Gala Life May 2024

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. May

Your Community

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

Fitness With Alan Clinch

Alan continues his sleep article with great advice for getting a better sleep.

Willie's Wonky Computer

Willie is obsessed with AI, just bear with him, it will pass.

Sudoku

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

The Gala Garden

Sheila gives some great, advice on choosing new plants that will survive in your garden.

Recipe

This month we have an air fryer recipe for Crispy Chilli Beef.

Kitchen Design

We look at the basics of kitchen design, to get you started on your dream kitchen.

Pillow Talk

We have some great tips to get you off for a great night's sleep.

WELCOME

Welcome to the May edition of Gala Life. May is a great month, just a few days of sunshine and the cherry blossom is out and the evenings are light until nearly 9pm. What a difference!

For you this month we have comedy shows, theatre shows, and a great concert from our own Gala Town Band, as well as all our live music venues. The recipe is a fast and easy crispy chilli beef dish to make use of your air fryer! In our fitness column we look at ‘sleep hygiene’ and Willie in the computer pages becomes obsessed with AI. In the garden Sheila Drummond gives some advice on plants that can survive Scottish weather and if you can’t get out because of the rain then we have a really tough sudoko! Give it a go - you may be surprised!

We would also like to thank Christine Graham MSP for her kindness in placing a motion in Parliament regarding our milestone 15th year anniversary. We have been very proud to support over 500 advertisers and countless clubs and societies since 2009. We love what we doand being recognised at this level is very much appreciated.

Stay safe and see you in June - not long now until Braw Lads Gathering and we can’t wait.

The Gala Garden

Our Gala Life Community

Please check with individual groups for the latest information.

Bereavement Support Group (BSG) - Meet every Monday 10am – 12 noon at Quins Restaurant. Get mutual support from people in the same situation. Friendly, understanding and very confidential group.

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

Forget Me Not Café - at Wilkie Gardens, White Rose Place. Galashiels TD1 2FF. This is a Dementia Café for people who have a diagnosis or who has concerns for their memory and their family / carers. It is a friendly, supportive group offering a cuppa, conversation, activities and friendship. This group is a partnership between Cyrenians Opal Borders and Alzheimer Scotland and Eildon Housing. For more information contact Julie 01750491090, juliehoughton@cyrenians.scot or Gayle at 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 - meets online first Saturday of each month from 11am until 12.30pm. With a variety of interesting speakers and coffee and catch-up sessions, anyone who is living with arthritis or has an interest is very welcome. For more information, please, email info@scottishbordersversusarthritis.org

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 Parkinsons. 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 - Anyone with Parkinson's, why not join us at Wetherspoons, Galashiels for a friendly cuppa and chat. We are an addition to Borders Parkinson's support Chaplaincy group. You can join us every 2nd Wednesday of the month from 11am till 1pm and every 3rd Wednesday night from 6.30pm. For any further information please call Fran on 07790750115 or Harry on 07778278711.

‘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

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

Continued on page 12

May Entertainment

11th Stevie Becks 25th Disco

I S H O U L D l o s e w e i g h t

I S H O U L D c h a n g e m y j o b

I S H O U L D p a y o f f m y d e b t s

I S H O U L D p r i o r i t i s e m y s e l f a s I n e v e r h a v e a n y e n e r g y

H a v e y o u n o t i c e d h o w " I s h o u l d " b r i n g s f e e l i n g s o f d u t y , b u r d e n a n d j u d g m e n t ? T R Y C H A N G I N G I T T O " I C O U L D "

" I c o u l d " s h i f t s u s i n t o c h o i c e a n d o p t i m i s m

W e f e e l h a p p i e r w h e n w e t h i n k o f c h o i c e r a t h e r t h a n d u t y

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

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 charitable group affiliated to Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland with meetings every Thursday 1.30 to 3.30pm in Lucy Sanderson Hall Galashiels. Contact details are Hazel Crombie phone 01896 753788.

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’ll enjoy walking with the Eildon Ramblers. We meet weekly on either a Saturday or a Sunday at 10.00am at various locations in the Borders. To see details of upcoming walks visit www.eildonramblers.org.uk or for general information please email eildon.ramblers@gmail.com or phone 07877 159126. Our motto is friendship, fitness, fun and fresh air.

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.

Old Melrose Walk - Tuesday 7th May. 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 £4, children free. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times. For Special Group Bookings on other dates contact omwalks@gmail.com

Reiver Petanque - meets at the playing area near The Waterwheel Tea Room, Philiphaugh, Selkirk, TD7 5LU for regular Club days on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons 1pm-4pm (2pm start in summer months). At other times the area is open to anyone to play with their own equipment unless notices on Facebook or on the noticeboard at the piste state otherwise. There will be occasional league and other matches between other clubs throughout the year. Please contact

Peter on 07895 275669 or Ron on 07986 644661 for more information and come along, learn about the sport from established players and have fun. The area is accessible for wheelchair users and the sport is suitable for all ages.

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 07710699619 or visit our websitewww.oneacchord.co.uk

The Eildon Singers - Singers Spring Concert, with the Eildon Ensemble, conducted by James Young. Choral music by Fauré, Gounod, M. Haydn and Hummel. Melrose Parish Church, Sunday 19th May 2024 at 7.30p.m. Tickets £10 (accompanied children free). www.eildonsingers.info

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 7.15 to 9.00pm in the Corn Exchange, Market Square, Melrose. New singers are always welcome (no auditions). If you would like more information, please contact our secretary or musical directordetails may be found at www.eildonsingers.info

Gala Water Singers - 7pm - 9pm in The Station House, Stow. All are welcome - no rehearsal just come along and join in.

The Galashiels Town Band - our Spring Concert is on Saturday May 11th at 7:30 pm in the Langlee Community Centre. Special Guest, John Barbour, virtuoso trombone player, playing alongside our three magnificent bands. Ample parking and licensed bar. Tickets are £10 and £8 (concession), Primary age free. Tickets available on the door, from Eventbrite, or from A&A Doyle, Bank Street. More information from info@galatownband.org.uk or on our Facebook page.

Syrinx Flutes - Meet one Monday evening (7pm to 9pm) a month from September to May in the Corn Exchange at Melrose with leader Tracy Short (07891902239) Email: tshortmusic@yahoo. co.uk. Or try elizabethraitt@icloud.com in the first instance. All abilities and ages from approx Grade 3. Why not dust off your underused flute and join our friendly group? It’s such fun playing with others.

Melrose Music Society - On Sunday May 26th at 3pm in Melrose Parish Church Hall, Melrose Music Society presents “Crossing Rivers from Vilnius to Vienna”: the Chiara Trio will perform Haydn’s Trio No. 33 and Schubert’s sublime Trio No. 2, D. 929 alongside recent Lithuanian compositions. Adults £16, students and under 25s £5, accompanied children free; tickets available at www.ticketebo.co.uk/melrose-music-society

Rolling Hills Folk Club - Friday May 17th 2024 - Venue: Darnick Village Hall, TD6 9AH with disabled access through side door. Singers and musicians night. Doors open 7.30 for 8 pm start. BYOB. All ages welcome. £2 entry. Phone 07986 644661 for more information. Find us on Facebook and at our website www.rollinghillsfolkclub.org.uk The Club will also hold its AGM at the start of the evening.

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.

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

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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.

Borders Family History Society - Our meeting room, at 52 Overhaugh Street, Galashiels, is currently displaying the history of Peel House and the life of Peel Hospital. Following a very successful exhibition in 2015, this archive material has recently been refreshed and there are now 26 folders of photographs and stories of staff and patients to browse through. The Society premises are open to members of the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays 10.00 till 4.00. Annual General Meeting - The Societies AGM will be held in early June. Members/non members are invited to attend. Please watch local press of exact date and venue. We also have a large collection of Photographs and Records from several Scottish Women's Rural Institutes from all over the Borders who have sadly closed over recent years. The SWRI was founded in 1917 in Longniddry and quickly grew to provide the opportunity for women, living in rural areas, to socialise and share skills in cooking, crafts etc while making new friends. This collection is available to view on Tuesdays and Thursday from 10.00 till 4.00. Tel: 01896 750387 email info@bordersfhs.org.uk

The Trimontium Museum, Melrose - Trimontium Talk: 9th May, discover the forgotten firepower of the ancient world, the deadly Roman slingshot with Prof. Lawrence Keppie and Dr John Reid, online and in person at the Trimontium Museum, Melrose. New! Hands on History: Unique authentic Roman artefact handling workshop every Wednesday at 11 am and Saturday at 2 pm. Join the Trimontium Walks to the Roman fort site every Thursday @1:30 pm, children free, dogs welcome. Stay tuned for the launch of the new Trimontium VR Experience www.trimontium.co.uk

The Melrose Historical & Archaeological Association - Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 14th May 2024, at 7:30pm in Marmions @ the Wynd, off Buccleuch Street, Melrose – There will be a short AGM followed by our guest speaker, Lindsay Allason-Jones, who will present an illustrated lecture – 'The People of Roman Scotland'. All welcome. Free to Members, £4 to visitors.

Galashiels & District Probus Club - We provide regular meetings for retired and semi-retired professional and business men 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 welcome new members and if you are interested in joining please ask any member, check www.galashielsprobus.org.uk or phone 01896 850411 for more information.

Rotary Club of Galashiels and District - Join over 1.4 million people worldwide to be part of projects that support communities locally, nationally and internationally. The Club recently joined in clearing up litter in the town. Plans are moving ahead for the annual golf tournament that raises funds for projects at BGH. Together we can. So could you. Join us and see how you can help make a difference. You can see recent events and news on our FaceBook page 'Galashiels and District Rotary Club'. If you want details of how to help us with our projects or become a member call Club Secretary Rae Hastings 01896 752924

Galashiels Inner Wheel Club -Several Member will be off to Manchester in May for the International Inner Wheel Centenary Convention. As a group we have also been celebrating our own 100 for 100 years with fundraising ideas, and a Sponsored 100km walk coming up in June. On 21st May we have our club birthday celebration dinner at Kingsknowes Hotel instead of the monthly meeting. In June we have a District Rally and our AGM. Thereafter, we continue various social outings over the Summer months giving our friendship side of Inner Wheel a generous boost.

Shakespeare at Traquair The Merchant of Venice

This year we bring you The Merchant of Venice, for us it is set in the 1920’s.

Written when Shakespeare could not have encountered a Jewish person because they had all been expelled and given the current backdrop that is the tragedy of the war in Gaza, I don’t think we can produce the play as it was originally written. However, by removing offensive language we can focus on a narrative that highlights the damage the strong do to the weak.

Shylock is a character who bestrides the public consciousness of this play. He’s not as is commonly misconceived ‘the Merchant’ of the title as his Jewishness prevents him from carrying out such an occupation.

One of the interesting aspects of his character, relates to an important figure in his life who doesn’t appear in the play – his wife Leah. We don’t know what happened to Leah. I imagine a childbirth tragedy leaving Shylock alone with their beautiful daughter Jessica. The relationship with his wife and daughter explains much of how Shylock behaves.

I think Shylock never has any intention to kill Antonio by taking a pound of flesh, although he does enjoy the teasing as to whether he will lend Antonio the money and I think the pound of flesh is little more than a joke. It reflects on how he views their business, money or respect. When he discovers Jessica has eloped with one of Antonio’s companions and stolen much of his wealth, this betrayal bites hard, but even harder is the gossip that Jessica has sold his wife’s ring for a monkey. I think at that moment the pain is too much for Shylock, in that moment he takes refuge and lashes out at those who have oppressed him.

Yet there is no justice for Shylock. Antonio entered the bond freely, without coercion, he understood what it meant if he forfeited, but in his hubris, he thought it would never happen. Shylock looks to the law to deliver justice, however, a clever lawyer finds a loophole that not only robs Shylock of his justice but in a cruel twist of fate takes all his possessions. Worse still they take his faith from him by forcing him to convert. The Christian characters congratulate themselves for their cleverness and are delighted by this ‘happy’ ending.

Perhaps the greatest example of human scapegoating – The Shoah – took place in an educated, Christian, Western society. When we look around us today at the treatment of many groups on the margins, have we really changed?

In our production of The Merchant of Venice I hope we can recognise the complicated and messy stories that lie beneath the faces of the people we encounter every day.

Director, David Bon.

Promenade performances start on Wednesday 29th May through to Saturday 1st June and Wednesday 5th June through to Saturday 8th June

Performances begin at 7.30 pm prompt

Please note that our outdoor performances are in the grounds of Traquair House. The performances take place whatever the weather, so come prepared with suitable clothing and footwear. Please give yourselves plenty of time to park your car and walk to the start of our play.

Tickets can be bought at Eastgate Arts Online, visiting the Eastgate Theatre box office in Peebles or by calling 01721 725777.

Wed/Thu £10/£12 and Fri/Sat £12/£14.

FITNESS

with Alan Clinch Tips for Getting Better Sleep

Last month, I wrote about the importance of sleep, and the different types which occur in a normal period of sleep. Sadly, I’m sure many of us have had times when you simply lie down, and your brain runs through all the things you did during the day, what you have to do tomorrow, and a hundred other items which simply seem to be stopping you sleeping. To get better sleep, and the many health benefits that come along with it, this month I’ll look at healthy practices around sleep: these are referred to as sleep hygiene, and some small adjustments can greatly improve sleep quality. Better sleep quality should result in us spending more time in the deeper stages of sleep, as these are associated with supporting your immune system, memory consolidation, and helping to feel energised for the next day.

Your sleep hygiene refers to what you can do surrounding sleep time to facilitate a ‘better’ night’s (or longer) sleep. A good starting point is to try to create a consistent sleep pattern – going to bed and getting up at the same time each day, including weekends, can help regulate the body’s internal clock (our natural rhythms are known as ‘circadian rhythms’). That said, there’s nothing wrong with having a short nap during the day, but it’s best to keep them to about 20 minutes, and avoid napping too late in the afternoon – this should reduce feelings of fatigue without having an impact on your normal sleep schedule.

Before going to bed, there are a few actions you can take which may aid falling asleep easily.

• avoid bright lights or use of a mobile device an hour before bed

• avoiding caffeine consumption in the evening

• not exercising within an hour of going to bed

• setting an alarm to wake up at the same time every day, including weekends

Once in your bedroom, it can be really helpful to ensure that the sleeping environment is suited to both sleep and healthy sleep patterns. This could involve:

• ensuring that you have comfortable bedding

• setting the room to a comfortable temperature (probably between 15-17°C, though again this is very personal)

• trying to eliminate as much external stimulus as possible – you’re much more likely to experience a good night’s sleep if the environment is as dark and quiet as possible. Having a window open is good, but traffic and birdsong can affect sleep significantly!

When it comes to waking up, once a good habit is established it’s likely that you’ll invariably wake around about the same time. Alarms are a very personal issue, but certainly shouldn’t ‘shock you awake’. Once awake, aim to get up and expose yourself to some natural light as soon as possible. Earlier, I mentioned the body’s circadian rhythms - they rely on light to help you to fall asleep and wake up naturally, so getting some early natural light should help you wake up, and feel awake, faster.

If you're having difficulty sleeping, the lifestyle changes suggested above may help. Your GP can also help you rule out other issues that might be contributing to low energy and a lack of sleep. More information can be found at www.nhs.uk/ every-mind-matters/mental-health-issues/sleep

Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory

Intrigued by how advanced AI has become, I opened the Google AI tool www.gemini.google. com and in the prompt box entered 'write a 600 word editorial on how a basic computer user can use AI'. Here is the result -

'Artificial intelligence (AI) often evokes images of futuristic robots and complex algorithms, leading many to believe it's inaccessible to the average computer user. However, AI is already deeply integrated into our daily lives, offering a surprisingly broad range of tools readily available to anyone with a basic understanding of computers. This integration makes AI more than just a scientific curiosity; it's a powerful tool that can enhance efficiency, creativity, and even personal well-being.

One of the most readily accessible applications of AI lies in personalization. From streaming services like Netflix and Spotify that recommend content based on your viewing habits and preferences, to news feeds and social media platforms that curate content you're likely to find interesting, AI learns your individual tastes and tailors your experience. This saves you time searching for relevant content and exposes you to new discoveries you might otherwise miss. AI also plays a significant role in communication and productivity. Chatbots powered by AI are increasingly common on websites and apps, offering immediate customer service assistance, answering basic questions, and directing users to relevant resources. Language translation tools, fueled by AI, allow for seamless communication across language barriers, fostering collaboration and understanding in a globalized world. Additionally, AI-powered virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa offer handsfree control over your devices, enabling you to set reminders, schedule appointments, and even control smart home appliances through simple voice commands.

Beyond these everyday conveniences, AI offers tools for creativity and self-expression. AIpowered image and music generation tools allow you to explore artistic possibilities even if you lack traditional artistic skills. These tools can

help you create unique visuals for presentations, social media posts, or even personalized greeting cards. Similarly, AI-powered writing assistants can help overcome writer's block, suggest alternative phrasing, and even check your grammar and writing style, making you a more confident and effective communicator. However, it's essential to remember that AI is still under development, and using it responsibly is crucial. Be aware of potential biases inherent in some AI algorithms, and don't rely solely on AI-generated content without critical evaluation. Additionally, be cautious about sharing personal information with AI-powered services and understand the potential privacy implications.

As AI continues to evolve, the possibilities for its use in everyday life will only grow. By approaching AI with an open mind and a critical eye, basic computer users can leverage its power to enhance their personal and professional lives, fostering a more efficient, creative, and connected world.

Here are some additional tips for basic computer users to get started with AI: Explore the features of your existing software and online tools. Many everyday applications, like photo editing software or search engines, already incorporate AI functionalities.

Look for "AI-powered" options when searching for new tools and services. This can help you discover innovative new ways to accomplish tasks and explore your interests.

Start with simple applications and gradually experiment with more advanced features. As you gain confidence in using AI, you can delve deeper into its capabilities.

Remember that AI is a tool, not a replacement for human judgment. Use it to enhance your abilities, not to replace your own critical thinking and decision-making skills.

By embracing AI in a responsible and informed way, even basic computer users can unlock its potential and benefit from this powerful technology in their everyday lives'. Impressed??

Willie

The Gala Inner Wheel meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from Sept to June in Cafe Recharge, Island St, Gala, with social occasions year round. New members are always welcome and can contact Helen on 07780925076 for further information.

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.

The Three Brethren u3a, Galashiels - Learn, Laugh, Live with u3a in 2024. The Three Brethren u3a will hold its Annual General Meeting on Monday, 20 May at 2pm at the Galashiels Rugby Club, Netherdale. Following the AGM, Frank Robb will entertain us with some airs on his fiddle. Do come and join us for all that and the usual refreshments! For details of membership and future meetings, see www.u3asites.org.uk/three-brethren

John Lamont MP - Conservative

We all know the huge difference that taking part in sport can have in the lives of people of all ages.

Sport brings people together. It improves our health and happiness. It creates friendships and social connections.

Local sports facilities are at the heart of our communities across the Borders, including here in Galashiels.

I was delighted to visit the Netherdale 3G Arena last week to see the upgraded pitch, which was partly funded by a £125,000 grant from the UK Government’s Grassroots Facilities Programme. The UK scheme aims to improve access to high quality sports facilities, levelling up facilities across Scotland and the whole of the UK.

I joined the next generation of local sports stars at Netherdale, alongside Live Borders, the Scottish Football Association, and Hearts Football Club, to celebrate the upgrade. It was fantastic to see the youngsters enjoying the 3G pitch during their Easter break. It's already apparent what a difference this upgraded pitch will make to the lives of young people all year round. But it’s not just local children that will be aided by this funding. Galashiels Fairydean Rovers Football Club, who play in the Lowland League and use the pitch for matches and training, will benefit too. This new pitch really is a fantastic resource for the whole community.

I am always pleased to welcome more investment in sport because it pays dividends for years to come.

A love for sport is part of our national identity. We know it has the power to change lives for the better, making us happier and healthier.

Levelling up local facilities is vital – it will help tackle health inequalities and increase the participation of locals of all ages and abilities.

The Borders has an impressive sporting history. Over the years, brilliant local teams have won national titles. There is regularly a Borders-born star representing Scotland or the UK at the highest levels. We've got proud traditions of sporting excellence that I hope to see continue for many generations.

Netherdale has been an important venue in bygone days and the present. Local heroes like John Collins, Chris Paterson, and Gregor Townsend started their careers at Netherdale. I do not doubt that this investment will inspire and enhance the prospects of the Galashiels talents following in their footsteps. Continued

By Rebecca Grace Banks

Christine Grahame SMP - SNP

It is very difficult in these technological days for newspapers and indeed anything in print to succeed but Gala Life has done just that. So it was my privilege as the local MSP to place a motion down in Parliament congratulating all involved on its success as it approaches its 15th birthday. The motion is as follows:

"That the Parliament recognises that April 2024 marks 15 years of the Gala Life magazine, having started in January 2009 and publishing its first edition in April that year; notes that 12,000 copies of Gala Life, printed on sustainable forest-sourced paper, are published every month and delivered free to every letterbox in Galashiels, Tweedbank, Melrose, Darnock, Dingleton, Newstead and Clovenfords by a team of 27 young people employed to do so; understands that the magazine provides on average 50 free slots each month for local clubs, groups, societies and churches to publicise themselves and make announcements, in addition to having supported over 500 advertisers in the past 15 years to promote their business locally, and congratulates all involved for making the magazine a successful endeavour over the past 15 years.”

So happy birthday and I hope a big cake is involved and I wish it well for many years to come.

Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative

"When will the rain stop?" This has been the question on everyone's mind lately. While I wish the answer was tomorrow, it seems like we might be in for a few more weeks of it. It's natural to feel frustrated and wish for an escape to another world. Recently, I tried using a virtual reality headset to experience new worlds. Although this technology is still developing, it's amazing how immersive VR can be, from gaming to social interactions. The environments are so captivating that I felt a strange brief disappointment when I took off the headset and returned to the real world. However, I also realised that it's important to use VR responsibly, as it can be addictive and lead to losing track of time etc. Virtual reality has the potential to transform our lives in many ways, but it also has its downsides. We need to be careful and anticipate the challenges and changes it brings. Just like preparing for a storm during the summer makes the winter seem less severe, we should be ready for what's to come and use VR in moderation. Let's embrace this future with open eyes and a commitment to using it responsibly.

I will hold an advice surgery on Wednesday 1st May from 5-6 pm at Quins restaurant in Galashiels. Don't hesitate to contact me using the details below if you need assistance.

Email - Euan.jardine@scotborders.gov.uk

Telephone - 07811977720

Facebook - @VoteEuanJardine Twitter - @VoteJardine

Fay Sinclair Councillor - Gala & District, SNP

In recent weeks, I’ve been enjoying my first taste of women’s rugby – watching that is, so far, not playing!

Along with my family, I’ve taken the trip up to Edinburgh to the Hive stadium to watch Scotland’s two home matches as part of the Women’s Six Nations championship. The stadium has been packed and atmosphere amazing. It was really good to see so many children attending, with girls in particular keen to meet their heroines after the matches. The players took their time to speak to youngsters, inspiring the next generation of rugby players.

Abbotsford is ope n!

This year marks a monumental 200 years since the completion of Abbotsford. Step into a world where history and heritage come alive; all waiting to be discovered by you. Join us in celebrating this significant milestone and become a part of Abbotsford’s enduring legacy.

You can visit our free Exhibition in the Visitor Centre, take a leisurely stroll down our picturesque woodland and riverside paths and explore the Historic House, Chapel and Regency-era Walled Gardens. To top off your day, visit Ochiltree’s Café for a warm drink and a delightful treat. Don’t forget to take advantage of our pay once visit all year offer!

Now open from 10am-4pm Dates & times are subject to change. Find out more: scottsabbotsford.com

More details can be found on our website: scottsabbotsford.com Abbotsford

Scotland Women’s first international took place in 1993, a huge 122 years after their male counterparts, marking the start of a steady growth in the women’s game. In the decade up to 2022, participation levels in female rugby in Scotland saw a substantial increase from 2,680 to 6,173 and numbers have continued to rise since.

Gala has a strong rugby heritage, with the photograph of Scotland International Lisa Robertson hung proudly in the club alongside male Scotland caps, and there was more good news last month that U16 Gala Vixen, Sophie Campbell, has been selected for the Scotland U16 National Squad.

Having the local support really can make the difference in encouraging girls and women to continue to enjoy their sport, and the Gala Vixens really provide that. I was so encouraged to read the comments of one of their members, who explained: “It’s more than a rugby team. We support each other on and off the field. There is no pressure to play games either and you can join for the fitness and the team aspect if that’s all you’re looking for. All abilities are welcomed and supported positively by the fabulous coaches.”

The Vixens train on Wednesday evenings at Netherdale back pitches, 6.45-8pm, with women and girls of all ages and abilities encouraged to come along to the friendly and inclusive group.

Councillor Fay Sinclair - SNP, Galashiels and District

M: 07773619753, E: fay.sinclair@scotborders.gov.uk

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. 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:

• Are your night storage heaters working effectively?

• Are you eligible for Pension Credit and therefore get Warm Home Discount automatically?

• Could you be on a better energy tariff?

• What kind of meter do you have?

• Are you on the Priority Service Register?

If you would like further information please do get in touch. We can also carry out a benefit check to ensure you are in receipt of everything you are entitled to.

Central Borders Citizens Advice Bureau

111 High Street, Galashiels RD1 1RZ. Call 01896 753889 e-mail: enquiries@centralborders.cab.casonline.org.uk website: www.galashielscab.org.uk Monday – Thursday 10am – 4pm.

Galashiels Community Council

Galashiels Community Council is back in action again after a short break for elections. Every 4 years, all volunteers on the council must stand down and anyone, from the town, who fancies joining the community group can put their names forward for consideration. That whole

We offer a range of residential property services including Home Reports, EPCs & Valuations

process is supervised by SBC. This is all done and dusted and the team is now in place. It’s worth mentioning though that vacancies on the team pop up from time to time as people leave for various reasons over the term.

Meetings are open to the public and it’s a great way to find out what town issues have been raised by residents and hear the discussions of how, as a community council, we can try to help.

Our local, elected town councillors attend the monthly meetings and are usually sent off with a hefty ‘to-do’ list from the Community Council Chair at the end of the evening..!! It’s also a good opportunity to find out what they have been up to every month on our behalf.

The volunteers who make up the Community Council are just ordinary, everyday Gala folk who are going to be coming up with ideas for fund raising for town benefit, be attempting to get some of the town’s Pay Parking money (held by SBC) used for town projects and generally trying to help make a difference.

PC Sean Wright Memorial Walk - 6th May

Sean Wright was a friend to many and within a short time became a firm favourite to the young people and staff at TD1 Youth Hub in his role as Community Police Constable. Devastated by his sudden and unexpected loss in April 2023 we’ve capitalised on his enthusiasm for wanting to make a difference to the young people of Galashiels by following through with group walks - now known as Sean Walks. These walks have brought together family, friends, former colleagues and consistently a large number of young people from TD1 Youth Hub. The benefits from these walks and comfort brought to many have been so important.

We wanted to honour Sean and make sure we take time to remember him every year - May 6th (2024) sees our first annual walk in his memory. Led by Sean’s long standing friend Dougie from Hike&Bike Hub Galashiels we invite all who knew and loved Sean to join us for a stomp around Langlee woods followed by some light refreshments (and hopefully some of Sean’s mums tasty home baking!)

At the request of Sean’s wife Jo and family they have asked that we offer an opportunity for people to donate. All funds received will be put into TD1 Youth hub to continue to support young people and make a difference to their lives - a place where Sean understood & recognised the importance of the work that goes on and why.

St Peter’s Primary School Spring Fayre

St Peter’s Primary School, Galashiels, Friday 17th May, 12.15pm - 3.00pm

St Peter’s Primary School Parent Council invite you to join us for our annual Spring Fayre.

A fun-filled afternoon for all the family with cream teas, market traders, community group stalls, entertainment, games, bouncy castle, face painting, tombola, raffle and so much more. Everyone welcome......we look forward to seeing you there.

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!

Mac Arts May 2024

4th - Newton Faulkner- Feels Like Home Tour 2

11th - Dubinski. Support: Butter and 3 out of 4

17th - The Vintage Explosion

25th - Maiden Scotland

Tickets - www.ticketsource.co.uk/macarts

www.macarts.scot

Lindean Village Hall Fundraiser

Lindean Village Hall Committee are proud to announce the return of very popular local band GLIDER on 7th June, 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Tickets costing £6 are available from any member of the Committee, or by phoning 01896 755316, and it is recommended that you purchase these in advance. You can however, also pay at the door on the night.

Please bring your own bottle, a raffle will also be held. If GLIDER's last visit to Lindean is anything to go by, then this will be another great night, so don't mis out on this important fundraiser for the hall.

Neil Miller, Lindean Hall & Carpet Bowling Treasurer.

Art at Ancrum Celebrates 10 years!

Saturday 4 May – Monday 6 May, 10am – 5pm daily, free entry

Art at Ancrum returns in May for a long weekend of displays and demonstrations by artists and design-led makers. First run in 2013 with just 16 exhibitors, this event, our tenth, has grown to 39 exhibitors in 16 venues in the village. It brings together talented artists from across the Borders and beyond to show their work at venues in the village of Ancrum. The exhibitors will be showing paintings, textiles, jewellery, ceramics and glass, and works in wood, metal and stone. Visitors can meet the artists and makers at their stalls in the Village Hall, the Bowling Clubhouse, in the pub and at other venues around the village. There’s a programme of demonstrations by artists on the Village Green, and a display of children’s art from Ancrum and Jedburgh schools.

Nine artists new to Art at Ancrum have been invited to take part this year. They include Amanda Withall from Kirk Yetholm, a linocut printmaker whose detailed work reflects her background in Fine Art and Botanical drawing. Also at Art at Ancrum for the first time is Janette Sumner, an abstract artist heavily influenced by the coastline, whose work captures the striking visual impact of tidelines and the shifting sands. Details of all the participating artists can be found at www. artatancrum.org.uk.

Art at Ancrum is a relaxed and friendly experience. As well as paintings there are teas and cakes in the Village Hall, coffee and bacon rolls at the Ancrum Pantry, lunch in a garden, musicians, and food and drink in the Ancrum Cross Keys. There are exhibitors to meet in their own studios or in residents’ houses and gardens, and opportunities to view and purchase high quality local art and crafts.

Art at Ancrum takes place over the three days of the early May bank holiday weekend, Saturday 4 May to Monday 6 May. The event is open from 10am to 5pm daily and entry to the show is free. Continued on page

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Redgauntlet Archers

Redgauntlet Archers are holding beginners classes at Langlee community centre over the summer 7:00pm to 9:00pm on Thursday nights. We are running an open beginners class, this means that newcomers can come along on a Thursday night and start their five week course, after trying a free sample night before deciding whether to proceed.

The 5 week course costs £40, which includes insurance, and the club provides all the equipment required and a trained coach. After training the beginner is expected to buy their own equipment depending on which style of shooting ( recurve, compound etc) they prefer. Expert advice on equipment selection is always on hand and members are always willing to help.

Redgauntlet’s outdoor course is at Elibank forest near Walkerburn and our indoor facility is at Langlee Community Centre. On joining the club new members have access to Elibank at all times and indoors at Langlee on Thursday night 7 till 9:00 PM.

We have been at Elibank for 50 years and the course is looked on as one of the most challengingin Scotland and Redgauntlet Archers has been a prominent club right from the start of field archery in Scotland. Archery can be enjoyed at various levels from serious competition, to a pleasant day out with people of a like minded attitude. As from April, club members will have the choice of indoor and/or outdoor shooting whatever their preference.

Any former members who wish to rejoin can come along to Langlee for a free refreshers night. If you are interested and want further information, please contact Jim Stillie on 07720677900 or Keith Allen on 07930670700.

Galashiels Church of Scotland

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

St John’s building – Hawthorn Road, Langlee TD1 2JZ

Trinity building – High St TD1 1SE

We are a united congregation who want to glorify God and exalt Christ 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. Services are in these church buildings.

5th May - 11am Morning Service (Old Parish & St Paul’s, Scott Crescent)

6.30pm Evening Service (St John’s Church, Langlee)

12th May - 11am Morning Service (Old Parish & St Paul’s, Scott Crescent)

6.30pm Evening Service (St John’s Church, Langlee)

19th May - 11am Morning Service (Old Parish & St Paul’s, Scott Crescent)

6.30pm Evening Service (St John’s Church, Langlee)

26th May - 11am Morning Service (Old Parish & St Paul’s, Scott Crescent)

6.30pm Evening Service (St. John’s Church, Langlee)

Girls' Brigade

1st Galashiels Girls' Brigade – Monday evenings. St John's Church halls, Langlee.

Explorers P1-P3 6-7pm, Juniors P4-P7 6-7pm, Brigaders S1-S6 7- 8.30pm.

Please contact Susan Henderson for more information about joining us: 1stgalagb@gmail.com

Bible Study - House Group meets on Tuesday Morning.

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 euphorbias 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 longflowering 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

Ingredients

4 x 150g minute beef steaks, very thinly sliced into strips

1 tbsp soy sauce

2 peppers, red or yellow, seeds removed and cut into strips

2 onions, cut into strips

1 red chilli, seeds removed, sliced

1½ tbsp vegetable oil

3 tbsp cornflour

2 tsp Chinese five-spice powder

2 spring onions, sliced to serve freshly cooked rice or noodles, to serve (optional)

For the glaze

2 tbsp sesame seeds (a mix of black and white, or whatever you have)

2 tbsp white wine vinegar

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp light soy sauce

2 tbsp light brown sugar

2 tbsp tomato ketchup

Air Fryer Crispy Chilli Beef Method

You will need an air fryer for this!

• Mix the beef strips with the soy sauce in a bowl. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.

• Heat the air fryer to 190C. Toss the pepper, onion and chilli in ½ tablespoon vegetable oil and cook for 10 minutes.

• To make the glaze, set aside about a teaspoon of the sesame seeds for sprinkling. Mix the remaining seeds with all the glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Pour over the vegetables and return to the air fryer for 2 minutes. Remove and set aside in a bowl.

• Heat the air fryer to 200C. Add the cornflour, Chinese fivespice and remaining vegetable oil to the marinated beef mixture and mix well to coat. Lay the coated beef slices in the air fryer in a single layer, with space around them for the air to circulate. You may need to do this in two batches.

• Cook for 7 minutes until the beef strips have crisped up. Remove the tray halfway through and shake so that the beef pieces cook evenly. Once cooked remove from the air fryer.

• Pop the pepper and onion back in the air fryer for 2 minutes to heat up, then remove and mix with the crispy beef. Top with the spring onions and reserved sesame seeds and serve with rice or noodles.

Guild - The Guild will resume in October and will welcome new members.

Coffee Stop - Wednesday mornings 10am – 12noon. St John’s small hall. Drop in to meet friends.

Prayer Meeting - Wednesdays at 7pm in St John’s small hall.

Badminton - Wednesdays 10am-12md Old Parish &St Paul’s large hall.

Choir rehearsals - have now ended for this session. We will hopefully start again in September –date unknown at present.

For further information

Minister: Rev Graeme Glover, e-mail: GGlover@churchofscotland.org.uk phone: 01896 209455 website: www.galashielschurchofscotland.org.uk

Bowden & Melrose Parish Church

Minister Rev. Rosemary Frew. 01896 822217 email RFrew@churchofscotland.org.uk

Office: 01896 823339 email bowden.melrosepc@btinternet.com

Sunday Worship

We meet for worship at 9.30am in Bowden Kirk and at 11.00am in Melrose Church. The Melrose service is livestreamed, and you can join us on our church website or Facebook page or watch the recording thereafter www.bowdenandmelrosechurch.org

A worship podcast is posted in Facebook, Instagram and our website on Saturday evenings. You can listen on 01896 808551

Messy Church

Messy Church meets from 3.00-5.00pm on the second Sunday of the month. Our next meeting is on Sunday 12 May 2024. 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 be open for tea, coffee, company, and chat. All welcome.

Bowden Community Café

This continues to meet on the third Wednesday of each month in Bowden Village Hall at 11amthe next is on Wednesday 15 May 2024. All are very welcome.

St Peter’s Scottish Episcopal Church

In John’s Gospel Jesus says that he came to this earth so that people might have life, ‘and have it abundantly’. We are a small church of less than perfect people trying to find out what that promise might look like in our day to day lives, in Galashiels, and in our damaged and complicated world.

All are welcome to join us – old and new friends, all ages, and stages of life.

Services

Why not come to our Sunday Service at 10:30am when we sing, hear a short talk, and celebrate Holy Communion.

Looking for a quiet reflective space? Then you would be very welcome at our short Healing Service every second Sunday in the month at 6pm.

MASTERING THE BLUEPRINT:

A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Dream Kitchen

Planning a kitchen is really daunting and is best left to the experts, however it is good if you have some ideas to take with you, so here are the basics to get you started! Remember a kitchen is a main feature these days of our homes, and does have an impact on the saleability of your home.

LETS START WITH WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE - WHAT LAYOUT IS YOUR KITCHEN?

THE 3 BASIC LAYOUTS ARE:

1. Corridor/ Galley Layout.

In a long, narrow area with doors at each end you have little choice other than two facing rows of appliances and storage units. You should allow at least 1200mm between two rows for a safe walk-through corridor and to allow comfortable access to front loading appliances. In really narrow rooms, the fittings might need to be restricted to one side of the room.

2. L-shaped layout.

This is often the best solution where the kitchen can fit into a corner.

3. U-shaped layout.

This layout is convenient as all working areas are within easy reach. It may be the only choice for small rooms although it can also be used with effect where a kitchen area needs to be fitted at one end of a larger room. Try to allow for 1200mm between the parallel sides of the U.

L-SHAPED KITCHEN

GALLEY KITCHEN

U-SHAPED KITCHEN

NOW YOU NEED TO MEASURE THE SIZE OF THE EXISTING LAYOUT:

Measure your kitchen at floor level and again about 900mm from the floor - use the smaller measurement for your floor plan.

Draw a scale plan, using squared paper makes things easier and mark on the plan the services as they currently exist - hot and cold water, drains, electric points, gas points, any existing extractor vents in the walls etc.

With your scale drawing, list all the cupboards and appliances you want to include. Cut out mock appliances and then try to fit them all onto your scale drawing. Remember to take in to account the type of kitchen space you have using the above diagrams.

The standard cupboard with is 500mm, appliances are 600mm, so when working out how making units you can have use these sizes. Then if you have space left over – don’t worry there are lots of fillers and storage devices.

The principal activity zones in the kitchen are - food preparation, cooking, serving and finally washing up. Each activity needs to include the worktop(s), related appliances and related storage.

In addition to the three zones, it is important to arrange the appliances and worktops in the correct order i.e. worktop - applianceworktop. A work triangle is formed between the three zones (as shown in the diagrams). For the greatest efficiency the total length of the three sides of the triangle should be between 3600mm and 6600mm, and, as far as possible, the work triangle should be uninterrupted by through traffic.

Check all the planned appliances are near to the existing facilities like water and electricity.

If the layout you decide on doesn’t fit with the existing services consider rearranging or if not achieving the overall result you want, then make a note of the new services you

need. A new plug may be inexpensive but rerouting the water impossible – i.e. if you have concrete floors.

A good tip is think if you need all the things on your list, a washing machine is essential but does it have to be in the kitchen – do you have a cupboard big enough to become a utility room, or a garage with power?

Think how you can rearrange the kitchen to make it easier to use, begin to think about relocating the position of the existing services. Remember that in addition to the floor mounted appliances, you will also need electric points for the smaller, moveable appliances which you get out of the cupboard each time you want to use them (think of the number of sockets you might need and add on 50%).

All services and window/doors can be repositioned - it is just that additional work is involved; the rough order from easiest to most difficult is - electricity, gas, water supplies, drains (above floor), blocking up doors/windows, drains below floor and moving doors/windows. But remember that you may need professional assistance to move doors/windows and you will need a registered gas fitter to move a gas point.

Bearing all this in mind, ‘play’ with the layout

GALLEY KITCHEN L-SHAPED KITCHEN

U-SHAPED KITCHEN

to achieve your dream kitchen - then look at any relocation of services required - are you happy with the amount of work involved?

You will often find that you will have to compromise.

When you are happy with a basic floor arrangement, think about the wall area and

where you can fit wall units, these tend to be needed in the food preparation area. Try and keep the wall units in line with the base units below them - It looks better.

YOU SHOULD NOW BE IN THE POSITION TO LIST:

• THE NUMBER AND STYLE OF FLOOR UNITS YOU REQUIRE.

• THE NUMBER AND STYLE OF WALL UNITS YOU REQUIRE.

• THE APPLIANCES TO BE FITTED.

• THE WORK YOU NEED TO DO TO ADD OR RE-POSITION THE SERVICES.

NOW IT’S TIME TO START SHOPPING for a new kitchen. Remember though it is a big expense and if you want help then go to local firms that also have an in house designer. Many will provide this service for free and although you have got your plan, they do this every day and might even be able to come up with some money saving ideas and still get you that dream kitchen. Don’t be put off by ‘Trade Only’ when looking for your kitchen. Trade price means a great saving and I know from experience that Howdens Joinery will welcome you - as long as you bring your joiner or kitchen fitter (you may find they have to buy the kitchen on your behalf.) Howdens also provide a free design and planning service and can help find a local joiner if you still need one.

Debbie

IMAGES: HOWDENS JOINERY

For families with primary age children, we have Messy Church every fourth Tuesday in the month from 5:30pm to 7pm during term time. Enjoy food, activities, and fun. Children need to bring a parent or other adult with them.

Contact Details

Priest: Revd Dr Lesley Penny Telephone: 0330 113 1379

Vestry Secretary: John Marsden Telephone: 0753 809 4986

Email: stpeterschurchgala@gmail.com

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.

Cultural Sunday 19th May - at the 11am Mass at Our Lady & St Andrew’s Church in Galashiels, we shall be celebrating the various cultures and nationalities that make up our Parish. All are welcome.

Parish Administrator : Father Benedict Iwatt.

Email : parishpriest@galacatholic.org Telephone : 01896 752 328 Facebook : @borderscatholic

Check our website at www.galacatholic.org for our weekly newsletter and for up-to-date information about services and events.

Galashiels Baptist Church

Galashiels Baptist Church is a community of Christians committed to loving God, each other and our local community.

We are open to all ages and you are welcome to join us in our building or online.

If you have never been to church before or are looking to explore Christianity further, we would love to get to know you and journey with you.

These are the activities we have going on each week:

Sundays - 10:30 am (weekly) – Sunday Service. A mix of worship music, prayer, and teaching with creche and Sunday Club for children during term time.

Tuesdays - 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 served. 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.

Pillow TalkHow To geT a good nigHTs sleeP

Dreaming of a great nights sleep? Try some of these tips and and off to Lala land you go!

Power TiPs

1. IT ’s Bed TIMe! Just like kids we all need a regular bed time, and we need to stick to it. Use your phone - these days you can add a notification of bed time!

2. rouTine. Have a pre-sleep routine. The routine triggers the mind into knowing it’s bed time. Things like a warm bath, cup herbal tea (de-caff) or just brushing your teeth.

3. Black ouT!! This really works. Invest in black out curtains or blinds. You can’t go to sleep with the lights on - your circadian rhythm recognises darkness means bed time.

4. This is a good one…a noTe Pad By The Bed. Ever lain awake thinking of all the things you need to do tomorrow and then in the morning can’t remember a thing. Write them down. It helps your brain to stop worrying about them and lets you go to sleep. In the morning your to do list is already made!

5. graTiTude diary - I find this one hard. Think of 3 things you appreciated or should have appreciated. Can be tiny things like your partner making a cup of tea or friends ringing for a chat.

6. caffeine. I actually swapped to de-caff tea and Willie swapped to de-caff coffee. You know what - couldn’t taste the difference and we got the benefits of no caffeine. Definitely no spikes during the day. It also cut down the craving for another cup!

TruTh or My Th

drinking warM Milk helPs you sleeP. Milk has tryptophan in it, which produces serotonin so should help you to sleep. However there hasn’t been any medical studies to prove this.

oldies like us need less sleeP. Nope experts say adults need 7-9 hours sleep per night what ever your age. It just seems that we need less, as many of us nap during the day and get up earlier in the morning.

naPs s ToP you sleePing aT nighT. A nap of a 15 minutes can revive you after lunch when your natural bodily rhythms indicate a wee rest. This can boost your energy for the rest of the day and evening and you can still get a good nights sleep.

cheese gives Me nighTMares! Apparently studies do show that people who eat cheese before bed will dream more (in up to 75% of people) but there was no findings as to whether they were good or bad dreams.

snoring isn’ T harMful. Maybe not to the sleeper/ snorer but the partner may kill them! Actually snoring can be a sign of sleep apnoea, which is very dangerous. It leads to breathing pauses. If they go on too long the person wakes up gasping for breath. If you do snore and wake up gasping go and get checked out- it is treatable.

Night Night...

Debbie

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 served.

All of these activities take place at our building on Victoria Street. 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 and get to know you.

Holy Trinity Scottish Episcopal Church, Melrose

20 High Cross Avenue, Melrose TD6 9SU

Rector: Fr Philip Blackledge

Curate: Rev. Claire Nicholson

Email - holytrinitymelrose.sec@gmail.com

Sunday Eucharist 11am – weekly. Join us for rousing hymns, thoughtful sermons in a calm traditional service to celebrate holy communion. 6:30pm - monthly (first Sunday in the month) - ‘Cathedral Evensong’. Come to listen to beautiful choral music from our growing Borders based choir, and enjoy some space for reflection at our Evensong sung in the great choral tradition from across the ages within the contemplative service of Evensong.

Caddonfoot Parish Church

Services have continued at Caddonfoot Parish Church with the congregation winding down after a busy Easter period. The services continue to be led by our Locum, the Rev June Johnston, each Sunday at 9.30 a.m. while on the fifth Sunday of the month, there is a joint service with Stow St Mary of Wedale and Heriot.

Such a service was held on Easter Day at Stow following Maundy Thursday worship in Heriot split by Good Friday Communion in Caddonfoot.

There was also a double baptism on April 14 while a date for the Stated Annual Meeting has yet to be decided.

Members share the reading of the Bible and music is played by Andy Bird (organ and keyboard) and Mrs Anne Grieve and Mrs Catriona Bird (both flute).

Traditionally, the bell is rung each week, and after services, refreshments are served.

A Lent Study group met weekly in Clovenfords led by the Rev Johnston.

A joint Kirk Session meeting with Stow and Heriot meet in the station house at Stow on May 16 under Interim Moderator, the Rev Lynn Brady, to discuss the Vision for the future.

Services continue each Sunday throughout May with the Sacrament of Holy Communion on May 5. Visitors and church-goers are again reminded to exercise care when walking through the Memorial Garden and we would also welcome other volunteers to help with cleaning, flowers and refreshments.

Send your entry for our Get Out and Community pages to info@galalife.co.uk

Or call Willie on 07906375953 by 12th of the month.

Entries for non profit groups are free.

This Month’s Easy Sudoku

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!

Its thats time of year when these little critters start to show themselves. They are out all year round but most obvious between spring and autumn.

Ticks are spider like creepy-crawlies that attach themselves to your pet and suck their blood like a little vampire. They attach themselves to your furry friend if they brush past whatever it happens to be sitting on. They then bury down through the fur and attach themselves onto the skin by attaching their mouthparts to the skin. They then begin to feed on the animals blood. As they do this their bodies engorge and grow bigger. That’s usually when you're able to really spot them. Often where a tick has attached can become a little irritated but this is rarely anything to worry about.

Tick Talk

That being said, these little bloodsuckers do carry a bacterial infection called Lyme disease. Symptoms for this include off food, lethargic, fever and sore and swollen joints. If caught early this can be treated with antibiotics, so if you think this could be the cause of any change in your furry companion, do not hesitate to contact us.

To lower the risks of ticks latching on, preventative measure are advisable. Depending on the product, it either repels them or kills them after they bite. We cover tick and flea treatment in our monthly Pet Health Plan which is a really

www.bordervets.co.uk Galashiels

01896 752156

cost effective way of making sure your pet get the right preventative treatment which hopefully avoids any unnecessary contact with these little suckers.

However if this isn’t an option for you, removal of them is super easy with the correct tool. Please do not squeeze the body or leave the head in. These options can cause it to regurgitate the blood back into your animal which increases the risk of infection. These guys need to be twisted off. We sell the little tools or you should be able to get them at a pet shop.

Alex McMurray Receptionist

Office: Monday - Friday 8.00am - 6.00pm.

Saturday 8.30am - 1pm.

Consultations by appointment

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)

Medium (10.1kg-25kg)

Large (25.1kg-40kg)

X Large (40.1 and over)

Your Pet Health Plan includes:

Cats (All)

Rabbits (All)

Dog Cat Rabbit

Essential annual vaccination with a full health check

Flea treatments* (sufficient for a year) dispensed quarterly

Worm treatments (sufficient for a year) dispensed quarterly

6 monthly health check with your vet

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

Dog Cat Rabbit

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)

Selected Complimentary 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. *Tailord to your pet's needs

£16.50

£16.50

£11.99

£18.50

£20.50

£28.50

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For May 2024

The down to earth sign of Taurus the bull is now firmly in the spotlight, indicating that constructive and practical energy is readily available for keeping projects going at a steady pace. Taurus energy also draws us all out in to the open so that we can enjoy the abundance of what nature has to offer at this bountiful time of year. Venus, the planet of love and beauty remains in Taurus until the 24th, coupled with the new moon in this sign on the 8th they are both suggesting that romantic encounters could be at their peak this month. Mars is in fiery Aries all month, ensuring that enthusiasm and passion will be at the forefront. The big planetary shift this month occurs on the 26th as mighty Jupiter arrives in Gemini for the first time in 12 years. Hang on to your hats - this energy is curious, impatient and restless, quite a change from the year of Jupiter in steady Taurus! A brilliant alignment of Venus and Jupiter around the 21st offers the perfect opportunity for using your intuition to make positive changes, particularly within relationships. The full moon is in Sagittarius on the 23rd, the emphasis here will be on travel, education and spirituality.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

May will be supercharged and super energetic as dynamic Mars, your ruling planet, has arrived in your sign and will be there all month. You’ll feel this huge energy shift as your plans and projects gather momentum and innovative new ideas become apparent. The Taurus new moon on the 8th suggests that some important financial issues will come to the surface.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21

It’s an important month for Taureans as the radiant Sun, Venus, Uranus and Jupiter all occupy your sign for the best part of the month. Talkative Mercury arrives in Taurus on the 16th assisting your communication skills, particularly when you are patient and tune into your intuition. Jupiter highlights finances from 26th, be bold and be sure to profit from a new sense of resolve when it comes to getting things done.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21

The most introspective area of your chart is highlighted at the start of the month and the Taurus new moon on the 8th offers great insight into the future. Mercury is in your sign after the 16th, be open to any opportunities that come your way. Lucky Jupiter arrives in your sign for a one year stay on the 26th, offering up a sensational theme of innovative ideas and exciting new plans to help you move ahead.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22

This month indicates that a totally different dynamic is on offer as your goals and aspirations move into the spotlight. Dynamic Mars is powerful in Aries at the highest point of your chart, suggesting that your confidence at an all-time high pushing you even harder to go after what you want. The Sagittarian full moon on the 23rd looks like a turning point.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23

May begins with your thoughts turning to further broadening your horizons and travelling to some faraway places. Career matters are also looking positive as four planets gather at the top of your chart. Jupiter arrives in Gemini on the 26th offering a chance to fully explore the many ideas that have been on your mind for some time. The potent Taurus new moon on the 8th could become especially rewarding for you.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22

Mars energy is strong all month illuminating the finance and resources sector of your chart; you should be able to find a more dynamic approach to enhancing your earning potential. Your ruling planet Mercury arrives Gemini on the 16th, try to avoid wasting energy on trivia as this placement is easily distracted. The Sagittarius full moon on the 23rd brings a family issue to the surface.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23

Mars and Mercury are powerful and dynamic in your opposite sign of Aries this month. Your relationships will take centre stage, particularly if there are any difficulties that need your attention. Saturn and Neptune in Pisces, both offer the perfect opportunity to further develop any new health strategies for making some positive and lasting changes.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

Some important decisions may need to be taken this month as there is a build-up of cosmic energy concerning work related issues. Expansive Jupiter arrives at a potent angle of your chart on the 26th, ideas around financial restructuring are on a roll as new projects coincide with your determination to succeed. The Sagittarian full moon on the 23rd could bring a lucky break.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Your love life enters the spotlight this month as passionate Mars in Aries lights up this sector of your chart. Romantic Venus, in sensuous Taurus, also indicates that under these current trends your relationships should flourish Jupiter, your ruler, is changing signs on the 26th occupying your opposite sign of Gemini until June 2025. Plan ahead and remain curious and flexible.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

May brings a new sense of adventure and some exciting new possibilities as the sector of your chart concerned with love, fun and creativity is illuminated. It’s a time for expanding your mind and your heart. Overall this is a great chance to bring in the new as cosmic indicators suggest that you’ll enjoy popularity and recognition. Use positive thinking to get the very best out of any new social endeavours.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18

During May communication becomes one of your top priorities, energetic Mars is very active in this area of your chart, indicating that if you maximise your potential and put your powers of judgement to the test you should see the successful culmination of an ambitious project. Jupiter arrives in Gemini on the 26th, enthusiasm is high as love and relationships offer excitement and delight.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

The Sun, Venus, Uranus and Jupiter occupy the communication area of your chart for most of the month, putting some extra oomph into your conversations and helping you to find a new way of getting what you want. Energetic Mars is strong in Aries, suggesting that you will have supercharged energy for ridding yourself of anything that is not essential in your life, even if it requires some serious soul searching.

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 the patterns in the Cosmos align with your patterns here on earth. Find out when positive and productive planetary cycles are working in your favour. Aim to reach your fullest potential in 2024 by booking an astrological reading now - Consultations are available on Zoom, WhatsApp or by telephone.

Christine Chalklin, Inspirational Astrologer and Life Coach

Email: christine_chalklin@hotmail.com

Website: www.yourguidinglight.org

Mobile: 07813 483549

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