Konect Bathgate September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

FEATURE: INTERIORS:

COMMUNITY:

PLUS: HEALTH & BEAUTY, Garden Project, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

The monthly community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

TO OUR SEPTEMBER EDITION

THIS ISSUE

S

eptember is the annual national Doors Open Days, a chance to see inside some buildings that are not normally open to the public, and some public ones which put on special tours for the Doors Open Days. West Lothian’s Doors Open is coordinated by the Linlithgow Civic Trust and there are buildings of different styles open, take a look at their article on pages 14-15.

September is a time of getting back into routine after the holidays, especially if you have children at school or college. It’s a good time to look at joining in new social or sports activities, and as ever the Clubs and Classes pages at the back of Konect are packed with list plenty of options. Also the West Lothian 50+ Network is a lively social group welcoming new members, see their article on page 9.

It’s also a good time to get some home improvements booked in of you’re wanting work done before the weather gets wintery.

Please support local businesses and check the traders in these pages for quotes All our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

P11 Community: West Lothian 50+ Network....... 9 Interiors: Window Shutters........................... 11 Bathgate Memories......................................12 Doors Open Days.........................................14 Property Matters............................................17 Gardening: Summer Glut.............................25 Health & Beauty............................................26 Feature: Rainbow Tree Music......................29 Puzzles...........................................................32 Sport: Small Fry.............................................36 Parenting: Crazy about Canals...................37 What’s On......................................................38 Clubs & Classes............................................40

COVER IMAGE: Party in the Park: See P38 for What’s On in Bathgate this September.

Konect is delivered monthly to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen.

Copies are also left at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

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ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Local, reliable, professional paving - patios - driveways monoblocking - fencing

Call Ryan 07723 587389 or email ryantosney@live.co.uk

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ST LOT WE

TWORK NE

AN 50+ HI

BEST MEDICINE FOR THE OVER 50s There’s a new trend in “social prescribing” - referring patients to social activities to improve wellbeing and reduce demand on health services.

It’s particularly pertinent to older people, where social isolation – loneliness - has been linked to very adverse health effects.

The West Lothian 50+ Network has known this for the last 25 years and continues to address the problem with their prescription for activity, companionship and fun.

The 400 strong membership organisation for West Lothian residents aged over 50 celebrates its silver anniversary this year. Some of its founders are still going strong, passing on the baton to younger members who are introducing new ideas whilst maintaining the principle of “making things happen for ourselves.”

Over 35 interest groups are on offer - from walking, bowls, board games, music and crafts - all run by volunteer members who want to share their knowledge or passion. A “men only” group recognises that older men have particular difficulty in creating changes in their lifestyle.

The Network helps to give a sense of purpose, often called into question after retirement, bereavement or when families spread their wings. Through activities which keep mind and body active, there’s the chance to meet a new network of friends and companions. Members have called the organisation a “life saver”, especially after the loss of a partner, a close friend, or as a newcomer to the area.

Some activities are purely social – bingo night, beetle drive, cheese and wine evening, car treasure hunt – with lots to look forward to in the coming months including a race night, craft fair, St Andrew’s dinner and Christmas parties.

The chance to go on holiday with a group of friends is very attractive, especially for those who find themselves alone in later life, and the @KonectMagazines

Group outing to Rosslyn organisation of group holidays has always been an important part of the Network’s offering, which has seen members venture far and A day at the races wide over the years.

A new activity this year has been the monthly coach trip on the last Sunday of each month.

Come rain or shine, members have enjoyed days out in Dundee, St Andrews, Loch Lomond, Callander, Melrose, Alnwick and more. “Better than staying indoors in front of the telly” can frequently be heard.

There’s an over-riding determination to enjoy oneself and enjoy good company that permeates most of the West Lothian 50+ Network’s activities. It might be explained by the organisation’s motto: “Make the rest of your life the best of your life”. Members seem determined to do just that.

If you would like to find out more about the West Lothian 50+ Network and how to join in the fun there’s lots of information online, or you can call or visit our Bathgate based office..

This article was contributed by the West Lothian 50+ Network.

Website: www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk Facebook: @westlothian50plusnetwork Email: wlothian50plus@btconnect.com Tel: (01506) 635510 Address: 48G Linbar House, North Bridge Street, Bathgate Scottish Charity No. SC024257 Info.:

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INTERIORS

Window shutters are an often-overlooked form of window furnishing.

Most people turn to curtains or blinds to dress their windows, but shutters can offer an attractive and quirky alternative, and they have many practical benefits, too.

Sound and Thermal Insulation - While shutters are closed, the wooden panels offer good sound insulation, and some heat insulation, too. This works both ways – in the summer, it’s possible to open the windows while keeping the panels shut, allowing air to flow while keeping the heat from the sun out.

You can achieve similar results with thick, heavy curtains if you want a more traditional look for your living room. Shutters make a good choice for a kitchen or bathroom, however, where thicker fabrics aren’t ideal. That leads us to…

Low Maintenance Requirements - Blinds and curtains can attract dust, and keeping the fabrics clean can be difficult. Plantation shutters are a good choice for people with allergies, because they are easy to keep clean. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth from time to time and you won’t have any issues with dust build-up.

When you need a fresh look, simply re-paint the shutter in a different colour!

Added Privacy - When you close a set of shutters they cover the whole window. When you adjust the louvres you can let light in, without making it easy for people to see inside your home, in a similar way to how you can let a little light in by adjusting venetian blinds.

Curtains, on the other hand, are either open or closed, so unless you have net curtains behind them to filter the light, you lose all privacy when you open them.

They look fabulous - Interior shutters are a nice added-extra that could make your home more @KonectMagazines

appealing to prospective buyers. They are a more ‘semi-permanent’ fixture than curtains or blinds, however, and this could backfire if the prospective buyer doesn’t like them. That said, it’s relatively easy to remove a set of shutters and replace them with blinds or curtains if that’s what the buyer prefers, and you can remind them of this.

UV Protection - Shutters with louvres can be angled to control how much light gets into the room – in much the same way that blinds can be angled. When you want to let light flood into the room, the panels can be fully opened. Adjusting the louvres can direct light away from furniture and flooring, prolonging the life of the furniture and preventing patterns from fading.

Many shutters are finished with a UV-protective layer, which will protect the paint or wood stain finish, and stop the panels from warping.

Shutters are timeless, and are a stylish and eye-catching window treatment. They may not suit every room, but there is a certain appeal to having them on the ground floor – especially for kitchens, and “the den”. If you like the soft and elegant look of curtains, don’t forget that you can use tie backs as a trim around your shutters, to enjoy the best of both worlds.

This article and illustrations were contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors. www.harveybruce.co.uk Williamson’s Garden Centre, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6PA BATHGATE | 11

BATHGATE MEMORIES

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E B E L T I D for the spelling mistakes Only the top twelve pupils in my class in Mid Street School were allowed to go to Bathgate Academy. I was in thirteenth place but was allowed to go to the Academy because someone in the top twelve withdrew.

Bathgate Academy had five primary classes. Miss Shaw (P3), known as ‘Toaster’, made every passing pupil learn The Sands of Dee by Charles Kinsley.

Toaster could be more than a bit severe.

In those days it was customary to correct your neighbour’s spelling test. One day my neighbour spelt ‘mountain’ as mountian and ‘fountain’ as fountian. I did not spot the errors so he was belted for getting the spellings wrong and I was belted for not correcting them.

On another occasion, a boy needing to go to the toilet asked to leave the room but was repeatedly refused. After many requests he was made to stand in front of the class. Here, the poor lad wet himself and a large puddle spread across the floor.

Pupils of Bathgate Academy were often called snobs. Indeed, on walking past Mid Street School to services in the E.U. Church, the little children would line the railings and shout, ‘Academy snobs!

Academy snobs!’ at us. In our council housing scheme Bathgate Academy pupils were born to, and brought up by, workingclass parents so we had no social inferiors.

The Bathgate Memories column was contributed by a Bathgate resident who was born in the town in 1940 and shares his memories of growing up here.

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WEST LOTHIAN

DOORS OPEN DAYS: HAVE A LOOK INSIDE THE COUNTY’S BUILDINGS!

The weekend of 14th / 15th September 2019 will see the annual Doors Open Days event taking place throughout West Lothian.

Doors Open Days forms part of Scotland’s contribution to European Heritage Days, which sees over 25 million people from 50 countries take part annually, uniting our communities in a unique celebration of heritage in our own special ways.

Doors Open Days is now Scotland’s largest free cultural festival. It celebrates the built environment and gives free access to around 1,000 venues across the country throughout the month of September, every year.

Antique, Vintage & Collector Fair 14th September 2019 9:00am - 4:00pm Admission £1.00 Linlithgow Academy Braehead Road Linlithgow EH49 6EH Refreshments Available Ample FREE Parking linlithgow@blueyonder,co.uk In aid of Linlithgow Heritage Trust

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Doors Open Days is coordinated nationally by the Scottish Civic Trust with annual support from Historic Environment Scotland and others. Local area programmes are coordinated by a network of local authorities, heritage consultancies, civic societies and heritage groups who are in turn supported by a large number of volunteers, businesses, community organisations and building owners.

Linlithgow Civic Trust has organised West Lothian’s Doors Open Days since 2011 and are proud to be doing so once more in 2019. We have a varied programme again this year.

There are a few of the regular participants this year including the Crossview Studios and the Canal Centre in Linlithgow, Duntarvie Castle near Winchburgh and a number of ecclesiastical properties in and around Linlithgow including St Michael’s Parish Church, Abercorn Parish Church and Kingscavil Church. @KonectMagazines

Blackburn House in Bathgate makes a welcome return, as do Strathbrock St Machan’s and Strathbrock St Nicholas’ Churches in Uphall. Donaldson’s in Linlithgow also returns to the programme.

St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow

There is also the new Linlithgow Museum, opened in Easter 2019 having moved from Annet House to the new Tam Dalyell House St Michael’s (aka Linlithgow Partnership Centre) a short Interior distance along the High Street. The dramatic 1960s Boghall Parish Church in Bathgate and the more traditional Category A Listed Kirk of Calder in Mid Calder are also back in the programme this year.

Copies of the programme for West Lothian have been distributed in a number of venues throughout West Lothian. Pick one up and hopefully it will inspire you to take part. The programme can also be downloaded from the Linlithgow Civic Trust Doors Open Days website at lbt.scot/civic-trust.

Please note that this year the Doors Open Days event in West Lothian coincides, as it often does, with the Linlithgow Folk Festival event.

The overlap has been mutually advantageous – well exemplified on sunny afternoons when building visitors have mingled with the audiences at the various music sessions.

Coincidentally, the Doors Open Days event is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and Linlithgow Folk Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Now if that is not an excuse for a cultural celebration I don’t know what is!

For more details of what is happening with Doors Open Days in West Lothian and across the country as whole, check out the official event website at www.doorsopendays.org.uk.

This article was contributed by Allan M Robertson, Linlithgow Civic Trust and West Lothian Doors Open Day Co-ordinator. For more details about the activities of the Scottish Civic Trust visit www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/.

For more details on the activities of Linlithgow Civic Trust visit lbt.scot/civic-trust.

Linlithgow Civic Trust is part of Linlithgow Burgh Trust. Linlithgow Burgh Trust is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (Scottish Charity No. SC047211).

St Michael’s West Doors Linlithgow Museum

Donaldson’s Exterior

Duntarvie Castle

Blackburn House

Donaldson’s Interior

Kirk of Calder

A ‘Must do’ if you plan to sell your home in the next 6 months!

Gain a real marketing advantage We’ve all heard about a house having kerb appeal. You know…that attractive, wellmaintained look that draws in potential buyers. But did you know that the seasons can play a vital role in your marketing too?

The marketing of your property needs to take account of this and show your home to its best marketing advantage.

Market your home all-year round Images are a major factor in conveying the appeal of a property. Your property may be a home to you, but it has to be packaged like a product if it is to be marketed and sold effectively. Your estate agent will advise you on all these matters, and a good estate should always be trying to ‘get ahead of the game’ – that includes getting the right images together at the right time so that your marketing can happen when you want it to happen and to best effect at any time of year.

Plan ahead and get ahead There are many things in life that you can’t control, but you can control when you get your pictures taken. A little bit of forward planning goes a long way, and getting pictures taken during the summer months is a great way to take charge of your house sale and put yourself in the best position to sell at the best price. Like kerb appeal, good pictures draw people in – and the right ones really set the tone.

At Turpie & Co, we use advanced photo editing software and techniques to ensure our clients’ properties look great in any weather at any time of the year and always 16 | BATHGATE

retake new external photographs in the best weather as there is no substitute for natural light. However, long summer days with warm light conditions really do provide the optimum conditions to show your property in its best light.

Get an all-year ‘summer advantage’ At this time of year, a service we offer to our prospective clients who are thinking of selling over the next six months is to take pictures of the exterior of their home before the verdant grass and the flowers fade, and the leaves fall from the trees.

If you are listing your home for sale over the winter months, it’s really important to give buyers a true and vibrant impression of what your home looks at its best when seen from the outside. The exterior picture is after all the first one any buyer will see of your home when browsing online, so it has to be an arresting one that makes them want to click through to further details and book an appointment to view.

Get a ‘summer advantage’ all year round and a clear jump on any competing homes that decide to list during the winter months by making sure your house looks its best with the best possible pictures taken now.

Time really can be on your side if you use it correctly.

The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines

Show your home in its ‘best light’

If you are thinking about selling your home before next spring, contact us to book your external photography now. *No contract or payment required until you are ready to sell.

West Lothian’s Premier Estate Agents www.turpies.com • telephone: 01506 668448

Is your roof prepared for winter? Book your free roof survey today !

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Would you like to advertise your business to over 50,000 homes throughout West Lothian and Edinburgh (West)?

Our contact details are on page 3.

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

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Coping with a summer glut in the garden

Remove from heat, add 250g Philadelphia light cheese, 1 tsp chopped chives, 1 tsp chopped parsley, black pepper & lemon juice to season. Blend in food processor until smooth. Serve hot or chilled with garnish of chopped parsley and chives.

We often have a glut of some crop or other in the garden at this time of the year, whether it is courgettes, tomatoes, apples or grapes.

This summer it is all four, and our new Purple Piglet Project has a recipe for each of these crops: Cream of Courgette Soup, Bruschetta, Apple and Parsnip salad & Grape Chutney with no added sugar.

CREAM OF COURGETTE SOUP

You can never keep up with the production of courgettes and this soup is a lovely different way to eat them – Dougal likes it chilled.

Gently fry a chopped garlic clove in rapeseed oil till soft add 1kg chopped courgettes, more oil and a crumbled stock cube and cook for 5 minutes. Add water to cover courgettes, bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes.

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Courgette Soup The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

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THE ‘PLEX’S’ A favourite to the Kardasians and the Hollywood crew, you may have heard of the innovation Wellaplex, or variations olaplex, fibre plex - known in the industry as ‘the plexs’

The focus of these products is to protect and rebuild the inner bonds. Used as a professional service and mixed with your colour in the salon, a plex treatment will probably add 15 minutes on to your appointment and cost around £20, the ‘at home’ treatment tends to be a little more pricey but with more applications in the bottle.

Ideal for previously damaged hair effected by excess colouring, lightening or excessive heat styling, by multiplying and rebuilding the hair’s bonds, it eliminates breakage whilst making colour last much longer. This results in healthy hair that is revitalised with a new lease of life.

It’s pricey, is it worth it? If your hair is bleached or damaged in any way then yes, this is one of the best products for retaining the bonds and minimising breakage during colouring and for maintaining at home. As a colourist I wouldn’t work without it, it allows me to do so much more with colour with the assurance of minimal damage and knowing my client’s colour is going to look better for longer.

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 26 | BATHGATE

Are you in a depressive cycle?

It is believed that depression has its roots in childhood experiences, especially those relating to loss. These experiences sensitise the individual making it difficult for them to cope with future pain and loss. A person in a depressive cycle can easily misconstrue experiences as negative and always expect the worst.

Life events such as the breakdown of a relationship, a redundancy, or a significant failure can trigger a depressive episode as the individual finds that old feelings of loss resurface. Once a loss has been experienced, the individual sees no value in setting future goals or engaging in constructive activities; life feels meaningless.

A lack of positive action forces the individual into a downward spiral where they begin to feel completely worthless. Negative thinking results in negative feelings, which ends up in negative and self destructive behaviours.

The aim of cognitive behavioural therapy is to break this cycle. Your coach can help you question your perception of reality, which may be framed in the negative. This can help to release feelings of worthlessness, and then small goals can be set to help you raise your self confidence and self esteem.

If you suffer from the following, you may be depressed.

1. A general feeling of sadness 2. Inability to feel anything at all – you’re neither up nor down. Nothing excites you, you just feel flat 3. No sense of pleasure anymore, even in activities and events you used to enjoy 4. Loss of your sense of humour 5. You feel apathetic about life 6. You have feelings of wanting to escape from people, or even life itself 7. Everything feels pointless or meaningless The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. See her “LifeHeal” facebook page at facebook.com/LifeHealCoaching

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Sundays 10:30 am Simpson Primary, Wester Inch Village

Weekly Worship Kids' programmes Crèche Mid week group

centrepointchurch.org

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Rainbow Tree Music offers:

- Inspiring Young Musicians Rainbow Tree Music, an innovative new music school, is launching a range of exciting new classes in Bathgate from 30th August.

The first of its kind, Rainbow Tree Music is designed to offer a structured approach to learning real music in an enjoyable, fun and relaxed environment. By teaching children key musical concepts from an early age like rhythm, dynamics, tempo and pitch they develop the skills they need to progress to learning an instrument.

Rainbow Tree Music was founded by local mum, Lindsay Seatter, an accomplished musician who has had a passion for music from an early age and wanted to encourage and inspire her own children to enjoy and play music.

“I really wanted to share my love of music with my children. Teaching them gave me a chance to try lots of new techniques and I realised other children could really benefit from having the same quality of tuition.” And so the creation of Rainbow Tree Music began.

Lindsay believes that learning a musical instrument was fundamental in her own success in obtaining a PhD in Biochemistry from Strathclyde University and later in her career in financial services. “Learning music teaches so much more than music,” she explains. “It improves children’s academic and social skills and helps with relaxation and overall well-being.

Learning music helps youngsters develop self-discipline and patience and musical achievements boost their self-esteem. Group classes are also a great way to make friends as well as making music.”

Classes provide a pathway for learning a musical instrument beginning with preschool musicianship classes leading to piano/ keyboard readiness classes by the age of 4 years through to group piano/keyboard classes for age 5 and upwards. @KonectMagazines

• Preschool general musicianship classes - Classes for under 5s using specifically designed musical instruments, fun activities and games to stimulate the senses while teaching key musical concepts.

• Age 4 Piano/Keyboard Readiness classes teaching young / inexperienced players the skills and concepts they need to learn the piano.

• Age 5 and upwards group piano/keyboard classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced players • One to one classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced students age 5 and upwards • Adult classes (one to one and group classes covering all abilities) “Whether you are looking to learn how to play your favourite pop music or you are a serious musician looking to achieve your Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music exams we have a class for you,” Lindsay explained.

This article was contributed by Rainbow Tree Music. Founder Lindsay Seatter holds Associated Board Grade 8 accreditations in piano, clarinet and accordion.

She held the title of Under 18 British Champion for classical accordion. Through playing clarinet in her youth Lindsay was also a member of the National Youth Wind Band of Scotland.

At university she enjoyed playing with the Strathclyde University Orchestra.

Pre school classes cost just £6 per session, group piano classes start at £8.50. Booking is essential. All Rainbow Tree tutors hold a valid PVG. For further information, contact Lindsay on myrainbowtreemusic@gmail.com or find @rainbowtreemusic on Facebook.

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PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the October edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Hairy and unkempt (6), 4. Detector (6) 9. Make comprehensible (7), 10. Vagabond (5), 11.Feargreatly(5),12.Empowered(7),13.Sections(11), 18. Replicating (7), 20. Ransack (5), 22. Presses (5), 23. Where plays are performed (7), 24. Required (6), 25. Remained (6).

DOWN: 1. Firm (6), 2. Round fleshy fruit (5), 3. Your parent’s mother (7), 5. Surplus (5), 6. Type of onion (7), 7. Fast running waterways (6), 8. Make inquiries (11), 4. Detonate (7), 15 Sincere (7), 16. Activity (6), 17. Rely upon (6), 19. Publication (5), 21. Not lean (5)

Solution on Page 42

SUDOKU

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BUSTER THE DOG

Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Pet Services pages.

Contact details are on page 3.

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

Community with the highest quality veterinary care.

Community with the highest quality veterinary care.

• We offer specialised veterinary services offerspecialised specialised veterinary services inWe Orthopaedic surgery, Endoscopy and • • We offer veterinary services inOrthopaedic Orthopaedic surgery,surgery).

Endoscopy and was Laparoscopy (key-hole Ayrton in surgery, Endoscopy and Laparoscopy (key-hole surgery).

Ayrton was the first practice in Scotland to offer clients Laparoscopy (key-hole surgery).

Ayrton was the first practice in Scotland to offer clients key-hole surgery.in Scotland to offer clients the first practice key-hole surgery. key-hole surgery.

• Our out of hours emergency service is provided • byOur out of vets hours emergency service is provided our nurses here at the Hospital • Our outown of hoursand emergency service is provided by our own vets and nurses here at the Hospital andour on-call staffand are on-site for hospitalised by own vets nurses here at the Hospital and on-call staff are on-site for hospitalised patients 24 hrs and on-call patients 24staff hrs are on-site for hospitalised patients 24 hrs • We have a Pet Health Club that allows you to budget monthly for your pets’ • We have a Pet Health Club that allows you to budget monthly for your pets’ preventative andthat has addedyou discounts off of veterinary treatments • We have a Pethealthcare Health Club to budget monthly for treatments your pets’ preventative healthcare and hasallows added discounts off of veterinary and procedures. preventative healthcare and has added discounts off of veterinary treatments and procedures. and procedures.

• • We and we we have havean anappointed appointedinsurance insurance Weoffer offerdirect directclaims claimsfor for insured insured clients clients and advisor here at the Hospital.

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• • We practicewith: with:in-house in-houselaboratory, laboratory, Weare areaafull fullservice servicemedical medical and and surgical surgical practice radiography, ultrasound and endoscopy.

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Ayrton was awarded awardedHospital Hospitalstatus statusbyby Ayrtonisisan anaccredited accredited‘Veterinary ‘Veterinary Hospital’ Hospital’ and was the College ofofVeterinary Surgeons in 2009 (oneawarded ofonly only88in inScotland).

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T: 01501 01501 744736 T: 744736 BurnhouseIndustrial Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West T: Estate, 01501 744736 Burnhouse Whitburn, West Lothian, Lothian,EH47 EH47OLQ OLQ

Burnhouse Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West Lothian, EH47 OLQ @KonectMagazines BATHGATE | 35

You have Tommy Maybury to thank or blame for my articles; I could have been a Liverpool Echo headline.

I hated the water, felt fundamental fear. Aged 9, determined to conquer the fear on a school session, untutored, teeth clenched, I descended the pool steps and foolishly commenced to walk from one end to the other, (unaware that the pool deepened). I clearly remember feeling chuffed - until the water rose over my mouth; I panicked and started to thrash and yes, my short life did flash before me. Enter Tommy, the school bully. He had spotted my impending doom (where were the teachers?) dived in and classically rescued me.

It didn’t stop him knocking seven bells out of me on a subsequent occasion but I guess he’d earned the right.

There’s little chance of similar disaster befalling the mites who experience the water before they can even walk and talk, either with parents or in a formal teaching environment. Olympic gold medallist, Rebecca Adlington, took her baby, Summer, for the first time at four weeks, before she’d even had her jabs! Humans learn effectively via play, so positive aqua experiences in formative 36 | BATHGATE

years create a strong foundation for progress. Whilst it’s not true that babies are born with the ability to swim, they do have reflexes that make it look that way.

“Bradycardia response” causes babies to hold their breath and open their eyes underwater. A second reflex “laryngeal” - enables baby to seal off the throat and divert water to the stomach. These reflexes prevail until baby is about six months old but by around age one, they’ve gone.

Further, a baby supported belly down in water will automatically move arms and legs as if swimming. Babies can’t keep heads above water so, as well as avoiding the risk of drowning, it must be ensured that the infant doesn’t swallow too much pool water (10% of body weight max).

What a wonderful gift at dawn of life: to get used to the water, to feel comfortable in it, not to panic if water floods an orifice.

According to the Swimming Teachers’ Association, carefully introduced submersions should help establish a platform for the growth of water confidence for life. But correct submersion is vital and must

be done “with the baby” not “to the baby”: a great opportunity for early bonding, especially with grandparents! Truly uplifting to participate.

Former nanny, Maggie, describes the heady exhilaration of the experience: “You give full attention to the instructions. You feel nervous, apprehensive. But you just have to let go and the thrill when you see the sheer joy on baby’s face, well it’s one of my loveliest memories. They quickly reach the stage where they can’t get in the water fast enough and moan when you take them out.” A picture of a happy baby Freya underwater adorns Maggie’s wall, confirming her feelings.

I beg you to consider it for your family’s baby - Tommy Mayburys are rare. Do use acknowledged specialists or at least take guidance from experts before you start. And, FYI, I can manage a breadth (on a good day).

The sports column is contributed by David Levin.

David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian who describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. @KonectMagazines

PARENTING

Crazy about Canals

Ahoy there!

rd!

When you’ve lived somewhere for a while All aboa it’s easy to feel like you know a place.

Especially as a parent. Knowing all the good places to take your kids is a must!

But I’m always surprised how many people forget about the Union Canal in West Lothian. There are lots of things to do with kids beyond just enjoying a family walk along the towpaths (although there is a lot to be said for that as well).

To really experience the canal in all its glory taking kids out on a boat trip is a must. Linlithgow Union Canal Society run town boat trips and longer Aqueduct Cruises from Linlithgow every Saturday and Sunday until the end of September. Kids can check out the only canal museum in Scotland and the tearoom at Linlithgow Canal Centre is open at weekends as well for an extra treat.

Or you can enjoy a canal boat trip from Port Buchan in Broxburn. On the first Sunday of the month Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society do short trips on their boat Bluebell or you can head out on a round trip cruise over @KonectMagazines

Lin’s Mill Aqueduct on some Saturdays.

appreciate that…they at least get a shot of being Captain!

A canal boat really is a boat trip like no other. My two love watching the world go by and spotting wildlife along the way. You don’t usually have to book the shorter boat trips either. You can just be spontaneous and turn up when the mood takes you or when you are at a loss for what to do with the kids at the weekend.

For something a bit different I’d also recommend checking out Narrowboat Farm on the banks of the canal just east of Linlithgow.

It is something still relatively new and completely quirky and different. You can enjoy fresh pickings from their honesty box Veg Shack; ask about their Friday afternoon Farm Club for kids and families. And keep an eye out for news of their spooky Pumpkin Picking canal cruises come October too.

They are sure to book up early!

All these trips and services are run solely by volunteers and purely for the love of it. So everyone involved is really passionate…and in my experience great with the kids. They really want to encourage use of the canals so it is a great cause to support and teach children about.

Every time we’ve done it my girls have managed to get their hands on the tiller as well. So it’s a great way to support the community and if they are too young to really

The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls.

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TUESDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER Open Night at Simpson Art Club - Free entry, light refreshments provided. 7pm – 9pm in the Community Wing of Simpson Primary School, Leyland Road, Wester Inch. Our art work is on permanent display in the café in Polkemmet Country Park. And our regular exhibition in Almondell Country Park will be from 14th November to 30th December 2019. This is free and all are welcome to admire or purchase.

DAILY FROM 5TH TO 31ST OCTOBER Spooky Happenings at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - As the nights get darker, mysterious creatures emerge from the dark corners of the old farm. Grab your trail sheet and look out for the clues on your spooky quest. Find your way through a world of magic and shadows with mysteries to solve, games to play, and some scary surprises around every corner. Get creative in the craft area where you can make spooky masks and manufacture monsters.

All of this silly scary fun can be enjoyed any day from the 5th of October until Halloween during usual opening hours (10:00-17:00) with no need tobook in advance.

See www.almondvalley.co.uk

SATURDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER Antique, Vintage and Collectors Fair Linlithgow Academy, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, EH49 6EH. 9:00am – 4:00pm, admission £1. In aid of Linlithgow Heritage Trust for the Linlithgow Museum.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT COURSES Day or evening courses in Livingston for people living with loss. Organised by Livingston United Parish Church, Co-op Funeral Care and the Bridge Community Project. Commencing 5th September and 17th October. See p37 for details SATURDAY 14TH & SUNDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER West Lothian Doors Open Days See inside the county’s buildings! Lots of West Lothian’s buildings open to the public, including in and around Bathgate: Boghall Parish Church, Blackburn House, St Columba’s and more. See pages 15-16 for information. On Sunday 15th Abercorn Church is offering homebaking, tea and coffee in the church hall from 11am until 4pm, as well as home-made jams and crafts available. The historic church and museum will also be open to visitors during this time, all welcome.

WEDNESDAY 11TH TO SUNDAY 15TH SEPT Linlithgow Folk Festival, 20th Anniversary Five fun-filled days with the friendly folk of Linlithgow!

Programme available from www.linlithgowfolk.com SATURDAY 5TH OCTOBER Foam Dart Thunder! Nerf event Battle it out inside one of the stands at the home of Falkirk FC, Falkirk Stadium! There will be team and individual games across multi levels! This event is recommended for everyone aged 8 and over – parent’s discretion applies though – absolutely no children under the age of 6. Anyone under 8 must have a paying adult playing with them. Mums and Dads are encouraged to join in! Information and tickets www.foamdartthunder.com 38 | BATHGATE

PARTY IN THE PARK CONGRATULATIONS TO PARTY IN THE PARK ON ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY THIS YEAR! The annual Music Festival and Family Fun Day in Kirkton Park, is on 1st September, from 11am. Live music from noon to 6pm.

A FREE ENTRY event for all the family with two music stages, children’s rides, food, stalls, and lots of fun...

FREE PARKING available in the grounds of Bathgate Academy next to Kirkton Park. (First come first parked as it gets busy). Please park considerately in the surrounding area.

Main Stage of live music introduced by Music Journalist and Radio Presenter Jim Gellatly.

Acoustic tent with a full line up of acoustic acts. Funfair Rides, Reckless Intent Wrestling, Five Sisters Zoo, Wood Carver, Bungee Trampolines, Balloon Art, Face Painting and many more activities.

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. @KonectMagazines

CLUBS & CLASSES

September On the weekend of the 14th and 15th Doors Open Days return to West Lothian for 2019. Offering free access to a variety of different sites, Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free festival that celebrates heritage and the built environment. You’ll find listings of venues taking part on our website.

That same weekend, in Broxburn the Bridge 19:40 Canal Society are holding a Narrowboat Cruise to the Almond Aqueduct. Tickets always sell fast so make sure you book in advance to confirm your chance to visit.

The 28 also marks the first show of Linlithgow Art Guilds 50th anniversary season. The Concert for Clarinet and Piano, featuring Jean Johnson and Steven Osborne, takes place at Linlithgow Academy Theatre from 19.30. Tickets are available online, as well as at a variety of shops in Linlithgow. th

If you’re looking for a challenge, don’t forget the John Muir way has recently launched their new “Passport” scheme. The route, split into a variety of sections, goes all the way from Dunbar in the East to Helensburgh in the West - with the route passing through West Lothian near Linlithgow. You can complete the route in parts as you wish, with passports available to purchase at Linlithgow Museum. Within West Lothian, you can get your passport stamped at Burgh Halls, Linlithgow Museum & Linlithgow Palace.

There’s always plenty more going on across West Lothian, so why not check out our collection of great day out ideas on our website – the perfect inspiration for whatever the Scottish weather throws at us! www.visitwestlothian.co.uk

Follow us on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian @KonectMagazines

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

BATHGATE NEW YOGA WITH BECCA Bathgate Partnership Centre Hall 7, Monday evenings 7:30-8:30pm.

Contact details: e-mail yogawbecca@gmail.com or search ‘Yoga with Becca’ on Facebook

WEST LOTHIAN FENCING CLUB runs on Friday nights in Bathgate Academy at 7pm, Tuesday nights in St Kentigern’s, Blackburn at 7pm. Both classes suit beginners, people who have fenced before, adults and juniors (aged 8+). First two classes free, all kit is provided. Email coach@ fencing-club.co.uk for more details. Beginners and families very welcome. Come and have a fun night learning a new sport which is suitable for all.

KIDS FRIDAY CLUB Calling all P1-P7 children!

Looking for some fun? Come & join us every Friday (during term time) from 2pm -3.30pm for a wide range of activities including face /nail painting, arts and crafts, games, baking, snooker and lots more. £1.50 donation per week. Bathgate High Church, Gideon Street, Bathgate. Email; info@bathgatehigh.com.

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS BATHGATE Bathgate Partnership Centre, 21 South Bridge Street, EH48 1TL. Manager Liz. Contact: 07591735823.

Open Monday to Friday 9:15am to 11:30am, Mon & Wed 12:30 to 2:15pm. £7.50 per session.

BATHGATE FAIRTRADE GROUP Bathgate Fairtrade is a small group and welcomes more members locally to promote fairtrade in Bathgate and West Lothian, providing information about fairtrade and opportunities to buy fairly traded food and other items with stalls in various locations. If you are interested or want to know more please contact the secretary Gillian Reid on 01506 653366 or Email: mrs_g@btinternet.com RAINBOWS, BROWNIES & GUIDES Rainbow units - (girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday and Wednesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

Brownie units - (girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

Guide units - (girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

BATHGATE & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB We are a friendly group who meet third Monday of each month, Sept to June (except Dec), 7.15pm in the United Reform Church Hall, Majoriebanks Street, Bathgate. We have a Floral Art demonstrator at each meeting who designs around 5 arrangements which are given as raffle prizes. Contact Nan Tait, Chairman, tel: 01506 676965.

BATHGATE | 39

BATHGATE ...cont.

GENERATION ARTS – CHOIR or DANCE Generation Choir Silver Tones meet Mon 1.15pm - 2.15pm in the Royal British Legion, Bathgate. All age 50+ welcome - no experience required and no auditions. Generation Dance meet Fri 10.30am - 11.30am at St Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate. All age 60+ welcome regardless of mobility, independence and experience.

BATHGATE HISTORY GROUP A friendly group who meet on Wednesdays at 2.00pm in St John’s Church Hall, Mid Street, Bathgate. We have interesting speakers on various topics with tea and coffee served. A warm welcome awaits old and new members. We meet from the first Wednesday in September through to the following April. For further information contact Christine on 01506 656499.

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, Balbardie Primary School, and Bathgate Partnership Centre. We offer a range of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked with no fee for `holding` an unused space. For more information visit www.simplyplay. org or call 01506 856444.

31ST WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7:00pm-9:00pm

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 Unit 6, Interchange Business Park, Houston Road, Livingston, EH54 5DW. 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.

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 Tue - Thu 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, Yoga Babiez, Baby Sensory, Iyengar Yoga Warriors and Kids Iyengar Yoga Warriors. Please see our events page

40 | BATHGATE

on facebook www.facebook.com/ kidzeco 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 Elan Simpson on 07741 009079 or email elansimpson@aol.com for further details.”

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

REGAL MUSIC CLUB The Regal Theatre, Bathgate. For anyone who loves music. We meet fortnightly on Wednesdays. 7.30pm – 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. £2.00 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 A meeting place and caring supportive group for people with dementia and their carers. The Memory Cafe runs the first Monday of every month between 1.30pm and 3pm at Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street, Bathgate (Sheltered Housing Complex). For further information contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533 108 or just turn up and be assured of a warm welcome.

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 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.

WEST LOTHIAN RUN Little Runners – free kids running classes, Sundays at Boghall Community Wing 11am – 12pm.

See www.westlothianrun.org.uk for details and to register.

WEST LOTHIAN GENERATION ARTS Helps people stay healthy mentally and physically by offering classes of seated dance, singing and arts. Classes are held in St. Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate, for over sixties, on Fridays at 10.30am and Howden Park Centre, Livingston, on Thursdays at 1130 a.m.

Further info frome: generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com w: 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 Rosemount Court, Mid Street Bathgate EH48 1QW. 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 info see www.rycbathgate.com or contact us via facebook.

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 KIRKTON PARK TENNIS CLUB Interested in improving your tennis game? Check out our club info at KirktonParkTennisClub.co.uk We offer a free trial social session! Hope to see you on the courts soon. Learn, Play, Enjoy!

SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB The Ballencrief, Hopetoun Street, Bathgate. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device.

Enjoy the experience; learn and share!

Thursday mornings 10am - 12 noon.

Contact : Chris Cosgrove. Bathgate Computer Club. Call 01506 656153 or just call in.

WEST LOTHIAN SUB AQUA CLUB Come along and join us on a Tuesday evening at Xcite Bathgate swimming pool. Not sure if scuba-diving is for you?

No problem, we can offer you a taster ‘Try Dive’ to let you experience the freedom of diving. Training is carried out at your pace and our instructors are fully

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qualified and experienced divers so you will be in safe hands. As a not-for-profit organisation you will be surprised how little our training costs. To find out more, visit our website www.westlothianscuba. co.uk or come along to Xcite Bathgate at 8pm on a Tuesday for a chat by the pool.

NIBBLE N NATTER Fortnightly get together in Royal Scot Court, Bathgate, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people. Have a chat and a choice of biscuits and cakes with a cup of tea. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you! Cost is just £1 and all are welcome.

Group run by Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives), 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60?

Looking to get out and meet new people?

Come and join in our activity group in Rosemount Gardens, Bathgate - a mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot PILATES St. Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate. Monday evenings 6pm for intermediate/advanced levels and 7pm for beginner/intermediate levels. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information, contact Maria on 07513 116490 or mariahybszerpilates@ gmail.com or check out website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.com WESTER INCH KARATE CLUB A community based club with classes every Wed at Simpson Primary School. 18.00 – 19.00 Dragon Ninjas Class: suitable for 5 – 7 year olds; 19.00 – 20.30 The class is suitable for adults and children from 8 years. The first class is free, thereafter there is a special rate of £35 which includes two months of classes and a karate suit. Membership includes free entry to Livingston Karate Club. Register your interest via our website www.westerinchkarateclub.co.uk

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 Meet every Tues 7pm-9pm in the Community Wing of Simpson Primary School, Leyland Road, Westerinch, Bathgate, EH48 2SG. All over 18yrs, including beginners, are welcome. We have professional artists giving demonstrations mid month, and a tutor teaching at end of month, both teaching new techniques, and giving

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us time to try. We work in all mediums, first month free, and fees are £80 twice yearly. For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com or contact 07762 933138.

CENTREPOINT CHURCH Simpson Primary School. Sunday Worship Gathering, Weekly 10:30am. Contact: Tom Jackson m: 07540391081 e: tom. jackson@centrepointchurch.org WEST INCH NETBALL Meet on a Tuesday night at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. Arrive anytime after 7 pm, games played between 7.30 and 8.30 pm. £3 per person, per week. All are welcome.

DOTEKI KARATE CLUB Meet Mon night at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate, 4 – 8 year olds 6.30 – 7.30pm and 8 years to adults 7.30 – 8.30pm and also at Southdale Primart School, Armadale on a Wed evening, same times. No previous experience necessary. Wear a t-shirt, jogging bottoms and bring a bottle of water. For more information visit their Facebook page: Doteki Karate Club; email dotekikarate@gmail.com or phone: 07917 351794 .

FOOTBALL STAR ACADEMY Meet on a Saturday and Sunday morning at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate for boys and girls aged 5 and 8 years.

Saturday’s Soccer School is between 11 am and 12 noon, Sunday’s Soccer School is 10.30 – 11.30 am. For more information visit their Facebook page: @footballstaracademy1; email footballstaracademy@outlook.com or phone: 07903877987.

TORPHICHEN BROWNIE UNIT (girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

OTHER AREAS NEW FITSTEPS An energetic, upbeat dance fitness class that mixes the graceful steps of Ballroom and the uptempo steps of Latin to create fun-filled classes where you don’t even realise you’re getting fit! No partner required.

Wednesday 7.30-8.30pm, Linlithgow Rugby Football Club, 34 Mains Rd, Linlithgow EH49 6DB. £5 per class. moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Tel 07737 927463 NEW ARMADALE BARRACUDAS SWIMMING CLUB For all children aged 4-16, all ability levels. We are a non-profit making group in Armadale run by a committee of volunteers.

Please contact abasctrialists@gmail. com to arrange a free trial..

UPCYCLING/RECYCLING CLUB Come and join us for our weekly craft recycling classes & learn new skills.

Cushion covers, decopatch, rug making and many more projects. Every Tuesday 10.30 - 12, 12.30 - 2 & 2 – 3.30 Colliery Hub, Polkemmet Business Centre, Dixon Terrace, Whitburn, EH47 0LH. Contact Sam: 07986 405900.

All materials are provided and classes are free.

LOTHIAN PHOENIX WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CLUB Meet on Thur nights at Armadale Academy. Come along and try something new! No experience necessary, we have spare sports wheelchairs available to use.

Adults 7-9pm, Kids 7-8pm (they are welcome to stay until 9pm if you wish.)

All abilities are welcome. Contact Conor Smart - 07585 925810 to find out more or come along to one of our sessions.

WOOLY QUILTERS This self help group is the ideal place for help and craft chat with a cuppa while you sew or knit. We do a variety of crafts from patchwork & quilting to knitting & spinning, or to get you started try making our beginners quilt! Meet on a Wed 7pm- 9pm at Seafield Bowling Club, Old Rows, Seafield Rows, EH47 7AP. For more information: email: woolyquilters@gmail.com or find us on facebook.

SING WEST LOTHIAN Armadale Community Centre, Thurs 6pm 8pm. Free, and no audition and no requirement to read music. For information email westlothianchoir@ outlook.com or find us on Facebook

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS ARMADALE Armadale Community Centre, 7 North Street Armadale, EH48 3QB. Manager Arlene. Contact : 07592816761. Open Tuesday to Friday 9;15am to 11;30am £7.50 per session.

CHOOSE YOU – YOGA STUDIO AND WELLNESS HUB Wide range of classes at our permanent wellness studio in Carmondean. Yoga classes include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Seasonal, Bihar, Hatha/Vinyasa and Core Strength as well as yoga for kids, teens and men. We also offer Tai-Chi. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824 195 or email info@chooseyouyoga. co.uk for more information.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.KONECT.SCOT

BATHGATE | 41

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair 12 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 2 S and S Home Improvements 19 BEAUTICIAN Browhau5 Microblading 5 CAR SERVICING, MOT & REPAIR Ace Exhausts & Tyres 6 M & S Auto Solutions 14 CARPET & FLOORING SALES Kelly’s Carpets 7 CHURCHES Centrepoint Church 28 CLEANING: HOUSE / OFFICE Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning 12 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Cyrenians 8 COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 13 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce 10 DENTIST Livingston Dental Care 27 ELECTRICIAN Bennett & Heath Electrical Services 13 ENTERTAINMENT & ATTRACTIONS Eeek Escape Rooms 4 ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller 30 Property Connections 31 Turpie & Co. 16 FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES The Smithy 12 GARAGE DOORS Garolla 33 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 25 GARDEN DESIGN / MAINTENANCE All Year Round Landscapes 4 Evergreen Balerno 20 Naia Garden Services 33 GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate 21 GAS STOCKIST Charles Gas 5 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 23 JOINERY DJMS - Domestic Joinery & Maintenance Services 10

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LANDLORD SERVICES Weslo Property Management

SOLUTIONS

8

LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Beatson’s Building Supplies

20

MARKETING / LEAFLETING The Leaflet Lady

44

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 12 West Lothian Locksmith 13 PAINTING & DECORATING Manic Street Painters PEST CONTROL Frontline Pest Control PLASTERING Nu Walls

24 33 24

ACROSS: 1. Crop, 3. Opponent, 9. Mistake, PLUMBING & HEATING 10. Chess, 11. Enthusiastic, 13. Casual, SERVICES 15. Morsel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Lunar, Mech A Tech Home Heating 21. Silence, 22. Speeding, 23. Orbs.

DOWN: 1. Commerce, 2. Onset, 4.Poetic, Services 24 5. Occasionally, 6. Eyelids, 7. Toss, McLellan Plumbing & Heating 4

PRESSURE WASHING Scotwash Solutions RESTAURANT Dante’s Restaurant

ROOFING G Hughes Roofing Services Taylor Roofs SOLICITORS & LEGAL Purdie MacLean Solicitors TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE County Cars

TREE CARE SERVICES Arbscape Tree Surgery

4 5

8. Manufactured, 12. Clusters, 14. Science, 16. Loosen, 18. Inner, 19. Plus.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 32

33 18 6 43 4

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 18 TUITION RainbowTree Music

VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Ayrton Veterinary Hospital Riverside Veterinary Practice WEDDING PACKAGES The Hilcroft Hotel

29 35 34 22

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 28

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