Gala Life November 2023

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.

November 2023

CONTENTS

29,59 Sudoku

6 Your Community

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

12 Willie's Wonky Computer

Willie gives some advice on removing iPhone calendar spam.

16 Fitness With Alan Clinch

Alan looks at arthritis, what causes it and what you should do about it.

20 Recipe

20

This month we look at the history of baked beans, with a couple of recipes.

Recipe

29 Sudoku

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

Advertising Debbie - 07545299491

34

Top Toys

Photography & Design Lynsey - 07305577953 Editor Willie - 07906375953

www.facebook.com/mygalalife

16

Fitness

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

www.galalife.co.uk 4 Gala Life

Deadline for December

30 The Gala Garden

As the season comes to an end, Sheila looks at things to do in November.

WELCOME

34 Top Toys!

Our annual review of the top toys in demand this Christmas.

48 Gala Rugby Club

All the latest news, gossip and results from the boys in maroon.

Welcome to the November edition of Gala Life.

The clocks may have changed and the nights are getting darker but there is so much to see and do this Autumn that honestly I don’t know how we will fit it all in.

12

Wonky Computer

We have the firm favourite of the Gala Pantomime and this year it is Mother Goose!

Before that there is Bonfire Night, live music at the Royal British Legion and Marmions. This is all before we even get started on the Christmas activities. In November and early December we have some fantastic Christmas Fairs, a Santa Grotto and wreath making at Abbotsford House. All our great locals clubs and societies are also busy this month with talks, outings and competitions. It’s going to be tough to fit it all in!

Alan looks at Osteoarthritis in the fitness column, Sheila tells us how to relax in the garden at this time of year and Willie cleans your phone of a calendar virus! He's has also been busy making beans and researching their history.

Our editorial feature this month is TOYS. Well it wouldn’t be Christmas without this now would it?

With so many hospitality venues here in the town why not indulge yourself with breakfast, lunch or even dinner whilst soaking up the relaxing atmosphere. There is so much to see and do and it’s not long now until the Christmas Lights go on!

Have a great November and see you next time.

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The Gala Garden is the 12th November

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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 Memory Lane Music - We meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at MacArts in Galashiels from 2pm to 3.30pm. It is a singing group for people living with dementia and their family and friends. It uses the joy of singing together as a way of improving wellbeing and supporting people to build lasting friendships.

Café Connect - We meet in the restaurant at Borders College, on the ground floor of the Galashiels campus, from 10.30am until 12.00noon. There is a small cost for tea/coffee and scones (£1.00 each).

A dementia advisor is available for information. This café is for anyone affected by dementia and provides a blether and friendship.

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 ‘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 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/ Continued on page 8 6 Gala Life

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Gala Policies Group - Always looking for new volunteers to join us in our litter picking efforts in the Policies. Monthly litter pick is held on 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.

Lindean Carpet Bowling Club - We meet every Wednesday, 7.30pm, in Lindean Village Hall. New members of all ages welcome at our friendly club, we supply the bowls so you just need to bring yourselves. Tuition given to those who haven’t played before, so come along and give it a go! For full details, phone Neil on 01896755316.

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.

Tweed Canoe Club - Weekly pool sessions for beginners start Tuesday 24th October at Selkirk swimming pool. All you need is swimming kit and a towel. Experienced paddlers also welcome.

For more information and to book a place contact tweedcanoeclub@gmail.com Continued on page 10

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One Acchord Ladies A Cappella Chorus - Ladies, if you want to sing, please come and meet us at Bowden Village Hall, Main Street, Bowden, TD6 0SS. Learn to sing in 4 Part Harmony, no auditions needed. We welcome everyone who wants to join us. Rehearsal times: 3 Wednesdays 7:30-9:30pm and 1 Saturday 2-5pm a month. Phone 07710699619 or visit our website www. oneacchord.co.uk The Eildon Singers - The Eildon Singers are a mixed voice choir of some 45 members from all over the central Borders. We sing mainly classical works, with some lighter pieces. Our rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings in the Corn Exchange, Market Square, Melrose, from 7.15 to 9.00pm.

We are in full swing again under our conductor James Young, preparing music for our Christmas concert on Sunday 3rd December. New members are very welcome (no auditions) and if you would like more information please contact our secretary Carol Bowman on 07753 192374 or visit our website www.eildonsingers.info Gala Water Singers - 7pm - 9pm in The Station House, Stow. All are welcome - no rehearsal just come along and join in. Christmas Concert will be on Sunday 10 December in the afternoon - more details will follow in the next edition of the Newsletter. Carol Singing around Stow on Tuesday 12 December evening - more details will follow in the next edition of the Newsletter.

The Galashiels Town Band - Mondays - Gala Beginners Band 5.00 - 5.45pm, Tuesdays - Gala Youth Band 6.00 - 7.00pm, Gala Senior Town Band 7.00 - 8.45pm. These take place at the Galashiels Town Band Hall, 6a Roxburgh Street, Galashiels. Open to experienced, inexperienced and beginners of all ages. Instruments can be supplied, so go give it a try. For more information please contact info@galatownband.org.uk or by calling Nichola Broatch on 07856266230.

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.

Galashiels Clef Club - Our next meeting is 12th November at 7.30pm in Lucy Sanderson Hall in Tweed Terrace. We offer a friendly welcome to everyone who can play an instrument or sing and they are free to choose any piece of music to entertain their fellow members. The range of music is wide and includes all styles of classical music, along with folksongs and songs from the shows, excursions into jazz, and members' own compositions. Please contact our secretary John jda.wood@virgin.net about visiting or joining. Our website is https://clefclub.co.uk for more information.

Melrose Music Society - Presents one of the brightest young stars of classical music, virtuoso trumpeter Aaron Azunda Akugbo, who, with pianist Zeynep Özsuca, will be playing a dazzlingly diverse programme including My Funny Valentine and Poulenc’s Métamorphoses, in Melrose Parish Church Hall on Sunday, November 19th at 3pm. Tickets available at www.ticketebo.co.uk/ melrose-music-society Adults £16, students £5, accompanied children free.

Rolling Hills Folk Club - Friday November 17th - George Murphy and Frank Cassidy are our musical guests from Northern Ireland and are a multi-instrumental duo with some great songs and banter. We'll have floor singers in the first and second halves of the evening too. £5 entry.

Doors open at 7.30pm for 8pm start. BYOB. Fairtrade tea/coffee available for donation. All ages welcome. The legendary raffle continues! Venue: Darnick Village Hall, Abbotsford Road, Darnick, TD6 9AH (with disabled access). There is no parking at the side of the Hall. Please use on-road parking at the wider part of Abbotsford Road, not outside the Hall, other than for drop-off.

Phone 07986 644661 for more information. Find us on Facebook and at our website www. rollinghillsfolkclub.org.uk

Continued on page 14

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Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory I’ve been getting weird appointments and strange reminders popping up on my iPhone.

Having asked around, this seems a fairly common problem and comes down to two things - iPhone Calendar Virus, or iPhone Calendar Spam. iPhone Calendar Virus. This is actually quite rare. The symptoms will include a sudden drop in battery life, the phone getting hot for no reason, new apps that you haven’t installed appearing and frequent app crashes. This is fairly easy to remove - uninstall any unfamiliar apps then check your battery health. To remove the spam part just follow the directions below.

If this doesn't cure the problem, then best to get support from the Apple Genius Bar. You can access this through www.apple.com/uk/ retail/geniusbar and speak to an Apple expert either by phone, chat or email. They will be able to help you without having to attend an Apple Store (which requires an appointmnet) and is a free service.

personal information getting compromised.

Unfortunately, because Apple’s products are so interlinked, if you get spam in your iPhone calendar it’s inevitable that it will also turn up on all your other Apple devices.

Number-one rule: never click on any links or other active sections of the appointments.

Here’s how to clean up your phone and stop the spam: Delete spam events 1.

Open the Calendar app on your iPhone.

You’ll see all events, including spam events. Note the colour of the spam event invites.

2.

On the main page, tap the Calendars button at the bottom. A list with all the calendars synced to your iPhone will show up.

3.

Look for the spam event’s colour and tap the i button next to it.

4. Scroll down and tap Delete Calendar iPhone Calendar Spam. This is the more likely to delete all spam events from your cause of your problem and thankfully, iPhone iPhone. Note: If spam calendar events Calendar Spam is not dangerous and should be are displayed with more than one colour, easy to get rid of. It is similar to phishing emails, perform the steps for those colours. where hackers create text messages, emails, web pages, and popups with links that look very Hopefully that will put an end to the unwanted similar to the original page. invites.

The usual route on to your iPhone is through If that doesn’t fix the problem, it may be emails and text messages that include invites, that the troublesome calendar has set up a links to events, or asking you to track a parcel. subscription on your phone and this will need to Then, when the you unknowingly click on these be deleted too. links, it takes you to the Calendar app. Even if 1. Open Settings. you press back or decline the event, iPhone’s default settings are in such a way that these 2. Select Calendar > Accounts. hackers can still send spam calendar events.

3. Look for the Subscribed Calendars option Apple is partly at fault here since they allow and tap it. anyone, including the people not in your 4. Find any calendars that you don’t want, contacts, to send calendar invites to your don’t recognise or haven’t subscribed iPhone. Since you aren’t expecting spam links to. Then select them and tap the Delete in the Calendar app, you will probably click on Account option. the link in the event, which will lead you to a phishing page. These pages may contain hacking Job done. scripts and malware that could result in your Willie 12 Gala Life

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Gala Life 13 T : 01896 755540

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 Focus Centre, Livingstone Place, Galashiels TD1 1DQ. £5. Contact Kate for further information 07523 466657.

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 - Sunday 26th November at 2.30.pm. Monthly meeting: Mr David Smale is our guest speaker this month talking about "The British Honduran Forestry Unit in Duns, The Police Raids and Moral Panic in Wartime Scotland". Venue: St. Peter's Church Hall, Parsonage Road, Galashiels, TD1 3HS. All non-members and members welcome.

The Trimontium Museum, Melrose - Create your own Roman Mosaic at Trimontium on 4th November, 10:30 am – 3:30 pm. Learn a Roman Dance in a 4-week workshop series on Wednesday evenings – 4th to 22nd November, 5:45 pm. Trimontium Talks: “Roman Coinage 101” with Dr Richard Brigstock on 9th Nov, and “Recent Investigations Vindolanda & Magna” with Barbara Birley on 23rd Nov. Holiday Shopping event during Melrose Christmas Shopping Night. Autumn / Winter hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:30 – 4 pm. www.trimontium.co.uk 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.

Galashiels Inner Wheel Club - 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. Our November speaker on Tue 21st is Susie Finlayson with a talk on embroidery entitled 'My Life in Stitches'. 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, Enthusiast and beginners are all welcome.

The Three Brethren u3a, Galashiels - The November meeting of the Three Brethren u3a will take place on Monday 20th November, 2pm at the Galashiels Rugby Club, Netherdale. Neil Fisher will talk about local history and in particular 'Agricultural Improvement and Dispossession in the Borders 1700 - 1850.' If you are in your 'third age' that is retired or semi-retired, then u3a maybe for you so do come along. A warm welcome awaits. Entrance £2, refreshments served. Details at www.u3asites.org.uk/three-brethren Borders Philatelic Society - We welcome new members who have an interest in Postal History, Stamps or Postcards at any level from all across the Borders. We are a small friendly club meeting fortnightly on Monday nights, 7.30 until 9pm in the Church Hall, Old Parish & St. Pauls in Scott Crescent Galashiels TD1 3JU. Please contact John Brown on 01721 723759 or Email him at tweedavenue@gmail.com for further information, or just turn up to meet like minded souls! This seasons dates are:- November 6 & 20, February 5 & 19, March 4 & 18, April 1.

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FITNESS with Alan Clinch

Arthritis – More Common Than You Might Think….

What to do?

The joints most commonly affected are hands, spine, knees, and hips. There isn’t a cure for osteoarthritis, but with care the symptoms can be relieved. The most effective treatments are those that maximise activity – this will help keep muscles and joints What happens? In very simple terms, the condition strong and bone results from damage to protective material, known density up. as cartilage, which lines our joints. Every day our Exercise and physical joints are subjected to wear, but sometimes the activity are unlikely to wear causes damage which cannot be repaired. make the symptoms When the cartilage wears away, the bones rub worse as long as against each other, sometimes exposing nerves a few simple rules which will then cause pain and instability. are followed – try to avoid impact type activities such as running on pavements: exercise on a bike This may be as a result of repeated small injuries or in a swimming pool will keep muscles strong. that don’t heal completely (things such a broken The use of walking poles will also help reduce the bones and/or sporting injuries). Additionally, if people are overweight, extra strain on the weight- impact through the joints. Exercise can also help with weight loss, which in turn will improve posture bearing joints (knees and hips) can lead to more and decrease joint stress. Bear in mind though severe osteoarthritis.

The picture on the right shows a photo of the inside that doing too much exercise too quickly, or doing inappropriate activities, may damage your joints. of my own knee, clearly showing that the tissue is The following websites are those of the biggest damaged (it’s supposed to be smooth…!)

UK organisations working with arthritis, but don’t Because osteoarthritis usually affects the smooth forget the NHS site www.nhs.uk/conditions/ lining of the joint, it makes movement more osteoarthritis/ which I’ve referred to before. difficult, leading to pain and stiffness. Once the We’re now moving into Autumn and Winter, which means that those of us with older (!) or compromised joints may be starting to get that familiar achy feeling. In my case, a combination of events has resulted in the development of osteoarthritis in the left knee. Fortunately, whilst the condition is not curable, it is possible to take some action in order to try and minimise the effects.

Osteo-arthritis is the more common of the two variants (the other being rheumatoid arthritis), affecting around 10 million people in the UK. It can affect people of all ages, including children, though it’s most likely to develop in adults over the age of 40.

cartilage lining starts to thin out (like in the picture of my own knee), the tendons and ligaments that hold the joint in place have to work harder. In turn, this can cause swelling and the development of bony spurs known as osteophytes. The final stage is bone rubbing on bone. This is likely to alter the shape and alignment of the joint.

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www.arthritisaction.org.uk www.versusarthritis.org

If you are suffering from arthritis then you would certainly benefit from advice from a medical professional – in the first instance this is likely to be your GP. If you think you may be affected by osteo-arthritis, act now…… alan@galalife.co.uk

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Pantomime Season Approaching Fast

After the huge success of last year’s annual Galashiels pantomime, which incidentally played to sell-out audiences for five nights, rehearsals are now well under way for the Right Angle Theatre’s 2023 production which this year is the ever popular pantomime, Mother Goose. The Right Angle Theatre Company who has performed the pantomime over the last twenty seven years are pleased to announce that once again they have one of the biggest casts with over fifty personnel of all ages already rehearsing and are all looking forward to producing a pantomime of a very high standard. The pantomime will open on Tuesday 5th December in the Volunteer Hall Galashiels.

As in previous years the show will run for a week finishing on the Saturday 9th December.

Once again Derek Calder is performing the role of Musical Director and Director, ably assisted

by Julie Smith. Sarah Phillips will for the first time take charge of the production side. The very talented Stuart Mitchell is again taking the role of Choreographer with Jodie Millar and Amanda Blacklock taking on the task of costuming the very large cast.

The script for the show has once again been provided by Alan Frayn and contains the usual amount of slapstick and humour which is sure to bring a smile to the audiences faces. Once more, the production team have selected a varied bunch of songs and music therefore complimenting Alan’s script which in turn will guarantee everyone leaving the hall still laughing and the music ringing in their ears.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public in late October early November and will be available from Fountain News (Market Street) and Noble’s Fish shop (Bank Street). As in previous years everyone is advised to book early to avoid disappointment. This is more relevant this year as the audience capacity has had to be reduced due to circumstances out with the Company’s control.

However, with the support and assistance from Live Borders the “show will go on” all be it with a different look regards the presentation of the stage itself.

The main parts are being performed by a very talented bunch of people and are as follows Mother Goose; Jodie Millar, Jill; Ellie Bryson Welsh, Silly Billy; Billy Rooney, The Squire; Howard Tame, Colin; Skye-Machara Henderson, Bill Bumpkin; Amy Welsh, Ben Bogtrotter; Ally Turnbull, Demon Discontent; Stuart Mitchell, Fairy Friendship; Amanda Blacklock, Pricilla the Goose; Julie Smith, King Proper-Gander; Craig Douglas, Queen Goosegog; Leanne Robinson.

Photo courtesy of Alwyn Johnston

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Beanz Meanz... Meinz Does anyone not like baked beans? They are the Popularity grew, and every region of the Americas most popular, most sold canned food in the UK and adapted the indigenous recipes to their taste. In can accompany breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes, Boston, Massachusetts ‘Boston Baked Beans’ are sometimes eaten cold, even included with a salad! made with molasses, which makes a rich, caramel We have to thank the HJ Heinz Company (founded sweet dish, along with salt pork, black pepper and, sometimes, onion. They were often slow-cooked

by Henry Heinz) who introduced beans to the UK in 1886, along with tomato ketchup, available then to form a crust (arguably the best bit). As Boston only from Fortnum & Mason in London. They were was an epicentre for rum production at that time, the byproduct was molasses, so was plentiful and considered a luxury item back then and sold for readily available. ninepence a can, which is around £2.15 today.

However, the history of baked beans goes back much farther. The French ‘Cassoulet’, a meat and bean stew, and White Beans and Bacon were popular across Europe and the UK in medieval times and could have been taken by colonists to the Americas in the 17th century. Baked beans as we know them though are made with haricot beans (navy beans in the US) and are native to South America.

The sale of Heinz beans expanded to other less ‘exclusive’ stores in the UK as they became a firm favourite. Their salesmen were expected to be “at least six foot tall, impeccably dressed and particularly eloquent”, according to Heinz, and carried flasks of heated beans to provide samples to potential customers!

fat to produce a wholesome, tasty dish, high in calories, protein and fat, and it was most likely this version that was adopted by our ancestors looking for an easy, cheap and sustainable meal.

Heinz originally stuck to their US recipe which included pork, however, it was a little too sweet for tastes in the UK and was eventually modified to a tomato based sauce without maple syrup, molasses or brown sugar. The pork was removed due to wartime rationing, so Heinz baked beans became vegetarian.

The beans were shipped to the UK from their Pittsburgh factory until 1928, when Heinz opened a factory in Harlesden, London, to meet growing The indigenous peoples of the north east of America, the Iroquois, Narragansett and Penobscot British demand. Their main factory in Wigan tribes included beans in their diet. They cooked the opened in 1959 and now produces around 383,000 beans in earthenware pots, with various available tonnes of products per year, it is also the world's largest baked bean factory. meats, maple syrup and sometimes even bear

The Puritan Christian pilgrims, arriving on the east coast of America from Europe from the 17th century certainly learned the indigenous recipes – and baked beans became a convenience food.

As their religion forbade cooking on the sabbath, pilgrims cooked the beans as a Saturday supper, then kept them warm in a wood-fired oven and ate them for breakfast after church on Sundays.

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The UK remains their biggest single market, with around 1,500,000 cans of Heinz beans consumed every day. Their ‘Beans Means Heinz’ slogan was born in 1967 and is voted best advertising slogan of all time.

Baked Beans Ingredients 400g dried Haricot beans 460ml chicken stock 230ml water 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce 6 tbsp tomato ketchup 2 tbsp tomato puree 3 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tsp salt 4 tsp cornflour

1. Soak beans in a big bowl of water for 8 – 24 hrs, then drain.

2. Place beans in a large pot of water over high heat. Bring to a simmer, then skim off foam.

3. Reduce heat so it's simmering gently (medium or medium low). Partially cover with lid (leaving a crack for steam to escape), then cook for 1 – 1.5 hrs until just tender. (Start checking at 45 min). Beans should be still slightly firm on inside (they're cooked more in the sauce).

Drain.

4. Place all Baked Beans ingredients in a pot (except beans) and stir, then add beans.

5. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat to medium low and simmer for 20 minutes, without the lid. Stir every now and then so the beans don't catch on the bottom of the pot.

6. Mix the cornflour with a little water. Pour into pot while stirring, then cook for 2 minutes until sauce thickens – it will thicken quickly. Taste and add more salt if needed.

Tastes better next day!

Boston Baked Beans Ingredients 400g dried Haricot beans soaked overnight 250g uncooked bacon lardons 1 medium onion, diced 8 tbsp tomato ketchup 3 tablespoons treacle 50g brown sugar 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon dry mustard

1. Bring the pre-soaked beans to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until nearly tender, approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Drain and reserve the cooking liquid.

2. Preheat the oven to 165 degrees C. 3. Arrange 1/2 of the beans in the bottom of a 2-quart (2ltr) casserole dish. Place 1/2 of the bacon over the beans and sprinkle 1/2 of the onions over top. Repeat layers once more.

4. Combine ketchup, treacle, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dry mustard in a large saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil.

5. Pour sauce over the beans. Pour in just enough reserved cooking liquid to cover the beans. Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours. Remove the lid and continue to cook, checking every 1/2 hour or so and adding more cooking liquid if necessary to prevent the beans from getting too dry, until beans are soft and tender, 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 more hours.

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John Lamont MP - Conservative Inflation is falling, our economy is growing stronger, and household bills are starting to return to normal levels.

The worst of the global energy price and cost-of-living crisis seems to be behind us.

Despite the economic volatility caused by the Covid pandemic and Russia's war in Ukraine, decisive leadership by the Prime Minister has helped to bring the situation under control.

I know many people are still struggling. Bills remain unaffordable for many, especially across Scotland where we've had to put up with higher personal and business taxes from the SNP Government for many years.

There is no room for complacency. We have seen in the past that inflation can be stubborn.

But the steadily improving economic situation, thanks to steps taken by the UK Government, is a cause for cautious optimism. As the rebound continues, more jobs will be created, businesses will invest more, and household finances will grow stronger.

While that happens, there is still a need for the UK Government to continue helping people who are struggling.

The UK Government is committed to supporting those who need it most - and that's exactly what we're doing with the latest cost-of-living payment that will land in eligible people's bank accounts soon.

Families in Gala and across the Borders - approximately 12,200 households in total - will receive £300 directly from the UK Government before Christmas to help with the cost-of-living. This is the second of three payments totalling £900 to support households which currently receive benefits.

Eligible people on means-tested benefits - such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit - will receive the money between 31 October and 19 November. It will be sent out automatically and directly, meaning those eligible do not need to apply or take any action to receive it.

Eligible pensioner households will also receive a further £300 payment this year as an addition to the Winter Fuel Payment.

These payments make up part of the record financial support from the UK Government for the most vulnerable, which is worth an average of £3,300 per household.

Our unprecedented cost-of-living support has included £7 billion to help ease the burden of energy bills in Scotland.

We will keep focusing on delivering a brighter future, while making sure that those in need have the help they deserve.

Christine Grahame MSP - SNP It is a benefit of being in Parliament that a member can put down a motion and draw attention of colleagues, and hopefully their support, for local successes. I recently had two motions supported. Both were very different but both were congratulating Borderers’ achievements. The first has a tragic but heroic beginning: the death after a brave battle with motor neurone disease (MND) by the inimitable gentle giant Doddie Weir. The My Name’5 Doddie Foundation was named Charity of the Year at this year’s GoCardless JustGiving Awards for its work on investing in research projects across the UK seeking effective treatments for the horrendous MND. Its annual Doddie Aid fundraising event raised more than £2 million in 2023, and doubled the number of participants, and the award is a tribute to Doddie Weir’s legacy of raising awareness of MND, which the Foundation continues to honour.

Continued on page 26

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Quite differently there is the Vibrant Gala Project shortlisted in the Improving Scotland's Places category of the prestigious 2023 SURF Awards for Best Practice in Community Regeneration. The Vibrant Gala Project, led by Energise Galashiels Trust had responded to the decline of Galashiels town centre by creating a more vibrant and welcoming place through a wide range of projects and events over the past three years. It supported the improvement of 35 town centre properties, marketing Galashiels and providing digital support to enterprises, progressing the Tapestry Way. It delivered a Heartland Market with 2500 attendees together with almost 30 new enterprises which have started or expanded trading activity in the town centre in the past 18 months. All thanks to the Vibrant Gala Project.

I pay credit to all those involved in these very different projects and wish Vibrant Gala all the best of luck at the upcoming 2023 SURF Awards in December.

Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative I was recently at the COSLA conference, which took place in Crieff. It was an opportunity for councillors and council leaders from all over Scotland to converge and converse over issues impacting local government. We also had a chance to hear from the First Minister at the conference, and there was an option for a few questions. I asked a question about anti-social behaviour in schools and outside of schools.

I want to be clear that there is no epidemic of anti-social behaviour. Still, after I toured all high schools during community conversations, it was reported to be an issue starting to bubble in schools. Reports from local businesses have also indicated it is bubbling on the streets. It is also a national issue, not only local to Galashiels and the Scottish Borders.

My question to the first minister was seeking support from the Scottish government to help tackle this issue and pop the bubble before it bursts. I was pleased that the First Minister was acutely aware of the problem and has advised work is ongoing to help with it nationally, but he also assured me that he will work with the Scottish Borders Council to look into any issues.

What we are doing as a council to help tackle this is working in partnerships with local youth clubs like TD1 and Live Borders on new initiatives like 'Street Sports' and the police and other community partners. We are also investing in state-of-the-art CCTV, which will deter anti-social behaviour.

We must not shy away from an issue like this but tackle it head-on and use our collective knowledge and skills to deliver safer, happier and healthier communities for everyone in them.

I will hold an advice surgery on Wednesday, 1st November, at Quins in Galashiels between 5-6 pm.

Don't hesitate to contact me at 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 I recently spent a very soggy Saturday morning litter picking with the Gala Waterways Group.

As an active local councillor, and parent to three busy boys, I don’t have much spare time to speak of, but we had a rare, kids’ football-free weekend and weren’t going to be deterred by a bit of rain.

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dmhall.co.uk Gala Life 27

I’m not sure what the other volunteers made of five of us arriving en masse in our waterproofs, but the old adage many hands make light work certainly proved true.

My younger children accompanied me and another volunteer in litter picking along the north side of the Gala Water opposite Dale Street. We very quickly filled three big bags of mostly bottles and cans, as well as fishing a small, blue, inflatable paddling pool out of some brambles along with a massive, 2.5m-long advertising banner.

Meanwhile my eldest son and husband joined another group of volunteers (including my colleague, Councillor Neil Mackinnon) clearing brambles, vegetation, and branches from a stretch below the railway embankment near the Electric Cauld.

Despite the downpour, it was a positive morning helping to make a difference and my boys have now requested their own litter pickers so that they can go out more regularly to help keep the streets tidy.

The work of volunteers like Gala Waterways Group really make a massive difference in maintaining a town to be proud of. If you’d like to get involved, Gala Waterways Group usually meets on the first Saturday of the month, and you can check out their activity at www.facebook.com/galagw

Neil Mackinnon Councillor - Gala & District, SGP It was great to see two Scottish Green driven policies become reality this month.

Peak rail fares have been removed from all ScotRail services as part of a six-month pilot that has been funded as a result of negotiations between the Scottish Greens and the Scottish Government.

This is a ground breaking move that will make a big difference to people in Scotland and it shows the vital impact that Scottish Green voices can make.

There is a cold and costly winter ahead. If households and families can save money on travel and commuting then it is money that can instead go towards heating, eating or other living expenses.

The new fox hunting ban came into force this month marking a historic moment in Scotland’s progress as a nation that respects and values wildlife.

The changes will ban hunting with packs of dogs and the ‘flushing out’ of wild mammals.

Hunting with dogs is brutal, cruel and outdated. It has no place in a modern or progressive Scotland, and we should all take pride is this new law.

Loopholes in the original hunting ban were ruthlessly exploited by those who were determined to continue hunting, but this law is much more robust and should really help to bring this cruel practice to an end.

These two policy changes show the effect that a strong Green voice can have to improve things in our society and shows how a vote for the Greens can bring about real change.

Citizens Advice Bureau It is now Autumn and winter is coming. If you are struggling with energy costs or the costs of living, please contact us for advice as there may be something we can do to help. All our clients can be assured of free, impartial and confidential advice.

and tips.

Have a look online at Get help with the cost of living - www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ scotland/debt-and-money/get-help-with-the-cost-of-living for extra resources Continued on page 36

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This Month’s Tricky Sudoko 5 8

9 2

How to play............

1 1

7

6

8 4

6

5

2 8

1

3

8 1

2 8

1

7

3 2

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!

9 Gala Life 29

The Gala Garden November From the beginning of November gardeners can look forward to a good, long rest; nothing to do but put your feet up and wait for spring.

But if you get bored and fidgety here are some things you could do in the garden this month, weather permitting.

On good days, that is, when it’s not raining, prepare new areas for cultivation or places where you want to plant deciduous trees bare root. Digging by hand is heavy work so do the work in stages; or get some help or hire a digger.

November is also the best time to plant new roses or a hedge of bare root whips. Planting bare root can take place any time this winter as long as the ground is open and not covered in snow. If things are delayed by bad weather, aim to get them in before bud-break.

Since the leaves are all down now rake them up and stuff them into black bags to make leaf mould. Really stuff the bags and pierce them a bit before you stash them away out of sight for about a year. While you’re at it, turn over the compost and mix it up thoroughly.

Finish planting the tulips in pots and borders, weeding as you go along and then top up the bark mulch around your plants to keep their roots protected in the winter.

I’m still not advocating cutting herbaceous plants back hard because I like to encourage wild life in the garden and decaying herbaceous material provides food and shelter for the birds.

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The only shrubs that need pruning now are deciduous shrubs that need restorative pruning; it is not necessary to nip everything back into a nice round ball. This only destroys the natural shape of the plant and fills up the centre with old wood.

Restorative pruning means taking out a third of the oldest (thickest) stems right to the ground.

If you do this every year all the stems will be new ones and the shrub will remain healthy for a longer time. This kind of pruning is useful for maintaining any suckering shrub like lilac or winter-flowering viburnum.

At some point the weather will put you off working outdoors but you could usefully clean up the shed and clean your tools. Remove any soil and clean the blades of your cutting tools with disinfectant; sharpen them and wipe all the blades with an oily rag. Now is also a good time to get the mower serviced.

Sort and stack your empty pots and trays but leave washing them until spring so you are sure they are clean before you sow fresh seed. Brush down the bench and clean the window, then sweep the place out.

Winter is payback time for all the bird song and all the insects caught by your feathered friends so stock up on bird food and hang out the feeders. Now you can get your feet up!

Sheila Drummond

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be What Toys will bestsellers

for Christmas 2023?

Well it’s that time of year again and as many a parent will know getting the right present can be tough. With so much choice and the gifts being so expensive we have taken a look at what the experts predict will be high on the wish list. We also asked our kids what they loved playing with when they were younger and it’s not always the same toys! Here’s our suggestions and hopefully they won’t break the bank.

Crayola Colour’n’ Style Mermaid Friends Suitable for kids over 3. Kids will love colouring and styling their mermaid over and over again. Use the pens to colour and style anyway you like and then decorate with the reusable stickers. There is a tiara, brush and charms to add style to your mermaid.

When you have finished simply wipe off the colours and the fun can begin again! The sets are around £15 and there are several to choose from - so a good gift if you need to buy a few presents!

Barbie Well what can you say after this years blockbuster Barbie Pink is everywhere.

From dolls to accessories even a new Dream House. We can recommend dolls from £20 in all ranges of outfits from Travel Barbie, Barbie Soccer Doll, Barbie Baby Doctor. Watch out for the Dream House though because at £200 - £250 it’s not cheap. You can take home your own slice of Barbie the Movie with The collectors Margot Robbie Doll. She is wearing a pink gingham dress her long blond hair is styled in a half up do and tied with a matching pink ribbon and a daisy chain necklace- just like in the movie. Her look is completed with pink bracelet and pumps. Barbie The Movie is around £45 and there is a matching Ken Doll too - all Barbies sold separately.

Bitzee Interactive Pet If your child keeps asking for a pet but you’re not quite ready to commit to the real thing, consider this digital version that you can touch and feel. With a choice of 15 animals, including a cat, bunny and unicorn, each Bitzee starts as a baby and, just like a real pet, these virtual pets need love and care to grow. Around £32 Gabby’s Dollhouse Cat Friendship Cruise playset Set sail on the pretend seas with this cruise ship toy from DreamWorks Gabby’s Dollhouse. The set comes with 18 pieces including a Gabby Girl doll and MerCat figure, along with lots of dollhouse accessories and furniture.

There’s even a pool with a smoothie bar, a disco with a light-up disco ball and a photo booth. Around £40

Junior Pictionary An imaginative fun game for kids. You don’t

need to be an artist, in fact the worse the drawing the more funny it can be! Suitable for 7 years an up - all the family can join in and it’s a great game! Available at around £27

Throw Throw Avocado A Game by Exploding Kittens - Creators of award-winning, hilarious and entertaining games that adults, teens and kids will all enjoy! Great game for picnics, camping or travel! It’s dead easy to play, takes 15 minutes of madness, collect matching sets of cards faster than your opponents simultaneously while ducking and dodging and throwing squishy avocados! Mind and put away the breakable ornaments, and enjoy that moment of family madness - Around £17

Lego Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II set featuring 2 brick built Ahsoka

vehicle with 4 character figures. Well this is for the older kids I think at £150. If you have been watching the new Ahsoka series on TV it might just be what you’ve been waiting to add to your collection. With 1394 pieces you can have lots of fun building the 2 vehicles. They even combine to form a big starship! Comes with 4 LEGO Star Wars minifigures General Hera Syndulla and Lt. Beyta, each with a blaster pistol, Jacen Syndulla and First Officer Hawkins, plus a Chopper (C1-10P) LEGO Star Wars droid figure.

Also available is Lego Star Wars Ahsoka trooper battle pack at £19 to build on the theme of Ahsoka

Squishmallow Toys Super Soft 10 inches Baby Yoda

Squishamllow Large Mandalorian. These toys are super soft and squishy and very cute. There is a whole range of them - so lots for grandparents to choose from and at around £10- £15 they won’t break the bank. I also like DREW the Dragon!

Nerf Elite 2.0 Double Punch Blaster The double punch blaster means only one thing – double barrels - designed with two barrels that rapidly move back and forth as you fire. You can load both 10-dart clips onto the toy blaster and unleash 20 darts in your game of choice, be it indoor or outdoor - Around £28-36 Lego Harry Potter Dobby the House Elf It’s been a while since I saw the Harry Potter films but I still love Dobby- just remember the sock! The ultimate toy for Harry Potter fans, this Lego set allows your little one to build Dobby the House-Elf, a beloved character from the Wizarding World. He has a posable head, ears, arms and fingers so kids can change his look and he can hold the brick-built accessories, which include Aunt Petunia’s floating pudding cake and a model of Tom Riddle’s diary with Harry Potter’s sock - £25

Citizens Advice Scotland’s Money map tool can help you find sources of online support to increase your income, reduce your bills and ease the costs of daily living https://moneymap.scot If you don’t have access to the internet or a smart phone, contact us and we will work with you to access the information. If you are struggling to meet your financial commitments and worried about missing payments you may need more specialist support – please do get in touch as soon as possible.

In September, we helped clients to a financial gain of £114,221.98 - a great indication of the service we provide to the people of Central Borders.

We are open Monday to Thursday between 10am and 4pm or you can email us at the email address below at any time.

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

MacArts - November 2023 For tickets go to www.macarts.scot Enquiries / Venue Hire: info@macarts.scot or 01896 756852.

Saturday 4

th

Music: Pygmy Twylyte perform the music of Frank Zappa + support from The Sensational Alex Harvey Experience. Doors 7pm / 7:30pm start. Tickets £13 (£15 on the door).

Sunday 5

th

Music: The Vintage Explosion SOLD OUT. Matinee show (seated) - Doors 2pm / 2:30pm start.

Evening Show (standing) - Doors 7:30pm / 8pm start. Tickets £20.

Wednesday 8 & Thursday 9 th

th

Music: Karine Polwart: Light Beyond the Window Solo Tour 2023 SOLD OUT Saturday 11

th

Music: Just Radiohead. Doors 7:30pm / 8pm start. Tickets £13 (£17 on the door) Friday 17

th

Music: Carla J Easton + Malka Co-headline show. Doors 7:30pm / 8pm start. Tickets £12 / £10 / £8 students.

Saturday 18

th

Music: Callum Easter and the Roulettes. Doors 7:30pm / 8pm start. Tickets £13 (£15 on the door) Thursday 23

rd

Music: Focus. Doors 7:30pm / 8pm start. Tickets £22.

Saturday 25

th

Music: Porkpie SOLD OUT Thursday 30

th

Spoken Word/ Theatre: Spam Valley with Kevin P. Gilday. Doors 7pm / 7:30pm start Tickets £12 / £10.

Continued on page 38

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St Andrew's Day Concert In aid of MY NAME'5 DODDIE and Mascular Society Trinity Church, High Street, Galashiels on Saturday 25th November.

A programme of Scottish songs with Mhairi Lawson and Alaistar Waddell (voices) with Dorothy Howden (piano) and special guests.

Open for tea, coffee and shortbread from 10.30am with concert at 11.00am.

Entry by donation, please give generously to support 2 great causes.

Sponsored by ERIBE, Pike & Chapman, ALDI and A&A Doyle.

Clovenfords Primary School Parent Council Christmas Fair Friday 1st December 2023 Open to everyone from 11.45am to 1.30pm.

Many stalls will be there selling local crafts and gifts, including items made by the pupils. Raffle and refreshments will be available too.

Join us at Clovenfords Primary School, Muscat Brae, Clovenfords, TD1 3LQ for some festive fun!

Borders Writers' Forum Early Christmas Quiz and Open Mic Social Event Monday 27th November 2023, 7-9pm in Marmion's The Wynd, Melrose.

Raffle prizes. Refreshments can be purchased from Marmion's Suggested donation £5 for members or free entry, £5 for non-members.

Bring your brain, wrapped/decorated raffle prize/s (optional), readings (5 mins max. contact bwfhayley@gmail.com to book a slot), sense of humour, festive spirit, friends and family.

Only participate in what feels right to you....Hope to see you there.

GAOS Musical Theatre After our brief break for the October holiday, our rehearsals are once again in full swing. The ‘Me and My Girl’ cast has been in place for several weeks now and our principal characters are getting to grips with their roles. Two of our very talented young members lead the cast, with Matthew Wear as ‘Bill’, an unrefined young cockney who arrives at Hareford Hall (to the horror of his Aristocratic relations) to inherit the title Lord Hareford, together with his girlfriend ‘Sally’ played by Jess Thomson. Matthew and Jess are ably supported throughout by a strong cast of other principal characters (too many to list here but our full cast will be available on our social media platforms), together with our lead dancers and an enthusiastic chorus in minor roles. In the run up to our Christmas break, everyone is working hard to bring this funny, frivolous, energetic, toe tapping, unapologetically romantic musical theatre classic back to the Volunteer Hall stage in March.

“Cor Blimey, what a treat for our troubled times!” said the headline for a 2018 revival of ‘Me and My Girl’ at the Chichester Festival Theatre. What could be more appropriate for today - don’t miss out on an evening of unadulterated, light hearted fun!

Continued on page 40

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MONDAY Galashiels

St Pauls Church, Scott Crescent 9am, 10.30am, 3.30pm and 5.30pm

SATURDAY Melrose Melrose Parish Church - 8am

Call/text Tricia 07828 847255 Or just pop in

Suzanne Ferguson Business Services

Offering bookkeeping, VAT & payroll for small and medium sized businesses.

Suzanne Ferguson, MAAT, MCIPP Telephone: 0771 820 2622 E: info@sfbusinessservices.co.uk Web: www.sfbusinessservices.co.uk Gala Life 39

Me And My Girl : Volunteer Hall, Mon 4th - Saturday 9th March 2024. Look out for further details on booking, tickets etc in the new year.

Come along and ‘Lambeth Walk’ with us!

Rotary Club of Galashiels and District Join over 1.4 million people worldwide to be part of projects that support communities locally, nationally and international. The entries are in for the annual calendar featuring our beautiful Borders. Watch out for copies and whose pictures won.

The plans are advancing for Santa Sleigh visits and the annual Christmas Market on 2nd December. You can see recent events and news on our FaceBook page Galashiels and District Rotary Club, via the website or by calling Club Secretary Rae Hastings on 01896 752924.

Caddonfoot Hall Friday 3rd November - ‘Charles Lapworth, one of Britain’s greatest geologists’ Join us to hear a talk by Dr Malcolm Lindsay on Charles Lapworth, who lived in Galashiels from 1864 to 1875, and whose research led to an understanding of the geology of the Southern Uplands.

At Caddonfoot Hall, Clovenfords, on Friday 3rd November at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm.

Entry £3 includes refreshments.

Friday 1st December - HotTrod Theatre Company presents ‘Wandering Willie’s Tale’ A story of the supernatural by Walter Scott performed by John Nicol, with Ian Fraser (fiddle).

At Caddonfoot Hall, Clovenfords, on Friday 1st December at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm.

Tickets £12 from infocaddonfoot@btinternet.com For more information email infocaddonfoot@btinternet.com

Galashiels Scout Group The Galashiels Scout group will be running the following fundraising events over the next few months. All funds raised will go towards activities and equipment for the Beaver, Cub, Scout and Explorer sections.

Bingo Night Eyes Down on Friday 24th November as Gala Scouts Group will be hosting an ever-popular Bingo Night at Gala Bowling Club. Tell your friends, get your bingo markers ready, and buy your raffle tickets. There are some great prizes to be won. Join in the fun and games 7 for 7.30pm start.

Everyone welcome!

Tickets can be purchased via Beaver, Cubs and Scout packs or email bingo@galascoutgroup.org Scouts Christmas Post We are delighted to announce that the long standing Scouts Christmas post will be running again this year. This provides a highly cost-effective Christmas card delivery service for the people of Galashiels, Clovenfords and Tweedbank.

Look out for posters and further details coming soon.

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Continued on page 42

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.

Sunday services are in these church buildings. Morning services will be held in Trinity building from 1st October to 31st March 2024.

5th November 11am Trinity, evening service 6.30pm St John’s 12th November (Remembrance Sunday) 10.45am Trinity, evening service 6.30pm St John’s 19th November 11am Trinity, evening service 6.30pm St John’s 26th November 11am Trinity, evening service 6.30pm St John’s 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 Mornings.

Guild - meets fortnightly on Tuesday afternoons 2. 15 in Old Parish& St Paul’s.

November14th speaker from Vine Trust (one of the guild projects) November 22nd Discussion Topic. All welcome.

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.

Badminton – Wednesdays 10am-12md Old Parish &St Paul’s Choir Rehearsals – Thursdays at 7pm. Meet in Trinity small hall. Anyone who enjoys singing will be made very welcome. There is no necessity to be able to read music!

Messy Church – Saturday 4th November 10am-12noon followed by lunch at St John’s church building Langlee. For P1-P7 children. Email Anne.Noble@talktalk.net or text 07796668847 to register your child 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 42 Gala Life

Continued on page 46

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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.

Saturday 11 November, 10.50am – Wreath laying at Bowden War Memorial Sunday 12 November, 9.30am – Service of Remembrance in Bowden Kirk Sunday 12 November, 10.45am – Wreath laying at Melrose War Memorial followed by ecumenical Service of Remembrance in Melrose Parish Church.

Messy Church - meets from 3.00-5.00pm on the second Sunday of the month. On Sunday 12 November we’ll be looking at Remembrance with a bit of a ramble as well as all the usual stories, games, crafts, singing, food and fun. 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 11am - the next is on Wednesday 15th November 2023. All are very welcome.

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.

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.

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 and we’d love to see you there Continued on page 50

46 Gala Life

Gala Life 47

Gala Rugby Club A Mixed Bag Gala has opened their season with a mixed bag of results performing well at home but struggling to get the winning results when on the road. There were some tough fought contests against Melrose and Ayr but grabbed the points at home against GHA and Biggar. Gala recently welcomed a new forwards coach to the club, Ewen Robbie has joined us to bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in coaching assisting head coach Craig Dods and assistant coach Dean Keddie. We hope Gala can pick up some winning results in upcoming weeks of this season.

The youth sections of the club have also been enjoying a great run of results as they have been doing extremely well on the road gaining wins in Highland, Perthshire, and Tynedale. The had quite possibly the most talked about match in Gala Rugby history against Hawick Youth which featured an extremely bizarre end to a match.

Hawick were leading 35-28 going into the final minute of the game only for the Wands to score out wide, as the Wands were taking a conversion from the touchline to try and get a draw, with the ball going wide and dropping short but before it hit the ground the Hawick scrumhalf, who was charging out volleyed it over the posts.

Therefore, the conversion was good. Gala Rugby tech team member Ruaridh Anderson was in the perfect place to video the incident which has since gone viral and has had millions of viewers worldwide and no doubt it will be the subject of pub quizzes all round the world in the future.

The next few weeks we have a busy social calendar with the pensioners lunch on 28th of October as Gala face Dundee at home. On the 29th of October there is a Halloween party for children tickets are available to purchase at the club. On Saturday 4th of November, we have Family Hospitalitay day with hopefully fireworks on the pitch with our home match against Watsonians and culminating with a Disney inspired fireworks display off the pitch, with the tickets for this event already selling fast. Gates open at 5pm with the fireworks starting at 6.30pm. There will be hot pies, drinks, and goodies on sale in the ground. We are working with St Peters parent council to put on this community event and hope it will be well supported so it’s something we can continue to do year on year.

We are excited this year to be hosting a Christmas party night on Saturday the 9th of December.

We have our excellent club caterer John Robertson and his team in to serve up a stunning Christmas dinner with all the trimmings (vegan/vegetarian options will be available) plus a choice of two delicious desserts. You will be welcomed into the venue with a glass of fizz and after the meal you can party the night away with our club disco. The price is £35pp and bookings can be made by calling 01896 755145.

Photo courtesy of Alwyn Johnston

48 Gala Life

FIXTURES November 2023 Fixtures

Gala 1XV

Gala A 2XV Melrose Storm (H)

Gala Wanderers

28th Oct

Dundee (H)

Selkirk (H)

4th Nov

Watsonians (H)

11th Nov

GHA (A)

Selkirk (Fri A)

Jed – Thistle (H)

18th Nov

GHK (H)

Jed-Forest (Fri H)

Kelso Harlequins (A)

25th Nov

Biggar (A)

Hawick Force (Fri A) Morpeth (H)

Peebles (A)

Mini’s training Sundays 10-11am Vixens training Wednesdays 6.45-7.45pm

Services include: Doors Locks Flooring Skirrng Joinery Leaks Taps Radiators TRVs Plumbing Electrical Lights Sockets Smoke Alarms Pictures Shelves Flat-packs Fixings Appliances Kitchens Bathrooms Installs Decoraang Tiling Painnng Silicone 07738 852 526 info@jsrepair.co.uk JSRepairUK jsrepair.co.uk Gala Life 49

at any of them and get to know you.

We also have a number of different house groups which meet regularly to study the Bible together and enjoy fellowship. Please contact us if you’d like to join one.

For the most up to date information please visit our website: www.galashielsbaptistchurch.org.uk

Roman Catholic Parish of Our Lady & St Andrew Galashiels - Our Lady & St Andrew’s, Stirling Street, TD1 1BY Holy Mass : Sunday 11am, Wednesday 7.30pm, 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 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 events.

St Peter’s Scottish Episcopal Church On Wednesday 11th October, St Peter’s, Galashiels and St John’s, Selkirk officially welcomed Revd Dr Lesley Penny as their new priest at a joint service at St Peter’s.

The Bishop of Edinburgh, Revd Dr John Armes, commissioned Lesley in front of a church which was full of members of both congregations, representatives from local organisations and the wider Scottish Episcopal Church, local ministers, and Lesley’s family and friends. It was a very happy occasion which was followed by excellent refreshments by T-4-2 in St Peter’s Primary School, ably assisted by cadets of the Air Training Corps who made sure that no one got lost on their way to the tea and cakes.

St Peter’s is looking forward to this new chapter in the life of their congregation and in their ministries within Gala. Exciting times!

Why not join us for our Sunday Service at 10:30am when we sing, hear a short talk, and celebrate Holy Communion. Come and enjoy a chat with us after the service over coffee or tea and our favourite biscuits.

Looking for a quiet reflective space? Then why not come and try our short Quiet Communion every second Sunday in the month at 6pm. All welcome.

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 must bring a parent or other adult with them.

Priest: Revd Dr Lesley Penny Telephone: 0330 113 1379 Vestry Secretary: John Marsden Telephone: 0753 809 4986 Email: stpeterschurchgala@gmail.com

Continued on page 52

50 Gala Life

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Gala Life 51

Caddonfoot Parish Church Harvest was celebrated in Caddonfoot Parish Church at the beginning of October, when the service was again led by Locum minister, the Rev June Johnston.

Volunteers decorated the church ahead of the service and members brought along financial gifts for the appeal fund for Mary’s Meals; non-perishable food items for Galashiels Food Bank; and perishable items for Café Recharge.

Each week, the Rev Johnston also leads the prayers and chats with members after the service before rushing off to take the services at Stow or Heriot.

Members continue to read from the Bible and others take the service if the minister is absence.

Music is supplied each week by Andy Bird on the keyboard/organ and Mrs Catriona Bird and Mrs Anne Grieve (flute).

Bill Wheelans rings the bell and refreshments are served afterwards. The church is always looking for helpers with the refreshments, flowers and cleaning.

Services continue at 9.30 a.m. while the next joint service with Stow and Heriot was scheduled for October 29 at 10.30 a.m. at Heriot.

The Kirk Session was due to meet on October 26 on Zoom.

Newsletters have been published and the 2024 calendar is also in the process of being ready for Christmas.

Hope Church Borders Jesus loves His church and so do we! The word church means different things to different people. We like the original use of the Biblical word ‘ekklesia’ - a gathering of people, called for a special purpose. At Hope we like to see ourselves as a family of God’s people all on a journey with Jesus together, and we look forward to making you feel at home with us.

Sunday Gatherings - On the first Sunday each month we gather in Life Mission Groups locally across the Borders. All other Sundays we meet at 10:30am at Hope Central, Galashiels. Hope Youth, Hope Kids & Hope Babies meet during the gathering.

Mid-Week Gatherings - Weekly Hope Prayer meeting - Tuesdays 10.30am online via zoom. Hope Worship & Prayer Nights - 1st Wednesday of the month, 7pm @ Hope Central, Galashiels.

Green Hope Community Drop In - Every Thursday from 10.30am - 3pm for coffee and community @ Green Hope, Plainfields, Newtown St Boswells, TD6 0RY. For more information, please email enquiries@hopechurchborders.org.uk Hope Central Community Drop In - Every Friday from 1-4pm. Join us for coffee and community @ Hope Central, 1-3 Overhaugh Street, Galashiels, TD1 1DL. Here to listen. Here to care. Here to help! For more information, please email enquiries@hopechurchborders.org.uk Thrive - Baby & toddler group meeting @ Hope Central, 1-3 Overhaugh Street, Galashiels, TD1 1DL every Wednesday during term time from 10.30am - 12.15pm and 1.15-3pm. Bring a snack for your little one and we’ll provide coffee and cakes for parents and carers. We’d love to see you there. Thrive is registered with Early Years Scotland. For more information, please email enquiries@hopechurchborders.org.uk Hope Central, 1-3 Overhaugh Street, Galashiels, TD1 1DL www.hopechurchborders.org.uk 52 Gala Life

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54 Gala Life

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Gala Life 55

Bonfire Night

Make It Stress Free For Your Pet

The colours and spectacle of fireworks may be a real treat for us, but many of our furry companions find this time of year to be very difficult, causing anything from mild anxiety to destructive distress. We can help our animal housemates out during this time, and the first thing we need to remember is: don’t stress!

This can wind up your pets more if they notice you acting oddly or out of routine, try to keep yourself relaxed.

Provide a den or hiding place for them – they may have one already but there’s always room for improvement. A blanket over a cage or crate, or maybe a duvet over the edge of a bed for them to hide under can help create a dark and cosy space as well as help muffle sounds.

If possible, set this up in a place you will also be in so they can have some company as well as support. Ideally this is made up at least a couple weeks in advance so they’re used to it; never force your pet into it lest it be seen as a punishment rather than a safe space they can come and go freely from.

various forms such as sprays, diffusers, collars and tablets. Ideally you would start using these a couple of weeks before the firework season so they’re already in effect before the stressful event(s) start.

If possible, avoid walking out after dark, most definitely if you know there are going to be fireworks set off nearby as this experience can be particularly traumatic. If it’s part of your normal routine to go out in the evenings, try to make the trip as short as possible or go a little earlier to avoid any displays and ensure dogs are on a lead so they can be restrained depending on how they react.

Background noises such as a radio or the tv turned up a little bit louder than usual can help mask outside noises, offering up a distraction for your companions, especially if this is part of your Please don’t hesitate to contact us for any advice or information, we’re always here and happy to evening routine anyway. help.

You can also use calming products; there are Rebecca Dixon MRCVS different types such as pheromone therapies and herbal remedies, and they can come in www.bordervets.co.uk Galashiels Veterinary Surgery Gala Terrace, Galashiels TD1 3JT 01896 752156 56 Gala Life

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58 Gala Life

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

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This Month’s Easy Sudoku 4

5

8

6

9

6

How to play............

7 3

2

5 3

1 6

4

3

2 8

7

6

2

8 7

8 2

5

2

6

3

9

4

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 59

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For November 2023 November pushes the emotional and passionate sign of Scorpio into the spotlight; this powerful energy is exaggerated by the communication planet Mercury, remaining in Scorpio until the 10th. This month presents a cosmic opportunity to review anything in your life that has outlived its purpose and needs to be let go. Dynamic Mars, very powerful in its own sign of Scorpio until the 24th, also indicates a time of great potential for developing your inner warrior and your ability to fight for change and transformation. Scorpio is shining a light on our hidden truths, particularly around the intense new moon on the 13th. This lunar cycle brings up a strong urge to explore any unconscious habits, patterns, fears and traumas that we might have, and have the courage to see what needs to be changed. Venus, the planet of love and romance, finishes her journey through practical Virgo and arrives in her own sign of Libra on 8th. This placement wants balance, harmony and beauty, particularly in all forms of relationship, chances are that some romantic attachments will be looked at in a new light. The moon is full in the curious sign of Gemini on the 27th, offering a chance to get a clear idea about how you think about the direction of your life and what you want to bring to fruition in the coming months.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 Resources and finances are in the spotlight during November as the Scorpio Sun, Mercury and Mars encourage an all-important review. Scorpio Mars demands action and offers you the courage and determination to make some important changes. After the 8th Venus, the planet of love and romance, enters your opposite sign indicating the need for peaceful and harmonious relationships.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21 The powerful and transformational Scorpio Sun, communicative Mercury and dynamic Mars all shine a strong and guiding light on your relationships and partnerships during November. This is the perfect time to make some dramatic changes as your self-esteem is at an all-time high, enabling you to communicate your values and your worth to your nearest and dearest.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21 The work and wellbeing angle of your chart is strongly emphasised during November as daily routines and general health become your top priorities. Mercury, your ruler, remains in determined Scorpio until the 10th, suggesting that you can now be unwavering in your decisions. The Gemini full moon on the 27th brings up challenges, change and new beginnings.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 November suggests that love and romance are in the spotlight as the Sun, communicative Mercury and dynamic Mars fire up this sector of your chart. The Scorpio new moon on the 13th brings up a hidden truth. Whatever happens on the relationship front, it’s going to be a passionate and intense month and the way forward becomes much clearer if you tune into your intuition.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 Your home and family are high on the agenda during November as the Sun, Mercury and Mars shine brightly in your domestic sector. Powerful Mars ensures that things go your way, as long as you use your intuition when dealing with any difficult issues.

Venus arrives in balanced Libra on the 8th, offering the opportunity to review an ongoing relationship in a more favourable light.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22 November starts with a dynamic line up of planets in your thinking and communication area, determined Mars in Scorpio gives you the extra courage to express ideas and opinions that you are normally reluctant to voice. Venus, in balanced Libra after the 8th, offers a helping hand and a more positive outlook. Your mind is sharply focussed, particularly around the Taurus full moon on the 27th.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23 November’s intense line up of planets in your financial area give you the go ahead to start a review.

Careful planning is now needed and as Venus arrives in your sign after the 8th you should begin to see a positive way ahead. The Scorpio new moon on the 13th also offers the opportunity for new ideas and new beginnings. Successful interaction is the main theme to keep you occupied.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 November is your birthday month and it offers the start of a new cycle of transformation and personal growth. Dynamic Mars stays in your sign until the 24th, ensuring the perfect opportunity to be more assertive as you step up into a more important role. The new moon in your sign on the 13th suggests the start of something new and also gives you the courage to go for any new opportunities that come your way.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 November looks like shaping up to be an introspective month, The Scorpio Sun, Mercury and Mars collectively urge you to review your future plans by checking in to see if you really are following your heart’s desire. Some important work related issues come to the surface and you may need to renegotiate how you are valued. Your intuition will guide you and take you where you need to go.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 The Sun, Mercury and dynamic Mars are all extremely powerful and intense in Scorpio during November.

This energy stirs up anything to do with friendships and your group endeavours. Community spirit and humanitarian goals look set to be high on your agenda as you develop new associations and friendships.

Romance is also favoured as love planet Venus arrives at the highpoint of your chart on the 8th.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18 November indicates a busy time ahead as you feel the need to look carefully at your aims and objectives.

The intense and powerful Scorpio energy urges you to do some deep soul-searching and connect with your more mystical side. You'll find that you are accessing your intuition now more than ever, particularly around the time of the powerful and magical Scorpio new moon on the 13th.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20 November indicates higher learning, study and spiritual growth as the intense Scorpio Sun, Mercury and enthusiastic Mars urge you to open your mind and explore subjects that have been at the back of your mind for a while. You’ll also need to stay wide awake and attentive to any new prospects that come your way, particularly around the new moon on the 13th.

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

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH these challenging times, discover your unique birth map and take a refreshing new look at all aspects of your life. Reach your fullest potential 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 Find me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/restyleyourlife

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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 NHS 24 Victim Support

0300 100 1800 01896 753889 111 01896 751212

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

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