Issuu

ISSUE 52 AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2015

STOCKBRIDGE SPOTLIGHT

The Stockbridge Spotlight ENQUIRIES Sue Hutchison (Editor) Telephone : 0131 618 6622 (Always include area code when calling) Mobile : 07817 206 418 Email : sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk Office : 98 Ferry Road, Edin, EH6 4PG

www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk

October 2015 Issue Artwork Deadline - 18th September Distribution Date - 30th September â€œAll rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that is it legal/copyright free and permission has been given for use in this publication. The views and opinions by contributors to this magazine may not represent the views of the publisher. The Stockbridge Spotlight magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers in this publicationâ€?

The Stockbridge Spotlight is distributed by Johnson Distribution Services. www.jdsdoor2door.co.uk

CONTENTS 6 Hobbies - Astrology : Out Of This World. 10 Talk Time : A Unique Charity For Young Disabled People in Edinburgh 12 Hard Sudoko. 16 Save 1-6 Canonmills Bridge.

Hello and Welcome Welcome to this issue of the Stockbridge Spotlight. Well the schools are now well settled back and normal life is resuming after the summer madness. Much as I love my boys it is nice to have a bit more time to myself!! The community pages this issue are full of activites you might enjoy. There are details for singing groups, community choirs, an art exhibition, a scottish country dance club, a community orchestra performance, a fun girlie night out and forthcoming dates for Edinburgh floral art club. If you are 50+ and would like to do some exercise, Edinburgh Leisure are running a walking group or you can support St Columbas Hospice and get some exercise as a family with The Nudge. We also have dates for the next Stockbridge & Inverleith Community Council meetings which everyone is welcome to attend. The very successful Stockbridge Market has expanded again with a new Leith Market on a Saturday. The Grassmarket Market also runs now on a Saturday. You can find details of all these events on pages 43 to 46. I wanted to make a special mention for one of our regular advertisers, Scents of Wellbeing, who are celebrating 10 years in business with some anniversary offers for you (Pg 34). And local business Gorgeous Therapies, have expanded and had a make over. They are holding an Open Day soon so you can see the changes you have made plus they also have some special offers check out their advert on Pg 20.

As always if you have community or charity 26 LOOPs Phoneline - Help For People 65+. items you would like to feature please get in touch - contact details 29 Bield - Launch Of Befriender Project. are shown above. 32 General Knowledge Crossword. I hope that you enjoy 22 Focus On Vine - Wine By The Case.

35 Home & Interiors - A Stitch In Time While The Sun Shines. 40 Fitness - Keep Fit With Your Dog. 43-46 Community Spotlight. 44 Puzzle Solution 4

this issue.

Best Wishes Sue

Astronomy: A hobby that’s (literally) out of this world Star Trails

The spectacular appearance of the Perseid Shower, every year in high summer, is an event that demonstrates just how exciting watching the night sky can be. The Perseid Shower is a stream of space dust and particles that flows behind the rather unromantically named Swift-Tuttle comet, forming a glittering procession of meteors. Make the effort to get up early to watch this natural light show and you’ll have a good introduction to astronomy. Studying the stars and planets can be an incredibly rewarding hobby, whether you are a beginner, observing with the naked eye, or a tech-lover equipped with a substantial telescope and accessories such as a CCD (charge-coupled device) camera for capturing those night-sky panoramas. FIRST STEPS As an amateur astronomer you will need to become thoroughly familiar with the night sky: understanding how it changes, not just throughout the hours of a single night, but season by season, and even when viewed from different latitudes. Most beginners will be tempted to buy a telescope, but remember if you live in an urban area where there is light pollution it’s unlikely you will get a clear view of the night sky, however powerful your telescope may be. The size and quality of the lens is important, but be warned: many of the instruments sold by non-specialist shops are simply not up to the job. The views of space you can expect with a standard telescope may not match the stunning shots taken from space (without the blurring effect of the earth’s atmosphere), but with a little effort you should be able to see the rich detail on the Moon’s surface, the rings of Saturn and the planet Jupiter’s 6

By Kate McLelland surface contours, together with its four larger moons. Once you become more familiar with the night sky you may also be able to locate and view distant galaxies and star clusters. LEARNING ABOUT ASTRONOMY There are many online sources of information, books and software packages to help you get to grips with this very vast subject: the Royal Astronomical Society’s website (www.ras.org. uk) has a list of publications available. . If you do want to make a serious study of astronomy, there are a number of distance learning courses available to you. The Open University offers a certificate in “Astronomy and Planetary Science”, which provides a basic introduction that can be studied in separate modules: see the OU website at www.open.ac.uk for more information and costs. Alternatively Liverpool John Moores University offers short courses for under £200 (see www.astronomy.ac.uk). JOINING THE ASTRO COMMUNITY Astronomy is fun, but it can be even more enjoyable when you link up with others. The British Astronomical Association has supported amateur astrologers since 1890 and on their website (www.britastro.org) you can chat to other enthusiasts via BAA’s online forums or find out about meetings and events taking place all over the country. Astronomy Clubs UK (www.astronomyclubs. co.uk) is also a fantastic resource where you can search for a local club, find blogs and podcasts or search out places to visit. Whether you’re interested in how the universe was formed, the movements of the planets or the prospect of meeting an alien life form, astronomy is a fascinating and far-ranging topic. It’s a hobby that’s literally out of this world, and there’s no better place to start than in your own (suitably dark) back yard.

DIN

G SER

ALL TRADES COMPANY

Extensions Loft Conversion Joinery Painting & Decorating 07545536199

www.kspropertymaintenance.co.uk info@kspropertymaintenace.co.uk 7

TalkTime : A Unique Charity for Young Disabled People in Edinburgh A brand new and unique charity which offers free one-to-one counselling to young people with physical disabilities has opened its doors in Edinburgh. It is called TalkTime and has been set up by a young man with cerebral palsy, Joshua Hepple, who grew up in Trinity and is now training to be a solicitor in London. It is believed to be the only service of its kind in the whole of the UK. Joshua started this charity with the help of his mother, Seonaid Cooke who lives in Trinity, as he believes that the emotional and mental well-being of young people with disabilities can be overlooked with the main focus being on supporting their physical needs. As Joshua says “It is essential for people to feel they can talk about what’s going on. Disabled young people in schools are often isolated and find it difficult to fit in”. The stated aim of the charity is : “To help physically disabled young people to reach their potential and to improve their mental well-being and that of their families.” Setting up TalkTime has been a natural progression for Joshua who has been actively involved in campaigning for disability equality rights for the last seven years, representing all disabled students at a national level with NUS Scotland and regularly delivering disability equality training at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe to theatre company staff working with the general public. One of the charity’s recent clients commented: “Counselling has given me the time and space to explore personal issues and begin to rebuild my mental resilience” The charity is totally reliant on donations for its running costs and all money received goes directly towards the hire of rooms and the payment of counsellors. If you would like more information, please contact the charity directly at: www.talktimeedinburgh.co.uk email: talktimeedinburgh@gmail.com mobile: 07774 210104 10

DCM R O O F I N G

DESIGN

CONSTRUCT

MAINTAIN

• Slating and Tiling

• Built Up Flat Roofs • Guttering and Downpipes • Lead and Zinc Work • Chimney Work • Single Ply Flat Roofs • Cement Work • Harling and Rendering

DCM Roofing have over 40 years of qualified Roofing experience and aim to provide a personal and professional service dedictated to exceed your expectations

31-32 West Preston Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9PX Office: 0131 623 3311 | Mobile: 07809 232 365

www.DCMConstruction.co.uk

Become a Friend Join the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh as a Friend and help us to explore, conserve and explain the world of plants for a better future. Call the Membership Office on 0131 552 5339 or join online www.rbge.org.uk/membership The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a charity registered in Scotland (number SC007983)

HARD SUDOKO HOW TO PLAY Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through to 9 with no repetition! Thats all there is to it. You solve the puzzle with reason and logic - thereâ€™s no maths involved and no adding up. Its fun. Its challenging Its addictive. (Soln on pg 44) 12

Save 1–6 Canonmills Bridge!

The fate of the traditional single-storey building at 1–6 Canonmills Bridge, currently leased by local produce champions, Earthy, will be decided on 26 August. Campaigners fighting to save this quirky building from demolition won the right to a hearing at Edinburgh Council’s planning committee at a meeting on 29 July. Despite the planning officer’s recommendation to approve demolition since “The loss of the building will not have an adverse impact on the character or the appearance of the conservation area”, the weight of objection from the public and support from local councillors ensured that a hearing was called. Local resident Jan Anderson and architectural/ urban designer and lecturer Ross McEwan became aware of the demolition application by chance through a Facebook post by the Cockburn Association, a charity that works to promote the conservation and enhancement of Edinburgh’s landscape and historic and architectural heritage. They set up the campaign, which quickly drew huge support from local residents and visitors to the area keen to see the traditional nature of Canonmills and its open vistas and skyline preserved. Every weekend since the beginning of July, Jan and Ross have run a stall at Canonmills, with a team of local residents, to raise awareness and gather signatures for a petition calling for a halt to the demolition of the building, which sits in the Inverleith Conservation area and has become an attractive and popular social hub. The paper petition now has almost 2,000 signatures, while an online version has well over 4,500. Jan said, “We have raised awareness and elicited a powerful response from locals and the wider community who enjoy Canonmills. Councillors have reportedly been ‘astonished’ by

the level of correspondence against demolition. We have been delighted to take part in a growing local effort, determined to conserve the character of our beautiful, historic area.” Developer Mountlake already has planning permission for a modern four-storey development of flats, townhouses and restaurants on the site, granted by the planning committee with a majority of only one vote. Although the architects Fouin & Bell were quoted in the Evening News as stating, “We’ve designed a building that we believe will fit in very sympathetically with its surroundings,” this is not an opinion supported by the overwhelming opposition the design provoked. Members of the public have described it as a “bland homogenisation of our cityscape”, “hideous ... just another boring big modern box” and “ugly, far too big, and totally out of keeping with the area”. New Town and Broughton Community Council’s planning convener said, “The development is overscaled for the smallness of the site resulting in too great an impact on the conservation area”. Marion Williams, director of the Cockburn Association, agreed: “The existing singlestorey building is in a harmonious relationship with the taller buildings around it, and provides an important visual gap between the architecture of Inverleith Row and the edge of the New Town… We are not convinced that this site can be redeveloped to anything like the densities proposed without negatively impacting on the good urban design of the existing built form.” Such is the level of interest now that an amendment to the approved development attracted 91 online objections to a ramp at the outside of the new building and the creation of a single commercial unit on the ground floor. To follow news of the campaign, log on to the Save 1-6 Canonmills Bridge Facebook page.

Dog Grooming Studio Trimming, scissoring & hand-stripping by your local dog groomer in Leith

NOW OPEN To book an appointment or for further information, please contact Braw Dugs

29 Ferry Road, Leith EH6 4AD brawdugs@virginmedia.com facebook.com/brawdugs

0131 554 8563

GORGEOUS THERAPIES OPEN DAY 12th September

With the expansion of the Gorgeous new salon space we are celebrating - why not pop in for a free consultation and a glass of sparkle and enjoy these fabulous offers?

£20 for full facial make up Introducing Ruth our fabulous new make up artist - why not take your little ones along and get their faces painted too www.makeitupscotland.com please call 07715435496 for makeup appointments / more info

£5 for a file and polish

with Dionne using formaldehyde free nail varnish by Zoya.

50% off all Gorgeous Potions

Our exclusive range of handmade organic skin care - why not treat yourself with these luxurious vegan products which are packed full of gorgeous natural ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, evening primrose oil, avocado oil, cocoa butter, essential oils etc.

50% off homeopathic consultations

booked during September (usually £70 for an initial adult consultation - child £40) for more information call Rachel on 07947069675.

20% off colouring services *OR a cut & finish during September with Lisa & Dionne - we offer ombre/ bayalage/ high-lights / tinting with a choice of ammonia/ resorcinol/PPD free and low allergy tints - please ask for a free consultation/ quote.

*Please note all colour services need a skin test at least 48 hours before your appointment We use paraben/ SLS free shampoos, eco-friendly heating and recyclable towels.

Please call the salon on 0131 343 1152 for more information. www.gorgeoustherapies.com like us on fb - Gorgeous Therapies and Gorgeous Potions.

Gorgeous Therapies Ltd, 29-35 Hamilton Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5BA. 20

Mrs Jo Ostlere, Edinburgh 07515 861526 www.lighterlife.com/joostlere 21

FOCUS ON VINO

Vino By The Case

By Andrew Lundy, Managing Director, Vino Wines

Returning home from a beach holiday this summer often causes us to want to recreate the food and wine we enjoyed. Mediterranean seafood or rich pasta we can help you find that wine from the table of your favourite place without it turning into a Greek tragedy. WILLIAM CHASE ROSE, 2014, PROVENCE (FRANCE) 13.5%, £13.95 – This wine is born out of holidays, the Chase family have produced Tyrells Crisps for years and Mr Chase is a farmer through and through. After a trip to the Balearic beaches he had enough and missed his tractor so bought a vineyard so the family got sun and he could still farm. The result is this spectacular rose, one not to miss. CLOUD FACTORY SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2014, (NEW ZEALAND) 13.5%, £6.99 when you buy 6 (rrp £9.99) – New Zealand consistently produce vibrant and interesting quality wines and this is no different. Full of juicy citrus fruit along with the customary gooseberry and hints of pineapple this is a serious wine at a serious price. We worked really hard to find a wine that could come in at this price and like the rest the quality of the wine was our first criteria. LOUIS JADOT MACON VILLAGE, BURGUNDY, 2014, (FRANCE), 12.5%, £8.99 when you buy 6 mix and match (rrp £11.99) – Without sounding like a broken record the value with this wine is undeniable, white Burgundy from one of the biggest names in the region. A subtle unoaked Chardonnay that lets the grapes do all the talking, apple and balanced citrus acidity makes this the perfect summer drink. THE HANGING BAT BREW CO, SUN’S UP TABLE BEER, (SCOTLAND), 2.8%, £2.80 500ml NRB. This is made by Edinburgh’s very own Hanging Bat on Lothian Rd, a session IPA with all the quality and the flavour of a serious IPA but with significantly lower alcohol. Perfect for a summer’s day in the sun, lots of lime fruit, balanced bitterness from the hops and a light finish. To find out more please pop in or get in contact by email at info@vinowines.co.uk. Please speak to the Vino team for any of your event or dinner party needs, we have free glass hire and free local delivery. Find out more on our new website.

www.vinowines.co.uk 22

A l pi n e p av i n g & d r iveway s

With over1515years years experience we help can help With over experience we can turn yourdream dream driveway/garden reality. turn your driveway/garden into into reality. Right fromdesign design and planning to installation andcare. after care. Right from and planning to installation and after We arealways alwayshere here help. We are to to help.

10%

10% We are proud to be following approved installers disc scou ount andand paving installer nt -- Tobermore Tobermoredriveway driveway paving installer wit h withthis thisleaf Stone market and landscaping installers leaflet -- Stone marketdriveway driveway and landscaping installers let on on driv ewa driv ys & ewa approved installer ys & -- Natural Naturalpaving paving approved installer pav paving ing

Driveways, paths, patios, walls. Driveways, paths, patios, walls. All work workcomes comeswith with a full warranty on product and installation defects. a full warranty on product and installation defects.

Call for on on 0131 450 450 71577157 Call foraafree freequotation quotation 0131

THE

THE ORIGINAL TILE COMPANY

TILE

Scotlandâ€™s leading supplier of hand-made and hand-painted tiles, glass, mosaic and porcelain, plus a huge range of stone ďŹ‚oor and wall tiles at excellent prices

ORIGINAL COMPANY

4 North West Circus Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6ST

Tel: 0131 225 7356

www.originaltilecompany.co.uk 23

How The LOOPs Phoneline Project Helps people 65+ ‘Get Oot The Hoose’ We had a call from a 77 year old lady who lives with her son and has a diagnosis of dementia. Although her daughter visits daily and shares the care, she is often left alone while everyone is working, she is unable to go out unaccompanied. How could her social isolation be solved? LOOPs had the answer. We contacted a number of services for adults with diagnosed dementia that would provide the care and enjoyable companionship that our client needed so we offered information on The Murrayfield Club and The Open Door as these services would allow our client to get out and enjoy the company of others in a safe and caring environment. A man with a passion for fishing is hindered by his wheelchair so calls the LOOPs phoneline for assistance. He explains that he needs help returning his wheelchair to his house when leaving for fishing trips and assistance on his return. How could LOOPs help him? As there are specific needs, this was complicated but the friendly LOOP team worked tirelessly to find the solution. We contacted LCiL, Community Connecting, Home Instead and others. Lengthy conversations were had and organisations visited to better understand the situation and spoke with the Occupational Therapist. Eventually, our conversations led to the discovery of a volunteer who, coincidently, is also a keen fisherman and now happily assists him twice a week! Result? One happy LOOPs client. A blind lady called LOOPs phoneline as she was keen to socialise but did not want to attend

a lunch club where “everyone seems out if it”. What could we do? LOOPs took action by calling her and having a number of conversations to fully understand her needs. We provided a number of options, set up appointments and contacted RNIB, a service that helps people with sight loss. A recent caller stated: “I was pleased with how the LOOPs phoneline answered my enquiry and felt it was helpful and friendly. I would certainly recommend this project to anyone new in my area

ALL ASPECTS OF ELECTRICAL WORK re-wires electric shower shop fitting smoke alarms lighting, sockets testing & inspection landlord certificates

0131 5550892 07543698172

info@mcelhoneelectricalservices.com www.mcelhoneelectricalservices.com 27

Gas

Member of the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employer’s Federation Edinburgh and District Master Builders Association

Registered Plumbers General Builders FROM DRAWINGS TO COMPLETION CERTIFICATE

We design and install Beautiful Kitchens and Bathrooms  Extensions  Conversions  Plumbing  Central Heating

Established 1981

 Joinery  Property Maintenance

Phone/Fax: 441 2653 for a FREE estimate Vodafone: 07831 449000 9A Fettes Row Edinburgh EH3 6SE

Launch of Befriending Project At Gordon Court, Edinburgh. Volunteer Befrienders help tenants who feel isolated or unable to get out very easily on their own. They offer one-to-one companionship and where possible help an older person to maintain social contacts and be more included in their community or new activities. Bield Housing & Care is launching a befriending initiative at Gordon Court Retirement Development in Edinburgh. We are looking to recruit Befrienders who would visit a tenant on a regular basis for a chat and a cup of tea, go out and about and enjoy local activities together. (Monday or Wednesday mornings). Our tenant is a wheelchair user and training would be provided. The befriending project is already in place at other Bield schemes and has proved very successful. One Bield tenant said: “I have no relatives left and have outlived most of my old friends, so the befriending project has been very welcomed by me”. A local manager said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for our tenants who feel isolated or unable to get out on their own. Many would love to be able to do some of the activities they used to, and with the support of someone else this could be possible again.” Enquiries are welcome from people of all ages over 16. Full training and support will be given and out-of-pocket expenses will be paid. A minimum commitment of six months is required. Please note that these are volunteer, unpaid positions. We thank everyone for their enquiry, however we hope that you understand that not all enquiries will result in volunteer placements. If you are interested or you would like more information please call Christine Wood on 0131 554 3231. 29

General Knowledge Crossword

indicate the word above it should be repeated (5) 21. Persistently or morbidly thoughtful (7) 22. Government department responsible for economic strategy (8) 23. Head honcho (4) Down 1. Tendency to seek distraction or relief from reality (8) 2. Fast-running, longeared mammals (5) 4. Two-dimensional figure (6) 5. Movement of water below the surface flowing in a different direction from that above it (12)

11 12 13

15 16

19 20

6. Large imposing building (7) 7. Weedy annual grass used for forage (4) 8. Able to use both hands equally well (12) 12. foundation in reason

ÂŠPuzzlepress.co.uk

Across 1. Nymph who fell in love with Narcissus and faded away, leaving just her voice (4) 3. Written account of ownership or obligation (8) 9. Burnt sugar used to colour and flavour food (7) 10. Laundering appliance that removes moisture (5) 11. Edible product of the Passiflora plant (7,5) 13. External forms (6) 15. Word uttered by Archimedes (6) 17. Writer of verse officially appointed to the royal household (4,8) 20. Mark used to

or fact (8) 14. Original disciple (7) 16. Covered picnic basket (6) 18. Mexican comrade (5) 19. Entrance passage into a mine (4)on pg 44) (Soln onon pgPg 44)44) (Soln

Timber Window

Renovation

The Alternative to Timber Window Replacement

Recommended

Sarah

Beeny

 Fix hard to operate or stuck shut windows  Eliminate draughts and rattles  Add value to your property  Lower your energy bills  Reduce outside noise LISHED FO AB R ST

BRITAIN AT E RE

Call 0800 243 126 www.ventrolla.co.uk

30 YEA ER RS OV RAFTED IN G -C

Arrange your FREE, no obligation survey and quotation today.

Home & Interiors A Stitch In Time While The Sun Shines By Katherine Sorrell Where to start? Get to know your home. Find out what is it made from and how is it built. Are there any particular areas that might give cause for concern? Make a list, and work out how to tackle each area, ensuring you have the necessary equipment and skills – or, if not, call in an expert. Roofs Twice a year, use binoculars to check the condition of your roof and chimney. Look out for general damage, split leadwork, loose mortar, missing, slipped or broken tiles or slates and anything else suspicious. From inside your loft, check for stains and other evidence of leaks, and examine supporting timbers for signs of deterioration. Brush moss growth off roofs regularly, or else fit copper growth inhibitors. Always be very careful when attempting roof repairs yourself. It is often a better idea to commission a professional to do the work.

Maintaining the fabric of your house – especially if it’s an older property – is, let’s face it, a bit of a chore. But keep on top of it, especially when the weather is good, and you will reap the rewards, says Katherine Sorrell You know the saying about fixing the roof while the sun shines? Well, keeping a regular eye on your property and repairing it when necessary – especially before the onset of winter – is an insurance policy against major problems. Not only will it make life easier in the long run, but it will save money and should also help to maintain the value of your home. As Marianne Suhr, historic buildings surveyor and co-author of Old House Handbook, says: ‘It really is a stitch in time. All buildings can very quickly decline if they are not maintained properly. What starts as a missing roof tile can lead to water ingress, then dry rot, death watch beetle and even structural collapse.’

Rainwater Goods Problems with gutters and downpipes cause damp patches – but are often easily remedied. Wait for heavy rain and walk around the outside of your house, observing where the water is going – is it travelling off the roof and into the gutters, down the downpipes and into the drains? If not, what has gone wrong? Perhaps leaves, moss or other debris have blocked your rainwater goods, perhaps a joint has come apart, or maybe water is gathering in one area. Metal can be welded or patched if necessary, while it is often easier simply to replace damaged plastic sections. If there is sagging, you may need to add extra supporting brackets to create a good slope. Prevention is better than cure, however, so clear gutters, downpipes and gullies regularly, especially after the leaves have fallen in the autumn, and keep an eye out for birds building nests. Redecorate metal rainwater goods when necessary, so they do not corrode. Walls Damp in walls might be caused by the ground level outside being higher than inside. If it is a simple case of build-up, dig back to the correct level. Should problems persist, digging down further and laying a gravel path will create a breathing space for the wall. If exterior render 35

has ‘blown’ due to hairline cracks allowing moisture behind it, carefully remove the loose, hollow or cracked section, leave the wall behind to dry out and re-render appropriately. Keep an eye on mortar– if it has weathered to the same depth as the joint width, or is very loose, it’s time to re-point, matching existing pointing in material and finish. As for a crack in a wall, everyone’s biggest fear, it may not be as scary as you think. Cracks can be caused by many things, most of them nothing to worry about. When you first spot a crack, mark the end of it with a pencil or take a photo and note the date, so you can keep a track on where it is going and how fast. The Building Research Establishment suggests that cracks that measure less than 5mm wide, and do not grow any larger, will generally not affect structural integrity and can simply be redecorated. If you have any concerns, contact a structural engineer for a professional assessment. Doors and Windows IMAGES - Page 1: Bay Is there flaking paint on timber doors and windows? Wait for windows the wood to dry out, then redecorate as soon as possible. If there is rot, fill carefully or else cut out the whole section installed in a period property, by The Sash Window Workshop, out and replace like for like. You can overhaul sash windows tel 01344 868668; www. relatively easily, by re-aligning, replacing cords and adjusting sashwindow.com. the weights; you can even add brushes so they are soundproof and don’t rattle. Metal windows can rust, in which case they Above:Front door painted in Card Room Green exterior should be cleaned and, if necessary, repaired and re-squared. Try planing and/or sanding sticking wooden doors and windows, eggshell, £58 for 2.5l, Farrow & Ball, tel 01202 876141; and check that locks and hinges are doing their job properly. www.farrow-ball.com. Oil them every now and then to keep them in tip top condition.

Classic to Contemporary

0131 332 7474

www.edinburgh-decor.co.uk info@edinburgh-decor.co.uk

Residential & Commercial Decorators free estimates / professional advice / insurance enquiries specialist application including fire retardant coatings, industrial paint finishes and spray painting / multi trade service power washing / ames taping / cornice fitting hand painted furniture / wide vinyl and wallpaper hanging

55 Craigcrook Road Edinburgh EH4 3PH

Keep Fit With Your Dog By Tracy Griffen Owning a dog is a great excuse to get out and about. No matter the size, dogs love a good walk and romp about in a park. Even if you have a big back garden, dogs appreciate getting out in the world, meeting other dogs and having a sniff about. Simply taking your dog for a wander is a great way to get more active. We have fitness pug Coco (pictured) who doesn’t need long walks, but appreciates variety. There are lots of parks and greenspaces in Edinburgh, and it’s good to take advantage of them whilst the weather is still mild. Favourite dog walking places include St Mark’s, Victoria and Inverleith parks, Cramond, shopping at dog-friendly Stockbridge (of course, with a visit to Just Dogs on Reaburn place to pick up some treats), and combining a number of parks in one walk. For instance, our Leith ‘3 park wander’ is Pilrig Park, Hopetoun Crescent Garden, then Gayfield Square and back down Leith Walk. Also good is the Water of Leith path, and the cycle path which nicely links King George

V Park with St Mark’s Park and Victoria Park. If you prefer to move a little faster, you might like to try Cani Cross who often meet in Vogrie Park, near Patthead (see ‘Cani Cross Edinburgh’ on Facebook for more information). Canine Cross Country running is suitable for a range of fitness levels, and the main focus is to enjoy the great outdoors with your pooch. Short nose dogs (i.e. pugs, bull dogs) are not suitable to run distance with, for the main reason that they have a short snout and therefore are more likely to overheat. If you do walk or run with your dog, remember to take fresh drinking water for it. We also give Coco lots of rest stops. Speaking of rest, one of the best things about owning a dog is chill time – time at home together. I would definitely recommend dog training if your dog is not relaxing to be around,

and ‘Lynn the Dog Lady’ (website at www.lynnthe-dog-lady.co.uk) was an excellent trainer for Coco when she was a pup. In fact, Coco is now trained to sit on a cushion in the corner of my fitness studio as I instruct. You can find a huge amount of information about dog-friendly Edinburgh on the Dugs ‘n’ Pubs website https://www.dugswelcome. com including day trips from Edinburgh and contacts for groomers, walkers and other essential doggy things. Tracy Griffen runs Edinburgh’s first dog-friendly fitness studio. Dogs are welcome in Personal Training sessions. If you prefer, Coco the fitness pug sits in on some sessions, and a pug hug is delivered at the end of a good workout. See adjacent advert.

Community Spotlight

Community Spotlight THE SINGING GROUP @ INVERLEITH FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA & THEIR CARER(S) Our group has been running since June 2010 meeting at 2.00 pm on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month. We currently meet at Inverleith St Serf’s Church Hall on Clark Road, Edinburgh. The group is for people with dementia, and their carers, who still live at home in the community. Research has indicated that people with dementia leave singing groups ‘on a high’ and this positive mood can last for some time after each session. This is also good for the well being of the carer. The group come together to sing with emphasis on enjoyment and fun. Volunteers are on hand but those with dementia should be accompanied. There is no charge for attending the Singing Sessions, but a donation for refreshments is appreciated. The group meet for coffee and conversation first, giving people a chance to socialise. Support is also available from volunteers and other families. When singing begins, we sit in a circle ensuring that everyone is equal and not identified by their illness. We then sing along together for around 45 minutes, led by ‘music volunteers’. The group was started by a small number of individuals in June 2010 who understood the importance of music and singing with people with Dementia. All our Volunteers undergo Dementia Awareness Training. For further information, please contact Sheila Hardie 551 1229, Kate Walker 554 4940, Diana Kerr 552 3857 or Pam Robertson 553 7239.

St Vincent’s Chapel Stockbridge Sundays

10.30am Sung Eucharist

(no music on 3rd Sunday in the month)

6pm Evensong

Thursdays

11am Eucharist Join our friendly congregation for a traditional service. All welcome.

stvincentschapel.yolasite.com Scottish Episcopal Church, part of the Anglican Communion

Puzzle Solutions Across: 1 Echo, 3 Document, 9 Caramel, 10 Drier, 11 Passion fruit, 13 Shapes, 15 Eureka, 17 Poet Everyone is welcome Laureate, 20 Ditto, 21 Pensive, 22 Treasury, 23 Boss. at Stockbridge Church.

Down: 1 Escapism, 2 Hares, 4 Oblong, 5 Find us in Saxe-Coburg Street Undercurrent, 6 Edifice, 7 Tare, 8 Ambidextrous, 12 (off Henderson Row). Baseless, 14 Apostle, 16 Hamper, 18 Amigo, 19 Adit. Sunday services 11 am (including children's activities). www.stockbridgechurch.org.uk

Community Spotlight Stockbridge & Inverleith Community Council The next meetings of the community council will be held on September 16th and October 21st at Stockbridge Church, Saxe Coburg Street, Stockbridge. Meetings start at 7pm. All members of the public are welcome.

http://www.stockbridgeandinverleithcc. moonfruit.com

Scottish Country Dance Club Looking for fun, fitness & friendship? Why not come Scottish Country Dancing with the Trinity Scottish Country Dance Club? We meet regularly on Saturday evenings in Edinburgh Academy Junior School, Arboretm Road, Edinburgh from 7.30PM. Our season commences on the 26th September 2015. Full details can be found on our web site www.trinityscdc.eu or phone James Summers on 0131 552 7657.

Stockbridge And New Town Community Orchestra Concert The next concert is on Thursday 28 May at 7.30pm in Stockbridge Parish Church, Saxe Coburg Street EH3. Tickets will £5.00 at the door. The Summer Concert is a joint concert with Stockbridge Parish Church choir and the main piece will be a joint performance of Haydn’s Te Deum. Other pieces will be Haydn Symphony No 104, Strauss - Die Fledermaus Overture and Walton - Crown Imperial

October Issue Artwork Deadline : 18th September Distribution : 30th September

www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk

Supporting St Columba’s Hospice The Nudge is a family friendly fun 5 mile walk which takes place in the beautiful surroundings of the Pentlands Hills with great entertainment, food and refreshments included as well as a goody bag for all participants.

St Vincent’s Chapel Stockbridge This event is aimed at raising vital funds for St Columba’s Hospice, Edinburgh who Sundays 10.30am Sung Eucharist provide specialist care to patients with life (no music on 3rd Sunday in the month) limiting diseases and care and support 6pm Evensong for their families and loved ones in the Edinburgh Lothian area. Thursdaysand 11am Eucharist

The registration fee isJoin £25our andfriendly registration for aClub, opens at The Hub,congregation Swanston Golf traditional service. 111-112 Swanston Rd., Edinburgh,EH10 7DS at 12pm on the day of the walk. The All welcome. walk itself commences at 1pm. stvincentschapel.yolasite.com Please see our website Scottish Episcopal Church, part of for http://pentlandpush.com/the-nudge/ the Anglican Communion online registration or email push@stcolumbashospice.org. uk or contact the Fundraising Team on 0131 551 7731.

Everyone is welcome at Stockbridge Church. Find us in Saxe-Coburg Street (off Henderson Row).

Sunday services 11 am

(including children's activities).

www.stockbridgechurch.org.uk "Malawi mornings" every Friday 10.30 - 12 in the church. Please join us for Fairtrade tea/coffee, biscuits and good company to raise funds for our Malawi projects. 45

Community Spotlight

Over 50? Come for a walk in The Meadows. Walking is one of the best ways to keep body and mind in good health. It’s easy to do, it doesn’t need special skills or equipment, it can be done anywhere and any time. Plus: if you walk in a group you meet new people and have a chance for a good “blether”. Ideally we would all walk for 30 minutes most days, but many of us can’t quite manage this much - yet we would like to be more active. Ageing Well, a project run by Edinburgh Leisure and funded by NHS Lothian, recognises that, so they have started a scheme to help folk with the amount of walking they can do. After a successful first series, this second series of walks will run every Monday and Thursday morning from 13th July – 24th Sept. Just come along to Summerhall (what used to be the ‘Dick Vet’ college beside the Meadows: meet at the front door) on any of those days for a 10.30am start. It’s free, it’s open to everyone over 50, and there will be qualified walk leaders to guide your every step. If you have any questions phone the Ageing Well team on 0131 458 2183.

October Issue Artwork Deadline : 18th September Distribution : 30th September For inclusion of your community or charity event please contact Sue Hutchison.

T : 0131 6186622

(Include area code when calling)

M : 07817 206418 E: sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk

www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk 46

Acupuncture Blackhall Acupuncture

Bathroom Design And Installation Edinburgh Bathroom Company 19 Baby Massage Scents of Wellbeing

Beauty Therapies Gorgeous Therapies

Birthing Courses Scents of Wellbeing

Builders Jim Rafferty & Son

Carpets & Flooring James Erskine

Chiropodists Mary O’Sullivan New Town Footcare

36 41

Cleaning Services Homestead Help

Clock Repair & Restoration Lucas Clocks Complementary Therapies Blackhall Acupuncture Gorgeous Therapies Neal’s Yard Scents Of Wellbeing

12 11 20 26 34

Computer Lessons Personal Computer Lessons 7 Computer Services AV & PC Homehelp 18 Simplyfixit 27 Decorators AM Decorating Edinburgh Decorators

42 39

Dog Grooming Braw Dugs

Driveways Alpine Paving Electricians McElhone Electrical Estate Agents Savills Edinburgh

Events 7ahead.com Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Fostering Services Foster With Edinburgh French Polishing James Erskine

1 7 29

Gardening Interests Royal Botanic Garden Membership

Gardening Services Bernie Reddington Robbie Millar Stewart Gardening

17 10 9

Gas & Central Heating JSB Plumbing & Sons Plumbfaster Walker Gas

42 27 2/3

Gift Shops Gorgeous Therapies

MP Surgeries Marco Biagi

Office/Garage Clearances Man With A Van/Men With A Van 32 Organic Produce Real Foods

Osteopaths Active X Backs

Paving Services Alpine Paving

Plumbing Services Jim Rafferty & Sons JSB Plumbing & Son Plumbfaster

28 42 27

Property Maintenance KS Property Maintenance Tip Top Renovator

7 9

Property Management Raspberry Residential Savills Edinburgh

21 8

Property Rental Greatbase

Handyman Services Capital Joinery Services David A Burnett

Recycling Services Edinburgh City Council

42 23

Roofing Services DCM Construction

Hairdressers Gorgeous Therapies

Removal/House Clearances Man With A Van/Men With A Van 32

Going Out 7ahead.com Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden Membership

20 40 1

Health & Fitness Griffen Fitness Pilates Matwork Classes Qi Gong & Tai Chi For Beginners Westwoods Health Club

18 13

Health Food Shops Real Foods

41 9

Hearing Services Edinburgh Hearing Practice 25

Jewellers Sheila Fleet The Ringmaker

Joinery Services Capital Joinery Service Edinburgh Joinery

30/31 38 42 39

Language Classes/Courses Speak Out With Confidence 17

Schools Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools 24 St George’s School For Girls 5 Tai Chi Classes Qi Gong & Tai Chi For Beginners

Tile Suppliers The Original Tile Company

Upholstery James Erskine

Weight Management Lighter Life

Window Renovation Craftworx 14 Ventrolla 33 Wine Shops Vino

22 47