Stockbridge Spotlight March/April 2022 Issue 105

ISSUE 105 March/April 2022

STOCKBRIDGE SPOTLIGHT

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Welcome to another issue of the Stockbridge Spotlight. As I write this article the current world situation is hugely worrying and the images we are seeing heartbreaking. I would like to say more but since I write this 10 days before the Spotlight drops through your door, anything I say is unlikely to be timely. All I can hope is that the situation has improved and we have been able to help the many people who have lost their homes and loved ones.

On a lighter note, Spring should be just around the corner ... hopefully. The mornings are already lighter earlier and the evenings are getting longer. And I saw some of my neighbours were out starting to tidy their garden at the weekend. Which usually means ..... the next garden and home improvement projects list is being put together.

I know some of you will enjoy tackling these projects. But for others - me being one of them - that means looking for a tradesperson to help out. And of course, the Spotlight is always a good place to start looking. Many of our advertisers are local or not far away from you which means they won't have long travelling times or high fuel costs to cover when they are quoting or carrying out work. Or vice versa, if it is a business that you need to travel to.

It goes without saying, we all want the assurance that somebody is going to do a good job. Small businesses rely on their reputation for repeat business and word will soon spread in a community if a rogue trader is out there. Although it’s really unusual, we have occasionally had a call from a resident to express their unhappiness about a business.

There are two sides to every story of course, but we always speak to the trader if we have had a complaint.

So why not keep it local, keep the cost down and build your own personal network of tradespeople you trust. With the Spotlight being the place to begin.

Contents 6 A Facelift For Your Front Door

The Stockbridge Spotlight

10 Hard Sudoku

Editor : Sue Hutchison T : 0131 618 6622 (include area code when calling)

14 An Update By Councillor Max Mitchell

M : 07817 206 418

18 Books For Wellbeing

E: sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk

22 The Benefits Of Meditation 32 The Gentle Art Of Smoothie Making 34 General Knowledge Crossword 36 Animal Jokes 37 Community Page 38 Puzzle Solutions 39 Recipe - Rhubarb & Ginger Mousse

May/June 2022 Issue Artwork Deadline - 29th April Distribution Date - 11th/12th/13th May 4

Best Wishes Sue

Office : 98 Ferry Road, Edin, EH6 4PG

www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk “All 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 publication”

Distribution Johnson Distribution Services. www.jdsdoor2door.co.uk Printing Cowan Print : www.cowanprint.net

A family run business for almost 45 years, The Bed Shop specialises in supplying a vast range from leading brands such as Harrison Spinks, Sealy and Silentnight at prices our competitors simply cannot match.

With around 400 five star Google reviews, we’re proud to be Edinburgh’s leading bedding advisors and look forward to welcoming you to our parkingfriendly, luxury showroom on Bonnington Road.

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Deceased Houses Respectfully Cleared

HARD SUDOKU 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 - there’s no maths involved and no adding up.

Its fun. Its challenging Its addictive. (Soln on pg 38)

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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 Finalists in the 2019 and 2020 Scottish Mortgage Awards for both Best Mortgage Broker Edinburgh & Scotland categories Thinking of Equity Release?

Talk to us for Independent Whole of Market Later Life Lending advice. We will ensure you are provided with the most suitable product whether that is a:- Retirement Interest Only (RIO) Mortgage - Equity Release /Lifetime Mortgage - Standard Residential Mortgage (Interest Only or Capital repayment up to age 85 years) For a free, friendly no obligation chat please get in touch.

Our office is closed due to COVID but we are still working and available to contact by phone on 0131 344 4301 or email: contact@mallenymortgagesolutions.com

www.mallenymortgagesolutions.com 175 Bruntsfield Place, Edinburgh. EH10 4DG

A member of the Equity Release Council.

Regulated and Authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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An Update From Councillor Max Mitchell Inverleith Park Drainage Residents may have noticed work taking place on the north east quadrant of Inverleith Park. Starting last month on 14th February, the work got underway to help resolve the drainage issues that have been an issue for many years. Even a level of rainfall that was not particularly heavy could easily overwhelm the current drainage system causing flooding of the grass and paths. This new system will help prevent flooding and speed up recovery of the grass areas. The work is carbon neutral and should be completed before the end of March.

Water of Leith Closures Finally! The reinstatement works of the land slip above the Water of Leith at Dean Path are very nearly finished. Council officers from Parks & Green Spaces are very optimistic that the walkway will be able to reopen fully at the end of March. Some work may still need to be finished on the bank, but it is very good news after having closed for a second time in 2016. Unfortunately, the situation with the timber walkway behind The Britannia Hotel has still not been resolved as it is not in the Council’s ownership. Council officers are, however, trying to assist with its repair ASAP.

LEZ and Short-Term Lets You may recall I wrote in previous Stockbridge Spotlights about the Council establishing a low emission zone (August/September 2021 issue) in the city centre and the zoning of the city as a short-term lets pressure zone (October 2021 issue). These decisions have now been taken by the Council. This means that from summer 2024, vehicles not meeting specific emissions standards will not be able to enter the city centre without being fined, and a property functioning as a short-term let will require planning permission to operate and it will need to be appropriately licensed. Interestingly, the Council is not able to enact either without the Scottish Government’s approval, so we will have to wait for their verdict.

Bus Travel for Under 22s As of 31st January 2022, residents of Scotland aged 5-21 are able to access free travel on bus services across Scotland with a new or replacement National Entitlement Card or Young Scot Card.

Information about the scheme and how to apply is available on Transport Scotland’s website. Residents with any questions about the scheme can contact Transport Scotland directly at concessionarytravel@transport.gov.scot.

Please don’t hesitate to contact Inverleith Ward councillor Max Mitchell by email, max.mitchell@edinburgh.gov.uk, or by phone 0131 529 4409, with any local issues or questions.

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All About Studio 48!

Over the last 8 years I’ve had the pleasure of being able to teach children’s art classes in my studio, and now, I’m excited to be embarking on a new chapter in a new location! I’ll still be teaching all of my usual classes, just over in a bigger and more suitable space at The Matrix (62-66 Newhaven Road).

Not only does this enable me to offer larger class sizes, but it also means we’ll be offering adult art classes, as well as being able to host events such as birthday parties!

New Adult Art Classes I’m really pleased to be able to offer adult art classes in the new studio. These classes will be taught by Rosemary Taylor and Eriko Kono, both wonderful artists who will be sharing their passion and expertise.

Current classes offered include: Watercolour Build confidence in using watercolours.

We’ll explore different ways of using the paint by incorporating and adding a wide variety of media, subjects, and techniques to enhance each piece of work, plus use traditional and more unconventional approaches to achieve some stunning results.

Papercutting This course is designed to grow your confidence in creating and stylising your own papercut designs while developing papercutting skills. We explore the concept of positive and negative space, and how to enrich narratives in monocoloured 2D designs by incorporating a variety of textures, lines and colours.

Papercrafts Enjoy papercutting in a friendly and relaxed ambience. This course guides you through a range of projects that will provide a base for inspiration to create your own work of art, including hanging rosettes, gift boxes, cards in various 2D to pop-up styles, a Wycinanki-style decoration, mini plants in pots, papercuts in a box frame, and lanterns.

Mixed Media This class will explore a huge range of media including oil and chalk pastels, graphite and coloured pencils, paints, inks, papers, fabrics, threads, and more.

To make the most of these different media we’ll employ techniques such as painting, printing, stitching, sgraffito, and collage.

Each of these classes will be 2 hours long and run for 10 weekly sessions, beginning at the end of April. The cost for each term is £216, with some or all of the materials provided, as well as refreshments.

To book for watercolour or mixed media contact Rosemary at artstudiorjt@gmail.com or for papercrafts and papercutting contact Eriko at ebzkono@gmail.com.

For more details wisit www.sallyannjohns.com.

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Children Art Classes My children’s classes focus on learning art in a fun way, within a supportive and relaxed creative environment. Subjects covered include line & shading, perspective, composition, and figurative drawing. We also look at different materials, such as clay and plaster, as various craft techniques are explored.

I ensure that there is a welcoming noncritical atmosphere that is focused on the art and the art process in a positive way for enjoyment and pleasure, rather than any particular academic outcome.

The Easter term begins at the end of April and runs for 10 weeks, with classes suitable for ages 6-10 or 10-14.

Visit www.sallyannjohns.com to book.

New Studio Opening Party 10th April I’m opening the doors so that everyone can come check out the new space at The Matrix.

On 10 April from 2-4pm I’m having an Open House, which of course includes making crafts!

Everyone is welcome to join, and we will be doing a variety of Easter-themed Crafts that will be suitable for all ages. Crafts include paper bunnies and bunny cones – with all materials being provided.

This is a drop-in so come by anytime between 2 and 4pm, and to help keep track of numbers please book tickets for the number of adults and children that will be coming.

Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Any questions please email sally@sallyannjohns.com. I look forward to seeing you there, this is just the beginning of a bustling new studio!

Sally

Studio 48, The Matrix, 62-66 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh, EH6 5QB 07956 059483 www.sallyannjohns.com 17

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NEW GROUP OPENING 22ND APRIL Granton

Granton Parish Church 55 Boswall Parkway, Edinburgh, EH5 2DA Friday 9:30am Tel: Anne 07821 273666

Merchiston

North Merchiston Club 48 Watson Crescent Edinburgh, EH11 1EP Tuesday 5:00pm Tel: Anne 07821 273666

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How Slimming World Transformed My Life My name is Anne and after losing 3st 4.5lb in 10 months I used this success to shape a new career helping people change their lives and achieve their weight loss dreams too.

I was very self-conscious about my weight and finding clothes to disguise my shape was always my challenge. My mood was low and when the menopause crept up on me, so did my weight.

I had a special birthday coming up and dreamt of wearing a fabulous dress and feeling incredible.

Before

It was nerve-wracking when walking into a group for the first time. I needn’t have worried however because everyone was welcoming and non-judgemental. I knew that I was in a safe place, my weight was kept confidential and, I was amongst likeminded people.

I was introduced to Slimming Worlds’ Food Optimising plan and was amazed to hear about all the foods you could eat without weighing, measuring or counting so that I never felt hungry. I had previously eaten a lot of bread, cereal, and quick meals – in no way a balanced diet - but after joining my group, I enjoyed being back in the kitchen making quick and easy meals like carbonara, tandoori salmon and crispy chilli beef. These meals could be served with rice, potatoes, and pasta and not a calorie to be counted. I could still enjoy chocolate and a glass of prosecco and stay within my allowance – nothing in moderation was banned. Discussion in Group helped me to understand the psychology of weight loss and to change my eating habits.

After dropping 2 dress sizes, I am much happier, confident and feel more positive about my body. I have far more energy: so much so that I have taken up regular activity that I’m enjoying too.

I have now trained as a Consultant for Slimming World - the UK’s largest group-based weight loss organisation – and currently running a group at the North Merchiston Club, Merchiston.

After

NEW GROUP starting Friday 22nd April at Granton Parish Church, Granton on Friday mornings 9.30am.

Why not join us?

Call Anne 07821 273666.

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THE BENEFITS OF MEDITATION

Give yourself the gift of a natural high – a gift that just keeps giving!!!!

By Gillian Dalgliesh, Hypnotherapist & Healer Meditation is a clinically proven state of deep relaxation and a self-healing method which creates harmony & a tranquil mind. It’s a lovely, conscious detachment from our busy daily lives or thoughts by focusing on our breath. It’s a type of mind/body complementary medicine.

It’s easy to do, it has fabulous benefits, and it’s free!!!

Meditation isn’t just about the mind - your whole physical self undergoes change, such as • lowered blood pressure • increased levels of nitric oxide in the blood – helping to reduce anxiety attacks and depression • increased serotonin – leading to improvements in mood & behaviour • a boosted immune system – thus positively affecting auto-immune health conditions • it decreases tension-related pain, such as headaches, musculoskeletal disorders • Increases energy levels – the stressed out brain uses up and depletes energy levels • It actually alters the brain, enabling us to sustainably better manage the ‘fight, freeze or flight state of mind’ & panic states Meditation takes us from our busy beta brainwaves state to our alpha brainwaves – a state of wakeful relaxation where we can rest & repair. It nourishes us from within and calms us.

With regular practice, we can build up our emotional resilience and create a default state of wellbeing, equilibrium & peace.

So what about the mental & emotional benefits of meditation?

Clinical studies have shown 10 benefits of mediation that I have listed on my website, however, I have noted a few below. If you’d like to learn the rest, recommendations on how to meditate, or how often, then have a look on the Blog on my website https://www. gilliandalgliesh.com/blog/ Meditation: 1. Reduces anxiety 2. It helps you to better manage stress 3. Improves emotional stability – you can have more control over your emotions 4. Alters one’s perspective due to peace of mind & clarity 5. Gives you more focus & rationality If you are experiencing issues that are causing you concern or distress, then please get in touch. I offer a free Discovery Call where we can have a chat about how you may be able to resolve things. See ad for contact details.

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Are you struggling to deal with issues in your life?

Weight Loss? Anxiety?

Stress? Smoking?

Phobias? Alcohol?

Confidence?

If so, then hypnotherapy may be the solution.

Find out more about my holistic approach to resolving client’s issues on my website www.gilliandalgliesh.com or call me on 07593 082 349 for a free consultation

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May/June 2022 Issue Artwork Deadline : 29th April Distribution Date : 11th/12th/13th May

To be included in the next issue please contact Sue Hutchison.

Community and Charity Events can be included at no cost.

T : 07817 206418 E : sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk

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Perceptions - Life With Muscular Dystrophy An artistic view of living with Muscular Dystrophy, including original paintings by Edinburgh based artists.

Date: 21st May 2022 Venue: Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Queens Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD Time: 8pm - 11pm Tickets: FREE on Eventbrite (donation to MDUK charity at the door)

Artist: Damian Callan ‘New Surf’ We welcome you afterhours to the SNP gallery for a unique event. It has been designed to open up the conversation about the perceptions we have when we see what life may look and feel like when someone is living with a condition such as Facioscapulahumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD).

There will be a variety of original paintings from the attending artists’ own portfolio of work. Along with a selection of paintings and a photography exhibition where the curator, who has this condition, has collaborated with a number of artists including Damian Callan, Jennifer Colquhoun, Maxime Ragni and Lucy Campbell.

These allow the viewer to see the way in which FSHD affects the body’s movement and highlights the human desire to embrace life regardless of the limitations such a condition can bestow.

Artist: Damian Callan Oil on Canvas, ‘Stepping Out’

Artist : Eleanor Cunningham 'Dunbar Harbour' 26

The event will see the monies raised through the sale of art work benefit the Muscular Dystrophy UK charity and the supporting artists at this one evening event.

Artist : David Schofield

'Autumn Light, Gallanach'

CHECK OUT INSTAGRAM @ali.artspoken @illustratedlab for behind the scenes and artist interviews

Quick fact : FSHD affects over 2.500 people in the UK and leads to over 20% requiring a wheelchair with some unable to live independently.

There will be a donation collection at the door on arrival along with % of sales from each piece sold given to MDUK charity through the Alexandra’s family fund and to the supporting artists.

Jennifer Colquhoun, the artist behind the images from The Illustrated Lab, will be producing a series of pieces that use ecorche to look under the skin of the main areas that are affected by FSHD. Previously published in the 2019 Royal Society Magazine with a range of textbook illustrations and holding a masters in Medical Art, Jennifer continues to work at the Colburg House Art Studios. It is evident in her attention to detail and the amount of research she is willing to put into each piece that she is the right person for this project.

Ecorche (French: “flayed,” or “skinned”) means an anatomical figure depicting a human with the skin removed to show the location and interplay of the muscles. Each piece is created through a series of initial artist sketches and completed in acrylic ink. Each layer is placed individually on top of one and other to create the final image.

There will be Attending Artists a selection of Damian Callan - figurative, Lucy Campbell items up for - magical realism, Jennifer Colquhoun (The silent auction Illustrated Lab) - anatomical illustrations, on the night David Schofield - Illustrator & painter, Ritchie Collins - magical realism/folklore and along with the chance to win Eleanor Cunningham - abstract landscape. £100 in our Photography by Maxime Ragni with model Artist : Ritchie Collins prize draw.

Alexandra.

'Lost At Sea'

The work produced for this event is not part of the gallery's own portfolio. However the event allows access to the Grand Hall, Ramsey room and the Portrait room for viewing throughout the evening.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/perceptions-life-with-muscular-dystrophy-tickets-221911462157

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The Gentle Art of Smoothie Making

By Tracy Griffen It’s a lean time of year for seasonal fresh fruit, and getting your five a day might feel like a bit of a challenge. You could make a green smoothie with leafy vegetables such as raw kale and spinach. I’m a traditionalist who prefers fruity smoothies and green vegetables cooked into soups. I don’t know anyone who actually enjoys a raw kale smoothie, so you may as well make something you like to drink! Go fruity!

Buy frozen strawberries, mango, pineapple and mixed berries from the supermarket freezer section, cheaper and more easily available than fresh. You can also freeze whole peeled bananas if they’re starting to turn.

Excellent for a mid-morning pick-me-up, remember that fruit contains sugars, which is why I like to add dairy and other ingredients to lower the glycaemic index (i.e. slow down release of energy and give less of a sugar spike).

Here are some of my favourites. I’d love to see your recipes, tweet me @tracygriffen or email tracy@griffenfitness.com – the best will get featured in a future article. All quantities are according to taste, or what you have available.

Pure Fruit Smoothie - A Perfect Hit Of Vitamin C 200ml orange juice

Handful frozen berries

Squeeze of fresh lemon/lime juice

Dairy Banana Smoothie Milk, yoghurt and wheatgerm makes this an excellent post-workout treat. The thick texture is quite filling and it satisfies hunger quite effectively. You can use plant-based milk/yoghurt instead.

1 - 2 bananas (it's a good way to use manky black bananas) 1 Tbsp natural/flavoured yoghurt 200ml semi skimmed milk Drizzle of local honey (optional) 1 tsp wheatgerm, hemp or sunflower seeds (optional)

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A banana

Splash of water, for a better consistency

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General Knowledge Crossword

(soln on pg 38)

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Community Spotlight

Friends Of Inverleith Park Launch Fundraising Campaign For New Children’s Play Area More than ever before the people of Edinburgh need public parks and access to outside space. This is why Friends of Inverleith Park, a volunteer community group, is supporting the council’s masterplan to improve the tired-looking 54-acre site.

The first area to tackle is the shabby children’s play park, which is located in the south east corner of the much-loved greenspace. Friends of Inverleith Park are hoping to raise in excess of £300,000 for the project by turning to the local community for help with fundraising as well as applying for various grants.

There are several ways to support this project: 1: Donate via text message to give £5, text PLAYPARK to 70450 (texts cost £5 + one standard network rate message).

2: Donate online : visit bit.ly/newplaypark 3: Become a sponsor and have your name or business listed on the sponsors’ board 4: Volunteer to help with fundraising To find out more email newplaypark@hotmail.com

EDINBURGH FLORAL ART CLUB MEETINGS The club meets at Blackhall St. Columba’s Church hall, Queensferry Road, the second Friday of each month from 2pm to 4pm

Future Meetings April 8th Annabel Findlay from Stirling "Out and About" May 13th Esther Kuck from Edinburgh "Wild and Wonderful May"

St Vincent’s Chapel Stockbridge

SundaysS Sundays

10.30am Sung Eucharist

(no music on 3rd Sunday in the month)

6pm Evensong 6pm Evensong

Thursdays

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

All welcome.

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

March/April 2022 Issue : Artwork Deadline : 29th April Distribution Date : 11th - 13th May

Everyone is welcome at Stockbridge Church.

Contact Sue Hutchison to book space Membership for the year 2021/2022 is £20 and new members and visitors are always welcome

T : 07817 296418 Find us in Saxe-Coburg Street E : sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk (off Henderson Row). www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk Sunday services 11 am children's activities).

These pages are free to Community Groups, (including Not-For-Profit Organisations and Charities. Please let us know about anywww.stockbridgechurch.org.uk events you are organising so we can help you publicise them to the local residents.

"Malawi mornings" every Friday 10.30 - 12 in the church. Please join us for

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Accountants TaxAssist Accountants

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Acupuncture Katherine Dandridge Acupuncture Art Classes Studio 48 Art Exhibitions Perceptions - Life With Muscular Dystrophy

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Bathrooms BMAS Bed Suppliers The Bed Shop Building Services Ronald G Graham CBD Products The Hemp Community

Complementary Therapies Gillian Dalgleish Katherine Dandridge Acupuncture

Rugs/Kilim Repair & Cleaning The Nomads Tent 9

Going Out Easter Trail At The Botanics 3 Perceptions - Life With Muscular Dystrophy 26/27 The Festival Theatre 1

Solicitors Gibson Kerr

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Health & Fitness Griffen Fitness 32 Tai Chi & Qigong Relaxation Classes 31

Theatres The Festival Theatre

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Weight Management Slimming World

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Hypnotherapy Gillian Dalgleish

Window Renovation Craftworx Ventrolla

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Interior Design Countryside Kitchens & Interiors 15 Jewellers Sheila Fleet

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Landscaping Edinburgh Driveways & Landscaping

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Language Tuition Speak Out With Confidence 23 Mortgage Services Malleny Mortgage Solutions 13 Office/Garage Clearance Man/Men With A Van

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Opticians Gibson Syme

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Paving Services Alpine Paving & Driveways

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Driveways Alpine Paving & Driveways 36 Edinburgh Driveways & Landscaping 15

Personal Law Gibson Kerr

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Electricians Kelly Electrical McElhone Electrical

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Property Letting Retties

Eye Wear Gibson Syme

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Decoratoring Services AM Decorating Barry McGuire DCM Construction Drama Classes Strange Town

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Tai Chi Classes Tai Chi & Qigong Relaxation Classes 31

Tile Suppliers Edinburgh Tile Studio

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Counselling Services Bright Light 8 Counselling Conversations 24

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Theatre Companies Strange Town

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Kitchens Countryside Kitchens & Interiors 15

Computer Services AV & PC Homehelp 23 Simplyfixit 25

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Gas & Central Heating TB Mackay Energy Services 30

Health & Wellness Slimming World The Hemp Community

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Removals/House Clearances Man/Men With A Van 10 Roofing Services Ronald G Graham

Handyman Services David A Burnett

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Gardening Services Twinflower 7

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Childrens Activities Easter Trail At The Botanics 3 Strange Town 12 Studio 48 16/17 Chiropodists New Town Footcare

Furnishings & Interiors The Nomads Tent

Plastering DCM Construction

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Qigong Classes Tai Chi & Qigong Relaxation Classes 31

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Moth, 3 Molasses, 9 Seaweed, 10 Circa, 11 Unscientific, 14 Toe, 16 Abode, 17 Eve, 18 Irresistible, 21 Reins, 22 Piranha, 23 Arsonist, 24 Dose.

Down: 1 Mosquito, 2 Traps, 4 Odd, 5 Architecture, 6 Sardine, 7 Scab, 8 Delicatessen, 12 Naomi, 13 Serenade, 15 Earwigs, 19 Bongo, 20 Area, 22 Pas

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