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wishing all readers a wonderful time at the Kirkliston Children’s Gala and Winchburgh Children’s Gala!

Heading into the summer months of abundance, New Hopetoun Gardens offer a simple and delicious recipe for a favourite starter – bruschetta - and there is a packed What’s On section. Look out for the RNLI annual Open Day which is on 14th June this year.

I recently came across some work of a Dr William Wilkie, and noticing he was born in Echline, South Queensferry, decided to look into who he was. It turns out he was quite an interesting character, so I’ve written a short biography-style article about him for the local history article this month. It led me into looking into old ague cures to try and understand his behaviours, and the history of potato farming!

With all our usual columns and everything you need for help with looking after home and garden too, hope you enjoy Konect this month!

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

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

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“The Scottish Homer”,“the Potato Minister”, esteemed colleague of Adam Smith, David Hume and other giants of the Scottish Enlightenment; these are just some of the characteristics of William Wilkie, South Queensferry’s Enlightenment eccentric.

His name has faded, but he was famous in his time for his achievements - and unusual behaviour, in particular relating to bedclothes!

William Wilkie was the son of a farmer at Echline, a family descended from the Wilkies of Ratho Byers. He was born in October 1721. At that time, the area from just this side of Cramond in the east, to Abercorn in the west, was all the Parish of Dalmeny. William went to school in Dalmeny Parish School – likely the first school in Queensferry, which had been established as recently as 1671 (now the Masonic Lodge building). Education was not free, but his parents must have had enough money to send their son to school. He showed much promise, especially in literature and poetry, and went to Edinburgh University at age 13.

At university, William befriended giants of the Scottish Enlightenment including John Home, Adam Smith, Adam Ferguson and David Hume. Home’s biographer wrote that Wilkie was “regarded by his college friends as the ablest of the distinguished students of his day.” Whilst they all went on to publish hugely influential works in philosophy and economics,

William Wilkie went down a different route which included poetry, the pulpit - and potatoes.

His father died while William was just two years into his time at university, leaving financially straitened circumstances. He had been leasing a farm at Fishers Tryst (south of Edinburgh) and William took over the lease, throwing himself into farming, at which he excelled, as well as the care and support of his mother and three sisters. He maintained his studies in theology and philosophy and at age 24 obtained his licence as a preacher. It was to be another eight years before he secured a ministerial position with the church. In the meantime, he pursued his work in agriculture as well as working on what was to become his major published work of poetry several years later.

Potatoes were a relatively new crop in Scotland. Dedicated potato farms didn’t appear in Edinburgh until around 1725, so at the time William Wilkie was farming potatoes were in their first couple of decades of serious development here. Typically, Wilkie did very well at cultivating them - better than all his neighbours, although less well at business. One source quotes him as saying, “I can raise crops better than any of my neighbours, but I am always cheated in the market.”

The original Queensferry school (now Masonic Lodge), possibly Wilkie’s first school

Being often distracted with his learning and writing, he gained a reputation for being eccentric. He was always dressed in several layers of clothing even in warm weather, and liked many blankets at night. One anecdote relates

to an occasion when he was staying with relatives for the night, and asked for plenty of blankets. “His female friends in the family collected twenty-four pairs, and put them on his bed. When asked in the morning if he had had abundance of bed-clothes, he answered that he had just enough, and had slept well.”

In around 1752 William was appointed by the Earl of Lauderdale (of Hatton House) as assistant minister in the Parish of Ratho, becoming minster three years later when the incumbent John Guthrie passed away. Nicknamed “the Potato Minister” due to his dedication to that crop, his absent-mindedness set his parishioners talking –notably sometimes forgetting to take off his hat before entering the pulpit!

He apparently hated clean bed sheets. As a frequent visitor at Hatton House and highly respected by the Earl of Lauderdale, on one occasion when pressed by Lady Lauderdale to stay the night, “he agreed, though with reluctance, and only on condition that her ladyship would indulge him in the luxury of a pair of foul sheets!”

Whilst clearly noteworthy by contemporary commentators, it’s likely that these behaviours were related to his on-going health battle with ague – a form of malaria that used to plague damp and marshy areas of the UK. Inducing perspiration was considered a way of “flushing it out”, and wet sheets were used to reduce fever. There is no mention of a relationship or a Mrs Wilkie in any of the records. Possibly the recurring battle with ague and requirement for piles of blankets and “foul sheets” could have been a problematic!

series in the style of Homer (hence the sobriquet “Scottish Homer”), it gained him some fame in Scottish literary circles. The work imitated Homer so well in fact that one reviewer wrote,” a person ignorant of Greek, will, I believe, better conceive what Homer is in the original by perusing the Epigoniad, than by reading even the excellent translation of Pope.”

In 1759 William Willkie won the prestigious professorship of Moral Philosophy at St Andrew’s University. He initially juggled his pastoral role at Ratho with his teaching at St Andrews, but eventually settled in St Andrews where he continued to devote his leisure time to agriculture and in particular the development of moorland farming.

William Wilkie was a man of contrasts, widely considered to be “superior in genius to any man of his time,” but uncouth, slovenly and using tobacco to “an immoderate excess.” The contemporary politician Charles Townsend said “he had never met with a man who approached so near to the two extremes of a god and a brute as Dr Wilkie.” An excellent conversationalist with deep general knowledge, his company was appreciated in many circles.

Thrifty but not mean, in his latter years he donated regularly to charity. He said, “I have shaken hands with poverty up to the very elbow, and I wish never to see her face again” - possibly referring to his time as a young man when he inherited a struggling farm and had to support the rest of his family.

He succumbed to his on-going health issues and died at age 51, and is buried in St Andrews.

William’s major published work was an epic poem called the Epigoniad, published in 1597. A huge, nine-book

This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Gisbourne. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

Ratho Parish Church, where Wilkie was minister

58mm Vertical [RIGHT]

Stress is something we are all too aware of, whether it’s the day to day kind where we are chasing our children round the house in the morning trying to get them to school or the last minute panic as that deadline looms at work.

The effects of stress can be as individual as we are. For some it’s headaches or other physical symptoms and for others sleep can be severely disrupted. However we react, stress is always characterised as a feeling of not being in control and it can’t be denied that it is disruptive and challenging as we try to go about our day to day lives.

When life is stressful, control or the lack of it, has a pivotal part to play but it is important to remember that we are not powerless and there are choices we can always make. Identifying our stress triggers and deciding to intervene early can support us to develop some healthy new habits.

If we always find ourselves running out of the door with minutes to spare panicking at anything that gets in our way as we dash to our destination; if we drive along the motorway cursing all those slow drivers who we think are just there to get in our way; or we find ourselves rushing to complete that task at the very last minute; developing healthy new habits, making a plan, using our time effectively and taking a deep breath before embarking on the day could make all the difference and lower those stress levels forever.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See orrganise.co.uk

JUNE CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the JULY edition

ACROSS: 7. Type of fruit (6), 8. Astute (6), 9. Encounter (4), 10. Fluttering (8), 11. Diary (7), 13. Honestly (5), 15. Regularly (5), 17. Nearest (7), 20. Pupils (8), 21. Encourage (4), 23. Chortles (6), 24. Four score (6).

DOWN: 1. Very unusual (4), 2. Repartee (6), 3. Central (7), 4 Customary (5), 5. Correct (6), 6. Diminishes (8), 12. Formal (8), 14. Clutched (7), 16. Sufficient (6), 18. Smear (6), 19. Fake (5), 22. Barrier (4).

JUNE SUDOKU

Swimming can be a fantastic activity for your dog, but only if they’re enjoying it. Let them go at their own pace and always prioritise safety and fun.

Breeds with short muzzles (bulldogs, pugs) may struggle to keep their noses above water and often have to paddle almost upright to stay afloat. For others, like Labradors, you may have a job convincing them to come out! How can you persuade a reluctant swimmer to take the plunge?

Pick a warm, sunny day and find calm, shallow water.

• Avoid places that are busy with other dogs or children.

• Look for a gentle slope in – no surprise splashes.

• Show your dog how to get back out safely, so they don’t panic.

• Bring some high-value treats for motivation.

• Stepping into the water with them can boost their confidence. Keep things positive, relaxed and full of praise.

The smell and the taste of freshly picked tomatoes from your greenhouse are the epitome of summer in Scotland! Even if you don’t grow them yourself you will possibly have friends giving away some of their never ending crop.

Many years ago, quite unplanned, we gave each other Italian Cooking Experiences because we were planning our project ‘Tartan Tuscan Potager to Plate’. Dougal gave Lesley (and himself!) a week in Tuscany on a cooking course, the lasting memory being the endless supply of wine when twelve of us were cooking dinner in the Villa’s large kitchen. Lesley’s present was more practical and local, and surprisingly we still use the half dozen recipes from that afternoon’s lesson more often than the recipes from Italy.

Our favourite version of bruschetta is inspired by that afternoon. Originating in Italy many years

ago, it was really a dish for the poorer folk: stale bread toasted, with a topping of tomatoes and garlic with lots of olive oil. Now it’s very fashionable and offered with many different toppings. Our version is simple and very quick to make.

Finely chop tomatoes, losing excessive amounts of juice through a sieve; you want the ‘wetness’ to be olive oil. Finely chop 2 or 3 garlic cloves for every 4 or 5 medium sized tomatoes. Mix in a bowl with 6 chopped basil leaves, 2 tsp chopped marjoram or oregano, black pepper, juice of half a lemon and 3 tbsp olive oil. Spoon onto freshly toasted slices of baguette or sourdough bread… and enjoy.

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

I think everyone who went to the cinema in the lead up to the release of The Sheep Detectives witnessed the trailer unfold on screen, a bizarre and weirdly hypnotic experience that makes you want to see the chaos play out in full. Finally getting to watch the finished film, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.

A family murder mystery directed by one of the minds behind Minions shouldn’t really work, even though only last month, I was talking about Detective Conan, which is essentially the same idea without the Minions pedigree. George Hardy has died, and his sheep, whom he regularly reads novels to, believe he has been murdered. Drawing on the knowledge they’ve absorbed from those books, they attempt to solve the crime themselves, especially since the local police officer is utterly useless.

Filled with a star studded cast, including Julia Louis Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Regina Hall, and Patrick Stewart, the voice ensemble delivers strong performances that bring the sheep to life in captivating ways. Without their commitment, the mystery wouldn’t work nearly as well, nor would the core theme of dealing with loss. Losing someone we love is inevitable, and The Sheep Detectives shows that even when those we care about are gone, if they are remembered, they are never truly forgotten. It’s a powerful message that never feels artificial or hollow. The Sheep Detectives isn’t a masterpiece of cinema, but it stands a step above much of the recent family entertainment released in the genre.

In Cinemas Now

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.

You never stop learning about wine. There’s always a new vintage, a hidden gem of a producer, a different style to taste or an unexpected food pairing to discover. Just when you think you’ve got a solid grasp of the wine world, something comes along and surprises you all over again.

Most recently for me, that surprise was Indian wine.

I’ll admit, I was sceptical. India’s climate brings heat, humidity and monsoon rains, hardly the classic conditions we associate with fine wine. Textbooks would have us believe the grapes would struggle and the wines would lack balance and finesse. But at a recent tasting, I tried wines from Sula Vineyards including Chenin Blanc, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz, and I was genuinely blown away.

While the aged Shiraz was very enjoyable, it was the white wines that completely stole the show. The Viognier in particular was delicious. The nose was beautifully perfumed; it was almost like walking through a tropical garden in bloom. There were layers of spice, generous texture and real personality in the glass. I would happily have a glass of the viognier chilled to drink alone or paired with a grilled seafood or perhaps a spiced fish dish.

Wine has been made in India for centuries, but modern winemaking techniques, cooler high-altitude vineyards and careful vineyard management are transforming quality. It’s exciting to see a wine region challenge expectations like this.

Indian wine? Definitely one to watch and even better, one to taste! Cheers!

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

SAT 31ST MAY & SUN 1ST JUNE

Forth Bridges Creative TrailShowcasing over 30 local creatives across South Queensferry, Dalmeny and Bo’ness. Beautiful and unique pieces of art, covering a range of mediums, including acrylics, oils, pastels, charcoal, collage, ceramics, silver, textiles and wood. Something for everyone, including creative workshops for adults and kids. Meet the makers, find out more about them and possibly take home an original piece of work! 10.00am - 5.00pm each day. See forthbridgescreative.com for more details and a map of the venues.

SUNDAY 7TH JUNE

Bo’ness Car Show - A day packed full of family fun, entertainment for the kids, a stunt show, along with a large traders village including plenty food and coffee vans! Tickets and information at bonesscarshow.co.uk. Kinneil Estate, Bo’ness, EH51 0PR

SUNDAY 7TH JUNE

Newbridge & Ratho Station Farmer’s Market - A new village market, this is the second event. Fresh produce, craft and street food. 11.00am - 3.00pm at Newbridge Bowling Club, 19 Old Liston Road, Newbridge, EH28 8SS First Sunday of each month.

SATURDAY 13TH JUNE

Kirkliston Gala Day - Information and updates at www.kirklistongala.co.uk and Facebook @kirklistongala

SUNDAY 14TH JUNE

RNLI Queensferry Open Day - All welcome to come along to our annual Open Day at Hawes Promenade, South Queensferry with lots for all the family to see and do. Alongside our lifeboat proudly on display we will have a range of stalls and activities. 12noon - 4.00pm. Please check ‘RNLI Queensferry Lifeboat’ Facebook page for further details.

WEDNESDAY 17TH JUNE

Coastal Capers - Come along to Blackness Castle and explore the seashore with the Historic

Environment Rangers. Make some art and learn about the creatures that live call the shore their home. FREE. 1.00pm - 3.00pm. Meet at Blackness Castle. Information and booking via: www.historicenvironment.scot

SUNDAY 21ST JUNE

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, 11.00am3.00pm. See kirklistonvillagemarket.com

SATURDAY 27TH JUNE

Winchburgh Children’s Gala Day

SATURDAY 27TH JUNE

Two Houses and a Castle Guided WalkJoin us for the return of our much-loved annual event the Two Houses and a Castle Walk! Embark on a summer hike across the picturesque landscapes of West Lothian. Delve into the rich history of the region as you explore iconic buildings along the way. Led by knowledgeable staff, this guided walk will take you on a journey between three of West Lothian’s most treasured historic sites: Hopetoun House, Blackness Castle & House of the Binns. Please be aware this walk will cover approx. 5 miles with some rough underfoot conditions, fence crossings and requires a good level of fitness. Tickets £10/£8, booking essential via hopetoun.co.uk

SUNDAY 28TH JUNE

Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - Model Railway, train rides, drive-a-loco, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, toilets and picnic area. 10.30am4.00pm. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF

SATURDAY 11TH JULY

Winchburgh Farmers Market - At Winchburgh Marina, 10.00am - 1.00pm. Lots of stalls with local and artisan food, drink and produce. For updates on traders attending, follow the Facebook page @Winchburgh Farmers Market

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.

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

FERRY AMATEUR SWIM TEAM

- Junior swim club for swimmers aged 8 – 18, who have completed swimming lessons. New members welcome. Sunday afternoons and Monday evenings at Queensferry High School. Affiliated with Scottish Swimming and Aquamark level 1 accredited. For further information please contact ferryamateurswimteam@gmail.com

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 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 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. 9am Saturdays, Thomas Chalmers Centre, bookwhen. com/ramyoga.Pay as you feel£1-£10 per class

Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Bowling Club ( (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

CLEANFERRY - CleanFerry is a group of local volunteers dedicated to reducing the 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: 7. Potato, 8. Retain, 9. Bowl, 10. Speedily, 11. Adapted, 13. Conch, 15. Twist, 17. Cutlass, 20. Twilight, 21. Calm, 23. Prison, 24. Notion. DOWN: 1. Solo, 2. Wallop, 3. Boasted, 4. Aries, 5. Studio, 6. Dialects, 12. Downward, 14. Buttons, 16. Splash, 18. Locate, 19. Agony, 22. Loot.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

GROUP - Thursdays 9.30am11.30am at the Church Hall on The Loan, SQ. Mums, Dad’s, Grandparents, Carers all welcome. A small fee of £2.00 is payable to cover the rent of the hall and tea/coffee/cakes/ 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 maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk

FRIENDSHIP CLUB

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 Wed of each month, 2.003.30pm. £2 per meeting. For more information contact Lorna Russell on 0131 331 5570 or email lorna.russell@qccc.org.uk

WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS

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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.

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PAGE 14

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CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh

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