Konect Queensferry December 2025

DEC 2025 / JAN 2026

LOCAL CHARITY: COMPETITION:

GARDEN PROJECT:

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

r e b m e c e D

P22

I

t’s the season fairy lights, spicy hot drinks and Christmas events to attend. Check the What’s On pages for plenty of ways of enjoying the season out and about locally. There are still a fw Christmas fairs coming up, and it’s always good to support local causes and charities for whom these are important fundraising events - and you always find unique and interesting gifts too.

Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking are offering Konect readers the chance to win a pony trek! Read about their very special herd of ponies on pages 10-11 and enter the prize draw! They offer trek gift vouchers for a thoughtful and different Christmas gift.

This season can be particularly difficult for older people who are isolated and struggling. Queensferry Care are dedicated to helping bring food, friendship and company to older people in our community, please see page 7 for ways you can help this Christmas, and page 6 for local businesses looking for an excellent cause to sponsor.

There is more of course, and all our regular columns. I hope you enjoy this last issue of 2025. We take a break over Christmas and Hogmanay, so there is no January issue; we will be back with the February Konect.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers and local organisations featured in Konect a wonderful and peaceful festive season.

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

Charity: Queensferry Churches Care in the Community........................................... 6 Feature: Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking...............................................10 Health: Overcoming Gym Anxiety............12 Life Coaching: Friends for Life..................14 Feature: Re-gifting.......................................18 Puzzles..........................................................19 Garden Project: Tablescaping..................21 Local Environment: Merry Christmas.......22 Recipe: Chunky “Clam” Chowder............24 Wine: Port......................................................25 Film Review: Fantastic Four.......................25 What’s On: December................................26

COVER IMAGE: Wishing all our readers a peaceful festive season!

Konect is delivered to 7500 households in Queensferry, Kirkliston and Winchburgh.

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

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

Oven Cleaning

Your local profe

Former franchise o Independen Oven Cleaning OvenOven Cleaning Cleaning Oven Cleaning

Your local professional Your local professional Your local Former franchise owner, now Your local professional professional Independent!

Former franchise owner, now Oven Cleaning Former franchisefranchise owner, now Former Independent!

Ovens Independent!

Oven Cleaning owner, now Hobs Your local independent! professional Extractors Ovens Ovens

Fixed Fixed Prices

Ovens Fully Insured Hobs Environmentally friendly, n caustic products used, no f safe around children and Extractors Ranges Contact Andy today for a quote!

Microwave Call or Whatsapp: 07584 75 BBQ’s Email: Fixed Prices Prices

Insured Fixed Prices FullyFully Insured

Environmentally friendly, Fully Insured Environmentally, non-noncaustic products used, no fumes, caustic products used, Fixed Prices safe around children andnonpets.

Environmentally friendly,

no fumes, safe around

caustic products used, noFixed fumes,Prices children and pets safe around children and pets.

Fully Insured Contact Andy today for a free Contact Andy today Fully Insured quote!

for a free quote! friendly, nonRanges Your local professionalEnvironmentally Hobs Contact Andy today for a free Hobs Ovens, Hobs, Microwaves Call or products Whatsapp: 07584 Former franchise owner, now caustic used,753736 no fumes, Extractors Environmentally frien Call or quote!

WhatsApp: BBQ’s Extractors Extractors, Ranges, Ranges Independent! safe around children and pets.

Former franchise owner, now caustic products used 07584 753736 Microwaves Microwaves, BBQs Ranges Independent!

All eco-friendly products used BBQ’s

Ovens Microwaves All eco-friendly Hobs All eco-friendly products used BBQ’s products Ovens used

4 | QUEENSFERRY

Extractors Hobs Ranges Microwaves Ranges BBQ’s Microwaves

Extractors All eco-friendly products used BBQ’s All eco-friendly products used

Email:07584 753736 Call or Whatsapp: safe around children ajssparklingovens@gmail.com

Email: Email: ajssparklingovens@ Contact Andy today for a free ajssparklingovens@gmail.com gmail.com quote!

Contact Andy today

quote! ajssparklingovens@gmail.

Call or Whatsapp: 07584 753736

Call or Whatsapp: 075 Email: ajssparklingovens@gmail.com

RKLISTON

EDINBURGH & KI

QUEENSFERRY | 5

6 | QUEENSFERRY

QUEENSFERRY | 7

8 | QUEENSFERRY

QUEENSFERRY | 9

Student-led treks are tailored to suit all abilities

Explore the Pentland Hills with an unforgettable pony trekking adventure with Exmoor Pony Trekking.

Run by the Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking Section, this student-led, not for profit organisation has been caring for these remarkable ponies since 1965. Every Remarkable Ponies

trek supports the welfare and conservation of this rare native breed while offering riders a chance to escape city life and reconnect with nature.

This is your opportunity to ride one of the UK’s oldest native breeds.

Whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced rider, our treks are tailored to suit all abilities. Our friendly, experienced trek leaders prioritise safety and fun, ensuring every rider has a memorable experience.

Depending on the season, your trek takes place across one of two stunning Scottish locations: • PENTLAND HILLS (September to May) – ride from Swanston Farm in Edinburgh through peaceful, rolling countryside with spectacular views • OCHIL HILLS (June to August) – explore the remote beauty of Glendevon with breathtaking scenery

10 | QUEENSFERRY

We also host Pony Birthday Parties, perfect for children who dream of spending time with ponies. Parties include short supervised rides, hands-on grooming and the chance to learn about pony care and history. It’s a fun, educational, and truly unique way to celebrate a special day surrounded by nature, friends and our herd of twelve wellloved ponies.

Looking for a thoughtful gift idea? Trek vouchers make the perfect present for friends and family – ideal for birthdays, Christmas or any special occasion.

To find out more or book your trek today visit: exmoorponytrekking.co.uk

WIN A PONY TREK! Edinburgh University Exmoor Pony Trekking are offering Konect readers a chance to win an ‘All abilities afternoon trek.”

The trek runs for 1-1.5 hours on a weekend.

There is a strict weight limit of 66kg (due to the ponies’ size). If you win and are over this weight, alternative, same-value prizes are available including a “Pony Meet & Greet” or a merch bundle.

Winner will receive a voucher via email from EUEPTS for an all ability afternoon trek, or if over the weight limit, one of the alternative, same-value prizes.

To enter the prize draw, simply answer the following question:

HOW MANY PONIES ARE IN THE EDINBURGH UNIVERSITY EXMOOR PONIES HERD? A) 8

B) 12

C) 23

Closing date for entries Fri 19th Dec 2025

Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code (above) to enter your answer. Winners will receive a voucher by email from EUEPTS.

FULL T&CS ARE ON OUR WEBSITE.

QUEENSFERRY | 11

KIRKLISTON - Fico’s Italian Bistro, 15 Main Street, Kirkliston EH29 9AE EVERY MONDAY @ 7PM* *EXCLUDING BANK HOLIDAYS

12 | QUEENSFERRY

QUEENSFERRY | 13

LIFE COACHING

Sometimes we fall into relationships that suit us at a particular time in our lives.

There are those childhood friendships based on sharing our secrets or that friend we made on the first day in our new job who took us under their wing. Then there are those friends we made when our children were small and we stood at the school gates waiting for the bell to ring.

As life moves on our social circles narrow and it can be more difficult to encounter people through shared life experiences. But, maybe we find a new friend who is interesting and funny whose life is full of drama and we are the lucky one they choose to call when there is a new adventure in their life. This can feel exciting but the downside is that the relationship can settle down into a pattern, where one party talks and shares all their

14 | QUEENSFERRY

issues and anxieties and the other listens patiently. This is fine if it suits both parties but the problems begin when resentment sets in and the friend who listens and is always available starts to feel put upon and resentful.

When a relationship is out of balance we can start to seethe inwardly and decide that it’s all about them and not us. This can signal the breakdown of the friendship but, if we communicated clearly and found the courage to share our feelings honestly we could find that our friendships move onto a new and more equal footing and can be the supportive relationships we needed but hadn’t dared hope for.

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 orrganise.co.uk

QUEENSFERRY | 15

16 | QUEENSFERRY

QUEENSFERRY | 17

Three in five adults in the UK received an unwanted gift last Christmas. That equates to around 31 million unnecessary presents, many of which ended up in landfill.

In a bid to simultaneously put a stop to this staggering seasonal waste and to help families who may be struggling to make ends meet, one local Community Interest Company is launching a brand-new Re-Gifting Tree project.

This season, all Leith Collective stores across Scotland feature a Christmas tree adorned with gift tags. Each tag bears the name of a gift, from a children’s book or a warm scarf to a box of chocolates or toiletries set. Visitors to the store can take a tag and drop off the corresponding gift at the store, where they will be collected and distributed to those in need this Christmas. Crucially, the emphasis of this project is on re-gifting good quality, unopened presents, rather than encouraging people to purchase new items.

The Leith Collective founder Sara Thomson said; “We live in such a divided society where some people are literally throwing away unwanted presents while many others are struggling to afford basic essentials such as heating and food, let alone Christmas presents.

By launching our Re-Gifting Tree project, we hope to keep as many unwanted presents as possible out of landfill and instead direct them to people who will truly appreciate them.”

The Leith Collective’s popular Christmas Tree Exchange project is also back this year. Locals are being urged to search their homes for any unwanted Christmas trees and decorations that may be languishing in cupboards and attics. Instead of sending them to landfill, they can drop them off at The Leith Collective stores where they will be passed on to struggling families whose budgets can’t stretch to non18 | QUEENSFERRY

essentials such as festive trimmings.

Commenting on the return of the Christmas Tree Exchange, Sara added; “We need to pull together as a community because everyone deserves to enjoy the sparkle and magic of waking up to a Christmas tree with a present beneath it.”

Christmas trees and decorations will be available for anyone to collect at The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet, as well as Edinburgh’s Fort Kinnaird, Ocean Terminal and Dundee’s Overgate store, during opening hours completely free of charge. No stigma, no judgement, no questions asked.

For more information about The Leith Collective head to www.theleithcollective.com, email info@theleithcollective.com, or call 07447 659 999.

• The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet - Almondvale Avenue, Livingston, EH54 6QX Open: Monday 9am - 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am - 6pm, Thursday - Saturday 9am - 8pm, Sunday 9am - 6pm • The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird Newcraighall, Edinburgh, EH15 3RD Open: 10am - 8pm, seven days a week • The Leith Collective at Ocean Terminal - Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ Open: Monday - Saturday 11am - 6pm, and Sunday 11am - 5pm

58mm Vertical [LEFT]

DECEMBER CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the FEBRUARY edition

ACROSS: 7. Light wind (6), 8. Add up (6), 9. Not pretty (4), 10. Take away (8), 11. Tenth month (7), 13. Deprived (5), 15. Two times (5), 17. Remaining (7), 20. Booklet (8), 21. Assists (4), 22. Floats (6), 23. Unlocked (6).

DOWN: 1. Horrendous (6), 2. Refute (4), 3. Childhood illness (7), 4. Investigate (5), 5. Barely (8), 6. Coerced (6), 12. Engaged (8), 14. Stopping place (7), 16. Gun or knife (6), 18. Bowed (6), 19. Nearby (5), 21. Pinnacle (4).

Join us online for more articles, updates, reader offers and more!

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 29

DECEMBER SUDOKU

ADD SOLUTION DETAILS QUEENSFERRY | 19

Got a story?

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL! If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby.....get in touch via

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

(You need to live and/or work in the Queensferry, Kirkliston, or Winchburgh areas to feature in this magazine)

20 | QUEENSFERRY

Winter Flowering Jasmine, Pansies, Violas, Heather or Viburnums.

Have you tried Tablescaping since our June item in Konect?

As we fall into winter there is huge resistance to getting out into the garden despite the nation being told how good gardening is for us; physically, mentally and environmentally.

A little tablescaping is just the thing to tempt us outside. Lesley keeps a tablescape going throughout the year on our hall table, using an assortment of little glass jars, vases and candle sticks.

At this time of year she relies heavily on evergreen foliage but always manages to find a few flowers from the garden: Hellebores, yellow

She suggests that you choose some evergreen leaves like Holly, Pittosporum, Viburnum or Euonymus and repeat your chosen leaves in several of the little vases to give a unifying rhythm to your tablescape.

Having chosen your main ‘rhythm’ plant you’ll quickly spot leaves and blooms to go with it and before too long you’ll have enough plant material to allow you to escape back indoors.

Using small containers your pickings will be easily kept upright without using plastic floral foam and you just need to remember to keep them topped up with clean water and enjoy your creation.

The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

QUEENSFERRY | 21

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Is it just me or has this year absolutely flown by? It’s fast approaching Christmas and it only feels like yesterday we were welcoming in the new year and I was gearing up for my 40th birthday trip to Kenya.

It was a really lovely summer, especially in comparison to last year which I remember being a bit more wet and windy. I’d been looking forward to watching and photographing the foxes I spent time with last year, but they didn’t show up. Neither did my hares or dippers, so it’s safe to say my photography took a bit of a back seat. I had a wonderful week on Mull in May hosting a workshop, which I’m looking forward to doing again next year. It’s always such a joy to share that incredible island with others and watch people experience its wildlife for the first time.

is usually achieved through strategically placed nuts.

Given I haven’t been out much, this image is from a couple of years back when I bribed some squirrels to take part in a Christmas photoshoot. It takes them a while to get used to it and even more time for them to sit in just the right place. They’re naturally inquisitive animals and this task

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

22 | QUEENSFERRY

I hope this photo brings a smile and a touch of festive cheer—wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy start to the new year.

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.

QUEENSFERRY | 23

FOOD & DRINK

Inspired by the classic American chowder, this indulgent chunky soup features a thick and creamy non-dairy milk base, tender potatoes, fragrant aromatics, and oyster mushrooms as the perfect substitute for clams. An ideal vegan option for Christmas eve or Christmas Day starter.

Serves 4-6 | Prep Time 15mins | Cooking Time 30 mins | Dietary requirements: Dairy-free, Egg-free, Vegan Ingredients (Mushrooms):

• 1 tbsp olive oil • 250g/8¾oz king oyster mushrooms, sliced. If you can’t get oyster mushrooms, substitute with small button mushrooms, halved.

• 1 garlic clove, minced • 1 tsp soy sauce

Ingredients (Soup Base):

• 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 medium onion, diced • 2 celery stalks, diced • 2 medium carrots, diced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 120ml/4fl oz dry white wine • 1 litre/1¾ pints vegetable stock • 3 tbsp plain flour • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bitesized pieces • 2 bay leaves • 1 tsp dried thyme • 2 tsp kelp granules or dulse flakes. If you prefer not to have the taste of the sea, replace with 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill • Salt and cracked black pepper to taste • 100ml/3¾fl oz vegan cream

Method:

1. Heat the oil on a medium heat in large heavy based pan. Fry the mushrooms until soft, then add one clove of garlic. Fry for 1 more minute.

2. Add in the soy sauce and mix well to coat the mushrooms. Place the mushrooms in a bowl and set to one side.

3. Heat the remaining oil and fry the onions until soft. Then add the celery, carrots and the rest of the garlic and fry until tender.

4. Add the wine and turn up the heat to boil.

Once boiling reduce the heat and stir in the flour, stirring for a minute to remove any lumps.

5. Gradually stir in the stock then add the potatoes and herbs. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. Return the mushroom mixture to the pan.

6. Add the kelp/dulse or parsley/dill, and season to taste.

7. Stir through cream and serve with crusty bread.

This recipe was contributed by Claire Bannerman, Vegetarian for Life’s (VfL) dedicated Roving Chef for Scotland working mostly in West Lothian and Forth Valley. Nourishing Plant Based Food : Life Long Skills, Not Quick Fix Pills. [ vforlife.org.uk ] 24 | QUEENSFERRY

WINE TASTING

Port season is here! Although available throughout the year, winter is the season we appreciate it most.

In 1659 two events coincided helping create Port as we know it today. The British government placed an embargo on French wine, and a Portuguese Abbot confessed the secret to his delicious wine: he added grape spirit (brandy) to his wine during fermentation! By adding brandy to the wine, the process of fermentation was halted, leaving a naturally sweet, fruity ‘fortified’ wine.

Port styles vary and so do the prices! White and Ruby Ports and youthful, fruity and uncomplicated. Serve these slightly chilled and enjoy!

Aged Tawny is delicious! The label will state how long the wine has been aged in oak casks. Aged Tawny is aged 10, 20, 30, 40+ years. As the Port ages, the vibrant red colour becomes a reddish-brown, ‘tawny’ colour. A 10-year-old will tend to retain some fruit with a suggestion of nuts, dried fruit and caramel. The older the tawny port, the more the nutty, dried fruit notes dominate.

Vintage Port is a very special style of Port.

It’s only produced in exceptional years and only from the best grapes. It can age for decades, evolving and developing complexity in the bottle. Sediment will form in the bottle, so Vintage Port needs to be carefully decanted.

Late Bottled Vintage Ports (LBV) are a user-friendly style of port. These wines are bottled later following cask aging, they are ready to drink on release but retain much of the depth of vintage port.

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

Marvel’s first family has finally joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While the quality of the MCU post-Endgame has been inconsistent, with forgettable TV shows that have little impact on the films’ continuity, WandaVision is not essential viewing to understand Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps feels like a nostalgic piece of entertainment, as the film is stripped back and character-driven, quickly recapping the fluff and beats we already know to tell its story. Due to this simplified approach, the film ranks among the best MCU entries in some time.

Galactus has marked the planet for death, declares the Silver Surfer in a retro-futuristic take on New York City. Immediately striking is the film’s ’60s aesthetic, with visuals that set the film apart from the main MCU timeline, which mirrors our own world. The film works so well because the entire cast functions as a family unit. Pedro Pascal is having an incredible year and makes an excellent Reed Richards, while Vanessa Kirby is also fantastic as Sue Storm.

The inclusion of Galactus, however, may be divisive. His inclusion allows the fantastic four to travel off planet and have incredible action set pieces in space. He is also an iconic villain of the Fantastic Four, and ties into the film’s themes of family and unity. But it leaves you questioning where we go next. Aside from that, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is an enjoyable film worth watching now that it’s available on Disney+.

Available now on Disney+ 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 be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

QUEENSFERRY | 25

SATURDAY 6TH DECEMBER Linlithgow Artisan Market The perfect place to do your Christmas shopping and meet up with friends for a blether! Linlithgow’s monthly artisan market on the first Saturday of each month. Stalls on the High Street, the Vennel and also indoors in the EH49 Hub (old Library). Lots of unique and local stalls offering foods and drinks, meats, fish and game, fruit and veg, arts and crafts, dog treats, plants, and lots more.

10.00am – 3.00pm.

EVERYDAY FROM SATURDAY 6TH DEC - WEDNESDAY 24TH DECEMBER Christmas at Almond Valley Santa’s elves are taking over Almond Valley in the most dazzling way imaginable, decking the halls (and everything else!) from top to toe in twinkling lights, festive cheer, and a generous sprinkle of mischief with the launch of their inaugural Festival of Christmas. During the daylight hours Christmas comes to life with a range of magical activities for the whole family to enjoy. Discover the joys of Christmas at Almond Valley where everyday is filled with festive cheer and unforgettable fun!

Elf Workshop, Polar Post Station, meet the reindeer, and much more.

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS AVAILABLE TO BOOK SEPARATELY: • After Dark Experience - Saturday 6th December to Sunday 4th January • Santa’s Express Train – daily in December • Meet Santa in his cosy cottage - various dates starting 6th December • Santa for Tots and Toddlers – special mid-week offer, various dates starting 8th December

• Relaxed Santa visits - 6th and 7th December For more information, pricing and to book the special events please visit: www.almondvalley.co.uk/whats-on/ festival-of-christmas Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR Phone: 01506 414957 E-mail: info@almondvalley.co.uk SUNDAY 7TH DECEMBER Christmas Wreath Making North Queensferry Community Complex.

Tea/coffee/drinks/mince pies. BYOB. FREE, donations welcome for community centre improvements. 5.00pm or 7.30pm, email to book your space, facilities@nqcommunitycomplex.org.uk FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER Christmas Concert: Toccata Ladies Choir Broxburn Parish Church, 7.30pm. TICKETS £10/£5 on the door or from choir members. www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk SATURDAY 13TH DECEMBER Clarinet and Piano Hosted by Linlithgow Art Guild. Katherine Spencer and Sam Haywood are outstanding musicians, with established careers in the UK. This is a wide-ranging programme of music for clarinet and piano. Linlithgow Academy, 7.30pm. TICKETS £8/£18.

Information and booking via: www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk SUNDAY 21ST DECEMBER Christmas Amble Join a Historic Environment Scotland Ranger for a warming winter amble around Linlithgow Loch (approx 2.3 miles) and learn a bit about some festive plants and animals.

Meet at the entrance to Linlithgow Palace.

1.00pm – 3.00pm. FREE. SUNDAY 18TH JANUARY Trees in Winter Join a Historic Environment Scotland Ranger to learn the tips and tricks to identify trees in winter around the lovely setting of Linlithgow Peel and Loch. Meet at the entrance to Linlithgow Palace. 1.00pm – 2.30pm. FREE.

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. 26 | QUEENSFERRY

QUEENSFERRY | 27

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

RCCG SOLID ROCK PARISH KIRKLISTON - The Redeemed Christian Church of God. Join us every Sunday for a time of worship. Service starts 11am.

Kirkliston Community Centre, 1618 Queensferry Road, Kirkliston, EH29 9AQ. Join our prayer meeting every Tuesday Zoom link: bit.ly/srprayer CHRIST CHURCH QUEENSFERRY - Looking for hope, truth, and community? Christ Church Queensferry is a Bible-believing church made up of ordinary people from Queensferry.

Whether you’re a committed Christian or just exploring faith, you’re welcome to join us on Sundays at 10:30am in Rosebery Hall, South Queensferry, for worship, teaching, and friendship.

You’ll find a warm welcome and a message that matters.

For more information visit christchurchqueensferry.org or find us on Facebook.

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 28 | QUEENSFERRY

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 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 19:15-20:15 at the Winchburgh Sport and Wellbeing Hub (Xcite). First session is free, then £6 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.

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER 9am Saturdays, Thomas CROSSWORD Chalmers Centre, bookwhen. com/ramyoga.Pay as you feel P E B M per G class W £1-£10 L U X U R Y B A N A N A - CleanFerry CLEANFERRY U P A T is a DgroupL of local volunteers dedicated E N C E C O M Mthe F E E L to reducing amount ofO litterHin and P around R E South Queensferry and D A P T E S T A L L D A Dalmeny. Evidence shows E C D that Icleaner environments have impact C T T O I onL E T S E V aI positive people’s wellbeing and more O I H T U widely benefit the community.

V I L E A D D I T I O N Whether you want to do meet I with U L P something C newI people, do N O R E L Ecredit S I G U N C gain friends, for your Duke of Edinburgh or G good K G Y Y simply L feel about helping the community CleanFerry is keen to welcome ACROSS: 7 Banana, 8 Luxury, 9 Feel, new volunteers. interested 10 Commence, 11 IfAdapted, 13 Stall, email cleanferry2@gmail.com 15 Evict, 17 Toilets, 20 Addition, 21 Vile, SOUTH 23 Uncles,QUEENSFERRY 24 Ignore.

BABY TODDLER DOWN:AND 1 Made, 2 Gallop, 3 Watched, GROUP Thursdays 9.30am4 Plump, 5 Expert, 6 Bracelet, 11.30am at the Church 12 Dividing, 14 Council, 16 Hall Chilly,on The Loan,19 SQ. Mums, Dad’s, 18 Loving, Tipsy, 22 Lurk.

Grandparents, Carers all welcome. A small fee of £2.00 SOLUTION TO SUDOKU is payable to cover the rent of the and tea/coffee/cakes/ ONhall PAGE XX biscuits for the adults. Just turn up, or for more information join the Facebook group, search“South Queensferry 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, occasional Disclaimer:games, The publisher cannot accept guest presenters and tea/ caused responsibility for loss or damage coffee/delicious cake.

First by error in the printing of an advertisement.

Wed month, 2.00- in We do of noteach endorse any advertisers 3.30pm. £2 per meeting.

For this publication. All material is accepted more information contact Lorna for publication on the understanding it is Russell 331 5570 or copyright on free.0131 No part of this publication email may belorna.russell@qccc.org.uk reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS CLUB - Would like toLtd. Publisher: Lothian you Publications develop yourKirkton speaking Geddes House, North,skills, Livingston, overcome nerves, gain West Lothian EH54 6GU. confidence, build strong Magazine Design: leadership skills, and improve Alan Stewart Design your communication in a relaxed T: 07729 911858environment? Come and friendly

along or send us a message 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 NOVEMBER CROSSWORD P E B M G W L U X U R B A N A N A U P A D L T C O M M E N C F E E L P R E O H S T A L A D A P T E D E I C D T O I L E T E V I C T O I H T U V I L A D D I T I O N I U I L P C I G N O R U N C L E S G

Y

Y

L

G

Y E L S E E

K

ACROSS: 7 Banana, 8 Luxury, 9 Feel, 10 Commence, 11 Adapted, 13 Stall, 15 Evict, 17 Toilets, 20 Addition, 21 Vile, 23 Uncles, 24 Ignore.

DOWN: 1 Made, 2 Gallop, 3 Watched, 4 Plump, 5 Expert, 6 Bracelet, 12 Dividing, 14 Council, 16 Chilly, 18 Loving, 19 Tipsy, 22 Lurk.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 19

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

QUEENSFERRY | 29

30 | QUEENSFERRY

QUEENSFERRY | 31