Konect Directory Balerno March 2011

The

K nect direî‚ ory

March 2011

O

Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton

WIN Gift voucher from Real Foods LOCAL HISTORY Irish Immigration

PLUS local businesses, community information and more!

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Message from the Editor Hello neighbours Happy St Patrick’s Day readers - no we have not suddenly moved to Ireland but this is a Saint’s Day that we all tend to remember even if we don’t actually celebrate it. In America the rivers are turned green and while the Water of Leith is likely to remain its usual hue on 17 March, we at Konect are taking a look at the story of the Irish immigrants to this area. During the Irish Potato Famine of 1846- 7, there was a veritable flood of immigrants, many of them heading to the mining towns to the West of Scotland and to the mills. There are plenty of us that can trace our roots back to the Emerald Isle.

cobwebs and start a new hobby or join a club. You’ll find all the information you need in these pages. Why not begin by getting some fresh spring air on one of the Balerno Footsteps 4 Fitness walks. You could get started straight away with the one I walked on a rather blustery day and I’m sure, like me, you will feel all the better for it.

The lucky crossword prize winner for this month’s issue will receive a £20 voucher to spend at Real Foods in Edinburgh, see their website at www.realfoods.co.uk and turn to the crossword on page 30 for your chance to win.

Karen Murray Editor karen@konectdirectory.co.uk

With a more recent Irish immigrant for a husband, I will of course be donning shamrock and celebrating, so we hope you enjoy a glass of Guinness on ‘Paddy’s Day’ while reading your Konect!

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.

For me, St Patrick’s Day heralds spring and let’s hope it really is on its way. Spring is the perfect time of year to clear away the

Contents Local History Irish Immigration Local Walk Pets Recipe Competitions & puzzles Prize crossword

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

8 22 25 28 30

30 34 34 32 36 38

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

Karen Murray, Editor karen@konectdirectory.co.uk Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd Contact Helen-Jane 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

Front cover photography: Union Canal bridge near Spylaw, by Dougie Mathieson

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Brown’s Plumbing Plumbing – Heating – Gasworks

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

0131 478 5356 07720 890 226 Free estimates

DISTANCE NO OBJECT

BAILLIE’S

PRIVATE HIRE TAXI

0131 538 3023 ALSO

SINGER • KARAOKE • DISCO GEORGE: 07547 818404

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

FREE no n tio obligoates qu

The mos thoroutgh carpe cleanint ever.. or g its FREE

Mobile: 07789 007 072 Freephone: 08000 463 422

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

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

Mark McGill

QUALITY BUTCHER 124 Lanark Road West, Currie

Tel: 0131 449 6795

Scotch Lamb Beef and Pork Steak Pie (our speciality) Local Delivery Service Tuesdays and Fridays 10% Discount on orders over £100 Freezer Orders 4

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Help your child go far with Kip McGrath Our qualified teachers create individual tutoring programmes, using proven Kip McGrath methods. Maths Reading English Spelling Comprehension

Call today for a FREE assessment

PAPA CROLLA’S TAKE - AWAY

Orders over £10 - FREE delivery

CENTRE NAME 44B Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EH 9999 9999

Address street details here, suburb details

0131 449 9101

kipmcgrath.co.uk

0131 476 7204

57 BAVELWAW ROAD, BALERNO

RICCARTON GARDEN CENTRE MAD MARCH SALE - SUPER DEALS Starts Sat 5th March

* Spring stock has arrived *

Primulas 6 for £5

Promotions throughout the garden centre Up to 75% off on last years stock Coffee Shop open 7 days

Potted Bulbs 4 for £5 (rrp £1.99 each)

0131 449 4004

Open 7 days - Huge Car Park Riccarton Mains Rd (Nr Herriot Watt) To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Honey Pot Ceramics Come and see us for some creative fun! paint your own pottery

large selection of pottery and colours to choose from

make your own cosmetics

including soaps, lip balm, bubble bath, bath bombs

design your own jewellery chains, charms and beads

try out other craft activities

Be amazed at what you can do....

We offer a unique opportunity to make your own cosmetics, where you select your own fragrances and colours to make a special gift, or something for yourself.

We are available for pottery, cosmetics and jewellery parties for all ages, hen parties, baby hand and foot clay prints, gift vouchers and a selection of gifts and refreshments are also available

For details of workshops and holiday activities visit: www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on: 0131 333 6348 Based at the EICA, Ratho, South Platt Hill, Edinburgh EH28 8AA Now open 7 days (10am-5pm) other hours by arrangement

High quality, professional contemporary and traditional picture framing service.

If you are looking for a gift, we have a selection of fine art prints and cards.

We frame all sorts... prints, oils, photographs, canvasses, football shirts and other 3D objects.

We also stretch and frame tapestries and cross-stitches.

We are based in Currie but are happy to come to you.

Call Fiona on 0131 449 9659 or have a look at: www.mpframing.co.uk.

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10%

discount with this advert

Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

Marys’ Patch

“The Barn” at Veitchs Garden Centre, East Calder Tel: 01506 882440

Opening Times: Monday to Saturday - 10am to 5pm Sunday -11am to 4pm

New class lists now available Please check the website or contact the shop for further details

www.maryspatch.co.uk

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

GlenAir

showroom at Regency

Private Hire/Taxi

Williamson’s Garden Centre, Houston Mains Holdings, Uphall, West Lothian EH52 6PA

David Lamb 07751 610 866

Tel: 0131 449 6564 Mob: 07930 878058 Email: e.mason@hotmail.com

Call now for an appointment!

0800 756 5286

Freephone: Email: homestyleforblinds@yahoo.co.uk

essential window blinds

SSAIB

by Dougie Morris

We measure, supply and fit:

Venetian • Vertical • Roller • Blackout Velux • Timber Roman & Conservatory Blinds All branded products (ie. Sunway/Luxaflex etc)

Local in Currie

Call 477 6371 or mobile 07545 380794 dougie@essentialwindowblinds.co.uk

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  Making your house a home 

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 Good quality carpets to suit all budgets 

Vinyl & Laminate

♦  Amtico, Karndean, Marmoleum and more.... ♦Spacia,  ♦  FABRICS: O&L, Harlequin, Villa Nova, Alhambra, ♦  Today Interiors, Fryetts, Prestigious Textiles, ♦  Voyage and many more.... ♦  Extensive range of Blinds: Roller,♦ wooden, velux, venetian, aluminium venetian,  made to measure roman blinds ♦  Blinds Curtains: 0131 313 1881 ♦ & S ND ♦  Flooring: 0131 346 1838 LI DESIGNER FLOORING:

B or 1 l l 3-4 Western Corner r r O , vean b Ap s  0 r Murrayfield hi r % le ti 3 ol ene ntil th tchere 0 r Edinburgh  i u v d 1 Wvou sto li in va s 1  FF tica ind il 20 

Opening Times: Mon-Fri 9.30-5.00  Sat 9.30-4.30

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To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Irish immigration

W

e take for granted our railways, roads and canals nowadays, the latter mainly used for leisure by most of us. While ongoing work makes our infrastructure what it is today, it is good to pause and look into the history of the hard labour that went into cutting the earth in the first place, many years before powerful machines could help. “Navvies”, many of them Irish immigrants, made a major contribution to the industrial development of Scotland in the 19th century by working on the canals, railways, roads, mining and other industries. While Irish workers had always come across for seasonal work harvesting in Scotland, the 19th century saw a mass immigration, this time including entire families permanently leaving Ireland.

The first significant wave of immigration was in the canal building period. Canal diggers – navigators – or “navvies” as they became known, in central Scotland were Irish immigrants and Highlanders lured by the prospect of steady work.

They worked on canal projects all over Scotland, following the work from project to project. Most locally to us, the Union Canal, 31.5 miles long between Edinburgh and Falkirk, was dug in just 4 years between 1818 and 1822. No accommodation was provided for the workers by the canal proprietors, they had to find lodgings and make do however they could. At either end of the canal in Edinburgh and Falkirk it wasn’t too difficult to find lodgings, but in between there was little or no accommodation to be found, and the families had to accompany the wageearner.

Union Cana

l

A newspaper at the time reported: “Along the banks of the Union Canal certain edifices have been erected which strike the traveller with no little astonishment. These are huts erected

by Irish labourers upon some few vacant spots of ground belonging to the canal proprietors and are pointed out to strangers on the passage boats as great curiosities. Each, of course, is more wretched than another, and presents a picture of squalid poverty which is new to the people on this side of the Channel.

One of them, with the exception, perhaps, of a few sticks, is composed entirely of rotten straw; its dimensions would not suffice for a pig-stye.”

Scottish industry became very successful in the 1840s, coinciding with the agricultural disaster in Ireland which led to the “potato famine” and many thousands of Irish fleeing famine conditions made their way to Scotland.

The population of Irish in Scotland increased 90% during the 1840s. They worked on the burgeoning railway

network – the construction of the last canals overlapped with the first railways - textiles, and later on in mining. Large numbers of Irish navvies worked on the excavation of the compensation reservoirs in the 1840’s outside Balerno and along the edge of the Pentlands.

The Irish were also contributors to the man-power in the mines of West Lothian, and formed a significant proportion of the population of mining towns such as West Calder, Addiewell and Pumpherston. In fact figures for 1891 show, for example, that 30% of the population of Pumpherston was Irish.

The Irish navvies were treated with contempt. Not only religious differences (the vast majority were Catholics), or historical enmity between the nations, but a range of other factors made them unpopular. They were prepared to work for less money than Scots or English, thus lowering the general wage level for the work they did. They also earned themselves a reputation for rough noisy behaviour in their few leisure hours. There were many complaints from the locals, the most common being for drunken and riotous behaviour. A parish minister complained of the Irish navvies - “They lowered very much the moral tone of the district, from which, he feared, it might never recover.”

They were seen as carriers of disease; ‘Irish fever’ was the name given to Typhus fever and although prevalence was higher among the Irish this was due to poverty.

Nevertheless, despite the intolerance and discrimination, from the 1850s on there were distinct Irish communities in Scotland with both formal and informal social support groups.

igrants The most infamous of Irish imm ked on wor e Har and ke Bur , land to Scot nd arou time rt sho a the Union Canal for t up until mee ’t didn they h oug alth 8, 181 ers at Burke and his partner became lodg rs ral yea seve gh bur Edin in se hou e’s Har g by later. They made a lucrative livin corpses h fres the ng selli and ng deri mur never to the anatomist Dr Knox, who ns... stio que d aske However the murder of a young the man known as “Daft Jamie” was zly griz r thei of end the of ng inni beg his in own l-kn wel career, as he was x’s community and some of Dr Kno ie is Jam t Daf . him ed students recognis k at the drin a for ped stop e hav to said the night Torphichen Arms in Mid Calder d. dere mur was he e Burke and Hare are said to hav in Inn se Hor y frequented the Gre eeper’s innk the l, tria r thei r afte ; rno Bale at d stoo that wife from the inn to have Caueswayend at that time, is said rict dist the in e wer they recognised that . too was Lord Meadowbank of Kirknewton ed turn e Har l. tria r an advocate in thei hanged was ke Bur le whi e, enc evid s king 9. in Edinburgh on 28th January 182

Burke and Hare

A smile to give you confidence Are you putting up with a smile you are unhappy with because you don't know what can be done or haven't found someone you can trust to improve it?

Come and chat to us.

A free consultation when you mention the Konect Directory.

9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB

Before After

If you would like to know more please contact us.

T0NY HARPER’S

Hair Studio

46a Bavelaw Road, Balerno

0131 451 5133

MARCH OFFER... Book an appointment in March and receive a £5 gift voucher off your next cut or colour appointment . One voucher per client (Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer)

Book early for April 20% OFF all colour services WITH THIS ADVERT AND CHECK OUT OUR DAILY, WEEKLY & MONTHLY DEALS At - TONY HARPERS HAIR STUDIO

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For further information or to make a booking tel 0131 451 8400 or visit our website

www.hw.ac.uk/sports

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

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

Order from our gift selection online

Wedding & Event Florist

For an appointment in your own home ring Claire on

0131 478 7037 or 07786 516513

www.vickysflowers.com

SUPER STITCH

Chiropractic Care West Lothian

Dressmaking And Repairs Alterations To All Garments Skirts Trousers Dresses Jeans Curtains and cushions

Express service available 0131 442 2005 0779 265 4935

183 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EW

Treatment for: Back Pain Sciatica Sports Injuries Low Back Pain Migraines Neck Pain Shoulder Problems Prolapsed Disc (Slipped Disc) and many other conditions Please call

01506 880444 to book an appointment Payment accepted by cash, cheque or card.

624A Lanark Road, Juniper Green, EH14 5EW

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Adult Workshops

Booking now being taken for various crafts.

Pottery Painting and Craft

Studio open

10 - 5 Mon - Sat, 1 - 5 Sun at Overton Farm Kirknewton EH27 8DD Tel: 01506 238961 Pottery P

Mother’s Day Events

29th March - Last day to make a painted pottery gift for Mother’s Day 2 April - Make a card for Mother’s Day 3 April - Mums Paint for Free (see website for details)

Photograph courtesy of Photos by George - 01506 881255

www.potteraround.co.uk

ainting drop in a ny time o r call to bo ok a part Night y.

Ladies 10am - 5 aint p d n p a m Come Mon - Sa or knit t pottery .

1 p y m a sd 5 pm Sun e every Tu pm 7.30-10

Follow us on

Katherine Hamilton Bridal Gowns

We also have a wide range of prom dresses, evening wear, mother of the bride outfits and accessories Open Sundays

11 Union Square West Calder West Lothian EH55 8EY Tel: 01506 873374 www.katherinehamilton.com 12

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

CenScot Therapies

Hypnotherapy, Future Life Progression, Past Life Regression

Footsteps In The Sand

Mobile Complementary Therapies "one step closer to natural health care"

Hypnosis ~ a natural relaxed state similar to

daydreaming or working on 'autopilot.'

Past life regression (using hypnosis) ~ an exciting trip into your past lives, unlocking doors to worlds that were yours in another time Hypnotherapy Session - £95 Past Life Regression Session - £60 Future Life Progression Session - £60

n ‘‘C h a

g e y o u r l i f e t o d a y ’’

Indian Head Massage

Gentle ~ safe ~ non-invasive Massage on head, upper back, shoulders, neck, arms, scalp & face 30 Minute Massage - £20 45 Minute Massage - £25

Reflexology

For an appointment call Graeme or Norma on 07748 188278 or email cen.scottherapies@hotmail.co.uk

As your therapist, I offer • Reflexology • Swedish Massage • Reiki • Indian head massage • Aromatherapy • Organic Facials, all in the comfort and familiar surroundings of your own home.

Contact Andrea 0131 3330310 or 07877 429583 Web www.footstepsinthesand.co.uk email andrea@footstepsinthesand.co.uk Fully Insured and a member of CTHA

7A Pentland View Court, Currie, EH14 5NP (Opposite the doctors surgery)

• Now offering Pulsar IPL permanent hair reduction • Nail bar offering Jessica nail treatments including the 3 week gel manicure • Jessica pedicure treatments • Dermalogica face & body treatments • Waxing • Infinity sun spray tanning • St Tropez tanning • Hot stone massage • Remedial & sports massage Gift vouchers available for any value or treatment We accept credit and debit card payments

For an appointment phone: 0131 449 9690 or email: rachel@thelilacrooms.co.uk Proprietor, Rachel Cairnie

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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BABERTON GOLF CLUB Would Would you you like to join a top class golf course ?

We have introduced three innovative ways to join:

SPECIAL 2011 OFFER

A) Midweek membership. Play Mon—Fri, with NO ENTRY FEE and a subscription of less than £10 per week.

Ladies & Gents Ordinary Membership for only £520

B) Full Ordinary membership. Pay less than £13 per week till the end of January 2011, then pay the A) Full Ordinary membership. ONLY £520 for 2011 speading the joining fee over 5 years entry fee over five years at a total cost of around £16 per week.

B) Young Adult (Age 18-30) membership. NO ENTRY FEE. From £252

C) Young Adult (Age 18—30) membership. NO ENTRY FEE and a progressive subscription C) Midweek membership. Play Mon-Fri, with NO ENTRY FEE £540 structure starting at less than £5 per week.

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 and for further details phone Number of places are limited, soClub to book your on discounted (£10) and for further details phone Manager 0131 453trial 4911round Mon—Fri Professional on 0131 Proshop 453 3555onSat—Sun Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun email: manager@baberton.co.uk website: www.babertongolfclub.com

Baberton Golf Club Now is a great time to join Baberton Golf Club with fantastic offers for Young Adults, Midweek and Full Ordinary members.

But don’t take my word for it, come down for a game and try out the facilities as a prospective member for only £10!

Having recently upgraded the greens and with a new Clubhouse development imminent, these are indeed exciting times at Baberton.

Join Baberton today, a Club that is going places. See our advert for details.

2011 will see the introduction of online booking to allow members to book times from the comfort of their home.

With well-established bar and catering facilities, Baberton is regularly used by members for their own private functions.

They also have an attractive social calendar throughout the year for members to enjoy.

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Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Grey Horse Charity Burns Supper The Grey Horse pub in Balerno raised over £1500 at their charity Burns Supper on the 29th January. The money was raised in memory of Jennifer Rice who died in early December aged 24, and goes to Sunndach, the care home in Livingston where Jennifer spent many happy years.

The proceeds will be used exclusively for “happy and fun” purposes such as days out and treats for Jennifer’s pals at Sunndach.

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Many thanks are due to the Grey Horse regulars and landlord Paul Ng who really pushed the boat out to raise the bulk of the money and thanks also go to Jennifer’s dad’s friends and business associates who donated generously. Thanks are also due to local Burns cognoscenti Jack McCraig and Raymond Ward for keeping the proceedings on track.

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RATHO PARK GOLF CLUB. . . YOUR ESCAPE ROUTE Our easy-walking course with mature trees in a beautiful parkland setting is suitable for golfers of all abilities. The stunning clubhouse, a 19th century mansion with lounge bar and dining facilities, completes the serene atmosphere of Ratho Park.

• Special offers on memberships • Online tee booking • Professional Shop • Twilight golf rate available

Please contact the secretary/manager : Ratho Park Golf Club Ratho EH28 8NX oa ‘‘an

sis of calm in

a bustling world’’

Tel: 0131 335 0068

e: secretary@rathoparkgolfclub.co.uk www.rathoparkgolfclub.co.uk

IRONING AID

Free pick-up & delivery - next day service

0131 538 5223 07877 381940

Now doing a CARPET CLEANING SERVICE

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 16

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

PRO

PARTY YOURseLF YOUR

PERTY MATTERS

INto sh shAPe. shAPe

™

tel: 07759 115920 email: property_matt@live.co.uk ■ Kitchen & bathroom fitting ■ Central heating installation & boiler changes ■ Buy to Let refurbishments ■ Ceiling repairs & flood damage ■ Fencing & decking ■ Wallpaper stripping service ■ Decorating & tiling ■ Insurance work welcomed ■ All home maintenance jobs covered

Sarah Byers

The Latin-inspired, easy-to-follow, calorie-burning, dance fitness-party™.

Feel the music and let loose.

07540 894287

sarah_zumba@hotmail.co.uk ZIN_postcard2_5.47x8.5_pics.indd 1

5/20/10 10:41 AM

Currie Youth Club Tues & Fri 9.30-10.30am

St Josephs Centre, Balerno Wed 9.30-10.30am

Come and join in the fun!! £4 & £3 over 60’s Any age, any size, male or female.

You will love it!

Bring water and a smile:-) classes will not run during school holidays

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

With over 20 years experience in business development and marketing, our proven three steps to starting up will help get you on your way: 1. Register your company 2. Design your logo, business cccards and website 3. Advise you how to promote yyyour business To find out how we can help make your idea a reality go to:

thinkhelp.co.uk Helping to bring new businesses to life.

17

Village People: Claire Murdoch

By Emma Merchant

C

laire takes her patient gently, but firmly, by the neck, passes an experienced hand over the belly, and skilfully inserts her scalpel under the ribs. Claire’s patient is a violin. Her work involves restoring and repairing damaged or neglected instruments. She shows me some of the tools of her trade.

Her ‘medical’ kit contains blades, pliers, tweezers and hacksaws, and some items that look as if they might have belonged to a mediaeval surgeon.

“These are wonderful,” she says, showing me what look like cotton reels on skewers.

“They were made by a violin restorer I knew. I bought them after he passed away, and I love the fact that I am still using them years later.”

Claire’s introduction to her profession was a happy, accident. Aged ten, her own violin was inadvertently dropped, and it broke. “I was very upset, but my uncle, also a violin restorer, mended it in his workshop. I was allowed to watch, and I was completely fascinated by what he was doing and all the wonderful tools he used.” Thereafter Claire watched and learned. She took up restoration as a hobby, and later it turned into her profession.

These days she is usually working on two or three violins or violas at any given time.

Some instruments are brought to her by professional musicians, and some by collectors. Others come from a variety of sources.

“Very often people bring me an old violin unearthed from the loft because their child needs an instrument to play at school,” Claire Murdoch she tells me.

18

Tools of th

e Trade

Given such an instrument, Claire is often able to give it a new lease of life, replacing strings, pegs, bridge, or tailpiece, and sometimes making adjustments inside the body. “The sound post is a small but important piece of wood inside a violin,” she explains.” It makes the instrument resonate and gives it a voice, but it has to be in exactly the right spot. I use a tool called a soundpost setter to reach inside through the f holes either side of the violin’s strings.

Sometimes it takes hours to give an instrument its richest possible sound.”

Music has always been a part of everyday family life for Claire.

Her home is often filled with music as not only does she play the violin herself and teach, but her four children, and several other family members play an instrument too. Claire believes all children should have opportunities to learn an instrument and to enjoy music. She is currently thinking of ways to bring music to very young children in the community.

I ask Claire if she has any tips for young violinists. “Keep your violin clean,” she says, “or the rosin dust may slowly turn the varnish black!”

You can contact Claire at www.perfectharmonies.co.uk and at www.reeltimeharmonies.co.uk or for great traditional celtic music, go along and listen to her play with Irish folk band Muckle Flugga. They can be found every Monday evening from 9pm at the Whiski Bar on the Royal Mile.

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Wandering the track ways

By Karen Murray

A

good walk on a blustery day will help to blow those cobwebs away as they say and how true that is.

I was asked to help walk part of the 282 x 2 miles that lie between Balerno and Dublin (and back) as part of the fundraising initiative for the Currie RFC mini rugby P6 team tour to Ireland this month. The team and their families are walking or running the distance to raise sponsorship money to help the lads (and lasses) on their way, and a Sunday morning walk for the mums while the boys were training was deemed a good idea to make up a short part of the distance.

lk, Beginning of wa l oo Sch h Hig no near Baler

We gathered at the rugby pitch at Malleny, crossed over the footbridge to the grounds of Balerno High School and up onto Bridge Road before heading down the Water of Leith Walkway. We have described this part of the walk in past issues of Konect, with the lovely little wildlife garden at the beginning of the walk and the path heading along what was once the Balerno Branch railway line.

Lymphoy

House entr

ance

up a fairly fast pace, we did draw breath to notice a heron on the water and the trees coming into bud and before long we were at a fork in the path. The left path continues along the Water of Leith path and all the way into Edinburgh.

However, we were headed back to Malleny (a couple of us on a time limit with children to pick up) so we cranked up the pace and took the right hand path which leads directly to Currie Kirk.

If you are not on a tight schedule, you could take time to investigate the small ‘drystane’ walled area nearby. There are a number of small stone coffins discovered by Lieutenant General Thomas Scott of Malleny in 1820. A stone has been erected on the site and a number of yew trees - guardians of the spirits of the dead - have also grown up on the site.

However there are many walks that begin this way and so lovely it is that there is no harm in repeating it often.

If you are not stopping to admire the kirk and gravestones, then you simply come onto the tarmac road, turn right and then take the next path on the right signed for Lymphoy. This is generally a fairly quiet path but it is wide enough for cars so just take care as there will be the occasional car heading to the stables at Lymphoy. I’m told there are some good views from here on clear day (I didn’t witness these as it was unfortunately rather wet). If you are lucky you can even see the Forth Bridges.

So we walked along ‘the silver thread in the river of green’, the river fairly rushing by after a considerable amount of rain, the mud squelching underfoot, the snowdrops just peeping out bring springtime smiles to our faces. Keeping

You should however be able to glimpse the ruins of Lennox Tower - built in the 15th century on the site of the original tower which was named the headquarters of the Archdeacons of Lothian in 1018 AD by King Malcolm »

22

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Wandering the track ways

By Karen Murray

» Ceannmhor and the recapture of the old Principality of Lothian from the Angles. The 15th century tower was built by the Earls of Lennox who belonged to the Stewart family.

Mary Queen of Scots visited the Tower and King James VI used it for hunting. It was later acquired by George Heriot, the goldsmith and founder of George Heriot’s school.

walk. The circular route should take you around an hour - less if you keep up the pace we did, a little more if you are strolling with the family. I felt good after an hour of fresh air and exercise as well as doing my bit for the ‘boys’ and it reaffirmed my belief in the fact that a brisk walk is as good for the head as it is for the heart!

The walk - often muddy so wear stout shoes or wellies - continues along Lymphoy Road toward Sawpit Wood and you will be greeted by the horses from the stables along the way.

At the end of the road, you can take the first right which will bring you past Currie RFC’s pitches or you can take the second right and head into The National Trust for Scotland’s Malleny Gardens, which are beautiful at any time of the year.

If you prefer company for walking, you can do this walk in the company of the Balerno Footsteps 4 Health group which meets regularly at the Community Education Office at Balerno High School. Call 0131 477 7733 for details.

Either route will bring you out to the car park at the rugby club where we began our

24

The group will next be doing this walk on 5 March but it will be the ‘tortoise’ version shorter and at a slower pace for those with less mobility. It begins at Balerno Church Hall at 10am and returns there for coffee and cake.

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27

Recipe Irish Stew

Ingredients: • 4 lamb chops (see below ingredients for more details and alternatives) • 4 medium potatoes • 4 medium carrots • 4 medium onions • Sprig of fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme • 450 ml of lamb stock (hot water and two lamb stock cubes) • 2 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley • 2 good shakes of Worcestershire Sauce (Lea & Perrins) • 1 tablespoon of Pearl Barley (optional) • 50g butter • 50g flour • Salt • Pepper Recipe: 1) Trim some of the fat from each of the chops and put the fat in a medium heated frying pan. This will melt some of the lamb fat for use in the next couple of steps.

Set the oven to 180C / 350F / Gas Mark 4.

2) Chop the onions into rough chunks.

Peel the potatoes and cut into 4 parts.

Cut the carrots into larger than normal chunks. Irish Stew is a rustic menu and part of its charm is that the ingredients are roughly cut into large chunks. Saves on preparation time as well!

3) After 5 to 10 minutes, remove the fatty pieces from the frying pan and throw them away. Fry each lamb chop in the fat for about 3 minutes at medium temperature, turning half way through.

Put the lamb chops in an oven-proof casserole dish and fry the carrots and onions in the remaining fat for 2 minutes - turn frequently.

28

4) Put the onions and carrots over the lamb chops in the casserole dish.

Season with salt and pepper. Add the Worcestershire Sauce, pearl barley and lamb stock. Finally add the potatoes on top - don’t mix them in with the other ingredients. The aim is to let them be steam cooked over the other ingredients. Add some more salt and pepper to season the potatoes.

Put the casserole (covered) in the preheated oven and cook for 1 hour.

5) Make roux to thicken the gravy by melting the butter on a medium heat in a pan, then whisk (or vigorously fork in) the flour. Cook for 2 minutes whisking all the time.

6) Take the casserole dish from the oven and pour off most of the gravy into the pan of roux (be careful, the casserole dish will be hot). Mix in the thyme.

Quickly blend the gravy and roux together with your whisk or fork.

Add the thickened gravy back into the casserole and scatter the top with the parsley. Check the seasoning and add salt and pepper if necessary.

7) Return it (covered) to the oven for ten minutes. Serve onto hot plates.

Any red wine will go well with Irish Stew, but a glass of Guinness is probably the best accompaniment of all!

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KINLEITH ARMS 604 Lanark Road, Juniper Green, 0131 453 3214

Pub quiz

FREE WIFI

with cash prizes every Thurs night starting 8.30pm

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NEW MENU AVAILABLE NOW

Sky Sports HD ESPN HD

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Farmers’ market

Fresh food served everyday

26th March

Mon - Thurs 12 - 2.30pm and 5.30 - 8pm Fri and Sat 12pm - 8pm Sun 12.30 - 8pm

9am - 1pm

All fresh home-made

Opening hours Mon -Thurs 11am-11pm Fri & Sat 1am-1pm Sun 12.30 -11pm

Children over age 5 welcome Friendly traditional local pub To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

29

Prize Crossword

Win ÂŁ20 voucher to spend at Real Foods, see their website at www.realfoods.co.uk and their advertisement on page 29.

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Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 16th March, 2011.

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 37

WHICHEVER ROMANTIC POET GOT ALL SOPPY ABOUT DAFFODILS & THE DELIGHTS OF SPRING OBVIOUSLY NEVER HAD TO CHANGE A FLAT TYRE AT THE SIDE OF THE ROAD IN MARCH

Proud to serve the local community • Excellent care and attention • Help and advice at a difficult time • Home visits on request • Regulated family Funeral Directors • Pre-Paid & Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans • Visit our website for testimonials

Tel: 0131 453 4535 & 0131 441 6500

www.porteousfunerals.com Email: info@porteousfunerals.com 553 Lanark Rd, Juniper Green, Edinburgh EH14 5DE 7 Bridge Road, Colinton, Edinburgh, EH13 0LH

M B A SPECIALISTS Service/Repair Centre

Mon-Fri 8.30-5.30 Sat 8.30-1.00

Save £££’s on Main Dealership Prices

Only manufacturers parts used so will not affect your warranty.

MERC · BMW · AUDI · SMART· MINI · VW

BAVELAW GARAGE All makes of cars serviced, repaired and MOT preparation Kenny Girdler Cockburnhill Rd Balerno EH14 7JB

0131 449 7450

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

D.A. WARD MOTOR ENGINEERS ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

Collection & Delivery Available PLEASE CALL FOR HONEST ADVICE OR A COMPETITIVE QUOTE

Servicing Car Sales Tyres

Repairs M.O.T Testing Exhausts

01506 200877

Tel : 0131 458 3123

www.mbaspecialists.co.uk

626/3 LANARK ROAD JUNIPER GREEN • EH14 5EW

1 Letham Holdings, Uphall Station Road, Pumpherston, EH53 0LX To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

31

What’s On? + Useful Info March

Monday 7th March “Cable Trams of Edinburgh” Professor P. Geissler. Currie and District Local History Society. Gibson Craig Hall 7.30pm Saturday 12th March Balerno Farmers’ Market 9am – 1pm Main Street Balerno Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th March Busy Bee Weekend at Honey Pot Ceramics, EICA Ratho.

Crafty fun with a bee theme, activities start 10.30am. No need to book just drop in. Supported by the Bumble Bee Conservation Trust who will be on hand to talk about bees.

Saturday 26th March Juniper Green Farmers’ Market.

9am – 1pm. Kinleith Arms Saturday 2nd of April Currie Community High School Jumble Sale: 2pm to 4pm Entry: £1 per adult, FREE for children. Refreshments and homebaking for sale If you have any donation of jumble, please bring it to the school on Friday 1st of April between 6pm and 8pm.

Thank you.

To include your event here, please email hj@konectdirectory.co.uk or post details to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD

32

Balerno Library information 1 Main Street, Balerno, EH14 7EQ 0131 529 5500 balerno.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times Mon & Wed: 10.00am - 8.00pm Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Bookbug sessions Action rhyme and song sessions for parents/carers and children 0-3.

First Monday of the month 10.30 - 11.00

Currie Library information 210 Lanark Road West, Currie, EH14 5NN 0131 529 5609 currie.library@edinburgh.gov.uk Opening times Mon & Wed: 10.00am - 8.00pm Tues, Thurs & Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Bookbug sessions Action rhyme and song sessions for parents/carers and children 0-3.

Alternate Fridays 10.30 - 11.00

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

FIXED PR PRICE

Kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, gas central heating, double glazing, electrical services

MARCH OFFER COMBI BOILER TRADE-IN DEAL

OLD BOILER FOR NEW ÂŁ1900

High quality - all materials and products are of the highest quality and are installed by our professional qualified team.

No nasty surprises - all projects are set at a fixed price and come with the assurance of job completion within the given price.

No hassle - we manage the entire process with our own skilled tradesmen. We have many years’ experience of working with clients who expect the very best, and have never disappointed.

The Daks Building, Polbeth Industrial Estate, West Calder, EH55 8TJ.

Tel: 0845 2630040 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 Andrew: 07749 071967

or email alskie@hotmail.com

BILL REID & SON DOMESTIC HEATING & PLUMBING

0131 449 5538 07710 458739 2 Turner Avenue Balerno To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

33

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Gone to France

By Carla

Carla is a student at Balerno High School.

I’m on a language exchange in France for six months. It’s through a charity called ALLEF, and so far it’s been very nice!

going to fish spiders sometime..... sea spiders!). My new family has taken me in well and there’s no hurry back home!

There are a lot of differences between France and Scotland.... the most obvious is that they drive on the wrong side of the road! I often make the mistake of getting in the car on the left, and wondering why the wheel’s there.

Another difference is the keyboard. It’s all upside down.... I don’t usually make so many mistakes in a sentence! And the food....it’s good! The bread is delicious - there are loads of different kinds, and there are bakeries on every corner.

….and we don’t

wear uniform to

school here!

As I am currently living in Brittany, and as it’s a stone’s throw from the sea we eat a lot of sea food. I’ve eaten plaice, and my first mussel... it wasn’t too bad, it tasted like very salty, mussel-y seaweed, but as the others explained, ‘’It isn’t very dead...’’.

It moved when I poked it.

As it happens, the school I go to here teaches German and Latin, and I chose to learn both. I can now say ‘’I like to read the book’’ in French, German, English and Latin!

At home in Scotland I usually do a Korean martial art called Kuk Sool Won, but they don’t do that in France. Judo or Karate yes, but not Kuk Sool Won. So instead I’m doing a type of French martial art called ‘Canne de Combat’, or combat canes. It’s basically moves and forms (attack, defence and useless but fancy) with a short stick. I love it!

So I’m having a good time over here. An exchange is good fun, I’m meeting loads of people, trying out new things (I’m To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Your child can become truly bilingual, living in a selected German or French family.

A fantastic experience where the benefits last a life-time.

ALLEF

is a charity organising linguistic exchanges for children aged 8 - 13.

Interested?

Call 01325 359954 or visit www.ALLEF.org 35

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

Zumba Fitness with the ZumbamamaZ Mon: 9.45-10.45am Juniper Green Church Hall Tues: 8.30-9.30pm Balerno High School Thurs: 1.15-2.15pm Dreghorn Loan Hall, Colinton and 6.30-7.30pm Currie High School Frid: 10.45-11.45am Juniper Green Church Hall Look out for our KIDS and TEENS Zumbatomic classes, coming soon!

Tel: Sara: 07723 589 280 or Laura: 07976 694 077 zumbamamaz@hotmail.co.uk Busy Bee Club Friday’s 1 – 5pm term time. (from 18th Mar). Arts and crafts, £10, booking essential. See www. honeypotceramics.com or call 0131 333 6348.

BABERTON 172nd Pentland Scouts (Baberton)

BALERNO DRU Yoga Classes Thursday 7.30 - 9.00 pm - 4 week block £20. Drop in £7 Teacher: Cláudia Gonçalves Venue: The Lotus Heart Yoga Studio Pirnie Ha’, Cockburn Hill Road, Balerno, EH14 7JB. DRU comes from the Sanskrit word Dhruva (North Star): standing still, standing strong.

To book or more info: 0131 449 3266 or 0778 080 6600 Pentland Flower Club Meetings 1st Friday of every month (ex. Feb, Jul & Aug) at Balerno High School Drama Studio, 7.15pm prompt. All welcome, visitors £5. Contact Joyce Wilkie on 0131 449 3030.

Balerno Parent and Toddlers Group Balerno Parish Church Hall, 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. For children 0-5 years and their carers. Term-time 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 Adult daytime swim club Balerno High School Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info 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 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 Fitness Yoga Balerno High School Fridays 7-8pm. Contact Balerno Community Education Office 0131 477 7733 for more info.

Step Conditioning Balerno High School Tuesdays 8-9pm. 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

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

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

Balerno Fitness Classes Aerobics/Step/Conditioning 7.30 - 8.25pm Total Body Conditioning 8.30 - 9.20pm Every Monday, Balerno High School in small gym.

For further information call/text 07811 424946 or email balernofitness@blueyonder.co.uk

CURRIE

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

42nd Pentland Scouts (Currie) Yoga Currie High School Mondays 7.00 - 8.15 A blend of dynamic postures, body awareness and relaxation. £55 per 10 week block. £5.50 drop-in to try. Call 07810 824 195 for more information.

Book Group Currie Library First Wednesday of each month 7.00pm

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

Solution to Sudoku

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 information contact Jim Webber on 451 5112.

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 & District Local History Society Meetings Mondays at 7.30 in the Gibson-Craig Hall in Currie. Visitors welcome. For further information contact Mr S. Anderson 0131 449 2300 or Mr P. D. Cowlishaw pdcowlishaw@hotmail.com

Solution February 10 crossword Across: 7 Coarse, 8 Dating, 9 Here, 10 Children, 11 Indoors, 13 Rinse, 15 Stick, 17 Elegant, 20 Persuade, 21 Matt, 22 Remove, 23 Direct.

Down: 1 Solemn, 2 Free, 3 Mercury, 4 Admit, 5 Studying, 6 Angers, 12 Occasion, 14 Already, 16 Teepee, 18 Notice, 19 Gales, 21 More.

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 resusitation 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/

JUNIPER GREEN Juniper Green Nursery Playgroup Juniper Green Community Centre, 1 Juniper Park Road, EH14 5DX. Contact 0131 453 4427 or see website at www.junipergreenplaygroup.vpweb.co.uk 31st Pentland Scouts (Juniper Green)

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To include your club or class, simply email details to hj@konectdirectory.co.uk or post to The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD

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. hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638 Editor: Karen Murray karen@konectdirectory.co.uk

Index of Advertisers Architect Tom McDonald 19 Beauty Therapist Juniper Beauty Room 11 Lilac Rooms 13 Bike Shop Pedal Power 2 Blacksmith Keith Davidson 19 Bridalwear Katherine Hamilton 12 Building Surveyor David Hastings 26 Cole Living Designs 19 Business Opportunities Blue Otter Products 24 Butcher Mark McGill 4 Car Sales D.A. Ward 31 Hermiston Motor Co 40 Car Service/Repair Bavelaw Garage 31 D.A. Ward 31 Hermiston Motor Co 40 MBA Specialists 31 Cattery Claylands Cottage 25 Rosebank 25 Ceramics / Ceramic Painting Honey Pot 6 Potter Around 12 Chiropody Chiropody by Claire 11 Chiropractor Chiropractic Care WL 11 Cleaning Services Fiona’s Housecleaning 16 HydroKleen 4 Tag Cleaning Services 16 Coal Merchants J&A Hastie 26 Complimentary Therapies CenScot 13 Footsteps in the Sand 13 Computer Repairs SortMyPC 20

Dentist No 9 Dental Practice Design & Print ThinkHelp Electrician A&A Electrical MP Electrical Fitness Sarah Byers Zumba Flooring Murrayfield Carpets Florist Vicky’s Flowers Food Real Foods The Whole Shebag Funeral Directors Porteous Garden & Landscaping Riccarton Garden Centre Vibrant Green Golf Baberton Golf Club Ratho Golf Club Hairdresser Tony Harper Home Improvements Altaglass Cole Living Designs Iconic Creations Property Matters Homes CALA Homes Ironing Service Ironing Aid Joiners Kirk Brothers Language Exchange ALLEF Optician Lothian Optical Painter/Decorator Alistair McLellan Brushstrokes Gerry Aitken Lane Decor Mark Reece

10 17 33 23 17 7 11 29 29 31 5 27 14 16 10 19 19 33 17 21 16 27 35 39 26 19 17 27 27

Pet Supplies Coxydene Farm Feeds Physiotherapy SportsActive Picture Framing Mount Parnassus Plumbing Services Bill Reid & Son Browns Coval Weir Public House Grey Horse Inn Kinleith Arms Restaurant Sloeberry Roofing KM Contracts Security Circle Security Sewing Services & Supplies Marys’ Patch Super Stitch Soft Furnishing Essential Window Blinds Homestyle Blinds Take-Away Papa Crolla’s Taxi Baillies GlenAir Tiler B. Edwards Tiling Tree Surgery Delisle Tuition Alexander Stewart Kip McGrath Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic Window Cleaner Tag Cleaning Services

25 10 6 33 4 26 33 15 29 15 23 7 6 11 7 7 5 4 7 23 27 5 5 25 16

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

39

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