Konect Balerno September 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017

SPOTLIGHT ON JUNIPER GREEN local Rediscover a Local Treasure Plus businesses, A Walk Along the Shore community information & more!

INSPIRED BY COLOUR

S& OFFER ERS H C U VO cal from lo ses s busine

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton & Ratho

How do you potentially get a How doreturn you potentially a higher than bankget accounts higher return than accounts when interest ratesbank are lower than when interest rates are lower than inflation? inflation?

As at June 2017 inflation was at 2.6%* and expected to rise.atAs of July savings rates As June 20172017 inflation wasaccounts at 2.6%*are andoffering expected to of between 0.1% andsavings 2.5%**accounts if you tieare upoffering your money rise.

As of July 2017 rates for between up to five0.1% years.and 2.5%** if you tie up your money of for up to*ONS five (Office years.for National Statistics) Source 18/7/17 ** MoneySavingExpert 2/8/2017 Source *ONS (Office for National Statistics) 18/7/17 ** MoneySavingExpert 2/8/2017

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hat choices do you have to protect the value of your hat savings and do potentially a return on your choices you havereceive to protect the value of savings. your savings and potentially receive a return on your savings.

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The most popular method is to invest collectively through an insurance company investment house such as The most popular methodoris to invest collectively through Standard Life, company Prudential,orAberdeen Asset Management an insurance investment house such as and manyLife, others.

There are over 6,000 funds available Standard Prudential, Aberdeen Asset Management to you to pick from.There are over 6,000 funds available and many others. to you to pick from.

In our opinion Discretionary Fund managers are best suited to investDiscretionary client’s savings they watch the In our opinion Fund as managers are best marketstodaily and client’s buy funds and shares theywatch hope the will suited invest savings as they do well and sell and themshares very quickly if they markets dailyare andable buy to funds they hope will consider them worth holding the quickly presentif time. do well and arenot able to sell thematvery they The catchthem here not is, some Fund Managers consider worth Discretionary holding at the present time. require quite a high minimum initial investment amount.

The catch here is, some Discretionary Fund Managers require a high minimumFinancial initial investment Althoughquite we are Independent Advisers,amount.

Torphin Financial we Planning now offerFinancial both an Advisers, online restricted Although are Independent Torphin service and a face tonow faceoffer independent servicerestricted with the Financial Planning both an online online service not being a personal recommendation. service and a face to face independent service with the online service not being a personal recommendation.

Entry level 1

Entry level 1 Not a personal recommendation.

Restricted Service, Restricted Service, Not a personal recommendation.

Through our website www.torphin.co.uk you can invest Through ourwithout websitethe www.torphin.co.uk you can invest online and need to see a Financial Adviser. online without need to see a Financial Adviser.

This isandcalled thethePersonal Finance Portal.

The This is called Personal minimum you canthe invest is £1,000Finance into fundsPortal. throughThe an minimum youorcan invest £1,000 into funds through an ISA wrapper Unit Trustisaccount.

ISA Unit Trustthe account.

The wrapper programorascertains level of risk you are willing The program ascertains the level risk losing you are willing to take and if you can cope with theoffund value as to takehappens and if you canearly copeyears. with the fund losing value as often in the often happens thebe early years. with Vanguard, one of Your cash will in then invested Your cash will then be invested Vanguard, of the world’s largest providers of with collective funds.one This the world’s would largestbeproviders collective funds.

This investment managedof on a platform through investment Cofunds. would be managed on a platform through Cofunds.

The charges for this service can be viewed on our The charges for this service can be viewed on our website. website.

Torphin Financial Torphin Financial Planning Planning

Grant MacDo Grant MacDo Midlothian Inno

Midlothian Inno Pentlandfield, R Pentlandfield, T: 0131 440 8R T: 0131 440 M: 07979 60 48 Independent Advice Service M: 07979 ifa@torphin.co We offer an advice service where your investments are 60 4 ifa@torphin.co managed by a range of Investment firms & Discretionary We offer an advice service where your investments are www.torphin.c Fund Managers from of theInvestment whole of thefirms market.

This allows managed by a range & Discretionary www.torphin.c Torphin Financial Planning is a trading name of Torphin Associates Ltd wh Entry level 2 Independent Entry levelAdvice 2 Service

our clients to have their by Fund Managers from thesavings whole Authority. ofindividually the market.managed This allows regulatedFinancial by the Financial Torphin Planning Conduct is a trading name of Torphin Associates Ltd wh experts in their field without having the usualmanaged large funds our clients to have their savings individually by regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. available. also receive experts in Our theirclients field without having the additional usual largebenefit funds that you would expectalso from an Independent Financial available.

Our clients receive the additional benefit Adviser. advice on ISA’s, Life Assurance, that you i.e would expect from Pensions, an Independent Financial Adviser. i.e advice ISA’s, Pensions, Mortgages, Home on Insurance, IncomeLife in Assurance, retirement, Mortgages, Home Insurance, Income in retirement, Inheritance Tax planning and Long Term Care funding.

Inheritance Tax planning and Long Term Care funding.

Please Note, Some forms of Tax planning are not regulatedNote, by theSome Financial Conduct Please forms of TaxAuthority. planning are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

This service starts at £20,000 with no upper limit. The sameservice as the present allowance.

This starts atISA £20,000 with no upper limit. The same as the present ISA allowance.

This initial meeting is free, would last about an hour, and This initial meeting is free, would last about an hour, and you are under no obligation whatsoever. you are under no obligation whatsoever.

Please remember that investments can fall as well as Please thatgetinvestments can fallinvestment. as well as rise andremember you may not back your original rise andmay you may back your original There be not an get additional cost wheninvestment. using a There may be additional cost when using a Discretionary FundanManager.

Discretionary Fund Manager.

The purpose of this article is to provide technical & The purpose of this to provide technical generic guidance andarticle shouldis not be interpreted as &a generic and should not be interpreted as a personalguidance recommendation or advice. personal recommendation or advice.

Torphin Financial Planning Torphin Financial Planning Midlothian Innovation Centre, Pentlandfield, Midlothian Innovation Centre, Pentlandfield, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RE Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RE

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www.torphin.co.uk www.torphin.co.uk Torphin Financial Planning is authorised and regulated under the Financial Conduct Authority FCA Number 618460.

Torphin Financial Planning is authorised and regulated under the Financial Conduct Authority FCA Number 618460.

PAGE 48

FEATURE

M ESSA G E F RO M T HE E D I T O R

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e’re just settling back into post-summerholiday routines, after weeks of trying to make the most of the all-too-few dry days this summer! We take a look at Juniper Green this month, and how it is dealing with the same challenges as all the villages in terms of providing an environment for independent local businesses to survive and thrive, attracting visitors and looking after locals.

Suzanne’s article this month is a reflective piece prompted by a conversation she has regularly with people. All our regular columns are here, as well as a little local history. Balerno Music Festival kicks off at the end of the month, see page 66 and check the programme online.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

FEATURES Spotlight on Juniper Green Village People Money Matters Home Improvements: Colours Thought for the Month Walk Feature Visit West Lothian “You’re One of Us” Food Notes: Local History

08 17 28 30 34 48 50 58 62 64

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku

50

COMMUNITY What’s On Clubs & Classes

66 67

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

70

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.

The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho.

Copies are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

COVER IMAGE: ‘Spotlight on Juniper Green’ see our feature on Page 8

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

KONECT BALERNO | 3

Jack Watson JOINERY Est. 1985

RELIABLE EXPERIENCED LOCAL JOINER NO JOB TOO SMALL CALL FOR A QUOTE

Tel: 0131 449 3730 Mob: 07711916317

Email jackwatson30@gmail.com

4 | KONECT BALERNO

KONECT BALERNO | 5

9.30am–12.30pm

Principal’s Address 9.30am

INSTILLING CONFIDENCE INSPIRING INDIVIDUALS Choice for S5 and S6 pupils of SQA Qualifications or International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School Bus pick-up at Haymarket Station West Lothian School Bus stops at Livingston, Mid Calder, East Calder, Kirknewton, Newlands, Balerno and Currie Up to 100% financial support available for P7 and S1 entry

George Watson’s College, Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk www.gwc.org.uk An Edinburgh Merchant Company School, Registered Charity SC009747

Open Morning Saturday, 30 September 2017 from 9.45am to 1.00pm Presentation in the School Hall at 10.00am Crèche available from 9.45am to 12.30pm

George Heriot’s provides an all through co-education. We give each individual child a safe, positive, caring environment to thrive academically, on a personal level and through our vast range of extra curricular activities.

We’re proud to welcome children from all walks of life. Foundation, Bursary and Scholarship places are available.

For further information please contact the Admissions Office: 0131 229 7263 admissions@george-heriots.com

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

Konect_Directories_128mm_x_92mm.indd 1

04/07/2017 14:04

KONECT BALERNO | 7

COMMUNITY

Pubs, restaurants and takeaways keep local residents and visitors fed and watered.

To many people, Juniper Green is just a label on a stretch of road you pass through along the A70. But there is a lot more to Juniper Green than meets the eye. We take a quick look behind the street front…

There are many independant businesses throughout the local community.

Literally behind the shop fronts of course on one side is the Water of Leith walkway, which makes Juniper Green a great destination or stoppingoff point for walkers and cyclists. Three pubs, Al Borgo Restaurant, and two takeaways – Pentland Fry and the Lucky House Chinese takeaway - keep visitors and residents alike fed and watered. We can expect more visitors in the future - the village has been in the news recently as new research shows that Baberton Golf Club was the site of an historic meeting between poets Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon and Robert Graves – we’ll be covering that in more detail in an upcoming issue of Konect, but it really puts Juniper Green on the literary map. On Friday 13th October there will be a talk at 7.30pm at Baberton Golf Club, by Neil McLennan, entitled “The War Poets Meeting Holed (and Told) in One” (the first event in this year’s Pentlands Book Festival).

Neil uncovered the fact that the poets first met at Baberton Golf Club on 13th October 1917. He will talk about that meeting exactly a century before, the poetry that flowed from the encounter and some tales of golf between Baberton Golf Club and Craiglockhart War Hospital (now Napier University).

See www.napier.ac.uk/Wilfred-Owen-100 for details.

Local independent main street businesses include hairdressers, beauty salons, dentist, physiotherapist and an optician, and have recently been joined by Flowers

by Porteous and Lillie. Opened three months ago

by Anna from Currie, the shop is all about parties

8 | KONECT

JUNIPER GREEN SPECIAL

7 Day Membership: £68.75 per month 6 Day Members: £61.88 per month, 5 Day Members: £51.56 per month Young Adult (18-19): £15 per month, Young Adult (20-21): £20 per month, Young Adult (22-25): £30 per month, Young Adult (26-30): £40 per month 12 ROUND MEMBERSHIP FOR £300 – contact us for details With the SGL affiliation fee of £12.60 Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

TRIAL ROUNDS FOR PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS AT £10.00 Club: 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri Pro shop: 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun

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Email: manager@baberton.co.uk Website: www.babertongc.com

KONECT | 9

- besides flowers for all occasions, they sell cards, helium balloons, favours (for weddings, babies) as well as a range of gifts, candles and kitchenalia. Anna was taught by her grandmother who was a florist and milliner, and after years working as a business manager Anna decided to make her hobby into a business. There will be open evenings coming up in the run up to Christmas and they will be selling real Christmas trees and wreaths. Anna also works closely with Porteous Funeral Directors.

For food, the fishmongers have been faithfully serving the village for a long time, and the new deli, Molly’s Delicatessen, is a welcome addition to ensure continuity of the local food shopping options. They supply cheeses from Mellis Cheesemongers, bread from local suppliers, meat, and fresh fruit and veg.

They also have an espresso machine selling the same coffee as in Molly’s Cafe. The cafe has been a great asset to the village since opening a couple of years ago; besides the fantastic range of baking that Sarah does herself (when I was in for coffee recently I think there were at least 10 baking options on the counter...) they do lunches every day and evening dining Thursday to Saturday.

The annual Pentlands Book Festival is coming up in November, with events this year taking place from Colinton to Balerno. More information at www.pentlandsbookfestival.org and in the October issue of Konect.

Juniper Green is one of two communities in the Edinburgh area taking part in the Scottish Government’s Resilient Community Project. The aim is to help communities become more self-reliant and to identify and protect vulnerable people. As a start, defibrillators are now located at the parish church, Baberton Golf Club, Juniper Green Bowling Club, the primary school and village hall. Juniper Green Community Council is also looking at winter-readiness: snow-clearing kit will be held in the village hall and training arranged before winter; Baberton Avenue to be designated as a priority street for gritting; first aid training to be considered; and possibly enlisting volunteers who can offer help in emergencies, for example who have chainsaws or 4-wheel-drive vehicles, or who can offer transport to those who cannot drive themselves, or can go shopping for someone.

The loss of the bank and its ATM is of major concern and there is a danger that the village’s economy will suffer. However the Community Council is pursuing its plan to bring community banking to the area. It has successfully bid to the Scottish Land Fund 10 | KONECT

Juniper Green on Broadway, New York Catherine Chisholm Cushing (1854-1952) was a playwright born in Ohio, USA, and there is no record of her having traveled to Scotland. So why does Juniper Green feature heavily in her musical comedy “Lassie”, appearing in New York Theatres in 1920? According to the blurb at the time “the heroine, having been brought up obscurely by poor people in Juniper Green, on the banks of the River Leith, is sent for by those who had abandoned her as a baby and taken up to London town...” We won’t spoil all the plot twists, but you can safely assume that after discovering her dashing love is her half brother, she returns broken-hearted to Juniper Green - only to discover he isn’t, after all. Acts I and III are set in Juniper Green. for funding to research the options for the continuation of a face-to-face financial services for the village communities of the Upper Water of Leith. They are looking at acquire the land on the abandoned toilet site from the city council to potentially build what could be a community hub on the site; and determine if there is a business case for sustaining this space for community use. “It’s important for people to support the facilities there are in the local area,” says Cliff Beevers, chair of the JGCC.“I know it’s a cliché, but it’s an accurate one … ‘use them or lose them.’”

If you have an interest in helping the local community or volunteering in any way, the Juniper Green Community Council will be delighted to hear from you. Please email chair@junipergreencc.org.uk or phone 0131 453 4517.

The welcoming signage as you enter the ‘Historc Mill Village’ of Juniper Green.

JUNIPER GREEN SPECIAL

JUNIPER GREEN SPECIAL

KONECT | 11

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VILLAGE PEOPLE

Bounty!

Keith T ay garden lor (right) with ing guru Harriso George n.

Balerno resident Keith Taylor is a retired firefighter and Chair of the Balerno Village Trust. His interests include cars, motorbikes, mountain biking and trips to the East Neuk and the Highlands.

He is married to Steph and they have two adult children, Angus and Caitie.

Keith Taylor never had a great interest in history when he was in school – he did geography. “But as I get older, I am getting more interested in history,” he says, “especially local history.” Perhaps that is why Keith is so excited about developing the vegetable garden at Malleny House, a project reflecting a new partnership between the Balerno Village Trust (BVT) and National Trust Scotland (NTS).

“Malleny House is the ‘jewel in the crown’,” Keith comments. “But how many locals have ever visited this National Trust property? “My hope is that we can grow veggies to start with, and that eventually we can get involved with the building too.”

The vegetable garden was the BVT’s idea, and the NTS agreed with the project, as long as the revamped garden kept to the heritage style.

Currently there are 12 volunteer gardeners, but more would be welcome. “This is an opportunity to bring people together to garden, increasing the sense of community. But also it will make Malleny House more attractive to visitors. Eventually, we would like groups to come in to help – for example, the PALM group (dementia café) and perhaps groups of high school students.”

Although he coordinates the gardening group, Keith doesn’t claim to be an expert. “I enjoy gardening,” he says, “but under direction. Thankfully, we have people in the group who are brimming with knowledge. For example, George Harrison, who is involved with Gardening Scotland.

“We’ve been working hard and have got lots planted this year. I’ve been surprised at how much

we’ve been given by people to get us started and we’re grateful! There were some tattie sets left from Balerno’s Tattie Day, and those have been planted too.”

So far the garden, which is in the sunny and sheltered northeast corner, has yielded radishes, lettuce, French beans and potatoes. Some of this has been sold at the Balerno Farmer’s Market and the money raised will be put towards seed for next year. Volunteers work at the garden on a weekly basis, just to keep on top of the weeding. On average they put in about three hours per fortnight, but any gift of time is appreciated.

“The head gardener at Malleny House emailed us to say the vegetable garden is looking fantastic!” says Keith, “and the Trust has been delighted with what we have done so far.”

The BVT needs donations of garden tools to help with the Malleny House vegetable garden. Please contact Keith (email address below) if you can help.

Contact keithtaylor1166@gmail.com to receive email updates on the garden.

Visit www.balernovt.org.uk and check out the Balerno Village Trust’s Facebook page.

The Village People column is contributed by Suzanne Green. Suzanne, a freelance writer/ editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.

KONECT BALERNO | 17

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KONECT BALERNO | 27

MONEY MATTERS

BANKING FRAUD AWARENESS If you bank on line then be wary of any unexpected text messages you receive, especially if you have already arranged with your bank to send you a weekly text message with your current balance.

After this legitimate text message you could receive a second text message (which since it comes very quickly after the first text you would normally think is genuine) suggesting that there is something wrong with your account and asking you to immediately call the number indicated.

Do NOT call this number, call your bank directly.

Remember, your bank will NEVER phone you and ask for your pin numbers or passwords.

If you receive a phone call suggesting it is from the fraud department of your bank and that there is a large withdrawal pending from your bank via online banking, thank the person and say you will contact your bank directly. Do not engage in conversation.

Once you have hung up, wait half an hour before contacting your bank or use another phone, as the

28 | KONECT BALERNO

fraudsters can stay on your line for some time and again pretend to be your bank answering your call.

Should you receive a suspicious text/phone call / email, go on line and get your banks fraud hotline number and call them directly to explain what has happened, even if you haven’t responded to the text/call/email in any way. They will talk you through security and check your account for you.

Remember, if you’re not sure of anything when it comes to on line banking, phone calls, emails and texts, the safest bet is to do nothing, then call your bank directly.

The monthly Money Matters column is contributed

by Personal Money Management. This month’s piece written by Dr P M Marshall.

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2 Turner Avenue Balerno KONECT BALERNO | 29

HOME IMPROVEMENT

INSPIRED BY The story of colour is the story of society, fashion, the way we live, science, art – in fact, of mankind itself. We look at all aspects of colour, from its history to this year’s most fashionable shades.

Did you know there was a time when green wallpaper could kill? Or that a very expensive dye was made from boiled snails? In the Palaeolithic era - about 35,000 years ago - Stone Age man began to create cave paintings using earth pigments mixed with resin, water or glue made from animal bones and hides. For centuries the most widely used natural pigments were extracted from soil and rocks, plants, insects and animals. Ash and chalk were also basics; at a price, however, strong, bright pigments or dyes could be extracted from other sources, such as ultramarine blue from ground lapis lazuli gemstones or Tyrian purple, where 10,000 boiled snails produced just one gram of dye.

Historically, the use of colour was governed by ease of availability and thus cost. The richest colours were always reserved for the most important parts of religious and royal interiors. In the Georgian period, the affordable ‘common’ colours included stone and timber colours, greys and whites – in the form of distemper and white lead. Middle class households would often use the slightly more expensive oil colours such as ‘drab’ (dull brownish grey), olive, pea green and sky blue. More expensive paints included pink, lemon, orange and straw colour, while the most costly were verdigris, ultramarine and smalt, a glittering blue.

Everything changed from the early 19th century, when chemists began to develop synthetic colours at lower cost. Many new colours were developed and old ones were improved - though an exception was Emerald Green, commercially available from 1814 to the early 1900s, as fumes from wallpaper 30 | KONECT BALERNO

printed with the arsenic-based ink could be deadly.

The new Victorian palette included bottle greens, gold, burgundy, crimson, rose, violet and mahogany, as well as intense chemical yellows, blues and greens.

Edwardian hues became softer and paler and, ever since, colour has followed the roller-coaster of fashion and scientific advances: from the ‘greenery-yallery’ of the Aesthetic movement to the brilliant white produced by the introduction of titanium dioxide in 1916 and from the sorbet colours of the Fifties right through to the pinks, blues And greens of 2017. It’s fair to say that the modern world of colour has no limits.

WHAT ARE THIS YEAR’S MOST FASHIONABLE GREENERY: Pantone’s colour of 2017 is described as ‘a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew’. Greenery is ideal for adding pops of colour in the form of cushions, cupboard fronts or vases, and lends itself beautifully to the current botanicals trend.

MILLENNIAL PINK: Also known as Tumblr Pink and Scandi Pink, Millennial Pink is a soft, dusky

pink that was inspired by Wes

Anderson’s film The Grand Budapest

Hotel and the rose gold iPhone.

DENIM DRIFT: Dulux’s colour of the year for 2017, Denim Drift is versatile, easy to use in every room and easy to co-ordinate with.

Article by Katherine Sorrell

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KONECT BALERNO | 31

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THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

SAFE Bookkeeper Denise Forrest MIAB, ACIBS There are only two ways to live your life, according to Albert Einstein… one is as though nothing is a miracle and the other is as though everything is!

Sometimes life seems to go through a really difficult season when the challenges seem to be overwhelming. It is easy to feel alone when you are dealing with problems, or frustrated that not much seems to be changing for the better. Trying to remember to have an attitude of gratitude can help a lot, so that we don’t miss the (small) positives in amongst the daily struggles.

See the smiles from other people, then loving looks in the family, remember the good times, the hugs, the laughter and the sunshine!

At the end of the day, focus on things you can be grateful for. Take time to talk about things that have gone well, as well as the necessary conversations about stuff that is still hard.

Praise the success of others.

Talk to others and encourage them to share their successes so that you can celebrate together.

And over time, you might feel that you are living with a miracle!

Thought for the Month is contributed by Pat Banfill, Pastoral Assistant St Mungo’s Church, Balerno & Livingston - www.stmungos.org 34 | KONECT BALERNO

0773 893 2489 152 Baberton Mains Drive, EH14 3BZ Email: safebookkeeper@outlook.com www.safebookkeeper.com SAFE Bookkeeper

Ratho Auto Services Servicing, Diagnostics, Tyres, Pre-Purchase Checks, Sales John Plimmer

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0131 333 5353 07784 537356

Free Collection & Delivery Service MOTs arranged 73 Station Road, Ratho Station, EH28 8OP

KONECT BALERNO | 35

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See page 3 for contact details.

Iyengar Yoga

in Juniper Green & Currie Classes Mon & Thurs 10am & 7pm Currie & Juniper Green Taster class FREE for newcomers

Iyengar yoga is suitable for everyone, whatever age or fitness level, helps us maintain flexibility, health and wellbeing, and cope with the stresses of modern day life.

For more information contact Maureen on 07557 506244 or email: maureen.clarke.44@hotmail.co.uk.

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40 | KONECT BALERNO

KONECT BALERNO | 41

Wedding and Event Florist T: 01506 200206 M: 07816 673 204 E: vicky@vickysflowers.com

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We design beautiful and natural-looking dentures.

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KONECT BALERNO | 43

konect WALKIN’N’WOOFIN DOG WALKING SERVICES AND MUCH MORE • 1 TO 1 DOG WALKS

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To join in please contact us!

See page 3 for contact details 44 | KONECT BALERNO

Walkin n woofin_with Bleed v4AW.indd 1

08/03/2016 22:00

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.

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www.happyscampers.co.uk KONECT BALERNO | 45

BUSTER THE DOG

Alistair Taylor

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46 | KONECT BALERNO

DELL ROOFING Currie Established 22 years

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KONECT BALERNO | 47

WALK

WALK My favourite kind of walk has to be one involving water - a riverside ramble, a stride along the seashore, looping around a loch...fresh air, great views while getting exercise.

A real favourite at any time of year is the shore walk that takes in the Dalmeny Estate near South Queensferry. This walk has been incorporated into the John Muir Way, a seven to ten day walk coast to coast across the best of central Scotland with many places of natural, historical and industrial heritage along the way. You can read more about the John Muir way at www. johnmuirway.org. You can take a little of the walk at a time and there are a few segments near to us. As John Muir put it, “It is a good thing, to make short excursions now and then”, and to “saunter rather than hike”. I so agree with him.

I began at the Hawes Pier opposite the Hawes Inn in South Queensferry - a place worth a visit as it dates back to at least

DALMENY HOUSE: Built in 1817 to a Tudor Gothic design by William Wilkins.

48 | KONECT BALERNO

the 17th century and is featured in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Kidnapped. It also features a roaring log fire - great for warming up cold feet and hands if the weather is inclement. Wait until you have finished your walk and you can feel your warming drink is well deserved.

If the Lifeboat Station shop is open you can pop in and do your bit, then take the small lane down to the left just after the station

This walk has been incorporated into the John Muir Way, a seven to ten day walk coast to coast across the best of central Scotland which heads to the shoreline, taking you to Longcraig Pier, one of several which were used as ferry points to cross the Forth.

You might spot a seal basking on the pier if you are lucky.

Personally I haven’t spotted one yet but I live in hope.

At the pier there is a white gate by a cottage leading into the Dalmeny Estate and the path through the woodland. Every

now and then you can see the shore and the boats sitting out on the Firth. The path ultimately leads all the way to Cramond and depending on your time and your energy levels, you can walk the entire route, rest in Cramond and walk or take the bus back; or do what I usually do - head off the path half way along, go down to the shore and do a loop, returning to South Queensferry and the Hawes Inn. There are several ways of doing the loop but my preference is to keep to the path until it emerges from the woodlands and Dalmeny House comes into view on the right. It is a well-maintained woodland path with a good surface, and at various points you can divert down onto the shore.

It is approximately 4.25km from Hawes Inn to Dalmeny House.

Dalmeny House was built in 1817 to a Tudor Gothic design

by William Wilkins. A rare type of artificial stone called coadestone was used in the more decorative elements on the house. The house was used as an auxiliary hospital during WWI and during WWII the stables to the rear were used by the Army for a Barrage Balloon Unit.

As the golf course opens up

on the left opposite Dalmeny House, the footpath turns left onto the golf course to skirt the edge of the woodland and go down to the shoreline, then follows the shoreline along the golf course. From here you can continue all the way to Cramond, passing Snab Point and Eagle Rock, or go down onto the beach and turn back towards South Queensferry. You will get views along the coast to Barnbougle Castle and across the Forth. Kids will love beachcombing amongst all the shells.

You will have spotted Barnbougle Castle, currently covered in scaffolding, as you approached Dalmeny House. It is on the site of a medieval tower house built by the Mowbray family which was destroyed and then rebuilt in the 19th century. At Barnbougle the Fifth Earl of Rosebery (Prime

Minister 1895-1895) practised his speeches in a gallery hall built for the purpose. The castle is not open to the public.

Climb back up onto the golf course via some rocks at the end of the little stretch of beach here, and take the path back the way you came. On the way back pause at Hound Point, known for the BP tanker berth and which according to folklore is haunted by a dog owned by Sir Richard Mowbray who died on the Crusades. The views from Hound Point are magnificent with Inchcolm Island and its old abbey as well as the spectacular Forth Bridges, including the wide white spans of the new bridge.

Retrace your steps back to the Lifeboat station in South Queensferry and to that well deserved warming drink at the Hawes Inn.

CONTRIBUTOR: The walk feature is written

by Karen Murray. Karen lives in West Lothian and is passionate about walking in the great outdoors having been brought up to love walking by her Father (still hillwalking in his 80s).

Servicing on all makes and models of vehicles from just £99

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Balerno Garage 8 Deanpark Brae, Balerno EH14 7DZ KONECT BALERNO | 49

PUZZLES

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

CROSSWORD

As summer departs and autumn arrives there is a lot happening in West Lothian this September.

It’s time to let loose at this year’s Party in The Park taking place on the 3rd and, as always, taking place in Kirkton Park, Bathgate! Come along to this family friendly free event to enjoy the last of the summer sunshine. Make a day of it and head into Bathgate town enjoying the shopping, cinema, museum, Xcite Leisure Centre and fantastic range of bars and eateries.

Solution in the October edition of Konect ACROSS: 6. Attractive (6), 8. Allow (6), 9. Bite persistently (4), 10. Chosen (8), 11. Ripping (7), 13. Acknowledge (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Secured (7), 20. Non-military person (8), 21. Neat (4), 23 Suppose (6), 24 Surplus (6) DOWN: 1. Midday (4), 2. Reply (6), 3. Type of fruit (5), 4. Found (6), 5. Similarly (8), 7. Relieving (6), 12. Soonest (8), 14. Alter (6), 16. Special (6), 18. Unbroken (6), 19. Conceals (5), 22. Hurry (4)

SUDOKU

This month marks the return of the legendary Linlithgow Folk Festival from the 6th – 10th. This fun packed 5 day event will showcase some of Scotland’s best folk music talent and will offer a great deal of variety . So whether you want to get up and dance or sit back and relax this is certainly one to clear the diary for.

Look out those bicycles and get involved with the Pedal for Scotland Event on the 10th. The Big Belter race shall be passing through the Bathgate Hills this year via Beecraigs Country Park and Torphichen so whether you are out to compete or show your support make the most of this action packed event.

Solution on Page 69

For more information, or the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit:

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www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian

52 | KONECT BALERNO

0131 477 1167 Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com

Currievale Plumbing Plumbing & Drainage Services Emergency call outs Professional & reliable service Family business, over 15 yrs experience All plumbing work carried out

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KONECT BALERNO | 53

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There’s life in your unwanted furniture and electricals

FREE & FAST COLLECTION You may not want your old sofa, table or fridge, but we do. We’ll collect them from your home and find them a new life. Your donations will fund our pioneering research and help save lives.

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CALL BHF EDINBURGH STORE 0131 341 2992 bhf.org.uk/collection © British Heart Foundation, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

KONECT BALERNO | 55

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BRUSHSTROKES

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

TEL: 0131 451 5372 MOB: 0797 192 3397

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Email: brushstrokes@blueyonder.co.uk 66 Forthview Crescent, Currie, EH14 5QT KONECT BALERNO | 57

COMMUNITY

MONTHLY FARMER’S MARKETS Bringing Balerno’s community together

You’re one of us!

“So how long are you here for?”

“Oh I’ve lived in this country for about 30 years!”

“Really? You haven’t lost your accent.”

“Well, that depends on who you ask. People always hear a difference. Here people always wonder when I arrived and how long I’m staying. Back in my hometown in the US people ask me, ‘What country are you from?’

Basically, nobody claims me.”

DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY INITIATIVES Keeping the local community inclusive

INSPIRING VILLAGE PEOPLE Working hard to bring neighbours together

58 | KONECT BALERNO

This is a conversation that I’ve had again and again over the years. In fact, I have thought that perhaps I should record my answers and just hit “play” because the questions and answers are so predictable! Usually it’s someone behind a till who strikes up a conversation with me when they notice my accent. (Note: accent is that thing that other people have but, of course, you don’t have one.)

It’s nice that people take an interest. And because I enjoy entertaining people, I usually make quite an effort with these dialogues. For example, recently a friend treated me to a massage and couldn’t believe it when I told her afterwards that I’d spent the entire 40 minutes answering the young massage therapist’s questions about my cross-cultural adventures.

It wasn’t easy to have a proper conversation, lying face down and talking to the floor through the little face-shaped hole in the table. But I’d done my best. The girl seemed fascinated with my stories, but it wasn’t a very relaxing experience for me.

What many people don’t realise is just how often these questions are asked of me. Think about the cumulative effect. On a fairly regular basis it is being pointed out to me that I don’t really belong here in Balerno. I’m a novelty, not a native.

Most of the time I just smile and carry on. But if I am feeling low on the day that I get such a grilling, it doesn’t exactly help me to feel part of things.

I think about “community” a lot as I interview people and write articles for Konect. After all, this is a community magazine. I write about people who serve on community councils and try to make improvements for all of us. I interview interesting and inspiring folk for the Village People feature.

I’ve written about how the community pulled together to help a family in crisis. And I’ve done pieces on events such as the Farmers’ Markets, aimed at bringing neighbours together. Feeling part of a community is so enriching and it adds meaning to our day to day lives.

SUZANNE

GREEN

When we su ddenly hav e to stick to to survive, Several years ago, when we were all buried g we see co mmunity sp ether of course in snow, it made me happy to see the way irit. But it’s even b etter to se of commun neighbours helped each other, arming e evidence ity when th ere is no cr themselves with snow shovels and pitching in isis. together. I also noticed how everyone was more likely to greet or speak to one another. Trudging down Mansfield Road in my snow boots, it seemed everyone I saw smiled at me! When we I had come to the part suddenly have to stick together to survive, we see where I said, “Here people always community spirit. But of course it’s even better to see wonder when I arrived and how long I’m staying. evidence of community when there is no crisis.

Back in my hometown in the US people ask me, ‘What country are you from?’ Basically, nobody Many people in our local villages work hard to claims me.” What that old man said next totally bring neighbours together. Annual events such as changed what has become a routine chat: “We the Currie Fair, the Balerno Music Festival, and the will claim you!”

Pentlands Book Festival get us out of our houses so we can connect with one another. And some locals are putting their efforts into making our community more inclusive of those with particular needs—the dementia-friendly initiatives are a good example.

However, all of us can play a part in building community. This can be done even through simple gestures, such as taking a gift of home baking to some new neighbours. The message this conveys: you are one of us now.

Yesterday I did my weekly food shop and was bagging up my items when the friendly elderly man at the till initiated the inevitable conversation. So I joined in, ready with my stock answers: this is my life. But then something happened that has never happened before, not in three decades spent in the UK!

I smiled as I walked out of that shop, and I know I am not the only one who likes to feel included. His words sum up “community” for me. The message they conveyed is a simple but important one.

You’re one of us now.

To find out about community-building local events, see “What’s On” and Clubs and Classes listings at the back of this magazine.

SUZANNE GREEN - Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in Balerno and writes regularly for Konect. She is married to Andy and they have two adult daughters.

KONECT BALERNO | 59

Book early for a fabulo us Xmas!

as Christm ! g n i m o c is

Gin Bar Beer Garden OPENING HOURS

Tues - Fri 4.30 - 9.30pm Sat - 12 noon - 3pm Lunch 5-9.30 pm Evening meal Sun - 12 noon - 6pm

NEW MENU - coming soon New Sunday lunch Including roast

Party Dates at the New Almondvale Suite @ Livingston FC

2nd, 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd December £35 per person including a glass of bubbly on arrival Special Sunday price for 10th and 17th December - £27 per person!

Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite

Mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff.

Tickets just £35 per person requiring a £10 deposit.

Outside Catering from Food Creations Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multi-course meals for large numbers.

events@foodcreations.co.uk www.foodcreations.co.uk Tel 01506 412232 facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations

60 | KONECT BALERNO

@Food_Creations

KONECT BALERNO | 61

FOOD & DRINK

Delicious Dessert!

A A classic classic with with a a twist, twist, this this creamy creamy rice rice pudding pudding has has added added coconut coconut milk milk for for extra extra flavour and is served with spiced apples flavour and is served with spiced apples in in a caramel sauce. a caramel sauce.

Ingredients: Ingredients: • 50g unsalted butter, • 50g unsalted butter, softened softened • 100g pudding rice • 100g pudding rice • 400ml full-fat milk • 400ml full-fat milk • 200ml coconut milk • 200ml coconut milk • 40g caster sugar • 40g caster sugar • 1 tbsp runny honey • 1 tbsp runny honey • 2 red apples, skinned, cored • 2 red apples, skinned, cored and cut into wedges and cut into wedges • 75g demerara sugar • 75g demerara sugar • 1-2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1-2 tsp ground cinnamon • 2 tbsp apple juice • 2 tbsp apple juice

Serves 4 Serves 4 Ready in 2 hours 30 mins Ready in 2 hours 30 mins

TIP TIP

You can use other fruit slices You can use other fruit slices instead of the apples – try instead of the apples – try peaches or pears or halved peaches or pears or halved apricots. apricots.

62 | KONECT BALERNO

Preheat the oven to 150°C, fan 130°C, gas 2.

Preheat the oven to 150°C, fan 130°C, gas 2.

Use a little of the softened butter to thoroughly Use a little of the softened butter to thoroughly grease a 1.2-litre shallow ovenproof dish. grease a 1.2-litre shallow ovenproof dish.

Tip the pudding rice into the buttered dish and Tip the pudding rice into the buttered dish and stir in the milk and coconut milk. Add the caster stir in the milk and coconut milk. Add the caster sugar and stir again. Bake in the oven for 45 sugar and stir again. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Carefully remove the dish and give the minutes. Carefully remove the dish and give the pudding a good stir, then stir in the honey and dot pudding a good stir, then stir in the honey and dot with a little more of the butter. Return to the oven with a little more of the butter. Return to the oven for a further 1 hour 30 minutes or until a golden for a further 1 hour 30 minutes or until a golden skin has formed and most of the milk has been skin has formed and most of the milk has been absorbed by the rice. absorbed by the rice.

About 10 minutes before the rice pudding is About 10 minutes before the rice pudding is ready, melt the rest of the butter in a heavy– ready, melt the rest of the butter in a heavy– based frying pan over a medium heat. Add the based frying pan over a medium heat. Add the apple slices and fry for 1-2 minutes, turning once. apple slices and fry for 1-2 minutes, turning once.

Sprinkle over the demerara sugar and cook Sprinkle over the demerara sugar and cook gently, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves. gently, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves.

Stir in the cinnamon and apple juice and simmer Stir in the cinnamon and apple juice and simmer for a further few minutes until syrupy. for a further few minutes until syrupy.

Stir the rice pudding (remove the skin first, if Stir the rice pudding (remove the skin first, if preferred) and spoon into bowls. Top with the preferred) and spoon into bowls. Top with the apples and syrup and serve. apples and syrup and serve.

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LOCAL HISTORY

HMS CHALLE NGER: Octob er 1874

Founding Father of Oceanography Until the latter half of the 19th century, knowledge of the oceans was confined to a few fathoms down in shallow areas. Then a Linlithgow-born scientist, Charles Wyville Thomson, “had a profound conviction that the only remaining region of endless novelties of extraordinary interest was at the bottom of the sea.” He led a remarkable expedition in 1872 which opened the fascinating depths of the oceans to the scientific world for the first time.

Three and a half years at sea on a converted Royal Navy ship HMS Challenger with difficult circumstances including deaths, dysentery and desertions; Thomson’s Challenger expedition was nevertheless the first systematic, scientific investigation of the oceans and brought back over 13,000 specimens, 4,717 of which were completely new to science.

In 1868 Thomson carried out deep-sea dredging projects in the North Atlantic, firstly on board HMS Lightning (“a cranky little vessel which had the doubtful title of perhaps the oldest paddle steamer in Her Majesty’s Navy - the vessel was scarcely seaworthy!”) and the following year aboard HMS Porcupine. Samples of mud and marine animals were retrieved from 2.75 miles down to support his theories and the findings caused leading scientists to pressure the government to equip a serious expedition. In 1870 the Royal Navy provided HMS Challenger.

Charles Wyville Thomson was born in March 1830 at Bonsyde House, Linlithgow. He was educated at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh, and after initially studying medicine at the University of Edinburgh (which he had to give up after three Challenger, 200ft long with sails and an auxiliary years because of “delicate health from steam engine, had her guns removed to create space. Laboratories and a overwork” which plagued him all his dredging platform were installed. She life), he turned to botany. He became Some had was loaded with specimen jars, filled a member of the Botanical Society of little more Edinburgh in 1847 and by age 21 he was with alcohol for preservation of samples, microscopes and chemical apparatus, Professor of Botany at Marischal College, than a chair trawls and dredges, thermometers Aberdeen. He was “looked upon as a to sleep on and water sampling bottles, devices rising naturalist” and evinced “signs of true scientific work.” Moving to Ireland he to collect sediment from the sea bed and 181 miles of rope for sounding and quickly established himself as a popular lecturer at Queen’s University, Belfast where he dredging the ocean depths. was described as having a “bright handsome face Led by by Wyville Thomson, she carried a crew and breezy presence,” “a delightful and instructive of five scientists, an official artist, 20 officers, and lecturer.” He gained recognition as a talented about 200 sailors. Challenger left Portsmouth on marine biologist specialising in marine invertebrates, December 21st, 1872. She travelled north of the with extensive studies of deep-sea life. limits of drift ice in the North Atlantic polar seas and In 1854 Thomson wed a Linlithgow girl, Jane south of the Antarctic Circle, returning to Spithead Dawson of Bonnytoun. The couple moved back to on May 24th, 1876 having travelled 68,890 nautical Scotland in 1870 when Thomson became Professor miles. She brought back over 13,000 specimens, of Natural History at the University of Edinburgh.

4,717 of which were completely new to science.

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Although a scientific success, the voyage had been long and at times difficult. By the end of the voyage, the crew had reduced to 144 due to deaths, desertions or being left ashore with illness. Challenger was not a big ship for the number aboard and relations between scientists and crew were not always harmonious. Crew conditions were cramped - some had little more than a chair to sleep on. The ship creaked and groaned in heavy seas, and was often forced to seek shelter from storms. There were accusations of thefts of food from the officers’ mess.

Stopping every 200 miles for dredging and trawling, running out and hauling in thousands of feet of piano wire which could take hours. The crew became bored of the routines and deserted ship at some ports. At Valpariaso, Chilean Police caught deserters and returned them to Challenger at the next port. Widespread dysentery occurred, while a further bone of contention was that Thomson wrote regular letters to a popular weekly publication and often the latest news reached the public before the crew knew about it!

BIRTHPLACE: Bonsyde House, Linlithgow as it is today (derelict)

MEMORIAL: Stained glass window in St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow

On Challenger’s return, Thomson received a knighthood, and published a preliminary account, “Voyage of the Challenger in the Atlantic” in 1877.

Once home, dealing with the requirements of publishing the detailed illustration and scientific description was enormously stressful and Thomson suffered ill health and paralytic attacks in 1879 and again in 1881. He died at Bonsyde, Linlithgow on 10th March 1882 aged only 52.

“The Report of the Scientific Results of the Exploring Voyage of H.M.S. Challenger” was finally completed by his friend and colleague Sir John Murray, but such was the sheer volume of information that it took 19 years and filled 50 volumes, with over 100 scientists from several nations contributing.

Wyville Thomson is buried in the kirkyard of St Michael’s Parish Church and is remembered in a memorial window.

Today, the deepest part of the ocean, nearly 7 miles down is called the “Challenger Deep.” The Wyville-Thomson Ridge in the North Atlantic, between Scotland and the Faroe Islands is named after him.

Information for this article was contributed by Jack Sanderson. Jack lives in West Lothian and is a Cultural Services Manager (Heritage and Arts).

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WHAT’S ON

27TH SEPTEMBER - 15TH OCTOBER 10th Anniversary Celebrations at the Balerno Music Festival The Balerno Music Festival Society is in party mood as we celebrate our 10th year of bringing inspiring music to our local area. And there’s a mixed bag of goodies to choose from - folk, classical, cabaret, choral, rock and many more musical delights to entertain you.

Come to the ‘Cabaret’ on 30th September and sing and dance ‘All Night Long’ to the hits of Lionel Richie and the Motown. Or raise the roof on 6th October at the Currie Rugby Club with their blues rock concert ‘Parental Duty’. Cross the road and swing to the ‘Borders Big Band’ returning to the Balerno Parish Church for the 3rd time.

Do your party piece at ‘Come and Play’ on 30th September or ‘Come and Sing’ with the Pentland Singers singing the Beatles hits. Let it be a day to remember!

All kids love a party. Bring them along to ‘Artie’s Tartan Tales’, ‘Mr Boom’, ‘ Fun Time Harmonies’ and films for younger viewers in the Ogston Hall.

No party is complete without delicious refreshments and the Festival Cafe at St Joseph’s is the place to eat: dine at the very first event the ‘Dinner Discussion’ with Yla Steven, BEM-Fiddle Music; have a Hot Fork Supper before the ‘Gala Concert’ featuring ‘the Scarlet Quartet’; meet up after the ‘Young Musicians Concert’; enjoy a light lunch at the lunchtime concerts ‘Music @Mill’ while instrumental groups from our local schools entertain us.

Be sure to join us at our party. You can view the full programme of 24 fabulous performances and buy tickets on our website www.balernomusicfestival.org.uk For further information about ‘Come and Play’ contact Fiona Gilroy, fegilroy@blueyonder.co.uk SATURDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER

Junior Cross-Country Competition 12 noon at Curriemuirend Park. Harmeny AC v Corstorphine AC (medals sponsored by Juniper Green CC and the Friends of Curriemuirend Park) 66 | KONECT BALERNO

BALERNO VILLAGE SCREEN Friday 8th Sept, 7.30pm Manchester by the Sea (15) Saturday 9th Sept, 2.30pm Beauty and the Beast (PG) Saturday 9th Sept, 7.30pm Lion (PG) As part of the Balerno Music Festival: Saturday 30th Sept, 2.00pm Sing (PG) Saturday 30th Sept, 7.30pm Sing Street (PG) VENUE: St. Joseph’s Church Hall, Balerno Tickets: www.balernovillagescreen.com Programme and timings subject to change.

TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK OR CALL 07854 492638

CLUBS & CLASSES

BALERNO PiYo Live!

Pilates + Yoga + non-stop movement. Stretch, Strengthen & Sweat all in one workout! Wed1pm in Balerno Scout Hall; Thurs 8pm in Balerno Community Centre. Contact Heidi on 07982205111 or heidi.instructor@gmail.com Slimming World ❤ ❤ ❤ Lose weight eating the most delicious food - yes you can! Classes at Balerno Bowling club, Thursdays 7.30pm. Contact Denise on 07934 823024.

Wildfire Explorer Scouts Meet in Balerno High School. Fridays 7.15 - 9.15pm. 14 – 18yrs.

Contact: Gordon Simpson 0131 477 3116.

Email leaders@wildfire-explorers.org.uk DadZone At St Mungo’s Church, Ladycroft. Saturdays 9 -10.30am for Dads and male carers and their 0-4 year olds. Toys crafts, refreshments. Dates for 2015: 29th August, 12th September, 17th October, 31st October, 28th November and 12th December. All welcome. For more info email balernodadzone@gmail.com or search Facebook for the online group.

Pentland Flower Club Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7pm (excluding January, February, July and August); Visitors and new members are always welcome.

Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146.

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.

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 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.

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 Monday Club Non-denominational club for over 55s. Our meetings are held in St Joseph’s Centre at Balerno Parish Church at 2pm on the first and third Mondays of the month from September to May. Different speakers, activities and outings each session, please contact the Club for syllabus details.

Balerno Folk Club

Beginners Yoga Classes No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road, Currie Wednesday 7.45pm at Forth View Crescent Scout Hall, Currie Monday 6pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Any questions please contact Monica karmayoga@btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432.

Balerno SWI

51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno) Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall. Contact John Henderson on 07941 637262

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

Currie Rugby Football Club Malleny Park - Minis (P1-7) Sundays 10.30am - 12pm. Contact 0131 449 2432 www.currierugby.org 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.

Balerno Village Nursery 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 7.30 - 8.30pm - Intermediate/Advanced 8.30 - 9.30pm - Beginners/Post Beginners Contact Judi on 07716 830905 or judithrintoulpilates@hotmail.com

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.

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 Minis @St Mungo’s

In the Ditch Quilters Balerno Community Centre. Monthly workshops covering different quilting topics, third Wednesday of the month from 7:15pm. Annual membership £24.00. Contact Maureen Murray on 0131 336 0053 for further details.

PALM Cafe St Joseph’s Centre, Balerno, last Tuesday of the month 2.30pm 4pm. A social group café for people with dementia and their carers serving the communities of Balerno, Juniper Green and Currie.

It provides a space for people with dementia and their carers to meet others for support and social contact, using activities such as music, movement, reminiscence and craft to enhance the wellbeing of the person with dementia & informal support and information for carers. If you would be interested in attending this group and would like more information please contact Kay Latimer (449-6186) or email: kaylatimer@btopenworld.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

Girlguiding

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 E Thomson on 0131 333 4662.

Jane Goulding School of Dance

Rainbows, Brownies & Guides on Monday evenings. Full information and meeting times see www.balguides.info or facebook.com/GGBalerno Balerno Community Centre Tue – Fri. Classes also in Currie and Juniper Green. Children aged 2.5-adult. Contact: Jane Goulding 07854 373173

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CURRIE Currie Youth Club

Jane Goulding School of Dance NEW

Various activities and facilities: Nursery, Football, After-school care, ballet, dog training youth club, craft, Taekwondo, parties, Saturday morning cafe, rooms for hire. See facebook page Currie Community Centre.

Currie Community Centre – Saturday. Classes also in Balerno and Juniper Green. Children aged 2.5-adult. Contact: Jane Goulding 07854 373173

Arts & Crafts Group

All welcome. £6 per class.

Mon 17:50-18:50 Juniper Green Village Hall Mon 20:40-21:40 Balerno Scout Halll Tues 20:00-21:00 Gibson Craig Halls Wed 19:45-20:45 Forthview Crescent Scout Hall Thurs 20:00-21:00 Currie Guide Hall (behind Gibson Craig Halls) Fri 09:30-10:30 Currie Guide Hall Contact Corrie at yogamassagefitness@gmail.com or Monica at monica@karmatreeyoga.co.uk for enquiries and bookings..

Find us on Facebook at Corrie_YogaFitness or www.karmatreeyoga.co.uk/yoga-classes for further details.

Art Room 1, Currie Community High School Thursdays 7.15 - 9pm - from 18th September to 27th November (except 16th October). We are a small, friendly group (of all ages) and new members will be made very welcome. £35 for the 10-week term or £5 per session, if paid on the night. Fee covers all materials, equipment and refreshments. For more information please email: phoenixarts@hotmail.com or tel: 07934 495488.

Bridge Club Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June. For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 5314.

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.

Air Cadets 2463 (Currie & Balerno) Squadron Forthview Crescent Mon and Thu 7-9.30pm. 0131 449 7449 for more info.

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 Cubs Monday 6.15 – 7.45pm. Call Fee 07771 370748.

Scouts Monday 7.45 – 9.15pm. Call Ross 07729714445.

Beavers Friday 6.30 – 7.30pm. Call Sharon 07810 201680. www.42ndpentland.scoutsites.org.uk 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 Terry Maloney 0751 466 4292 Currie & District Local History Society Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie Visitors welcome; For further information contact Douglas Lowe on 0131 449 4349 or douglaslowe51@btinternet.com 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) - Sundays 6.30 – 8.30pm For more info email 65edinburghbb@gmail.com or see website 65edinburgh.boys-brigade.org.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

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Adult Yoga Classes NEW

Balerno and District Ramblers Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Car Park, Lanark Rd West 9.15am for 9.30am start. Contact M Timmins 0131 449 4525 or A Blyth 0131 629 3644. Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start.

Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666.

Book Group Currie Library - First Wednesday of each month at 7.00pm.

Beginners Yoga Classes No experience needed (18+) - £6 per class Tuesday 8pm at Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road, Currie Wednesday 7.45pm at Forth View Crescent Scout Hall, Currie Monday 6pm at Juniper Green Village Hall Monday 8.30pm at Balerno Scout Hall Any questions please contact Monica, email: karmayoga@btinternet.com Tel: 07986 600432 Corner Cafe Book Club At the Corner Cafe, 120 Lanark Road West, Currie Meet 27th of every month at 7.45. Informal friendly group, all welcome, we read a mixture of classics and popular books. £3 per session.

Macular Society, Pentland Group Group for visually impaired people, 2nd Friday of every month in Currie Library at 2pm. Audio Book Group meets 1st Monday of every month in Currie Library at 2.15 pm. I-Pad tuition group for visually impaired people all other Mondays in Currie Library at 2.15pm.

Currie Badminton Club Currie High School. Monday nights 7.30-9.30pm from September to April. Players of an intermediate standard and above welcome. Details at curriebadminton.wordpress.com or email curriebadmclub@gmail.com Pop up Family Church This meets from 3-5pm on the last Saturday of the month in the Gibson Craig Halls except June,J uly, August and December.

Children of any age are invited to attend (with an adult of any age!) and share together a fun family time of games, crafts, stories, songs and snacks. Contact Easter 449-4719 or the Church Office 451-5141.

JUNIPER GREEN 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

31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green)

Scouts

Juniper Green SWI

OTHER AREAS

45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers - Wed 6.30pm Cubs - Mon 7.00pm Cubs - Tues 6.30pm Scouts - Fri 7.00pm Contact - Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043.

Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road EH14 5DX. Contact 0131 539 9886.

Pentland Bridge Club The club meets on Thursday evenings (7pm to c. 10.30 pm) throughout the year to play duplicate bridge at St Margaret’s Hall, Juniper Green (EH14 5DG). It welcomes approaches from existing bridge players of all standards (note: it does not undertake teaching). Prospective new members are welcome to come along for a trial evening (free) to see if it suits them. Please contact Jean Newport (449 2028) or Ken Brown (449 5314) if interested.

Adult Yoga Classes NEW All welcome. £6 per class.

Mon 17:50-18:50 Juniper Green Village Hall Mon 20:40-21:40 Balerno Scout Halll Tues 20:00-21:00 Gibson Craig Halls Wed 19:45-20:45 Forthview Crescent Scout Hall Thurs 20:00-21:00 Currie Guide Hall (behind Gibson Craig Halls) Fri 09:30-10:30 Currie Guide Hall Contact Corrie at yogamassagefitness@gmail.com or Monica at monica@karmatreeyoga.co.uk for enquiries and bookings..

Find us on Facebook at Corrie_YogaFitness or www.karmatreeyoga.co.uk/yoga-classes for further details.

All meet at the Community Centre, meeting times are as follows: Beavers: Tuesdays 6.30pm - 7.30pm (age 6-8), Cubs: Fridays 7pm - 8.30pm (age 8-10.5), Scouts: 7pm - 8.45pm. (age 10.5-14)

Potter Around Arts and Crafts Studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Pottery Painting, Potter’s Wheel, Decopatch, Jewellery Making, Oil Painting, Knitting and Crochet, Workshops and Kids Clubs, Parties. Open 7 days: Mon, Tues, Fri & Sat 10am – 5pm; Wed 10am – 9pm (if closed after 5pm please call 07815075387 for information); Thurs 10.15am–5pm; Sun 11am-4pm. For more information call 01506 238961, email chat@potteraround.co.uk, see www.potteraround.co.uk & facebook.com/potteraround.

TO INCLUDEYOUR 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 SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON P50

Jane Goulding School of Dance NEW Juniper Green Village Hall – Friday. Classes also in Balerno & Currie.

Children aged 2.5-adult. Contact: Jane Goulding 07854 373173

RATHO Ratho WRI

Meet in Ratho Community Centre on second Wednesday of each month (except July & August) from 7pm to 9pm. New members and visitors welcome. Contact 0131 333 4862 for information.

Ratho Scouts, Cubs & Beavers

Ratho Community Centre Beavers: Tuesdays 6.30pm - 7.30pm (age 6-8) Cubs: Fridays 7pm - 8.30pm (age 8-10.5) Scouts: 7pm - 8.45pm. (age 10.5 -14)

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

Ratho Ravers

Ratho Community Centre Mon 10am-12pm. Exercising body and mind for the over fifties. £3 per class. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

Parent & Toddlers Group

Community Centre Tues and Thurs 10am-12noon. Under 3s. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

Art Club

Ratho Community Centre Tues 7-9pm. Adult Multimedia Club. Members 50p, non members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055.

50 Plus Group

Varied programme of activities/outings New members welcome – meet fortnightly at Ratho Community Centre. Members 50p, non-members £1. For more information call the Community Centre on 0131 333 1055

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

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

KONECT BALERNO | 69

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPING Safe Bookkeeper AERIALS Kinnear Aerials APPLIANCE REPAIR Appliances of Edinburgh BATHROOMS Splash Bathrooms BEAUTY Beauty Box Hair & Nails by Karen Juniper Beauty Room BLACKSMITH D & I Blacksmiths BUILDER Almond Building Company Dean Jones Building Services CAR SALES Juniper Green Garage CAR SERVICE & REPAIR Balerno Garage Ratho Auto Services CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING C and W Cleaning Services James Burnett Carpet Cleaning CARPETS & FLOORING Pentland Carpets CATERING Food Creations CHARITY British Heart Foundation CHIROPODY/PODIATRY Pentland Footcare CLEANING SERVICES Cleaning and Maintenance Cleaning Doctor - Alistair Elliott Daily Poppins Fiona’s House Cleaning Hands for Hire Cleaning Services Lion Cleaning Services COMPUTER SERVICES Simply Fix It CONSERVATORIES CR Smith CURTAINS & BLINDS Blind Design James Erskine Interiors DANCE CLASSES Jane Goulding School Of Dance DENTIST Artis Dental and Implant Studio Currie Dental Care Goansmile No.9 Dental DOORS UPVC Doors DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Double Glazing Doctor Double Glazing Repairs DRESSMAKING/ALTERATIONS Coo Creations ELECTRICIAN A&A Electrical D. Sykes Electrical MT Electrical Spark Electrical Solutions A Robertson Electrical Contractor ESTATE AGENT Blair Cadell Aberdein Considine FENCING/GATES S & D Fences

70 | KONECT BALERNO

34 25 63 30 42 38 12 14 57 53 34 49 34 22 22 26 60 55 38 20 47 27 26 26 4 13 37 26 27 7 42 40 7 43 52 31 24 27 30 52 30 57 57 22 35 14

FINANCIAL SERVICES Personal Money Management Torphin Associates FITNESS KM Fitness Maureen Clark Iyengar Yoga FLORIST Vicky’s Flowers Flowers by Porteous and Lillie FUNERAL DIRECTOR Porteous Funeral Directors GARAGE DOORS Max’s Garage Doors GARDEN & LANDSCAPING Beatson’s CS Gardening D Greaves Evergreen Balerno Luxury Lawns MJ’s Riccarton Garden Centre Taurus Gardening DMC Paving Greenspace Landscapes GARDEN BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate Ltd Woodford Timber Scotland GOLF CLUB Baberton Golf Club HAIRDRESSER Hair Tech Tony Harper Hairdressers HEALTHCARE ABC Hearing HEATING SERVICES L & S Heating Mech A Tech Weir Gas Services HOME HELP Home Plan HOMES FOR SALE CALA Homes IRONING SERVICES Ironing Aid JOB OPPORTUNITIES Army Reserve The Employment GP JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces GK Wilson Joiner Jack Watson Joiner R McNeill Joiner & Glazer KITCHENS I Create Enhanced Spaces Ian Merriman Ltd Ken Dunton S & S Home Improvements LAUNDRY SERVICES Linen Lease LEAFLET DELIVERY The Leaflet Lady LOCKSMITH 1st Call Locksmith MOBILITY Ableworld MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Escapes MSP/MP Gordon Macdonald MSP OPTICIAN Clear Vue Optician OVEN CLEANER The Clean Team

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PAINTER/DECORATOR Alistair McLellan 46 Brushstrokes 57 David J Lane 24 Gerry Aitken 30 Mark Reece 24 PAVING Alpine Paving 14 PET SERVICES Claylands Cattery 45 Happy Scampers 45 Milrig Kennels 45 Walkin ‘n’ Woofin 44 Doggie Rambles 45 Home Comfort Walks 46 PLASTERING Alexander Aitken Plastering 31 PLUMBING SERVICES Bill Reid & Son 30 Currievale Plumbing 53 Jim Gladstone 30 Shandon Plumbing 46 PUBLIC HOUSE The Grey Horse 60 RESTAURANT Al Borgo 12 ROAD SURFACING J & L Road Surfacing 4 ROOFING Dell Roofing 47 Edinburgh Roofing Services 32-33 Fairmile Roofing (Storm-Shield) 55 Thomson Roofing Services 71 SCHOOL George Heriot’s School 7 George Watson’s College 6 SOFT FURNISHINGS Blind Design 26 STONE MASONRY Architectural Conservation 24 STOVES/WOODBURNERS Fireplaces, Stoves & flues 53 TAKEAWAY Pentland Fry 12 TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE Capital Cars 60 TREE SURGERY Delisle Tree Surgeons 16 Maxwell Tree Care 14 UPHOLSTERER James Erskine Interiors 27 VENUE Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club 61 VET ICR Vets 44 Pentland Veterinary Clinic 46 WINDOW CLEANING Tag Cleaning 20 WINDOWS CR Smith 37 Four Seasons 36 WOODCARE Cramond Woodcare 4 The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, EH54 6GU.

THOMSON SERVICES Specialists in all aspects of roofing works, we welcome all works regardless of size and complexity from slate repairs, re-pointing and gutter repairs to complete renewals of flat or pitched roofing and lead and zinc works, all works are fully guaranteed using the the best quality materials and systems to date.

New Slated Roofs

Thomson Roofing Services are proud to have built a strong reputation based on our quality approach, bringing you the best possible product using a trustworthy and reliable team of roofers. All our roofers have a vast working knowledge of all roofing systems and use there expert skills on every project to give customers complete satisfaction.

New Tiled Roofs

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ON NEW ROOFS

Our Services: Flat Roofing Single Ply EPDM Liquid Plastics Slating & Tiling Lead & Zinc Works Pointing Guttering & Downpipe Maintenance Works

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