Konect Balerno November 2025

NOVEMBER 2025

LOCAL HISTORY:

WINE TASTING:

MONEY MATTERS:

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

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r e b m e v o N

N

ovember is a time for Remembrance, and this year our article takes a different angle - the Arctic Convoy Museum in the Highlands have contributed a biographical piece about a West Lothian resident who worked on the brutal Arctic Convoys in the Second World War. In her wine column, Joanne has remembrance on her mind too.

I love to get out and about walking in all seasons; extra care needed over the winter months in terms of where you go, but it’s always invigorating and refreshing to get out in nature. Although there is no walk feature this month, there is a new mindful walking group which has just started, called “Loving the Elements” and based out of the Hub@531. Short, easy guided walks, a perfect way to start incorporating walking into your week!

There are plenty of Christmas fayres and events on of course, and it’s always good to support local causes and charities for whom there are important fundraising events - and you always find unique and interesting gifts too.

Thank you as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

P26 Local History: West Lothian to the Arctic Convoy............................................. 8-10 Crossword/ (Easy) Sudoku..........................14 NEW! Money Matters: I’m not ready for retirement!..................................................17 realLife..............................................................20 Recipe: Pear & ginger bircher muesli.......26 Wine: A scent or remembrance..................27 (Hard) Sudoku................................................31 What’s On November Events......................40 Puzzle Solutions.............................................44 Clubs & Classes.......................................44-45

COVER IMAGE: November: Autumn in the Pentland Hills

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LOCAL HISTORY

FROM KIRKNEWTON TO THE ARCTIC CONVOY:

ADAM LITHGOW Adam William Pollock Lithgow was born in Glasgow on the 15th July 1915. As a young man he lived in the village of Kirknewton, West Lothian, and worked as a shepherd on farms in the Borders.

Naturally then, Adam was hardened and used to being outdoors in all kinds of weather.

In March 1940, at the age of 24, he volunteered for naval service, enlisting for 12 years.

After initial training at Portsmouth and aboard the training carrier HMS Argus as a Stoker, Adam was assigned to HMS Forester (H74), an F-Class destroyer, the first of several destroyers he would serve on. It was aboard HMS Forester that Adam first experienced Arctic Convoy duties. Before he embarked on the most perilous of journeys, he married Ada (Barth) in February 1942, in Surrey.

For four years, more than 1,400 merchant ships under the 8 | BALERNO

flags of 11 states completed their journeys to Murmansk and Arkhangelsk as part of 78 allied convoys, escorted by 441 warships. The convoys delivered vital supplies to the Soviet Union. They assembled in the waters of Loch Ewe and Scapa Flow. The summer route took the convoy high up into the Arctic Circle via Iceland, so as far as possible from Occupied Norway. In winter, the convoys were forced to sail on a more southerly route due to the extent of pack ice, much closer to the Norwegian coastline and German U Boat/ Luftwaffe bases.

The risks were enormous, not only from the threats posed by enemy shipping, mines

and aircraft but also due to mountainous seas and bitter cold. 85 merchantmen and 16 Royal Navy escort vessels were lost along with around 3,000 lives. It was for good reason that Sir Winston Churchill labelled the convoys “the worst journey in the world”.

In late March 1942, Convoy PQ14 assembled at Loch Ewe and sailed for Murmansk via Iceland. HMS Forester, with Adam aboard as ship stoker, was assigned close cover duties, along with HMS Foresight and HMS Edinburgh. One week in, they detached from the convoy to intercept and deter enemy destroyers. Only 7 of the 25 Merchantmen

made it to Murmansk.

Most Merchantmen were damaged by pack ice and were forced to return to Iceland. SS Empire Howard was sunk by a German U Boat.

The return convoy (QP11) of 13 merchant ships and eighteen warships, including HMS Forester, sailed for Iceland in late April 1942.

They were attacked first by Junker aircraft then by U boats. HMS Edinburgh was significantly damaged by two direct hits and ordered to leave the convoy and return to Murmansk, escorted by HMS Forester and HMS Foresight.

But they were intercepted by German destroyers. In the exchanges that followed, all three ships took direct hits.

HMS Forester suffered serious damage fore and aft as well as in the boiler room. Twelve men were killed, ncluding the captain, and another nine men were wounded. HMS Edinburgh managed to sink one of the German destroyers before she was struck again midship. HMS Edinburgh finally succumbed to a torpedo from HMS Foresight, once survivors had been rescued.

HMS Forester limped back to Murmansk for temporary repair, subsequently arriving at Scapa Flow on 18th May,1942, whereupon she took passage to the Tyne shipyards for repair.

It must have been an enormous shock to young Adam’s system to leave the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders and find himself north

of the Arctic Circle aboard a British warship. From the tranquillity of sheep farming to the horrors of war in the most hostile of conditions.

In World War II, a ship’s stoker was a member of the engineering crew responsible for maintaining the ship’s boilers, primarily by managing the coal supply and fire in the furnaces. This was a physically

It was for good reason that Sir Winston Churchill labelled the convoys “the worst journey in the world”.

In December 1942, Adam joined the I-Class destroyer, HMS Impulsive (D11). He safely completed a further four Arctic Convoys in 1943 (JW53, RA53, JW54A and RA54B). JW53 is notorious for sailing through probably the worst weather of any convoy. Ferocious gales and mountainous seas took their toll on the convoy. Six merchantmen were damaged and were forced to return to Iceland. Even the light cruiser, HMS Sheffield was forced to return to port as some of her armour plating was ripped off by the wind and seas.

In January 1944, Adam transferred to brand new U-Class destroyer HMS Ursa (R22). Two months later, he found himself once again in the Arctic Ocean as HMS Ursa acted as escort to convoys JW58 and RA58. On 6th June 1944,

demanding and dangerous job, often performed in hot, cramped, and dirty conditions.

The stokehold was a dangerous environment with intense heat, the risk of burns, and potential for explosions from boiler malfunctions. The confined spaces and the presence of coal dust also presented health hazards.

Ironically, the “Shepherd of the Borders” would have been more equipped than most ratings to bear the freezing conditions in the Arctic Ocean, yet he would have spent most of his time below decks.

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not a big man physically, but in character, and in industry, he was huge. He, and many other brave men like him, should never be forgotten.

HMS Ursa was to be found on duty off Gold Beach, protecting allied forces invading Normandy.

Adam spent the next 12 months or so in the Indian Ocean and South Seas engaging Japanese forces.

He subsequently went on to serve aboard HMS Comus, HMS Mull of Galloway, and HMS Jupiter.

During his service Adam progressed through the ranks to Petty Officer Stoker Mechanic (POSM). He ended his naval career with HMS Rattlesnake and was discharged in December 1953 after 12.5 years dedicated service.

Sadly, Adam died less than two years after his discharge from the Royal Navy, aged 40. After he left the service he had planned to take his family to New Zealand to continue his sheep farming but medical tests revealed that he had contracted bladder cancer.. Studies have shown that seafarers, including those

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The Arctic Convoy Museum has been working with remote volunteers to uncover stories in their archive. This piece about Adam Lithgow was written by one of the Arctic Convoy Museum Volunteers and submitted by Dr Karen Buchanan, Curator.

who worked as stokers, had a higher incidence of bladder cancer compared to the general population. This is likely due to exposure to various hazardous substances present in the maritime environment.

Adam is buried in Kirknewton.

His widow Ada and young son Colin (aged 9) suffered much financial hardship after Adam’s premature death. They remained in Kirknewton until Colin married. Ada passed away in 2014 at the ripe old age of 101.

The “Shepherd of The Borders” served his country well.

Adam completed eight Arctic Convoys in his 12.5 years of service, as well as supporting the D-Day Landings and fighting Japanese forces in the Indian Ocean. At 5 foot 4 and a half inches, Adam William Pollock Lithgow was

The Museum and Exhibition Centre near Loch Ewe is a lasting legacy to those who braved Arctic waters under constant threat of attack from enemy aircraft and u-boats. arcticconvoymuseum.org Arctic Convoy Museum, Aultbea, IV22 2HZ

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A new survey has revealed a high level of public unawareness of impending pension changes and the need to plan.

While there is plenty of media attention on what surprises might emerge in the November Budget, new research has suggested that many people are unaware of pensions reforms and changes to tax already announced.

A recent survey of 1,500 people aged 45 and over revealed: • Over 50% of respondents were “not at all aware” of upcoming policy changes that could affect their pensions, such as increases in State pension age and increased minimum age to access private pensions from April 2028.

• 29% of people intended to pass their pension to family, but only 15% said that they understood the tax rules regarding this.

A more honest 23% admitted that they did not understand the rules “at all”.

The same survey found that over four in ten did not have an up-to-date plan or savings set aside for retirement. Just over a quarter had no plan at all, and a similar number anticipated they would only have a minimum standard of living once they retire.

If these findings resonate with you or family members it is time to act. Most people I speak to wish they had started sooner. So: • Gather the details of your pensions, including those that you no longer contribute to and those from former employers.

• Get a State pension projection by going to www.gov.uk/check-state-pension.

This will give you a starting point for your pension income. If it all seems confusing or too much data, then it is time to do what 60% of the survey respondents had never done – take targeted financial advice.

The Money Matters column was contributed

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

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SUZANN E GREEN

S I

ometimes I wish I could tone sn’tdown it interesting we wish one it my innerthat editor.

I imagine another “happy new year” woulda be so freeing to golong about after Auld Lang Syne – for mysinging everyday life interacting with weeks afterto boxing up the Christmas others, listening the radio, reading decorations and returning them to the loft. signs, etc without constantly analysing the way things are said.

Regardless of what’s going on in our world But, alas, it seems I can’t help hearing the and various concerns about issues in our unnecessary repetition.

I’m2025 startled when own country, we hope that will be a a wordyear. seems to appear in someone’s good It would be wonderful to see comment for no good reason. am peace achieved in at least one And areaI where embarrassed people when use war is currentlyforraging.

And, onthey a personal the wrong word.

Yesterday I heard a man level, we also hope to see growth and who was being interviewed use the word progress in our own life and in the lives “exasperated” when was occasions obvious heto of those we know anditlove, meant to say “exacerbated”! celebrate, good health and maybe even I’d likefun weather presenters to stop saying, some surprises in the next 12 months. “a touch of frost” and “bits and pieces of I’m focusing “new” in to “Happy New rain”, and to on findthe new ways communicate Year”.

I’ve not exactly made any new year’s these conditions. Also, why do they say resolutions. tradition be “fresh” whenThis they actuallyseems meantoCOLD?! becoming less popular - social media posts Iregularly don’t understand people insist on tell us thatwhy we don’t need to strive saying “chocolate” brownie? We know to improve, we are “enough” as we are, we from context that it’s a type of cake, not shouldn’t load ourselves up with goals and a little girl in uniform. And, just by looking then feel guilty when we can’t achieve them. at a brownie, we know that chocolate Although I agree that ait’ssimilar good to was involved!

I have

20

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be realistic, I love the promisealthough that a new issue with “tomato” ketchup, year holds, the “clean slate” potential! it’s possible that there are other kinds of ketchup.

I’ve never metmay them.)

If you live (If in so, Balerno, you too have been delighted to see falling is early morning Unfortunately, if asnow comment directed on New Day. I stooddoesn’t at our glass my way,Year’s and the wording seem patio door watched as sleet turned quite right,and I can’t just ignore it. Oh, no! to I big white snowflakes covered have to think about it.that Thequickly following is a our garden and bedecked thefor trees. was regularly occurring scenario me. ItI’m in a wonderful illustration freshmilk and a petrol station shop of to the pick“it’s upall some new”bread. theme.At the counter the staff member and asks if fuel class in my was car, aand SigningI’ve up put for aany Pilates newI say “no”.

The response is, “That’s no problem”. thing for me at the beginning of 2024. And it Now doesn’t that seem an odd thing has been a positive change.

I may nottobe as say?

I stand there pondering: Well, it proficient as many in the class, I struggle to wouldn’t anystretches problem because for you, would it? do some be of the of a knee Surely, if not buying fuel that day was going issue, and I sometimes have a hard time to be a problem for anyone it would be me? resisting dancing to the background music If my car was on empty and I didn’t get when I should be listening to the instructor. any fuel, I would be stuck. But how would it But I know the exercise is doing me good. inconvenience you?

I’m not sure what new thing(s) I will do/ Don’t worry.

I usually keep encounter this year, but I willsuch keepmusings my eyesto myself.

But sometimes the way something and ears open for them. is worded brings out my playful side. I was When my eldest daughter wasmoney in primary at the bank depositing some when I school, she decided try something new. I noticed a sign on thetowall that said: “Scam/ heard about it fromWednesday another mum, who had Fraud Workshop.

3.30-4.30 beenAll at welcome.” the school So, to watch herbest daughter pm. with my straight do Highland in an assembly. face, I said todancing the young man serving “Ime, didn’t sounds know your girl did it So too,” she said.

“That interesting.

I could come So I explained she although she along and learnthat how to didn’t, scam people?”

It a balleta class.

“That’s strange,” said was in actually valid question.

Normally a my friend. presents “At the assembly the children who workshop the opportunity to learn took Highland dance lessons were about a subject and practise a newinvited skill. to goman’s to thecolleague, centre of the floor and perform.

The working at the next I thought began your daughter did rather station, to laugh, while thewell.” guy I’d addressed attempted explain thatdone it Later I asked my child to why she had was at helping people learn how to this. aimed “Oh,” she said. “I thought the teacher avoid scams!

Then, noticing the like twinkle in said, “Will all children who would to do my eye, but not allowing much of a Highland dancing please himself come forward smile, heIsaid, “Whatever floats your boat”. now? So went.”

Poor guy.

I think he’d he’d better Do something new thisdecided new year. not encourage me. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green.

Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect.

Balerno and writes regularly for Konect.

She is married to Andy and they have two She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters. daughters. adult

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FOOD & DRINK

Pear and Ginger Bircher Muesli

Get your day off to a flying start with this flavoursome breakfast bursting with fruit, nuts, oats and seeds.

Serves 4 | Prep time 30mins, plus at least 4hrs’ refrigeration | Cooking time 2hrs 15 minutes Ingredients:

• 2 ripe pears, diced • 30g caster sugar • 100g rolled oats • 350ml almond milk (or milk of choice) • 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds • 1 tbsp Opies Stem Ginger syrup • 1 Opies Stem Ginger • 2 tbsp chia seeds • A pinch of ground cinnamon

To serve:

• 30g pecan halves • Coconut flakes

Method:

1. Poach the pears by placing them in a pan with the sugar. Cover with water and cook on a low heat until the sugar has dissolved and the pears are tender. Drain and place in a bowl or jar in the fridge.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, pumpkin seeds and syrup, and grate over the ginger. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.

3. Add the chia seeds and a pinch of ground cinnamon to the mixture. Mix everything together until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to allow the flavours to meld and the oats to soften.

4. Before serving, give the muesli a good stir and check the consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired thickness.

5. Serve the muesli in bowls topped with poached pears, pecans and a scattering of coconut flakes.

For more recipe inspiration using the Opies range of products, visit www.bennettopie.com 26 | BALERNO

WINE TASTING

There are moments in wine tasting that feel almost magical. When I nose a wine, it often unlocks a hidden door to memory. I’m reminded of Marcel Proust and his famous madeleine — that small, unassuming cake which, dipped in tea, transported him instantly back to his childhood. For me, it’s not a madeleine, but the opening of a bottle of wine and the aroma in the glass.

Our sense of smell is extraordinary. It can summon a long-forgotten moment in an instant. The perfumed scent of Viognier can take me to a summer garden, where the air hums with bees and the fragrance of honeysuckle drifts on the breeze. A glass of Chianti, with its black cherry and trace of wood smoke, recalls autumn walks through leafstrewn woodland, the smell of blackberry fruit and the comforting scent of burnt logs.

These moments are deeply personal, yet wonderfully universal. When I’m presenting a wine tasting, I often explore the memory or image a wine evokes. My first question is ‘what season does it remind you of?’ This helps tasters identify a sensory theme that can lead to shared descriptors which help connect with the aroma of wine. We all know what burnt rubber, old leather, or wild herbs smell like, the art lies in finding the image that resonates. Each scent becomes a thread woven into the tapestry of flavour.

Wine tasting, in essence, is an act of remembrance. It is a celebration of joy found in a shared, sensory moment.

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 BALERNO | 27

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NOVEMBER SUDOKU (HARD)

Crossword and Sudoku (EASY) can be found on p14. See p45 for solutions.

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WEDNESDAY 5TH NOVEMBER Fireworks Night - In King George V Park, Currie, organised by Currie Balerno District Round Table. Currie Community Centre Café will be open to serve hot drinks. The Centre has an excellent view of the fireworks for watching from indoors. Please check CBDRT facebook page nearer the time for event details.

THU 6TH NOV TO WED 3RD DEC Pentlands Book Festival - Full programme at pentlandsbookfestival.org SATURDAY 8TH NOVEMBER Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm.

MONDAYS 10TH AND 24TH NOVEMBER Mindful Walk in nature - New “Loving the Elements” guided walk. Meet at the Hub@531, 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green for a short, easy guided walk led by our regular Monday mindful guide, Raymond Collins. 11.00am – 11.45am.

WEDNESDAY 19TH NOVEMBER Festive Crafts - At the Hub@531. Join us for a fun sociable, adult only evening, making Christmas crafts. Nibbles and refreshments will be provided along with all your craft materials.

The Hub@531, 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green. 7.30pm – 9.30pm SATURDAY 29TH NOVEMBER Charity Crafters Pop up sale - Come and have a look at a variety of gifts, soft toys and novelty items that may fit some of your Christmas shopping needs. Proceeds of our sales go to good causes. 10.30am - 2.00pm in Currie Library.

SUNDAY 30TH NOVEMBER Winter Fayre: Currie Community Centre - 280 Lanark Road West: 10.00am-4.00pm. Fun for all the family: 30+ stalls from local crafters, artists, and businesses; performances from

Forth Valley Chorus, Ahalya Dance Academy, Razzamataz and Balerno Dance Academy; children’s activities, café serving hot drinks; meet Santa Claus and much more...

SATURDAY 29TH NOVEMBER Dean Park PTA Autumn Fayre - Cafe, toy sale, crafts, tuck shop, tombola, games and much more! Balerno High School, 12.30pm - 3.00pm MONDAY 8TH DECEMBER Colinton & Merchiston Community Choir Christmas Concert - We have a delightful programme of Christmas Music including Vaughan Williams “Fantasia on Christmas Carols”, Cornelius “Three Kings from Persian Lands Afar”, Telemann “Der Jüngste Tag wird bald sein Ziel” and a lovely selection of carols. Memorial Hall at Merchiston Castle School, doors open 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Tickets £10 or £5 for under 18s available from choir members or at the main door of the Memorial Hall. Cash only. For more information about our choir, please see colintonchoir.org or our Facebook page. We are grateful to Merchiston Castle School for the use of the Memorial Hall.

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 5TH NOV - “Poppy Scotland” an illustrated talk by Karen Campbell.

• WED 19TH NOV - “Eye Care” an illustrated talk by Jonathan Jennett.

• WED 3RD DEC - “Railway Modelling” an exhibition and illustrated talk by David Laing.

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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Loving the Elements Join us for a mindful walk in nature Mondays 11-11.45am meeting at the Hub@531

Our local columnists are all experts in their fields and provide much-valued expertise and ideas every month.

We have scope in Konect for columns on health and beauty, property, and food. We are also open to suggestions for topics that would be of value to the community.

on Mondays 27th Oct, 10th & 24th Nov, and 8th & 22nd December

531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green EH14 5DE Pentlands Community Space SCO049766

Sharing your expertise via a column is a great way of raising your profile as a business. If you are interested in taking out an advertising package with Konect, and would like to raise your profile via a column, please contact me for information on space available: Helen-Jane, Konect editor,

editor@konect.scot

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

DALMENY ART AND CRAFT GROUP - We meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month in Dalmeny Church Hall at 2.00pm.

Various crafts practised including quilting and bobbin lacemaking and 2 artists. All welcome.

LOTHIAN OVAL RACING CLUB Community Stockcar Radio Control Car Club. Monday nights. 6.00pm10.00pm. £6 per meeting. Douglas Hall, Dalmahoy, EH27 8EB. E: info@theracehall.co.uk or T: 07972 702642 BALERNO PARISH CHURCH GUILD - We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from October to March. There are interesting talks, activities and fellowship. 7.30pm, The Ogston Hall, Balerno Parish Church.

ORIAM WALKING FOOTBALL CLUB - We run a local Walking Football Club, established in 2015, for women aged 40+ and men aged 50+. Our sessions, which are very much mixed ability, take place at Oriam Sports Centre, Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS, on a Mon and Fri 12.30-1.30pm, and Wed at 12.00-1.00pm and 8.30-9.30pm We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.62 but we do have monthly membership schemes available.

Please contact Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@ btinternet.com RATHO LUNCH CLUB - Lunch club for older residents living in Ratho & Ratho Station. Pop in for great company, great food, great value. Run by Queensferry Care, Ratho Lunch Club is held the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month 12-2.00pm at Ratho Community Centre. The Ratho Ravers meet 10.00am-12noon and many enjoy light exercise and company before lunch is served.

PALM DEMENTIA CAFE - The PALM cafe is held on the last Tuesday of the month from 3.004.15pm in the St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno. The cafe serves the 44 | BALERNO

communities of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, providing a space for people with dementia and their carers to meet others for support and social contact. Activities include music, movement, reminiscence and craft. A small voluntary donation is requested to cover the cost of refreshments. For more information please contact Clare Dow on claremdow@gmail.com FLAGGY FRIDAYS - Does your child have an interest in flags of the world? Come and join us for Flaggy Fridays! Each week we will focus on a different flag of the world. In just 30 minutes we’ll learn a brief summary of the flag’s history, why a flag has its colours, layout, its old flag(s) then end with a fun quiz! First class FREE trial. Online Zoom club. Email flaggyfridays@gmail.com to join THE HUB@531 - Community space in the heart of Juniper Green village, offering regular groups and events and hireable meeting / small event space. Social activities and clubs for all ages, including Come for a Cuppa, Book Bug, Knitting, Yoga and much more. 531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE. See hub531.appointedd.com for information and to book activities.

Facebook: “The Hub at 531” BALERNO SWI - We meet on the first Tuesday each month from September to May in Balerno Community Centre at 7:30pm, when we have speakers or demonstrations followed by a cuppa and time to chat. Anyone interested can see more about us on our Facebook page, “Balerno SWI” PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB Come and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret’s Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 6.45pm.

Table money £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see W: bridgewebs.com/pentland E: mthkjb@gmail.com ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - The Club was formed about 1946 and meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. It is non-competitive.

For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145.

THE MEETING PLACE - A community cafe for those 65 and over and all unpaid carers.

Every Monday 10.00am - 4.00pm.

Lunch £5 if you wish and ALL refreshments free. Free exercise classes, bingo, dominoes, crafting and much more. 99 Forthview Crescent, 42nd Pentland Scout Hall. For info contact: themeetingplacejcb@gmail.com BALERNO RAMBLERS WEEKEND GROUP - A busy walking group with a programme of interesting walks in a variety of locations. Some walks may be more challenging than the midweek programme.

W: www.ramblers.org.uk/balerno or, www.facebook.com/BalernoRamblers E: enquiries@balernoramblers.org.uk BALERNO RAMBLERS MIDWEEK GROUP - Meet for walks in Lothians, Fife, Borders and further afield. For walk details contact 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 £15 which includes a snack. No parent duties required. For more information please email: junipergreenplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk or call: 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 @KonectMagazines

aged 8 to 14. Come and sing a wide array of choral music in a fun and supportive environment. More information: W: www.pentlandjuniors.org E: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE - Anchor Boys (P2-3) and Junior Section (P4-6) Thurs 6.00-7.30pm. Company Section (P7-S6) Sun 6.30- 8.30pm Gibson Craig Hall, Currie.

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_ 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.

SOLUTION TO OCTOBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Heroic, 8. Detain, 9. Over, 10. Noisiest, 11. Streams, 13. Views, 15. Ideal, 17. Giggled, 20. Bewilder, 21. Eats, 22. Breeze, 23. Tavern.

DOWN: 1. Velvet, 2. Poor, 3. Economy, 4. Admit, 5. Striking, 6. Jigsaw, 12. Examined, 14. Vibrate, 16. Dreary, 18. Enters, 19. Edged, 21. Envy.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P14/31

(EASY)

(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