Stockbridge Spotlight November 2017 Issue 70

ISSUE 70 November 2017

STOCKBRIDGE SPOTLIGHT

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The magical, botanical, illuminated trail

CHRISTMAS

AT THE

BOTANICS

After-dark festive fun for all the family Scented Fire Garden Choir of the Trees The Crystal Lawn Santa and his Elves Seasonal Food and Gifts

24 NOVEMBER – 30 DECEMBER

rbge.org.uk/christmas 08716 207 051

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Welcome to this November issue of the Spotlight. You can tell that by the time this issue hits your door there are less than 8 weeks till Christmas. We have adverts for Christmas Trees, Christmas jewellery, Christmas gifts, Christmas coffee mornings, Christmas events, Christmas art exhibitions, Stockbridge Christmas Festival and of course the ever popular Christmas pantomime .....

The Stockbridge Spotlight

If you have Christmas events you would like to feature in the next issue please get in touch soon as the December issue always fills up fast.

“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”

And if you need some extra cash to help towards Christmas costs there is still time to join my Body Shop At Home Team. Or to do some Christmas shopping in the comfort of your own home, book a Body Shop night in with me and see, smell, try our products and Christmas ranges in the comfort of your own home . And get some free shopping too!!!

It’s not all Christmas though, so have a quiet seat and a read through this issue to see what else is going on in and around your area. I Hope you enjoy what you find on our pages.

Best Wishes Sue December 2017 Issue Artwork Deadline 23rd November Distribution Date 6th/7th December The Spotlight will then take a break in January and return with an issue around the 9th of February.

The exact date will be confirmed in the next issue or check our website for more details and updates. www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk 4

Editor : Sue Hutchison T : 0131 618 6622 (Always include area code when calling) M : 07817 206 418 E: sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk Office : 98 Ferry Road, Edin, EH6 4PG

www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk

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

Contents 6 The History of Chocolate 8 Spotlight On Sparkling Wines 12 And Another Thing - Tom And The Man Who Came To Dinner (Part 2) 18 Lifecare At Christmas 22 Hard Soduko 28 Gardening - A Busy November 36 Mini Cryptic Crossword 38 Leith Probus Are Looking For New Members 41 Health & Fitness - Life Is A Balancing Act 42 Hobbies - Bottoms Up To Wine Tasting 46 Retirement - Time To Call In The Builders 48-50 Community Spotlight / Puzzle Solutions

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The History of Chocolate

By Catherine Rose Our favourite confectionery, chocolate

dates back four thousand years to Central America where indigenous Indian tribes produced an antecedent very different to today’s.

Although debated, the word chocolate is said to come from the Mayan term ‘xocalatl’ meaning ‘bitter water’. It was the Mayans who first cultivated the cacao plant growing in the rainforests of Mesoamerica - an area that today encompasses Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. They fermented, roasted and ground the beans of the plant into a paste that they would mix with water and spices to produce a potent frothy bitter liquor. Drunk cold, it was an aphrodisiac with magical mood-enhancing properties.

Casparus’ son Coenraad van Houten, a chemist, continued his father’s work, adding alkaline salts to remove the naturally bitter taste. By using the ‘Dutching method’ that combined and heated the mass with water, cocoa butter and sugar, Coenraad produced a thick chocolate paste which then hardened inside moulds into a delicious confectionery.

When van Houten’s patent expired in 1836, other companies started manufacturing their own chocolate. In 1847, J.S. Fry & Sons produced the first commercial chocolate bar in England. Although it was not as palatable as the chocolate we eat today, people were enthralled, and the company launched their eponymous Fry’s Chocolate Cream in 1866.

On conquering the Mayans, the Aztecs who lived in the mountains where cacao did not grow naturally - demanded a tax in cacao seeds so that they could control and cultivate the beans themselves. Cacao seeds became a currency for the Aztecs and were used to buy everything from produce to prostitutes!

That same year, Richard and George Cadbury, philanthropists who had taken over their father’s cocoa business, purchased one of van Houten’s cocoa presses. They began producing boxes of chocolates at their Birmingham factory. In 1875 they unveiled their first dark chocolate Easter egg filled with chocolate dragees.

Believed to be a gift from their god of creation and wisdom, Quetzalcoatl, cacao was so precious that chocolate was reserved for those of importance such as rulers, warriors and priests, and often drunk from gold vessels during religious ceremonies.

Women were not permitted to partake.

The Swiss have long been at the forefront of chocolate-making and in the same year that Cadbury produced its first Easter egg, the first milk chocolate bar was made by a Swiss confectioner named Daniel Peter after he added condensed milk to the chocolatemaking process. Then in 1879, Rodolphe Lindt invented the conching machine. The machine agitated the chocolate mixture and revolutionised its texture, making a much smoother, more velvety paste.

Conquistadors took chocolate back to Spain in the 16th century where they added sugar to sweeten it. Soon, the custom of drinking chocolate had spread across Europe.

Cocoa plantations were set up in tropical regions of the various colonies.

The early part of the 20th century saw an explosion in the availability of chocolate It wasn’t until 1828 that the solid sweet with names that are still popular 100 chocolate we know today was born. years later. Cadbury’s Dairy Milk was Casparus van Houten invented the hydraulic launched in 1905 made with ‘more milk cocoa press which separated cocoa butter than any other chocolate bar’. In 1914, (contained in the bean’s nib) from cocoa Fry’s Turkish Delight was produced. Then mass. This ground mass became the basis in 1915, Milk Tray came onto the market for modern chocolate. the first box of chocolates affordable to all.

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Spotlight On Sparkling Wines

By Diana Thompson

It’s Fizz Time!

With the Festive Season just around the corner it’s time to think about our Festive Fizz. Never before have we been so spoilt with such a diverse choice of sparkling wine from your everyday Prosecco to that Grande Marques Champagne for the extra special occasion. In between these there’s a huge range of styles to discover. France has some very tempting Crémants which are made using the traditional sparkling wine method (as in Champagne). Look out for Crémant de Loire, Crémant d’Alsace and Crémant de Bourgogne in particular. These sparkling wines are often light in style, offer excellent value and one glass is never enough.

Heading to Italy Prosecco is the obvious choice and a good one too. Keep an eye out for Zonin which we should be seeing more of in Edinburgh especially with the recent opening of The Wine House Hotel 1821 in Picardy Place. Transport yourself to Italy by enjoying a glass or two there in the Zonin 1821 Wine Library. It’s just like walking into Zonin’s winery so if you’re on your own there’s plenty of wines to look at or wine related reading material to enjoy. Sommelier Ladis Basta will also be only too happy to talk at length about Zonin’s wines which are all very reasonably priced too.

Aside from Prosecco, Italy has plenty more hidden gems to discover. Franciacorta is still relatively unknown yet is up there on the premium quality levels with Champagne.

Made in the traditional method, Franciacorta is from the Lombardy area in Northern Italy which is also a DOCG classified region Italy’s top classification for wine. So, all in all it’s fantastic quality and not surprisingly it tastes great too. Look out for these wines as

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they also offer excellent value for money from around £20. A couple of favourites of mine are Ferghettina and Bellavista.

Here in the UK we’re now seeing many English Sparkling Wines starting to emerge on the shelves. Previously not taken that seriously by many, these wines are now going head to head in blind tastings against Champagnes and coming out tops! A favourite producer of mine is Greyfriars Vineyard which was started up by a couple who moved down to Surrey from Aberdeenshire. They have a great range of sparkling wines, all made in the traditional method.

And if you need an excuse to open a bottle just remember Fizz is very versatile - unlike many wines it will pair with almost any food so it can be enjoyed anytime!

If like me, you’re a fan of fizz then come along to Fizz Feast at The Edinburgh Academy on Saturday 18 November. It’s a great chance to taste all the sparkling wines I’ve mentioned and many, many more. Most will be available to purchase with special offers so it’s an ideal chance to stock up for the festive season.

This year at Fizz Feast there’ll be a host of great Scottish artisan food producers too.

Tickets start at £22 and are available from www.WineEventsScotland.co.uk

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The Fine Art of Craft

by Taura Underys If you have not yet entered through the doors of Birch Tree Gallery on Dundas Street, you are in for a delightful surprise.

The gallery, showcasing primarily fine crafts, such as ceramics, wood, glass, jewellery, tapestry, collages, and original prints, all with a focus on nature, is a quaint gem – a small feast for the eyes and soul. Owner Jurgita Galbraith says: “It’s important for me that people not feel intimidated by stopping in. I’d love for them to experience Birch Tree Gallery as a respite of sorts – the kind that nature provides.”

‘Line in Motion‘ – a graphic representation of movement inspired by nature - is a duo exhibition. In her charcoal drawings and collages, Janine Baldwin, an artist from Scarborough, Yorkshire, uses line to capture a movement that is more sensory than visual. The naked raku ceramics by Moyra Stewart – an artist based in Fife, Scotland – are inspired by black, gray and white colour bands of Lewisian Gneiss rock formations.

Moyra’s lines result from nature’s long term evolution, whereas Janine’s lines are inspired by swift movements of nature in the present.

Artwork is offered in various price ranges to accommodate various budgets. Display at the gallery changes about every four to five weeks and the exhibits have begun to have a signature mark of featuring two artists at a time - combining wall and 3D art that beautifully complement each other.

Lewisian Gneiss series vases by Moyra Stewart (photo: S.Tofts)

‘Line in Motion’ Private Viewing: Wednesday, November 1st, 6-8pm To attend please register at: www.line-in-motion.eventbrite.com Birch Tree Gallery is open Tuesday Friday 11-6 and Saturday 10-4.

‘Edge of the Wolds’ by Janine Baldwin, acrylic, pastel, charcoal and graphite collage on card, 37x 37cm 10

Christmas mixed exhibition will open Tuesday, November 28th.

'Chrysanthemum’ porcelain orb lamp (18.5 x 17cm) by Cathrine Holtet and ‘Candlemas’ collograph and chinne colle print (33 x 17 cm) by Susan MacKenzie to be displayed at Christmas mixed exhibition as of November 28, 2017

A special mixed Christmas exhibition, which opens on November 28th, will feature a variety of work by artists that were featured in 2017, or that will be on display in 2018.

Pierced porcelain lamps by Cathrine Holtet (see image) are a beautiful way to bring light to the season, while collograph prints

by Susan MacKenzie (see image) featuring snowy scenes from the Northern Highlands are sure to put everyone in a cosy holiday spirit. The gallery is a wonderful source for something truly unique

The selection of jewellery at Birch Tree Gallery changes regularly as well. It is a wonderful source for something truly unique.

The holiday exhibit will feature porcelain jewellery with miniature hand-drawings by Egle Einikytė and crystalline-glaze pendants

by Maggie Zerafa. Wooden boxes with secrets, by woodworker David MacKeen from Fife, will also be back for Christmas.

Whether looking for a gift, something special for yourself, or just a way to soothe your soul, Birch Tree Gallery is a worthwhile destination.

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And Another Thing...

Tom and the Man Who Came to Dinner (Part 2)

by Tom Hughes

@groomsdaybook

Ken, my oldest friend (who had invited himself to stay chez Hughes), was trying to be as unobtrusive as possible. To make himself scarce during the day, he would either nurse a pint down The Old Paraffin Lamp, go for a long walk, or sit in the library and annoy the librarian with requests for obscure titles about fine art.

After a week and a half into Ken’s three day stay, the novelty value of a house guest began to wear rather thin on Sarah (My Dearly Beloved), who became prone to tugging at my hem, pulling me to one side and saying, “Tom, we can’t just keep him here forever.”

“He’s not here forever, he’s just couch surfing.”

“Well he can go and surf somewhere else, I’ve had enough. He hasn’t even got a job.”

“The thing is, Ken doesn’t really ‘do’ jobs.”

Ken, pinny in hand, looked at me anxiously.

“But, well you haven’t got a job and well, we thought by now, you see the thing is, my friend Barry has a building company and he’s looking for labourers and I’ve had a word and well, you can actually start tomorrow.” Aghast, Ken’s knees gave way as he leaned against the occasional table for support.

“Working on a building site? With my back?”

“Why, what’s up with your back?”

“An old industrial injury.”

“Ken, you used to work in soft furnishings!”

“Listen, those hessian backed rugs weighed a ton. Anyway, I can’t work on a building site. It’ll…stop me looking for a job. Tom, why don’t we talk all this over in The Lamp?”

Three hours later and all seemed well with the world. Ken was in a good mood as we both became lachrymose, reminiscing about our salad days. Unfortunately, the return from our bacchanalian reverie coincided with Sarah’s half day. Leaning on me for support, my rheumy-eyed pal looked on in Sarah barged past. “I’m going.” wonder as half-closed suitcases began flying “Anywhere nice, Sarah dear?” past our bemused gaze and onto the front path. “Listen here, Bootsy and Snudge – if “Not really, I’m going to work!” (Slam) you think I’m letting you two live high on the Ken, looking hurt, examined the Ewbank. I hog while I’m slaving away you can forget it. decided that certain things needed pointing out Here, clear out and go and find somewhere to our house guest. “Ken, old chum, the thing else to doss down.” is, not that we don’t love you being here…”

Two hours later, sober, chastened and of “How kind, because I love being here.” no fixed abode, we were sat at a taxi rank considering where to rest our bones. Ken “That’s lovely but…”

“Oh doesn’t he now? Well I don’t really ‘do’ bed and breakfast, OK?” At which point, in sauntered Ken carrying the carpet sweeper, and staring at the rug in the hall. “Well that’s another job out of the way - anything to help.”

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(cont’d on pg 14)

Domestic & Commercial work undertaken

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Tree Surgery

Groundwork

SPECIALIST TREE SURGERY including

Felling Pruning Reductions Dismantles Clearance Work Stump Grinding

Quality work at a fair price All waste disposed of properly Quick, tidy and efficient service Own machinery provided for all work

Mob: 07950 023813 Tel: 0131 445 3684 www.gmlandsolutions.co.uk

Please see our website and Facebook page for examples of past work

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was the first to speak.

“Listen Tom old darling, does this mean I’m homeless?”

“Well Ken, it’s like this – if my name is on the deeds and I’ve been given my marching orders, I don’t hold out much hope for you.”

After a night ringing round, I returned home to find Sarah sat at the kitchen table, nursing a cappuccino. Sheepishly, I popped my head around the corner. Without looking up Sarah asked, “Where’s Ken?” “Ken? He’s gone to stay with his Auntie Joan in Blackpool. He said it was for the best. Anyway, he bought you this.” I slid a box over to her. She looked up and lifted up the lid.

“A Victoria sponge? I suppose it’s quite apt.”

“I told him it was your favourite. I’ll get a knife.”

“I don’t want any just yet.”

“Well don’t leave it too long, the date’s up today.” *Note to readers – Victoria sponge is very easily cleaned off cupboard doors.

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Lifecare At Christmas The weekend of 1st-3rd December will be a hive of Christmas activity in Stockbridge, with proceeds going towards supporting LifeCare, a Stockbridge based charity which gives Extra Years of Zest to older people, supporting those with dementia and their carers. By supporting LifeCare, you are also supporting Vintage Vibes, a partnership project between LifeCare and the Broomhouse Centre whose aim is to tackle loneliness in Edinburgh’s over 60’s.

The Stockbridge Stocking lucky dip and prize draw will be taking place on the High Street as part of Small Business Saturday to encourage people to come and shop for their Christmas presents locally. We are looking for volunteers to be collecting, shaking our cans, on Stockbridge high street, mince pies and hot drinks will be provided at Café Life.

Little ones can take part in the Santa Toddle on Sunday 3rd at Inverleith Park to raise funds for LifeCare, with every toddler getting to meet Santa Claus himself on Friday 1st December at the LifeCare Centre as well as receiving a certificate and goodie bag!

On Sunday there is also a 5 or 10k for grown ups who want to help a local cause. There’s no need to be and experienced runner as novices are more than welcome so dig out your trainers and get involved! There will be prizes for the top placed runners but everyone will receive a medal for their efforts.

Hamper building, Christmas carolling and more fun Christmas activities will be taking place at the LifeCare Centre, Cheyne Street, with the hampers given to those that LifeCare support who are lonely or have dementia in Edinburgh.

If you’re interesting in helping with collecting or running on our behalf, please email fundraising@lifecare-edinburgh.org.uk to get involved in the festive family fun and help a charity on your doorstep!

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

Its fun. Its challenging Its addictive.

(Soln on pg 50)

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A Busy November

by Pippa Greenwood

It is time for the seasonal slowdown, as your garden and most of the plants and animals in it start to prepare for the colder months ahead. But, of course this doesn’t mean to say that you can start snoozing! There are lots of jobs which, if done now, could end up saving you time and money later on in the season or when the garden comes back to full life next spring, so I thought it’d be a good idea to take a look at the top November gardening tasks that you should try to get to grips with.

Get prepared for a relatively weed-free few months but hoe off weeds that are around now, as some might still set seed during mild, damp periods. Provided they don’t have any seed pods on them their topgrowth can safely be composted. Bin, burn or rot down fleshy weed roots to prevent them growing in the compost heap!

Flower beds and borders are likely to have a lot of deteriorating plants in them. Cut back or pick off obviously diseased leaves and stems, and remove some of the foliage that is dying back purely due to the time of year. The flower beds will look a lot neater and it’ll give you an insight as to what might need replacing.

Leave some deteriorating but healthy foliage in place to provide some protection for the crowns of more fragile plants.

Rabbits can be a menace at the best of times, but over the next few months their natural or wild food supplies are likely to dry up. This means they will be on the lookout for some tasty meals from your garden. Make sure that rabbit netting is not damaged and that trees, especially those that have been planted recently, are fitted with tree guards.

Rake, rake and rake some more! That’s what you’ll need to be doing if there is a sizeable tree near your lawn. Use a spring-tined rake and do it on a regular basis - if you don’t collect up the fallen leaves they can do quite 28

a lot of damage to the grass beneath.

Trees, shrubs and climbers that have been planted over the last few weeks may need a little protection over their first winter. Foliage that will be perfectly tough and hardy once the plant is established may well succumb to frost or cold wind damage this year.

If heavy frosts are forecast or winds are getting icy, a layer or two of horticultural fleece draped over the plant and pegged in place, should do the trick, and can be removed on warmer days. I’ve also got some great fleece ‘jackets’, complete with a drawstring and in various sizes, available from my website - perfect for easy protection of all sorts of sizes of plants and shrubs, see www.pippagreenwood.com/ products/protect-your-crops.

If you’re planning on planting a hedge, bear in mind that many hedging plants are far cheaper if bought ‘bare root field grown’, meaning they are lifted from their nursery field without being potted on. These plants generally establish and grow really well and are likely to be available now, but to make sure you get the pick of the bunch get your order in now. Bare root plants are not feasible once the leaves start to appear next year.

Send off for a good collection of seed catalogues and check out the various websites so that you can start to look at what you want to grow next year. Many suppliers offer seeds and young plants of many vegetables, so order now and you can relax, knowing that you have got your first choice selection. Check out my website, www. pippagreenwood.com/grow-your-own, for a Grow Your Own package perfect for the less experienced vegetable grower - the plants you choose come with weekly advice emails telling you exactly what you need to be doing.

Established clumps of bamboo should be thinned out now. The extra space that the remaining canes will have will allow them to

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grow away better, and also gives them more freedom to move about in that way which makes bamboos so very appealing.

Less tender bulbs such as nerines and many of the agapanthus are more likely to come through the winter with style if you give them a little protection now.

Mound dry chipped bark or other mulch over the area in which they are planted.

And last but not least, water butts may not have had a lot of water going in to them over the last few drier months, but this is likely to change. Before they fill up with rain, grab a sturdy brush and clean each one out thoroughly, removing deposits of algae, soggy bits of plant and general gunge! Rinse out and then re-install ready to collect some rain.

Visit Pippa’s website for a gorgeous selection of useful gardening items, perfect for gifts too, including growing frames, SpeedHoes, SpeedWeeders, fleece jackets, cloches, fruit cages, raised bed kits, Nemaslug and other nematode controls, copper tape, pull-out EasyTunnels, signed books and lots more besides. www.pippagreenwood.com 30

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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 33

Designer Rings W I T H

H A N D S E T

S T O N E S

We’re introducing our new Captivate collection and Matrix rings!

Together with our classic River Ripple ring set above, these two new designs are inspired by natural forms. Matrix, shown below captures the structure and texture of rock in gold and in silver and each precious gemstone is individually set by hand.

Captivate represents particles and minerals caught in crevices as cascading water washes over softer rock and stones in Scotland’s many burns. Gold granules are often trapped in this way and this inspired Sheila to create this new contemporary collection in gold.

Captivate is also available in silver and on request our rings can be made in unusual metals such platinum, white or rose gold.

Denise and her team look forward to showing you all Sheila’s new designs at our Edinburgh Gallery in Stockbridge

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O R K N E Y

D E S I G N E R

J E W E L L E R Y

Captivate

N E W

C O L L E C T I O N

Designed & Made in Orkney, Scotland 18 S t S t e p he n St re e t | E d i n bu rg h | E H 3 5AL | 0131 225 5939

sheilafleet.com 35

Mini Cryptic Crossword Across 1. Sweets spoiled in a river (7) 7. One young lady is wrong (5) 8. Obscure cheat used lace (7) 9. Irritable alien going around pen (5) 11. Convert in aboriginal territory? (5) 12. Blair failed to make a sign (5) 14. Detailed notes about last trainee (5) 16. Least shallow river – bother! (7) 18. Explosive dessert, so it’s said (5) 19. Comments about blemishes (7) Down 1. ‘Intact’ is half understood (5) 2. Fresh start not enjoyable (3) 3. All possible energy, really (5) 4. Sauce short saps have left (5) 5. The digs unexpectedly seen (7) 6. American Idol (unfinished show) (5) 10. Lime’s ruby core is glorious! (7) 12. Cast close to an entrance hall (5) 36

13. Snake put in Bern shedding its skin (5) 14. Best stuff around came back (5) 15. Roman emperor

bought it, using letters (5) 17. A part of the queen, one hears (3) (Soln on pg 50)

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Leith Probus Are Looking For New Members Probus Clubs originated in 1967. They were set up as an alternative to Round Table and Rotary for the elder citizens. There are now Probus Clubs throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The official description of Probus Clubs is:“An Association of retired and semi-retired professional and business personnel in localised clubs throughout the world� although for some time now there has been no restriction on Membership, simply being open to retired or semi-retired persons.

The majority of Probus Clubs have a male only membership, as is the case with Leith Probus. Leith Probus was formed in 1975 and since then has gone from strength to strength. As well as providing its members with a variety of interesting talks and the occasional guided walks and outing, it is keen to encourage the spirit of friendship amongst its members.

Leith Probus are always looking to find new Members. The Club meets in the Church Hall of Leith St. Andrews at the bottom of Easter Road every second Monday from the end of September through to the end of the following April. We start at 10.00am for coffee/tea with the talk following at 10.30am and finishing about 11.45am.

If you are retired and you are interested in attending one of our meetings, with a view to joining the Club, please contact our secretary George Stout on 07841533617 for further information.

December Issue

Artwork Deadline 23rd November Distribution Date 6th/7th December

To include your community/charity events or information please contact Sue Hutchison.

07817 206418 sue@stockbridgespotlight.co.uk www.stockbridgespotlight.co.uk 38

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Life is a Balancing Act By Tracy Griffen It’s true, life is a balancing act. Every time you stand up and walk around you are using many, many deep muscles to help keep you upright. It’s pretty amazing when you think about it. Postural muscles are found deep within the body, whereas superficial muscles (on the outside) enable movement.

You can work your deep postural muscles simply by keeping your balance, especially on an uneven surface. This could be standing on a bus as it bumps over the cobbles, trying not to slip on ice, or even standing on a loose paving stone in the footpath. All of these everyday challenges can be made easier with balance practice.

With my fitness clients, we build up balance as strength and confidence in movement improves. My favourite piece of kit is a humble wobble board, a small circular platform that balances on a wee pivot.

The idea is to balance on it, ideally without wobbling. For some people, this can seem a daunting task, in which case we would build up to it with balancing exercises and practising standing on a stability disc cushion (easier). Even practising standing on one leg can be helpful.

What’s your balance-based age?

4 seconds 5 seconds 7 seconds 8 seconds 9 seconds 12 seconds 16 seconds 22 seconds 28 seconds

70 years 65 years 60 years 55 years 50 years 45 years 40 years 30-35 years 25-30 years

due to worsening eyesight, however poor balance can be improved with practise.

Good balance means you’re less likely to experience falls, and if you do, it will be easier to get back up again (a particular concern for some of my chronologically advanced clients). Being well-balanced can really help quality of life, so think like a flamingo...

Personal Trainer Tracy Griffen has had extensive experience in balance training for post-stroke and injury.

To test your balance, time yourself standing on one leg... with your eyes closed! Your sight helps balance, so by closing your eyes you’re really testing your internal ‘uprighting system’. Have an assistant do the timing and make sure the area is safe first. You can take an average of three attempts.

You can see that the average balance time decreases with age. This is partially due to worsening eyesight, however poor balance can be improved with practise. Good balance means you’re less likely to experience falls, and if you do, it will be easier to get back up again (a particular concern for some of my chronologically advanced clients). Being well-balanced can really help quality of life, so think like a flamingo..

You can see that the average balance time decreases with age. This is partially 41

Hobbies Bottoms Up! Let’s Toast This Terrific Tasting Hobby

By Kate McLelland “Honeydew melon…a little smell of cream… it reminds you of lying in bed upstairs and having a tiny waft of someone marvellous having made you breakfast downstairs. You get that smell of toast and butter…”

These are the words of wine expert Jilly Goolden, describing the aroma of a Chenin Blanc wine to a Guardian reporter at the launch of the wine-tasting courses she runs at her Sussex home.

While some readers may find Jilly’s descriptions a tad over the top, most wine lovers would probably admire her ability to find so many different sensations packed into one sniff of vintage white. Since she first appeared on our TV screens in the 1980s, Jilly has waxed lyrical about wines of every age, colour and price. She believes that drinkers who simply quaff a bottle without dwelling on its finer points are “probably missing out 50% of what it [the wine] has to say to you.”

WHAT DOES WINE TASTING INVOLVE? Wine tasting is the practice of using the senses of touch, sight and smell to evaluate different wines. It is believed that the first wines were produced in Mesopotamia - an ancient region that included present day Iraq and Kuwait together with parts of Syria and Turkey - between 4,000 and 3,000 BC. By the time of the Roman Empire, the production of wine had spread throughout the Mediterranean, even as far as the British Isles.

The ancient Romans were particularly passionate about their wines, realising that the more a wine was allowed to mature, 42

the better it tasted. They were also the first to introduce wooden barrels, glass bottles and corks to preserve the precious liquid.

It’s more than likely, therefore, that the first wine tasters were slaves employed by their masters to check that wines were drinkable (and also, possibly, to ensure that they hadn’t been poisoned by their enemies!)

Although unofficial methods of wine tasting have been around for thousands of years, it was not until the 14th century that more formalised ways of sampling and evaluating wines began to emerge. The rules put in place at that time have since evolved into a craft with its own precise language and methods. If you’re taking up wine-tasting as a hobby, you won’t be obliged to use the specialised terminology employed by today’s professional wine-tasters and sommeliers, but you will need to follow some basic rules to help you identify the particular characteristics of the wine you are sampling.

THE FOUR STAGES OF WINE TASTING The first phase in the four recognised stages of wine-tasting is appearance. The liquid is examined to see how well it reflects or refracts light, whether it is cloudy or clear, and how much the process of oxidisation over time might have affected its colour.

The wine’s smell (also known as its “nose”) is then judged. Tasters must attempt to describe the perfume it gives off, as determined by its “aromas” and “bouquets”.

“Aroma” refers to the smell of the specific grape - or combination of grapes - used, while “bouquet” refers to the scent created (Cont’d on pg 45}

For more information please contact your local consultant Sue Hutchison on 07817 206418 or email suehutchison45@hotmail.co.uk Join now to pay for your Christmas!!

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as the wine matures.

To judge the taste, swirl the wine around your mouth so your taste buds can do their work. As well as teasing out the specific flavours of the wine, you’ll be considering the amount of sweetness and/or tartness you find. You might also want to judge the amount of astringency (bitterness caused by the tannin in grape skins) you can detect.

Overall, you’ll be looking for “balance” in the wine, deciding whether all its components are in harmony.

The final part of the process is to consider the impression left on your tongue when you have either swallowed or used a spittoon to clear the wine from your palate. At this stage you’ll be able to tell a well-made wine by its crisp, clean finish: poor quality wines often leave a watery and insubstantial aftertaste.

The best quality wines leave a “long finish”: that’s a flavour that remains in the mouth after the wine has gone.

HOW DO I START? If you’re not sure how to kick off your winetasting hobby, an online search will lead you

to a number of excellent courses, taking place nationwide. On the jobs and training website run by the Reed Group you’ll find a short online course costing £97 (visit the Hospitality and Catering section at reed. co.uk for details), alternatively Jilly Goolden herself runs wine-tasting afternoons under the title “The Wine Room” at £125 per person, taking place in the Ashdown Forest, East Sussex (telephone 01342 822251 or email wineroom@jillygoolden.com).

As you develop confidence you’ll be able to explore some of the 400 or more commercial vineyards that operate in the UK. Visit England has a list of vineyards, many of which are open to the public, offering luxury on-site accommodation in B&Bs and self-catering accommodation so you can relax and make the most of your wine-tasting experience (visitengland.com).

Whether you’re planning to become the next Jilly Goolden or simply someone who loves to explore the subtleties and complexities of wine, you’re certain to find a course or vineyard experience to suit. Bottoms up!

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Retirement: Time To Call In The Builders?

by Kate McLelland When Saga Home Insurance conducted a poll of UK residents who had retired or were just about to retire, it found that many of the people questioned had decided to undertake major household renovation projects, spending £17,000 on average to improve their homes.

If you are going to spend more time at home, it’s natural to want to make improvements. But before you start browsing the latest trends in glossy interior design magazines and booking a builder, it may help if you stop for a moment to consider the practicalities.

HOW LONG DO I WANT TO STAY IN MY PRESENT HOME? If you want to stay on in your home for another twenty years, then it’s advisable to ‘future-proof’ it by making it as energy efficient and accessible as possible. The changes you make now will avoid the need for disruption when you are older and less able to manage household renovation projects.

Eco-friendly improvements such as modern insulation and solar-panel heating can make a big difference to your annual energy bills and increase your property’s value in the long run. Other improvements - designed to support you as you age - might include adding larger, double-glazed windows that let in more light, replacing garden steps with a ramp, or putting in grab-bars to help when getting in and out of the bath.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I SPEND ON THE RENOVATION? If it seems likely that you will move on in the not-so-distant future, then you should avoid spending money that you won’t be able to recoup when you sell. For example, there 46

will be little chance of recouping the cost if you put a £25,000 bespoke kitchen into a terraced house valued at £150,000.

According to Ideal Home (idealhome. co.uk), one of the best ways to add value to your home is by building an extension or conservatory. The cost of adding a singlestorey extension can increase the value of your property by 5%, a new en-suite or second bathroom can add a further 5%, while a new kitchen with plenty of storage can add up to 4% to your home’s value.

Estate agents can be a valuable source of advice on property trends in your area, so call your agent for some local insights.

HOW CAN I FINANCE HOME IMPROVEMENTS? From April 2015, UK residents aged 55 or over have been able to access the money in their state pension pots, spending or investing it as they wish, so this might provide a useful source of income for any home improvement projects. Taking up an equity release scheme is another possibility if you are over 55. This arrangement is similar to a mortgage, but your loan and interest are only paid back to the provider when you die or go into long-term care.

Recent events, including the Brexit vote and this year’s general election, have led to a more cautious, ‘wait-and-see’ attitude in the property market, so this is a good time to explore ways of creating more value in your current home. If you can resist the urge to spend, spend, spend whilst taking time to research the kind of refurbishment jobs that will really enhance your property’s value, you should find that that your investment will go on providing benefits well into the future.

ping

Shop Christmas r u o y o d to e.

Book NOW r own hom fort of you m o c e th from ING!!

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To find out more please contact your local consultant Sue Hutchison on 07817 206418 or email suehutchison45@hotmail.co.uk.

Book your Christmas Shopping Night now.

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the Anglican Communion

Community Spotlight 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

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.

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.

FESTIVE COFFEE MORNING 104th Edinburgh North East Scout Group

Come along to our Festive Coffee Morning in the Scout Hall, South Trinity Road, Saturday 25th Novemver 9.30 - 1.30 Tickets ÂŁ2.00 (includes Tea/Coffee and a Hot Filled Roll) Lots of Stalls, including a Tombola, Gifts, Books, Crafts etc 48

Community Spotlight

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Community Spotlight

Puzzle Solutions

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Accountants TaxAssist Accountants

15/37

Art Classes Art Classes For Children

19

Art Exhibitions Beaverhall Open Studio 9 Birch Tree Gallery 10/11 Edinburgh Society of Botanical Artists Christmas Exhibition 7 The Laurel Gallery 13 Auctioneers Ramsey Cornish

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Bathroom Design & Installation Edinburgh Bathroom Company 44 Building Services Ronald G Graham

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Care At Home Eidyn Care Care Homes Renaissance Care

29 26/27

Carpets & Flooring James Erskine 30 Charity Events St Columba’s Hospice Light Up A Life 2 Childrens Activities Art Classes For Children Chiropodists Mary O’Sullivan New Town Footcare Christmas Trees CrimboTrees

19 17 9 25

Church Services Sunday Assembly

23

Clock Repair & Restoration Lucas Clocks

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Complementary Therapies Neals Yard

33

Computer Services AV & PC Homehelp Simplyfixit

29 40

Construction Services DCM Construction Counselling Services Counselling Conversations Dancing Events

5 39

Stockbridge Scottish Reelers Practices 24 Decoratoring Services AM Decorating DCM Construction

9 19

Electricians McElhone Electrical 33 Estate Agents ELP Arbuthnott McClanachan 20 Events Fizz Feast 8 Lifecare/Stockbridge Christmas Festival 18 Royal Botanic Garden - Christmas At The Botanics 3 Farm Shops Fenton Barns Farm Shop & Cafe 17 French Polishing James Erskine Gardening Interest Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Membership

22

7

Gardening Services Stewart Gardening

19

Gas & Central Heating JSB Plumbing & Sons Plumbfaster

30 17

Going Out Festival Theatre Edinburgh 1 Lifecare/Stockbridge Christmas Festival 18 Royal Botanic Garden - Christmas At The Botanics 2 St Columba’s Hospice Light Up A Life 2 St Serfs Players Pantomime 19 Stockbridge Scottish Reelers Practices 24 Sunday Assembly 22 Graphic Design Smythe Design

19

Handyman Services David A Burnett Homeforce

22 29

Health & Fitness Griffen Fitness 41 Tai Chi & Qigong Relaxation Classes 7 Health Food Shops Real Foods 52 Hearing Services Hear Here 32 Jewellers Sheila Fleet 33/34 The Ringmaker 16 Job Opportunities Body Shop At Home

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Landscaping Servicces G M Land Solutions

13

Language Classes/Courses Speak Out With Confidence 36 Later Life Assistance My Personal Back-Up

21

Nurseries Edzell Nursery

13

Office/Garage Clearance Man/Men With A Van

14

Organic Produce Real Foods

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Pantomimes St Serfs Players

19

Plastering Services DCM Construction

19

Plumbing Services Homeforce JSB Plumbing & Son Plumbfaster Trenchless Pipe & Cable Installation Property Maintenance DCM Construction Property Rental Greatbase

29 30 17 14 5 23

Removals/House Clearances Man/Men With A Van 14 Roofing Services DCM Construction 5 Ronald G Graham 38 Social Activities Body Shop At Home Party

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Solicitors ELP Arbuthnott McClanachan

20

Tai Chi Classes Tai Chi & Qigong Relaxation Classes Theatres Festival Theatre Edinburgh Tree Surgeons G M Land Solutions

7 1 13

Trenchless Pipe & Cable Installation M K Plumbing 14 Upholstery James Erskine Window Renovation Craftworx

Ventrolla Wine Events Fizz Feast

22 23 31 8 51

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