l House purchase & sales
l Divorce/separation & family law
l Wills, power of attorneys & executry administration
l Inheritance tax advice & financial planning
l Car parking on site
l Home visits can be arranged
Useful Numbers
Well the summer is over and the schools are back, what a shame about the weather but the Olympics/Paralympics and the Edinburgh Festival I am sure will have kept you busy.
Welcome to the Sept/Oct edition of your local business directory, the Murrayfield Grapevine.
As we move towards the autumn please remember that the clocks go back one hour on Sunday 27th October.
537 1000
Sick Kids Hospital: 536 0000
NHS 24: 111
Police - Non Emergency: 101
Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111
Edinburgh Airport: 08444 888 333
National Rail Enquiries: 03457 48 49 50
Gas - Emergency: 0800 111 999
Scottish Water (24hr): 0800
Next Deadlines
20th SEPTEMBER Corstorphine Grapevine Oct/Nov 2024 Edition
18th OCTOBERMurrayfield Grapevine Nov/Dec/Jan 2024/25 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.
I am delighted to continue to offer a service to many local companies and also local groups and charities. Please contact me on the email below if you would like something to be included.
John Barrett, former local Member of Parliament and Councillor, kindly writes articles to appear in the Grapevine publications and this month he writes about Daria, who appeared in the recent TV series The Piano. The details of the concert that he has organised can be found on page 16. Thank you John for everything that you continue to do to help locally, and for charities abroad too.
Believe it or not the the next edition will cover the month of November/December and January so if you would like to advertise anything for the Christmas period or maybe your new year sales then this is a great edition for you to be part of. Just contact me at the number below, or email. This edition will be distributed in the first week of November.
Until then please take care, and keep well.
Kind regards, Jill
Murrayfield Grapevine is printed by Cowan Print
Glendevon Gardening Services
A professional fine gardening service
Services Provided Include :
Lawn, Hedge and Tree Care,
Fence Erecting, Full Garden Maintenance,
Rockeries, Window Boxes and Hanging Baskets our speciality.
One off garden tidy ups, Small Gardens Landscaped. Contact Us
We are also experts in :
Laying patios, Decking (with lighting if required)
Pentlandbrickworks@yahoo.com What’s app or call:
SEALANT SOLUTIONS SILICONE
Rental properties needed to meet demand
At Cornerstone Letting, we’re a dedicated local agency actively seeking new landlords to work with us. With the festival season behind us, we’re now entering the busiest lettings period of the year—September and October—when university students make their last-minute dash to find a home.
As October approaches, we’re also gearing up for our 6-monthly property inspection run. During this period, all of our clients will receive detailed walkthrough reports of their properties, ensuring that everything is in top condition and that any potential issues are promptly addressed. With a portfolio of 350 properties under management, we pride ourselves on maintaining close relationships with our clients—a personal touch often overlooked by larger agencies. We are always looking to expand our portfolio with the right properties, and we invite you to join us.
Demand in areas like Corstorphine and Roseburn is on the rise. At Cornerstone
Roseburn
Letting, we’ve recently experienced a surge—receiving over 100 inquiries each within just one week for three properties listed in these areas. This highlights the area’s appeal due to its prime location and excellent amenities.
Today’s students often have better financial backing than some of our employed tenants, making them a reliable demographic. If you’re a landlord in a high-demand area, now is the perfect time to explore how we can work together. Reach out to me at richard@cornerstoneletting.com, and let’s make this peak season a success for your property investments.
average rent over past 6 months (figures taken from Citylets) 1
3
Richard Burgoyne Cornerstone Letting
Message me today –Richard@cornerstoneletting.com, to find out what your property is worth.
Our number is 0131
535 1072
E: gillpgrant@blueyonder.co.uk
Highly experienced, qualified teacher offers:
Tuition on a one-to-one basis
All levels and abilities taught
National 4/5, Higher Individually tailored programmes of work
GTC/Disclosure Scotland registered References / testimonials available
SUDOKU
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. Solutions on Page 60
John Scalzi
www.Anlofin.com
Keep your Spine in Shape
Your spine is the backbone of your entire body – literally and figuratively. That means poor spinal health may negatively impact you from head to toe. How can you keep your spine in shape?
EXE RCISES (to Do & Not to Do)
Some common exercises help promote spinal health in the form of proper posture while others promote poor posture and put the spine at risk. A strong core supports the spine, whereas a weak core can lead to pain and injury. To build the core, think bent-leg knee raises, stability ball exercises and other exercises that strengthen the core muscles (remembering to keep your spine protected at all times by avoiding rounding the back / neck). On the other hand, avoid exercises / movements that unduly stress the spine: slumping while sitting and bending forward immediately after sitting come to mind, as do exercises that make you prone to rounding your back (traditional sit-ups, toe-touches, etc.).
Please seek exercise advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
SLEE P MATTE RS
Your sleep position and the overall quality of your sleep play a big role in spinal health. The ideal position for the spine during sleep places you on your back with a pillow underneath the knees. As you might imagine, lying on your stomach is the worst position. Your pillow and mattress also matter, so make sure you choose the right ones for you, or your spine will let you know with neck and/or back pain. (Talk to your healthcare professional for suggestions.)
NUTRITION E SSENTIAL S
Believe it or not, certain foods promote a healthy spine (and vice versa). For example, adequate water intake is necessary to nourish not only the body’s cells, but also the spinal intervertebral discs. As you might imagine, water helps keep the discs (and thus the spine) from getting stiff and becoming subject to injury. In addition, an antiinflammatory diet is key to preventing back pain and other spine problems due to inflammation. Think foods such as omega-3 fish and lean proteins, fresh produce, avocado and olive oil while reducing intake of pro-inflammatory foods (most fast foods and processed foods, sugar-laden sweets, etc.).
CHIROPRACTIC C ARE
No conversation about spinal health would be complete without mentioning chiropractic, an entire health care profession founded on the principle that a healthy, properly aligned spine may have far-reaching effects on the entire body. Research asserts chiropractic’s effectiveness in treating back pain, neck pain and various other musculoskeletal conditions, and the goal of chiropractic care is to improve spinal health and help prevent pain from returning.
Ross McDonald & Rebecca Vickery Registered Chiropractors
KeyLandscapes Ltd
Company Registration Number- SC626847
0131 334 5046
0783 461 8625
thomas@keylandscapes.org www.keylandscapes.co.uk
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. www.keylandscapes.co.uk
CONCERT FOR UKRAINE
The concert will raise funds for families affected by the war in Ukraine and every penny from ticket sales will go to Sunflower Scotland.
12th October, 2024 in St Cecillia’s Hall, 50 Niddry Street, Edinburgh EH1 1LG
Doors open 7pm concert starts 7.30pm, to 9.30pm, with interval. Ticket price £25.
The pianist who won the Edinburgh episode of the Channel 4 television programme ‘The Piano’.
A haven of calm and space open for community use in the
GYLE SHOPPING CENTRE
Visit us, contact us and join us on social media
Instagram and facebook @spacetobegyle
Contact Esther manager@spacetobe.live
Aileen
The Balgreen Tunnel Project has just confirmed that they have a professional graffiti artist coming in September to do a sample of work at each end of the tunnel. We hope that when people see this fabulous work, they will want to donate so the whole tunnel can be painted. We’ve been working on this project for years and it is only now that we feel there may be “light at the end of the tunnel”
out for the
Our volunteers will be there to talk and listen to you and offer free, confidential support and information - whether you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, or you’re a family member, friend or carer. We can also direct you to other support services.
www.edinburgh.gov.uk/macmillanlibraries Macmillan.Libraries@edinburgh.gov.uk 0131 242 8125
For further support and information call Macmillan free on 0808 808 00 00, 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week or visit macmillan.org.uk
Interested in doing a bit more walking? Are you over 60?
The Corstorphine Loan Rangers could be the answer. We are a walking group, founded in 1996, who meet weekly all year round.
For more information contact:
THE CORSTORPHINE LOAN RANGERS
The health benefits of walking are well known physically and mentally. While you are meeting other people and watching wildlife, walking reduces stress, unscrambles your mind and helps you sleep at night.
Our walks are varied, including river (e.g. Almond and Tweed) and forest walks (Devilla and Beecraigs); lochs (Linlithgow and Leven), hills (Lomond Hills in Fife, Pentlands); coastal (Gullane, Elie) and canals, showing off Scotland’s beautiful scenery. We use buses or cars to reach the start of walks, and bring packed lunches - always planning for a rewarding café stop at end of walk with tea/ coffee, scones and cakes.
The main group walks about 5 to 7 miles. There is a “10 mile group” for longer walks, including an annual munro climb (spending 2 nights in a hotel). Social events include annual Festive Christmas meal out and a Summer Outing e.g. we have been to Glamis Castle and Dumfries House.
Last
year Marie Curie provided vital support to 8,000 people across Scotland.
But too many people don’t get the care and support they need at the end of life. And by 2040, 20% more Scots will need palliative and end of life care. Thousands could end up dying without the support they deserve.
Living with a terminal illness is difficult enough. Dying people and their loved ones should be focusing on the time they have left, not fighting for support that they desperately need. It’s not fair.
The Scottish Government has the power to make sure that everyone has a right to the palliative care they need.
Do you agree that everyone in Scotland should have a right to the palliative and end of life care that they need?
Together we can show the Scottish Government that this is an issue they can’t ignore.
Edinburgh’s Rowanbank Gardens
Now Complete
High Quality ‘Finishing Touches’ Create Unique Sense of Community at Multi Award-Winning Niche Residential Development
Rowanbank Gardens, Artisan Real Estate’s multi award-winning residential development in Corstorphine, Edinburgh has now been completed.
In just over two years since the start of construction, a mix of 126 new homes now provide the highest standard of living both inside and out, with the development fast becoming a UK blueprint for excellence in sustainable living.
Rowanbank Gardens is set around a large garden space filled with fruit trees and communal planting beds, delivering 93 apartments for private sale. The development has been recognised as setting new industry standards for sustainable, low-carbon development, challenging many of the traditional norms associated with new apartment buildings in city centre areas.
Artisan’s significant investment in high quality living space and amenity, as well as its supremely costeffective energy efficiency is providing a popular draw for buyers, with 62 of all available apartments now sold. Externally, large landscaped green areas
- including 150 new trees, herb and vegetable growing beds, high-quality garden furniture and play equipment, flowering sedum roofs and even a communal potting shed - combine to create a powerful and unique sense of community for all residents.
Rowanbank Gardens was awarded the prestigious Apartment Development of the Year title at the 2024 Scottish Homes Awards, while its superb design and sustainability credentials have been recognised by winning best Scottish residential development at the Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) awards. The development has also been shortlisted for two national environmental impact titles at this year’s UK RICS and UK Green Business Awards
Welcoming the development’s completion, David Westwater, Artisan’s Managing Director for Scotland said: “It is genuinely exciting to see the finishing touches applied here at Rowanbank Gardens, and to witness the completed development in all its glory.
“From the start, the development has consistently set the bar high for environmental performance and technical excellence, whilst providing an extremely high quality of life in a wonderfully landscaped external setting.
“We are all justifiably delighted that our efforts in enabling Rowanbank Gardens to become a blueprint for high quality sustainable living is now being recognised on a UK level. On all metrics, it continues to deliver. Home sales are buoyant, with more than two-thirds sold. And environmental performance is outstanding, with significant savings being delivered both from buyers’ pockets and for energy usage in general.” Prices for a two-bedroom
Add your name to show you support people across Scotland having a right to palliative care To discuss the incentives currently available or to book an appointment at the Rowanbank Gardens show apartment, visit the development website at www.rowanbankgardens.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
Ingredients
• 2 good-quality large vine tomatoes
• 1 clove garlic, peeled and grated
• Flaky sea salt
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 150g gnocchi
• 5g fresh basil leaves, torn if large Method
Forth Physio clinics offer high quality physiotherapy & healthcare services in Edinburgh city. We have experienced Chartered Physiotherapists specialising in musculoskeletal problems, neurological disorders and Care of the Elderly as well as Women’s health and occupational health. 1:1 & 1:2 pilates sessions NOW AVAILABLE
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.
1. Start by grating your tomatoes onto your serving bowl or plate. Use the large hole of the grater and grate until you are left with the skin of the tomato, which you can discard. Add the garlic to the tomato and mix together. Season well with salt and a good drizzle of olive oil.
2. Heat a frying pan over a medium-high heat and add another good drizzle of olive oil to the pan. Add the gnocchi and fry for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Season with salt then spoon over the tomato mixture.
3. Scatter the basil over the top before serving. The crisp bounce of the gnocchi replaces the bread traditionally used in Spanish ‘pan con tomate’ and takes it from a light lunch to a more substantial meal for one!
EARLY TREATMENT MEANS QUICK RECOVERY!
We are available for face-to-face and virtual appointments. COVID safe
We comply with all required regulations relating to Covid 19 infection control
More than eight million Brits live alone. This recipe is extracted from One Pot, One Portion recipes for people who eat, cook or live alone, but are tired of washing up, by Eleanor Wilkinson, out now, published Ebury Press, priced at £22, with photography by Dan Jones.
EDINBURGH PAVING COMPANY
Gardening
Garden Tidies, Domestic and
Commercial Maintenace,
Hedge Cutting, Weed & Invasive species treatments
Fencing
Fence replacements, Removals and repairs
Landscaping
Decking Raised beds, Stone installation, garden levelling
Soft Landscaping
Turfing, Lawn care programmes, Plantscaping, Planting plans fully designed and installed Sheds
Supplied and Installed Trees
Garden waste collections
Murrayfield Community Council (“MCC”) held an Ordinary Meeting in Murrayfield Parish Church Centre on 25 June 2024.
A further Ordinary Meeting was held on 27 August 2024 after the copy deadline for this edition.
Please see the MCC website for the full Minutes of meetings.
Murrayfield Community Council
Helps the people of the area to have their say on any matter affecting their lives, their welfare, their environment, its development and amenity.
Ellersly/Kinellan road safety petition
Following a presentation by local residents, with the support of Cllr Alan Beal, to the meeting of the Transport and Environment Committee on 23 May MCC is hopeful that the following changes will be approved and delivered:
(1) traffic calming on Ellersly Road and Kinellan Road via improved road markings and vehicle activated speed signage.
(2) pavement widening as part of the Local Traffic Improvement programme with the design to be progressed in the current year.
(3) a new pedestrian crossing at the east end of Ellersly Road - a design is being developed for an uncontrolled crossing (e.g. refuge island or footpath buildouts).
Tram Line 2 consultation
The Chair reported on the meeting hosted by SPOKES on 5 June in the Augustine Bristo Church. All four speakers were in favour of trams but had different perspectives on transport priorities and the pros and cons of the Roseburn Path and Orchard Brae options.
Council Officers favour the Roseburn Path option, but Councillors have said that the public consultation must cover both options and there must be provision for both walking and cycling. The Council still needs to find £44m to fund the feasibility study into Tram Line 2 and the promised public consultation.
Next meeting:
Tuesday 22 October 2024 at 7:30 pm, in Murrayfield Parish Church Centre.
Please see the MCC websitewww.murrayfieldcc.org.uk for full minutes of recent meetings.
Taylor Swift concerts
It was generally agreed that the Taylor Swift concerts on 7, 8 and 9 June had been handled well and had been a great success for the fans and relatively hassle free for local residents.
Dalry “Living Well Locally” consultation
The Donaldson Community Association and individual members of MCC made submissions to the public consultation expressing concern that the proposal to filter traffic, other than buses and taxis, away from Dalry Road would increase congestion around Roseburn, including on Russell Road.
City Plan 2040
In order to promote local participation in the drafting of the next local development plan, City Plan 2040, the City planners are inviting communities across Edinburgh to consider preparing a Local Place Plan for their area to:
• highlight the buildings, spaces and places that are important to them,
• say how they would like land to be used and developed in their local area, and
• share the community’s aspirations for their area.
J Forbes said it was hard to see what useful impact MCC could make, as there is little room for development in the built up MCC area. The Chair undertook to raise the issue of returning the works depot at Pansy Walk to allotments - a proposal long supported by MCC.
Reap what you have sown
September is a grand month for harvesting the fruits of your labours. The shorter days might find you picking autumn raspberries, enjoying the last of your peas and runner beans, trying to harvest the lettuces before the slugs reduce them to slime, picking your courgettes and digging up your remaining potatoes, making sure not to leave any behind. This is also the beginning of the harvest for early apple varieties, as well as for pears, medlars and quince.
September is an excellent time to assess the success of your outdoor space. Did it perform in the way you hoped? Did you have enough colour, adequate screening from the wind, usable shade and shelter from sun and rain, and visual interest that delighted you? Was your paving or hard surfacing ideal for your needs? Did you get around to using your garden table and chairs as often as you hoped? If not – why? It’s a good time to move things around and to plan for next year.
Bear in mind that, with climate change, seasons are likely to gradually merge over time. A hot summer has never been guaranteed in the UK so we should work with what we are given. The winters tend to be warmer than those in the past. Many insects can now survive over the cool season and there are likely to be continental pests that can now thrive. Keep an eye out for pests and try to attract as many birds as possible to the garden so that they can clean up. It is thought that our feathery friends will eventually develop a taste for box caterpillars, for example, given a few more seasons of plenty. This can be a wonderfully golden and generous month, with soft light levels and welcome warmth. Don’t forget to notice and enjoy it, rather than mourn the passing of summer.
by Caroline Knight
Good gardeners tend to be forward-thinking
If shape, lush greenery or colour were lacking in your garden this year, consider adding plants as architectural features and perennials for colour. Plant aromatics around the pathways where a delicious scent will be released as you walk through, and place energising specimens in key locations to rejuvenate the soul. Specimen plants or artwork are all sculptural forms that act as punctuation marks in a garden. They hold the interest, providing emphasis. Try adding balls or pyramids of evergreens to provide refinement, contoured hedges for a calming flow, espalier-trained fruit trees to add a touch of class and create a screen, or the bold spiky leaves of something like agave to add drama and style. Multi-stemmed trees or clear-stemmed large shrubs are visually effective against a plain wall, whilst verticals such as Italian cypresses or fastigiate yew are timeless, lending an air of sophistication with a classical feel. Playing with ideas and moving things around are part of the gardening fun, and this is the perfect time to indulge!
Local Medical
Centres
Murrayfield Medical Centre:
Tel: 0131 337 2166
Saughton Crescent
Mon - Friday 8am-6pm
Closed for staff training every Thursday
between 12.15-1.15 pm
Closed all day Monday 16th September for bank holiday
www.mmc.org.uk
Murrayfield Medical Practice:
Tel: 0131 337 6151
Riversdale Crescent Mon - Friday 8am-6pm
Closed*: every day, Mon-Fri 12.30-1.30 for staff training
Closed all day Monday 16th September for bank holiday
www.murrayfieldmedicalpractice.scot.nhs.uk
* Dates correct at time of printing
Patients are advised if they need medical assistance during practice closures, they should call NHS 24 on 111 or visit www.nhsinform.scot where you can find lots of helpful information and details of the NHS 24 Online app.
Alternatively in a medical emergency do not hesitate to call 999.
Please remember to ensure that you have organised your repeat prescriptions to cover holiday periods.
SEPTEMBER
School Holidays
Local Schools
Monday 16th
Erskine Stewarts’s Melville
Monday 16th
(except for CCF pupils & some SMC DofE
OCTOBER
School Holidays
Local Schools
Monday 14th - Monday 21st (incl.)
Teacher In-Service Day 21st
School pupils resume Tuesday 22nd
Edinburgh Academy
Monday 14th - Monday 28th (incl.)
Teacher In-Service Day 28th
School pupils resume Tuesday 29th
Erskine Stewart’s Melville
Monday 14th - Friday 25th (incl.) (resume Monday 28th Oct)
St George’s
Monday 14th - Monday 28th (incl.)
Teacher In-Service Day Monday 28th
School pupils resume Tuesday 29th
British Summertime ends (clocks back 1 hour)
Sunday 27th
NOVEMBER
Remembrance Monday 11th
Children in Need Friday 15th
St Andrew’s Day Saturday 30th
Dates
for your Diary
This month marks Organic September, celebrating all things organic. Not to miss out, we’ve rounded up a selection of interesting and informative reads.
Encyclopedia of Organic, Sustainable & Local Food edited by Leslie A Duram
With increasing attention on organic and local food, many people are attracted to these sustainable food choices. Eating is a human activity, yet many of us don’t know where our food comes from. This guide helps readers fill the gap between the trendy and the factual and includes more than 140 comprehensive A-Z entries covering all aspects of organic food and farming, local food production and consumption, and sustainable initiatives.
The Power of Organic Fitness by Coleman J Power
Professional fitness coach Coleman J Power firmly believes that eating organically and living an organic lifestyle doesn’t have to be difficult, even in our fast-food and fast-paced culture. Here he shows you how small changes can lead to extraordinary results, with an indispensable guide to choosing the lifestyle that suits your schedule and fitness goals, all organically. Discover how to increase your energy levels, take the right steps to improve and heal your gut health, understand foods at their most basic level and much more.
Organic Beauty – An Illustrated Guide to Making Your Own Skincare by Maru Godas
A beautifully illustrated guide, this book will teach you how to create your own cosmetics using only natural products, allowing you to leave behind brand names for self-care that’s guilt-free. Learn what plants to use, how to collect and prepare them, and create your own masks, scrubs, balms, butter, hair lotions and much more with detailed step-by-step instructions. Get back in touch with nature and celebrate the planet as you celebrate yourself.
Learn how to make your own paint, paper, pigments, prints and more from nature. Drawing on ancient techniques, Nick encourages you to return to those days when art was made with all-natural materials, like charcoal and birch bark. Some of the projects and skills covered include natural pigments and dyes, and making paper and wild ink. In addition to offering a wide variety of suggestions for using nature as supplies for art, the book also introduces the concepts of awareness and perception that are foundational to the creative process.
No-Waste Organic Gardening by Shawna Coronado
Recycle and repurpose your way to a successful and eco-friendly organic garden with dozens of tips, tricks and solutions to save you time and money – all while saving the planet, too – such as building a rain barrel from an old rubbish bin and mixing up your own potting soil to reduce plastic bag waste. This is the second book in the internationally successful No-Waste Gardening series by author Shawna Coronado – for more advice on living waste-free, explore the first book in the series, No-Waste Kitchen Gardening.
Organic Embroidery by Meredith Woolnough
Renowned textile artist Meredith Woolnough creates replicas of nature using a delicate system of tiny stitches, and here she shows you how to use your sewing machine to turn bits of nature into exquisite art. Guiding you on how to use the “organic embroidery” technique, Meredith gives you a look behind the scenes of her art process, while you learn to find your desired shape or pattern in nature, from sources such as leaves, shells or coral. You’ll also enjoy dozens of inspirational photos of the author’s own art pieces.
Alexander Hunter
The Organic Artist by Nick Neddo
The Piano
by John Barrettformer local Member of Parliament and Councillor
Several weeks ago, I was sitting back at home watching the Channel 4 television programme The Piano, which was being broadcast from Edinburgh’s Waverley station.
Many talented people told their story and all played the piano in the station brilliantly. The winner of that programme, who was then selected to go on to perform in the final concert, was a young woman called Daria, who had fled with her baby from Ukraine, when war broke out. She told her story about how she had no food or medicine for her baby, and she took the hardest decision of her life, to leave her family and search for safety in the UK. As she headed for the railway station in Kherson, there was a sniper on the roof and she had to let her parents know that if she didn’t make it, that is where they might find her.
Her story and performance on the piano was very moving, and I decided to try to find a way to contact her, to ask if, after the final concert, she would return to Edinburgh to perform in a fundraising concert for those families still in Ukraine, affected by the war.
When I saw the final episode of the TV programme, I could not believe it, as my email invitation to Daria was on the screen, and the photo here is of that moment.
Since then, I have manage to be in touch with Daria and a concert has now been arranged in Edinburgh on October 12th in St. Cecilia’s Hall in the city centre. All the ticket sales proceeds from the event will go to the Edinburgh based charity Sunflower Scotland, who regularly take medical aid and other supplies to the front line, and the proceeds from this concert will go to Daria’s home region near Kherson.
My wife Carol and I are covering all the costs of holding the concert, hire of hall and piano, travel and other expenses, so that every penny raised from ticket sales can be used to help those in need.
John Barrett
If you would like a ticket, or can help support this event in any way, please contact me by email at barrett.john@btconnect.com or phone 0780 1057 446. Ticket price £25.
Monday 5.30 & 7.00pm
Leonardo hotel, Clermiston Rd
Wednesday 5.30pm
Carrickvale Golf Club, Glendevon Park
Thursday 4.30 & 6.30pm
Leonardo hotel, Clermiston Rd
Friday 8.30 & 10.00am
88th Craigalmond Scout-hall, Broomhall Avenue
Every year, for just under a week, India becomes a spectacle of light. Technicolour lanterns, diyas (oil lamps made from clay), sparklers and firework displays fill the streets, as families gather to feast and exchange gifts. Diwali celebrations have begun!
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals among Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and even some Buddhists across the world. This beautiful ‘Festival of Lights’ is a beacon of brightness and hope for the year ahead, symbolising new beginnings and the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. When is Diwali?
The festival usually falls between mid-October and mid-November; however, the exact dates are determined by the lunar calendar. This year, Diwali will be celebrated between 29 October and 3 November.
What are the origins of the festival?
Although originating in India, Diwali is now celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists across the world, with each religion marking the festival with its own historical legends and traditions.
In Hinduism alone, there are several versions of the Diwali story that vary among geographic communities. In north India, for example, Diwali commemorates Prince Rama and Sita’s triumphant return to the city of Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, whereas in South India, the festival honours the victory of Lord Krishna over the demon king Narakasura.
For Sikhs, Diwali commemorates the release of the 17th-century guru Hargobind after 12 years of
imprisonment by Mughal emperor Jahangir. Jains observe Diwali as the day Lord Mahavira reached nirvana (eternal bliss), while some Buddhists see it as the day the Hindu Emperor Ashoka, who ruled in the third century BC, converted to Buddhism.
What happens during Diwali?
Festivities vary across different traditions and cultural backgrounds. Generally, it’s marked by spending time with family, performing acts of dana (charitable giving) and seva (selfless service), cleaning and decorating the home, performing religious ceremonies and putting up lights.
The festivities can span five days with each day having its own significance. Typically, on the first day, people pray to the goddess Lakshmi, bake sweets and clean their homes – which they decorate on the second day with lamps and rangoli (designs made on the floor out of coloured sand, powder, rice or flower petals).
The third day is the most important day of the festival. Families gather to exchange gifts, feast, set off fi reworks and indulge in sweets. Many Hindus also worship the goddess Lakshmi on this day.
For many celebrants, the fourth day of Diwali marks the first day of the New Year in many parts of India and is a time to exchange gifts and well wishes. Typically, the fifth day is then a day to honour one’s siblings.
Diwali is India’s biggest holiday season, with its importance being compared to Christmas for those of the Christian faith. However it’s celebrated around the world, the spirit of Diwali serves as a reminder of the power of hope and the importance of community.
Coltbridge Bowling Club
1a Coltbridge Gardens
Roseburn, Edinburgh
EH12 6AQ
Coltbridge Bowling Club is a small, friendly bowling club which is idyllically situated on the banks of the Water of Leith at Roseburn.
We welcome new members, experienced or not, men, women and children (from 8 years old).
Bowls really is “the game for all”. If you think that you may be interested in playing bowls and joining our club please get in touch for more information.
Call
Derek Burgoyne on 07836 225 782, Alan Beattie on 07724 443 969 or visit our website for more information www.coltbridgebowlingclub.co.uk
Free Community Support for Carers of Individuals Living with Dementia
Manor Grange Care Home is offering a FREE support group for unpaid carers within the local community where they can come along and enjoy a cuppa & natter with their peers whilst their loved ones can enjoy one of our many activities.
Community support for unpaid Carers can often be very limited and we would love to be of assistance and offer a very valuable service to our local community.
The group will be held on the last Thursday of the month.
Contact activities@manorgrangecare.co.uk for more information.
Manor Grange Care Home
31 Pinkhill
EDINBURGH
EH12 7FB
Telephone 0131 334 6462
Lead Work
Slating & Tiling
Flat Roofing • Single ply
uPVC Fascias & Gut • Pointing & Cement Work • Roughcasting & Harling • Emergency Roofing • Exterior Painting • Joinery
morningsideroofing.co.uk
info@morningsideroofing.co.uk
This year, the NHS Organ Donor Register is celebrating its 30th birthday. So, for Organ Donation Week (23-29 September 2024), the NHS is encouraging as many local landmarks and buildings across the UK to turn pink, to help encourage people to confirm their decision on the register.
Organ donation is when you decide to give an organ to save or transform the life of someone else. You can donate some organs while you’re alive, though most organ and tissue donations come from people who have died. However, only a very small number of people die in a way where they can be organ donors.
By donating, you have the chance to give someone their confidence and independence back, and even save a life. It’s said that every donation could save up to nine lives, so every donation really is precious!
The ‘opt-out’ system
In 2020, the law around organ donation in England changed. All adults in England are now considered to have agreed to be organ donors when they die unless they have recorded a decision not to donate on the NHS Organ Donor Register or are in one of the excluded groups. This is commonly referred to as an ‘opt-out’ system.
However, you still have a choice and your family will always be involved before a donation takes place. Therefore, you must discuss the topic with them or a nominated friend, as they can overturn your decision.
So, what can you do now to make a difference?
• Register your decision at www.organdonation. nhs.uk/register-your-decision. There’s no deadline and you can change your decision at any time. By confirming your decision, you’ll be giving your loved ones the certainty they need to support your choice.
• Talk to your loved ones about what you’ve decided. Clinicians won’t proceed with a donation if your family objects, so it’s important to make your family aware of your decision. What happens in the future?
If you die in a way that means organ donation is possible, a specialist nurse will access the NHS Organ Donor Register to check whether you have registered a decision. They’ll then discuss what they find with your loved ones.
If you haven’t registered a decision, they’ll ask your loved ones if they know your feelings about organ donation. As part of the ‘opt-out’ system’, it will be initially considered that you’re willing to become a donor unless you’ve opted out or are in one of the excluded groups. However, clinicians will never proceed with a donation if your family objects.
If you had registered a decision to donate, or your family tells the specialist nurse that it’s what you would have wanted, donation can go ahead.
If you have registered a decision not to become an organ donor, this will always be respected.
Make a difference to someone’s life and register your decision today on the Organ Donation Register at www.organdonation.nhs.uk/register-your-decision.
GUITAR TEACHER
HEAT STROKE
WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP?
When a pet is exposed to excessive external or environmental heat they are at risk of becoming hyperthermic Heat stroke is another term for this A dog is considered to be hyperthermic when they reach temperatures of 39 4 degrees Celsius At temperatures of 41 degrees and above, organ failure can occur risking the life of the pet Symptoms of heat stroke include elevated breathing rates, sticky dry gums and abnormal gum colouring Pets with heat stroke may seem lethargic and disoriented, some pets may even have seizures if they become too hot for long periods of time.
If your pet begins to show signs of heat stroke call your vet as soon as possible, heat stroke is a medical emergency Getting your pets temperature under control is the main pr ority Cool water can be poured over the head stomach, armpit and feet New research has also shown it can be he pful to place your pet n a bath/swa low amount of cold water to submerge them Once your pet is at the vets, ntravenous flu ds mild sedation and oxygen therapy can then be administered to help reduce the temperature Internal temperature wi l be monitored and treatment discontinued once internal temperature reaches 39 4 degrees If cool ng sn t discontinued the pet s at risk of becoming hypotherm c (too cold!)
Heat stroke can be prevented by: providing plenty of fresh water on warm days. walking your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when it is cooler. never leaving your pets in hot vehicles or hot rooms (i e conservatories) restricting exercise on a warm day.
Breast Feeding Support Group
Meet Tuesdays 11.15am -12.15pm Rannoch Centre 6 Rannoch Terrace
As children go into their first or second year at secondary school, many parents will start being pressured to provide them with a smartphone because “everybody else has one”.
They have a point: many kids conduct much of their social lives via phone apps, and don’t want to miss out. But you know that there’s a lot of unpleasant stuff online. The good news is that Apple and Android phones have some tools to help ensure your tween uses a smartphone safely.
Aura
On an iPhone, the features you want are in Settings > Family. Here you can set up Screen Time for family members, a feature enabling you to change safety settings for their phone and other devices. You can block specific apps, set time limits on others and set content restrictions.
The Android equivalent is an app called Family Link.
Screen Time and Family Link let you set content restrictions for the phone’s default internet browser. The restrictions can’t block everything, but they do a pretty good job of reducing the risk of dodgy content getting through, and you can also block specific sites.
Family Link and Apple’s Find My app both enable you to locate your tween. In the case of Family Link, you can set up notifications regarding specific places, so for example you can get Google to ping you when your tween arrives at or leaves school or a friend’s house.
These features will cover the basics for most people, but if you want even more control there are multiple parental-control apps from big names in computer security. One of the best known is Norton Family, which not only blocks content and does so even better than the Apple and Google apps but also enables you to see a child’s search, streamed video and browsing history.
This US app was judged the best parental app by the tech site Techradar last year, thanks to its ability to warn you about dodgy content and other kids’ bullying behaviour in games. $99 per year
Net Nanny
Net Nanny’s focus is on inappropriate content, enabling you to block and be alerted of attempts to view pornography and other unsuitable content. It’s available for PC, Mac and iOS but not Android. $59 per year, netnanny.com
Norton Family
Norton is one of the best-known names in PC security and this cross-platform app runs on phones and computers with effective parental controls, app blocking, time limits and search history reporting. £14.99 per year, Norton.com
Qustudio
This provides detailed reporting and fine-grained app control and can let you know who they’ve been calling or who’s been calling them. £39 per year
We
Learning something new can be a source of great joy and personal growth. Perhaps you’ve always harboured a desire to speak a new language, master the art of cursive writing or discover a hidden musical talent. Yet, the demands of daily life often relegate these aspirations to mere thoughts. This is where evening classes, whether at a local college or through a private company, can provide the structure and support to turn these dreams into tangible achievements.
A 2020 survey conducted by Tes Magazine revealed that the uptake for evening classes had dropped by around 50% in the last ten years. In fact, for many of us, education stops after university or secondary school as we’re thrust into employment and parenthood. With the saying ‘every day is a school day’ in mind and many agreeing that education is a lifelong pursuit, why do many of us never consider the option of local colleges or evening classes? The number one answer is probably time. Adulthood not only brings responsibility but distraction – TV, social media, DIY, family and so on. Although for many this is a reasonable concern, it is important to state that many classes are hosted outside traditional working hours, making it as easy as possible to attend.
What’s on offer?
If you haven’t looked at an adult learning prospectus recently, you might imagine that evening classes are just for working skills, like how to use Microsoft Office or give presentations. If this is your view, then the first thing to learn is how wrong you are! Work, vocation and hobby training courses are all available.
Consider the possibilities: An Introduction to Generative AI, Improving your Speaking Voice, Indian Head Massage, and Pottery are just a glimpse of the diverse range of courses available. While many of these skills could enhance your professional life, they also offer a gateway to new hobbies and a chance to be part of something enjoyable and fulfilling. Who knows, you might discover a passion you never knew you had!
Taking lessons can bring indirect benefits too. Spending some time in a different environment can lead to a general improvement in your mental health and well-being. Furthermore, several observational studies show that people who do mentally stimulating activities may have a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia, regardless of the age you are when you start. And don’t forget the potential friendships you can make in these classes with people equally passionate about the topic that you’re learning.
In summary, evening classes are an excellent way to learn something new, make friends, and benefit your mental health. That leaves you to take the initial steps: research what’s on offer and either call the course provider or find an open evening to attend to chat through your options. It’ll be fun!
We do not get to choose our battles – John Scalzi
We do not get to choose our battles – John Scalzi
PICTOGRAM PAGE 59
1. In at the deep end
2. Fancy dress
3. A match made in heaven
CHILDRENS HALLOWEEN
WORD FIT PAGE 59
It can sometimes feel like you need a science degree to understand skincare labels, so here’s a no-nonsense guide to some of the most popular active ingredients.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide is a real multi-tasker, helping to reduce pore size, minimise fine lines, boost hydration, calm redness, tighten sagging skin and treat acne. If you have sensitive skin, start with a low dose of 2% and gradually increase to 10%. Otherwise, The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (www. theordinary.com) is a great choice as it’s high strength and a bargain at just £5.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid helps your skin to hold on to water, plumping it up (thus minimising wrinkles and fine lines) and making it softer. Don’t let the name scare you: hyaluronic acid is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation. Beauty Pie’s Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum contains three different weights of hyaluronic acid to penetrate different layers (£24 for members, www.beautypie.com).
Retinol (Vitamin A)
Retinol increases cell turnover to reduce fine lines, pigmentation and acne, and improve the texture of your skin. Retinol can cause irritation, so start small and build up. Medik8’s Crystal Retinal contains retinal, which works more quickly than standard retinol and is available in different strengths, from 0.01% to 0.2%. Unless you have sensitive skin, you should be fine starting with 0.03% (from £45, www.medik8.com).
Alternatively, higher-strength retinoids such as tretinoin are very effective, but they’re only available on prescription from companies such as Skin+Me (£29.99 per month, www. skinandme.com).
It’s crucial to wear SPF every day if you’re using a retinol to avoid skin damage.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)
Peptides
Peptides have many benefits but are particularly useful for improving the skin’s elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines. There are many different types, all good at different things. DoSe’s Peptide Rescue Serum activates neuropeptide to help calm skin, and reduce inflammation and signs of ageing (£22, www. victoriahealth.com).
There are lots of different AHAs, but glycolic acid and lactic acid are the ones most commonly used in skincare. They help to get rid of dead skin cells, lighten dark spots caused by sun damage, reduce fine lines and acne, and leave your skin feeling softer. They can cause irritation and sun sensitivity, so start with a low dose or weekly treatment and always use sun cream. Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads (£19.95 for 100 pads, www. nipandfab.com) are an easy way to exfoliate with AHAs and gentle enough for most skin types.
Ceramides
Ceramides are a type of fatty acid. They help to keep your skin healthy, trap moisture and prevent irritation. As we age, our ceramide levels start to decrease, which is why they’re often included in skincare. The INKEY List’s Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturizer (£19, uk.theinkeylist.com) is a good way to include ceramides in your daily skincare routine. It’s very hydrating and has been found to help reduce most signs of ageing.
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