Konect Directory Balerno April 12

konect the

directory

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton April 2012

WIN lunch for two at

Riccarton Garden Centre coffee shop crossword competition

Oystercatchers at home in Balerno PLUS local businesses, community information and more!

2

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Message from the Editor

www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Hello neighbours Welcome to the April issue of the Konect Directory. This month’s articles cover all sorts of things –we take a look at the oystercatchers which are nesting on a school roof in Balerno; our local walk column is actually a run this month, contributed by a member of the Harmeny Pentland Runners; and we again have columns on money management and local businesses. The majority of businesses in this magazine are run by people who live in this area, so please support them and shop locally whenever possible.

two at their coffee shop, so try your luck with the crossword competition and you could be stocking up on plants for Spring and getting a free lunch into the bargain!

Congratulations to Maria Elliot of Currie who won the competition prize in the last issue. This month, Riccarton Garden Centre are offering a combo lunch for

The Konect Directory welcomes contributions such as old photographs, or short articles of local interest. The Editor reserves the right to edit any articles submitted for publication.

Have a great Easter break, and thanks for reading the Konect Directory.

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

Contents Feature Article Oystercatchers Local Walk Recipe Competitions & puzzles Prize crossword Sudoku

8 24 42

38 38

Children & Family Community What’s on + Useful Info Clubs & Classes Index of Advertisers

46 46 50 54

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

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

Jenny Thomson, Sales 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Helen-Jane Shearer, Editor 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk Design by Kumo Ink Ltd 01506 209 946 studio@kumoink.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Front cover photograph by Jenny Thomson: Spring planting in Currie

3

IRONING AID

Free pick-up & delivery - next day service

0131 538 5223 07877 381940

 Free Mortgage & Life Cover Advice  Face to face or telephone appointments available at a time to suit you  First Time Buyers, Home Movers, Re-Mortgages, New Build & Buy To Let  Access to Whole of Market Providers  Protection and General Insurance Call Robin on 07895 650228 Alternatively email: robin@hgfs.co.uk Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage

4

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

DELL ROOFING Established 22 years

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

0131 449 7193 or 07594 355109 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

5

RE-UPHOLSTERY SPECIALISTS

Since 1919

Quintessential

 Quotes are always FREE and we come to you  Choose from a huge selection of fabrics  Collection, restoration and delivery in 2-4 weeks  We have full repair services and French Polishing  Visit us online: www.james-erskine.co.uk

Heritage Windows Scotland Unit 1 Camps Ind Estate, East Calder EH27 8DF

01506 884256

www.windowsbyheritage.co.uk

0131 447 3135 6–16 Church Hill Place, Edinburgh. EH10 4BD 6

Windows and doors in u.P.V.C and timber Traditional sash and case Refurbishing and draughtproofing of sash & case Insurance backed 10 year guarantee free quotation

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

ew nt n e er em d n g U na a m

Open 7 days Mon to Fri 11am to 2pm Sun and Mon 4pm to Midnight

Scott y mana T’s is unde gemen r compl t and new etely h as bee ref a focu n s on g urbished, w ood qu and c i t h lean, brigh ality food t prem ises.

0131 442 2057 ● 0131 629 1775 HOME DELIVERY THROUGHOUT BABERTON, JUNIPER GREEN, CURRIE AND BALERNO, FROM £1.00

Fish & Chips, kebabs, pizzas, pastas, burgers and more...

Unit 38, Westside Plaza, Wester Hailes, EH14 2SW To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

7

Oystercatchers at home in Balerno

By Emma Merchant

‘W

hat on earth is that incessant squeaking? Could it be an over-excited dog with a chewy toy? Or a persistent child with a whistle? And how can it possibly be coming from the roof?’

Did Mrs Shanks, depute head teacher of Dean Park Primary School, ask herself something similar four years ago when the flat roof above her office first became home to some special visitors? Perhaps.

But it wasn’t long before the whole school became aware of the noise. To everyone’s delight, it was discovered that a pair of oystercatchers had decided to raise their chicks on the school roof.

1)

Remarkably, the birds have been returning every year since then to raise a family. This year is no exception. If you are in Balerno this month you stand a very good chance of seeing them for yourself. You will almost certainly hear them if you are anywhere near the school.

They make a piercing, high-pitched call – a comical ‘eeeek! eeeeeeeek!’

Oystercatchers stand out in a crowd, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble identifying them by sight. Large, handsome wading birds, their smart black and white plumage, red legs and extremely long orange-red beaks are hard to miss. And in flight, they can be recognised by the striking white ‘v’

shape splashed across their belly and the undersides of their wings.

Usually oystercatchers tend to congregate in large numbers on seashores and estuaries throughout the UK. There they paddle on the sand and probe deeply into it with their long beaks, looking for worms, cockles, mussels and other shellfish. But they will also seek higher and drier inland areas, especially if there is water nearby. Balerno, with its streams and nearby reservoirs, seems to have been just the place the birds were looking for.

“But to be honest, we are astonished that they keep coming back to the school to nest,” says Dean Park Primary teacher, Terry Anthony. “They don’t mind the children at all, and they fit in to school life amazingly well, but the first year was rather a disaster for them. They had chosen to nest on the roof behind the main hall, above Mrs Shanks’ office, which is accessible from the ground. That was very lucky for us, as we were able to install a camera on the roof and observe the birds on the nest.”

“The nest itself wasn’t very impressive; a vaguely circular arrangement of roofing gravel that just about contained the eggs.

But watching the chicks and the activity of the parent birds was fascinating.

2)

There were three chicks that year, and the whole school followed their progress via a monitor, which we set up in the school hall. The chicks were very amusing, especially when they started running around and chasing each other in circles on the flat roof. It was an exciting time for everyone, and inspired a number of school projects, including a Primary 2 class collage of numerous oystercatchers in flight.”

Being accessible from the ground turned out to be less fortunate for the birds. A few local lads climbed onto the school roof while the fledglings were still too young to fly and disturbed the young birds, which fled to the playground below.

“They all landed safely, although one seemed to hobble a bit for a while,” remembers Terry Anthony. “But we then had three alarmed little birds roaming the school grounds. They couldn’t return to the roof, so we decided to shepherd them into the relative safety of the school Eco Garden. The parent birds were obviously upset, but they could still see their chicks and could fly in and out of the garden from the flat roof that surrounds it. This arrangement worked fairly well, as the parents were still able to feed their chicks, but the young ones did have a habit of continually getting out. They would scoot under the wire fence during the night, and we would find them wandering about in the school grounds the next morning. We were concerned for their safety, and regularly found ourselves rounding them up before the start of the school day. The pupils helped too, and everyone felt very protective of the young birds. Unfortunately, one of the chicks became a little too adventurous, and made it to the main road, where it was hit by a car. But the other two survived to adulthood. We were all delighted and relieved they had made it.

It was a real achievement.”

Once they could fly, the young birds joined their parents, and the family could often be seen searching for worms together on the school playing field. They took to wandering into nearby gardens, where local people regularly woke to find (and hear them) poking around on the lawn! But they would always come

back to the school, which they seemed to regard as home.

“The following year, to everyone’s delight, the birds returned. This time they chose a different nesting site, higher up on the school roof. It was a sensible choice and the birds were able to raise their young without interference.

They have nested there ever since, and obviously feel safer. But it does mean we can’t observe them by camera any more.”

Despite all the hustle and bustle of school life, the comings and goings of large numbers of children, and noisy playtimes, the oystercatchers seem to feel very at home at Dean Park Primary School.

“We’re delighted that they have come back a fourth time. They really fit in at Dean Park Primary, and everybody loves them. They usually appear during the February half term holiday and stay until the summer holidays begin. They are charming and funny visitors and we always look forward to their arrival. They have become a regular part of school life!“

3)

According to the RSPB, oystercatchers qualify for the amber conservation list, which means while they are not imminently threatened, they do face population decline issues.

If you are interested in supporting RSPB visit www.rspb.org.uk Images: 1) Oystercatcher. 2) Dean Park’s high flat roof, home for the oystercatchers this year. 3) Eco Garden Dean Park.

Pension problems at retirement

by Personal Money Management

P

eople retiring now with a pension fund are facing a double whammy when they get their annuity quote.

An annuity is simply a product where you give a provider a lump sum and they guarantee to pay you an annual income for the rest of your life irrespective of market conditions.

Government Gilt Rates The first problem is that annuity rates are based on government gilt rates,, which are based on the Bank of England base rate, which is at an all-time low of 0.5%.

Longevity Tables The second problem is that annuity rates are also based on longevity tables and unfortunately, or fortunately depending on your view, we are all living much longer and hence the annuity rates are at their lowest level in history.

Typical example In 2008 a pensioner with a pension fund of around £100,000 would have received just over £8,000 per annum whereas now it would be just under £6,000 i.e. a 25% reduction.

Open Market Option (OMO) It is most important that anyone who is considering buying an annuity is aware that they do NOT need to buy the annuity from their product provider.

They should utilise what is called their Open Market Option. This means you can shop around all the annuity providers and get the best deal. You can also get a much higher annuity if you have any health issues. It would be best to use a specialist pension adviser who would know the best providers for your particular circumstances.

Alternatives It is not mandatory that you buy an annuity at retirement as there are many other alternatives with advantages but also disadvantages. These will be subject of a future article.

Written by: Dr Peter Marshall PhD, DipPFS, AFPC Personal Money Management, tel: 0131 538 7390

Giving High Quality, Independent, Financial Advice to Individuals and Businesses for 40 years Investment

Pensions Estate Planning Protection Mortgages

188 Lanark Road West, Currie, Edinburgh, EH14 5NX Principal: Dr Peter M Marshall PhD DipPFS AFPC T: 0131 538 7390 E: info@personalmm.co.uk www.personalmm.co.uk 10

Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

11

E OPTI C VU R

N IA

Monday to Friday 9am to 5.00pm

S

CL E A

Opening Times

Home visits available Tel: 0131 449 6889 Tel/Fax: 0131 449 3011

Email: enquiries@clearvueopticians.co.uk

60 Bryce Road, Cur rie

, EH14 5LD

Chiropody by Claire Claire Monkman WMS Ch(hons), MPSPract

Mobile Chiropodist in Currie, Balerno and the surrounding area

Chiropody Treatments Manicures Spa Pedicures HPC Registered Gift Vouchers available For an appointment in your own home ring Claire on

0131 478 7037 or 07786 516513

If you would like to smile with confidence, like our patients

here, come and have a chat.

9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB

We are happy to organise payment plans or finance if this is helpful.

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

12

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Centre for Sport and Exercise Community membership Community membership at Heriot-Watt University’s Centre for Sport & Exercise is available to all.

Membership includes access to all facilities including: Membership

Definition

Price

Community Gold

This membership will allow you unlimited access all of our facilities

£240 per year or £20 per month

This membership will allow you to access any of our facilities for £2.90 per visit between 07.30 and 12.15, 14.15 and 16.15 Mon – Fri and all day at the weekend

£29 per year £2.90 per visit £2.70 per 50+ class

Community Off-Peak

sports ACtive Sports Active provides a comprehensive range of

Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Chiropractor and Sports Science Services A team of professional and dedicated practitioners operate the services of Sports Active and are on hand to provide advice and treatment to get you going again, whether you’re a regular sports participant or just like to keep on the move.

For more information please phone Sports Active reception on 0131 451 8440.

5o+

GoLF ACADemy

Class

Day and Time

Description

Cost

The Centre for Sport & Exercise’s Golf Academy is a state of the art indoor facility open to all members as well as pay as you play users.

50+

Tuesday 09.15 – 10.15

This class is designed to improve your strength, flexibility and stamina

£4.80/class if you don’t have a membership, please see below for further information on membership prices

Moving Wisely

Tuesday 10.30 – 11.30

This class aims to improve your balance and co-ordination

£25 for a 6 week block (13th September – 18th October or 25th October – 29th November)

It includes the following: • 5 driving bays • 2 putting greens • 2 chipping mats • Self contained adjustable bunker Ideal facility for all levels of golfer.

Come rain or shine we are open and you’ll never need your waterproofs.

A brief induction is required in order to access this area – this is bookable at reception.

For more information please phone CSE reception on 0131 451 8400.

www.hw.ac.uk/sports

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

13

BABERTON GOLF CLUB Special 2012 Offers on Full, Midweek and Young Adult Memberships from April 2012

Midweek Membership. Play Mon—Fri, £315 with NO ENTRY FEE Young Adult (Age 18—30) Membership. From £147 with NO ENTRY FEE Full Membrships £420 plus entry fee which can be paid over 5 years Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

Number of places are limited so to book your discounted trial round (£10) and for further details phone Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon—Fri Pro shop on 0131 453 3555 Sat—Sun email: manager@baberton.co.uk website: www.babertongolfclub.com Be part of the changing face of golf at Baberton!

14

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

15

Thought for the Month:

by Claudia Goncalves

D

uring our busy lives we can find ourselves drained of energy, mentally dull and pulled in many different directions.

Our mind naturally jumps from task to task: wandering, dancing, skipping. This can be quite exhausting and often results in that feeling of absent mindedness. There are many ways to approach our lives with a clear head and focussed mental poise. Here are a few practical exercises.

Pay attention to your breathing. When we pay attention to our breathing our minds realign with our bodies and our bodies become more relaxed with the eventual slowing down of the breath.

Visualise a jewel, stone or crystal set in the middle of the forehead. This will help gather our thoughts, clear the mind and steady our focus.

If there is space and time, sit down and see

if you can listen to the beat of your heart.

After a few moments your heart will begin to slow down and be in a natural rhythm because we are effectively meditating on the heart, which is also a good way of relieving stress.

Finally, if you have five minutes to spare, imagine the air you breathe into the lungs is filled with fresh energy like sunshine or a spring breeze. As you exhale visualise dust or smoke leaving the lungs. Try to fill your lungs with as much air as possible and exhale as much as you can. You will feel the results very quickly. Enjoy and have fun!

Claudia Goncalves is a yoga teacher and shamanic practitioner living in Balerno. She is the co-founder of www.planetaryhealing.co.uk and www.shamaniccentre.com)

624A Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5EW

16

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

MOBILE HAIR & BEAUTY

BY CHERYL JARRA

Tel: 07961 818809 Hairdressing Qualified in 1993 Waxing Eyelash & Eyebrow Tinting All major credit & Eyelash extensions debit cards accepted St Tropez Tooth Fairy E: jarracheryl@yahoo.co.uk Ear Piercing www.cheryljarrahair.vpweb.co.uk In the comfort of your own home

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

17

Do you have a will? Do you want to choose who gets what?

By McQueen Legal

L

ast year George Gibson left £37,978 to the government.

Margaret Isabella Low left £34,847.89 and in 2008 one lady left £400,000. Were they being generous and helping us to all to cut the deficit? No they simply did not leave a will.

You may think “even if I don’t leave a will my family will get my money anyway”. This may be true but not necessarily. However unless you are survived by your spouse then, without a will, your relatives will have to buy an insurance policy called a Bond of Caution which costs a least £400- often more if your estate is larger.

After debts a widow, widower or a surviving civil partner has certain prior rights in your estate, where no will has been left. Please note that this does not include unmarried partners.

Your spouse is entitled to the dwelling house in which you were resident at the time of your death up to the value of £300,000, plus furnishings and furniture up to £24,000. Your surviving spouse or civil partner is also entitled to the first £42,000 out of your estate if you left children or grandchildren, or to the first £75,000 if you left no children or descendants.

A surviving spouse or civil partner and children are entitled to certain “legal rights” out of your moveable estate.

Moveable property includes such things as money, shares, cars, furniture and jewellery. Once both prior rights and legal rights are paid out, there are 18

further detailed rules on what happens to the balance of your estate. This may not be distributed as you want.

If you are not married but cohabiting then your cohabitee can apply to the court for a payment out from your estate as the court considers appropriate, having regard to various matters. Regard has to be had to, for example, children or spouses. For those who do not wish to have their partners make a claim or who want to make proper provision for a partner, the making of a will is an important consideration. This is particularly so where there might be an older Will still in existence which predates the relationship.

While most of us will have relatives by blood or by marriage to whom we would like to leave our assets on our death, many families are complicated nowadays by divorce or by cohabitation and it is no longer clear that your assets will be distributed as you would like.

We do recommend that everyone, young and old, should grant a Will to ensure that they can choose, firstly, who will be their Executor (the person who deals with the winding up of the estate with the assistance of a solicitor) and, secondly, who will inherit which assets.

We can help you by drafting wills for you. Please contact us for further information.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

19

B EDWARDS TILING SPECIALIST LOCAL WALL AND FLOOR TILER

All aspects of tiling undertaken including Kitchens, Bathrooms & Conservatories Using ceramics, porcelain, natural stone & mosaics

A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

ALEX HUNTER & SON PLUMBERS

Family Business 24 Hour Emergency

Professional & friendly service

0131 441 2098 • 07831 519003

For a free estimate call Barry Mobile: 07944 176663 Home: 01506 432159

Advanced Property Solutions Ltd

ALL ESTIMATES AND QUOTATIONS FREE OF CHARGE!!

Exceptional service at acceptable prices.

Extensions/Conversions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Doors Internal & External, Facings & Skirting’s, Window’s, Fencing & Decking, Locks & Ironmongery, Staircases, Ceilings, Flooring, Loft Ladders, Shopfitting, Partitioning & Office fit-out, Plumbing/

Advanced Property Solutions Ltd 25 Baberton Mains Dell Edinburgh EH14 3DQ Office: -0131 442 1794 Mobile:-07759646241 email :enquires@apsjoinersandbuilders.com

20

Check out our new website at www.aps-joinersand builders.com

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

BRUSHSTROKES

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

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

KEITH DAVIDSON DESIGN custom metalwork & design

BLACKSMITH ENGINEERING

FABRICATION

RAILINGS

GATES

INSTALLATION

FURNITURE

RESTORATION & REPAIRS

Brown’s Plumbing Plumbing – Heating – Gasworks

From tap washers to re-plumbs We undertake all plumbing work

0131 478 5356 07720 890 226

T: 01506 880395 M: 07870598229

Free estimates

www.keithdavidsondesign.com

Gerry Aitken Painter and Decorator Juniper Green

Tel: 07798 565321 Ames Taping Coving Artexing Interior Exterior 25 years Experience To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

21

Karen Murray Fitness

I

f you think a personal trainer is a tyrant in blue lycra with a loud voice, then it’s time you met Karen Murray.

Karen is a personal trainer who believes in gentle persuasion. Warm and friendly, she welcomes me to her fully equipped and spacious gym in Juniper Green, with its separate private massage suite and comfortable waiting room.

She tells me about the work she loves.

“Meeting people, getting to know them, helping them become fitter and to feel better about themselves; these are the things I enjoy. And I never shout,” she smiles. “I don’t believe in the boot camp approach to fitness training. I’m kind to my clients. I use gentle persuasion and provide lots of support and encouragement.”

1)

healthy and stay healthy. It may sound strange, but the secret to maintaining fitness and a stable weight is learning to think like a thin person.”

That means no treats, and a lot of celery, right?

“Not at all! I want people to enjoy life more, not less! I show people what they can get away with and still reach their target! They can enjoy a scoop of ice-cream, but they don’t have to finish the tub, or ban ice-cream altogether! I know it’s not easy, because food can become an addiction. And unlike drugs or alcohol, you can’t say ‘never again’ to food. You have to learn to live with it.”

Karen really does know what she’s talking about. 10 years ago, following hormone intervention related to IVF treatment, she weighed 15 stones.

“I had had enough. I wasn’t prepared to be a victim any more. I just wanted my life back. So I lost five stones. Twice. The first time, I just stopped eating, but I piled weight back on the minute I stopped the diet. I hadn’t changed my attitudes or my habits at all. The second time I did things differently. I discovered healthy eating and exercise, and I never looked back. “ Karen’s ‘before’ and ‘after’ photographs are the proof that it really can be done.

Are her clients mostly yummy mummies, aiming for size 6 dresses?

2)

“No, not at all!” she laughs. “I see people of all shapes and sizes; men, women, young and old.

My youngest client is 17, and the oldest is nearly 80! They come from all walks of life, and for lots of different reasons. Sometimes a specific health issue brings them, such as high blood pressure. Or perhaps they are becoming very overweight and need help to regain control. But it’s not about striving for perfection or trying to become someone you’re not. The important thing is to get fit and healthy.”

“During the first visit we discuss their health, lifestyle and fitness, and choose realistic goals to aim for. I show them the gym with its full range of fitness equipment. And if they feel comfortable with me, over time I help them to exercise and develop good habits that will become second nature. This is the way to get

22

But there is another way in which Karen is unusually qualified for her work. She is a former Community Pharmacist.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

3)

Images: 1) KM Fitness gym 2) Karen Murray before 3) Karen Murray today 4) Karen Murray massage room

“I come from a family of pharmacists. My grandfather founded Horsburgh Chemist in Edinburgh and for three generations it was the family business. It was very professionally run and we treated our customers like VIP’s.

I became a pharmacist too, working with my parents, my brother, and my husband for a number of years. That was when I gained valuable experience and awareness of medical issues that affect people’s health.”

“Perhaps this explains why I am especially interested in helping clients with difficult or unusual health problems. I particularly welcome people who suffer from MS, the very obese, the elderly, diabetics, people with high blood pressure or cholesterol levels, and people with physical disability. But, of course, I welcome anyone with health or weight issues that are making them unhappy.”

“We sold the pharmacy business in 2006, and I took the opportunity to qualify as a personal trainer. I did this for my own personal development as much as anything else. But then I discovered I loved it so much I really couldn’t think of doing anything else!”

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Karen is available for appointments from 7am in the morning, Monday to Friday. She is a REPS (Register of Exercise Professionals) level 3 4) Instructor, and is fully insured for all personal training and massage purposes. As well as personal training she can also offer sports massage and is able to prescribe rehabilitation exercise following injury diagnosis by a physiotherapist.

And when the weather permits she is delighted to help with outdoor training in the lovely local countryside.

Visit her website: www.edinburghpersonaltrainer.co.uk Email her: karen.murray@edinburghpersonaltrainer.co.uk Or phone her: 07538 208246 Interview by Emma Merchant

23

The 10k Taper

By David Syme

Images: 1) & 2) Almondell and Calderwood Country Park 3) David Syme 3)

T

he race was on Sunday morning;

it was now the Thursday morning before. I had to go to my local village, East Calder, so I changed into my running kit. Fifteen minutes to the post office and chemist’s to pick up a prescription, then 15 minutes back, some pace variation using the distances between telephone posts, perhaps, nothing strenuous, just an easing of the muscles in the wind-down before the race. Taper run, they call it.

It was cool and pleasant; a gentle breeze all that was left of the previous days’ storms. The run to the shops was a slow but steady trot. The brain asked all parts of my body for injury reports, but none came. Wonderful! Anticipation of a race is a joy when you’re feeling good, and I was feeling good. Letters posted, I entered the chemist’s to join a considerable queue of people at the counter, with more folk waiting for their prescriptions. I asked: “How long will my mine be?” She waved a hand of explanation and apology briefly in the direction of the small crowd: “At least 40 minutes....”came the reply. A fractious child and a coughing adult helped me to decide not to wait; I took a chit and left the shop.

Last year local resident David Syme launched a book of short stories about runs in exotic locations, called “Running Away From Home.” The book is published by Diadem Books and has the ISBN: 0978-1-90802600-2 and costs £6.99. All royalties from book sales go to a charity: Tong-Len. This is an Edinburgh-based charity which helps street children in Northern India. The Owen family of Corstorphine made the brave decision to provide a stable home, love and an education for the street children of Dharamsala, having seen their wretched life. The project relies on the donations and goodwill of people who care.

David has now retired and does not travel so much for work. His second book for Tong-Len is therefore called: “Running, Home and Away” and is due out in the early summer. Half of the stories are of runs in the Balerno and Calders area. The 10k Taper is one.

1)

I planned a pleasant, slow 40 minute run – nothing too strenuous. On to Mid Calder, over the Almond and up to Pumpherston then right past the golf course and back along the old railway line. The roads were quiet and I enjoyed the smooth hard surface of the pavements until I turned down onto the path on the railway line. After only a few metres I had to go under the road bridge. A huge puddle spread from one stone support across to the other. I  24

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

All under one roof at

Va eitch R Jlm& G rden Centre l l onde

A

Almondell Garden Centre, East Calder, EH53 0ET

Wed 1/2 Price OAP Day

Local Walk (Continued)  approached cautiously and noticed that the wall on the left had a low shelf just below the water line. I edged my way along to the far end of the bridge and was wondering how to cross over the rest of the puddle to dry land when I heard a noise behind me. A runner came at full tilt; a slim, young sandyhaired lad – head up and arms pumping: Splash! Splash! Splash! Splash! And away! Wow! I stood open-mouthed, then a wave of embarrassment swept over me. What would he have thought of me? An old duffer dressed for a run, but scared of a wee dub! I started to run after him. I did not want to chase him and perhaps alarm him, so I held station with him, about 70 metres behind. I was now splashing through the puddles, too. The trouble was that this chap was much better than I, and my bid to demonstrate that I, too, could handle a bit of discomfort on a run was hurting.

We sped down the railway path. I was pleased that he turned and saw me, hopefully recognising that I could run after all. He did not cross the viaduct, but dropped down to the river and turned downstream. I felt that I had not fully made my point, so followed him into Almondell Park. When he reached the main park road I was hoping that he would turn left, and that I could turn right and relax, but he turned right and started to lope up the long hill. I had to follow.

This would show him that I’m not to be underestimated! He must have known that I was using him as a pacer of sorts, and decided to see what I could do. Dog walkers looked at me with a mixture of curiosity, pity and amazement as I lumbered uphill at a pace which I would normally describe as my sprinting speed. When he reached the main road I could not have been more that 80 metres behind him, well, maybe 100. He turned left, thank goodness, away from the chemist’s, 26

so when I reached the road I stopped and stood there panting. The lad turned and saw me, then waved and ran on. I managed a weak wave to his back then tottered on to the shop.

The crowd inside the shop was as before.

When I entered, the sudden blast of hot air into my lungs brought on a coughing attack which, with my red face and mudsplattered clothing, ensured that I had as wide a circle of space round me as possible. I collected my prescription and, still coughing, limped home.

My performance on Sunday was poorer than I had hoped, but Thursday’s run was one to remember because of the unexpected. I had been jolted out of a comfortable bimble by a runner who didn’t worry about puddles. He caught me “with my pants down” which showed me that I was getting soft. I had to prove to him and to myself that I could still run a bit, and really didn’t mind the mud and the wet. The thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of keeping up with the young lad were worth it, but as a taper for the 10km race it was a disaster!

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

2)

£20 off FU

LLY REPA* GU IRS AR AN TEE

D

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

✓Paintwork scratches

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

Franchisee now to arrange for Call ChipsAway ChipsAway now toName arrange

ED

your free estimate

0800 028 01234 4567878 789 or 0800 028 7878

S TE IR AN A P R RE UA G LY

or visit www.chipsaway.co.uk

* £20 discount only applicable to bookings over £100 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Offer only available through ChipsAway Franchisee Name until 31st January 2011.

Please produce advert at time of estimate.

Here too often?

L

FU

D.A. WARD MOTOR ENGINEERS Servicing Car Sales Tyres

Repairs M.O.T Testing Exhausts

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

Find LOCAL customers with the Konect Directory.

Read in 22 400 local households per month.

3 editions covering : Livingston, Currie/Balerno, Calders Affordable, flexible advertising packages

To be included call Jenny 07824 469266 email jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk www.konectdirectory.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Juniper Green Garage Cars and Vans sourced and supplied at your request

Ronnie Mckeown

07768 552211

junipergreengarage@btinternet.com 27

Computer Generated Image – The Arthur Terraces

100% part exchange.* whole new lifestyle. just ask cala.

A SELECTION OF 3, 4 & 5 BEDROOM HOMES. PRICES FROM

£270,000

100% part exchange

avail able *

STUNNING CANALSIDE

LOCATION Right now, we have all kinds of ways to help you move to the CALA home of your dreams. All you have to do, is ask.

The Mooring, Ratho, EH28 8NP. open daily 11am - 5.30pm. Call 01324 600 280.

Text CALA108 to 84840 justaskcala.com 5 star rated 3 years running

BDIRAPR12 *CALA will obtain 2 independent valuations based on achieving a sale in a 4-6 week period, part exchange considered subject to CALA’s purchasing criteria, terms and conditions.

Up to 100% part exchange available on selected plots only. Please consult a Sales Advisor for further details. To scan the code, download a QR reader app for your mobile device. Texts will be charged at your standard network message rate. 5 stars awarded for ‘Quality of Home’ and ‘Recommend to a Friend’ are findings of the 2009, 2010 and 2011 surveys, undertaken by the Home Builders Federation (HBF).

MAXWELL TREE CARE PROFESSIONAL TREE SURGERY FULLY INSURED

For all aspects of tree surgery Contact: PAUL MAXWELL Cert Arb. (RFS)

0131 478 0853 or 07890 017159 e. info@maxwelltreecare.net www.maxwelltreecare.net

30

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Konnect (FEB2012).ai

1

21/02/2012

11:43

Spring is near ... ... and it's time to think about who's going to do the garden this year.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

Who's going to trim the hedges, cut the grass, weed the beds and prune the shrubs and roses in the short amount of weekend time you have? We’ve been looking after these elements for our customers for over 13 years. We have a hard working, honest and knowledgeable team who are on hand to carry out the tasks you just don't have the time, or energy to do yourself. Our GardenCare plans are designed around you, your budget and requirements.

We can arrange all your gardening needs. Just give us a call and we'll do the rest.

Call 0800 9700 415 or check us out online.

CMY

K

TAURUS gardening ltd

LAWNCARE • LANDSCAPING • MAINTENANCE

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Making your garden our business www.taurusgardening.com

31

32

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

G BEATSON ELECTRICAL

BILL REID & SON DOMESTIC HEATING & PLUMBING

0131 449 5538 07710 458739 2 Turner Avenue Balerno

Alistair McLellan of Balerno

Currie

Painter & Decorator

Free Estimates

Interior 路 Exterior No job too small 路 Free estimates

Tel: 0131 466 0214 Mob: 07732 866 983 Email: gbeatsonelectrical@hotmail .co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Tel: 0131 451 5394 Mobile: 07894 703020 33

Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats

Let us welcome your pet to

Rosebank Cattery Established over 20 years Rosebank Farm, Kirkgate, Currie EH14 6AH

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

Tel: 0131 449 4401 Mob: 07775 708813 Email: helenandjohn34@hotmail.co.uk

Chalets heated from Oct-Apr

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

Cats Dogs and Small Animals

Rossbank Labrador puppies sometimes for sale

Alistair Taylor

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

• •

Conveniently situated near the airport.

• •

www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk

34

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

0131 451 5111

5 Riccarton Mains Rd, Currie, EH14 5PX

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Now doing a CARPET CLEANING SERVICE

Professional Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

FREE no n tio obligoates qu

The mo thorougsht carpe cleanintg ever.. or its FREE

Mobile: 07789 007 072 Tel: 0131 300 0756

• Stain removal and stain protection • Pet stain and pet odour treatment • Domestic, contract & commercial service • Certified Leather cleaning specialist • Dust mite elimination All work is • Fully insured 100% guarante e for yo d satisfac ur tion

www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk Email: info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

35

Your Local Balerno Locksmith     

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

0131 500 0153 Or Call Tom On

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

TELEPHONE ENGINEER New sockets fitted for phone, internet or sky •••• Removal of unsightly old wiring and sockets •••• Repair to internal phone and broadband faults •••• Old style phones converted to work on UK sockets I CAN SUPPLY AND INSTALL Easy to use big button amplified hearing aid compatible phone with hands free calling •••• Loud audio phone ringers with flash indicators

Free estimates – no call out charge

Contact John McGraw Tel : 0131 555 1314 Mob : 07771 927796

CD’s COMPUTER REPAIRS ALL REPAIRS DONE IN YOUR OWN HOME SYSTEM REPAIRS MAINTENANCE UPGRADING INTERNAL MAINTENANCE INTERNET SECURITY CHECKS FREE QUOTES ON REQUEST

Tel: 0131 629 5328

Email: cdcomputerrepairs@talktalk.net Mon-Fri 1pm-10pm Saturdays 1pm-6pm Sundays - Emergencies only

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

ALL AREAS – PROMPT - RELIABLE 36

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

When you feel like shouting, try calling instead.

Your very own I T expert is just one phone call away.

Making sure your PC is on it’s best behaviour is a lot easier when you have someone on hand who’ll come out to your home or office. We won’t bamboozle you with techy jargon, we will just get down to the job in hand at fixing your PC. We are a local and friendly business. In fact using us is a bit like having your very own IT expert, that’s just one phone call away.

Get sorted now at sortmypc.

sortmypc Yo u r lo c a l E d i n b u rg h I T s u p p o r t s e r v i c e

Tel 0131 477 2644

0pening times Mon-Fri 9am till 6pm. Saturday till 1pm.

N call o char out ge.

Visit sortmypc.co.uk Email enquiries@sortmypc.co.uk

sortmypc, 302 Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH13 0LE VAT No : 947 5279 77 Comp No : SC 356870

To sortmypc advertise call 07824 469266 or 125mmx90mm CMYK.indd 1 07854 492638

37 29/09/2011 18:00

Prize Crossword

WIN - lunch for two at Riccarton Garden Centre coffee shop (see advert on page 31) Across 1.

4.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

18.

20.

22.

23.

24.

25.

2

1

Not private (6) One belonging to a club (6) Endure (7) Book of maps (5) Surplus (5) Design (7) Discontinued (11) Withdraw (7) Living (5) Concerning (5) Outside light (7) Removing (6) Two wheeled vehicles (6)

3

4

5

6

7

8 10

9

12

11

13

14

15 17

16 18

19

22

20

21

23

Down 1.

2.

3.

5.

6.

7.

Mailed (6) Destroyed by fire (5) Copy (7) Precise (5) Accept as true (7) Climbing up (6)

24

8. Frantically (11) 14. Interconnected system (7) 15. Clearly (7)

25

16.

17.

19.

21.

Chicken meat (6) Racket game (6) Consumed (5) Perfect (5)

Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 15th April 2012.

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 52

38

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

LANE DECOR Painters & Decorators Graining & Marbling Faux Effects - All wallpapers specialist Lincrusta - Gilding - Painted Furniture Highly Skilled - S.A.P.C.T. - FFD www.grainingmarbling.com

01506 884 949

alan young designs ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

Are you considering a building project ?

We provide a simple and cost-effective service to homeowners requiring drawings for Planning Permission and Building Warrant approvals.

All types of domestic alterations, conversions and extensions considered.

Contact us now for a free quotation and advice

0131 476 3754 07966733087 alanyoungdesigns@virginmedia.com

Tag Cleaning Services Local window and gutter cleaning service

Established over 30 years Free quotations on request Tel : 0131 449 2807 (Office) Neil : 07711 581 384 (Mob) www.TagCleaningServices.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

39

Small ad,

BIG impact

konect the

directory

To be included, please call Jenny on 07824 469266 or email jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

40

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

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

EDINBURGH FIREWOOD Barn stored, dry and seasoned wood fuel

FREE DELIVERY Firewood, kindling, straw logs and more!

Check out www.edinburgh-firewood.co.uk Or ‘Edinburgh Firewood’ on

Tel: Chris on 0131 442 3445 / 07740 865 147 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

41

April Recipe and Food Notes

By Anne Pinkerton

T

his is a difficult time of the year for people wanting to cook seasonal food. Easter in Britain is not a big celebration with traditional festival meals; it is more a feast of chocolate and egg -rolling.

Both fun but not a good daily diet!

New spring fruit and vegetables may not be ready to harvest except in Egypt, Spain and further south.

Inspiration may be a bit thin but there are dishes which will give pleasure, a hint of the weather softening and some new tastes to enliven the appetite. French Onion Soup and Mussels are good things to cook at the moment. They are not as substantial as winter foods but still warming and sustaining.

French Onion Soup serves 6-8 750gm strong onions, sliced very finely bay leaf 50gm butter 1 tbsp plain flour 1 tbsp oil 2 tbsp Marmite Grated Gruyere or other strong cheese slices hard toasted French bread Melt the butter and oil together in a large, heavy bottomed pan.

Add the onions and cook slowly till they begin to colour and become caramelized. Mix in the flour, cook for a minute, (do not burn it) and add the Marmite, bay leaf and about 3 pints of water. Cook for 30-40 minutes very gently. Taste and add black pepper, a little sugar or salt. To

42

get the real rich French flavour of the classic soup you need to add a dash of brandy.

Put a slice of bread in each bowl pour over the soup and serve the grated cheese separately.

Quick cooked mussels Cleaned and ready to cook mussels are usually in the supermarket.

Traditionally they are sold by volume and half a litre is a good amount for a meal for 1 or a starter for 2.

An onion, chopped 10gm butter glass dry white wine or cider Chopped parsley Check the details on the mussel packet and rinse them if instructed.

Melt the butter in a large pan. Cook the onion gently till transparent and then on a high heat add the mussels and wine or cider. Put the lid on the pan and shake the mussels over the heat vigorously. Cook of 3-5 minutes, by which time all the mussels will have opened.

Serve in bowls with chopped parsley scattered on top and lots of buttered crusty bread to soak up the juice. 

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Natural beauty with a gentle touch Fresh local organic produce delivered to your door

Vegetables * Fruit * Milk * Eggs & Wholefoods SPECIAL OFFER:

A wide range of natural organic body care & beauty products for all the family

First standard vegetable box for £8.50 (normal price £11.50) FREE DELIVERY To order or for more information contact: bags@thewholeshebag.com or call: 01501 785436 or check out

www.thewholeshebag.com

Free delivery for online orders over £15

Shop online at www.realfoods.co.uk 37 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3JU 8 Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JH

Natural healthy ethical shopping

N O W

O PE N

SOPA Membership S14 Organic Membership UK3

The WEAVERS

2/7 Corslet Place, Currie, EH14 5LS

Real ales, fine food ...

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP Gavin and Elaine welcome you along to their new pub with friendly atmosphere, music, Sky Sports, pool table, darts.

Regular entertainment look out for local posters for full details.

Free Function Hall for hire Campaign for Real Ale CAMRA have awarded the Grey Horse Pub of the Year Runner Up for Lothians area

contact theweaverspub@live.co.uk Find us on facebook

New menu available now Regular Live Entertainment

opening times Mon-Wed 3pm-11pm Thur 3pm-12am Fri 3pm-12.30am Sat 12 noon-1am Sun 12.30pm - 11pm

The Grey Horse Inn 20 Main Street, Balerno | 0131 449 2888 www.greyhorsebalerno.com

obbinshaw West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8LQ ~ Tel 01501 785 436 ~ bags@thewholeshebag.com SOPA Membership 814 Certification UK3 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

43

April Recipe and Food Notes: (Continued)  Rhubarb

Beautiful pink sticks of forced rhubarb are on sale just now and although they may seem a bit expensive there is little waste. Think light puddings or pretty sauce to go with mackerel. Later in the year rhubarb can be made into jam with ginger and be baked in pies or upside-down cakes.

I think the first rhubarb of the year is nicest simply poached with a little orange zest and eaten with cream and junket. Junket has gone out of fashion but it is really a British food in the same tradition as crème fresh or yoghurt and deserves its place in our diet because it is so simple to make and is good with any stewed fruit.

Poached Rhubarb with Junket 250gm sugar and ½ pint water made into syrup Zest or fine peeling of orange skin 500gm or packet of rhubarb, stems wiped and cut into short lengths Warm the syrup with the orange zest or peelings and then poach the

44

rhubarb in the pan very gently for about 10 minutes. Do not boil or the fruit will go to stringy shreds and lose its texture. Serve warm, cool or from the fridge.

To make the junket ½ litre full cream or special rich Jersey milk A little sugar Rennet tablets (or liquid VegeRen is vegetarian rennet) Grating of nutmeg In a pan warm the cream or milk to just below blood heat (32oC) with the sugar. Test by feeling the pan - if it is too hot you will kill the rennet. Leave aside to cool. Add the rennet, stir well and pour into a serving bowl.

(Looks good in a glass bowl).

Grate a little nutmeg on the surface and leave to go cold and set. Do not put the junket in the fridge till it is set because rennet is an enzyme, like the cultures used in making yoghurt, and it needs to be at room temperature to set the milk.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

BALERNO FOOD CO-OP RE-LAUNCHES! Tuesday 17th April sees the relaunch of the new-look weekly Balerno Food Co-op. Based in spacious premises within the new St Joseph’s Centre, the Co-op will offer, besides fruit and vegetables, a wide range of special events, including seasonal promotions, exotic fruit tastings and cookery demonstrations.

Advice on all aspects of food, from diet and healthy eating to food safety, as well as related subjects such as exercise will also be available through a range of leaflets and booklets offering advice Social Dimension People coming to the Co-op will also be able to chat with friends - and make new ones - over a cup of tea or coffee at the Mill CafĂŠ, also within the centre. So the new Co-op should also be an important social event too!

Volunteers Wanted We are volunteer led and always on the lookout for more helpers. If anyone has a few hours to spare each month please phone Denise Young on 477 7733 to discuss further.

The Coop will be open on Tuesdays from 17th April from 10am to 12.30pm. We look forward to welcoming old and new customers at the St Josephs Centre.

Come and have a look at our new look and new offers!

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

45

Useful Info + What’s On? April

Balerno Come along to Currie and il Apr this s arie libr ! Borrow your We have something for everyone and use tion rma info find ors, auth favourite ’t forget that our computers - all for free! Don ss to all our acce have you ber as a library mem with tracing your online resources, such as help family history and free ebooks.

Balerno Library information 1 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ 0131 529 5500 balerno.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times Mon & Wed: 1.00pm - 8.00pm Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Bookgroup – Last Monday of the month, 6.307.30pm Bookbug (rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers) – Fortnightly on a Monday, 2-2.30pm Under fives storytime – Fortnightly on a Tuesday, 10-10.30am Fireman Sam storytime for mini firefighters – Tuesday 3rd April 10-10.45am Spring Frieze (crafts for school-aged children) – Tuesday 10th April 10.45-11.45am Currie Library information 210 Lanark Road West, Currie, EH14 5NX 0131 529 5609 currie.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times Mon & Wed: 1.00pm - 8.00pm Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Bookbug (rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers) – Fortnightly on a Friday, 10-10.30am Spring Crafts – for school-aged children Thursday 5th April, 10.45-11.45am Fireman Sam Storytime for mini firefighters Tuesday 10th April, 10-10.45am Bookgroup – 1st Wednesday of the month, 7-8pm Tiger Tales – stories and crafts for school-aged children - Fridays 2-2.30pm The Pentlands Medical Centre 44 Pentland View, Currie, EH14 5QB 0131 449 2142

Saturday 14th April Suntrap Garden A.G.M. 2.30pm, tea & cakes to follow the business meeting.

Saturday 14h April Balerno Farmers Market 9am – 1pm Main Street Balerno Sunday 15th April A Ceilidh in The Potting Shed – at Suntrap Garden A short talk about Millbuies House at 6pm, ceilidh starts 7pm. Cost £5, includes buffet. Wine available by donation.

Saturday 28th April Juniper Green Farmers Market The Dental Surgery Car Park, 577 Lanark Road, opposite Juniper Avenue, Juniper Green. 9am – 1pm.

Friday 27th April Clothes Swap in aid of Barnados.

From 6.30pm at Honey Pot Ceramics, EICA Ratho.

Bring (on hangers) 5 clean quality items of clothing to swap, and take away 5 treasure finds! It’s fun, fundraising and recycling! All tickets £12, includes canapes from Rosie’s Kitchen. Advance booking advised. Stylists, pampering, food & entertainment.

Raffle with great prizes. Call Honey Pot on 0131 333 6348 for more information.

Anyone for a cuppa?

Next time you pop in to Currie Library make sure you enjoy a cup of tea, coffe e or hot chocolate from our new coffee machine while you browse our books, use our computers, or enjoy our newspapers and mag azines. The machine has been installed in the library in direct response to customer com ments from a survey in January on the futu re of library services. One library visitor com mented: “I would like to see more libraries with small cafes where people can relax and refuel – a true community resource in place s such as Currie where the only other mee ting place is a pub or the Scotmid.” All drinks 30p, we hope that as many customers as possible will enjoy our new facility.

To include your event here, please email hj@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638

46

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Honey Pot Ceramics

BALERN

LAWN TENNIS CLUB www.balernotennisclub.com

Be amazed at what you can do...

● paint your own pottery ● make your own cosmetics ● design your own jewellery ● try out other craft activities ● birthday party packages ● pre-school messy play sessions Theme days and special activities every month, holiday activities and regular workshops See website for details and bookings, or like us on Facebook to keep up to date with offers and activities

www.honeypotceramics.com

or call 0131 333 6348.

Based at EICA Ratho, EH28 8AA. Open 7 days 10am - 5pm, open late Thursdays Honey Pot Ceramics

10%

discount

with this advert (not to be used in conjunction with any other offer)

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

Wester Hailes Library

Pentlands MSP - ADVICE SURGERIES

1st Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Carrickvale Community Centre

2nd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Currie Library

3rd Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Pentland Community Centre

4th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

Ratho Community Centre

5th Monday of the Month at 6.30pm

See details @ www.gordonmacdonaldmsp.info To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

47

164 Lanark Rd West, Currie

Tel: 0131 449 9585

Affordable luxury in your home

Ian Merriman Ltd Hn Pne Kitn

BE FO RE

SPLASH BATHROOMS

Not all bathrooms are the same...

A

FT

ER

www.splash-bathrooms.net

Rejuvinate your old kitchen units and furniture.

Have them hand painted in a colour of your choice.

Ian Merriman Ltd 0131 478 7339

ian@kitchenspainted.com

www.kitchenspainted.com

73 Riccarton Mains Road, Currie, EH14 5ND

48

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

49

Clubs and Classes

sports, hobbies, learning, support groups and more...

BALERNO

Zumba Fitness with the ZumbamamaZ Mon and Fri 9.30 – 10.30am Juniper Green Church Hall Tues 20.30 to 21.30 Balerno High School Thurs 19.00 – 20.00 Scout Hall, Lanark Rd West, Currie For more info contact zumbamamaz@hotmail.co.uk or call Laura on 07976 694 077

Fitness Yoga Balerno High School Fridays 7-8pm. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info.

After School Club at Honey Pot Ceramics Fridays 1-5pm term time. Arts and crafts, each week there is a specific project which could include clay, jewellery or cosmetics. £10, booking essential.

Pre-School Messy Play At Honey Pot Ceramics. Every Monday. Thursday and Wednesday from 10-11am. Bring your little one along for some glittering, sticking, stamping and lots and lots of messy fun. Booking essential.

See www.honeypotceramics.com or call 0131 333 6348 for more info on both clubs.

Minis @St Mungo’s Group for babies and toddlers with their carers on term time Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10am to 11.30am in St Mungo’s church building, Ladycroft, Balerno. All welcome. For more information visit www.stmungos.org 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 or visitors warmly welcomed.

Kirknewton Riding and Trekking - NEW! Hacks, treks, pony rides, saddle club.

Call Kirsty on 07702 118360 or see www.kirknewtonridingandtrekkingcentre.co.uk

Balerno Folk Club Held on the last Tuesday of each month in Balerno Bowling Club. Doors open 8pm; Evening begins 8.20pm; Guest artist on stage at 8.30pm. Members and guests welcome. For further info contact Morag Dunbar on 0131 449 5014 or John Stirling on 0131 449 3456.

Potter Around Overton Farm, Kirknewton Warhammer Club Calling all Warhammer fans - come and learn how to paint miniature figures in the company of friends. Friday afternoons 2.30-5pm £4.50 if you are bringing models and brushes; £7.50 get a model and a brush to keep We also stock a wide range of Warhammer 40,000 models, paint, brushes and accessories.

Once armies have been painted, gaming will begin. Call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk for details. www.potteraround.co.uk Craft Club Fri 1.30 - 3.30 Different arts/crafts projects each week including glass, clay, painting, jewellery making. £10, all materials, drink and snack supplied.

Scrapbooking Group If you have always wanted to have a go at this craft, bring along your precious photos and there will be people on hand to help. If you are already an expert why not join the ‘crop’ and have some fun swopping ideas.

Alternate Thursdays from 9 Feb. 7.30-9.30pm. £7.50.

Includes tea/coffee biscuits. Basic materials will be provided.

Jewellery Workshops Alternate Tuesdays with the opportunity to put into practice what you have learned in the intervening weeks.

7-9pm, £15. Booking essential.

Range of other clubs available at Potter Around, call 01506 238961 or see www.potteraround.co.uk Oil Painting Classes with Kirsty McDiarmid. Monday evenings 7-9pm NEW Thursday mornings 10.30-12.30 (first class Thurs 1 March) Classes run in 6 week blocks although you can join in at any time. All materials provided.

For all class bookings and more information, call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk

BABERTON 172nd Pentland Scouts (Baberton)

Pentland Caledonia Pipes and Drums Balerno Community Centre every Friday 7pm-9.30pm. New members welcome.

Tuition free on pipes or drums Phone 0131 4495133 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 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 Janet Dyer on 0131 449 3767 or Marion John on 01506 880428.

Yoga with Claudia Goncalves Mon 10am -11.30am, Wed 7.30pm – 9pm, Thursday 10am. 4 week block £20, drop-in £7.

Pirnie Ha’, Cockburn Hill Road, Balerno, EH14 7JB. Booking 07501 668364 Balerno Fitness Class Aerobics & Conditioning 7.30 - 8.25pm Every Monday, Balerno High School in the small gym.

For further information call/text 07811424946 or e-mail balernofitness@blueyonder.co.uk Balerno SWRI Balerno Community Centre First Tuesday of every month (ex Jul & Aug) 7 30pm in.

We usually have a speaker but we also have “in house” evenings. There is usually some business to be discussed and we enjoy a “cuppa” whilst chatting. New members or visitors welcome, just come along.

Children’s swim scheme Balerno High School Tues, Wed and Fri pm, Sat and Sun am Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info

Pentland Flower Club Drama Studio, Balerno High School First Friday of the month at 7.15pm (excluding January, February, July and August). Visitors and new members are always welcome. Contact Lis Daly on 0131 442 2146.

Currie Youth Club Various activities and facilities available including Gym Teds for childern, Sound and Music room, Youth club facilities Sports hall Playgroup Lunch club and Football teams. See http://cyc.smartchange.org/

Step Conditioning Balerno High School Tuesdays 8-9pm. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info

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

51st Pentland Scouts (Balerno) Beavers, Cubs, Scouts Various evenings, Balerno Scout Hall Contact Lawrence Mitchell on 0131 449 4680

Sarah Byers Kettle/Zumba Mon - Kettlebells - Currie High School - 7.15 - 8 pm Tues - Zumba - Currie Youth Club 9.30 - 10.30 am Thurs - Zumba - Currie High school 6.30 - 7.30 pm Fri - Zumba/Kettlebell Mix - Currie Youth club - 9.3010.30am

Rookie Lifesaving Balerno Community High School For swimmers aged 10 - 14 years.

Alternate Thursdays 6pm - 8pm. For further information contact the Community Education Office on 0131 477 7733 Balerno Baby and Toddler Group Balerno Parish Church Hall, 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. For children 0-5 years and their carers. Termtime Thurs 9.45am - 11.30am.

Currie Rugby Football Club Malleny Park Minis (P1-7) Sundays 10.30am - 12pm Contact 0131 449 2432 www.currierugby.org Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness Mondays 10am Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternate Thursdays 10am Balerno High School Riverside Café Alternate Fridays 10am Balerno Parish Church Hall Contact 0131 477 7733 www.bf4f.org.uk Adult daytime swim club Balerno High School. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info Badminton Balerno High School Tuesdays - sessions from 7-9.40pm Fridays - sessions from 6.20-8.50pm Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info

CURRIE Coffee and Craft Currie Youth Club Monday 7pm -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.

The Octagon Club for Adults with Special Needs and Learning Difficulties.

Meets in the Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West, Currie, 7 - 9pm on Wednesday Evenings from mid September until June for table tennis, snooker, badminton, table games and “tuck shop” etc. Contact Alastair Hardie on 0131 453 3556.

Currie Baby and Toddler Group Gibson Craig Hall Friday 9.30 am - 11.30 am (term time only). Adults £1.50, 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.

Karate Currie High School Mondays 7.30 - 9pm. Adults and Children over 6 years. Please contact 0131 449 3510 or 0131 445 2945 for more info or email patricia.shearer@edinburgh.gov.uk 42nd Pentland Scouts (Currie) Balerno and District Ramblers Midweek Group meets on a Wednesday at Currie Library Carpark, Lanark Rd West, at 9.15am for 9.30am start.

Contact K. Gordon 0131 449 2534 or A Blyth 0131 449 5020 Saturday and Sunday Group meets at Pentland View Carpark, Currie, at 8.45am for 9am start. Contact E Scroggie on 0131 441 1666.

Baby Group Currie Library Thursdays 2.00 - 3.30pm.

Come along for an informal tea.coffee and chat with other parents and babies. 50p/week.

Topic for 19th August - Baby resuscitation Boys Brigade - 65th Edinburgh (Currie) Company Gibson Craig Hall, Lanark Road West Currie Anchors (Boys P2 & P3) – Thursday 6.00-7.00 pm Juniors (Boys P4, P5 & P6) – Thursday 7.00-8.30 pm Company/Seniors (Boys P7 – S6) – Friday 7.00 – 9.15 pm For further info contact Jim Webber on 451 5112.

Bridge Club Meetings in Gibson Craig Hall on Mondays at 1:30pm, September to June.

For more information contact the Secretary on 0131 449 3527.

Currie & District Local History Society Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Mr P.D. Cowlishaw on 0131 449 2520 or pdcowlishaw@hotmail.com Book Group Currie Library. First Wednesday of each month 7.00pm

JUNIPER GREEN Shooglefit - NEW! Juniper Green Parish Church Hall Exercise for 50+ including aerobics, conditioning and flexibility. Mondays 12-1pm from 23rd April, £3.50 per class (or £20 for 6 week-block). Please bring a mat if you have one. Contact Health with Hawthorn 07718 315893, healthwithhawthorn@gmail.com

Solution to Sudoku

31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green) 45 Lanark Road West, Currie Beavers Wednesdays 6.30pm Cubs Mondays 7.00pm Scouts Fridays 7.00pm Contact: Mary Dick on 0131 449 7043 Juniper Green SWRI Juniper Green Community Centre (Village Hall) 1 Juniper Park Road, EH14 5DX Contact 0131 539 9886 Monkey Music Juniper Green Church Saturdays 10am for 1-2 year olds, 10.40 for 2-3 year olds.

Contact 0131 669 6004 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Solution March 12 crossword

Juniper Green Nursery Playgroup Juniper Green Community Centre, 1 Juniper Park Road, EH14 5DX. Contact 07948 554889 or see website at www.junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk Moving Wisely - NEW! Juniper Green Parish Church Hall Gentle exercise for 50+, including balance, co-ordination, strength and flexibility on Mondays 2-3 pm at, £4.50 per class (or £25 for 6 week-block). Please bring a mat if you have one. Contact Health with Hawthorn 07718 315893, healthwithhawthorn@gmail.com

konect the

directory

To include your club or class, email details to hj@konectdirectory.co.uk Charity and not-forprofit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details www. konectdirectory.co.uk time of music Nur turing a life

To book your complimentary class, call 0131 669 6004 or email alison.rankin@ monkeymusic.co.uk

Across: 1 Charmed, 5 Edged, 8 Eases, 9 Vicious, 10 Perpendicular, 11 Easily, 12 Molars, 15 Demonstration, 18 Explode, 19 Deals, 20 Steps, 21 Deafens. ®

Music classes for babies and young children!

Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy.

Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds It’s fun, formative and a great way of making friends!

www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Down: 1 Creep, 2 Absorbs, 3 Miscellaneous, 4 Divide, 5 Encyclopaedia, 6 Growl, 7 Deserts, 11 Endless, 13 Agitate, 14 Attend, 16 Maple, 17 Noses.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

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

British Youth Climbing Championships here we come!

By Jodie Brown

J

odie Brown is an S2 pupil at Currie Community High School. She is a keen competitive climber and has just qualified for a place to compete for Scotland in the British Youth Climbing Championship Finals at EICA Ratho in June. Here she writes about the qualifying rounds ...

I got off the ground and into some tricky moves straight away. The footholds were well spaced and those slopers were all a long reach for me. I slapped for the first one - and held it! Confidence building, I just went for it and before I knew it I was at the top.

Bring on route 3!!

The last of this year’s 3 YCS (Youth Climbing Series), rounds was really hard!! This year saw me competing in the Youth-B category (year of birth ‘97/’98) which meant I was really young for the category.

I knew I was doing ok at this point and after all the girls had completed route 2 to the best of their abilities we moved to route 3 - it was HARD.

The first round was held in January at the EICA-Ratho. I did really well, gaining my first ever podium place. I came 3rd.

I had a really bad round-2 in Stirling - I lost confidence after a bad attempt on my first route. I really let myself down and gave myself a huge job to do in round-3 at the Glasgow Climbing Centre if I wanted to make the Scottish Squad.

I spoke to my coaches, Neil and Natalie, and they set me some hard training. At round-3 I knew I had to perform.

I managed boulder problem 1 on my first attempt and boulder 3 on my 2nd attempt.

Boulder problem 2 had me, along with the rest of the girls, “beat”. Then it was down to the routes!

The first of the 3 wasn’t too bad and we all managed to “top” it. Route 2 had me a little worried. There’s a certain type of hold - a sloper - which is very difficult to hold and my biggest weakness, the route had many of them!

Anyway - I was first up and I just thought to myself “Be strong - I can do this - I have to do this” To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Fortunately I got to watch a couple of the girls on this one before I got to go. I was glad!

Then it was my turn. The first moves weren’t as bad as I’d thought. I was making good progress up the overhanging wall until I just couldn’t hang on any longer. I was “off” Soon it was time for the results. I knew I needed a third place or better to make the Squad.

The results were announced for this round first; Girls Youth-B, third place, Jodie Brown “I’D DONE IT” Then the overall results were announced for the 3 rounds; Girls Youth-B, third place, Jodie Brown “YES!!!”

All my hard work along, with my coaches and my Dad, had payed off and I’d achieved my goal - a place in the Scottish Squad and an entitlement to compete for Scotland in the British Finals at EICA-Ratho in June.

Now the REALLY HARD work begins …

53

Index of Advertisers Aerials The Aerial Man 37 Architect King Architects 41 Architect/Architectural Services Alan Young Designs 39 Attractions Five Sisters Zoo 34 Bathrooms Splash Bathrooms 48 Beauty Cheryl Jarra Mobile Hair and Beauty 17 Glitterati Carly Robertson 17 Juniper Beauty Room 16 Kirsti Gammon 17 Panache Nails 17 The Lilac Rooms 17 Blacksmith Keith Davidson Design 21 Builder Dean Jones Building Services 40 EH1 Contracts Ltd 11 Building Surveyor David Hastings 40 Canvas & Large Print The Livingston Print Company 36 Car Sales Hermiston Motors 56 Juniper Green Garage 27 Hope Scott Garage 28 Car Service/Repair Chips Away 27 D A Ward Motor Engineer 27 Hermiston Motors 56 Hope Scott Garage 28 Carpet Cleaning Cleaning Doctor Edinburgh SW 2 House Cleaning by Fiona 35 Hydro Kleen Scotland 35 Cattery Claylands Cattery 34 Rosebank Cattery 34 Children’s Activities Honeypot Ceramics 47 Monkey Music 52 Chiropodist Claire Monkman Chiropody 12 Cleaning Services Alba Oven Cleaning 39 House Cleaning by Fiona 35 Tag Cleaning 39 Coal Merchant J & A Hasties & Son Coalmerchant 41 Computer Repairs CD’s Computer Repairs 36

54

Sort my Computer Dentist No 9 Dental

37 12

Electrician A&A Electrical 20 Altech Electrical 41 Gavin Beatson Electrical 33 Entertainment Southern Light Opera 55 Financial Advisors Howden Grange 4 Financial Services PMM 10 Fitness KM Fitness 23 Zumbamamaz 17 Flooring Murrayfield Carpets 6 Florist Vicky’s flowers 4 Food Real Foods 43 The Whole Shebag 43 Funeral Directors Porteous Funeral Directors 11 Garden & Landscaping Gardening Services Edinburgh 30 Riccarton Garden Centre 31 Taurus Gardening 31 Woodford Timber Scotland 32 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 14 Hairdresser Glitterati Carly Robertson 17 Tony Harper Hairdressers 12 Handyman Bits ‘N’ Pieces 30 Home Improvements Advanced Property Solutions Ltd 20 Craft Worx Ltd 48 Home Organisation Guddlebusters 35 Homes CALA Homes 29 Joiner Andrew Roy AMR Joinery 40 Dean Jones Building Services 40 GK Wilson Joiner 39 Kiltmaker Kilts by Lindsay 5 Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith Caledonian Locksmith Logs

36 36

Edinburgh Firewood 41 Reservoir Logs 41 Optician Clear Vue Optical 12 Painter/Decorator Alistair McLellan 33 Brushstrokes 21 Ian Merriman Ltd 48 Lane Decor 39 Pet Services Happy Scampers 35 Physiotherapy SportsActive 13 Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering 33 Plumbing Services Alexander Hunter Plumbers 20 Bill Reid & Son 33 Browns Plumbing 21 Jim Gladsone 39 Weir Plumbing 21 Property Management K & H Property 14 Public House Bridge Inn 49 Tanners 45 The Grey Horse 43 The Weavers 43 Restaurant Bridge Inn 49 Tanners 45 The Grey Horse 43 Roofing Dell Roofing EH1 Contracts Ltd 11 KM Contracts 33 Sewing Services & Supplies Mary’s Patch 25 Shopfitters Advanced Property Solutions Ltd 20 Soft Furnishings James Erskine Interiors 6 Quintessential 6 Solicitor McQueen Legal 19 Telephone Engineer John McGraw Telephone Engineer 36 Tennis Club Balerno Lawn Tennis Club 47 Tiler Barry Edwards Tiling 20 Tree Surgery Delisle Tree Surgeons 30 Maxwell Tree Care 30 Vet Pentland veterinary clinic 34

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

55

Family business established over 40 years

Edinburgh’s best selection of

used vans All makes and models Opening Hours

Mon - Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm Sat 8.30 - 2.00pm

Part exchange welcome Licensed credit broker Full dealer facilities

All major credit cards accepted

VOSA - Approved MOT Centre

Class 4,5 & 7 for cars, vans, campervans and minibuses All servicing and repair work carried out Same day service All makes and models Fleets welcome Servicing • Tyres • Exhaust • Clutches • Batteries • Diagnostics Short walk from Heriot Watt University (Riccarton Campus) opposite park and ride on A71 Calder Road

0131 449 4098 07771 998546 or 07860 619850 sales@hermistonmotor.co.uk

www.hermistonmotor.co.uk 17 Hermiston Village, Edinburgh, EH14 4AW