Konect Bathgate September 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016

bathgate

WIN! Tickets for two to Simon & Garfunkel tribute at the Regal Theatre ÂŁ10 plus fruit from Tesco Bathgate FEATUREs

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

Back to school – if you were lucky The Other Forth Crossings plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

WL 2

FEATURE

M e s s ag e from t h e e ditor

S

ummer’s more or less over but that doesn’t mean the fun stops Bathgate Music Festival kicks off on the 1st September for the ninth year running, and the Bathgate Regal has a great line-up of shows as usual – for your chance to win tickets to one of them, see page 10.

On a back-to-school theme for our local history article we took a wee dip back in time to when many children locally were more likely to be down the coal mines than at school.

Tesco Bathgate’s regular competition is for a £10 voucher to spend in store, plus a selection of fruit from their new range.

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.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

CONTENTS Back to school – if you were lucky 08 Regal Theatre Ticket Competition 10 Crossword 38 What’s on 40 Useful Information 40 Regal Music Review 41 Tesco Pr ize Draw 43 Clubs & Classes 43 West Lothian regular

Visit West Lothian The Other For th Crossings Bathrooms Parenting in West Lothian Proper ty Matter s Wonder lab Gardens Food & Drink

wl 01 wl 02 wl 03 wl 08 wl 10 wl 14 wl 16 wl 20

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.

Front cover: St Columba’s Church, Glasgow Road Bathgate, one of the local buildings open for WL Doors Open this month. Photo by Konect.

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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Why did I decide to work from home?

By Vikki Morrison, Sensée

I am Vicki Morrison and I’ve just turned 50 – eeek!!

I stay in Livingston, am married to Gordon with 2 sons, Kris 25 and Steve 23 and ‘mummy’ to fur babies Deacon and Erin, Westies who are 4 years old.

I’ve worked with Sensée for three years and been with the Recruitment Team for most of that time – I am now Recruitment Manager.

Sensée is a Work from Home business who offer fully employed positions to customer service staff who answer calls from their home offices for its prestigious, international client base including Argos, Aviva, Mail Newspapers and Photobox.

Why did I decide to work from home?

After commuting and working away from home for a number of years, I realised that I was weary of living out of a suitcase. It was so bad that I was at the point where I even knew cabin crew and hotel receptionists by name! We’d also added Deacon to our family a year previously, then Erin and I couldn’t bear to leave them for long periods of time – those wee sad puppy dog eyes!! So I started a search for a job where I could work from home and spend lots of time puppy-cuddling!

afterwards, a vacancy email was sent to everyone internally for a Recruitment Administrator and since my background was in recruitment I thought that I’d apply. That’s the other great thing about Sensée – support and management jobs are all home-based too, so there are opportunities to progress.

If anyone asks me about homeworking, I’ll tell them quite honestly that it’s the best move I’ve ever made. No commute, non-make-up and office clothes days (when I’m not interviewing), an excuse to have my own she-shed/office (it’s lush!!) and of course … puppy cuddles (I’m predictable if nothing else). I love working from home, it completely fits with my lifestyle and family and I still get to do a job that I enjoy but from my back garden office – what’s not to like??

If you’re a self-starter, have a passion for customer service and want to work from home, then get in touch! I’d love to hear from you.

Please see advert opposite for contact details.

After a few unsuccessful searches through dodgy ‘work from home’ roles, I came across Sensée.

Initially I was suspicious - a permanent, work from home job seemed a bit too good to be true - but I applied via the website and very quickly received an email inviting me to a telephone interview.

Still suspicious but open minded, I replied with my availability and my journey to home working began!

The recruitment process was a totally new experience for me – the webcam interview was a bit weird and slightly daunting, but I loved that I was able to complete the process from the comfort of my home office and still be puppy cuddling in between the interview stages.

The rest is history. I started in June 2013 as a Home Agent on the HRG (Argos) account taking orders and dealing with small item deliveries. Soon KONECT BATHGATE 6

PictureS: Vikki Morrison, the She Shed and Erin and Deacon

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Back to school – if you were lucky West Lothian schools have been back a couple of weeks; the back-to-school moaning from the kids has subsided as they settle back to routine. But when coal-mining was in its heyday, school would have been a dream come true for the children engaged in dangerous physical labour down the pits.

It’s interesting and heart-breaking to read the 1841 government report into child labour in the mines, and hear the voices of real children, in what was then Linlithgowshire, after nearly 200 years. Mines varied some didn’t let women and children down the mines and others did. Some children went to school at night after working 12 or 14 hours in the mines. The resulting 1842 Mines Act ended self-regulation and employment of women and children underground.

Thomas Brown, 10 years old, putter*: Hard Hill Colliery, Bathgate

“I go down at three in the morning, and come up at four and sometimes six at night, and work 9 or 10 days in the fortnight; work very hard, as father is no strong the now, and mother is dead. I hurry the hurlies [draw the carts] in harness.”

Mary Sneddon, aged 15, coal-putter*, Bo’ness, Linlithgowshire

“I have only wrought at Bo’ness Pit three months. Should not have ganged but brother Robert was killed on the 21st January last. A piece of the roof fell upon his head, and he died instantly: he was brought home, coffined and buried in Bo’ness kirkyard. No one came to inquire about how he was killed; they never do in this place.

Robert Beveridge, 15 years old, coalhewer* at Polkemmet, Whitburn

“I have been below near five years; work 11 and 12 hours, sometimes longer. Mother was a farmer’s daughter, and she had nine of us; she never wrought below, nor have any women here; the lassies go into the fields or to service.”

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John Baxter, age 15 years, coal-hewer*: Collinshield Colliery, Bathgate

“I work from two in the morning till six at night; done so for five years... I lost my mother soon after my birth, and my father was murdered seven or eight years ago; he was thrown into the canal and the murderer was never sought after, as there was no talk about the death and therefore no inquiry.

I was reading and was going to the writing but the night-school was dropped.”

Peter Andrew, 11 years old, putter*, Polkemmet, Whitburn

“I work about 12 hours daily, three or four morning till three or four afternoon. Get porridge or tea sent, as live just convenient to the engine; … Father and three brothers work below; two of my brothers write very well; I am not the length of writing yet; do not go to school at present, I shall do as summer advances; the moor is not good to cross, and the teacher lives far away.”

Margaret Chirce, 12 years old, putter*: Kipps Colliery, Torphichen

“I shute the carts with sister, who is much older than me, in the Kipps Pit. I do not know my sister’s age, am sure she is much older, as she is a big bit bigger than me; after shuting up the brae, I throw the coals over with a shovel into the hurley, which is pushed to pit bottom. I do not like the work so well as what I did before my father forced me down; my work was that of a herd-kye [cowherd] at Whiteside, where I was much better fed and clothed. Father has the dropsy from sitting in wet work, and frequent attacks of bad breath; mother has a large family dependant on our labour.” *Coal-putters loaded the coal into the skips below ground, either by bare hands or with a shovel. Coal hewers were stronger, swinging a pick at the coal face.

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COMPETITION

WIN!

Pair of tickets to Simon and Garfunkel Through The Years at the Regal Theatre, Bathgate

Labeled as the world’s greatest tribute act, Bookends are bringing their outstanding Simon and Garfunkel concert to the Bathgate Regal Theatre this October.

Created by old friends Dan Haynes and Pete Richards, collectively known as Bookends (the name is taken from Simon and Garfunkel’s third studio album), the pair are wowing audiences around the world with their multilayered theatre experience which, as well as incredible accurate live renditions of the iconic songs, also features images, original footage and interviews with Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel themselves. The show also features narration written by Victoria Kingston, the author of Simon and Garfunkel – The Definitive Biography.

Bookends re-create the classic songs which are bound together with imagery and interviews and goes behind the scenes of one the most influential artists of modern popular music.

The show has been described as “not your average tribute show,” they don’t dress up or try to act like Simon and Garfunkel but instead pay tribute

to the iconic sound that the duo are famous for by recreating the perfect harmonies, timing and diction that mesmerised a generation. Since their emergence into the entertainment world Dan and Pete have toured extensively and have performed sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe for the past three years. Bookends is without doubt the most authentic-sounding tribute to Simon and Garfunkel in the world.

“A heartfelt, competent and surprisingly multilayered show” Broadway Baby Edinburgh Fringe Reviewer

“One of the best tribute shows in existence anywhere in the world” Stuart Cameron Sky TV, BBC, ITV Broadcaster

“I found myself listening to hypnotic and note perfect guitar playing two voices that blend so perfectly that you get lost trying to follow one or the other and find yourself totally immersed in the music” Sarah-Jane, Bath website guestbook

“Any Simon and Garfunkel fan should go and see this show” BBC Radio Devon

Performing at the Bathgate Regal Theatre, Thursday 13th October 2016, 7.30pm Tickets: £16. Box Office: 01506 630 085 Website: www.simonandgarfunkelbybookends.com www.facebook.com/simonandgarfunkelbybookends

For your chance to win a pair of tickets to this show, simply answer this question: What is the name of the Simon and Garfunkel tribute band?

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

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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.

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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

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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.

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

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

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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

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ea – the community, is all about our local ar mation al businesses and infor what’s on, supporting loc own town/villages. and articles about our

We’re also all residents of the wider West Lothian region, and based on reader and business feedback, this month we’re starting a section within Konect that brings all the West Lothian-wide information together in a central section of the magazine. So you’ll find some of our regular columns in this section as well as homes, gardens, food and beauty alongside the businesses serving the whole of West Lothian.

If you run a business and would like to be included in this section, which is read by 40,500 households in West Lothian, please get in touch with us.

September – Spring and sing you way into autumn this year with West Lothian!

Summer is a distant memory, the leaves are changing colour, and autumn is definitely on its way. Don’t worry though, because West Lothian always has something for you to do, whether you like activities, theatre, shopping or food and drink!

Check out Livingston’s newest addition, JumpStation Trampoline Park! Made up of over 80 interconnected trampolines, JumpStation is tailored to suit people of all ages and skill groups.

With 14 different dedicated activity zones, it is great fun for all the family, and a fantastic way to make exercise more enjoyable.

2nd September, where all your favourite musicals are crammed into one spectacular show. Maybe you’re an 80s rock child, who would enjoy Simple Minded at Howden Park on the 3rd September, a tribute act very close to the real thing! Or if you just prefer a bit of traditional Scottish music, then look no further than Aly Bain and Phil Cunningham: Le Grand Anniversaire, having worked together for forty years, they will be playing at Howden Park Centre on 23rd September, it’s definitely not one to miss! For more information on these events and ticket prices, visit our website!!

Enjoy a bit of music? Well then you’re in luck because between the amazing shows at both Howden Park Centre and Bathgate Regal Theatre we’ll have you up and singing along. Why not spend a Night at the Musicals at the Regal on the

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 WEST LOTHIAN 1

The Other Forth Crossings The Forth Replacement Crossing is nearly done, with the platforms almost joined up on the magnificent new cable stayed bridge. But bridges aren’t the only way the Forth has been crossed.

• There are the silly records – German Helmut Pohle piloted the first Junkers 88 across the Forth in 1939, and in 1785 an Italian named Vincenzo Lunardi did the same in an air balloon but entirely by accident!

• More seriously there were the tunnels. A tunnel was carefully considered before the new bridge was decided on, but that would not have been the first.

• The first tunnel was in 1590, when a brilliant engineer built an artificial island in the middle of the Forth, and then tunnelled from Culross in Fife following a coal seam to the new island. Boats docked at the island and took the coal directly from the top of the mineshaft to places such as Portugal, Norway, the Baltic and France. Undersea mining was an amazing achievement.

• Not everyone was amazed - James VI, the witchhunting king - was invited to inspect the Culross tunnel in 1617. He walked down the length of the well-ventilated tunnel and then thought the island was a trap he had been lured into and he threatened the coal merchant with treason. The tunnel flooded in 1625.

• There were at least a dozen serious proposals, plans and projects for tunnels under the Forth between 1790 and 1960, some of them truly grand.

• There was even talk in 1954 of a £5.3 million “Forth Tube”, in which traffic would pass through a 2800ft reinforced concrete tube.

It was declared a brilliant idea, but was

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scrapped in favour of the Forth Road Bridge, which opened in September 1964.

• But only one tunnel ever made it from one side of the Forth to the other. The tunnel was dug by the National Coal Board in 1964 and finally filled in and obliterated from all but a few memories in 1982. The tunnel transported coal mined in Fife to the the Kinneil processing facilities. It was never intended for public use, and meandered around following the coal seam geology from Bo’ness to Valleyfield in Fife. Two teams tunnelled towards each other from Fife and Kinneil in cramped and difficult conditions. After months of digging and at a depth of 500 metres, using manual measurements from Ordnance Survey benchmarks, the teams met with a difference of 5 cm, which is basically a perfect result. The National Coal Board had intended that the tunnel might give Kinneil another century of working life, but neither geology nor politics worked out as the miners had hoped.

Kinneil was closed in 1982.

making the most of your bathroom Today’s smallest room is truly multi-functional – a place to unwind, de-stress or re-energise is high on many people’s wish list when considering a new bathroom project. Here are some ideas from Konect to help you make the most of yours.

First of all, you may want to consider your household needs. If you only have one bathroom and a young family, then as a shared space it needs to cater for all. A bath rather than just a shower cubicle is a must for young ones. If you decide to go a step further and install a whirlpool bath, they’ll have bubbles of fun and you can have a long, relaxing soak when the children are tucked up in bed.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

The Kudos Ultimate 2 glass shower screen lends a minimal style to a contemporary wet room. Available from Regency Bathrooms, Broxburn.

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Lots of storage to hide away those rubber ducks, alcoves or shelves for candles along with hidden speakers for your favourite music (or nature sounds if you prefer) are perfect for the real spa feel. A stand-alone bath can be real stunning focal point and by choosing centrally located taps you’ll add some French chic.

Walk-in cubicles or wet-rooms with floor-level trays paired with power showers have become popular in recent years, especially with people who lead hectic lifestyles or exercise frequently. This style of bathroom can also be useful for people who are elderly or infirm as it allows for better access.

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Getting a plan drawn up by a bathroom designer rather than doing it by yourself is highly recommended. You’ll be amazed at what they can do with the tiniest of spaces, including en-suites, to make your room seem bigger than it is. And, if you choose a designer and a bathroom company recognised by an industry body such as the KBSA, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your new bathroom is being installed by professionals.

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Parents in West Lothian

Jupiter Artland

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

Nicola & Ch an schedules w na both work, jugglin ith the ever-e g hectic vo their two tin y overlords, lving demands of in some tim and also sq ueezing e for each ot her!

Arty day out in West Lothian with the little ones I have a funny relationship with art … I like modern art, but only if I can tell that it took a long time to create. I can’t specify why the length of time taken matters to me, but it does. Nothing annoys me more than seeing a blank canvas with a single red dot sitting pretentiously in the corner and so on.

But not all modern art is like that – one of the best and most mesmerising paintings I’ve ever seen was one that looked more or less black at first glance, with a large white moon in the top third. It looks plain black until your eyes adjust and let you see all the subtly different shades of black, then it’s a field of sheep.

Admirable too – in a different way - are the heartfelt, passion-fuelled offerings that Quinton brings me from nursery each week, or the concentration with which Penny swipes a yoghurtfilled hand across the seat of our red, fabric couch.

So imagine my wonder when a friend of mine recently described to me a local visitor attraction where the pieces of art are embedded in (and sometimes created from) nature and the landscape. This is how it came to be that on an extremely windy Saturday, the babies and I set off for Jupiter Artland …

We arrived and quickly realised that our BabyJogger pram wasn’t going to be ideal for the task of meandering around the sprawling environs.

The ground is quite uneven and there are protruding tree roots everywhere as you follow the prescribed route through the park – it can be done though, just take a sturdy helper! The programme you get for free at the ticket office leads you through the exhibits and explains (sometimes a bit cryptically) the meaning or the concept behind the pieces of art.

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It’s basically an art gallery turned inside out – you wander on footpaths, bumping into colossal works of sculpture and concept art at every turn.

These range from a massive figure of a man made of metal rods crouching on the floor, to a sound display of various jangling objects tied to the branches of a tree set on an island in the middle of a pond. Some exhibits are a bit sinister ie the Weeping Girls (see picture with me alongside one of the stone girls) but generally they are very thought provoking and inspiring and some are outright weird.

The best bit for me about the whole experience was the feeling of ‘discovering’ each artwork amongst the trees, and the anticipation of the next one. Quinn had a whale of a time running wild and free (ssshhhh!!)

Jupiter Artland, thanks for a great day out, and for teaching me to appreciate the yoghurt stains on my couch a little more deeply.

Me with Weeping Girls sculpture at Jupiter Artland.

COMING SOON FAMILY FUN DAY

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Some height restrictions

For more details call 0300 123 1070 or email zoe@riverkids.org.uk

ACT Beauty & Hair Academy BROOMHALL DRIVE, EDINBURGH

Make-up Artistry • Beauty Hairdressing • Barbering For information on hair & beauty courses

Contact : 0131 334 6427 Info @acft.co.uk

Find out about a career in Fostering at our monthly drop-in events: 5-7pm, first Thursday, every month at Waverley Court, Edinburgh EH8 8BG.

0800 174 833

www.edinburgh.gov.uk/fostering KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 9

propErty matters

“Quick Tips to Maximise your Sale” By Craig Turpie, Turpie & Co. First impressions are not only important when selling your home, they are absolutely critical.

When people come to view a property for the first time, they are unlikely to be scrutinising the unseen. They are simply trying to get a feel for the property. They will be bombarded with mostly visual impressions, many of which you can positively influence.

effective, and looks good. Do make sure you polish any chrome as well, using lime scale remover if necessary.

For example, if your kitchen is looking tired, it can easily be spruced up with new cabinet doors.

Even just replacing the handles can look good, or you could even go further and fit a new worktop.

Kitchen flooring which may have passed its best is also usually quite inexpensive to replace due to the relatively small surface area.

Outside, flowerbeds can instantly be given a new lease of life with a generous helping of shredded tree bark compost. Freshly-mown lawns with neat edges look great, as do paths which have recently been weeded. Patio areas are more appealing when they have been jet-washed, but also when they look like they are enjoyed regularly - so it’s worth having your garden furniture out rather than packed away. The same applies to children’s play equipment if you are selling a family home.

Bathrooms can look almost as good as the day they were fitted with a bit of work on the grouting.

Hack out any discoloured grout between the tiles or sealant around the wash basins, baths and showers, and replace with new. It’s inexpensive,

Do declutter. Buyers want to imagine themselves living there, so don’t distract them with too much of your own stuff, although a cosy home can be more appealing than a clinical one!

The key is a neat, but lived-in look, which will appeal to the heart as well as the head!

Before

After Kitchen transformed with painted doors and new handles. By Ian Merriman, kitchenspainted.com

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 10

Small garden makeover with turf laid, edges done and a mini patio area installed. By Dan Greaves Landscape Gardeners.

“

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Principal’s Address 9.30am

INStILLING CoNfIDeNCe INSPIRING INDIVIDUALS Choice for S5 and S6 pupils of SQA Qualifications or International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School Bus pick-up at Haymarket Station West Lothian School Bus stops at East Whitburn, West Calder, Livingston, East Calder, Kirknewton, Bol o Bere and Balerno Up to 100% financial support available for P7 and S1 entry George Watson’s College Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk

www.gwc.org.uk

Wonderlab: “A facial for the scalp” An innovative offering from a West Lothian hair salon

Everyone loves a pampering in the form of a facial or other relaxing beauty treatment; beauty salons offer a huge choice of treatments. So how about a similar treatment focussing on the hair and scalp?

This is what the team at hair salon Wonderland, Livingston, have been working on – an innovative offering to bring the concept of a health and beauty pampering treatment to their own area of specialism - the hair and scalp. “We always make sure you feel thoroughly pampered when you come to get your hair done here anyway, so it’s an extension of our ethos,” explains salon coowner Liam. “A Wonderlab treatment isn’t part of getting hair cut or coloured, you come in specially for it even if you don’t need your hair done, or if you usually get your hair done elsewhere. It’s all about relaxing rituals to promote healthy scalp and hair - like a facial for the scalp.”

Conor Cullen, Bathgate resident and stylist at Wonderland Livingston, is also a member of the 2016 GHD Style Squad. Along with salon owners Liam and Sophie, he has researched and developed the Wonderlab “menu” and delivers the treatment. We tried it and loved it.

Here are some elements from the experience:

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The session, which takes around 90 minutes in total, finishes with a blow-dry styling.

1. infused water

A vat of infused water is placed at your station in the salon so you can refill your glass all the way through your treatment. Salon co-owner Sophie is passionate about eating for healthy hair, and encourages clients to look at their diets for hair health. “The infused water is to emphasise the importance of hydration for your hair, and of healthy eating in general.”

“We’ve looked at the hair follicles under a magnifier on the scalp after this treatment and the difference is really striking,” explains Conor.

However, close-ups of our hair follicles are not what we all want to see, and in any case the experience of the pampering session and the feel of your hair afterwards says it all. This innovative pampering and relaxation session is well worth it and is a unique experience.

2. detox tea

A caffeine-free detox tea is offered as part of the Wonderlab experience – smells and tastes fantastic.

3. Nioxin

The session starts with a dermabrasion for your scalp - a very gentle product massaged into your scalp to remove build-up around the follicles. This is followed by a massage with oil for deep relaxation, and nourishment of the scalp.

For more information contact Wonderland on 01506 429922 or visit www.wonderland livingston.co.uk

4. Dalvines products

A steamer is placed over your head to add moisture, restore colour vibrancy and strengthen elasticity of the hair. It lifts the cuticle on the hair shaft to allow the conditioners and treatments to follow to penetrate each strand. You then choose from four hair treatments offered, to focus on 1) beautifying 2) moisture 3) volume or 4) strength and shine olaplex treatment.

5. Candle & Hot hands

A scented candle is lit and placed at your station in the salon. It contains essential oils to reduce stress, and part way through the Wonderlab experience the warm liquid oil from the candle is used for a relaxing “hot hands” hand massage while your hair is steamed.

6. Perrier

Your hair is rinsed with Perrier sparkling water! An invigorating rinse with room-temperature water.

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Enjoy Your Garden for Longer This Summer We may be heading towards autumn but don’t write the summer off just yet. You can still make the most of your garden, even if the nights are getting cooler and longer, whether relaxing by yourself or dining al fresco with family and friends.

If you don’t already have a dedicated patio area think about creating one with some simple decking or a few inexpensive slabs. For a cheaper alternative buy a couple of bags of chips or stones from your local garden centre.

Add a simple log border, or push the boat out with some gabion baskets and you have a quick and stylish dining patio.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 18

The Abbey garden furniture set with round dining table. Robust, natural timber for yearround use. 10-year guarantee against rot.

Perfect for informal outdoor dining. Available from Champfleurie, Linlithgow.

DUNFERMLINE 01383 741980 PENICUIK 01968 670061 Make Over your Garden with Beatsons this Summer!

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High quality timber garden products

Garden Sheds Garages/Workshops

Summerhouses

Childrens Play Houses

Dog Kennels Garden Stores

Lily Range

Harriet Range

Abbey Range Emily Range Garden Furniture

Arches

Swing Seats

Arbours

Log Edging Woodchip Planters

Mulch

Decking Kits

Gates

Open weekdays 9am till 5pm and Sat & Sun 11am till 3pm Specialists in High Quality Timber Products and Wood Fuels at Competitive Prices For comprehensive information on all of our products please visit our website

www.champfleurieestate.co.uk

Phone 01506 847999 - E-mail sales@champfleurie.co.uk - Champfleurie Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 6NB

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 17

Set aside a separate zone where guests can sit down and relax with a drink before and after dining. Add a gazebo for some shelter along with fairy lights, hurricane lanterns or candles in glass jars which will keep the party going as the sun goes down.

Also, make sure you have plenty of seating. Either bring your indoor furniture outside (but keep an eye on the weather forecast) or borrow as many chairs as possible from neighbours. If you plan to eat outside or entertain more often in your garden, it’s worth investing in quality wooden outdoor furniture such as the Abbey, Lily or Emily range of garden furniture from Champfleurie estate in Linlithgow.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 18

Emily table and two bench set. Heavy timber construction for durability. 10-year guarantee against rot making it perfect for al fresco dining all year-round. Available from Champfleurie, Linlithgow.

For a friendly & relaxed approach to Double Glazing Contact James on

01506 676 444 Showroom Open 7 Days By appointment only

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Family run business 50 years experience in the Double Glazing industry Friendly, personal service from start to finish No pushy salesmen Insurance backed, fully comprehensive 10 year guarantee Superior quality products, highly skilled helpful tradesmen Second-to-none customer care UPVC & Hardwood windows, doors & conservatories Replace your conservatory using your existing base

• Windows • Doors • Conservatories • Roofline Read what our satisfied customers sat at

www.andrewjamesrc.co.uk

Unit 5 & 6, 42 East Main Street, Blackburn, West Lothian, EH47 7QU (Next to Blackburn Recycling Centre) SC479676. Vat No. 116 429 327

As the night draws in you can heat things up with an electric, or natural-flame patio heater. The chimenea has also grown in popularity in recent years. Historically made from clay, chimeneas are available in both cast-iron and cast aluminium in traditional and beautiful contemporary designs.

Some, such as the Murcia Chimenea made by La Hacienda, have a grill for cooking which means they can double-up as a small barbecue as well as a heater - perfect for more intimate gatherings!

The Murcia large chimenea made

by La Hacienda. A classic style with a modern twist. Metal with black powder coating. Complete with chrome-plated cooking grill for BBQ cooking.

Available from Wilko Livingston.

Double Glazing Installers Required Full Time Positions, Excellent Rates of Pay Driving Licence and a Good Eye for Details Essential

Contact James on 01506 676 444 Units 5 & 6, 42 East Main Street Blackburn West Lothian, EH47 7QU KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 19

FOODINBURGH FOODPICKS SEPTEMBER

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1. F ork & Field Gastropub

Fork & Field opened to much excitement last month. West Lothian desperately needs more independent restaurants and Fork & Field fits the bill nicely, located in the former Torphichen Arms in Mid Calder. The new owners also own The Jolly Botanist and a group of other successful bars and restaurants in Edinburgh, so we are in safe hands. Inside a complete refurb has taken place and there’s now a well-lit conservatory and beer garden. Good times await us all in there I think!

2. New Seafood Restaurant Cadiz

Heading into the very heart of Edinburgh now.

The owners of the very reliable tapas restaurant Cafe Andaluz have renovated the first floor and have brought us an entirely new seafood restaurant. Cadiz is a classy place overlooking George Street, serving cocktails and seafood. We recommend the prawns with black garlic aioli to start, and the langoustines for main.

3. G in Tasting at Heads & Tales I f you’re a gin lover, you must visit Heads &

Tales Bar! The home of Edinburgh Gin, Heads & Tales Bar is located beneath The Huxley. This basement bar is classy as you like with table service and knowledgeable waiters only too keen to help you extend your gin knowledge.

Book in for their gin tasting and you can spend an hour in one of their booths tasting four different gins - £20 without appetisers/£25 with appetisers.

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5 www.foodinburgh.com is a leading Edinburgh food site. In a new monthly column for Konect Foodinburgh’s blogger Erica Douglas will provide us with inspiration on where to eat and drink next in Edinburgh and West Lothian.

Join the Foodinburgh Supper Club for a monthly digest and offers for some of their favourite monthly choices.

4. Burgers and Beers Grillhouse

Freakshakes have arrived in Edinburgh! These fully loaded milkshakes are full of calories, topped off with cream, and include garnishes like cookies, donuts, pretzels and a variety of sauces. If you’re on the Royal Mile, pop into Burgers and Beers Grillhouse to try their Nutella and Pretzel version. Oh, and they have a burger with peanut butter on it too - have that as well!

5. O ne Of Edinburgh’s Best Kept Secrets

Most of us can reel off a series of the best restaurants in Edinburgh. You might include The Kitchin, Wedgewood, Norn, Castle Terrace or Ondine in your list, but what about The Stockbridge Restaurant? This husband and wife run restaurant in a basement in, you’ve guessed it, Stockbridge is easily missed. We’ve had some of our favourite dishes here, and think of it as fine dining without the fuss. We highly recommend it for cosy romantic meals this Autumn (if there’s pork on the menu, do not hesitate, it’s excellent!)

Festive Party Nights 7pm – 1am | £33.95 per person Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival followed by a festive 3 course meal with entertainment & photo booth.

Fully booked

Fri 2nd Fri 9th Fri 16thF Sat 3rd Sat 10th Sat 17th

Christmas Party Nights @ Livi FC

2nd and 3rd December (fully booked) 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th,18th and 23rd Dec £35 per person including 2 drink tokens pp Special Sunday price for 11th & 18th December only £28 pp!

Private Parties

Want to hold your own company Christmas party?

Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite

Book now for a fabulous Xmas!

Join us in the Almondvale Suite for an evening of mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff.

Outside Catering

Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multicourse meals for large numbers.

Tel 01506 412232 yvonne@foodcreations.co.uk facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations

@Food_Creations

Festive Tribute Nights 7pm – 12am | £33.95 per person Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival followed by a festive 3 course meal with a tribute act and disco.

Thurs 8th Sun 11th Thur 15th

Diana Ross Freddie Michael & Whitney Mercury Buble Houston The perfect night out for couples, businesses or groups up to 200 people. ully booked

*10% discount when your quote KONNECT. 01506 446699 www.deer-park.co.uk

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Deer Park Golf and Country Club, Golf Course Road Livingston, EH54 8AB

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 21

Wild food

by Anne Pinkerton September is a wonderful time for gathering food from the wild. A time out in the landscape with the fields being harvested, swallows gathering to fly south, the buzz of insects in grass, the smell of crushed stinging nettles and being covered in sticky willie seeds are all part of the process.

If you take the children blackberry picking they probably eat more than goes in their basket. The Edinburgh September holiday Monday is often a good day to go looking for your free harvest.

There are many good fruits to be found in byways and along canal footpaths - places reasonably free of pollution from exhaust emissions and safe for pickers.

Many preserves can be made from free fruit. Raspberry vinegar, sloe gin, elderberry wine and jelly, rose hip jam and rowan berry jelly to go with dark meats are all part of the autumn wild harvest. Cobb nuts and sometimes walnuts can be found and there is the more specialized pleasure to be had from mushroom hunting. This needs more knowledge because some fungi are really poisonous.

There are guided tours led by people from Valvona and Crolla around Edinburgh. Cepes and apricot-coloured chanterelle are both splendid in omelettes or meat dishes.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 22

Raspberry Vinegar Put the raspberries in a glass or china bowl. Cover with white wine or cider vinegar. Seal with cling wrap. Leave over night or up to 1 day.

Drain and pour the vinegar over another similar weight of fruit.

The next day do as before; drain and using a third quantity of fruit steep the vinegar for a third time.

After three sessions the colour will be beautiful and the flavour strong. Bottle and cork tightly. Keep in a cool dark place.

Use for salad dressings, a comforting drink diluted with hot water or in enriching sauces for duck or game dishes. It gives the sour we all seem to enjoy in sweet and sour sauces.

Make Bramble Jelly if you don’t like pips in your teeth You need at least 1kg of fruit to make the project worthwhile; throw in some cooking apples if you need to top-up the brambles.

Put all the fruit in a pan with a little water and bring, covered, gently to the boil. Line a bowl with a clean tea towel or muslin. Pour in all the fruit and juice. Hang up to drip overnight or till there is no more juice.

Measure the juice and for every pint add 450g sugar. Bring the juice and sugar mixture slowly to the boil, stirring to ensure the sugar melts. Then boil rapidly till setting point is achieved. Pour into sterile, warmed, glass jars and cover.

Setting point can be tested for by putting a little of the “jelly” on a cold plate (put it in the fridge for a few minutes or as you start cooking) and seeing if the edges of the blob wrinkle up when you try to push with your finger. If you have one, use a jam thermometer.

Jelly variations Elderberry Jelly - Use elderberries half and half with their weight of cooking apples. Try not to leave too much stalk with the fruit. Strip the berries off their sprays with a fork.

Stew them to release their juices and continue as for bramble jelly.

Hedge Row Jelly - Use the same method as for bramble jelly but gather a mixture of fruits. Crabb apples, rose hips, hawthorn berries, elderberries, a few sloes and even blayberries (bilberries) if you find them. A few cooking apples will help make the fruit go further; but the flavour will be less intense.

Rowanberry Jelly -Just as above but use only rowan berries.

Pot in small jars as this is best with meat dishes rather than spread on bread and butter.

Sloe Gin – make it now for Christmas Extract the flavour from these otherwise bitter small fruits of the black thorn bush.

Prick each sloe with a needle and put as many in a glass bottle as you can. A gin bottle is perfect. Fill with gin and cork. Leave to extract the juice and flavour from the sloes for three months. Do this in September and it will be ready for Christmas.

Decant into another bottle and add some sugar syrup to taste.

Use 450g sugar dissolved in 1 pint of water. Re-cork and use to warm yourself after a long Boxing Day walk, or pour over ice cream or mix with fizzy wine for a Kir Royal if you use champagne. (The fruit can be saved and put in cabbage dishes or stews).

You can also make a cordial from elderberries by this method. Pack them tightly into a wide necked jar such as you may have from pickled beetroot or onions. Then add vodka, light rum or gin. Sweeten the strained liquid three months later, as with the sloe gin.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 23

contact alex on:

01506 203200 | 07798 530 247 e: info@aklimos.com www.aklimos.com available for Weddings and all special occasions

follow us at AK Limos we are licensed by West Lothian Council

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 24

ESTABLISHED 1985

FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING REQUIREMENTS: Interior and Exterior Paperhanging Coving Plastering Free estimates

Tel: 07585 509 811 Email: manicstpainters@hotmail.com 71 Marjoribanks St, Bathgate, EH48 1AL

KONECT BATHGATE 37

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the October edition of konect

Across 1 Alcove (6) 4 Pieces of wood (6) 9 Family name (7) 10 Not outer (5) 11 Pry (5) 12 Compel (7) 13 Most definitely (11) 18 Group (7) 20 Male relative (5) 22 Mistake (5) 23 Observed (7) 24 Thawed (6) 25 Light wind (6) Down 1 Fight back (6) 3 Liquid soap (7) 5 Robber (5) 6 Middle (7) 7 Inspect (6) 8 Recalling (11) 14 Impartial (7) 15 Latitude zero degrees (7) 16 Squeal (6) 17 Aggravate (6) 19 Abrupt (5) 21 Form of transport (5)

SUDOKU

Sudoku solution on page 46

KONECT BATHGATE 38

Buster the Dog

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 BATHGATE 39

WHAT’S ON and Useful Information Bathgate Music Festival 1st - 4th September Fantastic programme of events for the 9th year running of the Bathgate Music Festival, at the Regal, the Steelyard, Kirkton Park and other locations over the weekend. Full programme available for download at www. bathgatemusicfestival.com Saturday 10th – Sunday 11th September West Lothian Doors Open Day Various buildings of historical or architectural interest open their doors for free to the public.

Buildings in Bathgate include the Regal Theatre, (open Sat & Sun 10am – 4pm); St Columba’s Scottish Episcopal Church on Glasgow Road (open Sat & Sun 1-5pm). For all buildings open in West Lothian, Edinburgh and beyond see www. doorsopendays.org.uk.

Sunday 18th September Food for Free Autumn has arrived; let’s make the most of nature’s larder! Come take a walk through Beecraigs and find out where tasty wild foods can be found. Suitable for: All. Meet: Sutherland Building, opposite the Visitor Centre. Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £3.65 adult, £2.50 child. Booking essential, call the Rangers on 01506 844516, email: mail@beecraigs.com Friday 30th September 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.

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

KONECT BATHGATE 40

10th and 11th September 2016 Take a look inside some of West Lothian’s buildings on the annual Doors Open weekend.

For full listing and more details see national website www.doorsopendays.org.uk.

Buildings open in and near Bathgate are: Regal Community Theatre 24-34 North Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 4PS. Open Sat 10th Sept and Sun 11th Sept, 10:00am – 4:00pm.

Blackburn House (Main building, East Pavilion and Doocot).

Blackburn House, Redhouse Road, Seafield, Bathgate, EH49 7AQ. Open Sun 11th Sept 11:00am – 3:00pm. Facilities WC, parking, refreshments (donation requested). Activities Doocot open; tours of building, including old kitchens.

St Columba’s Scottish Episcopal Church 70 Glasgow Road, Bathgate Open Sat 10th Sept and Sun 11th Sept 1:00pm – 5:00pm. Facilities WC, off-street parking, wheelchair-friendly, teas. Period of Building 1915-16.

Other buildings open include Annet House Museum & Garden in Linlithgow, Linlithgow Burgh Halls, Duntarvie Castle near Winchburgh and various historic church buildings in Ecclesmachan, Linlithgow and other locations.

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.

MUSIC REVIEW

LOCAL BOY IN THE PHOTOGRAPH

by James Kerr, Regal Music Club

Despite being such an accepted part of modern music, streaming sites are still in their infancy, all twenty five million of them.

Bandcamp is a popular facility for independent musicians to put up albums which can be played in their entirety online and then downloaded under an honesty box policy, where you pay what you like, even if that figure is zero and you have no conscience or other moral compass.

Chris Finegan, a singer/songwriter from East Calder who recently appeared on a compilation CD on Greentrax recordings has this month released his first collection, a six track mini album entitled “Pillars”. The recording is simple and direct, basic even, with little in the way of production. In that

respect, as those who have heard Chris sing live locally and further afield can testify, the power and expression in his voice is present here but is only a down payment on what is delivered in concert. The songs themselves though, beautifully constructed and very much of one meditative piece can be enjoyed over again, revealing bright, pop, melodies in tracks such as “The River” and “A Thousand Suns”.

For laughs, contrast the honest wisdom of any song from “Pillars” with “Beats To Your Rhythm” the horrific new single by The Shires, currently being pushed harder than any street drug by Radio 2. An overproduced, over arranged, attempt to bolster a song with one tenth of a melody and a lyric so forgettable I’m not going to put myself through listening to it again just for a quote.

KONECT BATHGATE 41

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 2016 The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy & children’s events.

SEPTEMBER THU 1ST THE DREAMERS FRI 2ND A NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS SAT 3RD TRUE GOLD - SPANDAU BALLET TRIBUTE SUN 4TH JUNE FIELD - PSYCHIC MEDIUM TUE 6TH KILO TWO BRAVO - (KAJAKI) FILM FRI 9TH QUEEN 11 - QUEEN TRIBUTE SAT 10TH NEIL DIAMOND & ELVIS PRESLEY TRIBUTE SUN 11TH PHIL CUNNINGHAM & ALY BAIN FRI 16TH -SAT 17TH SUN 18TH FRI 23RD SAT 24TH WED 28TH FRI 30TH

SINGIN’ I’M NO A BILLY HE’S A TIM MCDOUGALL’S HYSTORY MYSTERY THE DAY THEY SHOT JOHN LENNON SSW WRESTLEWARS LINDISFARNE STORY WESLO COMEDY NIGHT BOX OFFICE OPEN: MON-SAT: 10am-10pm | SUN: 10am-6pm Ring and leave a message.

01506 630 085

FOR COMPLETE UP TO DATE LISTINGS AND BOOKING, SEE WEBSITE AT

WWW.BATHGATEREGAL.ORG

24-34 NORTH BRIDGE STREET, BATHGATE, EH48 4PS

KONECT BATHGATE 42

7.30pm £20 7.30pm £15 7.30pm £5 7.30pm £16.50 7.30pm £10 7.30pm £20 7.30pm £15 7.30pm £25 7.30pm £20 12pm £8 / £7 7.30pm £20 7.00pm £10 / £5 7.30pm £20 7.30pm £10

Tesco Bathgate Prize Draw I hope everyone had a great summer and enjoyed the lovely weather we had - ha ha! The beginning of the month we welcome Bathgate Thistle Football team in to do some bag packing. The money raised will benefit a few of their teams.

Our big collection weekend for Diabetes UK and The British Heart Foundation will be Friday 16th and Saturday 17th September. We will also have a volunteers from the local Diabetes UK support group in store if you need some support or advice. We will also be welcoming a class from East Calder primary in for a farm to fork trail the first this term.

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 a bag of Tesco's new range in fruit!

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 September 2016. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date.

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

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.

more information please contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533114.

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

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.

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.

2nd Bathgate Girls’ Brigade

Paranormal Investigation group based in Bathgate

Baby and Toddler activities

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.

The Stone Ring

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.

Bathgate Playgroup

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 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

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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 Fairtrade Group

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.

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

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!

Fitsteps

Fun and effective dance fitness class inspired and created by Strictly Come Dancing stars Nartalie Lower and Ian Waite. Learn the steos from Tango, Jive, Viennese Waltz, Samba and many more, without the need for a partner. Wednesdays - St Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate 7.30 – 8.15pm. £5 per person. Form more info call Lianne on 07737 927463 www.facebook.com/ moveitdanceandfitsteps

WESTER INCH

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

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

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.

Simpson Art Club

West Lothian Baking 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

Centrepoint Church

Simpson Primary School. Sunday Worship Gathering, Weekly 10:30am. Contact: Tom Jackson m: 07540391081 e: tom.jackson@centrepointchurch.org

Messy Church

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 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

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.

West Lothian Gymnastics

Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, Livingston. Pre school classes for boys and girls, learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility. Classes lead by fully qualified coaches and morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months - 3 years and 3-5 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list.

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

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accessories

M & A Jewellery

5

Bathrooms

1st Choice Living 5 Bathgate Bathroom Studio WL 5 Buyrite WL 4

Beauty

ACT Beauty & Hair Academy WL 9

Builder

Kirkton Builders

5

Building Surveyor

David Hastings WL 6

Car Service & Repair Ace Exhausts & Tyres Formula 1 MOT GTS Autocare Meadowpark Garage WSH Fast Fix

9 12 9 12 4

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning

C and W Cleaning Services WL 9

Catering

Food Creations WL 21

Church

Centre Point Church

Cleaning Services

Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd

41 12

Computer Services

Sprint Computers WL 24

Conservatories

Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL 19

Decorating

Doors

UPVC Doors WL 7

Electrician

D B Electrics 37 Simply Electrical WL 6

Estate Agent

Aberdein Considine 47 Drummond Miller 9 Turpie WL 11

Fostering

Edinburgh Council WL 9

Garden & Landscaping

All Year Round Landscapes 7 Beatson’s WL 16 Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care 7 Naia Garden Services 7 Woodford Timber WL 18

Garden Buildings

Champfleurie Estate Ltd WL 17

Golf Club

Deer Park WL 21

Heating Services

Livgas 37

Hire (Car/Van/Minibus)

AK Stretch Limousines WL 24 W.S. Hamilton Minibus Hire 4

Job Opportunuties

Sensee 7 Tracy Scott - Forever Living 5

Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady

48

Graham & Brown WL 3

Solution to August Crossword

Solution to Sudoku Page 38

Across: 7 Static, 8 Battle, 9 Grim, 10 Envelope, 11 Economy, 13 Untie, 15 Cobra, 17 Cottage, 20 Upstream, 21 Sure, 23 Unkind, 24 Needed.

Down: 1 Star, 2 Stamen, 3 Screams, 4 Above, 5 Stolen, 6 Flipping, 12 Chopping, 14 Command, 16 Retain, 18 Tested, 19 Mends, 22 Rues.

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Locksmith

Saltire Lock & Security WL 7 West Lothian Locksmith Company WL 6

Mobility

Med-Ecosse WL 13

Motorhome (hire/sale)

Motorhome Hire Scotland WL 24

Oven Cleaner

The Clean Team

7

Painter/Decorator

Manic Street Painters 37 Nu Walls WL 6

Pet Services

Dog Walking - PRWI

39

Plumbing Services

Capital Heating WL 7

Property Maintenance

Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care

7

Restaurant

Deer Park WL 21 Hilcroft Hotel 2

School

George Watson’s College WL 12

Vet

Ayrton Veterinary Hospital Riverside Veterinary Practice

11 39

Wallpaper

Graham & Brown WL 3

Windows

1st Choice Living 5 Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL 19

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

West Lothian Update Why now is the time to review your pension Millions of savers currently spend very little time reviewing their pensions, with more than a quarter of savers (28%) admitting to never reviewing their retirement savings.

And a fifth (19%) of those with a pension said they review it less than once every five years, according to figures released by Aviva.

Worryingly, the figures show that only just over a quarter of people (27%) think that their current contributions into their company pension scheme will provide enough for them in retirement.

Ask most people what they earn now and they’ll have a pretty good idea, sometimes down to the penny, but most people have no idea what their pension is worth.

The figures show that urgent action is needed to encourage people to take an active interest in their retirement savings.

While the number of people reviewing their pension is worryingly low, the research shows that the main thing that does cause them to act is the arrival of their annual pension statement.

Regularly check how your pension is performing Investment funds rarely continue to perform well year after year, so it’s important to regularly check how your pension is performing.

In addition, over time the amount of risk many of us are prepared to accept in our investments typically tends to reduce, to the extent that by the time we’re close to retirement we may not wish to take much risk at all.

The closer you get to approaching retirement, the more important it is to know how your pension fund is performing.

If you wait until your retirement, the chances are you will have no idea what income you will receive, and then it’s too late to make any changes. The longer you have to prepare for retirement, the much greater chance you have of doing something about it and achieving a comfortable retirement.

Contributions should keep pace with our income As part of a year-long study into people’s financial habits, consumers were asked which events had caused them to review their pension. The most popular answer was receiving an annual statement from their provider (35%), followed by a pay increase (28%) and starting a new job (17%).

A pension is a long-term investment. The fund value may fluctuate and can go down, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available.

Independent financial advice To make the right investment choices, you need to ask the right questions. And when it comes to answering those questions, Aberdein Considine can help you find the best way forward.

If you would like to get a sound point of view about what may be right for your unique situation, please contact us. We’ll review and discuss your financial situation, help you set goals, suggest specific next steps, discuss potential solutions and provide ways to help you stay on track.

To arrange a free pension review with one of our advisers locally, call 01506 420800.

Note: Information is based on our current understanding of taxation legislation and regulations. Any levels and bases of, and reliefs from, taxation are subject to change. The value of investments and income from them may go down. You may not get back the original amount invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

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