Category: Barnton

Scottish rugby legend toasts the launch of care home facility

Care home residents scrum together for brand-new pub opening

FORMER Scotland rugby international Andy Irvine has officially opened a brand-new social space at one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious care homes.

The Scotland and British and Irish Lions star joined residents at Cramond Residence to open its very own pub, marking the latest addition to the home’s outstanding facilities.

Created as a vibrant social hub, the new space now offers residents a welcoming environment to enjoy sporting events, themed gatherings and special celebrations designed to enhance residents’ social lives and wellbeing.

Decorated with an impressive array of sporting memorabilia, the pub features a signed British and Irish Lions jersey donated by Irvine from his playing days, along with a collection of Scotland rugby keepsakes.

Andy said: “It was a pleasure to be invited to open the new pub at Cramond and spend time with the residents. It’s fantastic to see a space like this created for them, where they can come together, share stories, and enjoy the social side of sport.

“The pub has a great atmosphere, and with all the memorabilia on the walls, it feels like the perfect place to watch a match or catch up over a drink.”

Richard Annan, Head of Sales and Marketing at Cramond Residence said: “The new pub space has rapidly become the heart of our home. It’s wonderful to see residents connecting over shared interests, making new friends and maintaining the active social lives they’ve always enjoyed.

“Many of our residents were previously members of clubs such as rugby, golf and tennis. This new space allows them to relive those experiences while enjoying live events together in a setting that encourages natural socialisation.”

“The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re excited to see how the pub continues to bring people together.”

With nine lounges spread across different suites, the care home’s team embarked on a mission to transform select areas into purposeful, engaging and social spaces.

Head of Maintenance at Cramond Residence, Billy Early, played a key role in bringing the pub to life, using his skills to craft a bespoke wooden bar and transform the space into a warm and welcoming social hub.

Billy said: “It’s been a real privilege to work on this project and see how much the residents are enjoying it already. We wanted to create a space that felt special but also comfortable – somewhere people would naturally want to spend time.

“It’s all about tailoring our spaces to the interests and passions of our residents, ensuring they can continue to enjoy the things that matter most to them.

“The pub has already become a hub of activity, and we’re looking forward to making the most of it with events such as Wimbledon, The Grand National, and the rest of the Six Nations.”

Plans are already in motion to introduce further dedicated spaces at the home, including a fully equipped gym, a hobby and games room and a nostalgic 1970s-themed living area to support residents living with dementia.

Cramond Residence prioritises the residents’ needs and offers a tailored activity programme that combines a luxury hotel ambiance with the comfort of home living.

The residence was purpose-built for £8m and opened in October 2018, adopting a small-group living philosophy with a major emphasis on socialisation.

To find out more about Cramond Residence, please visit: 

https://cramondresidence.co.uk/

Whitehouse Road fatality: driver charged

A 28-year-old man has been arrested and charged in connection with a fatal crash in Edinburgh.

The incident happened on Whitehouse Road around 8.20am on Friday, 1 March, 2024 and involved a schoolboy and a bin lorry. Emergency services attended but the boy was pronounced dead at the scene.

The man has been charged with a road traffic offence and a report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.

He is expected to appear in court at a later date.

Care Homes invite local community to November Open Day

Strachan House and Queens Manor in Edinburgh will be opening their doors to the local community for an day of coffee and cakes on Saturday 9th November.

Taking place between 10.00 am – 4.00 pm guests will be able to enjoy home-made cakes prepared by the home’s Head Chef, and will have the chance to meet the team and take a tour of the home.  

Frances Fisher, General Manager at Strachan House, says: “I’m excited about welcoming new visitors and existing friends of the home to our open day.

“Looking for care can be a little bit daunting, but our team here at Strachan House will do all we can to provide all of our guests with the guidance and support they may need, and answer all of their questions, big or small.

“Our open day is a great chance to enjoy some delightful entertainment in a homely and friendly setting- hope to see you all there!”

Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active, and provides a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. 

Strachan House provides nursing care and dementia care from respite care to long term stays.

Education Summit session held at Royal High School

The Atlantic Rim Collaboratory Summit is being co-hosted by @ScotGov this year. The annual gathering brings together pupils, teachers and education experts.

Over four days, participants will share ideas about how to improve schools in the different countries taking part.

First Minister @JohnSwinney and Education Secretary @JennyGilruth (a former teacher at RHS) met international delegates, pupils and teachers attending a Summit session at the Royal High School.

They discussed ways to improve attendance at school and help children get the most from their education.

Royal High School said on Twitter: “Our School Captain, Hannah & Vice Captains Hollie & Skye delivered exceptional speeches and were a credit to RHS. It was a pleasure to welcome delegates to our school.”

Horseplay at Queen’s Manor!

Care Home Residents Enjoy A Visit From Miniature Shetland Ponies

Queens Manor Care Home, on Queensferry Road, was full of fun when two miniature Shetland ponies came to visit.

Residents at Queens Manor Care Home were pleasantly surprised to see their new furry friends roaming around the home as John and Elaine from Therapy Ponies Scotland paid a visit with Wilson & Flicker.

Residents, staff and visitors alike loved seeing them wandering the home and into rooms, paying everyone a special visit.

Resident Frank Heathcote was surprised by Flicker as he appeared in his room: “It’s not everyday you see a Shetland pony in your come walking into your room – he was so friendly and soft!”

Senior Head of Lifestyle & Enrichment, Shannon Cullen said: “Our residents really loved their visit from the adorable pair.

“We are such an animal loving home and knew that having the two miniature Shetland ponies here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus. 

“We are always looking for new activities for the residents and today we reconfirmed the level of enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people.”

Resident Joyce Shand was very excited by the little duo: “I have always loved ponies and horses of all sizes and today was great!

“It was wonderful that Wilson & Flicker were able to come into see everyone. I really enjoyed seeing them trotting along the corridor and seeing them both wearing their little shoes!” 

Queens Manor care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. 

Queens Manor Care Home provides residential care and dementia care for 60 residents from respite care to long term stays.

Edinburgh funeral director extends funeral care to families in north-west Edinburgh

Established independent funeral director, William Purves, is extending its support to grieving families across Edinburgh with a new branch in Barnton.

Located on 185 Whitehouse Road, William Purves’ new premise will offer premium funeral facilities to be enjoyed by residents across EH4 and EH12 postcodes.

The refurbished space will include a comfortable reception room, an arranging room and a peaceful private viewing space for grieving friends and families to visit, providing locals with the highest level of funeral care.

Previously a hair salon, the new site will further strengthen William Purves’ presence in Edinburgh, joining eight existing branches to bring the business’s unrivalled funeral service to families in the north-west of the city. This central, convenient location to surrounding areas enables families to easily access support and every stage of the funeral process.

Leading the charge at the new Barnton branch will be accomplished funeral director, Jamie Reece, who has over a decade of experience in the sector. Jamie will work alongside the newly appointed Branch Administrator, Anne Ballantyne who recently celebrated five years with William Purves and is a local resident of Barnton.

James Morris, Managing Director at William Purves commented on the new opening: “We are very pleased to be opening a new branch in the beautiful Barnton area of Edinburgh.

” Having undergone a complete refurbishment, the new space will ensure grieving families have access to the highest standard of funeral care, support and comfort when it is needed most.

“And, having established strong relationships with the local churches, celebrants and funeral service venues, we hope to provide a streamlined service to minimise any additional stress at an already difficult time.

“We are looking forward to welcoming locals into the new branch – and encourage anyone with questions about funeral plans or arrangements to pop in and say hello.”

Tim Purves, chairman and great-great-grandson of founder William Purves, said: “This is an exciting time for William Purves and the wider Barnton area, as our new branch will offer local families the dedicated support, community investment and first-class facilities William Purves is known for.

“When my great great grandfather first opened William Purves Funeral Directors in 1888, I can’t imagine he envisioned I would be here today opening our 9th branch in Edinburgh and 29th nationwide. It is an honour to preserve his legacy and to continue serving the families of Edinburgh and beyond all these years later.”

William Purves’ new branch can be found on 185 Whitehouse Road and is open between 9-5 (closed between 1 and 2 for lunch) on weekdays. However, our phone line is open 24/7 for anyone in need.

Silver Sunday at Lauriston Castle

We are taking part in #SilverSunday with Age UK on Sunday 6 October by offering a free tour for elder visitors. We have an option of a tour of the Castle and a step-free option to see the castle digitally.

Join our knowledgeable guide for a FREE tour of Lauriston Castle. Find out about Willian and Margaret Reid, the last owners of Lauriston, and see for yourself the wonderful gift they left the nation.

Silver Sunday is the national day for older people, which is co-ordinated by Age UK. Age UK’s Silver Sunday is a national day where people of all generations can come together by hosting fun and free activities for older people. It is a day where older people can meet new people, visit new places, try new activities and connect with their local communities and the generations around them.

More Info here: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/…/tour-lauriston…

Second Phase of luxury apartments introduced at West Craigs Green

A collection of eight luxury apartments has been released by the award-winning Scottish housebuilder, Cruden Homes, at the highly sought-after West Craigs Green development in the heart of West Edinburgh.

This exclusive collection offers a mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, all with stunning views of the nearby Lennie Park and Turnhouse golf course. The two-bedroom units feature private balconies, providing an ideal spot to enjoy the breathtaking sunset views.

With prices starting from £220,000, each apartment boasts an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area, designed with both comfort and style in mind. High-quality fixtures and fittings are included as standard. This release marks the second phase of apartments within the development, following the successful launch of the first phase in early April 2024, which saw strong levels of demand.

In addition to the new apartments, the West Craigs development includes a range of three-bedroom terraced and semi-detached houses, and four-bedroom townhouses, each with private gardens.

The West Craigs area is undergoing significant transformation, evolving into a vibrant and friendly neighbourhood with abundant green spaces, including the newly established Lennie and Meadowfield Parks. Future plans include a new primary school and nursery, café, and health centre within walking distance.

Conveniently situated between Barnton and South Gyle, West Craigs Green is just five miles from Edinburgh city centre. It benefits from excellent transport links, including cycle routes, bus, rail, and tram stops in close proximity.

The Gyle Shopping Centre is easily accessible on foot or by car, offering a range of amenities such as high street shops, a supermarket, and eateries.

Hazel Davies, Sales and Marketing Director at Cruden Homes, said: “West Craigs Green is a vibrant, community-focused development, and is perfectly located for those who wish to live in more scenic surroundings with all the benefits of staying close to the city centre. 

“Many of these spacious apartments have balconies providing scenic views of Lennie Park and Turnhouse golf course. We had a great response to the first phase of apartments and it highlights the strong demand for quality housing in this area.

“This new release of apartments further enhances this wonderful development, making it an excellent choice for first-time buyers, young professionals, and those looking to downsize.”

A number of incentives are available for home buyers looking to move into West Craigs Green, including part exchange and assisted move packages, along with Land and Buildings Transaction Tax support, furniture packages and flooring. 

Prices for the latest release of apartments range from £220,000, with first completions expected in November 2024.

To view or find out more about reserving a property at Cruden Homes’ latest West Craigs Green development, visit www.westcraigsgreen.co.uk or call 0131 600 0095.

The sales and marketing suite, along with the show home, are open Thursday to Monday, 10:30 am – 5:30 pm.

Local Care Home hosts Open Day

Staff, residents, relatives and the local community came together at Queens Manor on Queensferry Road to enjoy an Open Day held at the home on Friday 21st June 2024.

Queens Manor hosted a variety of activities throughout the day, including a tasty BBQ prepared by their hospitality team, musical entertainment, pet therapy and even a surprise visit from a local ice cream van, which were enjoyed by everyone who came to the event.

Staff at Queens Manor made everyone feel welcome and were delighted to see different generations having fun together. Visitors enjoyed plenty of refreshments and fun, such as burgers, hot beverages and tasty trifle prepared by the catering team, who were hard at work making sure that a great time was had by all, as well as furry visits from Doc, Frank & Elvis and musical entertainment from Margo the Butterfly singer – it really was a team effort from all!

Resident, Jean Gillies, said, “I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was surrounded by lots of great people, and the refreshments & fun kept flowing into the afternoon. The weather held out until we finished.

“Staff did a great job, not just on the day, but organising the event and getting everyone together. The entertainment was amazing – from the dogs and guineapigs, to the singer and a special shout out to the ice cream man! the van took me back to times I spent with my family at the beach all enjoying 99’s!”

Shannon Cullen, Senior Head of Lifestyle & Enrichment at the home, said: “Staff at Queens Manor are dedicated to making sure that the home is a hub of the local community and residents, and this event, along with all their hard work, has definitely paid off.

“It was a resounding success, with everyone having a great time!”

Queens Manor care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. 

Queens Manor Care Home provides residential care and dementia care for 60 residents from respite care to long term stays.

The Royal Scots commemorate fallen comrades from the Far-East Conflict

80th Anniversary of the Battle of Kohima

At 10:30 on Saturday 29 June 2024 The Royal Scots Regimental Association will lay wreaths and conduct a memorial service at Lauriston Castle, Edinburgh (EH4 6AD), to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Kohima and the Regiment’s role in one of the defining battles of the Second World War.

Regimental records show that between 4 April and 22 June 1944 1st Battalion The Royal Scots lost a total of 89 men – their names will be read out during the ceremony.  A further 200 were wounded, many seriously, in the intense fighting around Kohima.  

The Battle of Kohima was one of the most bitterly fought battles of the Second World War and a pivotal moment in the war against Japan in the Far East.  

The success of the British 2nd Division (including theRoyal Scots) and the Indian 5th Division ensured the safety of British India and turned the tide against Japanese forces in South East Asia.

On Saturday 29 June 2024 The Royal Scots contingent will form up in the Lauriston Castle car park at 10:30 and will march the short distance to the Royal Scots Memorial Garden behind a piper and their Association Standards.

All others are welcome to congregate at the Garden.  The service will commence at 10:50 and will be conducted by Reverend Ian May, the Padre of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.  

The wreath laying will be led by Brigadier George Lowder, President of The Royal Scots Regimental Association.

Malcolm Warrack, son of Lt Col Morren Warrack who fought at Kohima with the regiment, said: “A group of Royal Scots Veterans felt very strongly about the lack of some form of local memorial specifically for their fellow soldiers who did not come back from the Burma Campaign and Kohima in particular.

“George Rogers, Ian Henderson and Morren Warrack co-ordinated the preparation and creation of this Memorial Garden in the 1990s.  

“They spoke often about the “Forgotten Army” in the Far East so it is particularly fitting that 80 years later on 29th June 2024 we remember them.”

Brigadier Lowder added: “The Royal Scots feel very strongly that we should mark the battle of Kohima which witnessed some of the fiercest fighting of the war.

“Some Royal Scots who took part in crucial battles to delay the German advance to Dunkirk in May 1940 subsequently found themselves in the Far East where the war continued for a further 3 months after victory in Europe was declared in May 1945.  Many made the ultimate sacrifice; we will remember them.”