s members. To make the visit extra special, there will be a wonderful pop-up café serving delicious treats for the Art Trail weekend, which visitors can relax in and enjoy whilst taking in the wonderful the views. There will also be live music featured to add to the atmosphere.
Tiphereth runs a range of inspiring and fun workshops including woodwork, printing, textiles, pottery and gardening. Through your visit, you will experience wonderful artists and makers whilst appreciating how learning and
creativity go hand in hand with understanding, caring, building confidence, independence and life skills.
We at Pentlands Open Studios believe in forging inspiring creative connections within our community and share Tiphereth’s values to ‘celebrate differences and nurture creativity’. We feel privileged to have this charity as part of our Art Trail so make sure you include this special place on your visit.
The Art Trail is predominantly situated along the borders of the beautiful Water of Leith taking in the villages of Colinton (closest to Tiphereth), Juniper Green, Currie and Balerno. In order to help you to get to Tiphereth from Colinton, a shuttle bus will be available. www.tiphereth.org.uk POStudios.org | @POStudios
Tiphereth
Print Studio
WE APOLOGISE TO OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THE DELAYS IN OPENING, IT IS OUTWITH OUR CONTROL. WE AIM TO BE OPEN AS SOON AS POSSIBLE
