Konect Balerno September 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

LOCAL CHARITY:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT: HEALTH:

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

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B

ack into routine after the summer can be a bit of a shock to the system, but even as the summer starts to fade there are still plenty of ways of enjoying what’s left of the good weather as well as events on locally. Autumn can also be a time for reflection, especially for older people for whom reminiscing can support wellbeing. Balerno’s PALM Cafe, a local charity for people with dementia and their carers, have a themed afternoon every month and September’s will be on sensory memories – see the article on page 9 and consider dropping in this month - they encourage anybody with dementia and their carers to give it a try!

In the health section, we are treated to part 1 of a two-part series on how to avoid running injuries; there is an update from our neighbours Colinton Village Enterprise on their work in Spylaw Park, and all the regular columns from our wonderful expert columnists.

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

Feature: PALM Cafe...................................... 9 Health: Running injury reduction..............10 Recipe: Plum & Watercress loaf...............14 Wine: Orange Wine.....................................16 Interiors: Pattern Perfection.......................26 Puzzles..........................................................30 Local Environment: Eye of the Survivor...32 realLIFE.........................................................38 What’s On: September...............................42 Clubs & Classes.................................... 44-45 Puzzle Solutions...........................................45 Commuity: CVE Update.............................46

COVER IMAGE: Autumn harvest season

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

Could you help change a life?

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

george-heriots.com George Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust. Scottish Charity Number SC011463.

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Due to the ageing population those suffering from dementia has increased. Unfortunately, my partner began suffering from it recently.

Various organisations and agencies offered support and advice. From one of these we were directed towards the Palm Dementia Cafe. It is held in St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno, on the last Tuesday of each month from 3pm to 4.30pm and is for people with dementia and their carers. A friend can also come along instead of a usual carer which is a good opportunity for respite.

and music generally feature. There is a wide and varied programme which even includes an invitation to Dean Park Primary School Christmas Show or a trip on the Ratho Barge.

We went along with some trepidation not knowing what it was really about or what to expect. However, any fears we had were soon overcome by the warm welcome we received from all the helpers. They really did make us feel at our ease.

The PALM café meets once a month usually on the last Tuesday of the month (except July) in the St Joseph’s Centre Balerno from 3.00pm - 4.30pm. Our next meeting is on Tuesday September 30th and we are looking at sensory memories.

The afternoon goes very quickly as it begins with a cup of tea or coffee along with homemade cake and scones - worth going for alone! There then follows the appropriate event for that afternoon, e.g. a visit from a choir, bulb planting, crafts. If there is a particular event forthcoming e.g. Easter or St Andrew’s Day the afternoon is themed round it. Singing

We have been back many times and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. The numerous helpers are so friendly. We really encourage anybody with dementia and their carers to give it a try as you will not regret it!

Please do get in touch to find out more and to confirm our programme and meeting times. You can contact us via email: palmcafebalerno@gmail.com or Telephone: 07711 046014 (Please leave a message and we will get back to you.)

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HEALTH

Running has become one of the most popular sports over recent years. It is accessible, requires little equipment but above all has highest benefit for physical and mental health compared with other sports, reducing all-cause mortality by up to 27% but unfortunately injuries can occur.

In the UK alone nearly 50% of recreational runners report an injury affecting running. We can’t prevent injury but there are strategies to reduce injury and manage niggles before they progress to injury.

What is a running-related injury? Most running injuries are overuse in nature, tending to present gradually and affecting tendons and bones.

Introducing injury risk reduction strategies into usual training and responding to early injuries when they occur, reduces risk. This is called prehabilitation, “a proactive rather than reactive intervention” and involves exercises to improve strength and balance, load management, shoes, recovery strategies, gait re-education, and education on recognising injury and specific injury risk profiles. This combination of strategies reflects a multifactorial approach to injury prevention that is required for optimum benefit.

Why is strength and balance training helpful?

Strength and balance exercises improve the physical capacity of muscles, tendons and bones and increase reactions. Incorporating exercises into warm-ups, cool-downs, or separate gym sessions enhances performance, improves running economy and provides resilience to adapt to different terrains and training situations.

One of the most important muscles to train is Gluteus Medius which inserts onto the outside of the hip. It controls the hip when landing and transferring weight through one leg and responds quickly when losing balance on uneven ground, sidestepping or changing direction. Train this muscle functionally, challenging balance in standing using “single” leg squat and lunge type exercises. Similarly, single leg calf raises improves Achilles tendon function and is a 10 | BALERNO

key component of the “triple extension” action in running where the ankle flexes as the knee straightens and the hip extends during pushing off the leg. Injuries can occur when these muscles fatigue or overload with increasing pace.

The importance of monitoring load - Running is a repetitive high impact activity, and bones, tendons and muscles must adapt to this, become stronger and more resilient without “overloading”. Therefore, beginner runners should use the Couch-to-5K App to build up gradually to running. Improver runners can use recognised training programmes or wearable technology, such as smart watches, to monitor load by recording distance, frequency and speed of weekly runs and only increase these by 10% or less when training for longer distances.

Consider alternating running on different days with other cardio based activities to provide tissues with adequate rest.

What’s the best running shoe? Choosing your running shoes is a personal choice, and in fact the research shows that comfort is most important. Cushioning in shoes can help beginner runners adapt to early impact. A stability trainer (motion control) can help foot overpronation.

Want to learn more? Linda Linton a Chartered Physiotherapist researching injury prevention in runners will be running a 3-hour workshop on 1st November. Find details at physiogrange.co.uk This article was contributed by Linda Linton, Chartered Physiotherapist at McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh

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

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 | 11

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FOOD & DRINK

Plum, Pink Pepper and Watercress Loaves Making the most of in-season juicy plums, these deliciously sweet treats are perfect with morning coffee or an afternoon cuppa.

Serves 12 | Prep 10 minutes Cooking time 20 minutes Ingredients:

• Butter and flour, for lining the tins • 2 tsp lemon juice • 90g whole milk • 150g plums, stones discarded, flesh chopped into small pieces • 120g light muscovado sugar, plus 2 tbsp • 250g plain flour • 13g baking powder • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp pink peppercorns, crushed • 1 tbsp watercress, finely chopped • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 150g rapeseed oil • 2 large eggs

To serve:

• Icing sugar, for dusting • Plum slices, to decorate • Whipped cream (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4. Grease and lightly flour 12 mini loaf tins

2. Mix the lemon juice into the milk and set aside to room temperature.

3. Mix the chopped plums with the 2 tbsp muscovado sugar and set aside.

4. In a separate, large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, peppercorns, remaining sugar and watercress.

5. In a jug, mix the vanilla, reserved milk mixture, oil and eggs.

6. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and whisk from the edges inwards. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.

7. Carefully stir through the plums and the residual syrup and divide the mixture equally between the loaf tins.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.

Cool in the tins for 10 minutes before turning out to cool completely.

9. Once cold, dust with icing sugar and decorate with plum slices. This is fantastic with pillows of whipped cream, if liked.

For more recipe inspiration, visit www.watercress.co.uk and for more information on the health benefits of watercress, visit www.thewatercresscompany.com 14 | BALERNO

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WINE TASTING

What is orange wine and why should you try it?

Orange wine is made exclusively from grapes. No oranges are involved in its creation! The term ‘orange’ refers to the amber hue of the wine rather than the fruit used to make it or the way it tastes. While popularity and interest in orange wine has grown in recent years, this style of wine has been around for centuries.

The white wine we usually drink, is typically made by crushing grapes, fermenting only the juice and discarding skins. This results in a fresh, fruity wine.

To make orange wine, the juice stays with the skins, seeds, and occasionally stalks during fermentation. They are separated and the wine is usually aged for several months. The result is a wine that’s structured, textured, and intriguingly different. It is also orange in colour!

Gone are the fresh citrus and pear notes we are familiar with, instead we might find ‘funky, savoury, mushroom’ notes on the nose and tannic structure on the palate.

I recommend orange wine with food, “what grows together, goes together” works best when tasting orange wine. For Tuscan-style orange wine, pair with Tuscan cured ham, olives, and cheese—simple, harmonious, and delicious!

Look out for Casale Trebbiano Orange wine Vecchia Vigna 2021 available at Woodwinters and goodwinegoodpeaople.com. The wine has been fermented on its skins for 30 days giving the wine a beautiful fine tannic structure and savoury character.

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 16 | BALERNO

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GERRY AITKEN Painter & Decorator Juniper Green

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Pattern

Perfection

Whether it’s a textural geometric, a country-style floral or a bold, retro/modern design, introducing pattern always adds character.

It could be a few simple pieces that feature understated designs for subtle interest, an eyecatching, oversized pattern as a focal point or a complex combination of patterns for real impact.

FIND YOUR INSPIRATION: Look at books, magazines and websites for ideas, and then look for inspiration in the pattern books created by fabric and wallpaper designers, where everything is already coordinated, for example, stripes with damasks, spots with florals.

CREATE A MOOD BOARD: This allows you to assess how colours, patterns and surface textures work together. There are websites that will help, or you can pull together swatches of fabric, wallpaper and so on. Swap samples in and out, and, if you have large samples, hang them and live with them for a few days.

CONSIDER SCALE: In general, bigger patterns are better suited to bigger rooms and smaller patterns to cosier rooms – though there’s something to be said for the occasional use of a huge pattern in a small space.

A downstairs cloakroom is the obvious place to try out a large-scale wallpaper.

Beware: very bold patterns used extensively may date or you could get sick of them.

LAYER PATTERNS FOR DYNAMIC EFFECT: Think of starting with the most dominant pattern and adding in secondary and tertiary patterns (and maybe more). Remember that stripes and very small patterns can be brilliant at coordinating with more intricate patterns. And don’t forget textures – the slub of raw silk, the herringbone of woven linen, chunky knitted wool.

CHOOSE COORDINATING TONES: A cautious approach would be to match colours exactly. But it may become dull. You can achieve excellent coordination and sophistication by working with tones. Colours with similar tonal values will work together, making it easier to combine patterns. Density, too, is a factor, as loose, open patterns give a visual ‘breather’, while intricate patterns with closely placed designs have more drama.

MIX AND MATCH STYLES: You could choose everything from the same ‘genre’, for instance, florals or geometrics, but a mix-and-match approach can be extremely successful, provided there is some cohesion in terms of colour, tone, scale or style.

The Interiors column was contributed by Katherine Sorrell

1) Headboard in Gingham Saffron (now available only in blue and sage), Cathy Nordstrom (cathynordstrom.com); Meadow Sweet wallpaper in Gold/Slate, Morris & Co. morrisandco.com (Photograph: Fanny Radvick). 2) Bamburgh grand sofa in Natural, DFS. dfs.co.uk 3) Cambridge chair in Kinsham Stripe Ochre Yellow; Bernwood wallpaper in Ochre Yellow; Bernwood eyelet curtains; Hedingham cushion in Seaspray Blue; jute rug; all Laura Ashley. next.co.uk/laura-ashley 26 | BALERNO

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SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

58mm Vertical [LEFT]

^^^ Solution in the OCTOBER edition

ACROSS: 6. Attractive (6), 8. Allow (6), 9. Bite persistently (4), 10. Chosen (8), 11. Ripping (7), 13. Acknowledge (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Secured (7), 20. Non-military person (8), 21. Neat (4), 23. Suppose (6), 24. Surplus (6).

DOWN: 1. Midday (4), 2. Reply (6), 3. Type of fruit (5), 4. Found (6), 5. Similarly (8), 7. Relieving (6), 12. Soonest (8), 14. Alter (6), 16. Special (6), 18. Unbroken (6), 19. Conceals (5), 22. Hurry (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 45

SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

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ADD SOLUTION DETAILS

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

In 2022 there was a serious outbreak of the highly contagious avian flu. It’s estimated around 3.8m birds died that year in the UK. One of the worst affected species was the gannet, our biggest sea bird. For the first time since that year, I visited Troup Head, which is a gannet colony in the North of Scotland, near Fraserburgh.

Since this outbreak, there’s been an interesting physical change in gannets that no-one could have anticipated. Usually they have a pale blue iris but some birds with black eyes were discovered and after taking blood samples, scientists found out of the 8 who tested positive for the virus, seven had black irises. This indicated they survived the virus, which was an incredible discovery and though the reason for this change in colour has yet to be discovered, research continues to understand whether it could apply to other species and if it impacts their vision*.

These birds are incredible and can dive up to 100ft, at speeds of 62.13mph thanks to a number of features including no external nostrils, air sacs in the face and chest under 32 | BALERNO

the skin which act like bubble wrap to cushion the impact as they hit the water, and how their eyes are positioned so they can judge distances accurately. How much food they can eat is thought to the be inspiration behind their name, unsurprisingly! * Information taken from the RSPB website.

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

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

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SUZANN E GREEN

AI or no AI? I

sn’t it interesting that we wish one another a “happy new year” long after singing Auld Lang Syne – for That is weeks not the question after boxing up the Christmas But rather, howand should it be employed? decorations returning them to the loft.

Whether ‘tis moral to enjoy Regardless of what’s going on in our world The capabilities of Artificial Intelligence and various concerns about issues When artists and actors are losing out, in our own country, we hope that 2025 will be a To suffer the slings and arrows good year. It would be of wonderful Of outrageous breaches copyrightto see peace achieved in the at least one areaofwhere So as not to impede advancement war is currently raging. And, on a personal technology, level, alsoagainst hope the to see growth andof AI Or takewe arms focused efforts companies progress in our own life and in the lives And by opposing, of those we knowend andthem. love, occasions to Will the benefits Chat GPT, photos, celebrate, goodofhealth andenhanced maybe even improved care in the next 12 months. some funhealth surprises Outweigh the risks … or distort integrity?

I’m focusing the Yes, this must on give us“new” pause.in “Happy New Year”.

I’ve not exactly made any new year’s For who could bear the grief This Ifresolutions. humanity sells itstradition soul? seems to be becoming less popular - social media posts A while ago mindlessly scrolling regularly tellI was us that we don’t need to strive Facebook and came upon a delightful video: to improve, we are “enough” as we are, we rabbits hopping up and down on a trampoline shouldn’t load ourselves up with goals and – apparently having a great time. I didn’t then feel guilty when we can’t achieve them. consider how they managed to get up onto the Although I agree that it’s good to trampoline.

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be realistic, love itthe a new My daughter Iloved too,promise but said,that “Mom, I’m year holds, the “clean slate” potential! sorry to tell you, but that was created with AI”.

Digesting news, I thought, course If you livethis in Balerno, you too“Oh, mayofhave been itdelighted was”. So ittodidn’t actually happen.

And then I see snow falling early morning realised I didn’t care.

It wasatfun; made me on New that Year’s Day. I stood ouritglass smile.

Not everything has toas besleet factual. patio door and watched turned to As child Isnowflakes loved Charlotte’s Web, a book about bigawhite that quickly covered a spider whoand saves a farmyard pig’s life by our garden bedecked the trees.

It was a embedding messagesof in the she spins. wonderful illustration the webs “it’s all fresh and She “some pig”, “terrific”, “humble”. new”wrote theme.

Amazingly, it caused the humans to conclude Signing for a Pilates a new there wasup something very class specialwas about Wilbur the pig, Charlotte the spider!of Now I know this thing fornot me at the beginning 2024.

And it didn’t actually happen,change. but I still Iloved has been a positive may the notstory. be as So I can continue to enjoy proficient as many in thevideos class,ofI bunnies struggleon to a dotrampoline! some of the stretches because of a knee Of course, Intelligence many more issue, andArtificial I sometimes have has a hard time important uses, such in background research, health care resisting dancing toas the music and defence.

Every day we hear news of yet when I should be listening to the instructor. another waythe thatexercise we are making progress in But I know is doing me good. some through use.

I can’t keep up!

I’m notfield sure what its new thing(s) I will do/ I’ve heard about comedians using AI to write encounter this year, but I will keep my eyes jokes.

I’ve seen about AI-generated and ears openarticles for them. recipes, how it’s being used to improve the When eldest daughter lives of my stroke patients, and itswas usein in primary helping to school, illegal she decided to try prevent fishing. The listsomething goes on andnew. on. I heard it from another mum, had But I’veabout not used ChatGPT to help mewho put words been at the to watch her daughter together, andschool I don’t intend to. How am I going dokeep Highland dancing in and an assembly.

“I to my aging brain fit healthy if I don’t didn’t know yournever girl did it too,” ashe said. challenge it? I’ve employed human So I explained she being to write mythat linesshe for didn’t, me, so although why should I was AI in that a ballet give job? class. “That’s strange,” said my concerned friend. “At for theartists, assembly the children who I’m like my singer/ took Highland dance lessons were songwriter daughter.

What’s ahead for invited those to gocreate, to thethose centre of the floor andand perform. I who whose livelihood, happiness, is linked to their thought your daughter didunique rathercontribution well.” to this world? Will they be safe? I don’t like the Later I asked my child why she had done idea that a person’s voice can be copied so that this.

“Oh,” she said.

“I thought the teacher it appears they have said something that they said, “Will allhave children who would like to do categorically not! (BTW did anyone else Highland dancing please come forward think the Beatles’ “last song”, Now and Then, now?a So went.” was littleI creepy?)

Like any tool, fornew that’sthis what it is,year.

AI should be Do something new handled with care and wisdom.

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

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?

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

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL!

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TUESDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER Currie Guild talk Meetings commence with refreshments.

The Rev Moira McDonald will be our first speaker of this Session when she will be talking on the subject “Being a Chaplain to the King”. ALL WELCOME. Gibson Craig Hall, Currie, 10.00am.

SATURDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER Gin with Flynn Evening Ravelrig RDA – join us in our brand new indoor arena, meet Flynn and his friends, find out about our wonderful charity and enjoy some great food and drink! With Pentland Hills Gin, fizz and beef or veggie chilli. Raffle and licensed bar (non alch options available). All proceeds are in aid of Ravelrig RDA. 7.00pm, £20 PER TICKET, must be purchased in advance from manager@ravelrig-rda-org.uk or call 07443 427419 SATURDAY 13 SEPTEMBER Farmers Market Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm.

TH

SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER Writing for Wellbeing Join author and poet Helen Boden to hear about ways in which creative writing can support wellbeing, with opportunities to give it a try yourself. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. The Hub@531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green. 2.00pm - 4.00pm Book at: hub531.appointedd.com

TUESDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER Currie Guild talk Meetings commence with refreshments.

Miriam Rana will be speaking on the Guild’s Project “CrossReach”. ALL WELCOME. Gibson Craig Hall, Currie, 2.00pm.

WEDNESDAY 1ST OCTOBER Crafting - PaperCut Flowers Join papercut punk, Ruth Watt, who will lead a relaxed, sociable craft session suitable for adults to create beautiful paper cut flower designs. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. The Hub@531 Lanark Road, Juniper Green.

2.00pm - 4.00pm Book at: hub531.appointedd.com

Pentland Probus Club Events

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 3RD SEPT - “The World’s End Murders”, an illustrated talk by Tom Wood.

• WED 17TH SEPT - “Building & Flying our own Aircraft”, an illustrated talk by Gerard Lohan.

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

What’s on …

February 2025

IT Security Training

For Older Adults

Hub@531 is delighted to be working in partnership with local charity, Tap Calendar of free events - please book online to enquire intoor IT,email to provide much needed digital security skills and confidence to those whoFebruary need it most.

Mental Health Mondays 7-9pm on 10th & 17th Related social events with a mental health and wellbeing focus.

Funding for Information Technology Come along to meet new people and help inform our training plans forfor this Security older adults regular new group. Tea, coffee, juice & biscuits available.

(50+) in our community has been Book a space or just turn up. awarded from Edinburgh City Council’s Community Grants fund.

Wednesday 19th 7.30-9.30pm / Friday 21st 2.30-4.30pm will have two courses in 2025, with Monthly Craft - Tote bags - All materials areWe supplied, booking next year on to meet demand. Each essential. Adults only for Wed evenings, agesmore 12+ welcome course consists of 3 sessions, suitable Friday afternoon session. for those who use a smartphone, tablet or laptop: Saturday 22nd 1-3pm - Textile Repair Lab with Dianne Spottiswood Miller. Suitable for beginners / intermediate sewers.

1. Online security overview and one of Learn how to replace zips/buttons and repair rips/holes your the mostincommon threats favourite knitted or woven garments using a range of creativeaccount and device 2. Passwords, hand sewing techniques including visible/invisible mending security methods. Please bring one or two damaged textile items to repair.

3.

Safe communication and staying (please note, we will have a more advanced atelier workshop for experienced sewers in informed March) Tuesday 25th 8-9pm - Menopause Chat - wellbeing and is on Fridays 12th, 19th The firstinfo course th support for during menopause. Drop in or book your space. & 26 September, 2025 at 10.00am -12noon at Hub@531 Lanark Road.

Please ensure you can make all 3 dates beforewhen registering for a place. A deposit Hub@531 is run by a charity and we welcome your donations you attend! of £10 will be requested to secure your space and refunded when you have attended all 3 sessions. Places are limited due to the nature of the training CONTACT THE HUB BOOK and THEvenue, HUB and to provide a small hub531lanarkroad@gmail.com www.hub531.appointedd.com group learning experience.

The September sessions are available February 2025 Pentlands Community Space SCO049766 now to book online at: hub531.appointedd.com or you can email hub531lanarkroad@gmail. If these dates don’t suit, look out for the next 2025 dates published soon. You can email to join the Hub@531 mailing list to be sent information on all upcoming activities and/or follow our Facebook page ‘The Hub at 531’. Look out for posters in all our usual locations too!

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BALERNO | 43

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 7pm. Table money £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see W: bridgewebs.com/pentland E: mthkjb@gmail.com ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - The Club was formed about 1946 and meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. It is non-competitive.

For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145.

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

Every Monday 10.00am - 4.00pm.

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

W: www.ramblers.org.uk/balerno or, www.facebook.com/BalernoRamblers E: enquiries@balernoramblers.org.uk BALERNO RAMBLERS MIDWEEK GROUP - Meet for walks in Lothians, Fife, Borders and further afield. For walk details contact M.Timmins on 07917878955. Follow Balerno Ramblers on Facebook.

JUNIPER GREEN NURSERY PLAYGROUP - Juniper Green Community Centre. We are a small friendly playgroup with very experienced staff. We take children who are from 2 to 3 years old for morning sessions (9.15-11.15) cost £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 aged 8 to 14. Come and sing a @KonectMagazines

wide array of choral music in a fun and supportive environment. More information: W: www.pentlandjuniors.org E: pentlandjuniors@gmail.com SOLUTION TO AUGUST CURRIE 65TH BOYS BRIGADE CROSSWORD - 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 ACROSS: • Knit and Natter Group Thurs 7. Reform, 8. Chosen, 9. Aids, 10. Stubborn, from 2pm-4pm 11. Merrier, 13. Ankle, 15. Above, 17. Frisked, 20.

21. Lute, 22. Recess, Tel:Umbrella, Ratho Community Centre 23. Gemini.

0131 333 1055.

DOWN: 1. Desire, 2. Foes,BOARD3. Smashed, JUNIPER GREEN 4. Scrub, 5. Combines, 6. Petrol, GAMERS - Family kids 12.

Reversed, 14.

Arrange,and 16. Bumper, friendly group 18.

Eating,board-game 19. Close, 21 Lamp. open to all. Come join us to SOLUTION SUDOKU play all sorts ofTO board-games.

Children are free ON PAGE XX 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 Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept affiliated club in the heart of responsibility for loss or damage caused Juniper Green is open to all by error in the printing of an advertisement. to join.

There’s We do not endorsean anyextensive advertisers in junior coaching programme, this publication.

All material is accepted aspublication well as adult for on thecoaching understanding it is and social Forpublication copyright free.sessions.

No part of this may be reproduced without membership check outprior ourconsent of the publisher. website clubspark.lta.org.uk/ JuniperGreenTennisClub and Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. follow us on Facebook.com/ Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, junipergreentennis.

West Lothian EH54 6GU. We look forward to welcoming you!

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

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 AUGUST CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Reform, 8. Chosen, 9. Aids, 10. Stubborn, 11. Merrier, 13. Ankle, 15. Above, 17. Frisked, 20. Umbrella, 21. Lute, 22. Recess, 23. Gemini.

DOWN: 1. Desire, 2. Foes, 3. Smashed, 4. Scrub, 5. Combines, 6. Petrol, 12. Reversed, 14. Arrange, 16. Bumper, 18. Eating, 19. Close, 21 Lamp.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 30

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

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

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

BALERNO | 45

Colinton Village Enterprise is excited to share the progress on our Heritage Hub project in Spylaw Park! Our vision for an inclusive community space is taking shape, with construction set to begin early autumn.

HERE’S WHAT’S HAPPENING NOW: • Building Warrant: Our architect, David Moore from MDA Studios, is finalising queries with the City of Edinburgh Council, and we expect to receive the building warrant soon.

• Contractor Selection: We’ve issued the project to four building contractors, who will submit their tender responses by the end of August.

• Café Operations: We’re researching ways to operate the café element of the Heritage Hub, thanks to assistance from Community Enterprise.

ARCHITECTURAL RENDERINGS - The images featured here were created by DNB ArchDesign Ltd, using MDA Studio’s plans, led by the aforementioned David Moore. We love these 3D visualisations, bringing the designs to life for Colinton’s Community Heritage Hub.

GET INVOLVED • Volunteer: Contact us at colintonvillage@gmail.com to help with future events and projects.

• Donate: Scan the QR code to support the Heritage Hub project (SEE BELOW).

RECENT EVENTS - At the end of August, we participated in the Pentlands Open Studios Art Trail by opening our Pit Stop Café en route, serving coffee, tea, and delicious home baking.

We’re excited to host more events in the future!

COLINTON’S COMMUNITY SHARE BOX The Community Share Box in the iconic red phone box on Bridge Road/Spylaw Street is now open, offering pre-loved books, puzzles, seeds, and plants for sharing, borrowing, or exchanging.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE: • Visit the red phone box and browse the available items • Share, borrow, or exchange items that interest you • Please don’t leave bulk book donations, as space is limited • Plants and seeds are welcome donations, though!

A BIG THANK YOU: • To Mike Scott and Eddie Banks, The Colinton Tunnel duo, for refurbishing the historic red phone box • To Paul Bullen (SW20) for assisting with installing custom signage made by Remember When UK

SUPPORTING THE PROJECT We’re grateful for the funding from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (administered by The City of Edinburgh Council), and the generous bequest from Angela Miller, our first Charity Secretary.

However, we still need your support to ensure the project’s success. Look out for our Crowdfunding page soon!

46 | BALERNO

Enjoy exploring and participating in this community-driven initiative, displaying “Colinton Village Information Exchange” depending on the angle you read it from.

This article was contributed

by Colinton Village Enterprise

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