Konect Queensferry August 2025

AUGUST 2025

LOCAL HISTORY:

FEATURE: WINE:

The NEW monthly community magazine for Queensferry, Kirkliston, and Winchburgh

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ou will have noticed the Commonwealth War Graves signs dotted around the city at various cemeteries – all over the country in fact - but how much do you know about them? With 2025 marking the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Days, a local resident who works for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has contributed an informative feature about the sites and the work of the Commission, see pages 8-9.

Ferry Fair is upon us again, thanks to the amazing work of the volunteers and supporters who pull it all together. The local history article looks at the evolution of the Fair, see pages 14-15. Speaking of volunteers, the local Scouts have a vacancy for Chair of the Trustee Board, see page 12.

As schools go back later this month, remember there are also adult learning opportunities locally and it’s never too late to pick up new skills, as well as taking up new hobbies and interests as the routine gets back to normal. See the Clubs & Classes pages for ideas locally, there is something for everyone!

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

Feature: What do you know about Commonwealth War Graves?...........................8 Life Coaching: Walk & Talk Therapy............ 14 Local History: All the fun of the fair................ 14 Local Environment: Being Breezy................. 18 Puzzles.................................................................. 20 Film Review: K-pop Demon Hunters............ 20 Garden Project: Art in the Garden................ 21 Recipe: Apricots with pistachio brittle.......... 24 Wine: Notes of summer rain............................ 25 Local Walk: “If you like piña coladas............ 26 What’s On: August Events............................... 28

COVER IMAGE: Summery Treats!

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Copies are also left at libraries, community centres and other locations throughout the area.

It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe QUEENSFERRY | 3

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Join us for a guided tour of our wonderful school and grounds with an opportunity to meet the students, teachers and Headteacher and discover what Clifton Hall can offer your child.

Clifton Hall treats each pupil as an individual and we seek to personalise their education so that they can benefit from being given the opportunity to shine. With this structure, we can discover talents, care and nurture and help to assist in the development of character and self-belief.

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NURSERY • JUNIOR • SENIOR

www.cliftonhall.com Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LQ 0131 333 1359 • office@cliftonhall.org.uk

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what do you know about them?

The Commonwealth War Graves signs are a familiar sight; from large CWGC war cemeteries and memorials to single headstones in remote churchyards, you’re never too far away from one of our sites.

But how much do you know about the war graves, and who maintains them? Did you know you can book informative tours, or arrange a talk for your group? With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of both VE Day and VJ Day, it’s time to learn more about these sites in our communities.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) was founded by Sir Fabian Ware in 1917, and is responsible for commemorating all Commonwealth war dead from both World Wars individually and equally.

We care for war graves at 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries around the world, commemorating 1.7 million individuals.

Our global estate is run by a multinational and multilingual workforce numbering approximately 1,300, the vast majority of whom are gardeners and stone masons.

Since our establishment by Royal Charter we have constructed 2,500 war cemeteries and plots, erected headstones over graves and where the remains are missing, inscribed the names of the dead on permanent memorials. More than a million 8 | QUEENSFERRY

burials are now commemorated at military and civil sites around the world.

Despite being set up over 100 years ago our work is still relevant today as we amend records, search for missing names, build new memorials and where historical inequalities in commemoration are found, ensuring all those who fell are equally remembered. Additionally, war dead are still being identified and when this happens the individual is buried with full military honours. Their name is then removed from the memorial to the missing where they had previously been remembered as they now have their own grave and headstone.

We also have a duty to ensure our sites remain well visited so remembrance of the war dead continues, creating information centres, volunteering opportunities and education programmes designed to engage and educate generations to come.

In Scotland alone we commemorate over 21,000 casualties. Amongst these is the youngest casualty of WWII, 14 year old Reginald Earnshaw who is here in Edinburgh. His grave is in Comely Bank cemetery (you can read his story on our website). In addition to those from the

UK we care for the graves of numerous Americans, Canadians, Norwegians, Poles and Czechs plus a further 15 other nationalities. In short, you’re never far from the grave of a Commonwealth casualty.

host of roles including ‘Eyes On Hands On’ (these are the people who after training, monitor and clean some of the War Graves), researchers, tour guides and speakers.

There are 32 cemeteries in Edinburgh that have CWGC War graves/commemorations, including local cemeteries: Currie Parish Church (containing 7), Dalmahoy (St Mary) Episcopalian Churchyard (2), Ratho Cemetery (3), Colinton parish (20), Kirkliston (7), South Queensferry (189), Winchburgh (7).

JOIN A TOUR OR REQUEST A TALK - You can arrange to join a free

Locating cemeteries anywhere in the world can be done easily with our app: ‘Commonwealth War Graves’.

We also have the For Evermore app, an excellent resource where individual’s stories are told in more detail. It’s a wonderful tool not just for research, you can upload your own CWGC casualties’ stories. www.cwgc.org/stories/home We are fortunate to have volunteers in a

War Graves Tour to find out more about the work of the CWGC. The list of available tours is on the website at www.cwgc.org/visit-us/ events-tours-and-talks, and is updated regularly when tours are added.

You can also request a free talk about the Commission for your group. There are four talks to choose from: an introduction to our work; CWGC gardening; Architecture; Archives. So, if you know of a group who may be interested in having a talk please do get in touch.

If you’re interested in knowing more please go to our website www.cwgc.org.uk

This article was contributed by Elaine Edwards. Elaine is the Public Engagement Co-ordinator for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Scotland, East & North. If you would like to know more, drop Elaine an email at elaine.edwards@cwgc.org QUEENSFERRY | 9

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LIFE COACHING

It can’t be denied that some individuals are at their very best and most productive when they are in the open air. For them, talking about important or troubling issues, setting goals and making plans for the future may be easier when walking and talking.

This popular therapy is based on engaging in conversation with a therapist while walking in a natural setting such as a park or a shore path and it combines the benefits of physical activity and being out in nature with the therapeutic process of talking and processing emotions. This can be particularly positive for those of us who struggle to talk about our feelings especially when we are communicating face to face and somehow, the vastness of the outdoors can help us all to put things in perspective.

Another key benefit is that physical activity can increase those endorphins which has the potential to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress.

This therapy adapts to accommodate individual needs with options to adjust pace and speed as necessary. Even our unpredictable weather needn’t present a barrier to enjoying walking and talking outdoors. We can walk with brolly and raincoat or relocate to a sheltered venue.

While walking and talking in nature may not be for everyone, for those who are attracted by the idea of being outdoors, this way of working provides a unique and potentially powerful way to address mental health concerns.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is available for appointments at Forth Physio, Queensferry, and at Linlithgow Chiropractic. She is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk 14 | QUEENSFERRY

When you join in the fun at the Ferry Fair this month, you’re participating in a tradition that goes back several centuries.

While it has evolved in purpose and character, Queensferry has had an annual gathering since the middle ages.

Fairs date from medieval times and were set up all across the country in order to facilitate trade and commerce. They were often instigated by monks of religious orders, so tended to coincide with saints days. Bustling, noisy and often chaotic events, they were infused with the sounds (and smells!) of livestock for sale, shouts of traders selling all manner of wares, food stalls, and often entertainment in the form of races. Foot races were important, as in medieval times fast runners were essential for carrying important news, messages or warnings of approaching hostilities, and so were part of many such annual events. For local people, fairs represented great opportunities for shopping, excitement, and the chance to meet socially.

They also often incorporated hiring fairs, where labourers and tradespeople could seek employment.

These markets and fairs were strictly regulated for the purposes of maintaining trading standards and for the collection of taxes from the commercial activities. The right to hold a fair and market was granted by royal charter and was highly valued.

The exact date of the first fair in Queensferry is difficult to trace, but the town became a Burgh of Regality in the 13th century.

Pitlessie Fair, 1804. Painting by David Wilkie.

National Galleries of Scotland. Capturing the bustle of the quintessential village fair.

The concept of the burgh as an economic unit was introduced into Scotland by the enterprise-focused Kind David I, and was a concept working well in Norman England. Burghs all followed a similar layout – along the linear main street, plots were arranged each side, created by the landowner and rented out to investors. Main streets had wider sections for the market, and as often as not a Mercat Cross installed in this marketplace, the gathering point around which civil life revolved. It’s a layout that is still traceable in historic towns all across Scotland. There is reference to Queensferry’s mercat cross (long since lost) in 1440, so it’s likely there was a regular market by that time. As a Burgh of Regality, the town was regulated by the Abbot of Dunfermline and customs duties would have been payable to Dunfermline Abbey.

One year we do have a record of the market for is 1628, as a scuffle broke out that year when a customs officer from Linlithgow turned up at the Queensferry Fair to collect customs duties that Linlithgow believed they were due. In the ensuing riot, the poor customs officer was killed.

Queensferry became a Royal Burgh in 1636, establishing the Crown as the direct feudal superior (as opposed to the Abbey). King Charles I granted a charter to Queensferry to hold an annual fair, stipulating that it should be held for 8 days, commencing on St James’ Day, 25th July. (Being a saint’s day, this may well

have been the date of previous markets here under the auspices of Dunfermline Abbey). The royal proclamation states that all persons “may repair of this burgh with all sorts of wares and commodities to be sold, and to declare the said free space of eight days. And that all persons whatsoever shall have the liberty to vent and sell all commodities whatsoever within this burgh during the said space upon payment of the dues and customs used and wont.”

In contrast, if you hadn’t got anything to sell, you were not welcome! “And further, I hereby prohibit and discharge all sturdy and randie beggars and other vagabond persons who have no wares or commodities to sell, to repair or be seen within the burgh during the said space of the Fair. And certifying that such as may be seen shall be imprisoned and punished at the Magistrates’ pleasure.”

Ferry Fair has evolved to suit the times. The somewhat mysterious Burryman and the BoundaryRacearedirectlinkstoancientcustoms, while the children’s fair and queen’s crowning were added within the past 100 years. Thanks to the wonderful work of the tireless volunteers who make it all happen, it will continue to evolve and serve the community for many years to come! They are always happy to hear from anyone wanting to get involved and help!

Wishing all readers a wonderful Ferry Fair!

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, with reference to research on the Queensferry history website queensferry-at-war.weebly.com, Ferry Fair website www.ferryfair.co.uk and Basil Skinner’s research on Scots Fairs and Markets. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been to the Isle of May but I think my visit in June this year was my favourite for weather conditions. It was pretty windy and watching the puffins was a sheer joy. They looked like they were loving every second of it as they hovered in the wind, trying to back themselves in to where they wanted to land.

Some puffins nailed the landing straight away. Others hovered for ages, misjudged it, or got pushed off course entirely. A few overshot their burrows and had to make an undignified U-turn. One came in sideways and almost collided with a razorbill, who wasn’t impressed.

I’d made my way to one of my favourite spots on the island, Bishops Cove and stayed put for a while, just watching the constant activity.

The sound of wings as the birds whoosh past you, the calls of the kittiwakes nesting on the cliffs, and the occasional squabble.

Depending how far they’ve had to go for fish, puffins can land pretty close before heading back to the burrow. What made it funnier was the sand eels they were holding in their beaks were flapping about — as if they had minds of their own and were trying to escape mid-air.

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There’s always a lot going on if you stop and watch for a while. I didn’t take as many photos as usual, but it didn’t matter. Sometimes it’s just good to observe.

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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3D animation is currently experiencing a renaissance. Overly glossy and similarlooking visuals are a thing of the past ever since Across the Spider-Verse burst onto the scene.

K-pop Demon Hunters continues this trend with truly incredible off-model facial expressions, infectious K-pop music, and kinetic action. It blends what is loved about animation from the East with the high production values of the West. This film had the recipe for success, but its lacklustre story, which feels clichéd and derivative, hampers what could have been an incredible film.

It follows the K-pop trio Huntrix, who are pop sensations one moment, then demon hunters aiming to stop demons from stealing souls the next. However, the demon realm decides to fight fire with fire by sending a group of five demons to the human realm, disguised as a boy band, to win over Huntrix fans. While this is all happening, lead vocalist Rumi must grapple with the fact that she is half-demon, half-human, and the stress of hiding this fact from her other group members.

K-pop Demon Hunters might have the strongest opening of any film this year, as when ‘How it’s Done’ kicks into high gear and the creative and fluid animation ramps up, you will be fully invested. However, when the film attempts to explore deeper themes, it falls flat, as none of the drama feels authentic. Still, if you’re looking for something unique that the whole family can enjoy, I don’t think you can go wrong with this film.

Available now on Netflix The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not ADD SOLUTION be on people’s radar.DETAILS Robert is from Kirknewton.

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JULY CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the SEPTEMBER edition

ACROSS: 7. Improve (6), 8. Picked (6), 9.Assists (4), 10. Obstinate (8), 11. Happier (7), 13. Joint (5), 15. Higher than (5), 17. Searched (7), 20. Keeps you dry (8), 21. Musical instrument (4), 22. Alcove (6), 23. Star sign (6).

DOWN: 1. Long for (6), 2. Enemies (4), 3 Broken (7), 4. Clean thoroughly (5), 5. Merges (8), 6. Fuel (6), 12. Went backward (8), 14. Organise (7), 16. Abundant (6), 18. Consuming (6), 19. Nearby (5) 21. Light (4).

JULY SUDOKU

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 31

58mm Vertical [RIGHT]

ART IN THE GARDEN Summertime… and its garden visiting time! During July and August we run an event called art in the garden here at New Hopetoun Gardens.

We install original works of art in our gardens to entertain and inspire you and we run a people’s vote for your favourite piece of art with Gift Voucher prizes to be won.

A piece of art in your garden lends all year round interest and will create a focal point for your eyes in your garden. A stone birdbath not only lends something to catch your eye but also the antics of visiting feathered friends will delight you, so long as you can secretly watch them from inside.

We are very lucky as we have garden all round our house and we have made sure that we have great views into the garden from all

‘Colour and Light Standing’ by Lizzy Paton, 2025 our windows. Most of them have at least one piece of art in view so all year round there is something to see. We are reminded of family, friends and places each time we look at a piece as well as its beauty. We can’t imagine a garden without some art in it, what have you got displayed in your garden?

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

Come and explore our displays of art during July & August Free entry and open every day 10am-5pm

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BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

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FOOD & DRINK

This is a perfect light summer pudding. The pistachio brittle stores well, so feel free to make a lot of it.

Ring the changes and use plums in place of apricots.

Serves 4 | Prep 25 minutes Cooking time 30-35 minutes, plus cooling Ingredients: • 6 apricots (or plums), stoned and quartered • Juice of ½ orange • 1 heaped tbsp honey For the pistachio brittle • 100g caster sugar • 2 tbsp water • 80g unsalted shelled pistachios, roughly chopped For the cream • 200ml double cream of choice • ½ tsp ground cardamom

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C, fan 170°C, Gas 5 and line two baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Start by making the brittle. Put the sugar and water in a small saucepan over a low heat.

Bring to the boil, swirling the pan until the sugar has dissolved. Continue cooking the sugar for about 10 minutes – it will change colour from light golden to deep amber. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn – it’s a fine line! Once it reaches deep amber, remove from the heat and add the pistachios, stirring to coat the nuts, then pour onto one of the lined baking trays while still malleable. Set aside to cool – it will need about 15-20 minutes to set fully before you can crack it into pieces.

3. Next, lay the apricot quarters on the other lined baking tray. Pour over the orange juice and honey, and mix well. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until tender. Let them cool for 15 minutes before serving.

4. While the apricots are in the oven, whisk together the cream and cardamom to a thick dropping consistency.

5. Once the apricots are cooked, spoon a couple of dollops of cream onto a small plate, create a well in the middle using the back of a spoon, and then spoon a few apricots in followed by a drizzle of their juices. Top with the brittle and serve.

Recipe extracted from ‘Cooking Fast and Slow’ by Natalia Rudin, published by Penguin Life, price £25, with photography by Issy Croker.

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WINE TASTING

I love the smell of the garden after a summer rainstorm. Wet gravel and earth, saturated plants and refreshed grass.

Even the tarmac and felt roofs—baking hot just moments before—seem to sigh as the rain hits. When the rain stops and the steam start to rise, the air fills with a beautiful scent. It’s the smell of wet soil and wet flagstones, it’s mineral, flinty, leafy and damp… it’s petrichor.

Petrichor comes from the Ancient Greek words petro (stone) and *ichor* (the golden fluid said to run in the veins of the gods).

It’s the aroma released when rain hits dry ground.

In wine, I look for this same sense of minerality, flint, ozone, wet stone. It’s a tasting note I love spotting on a label, and it appears in both reds and whites.

My favourite white wines with this character include Austrian Riesling and Sancerre.

Both are grown in cooler climates, often on stony soils that lend a savoury, rain-on-rock quality. I remember the first time I tasted Sancerre, the aroma triggered a memory of walking through a herb garden after a summer storm.

Petrichor isn’t just for whites. Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley can smell like a forest floor after rainfall with leafy, earthy and mineral notes. Look for wine from Chinon or Saumur-Champigny. Even lighter reds like Nerello Mascalese from Mount Etna can offer that same lifted, volcanic freshness.

Petrichor is the silver lining after the rain!

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 QUEENSFERRY | 25

“IF YOU LIKE PIÑA COLADAS, AND GETTING CAUGHT IN THE RAIN” Well, it’s not quite piña colada, but it is a pineapple and you may well get caught in the rain.

Venturing a little further afield, this month we feature what is described as “the most bizarre building in Scotland” - the Dunmore Pineapple near Airth - to check out the garden and walks nearby.

Within Dunmore Park are gardens maintained by the National Trust for Scotland, the remains of what was Dunmore House (not accessible) ... and an extraordinary stone pineapple.

It’s about 35 minutes’ drive from Queensferry, and clearly signed the “Dunmore Pineapple” from the A905. A track of about a mile takes you to a small car park.

Walk through the gates into the walled garden and you are presented with a sloping vista north to south. The gardens are dominated by the huge stone pineapple.

The pineapple was built by the 4th Earl of Dunmore, John Murray, most likely on his return from Virginia where he was routed as the last royal governor in 1776 as the American War

Intricate masonry

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of Independence kicked off. It stands some 14m high and was built on top of a pavillion which he had had built in 1761 in his walled garden. Walled gardens were built in Scotland to allow plants to be protected against the vagaries of the climate and to enable more exotic species of plant to be grown. The walls here had a cavity through which hot air was circulated to allow the cultivation of exotic fruit. Lord Dunmore’s son, the 5th Earl wrote how “hothouse fruit ... was sent every fortnight from Dunmore Park, where my father had no house, but an excellent garden.” Pineapples were seen as a great symbol of wealth in the 18th century, and the folly is perhaps a rather vulgar symbol of the Earl’s wealth. Nonetheless, the detail of the work is outstanding. The construction is fine example of masonry with the leaves designed in such a way that they are largely immune from frost damage. The architect is unknown, the design and workmanship outstanding, and the mystery of the pineapple is enhanced by the complete lack of any references to it in diaries or records from the time. Lord Dunmore had no house here, but this spot must have been quite special for him to have conceived of this extraordinary monument here, tucked away on his quiet Scottish estate, a far cry from the subtropical heat and rebellious turbulence of Virginia that he had recently left;

it is perhaps a statement that despite the defeat in America, he was back, wealth intact and larger than life.

Stone bothies either side of the pineapple pavillion, which were built for gardeners, are now holiday cottages which are available for hire via the Landmark Trust.

The gardens themselves have a mixture of mature plants growing against the walls, with roses in full bloom when we visited. The garden slopes down through two avenues of trees to a pond which marks the southern boundary. At the top of the garden on the right there is a gate which takes you on a delightful walk through mature woodlands. There is another walk through a second walled garden, which is being restored, through an avenue of Redwood trees planted by the 4th Earl to celebrate the marriage of his son in 1804.

The walk takes you to the ruins of Elphinstone Tower.

Verdict: You can bring a picnic and have a pleasant afternoon in a garden that radiates tranquillity, with the pineapple definitely adding a curiosity factor. Best visited in the spring and summer; the walled garden, the pond and the short woodland walks are a delight.

One criticism is that the walks are not well sign-posted so it is easy for you to go off piste.

Dogs are welcome if kept on a lead.

THE EARLS OF DUNMORE

The garden’s instigator was the 4th Earl of Dunmore who was the last colonial Governor of Virginia. Described as “vain and vexatious” by Patrick Henry, the American founding father, he helped ferment what was already a fraught situation between the native Virginians and their British Colonial rulers.

In 1776 he had to flee the colony. However even without anything to govern he still managed to draw his salary until 1783. Previous Earls had been imprisoned in the Tower of London for supporting the Jacobite cause. The 8th Earl was a distinguished soldier who went on to win the VC during the Boar War. This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after visiting the Dunmore “pineapple.”

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

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SUNDAY 3RD TO SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST Ferry Fair Queensferry’s annual event with a week of fun activities for all the family, with parade and crowning of new Fair Queen on Saturday 9th August. All details at www.ferryfair.co.uk WEDNESDAY 6TH AUGUST 4 hands at the piano Duos and solos by RCS students Sophie Robertson and Chloe Moodie. Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. Sophie and Chloe will play a selection from Rachmaninoff’s arrangement for 4 hands of Tchaikovsky’s “Sleeping Beauty” Suite, plus individual solos to be confirmed. St Michael’s Parish Church, 2.00pm (doors open 1:30pm) Tickets free, donations invited at the door. Details are available at: www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk SAT 9TH & SUN 10TH AUGUST Open Day and Train Rides Public Open Day for all the family with train rides, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, picnic area. Train rides £5. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF. SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST Kirkliston Village Market A village market serving locals with quality produce and products from independent businesses in and around Kirkliston. Third Sunday of every month, corner of Manse Road/ Liston Place, 11.00am – 3.00pm.

See kirklistonvillagemarket.com FRIDAY 29TH AUGUST -SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST On Location at Blackness Castle Blackness Castle has served as an artillery fortress, royal castle, prison and armaments depot. But in more recent years it has been the

star of films and TV shows, from Mary Queen of Scots (2018) and Outlaw King (2018) to Outlander. Join us as the castle to learn about the movie magic that brings history to life. Our crew will be on hand to help you practice your stunt work or try on some costumes - if you’re lucky, maybe the director will pick you out to be the star! 12.00pm - 4.00pm, Tickets from £8, booking and more info at: historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/whats-on FRIDAYS IN AUGUST Kids Go Free Fridays – Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway - We are running our KIDS GO FREE on August 1st, 15th, 22nd, and 29th (not 8th August). Trains depart Bo’ness Railway Station at 10:30, 12.30 and 2.30pm. Adults £17, Children (2-15) £10, Infants (0-2) free. One child aged 2-15 can travel free with every fare paying adult, i.e., if there are two adults, travelling, two children can travel free, children otherwise travel at standard fares. Information, booking and availability at: www.bkrailway.co.uk Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway season tickets and SRPS member’s tickets can be used for travel on these trains but not in conjunction with the kids go free offer.

SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER Winchburgh Farmers Market Winchburgh Community Garden, Main Street, 10.00am - 1.00pm RNLI QUEENSFERRY FUNDRAISING TEAM seek new volunteers to support local fundraising events and activities including bucket collections, Open Day and Christmas activities; time commitment is flexible. If you would be interested in learning more, please do get in touch: queensferry.fundraising@gmail.com

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FORPROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. 28 | QUEENSFERRY

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

QUEENSFERRY SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB Dancing for adults every Thursday from September 11th until April in St. Andrew Hall, The Loan, South Queensferry at 7:30 – 9:30 pm. This is a fun way to exercise, meet new friends and learn a new skill. The first night is free then £4 per evening for non-members which includes refreshments at breaktime. Come and give it a try. For more information contact: queensferryscdc@gmail.com QUEENSFERRY TENNIS CLUB - Queensferry Tennis Club is a welcoming and vibrant community-based tennis club offering a friendly environment for tennis players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros. QTC provides a space for social play, competitive matches, and coaching opportunities with Neil Harden from Deuce Academy. The club’s inclusive atmosphere fosters a strong sense of community, where members can come together to enjoy the sport while building lasting friendships. Please email queensferrytennis@gmail.com for more information KIRKLISTON COMMUNITY CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS - The benefits of being outdoors are well known and you don’t have to go far locally to enjoy it. Come and join in some activities with KCCV and help to maintain the village planters, a small orchard, wildflower area, public gardens and spaces as well as our monthly litter picks. We’re a small friendly group aiming to enhance Kirkliston. For more information contact www.kccv.org.uk or message 07925 383569.

WINCHBURGH STORYTELLERS - A chance to make friends and practice telling stories / hearing new tales, in a safe supportive space. Everyone’s welcome to come and listen and/ or participate.

A story can be myth, legend, life story, fairy or folk tale- 10 minutes maximum. It’s all about oral storytelling, not reading aloud.

We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at Winchburgh Community Centre, 7.30pm to 30 | QUEENSFERRY

9.00pm. For more information go to marytatterhoodtales.wordpress. com/winchburgh-storytellers RUNTRIBE QUEENSFERRY - A free, friendly and sociable run club based in South Queensferry who meet every Tuesday 6.25pm at the Seal Monument. The aim of our club is not about time or distance, our aim is to run, socialise and have a good time whilst doing it. We also go for an optional drink at the pub after our weekly session. To find out more, message Emily on 07395 817833 or follow on instagram @ RunTribe_queensferry.

YOGA & CHAIR MOBILITY - Yoga: Fridays 09.30- 10.30.

Kirkliston Community Centre. For mixed ability students. Classes include asana, movement, pranayama and relaxation.

Chair-Based Mobility. Tuesdays 1.00-2.00pm (with optional extra 30 mins for refreshments) Winchburgh Community Centre. A class for anyone who would prefer to sit. Includes some standing practice, breath work and mindful movement. Ideal for anyone with movement restrictions.

One-to-One sessions can be arranged in person or via zoom.

For more info E: yogawithjo21@hotmail.com or, facebook.com/yogajostilwell LITTLE ARTISTS ART CLUB FRIDAYS - A relaxing class, to unwind & get creative before the weekend ahead. Fridays 12.45-1.45 South Queenferry P1-7. Each week we will focus on a different animal or nature piece, learning facts & working in two different age groups, pencil work in colour/monochrome.

For information please contact 07591990020 or see Instagram everychildisanartist_ DANCE FITNESS - Wednesdays South Queensferry. P1-2, 3.003.40pm, P3-7, 3.40-4.30pm. Each week, we will learn a new routine together as a group, to some great music. Children will have the opportunity to suggest their favourite songs. Dance Fitness is for boys and girls of all ages. This class can either compliment your

present dance school classes or be a brand new class for you.

HAPPY BODY STUDIO - PILATES & FITNESS - Pilates for all: Monday 18:00 & Thursday 9:30am. Kirkliston Community Centre.

Mum & Baby Postnatal Pilates: Thursday 11:0am, Conifox Adventure Park.

Personal Training & 1:1 sessions available. Pilates is a form of movement that emphasises the activation & strengthening of the core muscles. Pilates can help us improve movement, ease general aches & pains & strengthen our core & stabilising muscles. Everyone can benefit from Pilates. Very suitable for beginners. To learn more visit: www.happybodystudio.com WINCHBURGH WARRIORS NETBALL CLUB - We are a recreational netball club for anyone over 18. We will support you whether it’s your first time, or it’s been a long time - we got you! Sessions are every Monday 18:45-19:45 at the Winchburgh Sport and Wellbeing Hub (Xcite). First session is free, then £4 thereafter. If you have any questions, drop us an email info. winchburghwarriors@gmail.com.

ABERCORN CURLING CLUB - Play weekly on Tuesday evenings at Kinross Ice Rink from September - March with league games and competitions to take part in. All ages and abilities welcome, from beginners to those who’ve curled before. No equipment needed for beginners.

Transport can be provided. Fancy a go? Taster sessions can be arranged. It’s active, social and fun. For more information contact abercorncc@gmail.com YOGA - Whilst moving our bodies in a way that feels good is important, it’s not the only thing that can improve wellbeing. In this Yoga class there will also be breathwork, discussion, meditation and more. It’s not some obscure practice that only the limber and enlightened can do, this is for everyone who has an urge to connect with themselves and their

community. 9am Saturdays, Thomas Chalmers Centre, bookwhen.com/ramyoga.Pay as you feel - £1-£10 per class CLEANFERRY - CleanFerry SOLUTION TOvolunteers JULY is a group of local dedicated to reducing the CROSSWORD amount of litter in and around South Queensferry and Dalmeny. Evidence shows that cleaner environments have a positive impact on people’s wellbeing and more widely benefit the community.

Whether you want to do meet new people, do something with friends, gain credit for your Duke of Edinburgh or simply feel good about helping the community CleanFerry is keen to welcome new volunteers. If interested email cleanferry2@gmail.com SOUTH QUEENSFERRY BABY AND TODDLER ACROSS: GROUP - Thursdays 7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, 9 Heir, 10 9.30am Sculptor, –1111.30am the15Church Capsule, 13at Untie, Scent, 17Hall Average, 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23Mums, Stolen, 24 Nearly. on The Loan, SQ. Dad’s, Grandparents, Carers all welcome.

A small fee of £3.00 is DOWN: payable to cover the4rent of5the 1 Dime, 2 Yearns, 3 Falsely, Syrup, Happen, 6 Allowing, 12 Accurate, Evident, 16tea/ Neatly, hall, snack for little14 ones and 18 Repeal, Agent, 22 Rile. coffee for19the adults.

Just turn up, or for more information join SOLUTION TO SUDOKU the Facebook group, search “South Queensferry ON PAGE XX Baby and Toddler Group” WINCHBURGH ART CLUB We meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall.

Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk FRIENDSHIP CLUB - A friendly group that meets at the residents lounge at 40 Shore Road, Queensferry to enjoy various entertainments eg. quizzes, games, occasional guest presenters and tea/ coffee/delicious cake. First Disclaimer: The month, publisher 2.00cannot accept Wed of each responsibility lossmeeting. or damageFor caused 3.30pm. £2forper by errorinformation in the printing contact of an advertisement. more Lorna We do noton endorse advertisers Russell 0131any 331 5570 orin this publication.

All material is accepted email lorna.russell@qccc.org.uk for publication on the understanding it is WINCHBURGH copyright free. No partSPEAKERS of this publication CLUB - Would you likeprior to consent of may be reproduced without develop your speaking skills, the publisher. overcome nerves, gain Publisher: Lothian Publications confidence, build strong Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, leadership skills, and improve West Lothian EH54 6GU. your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come Magazine Design: along or send us a message Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858 to find out how Winchburgh

Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Bowling Club ( (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk FRIENDS OF FERRY GLEN - A volunteer garden team that maintains local areas through weeding and planting, as well as special projects. The group also enjoys tours, social outings and events together. Contact Neil mckinlayassociates@hotmail.co.uk KIRKY CRAFTERS - Meet new friends and explore your creative side. Meet Thomas Chalmers Centre, The Square, Kirkliston.

Fortnightly on a Monday except July and August. For more information please contact Ann on 0131 333 1834 or email ann_ denholm@btinternet.com SUPPER CLUB - Run by Queensferry Care, for people with a diagnosis of dementia, or other cognitive impairment, and their carer. This could be a family member, friend or neighbour. This is a unique service in that we support both the carer and the cared for person. It provides an opportunity to meet with others to enjoy an evening meal at The Haven (Queensferry) or a local restaurant. For information contact mail@qccc.org.uk KIRKLISTON LUNCH CLUB - Meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the Kirkliston Community Centre, 16-18 Queensferry Rd, Kirkliston EH29 9AQ. It is for any older person who’d like to meet and eat with others. The cost is no more than £5. Run

by Queensferry Care, for more information please contact mail@qccc.org.uk KIRKLISTON KNITTING GROUP - From beginners to experienced knitters. Meet at Kirkliston Library on Mondays 1.30pm. 16 Station Road, Kirkliston, EH29 9BE. TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT. SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, 9 Heir, 10 Sculptor, 11 Capsule, 13 Untie, 15 Scent, 17 Average, 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23 Stolen, 24 Nearly.

DOWN: 1 Dime, 2 Yearns, 3 Falsely, 4 Syrup, 5 Happen, 6 Allowing, 12 Accurate, 14 Evident, 16 Neatly, 18 Repeal, 19 Agent, 22 Rile.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 20

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

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