The Corstorphine Grapevine July/August/September (summer) 2023 edition

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Useful Numbers

Corstorphine Library: 0131 529 5506

Corstorphine Community Centre: 07580 659 676

City of Edinburgh Council: 0131 200 2000

East Craigs Medical Practice: 0131 339 6670

Ladywell Medical Centre East: 0131 334 5000

Ladywell Medical Centre West: 0131 334 3602

Parkgrove Medical Centre: 0131 312 6600

Royal Infirmary: 0131 536 1000

Western General: 0131 537 1000

Sick Kids Hospital: 0131 536 0000

NHS 24: 111

Police - Non Emergency: 101

Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111

Airport: 08444 888 333

National Rail Enquiries: 03457 48 49 50

Gas - Emergency: 0800 111 999

Scottish Water (24hr): 0800 0778 778

Next Deadlines

18th August

Murrayfield Grapevine

Sept/Oct

2023 edition

SIDEY’S PILATES

Hello and welcome to the summer edition of the Corstorphine Grapevine, your local business directory.

As you know in addition to offering you the services of many local companies I always try to include local and community information. Please find this throughout the publication. Some of the festivities in the centre of Edinburgh in August are listed on page 31.

The dates for diary page this month includes the school summer holidays - which are quickly approaching. Hopefully this information is useful.

I hope that you enjoy this edition. If you have a local business that you would like to highlight then please just contact me - all contact details are below.

20th September

Corstorphine Grapevine

Oct/Nov

2023 edition

(see website for full details)

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

To advertise tel: 07999 869 760

The next edition of the Corstorphine Grapevine is the Oct/Nov edition and will be distributed in the first week of October.

In the meantime

I hope that you enjoy a lovely summer.

Best wishes, Jill

The Corstorphine Grapevine is printed by Cowan Print Tel : 01236 821177

All aspects of joinery & building

Shop Fitting Home Extensions

Attic Conversions

All Trades Supplied

Garage conversions

From design to completion

Kitchens

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All joinery & building work undertaken

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Duffyjoinery@outlook.com 59 27 Lauriston Street EH3 9DQ www.duffyjoinery.com

Do you suffer from:

Back or neck pain

Joint, ligament or tendon sprains

Muscle tears or strains

Work-related arm pain (RSI)

Frozen shoulder

Tennis or Golfer’s elbow

Arthritis or generalised joint pains

Headaches

Stiffness following fracture or injury

1:1 & 1:2 pilates sessions

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Our addresses are:

Gyleview

3 Redheughs Rigg Edinburgh EH12 9DQ

27 High Street

Our two clinics are convenient for residents in the west of Edinburgh. Our headquarters are in the historic South Queensferry and our satellite clinic is in South Gyle which also has parking, disabled parking and is close to buses, the tram and an easy walk from the Gyle shopping centre.

We are available for face-to-face and virtual appointments.

COVID safe

It is vital to think about this. It’s not just your home you should focus on to help you transition to a financially secure future.

I understand the emotional toll and financial complexity that divorce can bring to you and your family, and I can help you navigate this challenging change of life.

Call me to arrange a confidential, friendly, non obligatory chat: Ph: 0131 573 7605

Email: nicole@hunterifa.co.uk

Nicole Diamond

HWM Independent financial adviser and wealth manager

Hunter Wealth Management is a trading style of Fairstone Financial Management Limited who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, FCA Register Number 475973.

PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS 1/4 Borthwick View, Loanhead EH20 9QH Tel: 0131 440 0041 w w w . j e m a c g r e g o r . c o . u k

Divorce: Financial Advice For Women

Did you realise just how crucial pensions are when dividing your matrimonial assets?

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How to play: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9, with no repetition! You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic - there is no maths involved and no adding up.

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Solutions on Page 56

Garden tidy’s & maintenance both residential and commercial

Fencing, decking, raised beds installation & repairs on a wide selection of fencing styles

Tree work - including crown lifts, pruning, reductions & removals

Planting - fully designed, supplied and installed

Turfing - lawns and wildflower meadows

Alpine paving offers the complete garden services, with over 15 years experience we cover all paving. Landscaping, fencing, turfing, grass cutting, tree work & general tidy ups in Edinburgh, the Lothian and Fife. All rubbish is removed. All staff are uniformed and friendly and knowledgeable. We are fully insured.

Shulah Allan, Chair, Corstorphine Community Centre, said: “This is a momentous occasion for the local community who have been raising funds since a fire in 2013 to rebuild a community centre for the area. We are grateful to the Scottish Land Fund for providing us with this level of funding, which will be added to the funds which are already in place, to complete the purchase of 5 Kirk Loan. We still have some more funds to raise for the refurbishment of the building but this is the final stage for the purchase and our forever home for CCC.”

24th June 2023

Corstorphine Community Centre (CCC) in Edinburgh has received £960,000 from the Scottish Land Fund in order to buy Westfield House, which the organisation already uses as a community hub.

With the money, CCC will be able to purchase the building and to start making internal improvements, including improving accessibility, while at the same time continuing to provide a wide range of services and space for hire.

The grants are amongst six that have been awarded to groups across Scotland by the Scottish Land Fund, which is funded by the Scottish Government.

Cara Gillespie, Scottish Land Fund Committee Chair said: “From supporting rural housing to strengthening urban communities, the Scottish Land Fund continues to empower local people to deliver services that meet their needs. It is about listening to communities and helping them to address their unique local challenges, through ownership of land and buildings.”

www.corstorphinecommunitycentre.co.uk

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Partner with Anlo Financial Solutions and experience the transformative impact of our expertise on your business operations. Say goodbye to late-night financial struggles and confusion around tax regulations. Embrace the freedom to concentrate on your passion.

Corstorphine

L.T.N. (Local Traffic Nonsense)

by John Barrett - former local Member of Parliament and Councillor

In all my years living in Corstorphine I have seen many changes and developments, some good, some bad, but the latest alterations to the local traffic system, called the L.T.N. (Low Traffic Neighbourhood) has been the first example of complete madness I have witnessed. I have previously mentioned in The Grapevine the out of keeping wooden planters near the Old Parish Church and the ‘pocket park’ at Meadowplace Road. For those who know and live or work in the area, the southern winding section of Featherhall Avenue has always been a dangerous road, where drivers must be extra careful. People also know that the north end of Manse Road is the one exit on to the main road which has clear space for drivers, traffic lights in all directions and pedestrian phases keeping everyone safe.

The decision to stop traffic from Manse Road, at certain times of the day, exiting on to the main road and forcing them to drive down Featherhall Avenue has mystified many. Coupled with other current and proposed changes, make cars drive longer distances, past a nursery and along already busy roads, which will add to pollution on one of the most polluted roads in Scotland.

This would be bad enough, but sadly I have also heard first hand reports of elderly people seriously injured and one in hospital, after falling over some of the temporary measures, which in many places are not only a hazard, but provide no improvement, even on a temporary basis. It is no surprise that over 1,500 people have joined a group who plan to stop the Corstorphine LTN proposals.

The traffic is now at a standstill daily on some roads and causing a danger to everyone, including pedestrians breathing in fumes, and the proposals to close more roads will make matters worse. At the same time the routine maintenance of roads, footpaths and traffic lights appears to be neglected. Today, as I write this column, I have seen two sets of faulty traffic lights and one Green Man signal faulty, endless potholes in roads and neglected pavements also overgrown with weeds. Desperately needed maintenance should be a priority over badly thought-out experimental schemes. All our elected representatives at every level, and other decision makers, need to experience what is happening in our area, listen to local residents and make our neighbourhood safe and one to be proud of once again.

Best wishes,

Why a stretch goes a long way

As we age, our muscles tighten and range of motion in our joints decreases. This can impact even the most active lifestyle and hinder your normal day-to-day activities. Tasks that used to be simple, like zipping up a dress or reaching for a can off the top shelf, may become extremely diffi cult.

A regular stretching program can help lengthen your muscles and make daily activities routine again.

The word flexible comes from the Latin word flexus, which means “to bend.” Flexibility is the degree to which an individual muscle will lengthen. Stretching increases flexibility, which will help you perform daily activities and reduce the risk of muscle, joint and tendon injuries. Stretching also improves circulation, increasing blood flow to the muscles. Increased blood flow provides more nourishment to the muscles and gets rid of more waste by-products in the muscle tissue itself. Improved circulation can also help speed up recovery time if you suffer a muscle injury.

What’s more, stretching can help eliminate or decrease low back pain, one of the most common kinds of structural pain, affecting a large percentage of the population. Muscle tightness in the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip flexors, and low back muscles is a common cause of low back pain. Stretching these muscles will often eliminate the pain. Keep in mind that every joint is tied to another joint, so if one muscle is tight, it is going to affect another joint or muscle.

One of the greatest benefits of stretching is that you’re able to increase your range of motion, which means your joints can move further before an injury occurs. Stretching after you exercise (at least after you’ve warmed up a bit) has proven to be much more effective than

pre-workout stretches, because by the time you’ve completed your workout, the muscles are “warm.” Post-exercise stretching also helps reduce soreness, improves workout recovery, and ensures muscle and tendons are working properly.

There are no disadvantages to stretching - unless, of course, you do them improperly, which is actually easy to do if you don’t know what you’re doing. Here are a few tips to keep in mind before starting any stretching program:

DON’T bounce when stretching; hold your position for the specified time.

DON’T stretch cold muscles; always do some type of warm-up for at least five minutes: jogging in place, walking on a treadmill, light jump rope, etc.

DON’T overstretch. There should be a little discomfort, especially if you’re not used to stretching, but it should not be painful.

DON’T stretch a muscle improperly. If you are not sure of the proper stretch or how to perform it, get some assistance from a professional.

Ross McDonald & Rebecca Vickery Registered Chiropractors

John Barrett

murrayfield carpets & interiors

KeyLandscapes Ltd

Company Registration Number- SC626847

0131 334 5046

0783 461 8625

thomas@keylandscapes.org

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Key Landscapes provide all hard landscaping work; including fencing driveways patios

walling and artificial grass.

We also offer advice on products, landscape design and have an extensive portfolio of work.

All work is guaranteed and we are fully insured.

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Heat Your Home With a Workout!

Edinburgh’s Festivals 2023

International Film Festival

18th –23rd August

T: 0131 228 4051 (Mon-Fri 10am-5pm) www.edfilmfest.org.uk

Jazz and Blues Festival

14th –23rd July

Booking Line - 0131 226 0019 www.edinburghjazzfestival.com

Individual Air Source Heat Pumps Now Being Installed at Rowanbank Gardens, Corstorphine

Smart technology allows energy generated by cooking, showering and even a strenuous workout to be recycled for underfloor heating and hot water.

Niche developer Artisan Real Estate’s pioneering drive for zero carbon low-cost living has taken a major step forward with the installation of 126 individual Air Source Heat Pumps at its Rowanbank Gardens development in Corstorphine, Edinburgh. It’s one of the first large developments in Scotland to employ individual heat pumps in all apartments, providing both heating and domestic hot water. As well as completely replacing traditional fossil-fuel

SHOW HOME NOW OPEN!

Rowanbank Garden’s spectacular new show home opens in July 2023. Designed by renowned Scottish interior designer Carol Yates, the two-bedroom show apartment brings Rowanbank Gardens to life mixing contemporary style with vibrant colours and furniture.

Prices for a one-bedroom apartment at Rowanbank Gardens start from £245,000, with a two-bedroom from £325,000 and a three-bedroom from £422,500.

based heat sources, the latest state-of-the-art equipment uses smart technology to maximise energy efficiency whilst keeping costs down.

A series of air ducts positioned throughout the apartment capture warm air from rooms like kitchens, bathrooms and utility rooms - recycling any waste heat energy generated from activities such as steamy baths and showers, boiling pots and pans, washing machines and even a strenuous exercise work out. This energy is passed back to the apartment’s heat pump where it is used to heat water for underfloor heating throughout the apartment, as well as providing domestic hot water.

As a result of such smart technology, energy costs at Rowanbank Gardens have been predicted to cost up to 60% less than other new build apartments in the surrounding area. Research shows that average annual hot water and space heating costs for a two-bedroom apartment at the energy efficient development could be as low as £775 per year, or less than £65 per month.*

To book your appointment to view the show home, visit www.rowanbankgardens.com or call 0131 516 3302

Edinburgh Art Festival

11th –27th August

0131 226 6558 info@edinburghartfestival.com

Book Festival

12th - 28th August

Box Office T : 0345 373 5888 & E : boxoffice@edbookfest.co.uk

Festival Fringe

4th– 28th August

Ticket Booking T: 0131 226 0000 (from 8th June) www.edfringe.com

Edinburgh International Festival

4th– 28th August

Main Office T: 0131 473 2000 www.eif.co.uk

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

4th - 26th August

Tickets 0131 225 1188

Internet Bookingswww.edintattoo.co.uk

* Based on a typical two-bedroom apartmentfigures correct as of Q4 2022.

Come join us

Who we are

A voluntary association of local businesses of all types including hospitality, retail, personal and professional services and community organisations. Corstorphine Business Community was set up as a result of an initiative of the Corstorphine Community Council that followed a ‘placemaking’ exercise, which had called for enhanced local business support. Our growing community is now an affiliated group of the Community Council.

What we do

Our aims are to promote business prosperity and its positive contribution to community life. We do this through business networking and external links to resources and support, whilst also engaging with local strategic planning, community events and initiatives. Activities have included a presence at local summer and winter fairs, supporting the Corstorphine Community Support Project, participating in Small Business Saturday, the Council’s Shop Local initiative and Corstorphine Window Wanderland.

One of our member businesses, 888 Hospitality, recently hosted an event at which we were delighted to welcome members, other local business people, some of our elected representatives as well as the City Council’s Business Growth Talent Development Lead, who gave a presentation on the Business Champions’ Network and Business Gateway. We had some fun activities and great food!

Links and support

We are immensely grateful to the Western Edinburgh Neighbourhood Network for a generous grant that has helped us to build our profile, engage in events and to obtain the resources needed to support the group’s start-up. We also benefit from our membership of the city’s Business Champions Network.

Cleland Roofing Solutions Ltd started up at an office right next to Turnhouse Golf Club. We have 4 vans with 4 squads working covering all of Scotland. All carry out all roofing works and roughcasting which include:

Our logo

The seed logo references the sycamore tree that historically was a focal point of Corstorphine. Looking to the future, it can be seen as a symbol of growth and regeneration, the abstract shape and contrasting colours of the seed denoting our dual aims of connecting Corstorphine businesses and supporting our wider community. Created by Damian Mullan, www.soitbegins.co.uk, one of our members.

All the tradesmen are City and Guilds qualified. We have IPAF and PASMA certificates.

We are members of Safe Contractors, Confederation of Roofing Contractors and Federation of Small Business. (SeeBelow) Fully insured for all working at height, gas and rope works. Head

We’d love to meet you and hear about your Corstorphine business. Our regular networking meetings are at 08:30 on the last Tuesday of each month at Prahna Indian Grill. The next meeting is 29th August - please email us if you’d like to come.

Zesty flavours combine in this Asian-inspired salad. While delicious with prawns, it’s equally luscious made with shredded roast chicken.

Serves 2

Preparation time 10 minutes

Cooking time 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 100g folded rice noodles

• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

• 150g raw king prawns, deveined

• 50g mangetout, trimmed and thinly sliced

• 4 spring onions, trimmed and sliced on the slant

• 75g cherry tomatoes, quartered

• 3 tbsp Mary Berry’s Mango, Lime & Chilli Dressing

• 1 tsp light soy sauce

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp roughly chopped coriander

1. Cook the noodles according to pack instructions and run under cold water to cool.

2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tsp sesame oil and fry the prawns for 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through. Place in a large bowl with the prepared mangetout, spring onions and cherry tomatoes.

3. Mix together the mango dressing, remaining 1 tsp sesame oil and soy sauce, season with freshly ground black pepper and toss into the prawns with the noodles and coriander.

For more recipe inspiration, visit www.maryberryfoods.co.uk.

EH Dental Care

Corstorphine and Murrayfield Community Policing Officers

PC Sam Davison

PC Susan Fulton

Please contact us at: EdinburghCPTNorthWest@scotland.pnn.police.uk

Or Tel. 101

Officers attend or provide reports for both Corstorphine and Murrayfield Community Council meetings.

Police activity updates can also be seen on Twitter: Edinburgh Police North West @EdinPolNW

Please report crimes via 101 or 999 in an emergency.

Corstorphine Churches

Websites

Think family. Think DMD

l House purchase & sales

l Divorce/separation & family law

l Wills, power of attorneys and executry administration

l Inheritance tax advice & financial planning

l Car parking on site

l Home visits can be arranged

Carrick Knowe www.ckchurch.org.uk

Corstorphine Community Church www.corstorphinefaith.org.uk

Corstorphine Old Parish www.corstorphineoldparish.org.uk

Craigsbank www.craigsbankchurch.org.uk

St. Andrew’s www.clermistonstandrew.wixsite.com

St. Anne’s, 1, Kaimes Road, Corstorphine www.stannescorstorphine.org.uk office@stannescorstorphine.org.uk

St. John the Baptist and St. Kentigern www.ssjohnbandkentigern.org.uk

St. Ninian’s www.corstorphinestninians.org.uk

St. Thomas’ www.saintthomas.org.uk

Providing

Replacement Door Specialists

Including External UPVC, Composite & Bespoke Hardwood Doors

All types of internal doors supplied & fitted. Coloured glass & mirror sliding doors. Design your own Composite door on our new website www.jandljoinery.co.uk

Joinery Specialists

All types of Domestic Joinery work including Timber repairs, Sash ‘n’ Case window work, Door trimming service.

For double glazing, wardrobe work, shelving, replacement architraves & skirting, you can get in touch with J&L Joinery. www.jandljoinery.co.uk

Local Medical Centres

Ladywell Medical Centre West:

Tel: 0131 334 3602

Ladywell Road Mon - Friday 8am-6pm

Closed every Monday - Friday between 1-2pm for staff training

Closed*:

Sept: Closed all day Monday 18th

For further information please refer to our website www.ladywellwest.co.uk

Ladywell Medical Centre East:

Tel: 0131 334 5000

26 Featherhall Avenue Mon - Friday 8am-6pm

Closed every Monday - Friday between 1-2pm for staff training

Closed*:

Sept: Closed all day Monday 18th

For further information please refer to our website www.ladywelleast.co.uk

Parkgrove Medical Centre:

Tel: 0131 312 6600

22B Parkgrove Terrace Mon - Friday 8am - 6pm

Closed every Monday - Friday between 12-1pm for staff training

Closed*:

Sept: Closed all day Monday 18th

New registrations welcome

For further information please refer to our website www.parkgrovemedicalpractice.scot.nhs.uk

Barclay Medical Practice

East Craigs:

Tel: 0131 339 6670

10 Bughtlin Market Mon - Friday 8am - 6pm

Closed*:

Sept: Closed all day Monday 18th

* Dates correct at time of printing

Please remember to ensure that you have organised your repeat prescriptions to cover holiday periods.

JULY

Edinburgh Trades Fortnight

from Saturday 1st July

AUGUST

School Start of Term Dates

Local Schools

Wednesday 16th

Edinburgh Academy

Junior & Senior Schools Wed 23rd

Erskine Stewart’s Melville

Tues 22nd Induction Day (S1 & S6)

Wed 23rd Start of Term all pupils

St George’s Wed 23rd Term Starts

(Boarders return the day before the start of term)

SEPTEMBER

School Holidays

Local Schools

Mon 18th

Erskine Stewarts’s Melville Mon18h

(except for CCF pupils and some SMC DofE)

Dates for your Diary

Book now to receive 25% discount*

At fit20 you train once a week for 20 minutes with a personal trainer. Our training method is based on the latest scientific findings about effective and efficient training to improve health and fitness.

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Whatever your plans this holiday, there’s nothing better than a great read. Here are some for everyone of all ages to enjoy!

The Usborne Official Spy’s Handbook

From cracking secret codes and creating effective disguises to tracking and decoding signals, this book encourages kids to be creative. It’s the essential guide to spying – keep it close to hand but hidden from the unknown enemy! – packed with useful skills and tips, and spies in training can use the activity pages to create camouflage headbands, shake off a trail and spot enemy spies in crowds of people.

Don’t Shake the Mango Tree by Graeme Forbes Smith

Graeme’s childhood ambition to climb Kilimanjaro and subsequent visits to Africa made him fall in love with the continent, so when he and his wife Candy have a mid-life crisis at the age of 50, they abandon their comfortable Edinburgh life and move to Tanzania. The warmth and welcoming nature of the locals swiftly found them work managing a luxury safari lodge, and tales of their new life with its up and downs in Africa unfold. Each tale is told with a touching blend of humour, tragedy, gratitude and joy.

City on Fire by Don Winslow

Exploring classic themes of loyalty, betrayal, honour, and corruption on both sides of the law, this is the first instalment of an expansive new trilogy from one of the world’s most eloquent crime writers. Danny Ryan is a hard-working longshoreman, loving husband, loyal friend, and occasional ‘muscle’ for the Irish crime syndicate that oversees much of the city. He yearns for something more and dreams of a fresh start somewhere far away. But when a modern-day Helen of Troy triggers a war between rival mob factions, Danny is embroiled in a conflict he can’t escape…

All You Need by Katie Piper

In her debut children’s picture book, best-selling author and TV presenter Katie Piper OBE invites young readers aged three to five to join Teeny Mouse in a wonderful tale of empowerment. Teeny Mouse is going on a big adventure, a journey she’s never taken before. And though it’s big, and fun, and exciting, she suddenly feels a little bit small...but she discovers all you need is to have a little bit of faith in yourself. A perfect read to share with young children fearful about trying new things.

The Davenports by Krystal Marquis

One for the older teens, this historical romance is inspired by the real-life story of C.R. Patterson (the first African-American automotive manufacturer) and his family, the Davenports are one of the few black families of immense wealth and status, their fortune made through a formerly enslaved man who founded the Davenport Carriage Company years ago. It’s now 1910 and we follow the fortunes of four determined and passionate young black women – Olivia, Helen, Amy-Rose and Ruby – discovering the courage to steer their own path in life…and love.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different – and far more satisfying – than he ever imagined. A fable about undauntedly following one’s dreams, listening to one’s heart and reading life’s omens, The Alchemist is currently the most-translated book in the world by a living author. It has become a modern classic, selling millions of copies around the world.

Call Alexander Hunter

Tea Dance

Moving Forward

Breast Feeding Support Group

We are very excited to be back and would love to see you and your baby

For more information call 0131 286 5023 (Stewart Team)

Corstorphine Heritage Centre

The Dower House Museum & Archive Room

Open Tuesday - Sunday

See our website and Facebook page for daily opening hours:

www.corstorphinetrust.co.uk

E The Corstorphine Trust

Walking your dog is a daily commitment, and whether you need occasional help or someone to take over most days while you are at work, you’ll need to find a professional dog-walker. Here are some things to consider to ensure your furry friend’s safety and well-being.

• Ask the dog walker about their experience with different breeds, behaviour issues and emergency situations. Look for someone who has experience with dogs similar to yours.

• What other pets are they looking after? What’s the maximum number of dogs they will be walking at the same time?

• Has your walker taken training or certification courses in pet first aid and dog walking?

• Ask for references from previous clients and call them to get feedback on the dog walker’s reliability, professionalism and how well they handled their pet.

• Make sure the dog walker has insurance that covers them in case of an accident, and liability insurance that protects you and your pet in case of any damage or injury.

• Look for a dog walker who communicates well and keeps you informed about your pet’s daily activities and any issues that arise during the walks.

• Arrange a meeting with you and your pet before the walks begin to ensure they bond and feel comfortable with each other.

• Discuss the rates and any additional fees for services like administering medication or extra hours if you are late returning from work.

SEALANT SOLUTIONS SILICONE

For all your gardening needs, including tree & hedge cutting, grass mowing, slabbing, fencing, turfing, contract work, general maintenance & much, much more. Free estimates.

Ever passed Corstorphine Old Parish Church and wondered what it looks like inside? Come and see for yourself and find out more about this historic church.

Corstorphine Old Parish Church

Open for visitors

• every Wednesday from 10.30 till 12 noon

At the corner of the High Street and Kirk Loan (opposite the Library)

• July & August also open on Saturdays from 2 pm - 4 pm

And once you’ve visited the church, why not pop into the Dower House for a browse and a coffee?

All are welcome to join in worship in the church

• Morning service every Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

• Short service of readings, prayer and quiet meditation every Wednesday at 12 noon

(The ‘wee service’ for families with young children is having a summer holiday, but will be back in August.)

www.corstorphineoldparish.org.uk

www.facebook.com/CorstorphineOld @OldParishCors on Twitter

Central Heating and Gas Appliances

Repairs, Servicing and Installations

Landlord’s Certificates

Power Flushing, All Plumbing Work

24 Hour Emergency Call Out

Repair . Maintain . Install

All work carried out by Ex-Scottish Gas Service Technician

Depending on who you listen to, AI (Artificial Intelligence) is either going to make everything brilliant or destroy everybody’s jobs and maybe humanity too. So what is it, and why is everybody talking about it?

Generative AI is basically a super-powered search engine that can answer plain English questions and do things that Google can’t (yet). Although it’s called AI, it isn’t actually intelligent. These apps are really super-powered memory machines: they don’t create anything, but they can make really good copies of things that already exist. An AI that makes artworks has been trained on millions of paintings and can create a reasonably good copy of the artists’ styles; an AI that answers questions has been trained on millions of internet pages. But that can be a problem, because those internet pages might not necessarily be accurate.

What

AI actually means for you

It’s in its teething stages just now, but it does

have a lot of potential. You’re using some of it already; for example modern smartphones have AI-powered software that automatically tweaks your images for the best results. Sometimes they get it wrong, but mostly what they do makes things better.

Try ChatGPT for yourself at chat.openai.com to see for yourself, or try creating your own AI art at creator.nightcafe.studio. And if you have Microsoft’s Edge web browser, you can try the new AI-powered Bing search at Bing.com.

Microsoft has gone big on AI, and if you have the Edge browser you can get AI-powered search on Bing.com

Gel manicure

Want fuss-free nails for your holiday? While a standard gel manicure won’t add length to your nails, it will give you glorious colour and shine for a good couple of weeks. As with extensions, the gel will need removing either in the salon or with a special gel remover at home. Don’t be tempted to peel the gel off as doing so will leave you with seriously damaged nails.

Gel manicure

Want fuss-free nails for your holiday? While a standard gel manicure won’t add length to your nails, it will give you glorious colour and shine for a good couple of weeks. As with extensions, the gel will need removing either in the salon or with a special gel remover at home. Don’t be tempted to peel the gel off as doing so will leave you with seriously damaged nails.

At-home manicures

Fancy Instagram-worthy nails but have no idea where to start? This article is for you…

Nail extensions

Most nail salons offer both gel and acrylic extensions. For gels, the liquid gel is painted onto each nail and over a temporary nail ‘form’ or ready-made tip to add length. Each layer is cured under an LED or UV lamp. The form is removed and the extensions are filed to your desired shape.

Acrylics are applied in a similar way, but using a powder polymer and liquid monomer, which is air-dried rather than cured under a lamp.

There are pros and cons to both types of extension. Acrylics tend to be stronger but less flexible, which means there’s a risk of them snapping if you catch them. The removal process for gel extensions is also slightly gentler on your natural nails.

Both types will need regularly infilling as your natural nails grow, and you’ll need to have them professionally removed, so do factor in all the costs before booking.

Broken a single nail? Never fear. Most nail bars offer a single nail repair for around the price of a cup of coffee.

It’s a good idea to give your nails a break from gels and acrylics now and then, so why not treat yourself to a DIY manicure?

Step 1: Remove any old polish and gently file your nails into shape. Remember to file in one direction to prevent splitting.

Step 2: Soak your fingertips in warm water for a few minutes to soften the cuticles. Dry your hands and massage a drop of cuticle oil into the base of each nail, before gently pushing the cuticles back.

Step 3: Buff your nails so you have a smooth, even surface.

Step 4: Apply a strengthening base coat, such as ORLY Nail Defense (£8.70, www. orlybeauty.co.uk) and allow it to dry.

Step 5: Add colour with a breathable nail varnish. Nailberry’s L’Oxygéné range is a great choice (£16, www.nailberry.co.uk).

Not only is it breathable, it’s also free from phthalates and other harsh chemicals. The tropical-inspired Glamazon is ideal for summer. Go for two coats followed by a top coat for nails that should stay chip-free for around a week.

Nail art

Whether you fancy festival-worthy neon tips, zany palm trees or dazzling crystals, hand-painted nail art brings the wow factor to manicures. It’s difficult to do at home, but most salons will have a range of designs for you to choose from and your technician will be happy to discuss bespoke creations.

by Caroline Knight

Are you frustrated at the lack of planting space in your garden? Many homes, particularly modern houses, have small gardens. This might be viewed as a negative feature – or you could turn it on its head so that it becomes one of the best-loved aspects of your home. It’s all about creativity and making the most of every part of the garden.

If you can incorporate dual or multiple usage of different areas, this unlocks all sorts of possibilities. Thus, the garden shed provides a wonderful opportunity for the addition of a living green roof, and the covered wood store or decorative bin storage area creates room for a vegetable or cutflower raised-bed planter on its roof. The dark and dingy north-facing section of an outside space can be transformed into a cosy jungle den for the children, surrounded by lush ferns and ivy, and it could even house a firepit around which everyone can gather in the evenings.

Garden steps might be adorned with pots of colourful bulbs, perennials, grasses and annuals, and trees can double up as wildlife havens with the addition of bird feeders, nest boxes and insect hotels. Then there are the fences!

Climbing plants

Choose your climbers with care. Not only do you need to consider the requirements of the individual plants, but also their habits with regard to height and spread. Neighbours should be a consideration because a vigorous climber is capable of spreading far and wide. The majority of climbers will require support in terms of wires or trellis. Some produce tendrils that curl around their support, a few are self-clinging as they grow little suckers, but others, such as climbing roses, will need to be tied to something structural.

Corstorphine Art Group Annual Exhibition 2023

Saturday 29th July to Friday 4th August

10.30am – 4.30pm daily

Saturday 5th August

10.30am – 3.30pm (last day)

St Ninian’s Church Hall, St Ninian’s Road, Corstorphine, Edinburgh (access from the front and rear doors of the church)

Come along and enjoy the wide selection of original works by local artists. Most items on exhibit are available for sale.

Which position?

Clematis are suitable for a wide range of planting places, with many preferring a sunny aspect and others happier on a north-facing fence. You can put multiple clematis against one fence panel, but be aware of their pruning needs, which differ according to their category.

Both the passion flower, Passiflora, and the star jasmine, Trachelospermum, love sunshine and warmth. The exotic blooms of the former are said to represent the crucifixion of Jesus, whilst creamy star-shaped flowers of the jasmine have a most delectable scent.

Honeysuckle is a great climber that provides wildlife habitats, scented nectar-rich flowers and berries for birds too. It prefers a partially shaded site because the leaves can be scorched by full sun.

On your shadier fences you might consider foliage plants that are self-clinging, such as ivy and Parthenocissus. Both Boston ivy and Virginia creeper will be too vigorous for a fence panel unless you are able to keep them wellpruned. But they produce spectacular autumn colour that is second-to-none.

The climbing hydrangea petiolaris also uses suckers. It’s a great choice for a shady wall, but once again it is likely to grow very large once it has established, so be prepared to prune hard once it has reached the top of the fence.

www.corstorphineartgroup.com

www.facebook.com/CorstorphineArtGroup

Everyone welcome – Admission Free

The Mayor of Kalymnos

The Mayor of Kalymnos is a new book by former Edinburgh West MP and regular Corstorphine Grapevine columnist, John Barrett.

Set on the small Greek Island of Kalymnos, this work of fiction sees a retired MP looking for a quiet escape to write his life story.

Progress with his writing slows down and eventually stops, when a group of locals, who have had enough of the corruption and nepotism on the island and who want to see things change for the better, approach him to ask him to stand for election as the Mayor of Kalymnos.

The Mayor of Kalymnos is available now from D & S McLean in Corstorphine High Street, Pippin Gifts at 30 Haymarket Terrace, and from Amazon, or go to the website www.themayorofkalymnos.com to find out more.

Clematis growing on fence

Passion flower Passiflora

‘Poppies’ by Anne Henderson

It’s normal to let your hair – and your guard –down while you’re on holiday, but staying safe and healthy abroad is as important as it is at home. Falling ill or suffering from an injury is the last thing anyone wants on their vacation, so it’s important to arrive at your destination prepared for whatever’s around the corner.

From packing the essentials to creating a portable medical history, here are a handful of tips to help you enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.

Take out travel insurance

We all hope our trips abroad go smoothly, but that isn’t always the case. Although not a legal requirement, travel insurance could save you from forking out for sky-high medical bills, flight cancellations, lost luggage, stolen possessions and more. With treatment for a broken leg in Spain costing around £15,000, it’s a no-brainer for medical precautions alone.

Create a portable medical history

If something happened that left you unconscious in a crisis, having your medical history to hand could be a lifesaver. Even if you’re travelling with a friend or family member, communication can be difficult – especially when you factor in stress and a potential language barrier.

A self-created printed form is key to getting the best care without guesswork, and should include details of any recent surgeries, vaccinations, medications and allergies.

Bring (or make copies of) important documents

A copy of your passport, driver’s licence or another form of identification could save you from scrambling to find proper documentation if you lose your passport and need to get home.

It’s also a good idea to bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). These cards will allow you to get state healthcare across Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.

Share your travel itinerary

Sharing your travel itinerary with a close friend or family member will give you peace of mind that, should anything happen to you,

your whereabouts will be recorded. This is especially important if you’re travelling alone, but could also be useful if you’re planning on exploring more remote areas or engaging in any potentially risky activities.

Do your research

Take some time to get to know your destination in depth before you arrive. Every area has its rougher parts, so it’s a good idea to read traveller reviews to find the safest neighbourhoods. Check www.gov.uk for the latest foreign travel updates and advice an/d, in case of an emergency, write down the contact information for the nearest embassy, police station and local emergency departments.

Bring the basics

When it comes to travelling, comfort is key. While you can’t pack for every potential eventuality, you can come prepared with the essentials. Bring blister plasters, a small first-aid kit and painkillers, and wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely. Although the Covid-19 pandemic seems well and truly behind us, it’s also a good idea to pack face masks and some antibacterial hand gel.

Rug Cottage

T: 0778 910 0606

E: rug.cottage@yahoo.com

40 Corstorphine High Street

(Opposite Corstorphine Heritage Centre)

Edinburgh EH12 7SY

We have a large selection of unique oriental hand-knotted rugs from all over Iran, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan and China. Also specialising in handmade cleaning, repair and restoration.

Please call to arrange an appointment outwith the normal opening hours if required.

RUG COTTAGE SUMMER SALE - UP TO 50% OFF

SUDOKU PAGE 10

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

CROSSWORD PAGE 26

CHILDRENS PAGE 38

Across: 3 SUNTAN, 6 ANTS, 9 BEES, 11 SUNSHINE, 12 BIKE, 13 GAMES, 14 GRASS.

Rest and be Thankful

by Ross Matheson

Rest and be thankful, but don’t rest for too long.

Yes, exhaustion pierces your bubble of gratitude and chokes your time to heal. Here, you find yourself above and beyond ancient horizons which incite the bitterness of reality’s gaze.

But you must be quick.

Snatch this perspective, dash through the darkness as the sun does through divine crevices lost under landmarks only too familiar.

Try to forget the feeling, always remember the place. The birds will take you far away, so rest and be thankful.

Poem inspired by the well known Corstorphine landmark ‘Rest and be thankful’

www.shopwithmyrep.co.uk/

It is already tomorrow in Australia ~ Charles Schultz

18 Estate Agents

DMD Law 37

Financial /Investment

Hunter Wealth Management 9

Mark Neillings 2

Flooring

James Erskine 45

Gardeners

CS Gardening & Landscaping 47

JDS Gardening 12

Gardening Hard Landscaping

Alpine Paving 14

Edinburgh Driveways& Landscaping 51

JDS Gardening 12

Key Landscapes Ltd 28

Gardening Supplies/Services

George Currie -Outdoor Woodcare 49

JDS Gardening 12

Grass Cutting

James Burnett 43

Health & Fitness

Discover Chiropractic 23 Fit20 41

Forth Physio 8

Massage - R Wanless 29

Murrayfield Podiatry Clinic 19 NeuroPhysio Scotland 57

J C Walker 47

J & L Joinery 39 Maple Joinery 45 Locksmith

Shop Open

Book Nook Hey Girls free period products

Tummies not Trash

Babies Group (birth to 2 years)

Men s Shed Social (space available) workshop- fu l

Digital Support for phones, tablets and laptops

Book a slot: Call - 07580 659 676

Gentle Seated Exercise

Lunch Club - Waiting List

Morning Craft Group- Waiting list

Moving Forward- Widowers group- NEW Group

Afternoon Craft Group- Waiting list

Walking Group (8km)

Sporting Memory Group -Waiting List

Men s Shed Workshop (Full)

Crochet and Knitt ng Group

Youth Group (S1- S6)

Art Group

Music, songs and fun- 5yrs and under- waiting list

Music, songs and fun- 5yrs and under- New Group

Community Shed workshop

Community Garden - Open again!

Gentle exercise, walks and warm ups Call

C o m e a l o n g , t r y n e w t h i n g s - m e e t n e w p e o p l e . A t C C C w e k e e p c o n n e c t i o n a t t h e c o r e o f o u r c o m m u n i t y

D o y o u w a n t t o : R u n a g r o u p , W o r k i n t h e c h a r i t y s h o p , J o i n t h e C o m m i t t e e ? C o n t a c t V o l u n t e e r s @ c c c h u b o n l i n e

G r e a t r a t e s f o r c l u b s , g r o u p s , c l a s s e s , a n d p a r t i e s . E m a i l b o o k i n g s @ c c c h u b . o n l i n e f o r a b o o k i n g f o r m o r c o m p l e t e o n l i n e a t c o r s t o r p h i n e c o m m u n i t y c e n t r e . o r g . u k