Konect Balerno October 2025

OCTOBER 2025

LOCAL WALK:

MONEY MATTERS:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

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

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i

t sometimes seems as though instead of slowing down for autumn, the local area comes alive with events and activities!

Check the What’s On and community pages towards the back of the magazine.

Once again Konect is bursting with options for community support and connection and there is something for everyone.

A new Money Matters column debuts this month from a local independent financial advisor, see page 17. We also have a lovely autumnal walk feature in the Pentlands to enjoy, thanks to our regular contributor William Weir and his always-enticing walk descriptions.

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

P32 Local Walk: Corston Hill.................................. 8 Health: Running injury reduction (Part 2)..............................................................12 Recipe: Spiced Beef Bourguignon............14 NEW! Money Matters: A voluntary tax?....17 Puzzles.....................................................30 / 34 Local Environment: Red Squirrel Spotting............................................................32 realLife..............................................................38 Wine Tasting: “Waiter, waiter...”..................39 What’s On........................................................40 Clubs & Classes.......................................44-45

COVER IMAGE: Happy Halloween: Trick or treat?

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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Re-upholstery Specialists Repolishing and Furniture Repairs Free home measuring service

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BALERNO | 7

Mist spills over the Pentland tops to the east like steam from a cauldron, with the golden sun rising behind, as I depart the small car park at Little Vantage. However, instead of heading towards those hills - tempting as they are - this morning, I cross the main road, hop over a stile and set off in the opposite direction.

Yellow-topped Friends of the Pentlands marker posts guide me across the hillside, picking out a narrow path through clumps of compact rushes and occasional heather in bloom. I pass above the fringes of the adjacent fields, bordered by mature, windswept beeches whose crinkle-cut leaves rustle in the cool south-westerly breeze.

clear of the worst of the long wet grasses and swiping rushes. It’s no easy stroll as I pick my way uphill over this uneven terrain, but it proves more than worth the effort, for I am climbing one of the highest points in the landscape for miles around and soon I am surrounded by a breathtaking three-sixtydegree vista.

Eventually, I reach a small metal gate. Here, I turn left and begin to ascend what is the eastern flank of Corston Hill. There is no path here and I hug the fence line, taking advantage of its slightly higher ground to stay

When the trig point comes into view, I bear left towards it and pause there to enjoy the view. It’s hard to know what to focus on, with wonderful scenes all around me from the dark Pentlands in the south to the Forth bridges in the north, the green fields and forests of Lanarkshire to the west to Edinburgh’s city skyline to the east. I can see not only the silhouette of Arthur’s Seat, but also Berwick Law and the Bass Rock, perched crystal clear on the horizon. Line of sight is not the only connection here - Corston Hill’s bedrock is overlain by lavas thought to have erupted around the same time as those other volcanic features, nearly three hundred and fifty million years ago.

Soon, however, my attention is captured by something closer. A raven drifts by effortlessly, caw-ing periodically. It turns and glides back, continuing its patrol.

I immediately understand why this intelligent bird would favour this location

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From the trig point I pick up a sheep path which leads me through a gap in the fence and onwards to a rise with a small cairn on top. From there, I begin to descend the hill’s western flank, accompanied by the chatter of larks which rise into the air as I pass. The Morton reservoirs come into view.

A train rumbles across the viaduct over the Linnhouse Water in the distance. I come upon a small, abandoned quarry where, in times past, some of the hard igneous rocks that cap this hill were extracted. A little farther on by some ruined farm buildings, I join a singletrack road, turning right towards Selm Muir Wood. The piercing cry of a buzzard echoes over the wood, beckoning me onward. I enter the wood at the sign for Selm Muir Carp Fishery and, on broad forestry track now, quicken my pace, savouring the piny air.

Towards the far end of the wood, part way along the section of track that runs past a clipped beech hedge, there’s another Friends of the Pentlands marker by a stile. This directs me across the adjacent field towards a nearby farmstead, where I am subject to the slightly suspicious gaze of the local

livestock, including an alarmingly large bull in repose. His flanks twitch as our eyes lock and I’m thankful there is a fence between us.

The route takes me up past Hilly Cow wigwams, GET THE ROUTE eventually to rejoin ON OS MAPS! my inward route where I left it to climb the hill. I feel lucky to have discovered this route, and to have had such a pristine morning on which to enjoy it. But there is one more gift nature has in store for me. Just before reaching the small gate where I began my hill climb, I come across a depression in the landscape, ringed with gorse. Arrayed across the bushes are innumerable spiders’ webs; each delicate silken strand rendered a glistening silver by miniscule water droplets from the morning mist. It’s an enchanting sight, almost as if nature has set out her very own display in readiness for Hallowe’en…. which, as the edge to the air reminds me, is just around the corner….

Allow 2.5 – 3 hours for this walk. Sturdy footwear is required. Please take care near and be respectful of livestock, obeying all signage.

This article was contributed by William Weir. William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.

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CREDIT: All image by William Weir

– with such commanding views nothing would escape its keen eye from here.

Then, it is joined by another. Back and forth, together they fly – gliding, banking, turning in elegant synchrony, the misty hills their backdrop. For a few minutes I watch their sky dance, enraptured, until eventually, they drift off to the south-east, becoming mere dark specks over Auchinoon Hill.

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HEALTH

As we approach the winter, this is a good time to reset for running and introduce some prehabilitation strategies introduced in the previous issue such as strength and balance training, and load monitoring.

This article introduces how gait re-training and recovery strategies can be helpful for reducing injury and improving performance, and discusses the importance of intervening early when injury is detected.

How can injury be recognised?

Recognising injury from the usual niggles that occur with running training or post exercise muscle soreness can be difficult, but detecting the signs and symptoms of injury early is key to preventing escalation of injury. A recent study asking runners how they classified a running-related injury found runners thought an injury was when they were no longer able to run due to the symptoms. However, it is important to recognise injury earlier before it gets to this stage. Therefore, when a niggle during or after running becomes persistently worse, intervene by temporarily reducing running volume by reducing frequency, intensity, or distance. Being flexible to adapt planned runs in response to injury, or even illness, will help with continuity of running. If symptoms increase in severity despite these interventions your injury may need to be assessed by a Chartered Physiotherapist.

What is gait re-training and how can this reduce injury? One of the easiest and most effective gait re-training strategies to adopt is running cadence which refers to frequency of running steps. The average cadence is usually 160 – 185 steps/minute. During a run calculate cadence by counting how many steps are taken on average over one minute.

Alternatively, smart watches have a feature which calculates average cadence during each run. If cadence is lower than 160 steps/ 12 | BALERNO

minute, there is higher contact time with the ground and possible overstriding which can predispose to some injuries particularly knee pain. Try increasing your cadence slightly by less than 5% by taking shorter faster strides.

How important is recovery after a run? This is one of the most useful injury risk reduction practices and easiest to adopt. You don’t need to be jumping into an ice bath after every run! As you finish your run simply reduce your pace to reduce your heart rate slowly, add a few prehabilitative exercises rather than static stretches and rehydrate with a drink containing carbohydrate, electrolytes and protein. Milk is a cheap effective alternative to commercial drinks. But above all, the most important recovery strategy is ensuring 8 hours sleep every night.

What is an injury risk profile? Risk of injury is a complex association between risk factors for running-related injuries that is specific to each individual runner, type of running, and environment. Identifying these factors can help you tailor a prehabilitative approach to help reduce injury risk.

Want to learn more? Linda Linton, a Chartered Physiotherapist researching injury prevention in runners, will be running a 3-hour workshop on 1st November. Learn the latest evidence and guidance on injury prevention and how to adopt this into your usual running training. Find details at physiogrange.co.uk This article was contributed by Linda Linton, Chartered Physiotherapist at McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh

TONY HARPER’S

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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

Welcome to our dedicated room for cutting littles ones’ hair

A child-friendly area away from the main salon, equipped with TV, drawing and books.

Kids and parents can relax whilst visiting us.

Oh and have a free coffee!

0131 449 2991 Hair Tech 17 Bryce Road, Currie, EH14 5LT BALERNO | 13

FOOD & DRINK

A traditional French dish of slow-cooked beef in a red wine sauce, this stew is the ultimate comfort food– and well worth the wait!

Serves 4-6 | Prep 25-30 minutes Cooking time 2hrs 15 minutes Ingredients:

• 1kg diced braising steak (or chuck steak) • Sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper • 2 tbsp plain flour, seasoned • 4 tbsp Borderfields Gold Infusions Aromatic Thyme Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil • 200g smoked streaky bacon lardons • 6 small shallots, peeled and diced • 2 leeks, trimmed, washed and diced • 6 cloves garlic, crushed • Half a bulb of garlic, cut in half horizontally • Half a 750ml bottle of Merlot red wine • 2tbsp tomato purée • 750ml rich beef stock • 1 sprig of fresh rosemary and thyme, leaves finely chopped • 2 bay leaves • 2 star anise • 200g wild and chestnut mushrooms, roughly chopped

To serve:

• Chopped fresh parsley • Creamy mashed potato

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C, fan 150°C, gas mark 3.

2. Season the beef well with salt and pepper and toss in the seasoned flour.

3. Heat half the oil in a frying pan and fry the beef in batches over a medium-high heat until browned on all sides, turning now and then. Once browned, using a slotted spoon, transfer to a large flameproof casserole.

4. Add a little more oil to the pan and fry the bacon lardons for 2-3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to the casserole.

5. Add a splash more oil to the pan and cook the shallots and leeks over a low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring until softened. Add the garlic and half garlic bulb (face-side down) and cook for a further minute.

6. Transfer to the casserole, pour over the wine and stir in the tomato purée, stock, herbs and star anise. Bring to a simmer, stir well, cover with a lid and cook in the oven for 1½-1¾ hours.

7. Add the remaining oil and mushrooms to the frying pan and cook for 2-3 minutes over a high heat until golden brown, turning often 8. Remove the casserole from the oven, stir in the mushrooms, return to the oven and cook for 25-30 minutes more until the sauce has thickened and the beef is completely tender.

(If the sauce is too thin, add a little cornflour paste and simmer for another couple of minutes.)

9. Scatter over some chopped parsley and serve immediately with some creamy mash.

For more recipe inspiration using the Borderfields range of Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oils, visit www.borderfields.co.uk. Recipe created by Rachel Green (Rachel-green.co.uk) with photography by Michael Powell (www.michaelpowell.com).

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Grieving the loss of a parent can be a lonely time. Heriot’s foundation enables bereaved children to receive a nurturing education with specialist support at Scotland’s leading independent school.

If you know of a child who has lost a parent and would benefit from a supported foundation place or to donate to the life changing work of the Heriot’s foundation, please contact the Admissions team for information at admissions@george-heriots.com

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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

editor@konect.scot and we may be able to share it.

Got a story?

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL!

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(You need to live and/or work in the Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton, or Ratho area to be featured in Konect)

“A VOLUNTARY TAX”?

“Nothing in life can be said to be certain, except death and taxes” wrote Benjamin Franklin. Roy Jenkins described Inheritance Tax as “a voluntary tax paid by those who distrust their heirs more than they dislike HMRC”.

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is a tax on the estate of someone who has died. It includes all property, possessions and money. The standard Inheritance Tax rate is 40%. It’s only charged on the part of your estate that’s above the tax-free threshold, currently £325,000.

Normally no IHT is due if your estate is passed to your spouse or an exempt beneficiary (for example a charity). If your main residence is passed to your children, currently the Nil Rate Band increases to £500,000.

In October’s budget there was announced a change to IHT. Effective April 2026 business

and agricultural relief will reduce. Effective from April 2027 some pension funds will now be included in IHT calculations. As pension funds can often be one of the largest assets this may push many into IHT that were not previously affected.

For those who trust their heirs many aim to reduce the cost to their family. In my experience there are four ways to approach managing an IHT liability: gift assets to beneficiaries or trusts; protect against the liability; maximise the use of allowances; or do nothing, with the beneficiary paying the bill; each approach comes with benefits and drawbacks. Seeking advice and planning your financial position can be a way to reduce the impact of IHT on future generations.

The Money Matters column was contributed

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

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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

OCTOBER CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the NOVEMBER edition

ACROSS: 7. Brave (6), 8. Keep back (6), 9. On top of (4), 10. Loudest (8), 11. Small rivers (7), 13. Looks at (5), 15. Perfect (5), 17. Laughed (7), 20. Confuse (8), 21. Consumes (4), 22. Light wind (6), 23. Inn (6).

DOWN: 1. Type of cloth (6), 2. Not wealthy (4), 3. Financial resources (7), 4. Own up to (5), 5. Hitting (8), 6. Puzzle (6), 12. Inspected (8), 14. Shake (7), 16. Gloomy (6), 18. Goes into (6), 19. Trimmed (5), 21. Jealousy (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 45

OCTOBERSUDOKU SUDOKU(EASY*) OCTOBER

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

6th to 12th October is Red Squirrel Appreciation Week, and Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels (SSRS) is calling on people all over Scotland to get outside, explore, look out for tufted ears and bushy tails, and record all sightings of grey and red squirrels.

SSRS monitors squirrel populations all year round, but autumn is a particularly rewarding time; squirrels are more visible at this time of the year as they busily forage and cache the autumn harvest in preparation for winter. All sightings are valuable, no matter where in the country, from back gardens or the wider countryside.

Each sighting creates a snapshot, helping SSRS understand how populations are changing and where to focus critical conservation efforts.

Red squirrels are one of Scotland’s most loved animals, and our only native squirrel species, but populations have seriously declined. Only an estimated 220,000 remaining in Scotland today. In some places they have not been seen for many years.

The greatest threat to red squirrels is the invasive non-native grey squirrel. Larger and more robust, they out-compete red squirrels 32 | BALERNO

for food and living space, making it difficult for red squirrels to survive. The grey squirrel is a North American species introduced to Britain in Victorian times to decorate the gardens of stately homes. They soon expanded their range, completely replacing red squirrels in most of England and Wales, and many parts of Scotland. The competition between red and grey squirrels is a man-made problem that we have a responsibility to manage.

To find out more and record your squirrel sightings this month, visit scottishsquirrels.org.uk All information in this article is from the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrel’s website (above).

SSRS is a partnership project working to ensure red squirrels continue to be part of Scotland’s special native wildlife. The photography is by Clare Harte Photography, Konect’s Local Environment columnist.

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be realistic, I love the promise that a new year holds, the “clean slate” potential!

SUZANN E GREEN

L I

ately I’ve been reading at every sn’t opportunity. it interestingUntil that we wish one fairly recently another “happy new year” long I wasa reading for two monthly afterbook singing Auld And Langthen Syne – for in groups.

I work weeks after boxing up the Christmas the library. decorations and returning them to the loft.

Do you know how difficult it is to resist a book Regardless of what’s going on counter in our world that’s just been plonked on the in front of you as the borrower and various concerns aboutenthuses, issues in “that our was great read; I couldn’t put it will down!’’ own acountry, we hope that 2025 be aIt’s very I’ve the synopsis goodhard. year.If,It after would beread wonderful to seeand the back cover reviews, the one bookarea appeals peace achieved in at least where to me, it takes just a moment it in, war is currently raging.

And, to oncheck a personal issue to also myself, and in my rucsac. level, itwe hope topop see itgrowth and progress life and in the livesfor In additionintoour theown (mostly) fiction I read a or my own pleasure, I usually ofbook thosegroup we know and love, occasions to have one orgood two non-fiction the celebrate, health andbooks maybeoneven go.

These might focus on anext current issue, or some fun surprises in the 12 months. someone I admire. They might describe how focusing “new” New II’m can improveon in the some way,inor“Happy how I can help Year”.

I’ve not exactly made any new year’s someone else. And then there’s the Bible, resolutions.

Thisand tradition seems to be the newspaper, maybe a Shakespeare becoming less popular social media posts play - the last time I read one it was because regularly tell The us that we don’t need toand strive I’d just seen Merchant of Venice to improve, we are “enough” as performance we are, we wanted to check how faithful the shouldn’t ourselves was to theload original play. up with goals and then feel guilty when we can’t achieve them.

I regularly chat with people who read far Although that good to more thanI Iagree do. For theit’s most part

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BALERNO | FEBRUARY, 2025 BALERNO | OCTOBER, 2025 38 | BALERNO

If you live in Balerno, you too may have been delighted to see snow falling early morning on New I stood at Iour glass to they are Year’s retired.Day. Nevertheless, struggle patio door and watched as sleet turneda to comprehend how someone can tackle pile bigsix white snowflakes thatread quickly of or eight books and all ofcovered them over our garden andthree bedecked a period of just weeks!the trees. It was a wonderful illustration the “it’s all fresh When I was in primaryofschool a trip to theand new” theme. library ended with me staggering out to the car with up as many books class as they’d me Signing for a Pilates waslet a new borrow. thisbeginning early experience thing forI’m mesure at the of 2024.had And it a lot been to do awith me pursuing asbe a as has positive change.a Icareer may not writer. proficient as many in the class, I struggle to Years later, I was raising children do some of when the stretches because of a and knee working from home, books often remained issue, and I sometimes have a hard time on the shelf.

I told myself I didn’t have music resisting dancing to the background time And, truthfully,to I don’t know whentoI read. should be listening the instructor. where I would fit it in.

Every me minute of But I know thehave exercise is doing good. every seemed to be filled with I’m notday sure what new thing(s) I willwriting, do/ editing, Zoom encounter thiscalls, year,cooking, but I will laundry, keep myand eyes chauffeuring kids!

But I regret that I missed and ears open for them. out on this great passion for such a long When my eldest daughter was in primary period of time. school, she decided to try something new. I If you’re a reader, you will know how a book heard about it from another mum, who had can inspire or comfort you, how a beautiful been at school to watch daughter piece of the fiction is truly a workher of art.

Books do Highland dancingYes, in an assembly. take us somewhere. they offer an “I didn’t know girl did it too,” escape, but your a very healthy one! she said.

So I explained that she didn’t, although she The word informs us, entertains was written in a ballet class.

“That’s strange,” us, said improves our vocabulary and challenges our my friend. “At the assembly the children who thinking. In our screen-based culture, it is a took Highland dance lessons were invited delight to meet a young person who is in love to go to the centre of the floor and perform. I with reading - or a well-read adult who can thought your daughter well.” converse about a wealthdid of rather subjects.

Later I asked my child why she had done on I enjoy hardbacks, paperbacks and books this. “Oh,” said.

“I thought Kindle.

Oneshe day, when my eyesthe areteacher too tired said, “Will all listen children who would like to do to read, I will to audiobooks.

Highland dancing please come forward As our world continues to change, let us now?on SotoI the went.” hold habit of reading. Let us hold on challenging ourselves, Do to something new this new and year.thinking for ourselves. Let us be readers. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green. real LIFE isa contributed

by Suzannelives Green.

Suzanne, freelance writer/editor, 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

WINE TASTING

If wine is fermented grape juice, then why are some wines ‘vegan-friendly’ while others aren’t? The answer lies in the cellar!

Wine is fermented grape juice and following fermentation it’s often cloudy. It’s full of yeast, proteins and grape particles which are not visually appealing. To make it beautifully clear, winemakers use a process called fining, which cleans up the wine before bottling.

For centuries, winemakers have relied on animal-based fining agents to clean their wines. Isinglass (made from fish bladders!) and egg white were the go-to tools for polishing up a cloudy wine. Go back far enough in history and you’ll even find tales of bulls’ blood being used to in the winery!

These animal-based products aren’t present in the finished wine, but as they

were used in the process, the wines are not technically suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Fortunately, today there are plenty of alternatives. Bentonite clay, pea protein, or letting wine naturally settle can do the job just as well.

Next time you see a “vegan” label on a wine, you’ll know it’s not about the grapes at all. It’s about the winemaker’s choice of fining agent.

Whether you’re plant-based or just curious, there’s a whole world of vegan-friendly wines ready to pour and explore!

Have a look at BUONVINO online.

They have a vegan mixed case which contains a selection of vegan wines designed to complement a vegan menu.

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

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SATURDAY 11TH OCTOBER Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm SATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER Charity Crafters Pop up sale - Come and do a bit of early Christmas shopping or buy gifts for any occasion. Proceeds of sale go to good causes. 10.00am and 2.00pm in 31st Pentland (Juniper Green) Scout Hall (next to Sainsbury’s Garage) FRI 24TH TO SUN 26TH OCTOBER Haunted House of the Binns Tours Are you brave enough to venture into one of West Lothian’s most haunted historic houses for an evening of frights & ghostly stories? More info: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ haunted-house-of-the-binns-tours-tickets1597287442739?aff=Konect SAT 25TH & SUN 26TH OCTOBER Pumpkin Trail at the House of the Binns - Find the petrifying pumpkin signs hidden around the grounds of the House of the Binns to unscramble the spooky word and win a tasty treat! More info: www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/pumpkin-trail-at-thehouse-of-the-binns-tickets1597440851589?aff=Konect

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 to be released soon.

SATURDAY 29TH NOVEMBER Dean Park PTA Autumn Fayre - Cafe, toy sale, crafts, tuck shop, tombola, games and much more! Balerno High School, 12.30pm - 3pm Save the date: 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 www. colintonchoir.org or our Facebook page. We are grateful to Merchiston Castle School for the use of the Memorial Hall.

All meets are in 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 1ST OCT - “My Trip to the North Pole,” an illustrated talk by Michael Gregson.

• WED 15TH OCT - Business meeting and Mini Talks by Club members.

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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Making Music 2025 - Linlithgow String Orchestra in an exciting collaborative project As we move into our 2025/26 season, the Linlithgow String Orchestra is preparing to celebrate 10 years of music-making in the community. At the same time we are about to embark on our most ambitious project to date.

We were successful last year in our application to become an amateur music group paired with a composer for the duration of 2025 and in January we were able to announce that we have been assigned to work with Edinburghbased composer, Deborah Shaw aka @ AuroraEngine. Hailing from Shildon, County Durham, the historic ‘Cradle of the Railways’ Edinburgh-based Shaw has been collaborating with the Linlithgow String Orchestra as part of Making Music’s Adopt a Music Creator 2025 programme to create a new composition to mark Rail 200:- the bicentenary of the railway's birth in the UK. Taking inspiration from both the physical power and deep social impact of trains, the composer has collaborated with the orchestra to develop the new work, and from live field recordings of George Stephenson's ‘Twizell’ locomotive to capture the breath, hiss, and heartbeat of steam in motion, the rhythmic undulation of a moving engine, and the textures and timbres of the steam age:- purring pistons, sighing valves, and the mechanical sounds of locomotion.

Beyond the industrial, the composition explores the wider legacy of the railway: its role in the Industrial Revolution and its environmental impact. Musical influences evident in the work include folk, jazz and blues. The piece will chime with those holding an interest in the local history of Linlithgow Station, one of the oldest in Scotland.

The work is funded and supported by Creative Scotland and Making Music the driving 42 | BALERNO

force behind the Adopt-a-Creator scheme, supported by the PRS foundation and includes mentorship from Scottish composer, Ailie Robertson. Support from LNER and the Rail 200 project will also enable us to offer free entry to our audience members.

This creative process is an exciting new experience for the string orchestra, which has become known in recent years for its varied programmes and collaboration with other local Linlithgow groups including the Reed Band, the Ladies Choir and St Michael’s Church Choir. Bill Jones, who also directs the music at St Michael’s, is keen to develop community projects and this year’s opportunity is one to savour.

“What makes this project particularly special is that it falls in the orchestra’s 10th year since it began in 2016. We have a number of brilliant events planned for 2026 and we are particularly proud to support music in the Linlithgow community, to encourage young string players and develop further links with other choirs and ensembles.”

Linlithgow String Orchestra’s Autumn Concert featuring the World Premiere performance of "Engine Shed” by Deborah Shaw will take place on Sunday, 9th November at 7pm in St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow EH49 7AL. Bill Jones, Music Director - Linlithgow String Orchestra Deborah Shaw - www.auroraengine.com

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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 SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 6. Bonnie, 8. Permit, 9. Gnaw, 10. Selected, 11. Tearing, 13. Admit, 15. Argue, 17. Chained, 20. Civilian, 21. Tidy, 23. Assume, 24. Excess.

DOWN: 1. Noon, 2. Answer, 3. Apple, 4. Traced, 5. Likewise, 7. Easing, 12. Earliest, 14. Change, 16. Unique, 18. Intact, 19. Hides, 22. Dash.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P30/34

(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