The Dell Directory October 2025

October 2025

WINE TASTING: LOCAL WALK:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

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

PHOTO CREDIT: Image by Clare Hatre Photography

i

t sometimes seems as though instead of slowing down for autumn, the local area comes alive with events and activities!

Check the What’s On and community pages towards the back of the magazine.

Once again The Dell Directory is bursting with options for community support and connection and there is something for everyone.

We have another lovely autumnal walk feature in the Pentlands to enjoy, thanks to our regular contributor William Weir and his always-enticing walk descriptions.

All our usual columns are here which I hope you enjoy this month.

Thank you for reading The Dell Directory and supporting local businesses and organisations.

P34 Local Walk: Corston Hill............................... 8 Health: Running injury reduction (Part 2)...........................................................12 Wine Tasting: “Waiter, waiter...”................14 Recipe: Spiced Beef Bourguignon..........22 Interiors: Bathroom Bliss............................26 Puzzles..................................................27 / 40 Local Environment: Red Squirrel Spotting.........................................................34 The Lazy Gardener’s Diary........................37 realLife...........................................................38 What’s On: October Events.......................43

COVER IMAGE: Happy Halloween: Trick or treat?

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

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Mist spills over the Pentland tops to the east like steam from a cauldron, with the golden sun rising behind, as I depart the small car park at Little Vantage. However, instead of heading towards those hills - tempting as they are - this morning, I cross the main road, hop over a stile and set off in the opposite direction.

Yellow-topped Friends of the Pentlands marker posts guide me across the hillside, picking out a narrow path through clumps of compact rushes and occasional heather in bloom. I pass above the fringes of the adjacent fields, bordered by mature, windswept beeches whose crinkle-cut leaves rustle in the cool south-westerly breeze.

clear of the worst of the long wet grasses and swiping rushes. It’s no easy stroll as I pick my way uphill over this uneven terrain, but it proves more than worth the effort, for I am climbing one of the highest points in the landscape for miles around and soon I am surrounded by a breathtaking three-sixtydegree vista.

Eventually, I reach a small metal gate. Here, I turn left and begin to ascend what is the eastern flank of Corston Hill. There is no path here and I hug the fence line, taking advantage of its slightly higher ground to stay

When the trig point comes into view, I bear left towards it and pause there to enjoy the view. It’s hard to know what to focus on, with wonderful scenes all around me from the dark Pentlands in the south to the Forth bridges in the north, the green fields and forests of Lanarkshire to the west to Edinburgh’s city skyline to the east. I can see not only the silhouette of Arthur’s Seat, but also Berwick Law and the Bass Rock, perched crystal clear on the horizon. Line of sight is not the only connection here - Corston Hill’s bedrock is overlain by lavas thought to have erupted around the same time as those other volcanic features, nearly three hundred and fifty million years ago.

Soon, however, my attention is captured by something closer. A raven drifts by effortlessly, caw-ing periodically. It turns and glides back, continuing its patrol.

I immediately understand why this intelligent bird would favour this location

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From the trig point I pick up a sheep path which leads me through a gap in the fence and onwards to a rise with a small cairn on top. From there, I begin to descend the hill’s western flank, accompanied by the chatter of larks which rise into the air as I pass. The Morton reservoirs come into view.

A train rumbles across the viaduct over the Linnhouse Water in the distance. I come upon a small, abandoned quarry where, in times past, some of the hard igneous rocks that cap this hill were extracted. A little farther on by some ruined farm buildings, I join a singletrack road, turning right towards Selm Muir Wood. The piercing cry of a buzzard echoes over the wood, beckoning me onward. I enter the wood at the sign for Selm Muir Carp Fishery and, on broad forestry track now, quicken my pace, savouring the piny air.

Towards the far end of the wood, part way along the section of track that runs past a clipped beech hedge, there’s another Friends of the Pentlands marker by a stile. This directs me across the adjacent field towards a nearby farmstead, where I am subject to the slightly suspicious gaze of the local

livestock, including an alarmingly large bull in repose. His flanks twitch as our eyes lock and I’m thankful there is a fence between us.

The route takes me up past Hilly Cow wigwams, GET THE ROUTE eventually to rejoin ON OS MAPS! my inward route where I left it to climb the hill. I feel lucky to have discovered this route, and to have had such a pristine morning on which to enjoy it. But there is one more gift nature has in store for me. Just before reaching the small gate where I began my hill climb, I come across a depression in the landscape, ringed with gorse. Arrayed across the bushes are innumerable spiders’ webs; each delicate silken strand rendered a glistening silver by miniscule water droplets from the morning mist. It’s an enchanting sight, almost as if nature has set out her very own display in readiness for Hallowe’en…. which, as the edge to the air reminds me, is just around the corner….

Allow 2.5 – 3 hours for this walk. Sturdy footwear is required. Please take care near and be respectful of livestock, obeying all signage.

This article was contributed by William Weir. William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.

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CREDIT: All image by William Weir

– with such commanding views nothing would escape its keen eye from here.

Then, it is joined by another. Back and forth, together they fly – gliding, banking, turning in elegant synchrony, the misty hills their backdrop. For a few minutes I watch their sky dance, enraptured, until eventually, they drift off to the south-east, becoming mere dark specks over Auchinoon Hill.

If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby.....get in touch via

editor@konect.scot and we may be able to share it.

Got a story?

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL!

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(You need to live and/or work in the Colinton, Craiglockhart, or Kingsknowe area to be featured in The Dell Directory)

THE DELL DIRECTORY

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HEALTH

As we approach the winter, this is a good time to reset for running and introduce some prehabilitation strategies introduced in the previous issue such as strength and balance training, and load monitoring.

This article introduces how gait re-training and recovery strategies can be helpful for reducing injury and improving performance, and discusses the importance of intervening early when injury is detected.

How can injury be recognised?

Recognising injury from the usual niggles that occur with running training or post exercise muscle soreness can be difficult, but detecting the signs and symptoms of injury early is key to preventing escalation of injury. A recent study asking runners how they classified a running-related injury found runners thought an injury was when they were no longer able to run due to the symptoms. However, it is important to recognise injury earlier before it gets to this stage. Therefore, when a niggle during or after running becomes persistently worse, intervene by temporarily reducing running volume by reducing frequency, intensity, or distance. Being flexible to adapt planned runs in response to injury, or even illness, will help with continuity of running. If symptoms increase in severity despite these interventions your injury may need to be assessed by a Chartered Physiotherapist.

What is gait re-training and how can this reduce injury? One of the easiest and most effective gait re-training strategies to adopt is running cadence which refers to frequency of running steps. The average cadence is usually 160 – 185 steps/minute. During a run calculate cadence by counting how many steps are taken on average over one minute.

Alternatively, smart watches have a feature which calculates average cadence during each run. If cadence is lower than 160 steps/ 12 | THE DELL

minute, there is higher contact time with the ground and possible overstriding which can predispose to some injuries particularly knee pain. Try increasing your cadence slightly by less than 5% by taking shorter faster strides.

How important is recovery after a run? This is one of the most useful injury risk reduction practices and easiest to adopt. You don’t need to be jumping into an ice bath after every run! As you finish your run simply reduce your pace to reduce your heart rate slowly, add a few prehabilitative exercises rather than static stretches and rehydrate with a drink containing carbohydrate, electrolytes and protein. Milk is a cheap effective alternative to commercial drinks. But above all, the most important recovery strategy is ensuring 8 hours sleep every night.

What is an injury risk profile? Risk of injury is a complex association between risk factors for running-related injuries that is specific to each individual runner, type of running, and environment. Identifying these factors can help you tailor a prehabilitative approach to help reduce injury risk.

Want to learn more? Linda Linton, a Chartered Physiotherapist researching injury prevention in runners, will be running a 3-hour workshop on 1st November. Learn the latest evidence and guidance on injury prevention and how to adopt this into your usual running training. Find details at physiogrange.co.uk This article was contributed by Linda Linton, Chartered Physiotherapist at McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh

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WINE TASTING

THE DELL DIRECTORY

If wine is fermented grape juice, then why are some wines ‘vegan-friendly’ while others aren’t? The answer lies in the cellar!

Wine is fermented grape juice and following fermentation it’s often cloudy. It’s full of yeast, proteins and grape particles which are not visually appealing. To make it beautifully clear, winemakers use a process called fining, which cleans up the wine before bottling.

For centuries, winemakers have relied on animal-based fining agents to clean their wines. Isinglass (made from fish bladders!) and egg white were the go-to tools for polishing up a cloudy wine. Go back far enough in history and you’ll even find tales of bulls’ blood being used to in the winery!

These animal-based products aren’t present in the finished wine, but as they were used in the process, the wines are not technically suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Fortunately, today there are plenty of alternatives. Bentonite clay, pea protein, or letting wine naturally settle can do the job just as well.

Next time you see a “vegan” label on a wine, you’ll know it’s not about the grapes at all.

It’s about the winemaker’s choice of fining agent. Whether you’re plant-based or just curious, there’s a whole world of veganfriendly wines ready to pour and explore!

Have a look at BUONVINO online. They have a vegan mixed case which contains a selection of vegan wines designed to complement a vegan menu.

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 swirlsipsocialise.com 14 | THE DELL

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FOOD & DRINK

A traditional French dish of slow-cooked beef in a red wine sauce, this stew is the ultimate comfort food– and well worth the wait!

Serves 4-6 | Prep 25-30 minutes Cooking time 2hrs 15 minutes Ingredients:

• 1kg diced braising steak (or chuck steak) • Sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper • 2 tbsp plain flour, seasoned • 4 tbsp Borderfields Gold Infusions Aromatic Thyme Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil • 200g smoked streaky bacon lardons • 6 small shallots, peeled and diced • 2 leeks, trimmed, washed and diced • 6 cloves garlic, crushed • Half a bulb of garlic, cut in half horizontally • Half a 750ml bottle of Merlot red wine • 2tbsp tomato purée • 750ml rich beef stock • 1 sprig of fresh rosemary and thyme, leaves finely chopped • 2 bay leaves • 2 star anise • 200g wild and chestnut mushrooms, roughly chopped

To serve:

• Chopped fresh parsley • Creamy mashed potato

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C, fan 150°C, gas mark 3.

2. Season the beef well with salt and pepper and toss in the seasoned flour.

3. Heat half the oil in a frying pan and fry the beef in batches over a medium-high heat until browned on all sides, turning now and then. Once browned, using a slotted spoon, transfer to a large flameproof casserole.

4. Add a little more oil to the pan and fry the bacon lardons for 2-3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to the casserole.

5. Add a splash more oil to the pan and cook the shallots and leeks over a low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring until softened. Add the garlic and half garlic bulb (face-side down) and cook for a further minute.

6. Transfer to the casserole, pour over the wine and stir in the tomato purée, stock, herbs and star anise. Bring to a simmer, stir well, cover with a lid and cook in the oven for 1½-1¾ hours.

7. Add the remaining oil and mushrooms to the frying pan and cook for 2-3 minutes over a high heat until golden brown, turning often 8. Remove the casserole from the oven, stir in the mushrooms, return to the oven and cook for 25-30 minutes more until the sauce has thickened and the beef is completely tender.

(If the sauce is too thin, add a little cornflour paste and simmer for another couple of minutes.)

9. Scatter over some chopped parsley and serve immediately with some creamy mash.

For more recipe inspiration using the Borderfields range of Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oils, visit www.borderfields.co.uk. Recipe created by Rachel Green (Rachel-green.co.uk) with photography by Michael Powell (www.michaelpowell.com).

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Bathroom

Bliss

How to create a space that functions brilliantly and reflects your unique style.

Will your bathroom be a calm retreat? A traditional, elegant complement to your home’s architecture? A sleek, minimal space? A family bathroom that needs to be both fun and functional? Think about how much space there is, what fixtures are essential and what needs to be stored.

Consider whether certain types of fitting will work with your hot-water system and what electrical connections may be necessary. You may want to ask your plumber and electrician for advice.

CAREFUL PLANNING

It’s a good idea to sketch out a scaled floor plan showing where everything will go. Try not to move too many fixtures, as this will add to the time and cost. That said, if the current layout isn’t working for you, now’s the time to alter it. You could also create a mood board to inspire you. Pull together images of bathrooms you love, showing individual elements, colour schemes and accessories.

VERSATILE LIGHTING

Always factor in a lighting plan at the earliest opportunity.

You’ll need bright lighting for practical purposes, such as shaving or applying makeup, but – ideally – some ambient lighting too. Swap your switch for a dimmer or fit smart bulbs for versatility. Bear in mind most bathroom light fittings need to conform to safety standards.

COMBINE FORM AND FUNCTION

Research high-quality fittings that will stand the test of time.

You’re best off choosing the best-quality simple pieces you can afford. But now’s the time to upgrade if you wish. Smart features these days include mirrors with a Bluetooth speaker or WCs with a handsfree flush.

SURFACES MATTER

A bathroom floor needs to be non-slip and resistant to water and humidity, easy to clean and comfortable underfoot, while shower walls and

splashbacks behind baths and basins must be protected.

Walls and floors are large areas that create a strong visual effect, and it’s important to combine practicality and durability with attractive colours and textures. This is your chance to inject your personal style.

STORAGE

Design storage space from the start. If possible, build in niches with floating shelves, and add a vanity unit. Tall thin shelving units can be highly useful, as can caddies, baskets and a row of hooks on the back of the door.

THE FINAL TOUCHES

Layer in personality with accessories. The fluffiest towels, beautiful artworks, a pretty window blind and plants will all introduce softness, colour and texture.

The Interiors column was contributed by Katherine Sorrell

1) Burlington, Guild 850 Furniture Unit with Oak Worktop in Dark Oak, £1,998. 2) Clearwater Interiors, The Modernist Collection. 3) Sanctuary Bathrooms, Crosswater Design, Walk-In Shower Screen, £532.

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OCTOBER SUDOKU (HARD*)

Crossword and Sudoku (EASY*) can be found on p40. See p47 for solutions.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

6th to 12th October is Red Squirrel Appreciation Week, and Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels (SSRS) is calling on people all over Scotland to get outside, explore, look out for tufted ears and bushy tails, and record all sightings of grey and red squirrels.

SSRS monitors squirrel populations all year round, but autumn is a particularly rewarding time; squirrels are more visible at this time of the year as they busily forage and cache the autumn harvest in preparation for winter. All sightings are valuable, no matter where in the country, from back gardens or the wider countryside.

Each sighting creates a snapshot, helping SSRS understand how populations are changing and where to focus critical conservation efforts.

Red squirrels are one of Scotland’s most loved animals, and our only native squirrel species, but populations have seriously declined. Only an estimated 220,000 remaining in Scotland today. In some places they have not been seen for many years.

The greatest threat to red squirrels is the invasive non-native grey squirrel. Larger and more robust, they out-compete red squirrels 34 | THE DELL

for food and living space, making it difficult for red squirrels to survive. The grey squirrel is a North American species introduced to Britain in Victorian times to decorate the gardens of stately homes. They soon expanded their range, completely replacing red squirrels in most of England and Wales, and many parts of Scotland. The competition between red and grey squirrels is a man-made problem that we have a responsibility to manage.

To find out more and record your squirrel sightings this month, visit scottishsquirrels.org.uk All information in this article is from the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrel’s website (above).

SSRS is a partnership project working to ensure red squirrels continue to be part of Scotland’s special native wildlife. The photography is by Clare Harte Photography, Konect’s Local Environment columnist.

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THE LAZY GARDENER’S DIARY: Don’t slate your old slates, reuse them in your garden

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One of my gardening pet hates is weeding. So let’s start by defining a ‘weed’ as any plant that is in the wrong place. Take for example couch grass, dandelions, and creeping buttercups. They make great ground cover for your average lawn and park, but they’re far too competitive to comfortably co-exist with many plants.

In Campbell Park Orchard, where 30 fruit trees were planted into grass, volunteers have been gradually pushing back the grass around them.

The fruit trees are underplanted with edible companion plants which once established will come back each year, ideally with very little additional human input. This is the lazy gardener’s diary after all!

Stopping the grass and buttercups from creeping back into the tree circles was a big challenge until we discovered that old slates make surprisingly effective weed barriers. The slates are laid in flat overlapping circles around each tree to block out all light to the ground below.

After a few months we simply flip over the slates to make a slightly wider circle, and the weeds underneath pull out so much easier than before.

Slate collars not only look great, but they also trap moisture in the ground, and absorb heat from the sun which keeps the ground warmer at night. You can even use them to paint on the plant names on you want to remember. If you know of anyone replacing their roof who has excess unused slates, the Friends of Campbell Park would love to hear from you.

This column is contributed by Shona Harrower. Shona lives in Colinton and is passionate about permaculture. She is Chair of the Friends of Campbell Park.

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be realistic, I love the promise that a new year holds, the “clean slate” potential!

SUZANN E GREEN

L I

ately I’ve been reading at every sn’t opportunity. it interestingUntil that we wish one fairly recently another “happy new year” long I wasa reading for two monthly afterbook singing Auld And Langthen Syne – for in groups.

I work weeks after boxing up the Christmas the library. decorations and returning them to the loft.

Do you know how difficult it is to resist a book Regardless of what’s going on counter in our world that’s just been plonked on the in and various concerns about issues in “that our front of you as the borrower enthuses, own acountry, we hope that 2025 be aIt’s was great read; I couldn’t put it will down!’’ goodhard. year.If,It after would beread wonderful to seeand very I’ve the synopsis peace achieved in at least where the back cover reviews, the one bookarea appeals war is currently raging.

And, to oncheck a personal to me, it takes just a moment it in, level, itwe hope topop see itgrowth and issue to also myself, and in my rucsac. progress in our own life and in the lives In addition to the (mostly) fiction I read for of those we know and love, occasions to a book group or my own pleasure, I usually celebrate, good health and maybe even have one or two non-fiction books on the some fun surprises in the next 12 months. go. These might focus on a current issue, or I’m focusing on theThey “new” in “Happy New someone I admire. might describe how I’ve notin exactly new year’s IYear”. can improve some made way, orany how I can help resolutions.

This tradition seemsthe to Bible, be someone else.

And then there’s becoming less popular - social media posts the newspaper, and maybe a Shakespeare regularly thatI read we don’t strive play - the tell lastus time one itneed was to because to improve, “enough” as we are, I’d just seenwe Theare Merchant of Venice andwe shouldn’t ourselves up with goals and wanted toload check how faithful the performance then to feel when we can’t achieve them. was theguilty original play. agree that it’s good IAlthough regularlyIchat with people whoto

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BALERNO | FEBRUARY,| 2025 THE DELL DIRECTORY OCTOBER, 2025

If you live in Balerno, you too may have been delighted to see snow falling early morning on New Year’sthan Day.I do.

I stood at our glass read far more For the most part patioare door and watched as sleet turned to to they retired.

Nevertheless, I struggle big white snowflakes that quickly covered comprehend how someone can tackle a pile oursix garden and bedecked theall trees.

It was a of or eight books and read of them over wonderful of the “it’s all fresh and a period ofillustration just three weeks! new” theme.

When I was in primary school a trip to the library me staggering to the Signingended up forwith a Pilates class wasout a new car with as they’d let meAnd it thing foras memany at thebooks beginning of 2024. borrow.

I’ma sure this change. early experience has been positive I may nothad be as a lot to do as with me pursuing a career as a to proficient many in the class, I struggle writer. do some of the stretches because of a knee Years I was raising and issue, later, and Iwhen sometimes have achildren hard time working home, often remained resistingfrom dancing to books the background music on theIshelf.

I told myself I didn’t when should be listening to thehave instructor. time read.

And, truthfully, I don’tme know But I to know the exercise is doing good. where would have fit itthing(s) in. Every minute I’m notI sure what new I will do/ of every day seemed be Ifilled with writing, encounter this year,tobut will keep my eyes editing, Zoom calls, cooking, laundry, and and ears open for them. chauffeuring kids! But I regret that I missed When daughter in aprimary out on my thiseldest great passion forwas such long school,ofshe decided to try something new. I period time. heard about it from another mum, who had If you’re a reader, you will know how a book been at the school to watch her daughter can inspire or comfort you, how a beautiful do Highland dancing inwork an assembly.

“I piece of fiction is truly a of art. Books didn’t know your girl did it too,” she said. take us somewhere. Yes, they offer an So I explained that healthy she didn’t, escape, but a very one!although she was in a ballet class. “That’s strange,” said The written“At word us, entertains us,who my friend. theinforms assembly the children improves our vocabulary and challenges our took Highland dance lessons were invited thinking. In our screen-based culture, it is a to go to the centre of the floor and perform. I delight to meet a young person who is in love thought your daughter did rather well.” with reading - or a well-read adult who can Later I asked mya child why she had done converse about wealth of subjects.

“Oh,” she said.paperbacks “I thought the Ithis. enjoy hardbacks, andteacher books on said, “Will allday, children wouldare like totired do Kindle.

One whenwho my eyes too Highland dancing please come forward to read, I will listen to audiobooks. now? So I went.”

As our world continues to change, let us Do something new this new year. hold on to the habit of reading.

Let us hold on to challenging ourselves, and thinking for ourselves. Let us be readers. real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne Green.

Suzanne, a freelance writer/editor, lives in real LIFE is contributed by Suzanne 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.

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If you know of a child who has lost a parent and would benefit from a supported foundation place or to donate to the life changing work of the Heriot’s foundation, please contact the Admissions team for information at admissions@george-heriots.com

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

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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

OCTOBER CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the NOVEMBER edition

ACROSS: 7. Brave (6), 8. Keep back (6), 9. On top of (4), 10. Loudest (8), 11. Small rivers (7), 13. Looks at (5), 15. Perfect (5), 17. Laughed (7), 20. Confuse (8), 21. Consumes (4), 22. Light wind (6), 23. Inn (6).

DOWN: 1. Type of cloth (6), 2. Not wealthy (4), 3. Financial resources (7), 4. Own up to (5), 5. Hitting (8), 6. Puzzle (6), 12. Inspected (8), 14. Shake (7), 16. Gloomy (6), 18. Goes into (6), 19. Trimmed (5), 21. Jealousy (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 47

OCTOBERSUDOKU SUDOKU(EASY*) OCTOBER

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SATURDAY 11TH OCTOBER Farmers Market - Main Street, Balerno, 9.00am to 1.00pm SATURDAY 18TH OCTOBER Charity Crafters Pop up sale - Come and do a bit of early Christmas shopping or buy gifts for any occasion. Proceeds of sale go to good causes. 10.00am and 2.00pm in 31st Pentland (Juniper Green) Scout Hall (next to Sainsbury’s Garage) FRI 24TH TO SUN 26TH OCTOBER Haunted House of the Binns Tours Are you brave enough to venture into one of West Lothian’s most haunted historic houses for an evening of frights & ghostly stories? More info: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ haunted-house-of-the-binns-tours-tickets1597287442739?aff=Konect SAT 25TH & SUN 26TH OCTOBER Pumpkin Trail at the House of the Binns - Find the petrifying pumpkin signs hidden around the grounds of the House of the Binns to unscramble the spooky word and win a tasty treat! More info: www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/pumpkin-trail-at-thehouse-of-the-binns-tickets1597440851589?aff=Konect

WEDNESDAY 5TH NOVEMBER Fireworks Night - In King George V Park, Currie, organised by Currie Balerno District Round Table. Currie Community Centre Café will be open to serve hot drinks. The Centre has an excellent view of the fireworks for watching from indoors. Please check CBDRT facebook page nearer the time for event details.

THU 6TH NOV TO WED 3RD DEC Pentlands Book Festival - Full programme to be released soon.

SATURDAY 29TH NOVEMBER Dean Park PTA Autumn Fayre - Cafe, toy sale, crafts, tuck shop, tombola, games and much more! Balerno High School, 12.30pm - 3pm Save the date: MONDAY 8TH DECEMBER Colinton & Merchiston Community Choir Christmas Concert - We have a delightful programme of Christmas Music including Vaughan Williams “Fantasia on Christmas Carols”, Cornelius “Three Kings from Persian Lands Afar”, Telemann “Der Jüngste Tag wird bald sein Ziel” and a lovely selection of carols. Memorial Hall at Merchiston Castle School, doors open 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Tickets £10 or £5 for under 18s available from choir members or at the main door of the Memorial Hall. Cash only. For more information about our choir, please see www. colintonchoir.org or our Facebook page. We are grateful to Merchiston Castle School for the use of the Memorial Hall.

All meets are in Juniper Green Parish Church Hall, Lanark Road 10.00am - 12noon.

New members welcome. Further details from our Club Secretary Leslie Hannaford, 0131 453 3012 or lesliehannaford@blueyonder.co.uk

• WED 1ST OCT - “My Trip to the North Pole,” an illustrated talk by Michael Gregson.

• WED 15TH OCT - Business meeting and Mini Talks by Club members.

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. THE DELL | 43

Making Music 2025 - Linlithgow String Orchestra in an exciting collaborative project As we move into our 2025/26 season, the Linlithgow String Orchestra is preparing to celebrate 10 years of music-making in the community. At the same time we are about to embark on our most ambitious project to date.

We were successful last year in our application to become an amateur music group paired with a composer for the duration of 2025 and in January we were able to announce that we have been assigned to work with Edinburghbased composer, Deborah Shaw aka @ AuroraEngine. Hailing from Shildon, County Durham, the historic ‘Cradle of the Railways’ Edinburgh-based Shaw has been collaborating with the Linlithgow String Orchestra as part of Making Music’s Adopt a Music Creator 2025 programme to create a new composition to mark Rail 200:- the bicentenary of the railway's birth in the UK. Taking inspiration from both the physical power and deep social impact of trains, the composer has collaborated with the orchestra to develop the new work, and from live field recordings of George Stephenson's ‘Twizell’ locomotive to capture the breath, hiss, and heartbeat of steam in motion, the rhythmic undulation of a moving engine, and the textures and timbres of the steam age:- purring pistons, sighing valves, and the mechanical sounds of locomotion.

Beyond the industrial, the composition explores the wider legacy of the railway: its role in the Industrial Revolution and its environmental impact. Musical influences evident in the work include folk, jazz and blues. The piece will chime with those holding an interest in the local history of Linlithgow Station, one of the oldest in Scotland.

The work is funded and supported by Creative Scotland and Making Music the driving 44 | THE DELL

force behind the Adopt-a-Creator scheme, supported by the PRS foundation and includes mentorship from Scottish composer, Ailie Robertson. Support from LNER and the Rail 200 project will also enable us to offer free entry to our audience members.

This creative process is an exciting new experience for the string orchestra, which has become known in recent years for its varied programmes and collaboration with other local Linlithgow groups including the Reed Band, the Ladies Choir and St Michael’s Church Choir. Bill Jones, who also directs the music at St Michael’s, is keen to develop community projects and this year’s opportunity is one to savour.

“What makes this project particularly special is that it falls in the orchestra’s 10th year since it began in 2016. We have a number of brilliant events planned for 2026 and we are particularly proud to support music in the Linlithgow community, to encourage young string players and develop further links with other choirs and ensembles.”

Linlithgow String Orchestra’s Autumn Concert featuring the World Premiere performance of "Engine Shed” by Deborah Shaw will take place on Sunday, 9th November at 7pm in St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow EH49 7AL. Bill Jones, Music Director - Linlithgow String Orchestra Deborah Shaw - www.auroraengine.com

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

COLINTON BROWNIES Spaces available to join now (Monday evenings). At Girl Guiding’s Colinton Brownie units we welcome all girls to explore their creative side, get out and about into the great outdoors and start to learn to look after themselves, others and our world.

Girls aged 7-10 years have fun, learning and adventure. For info about joining now contact: colintonbrownieslist@gmail.com 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 Deric Oliver on 07803 508401 or dericandjoan@btinternet.com 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 46 | THE DELL

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.

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 www.colinton-parish.com/ colinton-literary-society.html 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 SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 6. Bonnie, 8. Permit, 9. Gnaw, 10. Selected, 11. Tearing, 13. Admit, 15. Argue, 17. Chained, 20. Civilian, 21. Tidy, 23. Assume, 24. Excess.

DOWN: 1. Noon, 2. Answer, 3. Apple, 4. Traced, 5. Likewise, 7. Easing, 12. Earliest, 14. Change, 16. Unique, 18. Intact, 19. Hides, 22. Dash.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PUZZLES ON P27/40

(EASY)

OXGANGS NEIGHBOUR CENTRE CAFÉ - 10.00am to 1.00pm.

Bacon rolls, baked potatoes, toasties,specials, teas, coffees and cake. Sit in or takeaway.

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(HARD)

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