Konect Colinton March 2018

March 2018

THE DELL DIRECTORY

Village People : Poetry is life

Ea st er Holiday

Ac tivity Guide

PLUS: Recipe & Food Notes, Patterns for Living, Puzzles and more inside!

The community magazine for Colinton, Craiglockhart and Kingsknowe

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Easter Holiday Activities.................................. 08 Village People.................................................. 26 Lynne’s Column............................................... 28 Home Improvement......................................... 33 Recipe & Food Notes...................................... 38 Useful Information........................................... 40 Colinton Community Council........................... 42 Puzzles............................................................ 43 What’s On........................................................ 43 Clubs & Classes.............................................. 45 Index of Advertisers........................................ 46

P33 - SPRING INTERIORS: REVIVE YOUR SPACE

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITIOR

SOME INFO ABOUT US:

Yay, the clocks go forward on 25th March! Not that you really have to remember nowadays as most phones and cars change automatically so your alarm goes off at the right time anyway – it tends to be just our oven clock that is an hour out for six months of the year! As we emerge from winter, outdoors jobs on the house and garden make their way up the to-do list. Whether for you these are just chores or a welcome chance to at last get back in the garden, there are plenty of local businesses and traders ready to help out!

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

Schools break up for Easter on 29th March for two weeks, so we’ve pulled together a list of things to do with the family, all within a short walk or drive, over the holiday. With three kids of my own, we’ve done pretty much all of these activities over the years and had some fantastic times, it really is worth exploring everything there is on offer locally.

ONLINE:

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

Tel: Charlene on 07772 941899 Email: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Tel: Jenny on 07824 469266 Email: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk ADVERT BOOKING DEADLINE: 15th of month prior to print ARTWORK/COPY DEADLINE: 18th of month prior to print DISTRIBUTION: The Dell Directory is distributed to 5500 homes in the Colinton, Craiglockhart and Kingsknowe areas. There are 11 copies a year with a joint issue in Dec/Jan. /KonectDirectory @KonectDirectory www.konectdirectory.co.uk

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#11419-Edinburgh-92x128-Spring-TUF10-13feb18-R2-PRINT.pdf

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15/02/2018

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EASTER HOLIDAYS 30TH MARCH - 16TH APRIL 2018

i es FR EE Ac t i vi t An i m a l Lo ver s

Visit Gorgie City Farm to see pigs, cows, chickens, sheep and goats, as well as domestic pets and gardens. There is a cafe on site. (Entry is free but donations are welcome to keep this community resource open). They also run a holiday programme “Farmer’s Helpers” see “over £5” section. www.gorgiecityfarm.org.uk

Visit Beecraigs Country Park Animal Attraction where you can see Highland cattle, deer and sheep in the fields and viewing shed. (The field paths can get a little muddy). Beecraigs also has a play park and visitor centre with toilets and cafe. www.westlothian.gov.uk/beecraigs

ke Ta k e t h e b i r t o Ba n g o u

A little further in the car to Bangour, near Dechmont, but worth it to explore around the old village hospital with surfaced tracks, large abandoned buildings and grassy areas. Perfect for bikes, trikes, pushchairs and the dog! Make up stories and let your imagination run wild as you explore (no shop or toilet facilities).

Signed just off the A89 near Dechmont.

We’re spoilt for choice with the Water of Leith walkway on the doorstep, Pentland Hills, Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill, Braidburn Valley Park, Colinton & Craiglockhart Dell and plenty more! My favourite for getting out with the bikes, push-chair friendly tracks, play parks and places to play poo sticks is Colinton & Craiglockhart Dell.

Ou t i n Na t ur e

For a different environment, Red Moss near Threipmuir, Balerno, is a boardwalk over layers of ancient peat, plantlife for those interested, and a fun stomp along the wooden platform for everyone else! scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/reserve/red-moss-of-balerno

le g o !

Cr a f t, k n i t,

Regular clubs at the local libraries including throughout the holidays. Children’s Craft Club at Colinton Library: Fridays 3.30pm and at Currie Library: Tuesdays 3pm, Thursdays 3.30.

Colinton Library also runs a Lego Club on Saturdays 11.30pm and a Children’s Knitting class on 4th April at 3.45pm.

8 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

If you need to get out of the

to shake off cabin fever A b o o k a n d g house but don’t want to do anything a b n a too strenuous, families are be

always welcome at the local libraries to find a comfy seat and enjoy books together in the children’s section. Bookbugs sessions for preschoolers (singalong and stories) run regularly including through the holidays: Balerno Bookug - Wed 1.30pm Currie Bookbug - Thur and Fri 10.30am, Colinton Bookbugs - Fri 10.30am and Tue 2.30pm.

a n d u n d er per c h i ld 3 £

Ta k e a boat

A trip on the Union Canal from Linlithgow basin (operated by Linlithgow Canal Centre) on weekend afternoons, starting 31st March. £3/child

Trips on “Bluebell” from Port Buchan, Broxburn on Sundays (operated by the Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society). Sit with the captain and try your hand on the tiller! £3/child. Easter Bunny boat trips from Port Buchan 31st March, 1st & 2nd April. (Check the facebook page for ticket information, www.facebook. com/bridge1940canalsociety) www.bridge19-40.co.uk/boat-trips

Booking not necessary for either of the two locations, just turn up on the day.

Trail, egg n spoon race, Ea s t er Eg g f t s plants for sale and cream at Redhall Walled tr a i l & cr a teas Garden’s Eggstravaganza on 31st March, 12-4pm (entry by donation). www.facebook.com/RedhallWalledGarden.

Trail, hidden treasure and Easter crafts at Hopetoun House 1st and 2nd April. Drop in between 12 & 4pm. £2.80/child. www.hopetoun.co.uk/event/easter-eggcitement

£5t ina nd u nder per c hild Ou Na t ur e

Water of Leith Conservation Trust run nature-based activities for children, 2-4pm:Thurs 5th April (Seek out animal tracks and trails along the river and in the woods!); Tues 10th April (River Dipping); Thurs 12th April (Build a shelter, forage for food and toast marshmallows over a fire). Booking essential 0131 455 7367 £5/child. www.waterofleith.org.uk

Ea s t er g Eg g splor i n

Explore Craigmillar Castle for Easter clues and challenges, Friday 30th March to Monday 2nd April. £3.60/child (5-15).

Jump Station trampoline park, Livingston, has a Tots Time 10am-12pm Monday to Thursday and 9-11am every Saturday & Sunday. £4/tot (0-4 years. www.jumpstations.co.uk

u Ju m p & b o

nc e

Drop in to paint pottery, make jewellery,

and more at Potter Around Pa i n t & decopatch Studio, Kirknewton. They usually run Cr a f t holiday club and Easter egg hunt,

although information not available at time of print. Prices vary, but for £5/child will cover a wee piece of craft to make and take away. www.potteraround.co.uk

Over

£5

per c h i ld

So f t Pla y

The go-to option for rainy days and kids with too much energy! Each place has a different range of things to do. Scrambles at EICA Ratho, and Clambers at the Royal Commonwealth Pool. EICA Ratho also has a “Rock Tots” playroom. £5.75/hour/child (3-10) (less for tots).

Dinosaurs will be

in the grounds of Ki n g d o m ! Lauriston Castle from Jur a ss i c30th March – 15th April! An animatronic outdoor dinosaur experience! (no parking except for disabled. Take public transport!) Book online in advance, £9.50/child (3-15). www.jurassickingdom.uk/edinburgh

Gorgie City Farm run a holiday programme “Farmer’s Helpers” for ages 8-13, 10am-12.30pm. Farmer’s Helpers do real jobs across the farm such as gardening, mucking out stables, painting, feeding animals and grooming our goats. Being a Farmer’s Helper can be hard work but also lots of fun! £12/ child/session. Book online www.gorgiecityfarm.org.uk

An i m a l Lo ver s

Almond Valley Farm – baby animals, Easter egg hunt and crafts throughout the holidays. Special attractions over the four days of Easter, including our famous plastic duck race. All included in entry. £6.50/ child (3-15) (Teddy bear’s picnic etc).

NOTE: Prices quoted are for one child entry. Check with the attraction for adult entry prices, family discounts and opening times before planning your day!

Esc a pe !

Not literally! But take some pals and solve puzzles together to escape from a locked room at Escape Rooms Livingston. Suitable for children over 10. £35 for 2, £42 for 3, £48 for 4, £55 for 5 and £60 for 6. www.escape-livingston.co.uk

Complimentary Easter treat a k e a s t e a m for all children travelling on T

Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway tr a i n Friday 30th March to Monday 2nd April.

Wear a traditional Easter Bonnet for the chance to win a prize! Museum egg hunt. £6/child (5-15). www.bkrailway.co.uk

on the Maid of the Forth, o a t Trips South Queensferry. With option Ta k e ato bstop off at Inchcolm Island. Likely to spot

seals in the Forth. 2018 dates not avail at time of print. www.maidoftheforth.co.uk

Station - An hour n c e Jump u o b at Livingston’s indoor & p m Ju trampoline park for all ages and abilities. £10ppn or £9pp if pre-booked online 48 hours in advance. (Plus grip socks required, £2 per pair) www.jumpstations.co.uk

Paradise Island Golf, ur e s Livingston. t n e v d A r o In d o From £5.50/child (5-16 years, less for under fives) www.paradiseislandgolf.com/Livingston

Ac t i ve !

Craiglockhart Tennis and Leisure Centre runs a holiday programme with multi-sports activities, games and drama. £35/child per day 8am-6pm. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/ activities/holiday-camp Or try Clip N Climb at EICA Ratho - all ages and abilities, the whole family can climb together (from 2 years +).

Book in advance, it’s busy during the holidays. £9.50/child (4-17). www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/clipnclimb

Five Sisters Zoo, near West Calder. Daily handling, talks and feeds £9.95/child (3 – 15). www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 9

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THE DELL DIRECTORY | 19

HEALTH & BEAUTY

We all may be struck by the confidence and happy energy which some people seem to have. Are they born with more confidence than us?

Confidence actually grows from doing something well - it’s not a character trait or just something that lucky people have. So, we all can become confident by repeating a pattern which, in the natural course of living, becomes easier over time.

But many of us have an internal critic - a ‘voice’ in our head which is negative and makes unhelpful comments. Of course, this makes creating change (such as New Year resolutions) much harder. But this negative voice is just a ‘pattern’ too. It’s only there because we’ve practised it - not because it’s true. Often the voice is one we learned from someone in time gone by. Do we want it now, in the present?

Our Observing Self - the part of us which can notice our thoughts and feelings and choose whether to give them attention or not - has a really important job to do. Letting that negative voice go on and on just makes us feel bad.

Would we talk to someone else in the same way?

So, let’s see what kindness and encouragement can do - not just to our families and friends. Just even for a month, let’s experiment ... let’s replace the inner critic with an inner friend - a coach who encourages us and is kind.

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VILLAGE PEOPLE

Elspeth Murray: ne Green

Poetry is life

Elspeth’s way of seeing life and her poetry is very attractive, and I’m inspired by her ideas and enthusiasm. Over the years, her poems have reflected her various involvements and interests.

Also, because she has been Poet in Residence for various organisations, her work has helped others to experience themselves in a new way.

Though her early childhood was spent in Cumbria, Elspeth’s family moved to Blairgowrie when she was seven. When she was 13 her dad’s work moved them again, this time to Nottinghamshire.

“And I lost my Scottish accent,” says Elspeth.

In 1985 Elspeth took part in a youth drama scheme that sent a large group of young people to Edinburgh to perform two shows at the Fringe.

“This was my real introduction to Edinburgh and to theatre, both of which are still big passions in my life,” she explains.

Elspeth studied Social Anthropology at Edinburgh University, and spent one year at the University of Pennsylvania, USA, on an exchange scholarship.

There she just happened to meet a fellow student called Elon Musk.

She continued to be involved in theatre and French theatre throughout university. Her French landed her with her first job: interpreter for the world class Doncaster Youth Jazz Orchestra, when they toured in France.

Elspeth began performance poetry, reciting her own and others’ poems in a range of accents and 26 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

characters.

She took a full-time job in health promotion and then, after a period of chronic fatigue in her late twenties, she worked with patients in a cancer network. At the same time, she had a part-time job teaching schoolchildren to write poetry, and also co-wrote a play.

PHOTO CR

“For me, the artistic life is not about locking myself in a room and writing a novel,” says Elspeth Murray.

“Not about having a product, a book, a play launch or an exhibition. Art is an outlook towards what happens in life – at the bus stop or with the Tesco delivery man or with the kids in the neighbourhood.”

EDIT: Suzan

Colinton resident Elspeth Murray is a poet, who also works alongside her husband, Richard, as stage manager for Puppet State Theatre Company. Born in London, Elspeth lived in Scotland as a child and has ancestors who worked at Edinburgh’s Redhall paper mill.

She was asked to be a judge at a “Poetry Slam”, and Richard Medrington was one of the competitors. He won the competition – and Elspeth’s heart – and the two married in 2005.

Elspeth’s backstage skills came in handy, when Richard’s puppet show, “The Man Who Planted Trees” took off! “Little did I realise that helping back stage at Tower Bank Primary would one day lead to stage management at Sydney Opera House,” she comments.

Today Elspeth’s life is a collection of: writing poetry and watching the blue tits out her office window; participating in an 18-month course in arts facilitation; managing Puppet State Theatre Company; continuing to lend her wordsmith skills to health and theatre initiatives; and chairing her neighbourhood residents’ association.

“I’m artist in residence … of my life,” she says.

Please visit: www.elspethmurray.com and www.yourlifeisaworkofart.com to find more of Elspeth’s poetry online.

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

Your life is a work of art In the blink of an eye on an ordinary day When your pocket spills a picture that says it all When the street you’re in is a scene from a film When your soundscape whirlwinds in a single kiss Your life is a work of art.

The shine that you bring to the story

PHOTO CREDIT: Martin Ayres/Caged Beastie

The way that you wear that hat The faces you saw in the cracks on the floor Your life is a work of art.

When you and your friends strike a pose The reason that you chose those rhymes The angles of your arms at the end of the dance Your life is a work of art.

Your own reflection when you least expect it Or colours caught in your drawer of clothes A collage of everything you’ve ever left behind Your life is a work of art.

How you frame it when you see it because you sense it and how you edit.

It’s yours to interpret It’s yours to exhibit You are the creator You are the curator.

Your life is a work of art.

Elspeth Murray, 2009

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 27

FEATURE

As a lifelong procrastinator and terrible decision maker I find the comfort of just focussing on one small step not only manageable but reassuring It’s March - the month of mad hares and clocks springing forward. The month that my Mum used to say “comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb, or vice versa” which has often proved true.

Daffodils add bunches of yellow cheer along roadsides and borders. Lighter nights are just around the corner. All in all a good time to take stock of the first quarter of the year.

Whether it seems like an age since the turn of the year or the time seems to be whizzing by it can’t be denied – Spring is in the air! Good news for those who enjoy Spring cleaning! Personally, I long for the cleaning fairies to visit my house, but sadly, so far, they seem to have been otherwise engaged.

Last month I wrote about setting goals or making promises for the year ahead. Now might be a good time to look at those goals, see if any need to be tweaked, set some additional ones or maybe even toast the success of some already completed!

I’m a huge fan of mantras like “little and often” and “one step at a time”. As a lifelong procrastinator and terrible decision maker I find the comfort of just focussing on one small step not only manageable but reassuring. It may only be one small step but if it’s in the right direction then it puts you one step closer to where you’re aiming to be.

28 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

In an effort to practise what I preach I’m going to set myself a few small targets for my Spring cleaning. I’ll try to pick one small area at a time ideally the ones that drive me mad the most (cable drawer, Tupperware pile and undersink cupboard – please form a queue, you’ll all get your turn eventually!). I’ll put on some favourite music, open a window to let that fresh Spring air in and get stuck in for a short but concentrated burst of time (I heartily recommend setting a timer for about 30 minutes maximum). Then I’ll stop and move onto the next job in hand. Worst case is I’ll end up with a few unfinished jobs but at least they won’t still be unstarted. And best case is I’ll have freed up some space in my house and energy in my head.

So, whether it resembles a lion or a lamb, here’s to springing forward with all our plans this March, even if it’s one small step at a time.

This article was contributed by Lynn Arnott. Lynn has lived in Colinton for the past 9 years with her husband and 2 kids.

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It’s time to tackle those cobwebs and give your home a good spring clean that will revive your space and perhaps inspire a fresh new look.

Here are six tips to get you started: Think positive!

Spring cleaning gives you the perfect chance to rethink your space and create areas that are tailor-made to suit your needs. What would you like to gain from your space? If viewed as a great opportunity to declutter and restyle rather than a list of chores, you are already one step ahead. Happy sounds are motivating, so pop on your favourite play-list.

Peel off the layers Throws and blankets receive heavy-duty usage in cooler months, so ensure you wash/ dry-clean these before packing them away out of sight. Plus, stripping away layers offer more options when trying to create a new look.

Walls & floors Rugs may not be necessary for warmer months, so consider a bare floor or replacing a winter rug with a lighter one in softer colours. Stains and marks will show up more in natural light, so it’s also a good time to professionally clean carpets, wipe walls, fill in holes from old hooks or repaint.

Seasonal accessories Cushions, accessories and prints can be rotated according to season, colour or theme.

Having your items on rotation means you are less likely to tire of them and have considered their function. This is also a good chance to declutter and donate items you have not used in the last year.

Repair items Action repairs! Whether it be framing photos, hanging pictures, or restoring/polishing furniture, not only are you crossing off items on your to-do list (and regaining floor/storage space) - you will enjoy the treasures you have chosen to keep.

This article was contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors, G4 Williamsons Garden Centre, Houstson Mains Holdings, Uphall, EH52 6PA Freephone: 0800 756 5286 | www.harveybruce.co.uk

Maintenance

Regular cleaning of your couch, chairs, and blinds will maintain the quality of your textiles and improve the overall look, feel and smell.

Open the curtains, polish the windows and enjoy the sunny outlook ahead!

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 33

Images courtesy of Harvey Bruce Interiors

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THE DELL DIRECTORY | 37

FOOD & DRINK

Two national saints days occur in March: St David of Wales and St Patrick of Ireland. It’s interesting to consider what traditional foods are connected with Scotland’s neighbouring Celtic countries.

People in the two countries traditionally had similar basic cooking utensils which led to similarities in foods: a flat griddle and a three-legged cooking pot which stood in the fire on the hearth. Hence stews, soups, flatbreads, cheese, autumn fruit and nuts with the addition of the occasional luxury of meat or game became the cuisine of both countries.

Roman imports never influenced Ireland so food was limited to what flourished on this mild, Atlantic-weathered landscape.

Oats, wheat, rye, a little later peas and beans and then dairy cattle and hence milk, butter and cheese became the staples and were very important exports. By the 16th century potatoes arrived, changing the habits and the diet of the preindustrial population and in time led to the disastrous reliance on one crop (causing the famine and the massive depopulation of the whole island in the 19th century). The Irish are proud of their Irish stew, soda breads, pancakes, beer, corned beef (salt beef) champ, Boxty (potato 38 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

bread), colcannon (bubble and squeak) and cheeses.

Wales is more mountainous and has poorer soils and a harsher climate, but it has land links with England and became heavily industrialised in the 19th century. Potato cakes, leek soup, cawl, bara brith and laver bread (nori seaweed) are the traditional foods of Wales.

Leeks are the national symbol of Wales and are worn in the headgear of the armed forces on St David’s Day. They are good eating at this time of the year.

These dishes are good to eat while the days are short and not too warm. They are comfort food at its best, using ingredients most people have to hand and do not take a great deal of work, just slow, gentle cooking.

WELSH POTATO CAKE: • 1kg potatoes • 100g butter • Salt, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, a little oil.

METHOD: Peel the potatoes (if you prefer, but it is not necessary).

Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little. Oil or butter an ovenproof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish. Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180oC, for 1 to 1 ½ hours. Turn out to serve. Eat with cold meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.

The recipe and food notes are contributed by Anne Pinkerton.

Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.

IRISH STEW: A brave person to give recipe for this! As with most traditional food every family has their own way of doing it.

• 1kg neck of mutton chops, chump chops or shoulder of lamb • 500-750g potatoes

• 3 or 4 onions chopped • 100g pearl barley

Depending on the time of year and family tradition: carrots, cabbage, kale, turnip, swede or parsnips.

METHOD: Brown the meat in a little oil (not traditional) put in an oven-proof casserole dish and layer up on top whichever other vegetables you fancy. Brown the onion in the same oil add to the meat. Add the barley and seasoning. Some say white pepper is needed.

Add water to just cover the contents of the casserole. Slice the potatoes and layer on top to make a lid. Bake in a medium oven for 2 hours or till the meat is very tender and the potatoes are brown and crispy.

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 39

USEFUL INFORMATION

POST OFFICES & LIBRARIES Colinton Post Office (within Olive Deli & Post - 0131 441 1003 - www.postoffice.co.uk Opening Times: Mon - Fri 8.30am - 6.30pm, Sat 9am - 5pm, Sun 12.30pm - 4.30pm Colinton Mains Post Office - 0131 441 2657 - www.postoffice.co.uk Opening Times: Mon - Fri 9am - 5.30pm, Sat 9am - 12.30pm Colinton Library - 14 Thorburn Road, Edinburgh, EH13 0BQ - Tel: 0131 529 5603 Email: colinton.library@ edinburgh.gov.uk - Opening Times: Mon & Weds 1pm to 8pm, Tues & Fri 10am to 5pm, Sat 10am to 2pm - Facilities: Free wifi, disabled access, car park, exhibition space, induction loop, Library Link (Fridays at 1pm) Oxgangs Library - 343 Oxgangs Road North, Edinburgh EH13 9LY - Tel: 0131 529 5549 Email: oxgangs.library@edinburgh.gov.uk - Opening Times: Mon-Weds 10am to 8pm, Thurs – Sat 10am to 5pm. Sun – 1-5pm - Facilities: Free Wifi, self service, disabled access, car park, community room for hire, display/exhibition space for public use, toilets incl disabled, baby changing facilities & induction loop

COMMUNITY REPRESENTATION

Local Councillors (Colinton/Fairmilehead Ward): Scott Arthur - Labour - 0131 529 4014 - scott.arthur@edinburgh.gov.uk Phil Doggart - Con - 0131 529 4255 - phil.doggart@edinburgh.gov.uk Jason Rust - Con - 0131 529 4953 - jason.rust@edinburgh.gov.uk Local Councillors (Fountainbridge/Craiglockhart Ward): Gavin Corbett - Scottish Greens - 0131 529 3174 - gavin.corbett@edinburgh.gov.uk Andrew Johnston - Con - 0131 529 4355 - andrew.johnston@edinburgh.gov.uk David Key - SNP - 0131 529 3260 - david.key@edinburgh.gov.uk Colinton Amenity Association: www.colinton-amenity.org.uk Craiglockhart Community Council: www.craiglockhart.btck.co.uk Colinton Community Council: www.colintoncc.org.uk Firrhill Community Council: www.firrhillcommunitycouncil.btck.co.uk Longstone Community Council: www.longstonecc.org.uk Pentland Community Centre: 0131 445 287

MEDICAL Colinton Pharmacy - 0131 441 2352 - Opening Times: Mon-Fri: 9-1pm & 2-5.45pm, Sat: 9am to 1pm Colinton Mains Pharmacy - 0131 441 3388 - Opening Times: Mon- Fri: 9am – 6pm, Sat: 9am- 1pm - Closed daily between 1pm and 2pm Colinton Surgery - 0131 441 4555 - www.colintonsurgery.co.uk - Opening Times: Mon- Fri: 8am- 6pm Firrhill Medical Centre - 0131 441 3119. Mon- Fri 8am- 6pm Royal Infirmary - 0131 536 1000 - www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk Sick Kids Hospital - 0131 536 0000 - www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk NHS 24 - 08454 24 24 24 - www.nhs24.com

SCHOOLS Bonaly Primary School - 0131 441 7211 - www.bonaly.edin.sch.uk Colinton Primary School - 0131 441 1946 - www.colintonprimaryschool.wordpress.com Firrhill High School - 0131 441 4501 - www.firrhillhighschool.org.uk Merchiston Castle School - 0131 312 2200 - www.merchiston.co.uk Oxgangs Primary School - 0131 441 3649 - www.oxgangs.edin.sch.uk St Marks RC Primary School - Tel 0131 441 2948 - www.st-marks.edin.sch.uk

40 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

BUSTER THE DOG

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 41

42 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

WHAT’S ON

SATURDAY 3RD MARCH

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

107th Pentland Scouts Coffee Morning 10am-12noon Craiglockhart Church Hall. Cake and candy, games, CDs, toys, grand raffle, books and more! Entry: adults £2.00, children £1.00 SUNDAY 25TH MARCH Colinton & Merchiston Choir Easter Concert The Colinton & Merchiston Choir presents their Easter Concert on Sunday 25th March at 7.30pm. The performance includes Stainer’s “The Crucifixion” and Brahms’ “How Lovely are Thy dwellings”. The venue is the magnificent Memorial Hall at Merchiston Castle School.

Admission is free, with refreshments after the concert. All welcome!

SUNDAY 18TH MARCH Accessing the countryside: your guide to responsible access - Learn about the variety of activities across the Pentlands Regional Park and how to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Our Natural Heritage Officer will be be leading a guided walk on the day. Meet: Harlaw House Visitor Centre. Time:11:00-15:00 with guided walk at 11:00-13:00. Bring sturdy footwear and waterproofs. Guided walk only: £5 per person, booking for the guided walk is essential through pentlandhills@edinburgh.gov.uk or call 0131 529 2401. games, CDs, toys, grand raffle, books and more! Entry: adults £2.00, children £1.00 BOOKS WANTED FOR HOLY CORNER CHRISTIAN AID BOOKSALE IN MAY

Solution in the April edition of The Dell Directory ACROSS: 7. Swap over (6), 8. To be on a ship (6), 9. Not new (4), 10. Outside (8), 11. Angry (7), 13. Funeral fires (5), 15. Almost two pints (5), 17. Below (7), 20. Observing (8), 21. Story (4), 23. Educational establishment (6), 24. Required (6) DOWN: 1. Female sheep (4), 2. Recording room (6), 3. Burglars (7), 4. Belief (5), 5. Every sixty minutes (6), 6. Widest (8), 12. Inconvenience (8), 14. Combining (7), 16. Calculate (6), 18. Respect (6), 19. Foolish (5), 22. Vegetable (4)

SUDOKU

Please bring your books to the side door of Morningside United Church, Chamberlain Road, EH10 4DJ between 10 and 12pm Mon - Thur holycornerbooksale@gmail.com to make an alternative arrangement.

For further information please visit www.holycornerbooksale.wordpress.com WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? EMAIL: EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK

Solution on Page 46

Call 0131 229 0090 or email

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 43

COMMUNITY

THINKING OF TRYING A NEW ACTIVITY OR HOBBY?

For ideas of clubs, classes, social activities and hobbies in the local area, see the Clubs and Classes section (opposite page). The Ageing Lab at the University also has a list of classes they use, and activities include a new language, sport, exercise and dance classes, social groups and bingo, computer classes, and woodworking or handicrafts. Volunteers will be assisted in choosing their new activities by researchers from the University, and costs associated with those new activities are covered by the study including equipment costs and books.

“Trying different activities could help thinking skills as we age,” say researchers at Heriot-Watt University.

test a range of activities within existing communitybased programmes. We have designed it so that the findings will have real-world benefit.

They are encouraging Edinburgh and Lothians residents aged 65 years and over to try a new activity as part of a major research study examining how thinking and memory skills change as we age. The study will include 300 adults aged 65 and over who will undergo a range of cognitive and psychological assessments before they start their new activity.

“As we age, we may experience general declines in our thinking, memory and reasoning skills.

There is, however, large variation in the degree of decline experienced. Keeping intellectually, socially or physically engaged have all been proposed as potentially protective.”

The activities chosen will vary in terms of the mental, social or physical engagement, but might include participating in language classes, taking up a sport or meeting new people in social clubs. After following their activity for 2-3 months, the volunteers will return for repeat assessments.

According to the research group’s recent “What Keeps You Sharp?” survey, almost 9 out of 10 people living in the UK believe there are things that can be done to maintain or improve thinking skills as we get older while two out of three people feel it is important to challenge the mind or to be physically active in terms of maintaining or improving thinking skills.[1]

Dr Alan Gow, from the Ageing Lab at Heriot-Watt University, explains: “Changes in our thinking skills are among the most feared aspects of growing older and can be related to a lower quality of life and a loss of independence. “People often think of these changes in terms of decline. While some people do experience this, others don’t.

One suggestion for why some people retain their thinking skills better than others is because they keep mentally, socially or physically active.

Dr Gow continued: “We look forward to hearing from residents living in the Edinburgh and Lothians who are interested in taking part in this study to better understand if and how different activities might benefit our thinking skills.”

“In this study, we are asking people to take up an activity they haven’t done before, to see how becoming more engaged might benefit their thinking skills.

This article was contributed by The Ageing Lab, Heriot-Watt University

“In contrast to other studies which have been developed and tested in lab-based settings that may not translate to the real world, our study will 44 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

For more information about the study or to take part, please visit www.healthyageing.hw.ac.uk/research, email healthyageing@hw.ac.uk or call 0131 451 8009.

CLUBS & CLASSES

COLINTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY Dreghorn Loan Hall

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE

Want to know about local history! We meet every other Monday evening in the Hall with Speakers starting at 8pm prompt. Visit www.colintonhistory.org.uk or contact Bob Bell at 0131 441 4915.

FRIENDLY BRIDGE Colinton Cottage Homes - Every Tuesday 2pm-4pm.

Contact Ken McLeod, 0131 466 0888.

EDINBURGH GUILD OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS Craiglockhart Church, Craiglockhart Drive North

COLINTON BADMINTON CLUB St. Cuthberts Church Hall, Westgarth Ave - Monday 8pm-10pm from Sept to March. Contact: Archie Clark on 0131 449 4703

Meet at monthly usually the third Saturday of the month.

Our aims are to further the crafts of weaving, spinning and dyeing, to learn from each other as well as from experienced craft tutors, and to create opportunities to display and pass on our skills. See www.ewsd.org.uk

STABLE ROOM PLAYGROUPS Colinton Parish Church, Dell Road - Happy and stimulating playgroups from 2-5 years old. Mon, Weds & Fri 9.15am to 12.00pm. (term time). Contact 0131 477 9494 or email stableroom@hotmail.co.uk

WEDNESDAY WALKING GROUP Meet every Wednesday for walks in the Lothians, Fife, the Borders and further afield. Transport from Currie Library car park, walks of various grades and distances (usually 6 to 8 miles). Just turn up and go. Contact: M. Timmins T: 0131 449 4525 or A Blythe T:0131 629 3644 (Balerno and District Ramblers) for details and a programme.

STABLE ROOM & TODDLER GROUPS Colinton Parish Church, Dell Road - Thurs 9.30am - 11.30am (term time). Contact: Sarah Yule on 07850 195334. Please phone before coming as we operate a waiting list.

PROGRESS FITNESS Fitness classes in Colinton and Juniper Green.

Zumba, Zumba Step, Zumba Gold, Floor Barre, Yoga, Fitness Yoga and Total Body Conditioning. £5 per class or 10 classes for £40. For full details go to www.progressfitness.co.uk COMPLIMENTARY FITNESS CLASSES All level classes - Tues: Fitness Pilates 7.30pm in Craiglockhart Church Hall & Classes in Dreghorn Loan Church Hall, Colinton, on Weds: Fitness Toning 9.30am Thurs: Fitness Yoga 6.35pm & Fitness Pilates 7.30pm. Fri: Fitness Yoga 9.30am info & details www. complementaryfitness.co.uk COLINTON GARDEN CLUB Dreghorn Loan Hall - Meets 4th Monday of every month at 8.00pm. September to April. Email: membership@ colintongardens.org.uk www.colintongardens.org.uk BIDE & BLETHER LUNCH CLUB Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firrhill Drive, Edinburgh EH13 9EU - Every Wednesday from 1.30pm to 3pm, starting from 7th June. Call us today to book your place on 0131 466 0678.

CRAIGLOCKHART CHURCH GUILD Craiglockhart Church - Meet at the Church at 7.30 pm on 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of the month from October to March to encourage men and women in their faith while hearing interesting talks and finishing with a chat over a cup of tea/coffee. First meeting on 3rd October – Canine Carers. Everyone most welcome.

For more information please see Church website www. craiglockhartchurch.org WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB HERE? EMAIL: EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK

SISTERS WITH SPIRIT Swing Café at Colinton Parish Church A new women’s group that meet on the first Thursday every month at 7.30pm. For more details on the themes for our meetings, and to book tickets, please visit www.facebook.com/sisterswithspirit or call 0131 441 2232.

GO GET FITNESS Insanity Live classes Max Interval Training for all fitness levels. Mon 8pm Spylaw Park, Colinton. Tues 8.15pm Pentland Community Centre. Thurs 1pm, Fri 9.40am North Merchiston Club (parents welcome to bring children to watch!) £5 per class or block of 10 classes for £40 For bookings and further details: emma@go-get.co.uk www.go-get.co.uk or www.facebook.com/gogetinsanitylive 7TH EDINBURGH BOYS BRIGADE Co. We welcome boys of all school ages, from Primary 1 to S6.

For a real variety of fun, games, activities, outings & competitions. Most Friday evenings during school term at Dreghorn Loan Hall, Dreghorn Loan. Alastair Merrill (Company Captain); ajsmerrill@gmail.com; 0131 477 3982; 07766 246880. Martin Shand (P1 – P6); martinshand74@gmail.com; 0131 441 9149; 07860 368285.

COLINTON LITERARY SOCIETY Dreghorn Loan Hall Meets every Wednesday at 8pm from 11 October. Keep up to date with latest news about the Lit, on Church website www.colinton-parish.com CRAIGLOCKHART LADIES GROUP Craiglockhart Parish Church This local community group meets at 8pm on the second and fourth Mondays, September to March, to hear a variety of speakers on diverse subjects and to meet up for tea/coffee and a chat. £20 membership. 1st meeting 11th September: ‘Sweetie Night’ All welcome.

THE DELL DIRECTORY | 45

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

AERIALS HEATING SERVICES Douglas S. Mackay Aerial 29 Geoff Lennie Plumbing & Heating 16 Scott Findlay Plumbing & Heating 18 APPLIANCE REPAIR Smart Heating Edinburgh 19 Appliances of Edinburgh 36 JOINER ARCHITECT SMC Joinery 17 A. Ross Architects 30 BATHROOMS KITCHENS Splash Bathrooms 35 Ian Merriman 14 BLINDS LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION Blind Design 32 The Leaflet Lady 2 Portobello Blinds 31 LOCKSMITH BUILDER 1st Call Locksmith 36 Almond Building Company 36 Baberton MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Solutions 4 Motorhome Escapes 6 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING MSP/MP C and W Cleaning Services 29 James Burnett Carpet Cleaning 29 Gordon MacDonald MSP 6 CHILDREN’S NURSERY OFFICE TO LET Colinton Private Nursery 27 Gilchrist Property 6 CHIMNEY SWEEP OPTOMETRIST Fireplaces Stoves and Flues 32 JJ Optometry 23 CHIROPODY/PODIATRY PAINTER/DECORATOR Colinton Chiropody 22 Gerry Aitken 13 CLEANING SERVICES Heritage Decorators 10 Cleaning and Maintenance 13 Ian Hodgson & Co Painters 14 Fiona’s House Cleaning 29 MG Decor 17 Urban Assistants 4 David Lane 18 COMPUTER SERVICES PAVING Capital PC Repairs 36 Alpine Paving & Driveways 17 Edinburgh Paving Company 34 COUNSELLING Rosanna Veitch 22 PET SERVICES DENTIST Walkin ‘n’ Woofin 41 Artis Dental and Implant Studio 23 PLUMBING SERVICES Goansmile 22 Bill Reid 16 Seven Hills Dental Practice 25 Currievale Plumbing 35 DOORS Shandon Plumbing 16 UPVC 15 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Cleaning and Maintenance 13 Double Glazing Repairs 19 PUBLIC HOUSE ELECTRICIAN Grey Horse 37 Bry-Ter Electrical Ltd 18 MT Electrical 16 RESTAURANT Spark Electrical Solutions 35 Grey Horse 37 ESTATE AGENT ROOFING Aberdein Considine 24 Edinburgh Roofing Services 20-21 Blair Cadell 30 Fairmile Roofing 19 Thomson Roofing 47 FINANCIAL SERVICES Torphin Associates 48 Worlds End Roofing & Building 12 FISHMONGER SECURITY SERVICES Marc Horsburgh 4 Circle Security 10 FOOD & GROCERIES SOFT FURNISHINGS Olive Deli and Post 39 James Erskine Interiors 30,32 Forth Fabrics 31 GARDEN & LANDSCAPING Evergreen Balerno 13 STOVES/WOODBURNERS Greenspace Landscapes 13 Fireplaces Stoves and Flues 32 Luxury Lawns 5 TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE West Lothian Garden Maintenance 6 Riccarton Garden Centre 7 Capital Cars 37 Beatson’s 12 TREE SURGERY Green Thumb 7 Delisle Tree Solutions 17 Baberton Solutions 4 GARDEN BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate HAIRDRESSER Colinton Hair Design HANDYMAN We Can Do It

46 | THE DELL DIRECTORY

11 27 29

UPHOLSTERER Absolute Upholstery VET ICR Vets

WINDOWS Double Glazing Repairs

32 41 19

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 43

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Tomato, 8. Treaty, 9. Swim, 10. Portions, 11. Absence, 13. Tipsy, 15. Argue, 17. Vinegar, 20. Gripping, 21.

Ache, 22. Client, 23. Absorb DOWN: 1. Cobweb, 2. Warm, 3. Compact, 4. Start, 5. Decisive, 6. Stinks, 12. Equipped, 14. Diagram, 16. Rarely, 18. Adhere, 19. Dirty, 21. Also

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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www.thomsonroofingservices.com THE DELL DIRECTORY | 47

Torphin Financial Planning

Gran

Midlo Pentla T: 01 M: 07 ifa@to www.

Torphin Financial Planning is a trading name of Torphin Asso regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

The Government has improved pension flexibilities and ISA allowances over the last two years, but we still have historically low interest rates and uncertainty about the provision of Long Term Care and Inheritance tax. Individuals are still concerned how to get a reasonable return on their hard-earned savings and investments.

With inflation now reaching 3%* and interest rates well below that, cash held on deposit is losing value.

There has also been major legislation changes to pensions, affecting most company schemes and many people across the country who previously worked for the large Nationalised industries have now to decide what they should do with their deferred pensions.

Individuals may be surprised to find out they have old employer schemes with very high transfer values.

People who are concerned about their financial wellbeing and assets should be asking themselves the following questions.

• • • • • • • • • •

Are you getting a good return on your savings and/or investments?

Are you happy with the service from your existing investment adviser?

Are you making use of your annual ISA allowance?

Are you maximising your tax allowances each year?

Have you or are you making adequate provision for your retirement?

Do you have your potential Inheritance tax liability covered?

Have you reviewed your wills in the last five years?

Have you gone through a full pension forecast exercise?

Do you have your potential Long Term Care costs covered?

Do you use an Independent Financial Adviser?

If the answer is no to any of these questions please contact us for a no obligation chat on the phone, to arrange a meeting in our offices or email any questions you may have to see if we can be of assistance to you

*Source; ONS, Office for National Statistics, September 2017.

Torphin Financial Planning

Midlothian Innovation Centre, Pentlandfield, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RE

Tel: 0131 440 8250 Email: ifa@torphin.co.uk

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