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
19th March
Murrayfield Grapevine April/May 2026 edition
(see website for full details) 20th April
Corstorphine Grapevine May/June 2026 edition
Welcome to the first edition of the Corstorphine Grapevine in 2026. The directory as usual is full of many local businesses that are ready to help with what you need.
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.
As much as you might prefer to ‘buy’local’ there will always be national retail outlets you will have to use. Supermarkets like Tesco, Asda etc will inevitably get your custom. Likewise clothing stores and furniture retailers offer low prices and lots of choice so big businesses remain part of everyday life. However, particularly in service based sectors, independent businesses are not just valuable but essential. Trades such as roofers, electricians; personal services like podiatrists, beauticians; and professionals including solicitors, funeral directors are more local. These businesses rely on trust, reputation, local knowledge and personal relationships. They need new customers to survive. Many promote themselves in this directory because it reaches exactly the people who buy from them. Finally, this is us too, a small independently owned company. When you use our advertisers you support us as well. Thank you.
Best wishes
The Corstorphine Grapevine is printed by Cowan Print Tel : 01236 821177
Thinking about a Direct Cremation?
As your only local, independent, family-owned funeral director we feel it is important that you are aware of exactly what a Direct Cremation entails.
A stand alone Direct Cremation, as you might see advertised on TV has no service for family or friends at all.
It is quite simply a removal of your loved one, followed by the return of the cremated remains some weeks later.
It is often the case that your loved one is transported to a central cremation hub far from their home.
We do offer Direct Cremation, but unlike many of the offers advertised on TV, we will look after your loved one locally and continue to offer the additional services you have come to expect from us.
Feel free to come in for a chat about the wide range of options we offer.
For more information on Direct Cremation, scan the QR code.
Roofing
Masonry
Chimneys
Plastering
Rendering
Guttering & Downpipes
UPVC Roofline
Damp
Proofing & Preservation
Joinery - Renovations, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Garage Conversions
Building - Structural Alterations, Fencing & Decking
Exterior Painting & Decoration
digits 1 through 9, with logic - there is no maths
If you are searching for professional, reliable, high-quality removal services in Edinburgh, look no further than Kingdom for Edinburgh Removals. With years of experience handling removals, you can trust us to make your moving journey smooth and hassle-free. We are recognized for our meticulous attention to detail, skilled team, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.
Two-Bedroom Apartment Now Available –Complete With Furniture and Finishings
A stylish apartment currently available at the multi-award winning Rowanbank Gardens in the vibrant Edinburgh suburb of Corstorphine, is taking the phrase ‘move-in ready’ to a new level.
The spacious two-bedroomed home comes with all its beautifully designed furnishings as seen –all for the asking price of £330,000. The superbly designed flat is a show apartment which has now been released for sale, and comes complete with contemporary designer furniture for the open plan kitchen and living area, as well as stylish beds and soft furnishings for the two bedrooms.
The apartment provides the highest standard of living both inside and out. Airy, sun-drenched open plan living spaces make the most of natural daylight and the open outlook is maximised by full-length picture windows.
The former show apartment is one of just two remaining luxury two-bedroom homes currently available and ready to move into at Rowanbank Gardens, with prices starting at £330,000. As well as all furnishings, the apartment includes oak hardwood floors and carpets throughout as standard, together with contemporary bathrooms
and fully fitted kitchens with state-of-the-art appliances and worktops supplied by Kitchens International.
Developed by boutique developer, Artisan Real Estate, Rowanbank Gardens has been recognised as setting new industry standards for sustainable, low-carbon living challenging many of the norms associated with the building of traditional apartment buildings in city centre areas.
It is one of the first large developments in Scotland to employ individual air source heat pumps in all apartments, providing both heating and domestic hot water, which combined with industry-leading insulation, provides supreme energy efficiency. Externally, large landscaped green areas - including new trees, herb and vegetable growing beds, flowering sedum roofs and even a communal potting shed - combine to create a powerful and unique sense of community for all residents.
Buying a new home at Rowanbank Gardens is easy thanks to a range of superb incentives making moving both easier and more costeffective. Artisan is currently offering a range of generous incentives for buyers looking to reserve the remaining apartments. These include a £10,000 deposit contribution, which can be taken as cash-back to help with moving expenses or a contribution to the Land & Building Transaction Tax.
To view the apartments and to discuss the range of incentives available, book an appointment through the Rowanbank Gardens’ website at www.rowanbankgardens.com or call 0131 516 3302.
Barry Ronaldson & Son is a family-run business with over 25 years of experience in roofing, general building, and garden works across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
We specialise in roofing servicesfrom repairs and replacements to Velux windows and annual maintenance - alongside general building and outdoor projects like garden walls and patios.
The stylish open-plan living area of the former show apartment
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
Breast Feeding Support Group
Meet Tuesdays 11.15am -12.15pm
Rannoch Centre
6 Rannoch Terrace
Edinburgh EH4 7ES - just behind Drumbrae Hub
This is a group for mums and babies experiencing breastfeeding challenges. Please do come!
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)
Enjoy Floral Demonstrations by Qualified Demonstrators
Meets monthly (2nd Monday) 7 for 7.30pm
St Thomas’s Church Hall Glasgow Road
For further information contact Johan White 0131 445 4842 CORSTORPHINE FLORAL ART CLUB
Potholes and Police Station Public Counter
by John Barrett - former local Member of Parliament and Councillor
Two things people regularly mention to me while I am out and about in Corstorphine are; the state of the roads, with the number and size of the potholes increasing year by year, which not only damage vehicles but are a real danger and a problem for those with back problems or other medical issues, when hitting a pothole can be painful, and the need for a public counter to be open at our local Police Station.
I sometimes post on Corstorphine Community Facebook sites, and when I suggested that the police station public counter be re-opened, over 10,000 people viewed my article and the comments were overwhelmingly positive. As many locals will know, there are often many officers in the station and one of the services, they should provide is access for local people to raise their concerns or to report an incident or crime to a police officer. Many services have now gone online, but with a large station in the heart of the community a public counter that is open and responsive to the public, and which used to exist for years, now needs to return.
I have raised this issue with the local MSP Alex Cole-Hamilton and when I have met police officers on the beat, (which is not often) and one issue they mention is staffing and other priorities, but serving the local community is a top priority, and if the local community would like to see an open public counter at the station, it is
something those responsible should work towards providing.
Every political party will be looking for your vote and my vote in the run up to the May elections. I will be asking every candidate standing, what they are going to do about potholes and the police station public counter. There are many other larger issues that influence how people vote, but every locally elected person also needs to act on the small but vitally important local issues.
Last but not least, I would like to thank the Corstorphine Grapevine for supporting the Corstorphine Literary and Geographical Society (commonly known as The Lit) by including in this edition details of their 2026 Spring programme. The Lit has existed for over 100 years and is there to provide interesting events for the whole community. I have been to many talks and can highly recommend a visit.
John Barrett
less
leave to chance, the more
leave behind
SILICONE
SEALANT SOLUTIONS
Do you have unsightly black mould around your bath, shower or kitchen worktops?
We can take it out and replace it with a fresh new bead of silicone. It not only gives a fresh new look, it also helps prevent water damage to your property.
We also reseal windows, doors & conservatories.
Call Peter on 07521 422370
20 years experience Joinery & Handyman Services
joinery for the home Call Jamie Walker on : Home : 0131 339 2636 Mobile : 0790 388 2858 www.jcwalkerjoinery.com
& Reflexology Clinic
8 Coltbridge Avenue, Murrayfield, Edinburgh 0131 337 2226
Podiatry: 0770 4689 342
Reflexology: 0746 0684 166
l Home Visits
l Routine Podiatry & Advice
l Hand and Foot Reflexology
l Nail Surgery & Dry Needling
l Biomechanics & Orthotics
l Evening Clinic on Mondays 6-9 pm
Back
Joint,
Muscle
Work-related
Frozen
Tennis
Arthritis
Headaches
Stiffness
Dizziness/BPPV
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.
By Karen Bruce
Corstorphine Bowling Club is located in the heart of our community within easy walking distance of the village centre. Our quiet club is a perfect place to play bowls and spend time with your friends. We pride ourselves on the family-friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere for bowlers of all abilities.
Don’t just take our word for it, come and pay us a visit to find out more.
2026 Dates
CORSTORPHINE BOWLING CLUB
Why join the club?
3 Months Free Trial available for those New to the Sport
l Play Bowls!
l Great Clubhouse
l Competition Bowls
Friday 1st May, 6 - 8pm Sunday 3rd May, 12noon - 3pm ALL ages welcome.
Corstorphine Bowling Club
5 Saughton Road North, Edinburgh EH12 7HQ 0755 779 3995 www.corstorphinebowlingclub.co.uk
Exhibition 2026
The Gallery Art Club
St Davids Carrick Knowe Parish Church Hall, Saughton Road North, EH12 7DR
Tuesday 14th - Saturday 18th April 10.30am - 4.30pm (except Friday) 1pm - 8pm
New members welcome on Tuesdays 10am - 12noon at the above location Contact number 07963 143588 Admission free Light refreshments on sale
• All Digital Aerial & Satellite Installation & Repairs
• Domestic & Commercial
• Fully Guaranteed Free Estimates
• Sky Installations, Foreign Satellites
• Motorised Systems Installed & Repaired
• 20 Years experience
Call Alexander Hunter
Fostering Futures in Corstorphine –
Could You Make a Difference?
Did you know one of Scotland’s oldest charities is based right here in Corstorphine? Dean and Cauvin has supported young people for nearly 300 years and are looking for new foster carers to join our community.
Our foster carers say what makes fostering with us special is our personal approach:
“They’ve been around for hundreds of years but have chosen to remain smaller and just be really good at what they do.
”
At the heart of our support is the Wellbeing Hub on St John’s Road –a warm, welcoming space for carers, young people and the local community. The Hub offers counselling, peer support, food and baby resources and meeting spaces for community use.
For more information...
It’s also where we run Fostering preparation training sessions, so pop in for a chat and see what’s happening.
We’re looking for carers for teenagers and mum and baby placements –a unique chance to support a young parent and their baby in those vital early days. You’ll receive full support from enquiry through training and beyond, with a dedicated social worker, 24/7 help, flexible training and a strong peer network. We also offer short breaks, family days, an annual residential trip and access to our holiday caravan.
You don’t need to be an experienced parent – just open-minded and ready to make a difference. As one carer says:
“If you have an inkling to foster, a willingness to learn and compassion for young people then you should pick up the phone.”
T: 0131 337 3295 www.deanandcauvin.org.uk Or please just pop in!
Doddie’s Triple Crown 2026
Doddie’s Triple Crown is the 2026 edition of Rob Wainwright’s epic annual cycling challenge to raise funds for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. The challenge will take place from Tuesday 10th - Friday 13th March and the teams will cover 800 miles.
Who are we doing this for?
The My Name’5 Doddie Foundation who are absolutely committed to their goal: A World Free of MND. They will leave no stone unturned in the relentless pursuit of this goal as they fund, guide and enable the smartest, most efficient MND research to catalyse a cure for motor neurone disease.
Who are we?
We’re The Weiry Old Dod’5, and we’re taking on Doddie’s Triple Crown 2026 -an epic 800+ mile cycling challenge in support of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation and their mission to find a cure for MND.
Our team of riders - Ross Young, Fiona Sutherland, Troy MacLachlan, Steven Harris, Helen McCafferty, Craig McCafferty, Fiona McBain, Geoff Pendrill and Murray Buchan - will be backed all the way by our fantastic support crew: Douglas Thomson, Andrew Wildgoose and Mel Pendrill.
Our team oThis is our first year taking on the challenge together. We’re a mixed bag of riders - some seasoned cyclists, others brand new to the sport - but we’re all united by one goal: to help find a cure for Motor Neurone Disease and continue Doddie’s incredible legacy.
From 10th–13th March 2026, we’ll ride from Melrose to Dublin, arriving just in time for Scotland’s Six Nations clash with Ireland. The route covers four gruelling days in the saddle:
Day 1: Melrose → Leeds
Day 2: Leeds → Gloucester
Day 3: Gloucester → Rosslare (overnight ferry to Ireland)
Day 4: Rosslare → Dublin
Every mile we ride is for those who can’t.
Any support you can give - no matter how big or smallwill make a real difference in the fight against MND.
Where can you support us?
Just Giving - www.justgiving.com/page/the-weiry-olddod5?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL Dimitris (Haymarket) - 14th February & 7th March
Follow our journey on instagram @the_weiry_old_dod5
Thank you for your generosity and encouragement.
Mushroom and watercress French toast
This quick and easy any-timeof-day savoury dish isn’t just delicious; it combines the healthy super-ingredients mushrooms and watercress for maximum oomph!
Serves 1
Preparation time 10 minutes
Cooking time 10 minutes Ingredients
• 1 egg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 slices thick crusty bread
• Butter
• 50g grated Swiss cheese, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
• 100g mushrooms, wiped and halved
• 80g watercress, chopped
Method
1. In a bowl, beat the egg and add a little salt and freshly ground black pepper. Dip in the slices of bread, covering both sides in the mix.
2. Heat some butter in a frying pan over a medium heat and fry the eggy bread for a couple of minutes, flip it and sprinkle the grated cheese over the side that is cooked so it melts.
3. Meanwhile, heat a knob of butter in a clean pan over a medium heat and add the garlic, if using, and the mushrooms. Add the watercress as the mushrooms start to brown and cook for no longer than a minute, so the watercress has just wilted.
4. Serve the mushrooms and watercress heaped on top of the cheesy toast and finish with a generous grating of black pepper.
Cleland Roofing Solutions Ltd started up at an office right next to Turnhouse Golf Club, and have recently opened a larger site in Gorebridge. In the near future we will be opening a new office in the borders as the company expands. We have 8 vans with 8 squads, working and covering all of Scotland. All of our teams carry out all types of roofing works and roughcasting which include:
SLATING AND TILING
BUILT UP FELT SYTEMS
GUTTER REPAIR AND RENEWAL VELUX SUPPLIED AND FITTED ALL LEAD WORKS RENDER AND HARLING MEWP WORKS
ROPE
WORKS
All the tradesmen are City and Guilds qualified. We have IPAF and PASMA certificates.
Full Members of all accreditations shown below.
Fully insured for all working at height, gas and rope works. 16
Come rain or shine
March marks the start of spring and, as we look forward to warmer days, here’s a round-up of books and media on the weather and climate change.
BOOKS
The Climate Book by Greta Thunberg
Activist Greta Thunberg gives us a crash course in how we can save the world as we face an environmental crisis. Produced in partnership with more than 100 climate-change experts, Thunberg’s commentaries and updates reflect the latest research – and why we must act now.
Very British Weather by The Met Office
Do you know your drizzle from your mizzle? Ever wondered what rainbows are really made of? The Met Office shares the best of almost 170 years of forecasting for the first time in this beautifully illustrated book.
Cloudspotting for Beginners by Gavin Pretor-Pinney and William Grill
Although aimed principally at upper primary school children, this book, artfully illustrated by William Grill, will inspire curious minds of all ages. Clouds come in all shapes and sizes. Learn facts, secrets and stories of all the major types, as well as discovering parts of the sky where they like to hang out, how they play with sunlight and much more.
There Is No Planet B by Mike Berners-Lee
This is the big-picture perspective on the environmental challenges of our day – but what’s most pressing and what can any of us do as individuals? In this updated edition, carbonfootprinting expert Mike Berners-Lee offers new material on protests, pandemics, wildfires, carbon targets, biodiversity and more.
In All Weathers by Matt Gaw
Matt Gaw embarks on a series of walks across Britain to explore our weather in all its wild and stormy forms, examining where it comes from, the ways it’s changing and how we can embrace it as a positive presence in our lives. This is a journey through rain, fog, wind, ice and everything in between.
YouTube – Climate Extremes: At the Abyss?
This hour-long documentary explores questions about the Earth’s future, presenting expert perspectives and ongoing scientific research on the rapidly changing Earth system.
Podcast – Weather Geeks
Listen to this podcast for the agony and the ecstasy of the one story that the entire world participates in, and the science behind it. From the people behind The Weather Channel TV network.
TV Series – Weather: Beyond the Forecast
This BBC series (available on iPlayer) takes weather stories beyond the traditional forecast. It includes episodes about flying in a storm and how extreme heat could affect the UK.
Carrick Knowe Bowling Club
Bowling & Social Membership Available
We have a function hall which takes up to 100 people for Birthdays, Wedding Parties, Funeral Wakes plus Mother & Toddler Groups, even Yoga Groups. Also, Bingo Thursday and Sunday - eyes down 7.30pm.
You can hire the hall morning, afternoon and evening.
Contact us on either Facebook or email Carrickknowe.bc@outlook.com
81A Broomhall Ave, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 7NW
The first talk this year was on 2nd February and was a fascinating presentation by Bill Simpson about the RAF Edinburgh 603 Squadron, which included Spitfires tackling the German Airforce over the Firth of Forth. The second talk on Monday 2nd March was with George Anderson from the Beechgrove Garden who talked about his Horticultural Journey.
The April 6th presentation will be about German Spies in WWII and the May 4th talk will be about the Fisherrow Fishwives
(known locally as The Lit) has now existed for over 100 years, starting life in 1880. It meets monthly in St. Ninian’s Church Hall, on St. John’s Road on the first Monday of the month, eight times a year for a wide variety of interesting talks and presentations.
After a summer break there will be four more talks, from September to December, usually ending with a musical evening just before Christmas.
Every meeting starts at 7.45pm and is over by 9pm. It helps if first time visitors could arrive by 7.30pm. Membership of The Lit costs £20 for a full year, covering eight meetings, or you can come along for individual meetings and pay £4 on the door.
Everyone is welcome and we hope to see you there.
For more information about the Lit, please email thecorstorphinelit@gmail.com
Royal seal of approval
By Caroline Knight
The best thing about spring for garden-lovers is the thought of adding some beauty to the borders. You probably know what you like, but how do you choose a variety or cultivar of a particular species?
One way to decide is to look for plants that bear the RHS AGM (Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit) logo. The familiar marker with its cup-shaped design evokes a feeling of trust and acts as a stamp of approval. These plants have been judged by the RHS to be reliable performers. Tried and tested
Testing and assessment take place during a trial period that can last several weeks, months or even years. These trials are often carried out at RHS Wisley in Surrey.
There are currently more than 7,500 plants carrying the RHS AGM and more are being added to the database all the time. Some, however, leave their glory behind if they are shown to have deteriorated or even become invasive. The AGM is subject to regular review and, since its inception in 2002, more than 3,000 plants have been dropped from the list. Some popular choices
During March, when many Camellias are in glorious bloom, some are more revered than others. A selection of those granted the RHS AGM include:
• The bright pink, semi-double Camellia ‘Leonard Messel’
• Bi-colour Camellia ‘Tom Thumb’, with compact growth, glossy foliage and small, rose-pink double flowers with white edges
• Semi-double, crimson-flowered Camellia ‘Mars’
• Camellia ‘Silver Anniversary’ with its peony form of white flowers and bright yellow stamens
A surprising number of Rhododendrons have earned the coveted RHS AGM, including:
• Rhododendron ‘Scintillation’, an evergreen, compact variety with free-flowering purple-pink flowers with a golden blotch
• Rhododendron (also known as Azalea) ‘Golden Eagle’, a deciduous variety with fiery orangeyellow flowers and attractive autumn foliage
• Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’, a reliable evergreen with glorious trusses of snow-white flowers
• Rhododendron ‘Horizon Monarch’, loved for its beautiful yellow flowers with pink streaks
One particular early-flowering shrub seems to have fallen from favour. It may be that Forsythia lacks structure or the fact that the flowers contain little in the way of pollen or nectar. But its bright yellow blooms bring a welcome splash of colour at a time of year when we need it the most.
• Forsythia ‘Lynwood Variety’ has the prestigious RHS AGM. Its tiny but profuse yellow flowers offer emergency food during a time of scarcity and attract insects, which are an important part of the food chain.
The range of plants that carry the RHS AGM is extensive, from perennials, shrubs and trees to fruit and vegetables. You can search for particular plants or browse the lists at www.rhs.org.uk.
Camellia ‘Leonard Messel’
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: Good Friday 3rd April, Easter Monday 6th April and May 4th all day
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 for staff training: every Monday - Friday between 1-2pm. 1pm on Wednesday March 18th, and Wednesday 29th April 9.00am - 1.00pm (TBC)
Closed: Good Friday 3rd April, Easter Monday 6th April and May 4th all day
For further information please refer to our website www.ladywelleast.co.uk
Facebook: search for Ladywell Medical Centre East and follow the page for information/updates.
Parkgrove Medical Centre:
Tel: 0131 312 6600
22B Parkgrove Terrace Mon - Friday 8am - 6pm
Closed every Monday - Friday between 1-2pm for staff training
Closed: Good Friday 3rd April, Easter Monday 6th April and May 4th all day
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: Good Friday 3rd April, Easter Monday 6th April and May 4th all day
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.
MARCH
Mothering Sunday March 15th
British Summer Time Begins
Clocks forward 1hr Sunday 29th
School Holidays
Erskine Stewart’s Melville
Please see Easter holidays below
APRIL
Edinburgh Science Festival 4th - 19th April
Good Friday Holiday April 3rd
Easter Monday Holiday April 6th
School Easter Holidays
Local Schools
Friday 3rd April - Mon 20th (incl)
Return to school Tuesday 21st
Edinburgh Academy Monday 3rd April - Mon 20th (incl)
Return to school Wednesday 21st
Erskine Stewart’s Melville
Mon 30th March - Mon 13th April (incl)
Return to school Tuesday14th
St George’s
Thursday 2nd April - Fri 17th (incl)
Return to school Monday 20th April
MAY
May Day
Monday 4th
Dates for your Diary
& fit boilers
repairs & servicing
gas safety records
heating installations
EH12 8QX
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
LIVING WITH DEMENTIA
Want to do something fun and sociable but waiting lists are too long?
Corstorphine Dementia Project has self-funded places available NOW!!!
You can book a day every week, or more, at Corstorphine Dementia Project, Carrick
Meet like-minded people and have fun doing a range of activities
Keep your mind and body active
Maintain your independence
Enjoy a tasty 2-course lunch
Be supported by skilled staff
Give your relatives/carers a break and peace of mind
Transport provided
For more information please email: contact@cdp-edinburgh.org.uk or phone 0131 478 7784
Easter at St Thomas’ Church
Glasgow Road
You are warmly invited to join us as we celebrate Easter together. We meet:
Easter Sunday
5 April @10:30am
Find us online at: www.facebook.com/stthomasedin www.youtube.com/@stthomasedinburgh
More information on our website at: www.saintthomas.org.uk
St Ninian’s Parish Church
Tuesdays and Thursdays - 11am - 1pm
Coffee and Tea
A chance to blether and make friends or just enjoy a change of scene. All Welcome, No Commitment Scottish Charity No. 16557
Easter services at St. Ninian’s
You are warmly invited to join us celebrate Easter at St Ninian’s
Monday 30th March - Worship for Holy Week, 6:30pm, St Anne’s
Tuesday 31st March - Worship for Holy Week, 6:30pm, St Ninian’s
Wednesday 1st April - Worship for Holy Week, 6:30pm, St Anne’s
Thursday 2nd April - Maundy Thursday Worship, 7pm, St Ninian’s
Friday 3rd April - Corstorphine Churches Good Friday Service, 7pm, St Andrew’s, Clermiston
Easter Sunday, 5th April
Corstorphine Hill 8am
(meet 7:50am, top of Cairnmuir Road or 7:30am in St Ninian’s car park) Egg rolling on the hill, and bacon rolls at the church.
10:30am Easter Morning Service at St Ninian’s (followed by a short act of communion). Families Welcome.
Contact Us: 0131 316 4777 office@st-ninians.co.uk find us on facebook
More information on our website at: www.corstorphinestninians.org.uk
Sunday 29 March - 11am
Palm and Passion Sunday Service in St Anne’s
Holy Week
Monday 30th March
6.30pm Held in St Anne’s Corstorphine
Tuesday 31st March
6.30pm Held in St Ninian’s Corstorphine
Wednesday 1st April
6.30pm Held in St Anne’s Corstorphine
Maundy Thursday
Thursday 2nd April
6pm ‘Bring & Share’ meal & Holy Communion in St Anne’s
Good Friday
Friday 3rd April
Noon-3pm Vigil in St Anne’s 7pm Corstorphine Churches Together in St Andrew’s
Easter Sunday
Sunday 5th April
10.45am Morning Worship including the Sacrament of Holy Communion in St Anne’s, followed by coffee
Holy Week Services 2026
with Corstorphine Old and New Church bringing together Corstorphine Old, Craigsbank and East Craigs
All are welcome
Wednesday 1 April
12 noon Lunchtime service in the Old Parish Church
Thursday 2 April – Maundy Thursday
12.30pm Lunchtime Service at East Craigs Church Centre
7.00pm Communion service in the Old Parish Church
Friday 3 April – Good Friday
7.00pm Good Friday Service at St Andrew’s Clermiston Church for Churches Together. The crosses leave Craigsbank Church at 6.30pm. Join us to walk with them to St Andrew’s Clermiston or go direct for the start of the service there
Sunday 5 April – Easter Sunday
10.30am Easter Sunday morning service for all at Craigsbank Church (no service at Old Parish or East Craigs)
Edinburgh: Corstorphine Old and New Church of Scotland
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
Tree Felling & Removal, Planting, Pruning, Crown lifts & Crown reductions
Garden waste collections
All about gout
By Susannah Hickling
Sometimes called the “disease of kings”, gout is very painful and very common, but it’s important to sort the facts from the fiction.
FACT 1: Gout is a kind of arthritis
Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis. It’s caused by too much uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of uric acid crystals. These can get into a joint, triggering inflammation and causing swelling, intense pain, redness and tenderness. The big toe is most frequently affected, but you can also get gout in your foot, knee, ankle, elbow, hand or wrist.
FACT 2: It’s becoming more common
When Henry VIII was diagnosed with gout, declaring you had it became fashionable. It’s no longer trendy, but more people are developing the condition. One in 40 people are affected, according to the most recent study into its prevalence in the UK, with most sufferers over 60. More recent NHS figures reveal that 234,000 people were admitted to hospital with gout in 2021-2022. You’re more likely to have a flare-up in spring.
FACT 3: Gout is not caused by drinking too much port
In one in ten cases, there’s a family history, but what about the rest? Our growing obesity problem and greater use of diuretics to control high blood pressure are factors. A 2023 UK report found gout flares are also more likely if you’re male, black, or have heart failure, chronic kidney disease or cardiovascular disease. High cholesterol and crash diets can increase risk. Postmenopausal women are also susceptible, but gout is much less common in females.
The port-swigging idea is a hangover from history. That said, it’s true that alcohol raises your risk and it’s also a factor in flare-ups, along with eating a large meal. But beer and spirits, along with sugary drinks, are more likely than port to trigger an attack. Offending foods include red meat, offal, oily fish and shellfish.
FACT 4: It’s important to take gout seriously Gout is often treated as a joke, but it’s no laughing matter. Not only is it agony, but if you’re unlucky enough to have more than one or two attacks of gout, the intervals between them can become shorter, the bout can last longer and affect more joints. Ultimately, joint damage can occur. This means it’s important to have gout treated early on. Treatment is usually with non-steroidal antiinflammatories, like ibuprofen, or steroids, but uric-acid-lowering medicine is likely to reduce the number of future attacks and the damage caused.
FACT 5: Lifestyle changes are not enough
Losing weight, drinking less alcohol and eating a healthy diet can certainly help – a small study found that a plant-based Mediterranean diet brought some improvement. Avoiding trigger foods might make further flares less likely. But the scientific consensus is that diet and lifestyle alterations on their own won’t make your gout go away and you could need uric-acid-lowering medicine for life. It’s also important to keep taking it even when your gout is not playing up.
Accountant
Hollis Accounting Ltd 24
Tax Assist 21
Aerial / TV Services
Access Aerials 29
Douglas S Mackay 27
Architects
Karen Parry 5
Bathroom/Kitchen Tile/Grout Clean
Grout Gleam 47
Beds
The Bed Shop 7
Blinds/Curtains
James Erskine 25
Builders/ All Trades
Barry Ronaldson & Son 13
Pentland Brickworks 28
Probuild Contracts 9
Cabinet Maker
A.J. Milne 49
Carpets
James Erskine 47
Carpet/Rug Cleaning
Chores @ Work 49
Chiropractor
Discover Chiropractic 45
Computer Services/Training
AV&PC 53
PC Doctor 28
Cornices/Ceiling Roses
City Crafts Ltd 20
Door Specialist
CR Smith 2
J & L Joinery 35
Drainage Service
Cullen Plumbing & Heating Ltd 43
Currievale 27
Driveways
Alpine Paving 29
Edinburgh Paving Company 18
Evergreen Balerno 41
Key Landscapes 14
Electricians
Access Electrical 29
Allanbrook 51
D Sykes 27
MWJ Services 20
D J Alexander 1
DMD Law 19
Gibson Kerr 17 EV Charger Installation
MWJ Services 20
Financial Investment
Mark Neillings 23
Flooring
James Erskine 47
Food/Deli
Real Foods 60
Funerals
Porteous Family Funeral Directors 8
Furniture Repairs
James Erskine 5
Gardener
CS Gardening & Landscaping 49
JDS Gardening 55
Gardening Hard Landscaping
Alpine Paving 29
Evergreen Balerno 41
JDS Gardening 55
Key Landscapes 14
Gardening Supplies/Services
JDS Gardening 55
Hairdresser (Mobile)
Karen Bruce 25
Health/Fitness
Discover Chiropractic 45
Forth Physio 25
Murrayfield Podiatry Clinic 24
Jewellers
Jewellery By Design 3
Joiners
Allanbrook 51
Crispin Carpentry & Construction 43
J C Walker 24
J & L Joinery 35
Maple Joinery 39
Locksmith 1st Call Locksmiths 47 New Homes
Rowanbank Gardens 12
Oven Cleaner
Oven Wizards 47
Painters & Decorators
AM Decorating 53
Carrick Decorators 51
Jake Donald 5
Physiotherapist
Forth Physio 25
Plumber/Gas & Heating Services
Corstorphine Gas Services 37
Geoff Lennie 41
J & E MacGregor 39
Rightio Plumbing & Heating 35
rmi Corstorphine Gas & Plumbing 21
W A M Smith 5
Podiatrist
Murrayfield Podiatry Clinic 24
Removal Companies
Kingdom Removals 11
Roofing Maintenance
Cleland Roofing Solutions Ltd 33
Edinburgh Roofing Services 15
Kemp Roofing Contracts 18
Morningside Roofing 6
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JoeJunk 39 Security
1st Call Locksmiths 47
Silicone Sealant Solutions
24
Specialists
Electrical 29
Law 19
Kerr 17
Care
Gardening 55 Upholsterers
Erskine 5
Upholstery Cleaner Chores@Work
10.00- 3.00
9.15- 10.00 10.00 - 11.30 10.00 - 12.00 1.00 - 3.00
- 11.45
- 2.00
- 3.45 9.30 - 10.15 10.30 - 12.30
- 12.00 1.00 - 3.00 9.30 - 2.00 10.30 - 12.00 12.00- 2.00
- 3.00
- 3.00
- 5.30
- 8.00
Charity Shop Open
Bag a bargain, browse the book
buy some bits n bobs
Zumba
Babies Group (birth to 2 years) waiting list
Sewing Group
Men's Shed Social & Workshop
Gentle Seated Exercise- waiting list
Lunch Club* -waiting list
Jewellery Making*
Gentle Seated Exercise- waiting list
Morning Craft Group
Moving Forward- Widowers Group
Afternoon Craft Group
Walking Group (8km)
Sporting Memory Group
Lunch Club *Limited spaces available
Men's Shed Workshop- waiting list
Crochet and Knitting Group
Junior Youth Group (P7-S1)
Senior Youth Group (S2- S6)
Art Group
- 12.00 10.00 - 11.00 11:30 - 12:30 11.00 - 12.30 1.30 - 3.00 11.00 - 1.00 1.30 - 3.00 All groups attract a £2 donation * Attracts a £3 donation
Music, Songs & Fun- 5yrs and under
Music, Songs & Fun- 5yrs and under
Community Shed Workshop
Community Shed Workshop
Community Garden
Gentle Strollers - waiting list
Corstorphinecommunity centre.org.uk
