Gala Life July 2021

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 2021

CONTENTS WELCOME

Welcome to the July edition of Gala Life. It’s amazing how quickly this year is passing and the weather is keeping us all on our toes. This edition sees the return of many great hospitality venues and even some small events taking place in real life.

Braw Lads this year is taking place virtually - we wish everyone a fantastic time and hope you can take part.

This month the garden column is all about quick, easy improvements and the Fitness column looks at the benefits to your mental health from being active.

Willie has been busy looking at the history of QR codes and offers a neat trick for your home Wi-Fi – it’s a really handy thing to do, especially if you have many guests!! Dental implants have come a long way and John Wall explains the latest developments in an interesting read.

As we have recently had some lovely warm days we couldn’t resist “Lollies” for our recipe page and we also researched how to keep cool this summer – just in case of a heatwave.

Congratulations to Hutchisons Carpets on reaching their 30 year anniversary. Well done.

Until next time …

6

Fitness With Alan Clinch This month Alan looks at the effects of exercise on your mental health.

8

WIN We have a fabulous prize in our competition this month. Don't miss it!

10

Recipe This month we have a great selection of ice lollies!

12

Willie's Wonky Computer Willie looks at the history of QR Codes and how to create one that's really useful.

16

The Gala Garden Sheila discusses making the most of what's still available for your garden.

18

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

22

Keep your Cool

12

Computer 2 Gala Life

Deadline for August

37, 59

22

Keep Your Cool Summer is here and we have a variety of tips to help keep you cool.

37

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

46

Dental Implants Are you considering a dental implant? We have everything you need to know.

52

Horoscopes What's in your stars for July? Christine has the answer.

Sudoku

10

Recipe

46

Advertising Debbie - 07545299491

Dental Implants

Art & Eds Willie - 07906375953 www.facebook.com/mygalalife

Gala Life 57 Glen Crescent, Peebles EH45 9BS info@galalife.co.uk

www.galalife.co.uk 16

Gala Garden is the 13th July

Gala Life 3

4 Gala Life

Gala Life 5

FITNESS with Alan Clinch

Exercise and Mental Health Much has been written over the course of the past 18 months about the effects that the pandemic has had on people’s mental health.

As I’ve written in some previous articles, there is strong evidence that regular involvement in physical activity leads to reduced risk of serious illness, as well as improved quality of life and life expectancy.

from people over time.

It’s been shown that even a single activity/ exercise session can lead to a lessening of acute anxiety straight away, with similar reductions in anger, confusion, depression, and tension.

Feelings of energy significantly improve after activity, and other benefits include improved memory, decision making and ability to carry out everyday tasks. As a result, further improvements in anxiety and mood could occur as a result of improved self-image.

cycling); or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity (such as running); or even shorter durations of very vigorous intensity activity (such as sprinting or stair climbing); or a combination of moderate, vigorous and very vigorous intensity activity

All of the research supports the preventative, long-term, and immediate effects of exercise on anxiety, mood state, and mood disorders. It’s really important to remember though, that all of the commentary I’ve provided here is derived from recent research on people who wanted to exercise. An effective physical activity or exercise programme will only be helpful if we What’s not so well documented is the effect follow it and stick to it. Personal trainers and of exercise on mental health – this has both exercise instructors are specially trained to help chronic (long term) and acute (short term) consequences. In the long term physical activity with fitness and activity programming, and may be able to provide a more personalised and may reduce the risk of developing mood and effective service than simply looking at online anxiety disorders, and a recent report showed material. that people who engage in physical activity significantly reduce the risk of developing To conclude, the current government depression. Specifically, meeting the weekly guidelines on exercise and physical activity recommended physical activity levels (see suggest that adults should engage in muscle below) was associated with a 22% reduced risk strengthening activities on at least two days a of short term depression in adults and older week. Additionally, each week, adults should adults. Physical activity is also associated with accumulate at least 150 minutes of moderate reduced risk of experiencing anxiety. intensity activity (such as brisk walking or

Remember, whilst all of this is may sound like a good idea, it’s important to be safe: if you haven’t exercised for a while, or have any medical conditions which might cause problems, check with your Doctor to ensure Most of the research in this area has focused it’s safe to increase your activity levels. on aerobic activity (walking, cycling, running, swimming etc), however other activity types are Additionally if you are feeling under pressure or feel you’re mental health is an issue, your effective as well (weight training, Pilates, and Doctor is an excellent starting point. mind-body exercise such as yoga, and tai chi).

Another conclusion is that it is the accumulation of activity time which has the most significant effect – more activity equals a bigger response alan@pitlochrylife.co.uk 6 Gala Life

Gala Life 7

8 Gala Life

Gala Life 9

Strawberry Yogurt ICE LOLLIES Ingredients 150g strawberries 90g caster sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 500g tub of low-fat natural yogurt 100g melted white chocolate 60g sugar balls or strands You will also need 6 or 8 ice lolly moulds

Method Put strawberries, caster sugar vanilla extract in a bowl. Crush fruit until roughly broken up and the sugar has dissolved.

Mix in low-fat natural yogurt. Pour into 6 or 8 ice-lolly moulds and freeze. Once frozen, take them out of the moulds and dip tips of the lollies in melted white chocolate, then quickly dip them in sugar balls or strands. Serve as soon as they set!

fruit salad ice pops Ingredients 1 peach, cut into 1cm slices 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced into 5mm rounds 75g blueberries 110g strawberries, hulled and halved 350-500ml white grape juice 10 10 GalaGala Life Life

Method Snugly arrange some of each fruit in eight 75g ice lolly moulds.

Pour enough juice into each mould to just cover the fruit.

Insert sticks and freeze until solid, usually takes up to six hours.

peanut and Banana Lollies Ingredients 2 large or 3 small bananas 3 tbsp smooth peanut butter 1 tsp chopped mixed nuts

Method Blitz the bananas and peanut butter together in a blender until smooth. Pour into 3 moulds, insert a wooden stick and place the moulds into the freezer.

After 30 minutes sprinkle some chopped nuts on the top of each lolly and return to the freezer for at least another 90 minutes, or until the lollies are frozen.

Traffic Light ice Lollies Ingredients 250g strawberries 4 ½ tbsp honey 3 large ripe juicy peaches, peeled, stoned and sliced 5 large ripe kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced

Method In a blender, puree the strawberries and then sieve the puree to get rid of the seeds. Stir 1 ½ tbsp of the honey into the strawberry puree.

Pour the strawberry puree into each of the ice lolly moulds until each mould is one third full and freeze until firm (about 1 ½ hours).

Repeat the process with the peaches and 1 ½ tbsp of the honey (no need to sieve the peaches) and freeze until firm, then add the kiwi fruit mixed with the rest of the honey and insert the sticks. Freeze until solid.

Gin & tonic ice Lollies Ingredients 6 slices of cucumber 6 mint leaves 75ml gin 250ml tonic 50g caster sugar

Method Take a six-hole lolly mould and push a cucumber slice and a mint leaf into each one.

In a jug, stir the gin, tonic and sugar until the sugar dissolves and the tonic loses its fizz.

Divide between the moulds, push in the lolly sticks and freeze for at least 4 hrs, or preferably overnight.

Ten Calorie lemonade lollies Ingredients 100g frozen strawberries 100g frozen raspberries

Method Put all the ingredients into a blender and blitz until combined. Pour into moulds and freeze until solid.

400ml diet lemonade Gala Life 11

Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory QR Codes, or Quick Response Codes to give them their full title, have been around since 1994. They were invented by Masahiro Hara, then working for Denso Wave, a subsidiary of the Toyota Car Company in Japan. Prior to that they had used Barcodes to track and identify their vehicles and parts, and whilst they were sufficient for the likes of supermarket checkouts, Toyota were putting up to 10 barcodes on some of their parts to provide sufficient information for their needs.

allow them to connect automatically. No physical contact and no spelling out the network name or password, no explaining capital letters or what’s a zero and what’s the letter ‘O’. iPhones can read QR Codes by pointing the camera at them and following the prompt. Android phones might need you to press the magnify button at the bottom of the camera screen to get them to read the code.

Navigate to https://qrcode.tec-it.com/en/Wifi Hara first came up with the idea of the square, (or use this QR Code). because their research showed that not only was it an easily distinguishable shape, but also allowed for both horizontally and vertically coded information, as opposed to horizontal only in a barcode.

Because of this, a QR code can hold hundreds of times more information than a barcode and can also be read up to 10x faster.

Denso Wave released their QR Code invention without maintaining patent rights in the hope the technology would evolve, which it did. The rest is history, although for most of us the history didn’t really start until the advent of the smartphone.

Make sure ‘URL’ is selected on the left side. Now simply select the ‘Authentication’ from the drop down list. It will most likely be ‘WPA/WPA2’ unless Nowadays we find QR Codes everywhere, providing you have a very old router. Then add the SSID all sorts of information. They no longer need to (Network Name), you should know that, or get it be black and white and because they have inbuilt from the back of the router. Then the ‘Password’, error correction in their format, it is possible to again that’s on the back of your router, or it may be also include a logo, a name or a message within the on a small card or sticker that came with the router. square, without losing functionality.

(Unless you changed it) The biggest change though is their ability to Once the information has been filled in, press include code that will perform an action. One of ‘Refresh’ and the QR Code on the right will change the best examples is used on business cards, that to the one you want. Test it by pointing your phone when scanned will upload all the owners contact camera at it on the screen, if it works just press the information, including social media, web, office Download button and either print just the image, hours and a map, directly onto your smartphone or for commercial use, add the image to a Word using a 'vCard Plus QR Code'. Then there's the document with a brief explanation. Print off and latest ATM machine on trial, where a QR Code on either display in a public area, or leave a copy for your phone will provide a photo of yourself along each guest. They will thank you. with partial bank card details. The camera on the machine will read this, compare the photo with the person standing in front of it and only release cash to the account holder. The possibilities are endless.

Online QR Code generators are mostly free and a great example that is of benefit to everyone is one that connects customers, guests or visitors to your Wi-Fi. Whether you have a hotel, B&B, holiday let, cafe, bar or just friends visiting, by following these simple steps you can print off a QR Code that will 12 Gala Life

Willie

14 Gala Life

Gala Life 15

The Gala Garden July After a very long winter and a fairly miserable spring, we have now reached high summer and somehow that feels like seeing land after a long sea voyage. It seems fairly likely that most of us will be staying put this year and the summer holidays will probably be played out in the back garden.

If you planned to redesign the garden you may have discovered just how hard it is to get any building materials, let alone find anyone to do the job before Christmas. Perennials and shrubs are hard to come by too and everything costs more than you reckoned. So I thought I would suggest six easy and inexpensive garden improvements.

First of all, keep everything tidy. Either hide stuff that has to be stored in the garage or shed, or re-cycle it. Weed the borders and beds and hoe between the plants to open the ground so you can water effectively. If your budget allows, mulch with composted bark mulch after watering to reduce moisture loss and inhibit weeds. Don’t use fresh wood chip though. Mow the lawn once a week, always starting in a different corner.

Second: you can add colour and improve the whole picture by painting the fence and any outbuildings or sheds. Choose a good background colour for the fence like dark brown or slate grey but use your imagination on the shed. Old wooden furniture can also be painted to provide more impact. Before you buy new furniture check out the re-use or reclaim places first.

16 Gala Life

Third: maybe your paving ought to be replaced, and one day it will be, but right now it would look better if you pressure wash it. Remove weeds and grass growing in between the stones and re-sand the paving by brushing in a mix of cement (if you can find any) and sharp sand.

Fourth: there is still time to sow some seeds for quick growing crops like salad leaves and rocket.

If you can’t find anyone to build your raised beds, see if you can find some ready to assemble kits online, made from recycled plastic. If that doesn’t appeal use the spaces between plants in your borders.

Fifth: there are still plenty of annuals around and tender perennials like geraniums and fuchsias, so make as much as you can of your pots and containers. Small pots will dry out quickly so use the biggest pots you can and fill them full of summer colour, not forgetting good foliage plants too. Group them together in corners or on either side of a bench and deadhead regularly to encourage more flowers.

Sixth: green fly can be dealt with organically without spending a penny – a spray of soapy water and lots of squishing will do the trick.

Birds will appreciate a bird bath, especially in hot weather, almost as much as kids like a paddling pool. And finally: put out some big candles in storm lanterns for an evening meal and really enjoy your lovely garden!

Sheila Drummond

Gala Life 17

John Lamont MP With full international travel unlikely to return soon there needs to be a real focus on domestic tourism. The Borders cannot be left behind and needs to attract its fair share of UK tourists.

Realistically, I don’t think we will see full scale international travel until at least 2023 so there is a real opportunity for the Borders and Scotland to become a must-visit destination for Brits.

This year we should see the Great Tapestry of Scotland open in the town. And next year the UK will play host to several globally significant events like the Commonwealth Games and Festival UK. The National Lottery, in conjunction with the UK Government, will launch a new £10m scheme that will encourage trips to tourist attractions in places like the Borders. It will launch this autumn and encourage tourism across the UK in the off season which is usually much quieter.

There will also be a new rail pass for domestic tourists helping to make it easier for people to get around the UK, and to places like Galashiels who are served by a railway.

I’ll be doing my bit to encourage British tourists to come here. I am sure our local businesses and attractions will welcome them with open arms.

Advice Surgeries I was really happy to be able to restart my physical advice surgeries last month in a Covid secure way. Since the beginning of March 2020, I have been holding them over the phone or by video call due to restrictions.

However, I know a lot of people still like to speak to me face to face. Despite the huge rise in emails since I was first elected in 2007, I am always pleasantly surprised by the number of people who still attend my advice surgeries in person.

To ensure they were as safe as possible, I had Perspex screens, hand sanitiser, and attendees had to wear a mask unless they were exempt from doing so. All surfaces were cleaned before and after people came in and windows and doors were kept open to improve ventilation.

Due to the restrictions, local residents also had to book an appointment rather than just pop in as was the case beforehand.

I will be holding more surgeries in Galashiels and the surrounding area throughout the summer, so do keep an eye out for more details.

Andy Anderson Councillor - Galashiels & District SNP I think along with many, I am approaching a Zoom/Teams/Meet overload. There are huge advantages in online meetings, not least because it allows those unable to travel an opportunity to be involved. There are opportunities to learn, discuss issues and interact that would not have been possible before. Although, this also means many hours in front of a screen instead of getting out and about.

However, we also recently adopted a dog from The Dogs Trust (www.dogstrust.org.uk/) – a great organization that offers support before and after adoption for all sorts of doggy behaviours and quirks. We went for an older dog, which comes with its own history, good and bad, or unknown, and it has taken time for our Tess to become comfortable with us and us with her – it is a work in progress, but well worthwhile! Another upside is that I now walk more than I used to – in all weathers - which helps offset the online time....perhaps...

Continued on page 20

18 Gala Life

Gala Life 19

Back to being online... Over the last year, I have attended some really interesting ‘webinars’, particularly those on ‘Community Wealth Building’, which is very much about economic recovery and renewal. This approach has been used by some councils (such as North Ayrshire Council) and looks at local assets – buildings, businesses, people - and aims to increase local spending both by the community and business/public bodies, to increase local wealth and stimulate regeneration.

Social Enterprise Scotland (https://socialenterprise.scot) have run several webinars on this and on similar topics if you are interested in finding out more, or if you are perhaps thinking of starting a community Enterprise. The Scottish Government is also looking at how to help support further development of Community Wealth Building approaches across Scotland. I felt that there were a number of approaches that could work in our area and aim to learn more about this.

I was fortunate to join other Stow Community Trust board members recently at a wee sneak preview of the Station House in Stow. It is in the final stages of completion and the search is now on for a suitable tenant to run the bar/bistro. I was impressed with the décor and it will be a fantastic space to eat, drink and socialize. In addition, there will be a community room and a cycling hub for repairs/maintenance and information on local cycling routes and walks. It is going to be a really exciting community asset and the SCT team have worked hard and done a fantastic job in pulling this project together, giving this historic building a new life.

Andy Anderson Tel: 01835 826919 (direct dial); Mobile: 07811 976952.

E-mail: Andy.Anderson@scotborders.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/GalaDistrict Twitter: @AndyA4Gala

Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative Over the last few years, I have been privileged enough to be invited along to various events of the Braw Lads Gathering. It gave me a very different perspective of the event and the hard work and organisation involved in making the week a success. For many including myself the Braw Lads Gathering is one of the main highlights of the year in Galashiels. Last year during the last week of June, it felt quite strange not to be attending various events throughout the week and being part of the buzz around the town on the Saturday. One of my personal highlights of the week is the reciting of Braw Lads poem which was written by Violet Anderson and always impeccably delivered by Gordon Keddie. It’s a poem that spins a great narrative in your mind about what the braw lads day is all about.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions this year the braw lads gathering will be a virtual experience shown online via the Braw Lads social media channels. The week will have all the usual events including an opportunity to take part in the traditional fancy dress. Which delivers a real opportunity to dress up and have fun while being a part of braw lads history. I think the braw lads committee deserve a lot credit for being inventive with their proposals for this year. As it will help reach many people worldwide who would not usually be able to attend as well those currently living in Galashiels. It might not be the same feeling as a normal Braw Lads gathering. However, let’s make the most of the week and really wet our appetite for next year!

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 Continued on page 26

20 Gala Life

Gala Life 21

Are You Ready For A Good Summer?

Here's How To Keep Your Cool..

I’m reliably informed that we are heading for a hot summer and if you manage to get away, they are predicting a 50 degrees heatwave around the Mediterranean! It seems such a long time since we’ve basked in hot weather and tend to forget how uncomfortable it can become. The usual precautions still apply: cover up, wear sunscreen, keeping your house cool, and drinking plenty of water. Here are a few more tips to keep you cool, wherever you are this summer: Keep hydrated Bring your body temperature down by drinking cool glasses of water regularly. Dehydration can be caused by sweat, which can be make you susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Wet paper towels If you’re looking for the quickest way to cool your bottled drinks (or beers, wines etc!) simply wrap a wet paper towel around the bottle and put it in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Don’t forget about them or they will freeze and are likely to burst.

Eat less meat Protein found in red meat and some fish can increase the body’s metabolic heat as it attempts to break down the heavy food. Metabolic heat is needed to break down food, so eating smaller portions more regularly can help keep you cooler.

Avoid caffeine Caffeine can make you feel hot and jittery in the heat and affect your productivity. Remember, it’s also found in tea!

Don’t overdo the anti-perspirant This can block sweat pores, which are the body’s

22 Gala Life

cooling down mechanism, and prevent you from cooling down effectively.

Wear your sports gear Sports wear is perfectly designed to deal with sweat, which will keep you cool in the sun.

Keep your moisturiser in the fridge Treat yourself to a seriously cool treat. It also prevents your moisturiser from going off or melting.

Keep your feet cool There are plenty of pulse points around the feet and ankles, so dunking your feet into cold water can help take your temperature down.

Wear socks Seems a little odd, but wearing socks in the heat can help you stay cool and fresh. Socks can help to absorb the sweat, keeping your feet cool and clean.

Shut out the sun Keep your blinds and curtains closed during the day to stop your room from overheating. To keep your house cool, you need to keep the hot air out – this means keeping south facing windows closed and covered with blinds or curtains during the hottest daytime hours. Then, when the temperature has dropped at night time, you can open everything up to let the cooler air in.

Use a fan Fans work brilliantly in mild heat, but when it’s hot, all they really do is just blow hot air around.

However, if you place a bowl or tray of ice in front of a blowing fan, your room will become cooler as the ice melts. The fan picks up the cool

air coming from the surface of the ice, creating a deliciously cool mist.

Strategically placing fans around a room can create a nice cross breeze. Place one by the window, another in the middle of the room and they’ll work together to push the cooler air around.

Take a shower A shower is a great way to cool down and reset.

Make sure the water is tepid rather than warm or hot to avoid filling the air with steam which will make the room much hotter.

Rinse your wrists

Hang a wet sheet Hanging a wet sheet in front of an open window will help bring down the room’s temperature.

Use your freezer!

Speaking of sheets, stick them in a plastic bag and pop them in the freezer for a few minutes before bedtime. It’s a short-lived hack, but will help you get soundly off to sleep!

Fill up a hot water bottle Fill it up from the tap and stick it in the freezer and you have yourself a multi-purpose ice pack!

Make a DIY cold compress Cool water on the wrists (or feet) will cool you down quickly, a good tip for just before bedtime. Fill a sock with rice and put it in the freezer. Et voila! You’ve just created your very own cold Wear cotton clothing compress that won’t melt.

Cotton is the coolest fabric to wear in the heat. Turn off the lights Avoid dark colours and go for whites and beiges All light bulbs create heat. Switch them off. which will help reflect the sun’s rays.

Unplug your chargers Use cotton sheets Invest in some light-coloured cotton sheets – which are breathable and better to sleep in.

Gadgets like smartphones and tablets produce unnecessary heat while they’re plugged in.

Unplug all electrical devices before bed, or charge them in another room.

Get low Heat rises, so get as low as you can to surround yourself by cooler air - sleep downstairs.

Enjoy the good weather whilst we can!

Debbie Gala Life 23

Paws up who'd like to save money on your pet's health care?

Our pet Health Plan is the simple and convenient way to look after your pet's health whilst saving money.

A healthy happy pet needs lots of care and attention, including vaccinations, worm, flea and tick treatments, and regular check-ups.

By spreading the cost of essential treatments for your dog, cat or rabbit over 12 months, our Pet Health Plan makes pet care more affordable.

Your pet gets their annual vaccination against dangerous highly infectious diseases, and protection against internal and external parasites.

To keep your pet in peak condition, we provide regular health checks with your vet, as early diagnosis of problems will help your pet to live a long, healthy life.

Plus, benefit from great discounts with other services and products.

THE pet health plan your pet would choose - paws down.

Border Vets

Galashiels Veterinary Surgery Gala Terrace, Galashiels TD1 3JT

01896 752156

Our Pet Health Plan is the simple and convenient way to look after your pet's health. Our easy and convenient monthly direct debits save you money too.

Dogs, Cats and Rabbits

Small (up to 10kg) £13.49

Medium (10.1kg-25kg) £14.99

Large (25.1kg-40kg) £17.00

X Large (40.1 and over) £24.99

Cats (All) £13.49

Rabbits (All) £9.99

Your Pet Health Plan includes: Essential annual vaccination with a full health check Flea and tick treatments (sufficient for a year) dispensed quarterly Worm treatments (sufficient for a year) dispensed quarterly 6 monthly health check with your vet

Dog

Cat

Rabbit

   

   



Dog

Cat

Rabbit

 





You'll also receive the following (if applicable):

25% off Kennel Cough vaccination 25% off Rabies vaccination



25% off flystrike preventative treatment 50% off Primary vaccination course (initial injections typically given between 2 and 4 weeks apart) Free nurse clinics (where available) £10 microchipping 10% off food 10% off routine neutering 10% off dental procedures 10% off other parasite treatments







     

     

     

Monthly prices shown, vaccinations included: Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis.

Cats: Flu, Enteritis, Leukeamia. Rabbits: Myxomatosis, VHD1, VHD2.

Jenny Linehan Councillor - Leaderdale & Melrose, Conservative It only seems like yesterday when I first put pen to paper. Then suddenly a new deadline looms and here I am trying to think what to write. As ever there is so much to choose from and the difficulty is sorting out which thing to focus on.

It has been a joy watching people out enjoying this fine weather. In general, people smile more when the sun shines. What puts a dampener on it, is the few who insist on leaving rubbish strewn about. The litter is both visibly off putting but also endangers wild and domestic animals.

There is a great advert I have seen recently which states the following: “If you love Scotland so much, who is leaving all the litter!”

Litter is always a contentious issue but among us are some litter warriors, who whilst out, take a spare bag and collect the rubbish they find. In a time when we are anxious about our health for obvious reasons, these minority are to be commended.

Even Harrison Ford has been seen picking up a discarded mask while filming at Leaderfoot. It is fantastic that our beautiful area is being used for filming but things like that will only continue if we protect our environment. The Scottish Borders is a fantastic destination to both live in and visit. We must all learn to respect and protect it, in order to maintain this.

Tom Miers Councillor - Leaderdale & Melrose, Conservative The tragedy of Lowood The Lowood estate lies along one of the most beautiful stretches of the River Tweed next to Tweedbank Station. It’s a lovely oasis amidst the increasingly busy developments that surround it.

A few years ago the Council decided to buy it and build a new settlement there. The Council’s plans for Lowood are now published. In my view they represent a tragic missed opportunity for the Borders that calls into question the Council’s ambition and also its stewardship of taxpayers’ funds.

That Lowood would be developed was inevitable. The owner wanted to sell and, given its central location, the site would have got planning permission to build either from the Council or, on appeal, from the Scottish Government.

The best option then, was to make a virtue from a necessity: a model development built to the very highest standards of architectural design. The only way to achieve that is to own the site so we can control in detail what gets built and where. I supported the council’s £10 million purchase of the site with that vision in mind: to create an exemplary new village that would the envy of the country and do justice to the place.

SBC’s plans fall short of this ambition. What is on offer is little better than what is usually achieved in the Borders through the normal planning process. It was not necessary to buy the estate for this, nor to spend £100,000+ on the consultancy fees and officer time that has gone into this process.

Most egregious of all is the decision to ‘zone’ the eastern third of Lowood as an extension of the business park the other side of the station. That was not in the original plan and certainly did not require spending millions of pounds to buy the land.

Design guidance has been prepared for the residential ‘zones’. Within their remit, planning officers have worked hard on this and it is full of good intentions. The trouble is that similar principles are already set out in existing guidance issued both by this council and the Scottish Government.

These documents are routinely ignored in planning decisions because they are open to subjective Continued on page 28

26 Gala Life

Gala Life 27

interpretation. There is no guarantee that such rules will be followed at Lowood either.

What we needed a clear quid pro quo that developers (who should be selected and engaged with right from the start to ensure this) could only buy plots if they adhered to detailed design specifications. That is how the very best developments are achieved elsewhere, but in the Lowood plans there is no such detail and no such explicit relationship. There’s nothing to stop piecemeal sales of land followed by bland housing developments of the kind that we are all too familiar with in the Borders.

How did this underwhelming situation arise? Somehow, the administration’s ambition of creating a model new village was slowly undermined and replaced with the standard wishlist of space for pet projects – commercial units here, extra housing there, a care home over there.

I don’t blame planning officers, incidentally – they have done as well as they could have within their remit. It is the remit itself that was gradually undermined in a process that could have come out of a textbook on public choice theory or even an episode of ‘Yes Minister’ (with my own defenestration from the planning brief as an amusing sub-plot).

As the next local election approaches senior figures in this Council need to ask themselves if this sort of thing – in terms of vision and value for money - really is the best the Borders can do.

Tom.miers@scotborders.gov.uk 01835 826919.

Harry Scott Councillor - Galashiels & District, Independent After a fairly torrid eighteen months or so, it seems brighter days may be ahead, despite Covid19. I admit to being a past ‘Tapestry sceptic’, but the building is here, and it is looking good. We must all work to make it a success, so that it, with other work that is going on or planned in Galashiels, comes together to improve the environment, and make the town attractive to potential visitors.

We owe much to the many volunteers who are trying to do just that. Those who do good work off their own bat, or as part of a community organisation such as litter pickers, Gala in Bloom, Gala Policies Group, Galashiels Community Council, or youth organisation. It is people like that who are taking to heart Scottish Borders Council’s message of, “How are you playing your part?”, and trying to make the town a better place to live. Many however, feel that unnecessary hurdles are placed in their way by bureaucracy. Public bodies and organisations are by nature risk adverse, fearing the repercussions of what will happen if things go wrong. And yet life is risky. We take a risk every time we step from our front door, but we manage that risk by being as careful as we can as we go about our daily business. Recently my ward colleagues and I have had meetings with senior managers of Scottish Borders Council, on how the organisation can best help those willing volunteers achieve their aim of making Galashiels an attractive place to live and visit. The discussions we had were positive, and we look forward to further improvements in the assistance that is given to those volunteers.

Constituency wise, Councillor Andy Anderson and I have been working with representatives of the Langlee community on improving the underpass in Hawthorn Road. It has suffered much neglect and people have been reluctant to use it because of the state it was in. So far, we have managed to get SBC to cut back the undergrowth making it much more open and brighter, and a further meeting is planned to see what additional improvements can be made. Councillor Sandy Aitchison and I are also in discussions with Police Scotland and SBC to see what can be done to deal with a number of apparently abandoned and unlicensed motor vehicles in the town.

Email: harry.scott@scotborders.gov.uk Mobile: 07769 847 937.

Continued on page 34

28 Gala Life

Gala Life 29

30 Gala Life

Gala Life 31

32 Gala Life

Gala Life 33

Citizens Advice Bureau In line with current guidelines and for the safety of our Advisers, many of whom are still working remotely, we are dealing with enquiries by phone and e-mail and our office is closed. Face to face appointments are available in some circumstances but we have found that the alternative methods of contact have been very effective and this blended service does increase accessibility for a large number of people. Please do call or e-mail us.

Whilst checking benefit entitlement is one of the main ways to help you maximise your household income – there are other avenues we can discuss and explore with you: Energy savings Measures – as it is summer your utility bills are likely to be smaller. However you may still be struggling to meet the cost built up over the winter months or get ready for next winter now.

Grants & Charitable donations – there are many local and national organisations who offer financial support to people in certain circumstances. You can carry out a search at https://grants-search.turn2us.org.uk/ or contact us to explore various avenues with you.

Email: enquiries@centralborderscab.casonline.org.uk Phone: 01896 753889 National helpline: 0800 028 1456 Central Borders CAB, 111 High Street, Galashiels TD1 1RZ

The Inner Wheel The Inner Wheel Club meets every third Tuesday of the month at the Focus Centre Galashiels from September through to May. Meetings have been online this last year at 7pm but hopefully we may be back to true meetings from September. New members are always welcome and can contact 07708732320 for further information.

Roman Museum, Melrose Signs of the new Trimontium Museum spotted in Melrose.

Signs have been spotted that the opening of the new Trimontium museum in Melrose is fast approaching, after years of planning, fundraising, hard work and the unexpected challenges of 2020 & 2021!

The builders have left the site after transforming the museum space, the reading room and the rest of the Ormiston and Corn Exchange. The shop & museum fitters have been and gone having worked their magic installing new lighting, retail fittings, gallery infrastructure and state of the art display cases, worthy of the stunning array of objects soon to return to Melrose from National Museums Scotland, Live Borders, private collectors and the Trusts own collection.

Outside the museum, in Market Square evidence of the work behind the scenes has recently appeared. Signage and branding to alert the public to the location of the new museum are in place, a call to arms for volunteers is placed in the main window and the new steel signage compliments the local stonework. A refreshed entrance with gold lettering above the museum entrance awaits the new visitors.

The Trust can now announce the opening date of Monday 2nd August, with further announcements of associated activities & events due in the coming weeks. To find out more and get the latest news see www.trimontium.co.uk Continued on page 36

34 Gala Life

New unbreakable home wi-fi, with Halo 3+

To find out more visit your local EE store at 62-64 Channel Street or call them on 01896 668889.

Gala Life 35

Scottish Borders Versus Arthritis Support Group Programme 1st Saturday monthly 11.00-12.30 The meetings are all virtual on the first Saturday each month 11.00 - 12.30. No need to be worried about the technical side - we can help you to come on line if you've got the equipment!

For those without the technology there is a facility to link in via a landline telephone at no cost to the individual. Anyone interested in arthritis whether or not they have the condition is welcome. For more information and to have an invitation to join a meeting please email info@scottishbordersversusarthritis.org 3rd July - Dementia awareness - Speaker from Alzheimer Scotland 7th August - Happiness and Laughter Therapy - Melanie McLean - Wellbeing Revolution

Trinity Church Galashiels Rev. Dr. David Donaldson - 07817479866 e-mail davidandjeandonaldson@gmail.com Session Clerk Ed Martin - 752252 or edwrd984@aol.com Website: www.galashiesltrinitychurch.org.uk Church Office Tel. 01896 752967 (answer machine)

or e mail office@galashielstrinitychurch.org.uk Office Hours Friday 9.30 – 3pm The presbytery approved the union of the 3 churches of Scotland in Galashiels on Friday 28th May and we are now one church. However, at the moment Sunday morning services are continuing in each of the buildings until decisions regarding the buildings have been made. As our minister for the last 8 years, Rev. Elspeth Harley has now officially retired and we welcome Rev. Jim Wallace who will conduct our Sunday morning services at 11.15am. The Rev. Dr. David Donaldson is the interim Moderator for all 3 congregations. We are indebted to Elspeth, who should have retired in April 2019 but she very kindly offered to stay on as locum minister during the pandemic and she has been very busy indeed with on line services, midweek messages, pastoral care and church services once the churches re opened. From all at Trinity we wish her a long, happy and healthy retirement.

One part of the ongoing discussions has been the appointment of a new minister for the new church and I have been asked by the interim moderator to include this message in the report.

“Notice is hereby given that a meeting of this part of the congregation of Galashiels Church of Scotland will be held in Trinity church on Sunday, 4th July, at the close of Morning Worship, for the purpose of nominating three people to be members of the Nominating Committee, which will seek to find a new minister.

At that meeting, the congregation here shall be invited to elect three people who are on the Electoral Register to serve on the Nominating Committee. If you wish to propose anyone to serve on the Committee, please ask them first if they are willing to serve on the Committee, have someone second your proposal, then you can send a note of that nomination to the Interim Moderator, or simply make the proposal at the meeting.”

Similar intimations have been made at Old and St. Paul’s Church and St. John’s Church.

A service of thanksgiving for the link of Caddonfoot Church with Trinity was held in Trinity on Wednesday 23rd June and we wish Caddonfoot best wishes for their new linkage with Stow and Heriot. As a result of the relinquishing of this link, Trinity now has a new website address – Interim Moderator

Continued on page 38

36 Gala Life

This Month’s Tricky Sudoko 9

4

2

8

2 3

3 9

4 1 9

5

3

8

6 8

6 9

3 5

5 8

2

4

6

7

1

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!

Gala Life 37

wwww.galashielstrinitychurch.org.uk – and we are very grateful to James MacFarlane from Caddonfoot Church for all his work in setting up the website and maintaining it and also for his work in bringing our on line services to us.

As we slowly ease out of the pandemic we look forward to our future as one Church of Scotland in Galashiels and to a “new normal” way of life.

Bowden & Melrose Parish Church Minister Rev. Rosemary Frew. 01896 822217 email RFrew@churchofscotland.org.uk Office: 01896 823339 email bowden.melrosec@btinternet.com During the summer months we’re going on a journey through the Old Testament.

We meet for worship at 9.30am in Bowden Kirk and 11.00am in Melrose Church. Numbers in the buildings are still limited and there is still the requirement for distancing, face masks, hand sanitising and trace and protect. However, we are able to sing together again, albeit with face masks and remaining seated.

You can join us live at 11.00am on Sundays on both Facebook and our website www.bowdenandmelrosechurch.org or watch the recording thereafter. A Sunday Worship podcast will be posted on Facebook and Instagram at 6.00pm on Saturday evening.

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 We are a Eucharistic community of Catholic Christians who recognise the love of God for each and every one of us and share God’s love by our actions.

Our parish life is centred around the celebration of Holy Mass and the Sacraments. As a result of Scottish Government legislation our churches have been closed for public worship. Despite this, Mass continues to be celebrated on Sundays and on weekdays and is live-streamed on our website and on Facebook.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) remains available at call and on Saturday afternoon (in the garage behind the presbytery) between 4.30 and 5.30pm.

Fr Andrew is available to assist with personal pastoral matters and hospital visiting and you should feel free to contact him using the details above.

All are welcome and we invite you to join with us in person or online as we strive to get to know Jesus better and to place Him at the centre of our lives.

Continued on page 44

38 Gala Life

Enjoy Summer adventures at Abbotsford Bring the family to Abbotsford this Summer for a host of fun activities with our ranger, including woodland walks, river dipping, scavenger hunts and more! Also at Abbotsford: Three Inch Fools Outdoor Theatre The Merry Wives of Windsor Thursday 8th July 2021 Robin Hood Friday 30th July 2021 Scott’s 250th Birthday Celebrations Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th August Open every day, 10am - 5pm.

Please visit the website for tickets and events details.

Dates & times are subject to change.

Abbotsford Melrose TD6 9BQ t. 01896 752043 www.scottsabbotsford.com The Abbotsford Trust is Registered Scottish Charity No. SC037425

Gala Life 39

40 Gala Life

Gala Life 41

42 Gala Life

LandscapingDriveways - Patios

At Lothian & Border Driveways we take pride in transforming gardens from dreams to real life. All work is carried out to a very high standard, no job is too big or small for our team of experienced workmen. With a wealth of experience in the trade and all necessary tools and machinery at hand we can guarantee the quality of work we provide at an affordable price.

We aim to meet all customer expectations helping them tailor a unique outdoor space which will help add value to their property.

OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES Driveways

A driveway helps you create a fantastic first impression of your home. This is easy to maintain and cost effective.

You will be able to choose from a wide variety of colours and patterns to help design the perfect style and finish you are looking for. Your driveway can be made bespoke to enhance your properties appearance.

Patios & Paths

A patio designed and installed by us can become the main focal point to your garden.

Creating a beautiful patio can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space and boost your homes resale value. Our variety of brick and stone designs start from general grey slabs all the way to an extremely popular design of Indian Sandstone.

CONTACT US TODAY

Landscaping

Artificial grass is a quick, effective alternative to growing grass. We lay high-quality turf that will last and hassle-free.

The benefits of this product are that there is no mud or mess and requires no maintenance. Whether you are looking for commercial work, putting greens, play area surfaces or a home garden

CALL - 07487738377 EMAIL - hello@LBdriveways.com Gala Life 43 VISIT - www.LBdriveways.com

Old Parish & St Paul’s Church Scott Crescent TD1 3JU

St John’s Church Hawthorn Road, Langlee TD1 2JZ We are two linked churches 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 in the church buildings. Come early to complete contact details. Full distancing will be observed and face masks worn.

9.45am St John’s 11.30am Old & St Paul’s The service can be found on YouTube – look for St John’s Church Galashiels.

For further information Interim Moderator: Rev Dr David Donaldson e-mail: davidandjeandonaldson@gmail.com phone: 0781 7479 866. websites: www.oldparishandstpauls.org.uk/ https://stjohnschurchgalashiels.uk/

Galashiels Baptist Church Many of the restrictions that have been part of our everyday life have finally disappeared but there's no doubt that our world has changed considerably. Mass gathering events, like music festivals and sporting occasions, once a carefree part of summer festivities, now require an intricate array of additional planning, covid testing, and track and trace registration. Even as we open our church buildings and find ways to begin offering church activities again, social distancing and other safety measures remain with us, and we are all aware that restrictions could be re-imposed at any time if the situation changes.

For some people, the desire to 'get back to normal' is overwhelming, so undeterred, they are happy to throw themselves back into social interaction. For others, there is a hesitancy as they overcome the anxieties born out of the pandemic.

At Galashiels Baptist Church we continue to trust God and whether we feel optimistic about the social conditions, or slightly anxious, we know that He understands our hopes and fears and will see us through. This uncertain year has given us a new appreciation of the constancy of our God. His unconditional love is our strength and guiding light through difficult days.

As always, we would welcome the opportunity to share something of God's love and forgiveness, His constancy and comfort, which sustains us. If we can be of service to you in this, or any other way, please do get in touch. Maybe you need practical help or just a listening ear to share conversation. Whatever it is, remember there is always someone ready to respond.

Phone: 07726 688265 or email: admin@galashielsbaptistchurch.org.uk The church website, www.galashielsbaptistchurch.org.uk has more information about us. You can watch our Sunday service on Youtube by following the link or typing Galashiels Baptist Church into the search box on Youtube.

As services and activities slowly begin again in the church building, please see our website or Facebook page for details.

44 Gala Life

Gala Life 45

Considering Dental Implants?

If you have lost teeth, you may now be wondering be cleaned and flossed just like your natural if dental implants are the right choice for you. tooth.

Not only do they look and feel like your own • Dental implants are cost-effective long-term natural teeth they are very good long-term option option for you.

A bridge on average lasts around ten years, but a dental implant currently can last in What are dental Implants? excess of 20+ years if properly looked after Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that and maintained. It cannot decay or cause pain are made of a titanium alloy that are placed into to surrounding teeth, making it more cost the jaw bone to provide a method for replacing effective in the long run. a tooth root. They can be used for replacing a single missing tooth, missing multiple teeth and • You can confidently smile The invisibility, fixed nature and reliability of even support loose dentures. dental implants mean that you will not have How do dental Implants work? embarrassing moments with them falling out Dental Implants are ‘bio compatible’ meaning or moving like dentures, meaning you may that your own natural bone grows onto and fuses no longer feel self-conscious or embarrassed to the implant surface meaning that the implant about your smile. is permanently fixed into the jaw bone, this • Dental implants can help maintain your jaw process is called osseointegration. shape The reduction in jawbone tissue that occurs from losing teeth or from wearing dentures can cause often results in the alteration of the jaw shape resulting in ageing of the patient’s face. Implants however prevent this bone loss and help retain the natural shape of the jaw.

Will it hurt having dental implants?

People are often surprised how little discomfort Single Implant tooth Three tooth Implant bridge is experienced during dental implant treatment.

What are the advantages of dental Implants?

Patients often report that having the natural tooth removed is more uncomfortable. After • They look natural the implant is placed into the jaw bone the Dental implants are simply the closest replacement to natural teeth that are available. discomfort is usually managed at home with simple painkillers like the ones you may take for They can support an artificial tooth or teeth a headache. (crown or bridge) that as closely as possible, will resemble and look like a natural tooth.

Who is suitable for dental implant treatment?

• They function like normal teeth In order for you to be suitable for dental implants As they function and have a similar strength and for them to last a long time , you need to and stability of a normal tooth, that means you have good general and oral health, with adequate are able to eat, chew and enjoy all the foods bone to support the implant. Some personal you would otherwise avoid with removable situations such as chronic medial conditions and dentures. smoking may mean that you are not suitable • No damage is done to your other natural teeth for implant treatment, however this is very case specific. Implants are most successful in adults Dental implants do not cause any damage to where the jaw bones of the skull have stopped your natural teeth unlike traditional bridge growing, typically after 25 years of age. work which uses the natural tooth cut down to support a missing tooth. This means it can You must also be willing to commit to keeping 46 Gala Life

these structures healthy - Meticulous oral hygiene and regular dental visits are critical to the long-term success of dental implants.

How do you know if your suitable?

You will need to speak with a qualified and experienced Implant surgeon who places and restores dental implants. They will have undergone numerous years of highly specific training in Implant dentistry and will be able to explore with you if you are suitable for dental implant therapy.

You will need to arrange an Implant Assessment Consultation. Here a clinical, Xray examination and possibly a Cone beam CT Scan may be taken to access your mouth, teeth and gum health and access the area where the implant may be placed.

The Implantologist will be looking to access the bone volume in the proposed implant site and be looking for any proximity to important anatomical structures such as nerves, blood vessels and the air filled cavities of the sinuses.

In some cases where there is missing bone or the bone is damaged you may need a bone graft.

A bone grafting procedure involves building up of the damaged bone with an artificial Bovine bone derivative. This allows and stimulates your body to grow new bone in the area where it is missing.

This is very case specific and some cases do not need any bone grafting. The implant surgeon will then advised you if you are suitable for dental implant therapy, the best treatment options for your specific needs and number of implants.

How Much does treatment cost?

The costs of dental implant treatment can vary greatly depending on the simplicity or complexity of treatment and the number of implants that are needed. Dental implant therapy involves cutting edge technologies, and clinicians have had to undergo extensive, complex and highly

Full Arch Implant retained bridge

skilled training in order to provide you with this form of treatment. Should you be tempted to go abroad to save money, bear in mind that some other countries do not regulate the industry as closely as we do. This can result in poorer quality products being used resulting in an increased failure rates. An average price for a single implant and crown ( single tooth ) in the United kingdom is approximately £2500.

What is the Dental Implant placement procedure?

Here the implant surgeon may remove the damaged tooth before beginning implant treatment and allow a period of healing before placing the implant. If the tooth has been missing for a while, the implant placement may be very straight forward.

On the day of surgery you will be given some strong local anaesthetic to numb the area the implant will be placed in. The gum will be cut and folded out of the way, the Implant site is then prepared with a series of drills up to a specific size suitable for your case. The Implant is then placed and screwed into you jaw bone.

A healing cap is then placed over the implant and the gum is stitched up. The healing time is usually anywhere from three to six months depending upon the complexity of the case.

After the healing period, the implant is tested to determine whether it was successfully integrated into the jaw bone. Once confirmed, The dentist will take an impression of the implant in the mouth and have a crown custom-made to fit. The implant crown is then secured to the implant a few weeks later.

John Wall BSc Hons, BDS, Dip Imp Dent RCSE Cherry Court Dental Care & Implant Clinic Peebles EH45 9BU www.cherrycourtdentalcare.com Gala Life 47

Caddonfoot Parish Church As we move into a new era for the Kirk in Scotland, Caddonfoot Parish Church was no different. We have a new minister in the Rev Victoria Linford, minister of the St Mary of Wedale, Stow with Heriot as Caddonfoot formed a new Link with them while severing the connection with Trinity Church, Galashiels.

Melrose and Peebles Presbytery held a special meeting by Zoom to authorise the Link and at the same time, confirm the Union of the three churches in Galashiels - Trinity, Old Parish and St Paul's and St John's - as the Galashiels church.

Rev Linford, who spent two weeks on Study Leave, resumed her 'new' ministry following the well earned retiral of our Locum minister, the Rev Elspeth Harley, and is looking forward to her new challenge. "It was lovely to wake up in the morning (after the Presbytery meeting) as the minister of Caddonfoot as well as Stow and Heriot," she said.

"As a congregation, we have a lot in common with Caddonfoot and have enjoyed getting to know each other as we prepared for our Linking."

Sunday services will be held in Caddonfoot and Stow at 9.45 a.m. and 11.15 a.m. in Heriot with members of the congregation also preaching at one of the services.

A special joint service with Trinity was planned to give thanks for the Linking as the Rev Harley, and husband Ewen, who assisted at the services, said their farewells to both congregations.

Meanwhile, Caddonfoot congregations can now sing in the church, albeit with masks on, after an emergency Kirk Session meeting, held outside the church ahead of the service on June 6, ratified the guidelines from the Church of Scotland.

With the church reopened, Andy Bird (organ) and Mrs Anne Grieve, Session Clerk (flute) continued to play the music; Atholl Innes again rang the bell; and members of the congregation read from the Bible. 'Welcome back, folks' was the order of the day.

Services will continue to be broadcast online.

Plans will be in hand soon to prepare the Harvest newsletter and we would encourage contributions from church members and friends.

Heart and Soul With our weekly exercise group in abeyance due to Covid, members are wondering when we can resume classes again.

We will indeed, hopefully, meet again as members miss not only the exercises, but the camaraderie.

The weekly visit to the Chaplaincy Centre at the Borders General Hospital is eagerly anticipated every Thursday.

Officials remain with Mrs Christine Scott as chairperson; Joe Murdoch as new treasurer; and Atholl Innes as secretary.

We hope that members have been continuing their exercises at home in anticipation of a resumption at some time.

Meanwhile, look after yourselves and Stay Safe.

Entries in our Get Out Section, Community Pages and Diary are free to non profit, non commercial, groups and clubs. Just tell us by sending your entry to info@galalife.co.uk, or 07906375953 by 12th of the preceding month and we will tell everyone else.

48 Gala Life

Principal Dentist - Mr John W Wall BSc Hons, BDS, Dip Imp Dent RCSE, GDC Reg No 103032 and his team bring a combined 30 years of NHS and PRIVATE dental experience to the Scottish Borders to provide you with a full range of dental treatments in an ethical patient centred manner in a state of the art, modern, relaxed clinic with disabled access and plenty of offstreet parking.

If you would like to register or obtain more information please contact us. We would be happy to discuss anything with you and see if we can help!

Open Mon-Fri 8.3Oam -5.30pm

NOW ACCEPTING AND REGISTERING NEW NHS AND PRIVATE PATIENTS • General NHS and PRIVATE and Family centred Dentistry • Tooth coloured crowns and tooth coloured white fillings • Cosmetic smile make overs • Tooth whitening • Referral service for Dental Implants (Single teeth, multiple teeth, Implant retained dentures, Bone and sinus grafting) • Referral service for Surgical dentistry (Difficult tooth extractions)

3 Cherry Court, Cavalry Park, Peebles, EH45 9BU 01721 724375 cherrycourtdentalcare@gmail.com Gala Life 49

Seven Top Tips for Scoring Top Marks on your Home Report

By Richard Clowes

Home Reports are an everyday item for surveyors, but the same cannot be said for most homeowners. With people in Scotland likely to move home only a handful of times in their lives, it is no surprise that homeowners can be a little confused when it comes to the details of what is involved.

Let us just say it pays to get organised. If you are planning to put your Borders home on the market this Spring, you might be tempted to rush off and organise carpet and window cleaning, invest in some smart home accessories and clear out cupboards.

All these things will undoubtedly help your upcoming sale. But when you have made the decision to sell, you will soon discover that a Home Report is a legal requirement, and it is at that stage you realise that every major physical aspect of your home will be scored on an official 3-point scale by your surveyor.

A Category 1 score means that no immediate action or repair is needed, a Category 2 score that there are repairs or replacement requiring future attention, but estimates are still advised, and a Category 3 rating denotes that urgent repairs or replacement are needed now.

How well you have maintained your home will have a significant bearing on your Home Report scores and any valuation provided.

While a mix of scores is not unusual, you need to minimise any category 3 scores. Our highly experienced surveyors regularly identify issues that if managed effectively make the difference between scoring a 1 or a 3 in your Home Report.

It is these scores which your buyer’s lender will look at closely. If the property requires a significant amount of upgrading, a buyer may have money held back from their mortgage to deal with significant repairs which are affecting the market value.

This may delay or discourage viewers who are seriously interested in buying. And if you have your eye on your dream home, you really do not want your sale to be held up. All it takes is a little advance planning.

Here are our Seven Top Tips to help you achieve the best Home Report scores for your property.

1. Repair damaged rainwater goods (gutters, downpipes and so on).

2. Replace loose/broken slates & check flat roofs for damage and leakage.

3. Check any rendering is in good condition.

4. Check your windows, doors, and eaves’ joinery is in good order.

5. Ask a reputable electrician to check over your fuse box and electrics.

6. Have your boiler serviced if it has not been looked at in the last 12 months.

7. Ensure your home is clean, presentable and that the décor is in good order.

A reputable selling agent or solicitor will be able to advise you on any other practical and aesthetic aspects of showing your property off to best effect - both for photography, virtual tours and live viewings.

But, if you attend to the above before you come to market, you will stand a great chance of scoring top marks - paving the way to a thumbs up from the bank and a speedy move to your next home.

Richard Clowes is a Partner in the Galashiels office of DM Hall, one of Scotland’s largest firms of independent chartered surveyors.

50 Gala Life

Dreaming of a new home this Summer?

We’re ready to help Contact Richard Clowes in our Galashiels office to arrange your home report or survey T: 01896 752009 or galashiels@dmhall.co.uk

dmhall.co.uk

Gala Life 51

YOUR HOROSCOPE For July 2021

By Astrologer Christine Chalklin July brings the sensitive water sign of Cancer to the forefront and the emotional new moon in Cancer on the 10th offers new beginnings and a positive time of nostalgia and family connectedness. Energetic Mars and love planet Venus are in Leo practically all month, this dynamic energy is available to all, highlighting partnerships, creativity and benefiting optimism, confidence and self-esteem. Jupiter is now in the retrograde phase, emphasising a time of reflection on all that has gone on before. Jupiter in Pisces gives us all the perfect opportunity for inner growth and development; it’s a chance to realign and reconnect with our soul purpose and our ultimate life purpose. The full moon is in Aquarius on the 24th, illuminating the importance of being an individual and living in our truth.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 July is the best month to focus on your home and your family. The Sun is in the home loving sign of Cancer and the new moon on the 10th assists with additional energy for new projects in your domestic environment. Mars and Venus light up your love life this month - enjoy!

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21 Dynamic Mars and love planet Venus are is stirring up your domestic area during July. This suggests that a creative new project with a special person is about to begin. Be positive as there’s plenty of positive energy to make some ingenious changes to your surroundings.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21 Venus and Mars are strong in your communication sector and as the radiant Sun illuminates the opportunity to review your finances and earning potential. You should now have the courage and confidence to step forward and make those vital changes.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 July is your birthday month and things look very positive as the radiant Sun shines brightly in your sign and is joined by the powerful new moon on the 10th. Be ready for change and a new lease of life, whether in social or professional affairs as your energy levels reach new heights.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 Energetic Mars and the love planet Venus are both travelling through your sign shining the spotlight on all forms of creative communication. Now is the perfect time to take any new opportunity to broaden your horizons. Group and teamwork involvements will work best for you.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22 July’s potent new moon in Cancer on the 10th brings many benefits your way. Interaction with friends and new group activities are suggested, but also take the opportunity to relax and take things easy. The Aquarian full moon in the 24th indicates a new career opportunity.

52 Gala Life

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23 During July the most pivotal sector of your chart is illuminated by the Sun and then the Cancerian new moon on the 10th. Be sure to use your incredible drive and energy to view new and exciting prospects as a new direction beckons. Mars and Venus in Leo also indicate some positive activity on the social scene.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 Under current trends you’ll find that broadening your horizons and planning an important journey becomes much clearer. Mars and Venus, both in fiery Leo, give you the courage and confidence to make an important decision. The Aquarian full moon on the 24th enhances your intuition.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 The powerful Cancerian new moon in your financial area on the 10th of July suggests there is work to be done concerning your plans for the future. Vibrant Mars, busy in fiery Leo, suggest that you‘d rather fancy moving to pastures new, be positive, a splendid offer might just come your way.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 Partnerships and relationships are strongly in focus this month. Mars and Venus are both powerful in Leo boosting your energy at a pivotal point of your chart. Plans for innovative new ideas can now be laid down and the full moon in Aquarius on the 24th brings a few pleasant surprises your way.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18 The Sun and the powerful Cancerian new moon on the 10th both highlight some important work issues during July. Let go of any limitations that hold you back as such a lot can be achieved with hard work and determination. Mercury’s change of sign on the 12th reveals an interesting opportunity.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20 The Sun shines brightly in the soft and gentle sign of Cancer, illuminating the romantic sector of your chart. As the new moon culminates in that area on the 10th the offer of new beginnings is very real. Go with your intuition and you can’t go wrong.

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. Reach your fullest potential in 2021 by booking an astrological reading now - Consultations are available on Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp or telephone.

Christine Chalklin is a professional astrologer offering private consultations in astrology, life coaching and Bach flower essences.

Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com Website: www.yourguidinglight.org Mobile: 07813 483549 Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/restyleyourlife Gala Life 53

54 Gala Life

Also Single & King size options 15 colour options

In the Borders

Mattress and headboard sold separately

STOCKISTS OF RANGE COOKERS AND STOVES

Thermaheat Ltd Edenside Workshops Inch Road Kelso TD5 7JR Tel 01573 226701

PLUMBING AND HEATING ENGINEERS

• • •

Full central heating installation Cooker and boiler servicing Bathrooms

thermaheat@btconnect.com www.thermaheat.co.uk

Gala Life 55

Get Out... with Gala Life!

Some of our community groups and clubs haven't quite opened yet, but they are getting ready.

Please check with individual groups for the latest information.

Gala Policies Group - The group holds a litter pick round Gala Policies on the last Saturday of the month from 10 - 12 pm. 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 One Acchord Ladies A Cappella Chorus - Due to the current circumstances we will not be holding rehearsals as usual. Ladies you are still welcome to join our group with no auditions or experience required. The chorus are continuing with a virtual learning programme. You will be given words and music to practice with. So come on, give it try, fill these days with music and song. Phone 07468602348 or visit our website www.oneacchord.co.uk Gala Water Singers – Tuesdays 6.15pm for Junior Choir, then 7 for 7.15 start-9 pm for Community Choir. Fountainhall School TD1 2SY. The Community Choir of the Gala Water Valley where everyone, from anywhere, who wants to sing is welcome. You don’t need to be able to read music or to have sung before and there are no auditions. Come along and join others who sing weekly, purely for enjoyment. No charge for your first 2 weeks so you can have a commitment-free try-out.

Just turn up or for more information ring John 01578 730289.

The Eildon Singers - A mixed voice choir with some 40 members, and welcomes new members (no auditions). Normally we meet every Wednesday in the Ormiston Institute, Market Square, Melrose, from 7.15 to 9.30 p.m. but sadly we are not able to gather at present. For more information please contact 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 The Inner Wheel - We normally meet on the third Tuesday of the month in The Focus Centre Galashiels at 7pm and new members are always welcome. However with ongoing restrictions we are holding zoom meetings online on that night and details of the link can be obtained from our secretary Liz on 07763117598.

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 4.30pm, Gala Junior Band 5.00pm 6.00pm, Tuesdays, 6.30pm Gala Youth Band and 7.45pm Gala Town Band. Band Hall, 6A Roxburgh Street, Gala. Open to experienced and inexperienced players of all ages. Instruments can be supplied, so go give it a try. For more info please contact info@galatownband.org.uk 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 Wilma Turnbull phone 01896 753493.

Continued on page 56 56 Gala Life

Gala Life 57

Get Out... with Gala Life!

Al-Anon Family Groups - Every Wednesday at 8.00pm, 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.

Galashiels Walking Netball - Monday 10.15am - 11.15am. £2 per session. Focus Centre, Livingston Place, Galashiels. Tel: 07990 071896 www.netballscotland.com/get-involved/walkingnetball-3/ G.Ex. (Gentle Exercise) Langlee - for all ages and abilities, Wednesdays at 10.30am. Fun class set to great music. £3 plus free refreshment. Information about the class can be obtained by phoning Denise on 07713357450.

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 - 4 pm at The Yoga Mill, Market St, Galashiels TD1 3AF. Contact Kate for further information 07523 466657.

Study Exercises in Dance and Movement - Urszula Borowskah, Gold Medal, The International Dance Council,UNESCO, Movement to Music-Talks on Dance History-Graded classes in Basic Ballet and Russian Ballet minimum age 16, also classes for age 50+, other age groups and styles of Dance offered and examinations possible, £1.50 each class, call 07432416223 email studiesindanceandmovement@uymail.com location and time to be confirmed.

Heartfulness Meditation Classes - every Tuesday at 8pm in the Yoga Mill, Galashiels. A beautifully simple, heart-centred meditation practice suitable for those aged over 18. Free. Please ring Sarah for more details, and to register, on 07784740179.

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.

‘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 The Scottish Borders Hill Walking Club - The club walks on every second Sunday throughout the year. The walks start at 9.30 am and are in areas including the Cheviots, the Ettrick hills, the Manor hills, the Pentland hills and an annual trip to the Lake District. The walks are usually between 10 and 12 miles long. For more details please visit the website : borderhillwalkers. wordpress.com Or contact Jane Bell ( Secretary) 01896 823172.

Join Us For Next Time Entries to our Community Pages, Get Out section and Diary are free to non-profit making groups, clubs and organisations.

As we emerge from lockdown we hope to re-instate the Get Out and Diary pages later this year, as and when restrictions allow the various groups to resume.

Please keep us informed of your intention to re-open.

58 Gala Life

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

5 3

8

6

2

7 5

9

7

8

3

2

8 3

6

7

1

5

8

9

4

3

4

7

7

1

5

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!

6

Gala Life 59

GALA LIFE •

Gala Life - The Border’s favourite magazine has been running 10 years. A lot of our advertisers stay with us - because it works and continuously generates lots of business.

•

Price - Gala Life is the most cost effective way to reach all the residents and businesses in the Galashiels, Melrose and surrounding areas.

•

It is truly local - all advertisers operate in, or close to the area.

•

Longevity - It isn’t thrown away like the local newspaper. Everyone keeps it as a point of reference from one month to the next.

•

Gala Life is published monthly - around the last weekend of the month.

•

It is delivered to over 11,500 homes and businesses every month, with up to an additional 500 made readily available for visitors and tourists to pick up.

Advertising Rates - In Full Colour Hi-Definition (+VAT) Advert Size (h x w)

1 Issue

3 Issues

Quarter Page 93mm x 63mm

£59.99

£162

Half Page Horizontal 93mm x 128mm

£99.99

£269

Half Page Vertical 190mm x 63mm

£99.99

£269

Full Page 190mm x 128mm

£199.99

£540

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

£199.99

£540

2 Page Editorial Feature

£349

N/A

Centre Pages (each) As above

£225

£607

Front Page 150mm x 150mm + 3mm Bleed

£299

N/A

Back Page 210mm x 148mm + 3mm Bleed

£250

N/A

Inside Front/Back 210mm x 148mm + 3mm Bleed

£225

£607

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

13th July

September Edition

13th August

October Edition

13th September

November Edition

13th October

December Edition

13th November

January Edition

8th December

60 Gala Life

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

07545299491

or

info@galalife.co.uk

Gala Life 61

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE Abbotsford

39

DM Hall

51

Old Parsh, St Paul's, St John's

44

Adam Purves

30

DW Noble

59

Our Lady & St Andrew

38

Adriatico

13

EE Store

35

Pet Crematorium

63

Apollo Blinds

17

Eildon Homes

Plumbstore

21

Arbormaster

45

Finlaysons

29

R.C Electrical

51

Border Buses

9

Fitness

6

Ratecard

60

Border Cleaning Fairies

39

Gala Baptist Church

44

Recipe

10

Border Laundry Service

45

Gala Garden

16

Remax

5

Border Vets

24

Get Out

56

Roman Museum Melrose

34

Bowden & Melrose Church

38

Grants Gardens

17

School Bell Tuition

27

Braw Lads' Newsletter

41

Harrisons for Ford

64

Scottish Borders v Arthritis

36

Buglass Gas Services

29

Heart & Soul

48

Starting a New Business

57

Caddonfoot Parish

48

Horoscope

52

Sudoko

Café Sitooterie

19

House of Hearing

45

Thai Massage@Melrose

27

Castle Warehouse

31

Hutchisons Carpets

4

The Inner Wheel

34

Cherry Court Dental Care

49

James Agent

32

Thermaheat

55

Chris Sinton Painter

51

James Graham Roofing

29

Tips for Home Report

50

Citizens Advice

34

John Lamont MP

Tri-Fitness

7

Close the Covid Gap

61

Jonnie Jones Plumber

29

Trinty Church

36

Councillor Andy Anderson

18

Keep Your Cool

22

Tweed Pest Control

17

Councillor Euan Jardine

20

Keith Penny Décor

40

Tweeddale Furnishers

55

Councillor Harry Scott

28

KenKleen

27

Will Evans Plasterer

40

Councillor Jenny Linehan

26

Leaflets

30

Willie's Wonky Computer

12

Councillor Tom Miers

26

Lothian & Borders Driveways

43

Win

8

Crafty Workshops

39

Lothian Gutter Cleaning

40

Winter Spring Summer Fall

19

Crème De La Crème

19

Mackenzie Plumbing

40

Dental Implants

46

NS24 Bookkeeping

57

1,14

18,54

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.

62 Gala Life

37,59

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

Gala Life 63

64 Gala Life