Gala Life September 2023

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Debbie - 07545299491

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Your Community

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

Willie's Wonky Computer

Willie gives some advice on buying a second hand laptop.

Fitness With Alan Clinch

Alan looks at the benefits of using an electric bike, to help you exercise.

Recipe

This month we get purple hands and scratched legs - it's bramble jelly!

Sudoku

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

The Gala Garden

Photography & Design

Lynsey - 07305577953

Editor

Willie - 07906375953

www.facebook.com/mygalalife

Gala Life 57 Glen Crescent, Peebles EH45 9BS

info@galalife.co.uk www.galalife.co.uk

Fitness 26 Milk

WELCOME

Milk

We have a look at all the different types of milk now readily available.

Gala Cricket Club

All the latest news from our increasingly popular cricket club.

Gala Rugby Club

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

10 Wonky

Welcome to the September edition of Gala Life. September typically means the nights start to draw in and there is a fresh breeze bringing the Autumn smells and harvest time. I do love this season!

To keep us all busy we have a fantastic array of events, live music, theatre performances, and concerts. We have lots of LIVE music including the Kelso Folk Festival and many bands at MacArts. In our fitness column we look at the benefits of an electric bike, and Willie in the computer pages looks at how to safely buy a second hand laptop. Our editorial feature this month looks at the different types of milk.

As we mentioned harvest, what better time to think about making your own bramble jelly and whilst it’s straining you can try the old favourite sudoko. Give it a go - you may be surprised!

Gala Rugby Club are back with a new season and we hope you all enjoyed the Maroon’d Festival. We hope it inspired you to even become a season ticket holder! Gala Cricket Club are wrapping up their season shortly, and we say well done to all the players on a great season. 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.

Have a great September and see you next time.

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

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

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. 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.

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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.

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 from start of the new season 4th October. 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.

Red Gauntlet Archers - Now that Red Gauntlet are back in Elibank we would like to invite any ex member to come along to the club any sunday for a free refresher session, with the chance of rejoining the club... or they could think about selling their equipment to some of the new members we have. Anybody interested please phone in to book a place. Jim Stillie 01750 20660.

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 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 have just started up again after our summer break, and new members will be very welcome (no auditions). If you would like more information, please contact our secretary, Margery Inglis, on 01750 21085 or visit our website: www.eildonsingers.info

Gala Water Singers - We start again on Tuesday 29 August 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 - Our Autumn concert will be on Saturday 23rd September at 7:30pm in the Volunteer Hall, Galashiels. Featuring both of our young bands, as well as the Town Band, in a relaxed cabaret style, there is bound to be something to get everyone’s feet tapping. Tickets £10, £8 for concessions and free for primary age and under are available on the door or from A&A Doyle, Bank Street.

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 Saturday 16 September 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 a concert of works by Bach, Piazzola and others by the star classical accordionist Paul Chamberlain on Sunday September 3rd at 3pm. Adults £16, members £10, students £5, children free. Tickets available at www.ticketebo.co.uk/melrose-music-society or at the door from 2:30pm.

Rolling Hills Folk Club - Friday September 15th. The Folk Club resumes for the autumn season and offers a friendly welcome to all ages. Singers and musicians, poets, raconteurs and nonperformers (including knitters) can look forward to a relaxed evening in the wonderful Smith Memorial Hall in the centre of Darnick. We enjoy a mix of traditional and contemporary contributions from very talented musicians from far and wide and like to encourage young talent. Doors open at 7.30pm for 8pm start. BYOB. Fairtrade tea/coffee available for donation. All ages welcome. £2 per person or pay what you can. The legendary raffle continues! Venue: Smith Memorial 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

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

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Willie’s Wonky Computer Factory

Laptops are an expensive investment, sometimes essential, sometimes for infrequent but essential use. A second hand laptop makes sense then, but how do you know it’s a worthwhile buy? There are two options; used, or refurbished. A used laptop is simply a laptop that has been used by others while a refurbished one has been thoroughly cleaned, checked and repaired by professionals. They ensure all components work correctly and might even have had some parts replaced to restore it to as close to the factory model as possible.

A used laptop is ‘sold as seen’, whereas a refurbished one will come with a warranty - usually 90 days, or more.

The performance of a computer comes down to the speed of the processor, the amount of RAM and the size/type of hard drive. An Intel i3 processor is sufficient for most family use, an i5 for business use, and an i7 for serious gaming or video editing. For RAM (memory), you can survive on 4Gb, however 8Gb is nice and 16Gb twice as nice. The hard drive size doesn’t matter so much as external storage is relatively cheap, what does make a difference is a SSD (Solid State Drive) over an older mechanical HD, they are a lot quicker. So, what do you look for to ensure there are no surprises once you get it home? Here are some basic tips to keep you right: How old should it be?

This depends on what you use it for. For everyday family use, no more than five years old. For gaming, less than three.

Check the body.

Check the frame has no cracks or signs of damage, a dropped laptop could suffer internal damage that might not be immediately evident. Also check all the screws are there, a missing one means someone has been inside. Then check the hinges are in good condition and look for any other irregularities.

Check the display.

Look for flickering, discolouration and dead pixels. A good pixel check is to open a white page and look for single black spots, they are dead pixels.

Test the keyboard and track pad. Check every key, paying attention to travel, feel

and that they do work, paying particular attention to the Ctrl, Alt, Shift and Enter keys. Check the trackpad and even try supported gestures, like pinch-to-zoom, two-finger scroll, three-finger swipe, etc.

Test the ports and DVD drive.

Try all the USB ports, headphone jack, ethernet, SD card slot and, if possible, the HDMI. It's a good idea to take along a UISB drive with some video, that will not only test USB socket, but also the display, the speakers, headphone socket etc. Connect something by Bluetooth.

If you can’t actually check any of the ports, at least look into them for signs of damage, over use, and ensure there’s nothing stuck in them. Make sure the DVD drive reads discs ok and opens when asked. Check the wireless.

Where possible, connect to a network to ensure the Wi-Fi card is working. If there is no public Wi-Fi available, you can hotspot with your phone. Test the Webcam and Speakers.

Windows has a built-in camera app, so you should open it to see how it responds and run a microphone test to see if the built-in mic is ok. While not many people use their laptop speakers much, it’s still a good idea to see how loud it can get and see if it gets muffled or distorted easily.

Check the Battery Health.

While checking everything, keep an eye on the battery level. If it drains much faster than you expect while poking around for 15 minutes, it might be nearing the end of its life cycle. Also make sure it comes with a charging cable, make sure you test that too.

Software Checks.

Check to make sure the preloaded operating system is genuine. Check the licenses of the software included with the laptop and ensure any product keys are made available to you. Ask for the original software CDs, recovery CDs, drivers and backup media that came with the laptop.

Happy?

Then go ahead, as long as you think it’s worth the asking price, but haggle anyway. Not happy? If something doesn’t feel right either with the laptop, or the seller, walk away.

Willie

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

Scottish Country Dancing - As the summer is coming to an end Scottish Country dancers are looking forward to the full programme of dances and classes to fill in the winter season. The first branch event is a set of 4 evenings to teach 12 new dances which have been published in the latest society book - Book 53 Celebrating 100 Years. The classes will be taught by 3 experienced teachers accompaned by a live musician and are aimed at people with some dancing experience. The classes are held in St Pauls Church hall Galashiels on Tuesday 22nd & 29th August, 5th & 12th September, 7.30pm till 9.30pm, cost £4.50 per class. During the winter, classes are held throughout the borders and a full list can be found on our website www.rspscottishcountrydancing.webnode.co.uk or telephone 01573 225788 for more information. New dancers will be warmly welcomed – no partner or experience necessary but soft shoes and a keeness to either brush up old skills or take up something new is all that is required.

Scottish Country dancing at Melrose Reel Club - Our club of friendly dancers meets on Wednesday evenings at 7pm in Melrose Parish Church hall starting on 27 September. If you enjoyed dancing at school, or would like to learn you are very welcome to join us, as would more experienced dancers. Please contact Margaret on 01896 850293 or mmwaller33@gmail.com

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 24th September at 2.30pm. This month our speaker is Mr Kenny McLean whose subject will be:- "Evacuation to the Border Counties 1939-1945: Myth & Reality". Venue: St. Peter's Church Hall, Parsonage Road, Galashiels, TD1 3HS. Doors will be open from 2pm - all are welcome to attend. 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, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10.00am till 4.00pm. Melrose Historical & Archaeological Association - Old Melrose Walk. Tuesday 5th September 2023. 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.

The Trimontium Museum, Melrose - Free events for Doors Open Days: Discover the Roman Fort Site on 2nd Sept. & Discover the Museum on 3rd Sept. September is Scottish Archaeology month, check our website for list of events including talks, cycling, demonstrations and more! Roman Dance workshops Wednesdays in September, 5:45 pm. Guided Walks to the Trimontium fort site Thursdays & Saturdays, 1:30 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 new session of the Inner Wheel Club starts on Tuesday 19th September with a visit from the District Chairman Marjory McGeary when any new members will be inducted. The club meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7pm in Cafe Recharge, Island

Continued on page 18

with Alan Clinch

What is an Electric Bike?

Pretty much exactly what you might expect –a normal bike, with the added benefit of an electric motor to help when you want or need it. Electric bike technology has advanced rapidly in recent years and you can now find almost any type of bike with a motor. I spend quite a bit of time mountain biking, and it seems that whenever I go into the woods there are more and more e-mountain bikes. Indeed, at the recent UCI Cycling championships held in Scotland there was actually an e-MTB class.

So how do they work? Well, firstly you need a fully charged battery – the power for the bike comes partly from the battery and partly from the rider. It’s up to the individual to decide just how much effort to put in, but the bike doesn’t work without some human input! In the UK the motor can be no greater than 250W, and the bike can only supply power up to a speed of 15.5 mph about 25km/h) – if you go faster than that then the motor is designed to cut out. It’s worth remembering that the additional weight of the motor and charging unit/battery can be anything up to 10kg (for most bikes), so they’re a little more awkward to handle than a traditional bike. The heavier the planned usage, the heavier the bike is likely to be.

There are no restrictions on where to ride e-bikes – basically anywhere you’d ride a normal bike: on the road, on a cycle or multi use path, or on a green lane. You don’t need to be taxed or insured, wear any specific safety equipment, or have any specific training.… That said, you’d be daft to go out without a helmet, some road sense, an understanding of how the bike works, and appropriate clothing…..

So, why get one? There are plenty of reasons to invest (and it’s generally quite a bit of money) in an e-bike. For example:

• Firstly, you still have to pedal, so it definitely counts as exercise!

• You might have an injury or medical condition which stops you cycling – the e- bike may give you sufficient assistance to enable you to continue cycling. At the same time, if you’re not already a cyclist, it may give you enough help to get started. A friend of mine who has bad osteo-arthritis says the e-bike has been life changing! A recent piece of research found that in adults over 50, e-bikes helped users cope with physical limitations that made normal cycling difficult. The same study highlighted the fact that people riding e-bikes often feel safer in traffic than when riding a conventional bike, as the extra acceleration and speed up hills increase confidence when manoeuvring.

• It can fill the gap between shorter trips where you might walk, and longer trips where you might use a car – for example commuting: many organisations have shower facilities at work and using a bike can save money, keep you fit, and possibly even get you to work faster.

• It’s possible to carry heavier loads more easily than with a regular bike, so shopping trips may be easier. Many cycle delivery riders use e-bikes.

Next month I’ll write more about different types of e-bikes and suggest which types might be most ap[propriate fro different people.

As ever: if you haven’t exercised for a while, or have any medical conditions which might cause problems, check with your Doctor to ensure it’s safe to increase your activity levels. Also, if you’ve not ridden a bike for a while….. get some help and training.

Bramble Jelly

2 large cooking apples

This is my mum’s recipe, which I still use today, with happy memories of purple fingers and scratched legs.

You will need a ‘jeely pan’ or a large stock pot and something to strain the fruit. (We used an old pillowcase.)

Give the brambles a quick rinse. Add to the pan, right up to the top if you have enough and add two large cooking apples quartered and the juice of a freshly squeezed lemon. Use slightly less if not a full pan.

Add water, until you can just see it. Simmer for about 20 mins until the apples are completely soft. Stir occasionally.

Allow to cool slightly, then pour into a muslin bag, or clean pillowcase. Tie the top and suspend it over a clean bucket/large bowl by tying to a broom handle across the back of two kitchen chairs. Leave it to drip away overnight.

Next day, throw away the fruit, do not squeeze it as it will make the jelly cloudy.

Put 2 saucers or a side plate in the freezer to chill. Measure the juice with a jug and pour back into the pan, then add exactly the same volume of white granulated sugar. Note: My recipe also says ‘3 pints juice and 3 pints of sugar max, or it will boil over’

Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved then bring to the boil. Now boil rapidly for about 10 minutes and skim off any scum that appears.

If you have a thermometer - 105 degrees C. If not, remove a saucer from the freezer, add a teaspoon of the liquid, leave for a minute to cool and push your finger through it. If it starts to wrinkle the jelly is ready. If not, return to the boil and try again after another minute.

Once you have a ‘set’ pour into warm sterilised jars (a jam funnel is handy), allow to cool slightly then top with a waxed disc if you have one, then screw the lid on tightly.

Look forward to your toast in the morning.

Willie

Street. There are other events and social occasions outwith the monthly meetings up until June of next year. New members from all walks of life are always welcome and for further information on our aims and potential membership please contact Helen on 07780925076

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 - September is our Bring A Friend meeting, when we welcome members and ask them to bring a friend. It is on Monday 18th September, 2pm at the Galashiels Rugby Club and Patricia Keppie will be our Speaker. She will tell us about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission who 'honour and care for men and women of Commonwealth Forces who died in the First and Second World Wars, ensuring they will never be forgotten. There will be an opportunity to find out about all our interest groups and sign up for them; refreshments will be served. So if you are no longer in full-time paid employment, come along and find out what u3a is all about! £2 entrance. All 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:- September 11 & 25, October 9 & 23, November 6 & 20, February 5 & 19, March 4 & 18, April 1.

John Lamont MP - Conservative

Since the Green Party became part of the Scottish Government alongside the SNP, many policies have changed for the worse.

One of the biggest differences is in the transport portfolio, particularly in the government's approach to car drivers.

Investment in roads used to be universally accepted as not only a necessity but an overwhelming positive.

Funding to improve roads boosts our economy. It increases productivity. It reduces accidents. It prevents potholes from ruining tyres. It lets people see family and friends more easily. Every major political party used to agree on those points. We may have disagreed on how to achieve improvements to our transport network, but we all held the same principle that better roads are good for Scotland.

However, the damaging influence of the Greens on the SNP has changed that. Now, improving roads is not a priority for the government. In fact, the SNP have become anti-driver. Motorists are now seen as an inconvenience.

This recent change of policy has already resulted in serious consequences for Galashiels residents. During my summer surgery tour, where I spoke to hundreds of local people in Gala and across the Borders, problems with roads came up regularly.

People brought up potholes plaguing our roads. They raised the need for vital improvements, especially to the A7.

In many cases, they cited accidents they had witnessed, issues they had encountered personally, and real fears for what could happen if investment didn't occur.

Continued on page 20

I couldn't agree more because I understand how vital it is that we have well-maintained, safe roads around Gala. Good roads are essential for our everyday lives, so we can get to work, meet with friends or visit family.

So, it is vital that the next Programme for Government, which will be set out by Humza Yousaf in just a few weeks time, includes promises to invest in important infrastructure and a commitment to properly fund councils so they can repair local roads.

Anything else would show that the government is out-of-touch with the needs of people in rural areas and small towns and villages, who rely on their cars and can't simply switch to public transport. So far, the SNP have chosen to side with the Greens on road investment. In the coming year, I hope they decide to side with motorists instead.

Christine Grahame MSP - SNP

These are strange days when we in Scotland have warm wet summers and elsewhere there is drought and wildfires. It was predicted over a decade ago that this would be the fall-out from global warming and our neglect of what burning fossil fuels would bring in its wake. Indeed, if that were not scary enough it is the pace and consistency of climate change which means none of us can bury our head in the sand but have to face up to the urgency that we change our lives. Or change the world forever.

Of course, we cannot do this alone, we need major global businesses, corporations, international governments to take a lead. But as consumers we can exercise a degree of power. We already do as the plague of plastic bags has been tackled but there is so much more. Do we really need so much wrapping round produce, round goods? I had to replace a microwave recently and apart from the time it took to cut through nigh indestructible tape, there was packaging and cardboard for disposal. And where to? Mother Earth? I try to buy fruit and veg loose but even I can be defeated by leeks only being sold packaged up and trimmed in bundles I do not need, or baking potatoes sold in fours, sealed and delivered on a cardboard tray. It’s not the first time I have opened the packet to extract just a couple of leeks or a couple of tatties. The looks! You’d think I was a saboteur. Mind you that was after a polite request (refused) for the packaging to be opened. But let’s not give up or indeed give in. I think our collective purchasing power could and should be exercised to reduce unnecessary packaging. It’s small, but it’s at least a start.

Euan Jardine Councillor - Gala & District, Conservative

I have just returned from the UCI World Cycling Championships, which took place in Glentress, and it has been a magnificent event that, although took a few days to deliver, in reality, took a few years of planning. It has been an exceptional experience, and I want to thank all those behind the scenes who made this possible. Still, I want to thank those who came out in their thousands to support the UCI World Cycling Championships and the athletes participating. It was an event that, for those who came out, got something special: a World Championships event with some of the best cyclists in the world on their doorstep, a truly remarkable achievement for this region. It is also an achievement that we wish to continue pushing forward with, as the South of Scotland is now a UCI Bike Region, which again will bring tremendous opportunities.

I believe that the Scottish Border's region also had the most athletes competing at the championships when compared with other regions around the world, which again displays the hard work of the athletes involved and those who have helped nurture the athletes through the years Continued

and the systems we have in place for elite athletes in the Scottish Borders like the Athlete Support Programme (ASP).

Over the next few weeks, I will go around the region as part of my community conversations tour with the council. It's a vital opportunity for people to speak one-to-one with councillors, the Chief Executive, and service directors about the issues that matter most to you. We will then implement the feedback into the council plan and budget decisions.

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

At the end of a busy summer we managed to squeeze in one last activity before the new school term with a day out to Edinburgh.

Scotrail’s “Kids for a Quid” made the trip up from Stow that bit easier on the wallet and my boys were amazed by some fabulous street performers juggling with fire and knives, beatboxing and unicycling.

While in the capital, we also took the opportunity to visit the Scottish Parliament. I wasn’t sure how keen they’d be at ages 12, 9 and 7, but they loved finding out about the history of the parliament and meaning behind much of the design of the striking Holyrood building like the leaf-shaped, glass roof sections. My youngest was particularly delighted to learn that Holyrood houses several of its own beehives, with the wax being used to seal laws that are passed. What I enjoyed most was how connected we could feel to our country’s seat of democracy; without any special invitation or booking I was able to take my children into the Scottish Parliament to show them where laws on areas such as education which impact their lives every day are crafted, debated and decided.

It also highlighted how disconnected we are from Westminster where a large amount of important issues are decided on our behalf. How true still the Walter Scott quote we spotted on a Holyrood wall: “When we had a king, and a chancellor, and parliament-men o' our ain, we could aye peeble them wi' stanes when they werena gude bairns - But naebody's nails can reach the length o' Lunnon.”

That’s why my family and I will be joining thousands of others in Edinburgh on September 2nd marching for Scotland’s independence. Hopefully I’ll see a few local faces there among the crowds.

Neil Mackinnon Councillor - Gala & District, SGP

It has been a depressing month for the planet, with PM Rishi Sunak releasing over 100 new oil and gas drilling licences at a time when the planet is heating up at an ever increasing rate. Extracting more fossil fuels from the North Sea will drive a coach and horses through the UK’s climate commitments at a time when we should be investing in a Just Transition to a low-carbon economy.

Climate change is already ravaging the planet with unprecedented wildfires and heatwaves across the globe. Granting hundreds of new licenses will simply pour more fuel on the flames, while doing nothing for energy security as these fossil fuels will be sold on international markets and not

Continued on page 30

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!

How can we mitigate the effects of extreme weather in the garden? This isn’t just a question of picking good plants for one sort of outcome - always choose fully hardy plants. It’s more about gardening techniques that will cope with all sorts of issues, including very hot or very cold weather, high winds or low light as well as drought and flooding.

Mitigate the effects of very hot or very cold weather by applying good mulch and topping it up as often as you can. If you make garden compost you can use this to feed your plants and improve soil texture. Composted medium grade bark will also help to keep moisture in the soil in hot summers and give roots some protection from hard frosts in the winter.

Save rain water but be sure to use it quickly because, without adding disinfectant, the water butt can become contaminated with some really nasty bugs like legionella.

In periods of drought don’t waste water on the lawn but water the roots of plants deeply and regularly at least twice a week. I use an extendable lance which allows me to aim water very carefully and saves me bending my back. It used to be that wind blew mainly from the south-west about 40 to 45% of the time, but in recent years the wind rose has changed significantly and now we are as likely to have north-easterly winds. The general rule is to stake into the wind but now that there is an equal chance of two opposite directions, I think the

best plan is to double stake to the south-west and north-east.

Where wind is channelled down between buildings or it hits an opposite wall and comes back into the garden, try to break the flow with several screens of trees and shrubs.

This will be helpful particularly in large gardens where the wind often swirls about in the middle, knocking tall plants over. If you have that problem look for more wind-proof plants that are shorter or more flexible like grasses. Choose shrubs and trees with smaller leaves and avoid ones that are prone to wind scorch.

Long periods of heavy cloud, little rain and low temperatures are typical in the spring just when we are trying to get seedlings away. One way to mitigate this is to put up a polytunnel or glasshouse to provide some shelter and, if necessary, additional light. If possible align the tunnel east-west and plant your rows northsouth so that sunlight runs along each row.

Assess your land for the possibility of flooding either due to excessive rainfall running off a slope or else a sudden rise in a nearby water course.

Use ground cover shrubs to take up water and stabilise the ground across a steep slope. Make a soak-away along the bottom of the slope to protect your house and avoid property on land that is prone to inundation.

Sheila Drummond

The Gala Garden September

MILK

An every day staple. A must for the cereal bowl and perhaps in your tea or coffee. It wasn’t all that long ago it was only cow's milk in skimmed, semi or full fat being the choices. Now, alternative milk brands have had a boom in popularity, ranging from soya to oat, almond, coconut, pea milk and even hemp milks gracing our shelves. It’s great to have so many options beyond the classic cow's milk, but so many choices can be tricky to navigate and it can be hard to choose the right option. So, we have compiled a list of different milk options, with their pros and cons to help you choose.

WHOLE AND SEMI-SKIMMED COW’S MILK

Whole and semi-skimmed cow’s milk are both full of calcium, and vitamins A and D – all of which are key for maintaining healthy bones and immune system function. However, they are – particularly whole milk – also high in healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acid. Not only adding to their nutritional content, but research shows that these fats make it much easier for the body to absorb other nutrients, like vitamin D. Unfortunately whole milk is higher in saturated fat, which many people in the UK are eating too much of and is linked with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Therefore, semi-skimmed milk may be the more desirable option for anyone who likes cow’s milk with a thick enough consistency – but with a lower fat and calorie content. Another downside is, its environmental impact. Cow’s milk (whole, skimmed, or semi-skimmed) is widely known for being the least sustainable option. According to research, a glass of cow’s milk is responsible for almost three times more greenhouse gas emissions and requires nine times more land than any plant-based milk.

SKIMMED COW’S MILK A great option for anyone who likes the taste of cow’s milk while watching their weight. Skimmed cow's milk offers a high amount of protein, calcium and vitamins A and D for less calories, and fat. Some people find that skimmed cow’s milk isn’t as filling as whole or semi-skimmed versions and are put off by its thinner consistency. Yet, as mentioned above, even skimmed milk still has a negative impact on the environment.

SOYA MILK Made from soybeans and typically fortified with vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and calcium when store-bought. There are a number of benefits to using soya milk – including the fact that it’s naturally lactose-free, rich in protein, iron, fibre, and B vitamins, and actually contains more calcium per cup than cow’s milk. Soya milk is also popular for its creamy texture. That said, soya milk has been subject to some controversy over the years due to its estrogen content, as there were claims it increased the risk of breast cancer. But, these theories have since been proven false and experts now agree that food sources of soy, such as soya milk, don’t contain high enough levels of estrogen to increase a person’s risk of breast cancer. In fact, some studies have found that a diet rich in soy can actually reduce the risk of breast cancer. Plus, when it comes to environmental impact, soya milk has a shining review. It requires very little water to make and has only slightly higher greenhouse gas emissions than almond milk – without any of the negative impacts on cows and bees.

ALMOND MILK How do you milk an almond I hear you ask? Well you can’t. Almond milk is a blend of almonds and spring water and is fortified with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins, D and B12. It comes sweetened or unsweetened versions and aside from being a popular option for anyone wanting to avoid animal products. It’s also liked for its nutty, almond flavour and low calorie content. It has a good source of healthy fats, plenty immune boosting vitamin E and offers impressive antioxidant properties. However, despite its low calories and high vitamin content, it lacks many other important nutrients, such as protein and calcium. So it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough of these elsewhere in your diet. As for the environmental impact of almond milk, that’s a bit more controversial. Having been associated with the lowest greenhouse gas emissions of all plant milks. Almond trees themselves have been found to absorb excess carbon dioxide. Most almonds used to make almond milk are grown in California, where the industry relies on huge amounts of water (around five litres per almond!) and the hard labour of bees. In fact, bees have to work so hard to pollinate almond trees that one investigation found the almond industry was responsible for the deaths of around 50 billion bees over just a few months!

OAT MILK In terms of taste this is a great contender! Oat milk is made by mixing whole oats, treated with enzymes, and warm water. It is then strained and fortified with vitamins and minerals and comes sweetened and unsweetened. Due to its thick, creamy texture, oat milk’s often described as being the closest plant-based alternative to cow’s milk, which makes it a delicious alternative for anyone who’s lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply enjoys the taste. As well as it being the best option for vegan baking, as many other vegan milk options are too thin. It also contains naturally occurring fibre and store-bought versions are often fortified with various nutrients including vitamins A, B12, and D, calcium, and phosphorous. Along with soy milk, oat milk is one of the most sustainable options as, according to research, it requires 60% fewer carbon emissions and 80% less land to produce than cow’s milk. However, while pretty few and far between, there are a few downsides to consider. Oat milk isn’t as rich in protein as other types of milk – containing around 6g less protein per 200ml than soya milk. And, there is a gluten risk due to cross-contamination of wheat and oat fields during the manufacturing process, meaning some brands can contain traces of gluten. So, any oat milk that isn’t certified gluten-free is likely to be unsuitable for anyone with coeliac disease. Lastly, oat milk is slightly higher in calories than other types of milk, such as almond milk. Still clocking in at less than 94 calories per 200ml, it can easily be enjoyed as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Just watch out for the sweetened varieties!

PEA MILK Made from yellow-split peas, pea milk is lactose-free, has a thick texture, slightly off-white colour, and generally mild taste. It’s one of the newer types of plant-based milk and has been growing in popularity. Though not quite as high in protein as soya or cow’s milk, pea milk still offers a good choice. And, store-bought pea milk is often fortified with other nutrients like calcium, iron, omega-3, and vitamin D, so it offers a range of other health benefits too. Pea milk is also one of the more environmentally friendly milk choices as peas don’t require much water or land to grow, and generate significantly less greenhouse gas emissions. The main downside of pea milk to consider is that some people don’t enjoy the taste, which is described by some as being a little earthier and grassier than other plant-based milk.

CASHEW MILK Another nut milk option, �ashew milk is made from whole cashews and water. It’s available in sweetened and unsweetened versions, has a rich, creamy texture, is loaded with healthy fats, vitamins and minerals like potassium, iron, and magnesium and is naturally lactose-free. Cashew milk has a modest calorie content and store-bought versions can contain up to 50% more calcium than cow’s milk, with significantly less saturated fat. Another pro of cashew milk is that it’s a little sweeter and creamier to taste, so if you’re not a fan of the nuttiness of almond milk but want a similar calorie count, it’s a good option. That being said, it’s worth checking the added sugar content of sweetened cashew milk and only drinking it in moderation. Like other plant-based milks, cashew milk is also pretty low in protein, so if you’re going to use it, it’s worth making sure you have plenty of other protein-rich foods in your diet. When it comes to the environment, cashew milk is considered a sustainable choice because it requires minimal land to produce. However, the significant downfall of cashew milk is the human rights issues surrounding its production, particularly the poor treatment of cashew pickers.

RICE MILK Rice milk is considered the most hypoallergenic of all milk products – suiting those who are lactose intolerant, or have a casein, soy, or nut allergy. It’s low in fat, cholesterol free, and the small amount of fat it does contain is mostly unsaturated – which makes it a great option for those looking to boost their heart health. It’s also rich in magnesium, iron, B vitamins, copper, manganese, and selenium – all of which have many health benefits and give your immune system a boost. However, rice milk does contain a lot of sugar and carbohydrates – around three to four times the amount of soy or dairy milk. So, it’s not a particularly suitable option for anyone with diabetes or who’s looking to keep their blood sugar levels in check. It’s also known to have quite a watery consistency and is very low in protein – so if you do use it, it’s important not to rely on it for this and to add other protein-rich foods to your diet. In terms of sustainability, rice milk also isn’t the best option. According to research, it’s one of the worst polluters when it comes to water and produces more greenhouse gasses than any other plant milk.

COCONUT MILK Not to be confused with coconut water, found inside coconuts. Coconut milk is made from the solid coconut flesh mixed with water, and strained, it’s then fortified with calcium and vitamins D and B12. It has as rich and creamy taste and texture with that classic coconut hint. It’s a great milk alternative in cooking and vegan baking as well as a fantastic smoothie base. You can buy it tinned, or in cartons. However, the tinned milk is thicker and best used in cooking. It’s lactose free, rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, selenium, iron, folate, magnesium and potassium. It also contains a higher protein content than other plant based milks. Although it’s high in saturated fat, studies have suggested that cholesterol levels improve with coconut milk intake so is a good option for those keen to look after their heart health. Not only that, it has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties due to its high lauric acid content. As for its sustainability, coconut milk has quite a small environmental footprint, owing to the minimal use of water for growing coconuts. According to estimates, a 200ml glass of coconut milk only requires 0.5l of water. Coconut trees also have the ability to filter out carbon dioxide, which helps fight greenhouse gases. Since coconuts are usually grown in tropical areas however, the transportation drives up the carbon footprint.

reserved for use in the UK.

The week after this announcement was made we had the news that July was the hottest month ever recorded with average sea temperatures at their highest ever and set to rise even further as another el Nino is setting in over the Pacific. The heating of the oceans releases even more CO2 and further accelerates global warming.

This misuse of Scotland’s natural resources is yet another example of the Conservative government in Westminster acting against the interests of all of us and in support of their rich paymasters.

The only way for Scotland to gain control of its own resources and be able to work towards a Green, clean future is to vote Green and vote for independence.

Citizens Advice Bureau

It’s almost time for the new School term and children are getting excited about going back to catch-up with friends and meet their new teacher. It can also be a worrying time financially for parents and guardians.

In Scotland, all children at a local authority school in P1-P5 receive a free school meal automatically during term time. The Scottish Government provide additional funding to schools based on pupils who are entitled to free school meals so if you meet the income criteria and have a child in P1-P5, you should still apply. Similarly, if you have older children from P6 – S6. In addition, if in receipt of free school meals due to low income, you will receive a Scottish Child Bridging Payment of £130 4 times per year for each school age child who qualifies. You may also be eligible for a School Clothing Grant from Scottish Borders Council (SBC). This is paid once per academic year for every qualifying child and ranges from £120 -£150 depending on the age of the child.

If you're 16 to 19 years old and studying at school or college beyond school leaving age, and you come from a low-income household, you may be eligible for financial assistance from an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).

Applications for all these and other information can be found on the Scottish Borders Council website: Free school meals and help with schoolwear www.scotborders.gov.uk

If you would like a check to see if you are eligible for any benefits and/or if you meet the criteria for any benefits, please contact us using the contact details below.

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 - August 2023

Mac Arts - September 2023

Friday 1st Music Sleeper (90s Britpop Legends)

Saturday 2nd Music The Diamond Eyed Jacks (Psychadelic)

Sunday 3rd Music Luke La Volpe (Blues / Rock’n’Roll)

Thursday 7th Music Big Country

Friday 8th Music Big Country SOLD OUT

Last Month's Sudoko Answers

Saturday 9th Comedy Stories of Scotland with Bruce Fummey

Sunday 10th Event Wild Swimming Escapades

Tuesday 12th Music The Big Moon (Indie Rock)

Thursday 14th Music Martin McAloon from Prefab Sprout

Thursday 21st Music The Animals

Friday 22nd Music Hayseed Dixie (Rockgrass)

Saturday 23rd Music The Complete Stone Roses (Tribute)

Friday 29th Music Jill Jackson (Americana)

www.macarts.scot / 01896 756852

Rotary Club of Galashiels and District

Join over 1.3 million people worldwide to be part of projects that support communities locally, nationally and internationally.

We are planning our next year of Rotary events including forward planning for the Christmas market and the annual calendar image competition. Also projects specifically supporting the environment. You can see what we do on our FaceBook page Galashiels and District Rotary Club.

Caddonfoot Hall

‘Borders Witch Hunt’

An illustrated talk by Mary W. Craig, author and historian from Stow. Join Mary as she separates fact from fiction and delves deep into the dark past of the Borders’ witch trials.

At Caddonfoot Hall, Clovenfords, on Friday 1st September at 7.30pm, doors open at 7pm. Entry £5 includes refreshments. For more information email infocaddonfoot@btinternet.com

Gala Opera

First of all, this will be our last update under the name ‘Gala Opera’. After much discussion we have decided that this designation no longer accurately reflects the nature of our productions. With that in mind, the decision has been taken to change our name to ‘GAOS Musical Theatre’maintaining the link with our past but closer to the current purpose of the society!

So - new name but same fabulous Society! And our 2024 season is underway! Our first ‘meet and greet’ open rehearsal took place on 21st August, rehearsals for ‘Me and My Girl’ have begun and we are raring to go with this funny, light hearted musical classic. Our production team - Jeff Thomson and Marie McCullough - have updated us on their plans for the show and the company had a sing through some of the fabulous music.

After a few weeks of company rehearsals, auditions for the principal roles will take place and we will be well on our way. If you are thinking of joining us, it’s still not too late! Just come along to the Burgh School, Galashiels on Monday evening at 7pm and you will be made very welcome. (To join the Society you need to be 14 or over by the 4th March 2024.)

Look out for our next update when, hopefully, we can give a bit more detail on our 2024 cast for ‘Me and My Girl’!

Summer at Abbotsford

Enjoy the summer and experience the magic of Abbotsford with your friends and family!

You can relax by visiting the Mindfulness Garden, having a picnic in the meadow with your loved ones, or by going on a relaxing stroll down the picturesque woodland and riverside paths.

Explore the rich history of the Historic House and Chapel, take in the beautiful views of the Regency-era Walled Gardens in full bloom or get spirited away at the Witch Corner sculpture trail where things are not as they seem!

Feeling peckish? Treat yourself to a scrumptious treat at Ochiltree’s Café, a spooky Witch Corner inspired lunch or a bite and a refreshing drink from the horse box outdoor catering!

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

every day, 10am - 5pm Dates & times are subject to change.

Turas - The Scottish Borders Gaelic Singing Group

Turas (“journey" in Gaelic), is the Gaelic singing group in the Scottish Borders. Since its creation in 2011 by Mary Low, Turas has introduced many to the tradition of Gaelic singing in a fun, comprehensive, and participatory way. The group pursues its mission to nurture Gaelic music in the Scottish Borders, through workshops and singing events. Next workshop will be held on 23rd September, St Boswells Village Hall, 11am-4pm.

Come and join us in an open and friendly environment, for an exciting workshop with renowned Gaelic singer and broadcaster Joy Dunlop. No previous knowledge of Gaelic language needed. Singing in Gaelic has never been so tempting!

Cost: £10 or pay what you can.

£10 or pay what you can - Tickets from Eventbrite or on the door. Bring your own lunch, tea and coffee provided. For further information, please contact: turas.songs@gmail.com www.facebook.com/turasborders

Gala Cricket Club

By the time this edition lands on your door step the cricket season will be over and what a poor season it has been weather-wise. The 1st XI are scheduled to play 18 games during the season but at the date of writing they have completed only 11, winning 7 and losing 4 and currently sit in 4th place in the Championship. There have been some fine individual performances during the season particularly with the bat where, to date, two Gala players are in the top 5 Championship batsmen; Sid Ponneri amassing 416 runs while professional Janith Chathuranga has 364. The latter also sits on top of the bowling statistics for the league with 29 wickets while veteran Dinesh Tharanga has 23 and not far behind sit Robbie Irvine and Tharuka De Zoysa with 19 apiece. The 2nd XI sit a-top Division 6 and are passionate about moving up to 5 for next season. Opener Max Hastings currently has accumulated more runs (380) in Division 6 than any other batter and young Sam McAneny is in 19th placed with 149. In terms of bowling the strength of the twos is spread widely with 6 bowlers each taking 8 wickets or more thus far in the season. The club are very proud of the performances of two of our younger members who have continued to play at international level. Recently Maisie Maceira captained the Scotland Under 17 team in games against the Netherlands and Ireland. Meanwhile John Imrie turned out for Scotland Under 16 against Lincolnshire and scored a sound 28. Well done to both of you!

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 be God glorifying and Christ exalting in our worship. The Word of God is faithfully preached and therefore we would like to invite everyone to come and listen to God speaking to us through His Word.

Sunday services are in these church buildings:

3rd September - 11am Trinity, 6.30pm St John’s

10th September - 11am Old Parish & St Paul’s, 6.30pm St John’s

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17th September - 11am Trinity, 6.30pm St John’s

24th September - 11am Old Parish &St Paul’s, 6.30pm St John’s Girls Brigade

1st Galashiels Girls' Brigade registration is on Monday 11th September 6-7pm for all girls in 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. 15pm. Will meet again from 3rd October In Old Parish& St Paul’s. All welcome.

Coffee Stop - Wednesdays, will meet again on September 20th.

Prayer Meeting – Wednesdays at 7pm in St John’s.

Badminton – Wednesdays 10am-12md Old Parish &St Paul’s

Choir Rehearsals – Thursdays at 7pm. Begin again on 14th of September in Trinity small hall. Anyone who enjoys singing will be made very welcome. There is no necessity to be able to read music!

Solas Confident Christianity course - Saturday 30th 10am-1.30pm Trinity

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 - meets from 3.00-5.00pm on Sunday 10 September, the second Sunday of the month, in Melrose Parish Church Hall. 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 11amthe next is on 20th September 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.

After a break for many activities over the summer and with the new school year upon us, these are the activities we have going on:

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 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 Priest : Father Andrew Kingham

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.

Gala Rugby Club

The New Season has Arrived

A new and very different season dawns for 2023-24.

Firstly for Senior rugby, and as a result of our presence in National League 1, the change to ten team leagues (from twelve) has finally taken place. This of course in theory means a slightly curtailed playing season but as covered below we have replaced most of these games with a return to a more complete and competitive Border League.

National League 1 commences, like all other club rugby, on Saturday 2nd September when we are away to Watsonians with a home tie against GHA, who were relegated from the Premiership last season, on 9th September. There is no question that National League 1 will be a very hotly contested League with near neighbours Melrose, Highland, Biggar, GHA, Ayr and newcomers Glasgow Accies to name six of our competitors who will have aspirations of winning the League! Games are virtually non stop from September through to December, weather permitting, with the other major change being the new tackle height laws – for club rugby that has to be below the sternum.

The fixture list can be found at https://fixtures.scottishrugby.org/club-rugby/2023-2024/3222 .

Another innovation for this season is the introduction of a purely Border Reserve League. This was introduced with the approval and agreement of the SRU to help ensure reserve team rugby gets played regularly. With a local Border Reserve League and every club with floodlights it means that many of these games can take place weeknights, most probably Friday nights. All the clubs are behind making this work.

As stated above most of the Border clubs have taken the decision not to take part in the National Cup, which allows space in the calendar for a proper league competition for the Border League. Some may be double headers with a National League match ( in our case with Melrose) whereas all other matches will be either home or away against Border club opposition. This is sure to attract local rugby fans to some exciting local derby games! The changes are not only to senior rugby as Gala Wanderers have a place in the U18 Youth National Cup competition due to their placing in last seasons League which will sees them travelling to Perthshire and Highland and at home to West of Scotland in between some rearranged League fixtures.

Gala Red Triangle are also competing in the National U16 Cup with away games to Boroughmuir and Currie and at home to Ayr/Wellington, again interspersed with league fixtures

Gala Vixens will continue to take part in the Inspiresport Conferences with the senior numbers in particular growing strongly.

Fixtures Gala NL.1

September 2023

Gala A Border Jr League (Dates could change)

Gala Wanderers Gala Red Triangle

2nd Sept Watsonians (A) Peebles (H) Alnwick (H)

9th Sept GHA (H) Melrose (A) Perthshire (A)

16th Sept GHK (A) Tynedale (A)

23rd Sept Biggar (H) Selkirk (A) Highland (A) 24/09 - Currie (A)

30th Sept Melrose (A) Jedforest (A) Hawick (H)

Mini’s training Sundays 10-11am

Vixens training Wednesdays 6.45-7.45pm

Caddonfoot Parish Church

Church services continued throughout the summer – what summer there was! But the congregation battled through the wet and, at the same time, looked for the sun.

Rev June Johnston, Locum at Caddonfoot Parish Church, continued to lead services each Sunday at the new early time of 9.30 a.m. The minister took a well-deserved break when the two services were led by Mrs Catriona Bird and Mrs Anne Grieve. Both of these services were prepared by the Rev Dr Susan Brown, from Greenlaw Parish Church and Moderator of the Lothian and Borders Presbytery.

On the fifth Sunday of each month, on a trial basis, there are united services with St Mary of Wedale, Stow and Heriot at 10.30 in each congregation on a rotational basis. The first one took place on July 30 at Caddonfoot and will be followed by Heriot on October 29. The Rev Johnston led the service that day.

Refreshments, provided by varying members of the congregation, are enjoyed after each service. The Bible continues to be read by church members with different people reading throughout the summer.

Each Sunday, worshippers have the opportunity to meet and chat after the service with the Rev Johnston before she leaves to preach at Stow or Heriot.

The next Kirk Session meeting was due to be held on the last Thursday of August.

Visitors and church-goers are reminded to exercise care when walking through the Memorial Garden area.

There’s a reminder to leave any bags for the Food Bank in the vestry. These will be delivered by Miss Frances Pringle.

Please continue to save your disused stamps for Atholl Innes, who saves them for the Eden Valley Hospice at Brampton.

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

Bethel Rock Gateway Church

We are operating as a virtual church at the moment, and have Bible teaching every Tuesday at 7pm. Join us by sending your email address to - douglasrenton@hotmail.co.uk - and we will send you the joining instructions.

There is much teaching about modern life in the Bible. Join us at 7pm on Tuesday as we go through the books John & Revelation.

Pastors Douglas & Kathy Renton

Share Your News

If you would like to be included in our community section then please email us at info@galalife.co.uk Entries should be less than 300 words and arrive by 12th preceding month. Just tell us and we will tell everyone else!

GALA LIFE

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

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Harvest Mites

Now is the time to look out for them

What are Harvest Mites?

Harvest mites are tiny, bright orange parasites, most active between July and November in woodland and grassy areas. The larvae of harvest mites will climb up blades of grass where they will then attach and feed on any poor passing animals. They will then congregate in small swarms and seek out parts of the body that are warmest, least densely covered in fur and have the areas of thinnest skin. This includes feet, legs, armpits, tummy, between toes and in the ears.

Symptoms of Harvest Mites

Harvest mites can cause severe itchiness, redness, inflammation, and fur loss. You may also see stained fur from where the animal may be constantly licking or biting the area, red or orange dots on the skin and fur, and in extreme cases or flare ups there may be scabs or pus.

Treatment of harvest mites is relatively simple. However, if left untreated they can be very uncomfortable and cause further, more serious problems for our furry friends.

Diagnosis of Harvest Mites

If you suspect your pet has harvest mites, please contact the Border Vets team, as treatment may be required to get rid of them. Diagnosis of harvest mites can be simple as they are usually seen with the naked eye. In the event they are not visible your vet may need to take some skin

www.bordervets.co.uk

Galashiels Veterinary Surgery

Gala Terrace, Galashiels TD1 3JT

01896 752156

scrape samples and send them off to a laboratory for analysis where a diagnosis can be made.

Treatment of Harvest Mites

Treatment of harvest mites depends on how severe the case is. Unfortunately, there is no product that specifically targets harvest mites only, however, some flea treatments are effective in killing and preventing them. A common treatment for harvest mites is using the flea treatment fipronil in a spray on form to kill and prevent these parasites. Anti-inflammatories may also be provided to relieve your pet of the itchiness and calm the inflamed skin. In severe incidences antibiotics may be required.

Key Points

Harvest mites are tiny orange parasites that are most common in late summer – autumn time. They can be extremely uncomfortable for our pets AND if left untreated it can lead to infections. Harvest mites can usually be seen with the naked eye due to their bright orange appearance and can be treated with spray on fipronil, anti-inflammatories and in severe cases, antibiotics.

Office: Monday - Friday 8.00am - 6.00pm. Saturday 8.30am - 1pm.

Consultations by appointment

Amber Graham BSC SVN

Dogs, Cats and

Your Pet Health Plan includes:

Essential annual vaccination with a full health check

Flea and tick treatments (sufficient for a year) dispensed quarterly

Worm treatments (sufficient for a year) dispensed quarterly

6 monthly health check with your vet

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

25% off Kennel Cough vaccination

25% off Rabies vaccination

25% off flystrike preventative treatment

50% off Primary vaccination course (initial injections typically given between 2 and 4 weeks apart)

Free nurse clinics (where available)

off routine neutering

off dental procedures

off other parasite treatments

Monthly prices shown, vaccinations included: Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis. Cats: Flu, Enteritis, Leukeamia. Rabbits: Myxomatosis, VHD1, VHD2.

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.

HOROSCOPES

BY CHRISTINE CHALKLIN

For September 2023

The winds of change start to blow this month as the sensible and practical earth sign of Virgo comes to the forefront. The Virgo new moon arrives on the 15th, offering the perfect timing for new beginnings, setting your intentions and starting new projects. Communication planet Mercury ends its retrograde phase on the 16th bringing a fresh wave of clarity and determination. Warrior planet Mars spends the whole month in Libra, the sign of the scales; during this transit we’ll be called upon to find balance between our assertiveness and diplomacy. Mars in this sign also helps us to be more motivated to pursue our dreams and to be more confident in our abilities. Love planet Venus is still in fiery Leo, her retrograde phase is ending on the 4th indicating that any issues or difficulties around partnerships and relationships could now be worked out and replaced with passion and fun! After the 5th, Jupiter, planet of abundance and growth, joins all the other outer planets in their retrograde cycles. Retrogrades are typically associated with challenges that force us to review and refine our habits and beliefs, and address any unresolved matters in our lives. With so many retrograde planets we will have no choice but to be on the alert for any thought -provoking insights or profound shifts that can help us to reclaim our personal power.

ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

September offers renewed action in the relationship sector of your chart. Mars, your ruler, is in Libra all month, assisting with fair and balanced communication. Love planet Venus makes a harmonious link to your sign, particularly after the 4th. An exciting opportunity comes your way later this month as the Aries full moon fires up your creative energy.

TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21

September keeps you working on matters of the heart as Jupiter and Uranus, both in your sign, make harmonious aspects to the Sun and Mercury in Virgo. It’s all about love and this combination gives you renewed determination to make a relationship work. A new friendship could become more important to you in the weeks ahead and certainly after the Virgo new moon on the 15th.

GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21

Home and family life come into focus during September as both the radiant Sun and communicative Mercury illuminate this important area of your life. Certain decisions that you have been putting off for a while will need your full attention now. Energetic Mars is working in your favour and the New moon in Virgo on the 15th confirms how important it is that you speak your mind.

CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22

September starts positively as your ruler, the moon, is in tight aspect to mystical Neptune, the planet of vision and dreams. Use this time to tune in to what you really want and need for yourself. Mercury and the Sun indicate that Communication is also highlighted, strengthening your confidence and self-esteem. The Virgo new moon on the 15th is a turning point and highlights your interactions with others.

LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23

Your assets and cash flow are all the spotlight during September, as the radiant Sun and practical thinking Mercury both highlight your financial sector. Action planet Mars in balanced Libra assists you in making the right decision, providing that you take both sides of any disagreement into consideration. The Virgo new moon on the 15th offers a breakthrough and a way forward.

VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22

September is your birthday month and as the new moon culminates in your sign on the 15th you may anticipate the start of an important new practical project. Mars is dynamic in your financial sector, suggesting that there will be many opportunities to adjust and improve your situation and your earning potential. The fiery Aries full moon on the 29th brings a new challenge your way.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23

The Sun and Mercury, both in Virgo, highlight the most introspective sector of your chart during September. This pairing indicates that there is a lot for you to reflect on and some important changes will need to be set in motion. After the 16th, as Mercury ends the retrograde phase and gathers forward motion, your mood becomes resilient and you are more determined to succeed.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

September highlights the theme of friendships, social groups and personal goals as the Sun and Mercury, both in practical Virgo, illuminate this busy area of your chart. Reorganisation is essential and it’s definitely time to look at new potentials, particularly around the time of the Virgo new moon on the 15th. Be firm about a certain decision and trust your inner wisdom.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

September indicates that many Sagittarians will be contemplating some career changes as the radiant Sun and quick thinking Mercury align in practical Virgo. The pace quickens after the new moon on the 15th. It’s not all hard work though, as Mars in Libra highlights friendships and new social encounters. The fiery Aries full moon on the 29th offers some fresh creative insight.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

The Virgo Sun and forward moving Mercury are set to make positive alignments with transformational Pluto retrograde in your sign around the 17th. This special time could indicate the start of an exciting new journey as you question your current life path. The Virgo new moon on the 15th has the potential to be successful in opening your mind to endless possibilities on your voyage of discovery.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY

18

During September the radiant Sun and quick-thinking Mercury highlight your resources and your financial arrangements. Your intuitive powers remain strong as you make plans that could take you in a totally new direction. Venus in Leo moves direct after the 4th, indicating renewed passion in your relationship. The Virgo new moon on the 15th suggests the culmination of an ambitious project.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20

September turns out to be a favourable time for manifesting new energy in your relationships. The powerful Virgo Sun and communicative Mercury both push for practical new developments and opportunities. Venus, in passionate Leo, gathers momentum after the 4th offering a new creative dimension to the way you work. The fiery Aries full moon on the 29th suggests that you are ready for a new burst of vitality.

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

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!

ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE

Helpful Numbers to Hand

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.

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