KonectBalernoMarch14

konect MARCH 2014

WIN

Two night family stay at Hilly Cow Wigwams

VILLAGE PEOPLE

Thanks, Mum!

plus local businesses, community information and more!

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green & Baberton

S& OFFER ERS H C U O V cal from lo ses s e busin

With Mother's Day in mind our writer Suzanne has written a motherthemed article for this issue... she's been talking to some local mothers from Baberton, Currie and Balerno.

Along with all our regular columns, there is a prize draw in this issue – Hilly Cow Wigwams of Kirknewton are offering a two night family stay at their fantastic wigwam venue, see page 59 for details and send your entry in for a chance to win!

Message from the Editor

Look out for Mother's Day special offers and ideas from local businesses throughout the magazine this month.

Thanks for reading konect and supporting local businesses.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638

Advertising enquiries Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory www.konectdirectory.co.uk The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton. Copies are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Contents Features Thanks, Mum!

8

Sofas and Stuff

18

Colin Nixon

42

Regulars Money Matters

22

Thought for the Month

31

Technology 46 Walk 52 Recipe and Food Notes

54

Competitions and Puzzles Crossword and sudoku

50

Hilly Cow Wigwams Prize draw

59

Community

Front cover photograph: Kirsty Thomson and her mother Lynda. See Page 8.

What's on

58

Useful Information

58

Clubs & Classes

60

Index of Advertisers 62

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Showroom now open!

Geoff Milne The Complete Joinery Service

3 Glenbrook, Balerno Edinburgh, EH14 7JE 07815 065843 / 0131 449 4441 gmilnejoinery@hotmail.co.uk

Carpets, vinyls, laminates, beds and blinds Supplied and fitted Free estimates Tel: 0131 449 6961 Pentland Carpets, 3 Pentland View Court, Currie, EH14 5NP

• Garden Design • Landscaping & Tidy ups • Fencing & Turfing • Hedge Trimming & Tree Felling • Interior/exterior Removal Services • Driveways & Patios • Painting Exterior & Interior • Garden Maintenance “No job too big or small”

Free site visits and advice call 07833 website coming soon

458038

Beauty By at

OPEN TUESDAY TO SATURDAY AND LATE EVENINGS.

SPRING/SUMMER OFFERS

G VOU IFT AVA C H E R S ILAB LE

SHELLAC FINGERS OR TOES ............................................. £13 GEL NAIL EXTENSIONS - FRENCH, COLOUR OR GLITTER (NAIL ART ALSO AVAILABLE) ............................................. £20 PARTY LASHES .................................................................. £12

15% OFF ALL WAXING

FULL BODY FAKE BAKE TAN.............................................. £15 FULL BODY MASSAGE SWEDISH OR HOT STONE ............. £25

£10 OFF ALL GUINOT FACIALS

FULL RANGE OF BEAUTY TREATMENTS AVAILABLE

MOTHERS DAY PAMPER PACKAGES

PACKAGE 1

PACKAGE 2

HOT STONE MASSAGE

SHELLAC FINGERS & TOES

GUINOT FACIAL

FAKE BAKE FULL BODY TAN

MINI MANI & PEDI

PARTY LASHES

£65

£43

79 SAUGHTON ROAD NORTH, CARRICK KNOWE, EDINBURGH EH12 7JB

TEL: 0131 334 7509 OR 07984512773 4 konect

MORNINGSIDE, PENTLAND, COLINTON AND NOW BALERNO T: 0131 441 4581 E: morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk

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MAD MARCH SALE AT

RICCARTON GARDEN CENTRE AMAZING DEAL ON COMPOST

only

4 bags multi-purpose compost (50ltr) Spring bedding

Primulas

4 packs for £10

6 for £5

Pansies, viola etc

Lots of colours

£10

Herbaceous and Shrubs

(huge collection)

3 for £10

Lots more deals throughout the garden centre

0131 449 4004

Coffee Shop ● Open 7 days ● huge car park ● Riccarton Mains Road (nr Heriot-Watt) 0131 477 1167 Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com

Sarah’s Fitness

t. 07540 894287 e. sarahhardie@hotmail.co.uk

Kettle class

Mondays 7.15 - 8pm Currie High School £4.50 per class

Designed to shape and sculpt your body in as little as 20 minutes

JOINERY SERVICES Adriatik Sula Currie

Jack Watson JOINERY RELIABLE EXPERIENCED LOCAL JOINER

Mob: 0777 834 7117 email: adriatiksula@hotmail.com

NO JOB TOO SMALL

All aspects of joinery Kitchen fitting, flooring & much more High quality work ■ Free estimates

Tel: 0131 449 3730 Mob: 07711916317

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CALL FOR A QUOTE

Email jackwatson30@gmail.com

Pentland Footcare Principal: Ms K. Sara J.Wood

Lessons for age 2 years and above New Adult Ballet Class!

Edinburgh College - Sighthill Campus Ratho Community Centre NEW VENUE: Craiglockhart - Energy Gym Dance Studio

07723 589 280 info@edinburgh-ballet.co.uk www.edinburgh-ballet.co.uk

Professional podiatry and chiropody in your own home

● Comprehensive foot care ● Foot pain treatment ● Ingrown toenails ● Podiatric acupuncture 1st visit ount 10% disc

For details and appointment call

0789 468 7238

(or please leave a message) pentlandfootcare@gmail.com www.pentlandfootcare.co.uk

Cut • Colour • Occasion Hair Ups • Bridal Hair Cover Edinburgh and the Lothians . . . will travel further for Bridal

Colour Promotion - Receive £15 off when you book a cut and colour - quoting this advert

07808 709781 laura@lauraelizabethhd.co.uk www.lauraelizabethhd.co.uk www.facebook.com/LauraElizabethHairDesign

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Mother’s Day Feature

Thanks, Mum!

by Suzanne Green

Suzanne Green asks three local women what they learned from their mother that has made them a better mum.

Encourage imaginative play Caroline Brown has lived in Currie for the past eight years. Married to Douglas, she worked as an IT project manager before her children, Fergus (4) and Muir (15 months), came along.

“My mother, Josephine, had six children – three boys and three girls. At one point we were all under the age of six!” From the west of Ireland, Caroline grew up in the country. She and her siblings were given free rein to play in the fields and encouraged to use their imaginations. “These days it would not be considered safe,” she comments, “but at that time it was perfectly normal.

“We found an old abandoned car once. There were strawberry plants growing in and through it. My

Caroline Brown and Muir baking Photo credit: Amy E. Green

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brothers and sisters and I would sit in the car and eat strawberries – it was magical! I remember my mum playing camps with a sheet and lots of chairs! I’ve learned so much from her, but the most significant thing for me is the importance of imaginative play.

Children learn from and remember these moments the most!”

Caroline describes how she encourages Fergus to use his imagination when he is playing with his plastic kitchen. “Sometimes I give him flour and yeast and he mixes it up, puts it in a pan and turns on his ‘Magic Oven’. Then, while he is doing something else, I find some biscuits or cakes and put them in his oven for him to discover. His sense of wonder is evident when he opens the oven door and discovers what he’s made!”

“Childhood wonder” is often missing these days, from Caroline’s viewpoint. “Everything is just pushed at you – it’s all there for you on a screen. So children do not have to imagine or create.”

At age four, Fergus is a prolific painter and his work can be seen all around the kitchen. And little Muir is not far behind, as Caroline gets him busy helping her with baking, or making his own artwork with paste, bits of coloured paper and stickers.

“I think of my mother a lot now that I am a mum,” says Caroline. “It’s hard work raising children. But if you think of being a mother as your job – as if you were a childminder – it can be easier to come up with all the creative things you can do with them.

After all, it’s your job.”

Be a good listener Originally from N. Ireland, former teacher Lynn Millar works as a counsellor and is pursuing her MSc in Counselling Studies at Edinburgh University. She and her husband Mark are the parents of twins Ben and Kate (13).

Lynn Millar

Kirsty Thomson (right) with her mum Lynda what a big influence she had.” Lynn believes that her decision to become a counsellor was influenced by her relationship with her mum. “I know the benefit of being heard,” she says.

Live in the present Baberton mother of three Kirsty Thomson is a parttime history teacher. With her sister Lorna, she also runs “It’s in the Bag”, a successful children’s party business. She is married to Allan, and their children are Caleb (8), Charlotte (4) and Nathan (2).

At age six Kirsty lost her dad, and her mum Lynda became a single parent to her four daughters. “She did have the support of the church and others,” says Kirsty, “but from this point I saw what a strong, resourceful woman she was. People would ask her how she coped with her situation, and she told them that every morning when she woke up she counted her blessings: Yvonne, Karen, Lorna and Kirsty.

Balerno mum Lynn learned the importance of being a good listener from her mother, Patricia. “Mum was unwell all of my life,” says Lynn, “as she was born with a heart condition. Because of this, she wasn’t out and about much. So she was always there when I came in from school. We would have a hot chocolate or a Cup-a-Soup and she would listen to me tell her about my day or about some problem I was having.

She was always available to me and she didn’t try to fix things … she just listened. That’s how I want to be with my own children – always there for them.”

As a teenager, Lynn took that “listening ear” for granted and thought it was normal. But today she realizes that she was very fortunate. She describes her mother as a quiet “background” person. “People were always helped by coming to visit her,” Lynn comments. “They may have come with the intention of encouraging her, because she was not well. But, because she was such a good listener, they would sometimes end up telling her their troubles – and they’d leave encouraged! At the time I didn’t realise

“My mother taught me the importance of being grateful and of making the best of your circumstances,” Kirsty comments. “But one of the most valuable things she has taught me is to live in the present, so that you don’t miss out on precious moments with your children.”

Frustrated that Kirsty’s buggy was not made so that the child faced her, Lynda brought down her old buggy from the attic so that she could look at her grandchildren and engage with them. And because of her mum’s influence, Kirsty removed Facebook from her phone. “Mum doesn’t like to see women glued to their phones when they could be enjoying their children,” Kirsty explains. “I felt challenged when she asked me why I was happy to live in someone else’s moment and to miss out on my own moments.

“I’ve realised that the pre-school years are very special, and I want to enjoy the time I have with my children before they go to school. Mum reminds me that I won’t get that time back.”

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Gerry Aitken Painter and Decorator Juniper Green

Tel: 07798 565321 Ames Taping Coving Artexing Interior Exterior 25 years Experience 10 konect

A FAMILY RUN BUSINESS, ESTABLISHED FOR 50 YEARS

MAKE A DATE...

WITH YOUR

National Bed Month

NEW BED

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GET 3 CARPETS THOROUGHLY DEEP CLEANED FOR THE PRICE OF 2 FREE no tion obliga s quote

• Carpet & Rug Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning • Leather Cleaning • Stain Protection • 24/7 SERVICE

All work is 100% guarante e for yo d satisfac ur tion

Tel: 08000 463 422 Mob: 07789 007 072 www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk Email: info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk

Tag Cleaning Services Local window and gutter cleaning service

Established over 30 years Free quotations on request Tel : 0131 449 2807 (Office) Neil : 07711 581 384 (Mob) www.TagCleaningServices.co.uk

IRONING AID

Free pick-up & delivery - next day service

0131 538 5223 07877 381940

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DALMAHOY, A MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB, CELEBRATES TOP 100 SCOTTISH NAMES WITH YEAR OF HOMECOMING 2 FOR 1 DINNER PROMOTION. To celebrate the year of Homecoming Scotland 2014, Dalmahoy, a Marriott Hotel & Country Club, is launching an exclusive 2 for 1 dinner promotion for hotel guests, visitors and locals who bear the 100 most common surnames in Scotland (taken from the General Register of Scotland). Throughout 2014, those bearing one of these names can enjoy 2 for 1 main courses in the hotel’s award-winning Pentland Restaurant.

Visit General Register of Scotland to see if your name is on

the list & call 0131 333 1845 to make a booking. ** Promotion subject to availability, terms & conditions apply. Pre-Booking essential, photo ID will be required* Dalmahoy, A Marriott Hotel & Country Club Kirknewton, EH27 8EB. T: 0131 335 8010 MarriottDalmahoy.co.uk

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Real Wood Furniture in West Lothian Dining Bedrooms Sofas Home Furnishing

Open 7 days

Interest free credit available (terms and conditions apply)

Free parking Call us on

01506 444711 Visit us at www.hannfurnishing.co.uk

Come and visit our showroom today Hann Furnishing Ltd

13 Napier Square, Houston Road, Livingston, EH54 5DG Like us on facebook for updates, offers and latest arrivals! www.facebook.com/HannFurnishing konect 15

Relax with the Glow of a Real Flame

Save ££ £ on Heati ng Bills Real Coal Fires - Log Fires Multi Fuel & Wood Burning Stoves

Beat the Increase in Oil, Gas and Electricity Full installation Service inc. Chimneys and Flues

M: 07763 835 700 T: 01236 433 572

Need a new boiler?

Call: MECH-A-TECH Est.1986

TEL: 01501 763428 For a FREE quotation

EXPERTS IN

GAS, OIL & LPG 16 konect

de

il &

n pe

a et R o

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Hutchison Terrace Store NEW extended opening hour s Mon to Fri: 7.30am - 5pm, Sat: 8am - 4pm, Sun: 10am - 4pm

Pop in seven days a week for competitive prices on all brands of paint and decorating supplies.

See our new website for prices

www.thepaintshed.com



We have great deals on these and many more items in-store.

0131 443 7900

SCAN ME WITH A

QR CODE SCANNER

FREE Apps are available

6 Hutchison Terrace Edinburgh EH14 1QB www.thepaintshed.com

Hutchison Terrace

How to ďŹ nd us

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Spotlight on

Sofas & Stuff

Launch of Sofas & Stuff Edinburgh Showroom Are you sitting comfortably?

If not, help is at hand with the exciting new launch of British upholstery brand Sofas & Stuff’s Edinburgh showroom.

Located on the city centre’s west side, the newest Sofas & Stuff outpost is a trove of upholstered sofas, armchairs and beds, all handmade to order in Nottinghamshire.

Founder Andrew Cussins’ thirty years of experience furnishing Britain’s homes has led to an unrivalled knowledge base. With over 180,000 sofas handmade to date, Sofas & Stuff has become a byword in the design industry for a distinctive classic style with a twist. With both comfort and longevity key considerations in the design process, each solidly constructed, British-made piece will become a family heirloom.

Whether you are plumping for a family friendly three-seater or a neat little number just for you, there are a myriad of sofas to choose from, alongside beds, chairs and footstools, ranging from the traditional to contemporary.

For a truly one of a kind look, Sofas & Stuff bespoke service means any piece that you desire can be tailored to suit your needs. The broad and decidedly British focused fabric selection includes offerings from Sanderson, Ian Mankin and Mulberry.

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Jane Miller, Managing Partner of the new Edinburgh showroom, is on hand with her team to guide you with a personal touch that has fast become a hallmark of the Sofas & Stuff experience.

“We offer prices on average 30% cheaper than the high street, with a simple three step ordering process” says Jane. “All our pieces can be tweaked to any dimension you choose, or even covered in your own fabric, so you can be the designer. This can be particularly useful if you are taller or shorter than average, are looking for a real talking point or something to fit perfectly into your space”. The new showroom joins seven others around the country, including London’s Parsons Green and converted barns in Berkshire and West Sussex.

Pop along to the launch event on Thursday 20th March and take advantage of the exclusive special offer of a five percent discount on all orders taken on the day.

t h en rc ev Ma h h ay nc 20t unt the d u La day isco n on s d e ur % tak Th 5 ders on

all

or

Free parkin g 10am to 4pm

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Fundraising for the Philippines A big well done to Lachlan Shaw who has raised more than £300 for children in need in the Philippines.

In December he asked Tony Harper to shave his hair for the Philippines disaster....

TONY HARPER’S Hair Studio

46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno

0131 451 5133

Ladies and Gents Hairstyling

Check out our daily, weekly & monthly deals on facebook at tony-harpers-hairstudio

TONY HARPER’S Hair Studio

46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno

0131 451 5133

Ladies & Gents Hairstyling

Check out our daily, weekly & monthly deals on facebook at tony-harpers-hairstudio

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J U N I P E R

B E A U T Y ROOM

Appointments: 0131 478 4777

www.juniperbeautyroom.co.uk

624A Lanark Road, Juniper Green, Edinburgh EH14 5EW

A straighter smile for adults ...

...means no longer being an Ugly Betty!

After

Before

Beautifully straight teeth in six months at No9

Free ning h w ite ch a e with tted fi e c bra

If you would like an appointment please give us a call, we would love to see you

Telephone: 01506 857717

9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB

WINNER:

www.broxburndentist.com konect 21

Money Matters

Cracking the Tax Code

By Personal Money Management

Tax codes are at the heart of the ‘Pay As Your Earn’ (PAYE) system. They tell your employer how much tax to take off from your income.

Common tax code letters L

This means you get the basic personal allowance.

In January HMRC will send a notice of coding (P2) to you and to your employer. You should check this carefully because it has been known for the HMRC to get these wrong. If you have income from more than one source then you will get more than one notice of coding. HMRC will decide which of your sources of income is your main one and they will allocate your personal allowance against that source.

P

This means you will receive an age related allowance meaning you were born between 6th April 1938 and 5th April 1948.

Y

You were born before 6th April 1938 and you receive an even higher age related allowance.

As mentioned above, HMRC are not infallible and it is important you check any notice of coding you receive.

If they are wrong, you should immediately get in touch with HMRC explaining why you think the code is wrong in order that it can get corrected. This is the best approach because it is more difficult to get the tax back once it has been deducted.

Written by Dr PM Marshall. PhD, DipPFS, AFPC

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BR If this is your tax code then all the income from that source will be taxed at the basic rate i.e. 20% DO Means that all the income from this source will be taxed at the higher rate currently 40% K

You have untaxed income which is greater than your personal allowance

~

~ 47 Dalry Road Edinburgh EH11 2BU 0131 346 4555 Snow Clearing & Path Salting

MERCHISTON STORY IN THE MAKING Listen to some of our pupils talk about their Merchiston journey www.merchiston.co.uk A Boarding and Day School for Boys aged 7-18 INFORMATION MORNING: SATURDAY 15 MARCH 2014, 10AM Merchiston Castle School, Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH13 0PU, Scotland Tel. 0131 312 2200.

Recognised by the Inland Revenue as a Charity, number SC016580

www.merchiston.co.uk

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Bringing back the Home Help with our Home Assist Service

edinburgh@diamondhomesupport.com www.diamondhomesupport.com

CALL NOW!

07702 499345 07702 499325

Now doing a CARPET CLEANING SERVICE

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         

Cleaning and ironing Shopping Bed making/changing Laundry Respite sitting service Escorting to appointments Accompanying to social activities Companionship Light meal preparation A friend to talk to and check everything is ok

From £12 per hour

FOR ALL YOUR MOBILITY NEEDS Whether you need help to get around the house or out and about, our experienced team can help with all your mobility needs.

Family owned and operated since 1994

0800 169 5182

0131 440 4225 Showroom Opening Times Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Unit 13-16, 32 Dryden Road, Bilston Glen Industrial Estate, Loanhead, Edinburgh, EH20 9LZ www.med-ecosse.co.uk medeco67@aol.com

Accredited Motability Dealer

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BEAUTY BOX

(WITHIN HAIRTECH) Minx 17 BRYCE ROAD, CURRIE, EH14 5LT pedicures Tuesday-Saturday manicures Late night Thursday waxing, tinting Don’t forget to eyelash extensions treat your mum this spray tanning and facials mother’s day. Gift shellac £20 (soak-off free) Vouchers available

Contact Hazel Gordon on

T: 0131 449 2991 M: 07800 736135 26 konect

February and March

Childsmile Practice Childsmile is a national programme to improve the oral health of children in Scotland.

We provide Flouride varnish at least twice-yearly from the age of 2 years.

TEL: 0131 449 5545

You may not be able to see any teeth yet, but your child's teeth have started growing. Things you do now will help to give your child healthy teeth for life.

Please contact us to get your children involved in the childsmile programme.

www.balernodentalcare.co.uk LATE NIGHT APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Ian Cameron Hairdressing

27 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ

0131 449 2257 Concessions over 60 25% off Mon & Tue

Cut / Blowdry Spatula / Foil Highlights Regrowth / Full head Colours

Catering for Ladies, Gents and Children ir/ s ha Kid ails n ble ila ava arties p for

All inclusive of conditioner, styling products, coffee & biscuits

Open : Mon - Fri 10am - 5.30pm Sat 10am - 5pm konect 27

New store now open at: 1st Floor, Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh

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Making your house a home CARPETS from Crucial Trading We have something to suit all budgets Turnaround for most carpets is 7 days We also have a great selection of: VINYL, LAMINATE & DESIGNER FLOORING including Amtico, Karndean & Marmoleun We can also help you with : FABRICS, MADE TO MEASURE CURTAINS, BLINDS AND WALLPAPER Flooring T: 346 1838 Interiors T: 313 1881 3-4 Western Corner, Murrayfield, Edinburgh Open: Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 9.30 - 5.00 Wed & Sat 9.30 - 1pm

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Thought for the Month

Dementia, a strange land

By Pat Banfill Increasingly the emphasis in the care of people with dementia is moving away from "How do we care for people with dementia?" to understanding "What does it feel like to have dementia?" This helps with the challenge of living creatively and hopefully within the context of a serious and often terrible illness, whether you yourself have dementia or whether you are a carer for someone who has dementia.

D Don’t give up on life

E

Eat sensibly

There are no simple answers, but in the early stages it can be helpful to remind yourself that it is not the end of the world, whilst appreciating that the world has changed, and there is still a whole world to enjoy.

N

Now is the time to do things you’ve always wanted to do

T

Try to cope by yourself, but be prepared to ask for assistance

I

Insight - learn more about the illness and how to live with it

It’s probably best to start by talking the subject over with your GP if you are worried about yourself or about another person. There are many community based services that can really help everyone to make the most of life.

Pat Banfill, Pastoral Assistant, St Mungo’s Church, Balerno. www.stmungos.org

E

Enjoy life, even with restrictions

M Make use of every minute

A Act normally. It can be hard for others to spot. Ask for help when you need it.

BABERTON GOLF CLUB SPECIAL 2014 LIMITED OFFERS ON MEMBERSHIPS See the fantastic new clubhouse and course improvements!

Full Memberships—CONTACT US FOR SPECIAL LIMITED OFFER WITH ENTRY FEE REDUCED 6 Day Play Sun—Fri, Midweek Play Mon—Fri, Young Adult (Age 18—30) Membership. NO ENTRY FEE Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

WINTER GOLF ON SANDBASED GREENS AND NO MATS FROM £18 PER ROUND Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon—Fri email: manager@baberton.co.uk

Pro shop on 0131 453 3555 Sat—Sun website: www.babertongolfclub.com

Be part of the changing face of golf at Baberton!

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All aspects of building work undertaken including bricklaying, stonework lime pointing, extensions, driveways and garden walls.

Specialists in

All trades supplied

Home Extensions & Brick Stone work

ALL WORK IS GUARANTEED

Extensions Sunrooms Garages (conversions) Porches Renovations/alterations Chimney repairs Patio/driveways Garden walls Stonework/lime pointing Architect services

0131 453 6259 07931 101 523

www.deanjonesbuildingservices.co.uk GraemeAd 45X62.ai

1

25/02/2013

16:40

C

M

Y

CM

MY

kitchens, flooring, doors, decking, fencing locks etc

CY

Please call Graeme on 07816 294994 for a FREE ESTIMATE.

CMY

Balerno

K

C and W Cleaning Services www.cwcleaningservices.co.uk

0131 334 2080 Livingston 0800 695 1101

Edinburgh

Your local Blinds ■ Carpets ■ Rugs ■ Upholstery ■ specialists Quick drying carpets and upholstery Same day blind cleaning available 34 konect

Your Local Balerno Locksmith     

UPVC Patio Door Repairs Lock Changes/Upgrades British Standard 5 Lever Insurance Approved Locks Fitted 24 Hr Emergency Lockout Service Window Locks Supplied & Fitted

0131 500 0153 Or Call Tom On

07542781131 For All Your Security Needs www.caledonianlocksmiths.co.uk

Quintessential Over 16 years experience All work guaranteed

CCTV (Home and Commercial)

The Clean Team

Covering Clackmannanshire, Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothians and Perth & Kinross

Professional oven cleaning service: ovens, ranges, hob, BBQ, microwaves or extractor unit.

Give us a call for a free no obligation quote

New name, same great service! Alba Oven Cleaning is now part of The Clean Team

www.drycleanteam.co.uk tel 01506 432100 or 07540947979

7 day membership

£747

5 day membership

£533

Intermediate from £257 (under 35) For further details contact the Club secretary on

0131 333 0068

or email secretary@rathogolfclub.co.uk

www.rathoparkgolfclub.co.uk konect 35

BRUSHSTROKES

K.MELVILLE PAINTER / DECORATOR INTERIOR, EXTERIOR, PRIVATE, COMMERCIAL, INSURANCE WORK

TEL: 0131 451 5372 MOB: 0797 192 3397 Email: brushstrokes@blueyonder.co.uk 66 Forthview Crescent, Currie, EH14 5QT

BILL REID & SON DOMESTIC HEATING & PLUMBING

0131 449 5538 07710 458739 2 Turner Avenue Balerno

Wet rooms a speciality

Special care bathrooms No call-out charge Supply & fit or fit only

Contact Alistair on 01506 872647 or 07967 584412

WEIR GAS SERVICES Former Scottish Gas engineer

Tel:

07981 366 988

Central heating - service, repairs Gas fires, cookers, hobs installation, service & repairs General Plumbing services Garden taps, washing machines, dishwashers Landlord safety inspections email : lesweir@blueyonder.co.uk

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All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

Mackenzie Contracts Complete bathroom fitting

A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno

Buster the Dog

Alistair Taylor

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Tel: 0131 334 2080 Mob: 07768 632867 Ask for Kerr Middleton Rhone cleaning & repairs - cast iron or plastic Roof repairs - tiles or slates Moss removal, pressure washing Free estimates & advice given Over 35 years experience

• • • •

BVMS MRCVS www.pentlandvetclinic.com 100% Small animal practice Modern surgical, medical, x-ray laboratory and dental facilities Boarding cattery available 24 hour Emergency Service

0131 451 5111

5 Riccarton Mains Rd, Currie, EH14 5PX

Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats

Established in May 2006, we provide first-class holiday accommodation for up to 35 feline guests.

Single and double cabins, as well as large cabins for families, each comprises an upper sleeping area (heated in winter) with an exercise run below.

A collection and drop-off service is available Fully licensed and insured

Proprietors: Pam and Bill Clark Phone: 0131 333 1636 Email: mail@claylandscottagecattery.co.uk Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.

www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk

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I provide expert advice on all building projects with a free consultation to determine viability.

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£20 off FU

LLY REPA* GU IRS AR AN TEE

Quality, mobile car paintwork repairs at a fraction of body shop costs Bumper scuffs

Kerbed alloys

Paintwork scratches

Minor dents

D

ChipsAway Available: Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Call ChipsAway Franchisee Name now to arrange for Call F & N Georgeson now to arrange your free estimate

01506 456 871789 891 or 0800 028 7878 01234 or visit www.chipsaway.co.uk

ED IRS NTE A P A RE AR U G Y

D.A. WARD MOTOR ENGINEERS Servicing Car Sales Tyres

Repairs M.O.T Testing Exhausts

Tel : 0131 458 3123 626/3 LANARK ROAD JUNIPER GREEN • EH14 5EW konect 39

SMART TECH VEHICLE SOLUTIONS Smart repairs ● Bodyshop repairs ● Alloy wheel refurbishment ● Car valets 10% discount

for Konect customers

01506 880373 mob: 07944 644129 t:

Free valet

with every repair job

e: smarttech.online272@yahoo.co.uk smarttechvehiclesolutions Unit 18 Camps Industrial Estate East Calder, EH27 8DF

Sm art T ech

Free estimates available All work fully guaranteed

DELL ROOFING Currie Established 22 years

● 24 HOUR CALL OUT ● FREE ESTIMATES ● INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN ● MAINTENANCE WORK WELCOME ● FELT ROOF WORK ● POINTING ● SLATING &TILING ● CHIMNEYS AND GUTTERS

0131 449 7193 or 07594 355109 www.dellroofing.co.uk

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konect 41

Spotlight on

Colin Nixon's of East Calder Not your typical used car sales

Colin Nixon's garage is a well-known part of the landscape in East Calder – the service and MOT centre has been in business for 25 years. A more recent addition to the business is the used car sales room, which has been open since December 2011; Colin and his team are celebrating just over two years of supplying quality used cars to customers from the local area and well beyond.

The showroom was totally renovated when the car sales business was launched, so it feels more like walking into a new car showroom. All of the used cars in both the showroom and on the forecourt have been carefully selected by Colin Nixon's for their quality condition, low-mileage and good value.

Rather than trawling through pages and pages of used cars (or scrolling through hundreds online), when you visit Colin Nixon's you know that that initial selection has already been done for you - the cars that make it to his showroom are the only ones worth looking at. The pre-sales service and preparation of each vehicle are to the stringent standards that his garage is already well-known for.

Colin and the team are friendly and approachable and not only helpful in terms of selecting a suitable car, but they will be there for you for the aftersales service. Most of the cars come with a 12 month warranty, which is unusual for second hand cars and

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demonstrates the confidence Colin Nixon's have in the cars they sell.

If you're looking for something specific and want to buy with confidence, Colin Nixon's may well be able to source it for you . Or if you're not sure what car you want, you can discuss your needs with Colin and he will be able to make suggestions and source one for you if they don't have anything on site at the time.

The business has gone from strength to strength since opening at the end of 2011 and Colin would like to thank all customers who have supported him and bought their used cars from him. “It's been a learning experience,” he says “and we've been delighted with the success of the used car sales to date.”

Buying a used car doesn't need to be a risky business if you go to the right place, and where better than a local business which already has an excellent reputation?

COLIN NIXON MOT SALES & SERVICE CENTRE

Looking for a quality, reliable second hand car?

Come to a local well-established business for honest advice and excellent customer service.

On-site selection of pre-selected quality, low-mileage vehicles ... or tell us what you need and we will source a suitable vehicle to your specification and budget

All vehicles have had our stringent pre-sales service 12 month warranty* We only deal with good quality cars so you can buy with confidence

Tel: 01506 882 185 Email: info@colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Web: colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Edinburgh Road, East Calder EH53 0ET

ESTABLISHED OVER 25 YEARS *some vehicles excepted

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Alexander Aitken Plastering

Red Hot

WINDOWS Unit 1, Mosshall Ind Estate Blackburn, EH47 7LY

01506 630036

51 Dolphin Rd, Currie

Loca family l -ru busine n ss

redhotwindows@btconnect.com

Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

Window repairs ■ Supply and fit windows and doors ■ Trade welcome Major credit cards accepted See website and facebook page compliant for photos of our work www.facebook.com/redhotwindows www.redhotwindows.co.uk

Current advertising not hitting the mark?

TARGET YOUR LOCAL MARKET

with the Konect Directory

● Four editions reaching 32,000 local households ● Flexible packages ● Low cost adverts start at £21 + vat per month To be included, call Charlene on 07772 941899 email : charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 email : jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

www.konectdirectory.co.uk 44 konect

Konnect (JAN2014).ai

1

20/01/2014

14:04

Our Five point Grass Care Programme includes: 1.

1.

Hollow tining, raking off, removal of tining plugs andlawn sand moss treatment – Early Spring (March/early April).

2.

Weed kill, Fertiliser and secondary moss kill treatment application - Mid Spring (mid-late April).

3.

3.

Scarifying, raking off and removal of all waste.

4.

4.

Mid Summer Fertiliser and weed-killing application if applicable.

5.

Autumn Fertiliser application (only).

C

M

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CM

MY

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CMY

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Being professional gardeners, we love to see the gardens in our care flourish.

Give us a call on 0800 9700 415 to arrange an appointment. www.taurusgardening.com

LANDSCAPING • LAWN CARE • MAINTENANCE

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Technology

Garden of Delights How tech can take the grunt out of gardening It’s that time of year again: spring is almost upon watering system sticks a timer onto your tap, turning us and the grass will start to rise. While robot it on and off at the times you program, and options lawnmowers haven’t quite reached bargain basement range from a simple sprinkler to an entire microprices just yet - even the cheapest online shops charge irrigation system. Some timers even have rain sensors around £850 - technology can still help: firms such as that mean they won’t turn on the tap if the weather Bosch, Greenworks and Mountfield forecast turned out to be overly offer battery-powered lawnmowers for optimistic. the convenience of cable-free mowing WORX cordless without the noise, smell and hassle of Not all gardening gadgets need lawnmower petrol engines. Prices range from just electricity to function. The iconic over £200 to around £500.

Leatherman multi-tool isn’t exactly cheap, but its products - and their What’s even easier than a cordless many imitators - offer a huge range mower? That’s right: grass that you of tools in one handy gadget. For don’t have to mow in the first place. example the Leatherman Charge AL Hi-tech turf (www.hitechturf.co.uk) includes two kinds of pliers, a knife, looks and feels like grass, but it’s a saw and a serrated knife, a wood entirely artificial - and if you have and metal file, wire cutters and wire Black & Decker terrible memories of plasticky artificial strippers.

Cordless Lopper turf you’ll be relieved to discover that this is a very different proposition. For If you find gardening is, literally, a pain, around £29 per square metre (for HT it’s worth taking a look at the range of Luxury) you can lay a lawn that looks tools made by Radius Garden, whose just like the real thing without any of slogan is “Garden more. Hurt less.” The the work. If your budget’s more limited odd-looking tools have been designed there are more affordable options with ergonomic grips to make them Hozelock auto including a budget artificial turf at more comfortable and less likely to watering system £7.99 per square metre. aggravate repetitive strain injuries, with rain sensor and the range includes trowels, forks, Lawns aren’t the only places where transplanters, weeders and cultivators. technology can make life easier.

Expect to pay around £9 for each Battery power has reached the point individual tool or around £30 for a set where it’s good enough for seriously of four. demanding garden tasks.

If taking the grunting out of gardening Black & Decker will happily sell you sounds like something you’d like to battery-powered chainsaws, pruning do, you might also want to consider saws and loppers. The batteries deliver a device such as Fiskar’s Weed Puller plenty of oomph - the chainsaw (currently £25), which is designed Radius will power through up to 150 3.5cm to remove weeds without using ergonomic branches before it runs out of puff chemicals or wrecking your lower gardening but boffins have yet to invent a device back: it’s a long L-shaped stick tools that ensures we remember to charge containing deep-reaching stainless the power tools before we actually steel claws that effortlessly grab need them. weeds by the roots. It might not be an exciting robot mower but anything More modest gardening can benefit that helps with a hard day’s weeding from gadgetry too. Hozelock’s autosounds like a great gadget to us.

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D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Removals Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more....

Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com konect 47

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Puzzles Quick Crossword 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

12 13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20 21

22

23

24

Across 1. Money (4) 3. Used in board game (5,3) 9. Scold severely (7) 10. Electronic post (5) 11. Young cabbage plants (6,6) 14. To allow (3) 16. Type of drum (5) 17. Joint (3) 18. Seen in a rink (6-6) 21. Violent disturbances (5) 22. Stabbing weapon (7) 23. Supporting column (8) 24. Popular sport (4) Down 1. Advises (8) 2. Serious (5) 4. Stowed away (3) 5. Lock picks (8,4) 6. Loyal (7) 7. Story (4) 8. Eats its own kind (12) 12. Doomed (5) 13. Alcoholic appetiser (8) 15. Twice as much (7) 19. South American dance (5) 20. Hold tightly (4) 22. Type of snake (3)

5 Lock picks (8,4)

13 Alcoholic appetiser (8)

6 Loyal (7)

15 Twice as much (7)

7 Story (4)

Sudoku 19 South American dance (5)

8 Eats its own kind (12)

20 Hold tightly (4)

2 Doomed (5)

22 Type of snake (3)

Sudoku solution on page 59

Oh hang on, now I've got my glasses on I see I read the winning Lottery numbers out wrong.

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Your business here for just 拢22.50 +vat per month To be included please call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Alistair McLellan of Balerno

Painter & Decorator Interior 路 Exterior No job too small 路 Free estimates

Tel: 0131 451 5394 Mobile: 07894 703020 konect 51

Local walk

The road less travelled Karen Murray goes off-road near Blackridge

In my search for a new view or a road less travelled perhaps, I am always on the lookout for paths leading off into woodlands while I am out and about for work travelling through West Lothian.

It really is a diverse county with so many walking paths of all terrain that is not difficult to spot a hidden treasure here and there.

One such find was while visiting Blackridge. This is an ancient town situated at the very edge of West Lothian and on the old Edinburgh to Glasgow route.

It is almost fully surrounded by countryside and has a nature reserve too - Blawhorn Moss - which I have visited often. However I decided to explore a little by car and see where it took me.

Taking a road on the left travelling east to west through the town called Heights Road (B718) – the name indicating the fact that the road winds upwards – I came upon a small layby with a stile about a mile up the road on the left hand side.

I parked and jumped the stile to see what lay beyond. It transpires this is a privately owned area of woodland, part of Blackridge Farm, but is open to the public.

It appeared to be a local dog walking haunt and there are plenty of wide paths running throughout

52 konect

the woodland. The best thing however was the views. By gaining the height from the town, you can get excellent views of the Pentland Hills and can look across Breich Brays. The area comprises wetland, grassland and a mixed woodland, but the wonderful thing is that by coming just a short way from the town of Blackridge you can feel that you are away from everything.

After I had wandered some of the waymarked paths in the woodland, I continued on the road by car to see where it might take me. Further along on the right hand side was another layby and pulling in I decided to take another stroll. By this time I was as high up the ‘Heights’ as you could get with farmland and common ground all around.

The views were more spectacular from here. By now I could look down on Armadale and the rutted path ahead of me split in several directions. I only had time to walk a little way and take in the views but it appeared to me you could walk for miles here.

There is an archaeological site in the vicinity which has fairly recently been investigated and while I didn’t come across the main parts of the dig, it is easy to imagine the layout of stone shelters and structures as you survey the gently rolling hills strewn with stones.

As I continued to drive along this very narrow back road snaking along above Blackridge and Armadale, I could have stopped many times and just headed off on foot into the scrubland - it was extremely tempting to do so with so many paths leading off into the distance with 360 degree views.

I intend to come back and investigate many more of these paths, woodland areas and, if time allowed, I would park the car in the town and head off on foot up the Heights Road following it along while surveying the Scottish countryside around me in all its natural glory.

As I have reiterated many times when talking about walking, it doesn’t really matter where you walk; the exercise and fresh air are an excellent tonic for both body and mind. However, when the walking route is in the depths of the country with woodland, grassland, heath and heather all around... well that just makes it all the better.

I could easily keep driving and skip the fresh air as I rush from A to B, but I am always glad I stopped and checked out the local landscape for any interesting walks and then took those walks. It makes all the difference to my day.

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Recipe and Food Notes

The Best Things to do with an Old Loaf of Bread

By Anne Pinkerton This month I want to continue the theme of good housekeeping and thrift.

Bread was the staple food in Europe for centuries, for this reason every last bit it was valued. Recipes evolved to use even the old, stale leftovers. In Britain bread was also used as traditional accompaniment to eek out expensive meats.

Bread sauce, croutes and fried breadcrumbs used to be served with roast game and poultry. Stuffing made from bread crumbs, herbs, onions and spices are now Christmas staples in larger birds such as turkey and goose. Roast pork with sage and onion stuffing makes a splendid Sunday lunch.

54 konect

Old bread can be used to make Melba toast, croutons, tart cases and bread crumbs. Flour, egg and bread -crumbing foods before frying is essential for fish cakes, rissoles, schnitzels, epigrammes and croquettes. Bread crumbs, mixed with a little grated cheese, butter or oil, make a crunchy topping on baked dished such as fish pie, macaroni cheese, or baked aubergines.

Melba toast Cut the crusts off stale sliced bread. (These can be used for crumbs.) Lay the bread flat on the work surface, and with a long bladed knife, held parallel to the surface, split the slice in half through its thickness. This might leave some balls of soft dough on the surfaces.

Fry the onion in a little oil, when transparent add the crushed garlic and the chopped stalks from the basil and cook for a couple minutes more. Add the tinned tomatoes bring back to the boil.

Add water, stock, herbs, seasoning and roasted cherry tomatoes. Cook together for 10 minutes check seasoning, add the bread and serve with the cheese scattered on the top.

Bread is also the key ingredient for many puddings: Bread and Butter Pudding, Apple Amber, Summer Pudding, Treacle Tart and Welsh Bread Pudding or Steamed Cabinet Pudding to name a few. The most impressive is Queen of Puddings.

Turn the slice over and rub these off. Put the bread on a baking sheet and dry off in a 160oc oven. Cook till dark biscuit colour. Take care it can burn if you leave it too long. Store in an airtight tin. Serve with pate, soft cheese, humus or soup.

French onion soup would not be right without its floating croutes covered with melting gruyere cheese and the Italians are good housekeepers to.

Their crostini covered in delicious rich tomato and olive sauce or roasted vegetables are just another way of using old bread. This is easily copied at home or you can even use a good bottled sauce if you are pressed for time.

All over Italy you will find different country soups based on stock and left-over bread. Some are full of winter veg others lighter with poached eggs floating on the cheese covered bread. Here is an adaption of the idea from Jamie Oliver; as ever quick, easy and not expensive.

Jamie’s Ribollita (left) 4 or 5 toasted rough slices of left-over ciabatta or any good non-sliced bread, torn up 300g cherry tomatoes halved and roasted in a hot oven for 15mins with a little olive oil 1 onion chopped 2 cloves garlic if liked Fresh basil Tin of chopped tomatoes: cherry tomatoes if possible, plus can of water Chicken or veg stock cube dissolved in mug of hot water Salt, pepper, teaspoon sugar and teaspoon cider or wine vinegar Grated parmesan cheese

Queen of Puddings (above) ½ pt milk Grated rind of 1 lemon 30g butter 50g sugar 100g fresh white bread crumbs 2 eggs Raspberry or strawberry jam slightly warmed 120g more sugar to make the meringue topping Warm, to just below boiling, the milk with the lemon rind, butter and 50g sugar. Add the bread crumbs cover the pan and leave to cool.

Separate the eggs; add the beaten yolks to the breadcrumb mixture. And turn into a buttered ovenproof dish (or ramikins). Let it stand for 30 mins then bake at 160oC for 25-30 minutes till set. Turn oven to 120oC .

Make meringue with the egg whites and the rest of the sugar. Spread the warmed jam on the baked pudding. Pile up the meringue on top and bake in the, now, cool oven till set and straw coloured.

NB. By making this in ramekins you can make this as individual puddings. The cooking times are then shorter.

konect 55

Spot the Konect Directory advertiser...

om rts fr

Adve

vat ÂŁ21 + nth! o m r pe

To get your business noticed locally in 2014, please contact Charlene on 07772 941899 / charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 / jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Solution Feb 14 crossword

Across: 1 Belgium, 5 Scrub, 8 Swollen, 9 Exact, 10 Stern, 11 Theatre, 12 Artist, 14 Deadly, 17 Amateur, 19 Image, 22 Tense, 23 Altered, 24 Daddy, 25 Saddled Down: 1 Buses, 2 Loose, 3 Islands, 4 Minute, 5 Scene, 6 Roasted, 7 Battery, 12 Adapted, 13 Trained, 15 Existed, 16 Breaks, 18 Every, 20 April, 21 Ended

56 konect

Solution to Sudoku

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

535 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE

Family Run Local Italian Restaurant For reservations & enquiries:

Tel: 0131 442 2715 or Email: ristorantealborgo@hotmail.co.uk Lunch 12-2pm 2 course £9.50 ● 3 course £11.50 Dinner 5.30pm onwards Closed Mondays

Wine Wed Dinner 19th March 5 course dinner with matching wines £40 per person

539 Lanark Road, Juniper Green

0131 453 3643 Fish & Chips Pizzas

Kebabs Pastas

Homemade Ice-Cream Beers, Wines & Cider Off Sales

Home Delivery available 5-10pm Opening Hours: every day 4.30-11.30pm Mon-Sat 4.30-11.00pm Sunday

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What’s On and Useful Information Saturday 8th March

Saturday 22nd March

Pancake Day at St Mary's Church, Dalmahoy 10am – Midday in the church hall.

Pancake making, pancake race and tossing competition. Prizes to be won!

Open to all children and adults.Tickets available from the Church, or contact Mandy at 01506 881321

Juniper Green Community Market The Dental Surgery Car Park, 577 Lanark Road, opposite Juniper Avenue, Juniper Green. 9am – 1pm.

To include your event here email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638

Useful Numbers

Saturday 8th March Balerno Farmers Market Main Street (pedestrianised), Balerno, 9am – 1pm.

The Pentlands Medical Centre 44 Pentland View, Currie, EH14 5QB 0131 449 2142

Library Information Balerno Library

Balerno Village Screen Friday 14th March Time tbc Searching for Sugar Man (12) Saturday 15th March 2pm The Sandlot (12) 7.30pm Rush (15)

Currie Library

1 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ 0131 529 5500 e. balerno.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

210 Lanark Road West, Currie EH14 5NX 0131 529 5609 currie.library@edinburgh.gov.uk

Mon & Wed: Tues & Fri: Saturday:

Mon & Wed: Tues, Thurs & Fri: Saturday:

Opening times

Activities

1.00pm - 8.00pm 10.00am - 5.00pm 10.00am - 2.00pm

Opening times

Activities

Bookgroup - Last Mon of the month 6.30 - 7.30pm Bookbug (rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers) – every Fri 10.30 - 11am Storytime for under fives every Tues at 10.30am

1.00pm - 8.00pm 10.00am - 5.00pm 10.00am - 5.00pm

Bookbug (rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers) – every Thurs & Fri 10.30 – 11am Bookgroup 1st Wed of the month 7 - 8pm Arts and Crafts every Thurs 3.30pm

Fundraising Duathlon: The Bawbags Bawbuster!

It might be muddy, it will be hilly but definitely a whole lot of fun!

So be a super hero wear your Baw Bags on the outside and help raise awareness and a whole lot of money for male cancers.

The Bawbags Bawbuster fundraising duathlon is back for 2014 following the successful event last year. Hosted by Hilly Cow Wigwams in Kirknewton, all proceeds go to Prostate Scotland.

The events consists of a 5km hilly cross country run, a 10k cross

country cycle and a 5k woodland run. It might not have big distances but it is hilly and a good introduction into the sporting season especially for anybody new to duathlons. This year's event will be on the 11th May 2014, so get training!

There will be spot prizes for fancy dress and prizes for the winners.

The prizes are not confirmed as yet as they are all donated from local businesses. Everyone gets a medal!

To enter go to Entry Central or by telephone Lesley on 07824 770568.

Last year the event raised over £5000 for Prostate Scotland.

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win!

a family two night stay at Hilly Cow Wigwams, near Kirknewton!

Enjoy two nights in one of our beautiful heated wigwams, for two adults and two children (excluding August or Hogmanay). We are based at Leyden, a working farm near Kirknewton.

See www.hillycowwigwams.co.uk Simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to: 07854 492638 or

editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with subject Hilly Cow Closing date for entries 15th March Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date

Heated wigwams • Heated toilet and shower block Disabled/family toilet and shower room • Kitchen diner with cutlery and crockery • Camp fires • BBQ’s • Children’s play area Games room with pool table, air hockey and darts board

BECOME AN ARMY RESERVE SOLDIER IN JUST FOUR WEEKS WITH 32 SIGNAL REGIMENT, LANARK ROAD, EDINBURGH

Gordon Macdonald MSP Member of the Scottish Parliament for Edinburgh Pentlands Constituency

ADVICE SURGERIES

APPLY FOR THE SCOTLAND SUMMER CHALLENGE TO BECOME AN ARMY RESERVE SOLDIER AND EARN UP TO £1008 THIS SUMMER. For more Information contact:

Wester Hailes Library

1st Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Carrickvale Community Centre

2nd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Currie Library

3rd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Pentland Community Centre

4th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Ratho Community Centre

5th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

How to contact Gordon Macdonald MSP: 1. By email:

Gordon.Macdonald.msp@scottish.parliament.uk

2. By phone:

Local office: 0131 466 5810 or Parliamentary office: 0131 348 5741

Capt Tony Manktelow on 0131 4557512

3. By letter:

Gordon Macdonald MSP, The Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh EH99 1SP

Search: ‘Army Summer Challenge / 32 Signal Regiment’ Online

5. Home visits are available for those people who cannot travel.

4. By appointment: These are held in the local office see www.gordonmacdonaldmsp.info

PLEASE NOTE THERE ARE NO SURGERIES DURING PUBLIC AND BANK HOLIDAYS

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Clubs & Classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more...

BABERTON 172nd Pentland Scouts (Baberton)

BALERNO Monkey Music St Josephs Centre, 2 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH Monday (during term time) 9.50am - Jiggety-Jig (2+) 10.30am - Heigh-Ho (1 - 2 years) 11.10am - Rock ‘n’ Roll (3months - 1 year) Tel - 0131 441 4581 morningside.pentland@monkeymusic.co.uk Balerno Girls' Brigade Ogston Hall in Balerno Parish Church Tuesdays 6.30 - 7.30pm Contact Marion Milne on 0131 449 4441 or email marion724@talktalk.net Village Playgroup, Wraparound and Afterschool Club Balerno Community Centre Available 8am - 6pm, 5 days a week Preschool play from age 2 years Breakfast / Afterschool Club up to 8 years Full or part time childcare Call 0131 451 5756 Pilates Classes Balerno Parish Church - Mondays 6.35 - 7.35pm - Post Beginners/Intermediate 1 7.35 - 8.35pm - Intermediate 2/Advanced 8.35 - 9.35pm - Beginners Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness Mondays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Thursdays 10am at Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternative Fridays 10am at Balerno Parish Church Hall Contact 0131 477 7733 www.bf4f.org.uk Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums Balerno Community Centre Every Friday 7pm-9.30pm New members welcome Free tuition on pipes or drums Phone 0131 4495133

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51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno) Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall Contact Lawrence Mitchell on 0131 449 4680 Currie Rugby Football Club Malleny Park Minis (P1-7) Sundays 10.30am - 12pm Contact 0131 449 2432 www.currierugby.org Pentland Art Club Meet at Balerno High School Art Room Every Thursday 7.30 - 9.30pm Demonstrations, speakers, work evenings; All mediums; New members welcome Please contact Denise Cunningham on 0131 449 3468 Compass Playgroup Dean Park Primary Pre-School Centre 2-5 years, wide variety of activities Mon to Thurs (school term time only) 9:00am - 11.45am Lunch Club and Transfer Service to Dean Park Nursery Call 0131 449 4530 (during opening hours) for more information or email info@compassplaygroup.com Balerno Parish Church Guild Balerno Parish Church New Hall First and third Wednesdays (commencing October) at 7.30pm Varied syllabus with many interesting speakers; Tea/coffee is served at the end of the meeting New members and visitors warmly welcomed Balerno Folk Club Held on the last Tuesday of each month in Balerno Bowling Club Doors open 8pm; Evening begins 8.20pm; Guest artist on stage at 8.30pm; Members and guests welcome For further info contact Morag Dunbar on 0131 449 5014 or John Stirling on 0131 449 3456 Adult daytime swim club Balerno High School Contact Balerno Community Education Office on 0131 477 7733 for more info

Balerno SWRI Balerno Community Centre 7.30pm First Tuesday of every month (except July & August) We usually have a speaker but we also have “in house” evenings; There is usually some business to be discussed and we enjoy a “cuppa” whilst chatting; New members or visitors welcome, just come along Children’s swim scheme Balerno High School Tues, Wed and Fri pm; Sat and Sun am Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info Minis @St Mungo’s Group for babies and toddlers with their carers on term time Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 - 11.30am in St Mungo’s church building, Ladycroft, Balerno; All welcome; For more information see www.stmungos.org Pentland Flower Club Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7.15pm (excluding January, February, July and August); Visitors and new members are always welcome Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146 Balerno Baby and Toddler Group Balerno Parish Church Hall 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN For children 0-5 years and their carers Term-time Thursdays 9.30 - 11.30am

CURRIE Fitsteps - Get fit 'Strictly style!'

Ballroom and Latin dance fitness class - no partner required Wed 6.15 - 7.00pm Inveralmond Community High School - £4.00 Wed 7.30-8.15pm St Mary's Hall, Bathgate - £4.00 Thurs 7.30-8.15pm Currie Community High School - £4.50 Classes start week beginning 6th Jan 2014 For more info contact Lianne on 07737 927463 Email: moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Like us on facebook

Bridge Club Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 3527 Chat’n' Chill for S1-S6 Teenage Café Church Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Games, Café, Chat Every second Friday 4-6 pm Contact Viola on 07806 806920 for more info Currie Youth Club Various activities and facilities available including Gym Teds for childern Sound and Music room; Youth club facilities Sports hall Playgroup Lunch club and Football teams See http://cyc.smartchange.org Coffee and Craft Currie High School, Sun Room Mon 7 - 9pm Bring your own craft and share your knowledge and experience with other crafters and perhaps learn something new All welcome £2.00 per night; Refreshments are included Currie Playgroup Currie Baptist Church Hall Preschool play from age 2 years Mon-Fri, 8.45 - 11.45am (term time) £6.50 per child per morning Wraparound and Lunch Club for children attending Currie Nursery Wrap around £5.00; Lunch club £2.00 See www.currieplaygroup.co.uk 42nd Pentland Scout Group Currie Forth View Crescent, Currie Beavers: Tuesdays 18.15 - 19.30pm call Martin Elliot 07752 182793 Cubs: Mondays 18.15 - 19.45pm call Wendy McEwan 07773 446694 Scouts: Mondays 19.45 - 21.45pm call Ross Brown 07729 714445 Air Cadets 2463 (Currie & Balerno) Squadron Forthview Crescent Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm 0131 449 7449 for more info The Octagon Club For Adults with Special Needs and Learning Difficulties Meets in Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie, 7 - 9pm on Wednesday Evenings from mid September until June for table tennis, snooker, badminton, table games, “tuck shop” etc.

Contact Alastair Hardie on 0131 453 3556 Kettle Class - NEW! Currie High School, Mondays 7.15-8pm £4.50.

Tel 07540 894287 for information

Zumba - NEW! Currie High School, Thursdays 6.30pm7.15pm. £4. Tel 07540 894287 for information Boys Brigade - 65th Edinburgh (Currie) Company Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Anchors (Boys P2 & P3) Thursday 6 - 7pm Juniors (Boys P4, P5 & P6) Thursday 7 - 8.30pm Company/Seniors (Boys P7 - S6) Friday 7 - 9.15pm For further info contact Jim Webber on 0131 451 5112 Currie & District Local History Society Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the GibsonCraig Hall in Currie Visitors welcome; For further information contact Mr P.D. Cowlishaw on 0131 449 2520 or pdcowlishaw@hotmail.com Currie SWRI Meet in the Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie 3 Riccarton Mains Road, Currie, on the second Tuesday of each month (except July and August) at 7.15pm New members and visitors welcome Balerno and District Ramblers Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Car Park, Lanark Rd West at 9.15am for 9.30am start Contact K Gordon 0131 449 2534 or A Blyth 0131 449 5020 Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666

Messy Church at Currie Kirk Usually the last Friday of the month 2 - 3.30pm for children from Pram to Primary age, accompanied by an adult Crafts, stories, games and fun Please register through www.curriekirk.org or currie_kirk@btconnect.com or tel 0131 451 5141 Book Group Currie Library First Wednesday of each month at 7.00pm

JUNIPER GREEN Pilates Classes Juniper Green Parish Church - Thursdays 6.45 - 7.45pm - Beginners 7.45 - 8.45pm - Post Beginners/Intermediate 1 Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com 31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green) 45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers - Wednesdays 6.30pm Cubs - Mondays 7.00pm Cubs - Tuesdays 6.30pm Scouts - Fridays 7.00pm Contact - Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043 Juniper Green SWRI Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX Contact 0131 539 9886 Juniper Green Nursery Playgroup Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX Contact 07948 554889 or see website at www.junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk

Currie Baby and Toddler Group Gibson Craig Hall Friday 9.30 - 11.30am (term time only) Adults £2.00; Kids go free Parents/Grandparents/Carers/Childminders are all very welcome; Snack provided for the kids and tea and coffee for the adults Loads of space to play Baby Group Currie Library Thursdays 2.00 - 3.30pm Come along for an informal tea or coffee and chat with other parents and babies 50p per week Karate Currie High School; Mondays 7.30 - 9pm Adults and Children over 6 years Please contact 0131 449 3510 or 0131 445 2945 for more info or email patricia.shearer@edinburgh.gov.uk

OTHER AREAS Potter Around Studio at Overton Farm Kirknewton, EH27 8DD Clubs including oil painting for both children and adults; jewellery workshops; fused glass; candle making; knitting; scrapbooking; kids craft club; Warhammer club Craft shop, beads, children’s parties, baby prints and more Plus drop in any time for pottery painting For all class times, bookings and more information call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings See our website for details www.konectdirectory.co.uk

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Index of Advertisers Aerials Aerial Man 35 Appliance Repairs Appliances of Edinburgh 16 Army Army Reserves 59 Bathrooms MacKenzie Contracts 36 Bathrooms & Kitchens Ken Dunton 36 Splash Bathrooms 12 Beauty Beauty Box 26 Beauty by Joanne 4 Juniper Beauty Room 21 St John Clinic 5 Botox St John Clinic 5 Building Services Almond Building Company 44 David Hastings 38 Dean Jones Building Services 34 EH1 Contracts 51 MacKenzie Contracts 36 Cafe Molly's 7 Car Sales Colin Nixon 43 Hermiston Motor Co 41 Hope Scott Garage 64 Juniper Green Garage 39 Car Service/Repair Alan Drysdale Motor Engineers 39 Chips Away 39 Colin Nixon 43 D A Ward Motor Engineers 39 DSL Auto Repair 14 Finishing Touch 14 Hermiston Motor Co 41 Hope Scott Garage 64 Smart Tech Vehicle Solutions 40 Carpet Cleaning C & W Cleaning Services 34 Fiona's House Cleaning 24 Hydro Kleen Scotland 12 Carpets James Erskine Interiors 28 Murrayfield Carpets & Interiors 30 Pentland Carpets 4 Cattery Claylands Cottage Cattery 37 Children's Activities Edinburgh Ballet 7 Monkey Music 5 Village Playgroup 23 Chiropody and Podiatry Pentland Footcare 7 Cleaning Services Fiona's House Cleaning 24 Dentist Balerno Dental Care 27 No 9 Dental Practice 21 Double Glazing Double Glazing Repairs 45 Red Hot Windows 44 Dressmaking/Alternations Stitch Express 23

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Drycleaning Stitch Express 23 Electrician A&A Electrical Solutions 36 A.F.A Electrical 32 D Sykes Electrical Contractors 28 John Nothard 10 Financial Services PMM 22 Fitness HerbaLife 20 KM Fitness 26 Lis Dick Pilates 26 Sarah's Fitness 6 Florist Vicky's flowers 23 Funeral Directors Porteous Funeral Directors 10 Furniture Grove Bedding 11 Hann Furnishing 15 Sofas and Stuff 19 Garden & Landscaping Capital Gardening Services 47 D Greaves 47 Evergreen Balerno 4 Riccarton Garden Centre 6 Taurus Gardening 45 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 31 Ratho Park Golf Club 35 Hairdresser Hairtech 26 Ian Cameron Hairdressing 27 Laura Elizabeth Hair Design 7 Tony Harper's Hair Studio 20 Handyman Bits 'N' Pieces 23 Health HerbaLife 20 Heating Services Mech A Tech 16 Home Help Cliff Dalley 24 Diamond Home Support 24 Home Improvements Window Wizard 40 Home Fires Stoves 16 Ian Merriman Ltd 38 Ken Dunton 36 S & S Home Improvements 2 The Paint Shed 17 Hotel Marriott Dalmahoy 13 Ironing Services Ironing Aid 12 Joiner Adriatik Sula Joinery Services 6 Central Scotland Joinery 63 Dean Jones Building Services 34 Geoff Milne 4 GK Wilson Joinery 34 Jack Watson Joinery 6 Procut Joinery & Building 45 Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith 6 Caledonian Locksmiths 34

Mobility Med -Ecosse 25 MSP Gordon Macdonald MSP 59 Oven Cleaning The Clean Team 35 Shiny Bright Ovens 16 Paint Supplies The Paint Shed 17 Painter/Decorator Alistair McLellan 51 Brushstrokes 36 Gerry Aitken 10 Personal Assistant Cliff Dalley 24 Pet Services Claylands Cottage Cattery 37 Happy Scampers 37 Physiotherapy Centre for Sport and Exercise 27 Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering 44 Playgroup Village Playgroup 23 Plumbing Services Bill Reid & Son 36 Coval 10 Jim Gladstone 40 Shandon Plumbing 36 Weir Gas Services 36 Property Maintenance Cleaning & Maintenance 37 Public House Riccarton Inn 57 Restaurant Al Borgo 57 Roofing Dell Roofing 40 EH1 Contracts 51 Fairmile Roofing 29 Thomson Roofing Services 48 School Merchiston Castle School 23 Security Services A.F.A Fire and Security 33 Soft Furnishings Blind Design 28 James Erskine Interiors 30 Quintessential 35 Style Rite Blinds 30 Takeaway Pentland Fry 57 Telephone Engineer John McGraw 38 Tiler Barry Edwards Tiling 51 Tree Surgery DeLisle Tree Surgeon 47 Maxwell Treecare 47 Upholsterer James Erskine Interiors 30 Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic 37 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 14 Window Cleaner Tag Cleaning Services 12 Windows Red Hot Windows 44

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