Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 1

CRAMOND KIRK MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE No. 100 IT’S OUR CENTENARY ISSUE!

When the first edition of a then-unnamed Kirk newsletter edited The Grapevine for the past 50 issues; Grahame Boyne dropped through the letterboxes of the people of Cramond in (and previously Brenda Wilson) collate the adverts; Irene November 1993, giving details of the Christmas Fair and Dunn (and previously Willie Prest) plan and commission Services, I doubt anyone anticipated we’d still be perusing content; Parish Committee conveners have mobilised a vast that very same magazine some 25 years later. distribution network to ensure the magazine reaches The second issue, published in March 1994, contained Easter everyone in the Cramond and Barnton area. Louise Madeley, Eating recipes from Masterchef Sue Lawrence. our Church Secretary, quietly ensures all the components come together smoothly. By the third issue, following a competition, the magazine had a name. Eschewing suggestions like Cramond Eggs and And now, following this landmark edition, The Grapevine is Cramond Cantorial, the shortlist included Cramond Eagle, changing again. Our next issue will appear in full colour, with Pew Review and the Cramond Kirk Beacon, but the winner - more photos, fewer pages, and shorter articles. Longer announced by Russell Barr in his sermon of 5 June 1994 - was features will be published online: you can read them in full on The Grapevine. our website www.cramondkirk.org. “... through the grapevine of the magazine an important This reflects the way more of us get our news nowadays, and ministry takes place,” said Dr Barr. “If there is a message of an increasing move towards digital channels. It is also community, if people sense that the holy gift of sanctuary is responds to the need for The Grapevine to remain financially being offered them, and that whatever need they bring will be sustainable. Hopefully too, it will mean lighter loads for the delivery team! met with compassion and healing care, then not just the magazine but the Church itself will be the grapevine. Thank you, our loyal readers and contributors, for your continuing support; we hope you will enjoy the refreshed A local artist designed the viticultural artwork that still colour format in coming issues. Here’s to the next 100! features in our masthead. And by the seventh issue, The Grapevine had expanded to an A4 format, and started to Fay Wilson carry adverts, helping to offset printing costs. Issue 10 contained photos for the first time. Gradually the number of pages expanded, as more articles flooded in. In 2001 The Grapevine went online too, giving readers all over the world the opportunity to find out what was happening in Cramond. Over the years The Grapevine has carried articles on cycling, concerts and Christian Aid, sculpture, stamps and scouting; poetry and prayer; history and harvest festivals .... We’ve followed (with more than a little pride) the progress of Fresh Start; tracked the routes of the Cramond Walkers; been provoked and entertained by A View from the Choir Gallery. Children whose baptisms were recorded in early Parish Registers have married and become parents themselves. A huge sustained volunteer effort has been critical to the magazine’s longevity. David and Christine Fairweather have SERVICES AT CRAMOND KIRK Every Sunday: Morning Prayers : 8.45am Morning Worship : 10.00am Harvest Festival – 7 October 10.00am Remembrance – 11 November 10.00am Communion Services: 7 October (8.45am) 4 November (8.45am & 10.00am) 11 November (following 10.0am Service) Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 2

2 THE GRAPEVINE

A NURTURING CONGREGATION PLUS THE POWER OF PRAYER

As many of you will know in April I underwent Despite my mental wanderings these heartfelt good major surgery to remove a benign brain tumour. wishes made a big impression on my fragile state. I The operation went well, but after two days I am absolutely convinced that these inputs were progressively became more and more seriously fundamental in securing my recovery and are a very unwell. An emergency operation was undertaken to real and relevant example of the power of prayer remove a blood clot from my brain. At this point I and demonstration of a nurturing congregation at was exhibiting all the symptoms of a stroke with work. paralysis down my left side, but following this second operation I came back from the brink and All this is further demonstrated by the 60 odd get progressively got better. After another 4 weeks in well cards I was able to appreciate more fully on my hospital I was discharged. The skill of the surgeons? return from hospital and the flood of welcomes I The care of the nursing staff? Yes to both of these, have had on my return to church. This wave of but I am convinced that there was a very important concern and affection has been most moving and, as additional factor. For much of the period over the I said to Russell, could almost convert me to a two operations I was in another place and subject to religious person. His response – Don’t do that, I am horrific hallucinations, but I have a clear memory of only trained to deal with sinners. Maybe I will just Russell and Tom visiting and bringing the good continue being me, but for the very important part wishes of the congregation. I also remember my you all made in making that possible my most poor wife visiting, sometimes twice per day, and grateful thanks. reeling off the names of dozens, it seemed, of friends from church who sent their best wishes. Andrew Mather Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 3

THE GRAPEVINE 3 FROM THE MANSE

The Manse stonemason, Mark Ritchie, was commissioned to create the headstone. September 2018 The dedication ceremony was held on Wednesday morning prior to the start of the Senior Open Dear friends, Championship and was attended by Sandy Lyle, the Open Although it could have been mistaken at times for Champion in 1985, who spoke on behalf of the former somewhere in the Mediterranean, our summer holiday champions and paid tribute to Jamie Anderson’s career. was spent no further than St Andrews. As well as being home to Scotland’s oldest university, St Andrews enjoys a worldwide reputation as the home of golf. Whether it was playing, attending the Open Championship at Carnoustie or volunteering at the Seniors Open played over the Old Course, much of our holiday was spent on the golf course. However my summer’s golfing highlight came in the grounds of the ancient St Andrews cathedral where I led a short service to dedicate a memorial stone. The memorial stone had been erected to mark the grave of the late Jamie Anderson. Jamie Anderson was Open Champion golfer in 1877, 1878 and 1879 winning the title at Musselburgh, l – r : Mark Ritchie, Russell Barr, Roger McStravick, Prestwick and the Old Course at St Andrews. Sandy Lyle, Sandra Allan, David Allan Born in St Andrews in 1842, Jamie Anderson died in a poor house in 1905 and was buried in a paupers’ grave The ceremony was also attended by Sandra and David with no headstone to mark his grave. Allan, Anderson’s great, great, great granddaughter and great, great, great, great grandson. Having researched the history of St Andrews and the Open Championship, author and historian, Roger As you can imagine it was a privilege to dedicate the McStravick, was able to identify Anderson’s grave in the headstone and celebrate Jamie Anderson’s golfing achievements. Very few golfers have won the Open Championship and to win it three years running suggests that Jamie Anderson was the outstanding golfer of his era. Several of Anderson’s hickory shafted golf clubs are displayed in the R&A clubhouse, so very different from today’s clubs, and it was remarkable to look at them and realise these were the clubs he used to win the Open Championship. As well as enjoying a good holiday with lots of sunshine, I hope your summer has been filled with interest and activity to set you up for the autumn and winter months. Russell Barr & Sandy Lyle And as you will read in this 100th edition of the Grapevine, there are plenty of opportunities for you to grounds of the ruined St Andrew’s Cathedral and set engage with the life and worship of Cramond Kirk. about raising funds to erect a headstone. With best wishes, With monies raised from the Royal and Ancient Golf Club and all the local golf clubs in St Andrews, a local Russell Barr Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 4

4 THE GRAPEVINE

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THE GRAPEVINE 5 PSALMS, HYMNS & SPIRITUAL SONGS One or Two Musings

Throughout my ministry I have sustained a lively and those seldom-thumbed pages passionate interest in Church Music and not least in the of CH4. psalms, hymns and spiritual songs of the Church. In common During my sojourn at with most kirk members, when it comes to psalms, hymns Cramond I would like to and spiritual songs, I have my fervent 'likes' and my equally introduce you to some of fervent 'dislikes'. For instance, not so long ago, 'Shine, Jesus, these hidden treasures from shine' would have been on my proscribed list of modern time to time. After all, we are worship songs! Suffice to say, I have mellowed considerably invited by the Psalmist to in recent years and I now enjoy singing lustily 'Shine, Jesus, 'sing a new song to the Lord'. shine'. I daresay I already have a It is now 13 years since CH4, or Church Hymnary Fourth reputation for giving new and unfamiliar hymns an Edition, first appeared in its blue/purple cover in the pews of airing but I always try to ensure that anything new is many Church of Scotland congregations. Incidentally, the counterbalanced by hymns which have long been part of the official launch took place in St Cuthbert's at the West End and fabric of Cramond's soul. After all, the last thing one wants to what a thrilling, inspirational evening that turned out to be! do is to silence the praises of God by the People of God!!! No My well-thumbed copy of CH3, which had served me well doubt those of you who 'know what you like' and 'like what throughout most of my ministry, was left on a bookshelf to you know' will be gather dust. As I thumbed through the new hymnary, I felt breathing a sigh of relief that I am only likely to be 'deeving' increasingly thrilled and captivated by its contents. It is a you with a new hymn - at the most - once every four or five wonderfully balanced book. Within its pages there is weeks!!!!! On these occasions all I can ask you is 'to have a something to suit everyone's taste. The traditional now sits go!' cheek-by-jowl with the modern and even the 'clap-happy'!! One final musing to share with you - throughout my ministry The World Church, in all its spiritual and cultural diversity, is I have always believed that my choice of hymns should fully represented, with hymns and songs from innumerable invariably be shaped and determined by the theme of the countries in every continent through the world. At the same service. More often than not I shall flick through the pages of time the 'Scottishness' of the hymnbook is unashamedly the hymnbook from cover to cover searching for an elusive projected: words and tunes of Scottish writers and composers hymn or psalm that will highlight the overriding theme of now feature prominently. Some of the loveliest Scottish folk the service. It may only be a brief phrase, a single line or melodies are set to classic Victorian hymns e.g. 'I heard the verse of a hymn - but it is enough to illuminate the theme of voice of Jesus say' to 'The Rowan Tree' , and 'O for a closer the service. On the other hand, to choose hymns that have no walk with God' to 'The Flower o' the Quern'.. For the past 13 bearing on, or relevance to the theme of the service - apart years I have not wavered from my first impressions. To this from 'a good sing' - is a complete dereliction of duty on the day CH4 continues to project a spiritual freshness and vitality minister's part. It always heartens me when members of the that shows little sign of decaying irrelevance. congregation make a connection between the hymns sung I have a suspicion, however, that many congregations and and the theme of the service. May I add that I am frequently many of my ministerial colleagues have not really tapped in impressed by Russell's flair for choosing hymns to the rich seam of material that constitute the praises of God that highlight and underline the theme of the service. contained in CH4. By and large they seem reluctant to stray A parting thought - it's worth remembering that old from the well-trodden paths of the familiar top 150 favourite favourites like 'Immortal, invisible' and 'Love Divine' were hymns. As a result I suspect they are missing out on a new and untried once upon a time and therefore had to be veritable treasury of good and glowing things lurking among learned!!

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6 THE GRAPEVINE

FROM THE KIRKYARD Easter-time in Spain and Egypt

Palm Sunday 1980 found me in Cramond Kirk. Outside, Men in white frilled shirts and powder blue suits with there was a biting wind, and rain was imminent, so a trip matching matador style hats and elaborate swords were down to the seashore was not on. We had to settle for accompanied by their young sons, dressed identically. The “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna”; processing round the church ladies and young girls wore mantillas and elaborately waving the service sheet for those who had no home-made frilled gowns, fans fluttering, eyes sparkling and ear-rings palm branches to hand. I was singing lustily, knowing I swinging. Some preferred black matador style hats but all would soon be in Seville! were elegant in the extreme. Since Good Friday, the Seville’s cathedral has two altars - one is gold, taken from churches had been draped in purple, crucifixes covered, but now they were full of flowers and glowing candles and the unfortunate Jewish inhabitants persecuted during the the air was filled with rejoicing! ‘Semana Santa' in Inquisition; the other of silver, taken from Mexico in the Andulucia will never be forgotten. 16th century. Spring 1981, and Cairo was our destination. On the first We joined the crowds lining the streets for the Holy Week day our guide took us on a tour of a nearby souk: a procession to the Cathedral. Members of various clamouring, crowded, cacophany of sound as the sellers brotherhoods, clad as penitents, were on parade escorting called out for our patronage. We passed building sites, 'La Macarena', their Madonna. These lavishly decorated quite primitive in equipment but with great emphasis on statues are carried by 30 men on their shoulders, backs man power. There was much use of buckets and ropes, bowed, folded towels on their necks as protection from picks and shovels. The dust created, combined with crazy chafing. The penitents were dressed in long robes with car and truck drivers and stifling heat, made our first hooded masks, in brown, dark blue and black. Their feet morning quite an experience. were bare and they carried long staves or maces. They gave me the creeps, reminding me of the Inquisition. At Memphis and Sakarra we talked ourselves into a camel ride. I have ridden a donkey, a horse and an ostrich but, Our next stop was Cordoba, a colourful city with masses of believe me, a camel can be desperate! Ill-tempered, stubborn, flowers and a most unusual mosque: the rich Moorish uncomfortable and with dreadful halitosis, never again! decoration is a sight to behold. The story goes that when the Moors were driven out, the citizens refused to disturb a Next day, Giza and the Pyramid of Cheops which we were single tile of the mosque, and simply blessed the building invited to enter. Climbing slowly upwards, I felt like a and consecrated it to the Virgin. prisoner on a dark treadmill. Our guide lit candles to show us the square stone interior but also to assure us of air in Three centuries later Charles V built a magnificent this space - claustrophobic but exciting! Our descent was a cathedral in the middle of the mosque. To make matters slight relief and we found ourselves viewing the massive worse, the organ was being played as we toured. The Sphinx, symbol of this ancient land, carved from natural concentric arches of the mosque were like peppermint rock although the face was disfigured by invading sticks, a little like a child’s 'folly' or maze. After dinner we Mameluke hordes. A colossal and mystic edifice, seemingly went to see the pasos again with large Madonnas seeing all and saying nothing! surrounded by glittering candles; this procession also carried the Stations of the Cross. It was Good Friday and Next day we flew to Luxor, a lovely picturesque town, we were privileged to hear a 'Saeta', an anguished, breakfasting in the Winter Palace Hotel where Lord unaccompanied song inspired by the suffering of Jesus. Carnaervon and Carter stayed during their excavations. This was awesome! Crossing the Nile on a felucca, an Egyptian yacht, was dreamlike, preparing us for unforgettable sights in store. Easter weekend found us in Granada. When Boabdil, the last The Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of the great river! Moorish king, surrendered to Ferdinand and Isabella, he is Some tombs could not be entered because they were said to have sobbed, heartbroken. The Catholic monarchs on unsafe, others had yet to be discovered. The entrance walls the other hand wept with joy when they saw their flag raised of the tombs of Rameses VII and VIII were covered with over the tower of the Alhambra in January 1492. hieroglyphics telling the stories, adventures and conquests Francisco de Icazar wrote 'Give him alms, women, for there of the dead inhabitant. Both wonderful experiences, but the is nothing in life, nothing so sad, as to be blind in Granada'. jewel in the crown was that of the boy King 'Tut', The escorted tour of the rose-red Alhambra gave a picture unbelievable and unforgettable! of the voluptuousness and violence of the Moorish court. On Easter Sunday we visited a Koptic Church on the site Sunday in Granada began with a procession of celebration. where it was believed the Holy Family found refuge when Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 7

THE GRAPEVINE 7

they fled from Herod’s slaughter. The congregation made us very welcome. NOTE FOR THE KIRKYARD On our flight home, the plane stopped at Athens, where we GARDENERS sunned ourselves at a hotel pool. On arrival in Glasgow, the Back to earth (sorry for that), can I invite my intrepid airport was covered with snow. My friend, caught short in Kirkyard Team for wine and nibbles in the Kirk Hall on Greece with little time to prepare, was wearing 'flip-flops' Wednesday, 7 November at 7.30 pm to say thank you for while I had managed to put on my winter boots. The taxi your efforts! driver, stopping to take us on our onward journey, with typical Glasgow humour, leaned out of his cab and said Despite a slow start, the plots have been superb and much “It's easy to see which wan o youse is the optimist.” praised. You are a great bunch! (my puns are pathetic!). DD DD

Dear Cramond Kirk Folk, I'm looking forward to receiving a cheque from Neil MacLeod for the amount which you have kindly and generously donated to my swim across the Sound of Iona. Many thanks for your support. I reckon I will have raised over £3,000 for the Iona Abbey Appeal. I've recently returned from five weeks of housekeeping at the Abbey and the Iona Community Welcome Centre toilets! For most of the time we enjoyed great weather and Iona was at its stunningly beautiful best. The evening for the Big Swim was no exception. My nephew Neil Harvey met me on Iona and took me in his rubber inflatable boat (RIB) over to the jetty at Fionnphort from where I commenced the swim, accompanied by Neil in the RIB. Twenty eight minutes or so later I was staggering up the beach at Martyrs Bay none the worse, to be welcomed by a little crowd of colleagues from the Abbey with hot chocolate, a miniature of whisky and a medal! Everyone says that it's about a mile across the Sound, but I asked one of the ferrymen and he said it was 7/10ths of a mile, which figures from the time it has taken me to swim a mile at Balloch and Foxlake leading up to the swim itself. However, seeing there is a ferry, no need to do this again. Again, many thanks for your love and support, Colin x Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 8

8 THE GRAPEVINE

ART AWARD FOR LAUREN A budding young artist from Cramond Primary School has been crowned the winner of a competition run by Edinburgh’s newest care home, Cramond Residence. Six year old Lauren White’s design was chosen as the top artwork from over 400 entries. A shortlist of 48 went on display at the Kirk Halls in June. Lauren’s entry hugely impressed the judges, who praised her use of vibrant colour, mixed materials and perspective. Her artwork now has pride of place in Cramond Residence. Three runners-up were also selected: Ria Ramage, primary 3, Joe McEvoy, primary 5 and Erin Dorego, primary 7. Eileen Gray of Cramond Residence said: “Huge congratulations to Lauren: she had clearly worked hard on her artwork. It is wonderful to have so many talented local young artists. Creating and cherishing memories is very will be loved and admired for years to come.” important, and Cramond Residence will be proud to The difficult task of judging was undertaken by a team of well- unveil Lauren’s piece when we open later this summer. It known locals: Jennifer Thomson of The Blue Easel Gallery; Russell Barr, Cramond Kirk’s Minister: Dr Patricia Donald from Cramond Medical Practice; and David Fairweather, Grapevine Editor. Lauren also receives an art set, easel and Hobbycraft vouchers, while each runner-up also got a special art set. Helen Donaldson, Cramond’s headteacher, said: “This was a fantastic initiative and we were very excited to be involved. Our pupils had fun getting creative, using everything from crayons to sand for their posters. The artwork really depicts just how beautiful Cramond is. We are incredibly proud of Lauren and know she has a bright future ahead of her!” Alie Simpson

THE YEAR OF THE YOUNG PERSON

Let's celebrate Youth, Celebrate enthusiasm, exuberance which bursts out when hope leaps and says, and they long for the streak of the wind through their "Nothing is too much". hair, Energy which pushes past the edge of reason when they stare through danger and takes a stranger by the hand and dance all night, the twenty second mile. when the right for a decent life for all so burns in their heart Smile as life bubbles up inside that sitting is sacrilege exploding action. the blind eye is not an option. Let's recognise the learning which comes from mistakes, the odd failure, Be kind when they need time out the false starts. to recharge, with 14 hours of sleep Be glad when the rush to find out more or are pensive, urges them pell-mell seeking life's truths over the horizon, when those of us who are older Let's celebrate youth. (and wiser?) might urge caution. Judy Arrowsmith Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 9

THE GRAPEVINE 9 DO WE REALLY NEED MORE PLANES?

Cramond and NW Edinburgh is a fine place to live apart a 35 mile tunnel opened under the Gotthard pass linking from the climate and the disturbance from aircraft Italy with Switzerland and to the north. A similar tunnel skimming overhead. Despite years of protest this is under construction under the Brenner pass into Austria getting steadily worse as aircraft numbers increase and should open in 2025. Both will allow high speed trains previous red lines are crossed. and also move huge amounts of freight, taking hundreds of HGVs off the roads, easing pollution and I was reminded on a recent holiday in Spain that the rise motorway congestion. of air transport is not inevitable if there is an attractive alternative. A special supplement in an English language Part of the popularity of the new trains in Spain is down newspaper celebrated the 10th anniversary of the to comfort. They are remarkably quiet and spacious in opening of a new high speed rail route from Malaga to contrast with the Sardine Experience offered by many Madrid, which reduced journey times to just 2 hr 30 min. airlines. Mobile phones cannot be used in the main Passenger numbers have soared. seating areas, only in the space at the end of carriages. There are now 12 trains daily in each direction between First though, a little bit of history. In the late 1980s Seville Malaga and Madrid; last year there were 2.3 million in southern Spain was awarded the task of hosting the passengers. In addition there are 22 trains daily to other World Expo and Trade Fair to be held in 1992, marking destinations. The boost to Malaga's economy has been 500 years since Columbus set sail for America. Transport substantial and travel patterns have changed. People was soon identified as a problem. It was decided to commute between Malaga and Cordoba, a 45 minute construct an entirely new high speed railway from journey, but about the same distance as that between Madrid to Seville via Cordoba, copying the French TGV Edinburgh and Newcastle. system with speeds up to 186 mph. As a result of the decline in internal air travel, the The results were amazing. The Spanish government Spanish airline Iberia struggled with profitability and in soon produced a plan for connecting all its other major 2011 merged with British Airways to form International cities. The new network - AVE (alta velocidad espanola) Airline Group lAG. - is now the longest in Europe, despite a slowdown Back to the situation in Edinburgh: about half the flights caused by recession. in and out of the airport are to domestic destinations. Malaga is now connected to the original Seville line at There must always be some flights to the Northern Isles Cordoba and onwards to Madrid. So what has this done and the Hebrides, but there must be a better way to get for Malaga? Before the new line was installed, two thirds to Manchester, Leeds, the Midlands and London. of journeys to Madrid were by air, one third by rail. Edinburgh to London could easily be done by rail in 2hr Within a year of opening, the new line had overtaken air 40min. travel. The latest figures show 88 per cent of passengers So do we need more planes? Of course not. Remember used the high speed line in 2017. that air travel is highly polluting whereas electric trains This trend has been copied in other countries. Air France use far less energy per passenger-mile, and increasingly no longer operates direct flights from Paris to Brussels from renewable sources. The problem of course is the since the train time is only 1 hr 20 min. Long haul money and political will to make things happen. These passengers arriving in Europe wanting to transfer to look to be in short supply at the moment, but let us at either city are offered rail vouchers as part of their ticket. least think about it and have a discussion. Big things are happening under the Alps too. A year ago Alec Dunn Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 10

10 THE GRAPEVINE

NOTES FROM IRELAND’S ANCIENT EAST

In May we spent a week in Ireland, staying in Kilkenny. I had given Adam a set of books on Irish churches and monasteries for Christmas and we decided to see some of the sites for ourselves. The Irish Tourist Board markets South East Ireland as “Ireland’s Ancient East” and we were bowled over by the number of churches, cathedrals and monastic remains in the area. It truly was an early powerhouse of Christianity. We had a list of 19 sites to visit, very few of which are on the usual tourist trail. We were glad that we visited both the Rock of Cashel and Jerpoint Abbey early in the day before the coach parties turned up. It would have been difficult to appreciate the magnificent cloister arcade carvings at Jerpoint with too many people around and we managed to see the 12th century Irish frescoes in St Cormac’s Chapel on the Rock of Cashel although the chapel was officially closed for restoration. There was no danger of too many people at the ruins of Athassel Priory. Although it was the largest medieval priory in Ireland, to reach it we had to park on a very narrow road and trek across a field of cows. The nearest wee village to Athassel was called Golden and these beautiful ruins had a The Rock of Cashel golden, spiritual atmosphere. The path to the ruins of the 12th century 3- acre site of Kells Priory, whose walls include seven medieval towers, led through a field of sheep and my trainers had a nasty encounter with some sheep dung. Kilkenny itself is a mini-Edinburgh as its cathedral and castle are linked by “Ireland’s Medieval Mile”. The cathedral is dedicated to St Canice. I had never heard of this saint but was delighted to learn of the connection with Iona – St Canice, or Saint Cainnech of Aghaboe, is known in Scotland as St Kenneth. On Iona St Columba foretold of a “certain holy and excellent man, who will arrive here before evening”. This was St Canice who had sailed from Ireland in AD 565. St Canice founded churches on Tiree and at St Andrews as well as a monastery in Fife. On his return to Ireland he then founded a monastery in Kilkenny.

Athassel Priory

Off we went to Aghaboe Abbey where St Canice is buried and were amazed to learn that in the 8th century the then Abbot of Aghaboe, Feirgil (or Vergilius), resigned to be a missionary in Europe and became Bishop of Salzburg. In fact many medieval Irish monks were very influential in taking Celtic spirituality to the continent. As a gardener one of my favourites is a monk called Fiacre from Co. Kilkenny who travelled to Brueil in France and became the patron saint of gardeners. We visited Kildare Cathedral on our last day. It has one of the two climbable round towers in Ireland and we were pleased that the custodian knew of the Scottish round towers at Brechin and Abernethy. I climbed both the Kildare and Kilkenny round towers. At the latter I had a great conversation with the duty steward and only later learnt that she was the Bishop’s wife! My father grew up in Abbeyleix and was educated at Kilkenny College, where Jonathan Swift was a pupil. We had a moving visit to the graveyard of St Michael’s Church of Ireland in Abbeyleix where I found the graves of my aunt, grandparents and great grandparents. I am proud that my grandmother, who was organist at St Michael’s for many years, played her small part in the continuation of Christian worship in Ireland’s Ancient East. Lesley Cumming Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 11

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12 THE GRAPEVINE SATURDAY BREAKFAST CLUB: 2018/2019 As its name suggests the Saturday, 24 November 2018 : Josh Littlejohn Saturday Breakfast Club meets in the church on a Starting in a sandwich bar, Josh Littlejohn has developed Saturday morning (7.45 his activities into Social Bite, one of the major charities in am) for a short service in the Third Sector supporting people who are the chapel. homeless. Social Bite's Sleep in the Park has attracted international attention and raised millions of pounds. When the service is over, Along with our minister, Josh was a member of the Scottish breakfast (bacon rolls, toast, Government Working Group on Homelessness and will croissants, tea, coffee, orange speak about some of Social Bite's latest activities. juice) is served in the Kirk Hall and breakfast is followed by a guest speaker. Saturday, 26 January 2019 : Rob Taylor The Club finishes by 9.15 am. Here is a note of this year's Rob Taylor is the head teacher at Cargilfield School and will programme and we look forward to making you welcome. speak about some of the developments in the school, its plans for the future and some of his views on the current Russell Barr state of Scottish education. Saturday, 27 October 2018 : Irene McLellan Saturday, 23 February 2019 : Jennie Chinembiri Eight years ago Irene McLellan was diagnosed with a rare Jennie Chinembiri is a staff member with the World form of blood cancer and was told her life expectancy Mission Council with particular responsibility for the would be no more than four years. Thanks to the advance Church of Scotland's mission partners and partner in treatment and Irene's own determination, faith and churches in Africa and the Caribbean. Jennie will speak courage, she is still alive and well. Irene will speak about about the latest developments in partnership, working what it has been like for her and her family to live with with our Christian sisters and brothers in Africa. cancer for the last eight years. SING FOR FUN Sing for Fun Cramond is open to anyone who wants to come and sing in a safe, informal and fun space. We meet every Thursday afternoon from 2.00 pm - 3.30 pm in the Session House at the back of the Kirk. The sessions are led by Ellie Logan who used to take the community choir and has lots of experience in leading small and large singing groups. A wide variety of songs are sung, words are provided and all songs are taught by ear. So no need to read music. Around 12 - 20 people attend each week and the songs are interspersed with chat and laughter, and finish with a cup of tea. Cost is £7 per session (drop in) or £40 for an eight week block. You can just turn up when you can. For more information call Ellie on 07791 749945 or email her at [email protected] Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 13

THE GRAPEVINE 13 Modest Progress on Airport Action?

EASTBOUND DEPARTURES - Recently a substantial increase in days when the wind was easterly has resulted in more noisy departing flights. When the Airport first issued proposals last year, our Airport Action Group was horrified that eastbound flights would be nearer Cramond than at present. We began canvassing the Airport and the Civil Aviation Authority, with valued assistance from our three politicians. The CAA paused their consultation process for technical reasons and to ensure improvements were introduced for Cramond. The Airport issued a new proposal for eastbound flights: upon reaching the end of the runway, they would adopt a 20 degree banking and fly to the west of Cramond Island. This is a modest improvement on the present situation, but substantially better than their first proposal. Part of the plan is to create a new E7A path over South Fife (although planes will be above 5,000 feet by then). It was decided to extend the consultation for the areas affected. You will have received the Airport’s letter of 24 May plus booklet. This produced a substantial backlash from South Fife. The Airport is considering responses and hope to reach a decision for submission to CAA before this article is published. We are quietly optimistic that this latest proposal will proceed and should be implemented by spring 2019. ARRIVALS – We have been lobbying for some time for offset arrivals rather than the current straight line approach over Cramond. The Airport commissioned a technical report on this; we are promised a copy shortly. We already know there are restrictions on such an offset path, dependent on weather conditions, and that not all aircraft/pilots are technically equipped to adopt this. The Airport intend to continue discussions with CAA and will commission simulated flight testing. We hope for an update on progress by autumn. NIGHT FLIGHTS – This is an emotive subject and the subject of considerable media coverage (once again with assistance from our politicians). The Airport is aware of the need for improvement. They have confirmed there will be no night flights on eastbound departures. As regards arrivals, they are looking to change airline behaviour by greatly increasing charges for those wishing to arrive at night, plus more fines for noisier craft, using revenue generated for a community fund. They may also extend the definition of “night time”. The Airport will consult with airline companies in August/September; we hope for firm proposals in early 2019. Finally, as the Airport is now comparing noise complaints on an area basis, it is essential you continue to lodge complaints when appropriate via the website or phone – 0800 7313397. R Brough

Cramond Scout Group 75th Anniversary Celebrations

Some Grapevine readers might remember that Cramond Scout Group was first set up by Rev Leonard Small, the minister at Cramond Kirk in 1944. Plans are already underway to mark 75 years of Scouting at Cramond next year. A weekend of events is planned for 5 & 6 October 2019 which is now only 14 months away. Plans include a reunion dinner for former Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, Venturers, Leaders and supporters. We are keen to give advance notice so that people can save the date. It is a significant job tracking down so many people. If you are a former member or know of anyone who would like to be kept informed of our plans by e-mail, please send an e-mail to [email protected] Scott Goddard Former Scout Leader and Reunion Coordinator Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 14

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The Romans Came, They Saw and They Conquered – Again!

We’ve all heard the question: “What have the Romans ever done for us?” Well, whatever else they did, they gave the people of Cramond a fantastic day out on 19th May, that’s for sure! Our ancestors may well have once wished the Roman soldiers good riddance, as they marched away from Cramond one day in the 4th century AD, but in May this year, the Roman legionaries made a return visit and this time they were given a much warmer welcome than the last time they “conquered”! of the event, had invited twelve “re-enactment” Roman soldiers and sailors, and one lady Roman civilian, to stage a Roman “family day” for Cramond Association members, friends and local residents. These “Romans” belong to Scotland’s leading re-enactment group, called the Antonine Guard and they represent, with amazing authenticity, the soldiers of Legion VI, the very one which would have been stationed along the Antonine Wall, including the Roman fort at Cramond, all those years ago. These enthusiasts, from all over Scotland, take part in Roman events in this country and beyond, and the site of the Roman fort, next to Cramond Kirk, could not have been a better location for them to set up their camp. Over the course of the day, about 400 visitors enjoyed milling around the military camp of tents, looking at and handling replica armour, weapons and equipment, all of which the soldiers had brought with them. The big turn-out could be attributed to several factors: local interest in the Romans, the glorious weather and the fact that the event was open to all and free to attend. One of the soldiers re-created the exact recipe of a leek and barley stew, which he cooked the Roman way on an open fire using replica Roman cooking equipment which, despite mixed reviews, the soldiers had for their lunch! (For the rest of us, there was the hot dog stand, which did a brisk trade but this was not authentic enough for the soldiers, who insisted on remaining in character for the whole day.) The civilian tent contained replica items from Roman everyday life, including jewellery, make-up, wax tablets, combs and art work. The engaging Roman lady in this tent also encouraged visitors to try on Roman-style clothes. It was great to see the children in particular getting into the spirit of the day. Some handled Roman weapons. Others tried out cavalry training using a “dummy” horse. Lots “joined up” as new recruits and underwent some basic Roman army training with the Roman officers barking out orders to them in Latin … “Sin! Dex!“ (“Left! Right!”). It could have been a scene straight out of the film “Carry On Cleo”! Passions rose high when the “recruited” children were issued with swords and shields and urged to attack the barbarian hordes facing them (in actual fact their mums and dads!) Amid rousing battle cries, they charged at the “enemy” with menace! Publicity notices issued prior to the day invited visitors to “Come dressed as a Roman”. As a result, a superb variety of Roman costumes was on display, with lots of children, and some adults too, rising to the challenge. Among the visitors were Roman centurians, gladiators, senators, emperors, empresses and a goddess! Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 15

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The Romans Came, They Saw and They Conquered – Again!

It was a very successful day. Feedback has been extremely positive and the Cramond Association would like to thank everyone who came along and supported this special family event. Jennifer Shearer (on behalf of the Cramond Association Committee)

THE WEDNESDAY CLUB There once was a lady who roared, I’m so terribly, terribly bored, But she paid her sub, And joined our club, And now her spirits have soared.

If, like the lady in the rhyme, you are feeling that there should be more to Wednesday evenings than television, why not come along to our club? Our meetings start at 7.30 pm in Cramond Kirk Hall and we have a variety of topics which we hope will appeal to everyone. By tradition, however, we always start with a Beetle Drive which is just a light hearted way for members to catch up with friends and meet new members. If you are not able to make the first meeting, I have outlined the start of the syllabus and we look forward to welcoming any interested ladies to our talks. Jill Preston 3 October : Beetle Drive 24 October : The Forgotten Years, 1947 to 1960. Mary Welsh will bring to life this neglected period with a collection of objects. 7 November : “Are you here for the explosion?“ Thea Laurie explains how this surprising question led to uncovering a little known event. 28 November : Fabergé Eggs Deonaid Wilson demonstrates how she creates beautiful decorative pieces Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 16

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CRAMOND WALKERS’ PROGRAMME September – December 2018 (plus New Year walk)

Interested in any of these walks? Then please contact Fiona round the top of a field used for munition training Black on 339 6644 or e-mail [email protected] during the last war, then goes up another strip of woodland towards Silverburn. From there we cross the Sat, 8 September : Tweed Walk to Lyne A702 and take the new path onto the Pentlands, climbing 11 km/7 miles Moderately Easy South Black Hill, Scald Law and Caernethy Hill. The We walk north of the Tweed from Peebles past Neidpath route descends past Rullion Green memorial, crosses the Castle and follow an old railway line as far as the Lyne A702, then heads SW to join the route of the easier option Water, crossing that and the Tweed to return past Barns into Penicuik. Tower and along the south bank. Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9.45 am or Penicuik town Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9.30 am or Kingsmeadow centre at 10.30 am. car park, Peebles at 10.15 am. Thurs, 18 October : Pitlochry to Killiecrankie Thurs, 13 September : Edinburgh Seven Peaks 20 km/12 16 km/10 miles Hard miles Hard (moderate/easy options) Leaving Moulin and passing the Dane’s Stone our route Do as much or as little as you like of Edinburgh’s seven follows the Moulin Burn to reach the highest part of the peaks. Starting with Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat, then walk, the Bealach na Sermoin, which is on the slopes of Ben Blackford and the Braids, followed by the two Vrackie. Once over the bealach the going is all downhill Craiglockhart Hills and Corstorphine Hill. with beautiful views towards Blair Atholl and where Meet: St Andrew Square at 10 am Montrose raised his standard. On reaching the Killiecrankie Visitor Centre the return route follows the old Tues, 18 September : Melrose, Cauldshiels Loch and military way; through woods and the site of the Battle of Tweed 14 km/9 miles Moderate Killiecrankie, and back towards Pitlochry. Stop at the Our walk commences in Melrose from Abbey Street or Ballinluig Motor Grill on the way home. adjacent car park. Walk past the hospital and head towards Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9 am. Rhymer's Glen and through a gate onto Bowdenmoor. From there we pass Cauldshiels Loch and Faldonside Loch Tues, 23 October : Fife Coastal Path - Leuchars to and down towards the River Tweed. Passing Abbotsford Newport 21 km/13 miles Moderately Hard and keeping the Tweed on our left, we will meander our Note: Recommended travel is by PUBLIC TRANSPORT as way back to the starting point. This is a pleasant walk, this is a linear walk. although fairly long at 9 miles. A coffee stop before driving We take the X59 bus from Edinburgh to Guardbridge, home is a must. walking an extra 2 km from there to the Aero Café in Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9.30 am. Leuchars, where we meet anyone who opted for the train. Fri, 28 September to Mon, 1 October : Walking with the Walk on Coastal Path through Tentsmuir Forest, into Railtrekkers (see Annex on next page) Tayport, then along the coast to Newport on Tay, from where we get X54 bus back to Barnton (hourly service: A choice of strenuous or moderate walks on the first two 16.13 or 17.13) days, hard walk on Sunday, easy on Monday. Meet: Leuchars village 10.30 am or Barnton bus stop, Sat, 13 October : Penicuik Estate with Pentlands option Queensferry Road at 8.20 am for X59 bus at 8.28 am. Both 9.5 km/6 miles Moderately Easy or buses also stop at Ferrytoll P&R, Halbeath P&R, 17 km/11 miles Hard Glenrothes and Cupar, so can be joined on route. Rail We travel to Penicuik by bus or car and start walking south option is 9 am from Waverley, 9.10 am from Edinburgh of the North Esk, through South Bank Wood then dropping Gateway, arrives Leuchars station 10.05 am. down to the valley. We climb up towards Penicuik House Tues, 6 November: Flotterstone to Balerno and visit the Lost Garden, then cross the A766 into 11 km/7 miles Moderate woodland. From there the easier option is on paths NW of Penicuik, passing the Talla aqueduct and following Cuiken Note: Recommended travel is by PUBLIC TRANSPORT as Glen to emerge near Tesco on the Edinburgh Road, to catch this is a linear walk. a bus or walk to a parked car. For the hard option the path A low level walk from Flotterstone, past Glencorse and (created by Friends of the Pentlands) dips and dives, going Loganlea Reservoirs, then through Green Cleuch to Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 17

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Bavelaw and to the bus terminus at Balerno. For those who Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9 am. want, there will be an optional diversion to climb one Tues, 4 December : Round Loch Leven or two of the hills. 19 km/12 miles Moderately Hard Meet: Lothian Road (Stop XE) at 9.25 am for Stagecoach A full circuit of Loch Leven, long but very flat. Start service 102 at 9.33 am to Flotterstone. Return from and finish at RSPB Vane Farm. Balerno on Lothian 44. Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9.00 or RSPB Vane Farm Sat, 17 November : Callander Crags and Bracklinn 9.30. Falls 4+5.5 km/2.5+3.5 miles Moderate/Easy Thurs, 13 December : Perth City Walk Two short walks starting from a car park north of 7 km/4.5 miles Easy Callander. The first climbs through woodland to the Starting from Perth bus station, this easy walk takes a Callander Crags and Jubilee Cairn, then follows the figure of 8 round North Inch and the city of Perth. line of the crags downhill to return through woodland. Meet: Barnton bus stop, Queensferry Road at 9.40 am The second visits the spectacular Bracklinn Falls, then for X56 at 9.48 am or Perth bus station at 11.08 am. takes a loop up the valley of the Keltie Water. Thurs, 10 January 2019 : Dalmeny Estate Meet: Barnton Avenue West at 9 am. 10 km/6.5 miles Easy Thurs, 22 November: Broughton-Stobo circuit Note: Travel will be by PUBLIC TRANSPORT as this is 16 km/10 miles Hard a linear walk. Starting from Broughton we will climb Trahenna Hill We get the Lothian 43 bus to Queensferry and walk then drop down to Stobo. From there we will join the back through Dalmeny. Followed by New Year party at John Buchan Way, following a burn to ascend past Richard & Judy Adlington’s, 9 Brae Park. Hammer Head and back down to Broughton. Meet: Barnton bus stop, Queensferry Road at 10 am for Refreshments at the popular Laurel Bank Tea Room. Lothian 43 to Queensferry. ANNEX WALKS FROM RAILTREKKERS EXPEDITION 2018 (Meeting times to be announced)

Friday, 28 September: High Level (Strenuous) – Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas (both Munros) starting and returning to the NTS car park on the west side of Ben Lawers. Keen types can also try for another nearby Munro (An Stuc?). Low Level (Moderate) – Kenmore Hill or Drummond Forest in morning, Birks O’ Aberfeldy and Falls of Moness in afternoon (acknowledging Rabbie Burns in passing!).

Saturday, 29 September: High Level (Strenuous) – Stùc a’ Chroin and Ben Vorlich (two more Munros) starting and returning to a car park alongside Loch Lubnaig. Low Level (Moderate) – Rob Roy Way via old railway from Balquhidder to Killin. As this is a linear walk, we will need at least two cars, one parked at each end.

Sunday, 30 September: (Hard) - Sma’ Glen to Ardeonaig on Loch Tay (12 miles through scenes filmed in “Monty Python & the Holy Grail”). Again, as this is a linear walk, at least two cars will be needed to shuttle walkers at either end.

Monday 1st October: (Easy) - The Hermitage, Birnam Wood and Rumbling Bridge circular. Parking will be at the NTS car park at The Hermitage. Followed by a visit to the Beatrix Potter museum and Dunkeld Cathedral.

(Times & meeting points available from the Cramond Walkers at [email protected]) Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 18

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www.freshstartweb.org.uk

As ever, this spring/summer has been a busy time for Fresh worked alongside Keith over the years, from volunteers to Start and there have been many changes and developments churches to staff, will wish him well as he moves to over the past few months. The most significant change has pastures new. been the stepping down of Managing Director, Keith Keith’s successor, Biddy Kelly, is looking forward to Robertson after 20 years with Fresh Start. working with Fresh Start volunteers and supporters and we anticipate some exciting new developments over the coming months. We would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the sponsored walk on 1 June. We had glorious sunshine for the walk and beautiful views from Arthur’s Seat over the city. We are delighted to announce that we raised £5,500. Thank you to all who donated and sponsored the staff team and the walkers. Thank you too for your continued support week by week Keith was with Fresh Start from the very beginning and has responding to requests for items for the starter packs. The been an integral part of shaping and guiding the recipients of the latter are truly grateful. organisation over the years to make it into the successful charity it is today. We are sure that everyone who has F M Wilson Turi Childrens Project

Thank you to everyone who came to the Royal Burgess Golf Club on 18 May in aid of the Turi Children’s Project. It is truly wonderful that we allowed ourselves to indulge in an evening of good food, friendship and entertainment and yet raise the healthy sum of £1,370. The golf club served a delicious meal and our compliments go to the chef and all the staff who looked after us. The after dinner entertainment was from the angelic voices of Octavoce. This choir of eight vocalists performed a wide range of songs totally unaccompanied which held us spell bound as we listened. They were led by the vivacious and talented Jenny Sterling, who is choir leader of the Cramond Community Choir. Anyone who has attended one of their concerts, and heard Jenny sing, will know how high the standard was of our evening’s recital. Inspired and organised by Leslie Pendreigh, the evening ran faultlessly. Thank you Leslie. Rod Smith, co-ordinator of the TCP, is currently home on a break in the UK but he assures us they are moving forward and we will have a newsletter soon. By the look of their Facebook page there is certainly plenty activity with a new catering room, toilets and increased vocational training areas for skills such as hairdressing. The caretaker has also received a bicycle to aid his delivery of supplies. Thank you to everyone who helps support the TCP. Edith Butler Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 19

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THE CRAMOND ASSOCIATION

The Association has been planning its programme for 2018-2019 and the details are below. The membership letters will be going out shortly and we hope that you will want to join or renew and take an active part in the year and also help us to look at new ways of enjoying and understanding Cramond, building on the success of our Roman Day earlier this year.

CRAMOND ASSOCIATION TALKS 2018-19

Monday 24 September 2018 - Social Evening – come and join us for a glass of wine and light refreshments, meet other members and discuss how we can develop the Cramond Association’s activities

Monday 29 October 2018 - ‘The Fife Pilgrim Way’ – Lyn Strachan, Fife Countryside Trust Ranger

Monday 26 November 2018 - ‘Death in the New Town’ – Prof. Ken Donaldson

Thursday 13 December 2018 - Join us at Carols by Candlelight: an evening of favourite Christmas Carols and readings, with mulled wine and mince pies. Entry by ticket only; priority booking for the Association’s members

Monday 28 January 2019 - ‘Farewell, King Coal’ – Prof. Anthony Seaton, our Vice President

Monday 25 February 2019 - ‘Scotland’s Oldest Concert Room: Past, Present and Future’ - Dr Sarah Deters, University of Edinburgh

Monday, 25 March 2019 - ‘Riverlife: Almond & Avon – improving local rivers’ – Luke Park, Forth Rivers Trust

Monday 29 April 2019 - ‘The Corstorphine Cinema & its Organ’ – Ian Anderson, Corstorphine Trust

CRAMOND ASSOCIATION HISTORY SECTION TALKS 2018-19 Annual membership of the History Section costs £6 or £1 for visitors to each talk

Wednesday 10 October 2018 - Kenneth Williamson, Granton's Industrial Past.

Wednesday 14 November 2018 - Brian Watters: The Carron Ironworks

Thursday 13 December 2018 - Carols by Candlelight as above

Wednesday 16 January 2019 - Gilbert Markus, Who did they think they were? Ethnic identities in early Scotland

Wednesday 13 February 2019 - John Dods, Wartime Defences of the Firth of Forth

Wednesday 13 March 2019 - Richard Callander, The Royal Company of Archers

Wednesday 10 April 2019 - Geoff Bailey, Roman Forts on the Antonine Wall

Adam Cumming Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 20

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CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 2018 Together, we are stronger than the storms!

Will you stand together with your global neighbours to help build disaster proof homes? This was the challenge for this year’s Christian Aid Week, when more than 1,000 churches up and down the country came together for the world’s poorest people. It is anticipated that Christian Aid Week 2018 has raised almost £1.5 million in Scotland. Christian Aid is not only a charity but - at its heart - a justice movement. Together we expose the root causes of poverty and, through campaigning and advocacy, sustainable international development and immediate humanitarian aid, we respond in practical, tangible and transformational ways.

Cramond Kirk and community are known for their fundraising ability in aid of this worthy charity. Yet again we showed tremendous enthusiasm during Christian Aid Week, raising a total of £9,781 plus another £1,158.75 added through Gift Aid. Christian Aid Scotland has written to thank us again for our efforts. Last November we also raised £1,550 for Rohingya Refugees Crisis Appeal in Myanmar and Bangladesh. This is my sixth year as the convener of the Christian Aid committee, with Fiona Black, Hurley Mendelssohn and Shelagh Shoulder, and this year also L J Forrest, who brought fresh ideas and new energy. So many people willingly gave of their time to support this great charity and enjoyed themselves at the same time. We had a splendid raffle with prizes secured from local businesses by Hurley and L J. Fiona donated all the food and drink for the Quiz Aid evening and put on a wonderful spread, aided in the kitchen by Shelagh. It was a very entertaining evening which raised £371 - even more than last year! LJ found interesting ways of making the Fair bigger and better, with an information and activities room featuring leaflets and a DVD so that people might see how their money would be spent. Our thanks to all the stallholders who willingly gave of their time. And some of our younger members and Sunday Club children sold brainteasers, raising another £113. I decided to enter the Edinburgh Marathon Festival 10 km race in aid of C A. After a few training runs of about 5 km, I was pleased to complete this event in 68 minutes and raised £368.50 plus £72.50 gift aid. Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 21

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My husband, Ian stewarded at the festival for two days and donated his £45 fee. Our door to door collection raised £6,806.95 which will be enhanced greatly by Gift Aid. We recruited 53 collectors, nine more than last year, and covered 61 districts, two more than last year. Some feel it is getting more difficult to collect door to door. Nevertheless this brings in a large amount for Christian Aid and we actually collected more this year than in 2017. We wish to give as many people as possible the opportunity to donate. We are always glad to recruit new collectors and if anyone in the community feels they could commit to a few hours on this important week, we’d be very happy to hear from you. A district can be covered in a couple of hours at teatime, early evening or at the weekend. It can be very rewarding. Sometimes we are welcomed with a smile, other times we smile and apologise for disturbing people; but we keep coming back because it is such a worthy cause.

Thank you! A thousand times thank you! Our sincere thanks go to all contributors whether you helped financially or gave of your time. This Christian Aid Week, everyone was asked to #StandTogether and help families like those of Jocelyne and Vilia to weather future storms. Here are their stories. As hurricane season begins, thousands of displaced Haitians could be in grave danger. This fear is very real for Jocelyne who lost everything when Hurricane Matthew struck Haiti: her home, animals and safety. C A would like to help build hurricane-proof homes that help families like Jocelyne’s to weather future storms. She now lives under a tarpaulin sheet. Jocelyne has shown incredible resilience, but her makeshift home would offer no protection in the event of another hurricane. Many people in Haiti need hope. Christian Aid knows how to make it happen – of the 700 houses built after the 2010 earthquake, just one needed to be repaired after Hurricane Matthew. Vilia lost her mum and her home when the earthquake struck Port-au-Prince in 2010. Bereaved and homeless, she went back to her home town. Christian Aid partner KORAL built her a new home strong enough to stand up to natural disasters. On the terrifying night when Hurricane Matthew hit, Vilia’s neighbours fled to shelter with her. As the storm raged, she shared her home with more than 50 of her neighbours for several days. Despite the ferocity of the hurricane, her house was barely damaged. Sally Foster-Fulton, Head of Christian Aid Scotland, says: “Together with our global neighbours in thousands of communities, and in partnership with hundreds of local organisations, we can build a chain of solidarity and create a world where everybody has a safe place to call home. “We thank you for your generosity and urge you to continue supporting our vital work.” Gillian Hewitt (Christian Aid Coordinator) Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:12 Page 22

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Review of 2018 Scout Summer Camp Culzean County Park

Our 2018 Summer Camp was held at Culzean Country Park Scouts unfortunately did not avoid jellyfish stings!! On the Scout Camp in Ayrshire. Given the weather had been evening we did a “Lost at Sea” team building exercise where glorious for what seemed like months and months, we were the Scouts had to select 12 from 32 items which would help looking forward to a dry camp. On arrival, the advance party them survive stranded on an island – after much debate and had managed to do a great job putting up the marquees, mess discussion, the selections were made with “positive attitude” tents and leader tents, despite a tyre blow-out on the way being the unanimous favourite, followed by fire-lighting there. On arrival, the 32 Scouts and Leader team put up the equipment, tarpaulins for shelter, knives, rope and safety patrol stormhavens and dining shelters just before a 48 hour pins to catch fish (or in one case, birds!!). We were also able to monsoon arrived, which turned rock hard grass into a near have our first camp fire, with the young adult leaders doing swamp in no time at all!! The accompanying wind managed a fantastic job in engaging the scouts in their favourite camp to fell a sizeable tree but fortunately no-one was hurt. songs. On the Saturday night we introduced our theme “Stranded Scout Skills day took up most of Tuesday and again the on a Desert Island” with some familiar and not so familiar Scouts learned a range of new skills including rope and islands – Treasure Island, Coral Island (from Lord of the pulley work (towing the minibus and pulling down dead Flies), New Switzerland (from Swiss Family Robinson), Isla trees), hammock and shelter building, axe and saw work Nublar (from Jurassic Park) and Monuriki (from Castaway). (very popular), navigation and first aid skills (which were The Scouts spent the first evening drawing maps of their needed when the Scouts used their pen-knives for whittling islands and creating wooden signs from driftwood to name their woggles!). In the evening we had to abandon our Beach their patrol area (no camp fire given the ongoing rain). BBQ given the rain, so we cooked in the dining shelters, On Sunday, after the first breakfast cooked by the Scouts, we although we did manage to cook dough bread and smores on had our first patrol inspection (to set the camp standards) and Swedish Torches. then we visited the grounds in Culzean. Unfortunately the On Wednesday we split up, with the older Scouts preparing rain continued to pour so we persuaded the camp trolley bus for and undertaking their overnight expedition and the service to take us on a covered tour of the site before they younger Scouts spending the day in the grounds of Culzean. kindly went out of their way to drop us off at the camp. We The expedition to Turnberry was undertaken in horrendous improvised with a Fifty Question Challenge which set the conditions, so the tarpaulins were abandoned and the tents basis for our Patrol point’s challenge. As the rain eased, we erected. Despite the conditions the Scouts and Leaders stuck did some site maintenance, clearing the felled tree which he it out and came back Thursday morning, drenched and had chain-sawed as well as removing an old fence and exhausted but very pleased they had met the challenge. The gathering mounds of wood for future camp-fires. younger Scouts had a great day, making huge SOS signs on Monday saw us off-site at Maidens for our water sports day the beach using seaweed, rocks and other materials as well as - the rain had eased and the sun shone for a while, with a spending an hour or so digging for treasure hidden at the end glorious backdrop of Arran, including the Holy Isle and Goat of a large rope buried in the sand. Unfortunately no fortunes Fell. The Scouts did a full-on day, paddle boarding, kayaking were made. In the evening the younger Scouts searched for and canoeing. Our Sea Scouts honed their skills whilst the “unlabelled” tins for their dinner – macaroni cheese, others scouts learned new water skills, albeit a couple of meatballs, peaches and custard was the best find!! That Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:13 Page 23

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evening we had a Desert Island themed competition, the and challenges and attending Easter and Summer Camps – most competitive event being the limbo, won jointly by massive congratulations to Lachlan, Grace, Ansel, Connor, Kirsty and Andrew. Mathew, Ben and Ruaidridh. On the Thursday afternoon, we all went to Girvan and had a Despite a little drizzle Saturday we were able to strike camp brilliant afternoon at the RNLI station. Callum and his fellow in good time, leaving the camp in good order and getting volunteers showed us around their brand new state of the art back to the Kirk at the target time. We had lots of help from boat costing £2.1m pounds (donated by Edinburgh based parents in putting the kit away, and lots of volunteers to dry Professor Allan) as well as demonstrating how to put on their our tents. Thank you. gear. The Scouts were really attentive, asked great questions So a great camp, in a wonderful location and the “positive and we were pleased to hand over a donation of £200. After attitude” certainly got us through the persistent rain. The an hour of playing in the Girvan play park, we all had a Scouts were very well behaved, engaged in the activities, massive meal of fish/sausage/ haggis suppers in the evening challenges and camp singing and gave the leaders very little sun (actually it was drizzle but we didn’t care!!). The local bother. They were supported by an extensive and committed seagulls and some young teenagers tried their best to disrupt Leader team to whom I say a massive thanks. our meal but we all enjoyed a great feast. We finished the day with a massive camp fire where we burned all the material Mike Treanor we collected earlier in the week followed by more camp Scout Leader songs. We started to strike camp on Friday, trying to take tents down dry between the showers. The young adult leaders brought together a great “Olympics” with much competition to try to gain those points which would win the prizes. In the evening, Karen, our camp cook, surpassed the excellent service she had already provided during the week, with a superb BBQ banquet meal of kebabs, burgers and chocolate cake. We closed the evening with our GSL, Graham Cullen, presenting the Chief Scout Gold Award to 7 Scouts after 4 or more years of attending Friday Scouts, engaging in activities BLOOMING SUMMER

Summer may be over and you’re probably wondering why I am bringing it up now. Complementing the good work done by the church yard gardeners under the steady eye of Doris D there is another team that we should acknowledge: the tireless, unsung heroes of the floral displays in pots, trays and troughs around the village. Firstly, the hard cash and support from the Community Council at the beginning of the season to procure the plants. The CBCC have stepped up and covered the cost for several years. Second, our long serving secret weapon in the village – Andrew, who tirelessly pots, manages, thins and maintains the many floral displays that are found in most neuks, crannies and seating areas of our historic Cramond. Throughout the summer Andrew sustains and refreshes the pots, ably assisted by Lois. This year some of Andrew’s sterling efforts had to be reworked because of vandalism. However our hero took it in his stride and we all hardly noticed a thing since the re-work was done so cleanly and quickly. So here is a BIG THANK YOU to Andrew and all those who have come together to brighten up our summers around Cramond Village. Ian Rodger, Cramond Heritage Trust Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:13 Page 24

24 THE GRAPEVINE

FRIENDS OF THE RIVER ALMOND WALKWAY

We have all enjoyed the glorious weather the saplings etc. This is essential to prevent parts last few months and the Walkway has been of the path from becoming like a tunnel. In very busy with locals and visitors alike. this we were greatly aided by one of our We continue to work away to ensure members being authorised by the that everyone finds the path and its Council to use a chainsaw. The environs to be in as good condition as speedily produced piles of ‘brush’ can be organised. were efficiently piled elsewhere by our many helpers. At the time of this The Weirs being written, we are due to hold It is encouraging to see the construction another session at the beginning of of the fish pass at Fair-a-Far completed. August and hope for an equally The pleasure was somewhat reduced by the productive result. contractor leaving the site with remedial work to Our greatly valued local Natural Heritage Officer, the approaches neglected and stones that had been together with our Work Party Leader, recently washed away during high-waters left on the river- organised a group of volunteers from the Royal Bank bed. At the time of writing the remedial work was of Scotland to spread aggregate on the muddy section taking place with a large digger working in the river. of path by Haugh Park and generally tidy-up around We hope to be involved in plans to introduce some the area and ‘Jock Howiesons’ Cottage. A good job planting in the area once all this is completed. well done.

Work on Dowies Mill Weir is scheduled to start in 2019 Our trees in the Community Woodland continue to and this gets ever closer. We continue to press the case flourish. It has also alas been a particularly good year that the Weir cannot simply be removed without for the growth of weeds etc around them. We now ensuring that the water level at Cramond Brig is have the use of two petrol brush-cutters and they have maintained. Our understanding of current plans is for been employed to clear areas around most of the trees. roughly two-thirds of the ‘mill pond’ to be removed. We will need to keep going on this until the trees reach Our fears remain that this is not the best solution but sufficient growth to take care of other ground cover. we lack sight of plans although they have been long- We also aim to install a second flight of Steps into the promised. It is of course our hope that fish-migration Woodland. measures can be introduced with the support of all parties but proper communication is essential for this. Project with Cramond Primary’s P7s We have asked again for prior view of these plans. Their wildflower plot is flourishing. First to flower were Lesser Periwinkle, Cowslips, Fritillary and Star Salvesen Steps of Bethlehem. Cornflowers, Poppies, Corn Marigolds We were hoping that the long-awaited costed plans to and Mayweed from a seed mix began to flower in June replace the temporary scaffolding with a disability and the plot looked very colourful attracting many compliant low-level route around the rock-face would pollinating insects, especially bumblebees. The striking be available by the end of June. In a recent meeting we yellow Rock Rose also began to bloom. The children were disappointed to learn that these have still not have labelled plants with stones on which they have been prepared by the appointed consultant and that named and drawn a picture of each flower and fact issues such as flood levels that we believed had been sheets have been drawn up. All this has been admired resolved had not been. We continue to press for and photographed by many passers-by. We and the progress. school plan to continue this cooperation next school- year. Work Parties We had a most productive and well-attended session earlier this year to start improving the river vistas www.friendsoftheriveralmondwalkway.org.uk down from Dowies Mill by removing growths of Scottish Registered Charity Number SC045077 Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:13 Page 25

THE GRAPEVINE 25

Please Help to Make It a Bumper Harvest for Fresh Start on 7 October

Donations of tins of soup, fish, meat, vegetables including potatoes, fruit, rice pudding, custard, packets of tea, coffee, drinking chocolate, long life milk and long life orange juice, biscuits, pasta, rice, easy cook porridge and healthier cereals will be gratefully received at the Harvest Festival service on Sunday, 7 October. These will then be taken to a Fresh Start depot for distribution. Sorry but they cannot accept any fresh foods. Your donations can be left a few days before the service either in the Kirk Office or in the Gathering Space of the Kirk Hall or you can bring them on the day. Your generosity will mean a lot to the recipients. Thank you Lesley Hoyle

TIME FLIES

Have we really been editing the Grapevine for the last 50 issues? How time flies! Thank you to everyone who has contributed articles for all that time, and a very big thank you to our regular and faithful contributors. Without your articles, there would have been no Grapevine and that would have been a huge loss to the Parish and the community. Thank you. David & Christine Fairweather

Cramond Kirk Badminton Club invites you to join us at Cargilfield School (4 courts) on Thursday evenings from 8.15pm to 10.15pm. Members have a wide range of abilities and ages and we generally play mixed doubles. The membership fee is £65 per season (September to May) and there is a weekly shuttle fee of £1. We are particularly keen to recruit more young people (aged 15+ with experience) and ladies.

The season starts on 6th September and newcomers get their first week free. Please contact Claire Burrell before attending or for more information: [email protected] Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:13 Page 26

26 THE GRAPEVINE PARISH REGISTER BAPTISMS 27 May George Mackay 27 May Poppy Morris 24 June Albert & Ralph Hufton 1 July Archie Reid 29 July James Costello

WEDDINGS 26 May David Gibson to Shelley Rayner 9 June Mark Barbour to Amy Loughe 7 July Jamie Brennan to Lauren Thompson

DEATHS 21 April Isobelle Neville 9 May Todd Soutar 14 May Elzabe Fotheringham 17 May Alexander Mudie 22 May Neil Barclay 3 June Florrie Sinclair 6 June Fiona Macpherson 6 June Elizabeth Sharp 7 June Dorothy Goodwillie 11 June Kay Davies 11 June Muriel Lynes 15 June Ted Parker 28 June Elizabeth Ball 29 June Margaret Haddow 14 July George Moffat 20 July John McGregor 28 July Graham Gordon 29 July Elizabeth Rao 30 July Dorothy Redman

NEW MEMBERS JOINING BY PROFESSION OF FAITH – 24 JUNE Paul & Kimberley Reid Alem Weldeyesus & Helen Tesfaye Gebru

NEW MEMBERS JOINING BY CERTIFICATE - JUNE Donald & Marion Campbell

BARNTON & CRAMOND COMMUNITY CLUB The Barnton & Cramond Community Club will resume on Thursday, 4 October in the Millennium Room of the Kirk Hall with a Beetle Drive. We have arranged speakers and entertainment for your enjoyment all followed by a cup of tea and the chance for a chat. The Club meets in the Millennium Room on alternate Thursday afternoons, October – April, 2 pm – 4 pm, so do come along and join us. New members will be very welcome. For more information, please contact Norma Watkins on 339 7011. Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:13 Page 27

THE GRAPEVINE 27 WHO’S WHO MINISTER Very Rev Dr Russell Barr 336 2036 ASSOCIATE MINISTER Rev Tom Cuthell 476 3864 SESSION CLERK Sandra Watson BEADLE & HALL BOOKINGS David Haggarty 312 6911 or 07979 795331 or hall enquiries & bookings - [email protected] TREASURER Neil MacLeod GIFT AID TREASURER Crichton Mouat F W O TREASURER Ian Adam SECRETARY Louise Madeley, the Kirk Office, 16 Cramond Glebe Road, EH4 6NS (Office Hours 9.00 - 12.00 Mon-Fri) 336 2036 ORGANIST Simon Bertram CHOIR Dot Kemp KEEPER OF THE ROLL Leslie Pendreigh FLOWER SECRETARIES Dot Pendreigh Dot Kemp PRAYER SECRETARIES John & Liz Johnston KIRKYARD GARDENERS Doris Duncanson WEDNESDAY CLUB Jill Preston "GRAPEVINE" EDITOR David & Christine Fairweather, c/o The Kirk Office 336 2036 FRESH START Fay Wilson SUNDAY CLUB (9 + years) Alex Mackenzie Edith Butler (6-8 years) Susie Thornton Angela Smith (4-5 years) Louise Madeley & Jessie Craig (2-4 years) L J Forrest (Toddler & Creche) The Kirk Office 336 2036 CHILD CARE & PROTECTION Claire Richards LIFE & WORK MAGAZINE Sandra Haggarty CRAMOND ASSOCIATION Diana Hart BARNTON/CRAMOND COMMUNITY CLUB Norma Watkins ALMOND MAINS CLUB Rebecca Kennedy, Almond Mains Initiative, c/o Cramond Kirk Hall 336 2082 CRAMOND BABY & TODDLER GROUP [email protected] CRAMOND PLAYGROUP Katie Kent [email protected] BADMINTON Mon 10.00 - 12.00 (currently full & with a long waiting list) Thurs 8.15 - 10.15 Claire Burrell Wed 9.30 - 12.00 Sue Ledingham BRIDGE CLUB Rosina Archibald CRAMOND WALKERS Fiona Black CRAMOND COMMUNITY COUNCIL Ian Williamson FRIENDS OF THE RIVER John Kerr [email protected] ALMOND WALKWAY CRAMOND ANGLING CLUB Millar Haxton Laing UNIFORMED ORGANISATIONS These groups all meet in Cramond Kirk Halls SENIOR SECTION GUIDES Jessie Craig [email protected] First & last Thursday of each month 7.15 - 9.00 GUIDES 197th Company - Wed 7.15 - 9.00 Sharon Robertson 229th Company - Wed 7.15 - 9.00 Mhara Brown 213th Company - Thurs 7.30 - 9.00 Sharon Robertson BROWNIES 197th Tues 6.30 - 8.00 Angela Smith 229th Tues 6.30 - 8.00 Sharon Robertson 213th Wed 5.45 - 7.00 Pauline Skinner RAINBOWS 229th Wed 6.00 - 7.00 Jacqui McLellan 213th Thur 6.15 - 7.15 Laura Shishodia [email protected] WAITING LIST FOR ALL SECTIONS https://enquiryym.girlguiding.org.uk/ SCOUTS Scout Group Leader Graham Cullen [email protected] 82nd Craigalmond Explorer Scouts Mon 7.15 - 9.15 Donald Black Scouts Fri 7.15 - 9.15 Mike Treanor [email protected] Sea Scouts Fri 7.15 - 9.15 Paul Rogers CUB SCOUTS Mon 6.15 - 7.30 Grant Crain [email protected] Fri 6.00 - 7.15 Sarah Gordon BEAVERS Mon 6.15 - 7.15 Irene Campbell [email protected] Fri 6.00 - 7.00 Gordon McKirdy [email protected] BEAVERS WAITING LIST Tara Paterson [email protected] To contact any of those listed above who do not have contact details, please e-mail the Kirk Office at [email protected] Cramond Grapevine 100_Grapevine 27/08/2018 12:13 Page 28

24 THE GRAPEVINE Sunday Club is Back Again! And we’d love you to join us. But there are some rules :

1. You must be aged between 2 and 17. No oldies allowed! 2. You must like at least one of the following – Stories – Games – Glue, pens, glitter, scissors and sometimes dough, flour, Krispies, chocolate, sand, soil & seeds 3. You must be prepared to have a good time …

Sunday Club runs every Sunday morning during crèche, please let Louise in the Kirk Office know by term time. Children join the congregation at the start of calling 336 2036 (Mon-Fri, 9 am to 12 noon) or e- the 10 am service and then, following Children’s mailing her on [email protected] Church, head over to the Kirk Hall where they spend a Louise fun-packed 45 minutes exploring different stories and messages from the Bible.

Sunday Club is divided into 4 separate groups – 2 to 3½ year olds, pre-school and P1, P2 to P4 and P5 upwards. Each class has two leaders and is backed up by a great team of helpers.

So why not come and see what all the fun is about!

CRECHE And for those of you who are a bit put out that you’re not quite 2 yet, why not try out our crèche! The crèche is COME JOIN THE BAND … available every Sunday morning for the whole of the 10 The Sunday Club has a number of musical youngsters am service. It’s held in the Session House at the back of who have formed the Sunday Club band and the band the church so you’re close to Mum & Dad and we have lots plays during the service on the last Sunday of each of toys for you to try out. month. As well as accompanying the congregation VOLUNTEERS during one of the hymns, individual band members And for those of you who are still put out that you’re not also play during the offering. quite young enough for Sunday Club, volunteer If you know of any young musicians who’d like to join helpers are always welcome!! So if you can spare a the band, please contact me on 336 2036 or at Sunday morning now and again and would like to [email protected] or come along any help with any of the Sunday Club classes or with the Sunday morning. We’d love to see you.

       “The Grapevine” is published quarterly by Cramond Kirk, and distributed by volunteers to 3,200 homes in the Parish.            Editorial contributions for the next issue should reach the        Editors, David & Christine Fairweather (538 6409), by        Sunday 7th October, via the Kirk Office. Articles and submissions are welcome from all.     Advertising enquiries: Grahame Boyne (336 2632)    Distribution enquiries: Lesley Pearson (336 4166)   !  "#  –––––––––––– $     Views expressed in signed articles are not necessarily those of the Editors or of Cramond Kirk. %&#"!    ––––––––––––    Printed by BARR Printers Limited, 0131 554 1736     Cramond Kirk - Registered Charity no: SC003430