Konect Bathgate June 2016

JUNE 2016

bathgate

WIN!

Tickets to Edinburgh’s MagicFest Gala Show! £10 plus sun tan lotion from Tesco Bathgate FEATUREs

s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

Bathgate Street Pastors Hopetoun Horse Trials Local Walk – Bing Bagging plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

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20

FEATURE

M ess ag e fro m the edito r

W

ishing all readers and customers a fantastic Newlands Day this year! Let’s hope the weather is better than it was for the day last year!

Once again I had the privilege of speaking to a local group of people who are working hard in our community on a voluntary basis to help their neighbours – the Bathgate Street Pastors is a fantastic initiative, see page 18.

The magazine has a summery feel to it this month, and we’ve been learning about an event that has become a regular institution over the past few years down the road at Hopetoun House – the Hopetoun House Horse Trials take place in June and it’s a great day out for something a bit different.

And we’re excited to be teaming up with the Edinburgh Magic Festival to offer readers a pair of Gala Show tickets! – see page 41 for details.

A local walk, a summery recipe, plus our usual columns are here. Tesco Bathgate’s regular competition is for a £10 voucher to spend in store, plus some sun tan lotion. If you have an event on in the next couple of months that you’d like to promote to the local community, or if you’re involved in a club or hobby group, please let me know and we’ll make sure it’s included next month in the community pages at the back of the magazine.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk Front cover: Summer! (stock photo)

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FEATUREs Hopetoun Hor se Tr ials Bathgate Street Pastor s Walk – Bing Bagging

08 18 20

REGULARS Local People Proper ty Matter s Inter ior s Music Review Recipe Parenting in West Lothian Visit West Lothian

14 16 26 31 34 38 39

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku Tesco Pr ize Dr aw Edinbur gh MagicFest ticket dr aw

32 33 41

COMMUNITY What’s on & Useful Information Clubs & Classes

42 43

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

46

Advertising Enquiries CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print.

Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print.

The Konect Directory is delivered to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen. Copies are also left at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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FEATURE

Hopetoun Horse Trials: A World Class Event in

Our Own Backyard!

by Suzanne Green

If you’re looking for some good options for summer activities, the Hopetoun Horse Trials event, 17-19 June, has a lot to offer.

Hopetoun House, the beautiful 17th century stately home located 12 miles west of Edinburgh, will once again host the three-day event, appealing to horse lovers and those who simply fancy an enjoyable day out with the family.

This is one of Scotland’s biggest horse trial events, and competitors come from as far away as China, India and Russia. Others travel from Australia, Italy, Germany and many other countries. They take part in three phases: Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross Country.

Balerno resident Heather Dick, who competed in the event nearly six years ago – when it was still run at grassroots level – helped me gain a better understanding of the Hopetoun Horse Trials. She explains, “All three phases must be completed in an event…a horse must be a genuine all-rounder 8

and talented in all three disciplines. Dressage comes first and is performed in an arena. It is a series of movements on the flat in walk, trot and canter. Each movement is given a score and the dressage test performed varies in technicality, depending on the level of class entered.

“Cross country comes next … a true test of horsemanship in terms of endurance and skill for both horse and rider. This is what makes eventing unique, because both dressage and show jumping can be done separately as stand-alone disciplines. ” Cross country is the highlight of the trials, as horses and riders gallop at speed across the country, jumping ditches, up and down banks and through water. It will take place on both Saturday and Sunday, starting at about 10.30 a.m. each day.

“A series of cross country rustic fences makes up the course, which has an optimum time,” Heather explains. “Penalties are given if horse and rider are too fast or too slow, or if fences are refused. Fences are big and solid, so eventing can be dangerous for both horse and rider. Over the years there have been improvements to safety, and many fences are now collapsible should KONECT

an accident occur. Riders must be inspected before they set off and are required to wear body protectors, safety-checked hats and medical arm bands.”

Show jumping is the final phase, and takes place on the west lawn with Hopetoun House as the stunning background to this arena event. Horses must jump a series of colourful fences in a certain order and time. Penalties are given when fences are knocked down or refused. Before horses can take part they are checked by a vet in what is known as a “trot up” to ensure they are sound and have not been injured in the cross country phase. (Horses are also checked by vets before the horse trials begin.) When the show jumping is finished, a final score is calculated and places are announced.

A great family day out

In addition to the main event, the weekend includes many other activities and offerings.

There’s the Pony Club Show Jumping competition, not to mention the Pony Club’s Mounted Games.

You can also watch the talented British Show Jumpers exhibit their talent. And the Inter-Hunt Gate Jumping Competition will be held on Sunday 19 June. Competitors must jump the gate without knocking it down. If they do knock it down, they can only continue jumping if they remove one item of clothing. The winner is the person who jumps the highest gate wearing the most clothes.

(Don’t worry, this is a family event!)

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Anyone interested in viewing or becoming a horseback gymnast will not want to miss the Shieldback Vaulting Team’s display of exercises set to music. Here four-time British champion Phillip Beasley will demonstrate advanced vaulting movements. Finally, you can watch British Carriage Driving and the Scottish Carriage Driving Association compete for speed and accuracy in the arena. The event is modelled on the FEI World Cup Series and carriages must manoeuvre round 10 cones and two obstacles.

But even if you are not an equine enthusiast, the Hopetoun Horse Trials are worth investigating.

In addition to the main event, there a number of other activities. These include a dog agility show, a demonstration by Lammermuir Gundogs, and a Fun Dog Show. There’s also an opportunity for you to enter your own dog in an exciting flyball competition! There are a number of various craft and retail stalls that might take your interest. And if you’re hungry, everything from burgers to ice cream will be on offer.

Early bird and other discounts are available now, and all information can be found on the website listed below. For the first time this year Hopetoun Horse Trials tickets will allow free entry to Hopetoun House on both the Saturday and Sunday (12 noon – 4.00 p.m.). If you are planning to tour the House in the weeks leading up to the trials, ask about getting your entry ticket validated: you can then return later for the horse trials and gain entry absolutely free. And that’s straight from the horse’s mouth. www.hopetounhorsetrials.com

9

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Aberdein Considine West Lothian Update

with the number of property sales in the county s a first-time dad, most weekends in the last in the first quarter of 2016 increasing by 25% 8 months have involved getting out and compared to the same quarter last year. about in West Lothian with the pram. Walks along the coast at Blackness Castle, by the It’s no real surprise that West Lothian loch at Linlithgow or out in the continues its steady increase in both countryside at Almondell and volume of property sales and in sale Beecraigs parks – we really are prices when considered in the wider spoiled for choice. There’s no doubt context of the central belt housing in my mind that the mix of historic market. Recent increases in house towns and stunning countryside is prices in Glasgow and more one of the factors behind the importantly Edinburgh has had a continued improvement in the West significant effect on the West Lothian Lothian property market in 2016 – an market. If you consider that the Sean MacMillan improvement which has led some to average price of a detached home Partner, legitimately refer to the county as a Aberdein Considine in Edinburgh is currently almost property hotspot. £400,000 and the average flat will Recent figures from Registers of Scotland set you back nearly £200,000 it is perhaps no showed that the largest year on year change in wonder that more and more people in the average house price annually in Scotland in 2015 capital are considering the benefits which come was in West Lothian, which rose by 9.1% to with living in West Lothian where they can get a £161,014. The increase in the volume of sales in great deal more house for their money.

West Lothian in 2015 was also one of the highest n Sean MacMillan is a Partner of law firm Aberdein Considine in the country, rising by 10% on the 2014 figures which provides estate agency, conveyancing, mortgage advice and more in their West Lothian offices. to over 3,000 sales. The trend is continuing,

As the spring market heats up, catch the eye of more buyers with Aberdein Considine.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Follow The Fluters At 5!

BY MURDOCH KENNEDY

Members of the former “Bathgate Flute Band” have for many years played an important part in Linlithgow’s Marches Day, and this year will be no different.

Widely regarded as one of the major highlights of the Marches Day, an early morning reveille sees a crowd of over 500 parade through Linlithgow behind drummer Bobby McLeod of Armadale and long-serving fluters, Raymond Rollo and Bert McLeod.

There is always a great atmosphere as the musicians process along the ancient High Street, with the high-pitched tootles of the flutes echoing against the tall buildings in the stillness of the early morning.

Bobby, Raymond and Bert have collectively clocked up well over 100 years of service to the Marches. Bert told me: “I first took part in the Marches as a sixteen year old in 1974, five years after Raymond. My son, Bobby, joined us more than twenty years ago. I have only missed one year, when I broke a leg playing football for Livingston Juniors, although I did still spectate on crutches. “ Raymond and I were members of Bathgate Flute Band, which was always asked to provide flutes for the Crying of the Marches on the Friday

Marches Fluters at 5am

“At first lic Black Bitchhtes,,wawhenwisi hemoist the dew Assemble like some cheertrfs sae true The West Port throngs, u band The Bathgate Flutes araw shakin hands In fine array, they’ve jise early rised And foarmin up at Weat arrived Partake o hospitalitrieee’s” tree before and for Marches day itself. Although the band no longer exists, we now do it as a private engagement, but are still known affectionately as the Bathgate Flutes”.

Bert’s day starts at 3.45 am, although he admits he doesn’t get much sleep the night before: “I try to go to bed early. Inevitably, it’s still daylight at that time, so it’s difficult getting to sleep. I’ve found myself tossing and turning until it’s time to get up. I’m too scared to sleep in!”

A taxi picks them up at 4.30 am from their Armadale homes and the trio arrive at the gates of the old West Port Primary school with plenty of time to gather their thoughts before embarking on their marathon stint. Having awakened the inhabitants of the Burgh, Brig and Blackness, they return to Linlithgow around 8.15 am for a wellearned breakfast.

Nowadays, the fluters and drummer officially ride the Marches as guests of the Provost of the Deacons’ Court, but that wasn’t always the case, as Bert explained: “After our breakfast, we were normally free to do whatever we wanted to. We felt that wasn’t right and were very keen to be more involved. These days, we get invited to take part in the procession and have lunch in the marquee at Blackness.

We’ve developed close links with the Fraternity of Dyers and lead them around the Cross Well at the 5pm finale. So, in a sense, we start the Marches at 5am and finish it at 5pm”.

As always, Bert is looking forward to this year’s Marches on June 14th and the Crying of the Marches on the Friday before (June 10th) and he hopes to be involved in both for many more years to come.

Photograph by Mar tine Stead.

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15

property matters

The Power of Pre-Marketing

by Craig Turpie

There is a strong argument for creating maximum exposure for a property during its time on the market, and much of our effort and resources are spent achieving the right exposure in the right places.

However, one of the most powerful ways of securing a fast sale at a high price can actually result from minimal exposure – or rather exposure only to a select few!

It works by taking advantage of the fact that people enjoy being offered something on an exclusive basis, especially when it is a property that is “just about to come onto the market”. So we often offer our new instructions “off-market” to our pre-registered “hottest” buyers first, resulting in a number of recent sales that were never even advertised! Additionally, promoting to potential buyers that we also have properties that don’t appear on our website or any portals creates a curiosity and a feeling that the buyer could be missing out on something good. This encourages them to register with us so they can then gain

Bangour Fisher y

access to a potentially popular property with little or no competition.

The prices achieved using this method tend to be good as well, as buyers of such a property know that (a) it is unlikely that the seller would consider anything other than the asking price during these early days of marketing and (b) don’t want to lose out.

We find that many sellers like the idea of an initial period of quiet marketing, especially in instances of a marriage break up, a death in the family, a prominent house in a small town, financial difficulties or any other reason where people don’t yet want it to be publicly known that they are selling. The concept also reduces the risk of overexposure or of the property “going stale” on the market.

Of course, it does rely on a strong register of qualified buyers, extensive knowledge of the local area and some ‘good old fashioned estate agency work’ which, in the days of a heavy reliance on internet advertising, is often overlooked.

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17

Community

Bathgate Street Pastors “We are available to people out and about in the night economy. Most enjoy themselves, keep safe and have a good time. However for some the experience is not so positive. We simply listen to people and demonstrate care for their well-being by helping in any way we can.”

Since 2012 Bathgate Street Pastors have been out on Saturday nights helping in a myriad of ways to make sure a night out stays safe and enjoyable.

They provide: • flip-flops for any who have abandoned high heels • bottles of water for those dehydrated or who have had too much alcohol • wetwipes for those sick and needing a clean up • first aid for those injured • Information buses • a radio link to taxi marshals • a friendly chat!

Their mobile “hub” is a bus parked in the pedestrian precinct stocked with hot drinks, snacks and all the other supplies needed to keep people’s night out on track. They’re also a source of information and sign-posting off to other services.

On Newlands weekend there can be up to 10,000 people out in Bathgate around the 23 licensed premises. “The Street Pastor scheme is an agreement between all the churches, the police and West Lothian Council,” explains Iain Scoular, who set the scheme up in four years ago after seeing it elsewhere in Scotland. It’s an all-church initiative and entirely volunteer run. Iain attends a monthly Bathgate Town Centre Safety Advisory Group meeting which was set up on the initiative of 18

the Bathgate Town Centre Management, the local police inspector and Iain.

“Street Pastors are completely non judgemental.

We keep people safe and we work in support of the police, who know the difference that Street Pastors make. In a dispute situation police really have only one tool, which is to arrest the disruptive person.

However we can usually prevent this sort of thing from kicking off in the first place. We approach arguments as mediators, and people usually welcome that. We listen to both sides, and carry supplies to help people feel better.”

What other situations do they come across?

“Helping people find transport home, providing a listening ear. We’re a bit of a hub for homeless people too who come to the bus for hot drinks and a blether. And we recently met a young lady who had fled domestic abuse one night and had nowhere to go. We picked her up, gave her coffee, figured out her story and took her to a women’s refuge.”

The Street Pastors receive funding from Bathgate BID who funded their radio system, linked with taxi marshals and the police; West Lothian Council; and (ironically) Diageo as part of their “Drink Safe” campaign. But they need more volunteers so that they can be out on the streets more frequently.

Volunteers are given full training, the only stipulation is that they are over 18 and belong to one of Bathgate’s several churches.

If you are interested in joining the team Iain would like to hear from you, call him on 07717 131596.

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19

WALK

Bing bagging Karen Murray headed out on an adventure up a bing

So the editor of this illustrious publication suggested a wee walk up the Broxburn Bing for this issue’s walk and I thought, it’s a beautiful evening, why not?

Clambering over old shale; persuading your friend to ‘wade’ through brambles; nettles and other undergrowth; avoiding getting caught on barbed wire fences that had to be negotiated – that is why not?

However, as my friend and I are generally up for an adventure, we saw the funny side. In fact, walking often is an adventure. A walk doesn’t always have to be a simple stroll following a set path. From Munro bagging, long trails or forest

paths, you can set out not entirely sure where you will end up. If you are somewhere local and out for a short walk, you will no doubt figure out how to get back to where you began. However, if you are heading up the hills always be prepared.

Scotland can do four seasons in one day all through the year so you can’t afford to be caught out.

But back to the Broxburn Bing - we headed to Broxburn and Greendykes Road in search of the Bing, discovering as we drove up that there are three bings, one much larger and two smaller ones. Driving around the narrow roads we circled the bings looking for somewhere to park and enjoying the sight of the fields of bright yellow oil seed rape, the red shale mountains and the deep blue sky – a fabulous colour palette courtesy of an unusually sunny early evening in May. Noticing a sign for Niddry Castle, nestled below one of the smaller bings, (Greendyke Bing we later discovered) we parked up and headed off to investigate. The castle sits on the edge of Niddry Castle Golf Course and has been renovated and modernised into a lovely home. By the side of the castle is a worn old sign indicating a footpath to Winchburgh.

We followed the sign and our noses, wandering along the side of the golf course and then into a wooded area. The path is a little overgrown and quite narrow but seems well used by dog walkers. Eventually it comes out of the woodland at the main car park for the golf club. We walked through narrow streets and found ourselves in Winchburgh.

Niddry Castle 20

Rather than head further into the village, we took a right through a gate and into more woodland where a carpet of gorgeous bluebells was just beginning its show of splendour. The pathways split off in different directions in the woodland KONECT

The pink shale bings are unique to West Lothian. They are industrial waste, left over from the time when West Lothian was a major shale oil-producing region, a massive industr y spawned by the Glasgow-born chemist James Young.

Greendykes Bing is now a scheduled monument under the statutor y protection of Historic Environment Scotland: “The monument is of national importance as one of the ver y few intact spent-shale bings left in central Scotland. The shale oil industr y was locally important for about a centur y, and its pioneer, James Young, developed refining techniques still used in the oil industr y. This bing, with its neighbour Faucheldean, gives striking evidence of the enormous volume of material processed in the extraction of oil from shale. In this case the operating company was the Broxburn Oil Co, active from the 1860s to c. 1940.”

so we headed toward the bing and eventually found ourselves at its edge. Not particularly attractive close up, the red shale rising above us was nonetheless impressive and we decided it was worth the clambering. Over rocks and rough ground we reached the summit and were rewarded with a panoramic view. The other bings, the Pentland Hills, the bridges – all three of them: we could see them all particularly as the evening was so clear and bright.

We retraced our steps back down the bing and continued through the woodland along the bottom edge of the bing and back to the path we had started out on. Taking a slightly different route along the other side of the stream to that

we had set out along, we found ourselves back at the edge of the golf course.

What we didn’t do was cross the golf course back to the castle. I suggest if you follow this walk that you do just that. We struck out across the other side of the golf course and found our way out blocked by a barbed wire fence and dry stane dyke!

The whole walk took around an hour and I was very pleasantly surprised once again by the beauty of the countryside on the doorstep that I hadn’t ventured out in before. A new area found and visited and on a beautiful evening such as the one we enjoyed, it is hard not to revel in how lucky we are.

Bathgate-based Estate Agent Newman Properties are the essential source for anyone looking for houses, new homes and flats in Central Scotland.

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22

KONECT

Buster the Dog

West Lothian’s ‘One Stop Shop’for the discerning dog!

Find us at: City Farm (off B7015) Westwood, near West Calder, EH558PP

To be included please call Charlene on 07772 941899 www.doggystylek9.com e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

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KONECT

23

Interiors feature

Get The Perfect Night’s Sleep with Ekco Are you getting a good night’s sleep?

Research suggests that most Scots get just under seven hours of sleep per night compared to the recommended eight to nine hours, with around one in three people getting less than five. Of course some people thrive on less sleep but if a lack of it is causing an issue, maybe it’s time to rethink your bedroom design and habits. Here are five tips from Ekco to help you sleep better and get ready for a busy day ahead.

Next time you’re out shopping, or on the bus or train, stop for a moment and look around. How many people are engrossed in their smartphones? We’re constantly communicating and available 24/7. We flip from Facebook to Twitter and buy discount deals from Groupon and Itison without drawing breath. To unwind, we watch a Netflix movie on a 5-inch screen. The Sleep Council suggests that we should put all electronic gadgets away at least one hour before bedtime and do away with gadgets, including the TV, in the bedroom at all. Time to dig out that book or magazine you’ve been wanting to read.

1

Invest in a ceiling fan. The ideal temperature should be around 18 degrees and open the window slightly to let air circulate.

2

Have some pot plants in your bedroom.

Although plants give off carbon dioxide at night, according to NASA it’s minimal and during

3

26

the day they give off oxygen and remove harmful toxins from the air. Ivy scored top marks and is hardy and easy to grow and rubber plants are perfect for clearing formaldehyde which is found in MDF and some house furnishings.

Invest in blackout blinds or heavy dark curtains to completely block out the light, especially nearby street lights. Also don’t have any objects such as alarm clocks which emit a blinking light as this can disturb sleep patterns.

4

If you have space, install an en-suite and take a bath or shower before bedtime.

Although either will raise your body temperature temporarily you’ll cool down as soon as you step into the bedroom. A warm shower or bath will also help your body produce the sleep hormone, melatonin.

5

Decorate your room in cool colours. Blues and greys lower your heart rate and reduce your blood pressure. Ditch the carpet as it can harbour dust and mites and instead get a rug which only covers part of the floor as it will still help to muffle sound.

6

Finally, invest in a decent bed and mattress.

We spend around one third of our lives in the bedroom so take the time to find the right one for you and try it out for size in the showroom – just don’t fall asleep as snoring in public is highly unsociable!

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KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home.

And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN MAKE YOUR IDEAS COME TO LIFE CALL OUR DESIGN TEAM ON

01506 857 007 www.ekco.co.uk EDINBURGH 0131 343 6007 Abbeyhill Industrial Estate EH8 8HL

DALGETY BAY 01383 667 048 Western Approach Rd KY11 9XP

UPHALL 01506 857 007 54 West Main Street EH52 5DW

Ayrton Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve the West Lothian Community with the highest quality veterinary care.

•

We offer specialised veterinary services in Orthopaedic surgery, Endoscopy and Laparoscopy (key-hole surgery). Ayrton was the first practice in Scotland to offer clients key-hole surgery.

•

Our out of hours emergency service is provided by our own vets and nurses here at the Hospital and on-call staff are on-site for hospitalised patients 24 hrs

•

We have a Pet Health Club that allows you to budget monthly for your pets’ preventative healthcare and has added discounts off of veterinary treatments and procedures.

•

We offer direct claims for insured clients and we have an appointed insurance advisor here at the Hospital.

•

We are a full service medical and surgical practice with: in-house laboratory, radiography, ultrasound and endoscopy.

•

When you and your pet visit us or have to stay in the Hospital, we have separate dog and cat waiting areas and wards for their comfort.

Ayrton is an accredited ‘Veterinary Hospital’ and was awarded Hospital status by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in 2009 (one of only 8 in Scotland). We are delighted to have been awarded ‘Silver’ by International Cat Care (ICC) as a ‘Cat Friendly Practice’ in recognition of the Hospitals facilities for our feline patients.

We look forward to meeting you and your pet, if you’d like further information about our staff and services, please visit our website: www.ayrton.org.uk

T: 01501 744736

Burnhouse Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West Lothian, EH47 OLQ 28

KONECT

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(formerly Mark Wallace Motors at entrance to industrial estate)

www.ableworld.co.uk Ableworld are the main mobility retailer in the area approved as a Community Equipment Dispenser NHS Vouchers Welcome. *VAT exempt - ask in store for details. MRP - Manufacturer’s Recommended Price Previous Price - Sold for 28 days in last 6 months at our Nantwich store Ableworld are an Appointed Representative of Fish Insurance, who are authourised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

KONECT

29

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New name, same great service! Alba Oven Cleaning is now part of The Clean Team

www.drycleanteam.co.uk tel 01506 432100 Currently recruiting new cleaners

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KONECT

MUSIC REVIEW

Wristbands? We don’t need no stinkin’ wristbands

by James Kerr, Regal Music Club

Paul Simon’s new single, “Wristband” sounds pretty sprightly for a singer who is 74.

That said, this most recent track has a hint of take two about it, utilising the similar mix of crowd voices and highly rhythmic approach as his unsatisfying Christmas single from 2011. This time around though the various elements are mixed together to much more pleasing effect.

When the vocal wearily slides in and begins to tell the story in the first person, if it were not for the difference in production techniques you could easily be back in the days of “Still Crazy...”. Indeed, the 74 year old Simon voice shows less strain than the one sometimes heard in the first half of the eighties. The lyric is mainly the mildly amusing tale

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of a rock star who ends up locked out of his own gig, and is challenged by the doorman. Some issues creep in with the final verse, where Simon attempts to draw a parallel between a misunderstanding in his own security arrangements with a more universal deprivation, imagining a revolution of the impoverished and excluded. Say Paul Simon was to play locally, how much do you think the very cheapest ticket would be? £60? Do you think you could get through his door without a wristband, my man?

The Stone Roses are also back with their first single in twenty years, “All for One”. If I keep writing then I should hit my word count limit without having to explain what a disappointing, uninspired, piece of nothing this song is. Result.

31

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the July edition of konect

Across 1 Well known (6) 4 Long curtains (6) 9 Grandparent (7) 10 Concur (5) 11 Flavour (5) 12 Loosening (7) 13 Marvellous (11) 18 Season’s crop (7) 20 Star sign (5) 22 Bet (5) 23 One of the three R’s (7) 24 Go back (6) 25 Alcove (6) Down 1 Brawls (6) 2 Breakfast, dinner etc (5) 3 Remove clothes (7) 5 Respond (5) 6 Piece (7) 7 Vehicle used on snow (6) 8 Make, produce (11) 14 Type of piano (7) 15 Turn aside (7) 16 Light rainfall (6) 17 Tree branches (6) 19 Mistake (5) 21 Elevate (5)

SUDOKU

Sudoku solution on page 46

32

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Dechmont 50+ Arts Group Painting Exhibition at the Regal Theatre - Daily until Monday 27 June Dechmont 50+ Arts Group is pleased to announce a free painting exhibition at the Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate. This is an opportunity to view the paintings from a group of local amateur artists who meet weekly in Dechmont. The paintings are also for sale at a very reasonable price.

The exhibition is located on the 1st floor gallery of this impressive theatre, once a 1930’s art deco cinema, from 10.00am each day.

For further details please email the secretary on dechmontartgroup@ gmail.com or visit our website at dechmontartgroup.wix.com/home.

@ the NEW Almondvale Suite Livingston FC

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arity Events | Weddings | Ch ckages s ie rt Pa t en m Engage 21st Pa itality | 18th or Corporate Hosp call for details tering -

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events@foodcreations.co.uk www.foodcreations.co.uk

Tel 01506 412232 facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations @Food_Creations

Tesco Bathgate Prize Draw I can’t believe this month is when the kids finish up for their summer holidays.

Once again this month will be very busy with Farm to Fork, a lot of the schools have Health Week and Sports Day and its a great chance to visit the store for a healthy eating workshop.

On Wednesday 29th June we will be taking our T in Tesco group on a bus mystery tour. This is for our senior citizens group we set up this year after our success with our Christmas party. Let’s hope they have a great time and we don’t get them lost!

My name is Tracey Harrison and I am the community champion for Tesco Bathgate.

The main aim of my job is to promote my store as a good neighbour that can bring genuine benefit to my local community. If your group or organisation feels I could help in any way please contact me on 07822 866634 or email me at blackburnroad@communityattesco.co,uk or you can come into the store to meet me in person.

WIN

£10 voucher and some sun tan lotion to get ready for summer

Simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to: 07854 492638 or editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with subject “Tesco Bathgate”.

Closing date for entries 15th June, 2016. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date.

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RECIPE & FOOD NOTES

by Anne Pinkerton

It is becoming increasingly clear that a diet high in vegetables and a good spoonful of olive oil each day is the route to better health.

In summer this is an easy routine to follow.

Salads (not just tissue-paper lettuce, a radish, cucumber and a fancy cut tomato) are a pleasure to eat and easy to gather. Almost any combination of leaves, root veg (grated or sliced) and one special ingredient such as an egg, croutons made from fried old bread, cheese or some pickle will make an interesting bowl for a quick meal.

The classic French Dressing will bring all the ingredients together.

Use a small jam jar with a well-fitting lid.

You need:Salt, fresh ground black pepper, a little grain mustard and a tiny amount of sugar or not traditional, honey.

Oil and vinegar - you need three times the oil to the vinegar. Add the measured oil and vinegar, screw on the lid and shake till amalgamated.

Change the flavour by using different oils or flavoured vinegars. It seems that uncooked olive oil is the best for our health, they say you need to eat a tablespoon full each day to reduce harmful cholesterol levels. Ring the changes with nut oils or other vegetable oils, soya sauce or even Worcester Sauce in small quantities don’t tell the French, they care about all things classic!

The three great vegetables of the Mediterranean diet are tomatoes, aubergines and courgettes.

In summer they come into their own because when ripened in the sun they taste delicious.

Interestingly the first two are not natives of 34

Europe. They came here with the potato from South America brought by the Spanish in the 16th century. The courgette is the most underrated of the three; it’s the easiest to grow in our climate and can be made into cake, chutney, (bread and butter pickle), soup, vegetable stews (ratatouille) salads or fritters.

Courgettes take up the flavour of things they are cooked with and become a good foil for meats.

Roast a small joint of lamb on top of rough sliced courgettes and a clove of garlic and they become the perfect accompaniment to the meat. Serve with small potatoes boiled whole in their skins.

Greek Courgette Salad 2 or 3 small firm courgettes per person. Use the smallest you can or cut in half longitudinally.

Blanch them whole in slightly salted water for 3 or 4 minutes. Test, with a tooth pick or fine skewer, that they are firm but not hard. put them in a shallow dish and roll them while still warm in olive oil. Add some finely chopped chives, parsley or basil and serve with crusty bread or as part of a selection of other vegetable salads.

In Greece the most likely accompaniments will be beetroots, their leaves served separately like chard, and a Greek tomato salad.

Courgettes with Pasta Cook your favourite shaped pasta.

While this is happening grate one medium courgette per person into a sieve and add a little salt. Let the juices run away.

For 4 people, 2 eggs beaten with 2 tablespoonfuls of plain yoghurt.

Drain the pasta add the courgettes and a good dollop of olive oil. Turn in the pan to get everything hot. Quickly add the egg mixture and mix slightly. Serve immediately. Eat with grated cheese.

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Greek Tomato Salad The whole pleasure of this dish is the quality of the flavour of the tomatoes. To get the best from them they need to be room temperature. I have been converted to keeping tomatoes OUT of the fridge. Unless you are lucky enough to be growing your own tomatoes the way to see if they will taste well is to smell them in the shop. Even through the supermarket packaging you can discern the oily aromatic smell denoting the hope of a good flavour. If there is no smell there will probably be no taste either. Sadly there is little history of breeding for taste for supermarket produce, they mostly focus on looks. Organic produce is sometimes disappointing in this too.

For 4 people: 4 large tomatoes roughly cut in chunks 1/2 cucumber peeled and cut in chunks 1 small sweet onion sliced finely Olives, (black is traditional but green are good too) 5 or 6 per person 100g Feta cheese A pinch of dried oregano or fresh flat leaf parsley leaves Olive oil Optional: sliced red or green pepper.

Put all the vegetables in a bowl and place the slab of cheese on top. Drizzle with oil and serve.

Eat as a starter or as lunch with bread.

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35

Come and visit

Edinburgh’s largest landscaping display Inject personality into your garden this summer with a little help from MKM & ensure your garden is the one they’re all talking about!

Call into branch today at ...

MKM EDINBURGH

29 - 32 MURRAYBURN ROAD, EH14 2TF 0131 442 8820 | mkmbs.co.uk fl

Let us help get your home sparkling for Summer!!

SUMMER SPECIAL: 20% OFF ALL BOOKINGS Driveway Restorations

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Our specialist equipment can clean all types of surfaces including tarmac and walls. After cleaning block paving we will re-sand the surface returning that new laid look.

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FOR A NO OBLIGATION QUOTE PLEASE CALL TODAY. WE ARE FULLY INSURED AND TRAINED TO GIVE YOU PEACE OF MIND.

Call Scott on:

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KONECT

FORMULA 1 Mot Centre Ltd

● BRAKES ● TYRES ● SERVICE ● EXHAUSTS ● REPAIRS ● MOTs MOTs only

£25 8 Bathgate Road, Armadale,EH48 2PE

MOT&Oil Service from

£69

website : www.f1-motcentre.co.uk email : f1mot@yahoo.co.uk

enquiries@meadowparkgarage.com www.meadowparkgarage.com

19A Glasgow Road, Bathgate, EH48 2AB

Clutches

Exhausts

Diagnostics

Tyres

Servicing

10% OFF Labour Costs 10% OFF All Services FREE Car & Tyre Health Check available only when you quote ‘Konect’

01506 442214

01501 733773

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e: autofitnesslimited@gmail.com Unit 12 Napier Square, Houstoun Ind Est, Livingston, EH54 5DG

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MOT Servicing Tyres Repairs Exhausts Brakes Batteries

To be included please call Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

KONECT

37

Parents in West Lothian

e tune How to put your Cbeebies them having knowledge to good use withoutish to learn beginner’s Span Summer - ˈsʌmə/ - noun 1. the warmest season of the year: • in the northern hemisphere from June to August; • in the southern hemisphere from December to February; • in Scotland from April 18th – 22nd

Well slap my thigh and pour me a marguerita, summer has made its first cameo appearance in Scotland this year and our first family holiday has passed in longawaited, sunny, relaxing bliss.

“Where was this oasis of tropical paradise?”, I hear you ask. On which foreign land’s sandy shores did we let our troubles melt away like a dropped ice-lolly?

The answer? Ayr. I couldn’t believe it myself but we had the ‘Costa Del Sol’ experience without setting foot on a plane, buying any Euros, or feeling the need to purchase and wear an over-sized straw sombrero.

Our destination? Craig Tara holiday park, a stone’s throw from the birthplace of Robert Burns. I had often been to this resort back in the day when I was a child and it was a ‘Butlins’ resort – would it live up to the heavy nostalgia that I had burdened it with? I tried to keep my expectations low – after all it was Scotland, in mid April, and the whole holiday for 4 people for 4 nights had cost a 2-figure amount of pounds.

We arrived at our little chalet, which was spacious enough to be labelled as an extensive family home were it in London, and headed straight back out to see one of the many kid’s shows which involved lots of dancing, running about, eating popcorn, 38

Our column is West Lothia t: Nicola Jengaenga li ves in n with Quin months an d her hubby n 2, Penny 10 Channa, 33 .

Nicola & Ch anna both w ork, jugglin schedules w ith g their two tin the ever-evolving dem hectic y overlords, ands of in some tim and also sq ueezing e for each ot her!

In this new bl the adventu og for Konect she chro nicles res (and m isad Mummy an d Daddy wh ventures) of a the happy ti o aim to wri m ng all babies in w es they can from life w onderful W est Lothian ith their !

and drinking slushies. We also took part in ‘Kids TV Bingo’ which made use of our encyclopaedic knowledge of kid’s show theme tunes.

In terms of facilities, lots of things were just the same as I remembered – the huge and multi-levelled swimming pool, with flumes and river rapids galore was a big hit, and the water based fun continued on the beach, which was a thoroughly British mixture of sand and stones – Quinn was kept busy for nearly an hour picking up the heaviest boulders he could manage, and lobbing them into the water about a foot in front of himself.

The resort itself is a maze of great statuesque caravans with large decking and garden areas, that are genuinely better appointed and (probably worth more) than my own bricks and mortar house. This set up is punctuated here and there by restaurants, play parks, crazy golf, zorbs (Google it), and basketball courts. There is even an onsite Papa John’s which will deliver to your accommodation!

On our last day we ventured out of the resort and nipped literally ‘next door’ to the Heads of Ayr farm park (yes we know, we do enjoy our farms) – and although it is a bit pricey (£11 per adult, £9 per kid) you can go in early in the morning with your own picnic stuff and stay all day.

Verdict? You need to go here – for kids and adults it’s just wall to wall good fun, continental weather or not.

Olé!

k KONECT

G Cycle in West L thian Summer is here and there’s no better time to get outdoors, hop on your bike and enjoy the scenic landscapes of West Lothian.

With so much to offer in terms of cycling, it’s essential to know what to see and do in West Lothian this summer. We have a whole host of cycling routes across areas including the Bathgate Hills, Livingston and Linlithgow – as part of the John Muir Way. Whether you are a keen cyclist or you just want to have some fun while keeping fit, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Parties, Workshops, Schools and Groups welcome To book, please call:

01506 411978

www.gettinggooey.com Party packages available

In addition, the brand new ‘Bike and Go’ scheme has now been launched, in West Lothian, with a number of bikes available for hire at Linlithgow Rail Station on the north side. All you have to do is register online, receive your ‘Bike and Go’ card and you can go to any Bike and Go station, pick up a bike and set off to enjoy your day! This is a great opportunity for locals and tourists to enjoy a fantastic cycling trip with only a small fee for hiring per day. Whether you’re hopping off the train to visit Linlithgow or you simply fancy a scenic cycle around your local area, find out more at www.bikeandgo.co.uk .

Enjoy keeping fit and having fun outdoors in West Lothian this summer – let’s go cycle!

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit: www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook.com/VisitWestLothian Twitter.com: @teamwestlothian KONECT

39

Edinburgh International Magic Festival Lose yourself in magic this summer with the Edinburgh International Magic Festival, 1-8 July 2016.

Seekers of wonder and amazement can enjoy world-class magic events, unforgettable performances and jaw-dropping stunts from some of the greatest illusionists and mindreaders in the world.

Enjoy the full spectrum of magic at the brand new three-day MagicFair in the maze-like venue of Summerhall. Experience up to 10 live shows, explore the Magic and Circus Shop, escape from the ribbon maze, take part in workshops and enjoy the open-air courtyard with close-up magic, comedy, illusions and sleight of hand – all with just one ticket for up to four hours!

The whole family can enjoy MagicFair at the Family Mornings sessions which offer free entry to under 7s, and the Afternoon Alchemy sessions invite you to mix up your perfect magic experience. Adults can soak up the party atmosphere at the Lates sessions which feature horror magic, mind-experimentation and food, drink and music in the courtyard. Look out for incredible interactive performances from BBC’s The Real Hustle star R. Paul Wilson and sellout forensic mindreader Colin Cloud.

MagicFest comes to a close this year with the spectacular Magic and Variety Gala Show on 8 July at Edinburgh’s iconic Festival Theatre. With performers from South Korea, Spain, Germany and Scotland, you’ll be amazed by the skilful tricks and forensic attention to detail. The best magicians from around the world, astonishing illusionists and adventurous variety acts will promise to blow you away during the splendiferous finale of MagicFest 2016!

Other festival highlights include Magic School workshops for kids, the deliciously mysterious Magic a la Carte, the return of the popular Secret Room at Lauriston Castle and lots of other surprises around the city. There will also be one-off special performances from the legendary Juan Tamariz and Colin Cloud, star of Michael McIntyre’s Big Show.

For tickets, visit the MagicFest website www.magicfest.co.uk, call 0131 226 0006 or visit the box office in person at The Fringe Box Office, 180 High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1QS.

Konect has teamed up with MagicFest to give away two pairs of tickets to the matinee or evening MagicFest Gala Show for Friday 8th July so you can experience the wonder and excitement for yourself!

To enter simply answer the following question: “Which theatre is used for the MagicFest Gala?”

Text or email the answer, your name, phone number and email address to 07854 492638 or editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Closing date for entries 15th June 2016. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date.

WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information

Friday 24th June

combine some simple gardening tasks with a range of food and farm-related crafts, trails and games suitable for children of all ages. Sessions take place between 1.30 and 2.30 each day, and there’s no need to book in advance.

Wester Inch Community Association Coffee Morning.

Held in the community wing of Simpson Primary School, from 9am until 11am on the last Friday if every month.

Bathgate Regal Community Theatre - The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events. See www. bathgateregal.org for complete listing.

Friday 24th June Family Friendly Badger Watch. Join the Ranger Service in Beecraigs Country Park to discover more about these intriguing animals. There will be a short presentation followed by an evening in our badger hide. Wear sturdy footwear and bring binoculars and a torch. Suitable for: Families. Meet: Sutherland Building, opposite the Visitor Centre. Time: 8pm9.30pm. Cost: £3.65 adult, £2.50 child. Book with the Rangers on 01506 844516 email: mail@beecraigs. com

Daily from Saturday 25th June until Monday 22nd August Nibblers & Dibblers at Almond Valley Farm. Head for the vegetable patch this summer, and experience the joys of planting and seeding, watering and weeding down in the kitchen garden. Discover the secrets of the super-fresh fruit and vegetables that are grown to supply our tearoom, and join in with the fun of tending the crops. Every day throughout the school holidays, in the discovery tent beside the polytunnel, the informal drop-in workshops

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To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

BATHGATE library information Simpson Library Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, EH48 1TS. Tel 01506 282910. Email: bathgate.lib@ westlothian.gov.uk. Opening hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am – 8.00pm Sat 9.00am – 5.00pm. Bookbugs: Bookbug West Lothian delivers free story, song and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children in local libraries, working in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust. Call the Simpson Library for dates of this month’s book bug sessions.

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konect

BATHGATE | WESTER INCH | BOGHALL | TORPHICHEN

Proud to support Bathgate Procession and John Newland Festival Wishing everyone a fantastic day!

The Konect magazine has been a voice in the Bathgate area since August 2013. Helping people shop locally, find local clubs & social activities, support local tradespeople and provide a platform for community groups & charities.

Competitions | special offers | celebrating all things local!

We’re delighted to work with local organisations, charities and businesses - get in touch to see how we can help you share your message or story with the people of the Bathgate area!

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clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm BATHGATE Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked Bathgate & District Flower Club

We are a friendly group who meet on the 3rd Monday of each month from September to June (no meeting in December) in the Regal theatre Bathgate at 7.15pm.

We have a Floral Art demonstrator at each meeting who does around 5 arrangements which are given as raffle prizes at each meeting. We also arrange outings each year. The club was established 48 years ago and we celebrate our 50th Anniversary in September 2015.

Contact Carole.Hawkins48@yahoo.com

Bathgate History Group We are a friendly group who meet on a Wednesday afternoon at 2pm in The Tryst behind St John’s Church, Mid Street, Bathgate. We have interesting speakers on various topics with tea and coffee. A warm welcome awaits old and new members, the first meeting for the 2014/2015 session is Wednesday 3rd September. For further information contact Dorothy on 01506 652505.

Simply Play

Provides flexible after school care and holiday programmes for children aged 5-14. Our clubs are based in Simpsons Primary School Community Wing and Bathgate Partnership Centre. We offer a range KONECT

with no fee for `holding` an unused space. For more information visit www.simplyplay.org or call 01506 856444.

Any Dog ‘ll Do Rescue Group

A friendly group of volunteers based in and around Bathgate. Looking for new members to help raise awareness and fundraise for the dog rescue charity. A good way to meet new, like-minded people and have fun at the same time. Contact Lyn Pattison on info@ anydogildorescue.org to find out when the group will next meet and how to get involved.

31st West Lothian Scouts

Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7pm – 9pm

Bathgate Concert Orchestra

We are a friendly, enthusiastic group of musicians and are always happy to welcome new players of whatever level. We rehearse on Friday evenings during school term time from 7:30pm-9:30pm at St John’s Church Bathgate. Anyone interested in coming along to join us should contact the Secretary Joan Proven at Joan_Proven@hotmail.com Tel: 0131 331 3187. See www. batchgateconcertorchestra.org.uk. You can also find us on facebook.

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West Lothian 50 Plus Network

New members always welcome for educational, social, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

Yoga Class

For people living with long term conditions. Bathgate Community Centre, 5–6.30pm on Wednesdays. Class is run by KICC Active Lothian, a partnership with MS Therapy Centre Lothian. £5.50 per class or £20 for four weeks. First class is free! Call Joanna on 07436 102726 to book.

Baby and Toddler activities

Kidzeco, 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Range of baby and children’s activities including Hartbeeps, Soft Play, Baby & Kidz Times. Please see our events page on facebook for class times and prices, or call Kidzeco Bathgate on 01506 815534.

2nd Bathgate Girls’ Brigade

Meets on Wednesday evenings in St John’s Church Halls, Mid Street. Explorers P1-3 Girls: 6.15pm - 7.30pm. Juniors P4-7 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Brigaders S1-S6 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Please contact Alison Weddell (Captain) on tel 07710 619264 or email alison.weddell@gmail.com for further details.

Friends of Polkemmet Country Park

Group meets on the second Sunday each month between 10am – 12pm to carry out practical conservation projects in Polkemmet Country Park. Dates for 2015 are: 12/04; 10/05; 14/06; 12/07; 09/08; 13/09; 11/10; 08/11. Please contact the Ranger Service on 01501 743905, Polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk or visit the Friends of Polkemmet Facebook page if you would like to join us.

West Lothian Table Tennis Club

West Lothian Table Tennis are a friendly club who are always happy to welcome new people who have played in the past or would like to pick up the sport for the first time. Whether you are seven years old or 70...Everyone is welcome! Meet at Bathgate Academy. For further information contact: David Stephen, Club Secretary david.stephen2@sky.com or 07979 095772. See www. wlttc.co.uk.

Paranormal Investigation group based in Bathgate

40 King Street, Bathgate. Beginners Self awareness & Development. Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) £6.50. Moot Every 2nd Wed of the Month. 7-9.30pm (approx) £5. Thai Chi Fridays - 6.30-8.30pm (approx) £25 per month.

We’re looking for people to join our small group. Will meet on the first Wednesday of the month 7.30pm venue tbc. Investigations to be carried out approximately every 6-8 weeks at various locations around West Lothian and beyond so own transport essential. Both believers and skeptics welcome. Must be over 18. Please contact Tracey at ghost.scotland@outlook.com for further information.

Bathgate Playgroup

Bathgate Fairtrade Group

The Stone Ring

Bathgate Partnership Centre. Mon–Fri 9-11.30am and afternoon sessions Mon & Wed 12.30-3.30pm

Newland Concert Brass

Friendly band based in Bathgate. We welcome brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities.

Training Band Mondays 6 – 7pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Senior Band Mondays 7.45 – 9.30pm in the band hall on Belvedere Rd. For more information see the website at www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk

MOMS (Mums Offering Mums Support)

Kidzeco, 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Mon 1pm–3pm. Group for new and expectant mums to meet other mums, share ideas and experiences and generally have a chat and a cuppa! £1 includes hot drink. Call Kidzeco for more info 01506 815534.

Regal Music Club

The Regal Theatre, Bathgate. For anyone who loves music. We meet fortnightly on Wednesdays. 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Come along to chat, discuss, meet new people, eat biscuits. You don’t need to play or sing but if you do there is always a chance to perform. Check out the facebook page or just drop in. £2 including refreshments.

Bathgate Reading Group

Simpson Library, Bathgate. Meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 6.00pm, all adults are welcome.

Bathgate Memory Cafe

Kaim Park Hotel, Edinburgh Road, Bathgate. A meeting

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place and caring supportive group for people with dementia and their carers. The Memory Cafe runs the 1st Monday of every month from 1.30pm to 3.00pm. For more information please contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533114.

Bathgate Fairtrade is a small group and welcomes more members locally to support fairtrade. We meet up periodically and attend local events. If you are interested please contact the secretary Gillian Reid on 01506 653366 or email mrs_g@btinternet.com

West Lothian Run

Little Runners – free of charge: Wednesdays at Boghall Community Wing, 6-7pm; Thursdays at Boghall Community Wing 6-7pm (for kids with autism);Saturdays at Kirkton Park, Bathgate 10-11am. Adults - £2 per session. Saturdays from Kirkton Park, Bathgate from 10-11am, taking a different route to the kids. Book your place in any of the groups at westlothianrun.org.uk.

Generation Dance Bathgate

St Mary’s Hall, Livery St. Every Friday 10.30am– 11.30am.

Join the community dance club for anyone over 60 years. There’s no need to book, just turn up. Regardless of your mobility, independence and experience, come along, try us and tell your friends. Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality. Everyone can take part.

Suggested weekly donation £2. Can’t come but want to know more? Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239. www. generationarts.co.uk

Royal British Legion

Ex-service male/female organisation. The Club offers comradeship, social activities, e.g. golf, fishing and bowling events. Bingo, cabaret and dancing. Our function hall is available for hire by members, families and friends. Friday night bingo 8.00 pm; Karaoke Saturday night in the Lounge. Watch notice Board for special events.

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Bathgate Bridge Club

Meets every Thursday from first Thursday in October until the last Thursday in May at EU Church Hall, Church Park, Marjoribanks Street, Bathgate. 6.45 for 7.00pm start. All Welcome. Contact Georgette Nicol 01506 203498 for more information.

The Regal Youth Company

Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate Music workshops for 13-25 year olds - Monday evenings 7pm to 9pm, £2. Drama workshops for 13-25 year olds - Wednesday evenings 7pm to 9pm £2. For information see www.rycbathgate.com or contact us via our facebook page

Learning English

A group for preschool children and parents to learn English through fun: singing, play and stories.

Mondays 10 to 11am, Bathgate Early Years Centre. Tel 01506 776234. No fee.

Bathgate Theatre Company

Ever wanted to be onstage or help out behind the scenes? Bathgate Theatre Company are always looking for new members to take part in their annual show which takes place in November with rehearsals usually being every Thursday from 7pm – 9pm at the Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate. Annual members fee £30 plus £10 insurance if going onstage. For more info contact the Secretary on bathgatetheatrecompany@ gmail.com or visit our website www. bathgatetheatrecompany.moonfruit.co.uk

Kirkton Park Tennis Club - NEW! Welcoming new members to join our developing tennis club! The tennis courts at Kirkton Park in Bathgate have recently been resurfaced and are now open for use.

For further information on our club go to our website: KirktonParkTennisClub.co.uk. You can also find us on Facebook. Learn, Play, Enjoy!

WESTER INCH Wester Inch Parent & Toddler Group

Thursday mornings 9am - 11am. £1 per adult and 50p per child. For more information contact us via our facebook page Wester Inch Parent and Toddler Group or email on westerinchtoddlers@hotmail.com

Simpson Art Club

We meet every Tuesday 7 - 9pm in the community wing of the Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. All over 18, including beginners, are welcome; Regular demonstrations and teaching from professional artists, work in all mediums. For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com. Contact 07762 933138

Parish Minister, Rev. Duncan Shaw on 01506 653146 or westlothian@churchofscotland.org.uk or Rev. Zoltan Safrany on 07411 444 743 email safiref@gmail.com

other areas New Town Roller Girls

Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ NewTownRollerGirls or email newtownrollergirls@hotmail. co.uk. Please contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you.

West Lothian Clarion

Cycling club – our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk

Lothian Running Club

Welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section too from age 6. Training sessions in/around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park.

For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub. co.uk.

West Lothian Breast Cancer Support Group

Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm-9pm. Further details & information, contact Nan McDonald 01506 655739.

The Tree Club

Office at 19c South Bridge Street, Bathgate. West Lothian’s only afterschool club for children and teenagers with additional support needs. Stimulating and creative activities with high staff to child ratio. See www.thetreeclub.org.uk

Alternative Company Entertainers (ACE)

Meet every Thursday in Whitburn academy at 7:00 – 9pm. Ages 5 to 105+. Contact acompanyentertainers@ gmail.com or find us on facebook.

Harmony Dance Club Armadale

We are a not for profit club for retired ladies, dancing to CDs - mostly sequence dancing. We meet every Tuesday afternoon in the Community Centre, South Street Armadale, from 1.30 to 3.30pm. We would welcome old and new members to our club. Don’t worry if you don’t know the dances, we can teach you.

West Lothian Baking Club

Centrepoint Church

We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £2 per meeting.Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

Messy Church

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk.

Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details. www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Simpson Primary School. Sunday Worship Gathering, Weekly 10:30am. Contact: Tom Jackson m: 07540391081 e: tom.jackson@centrepointchurch.org Held by St. John’s Parish Church in Community Wing, Simpson Primary School. Third Thursday of each month 6.45pm-8.15 pm. Join us for fun, games, craft activities, stories and singing. All ages welcome. No charge, donations welcome. For more information contact KONECT

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Conservatories Andrew James Windows & Conservatories 5

Mobility Ableworld 29 Med-Ecosse 24

10

Doors UPVC Doors

Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland

37

5 10

Electrician D B Electrics Simply Electrical

15 15

Oven Cleaner The Clean Team

30

Estate Agent Aberdein Considine Turpie

11 17

Painter/Decorator Manic Street Painters Nu Walls

4 15

Pet Services Morven’s Dog Grooming

23

Plumbing Services Capital Heating

30

Accessories M & A Jewellery

10

Auctions Hoppers Auctions Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio Duffy McLean Ekco Building Supplies MKM Building Supplies Building Surveyor David Hastings

36 7

Car Service & Repair Ace Exhausts & Tyres Auto Fitness Formula 1 MOT M & S Auto Solutions Meadowpark Garage

12 37 37 23 37

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services

30

Catering Food Creations

33

Children’s Activities/Entertainment Getting Gooey Chocolate & Craft Workshop 39 Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd Multi Level Contracts Ltd Time For You Edinburgh

30 36 31

Clothes & Fashion Original Factory Shop

19

Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance Youyen Thai Massage

19 19

Computer Services Sprint Computers

15

Solution to May Crossword

Across: 7 Mediterranean, 8 Revealed, 9 Anti, 10 Advance, 12 Refer, 14 Study, 16 Warmest, 19 Zinc, 20 Lemonade, 22 Demonstration.

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13

Furniture & Furnishings Shapes 2 Garden & Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes Beatson’s GF Garden Services Green Thumb Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care JGM Landscapes Naia Garden Services Woodford Timber Golf Retail Golf Nation

7 6 7 42 7 7 7 6 4

Heating Services Duffy McLean 12 Livgas 4 Joiner GR Construction

30

Kitchens Duffy McLean 10 Ekco 27 Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady

47

Locksmith West Lothian Locksmith

12

Property Letting & Management Newman Properties 22 Property Maintenance Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care

7

Restaurant Liberta Restaurant

25

Roofing J Taylor Roofing

13

Shopping Original Factory Shop

19

Sports Equipment Golf Nation

4

Vet Ayrton Veterinary Hospital Riverside Veterinary Practice

28 23

Windows 1st Choice Living 30 Andrew James Windows & Conservatories 5 DC Window Studio 10

Solution to Sudoku Page 32

Down: 1 Here, 2 Cinema, 3 Reflect, 4 Crude, 5 Inhale, 6 Tactless, 11 Detailed, 13 Hammers, 15 Doctor, 17 Minute, 18 Blush, 21 Drop.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication.

Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk KONECT

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