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.
May 2025
Your Community
All the news from our MPs, Councillors, Clubs, Groups and Churches.
The Gala Garden
This month, Sheila looks at trouble free planting to make the most of your garden this year.
Holidays!
Some practical advice on getting a good deal when booking your next holiday.
Fitness
With Alan Clinch
Alan gives great advice on swimming, and all the benefits from a quick dip.
Sudoku
Our Sudoku is also online this month, play every day and keep your brain active!
WELCOME
What's The Charge?
Willie gives some practical advice on charging up your new electric car.
Willie's Wonky Computer
Willie looks at digitalising all those old photos stored in the attic.
Recipe
This month we have a great recipe for Chicken Katsu Curry.
Welcome to the May edition of Gala Life. What a difference a few weeks have made. The weather has brought out the colour in the countryside!
May is set to be a very busy month as we have LIVE music at the British Legion, MacArts and the Skerryvore XX. Floors Castle has opened it’s doors for the season - so check out what’s on and book ahead!!
This month, Sheila looks at great garden plants in the gardening column, Willie’s Computer page looks at digitising all your old photos and Alan Clinch reviews swimming as a great exercise in the Fitness Column. In the recipe this month we have gone with a great version of Chicken Katsu Curry! Our editorials take a look at booking the perfect holiday and charging those electric vehicles.
With so many hospitality and entertainment venues here in the town why not indulge yourself with breakfast, lunch or even dinner whilst soaking up the atmosphere and taking part in all the great productions and events. There is so much to see and do in Gala it’s tough to fit it all in.
Have a great May and see you about town!
The Gala Garden
Our Gala Life Community
Please check with individual groups for the latest information.
Borders Recovery Group - Meet Fridays at the Focus Centre. Peer support group 3-5pm, Recovery Cafe 5-7pm. For more info contact community@bordersinrecovery.org or 07536455898. www.bordersinrecovery.org
Musical Memories - for people living with Dementia and their partners or carers. We offer fun, lively sessions of singing in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. If you care for someone with dementia this is for both of you. Join us and give it a try! Every two weeks on Fridays from 10.30-12.00 in the Blue Room, Langlee Community Centre, Galashiels. (Free with occasional whip-round for tea/coffee/ biscuits). Contact Prue Pullen pruepullen@hotmail.com 07806 619989.
Selkirk Dementia Singing Café - takes place on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month from 1.30pm until 3.30pm at Selkirk Masonic Lodge, 32 Back Row. Selkirk. The group enjoys music, memories and singing for fun in a supportive environment. The group is free to attend and is welcome to anyone living with a dementia diagnosis as well as anyone who may have concerns about their memory and family / friends. For more information contact 01573 400324 or email Borders@alzscot.org
Al-Anon Family Groups - Every Wednesday at 7.30pm, Chaplaincy Centre at the Border General Hospital. Access is through the main entrance to the hospital and follow the pink zone on the ground floor until you see the sign for the Chaplaincy Centre. 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.
Scottish Borders Versus Arthritis Support Group - meet 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
Parkinson's Support Group - held on the last Monday of every month at the Chaplaincy Centre at the B.G.H. from 2pm to 4pm. The aim of the group is to offer support and company to anybody including families and carers who are affected by Parkinson's. We take part in outings quizzes and other activities suggested by the participants, and a cuppa and biscuits provided. If you require any more information or just want a chat please call Anne on 07922093197 anne chisholm@euro.agri.net
Parkinson's Support Group - Please come along to our group at the Kingsknowe Hotel. You can join us there every 2nd Wednesday from 11am until 1pm and every 4th Wednesday of the month from 6pm until 8pm. For any further information call Fran on 07790750115 or Harry on 07778278711.
Bereavement Support Group (BSG) – Meet every Monday 10am – 12 noon at Quins Restaurant in Galashiels. Get mutual support from people in the same situation. Friendly, understanding and very confidential group.
‘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
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Borders Online Bipolar Support Group: Open to anyone living with bipolar, including friends/ family/carers. Join us on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month at 7pm. To get the meeting link, please email us at info@bipolarscotland.org.uk or submit a short form on our website: https://bipolarscotland.org.uk/support-groups
Healing Support - First Saturday of the month 1-4 pm at the Chaplaincy Centre BGH. Offers individual healing treatments, no appointments necessary, free of charge, however, any donations are gratefully received. For further information call 07724 771081 or visit www.bordershealinggroup.co.uk
Royal Voluntary Service Social Centres - at Langlee Community Centre on a Monday and Wednesday between 10:00 - 14:00 for lonely and isolated 65+ to connect with old and new friends. Tuesday and Friday at Tweedbank Community centre for LD adults 50+ to reduce their loneliness and reduce their social isolation too. For more information call us on 01896 754 481.
Galashiels Men's Shed - We are an organisation founded to promote men’s mental health through woodworking, craftwork and fellowship. We now welcome everyone from the age of 18 from complete beginners to experts. The Shed is situated directly opposite Langlee Community Centre, Marigold Drive and is open every Tuesday and Thursday 10am-2pm. Telephone 751411.
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 - Always looking for new volunteers to join us in our litter-picking efforts in the Policies. The monthly litter pick is held on the last Saturday of each month (Feb to Nov) - meeting 10am at the small car park by the swimming pool. Bags and pickers provided - own gloves are recommended. We're on Facebook so join us, please, as we're determined to make sure this lovely woodland is preserved as a great 'green' town asset.
Gala Squash and Racketball Club - Monday night 7pm - late: Club Night at Gala Squash Club, turn up and have a hit. £2 for members and £4 for Non-Members. Every Thursday 7pm-8.30pm is Ladies Night at Gala Squash Club - Turn up and have a hit about and a laugh, all ladies welcome.
Gala Windbags - We are a well established charitable group affiliated to Chest, Heart and Stroke, Scotland. We meet every Thursday from 1.30 to 3.30pm for gentle exercise, a chat and a tea/ coffee in the Lucy Sanderson Hall, Galashiels. Contact Wendy Lawson on 07563 761788 for further details.
Gentle Exercise Class for Older Adults - Langlee Community Centre - £3 per class. 10.30-11.15am every Wednesday - contact 07713357450 to book.
Yoga - Weekly chair yoga classes are held in the Chaplaincy Centre of the Borders General Hospital on Fridays at 3 - 4pm. These will suit those with less mobility. Most of the session will be seated on chairs with breath awareness and gentle stretching, a little standing and a seated relaxation. Details from kathmcdonald20@gmail.com
Langlee Badminton Club - Thursdays, 5.15pm-7pm in the main hall at Langlee Community Centre, Marigold Drive, Galashiels, £2 per session. Under-16s must be accompanied by parent/guardian. We're a friendly group who get together once a week to play badminton, all year round. Beginners welcome, racquets and shuttles provided. Call Kevin Janiak on 07825 269667 for more information. Eildon Ramblers - If you enjoy walking, you might like to try our friendly group, which walks weekly on Saturdays or Sundays at 10:00 am at locations across the Borders. Most of our regulars are in their 40s-70s, but we welcome all ages, and we offer easier, moderate and monthly harder walks. You can check our walks programme at www.eildonramblers.org.uk; and, for other queries, contact us at walks@eildonramblers.org.uk or 07785 391331.
Scottish Borders Hill Walking Club - We enjoy walks of between 10 and 15 miles in the hills throughout the Borders. The club meets on alternate Sundays throughout the year starting at 10.00 am. For further information please visit www.borderhillwalkers.wordpress.com or phone 01896 823172
Reiver Pétanque - meets near The Waterwheel Tea Room, Philiphaugh, Selkirk, TD7 5LU. Regular play days Wednesday and Sunday afternoons 1pm-4pm. (2pm start in summer months). Days may vary depending on weather. At other times anyone can play with their own equipment. Keep an eye on our Facebook Page for any league or other inter-club matches. Beginners of all ages are very welcome and coaching is available. The area is accessible for wheelchair users. Come along, try a new and growing sport and enjoy good company in a beautiful location. More information available from Peter (07895 275669) or Ron (07986 644661).
Gala Fairydean Rovers Walking Football Club - 3G Arena, Netherdale Road, TD1 3HE. A game of football for those over the age of 50, where players walk and don’t run, with other rules adjusted to suit older players and avoid injuries. All men and women in 50+ age group welcome! Sessions are: Mondays and Thursdays 2:00 to 3:30pm, Tuesdays 7:00 to 8:00pm, Membership is £2.50 per month. Games are £2.00 per session. Football boots required. Contact: gordon.smith@gfrfc.co.uk
Gala Harriers Joggers - meet every Thursday at Plumbcentre car park in Tweedbank at 6.15pm. All abilities and fitness levels are welcome to our friendly social running groups, further information available from Charlotte 07799112593 or Anne 07870556142.
Tweed Canoe Club - Pool sessions for beginners on Tuesday evenings at Selkirk swimming pool. All you need is swimming kit and a towel. Experienced paddlers also welcome. Contact tweedcanoeclub@gmail.com for more information.
261 Club Scottish Borders - We meet at Gibson Park in Melrose, on Monday mornings at 9.30am, a community of women running for health and wellbeing, friendship and fun. For further details contact us; email: ScottishBorders@261ClubUK.co.uk web: www.261clubuk.co.uk Facebook: @261clubscottishborders
Abbotsford Nature and Natter Walking Group - we are a gentle walking group which encourages participants to get some gentle exercise with a stroll and natter around the beautiful Abbotsford estate, whilst taking in the flora and fauna. The walk moves at everyone’s walking ability. Dog’s are welcome however must always remain on a leash. Afterwards we will pop into the Ochiltree Café for tea / coffee and blether. This is a group for people who are able to attend safely on their own or who are accompanied by someone to support them. The group will run on the first Thursday of the month from 2pm to 4pm meeting in the car park. Further info from borders@alzscot.org or 01573 400324
One Acchord Ladies A Cappella Chorus - Ladies if you love to sing come and join us at Bowden Village Hall, Main Street Bowden TD6 0SS. Learn to sing in four part harmony, no auditions needed. We welcome everyone who wants to join us. Rehearsal times: Wednesdays 7:30-9:30 and 1 Saturday a month 12.30pm-4pm. Contact us on 07468 602348 or visit our website, www.oneacchord.co.uk
Gala Water Singers - Spring Concert information: “The Sprig of Thyme”. Songs inspired by the Fountainhall to Lauder Light Railway. Stow Church on Sunday 1st June 2025 at 6pm. £10 ticket price – kids free. Usual Buffet served afterwards. Practices are now being held in Stow Town Hall on Tuesday evenings at 7pm. We will take a break after our Spring Concert and restart end of August.
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The Eildon Singers - We are a mixed voice choir of some 40 members from all over the central Borders. We sing mainly classical works, with some lighter pieces. Our rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings from 7.30 to 9.30 pm in the Corn Exchange, Market Square, Melrose. We are enjoying working with our new conductor, Jim Letham preparing music for our concert on Sunday 18th May, which will include "Hiawatha's Wedding Feast" and excerpts from "Die Fledermaus." New singers are always welcome (no auditions). If you would like more information, please contact our secretary or musical director - details may be found at www.eildonsingers.info
The Galashiels Town Band - Spring Concert on 17th May in Langlee Community Centre on 17th May. See advert for details. The band is open to new and experienced players of all ages. Instruments and training provided. Interested? Look for us on Facebook or email info@galatownband.org.uk
Melrose Music Society - We present two Sunday concerts this month at Melrose Parish Church. On May 4th cellist Hugh Mackay and pianist Junyan Chen will play Prokofiev, Say, Simpson & Bridge; on May 25th, pianist Angeliki Giannopoulou will play Chopin, Ravel, Dillon, Mompou, Bacewicz, and Skalkottas. Both recitals begin at 3pm, with tickets (adults £16, concessions £5, children free) available from www.ticketebo.co.uk/melrose-music-society or on the door from 2:30pm.
Rolling Hills Folk Club - Friday May 16th. Darnick Village Hall, TD6 9AH with disabled access through side door. George Machray, is our guest for this evening, interspersed with floor singers and musicians. George is a wonderful entertainer from Port Seton who has won numerous songwriting awards in Edinburgh and further afield with his mix of hilarious and serious items and sensitive guitar playing. Doors open 7.30 for 8 pm start. BYOB. All ages welcome. £8 entry. Phone 07986 644661 for more information. Find us on Facebook and at our website www.rollinghillsfolkclub.org.uk
Galashiels Studio Club - The Club is for artists and people who enjoy art. We meet weekly over the winter in Old Gala House, on Thursdays at 7.30pm for about 2 hours and have a varied programme of talks or demonstrations by professional artists and workshops some led by club members. For more information see our Facebook site or phone 07958 241798. The Club is open to all levels of artists and new members and visitors are welcome.
Scottish Country Dance Classes - St Paul’s Church Hall, Scott Crescent - September till December then January to end March. 7-9pm. All welcome, newcomers and beginners. Contact Lyn on 07890432383 or Marion on 01896574046. Gattonside Village Hall, 7.30pm, weekly until March with a short break in December. Contact Bill 07443529068. You do not need a partner or wear tartan or be Scottish - comfortable clothes and soft shoes are all you require.
Dance Class - Circle Dancing is suitable for just about everyone. We use simple steps dancing to music from around the world. A mix of gentle, flowing, fun, upbeat. No previous experience necessary. A great way to exercise and meet new friends in a relaxed friendly group. Every Tuesday 2-4pm at The Focus Centre, Livingstone Place, Galashiels TD1 1DQ. £5. Contact Kate for further information 07523 466657.
Gala Chess Club - meeting every Tuesday evening at Waverley Bowling Club, Galashiels between 7.00pm and 9.00pm. All levels welcome. Facebook - Galashiels Chess Club.macart
Borders Family History Society - Borders Family History Society is now open for the 2025 season. Please come along to 52 Overhaugh Street, Galashiels,TD1 1DP. We re-open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 4 pm. We would love to show you round and help with any family tree research. Alternatively you can call us on 01896 750387 or email to info@bordersfhs.or.uk with your queries.
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Scottish Borders
Dyslexia Identification
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For
The Gala Garden May
Right now garden centres are chock full of new perennials, but, if you’re new to gardening, it’s hard to tell which ones are good for your garden. What makes a good garden plant? Think about hardiness, maintenance, habit and character.
Plants must be fully hardy to withstand Scottish winter, let alone Scottish summer; fully hardy means RHS H4 or H5 or USDA Zone 7 to 8. If the label says: “needs the shelter of a sunny wall” maybe that’s not for you unless you can see the sea from your garden.
Then there’s maintenance. Does the label say it needs regular division, or staking, or spraying to prevent disease or pests? Probably not but you’d better check.
Trouble-free perennials form clumps but don’t run at the root; some euphobias get about, so does rudbeckia. Self-seeders like oenethera need careful editing but may blend successfully with informal plantings and grasses.
Tall plants are the ones most often staked so choose ones with good structure that will stand up to the wind. For example, delphiniums need staking but aconitum don’t – and aconitum don’t get eaten by slugs and snails either. Plants with less structure tend to flop in wind and heavy rain.
Consider how you are going to use the plant in question: different habits suit particular parts of the garden. For example, along the front edge of a border you need something with decent foliage over a long period of time, flowers are a bonus. So plants like heuchera, stachys byzantina, small hostas,
sedum and nepeta faasenii are good choices.
The middle of the border is the place for two kinds of plants: the long-flowering ones and the stars you love even though they only last two weeks. Placing stars amongst long-flowering plants helps fill the gaps when the stars eventually go over. The stars create transience and excitement but long-flowering ones provide bulk and continuity.
Stars are things like papaver and lilium but long-flowering ones are achillea, gaura, hemerocallis,penstemon, monarda and lychnis. At the back you need the robust stalwarts that will create the rhythm of the garden: delphiniums or aconitums, followed by anemone japonica Honorine Jobert. Other good late, tall plants include cimicifuga (or actaea), sanguisorba, rheum palmatum, and ligularia przewalskii or stenocephala. Repeat these in groups to make impact last all season.
The character of a plant suits particular gardens: for example, some plants are bold or architectural and suit a dramatic modern garden, or cottage plants like daisies that suit an informal garden. There are formal plants for terraces and box-edged beds and naturalistic plants to combine with grasses for the wild garden.
It doesn’t matter where you buy your plants: what matters is that they are healthy and well-rooted so never hesitate to look at the roots.
Above all, try to remember one thing: fewer kinds of plants and more of them. That’s the way to get impact all season long.
Sheila Drummond
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The Trimontium Museum, Melrose - The Trimontium Guided Walks to the Roman fort site are back - happening every Thursday, short and long walk options: dogs welcome, children free. On 3rd May join us at the museum for a day of Storytelling and on 10th May learn about Roman food with Vibia Sabina. On 17th May join our unique Hands on History workshop and hold history in the palm of your hand! The Trimontium Talk “The Secret Life of a Lowland Roundhouse”, is on 8th May, online and in person. Our new art exhibit “Roman Rooms & Relics” & The Trimontium VR Experience are open daily. www.trimontium.co.uk
Galashiels & District Probus Club - We provide regular meetings for retired and semi-retired professional and businessmen and women to enjoy the company of like-minded people who appreciate the camaraderie of being part of the Club. We meet fortnightly from September to May on Thursday mornings at the Waverley Castle Hotel, Melrose and after tea or coffee we enjoy a wide variety of interesting talks by guest speakers. We are always open to welcoming new members and if you are interested in joining please contact Freddie Field, freddieshanghai@me.com for more information.
Rotary Club of Galashiels and District - Join us to make a difference locally and globally. In Rotary people unite and take action to create lasting change. Change to the lives of people both locally and globally. See stories from recent projects on our Facebook pages to see how having you as a member or supporter could help us do more. We make use of money raised but also our time and skills. We meet every Tuesday to hear visiting speakers from local organisations and plan our future activities. If you want details of how to help us with our projects or to become a member call Club Secretary Rae Hastings 01896 75292
Focus Point Roleplaying Society - Fortnightly, recurring Pathfinder Society and Tabletop Roleplaying, 5pm to 10pm Thursday nights at Focus Community Centre, Livingstone Place, Galashiels. Playing Pathfinder 2e campaigns, oneshots and society scenarios. Admission is £6 on the door to pay towards renting the space, food, drinks, books, and stationary materials. Contact Seán 07412400949, AScotWithScotch@gmail.com for more details. https://startplaying.games/gm/ascotwithscotch
Galashiels Camera Club - We meet almost every Wednesday at The Red Room, Langlee Community Centre, Galashiels. If you are interested in photography visit our website www.galacameraclub.co.uk Professionals, enthusiasts and beginners are all welcome.
Borders Philatelic Society - We welcome new members who have an interest in Postal History, Stamps or Postcards at any level from all across the Borders. We are a small friendly club meeting fortnightly on Monday nights, 7.30 until 9pm in the Church Hall, Old Parish & St. Pauls in Scott Crescent Galashiels. Please contact John Brown on 01721 723759 or Email him at tweedavenue@gmail.com for further information, or just turn up to meet like minded souls! The 2025 dates are:- February 3 & 17, March 3 & 17 & 31.
The Melrose Historical & Archaeological Association - Old Melrose Walk Tuesday 6th May. Walks take place on the first Tuesday of every month. 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 £5, children free. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times. For Special Group Bookings on other dates contact omwalks@gmail.com
The Three Brethren u3a, Galashiels - Our next meeting on Monday 19th May will include our Annual General Meeting. Plus we're delighted to welcome Mark Nicol - eminent, enthusiastic & entertaining historian of the Scottish Borders - to recount the stories behind '12 Towers of Galashiels'. Mark enthralled the A & H Group some time ago with his talk-plus-walk on Torwoodlee Broch, so we're delighted to have him spill more beans on our local history. You are warmly invited to join us. You will be so welcome. Entry cost £2. For details of membership, future meetings and the varied and interesting groups we run, see www.u3asites.org.uk/three-brethren
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Are We There Yet?
Holidays are probably your biggest event of the year. It’s great to get away, let your hair down, have fun, catch some sun and mix it with friends or family. They also give us so much to look forward to during the winter months. So, why is booking a holiday so stressful?
For most of us, finding the right place at the right time at the right cost is the hard part. The first priority is probably the money, so here are a few tips to ease the burden:
Package or DIY?
A package holiday can seriously cut the cost of going away, particularly if you’re heading to a popular beach destination. There are serious discounts to be had - and booking ahead for the summer could bag you a bargain.
A package is usually booked through one company. They provide the flights, transfers and all the accommodation for one price. They always work out best for traditional holiday destinations for 7, 10, or 14 days. Off season you may find there’s only one flight per week, so 10 days is not always an option.
Going ‘All Inclusive’ can also give great savings, but only if you are prepared to eat in the hotel most of the time. Going out for dinner at any popular tourist spot will probably set you back £75 for 2 adults, for food and a couple of beers or a bottle of wine. Add that up over a week or two, then throw in breakfast, lunch, snacks and all the drinks you want and you can see why All Inclusive is becoming the most popular choice. The problem then is eating hotel food for two weeks and my advice here is to pay a little extra and book 4 star. (OK, 5 star if you can afford it). In any case, read the hotel reviews and pay attention to comments about the food; HP Sauce and Heinz Beans are not the sign of
a good chef. At 4 star you will have greater choice, the food is of far better quality and you will probably struggle to find better in a local restaurant.
Package holidays also come with greater consumer protection through ATOL or ABTA. This means that if your travel company goes bust, you’ll be refunded if you’re yet to travel, or found alternative accommodation and flights home if you’re abroad. You’re also covered if you don’t get the holiday you paid for, eg. if an airline goes bust, or bad weather stops you travelling.
If you want to go for a shorter or longer period, to a more ‘out of the way’ location, on a city break or multi-stop holiday, it’s likely you’ll be better off with a DIY package or by booking each part of your break separately through different firms.
To cut the price of a package holiday, first check online with the big tour operators: Thomas Cook, Tui, First Choice etc, and note a decent price. You might even find a flash sale price there that won’t be beaten elsewhere. Then move to the comparison sites, for example TravelSupermarket, Ice Lolly, Holiday Pirates, Travelzoo and Secret Escapes. For more upmarket, with good discount try
Voyage Privé or Blue Bay Travel. Finally check with BA Holidays, sometimes they offer packages that are actually cheaper than the flight alone (even if you don’t use the hotel!).
The real bargain though is sometimes found by getting on the phone to late specialist travel agents to see what they can find. Remember tour operators make holidays, travel agents just sell them, so the same holiday can be different prices at different agents, shop around.
IS IT BEST TO BOOK EARLY, OR LATE?
Booking late can be the cheapest way to get a package. By ‘Late’, I mean no more than 8-10 weeks before departure. That’s when there’s a chance of a bargain - tour operators have chartered the planes and reserved the rooms, if they don’t sell them, they lose money. The later you leave it, the more chance there is of a bargain. However, it’s a war of nerves though as most holiday companies recognise this trend and will hold out dropping prices to put you off waiting. You then really need to be flexible about dates and destinations. If you just want anywhere hot and cheap, leave it very late, ie, the week before you go, and you may get luxury for economy class prices.
On the other hand, if you book early you get all the choices and a discount. Many tour operators offer early booking codes or discounts. These can include £200-percouple discounts or buy-one-get-one-free weeks. Booking early gives peace of mind, time to research the location for things to do and a chance to daydream for a few months, knowing where you are going.
Image: Shutterstock User ID: 461982139
Image: Shutterstock User ID: 461982139
If you don’t have kids, the world is your oyster with huge savings out-with school holiday times, but remember – English schools break at different times from ours, so avoid them too. The last two weeks of summer is also a great time, as are May and June, when the weather can be surprisingly hot, there’s peace and quiet thrown in too…
Prices for package holidays usually drop rapidly towards the end of August – this is because most people want to go as soon as they can, according to ABTA (the Association of British Travel Agents). Many people don’t want to be away the week before schools go back, so if you can leave it to the very last minute you’ll likely save, and you can take the kids.
Here it really pays to be flexible, just put in your dates, choice of departure airports and destination, then display the search results in their calendar mode. You will very often find huge savings by flying on different days (Tuesday!) and, as long as you fly back to your departure airport (where your car is) it doesn’t matter if you fly home on a different airline. It also lets you go for as many, or few days as you like. Just watch out for long stopover times if the flight isn’t direct, but make sure there’s enough time for immigration, terminal changes, security checks and sometimes baggage transfer - particularly if flying to USA, where you will need a minimum of 2-3 hours between flights.
If flying long-haul, always check the weather, it might be winter there! Also check the monsoon and hurricane seasons, they are fairly consistent each year and neither look like the pictures in the brochure!
There are always destinations that are no longer so popular. Parts of Greece, Spain and the Canary Islands have seen unrest amongst the locals, demonstrating about the lack of affordable housing due to the number of holiday villas and Air B&Bs. It might be worth looking at Bulgaria instead, there are some great deals and they are very welcoming. For DIY holidays, start with the flight comparison site Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.net).
Happy hunting & haVE A GREAT HOLIDAY!
FITNESS
with Alan Clinch
Swimming – Why Ever Not?
Hopefully most people will learn to swim as children, and it’s definitely something that all parents who have the opportunity should consider for their kids. That said, some people either can’t or don’t have the chance, but it’s possible to learn at any age – my father actually finally achieved a few lengths when he was 61….. adults can learn, or improve their swimming skills at any time of life – and there are a multitude of reasons why we should swim – here are just a few: There is no ground impact – as some of us know to our cost, as we age, our joints will start to show signs of wear and tear. Any physical activity session in the water will have a minimal impact on the joints, but will still provide resistance. This is good for maintaining muscle strength and endurance as swimming engages multiple upper body muscles. The shoulders, chest, and back are stressed through the repetitive motions of pushing and pulling against water resistance. The core is crucial for stabilising the body in water, and swimming activates the abdominal muscles, obliques, and lower back, enhancing core strength and stability. Breaststroke particularly targets the chest, lower and upper back muscles. The biceps, triceps, and shoulder muscles are used during the front crawl and backstroke. Kicking movements engage all of the leg muscles.
A runner will exert forces equal to several times their body weight through their hips, ankles and knees, but the supporting action of water can reduce the stress and impact on joints, muscles and bones. Being in the water up to your waist reduces the apparent weight of the body by 50% - so taking part in activities like water aerobics classes are much more accessible. Swimming can also help work the heart consistently for long periods – remember that the government guidelines on exercise are 30 minutes of moderate exercise on at least 5 days per week: swimming could certainly contribute to this.
If you’re returning from injury, the pool is frequently used for rehabilitation: you might have
seen people training in the pool using a flotation vest – this is a far harder exercise than it might appear, and 20 minutes of work with one of these will leave most people quite fatigued…and probably meeting the government guidelines on intensive activity!
As a family activity, swimming is second to none – due to the low impact and therapeutic effects of being in the water, adults can swim their whole life, and children can be taken in almost from birth. A 2017 report published by Swim England found evidence that swimmers live longer, that regular swimming helps older people stay mentally and physically fit, and participation in swimming lessons can help children to develop physical, cognitive and social skills quicker.
In terms of stress relief, swimming can be very helpful also – it promotes a sense of relaxation even when working quite hard - constant contracting, stretching, and relaxing of muscles combined with rhythmic deep breaths if very effective. If you’re swimming a lot of lengths it’s a great time to think, or even meditate as you concentrate on technique, or simply the number of strokes/lengths swum. Your shoulders will probably go through a bigger range of motion whilst swimming than they would in many other daily activities, and this is particularly helpful when many people have rounded shoulders and other postural issues.
Finally, and as always, swimming can be a wonderful and health enhancing experience, but if you don’t normally exercise, haven’t exercised for a while, or have any medical conditions which might cause problems, check with your Doctor to ensure it’s safe to increase your activity levels.
Live Borders have a number of pools scattered across the region: see www.liveborders.org.uk/ swimming/swimming-pools for more details. There are also swimming clubs in all the towns - Gala Amateur Swimming Club website can be found at https://galaasc.teamapp.com
John Lamont MP - Conservative
It's not often that the actions of the President of the United States have a direct impact on the Scottish Borders.
But that rare event happened recently when Donald Trump introduced a sweeping range of tariffs on countries all over the world.
However you feel about the President, the tariffs he has introduced will be damaging for businesses and economic growth.
There will be serious consequences for businesses in the Borders who export and sell their products abroad.
Sadly, the pain will also be felt beyond those businesses. It's likely that the costs for consumers will be felt on a whole range of products and the risk of recession could put jobs at risk and force people out of business.
It is terrible timing because in Scotland and across the whole UK, our economy is already faltering thanks to the policies of the new Labour government and the continued anti-business approach of the SNP.
Tariffs are simply a tax and in Scotland, we've already been paying higher taxes for many years because of the SNP. We've been contributing more than workers in the rest of the UK, but we're not seeing any better services as a result.
The new Labour government were supposed to deliver change, that's what they promised in the run up to last year's General Election. But they have sadly broken their promises on an industrial scale.
Despite saying they wouldn't raise taxes on working people, they have done just that by increasing National Insurance on businesses and introducing more taxes on farmers.
The recent spring statement from Chancellor Rachel Reeves did not make things any better after her disastrous budget last year.
I have been inundated with messages from small businesses ever since that budget and they all say the same thing. The National Insurance rise means they will have to limit their operations, reduce working hours, scrap plans to hire more people and even, potentially, lay off staff.
Labour must now take a different approach, instead of following the SNP way of raising taxes and limiting the potential of our economy.
It's basic common sense that, in the face of these new Trump tariffs, both of Scotland's governments must look to support economic growth by bringing bills down for workers and businesses.
Christine Grahame MSP - SNP
SBC has published a hit list of nurseries vulnerable to closure. Previously, SBC had been using the term “inactive” to deliver nursery closures if it felt the numbers had fallen too low. Now that term is used by the Care Inspectorate when a “provider” (here SBC) submits an application to remove a licence for a nursery on specific grounds but now after challenges from parents and myself, the council has changed tack. What should apply is the Education (Scotland ) Act 2010. and at the last gasp, they are now using the 2010 Act to “mothball” nurseries. But taking a good look at the guidance which flows from that Act, mothballing must not be used to circumvent the strict criteria for closure. By the way, mothballing can be for one and up to three years so you can guess how hard it would be to re-open if mothballed.
Continued on page 30
Art at Ancrum
Saturday 3 May - Monday 5 May
10am – 5pm daily FREE ENTRY
Explore and discover the work of professional artists and makers from around the Scottish Borders at displays and demonstrations in the village of Ancrum. Meet the exhibitors, learn about their work, and purchase directly from them.
I see John Lamont (Conservative MP ) asks SBC to reconsider these proposed closures. Well, his councillors are part and parcel of the SBC administration so I hope he can lean on them to take a wider view than simply cost cutting. This is a clarion call to parents, who wish to save their nursery, to take a leaf out of the Channelkirk parent’s campaigning book, and to make sure SBC don’t circumvent the proper processes including consultation before the deed is done. The significance of truly local nursery provision cannot be overstated.
Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative
I’m writing this on the train to Edinburgh — it’s 7:26am, the sky is bright, the air is warm, and it feels like summer. The fields just past Stow are full of lambs bouncing around without a care in the world — a youthful energy and love for life that we seem to lose as we get older.
In politics, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that the love and care for those around us is fading. Toxicity is creeping in — but thankfully, I can honestly say that’s not the case at Scottish Borders Council. We work hard, treat each other with respect, and see past party divides.
To me, that matters. We’re all human. We all have differences — but our job is not to pull people down. It’s to help lift them up.
Sadly, there are still some people in the world who thrive on creating a toxic atmosphere for their own gain. I don’t see the sense in it. Why bully others or impose yourself just to make sure your opinion is the only one that matters? It’s bizarre behaviour, and it pushes people away from constructive conversations. It drains passion from those who genuinely care about helping others.
Politics can bring out the worst in people — like a Jekyll and Hyde transformation. As soon as something becomes “political,” they act like they need to clench their fists like a prime Mike Tyson.
I’m not trying to preach here — just reflect. Sometimes it’s easier to tear things down than to work together and build something up. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try.
I’ll be holding an advice surgery on Monday, 12th May, from 5–6pm at Quins Restaurant in Galashiels. Email - Euan.jardine@scotborders.gov.uk Facebook - @VoteEuanJardine
Twitter - @VoteJardine
Telephone - 07811977720.
Councillor Fay Sinclair - SNP Galashiels & District
The local press headline read "Hands Off Our Car Park Cash".
I'd probably not have phrased it exactly like that but the concern that Galashiels could lose access to a £200,000 funding pot for local community benefit is very real.
Scottish Borders Council is reviewing its policy approach to public parking and how paid parking funds are spent and let's just say, I have concerns.
Galashiels has no access to wind farm money or the significant Common Good assets of other towns so this money is really vital to enable improvements to the area.
We’ve previously spent pay parking money on things like toilets in Bank Street during the Braw Lads Gathering since the Administration shut the public toilets and floral planters to improve the look of the town centre.
In the past few months, I've put forward suggestions of money for Gala in Bloom, floral planters and a donation to the Braw Lads Association but am struggling to have funds released.
Continued on page 36
At a recent full council meeting, councillors agreed to set up a working group to review current procedures “to ensure that the Council implements a consistent approach to parking across the Borders and to consider the introduction of single processes and resources to administer discretionary budgets with consistent funding criteria and governance”.
Councillors were also told the scope of the working group would include consideration of “aggregation” of funding, but that raises a red flag for me as a Galashiels member.
I absolutely oppose any moves to pull this money into a central pot. That money was generated in Galashiels and should be spent in Galashiels to benefit the community.
Money generated through parking charges in Galashiels car parks has historically been available to spend to benefit the community of Galashiels and I'm fighting for that to continue.
Citizens Advice Bureau
“N’er cast a clout till May is out” is a proverb we have likely all heard over the years.
This year we are all hoping for warmer weather, not just to discard the winter woollies but to be able to turn the heating down or off because we don’t need it, rather than being too worried about the cost. Did you know there are various schemes and grants available if you are struggling to meet your energy costs or bills? It is also never too early to start getting prepared for next winter:
• Could you be on a better energy tariff?
• What kind of meter do you have?
• Are you on the Priority Service Register?
• Are your night storage heaters working effectively?
Did you know grants and loans are available from the Scottish Government to improve the energy efficiency of homes? These can include insulation, home renewable systems and energy storage systems. Our advisers will be happy to offer further advice so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Central Borders Citizens Advice Bureau
111 High Street, Galashiels RD1 1RZ. Call 01896 753889.
Saturday 3rd of May 8:00-10:30 pm - Space - Blood and Bubblegum LP Tour
Thursday 8th of May 8:00-10:30 pm- GUN (Hombres Acoustic Tour)
Saturday 10th of May 8:00-10:30 pm - Beyond Madness
Friday 16th of May 8:00-10:30 pm - Day Sleeper EP Launch Event + Support from Waverley & Hector Ganne
Saturday 17th May 8:00-10:30 pm - Tarras
Friday 23rd May 8:00 pm - Rosalie Cunningham
Saturday 24th May 8:00 pm - Pure Weller
Friday 30th May 8:00pm - The Upbeat Beatles
Saturday 31st of May 8:00-10:30 pm - DS:UK a tribute to Dire Straits
For further information and tickets see www.macarts.scot
Galashiels Inner Wheel Club
Who are we?
Inner Wheel is a women’s organisation focussed on friendship and service. We use our skills in volunteering and fundraising to support charitable causes whilst having fun and enjoying friendship.
The Gala Inner Wheel meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7pm from September to June in Cafe Recharge, Island St, Gala, with social meet ups and events year round. We visit gardens, the cinema and shows and members are always keen for any excuse for a get together. Feeling lonely, bored or just lacking things to fill your day? Why not come along and see if you enjoy the company?
On May 20th we hold our annual birthday celebration in the Kingknowe's hotel. Following our trip to Harrogate for our association's annual conference in early April, we have our District Rally at the end of May in Larkhall.
New members are always welcome, please contact Helen regarding membership on 07780925076 or for general enquiries Hazel on 07716594121.
Community Car Boot Sale at Lindean Village Hall
Join us at Lindean Village Hall, TD1 3PA, on Sunday 4th May from 10.00am, (9.00am for sellers), and pick up some bargains at our inaugural Car Boot Sale. Only £10 per car, £15 per van. Teas, coffees, breakfast rolls, and other goodies available inside the hall, there’s sure to be something for everyone.
To book a place, phone 01896 755316, or speak to any member of the Committee. Places will be limited so don’t delay!
Galashiels Church of Scotland
We are ordinary people who believe in an extra-ordinary God. Find out more about God’s amazing love for each of us. Please come and join us for worship. Children and Youth always welcome.
Sunday mornings at 11am, at Galashiels Parish Church, Scott Crescent, TD1 3JU (formerly Old Parish and St Paul’s).
Sunday evenings at 6:30pm, at Galashiels Parish Church, Hawthorn Road, Langlee, TD1 2JZ (formerly St John’s).
We are a small but growing church of less than perfect people learning to follow Jesus together in our lives, in Galashiels, and in our complex world. All are welcome to join us – old and new friends, all ages and stages of life.
Services
Sunday Service 10.30am with singing, a short talk, prayers and Communion. Healing Service Sunday 11th May 6pm - reflective service with the opportunity for healing prayer.
Messy Church Tuesday 27th May 5.30-7pm for primary age children – all welcome.
Contact Details
Priest: Revd Dr Lesley Penny Telephone: 01896 572013 (landline)
Email: stpeterschurchgala@gmail.com
Website: www.stpetersgala.co.uk
Bowden & Melrose Parish Church
Locum Minister - Rev Donald Scott - 07720040081 or Donald.scott@churchofscotland.org.uk
We meet for worship at 9.30am in Bowden Kirk and at 11.00am in Melrose Church. The Melrose service is live-streamed, 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
Messy Church
Messy Church meets from 3.00-5.00pm on the second Sunday of the month. Our next meeting is on Sunday 11th May 2025. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All welcome.
Open Door
Come along to our weekly Open Door every Thursday, 10.00am-12noon, when Melrose Church Hall is open for tea, coffee, company and chat. All welcome.
Continued on page 42
Bowden Community Café
This continues to meet on the third Wednesday of each month in Bowden Village Hall at 11amthe next is on Wednesday 21st May. All are very welcome.
Date for your diary
The annual Church Fete will be held in Bowden Village Hall on Saturday 2 August from 2 - 4pm.
Roman Catholic Parish of Our Lady & St Andrew
Galashiels - Our Lady & St Andrew’s, Stirling Street, TD1 1BY
Holy Mass: Sunday 11am, Wednesday 6pm, Friday and Saturday 10am.
Melrose: - St Cuthbert’s, High Cross Avenue, TD6 9SQ
Holy Mass: Sunday 9.15am, Thursday 10am.
Selkirk – Our Lady & St Joseph’s, High Street, TD7 4JX
Holy Mass: Saturday (Vigil) 6pm, Monday 10am.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Rosary, 30 minutes before every weekday Mass except Saturday.
Holy Day of Obligation: The Ascension of the Lord Thursday, 29th May. See Facebook for services.
Why bother with God in a world of suffering and pain? Does God even care about me in my suffering? How can a good God allow suffering? ‘Faith when it seems pointless.’ This is the sub-title to our morning series in the book of Job. What we’re going to see is someone who suffers precisely because they worship God. Therefore, the Book of Job is about undeserved suffering. It is the trials of a man who belongs to God and trusts God. It is about trusting God when to others it seems utterly pointless. Job is fundamentally a book about the Creator God and particularly his power over the whole of Creation and his wisdom in governing the universe. The character and justice of God are perhaps more critical issues for the book even than the suffering of Job. Is God righteous when he allows his people to suffer?
Follow on YouTube or subscribe to our podcast or even better, come at 10am at the Focus Centre.
Galashiels Baptist Church
Galashiels Baptist Church is a community of Christians committed to loving God, each other and our local community. Even if you have never been to church before or want to explore Christianity further, we would love to get to know you and journey with you.
These are the activities going on each week at our building in Victoria Street:
This Month’s Tricky Sudoko
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!
Sundays
10:30 am (weekly) – Sunday Service
A mix of worship music, prayer, and teaching with creche and Sunday Club for children.
Tuesdays
2:00-4:00 pm (weekly) – Tuesday Tea Club
An afternoon tea including home-made cakes as well as fellowship and conversation.
7:30-8:30 pm (weekly) – Evening Prayer Meeting
A time to pray together on Zoom.
Wednesdays
11:00 am (fortnightly) Ladies’ Prayer Meeting
A time of informal fellowship and prayer in the church lounge.
2:00-4:00 pm (weekly) Arts & Crafts Group
Bring along your painting, knitting, card making etc. and enjoy an afternoon of fellowship and creativity with refreshments.
Thursdays
10:00-11:15 am (weekly) – Parents, Carers & Toddlers Group
A group for those looking after children aged 0-3 years with toys and refreshments. For the most up to date information please visit our website: www.galashielsbaptistchurch.org.uk
We’d love to welcome you at any of these activities.
Caddonfoot Parish Church
Easter was celebrated at Caddonfoot Parish Church with services over a hectic period beginning on Palm Sunday and continuing throughout this special time.
There was a Communion service on Good Friday evening followed by a service on Easter Day, and the services, all led by Locum minister, the Rev June Johnston, continued through May, all at 9.30am.
The church is linked with St Mary of Wedale, Stow and Heriot, and there are also joint services at all three venues.
On one Sunday, we were joined by a couple from Edinburgh who had been married in the church 50 years ago.
Members from the congregation all participate in the activities of the church, Bible readings, music, and helping out with the refreshments, flowers etc.
The Church and Clovenfords Community Newsletter has now been distributed and makes good reading from a wide range of contributors.
This year's Lent Appeal is raising funds for WaterAid.
An entry in our Community Pages is free to all non profit groups. If you would like to be included, just send your entry before 11th of the preceding month, by e-mail to info@galalife.co.uk Tell us your news and we will tell everyone else!
Continued on page 45
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!
What’s The Charge?
Within the next 10 years all new cars will be electric, as we move to cleaner motoring and zero emission. If considering moving to electric now, that means tackling ‘range anxiety’ and a change in habit. You need to get used to regularly plugging in and charging, rather than waiting for the fuel light to come on! Here are some tips to get you prepared. Basically, charging an electric vehicle simply involves plugging the charging lead into a charge point. This lead is normally supplied with the vehicle. However, it’s a little more involved than that.
Charging Speeds
The higher the kiloWatt (KW) output of a charger, the faster the charge. Domestic threepin plugs charge at 2.3kW and are known as ‘slow’, while dedicated 7kW wallboxes are technically known as ‘fast’ but considered slow in practical terms.
Public chargers that can deliver 50kW are known as ‘rapid’ charge points, those delivering 100kW or more are called ‘ultra rapid’.
Home chargers and other ‘fast’ 7kW units charge using AC, while rapid chargers use DC power. EVs have a maximum charging speed
they can accept, so if you find a 150kW charger and your car can only accept 100kW, the latter is the maximum you will get. Plug-in hybrids do not rapid charge (yet).
Charging at Home
There are two options for charging at home: you can either use a domestic 3-pin plug, or have a dedicated charging port installed – both will require you to have off-street parking.
A 3-pin plug will get the job done, but it will take something in the order of 35 hours depending on the car and its battery capacity.
Plug-in hybrids have a much smaller battery - on average 15KWh as opposed to fully electric at 75KWh and on a 3-pin plug take around 6 hours to charge.
Your car will probably come with two ‘Type 2’ charging cables - An ‘AC Charging Cable’ for use in a wallbox and a ‘Portable Charging Cable’ for use on a 3-pin plug. They are not interchangeable. A ‘Rapid Charger’ cable has different plugs, known as CCS which supports a DC charge. The latest chargers have CCS2 sockets which will support either Type 2, or CCS1.
The 3-pin Portable Charge Cable will have a charger built in. This will regulate the power to below 2.3kW and 13 amps which is the maximum a 3-pin plug can supply. Do not adapt the AC Charging Cable to fit a 3-pin plug, it will either blow all your fuses or burn your house down!
It’s also worth noting that if there are any weak spots in your home electricity circuits – perhaps the wiring, fuse-board or plug socket are old –such a continual, high-demand draw on your mains supply at 2.3KW can risk dangerously overloading the circuit.
If your parked car is far away from a plug socket, you should not use a standard extension cord to charge it, as they are not designed to carry the electrical load charging entails. You will need a heavy duty one and unroll it all to prevent overheating.
The second option, is having a dedicated home charge-point (a ‘wallbox’) installed. This is the best solution, and it’s one the vast majority of EV owners choose if they can. These cost around £800 to have fitted, but watch out for grants that are available under certain circumstances.
They take around 2 hours to be installed by a professional and as there is such a demand, the lead time can take several weeks, so plan early. There is a choice of ‘tethered’ or ‘untethered’ leads. Tethered are hardwired to the wallbox. The choice is yours.
Home wallbox chargers deliver electricity at a higher rate than a three-pin plug – around 7kW versus the 2.3kW from a conventional socket and charges are much faster, adding roughly 30 miles of range in an hour, with a complete charge in around 10 hours, depending on the car.
These charge times do seem long. However, it’s a change of habit, think of charging your car in the same way you do your mobile phone, rather than waiting for the ‘fuel light’ to come on, many EV owners charge little and often, rather from empty to full.
The cost of charging an electric car at home, will depend on the size of your car’s battery, your electricity tariff and what time of day you charge. You can roughly calculate the cost by looking up the size of an EV’s battery and the cost your energy supplier charges per kiloWatt hour. For example, a 62kWh battery, charged at
£0.28 per kWh of electricity, charged emptyto-full will cost around £18. Most suppliers, however, have an off-peak rate between midnight and 6am where power is available for as little as £0.07 per kW. You have to sign up with them for that and if you need further information, just get in touch and I will share my experience.
CCS1 CONNECTOR/PLUG
No Off-Street Parking?
Many blocks of flats with dedicated car parks will have chargers, or occupants can work with landlords to get them installed. For those with no off-street parking at all, solutions do exist though, including making regular, more substantial charges at fast public charging stations, kerbside chargers such as those found in lamp posts (these tend to charge at 7kW), workplace charging, and chargers at locations such as supermarkets, gyms and car parks.
Charging in Public Spaces
Public chargers can be found at a variety of locations, by the roadside, at motorway services, in public car parks, or at standalone destinations that are modelled similarly to petrol stations, complete with a shop and washroom facilities. There are apps available to help find them.
They are operated by a number of companies and organisations, including oil companies like BP and Shell, and dedicated charging firms such as Instavolt and Gridserve Electric Highway, as well as local councils.
Each network has its own pricing structure, and while some offer cheaper charges for people who pay a monthly membership fee, it is often possible to use them on a pay-as-you-go basis, activating the charger with your bank card or a contactless mobile phone payment. Prices can vary from 40p to 80p per kW, but your app will keep you right.
Many of these networks are interlinked, so
membership of one might gain you access to others, and many of the national providers are linked to other, smaller regional services.
Public chargers delivering more than 50kW will have tethered leads (hardwired to the wallbox) that connect to your car.
Charging etiquette
• If you don’t have an EV, don’t ever park in a charging spot. (This is known as ICEing) and don’t park in a charging space if you’re not actually charging.
• If you have been charging, move your car as soon as it’s charged.
• Use the various apps available to alert you when your car’s charged and don’t wander too far away.
• Never unplug other cars to charge your own, unless there’s a note on that car telling you that you can.
• Respect the charge cables and connectors provided. Look after your own cables - they are frighteningly expensive!
• Generally be considerate and help each other out.
Happy motoring, watch out for pedestrians, they won’t hear you coming!
Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory
Somewhere in the house, you will have a shoebox full of old photos. Parents, grandparents, great grandparents, holidays, birthdays and events that were worthy of capturing at the time. However, they will eventually fade away and won’t last forever. It would be a shame to lose them and not share with your family for generations to come. It is possible to run them through a flatbed scanner, if you can find the cable and manage to update the driver:o) That’s the tedious way though, and you invariably end up with a dull, squint copy with a huge file size.
Your phone has the answer. Digitising old photos on a smartphone with an app called Google Photoscan is a breeze. It is available for both iOS and Android, is easy to use and is free. While there are other smartphone apps to digitise old photos, PhotoScan keeps things straightforward and delivers great results. It tackles glare efficiently with a multi-angle scan to provide a clean, sharp image with no glare. You can then easily store your digitised results into Google Photos since it’s part of the Google ecosystem, or wherever you like. For long term storage consider an external drive.
Download the app from the App Store or Google Play.
Check here www.google.com/photos/scan/ for more details and watch the instruction video, it is really easy once you get going.
Using Google Photoscan
Click Start Scanning, and allow permissions for camera and storage access.
Wipe any dust off the photo and place it on a flat surface like a table. Place your smartphone over the photo and centre it in the frame. Tap the shutter button, and you’ll see four white dots. Move your phone over each dot to scan. This will kill the glare before the app stitches the scans together to produce the best result. Check the result. There is an Adjust button to crop or rotate if need be, then, save it to your Gallery on the phone, or Google Photos if you’re
signed in. You can move it again later to a more permanent location like a flash drive, external SSD or burn to a disc.
Now just repeat the process and sort them into folders. Give the folders meaningful names, so you can find them again.
Quick Tips:
• The lighting is essential to get a good scan. Use soft daylight or a lamp when scanning, and avoid shadows or direct sunlight.
• Use PhotoScan’s default resolution settings. The quality is high enough without creating excess file size.
• Always back up your scans by saving them to Google Photos or an external drive.
• You can repair scratches or enhance your digitised photos with tools like GIMP. It is also free and comes with excellent tutorials and some pretty impressive advanced image processing. See www.gimp.org
• Always handle fragile photos with care. Touch them as little as possible as a fingerprint can cause them to deteriorate, and wear cotton gloves if they’re brittle. Start small, maybe with the better quality ones, or your favourites until you get the hang of it, and always either name the photo, or at very least the folder you save it to.
Willie
Chicken Katsu Curry
Ingredients
2tbs oil
2 carrots, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
10g root ginger, grated
1 tbs medium curry powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1tsp turmeric
400ml tin of coconut milk
150ml chicken stock
2-3 tsp soy sauce
2 tsp honey
2 tbsp malt vinegar
Chicken Tenders
Method
Katsu Curry is an increasingly popular Japanes dish. You will find it in many restaurants and even in the Ready Meals section of the supermarket.
Basically, it is chicken fried in Panko breadcrumbs with a curry sauce, served with sticky rice, or whatever you like.
We are going to cheat and skip the preparation of the chicken by using frozen breaded chicken breast tenders or goujons :o)
1. Heat the oil in a pan and gently fry the carrots, onion, garlic and ginger until soft.
2. Add the curry powder, cayenne and turmeric and cook for a minute, then add the coconut milk, chicken stock, soy sauce, honey and the vinegar.
3. Simmer for 20–25 minutes until the vegetables are really soft and the liquid has reduced a little.
4. Using a stick blender or liquidiser, blitz to form a smooth sauce, then taste and add a little more soy sauce or honey if needed.
5. Cook your chicken in the air fryer or oven as per instructions and serve with rice, noodles, chips or whatever takes your fancy.
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HOROSCOPES
BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN
For May 2025
The cosmic energies for May suggest that it’s a slightly more stable month under the influence of Taurus, but there are still plenty of surprises in store as the impact of fiery Aries is far from over. The powerful full moon on the 12th is in the deeply passionate sign of Scorpio, be prepared for some intense feelings and emotions, particularly around relationships. Full moons are always about energetic intensity and illumination, so this is also a good time to check out your life’s direction, do you have a goal, a mission or a philosophy that needs your attention?
The love planet Venus remains in passionate Aries all month, and action planet Mars travels through Leo; that’s a large portion of bold, expressive energy to be getting along with! The maverick planet Uranus is traveling through the last degrees of Taurus, indicating that we can continue to expect major shifts and possible shocks in the financial world and in the global economy. The New moon in versatile Gemini on the 27th suggests a breath of fresh air and a positive shift of energy.
ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20
The Taurus Sun and the maverick planet Uranus both illuminate the financial sector of your chart this month. This exceptional combination will bring changes to the way that you value yourself and how you come across to others. Be on your guard when making any important decisions. Tune into the rays of expansive Jupiter in Gemini when communicating your ideas.
TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21
The Sun is in your sign and starts the month in powerful aspect to the action planet Mars; this indicates that this month will be anything but dull and you’ll start to see plenty of unexpected change coming your way. Expansive Jupiter, in Curious and versatile Gemini offers a positive time to expand your consciousness, assess your goals and reach for whatever you want.
GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21
Dynamic Mars, in passionate Leo, is stirring up the communication sector of your chart suggesting that new and innovative ideas will be on offer this month. Use your intuition to make some necessary changes and you’ll be well rewarded as new opportunities open up. The powerful new moon in your sign at the end of the month looks extremely encouraging,
CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22
Energetic Mars is active in your financial sector this month, this important transit offers you the courage, self-confidence and determination to stand firm on a recent issue. The Sun and maverick Uranus illuminate the social area of your chart, indicating a strong prospect of making new friendships and renewing some old ones. The Scorpio full moon on the 12th looks auspicious.
LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23
The Sun and the maverick planet Uranus are both at the highest point of your chart, this powerful alignment illuminates the way for bigger and brighter career prospects. With action planet Mars in your sign all month it’s time to be bold, believe in yourself and claim what is rightfully yours. Expansive Jupiter in Gemini bodes well for new social and networking opportunities.
VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22
This month brings a sense of adventure and exciting new possibilities as the Sun and the unpredictable planet Uranus offer unique and brilliant opportunities to broaden your horizons. Your ruling planet, communicative Mercury, is gathering speed ensuring that your plans can now move forward and confirming that you get the very best out of your social endeavours.
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23
The full moon in Scorpio on the 12th illuminates some of the important financial arrangements that you have been looking at in recent months. Plans concerning joint resources may need a bit of a review, but on the whole your plans look favourable. Venus, your ruler, travels through your opposite sign all month indicating that you may need to make a bold decision.
SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22
The radiant Sun and unpredictable Uranus are both in your opposite sign, suggesting that relationships will become more important than ever, and in due course you may have to make an important decision. Action planet Mars reaches the highpoint of your chart this month, fiery Leo energy is strongly emphasised and creative ideas should be flowing.
SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21
Jupiter, your ruler, is in your opposite sign bringing work related matters to the surface. Jupiter in Gemini is all about expanding and broadening horizons, now is the perfect time to let go of outmoded ideas and discover inspirational new ways to reach your goals. The new moon in Gemini on the 27th offers new beginnings and will certainly be an important turning point.
CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20
Your home and family are in the spotlight this month, Aries energy is strong and the cosmic indicators are suggesting lots of positive change concerning your domestic situation. The radiant Sun and the maverick planet Uranus are working together in Taurus, setting the scene for the winds of change to blow away any cobwebs in your social and romantic life.
AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18
Action planet Mars in Leo is travelling through a pivotal area of your chart all month offering a powerful opportunity for reviewing your relationships, both personal and professional. Health and fitness goals are also indicated and it’s a good time for clearing out anything that is not essential to your wellbeing. This month suggests that a dynamic phase of change and self- determination is about to begin.
PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20
Communication and new ideas are highlighted this month as the Sun joins forces with maverick planet Uranus, offering innovative new ways to enhance your life. How you relate to others is also about to be challenged and a new plan of action is on the horizon. Dynamic Mars in fiery Leo offers increased vitality and urges you to embrace your passions.
Christine is a professional astrologer offering private consultations in astrology, life coaching and Bach flower essences.
NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, 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. Reach your fullest potential during 2025 by booking an astrological reading with me now!
Consultations are available in person, on Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp or by telephone.
Christine Chalklin, Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach
