Gala Life July 2022 by Pitlochry Life

Gala Life

A local magazine with directory of trades and businesses - 12,000 copies delivered FREE to every home and business in Galashiels, Tweedbank, Melrose, Clovenfords, Darnick, Dingleton, Newstead and Gattonside.

July 2022

CONTENTS

26, 46 Sudoku

Recipe

Recipe This month we are outside with recipe for BBQ Seafood Burgers.

Summer Holiday Books Lynsey has chosen some great reads to take on holiday.

Willie's Wonky Computer Willie looks at the advantages of using a Virtual Private Network.

Fitness With Alan Clinch This month Alan looks at all the benefits of practising Yoga.

Your Community All the news from our MPs, Councillors, Clubs, Groups and Churches.

Advertising Debbie - 07545299491 Photography & Design Lynsey - 07305577953 Editor Willie - 07906375953

History of Tea - Part 2

www.facebook.com/mygalalife Gala Life 57 Glen Crescent, Peebles EH45 9BS info@galalife.co.uk

www.galalife.co.uk

The Gala Garden 2 Gala Life

Deadline for August

Sudoku Our Sudoku is also online this month, play every day and keep your brain active!

The History of Tea - Part 2 Lynsey continues the history of our favourite drink, with part 2 of this popular editorial.

The Gala Garden Sheila gives some insight and great ideas for planting in the shade.

WELCOME

Welcome to the July edition of Gala Life. We have just passed the longest day and how wonderful to have these long hazy summer evenings. It makes me think of cricket, cocktails and a good book. Sorry if you’re not a cricket fan!

Computer Page

Holiday Books

In this edition we are all set to enjoy the season with great places to eat, visit and explore. Try the recipe - a seafood burger. Makes a change from beef and you can spice it up with your favourite dressings. Sheila looks at garden planting for shade to gain the most from your garden all year round, whilst Alan considers the benefits of yoga. Lynsey has been busy reading to produce a guide for your summer perusal and continues with Part 2 of her History of Tea editorial. Willie in his computer column looks at VPN’s. It’s something I was always wondering about and with more security worries now might be a good time to try it. With the summer season in full swing we have a fantastic array of events lined up to keep you busy. This week we have the Braw Lads Gathering, followed by The Fairytale Trail at Floors Castle, The Tapestry Centre has the Grayson Perry exhibition in addition to the famous tapestry. If history is your thing go check out the National Mining Museum - a great day out. So much to see and do this month in the school holidays even if you are too old for school! Stay safe and see you in August

is the 13th July

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Get Out... with Gala Life! Please check with individual groups for the latest information.

Borders Recovery Group - Meet Fridays 5-7pm @ Focus Centre. This group is run for and by people with lived experience of recovery. "The opposite of addiction is not sobriety; it's connection" Johann Hari. This group is a safe and welcoming space for anyone who is 16+ to meet for peer support, fun activities and training. For more info contact info@youthwellbeingcoaching.com or 07971757514. Gala Waterways Group - The Group usually meets at 10.00am until noon on the first Saturday of each month and typically prunes trees, clears undergrowth and removes rubbish along the Gala Water and Mill Lade in Galashiels. For more information contact galawaterways@gmail.com or 07763 850087. www.facebook.com/galawg/ Gala Policies Group - The group holds a litter pick round Gala Policies on the last Saturday of the month from 10 - 12pm. Meet up at entrance to the Policies near Gala swimming pool. Litter pickers and bags provided. Please bring own gloves if possible. We are COVID compliant. Langlee Community Choir - Mondays at 7.00pm in Langlee Community Centre, Galashiels. The choir always welcomes new singers of any age or ability. If you are a shy singer, the choir will bring out your confidence. No pressure, no auditions, just good fun. Keep watching out in Gala Life or listen to local radio for upcoming performances. To book the choir or for any other information, please visit www.langleecommunitychoir.org.uk/contactus.html Roxburgh Singers: Concert June 11th 2022, 7.30pm at Melrose Parish Church. Mozart's Requiem, Pergolesi's Magnificat, conducted by Marion Dodd and orchestra led by Cath Cormie. Guest soloists. Tickets £10 or more (for DEC Ukraine) at the door, also from Maid by Marion, Melrose and Hector INNES, The Square, Kelso. One Acchord Ladies A Cappella Chorus - Ladies, if you want to sing, please come and meet us at Bowden Village Hall, Main Street, Bowden, TD6 0SS. Learn to sing in 4 Part Harmony, no auditions needed. We welcome everyone who wants to join us. Rehearsal times: 3 Wednesdays 7:30-9:30pm and 1 Saturday 2-5pm a month. Phone 07710699619 or visit our website www.oneacchord.co.uk The Eildon Singers - Eildon Singers Spring Concert. Sunday 8th May in Melrose Parish Church 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from members or at the door. We are a mixed voice choir of some 40 members from all over the central Borders, and welcome new singers (no auditions). Rehearsals are on Wednesdays in the Corn Exchange, Market Square, Melrose. We sing mainly classical works, with some lighter pieces. If you would like more information please ring our secretary, Margery Inglis, on 01750 21085. Just Singing - We meet on the fourth Sunday of the month at 3 - 5pm in the Trinity Centre, High Cross Avenue, Melrose, to sing songs of peace and justice. We welcome new singers and those who think they can’t sing. There is no need to read music as all songs are taught by ear. Contact kathmcdonald20@gmail.com Syrinx Flutes - meet one Monday evening (7pm to 9pm) a month from August to May in the Corn Exchange at Melrose with leader Lis Dooner (07774 813693) lisdooner@btinternet.com Or try elizabethraitt@icloud.com in the first instance. All abilities from approx Grade 3. Why not dust off your underused flute and join our friendly group? It’s such fun playing with others.

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Get Out... with Gala Life!

The Inner Wheel Club - The Club meets every 3rd Tuesday of the month and next meeting is 21st June at 7pm in Cafe Recharge in Island St. New members are always welcome and can contact Sheila on 07708732320 for further information. Pipe Band - The Galashiels Ex-Service Pipe Band, Wednesday nights, 7pm at The Royal British Legion Club, Park Street, Galashiels. Experienced players and beginners most welcome to join. Please contact the secretary, Scott Mitchell on galafirefox@gmail.com The Galashiels Town Band - Mondays - Gala Beginners Band 5.00 - 5.45pm, Tuesdays - Gala Youth Band 6.00 - 7.00pm, Gala Senior Town Band 7.00 - 8.45pm. These take place at the Galashiels Town Band Hall, 6a Roxburgh Street, Galashiels. Open to experienced, inexperienced and beginners of all ages. Instruments can be supplied, so go give it a try. For more information please contact info@galatownband.org.uk or by calling Nichola Broatch on 07856266230.

Gala Windbags - We are a charitable group affiliated to chest heart and stroke Scotland with meetings every Thursday 1.30 to 3.30pm in Lucy Sanderson Hall Galashiels. Contact details are Hazel Crombie phone 01896 753788. Al-Anon Family Groups - Every Wednesday at 7.30pm, St Peter's Church, Parsonage Road, Galashiels. Many people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close to them. Find understanding, help and support in Al-Anon Family Groups. For further information call 07709948205 or visit www.al-anonuk.org.uk for meetings in Selkirk and Hawick. Circle Dancing - Delighted to be restarting and inviting you to join our small, friendly, welcoming group. A mix of traditional and new dances and music from around the world. No previous experience required, no partner needed. Every Tuesday 2 - 4pm at The Yoga Mill, Market St, Galashiels TD1 3AF. Contact Kate for further information 07523 466657. Scottish Country Dancing - Old & St Paul's Church Hall Tuesdays 7-9pm. All welcome. Contacts 01896822354 or 01578730591. Gala Chess Club - meeting every Tuesday evening at the Focus Centre, Galashiels between 7.00pm and 9.00pm. All levels welcome. Facebook - gala chess club. Scottish Borders Versus Arthritis Support Group - Meets online first Saturday of each month from 11am until 12.30pm. With a variety of interesting speakers and coffee and catch-up sessions, anyone who is living with arthritis or has an interest is very welcome. For more information, please, email info@scottishbordersversusarthritis.org Our upcoming speakers are: 4th June: Happiness and Laughter Therapy with Melanie McLean of The Wellbeing Revolution. ‘Heart for Art’ - Trinity Church Hall, High St, Galashiels every Wednesday afternoon, 1.30pm to 3.30pm. This is a Church of Scotland project which seeks to bring creativity and connection to those living with dementia in Scotland. Come along to our free art classes (with a carer if you wish) where staff of experienced professional artists and volunteers have enhanced dementia training. For more information look on facebook @CrossReachHeartForArt or email: heartfor.art@crossreach.org.uk Langlee Badminton Club - Thursdays 5.15pm-7pm in the Queen's Centre, Galashiels. £2 per session. Under-16s must be accompanied by parent/guardian. A friendly group who get together once a week to play badminton, all year round. We normally play at the Langlee Community Centre, but are currently playing at the Queen's Centre due to the former facility still being used as a Covid Testing Centre.

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Eildon Ramblers - If you enjoy walking you’ll enjoy walking with the Eildon Ramblers. We meet weekly on either a Saturday or a Sunday at 10.00am at various locations in the Borders. To see details of upcoming walks visit www.eildonramblers.org.uk or for general information please email eildon.ramblers@gmail.com or phone 07877 159126. Our motto is friendship, fitness, fun and fresh air. Melrose Historical and Archaeological Association - Tuesday 5th July 2022 - Old Melrose Walk. Starting from the Old Melrose Tearoom, off the A68, at 1:30pm. A guided walk through 2000 years of history, including the site of the monastery where St.Cuthbert began his religious life. Adults £2, children free. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times. Ormiston Bridge Club - The club meets each Monday at 6.30pm in Gala Rugby Club from September to April. New members are very welcome. If your bridge is a bit rusty or you are unfamiliar with club play, we can provide some refresher sessions. For more information email ormistonbridgeclub52@gmail.com or visit the Ormiston club website. Hope to see you in September! The Great Tapestry of Scotland Afternoon Tea - Available on the last Sunday of the month. Treat yourself or someone you care for with The Great Tapestry of Scotland’s Afternoon Tea in Stitchers Café. Enjoy a range of specialty teas, a selection of sandwiches, savoury bites and sweet treats with a Tapestry mocktail. Booking required, please see www.greattapestryofscotland.com or call 01896 809353.

Eddi Reader 40 Years LIVE Tour GALASHIELS VOLUNTEER HALL 22 SEPT 7.30pm liveborders.org.uk

SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS 8 Gala Life

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BBQ Seafood Burger Ingredients 2 Shallots finely chopped 2 Cloves of Garlic finely chopped 1 fresh Green Chilli de-seeded Olive Oil 200 g Cod Fillet, skinned and de boned 100 g Crabmeat both white and brown meat, fresh is best, but tinned will do 100 g raw King Prawns 4 Burger Buns Lettuce Leaves or Spinach Leaves Pickled Onions, Pickled Gherkins your favourite Mayo Wasabi paste, or you can use Horseradish with Lemon Zest 1 small handful of rocket or other peppery leaf

Method 1.

Finley chop the shallots and garlic. De-seed and finely chop the chilli. 2. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over a mediumlow heat, add the shallots, garlic and chilli. Cook for 3 minutes, until softened but not coloured. Set aside to cool. 3. Roughly chop and place the cod into a blender, then pulse for 20 to 30 seconds; it should still have some texture. 4. Scoop it into a bowl, add the crabmeat and stir to combine. 5. Roughly chop the prawns, add to the shallot mixture along with the cod/crab. Season and mix well. 6. Divide the mixture into four and use your hands to mould into patties. Put them on a plate in the fridge for 45 mins. 7. Get your barbecue going to a high heat. (You can shallow fry the patties or bake in the oven instead.) 8. Finely chop the rocket and mix with the wasabi and mayo. Set aside in the fridge until needed. 9. Brush the seafood patties with a little oil and place them on the barbecue for 3 minutes on each side 10. Halve and quickly toast the buns for until bar–marked. 11. To assemble, place a couple of lettuce or spinach leaves on the bottom half of each burger bun with some pickled onions, then top with the patties, a generous dollop of the

mayo mix and top with the bun.

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HOLIDAY BOOK TIME

Whether you are taking off on holiday, or just lounging in the back garden, soaking up some sun, there's nothing better to keep you company than a good book. Here's what's top of my reading list this summer. Hardback, Softback or Kindle - lose yourself...

Terry Miles - Rabbits Rabbits is a secret, dangerous and sometimes fatal underground game. The rewards for winning are unclear, but there are rumours of money, CIA recruitment or even immortality. Or it might unlock the universe’s greatest secrets. But everyone knows that the deeper you get, the more deadly the game becomes – and the body count is rising. Since the game first started, ten iterations have taken place... and the eleventh round is about to begin. K can’t get enough of the game and has been trying to find a way in for years. Then Alan Scarpio, reclusive billionaire and alleged Rabbits winner, shows up out of nowhere. And he charges K with a desperate mission. Something has gone badly wrong with the game and K needs to fix it – before Eleven starts – or the world will pay the price. Five days later, Scarpio is declared missing. Two weeks after that Eleven begins, so K blows the deadline. And suddenly, the fate of the entire universe is at stake. Rabbits by Terry Miles is an electrifying, compulsive read based on the hit podcast from the Public Radio Alliance – perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Black Mirror.

John Sanford- The Investigator By age twenty-four, Letty Davenport has seen more action and uncovered more secrets than many law enforcement professionals. Now a recent Stanford graduate with a masters in economics, she’s restless and bored in a desk job for U.S. Senator Colles. Letty’s ready to quit, but her skills have impressed Colles, and he offers her a feet-on-theground investigative work, in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security. Several oil companies in Texas have reported thefts of crude oil, Colles tells her. He isn’t so much concerned with the oil as he is with the money: who is selling the oil, and what are they doing with the profits? Rumour has it that a fairly ugly militia group might be involved. Colles wants to know if the money is going to them, and if so, what they’re planning. Letty is partnered with a DHS investigator, John Kaiser, and they head to Texas. When the case quicky turns deadly, they know they’re on the track of something bigger. The militia group has set in motion an explosive plan . . . and the clock is ticking down.

Delia Owens - Where The Crawdads Sing For years, rumours of the ‘Marsh Girl’ have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say. Sensitive and intelligent, she has survived for years alone in the marsh that she calls home, finding friends in the gulls and lessons in the sand. Then the time comes when she yearns to be touched and loved. When two young men from town become intrigued by her wild beauty, Kya opens herself to a new life - until the unthinkable happens. ‘[It] will reach a huge audience though the writer’s old-fashioned talents for compelling character, plotting and landscape description’ The Guardian ‘For sheer escapism pick up Where The Crawdads Sing . . . there is writing that takes your breath away’ The Times 14 Gala Life

Matt Haig - The Midnight Library From the author of How to Stop Time and The Humans comes this poignant, unique novel about regret, hope and forgiveness and a library that houses second chances. Between life and death there is a library. When Nora Seed finds herself in the Midnight Library, she has a chance to make things right. Up until now, her life has been full of misery and regret. She feels she has let everyone down, including herself. But things are about to change. The books in the Midnight Library enable Nora to live as if she had done things differently. With the help of an old friend, she can now undo every one of her regrets as she tries to work out her perfect life. But things aren’t always what she imagined they’d be, and soon her choices place the library and herself in extreme danger. Before time runs out, she must answer the ultimate question: what is the best way to live?

Lisa Jewell - The Family Upstairs A textbook example of meticulously crafted plotting and incremental dread, The Family Upstairs unspools its labyrinthine story of mystery and intrigue in set-piece reveals of the highest calibre. In a large house in London’s fashionable Chelsea, a baby is awake in her cot. Well-fed and cared for, she is happily waiting for someone to pick her up. In the kitchen lie three decomposing corpses. Close to them is a hastily scrawled note. They’ve been dead for several days. Who has been looking after the baby? And where did they go? Two entangled families. A house with the darkest of secrets. A compulsive new thriller from Lisa Jewell. Creepy, intricate and utterly immersive: an excellent holiday read. Guardian

Amy Jeffs - Storyland: A New Mythology of Britain Soaked in mist and old magic, Storyland is a new illustrated mythology of Britain, set in its wildest landscapes. It begins between the Creation and Noah’s Flood, follows the footsteps of the earliest generation of giants from an age when the children of Cain and the progeny of fallen angels walked the earth, to the founding of Britain, England, Wales and Scotland, the birth of Christ, the wars between Britons, Saxons and Vikings, and closes with the arrival of the Normans. These are re-tellings of medieval tales of legend, landscape and the yearning to belong, inhabited with characters now half-remembered: Brutus, Albina, Scota, Arthur and Bladud among them. Told with narrative flair, embellished in stunning artworks and glossed with a rich and erudite commentary. We visit beautiful, sacred places that include prehistoric monuments like Stonehenge and Wayland’s Smithy, spanning the length of Britain from the archipelago of Orkney to as far south as Cornwall; mountains and lakes such as Snowdon and Loch Etive and rivers including the Ness, the Soar and the story-silted Thames in a vivid, beautiful tale of our land steeped in myth. It Illuminates a collective memory that still informs the identity and political ambition of these places. In Storyland, Jeffs reimagines these myths of homeland, exile and migration, kinship, loyalty, betrayal, love and loss in a landscape brimming with wonder. ‘Storyland is a joyous real celebrating the power of collective myths and the landscapes which inspired them’ - All About History Gala Life 15

Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory Virtual Private Network (VPN) I just read an article about how folk with friends or family living in Russia are asked to contact them by email, include a link to a VPN and encourage its use to overcome restrictions and blocks imposed by Putin’s government on search engines and news sites around the world. Hopefully they will then learn the truth about the conflict in Ukraine, the propaganda they are being fed and in turn share their findings with fellow countrymen. A good plan, but what is a VPN and do I need one? In the mid 1990s, Microsoft established their own private network to allow secure connection to their servers by employees located around the globe. Within a few years other large companies followed suit, and whilst the technology has evolved, the principle has remained the same. A VPN is a service that allows you to stay private online, by establishing a secure, encrypted connection between your computer/phone and the internet. Particularly useful if you travel and rely on risky public Wi-Fi, like trains, hotels airports and cafés. They work on the operating system level, so they reroute all your traffic through their servers. That means all of your online traffic, along with your physical location, stays hidden while you surf the web. When you access a site through a VPN server, the source of your connection is shown as one of the many VPN routers - called a proxy server - not your own. This combination of the VPN server and the encryption blocks your Internet Service Provider, government, hackers, cybercriminals and anyone else who wants to track you as you surf around the web.

you were at home. Or why not choose a USA IP address and catch the latest releases before we get them here. You can pick and choose a different VPN server as and when you want from the VPN service you sign up for, and that means you can browse the internet as if you were in the US, Germany, Canada, Japan, or virtually any country, if the VPN service has servers there. You will no longer get the ‘This page is not available in your location’ message. Access blocked websites: Certain institutions - schools, libraries, companies - restrict access to specific web pages such as social media and online gaming (and your bookie), but the encrypted connection provided by your VPN will take you there with no problem. Avoid censorship: Not just Russia, but China and several Middle Eastern countries go to extremes to control information. Your browsing history remains completely hidden from them, regardless of where you are. Beat price discrimination: Did you know that some companies can recognise not just more affluent countries, but towns, cities and areas that have a higher cost of living and higher incomes? Depending on your location, they can programme their sites to display a higher cost of goods to users based in those areas (airline tickets used to be favourite). The privacy and anonymity of a VPN keeps you free of this kind of targeting. Any device that connects to the internet will benefit from the privacy VPNs provide. Most offer their services on multiple platforms - PC, Mac, Android, and iOS - with one account. If you have a smart TV running Android TV, your VPN should work there as well.

So, if you want to stay anonymous, secure, In addition to improved security, there are a few bypass content blocks, avoid advertisers tracking other benefits: your location and hackers snooping on you via public Wi-Fi, give it a go. Most VPN companies Stream from anywhere: If you’re abroad and will give you a free trial. For me, I go with the you log in to Netflix for example, you will find three ’T’s - Tried, Tested and Trusted. My VPN some programmes are not available in that is with Avast and costs £5 per month on a 12 region. But if you then choose a UK-based IP month plan. Easy. address, all your favourites are there, just as if Willie 16 Gala Life

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FITNESS with Alan Clinch

Yoga – What’s it all about ? The word yoga has a number of translations, but generally they come back to variations on the word ‘union’. Yoga isn’t just about stretching, breathing, and assuming poses: it’s a total philosophy about trying to unite mind, body, and spirit. The overarching goal is to build strength and stamina, to improve flexibility, coordination and balance, and to relax the body.

and movement. If you suffer from back pain though, yoga may aggravate the problem without proper guidance. The mild stretching involved in yoga poses can help strengthen joints which in turn helps in preventing and reducing the effects of arthritis, joint stiffness and limited range of motion, which in turn reduces injury risk.

Quite frequently you will see articles in the press about media personalities who have adopted one or other of the different types: Ashtanga, Bhakti, Bikram, Hatha, and Tantra are just a few. Just as there are many variations of any activity, yoga has developed in different ways as individual teachers have introduced their own style which has been then named after them.

Breathing techniques can help lower blood pressure and aid relaxation, and the improved blood flow from exercise can improve the efficiency of the immune system. Yoga can also be useful in reducing the effects of other medical conditions such digestive problems, spondylitis (inflammation in the spine), and asthma. While this may be true, the emphasis on the mind/body connection suggests that if the muscles are relaxed by stretching, the mind will follow, which helps stress/anxiety and better sleep patterns.

Since yoga has been with us for a long time, it has been the subject of much research, which has shown that yoga has a beneficial effect on many systems of the body. A 2020 analysis of available research suggested significant improvements to stress management, mental and emotional health, the promotion of healthy eating and lifestyle, sleep, and balance. Another study looked specifically at posture – positive benefits here were reductions in spinal curvature, increased ability to walk efficiently, and increased shoulder flexibility. An older study on bone density in older adults used a 10 minute routine of basic poses. After two years, 85% of the group had gained bone density in the spine and hip. To put this in perspective, older adults tend to lose bone density in these areas. If you have seen pictures of yogic postures you’ll see that they can help to strengthen the back and abdominal muscles. Balance postures require significant muscle control in order to prevent falling over, which again aids posture 18 Gala Life

Like many forms of exercise, there are multiple claims made for the benefits of yoga, some proven, some anecdotal. If you want to try an activity like this it’s always best to start with a qualified teacher, and remember: if you haven’t exercised for a while, or have any medical conditions which might cause problems, check with your GP to ensure it’s safe to increase your activity levels. Remember, pain is a sign that something is wrong… Want to know more ? Try www.yogabasics.com/practice/yoga-forbeginners/ www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heartmatters-magazine/activity/yoga www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio/ yoga-with-lj/ alan@galalife.co.uk

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John Lamont MP Surgery Tour I am delighted to say that my annual surgery tour is now back after a two year, Covid-19 imposed, absence. This is when I visit almost every town and village in my constituency here in the Borders– more than 80 stops in total. This is a really important part of my job as an MP as I get to speak to hundreds of local people, from right across the Borders. People from all walks of life come to my surgeries. Whether it be about a local or national issue, or if they need help with a particular issue like getting their passport renewed, I am happy to do my best to assist. Despite the wide variety of ways that are available to contact me, I am always pleasantly surprised by the number of people who prefer a face to face chat. Due to the murder of my colleague, Sir David Amess MP, I have been advised by the police that my surgeries can no longer be drop in and must be run on an appointment system. Therefore, if you would like to book in to my summer surgery tour then please contact me using the details below. I will be at the following locations on Friday 15th July Macfie Hall, Heriot Fountainhall Village Hall Stow Town Hall Caddonfoot Hall, Clovenfords Galashiels Focus Centre Tweedbank Community Centre Darnick Village Hall Melrose Corn Exchange Gattonside Village Hall Contact by phone: 01450 375948, email: john.lamont.mp@parliament.uk

Jenny Linehan Councillor - Melrose & Leaderdale, Conservative Whether you are a Royalist or not, it has been a fantastic weekend of events supporting the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. From Beacon lighting to street Parties it has been a great opportunity for communities to come together for a positive reason. We had a street party in Melrose and it was a fantastic opportunity to meet some of the neighbours I haven’t met yet. Already there have been requests for another one. At a time when technology has made it easier for us to communicate there are still many who feel increasingly isolated and it is events like this jubilee party and indeed our town festivals that bring us together. Safe out safe in.

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Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative Firstly, I want to thank everyone who voted for me at the election in May. I truly appreciate your faith in me and will continue working as hard as possible for the ward. I was also recently placed into the role of leader of Scottish Borders Council. I am honoured to take on this position and will give all the time and energy required to ensure that Scottish Borders Council becomes nationally recognised as one of the best councils in the country. It is not something I can do alone, so I am clear in my thinking when I say that all 34 members of the council should have a voice and play a part in the process. Even though we are in a political realm, our challenges will require collaboration and a united front. I am also very keen to change how the council engages with the communities it serves. We need to listen more to the public and do our best to work together to ensure we have thriving and happy communities. So, I will be embarking on a summer tour around the Scottish Borders with the Chief Executive, ward members and senior councillor officers. It will grant an opportunity to meet people throughout the region and help shape policy as we move forward. I am also delighted that the Braw Lads Gathering is back after a few years. I wish Braw Lad John Turnbull, Braw Lass Abbie Hood, and all the supporting principals the best of wishes as they represent the town and create memories that will last a lifetime. As always, if you need any assistance on any issues. Please feel free to contact me at the details below. Email - Euan.jardine@scotborders.gov.uk Telephone – 07811977720 Facebook – @VoteEuanJardine Twitter - @VoteJardine

Citizens Advice Bureau Scam Awareness: With many people facing increased financial pressures, there is a high chance that scammers will take advantage of this. For example, we’ve already seen instances of scammers pretending to be energy companies offering “too good to be true” deals and others sending out phishing emails offering fake government rebates. Anyone can fall victim to a scam. People of all ages and backgrounds get scammed. It’s important to be on your guard - if you’re not sure about something, take your time and get advice. If you think someone might be trying to scam you, it’s important to act straight away. You can check recent scams on Action Fraud’s website, and sign up for email alerts to find out about scams in your area at www.actionfraud.police.uk/news Report the scammer to Advice Direct Scotland's consumer service. They will give you advice on what to do next /report the scam to Trading Standards - they might investigate to see if the business has acted illegally or unfairly. Freephone: 0808 164 6000 Website: www.consumeradvice.scot Check out further information on our Public Information Site www.citizensadvice.org.uk/scotland/consumer/scams/check-if-something-might-be-a-scam/ Central Borders Citizens Advice Bureau 111 High Street, Galashiels RD1 1RZ. Call 01896 753889, e-mail: enquiries@centralborders.cab.casonline.org.uk Continued on page 24

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Craig Hoy MSP Last May I was elected to represent you as an MSP for South Scotland. Since my election, I have been very active in and around Galashiels and across the Borders. Over this period we have seen the phased removal of covid restrictions and a return to some form of ‘normality’. But we have still to see the return of a full, regular service on the X95 bus between Galashiels and Edinburgh. And many ScotRail services between Tweedbank and Edinburgh were recently suspended, causing difficulty on a service which already had capacity issues. These are issues which I am keen to engage our communities on. I have recently reached out to ScotRail, the Scottish Transport Minister, Borders Buses and the Scotland Office to secure support for better local transport services. As your local MSP, I want to ensure I represent you: making sure I stand up for local services, such as the NHS and roads, and support the High Street. I am very keen to engage and happy to help with any issues or concerns you may have, so please do feel free to get in touch with me by email at craig.hoy.msp@parliament.scot or by post at Craig Hoy, Scottish Parliament Building, Edinburgh, EH99 1SP.

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Tel: 01573 224241 Gala Life 23

Free Homeopathy Clinic Opens In The Scottish Borders Homeopathy UK has opened a new charitable clinic in Galashiels – Scottish Borders Homeopathy - providing free homeopathic care to anyone who needs it. Homeopathy is a natural form of complementary medicine which can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. Scottish Borders Homeopathy is run by qualified homeopath Luci Joan Lawless RSHom. Luci studied for four years at the Edinburgh College of Homeopathy and has been a licensed practitioner since 1998. After further study at the North West College of Homeopathy, she achieved accreditation with the Society of Homeopaths and continues her practitioner development by attending masterclasses at The National Centre for Integrative Medicine in specialized areas such as children’s behavioural disorders, men’s health, nutrition and eczema. Luci says: “I first discovered homeopathy in my teens when I was looking for a more holistic form of medicine. Homeopathy treats the whole person, rather than a set of symptoms and I’m looking forward to helping the people of Galashiels to find freedom through health.” Consultations and first prescriptions at Scottish Borders Homeopathy are free of charge. Appointments are available from 1-4pm on the last Friday and the second Tuesday of every month at Complete Health Borders, 36 Gala Park, Galashiels, TD1 1EU. To make a booking, visit www.homeopathy-uk.org or call 0203 640 5903. Scottish Borders Homeopathy - which is funded by charity Homeopathy UK - is part of a network of nine charitable clinics across the UK, including a further three in Scotland. The other clinics are located in Edinburgh, Stranraer, Coatbridge, Winchester, Liverpool, Kent, Norwich and there is also a new Virtual Clinic which launched in May 2022.

Melrose Historical & Archaeological Association Old Melrose Walk. Tuesday 5th July 2022 Starting from the Old Melrose Tearoom, off the A68, at 1:30pm. A guided walk through 2000 years of history. Including the site of the monastery where St. Cuthbert began his religious life. Adults £2, children free. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times.

Galashiels Church of Scotland Old Parish & St Paul’s Church – Scott Crescent TD1 3JU St John’s Church – Hawthorn Road, Langlee TD1 2JZ Trinity Church – High St TD1 1SE We are a united congregation who want to be God glorifying and Christ exalting in our worship. The Word of God is faithfully preached and therefore we would like to invite everyone to come and listen to God speaking to us through His Word. Sunday services are in these church buildings. 3rd July 10th July 24 Gala Life

11am Old Parish & St Paul’s 6.30pm St John’s 11am Trinity 6.30pm St John’s

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This Month’s Easy Sudoku How to play............

5 7 8

5 6

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8 2

4 3

4 1

5 3

6 9

3 9

Fill the grid so that every row, column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. That’s all there is to it! Use reasoning and logic to solve the puzzle - there’s no maths or adding up. Look carefully for what numbers can go where and with a little practice it will get easier!

New Consultant - New Venue MONDAY Galashiels St Pauls Church, Scott Crescent 9am, 10.30am, 3.30pm and 5.30pm

SATURDAY Melrose Melrose Parish Church - 8am

Call/text Tricia 07828 847255 Or just pop in

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17th July 24th July 31st July

11am Old Parish & St Paul’s 6.30pm St John’s 11am Trinity – Braw Lads Kirking Service 6.30pm St John’s 11am Old Parish & St Paul’s 6.30pm St John’s

Prayer Meeting – Wednesdays at 7pm in St John’s. Girls Brigade will be meeting for outdoor summer fun on 4 Monday evenings during the school holidays. Dates and details available from Susan 1stgalagb@gmail.com For further information Minister: Rev Graeme Glover e-mail: GGlover@churchofscotland.org.uk phone: 01896 209455. website: www.galashielschurchofscotland.org.uk

Galashiels Baptist Church A word from our pastor… Celebration time, come on! This past month has been one full of celebration for us as a church. On Sunday 5th June we celebrated the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee (and Pentecost) with a wonderful time of food, fun and a short message about the Queen’s remarkable service and faith. The following Sunday we had a baptism service, celebrating the transforming power of Jesus in the lives of people in our congregation who have committed to following him as their Lord and Saviour. Below, we have another exciting day of celebration to share with you… Summer Youth Event: Fri 1st July, 1-8pm Calling all P7-S6s! Excited for the summer holidays? Then let’s celebrate the first day of summer with a day full of games and activities, exploring meaning and enjoying free food! Come along to Gala Summer Break Out, a free youth event at the Focus Community Centre on Friday 1st July. The day will begin at 1pm and will include a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities, great food and time for you to be able to explore some of your big questions about life. This free event, run by Young Life International Scotland, is sponsored by the Galashiels Fellowship of Churches. Contact euanscott95@gmail.com for information and to register. All P7 – S6 leavers welcome!

Bowden & Melrose Parish Church Minister Rev. Rosemary Frew. 01896 822217 email RFrew@churchofscotland.org.uk Office: 01896 823339 email bowden.melrosepc@btinternet.com Sunday Worship We meet for worship at 9.30am in Bowden Kirk and at 11.00am in Melrose Church. The Melrose service is livestreamed, and you can join us on our church website or Facebook page or watch the recording thereafter www.bowdenandmelrosechurch.org A worship podcast is posted in Facebook, Instagram and our website on Saturday evenings. You can listen on 01896 808551.

Continued on page 34

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Roman Catholic Parish of Our Lady & St Andrew Parish Priest: Father Andrew Kingham Address: Catholic Presbytery, Stirling Street, Galashiels TD1 1BY. Telephone: (01896) 752328 Email: ParishPriest@GalaCatholic.org Website: www.GalaCatholic.org Facebook: @borderscatholic Churches: Our Lady & St Andrew, Stirling Street, Galashiels TD1 1BY St Cuthbert’s, High Cross Avenue, Melrose, TD6 9SQ Our Lady & St Joseph, High Street, Selkirk TD7 4JX

Caddonfoot Parish Church Services continued throughout the early summer in Caddonfoot Parish Church and the congregation welcomed the sunnier weather. Services were again conducted by our minister, the Rev Victoria Linford, also minister of St Mary of Wedale, Stow and Heriot, supported by Session Clerk, Mrs Anne Grieve, our Worship Leader, and Mrs Catriona Bird, with services prepared by the Rev Linford. The minster herself was absent for a time with Covid, but recovered to attend the General Assembly, where a number of important decisions were made by the members. The Bible readings are taken by members of the congregation with music by Andy Bird (organ and piano), and Mrs Grieve and Mrs Bird (flute). However, the church cancelled its planned Coffee and Crafts day due on October 29 due to the pandemic while the village Summer Fair was due to restart with the easing of restrictions. The Memorial Garden, which had been closed due to damage following storms, and offers a quiet walk of reflection, has re-opened after final checks had been carried. The annual Stated Annual Meeting (SAM) was cancelled as it was not possible to hold it before June 20. Instead, a Congregational meeting will be held. Mrs Grieve was approved by the Kirk Session as a new Trust for Caddonfoot Hall and Mrs Bird will continue as Presbytery elder. A total of five members were invited to attend the Presbytery conference at Cardrona on Saturday, October 1. The Presbytery Plan was discussed by the Kirk Session. The next meeting of the Kirk Session will be held on Thursday, June 30, at 7 p.m. in the church. Services continue at 9.45 a.m. each Sunday

St Peter’s Episcopal Church, Galashiels 10.30am services every Sunday followed by tea/coffee and biscuits. 6.00pm Healing service every 2nd Sunday of the month. Do come along and join us, especially if you are new to the area. Vestry secretary John Marsden 07538 094986 john@mustardseedsshared.org contact John to book the hall for regular groups or social gatherings.

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t’s been our nations favourite hot beverage since the late 17th Century. It is considered the most popular beverage globally after water (if you consider water a beverage that is!) Tea has been a significant drink in our culture that welcomes us in as guests, it comforts us in times of need, it wakes us up, or helps us take time to pause and it even provides a luxury experience fit for a Queen. Whether you have it loose, a tea bag, with milk or sugar, green or black I’m going to tell you in a series of editorials why I feel this drink is more than just a cup of tea…

Why I t’ s Not Just Te a…

A very short History part 2 The Tea Wars Unfortunately there is a dark side to the trading of tea. The British discovered that China traded differently to the other countries, often showing little interest in Western trade items. Only interested in having silver in trade of tea, spices, silks and porcelain. Trading in China was very restrictive as was travel, free time socialising with the Chinese. When the British created a trading post in Canton the British government placed huge taxes on tea, resulting in smuggling and illicit trades. Frustrations were continuous with the Chinese trading, and the desire to maintain the huge profits from tea, the British sought elsewhere to obtain tea, the logical choice - India. The British had already a trading post in India since 1619, and found doing business much easier in a political 36 Gala Life

sense and a geographical sense.

For the British, India’s landmass, and climate for opium poppy growing was increasingly attractive. An attraction that became much greater when the American Revolutionary War meant precious trading metals like silver went into decline. The British pushed for more control over India, developing their own army, obtaining a monopoly for growing opium poppies and using this control to force Indian farmers to grow even more poppies. Acres of land were used to grow poppies instead of much needed food or cotton thus leading to widespread famine and ruining Indias economy. Opium was already introduced to China by the Arabs, and the Qing Dynasty government placed legislation to only use opium for medicinal purposes. Law enforcement was minimal, and the use for opium particularly for heroin increased as well as the imports from the British East India Company. This meant that addiction in the population increased, and as a result China threatened the British with a reduction of tea they were allowed to buy. Any decrease in tea supply was intolerable for British trade. In 1796 the British complied with the regulations of selling opium directly within China, and sold opium privately to English merchants in Calcutta who, brought opium to China as illegal trade. It was in 1799 when the Chinese opium addiction got so bad that the Chinese Government banned importation of opium with punishments of banishment or death. Unfortunately despite these measures, Chinas opium problem spiralled, opium trade was more

lucrative than tea and generated astronomical profits. This increased hunger for monetary income meant that not only did the British Government know of the illegal trade of opium but in fact encouraged it! It was estimated that over 12.5 million Chinese people were opium smokers and addicts by 1836. Tensions grew between the British and Chinese that eventually led onto the devastating wars known as the Opium Wars of 1840 and 1856. China was devastatingly defeated by the British in both wars, of which resulted in a legalisation of opium that was continued to be exported from India to China until 1911.

Tea In Scotland Tea had actually fallen out of favour in Scotland during the 1730’s, considering it to be too effeminate and it may be threat to the masculinity of the Scotsman, or it be according to nationalists an undermining plot led by the English to defeat the Scottish spirit. But by the 1800’s it was once again a common beverage. Since the British East India company that held such a monopoly over tea trade to Britain, it wasn’t unusual for Scotland to smuggle tea in from other traders, such as the Swedish East India Company, and into Scottish ports from Cullen to Dumfries. This demonstrated how prolific illicit tea trading was in 18th Century Scotland, the teas were distributed through Scotland making it more widely available, allowing shoemakers and masons to buy tea and not just the wealthy and aristocracy. Women made up of at least half of the customer base for tea and held no shame of using smuggled tea for socialising. Elizabeth Pillans was a trader who offered tea from her drapers shop in Gladstone’s Land on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, where women would over a sip of tea, socialise, trade and chat politics. It wasn’t until 1812 that Scotland eventually obtained a Royal Warrant as tea purveyor for the royal houses Holyrood and Balmoral, after Andrew Melrose & Company began selling tea on what is today the bottom of Leith Walk, Edinburgh. Melrose was try first British company to legally

obtain tea outside of the British East India Company and was influential to the end of such monopoly. In January 1836 alone, 1000 cases of tea arrived in Leith for Melrose. Melrose sold tea for over two centuries and ceased trading in 2004.

Afternoon Tea Our beloved luxury afternoon teas are still popular, and it’s all thanks to the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Stanhope (1783-1857) who popularised it by eating small savoury snacks alongside her late afternoon cup of tea between her light midday lunch and the much later 8pm evening meals. She found she needed a little sustenance to subside a ‘sinking feeling’ during this time and opted to nibble on small savoury treats. The duchess in fact enjoyed it so much that began inviting her friends over to Belvoir Castle to also enjoy this small late afternoon meal. Her menu offered small cakes, bread and butter sandwiches, various other sweets and of course a pot of tea! The Duchess continued this new habit when she returned to London for winter and it became such a trend that many other copied her. By the mid 19th Century the afternoon tea had become an established and very welcomed custom across Britain. The growth in popularity of tea serving amongst British culture, a new etiquette, ‘tea etiquette’ became all the rage. New rules and new vocabulary evolved such as High Tea. The global reach of tea is today is far greater, and its demand is incredibly high still. Many of the best teas are still produced in China, some are valued more in weight than gold and some tea gardens are prized only for government use. To this day China is still the largest tea provider to the world. Lynsey You can read Part 1 of this editorial in our June edition. It is available online at -

https://galalife.co.uk/pasteditions.htm Gala Life 37

BRAW LADS’ EXECUTIVE COUNCIL BRAW LADS’ GATHERING 2022 WEDNESDAY 8th JUNE SCHOOL CHILDREN’S CONCERT - Volunteer Hall, admission £3 payable at the door – all welcome. 6.30pm. SUNDAY 19th JUNE BIKE RIDE - Leaving from Galafoot 2.00pm. All welcome TUESDAY 21st JUNE SWIMMING GALA - Galashiels Swimming Pool, ﬁrst race 6.30pm. Further info from Gala Swimming Pool. Admission by programme £1. FRIDAY 24th JUNE SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE - Volunteer Hall Galashiels. 7.30pm – 11.00pm Tickets £7 available at the door. Spectators welcome, £3. SATURDAY 25th JUNE SCHOOLCHILDREN’S DISCOS - Volunteer Hall Galashiels. Primary 1 & 2 - 11.30am to 12.30pm. Primary 3,4 & 5 - 1.00pm to 2.30pm. SATURDAY 25th JUNE BRAW LADS’ BALL - Galashiels Academy at 7pm. Tickets £50, for further details 0772938040. SUNDAY 26th JUNE SPORTS DAY AT NETHERDALE. Schoolchildren’s Sports, Touch Rugby, Football Fives, Potted Sports, Beer Tent & Outside Catering, Free Mini Fun Fair, Pony Rides and many other Attractions including Ex-Service Pipe Band & Galashiels Town Band. Admission £5. Children free. MONDAY 27th JUNE LINDEAN RIDE OUT - Leaving Netherdale Car Park at 6.00pm arriving back in the Town Centre at approx 9.30pm. WEDNESDAY 29th JUNE CEREMONIAL RIDE to TORWOODLEE - leaving Netherdale Car Park at 5.45pm arriving back in the Town Centre at 8.15pm. Handing over The Sod and Stone on Burgh Chambers Balcony at 8.30pm. FANCY DRESS PARADE - Judging in Scott Park at 6.30pm. Parade at 7.15pm. CARNIVAL DANCE - Volunteer Hall 10.00pm. Tickets £7 on sale at the door. Admission by ticket only. *Over 18’s ONLY* THURSDAY 30th JUNE CIVIC RECEPTION FOR OVERSEAS GUESTS - Volunteer Hall, If you have a visitor or know of someone visiting from overseas please email Hazel Hunter at clerk@thebrawladsgathering.co.uk or phone 07825248530. FRIDAY 1st JULY INVESTITURE CONCERT - Volunteer Hall 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Entry by donation. Braw Lad and Braw Lass Invested with the Oﬃcial Sashes. Ex Braw Lads’ and Lasses' Choir, George Inglis plus Local Artistes. SATURDAY 2nd JULY MORNING CEREMONIAL RIDE - commencing at 8.00am at the Burgh Chambers when the Braw Lad will receive the Burgh Flag from the President of the Braw Lads’ Gathering. Further details and other matters in connection with the Braw Lads’ Gathering can be obtained in the OFFICIAL BROCHURE on sale at various outlets throughout the month of June.

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The Gala Garden July Nearly everyone has at least one part of the garden that is shady for most of the year. Sometimes that is shade from a fence or wall or other buildings; sometimes it is dry shade under large trees. If your garden is mainly north-facing, most of your plot will be shaded. For three seasons – winter, spring and autumn – deciduous trees and shrubs will be out of leaf and therefore some light and rain will get onto the ground. If the trees and shrubs can be properly pruned, lifted where suitable, and thinned out, there are plenty of good planting options. High summer under the full canopy is a different challenge. Heuchera and hosta are two excellent foliage plants that will provide interest in large drifts, flowering from mid to late summer. These two species have many good forms with different coloured leaves to choose from. Punctuate them with later-flowering perennials like Kirengeshoma palmata or actaea, both with excellent foliage. Clumps of pink, white or yellow martagon lilies will also provide colour in the shade from mid-summer to early autumn. Rodgersia combined with astrantia and Tricyrtis formosana will flower throughout the summer. Evergreen Liriope muscari is a useful contrast with grassy foliage and spikes of mauve flowers. Although ferns don’t flower, their foliage adds texture and some have attractively coloured fronds: Athyrium nipponicum pictum with silver 40 Gala Life

filigree and Dryopteris erythrosora with coppery foliage. Some grasses are also happy in light shade: Hakonechloa macra aurea and Millium effusum aureum are beautiful golden-leaved grasses that associate well with yellow narcissi and dark blue pulmonarias. In woodland, the second storey of shrubs adds structure and flower; for instance, various forms of cornus and cotoneaster, hazel and witch hazel, some hydrangeas including H. paniculata and H. quercifolia, mahonia, osmanthus and ribes. All the under-storey shrubs that need shelter want a place in the shade too: rhododendrons and azaleas, pieris, sarcococca, skimmias and stranvesia or photinias. There are also several worthwhile evergreen shrubs: both upright and spreading forms of yew, good forms of Prunus laurocerasus and privet. Autumn stars with glorious foliage include the whole family of acers, Euonymus hamiltonius Red Cascade, all forms of hamamelis, Amelanchier lamarckii and Sorbus hupehensis. Choose plants according to how much moisture is available; the shade of conifers is almost bone dry. Geranium macrorrhizum, Euphorbia amygdaloides, vinca, lamium and Saxifraga urbium are your best bets there. All the rest will suit retentive shady soil. A cool spot on a hot day may turn out to be a wise investment. Sheila Drummond

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BLUE-GREEN ALGAE TOXICITY What to Look For and Action to Take

Blue-green algae can be found in shallow, stagnant water, such as freshwater lochs, ponds, and rivers. The algae blooms in warm summer months and produces microscopic toxic ‘cyanobacteria’. This can look like blue-green ‘scum’ on the surface of the water, giving it it’s name.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis is based on laboratory analysis of water samples, which means results are not available when we need them. Your veterinary surgeon will generally base their diagnosis on your dog’s clinical signs and the history you give them.

There are many different species of cyanobacteria, Treatment: not all are poisonous, but it is impossible to tell just Unfortunately, there is no antidote available for blue-green algae toxicity. by looking. These cyanobacteria species can produce different types of toxins, affecting the liver, kidneys, nervous system, or skin. These toxins can affect any animal, from livestock, to dogs and cats, to humans. Dogs are more likely to accidently ingest algaecontaminated water, so we need to be alert and aware of blue-green algae when out walking our dogs this summer.

Immediately taking your dog to the closest veterinary clinic gives them the best chance of survival but the prognosis is sadly very poor.

Clinical Signs:

the water’s edge as many places will have warnings out. If you see blue-green algae in the water, assume it is poisonous and keep your dog away. Provide a safe water source for your dog when out walking near contaminated water. You can also wash your dog with fresh tap water thoroughly after they have been swimming.

Treatment is intensive, based on aggressive supportive care. Your vet can induce vomiting, give activated charcoal to help absorb the toxin, and pump their stomach to help eliminate the toxin. They treat the symptoms of shock with fluid Blue-green algae poisoning often has an extremely therapy, oxygen therapy and other medications, rapid onset, clinical signs can begin from 15 mins to such as anti-seizure drugs. several days after exposure or ingestion, depending Prevention: on the type of toxin. Even just a few mouthfuls of Prevent your dog from swimming in potentially water can result in fatal poisoning. contaminated water. Be sure to note signs around • • • • • • • • • •

Vomiting Diarrhoea or black/tarry faeces Weakness Pale gums Seizures Disorientation Comatose Muscle tremors, rigidity and/or paralysis Difficulty breathing Excessive drooling

If you suspect your dog was exposed to bluegreen algae, please contact your local vet clinic immediately. Olivia Goad BVSc

www.bordervets.co.uk Galashiels Veterinary Surgery Gala Terrace, Galashiels TD1 3JT 01896 752156 44 Gala Life

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This Month’s Tricky Sudoko 5

3 8

2 3 1

9 6 4

7 9

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6 7

How to play............ Fill the grid so that every row, column and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. That’s all there is to it! Use reasoning and logic to solve the puzzle - there’s no maths or adding up. Look carefully for what numbers can go where and with a little practice it will get easier!

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HOROSCOPES BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

July starts with a powerful and challenging aspect between action-packed Mars in Aries and transformational Pluto in Capricorn; we can expect a difficult week globally, with extremes of behaviour, confrontations and some hidden secrets coming to light. Expansive Jupiter is also still in Aries - expect a dramatic week! On a personal level this transit offers tremendous drive and ambition, plus endless energy reserves. Stay focused on your goals and tune into your own energy levels and take care in confrontational situations. Venus, the goddess of love and relationships, is in playful Gemini until the 18th, she offers some excellent opportunities for romantic encounters and connecting with likeminded people in your community. The full moon in practical Capricorn arrives on the 13th, this one brings your home and family into much sharper focus. Capricorn/Cancer are opposing forces, you can expect issues around what you need (family) versus what you want to achieve (Capricorn) to come to light. The new moon in Leo on the 28th brings opportunities for creative endeavours, new beginnings and positive breakthroughs.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 July continues the powerful theme of dynamic Mars and expansive Jupiter in your sign, Mars remains in Aries until the 5th. Try not to be too impatient, use this month wisely to review your energy levels, particularly where friendships are concerned. With Venus in chatty Gemini until the 18th, your communication skills are at their best. TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21 During July your communication skills are positively highlighted as the radiant Sun and Mercury in Cancer suggest encouraging energy for intuitive and original new ways of thinking. The new moon in creative Leo on the 28th brings a new project into focus, your vitality is high and some help may arrive from unexpected quarters. GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21 July brings a different kind of energy to the forefront, Venus is in your sign and the way you communicate comes into focus. The Sun and Mercury ask that you look at the way you value yourself and examine creative new ways of increasing your earning potential. Now is the perfect time to reach out and be bold. CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 July is your birthday month, the Sun shines brightly and is joined by communicative Mercury on the 5th. Love planet Venus also arrives in your sign on the 18th, illuminating all things to do with love and partnerships. The new moon in creative Leo on the 28th marks a turning point and you’ll feel a strong drive to improve your life on many different levels. LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 July might turn out to be a rather introspective month on some levels. The sensitive Cancerian Sun and Mercury will have you reconsidering some plans that you have recently made and the chances are that you may also have to rethink a career move. The powerful new moon in your sign on the 28th offers up an opportunity to push your creative ideas forward.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22 July suggests that your goals and ambitions are high on the agenda as Venus and Mercury in Gemini ensure that your negotiation and communication skills are at their finest. A relationship that has been on hold can be reviewed and there is opportunity to advance in a positive way. The Capricorn full moon on the 13th indicates that it’s time to put something firmly behind you. LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23 The Gemini Sun and business minded Mercury occupy the highest point of your chart, emphasising your goals and the importance of planning ahead and making long lasting changes. Venus, your ruling planet, is friendly and playful in Gemini, ideal for making plans for a romantic getaway. The Capricorn full moon on the 13th brings a domestic matter to the forefront. SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 Dynamic Mars arrives in your opposite sign of Taurus on the 5th, emphasising the importance of staying focussed on the task at hand. Pluto and Mars put a strong and challenging planetary emphasis on the way you communicate the plans around your career and your future. The favourable new moon in courageous Leo on the 28th enables you to go after what you want. SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 The full moon in down to earth Capricorn on the 13th puts your finances firmly in the picture, expansive Jupiter is strong in Aries suggesting there are some excellent opportunities for you to be more successful and increase your earning potential. Mars enters practical Taurus on the 5th, further indicating that this is the perfect time for you to be much clearer about where you are heading. CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 The radiant Sun and communicative Mercury are both illuminating the relationship area of your chart, prompting you to go after what you truly desire. The love planet Venus is chatty and flirty in Gemini until the 18th and energetic Mars in practical Taurus is assisting with an important issue that comes to the forefront around the courageous Leo new moon on the 28th. AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18 Energy packed Mars is strong in the communication area of your chart during the first week of this month, continuing to put you in a good position to demand something that you have been going after for some time. Love planet Venus in Gemini is flirtatious and playful and brings a welcome boost to your dealings with partners and loved ones. The Leo new moon on the 28th is perfect for romance. PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20 New encounters, love and romance are all in the spotlight for July as planetary trends suggest that a deeply rewarding time is coming your way. The Sun encourages you to enjoy the lighter side of life as some positive opportunities arrive from unexpected directions. The Leo new moon on the 28th assists your creative ambitions - new beginnings are ready for take-off. NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, discover your unique birth map and take a refreshing new look at your year ahead. Find out when positive and productive planetary cycles are working in your favour. Aim to reach your fullest potential in 2022 by booking an astrological reading now - Consultations are available on Zoom, WhatsApp or telephone. Christine Chalklin Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com Website: www.yourguidinglight.org

Mobile: 07813 483549 Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/restyleyourlife

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Full Page No Margin 210mm x 148mm + 3mm Bleed

£229.99

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2 Page Editorial Feature

£378

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£250

£675

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£399

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We offer a generous discounts for repeat adverts in blocks of 3, 6 or 12 issues. Please call to discuss the options available. August Edition

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To advertise in Gala Life, to discuss your requirements, or for more information - please contact Debbie on

07545299491

info@galalife.co.uk

Gala Life 51

Berwick

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✓ Options for every budget

✓ Price includes measuring & fitting YOUR LOCAL BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS SPECIALIST • I provide expert advice on the best window solutions • Flexible appointment times • Blinds & curtains tailor-made here in the UK

“My local advisor helped me find a blind to fit my budget. The service was second to none”. Laura Jackson, customer

• Ask me about multi-blind discounts • I won’t be beaten on price* • Electric blinds available

Call me for a free in-home appointment: Gary Miller 07729877194 *Based on the same spec, size & levels of service.

52 Gala Life

Last Month's Sudoko Answers Easy

Tricky

Gala Life 53

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Abbotsford

Eddi Reader - Live

Melrose Hist. & Arch

ABSS

Fitness

MI Rewards

Action for Children

Gala Baptist Church

Nat Mining Museum

Apollo Blinds

Gala Church of Scotland

Newcastle Airport

Border Canopy Company

Gala Garden

Opal Borders

Border Cleaning Fairies

Gala Rugby Club

Our Lady & St Andrews

Border Vets

Greenspaces

Pet Crematorium

Borders Buses

Gutter Pro

Plumbstore

Bowden & Melrose Parish

Harrisons Ford

Rate Card

Braw Lads’ Gathering

Hilarys Blinds

RC Electrical

Buglass Gas Services

History of Tea Part 2

Recipe

Caddonfoot Parish

Holiday Book Time

School Bell Tuition

Café Sitooterie

Homeopathy

Slimming World

Castle Warehouse

Horoscope

St Peter's Episcopal

Chris Sinton Painter

House of Hearing

Sudoko

Citizens Advice Bureau

Infinity Blu

Suzanne Ferguson

Councillor Euan Jardine

James Agent

Swan Lake

Councillor Jenny Linehan

James Graham Roofing

Tapestry Centre - Julie Cope

Crafty Workshops

John Lamont MP

20,51

TriFitness

Craig Hoy MSP

Jonnie Jones Plumber

Vodafone

Crème de la Crème

JS Repair

Will Evans Plasterer

CSS Cleaning Equipment

Keith Penny Décor

Willie's Wonky Computer

DM Hall

Lowrie Property

Wilson Electrics

DW Noble

Mackenzie Plumbing

Eco Collect

Maroon’D

26,46

Helpful Numbers to Hand Gala Police Station Scottish Power Gas Emergency BGH Social Work Emergency

01896 752222 08452727999 0800 111999 01896 826000 01896 752111

Scot Borders Council Citizens Advice Bureau BorderLine NHS 24 Victim Support

0300 100 1800 01896 753889 0800 0274466 111 01896 751212

Whilst every care is taken in preparing this magazine to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot be held responsible for loss, damage or omission caused by an error in an advert. Artwork is accepted on the condition that it is legal and copyright free and that the advert is fair and accurate. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers or the views expressed by contributors, nor do the publishers necessarily share such views. We reserve the right to refuse articles and advertisements. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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We are still open for our customers as normal, but practising social distancing

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