The Dell Directory June 2026

June 2026

COMMUNITY:

WINE TASTING: RECIPE & FOOD NOTES:

PLUS: real life, puzzles, CLUBS & CLASSES, what’s on, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

P30

h

eading towards the summer, a feeling of abundance comes through in the columns and contributions to this month’s Dell Directory.

The garden column is about growing your own food forest, and as ever you can see the information from this column in practical action by visiting Campbell Park in Colinton anytime. Joining in the Park’s 90th Birthday celebrations on 14th June would be a good way to meet the Friends of Campbell Park and find out more - as well as get some birthday cake! There is a delicious and easy berry recipe on page 24, and with warmer weather (hopefully!) approaching, the Seagull Trust have contributed a piece about safe enjoyment of the Union Canal.

With a packed What’s On section and everything you need for help with looking after home and garden too, hope you enjoy The Dell Directory this month!

Health: Prostate Cancer............................... 8 Community: Summer Safety on the Union Canal.................................................... 9 Puzzles..................................................14 / 26 Community: A new chapter for Spylaw Park..................................................16 Recipe: Mini Summer Berry Nests...........24 The Good Goodbye....................................26 The Lazy Gardener’s Diary........................30 realLIFE.........................................................32 What’s On: May Events..............................34 Wine: Indian Wine........................................35 Clubs & Classes.................................... 36-37

COVER IMAGE: Delicious Mini Summer Berry Nests - See recipe on page 24

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638

The Dell Directory is delivered monthly to 5,500 homes in the Colinton, Craiglockhart and Kingsknowe areas. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe THE DELL | 3

GERRY AITKEN Painter & Decorator Juniper Green

Get in touch for a FREE Estimate: T: 07798 565 321 • E: junigig@aol.com

4 | THE DELL

5108235_SEVEN HILLS DENTAL.indd 1

08/05/2026 17:03

THE DELL | 5

Keith Wales

WINDOW CLEANING

Reliable 4 weekly service

0131 449 4379 • 07895 916800 www.kwaleswindowcleaning.co.uk

6 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 7

Prostate cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK. One in eight men will get it, according to Prostate Cancer UK. Being older, a family history and being black increase your risk, in which case it’s worth talking to your GP about testing.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?: There often aren’t any. However, if you have difficulty starting to pee or emptying your bladder, a weak flow, dribbling urine once you finish, a sudden urge to urinate or you need to go more often, particularly at night, then see your GP. That said, these symptoms more usually indicate an enlarged prostate, which is not cancer.

HOW CAN YOU TEST FOR PROSTATE CANCER?: Your GP can do a PSA blood test and a digital rectal examination to see whether your prostate feels hard or lumpy.

If referred to a specialist, you may have an MRI scan and a biopsy.

WHAT TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?: There are more treatments than ever before, including monitoring, surgery, radiotherapy, brachytherapy (where radioactive seeds are implanted in the prostate), hormone therapy to stop your body producing cancer-feeding testosterone, and chemotherapy. But treatments often have side effects like urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

WHAT’S NEW IN SCREENING?: Prostate cancer doesn’t have a screening programme; the PSA blood test isn’t reliable, often giving false positives and false negatives. But men between 45 and 61 with a mutation in genes called BRCA1 or BRCA2 might soon be screened.

For more information, visit; www.prostatecanceruk.org The Edinburgh & Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group is a self-help group, managed by and for men with prostate cancer, their families and carers. They run a buddy programme and have regular meetings in Edinburgh and Livingston.

See: elprostatecancersupport.co.uk 8 | THE DELL

As warmer weather approaches and visitor numbers rise, Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch is urging the public to take extra care around Scotland’s canals.

The Union Canal is already seeing increased footfall, cycling, paddle sports activity, and family visits, and with this seasonal surge comes a heightened risk of accidents and unsafe behaviour near the water.

The charity, which provides free therapeutic cruises for people with additional support needs, relies on a safe and respectful environment to operate. In previous years concerns were raised about speeding cyclists, unsupervised children close to the water’s edge, dogs off leads near wildlife, and individuals entering the canal in unsuitable locations. These behaviours not only endanger the public but also disrupt moored boats, wildlife habitats, and the smooth running of accessible cruises. But this year there is another concern - crocodiles!

With water temperatures remaining cold even in spring and early summer, accidental immersion can lead to cold water shock within seconds. Seagull Trust Cruises is reminding visitors that canals are working waterways, with hidden hazards such as uneven banks, deep silt, submerged objects, and limited space for boats to manoeuvre. The charity is encouraging everyone to stay alert, avoid risky shortcuts, and keep towpaths clear for all users, including those with mobility aids.

Stuart Rennie, Immediate Past Chair of Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch, emphasised the importance of shared responsibility: “The canal is a wonderful community space, but it only stays safe when everyone treats it with care. Our volunteers work hard to provide calm, enjoyable cruises for people who benefit greatly from time on the water. We’re asking

ABOVE: “The crocodiles don’t bite and we thought it would be a fun way to get across a serious message about water safety this summer.”

Seagull Trust Cruises run over 2000 cruises per year and take approximately 22,000 passengers and their carers on morning or afternoon trips of around 2 3-hour duration. Canal Day Cruises are FREE for the elderly, infirm, and those with additional needs. Our beneficiaries come from far and wide to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of cruising on our canals and the benefits to their health and wellbeing. the public to help us protect that experience by acting responsibly as the weather improves.

The crocodiles don’t bite and we thought it would be a fun way to get across a serious message about water safety this summer.”

For information and bookings, please contact: 07511 055081 or email: rathobookings@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk This article was contributed

by Seagull Trust Cruises, Canalside, Baird Rd, Ratho, EH28 8RA. Scottish charity number SC027163.

THE DELL | 9

For Recovery And Beyond Knowledgeable Experienced Friendly Physiotherapy Relief from Back and Neck pain, Muscle Aches and Sports Related Injuries Make an appointment with us

0131 337 5135 Online booking now available

www.physiogrange.co.uk No GP referral required Free Parking

Gillis Centre 100 Strathearn Road Edinburgh EH9 1BB

10 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 11

Excellent

Reviews

CENTRAL HEATING & BOILER SPECIALIST BOILER REPAIRS & SERVICING • ALL PLUMBING WORKS Edinburgh’s Trusted Plumbing & Heating Engineers Accredited Worcester Bosch Installers

0131 669 9993 info@scottfindlay.co.uk

12

YEAR GUARANTEE*

Scott Findlay Plumbing & Heating Ltd, 5-7 Wolseley Place, Edinburgh EH8 7AD FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED FOR OVER 25 YEARS

12 | THE DELL

scottfindlay.co.uk *Subject to Boiler Model.

THE DELL | 13

The crossword solution will be published in the JULY edition of Konect

JUNE CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Type of fruit (6), 8. Astute (6), 9. Encounter (4), 10. Fluttering (8), 11. Diary (7), 13. Honestly (5), 15. Regularly (5), 17. Nearest (7), 20. Pupils (8), 21. Encourage (4), 23. Chortles (6), 24. Four score (6).

DOWN: 1. Very unusual (4), 2. Repartee (6), 3. Central (7), 4 .Customary (5), 5. Correct (6), 6. Diminishes (8), 12. Formal (8), 14. Clutched (7), 16. Sufficient (6), 18. Smear (6), 19. Fake (5), 22. Barrier (4).

14 | THE DELL

• All Building Works • Renovations/Alterations • Roughcasting • Garage Conversions • Building Repairs • Stonework Repairs

•

•

Specialising in small jobs in and around Edinburgh.

•

Painting

•

LVT / laminate flooring

•

Furniture builds

•

Small odd jobs

Drop us a line to see if we can help.

07838713112

handypeopletoknow.co.uk

info@pentlandconstruction.co.uk Please call or WhatsApp: Dean 07931 101 523 Michelle 07739 509 839 Office 01506 885419 @PentlandBrickworks

THE DELL | 15

A NEW CHAPTER FOR SPYLAW PARK Work on the Colinton Village Hub in Spylaw Park has reached an exciting stage, with the building now clearly visible above the hoardings.

The project, based on the former “Shed in the Park”, was purchased from the Council in 2021 through the Community Asset Transfer Scheme with the aim of creating a new community space for Colinton and the wider Water of Leith area.

Since last October, Trustees of Colinton Village Enterprise have been meeting monthly on site with architect David Moore and Rollo Developments as construction has progressed.

In April, the scale of the building became fully apparent as it rose above the hoardings and could be seen from the bridge over the Water of Leith.

A well-attended public meeting was recently held to launch the Crowdfunder, with presentations from the architect, contractors and

Chair outlining progress and the final stage of the project.

The Crowdfunder is now live until 21 June, supporting completion of the Hub ahead of opening early next year. It is a final push to finish the building and bring the project into use for the community.

Early support has already been very encouraging, from significant individual donations to smaller community contributions.

Every gift is helping move the project closer to completion, with a target of £50,000.

Plans for the Hub include a café, exhibition and gallery space, creative workshops, offices, and a large studio for community use.

Imagine seeing this long-awaited community space completed — and knowing you helped make it happen.

Please scan to support Colinton Village Hub:

www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/colintonvillagehub 16 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 17

18 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 19

• Full garden design and build service • Planting design • Plant sourcing • Planting service

Please get in touch for a free design consultation 07940 517 215 | judy@goodgardendesign.co.uk

www.goodgardendesign.co.uk

22 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 23

RECIPE & FOOD NOTES

Mini Summer Berry Nests At their most flavourful – and abundant – during June and July, sweet and succulent strawberries combine with other soft fruits in these irresistible treats, and are easy to make with the children.

Makes 12 Ingredients:

hole deep muffin tin. Separate the pastry sheets and brush each one with butter, then cut into 12 rectangles.

• 50g butter • 1 x 270g pack of 6 frozen filo pastry sheets (defrosted) – use 3 sheets • 150ml double cream • 1 x 400g tin low-fat ready-made custard • Grated rind of 1/2 orange and 1 tbsp juice • 3 tbsp strawberry jam • 450g mixed berries (whole raspberries and blueberries, and strawberries, halved or quartered) • Icing sugar, sifted, to decorate

3. Lay one piece in each section of the muffin tin, then arrange a second and third piece, each at a slight angle to the previous one, to give a jagged, nest-like effect.

Method:

6. Warm the jam and orange juice in a small saucepan, stirring until the jam has melted.

Add the berries and coat with the jam glaze, then spoon into the nests. Dust the top edges of the pastry nests with a little sifted icing sugar and serve.

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4.

2. Warm the butter in a small saucepan until melted and use a little to grease a 12-

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes until golden and crisp. Leave in the tin to cool.

5. When cooled, carefully take the pastry cases out of the tin and arrange on a large serving platter. Whip the cream until it forms soft swirls, then fold in the custard and orange rind. Spoon into the filo cases.

For more sweet and savoury recipe inspiration using strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, along with nutritional information, visit www.lovefreshberries.co.uk 24 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 25

THE GOOD GOODBYE

*HARD SUDO ON PAGE 35KU

JUNE SUDOKU (EASY*)

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 14. See page 37 for solutions.

If you have spoken about funerals with other family members, how many of you, or them, have said not to make a lot of fuss; ‘Just keep it simple’?

When clients have told me this, while discussing their loved one’s funeral, I have tended to reply, gently, that funerals are not for the dead, they are for the bereaved ones left behind to help process their loss. In a lighter vein, I have also said that, wherever their 'dear departed' has gone, they are not in any position to complain about what happens at their funeral! My clients have tended to agree and added the fuss they needed to make, to say a proper and final farewell.

This piece was contributed by Dr Joni Wilson, a retired Life Celebrant who lives in Colinton Mains. During her career as an independent Life Celebrant, Joni conducted over 1,300 funerals.

E: joniwilson1952@gmail.com 26 | THE DELL

@KonectMagazines

The c page

Support for PC’s, Laptops, Wi -Fi, Printers & software.

We can visit your office / home or please drop into our office at Bridge Road to speak t o u s ….

^ĞůĞĐƚŝŽŶ ŽĨ ZĞĨƵƌďŝƐŚĞĚ W Ɛ ĂŶĚ >ĂƉƚŽƉƐ ĨŽƌ ^ĂůĞ Ͳ &ƌŽŵ άϭϱϬ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Small Business Office 365 Business Email Video Conferencing VOIP Phones Virus Protection Cloud Storage Backup of Data Flexible IT Support

➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

Home PC / Laptop Repair SSD Upgrade Virus Removal Data Backup Networking & Wi-Fi Adhoc Support

Call us on 0131 510 9300 or email: info@worx24.co.uk ϯϬͲϯϮ ƌŝĚŐĞ ZŽĂĚ͕ ĚŝŶďƵƌŐŚ͕ ,ϭϯ Ϭ>Y

THE DELL | 27

28 | THE DELL

thecolintonstonemason.co.uk

■ Stone wall building ■ Lime mortar pointing ■ Stone repairs & replacements ■ Stone cut & dressed ■ Conservation & restoration Fine craftsmanship & quality For a free quote please contact us:

thecolintonstonemason@gmail.com 07738 214959 @the_colinton_stonemason

THE DELL | 29

A widely anticipated food shock is coming - thanks to Trumpelstiltskin’s mess in the Straits of Hormuz, but there is something we can all do to help alleviate a crisis at home.

It’s not difficult to grow a little food at home, even if you’ve only got a windowsill, everyone can do it. Container gardens also work well on balconies and patios, but if you really don’t have any suitable growing space of your own, you could volunteer at your nearest community garden. Better still, you could become a gorilla gardener and start sowing seeds when no-one is looking, making use of unused greenspaces and street corners in your neighbourhood.

In fact, the Friends of Campbell Park all started with two gorilla gardeners who planted wildflowers all along the fence between Woodhall Rd and the Bypass. The wildflower seeds failed, but the action got the attention of the Southwest Parks Manager, Craig Dunlop, who to their surprise and delight offered to help! Unfortunately, he’s just retired but we look forward to continuing the very successful partnership with his replacement, Jennifer Johnstone.

If you are lucky enough to have a garden, and plenty of people do in southwest Edinburgh, you might be surprised to learn that you only need 6 dwarf fruit trees for an orchard. Even if you have just one fruit tree,

you can underplant it with edible companion plants to form a self-supporting fruit tree ‘guild’. If you have space for several fruit trees, you might find Pippa Chapman’s downloadable Food Forest Design Workbook helpful. We’re using it in the Campbell Park community orchard to help our tree carers co-create perennial planting designs between their fruit trees. That work in progress is very visible right now and has started with the formation of 20 new ‘no dig’ raised beds to connect the fruit trees in small clusters of adjacent trees. It’s important to retain good access for harvesting the produce so we aim for about an arm’s length into the middle of any bed, or a maximum width of 2m.

The next most important thing is to grow food and plants that you like. Andrea Magowans Castlelaw Cubs grew sunflowers from seed which they have planted in ‘Cubs Corner’, surrounded by potatoes, one of the best high calorie staples for growing and storing, along with your apples and plums.

This column is contributed by Shona Harrower. Shona lives in Colinton and is passionate about low maintenance food production. She is Chair of the Friends of Campbell Park (FCP) 30 | THE DELL

THE DELL | 31

SUZANN E GREEN

I P

sn’t itilates interesting that weAnd wishby one is going well. another new year” long thataI “happy mean I’m surviving.

Soon afterafter singing Auldthe Lang Syne – foror joining class a year weeks after up the two agoboxing I realised thatChristmas if there decorations and returning to the was a competition, I’d get them the prize forloft. “most potential for improvement.”

Regardless of what’s going on in our world But hanging in there.

I’missues doing in allour and I’m various concerns about of this hard work to strengthen own country, we hope that 2025my willcore. be a Before the classes didn’t even know good year.

It would Ibe wonderful to seeI had one!

I thought that word to peace achieved in at least onereferred area where something you find in the centre an war is currently raging.

And, on a of personal apple or the level, we alsoearth. hope to see growth and Iprogress once saw hilarious off in aour own lifesketch and intaking the lives Pilates. characterised it asoccasions some weird of thoseItwe know and love, to torture the good (mostly women) participants celebrate, health and maybe even choose endure. And sort of some funtosurprises in theI could next 12 months. relate, as I don’t find it easy. But I dutifully I’m focusing on the “Happy New get myself down the“new” road in once a week Year”.

I’ve not exactly made any new year’s and into the studio.

I find a mat, and grab resolutions.

This tradition seems to be a protective knee pad. A lot of stretching is becomingand lessthat’s popular media posts involved, OK.- social But it gets tougher regularly us of that don’tisneed toto strive when onetell part thewe body meant go to improve, we are “enough” asgoing we are, one way, while another part is in we shouldn’t loaddirection. ourselvesI’m upnot withgreat goals the opposite atand the then feel guilty when we can’t achieve exercises that involve balance either –them.

I Although good to would be Iaagree failurethat as it’s a flamingo.

32

BALERNO | FEBRUARY,| 2025 THE DELL DIRECTORY JUNE, 2026

be realistic, I love the of promise that a new Indeed some pieces the Pilates year holds, do theseem “cleanlike slate” potential!of equipment instruments torture. theseyou aretoo themay resistance If you liveAmong in Balerno, have been ring, designed to “get at those hard to delighted to see snow falling early morning reach muscles”.

I break intoataour sweat just on New Year’s Day. I stood glass looking at it!

Sometimes we use our hands patio door and watched as sleet turned to to to press this ring together. bigtry white snowflakes that quickly Sometimes covered we step into it and slide it accident our garden and bedecked up the(an trees.

It was a waiting to happen if you ask me). wonderful illustration of the “it’s all fresh and Then there is the dreaded foam roller. new” theme.

Somehow we are meant to lie down on Signing for maintain a Pilates class was a new this thingupand our balance.

The thing for me at the beginning of 2024.

And it roller is just that, ie it rolls! We are to place a positive I may notway be as ithas onbeen our mat so thatchange. it runs the same proficient as many in the class, I struggle as the length of our body. Next step: lie to do some the stretches a knee down on of it. Yes, really! Tobecause manageofthis you issue, and I sometimes have a hard time sit at one end and then carefully lie down, resisting dancing to the background music trying to keep it from rolling.

I’m not always when I should be listening to the instructor. successful. Occasionally the class will hear But I know theas exercise doing me good. a small crash I hit theismat and then “try I’mget notback sure on what thing(s) I will do/ to thenew horse”. encounter this year, but I will keep my eyes Because the foam roller may be shorter and ears open for them. than your torso, it’s important to sit right When my eldest daughter was at the end of it before trying to in lieprimary back. school, she your decided try something Otherwise, headtohangs down offnew. I heard about it from another mum, who had the other end!

(Shorter people have been at the school to watch the advantage here.)

There her are daughter various do Highland in antoassembly. exercises youdancing are meant do as you“I didn’t know girl did she said. balance on your the roller.

Butit too,” I haven’t So I explained she didn’t, she mastered it, sothat usually I opt foralthough the modified roller.class.

It’s similar to strange,” the normal was in a ballet “That’s said one, although it has been sliced in half who my friend.

“At the assembly the children lengthwise so dance there islessons a flat side. took Highland wereMuch invited safer.

But not clear whyand either to go to theI’m centre of theonfloor perform. I version necessary. thought is your daughter did rather well.”

The include background Laterclasses I askedalways my child why she had done music.

If this instrumental, canteacher think of this. “Oh,” sheissaid.

“I thoughtI the itsaid, as background music. sometimes “Will all children whoBut would like to do it’s great old Motown classics, I really Highland dancing please comeand forward want and dance, not exercise! now? to Sosing I went.”

The instructor new knows – Iyear. can tell by her Do something thisthis new smile. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green.

Suzanne, freelance writer/editor, in real LIFE isa contributed

by Suzannelives Green.

Balerno and writes regularly for Konect.

Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor.

She is She is married Andy and theytwo have two married to Andytoand they have adult adult daughters. daughters.

THE DELL | 33

FRIDAY 5TH & SATURDAY 6TH JUNE Currie Beer and Curry Festival Featuring 36 casks of independent beer ranging from light, citrus ales to rich porters and stouts, alongside a selection of ciders, lagers, wines and prosecco. Live music will include Bedlam House Band and Blue Soul (Fri) and Jammy Devils with Bob Miller and North Dogs (SAT). The curry, including a vegetarian option, will be prepared by the Kasbah in Marchmont. All money raised is donated to local charities and good causes.

Currie Community Centre, 6.00pm – midnight.

Tickets in advance at cbdrt.com/events/ beer-festival/2026 SAT 6TH TO SAT 14TH JUNE Great Big Green Week - Programme of events at The Hub@531, Juniper Green, EH14 5DE. See details and booking online at hub531.appointedd.com SATURDAY 13TH JUNE Flower Walk in Campbell Park - Join our monthly Saturday flower walks with our Biodiversity Officer Jonathan. As part of our plant-monitoring work he will be walking around the park and welcomes anyone two would like to join him. It’s a great way to help support our annual plant survey, learn to recognise edible plants, grasses, wildflowers, shrubs and trees, and enjoy a gentle, informative walk in the park. Bring a phone with a plant ID app and a x10 hand lens if you have them; a small selection on plant id books will also be available. 10.30am to12noon.

MEET AT THE PAVILLION. SATURDAY 13TH JUNE Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm

SUNDAY 14TH JUNE Campbell Park’s 90th Birthday Party From 2.00pm at Campbell Park, Woodhall Road, Colinton. Starting 2.00pm at the main gate with a tour of the new signage. FREE BIRTHDAY CAKE, orchard sharing picnic and more! SEE PAGE 31.

SATURDAY 20TH JUNE Malleny Garden Plant Fayre - Join us for our a fabulous day of flowers, plants, stalls and more. We invite you to enjoy a day at Malleny Garden with our incredible National Collection of 19th century shrub roses. The garden will be in full flower and fragrance while hosting our new Malleny Garden Fair. This is a plant focused day with local plant nurseries, horticultural organisations, community groups, stalls and food and drink.

Parking is limited. Please consider walking, cycling or public transport. Malleny Garden, Balerno, 10.00am - 3.00pm.

SUNDAY 28TH JUNE Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - Model Railway, train rides, drive-a-loco, tea, coffee and snacks.

Free parking, toilets and picnic area. 10.30am - 4.00pm. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF TUESDAY 30TH JUNE River Dipping - For 5-10 year olds. Fun afternoon in the Water of Leith discovering what lives below the surface. Wear wellies if you have them. 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Water of Leith Visitor Centre, 24 Lanark Rd, EH14 1TQ. £7 per child, accompanying adult free of charge. Booking and info at waterofleith.org.uk

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

WINE TASTING

JUNE SUDOKU (EASY*)

*EASY SUDO KU ON PAGE 26

JUNE SUDOKU (HARD*)

You never stop learning about wine.

There’s always a new vintage, a hidden gem of a producer, a different style to taste or an unexpected food pairing to discover.

Just when you think you’ve got a solid grasp of the wine world, something comes along and surprises you all over again.

Most recently for me, that surprise was Indian wine.

I’ll admit, I was sceptical. India’s climate brings heat, humidity and monsoon rains, hardly the classic conditions we associate with fine wine. Textbooks would have us believe the grapes would struggle and the wines would lack balance and finesse. But at a recent tasting, I tried wines from Sula Vineyards including Chenin Blanc, Viognier, The crossword can beand found on Sauvignon Blancpuzzle and Shiraz, I was page 14. See page 37 for solutions. genuinely blown away.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 14. See page 37 for solutions.

While the aged Shiraz was very enjoyable, it was the white wines that completely stole the show. The Viognier in particular was delicious. The nose was beautifully perfumed; it was almost like walking through a tropical garden in bloom. There were layers of spice, generous texture and real personality in the glass. I would happily have a glass of the viognier chilled to drink alone or paired with a grilled seafood or perhaps a spiced fish dish.

Wine has been made in India for centuries, but modern winemaking techniques, cooler high-altitude vineyards and careful vineyard management are transforming quality. It’s exciting to see a wine region challenge expectations like this.

Indian wine? Definitely one to watch and even better, one to taste!

Cheers!

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to www.swirlsipsocialise.com THE DELL | 35

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

GLENLOCKHART PROBUS CLUB - For ex-business men and women. We meet to hear talks, mostly by outside speakers, on a wide range of subjects.

The venue is Mortonhall Garden Centre, at 10.30am. on the last Thursday in the month, January to November. Occasionally there are additional outings. Contact: E. glenlockhartprobus@outlook.com ORIAM WALKING FOOTBALL CLUB - We run a local Walking Football Club, established in 2015, for women aged 40+ and men aged 50+. Our sessions, which are very much mixed ability, take place at Oriam Sports Centre, Heriot-Watt University, EH14 4AS, on a Mon and Fri 12.30-1.30pm, and Wed at 12.00-1.00pm and 8.30-9.30pm We’d love to see new teammates coming along. Sessions are priced at £4.62 but we do have monthly membership schemes available. Please contact Alan Davies on 07568 723303. Email: alan_davis@live.co.uk OXGANGS WRITE AWAY! WRITERS' GROUP - Whether you are a beginner or not, wouldbe novelist, journal-writer or poet, come along and share, learn, be inspired or simply listen. We meet at Oxgangs Library every 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6.00pm - free tea/coffee and biscuits too! For more information, contact Robert Carroll Robert.

Carroll@edinburgh.gov.uk or katiemoon7754@gmail.com REDHALL WALKING GROUP A gentle walking group exploring areas such as the Union Canal, Colinton Dell and the Water of Leith. Improve your health and wellbeing and meet new people.

Meet at Redhall Walled Garden entrance on main road at 97 Lanark Road. Mondays 10.00am - 11.30am Fun, friendly and free.

36 | THE DELL

Contact: emily@elgt.org.uk or 07943 530806.

Facebook @GreenspaceTrust ST CUTHBERT'S PLAYGROUP - 10.00am - 11.30am - Every Monday during school term time. £2 per family. Toys, snacks and a fun songs! St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue, Colinton. Contact Rev Nicki McNelly for more information: stcuthbertsrector@gmail.com FORGET ME NOTES - The Forget Me Notes Project is a charity that uses music to build community and combat isolation in a variety of settings On the first and third Monday of each month - 2.00pm - 4.00pm in St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Westgarth Avenue, Colinton.

Join us when you can, for an hour of music and memories, followed by refreshments. All welcome. Please contact Rev Nicki for more information: stcuthbertsrector@gmail.com (www.forgetmenotes.org.uk) COLINTON FRIENDLY BRIDGE CLUB - Colinton Cottage Homes’ Hall every Monday from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Please contact Ken McLeod on 0131 466 0888 for more information.

TEA AND TOTS - Stay and play for ages 0-5 with their parent/ carer - all are welcome! Toys, crafts, refreshments, song-time and more. Every Thursday during school term time, 10am-11.30am at Redeemer Church, 64 Bridge Road, Colinton, EH13 OLQ. FREE. E:admin@redeemeredinburgh.org T: 0131 441 7327 ST CUTHBERT’S BADMINTON CLUB - The Club was formed about 1946 and meets in the Church Hall in Westgarth Avenue, Colinton on Monday evenings at 8.00pm between September and Easter. It is noncompetitive. For details, call Julia Roberts on 07904 813145.

PENTLAND BRIDGE CLUB Come and play duplicate bridge in a friendly atmosphere. We meet in St Margaret's Court, Juniper Green on Thursdays at 6.45pm. Table money £4. Less experienced players made very welcome. For further information see www.bridgewebs.com/ pentland or email mthkjb@gmail.com.

COLINTON LITERARY SOCIETY - Meetings start with coffee, tea and wine at 7.30pm and are held at Dreghorn Hall, 22 Dreghorn Loan, EH13 0DE. Full programme details are at edinburghpentlands.church/ church-life/church-andcommunity-groups/colintonliterary-society/ COFFEE, CAKE AND COMPANY - Drop in for a free coffee between 10.30am and 12pm on Mondays at Redeemer Church Edinburgh, 64 Bridge Road EH13 0LT. We are mostly retired people, but all ages are welcome! More details at redeemeredinburgh.org/ccc THIS WOMAN RUNS - We are a small group of local women who support and empower each other to be healthier and happier. We meet Wednesday’s at 7.30pm at the bottom of Thorburn Road, or Sunday’s at 8.00am in Spylaw Park for a quick warm up, 30-minute run at the pace of chat/your pace, and then a gentle cool down. We’d love to see you there! All free, run by friendly local volunteers www.thismumruns.co.uk/joina-local-run WAVERLEY SPEAKERS CLUB - Meets in Morningside Parish Church, fortnightly on Tuesdays at 7.15pm. Our aim is to improve members’ public speaking skills in a supportive atmosphere.

Each evening has three prepared speeches of eight minutes, evaluated constructively by another member. Eight impromptu short speeches follow, also evaluated. New members will be made most welcome.

Contact Douglas.Lothian@ lenlothian.com LOCAL FLORAL ART CLUB - Sit back and enjoy relaxing evenings watching a floral demonstration with lively & interesting chat. You might even win one of the arrangements. We meet at The Braidhills Hotel from 7pm to 8.45pm on the 1st Monday of the month from September. In October and only for October we are at Marchmont St Giles Church .Trial first visit in Sept or Oct only £5! Wine/tea/ coffee available in the hotel.

Contact: Joyce Rutherford 0131 443 2536 or joyce. rutherford@btinternet.com COLINTON SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLUB Come and join us on alternate Thursday evenings from September to March for an evening of fun dancing to live music. We meet in St Cuthbert's Church Hall Colinton from 7.45pm to 9.15pm.

Dances are called but as this is not a teaching class some knowledge of Scottish Country Dance steps and figures is beneficial. For further details phone 07751186359 or 07483814988.

THE SWING CAFÉ - Tues to Sat 10.00am-2.00pm. Please come for breakfast (10.00am12.00noon), lunch (12noon -2.00pm) or some delicious home baking (available all day). We welcome groups and if you would like to book

a table, please contact 07514 689258. There are glutenfree, vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options. Under 12s are invited to enjoy a children's menu. Sit in or take away. We look forward to welcoming you.

COLINTON LOCAL HISTORY SOCIETY - Want to know about local history?

W: www.colintonhistory.org E:enquiries@colintonhistory.org COLINTON GARDEN CLUB - Club members share their love of gardening, gardens and nature, and work together to preserve and add value to our quality of life here in south-west Edinburgh. Monthly members’ meetings on a Monday, in the upper Hall, Dreghorn Loan and start at 8.00pm. We are a friendly and thriving club and new members are very welcome, plus outings and events. The annual subscription is £10.00. per household.

For more information see: W: colintongardens.org.uk E: membership@ colintongardens.org.uk LUNCHCLUB - Every Wednesday 1pm – 3pm, 3 courses £4. Spaces are limited, first come first served.

Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firhill Drive, EH13 9EU. Please visit: oxgangsneighbourhoodcentre.org.uk PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP - Tuesdays, am session and pm session for two age groups (all under 5s). Oxgangs Neighbourhood Centre, 71 Firhill Drive, EH13 9EU. T: 0131 466 0678 E:oxgangs neighbourhoodcentre @gmail.com

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Potato, 8. Retain, 9. Bowl, 10. Speedily, 11. Adapted, 13. Conch, 15. Twist, 17. Cutlass, 20. Twilight, 21. Calm, 23. Prison, 24. Notion.

DOWN: 1. Solo, 2. Wallop, 3. Boasted, 4. Aries, 5. Studio, 6. Dialects, 12. Downward, 14. Buttons, 16. Splash, 18. Locate, 19. Agony, 22. Loot.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P26/35

(EASY)

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT.SCOT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

(HARD)

THE DELL | 37

38 | THE DELL