Konect Bathgate December 2024

DEC 2024 / JAN 2025

LOCAL CHARITY:

CHARITY: WHAT’S ON:

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ecember already! Here at Konect we’ve clocked up another year of discovering and celebrating with each issue the endless energy, kindness and creativity in the local area, and there is no better time than the festive season to reflect on it.

There is always more to be done, and West Lothian charity Braid Health and Wellbeing, based in Livingston, pride themselves on going above and beyond for the elderly, isolated and vulnerable members of our community. They have capacity within their service at present, so if you know anyone who may need their excellent services, please get in touch with them – see the feature on pages 8-9. Also working with our older neighbours, Home Instead West Lothian are running their “Be a Santa to a Senior” campaign again this festive season.

Dogs Trust West Calders are looking for foster carers to provide a loving home for dogs which are on their way to their forever home. It’s a hugely rewarding activity not only in terms of the meaningful connection with the dogs you care for, but the broader social community at the Dogs Trust. See page 18 for details.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the season out and about locally, see the What’s On section, and don’t miss Bathgate’s festive event on Saturday 7th December.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers and local organisations featured in Konect a wonderful and peaceful festive season.

Charity: “Be a Santa to a Senior”...................... 8 Charity: Braid Health & Wellbeing.................8-9 Living Well: Protection from scams................13 What’s On: Bathgate’s Christmas...................14 Pets: Home from Home for dogs....................18 Puzzles....................................................................19 Local Environment: Getting creative..............20 Recipe: Devils on Horseback..........................22 Garden: Viewed from the window..................23 Life Coaching: Christmas is coming, oh yes it is!.............................................................24 Film Review: Joy (2024).................................... 24 What’s On..............................................................26 Clubs & Classes: Music 4 U............................31

‘TIS THE SEASON: Wishing all our readers a wonderful and peaceful festive season

Konect is delivered monthly to 10,000 homes in selected areas of Bathgate and Broxburn. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe BATHGATE | 3

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If you or anyone you know is struggling with isolation, neurological or age-related conditions, there may be a Braid Health & Wellbeing service that can help.

Home Instead West Lothian have launched their festive campaign ‘Be A Santa To A Senior’ for the fifth year running.

Every year at Christmas, Home Instead West Lothian work in partnership with various community groups and charities to identify isolated older people across our local area who may not otherwise receive a present over the festive season.

With demand growing each year, we are once again asking for help from members of the public to support the campaign by purchasing a gift for isolated elderly people across West Lothian.

Gifts can be dropped off at one of the collection points below, or ordered online via their Amazon wishlist which can be found via their website here: www.homeinstead.co.uk/westlothian/blog/be-a-santa-2024 DROP OFF POINTS:

• Home Instead West Lothian Unit 9 Grampian Court, Beveridge Square, Livingston, EH54 6QF • Klondyke Garden Centre, Campus Roundabout, Livingston, EH54 7AW • Forestbank Community Centre, Ladywell East Road, Livingston, EH54 6DX • J&R Veitch, Almondell Garden Centre, Raw Farm, East Calder, EH53 0ET • Mill Garden Centre, Mill Road, Armadale, EH48 3AP • Williamson’s Garden Centre, Beechwood Nurseries, 17 Houston Mains Holdings, Uphall, EH52 6PA This article was contributed by Home Instead West Lothian who run the Be a Santa to a Senior festive campaign.

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Braid Health & Wellbeing is the largest Day Care centre in West Lothian. We have a long and positive history of offering targeted and specialist day and wellbeing support to the older and more vulnerable communities throughout our catchment area.

TACKLING LONELINESS - Braid Health and Wellbeing provides a digital and physical space for everyone in need of support as they transition through life’s stages. We are a vibrant and forward-thinking charitable organisation, positively enhancing the ageing process for elderly, isolated and vulnerable individuals. It is our goal to offer the very best health and wellbeing support for those living within West Lothian DAY SERVICE - We are proud of our ethos that our clients are the heart of who we are.

We strive to ensure that each client who attends is treated with a person-centred approach and that their needs are central to the care they receive.

With changing times and the needs of people we strongly believe that no person should be excluded from being able to be part of our amazing community, and are pleased to announce that we have now designed our service so that we can tailor support for anyone who requires it to be adapted to meet their needs. This service is over and above that of our standard day service. We can provide 1 to 1 support, 2 to 1 support and other services to meets the needs of our clients. These services may incur an additional fee. We support clients over 50 with complex needs, such as Dementia, Parkinsons and other age-related illnesses We have spaces for both local council referred clients (option 2 and 3) and self-referred private clients. For those

referred by their social worker who are eligible for a council place, the cost of the service will be means assessed by social work.

For private clients, there is an option for both a full day or a half day. Please contact us to self refer to the service

OUR VISION - At Braid Health and Wellbeing, we see an ageing population as an opportunity, rather than a challenge and one which is vital for the progression of society. We are working hard towards delivering radically different approaches to providing our care and support for those experiencing conditions of ageing.

Our aim is to develop a wide variety of mental and physical wellbeing services which are accessible to all. So whether your passion is singing, dance, films, being active, mindfulness, knitting, building things or just chatting away to like-minded folk… we’ve got something for you.

Services and activities aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing

SENSORY/SPECIALIST ROOMS - We have created two wonderful sensory rooms within our centre which are available

to hire. These rooms provide a calming and nurturing experience. They are aimed at supporting people with dementia and younger adults who have disabilities or learning difficulties. We also rent them out for anyone running relaxation or wellbeing services

ROOM HIRE - We have a range of rooms which can be hired out for events and activities, alongside a large, fully-equipped kitchen. Our biggest space, which is linked to the kitchen via a hatch, can hold up to 60 people for dining. We also have a variety of smaller rooms perfect for a board meeting or interviews. If you would like to tour the space, please email us.

Sensory Room - available for hire Large fully-equipped kitchen

For more information on any of our services or to enquire about room hire, please contact us on 01506 430615 or email contact@braidhealth.scot Braid Health & Wellbeing, Labrador Avenue, Livingston, EH54 6BU.

www.braidhealth.scot www.justgiving.com/braidhealth Braid Health and Wellbeing is a charity registered in Scotland, number: SC012574

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LIVING WELL

It’s easy to assume we are savvy when it comes to fraud and scams, and expect that we’ll never be caught out and can spot a scam a mile off.

Sadly, scammers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, employing new tactics and methods to gain our trust. Our older loved ones are particularly at risk, as scammers can seek them out. Unfamiliarity with the online world can play a part too. If families club together and talk older loved ones through what to look out for, they can protect them from becoming victim.

HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD AND SCAMS? Avoid Disclosing Security Details - Never share personal information like passwords or bank details over the phone or online.

Check Authenticity - Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages; verify the sender’s identity before responding.

Contact Organisations Directly - Use official contact information to confirm any suspicious communications. Use another phone if possible in case they have tapped into and have control over your phone.

Challenge Unexpected Requests - Trust your instincts — if something seems off, verify before acting.

Report Scams - Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or organisations like Action Fraud to help protect others by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk

Sadly, many scams go unreported due to the victim’s fear of embarrassment. But by being open and honest about scams with your older loved ones, they will feel more compelled to check with you if they ever have any suspicions.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian

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Small Business Saturday takes place on Saturday 7th December, and shoppers are encouraged to support small and independent businesses, such as those that can be found in West Lothian’s traditional town centres of Armadale, Bathgate, Broxburn, Uphall, Linlithgow and Whitburn.

The day itself takes place on the first Saturday in December each year, but the campaign aims to have a lasting impact on small businesses. Having been running for more than a decade, the campaign has grown significantly year on year encouraging millions to shop small. This is a grassroots, noncommercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. Further campaign detail and how you can participate can be found at www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com This festive period is the perfect opportunity for local residents in West Lothian to show

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their support for small, high quality, specialist retailers, business services and stores, which play a vital role in our communities and ensure our towns and villages remain vibrant and welcoming places to visit, shop, work, live and be entertained in. The nationwide event will also coincide with local festive events taking place over that weekend, including here in Bathgate town centre, where we have the festive market and live entertainment from 12noon, with Christmas Lights Switch On at 4.00pm

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Home from Home for dogs Can you help us provide a temporary home for our dogs?

At Dogs Trust West Calder, we’re immensely proud of our thriving Home from Home programme—the most successful across all 21 Dogs Trust centres in the UK! Our foster carer scheme has achieved remarkable success, with an impressive 56% of our rehoming placements happening through dedicated foster families. The Home from Home programme offers dogs a loving and familiar environment, providing a comfortable alternative to kennels and setting them on the right path toward their forever homes.

We’re searching for compassionate individuals who live within a one-hour drive of the West Calder/Edinburgh area, who have their own car, and who are ready to regularly visit our centre. Whether you’re a seasoned dog lover or brand new to pet care, we welcome all experience levels! As a foster carer, you’ll be an integral part of our team, helping to shape a brighter future for our dogs. Fostering with us is flexible and rewarding—you’ll have a say in when and how long you’d like to foster, and if you need a break or are away on holiday, that’s absolutely fine.

Dogs Trust covers all costs, including supplies and medical care, so your primary focus can be on creating a nurturing environment for the dog in your care. We particularly encourage those who work from home, are retired, or who spend lots of time at home to apply, especially if you have a secure garden where a dog can 18 | BATHGATE

enjoy outdoor time.

With the support of our dedicated Home from Home Coordinators, you’ll have guidance every step of the way—from choosing a dog that suits your lifestyle to preparing for their eventual adoption.

Fostering is a chance to create a meaningful connection and make a tangible difference, all while gaining unforgettable experiences.

You’ll have the opportunity to care for dogs of all ages, from playful puppies to gentle seniors, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

And the journey doesn’t stop with fostering— our foster carers become part of a vibrant community, celebrating milestones together through events like our summer BBQs and festive Christmas lunches. These gatherings offer our carers a chance to share experiences, support each other, and strengthen bonds within our fostering family.

If you’re ready to be part of a program that’s transforming lives and contributing to one of the UK’s most successful rehoming centres, consider joining our Home from Home team.

For more details, reach out to our team today on hfhwestcalder@dogstrust.org.uk This article was contributed by Dogs Trust West Calder, (Edinburgh), Bentyhead, West Calder, EH55 8LE. Registered Charity SC053144. dogstrust.org.uk

58mm Vertical [RIGHT]

DECEMBER CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the FEBRUARY edition

ACROSS: 1. Snake-like fish (4), 3. Board game (8), 9. Get in touch (7), 10. Better (5), 11. Accomplishments (12), 14. Jewel (3), 16. Tracks (5), 17. Change colour (3), 18. Clarifications (12), 21. Punctuation mark (5), 22.Displaying(7),23.Home-help(8),24.Finishes(4).

DOWN: 1. Swap (8), 2. Midday meal (5), 4. Slap (3), 5. Dialogue (12), 6. Enthusiastic (7), 7. Certain (4), 8. Animals with many legs (12), 12. Consumed (5), 13. Texts (8), 15. Largest amount (7), 19. Vegetable (5), 20. Cooled (4), 22. Winter sport (3).

ADD SOLUTION DETAILS

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 30

DECEMBER SUDOKU

BATHGATE | 19

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

I might upset a few people with this but the bird in this shot is called a fieldfare and they’re part of the thrush family.

They migrate here from Northern Europe and it’s not uncommon to find them with flocks of redwing or waxwings as they roam the skies on the hunt for berries. One of my favourite places to see them is on the sea buckthorn down at Aberlady. Now is when I might cause controversy when I say that’s as exciting at it gets. There are no cool anecdotes about them, they’re just lovelylooking birds who we only get to see during the winter.

Instead, let’s look at this from a photography angle. What do you think the background of this image might be? It was in a very urban environment and it may surprise you to know it was in fact someone’s house. I wasn’t looking in their window or anything, that’d be a bit weird. Whilst it’s always nice to have a bit of blue sky, it’s quite a boring backdrop for images so if you’re out photographing something, even taking a couple of steps in the opposite direction could completely 20 | BATHGATE

change up your background and make it far more appealing. It can also help get rid of some annoying grass or other distraction, as long as you aren’t disturbing the species.

The fieldfare should be back imminently, if not already (I haven’t seen any) looking to spend their winter in Scotland.

This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.

Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.

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FOOD & DRINK

Devils on Horseback Dried fruit is good for you; it’s a pleasure to eat and the fibre it adds to the diet is important. The slow release of the minerals and vitamins all dried fruits contain help foster good heart, gut, brain and muscle health.

December is a good time of year to celebrate and use these foods. The new harvest is in its best condition and Christmas is a time for treats and celebration.

Dried fruit is at the heart of many special dishes just now, not the least of which are Christmas Cake, mince-meat and Christmas Pudding. The story of mince-meat is connected to the Crusaders and shows how food can be changed and adapted over 700 years from a mixture of meat and spices to the sweet filling for today’s Christmas pie.

Almost all dried fruits can be eaten as a snack and are marketed for this, attractively packaged in small quantities at a high price per kg. It is more economical to buy larger packs and create your own favourite mixture, which you can store in a large screw-top jar.

Dried fruit also enhances and enriches savoury cooking. Many seasonal recipes include dried fruit such as dried apples or apricots in stuffing and sultanas in kedgeree.

Dried Fruit salad:

Muscatels, figs and dates are good to nibble at the end of a meal. Re-hydrated dried fruit salad folded into whipped double cream mixed 50/50 with Greek style yoghurt served with meringues make a special winter pudding. Soaking the fruit in tea, before you poach it, gives a particularly nice flavour, but do remember to take the teabag out.

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Devils on Horseback:

For a Christmas treat either with drinks before the meal or in the old traditional way as a savoury at the end of a formal meal try Devils on Horseback. They are not difficult to make and freeze well, so can be made well before you need them. You will have sticky fingers but it is worth it.

Ingredients:

• 24 large stone-free prunes • Branston Pickle, or your own chutney if it has bits.

• 12 rashers streaky bacon smoked or not as you prefer.

• Cocktail sticks

Method:

Stuff the cavity left by the plumb stone with the lumpy bits of Branston Pickle. That is the sticky part! Stretch the bacon by smoothing it out with the back of a knife. Cut each rasher in half and the roll each prune in a half slice. Secure with a wooden cocktail stick. Freeze to store.

To cook from frozen, space the devils out on a baking sheet covered in non-stick paper and bake in a hot, 180/200OC oven for about 10/15 minutes. Serve cooling from the oven.

Take care; the sugar in the Branston will keep very hot.

This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton.

A NIGHT VIEW FROM WINDOW With long nights and short days we like to light up some of the views in the evenings from our windows, and Henry the cat enjoys looking out from the warmth of the house!

We do have some artworks in the garden that we can see from inside but for the festive season the patio is our main focus. We always decorate the table, usually with a wreath made from clippings from garden plants and laid flat, perhaps with a pot of winter flowering heather or a Christmas Rose as well as a lantern with a candle burning in it.

Lesley usually has some Christmas lights trained on the pergola or through a shrub, she says that ladies can do lights as well as men, after all it’s just like plugging the iron in! LED lights are low voltage and so long as you plug them into the mains in the dry (use

a waterproof box for this) they are very safe and use very little electricity in the garden. Most sets include an automatic timer that has them on for 6 or 8 hours and then off for 18 or 16 hours.

There are lots of battery-powered lights available that will do the same job and the batteries last for a long time. They have similar functions as the mains operated sets. Here our patio is also lit up by an LED security light fixed above the patio door on the house wall.

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

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

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LIFE COACHING

Christmas is coming - OH YES IT IS! Time certainly flies and we feel that most keenly when Christmas is approaching.

IVF is a true scientific breakthrough of the modern age. It has given millions of women the opportunity to have children that once would not have been an option.

As stated in the film Joy, having a child is a choice but for thousands, it is not. So why is it wrong for science to give options to many more women? Years ago, this film would have been a showcase of the power of science and a happy story of the advancement of reproductive care. However, in 2024 it is a stark reminder of a past that is echoing to this very day. Joy has a pro-choice message. Even though the choice is around having a child or not. It is easy to see the parallels between the challenges faced by the development of IVF to what is currently happening with abortion.

We see many scenes of the doctors explaining that is IVF just like false teeth; it’s not a sin and that IVF would destigmatise the idea that women who cannot have children are lesser than those who can. What was achieved by Jean Purdy, Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe was nothing short of a marvel and this film perfectly and thrilling showcases that.

With wonderful performances by Thomasin Mckenzie, James Norton and Bill Nighy, Joy is nothing short of a great film. While tackling a very real issue it’s also very easy to watch and flies at a brisk pace. A worthy watch.

Available to watch on NETFLIX The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

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For many of us, it just seems like five minutes since we put away all those decorations and squared our shoulders for a bright shiny new year and yet, here we are again. Glitter and shine are everywhere we look and we are encouraged to spend, spend, spend.

Most people react to the very mention of the festive season in one of two ways. They are either happy and excited or they start stressing out and begin the process of taking all the joy out of the season for themselves and everyone else they come into contact with.

However we feel about Christmas, it’s important to remember that we always have choices and the power to make the festive season exactly right for ourselves.

This could be the year that we all decide to celebrate exactly as we want to, we can take things easy and enjoy all those small moments. Special things like taking down and unwrapping those familiar decorations with all the memories they evoke, dress up or don’t dress up, spend time with our very favourite people or close the door and just be with ourselves. Cook from scratch or buy ready made food to pop into the microwave and choose a meal that is made up of things we actually like to eat.

Let’s all decide to enjoy our own individual version of the perfect Christmas whether we sparkle with our family and friends or just sparkle by ourselves.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner.

Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk

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SUNDAY 1ST DECEMBER Friends of Polkemmet Country Park Volunteering session - A winter clean up, sweeping and raking leaves off of the boardwalks and bridges, cutting back any overhanging tree limbs from paths to help stop rainwater pooling, as well as a general litter pick throughout the park. All tools and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger.

Bring gloves if you can, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Please bring any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary and new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run 10am – 12noon. Meet outside the Ranger Office, next to the archway at the Visitor Centre. Facebook: ‘Friends of Polkemmet’. Please book a space (free of charge) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements

Where to see Santa He’s a busy man and most places require advance bookings! If you have not yet booked, check these local venues for availability!

Deer Park: Meet Santa in his magical grotto, gift included, £8.99 per child. Weekends 7th/8th Dec and 14th/15th Dec, various times through the day, see advert on this page. Please book by calling Deer Park on 01506 446699.

Almond Valley Heritage Centre: Meet Santa in his cosy cottage. Fri to Sun through December, £10 per child. 4 minutes with Santa plus a gift. Also midweek Santa for tots and toddlers, and ASN Friendly Santa Visits on selected dates. Details on online booking for all Santa visits at www.almondvalley.co.uk/ whats-on/christmas-events Dobbies Livingston: Magical journey to meet Santa in his grotto. Daily to 24th December, £12.99 per child, includes a gift. Information and booking at events.dobbies.com Five Sisters Zoo, West Calder: Santa meet and greet experience in our festive grotto. 5 minute Santa experience plus a gift. £15.00 per child. (You can visit the grotto without visiting the zoo/soft play, or add it to your zoo/illuminations booking). Information 26 | BATHGATE

www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/west-lothian-councilranger-service-60064115123.

Email: rangerservice@westlothian.gov.uk FRIDAY 6TH DECEMBER A Night of Festive Favourites - Bathgate Concert Orchestra’s annual Christmas Concert.

Conductor Steven Meikle. Ladywell Baptist Church, Livingston, EH54 6DR. 7:30pm. Entry by donation. bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk FRIDAY 6TH - SUNDAY 8TH DECEMBER Bathgate Christmas Market - A magical weekend of festive fun! Unique gifts & crafts, festive foods & drinks, Live entertainment, Christmas carols and festive music. Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: Saturday, 7th December – a special evening for all.

Bathgate Precinct, George Street, EH48 1PW. 12noon - 6.00pm each day SATURDAY 14TH DECEMBER Carols at the Craig Inn - An evening of festivities with Bathgate Concert Orchestra, at the Craig Inn Community Centre, Blackridge.

Music, mince pies, tea & coffee and a festive raffle. All welcome. Entry £2 on the door. and online booking at fivesisterszoo.co.uk/ zoo-illuminations-2024 The Centre, Livingston: Santa’s Grotto is nestled at the heart of the giant Christmas Tree near Waterstones. Daily until 24th Dec, includes a gift from Santa. From £6 per child, plus £1.50 online booking fee. Information and booking at www. bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/Livingston Conifox Adventure Park, Kirkliston: Full Xmas experience including Elf school, toy workshop, reindeer flying school, cookie decorating with Mrs Claus, Magic Forest journey and meet Santa himself in his living room, includes a gift. £22.70 per child, information and booking at conifox.co.uk The Bridge Inn, Linlithgow: Experience the enchantment of Santa’s Grotto and enjoy a gift from Danta. 23rd December 6-8pm, £15 per child, book by calling 01506 539888.

House of the Binns, Queensferry: Santa Claus and his elves are visiting the House of the Binns this festive season! Santa will meet you in the Blue Room of the House which will be magically decorated by Santa's elves.

Gift and seasonal certificate included. £16 per child. Saturdays and Sundays from 7th to 22nd, December, various times, information and booking via eventbrite

SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER A Christmas Celebration - with Tocatta Ladies Choir. Uphall South Parish Church, 7.30pm.

Tickets £10 on the door. toccataladieschoir.co.uk UNTIL SUNDAY 29TH DECEMBER Panto: Oor Aladdin - Reconnect Theatres present “Oor Aladdin,” a Scottish adaption of an old favourite, at Reconnect Regal Theatre, Bathgate. Selected dates to 29th December.

Tickets from £15 via reconnectregal.com

DAILY UNTIL MON 30TH DECEMBER Christmas During the Day - Discover the joys of Christmas at Almond Valley where every day is filled with festive cheer and unforgettable fun! A range of magical activities for the whole family to enjoy, including: Santa’s Postbox, Wish Tree, Photo Opportunities, Tractor Rides, Animal Encounters, Carnival Games in the Orchard Barn, Christmas Themed Menu in our cafe, and so much more.

Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. www.almondvalley. co.uk/whats-on/christmas-events 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. BATHGATE | 27

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

1271 (BATHGATE) RAF AIR CADETS - The RAF Air Cadets is a uniformed youth organisation for young people aged between 12 (In S2) - 20. We offer lots of opportunities including flying, gliding, shooting, adventure training, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Leadership and much much more. We are based in Bathgate and parade on a Tuesday and Thursday evening...

Interested? Get in touch!

Email: oc.1271@rafac.mod.gov. uk - Tel.: 01506 630784

POETS O WEST LOTHIAN Nae need fir academic skill / Jist let yer thochts byle up an spill / In inky screivins frae yer QUILL / And sip from that Parnassian rill!...poetry in Scots, English, Mesolithic, Martian...Ice Age or Space Age...we are a cheery wee non-judgemental group meeting in Bathgate Partnership/Jim Walker Centre, first Monday of the month, except holidays. Share yer stuff, hae a blether and a laugh.

Text Davie at 07591 681791.

ROUGHLY SPEAKING COMEDY - Hosted by Midnight Breakfast Club in Bathgate, Roughly Speaking Comedy is an open mic for comedians and aspiring comedians alike.

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, you can sign up either online or on the night. Free entry. See Facebook “Roughly Speaking Comedy” for confirmed dates or email roughlyspeakingopenmic@gmail.com LIVINGSTON & WEST LOTHIAN HOCKEY CLUB - Livingston & West Lothian Hockey Club are a friendly, sociable and competitive hockey club based at Deans Community High School in Livingston. The Club has one Men’s team, two Ladies teams and a large Juniors section. The Club is always on the look out for new members.

If you feel you’d like to try hockey then please feel free to contact 28 | BATHGATE

us through our social media channels (website www.livingstonhockeyclub.uk, Facebook or email livingstonandwlhockey@gmail.com BIPOLAR SCOTLAND SUPPORT GROUP - Bipolar Scotland invites patients, family, friends, partners and carers of those with a Bipolar diagnosis within West Lothian to come along to our monthly group meeting.

Held every second Thursday of the month at Bathgate Partnership Centre (21-55 South Bridge St, Bathgate EH48 1TL), Rooms 8 & 9, 7.00pm-9.00pm. More information on Bipolar Scotland’s services available at www.bipolarscotland. org.uk or 0141 560 2050 BATHGATE BELLES SWI - We meet on the last Wednesday of each month from 7-9pm in The Royal British Legion, 50 North Bridge Street, Bathgate. Our aim is to empower women through friendship, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of community.

We offer lifelong learning opportunities by having talks, trips out and demonstrations and promote well-being by having lots of fun. For more information email at bathgatebelles@outlook.com or just come along.

BROXBURN PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP - For children 2 to 5 years old. We provide a safe, caring, learning environment where children can realise their full potential in a fun manner while taking their first steps towards independence. Fully registered and insured Scottish Charity, with all necessary safeguarding credentials.

Children who have attended our playgroup in the past have been reported as having had a smooth transition to mainstream nursery and school. broxburnpreschoolplaygroup.co.uk 17TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS - Canon Hoban Hall, Broxburn.

(What3words bubble.baroness.

shepherds) Join in the adventure and gain life skills. If you are an adult or a young person and want to gain life skills come and join us. Monday:- Beavers (6-8years) 6:15-7:15pm; Cubs (8-10years) 7:30-8:45pm. Friday:- Scouts (1014 years) 7:00-9:00pm; Explorers (14-18years) 7:30-9:30pm.

Everyone welcome. Contact: info@17thbroxburnscoutgroup. co.uk or 07785 525 466.

BROXBURN GENERAL YOGA CLASS - Sunday morning 9:30 -10:30 - not as bad as it sounds!

Class held in the lovely studio at Broxburn United Sports Club, Albyn Place. £5 per session, all welcome. E: iyogawithc@gmail. com T: 07749 524 249 WINCHBURGH ART CLASS - Winchburgh Community Hall, every Thursday 9.30am –11.30am. All levels welcome. We have tutors regularly. All mediums used. Contact Secretary 07980 321989.

LOTHIAN PHOENIX WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CLUB - Meet on Thursday nights at Armadale Academy. All abilities are welcome, and no experience is necessary. We have spare sports chairs available to use. Adult’s session is 7.00 - 9.00pm in the large sports hall, juniors’ session is 7.00 - 9.00pm in the small hall.

Come along and try something new! Contact Karen Redmond walkerredmond@aol.com or call 07982195006 to find out more or come along to one of our sessions.

WEST LOTHIAN LITTER PICKERS - We’re a group of over 3000 West Lothian residents, so if you want to help clean up your community, like we do, come join the group on Facebook “West Lothian Litter Pickers(Act Local Think Global)”. We organise group litter picks or put you in touch with a buddy in your area to get you started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.

WEST LOTHIAN u3a Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information s§ee: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian Facebook: ‘West Lothian u3a’ E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274 COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS - For children age 2-5 years.

Armadale, Bathgate, Crofthead Farm, Fauldhouse, Uphall and West Calder. Morning sessions 9.15-11.30am, £10.00 per session.

Full Day sessions 9.15am-2.00pm, £22.00 per session. Funded Places available.

W: www.communityplaygroups.org T: 07904 623176 BATHGATE AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - Retired? Fed up with lockdown and covid restrictions? Come and enjoy weekly meetings with interesting speakers on a wide range of topics, together with exciting visits in the summer months. Join us for informal chats, with refreshments beforehand, every Tuesday from 10.00am to 12.00pm in St John’s Church hall, Mid Street, Bathgate.

For further information, contact Sandy McAlpin (Secretary) on (01506) 630152.

LITTLE MONSTERS UNDER 5 GROUP A new look Little Monsters at Boghall Drop-in Centre. Children 0 – 5 with their parent/carer, Tues, Wed & Thurs.

Coffee, tea & refreshments 9.009.30am, followed by FREE Dropin Sessions. 9.30-10.30am or 11am-12noon. Afternoon (FREE) 12.30-13.15 Storytime/arts/music classes. Email: arlene@bdic.org. uk Or call the drop in centre on 01506 283201 to register SONGWRITING GROUP Looking for new members. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month from 7.00pm - 9.00pm, in Uphall.

These are informal evenings aimed at encouraging musicians

and songwriters (adults) of all levels and abilities who would like to share their idea, techniques and songs with others in an informal, friendly environment. For further information, please contact Annie on 07824 667889.

WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semiretired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned.

Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Antenatal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday.

Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.007.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday.

Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston.

E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk T: 07810 824 195 W: www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers.

Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face).

T: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs.

Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer.

Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn.

Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre call to book a place. Phone and email support also available.

Please call 01506 283053 or email: MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24.

Follow our Facebook page, visit: westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION. BATHGATE | 29

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Encyclopedias, 8. Declared, 9. Gigs, 10. Minster, 12. Aorta, 14. Corgi, 16.

Erasure, 19. Fail, 20. Applause, 22. Demonstration.

ACROSS: 7. Encyclopedias, 8. Declared, 9. Gigs, 10. Minster, 12. Aorta, 14. Corgi, 16.

Erasure, 19. Fail, 20. Applause, 22. Demonstration.

DOWN: 1. Knee, 2. Cycles, 3. Alarmed, 4. Spade, 5. Adagio, 6. Daughter, 11. Isolated, 13. Prepare, 15. Gallon, 17. Starts, 18. False, 21. Slog.

DOWN: 1. Knee, 2. Cycles, 3. Alarmed, 4. Spade, 5. Adagio, 6. Daughter, 11. Isolated, 13. Prepare, 15. Gallon, 17. Starts, 18. False, 21. Slog.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 19

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

30 | BATHGATE

Rotary Club of Bathgate

Rotary Club of Bathgate GRAND CHRISTMAS FAYRE CHRISTMAS GRAND CHRISTMAS GRAND Rotary RotaryClub ClubofofBathgate Bathgate Rotary Club of Bathgate Rotary Club of Bathgate

GRAND CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS GRAND FAYRE FAYRE FAYRE FAYRE Visit Santa in his

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VisitSanta Santa in inhis his Visit Visit Santa in in hishis Visit Santa our Arts and Crafts ,or grotto Pickup upsome some grotto Pick grotto Pick upup some grotto Pick some lastminute minute gifts from Produce stalls .Or just last gifts from last minute gifts from last Arts minute gifts from our and Crafts ,or ,tea or grab a coffee our Arts and Crafts our Arts and Crafts ,or,or our Arts and Crafts ,or Produce stalls .Or just Produce stalls .Or just Produce stalls .Or just snack Produce stalls,tea .Or or just grab coffee grab aaa coffee ,tea oror grab coffee ,tea grab a coffee ,tea or snack snack snack snack Seafield Bowling Club

Seafield Bowling Club Visit Santa in his Seafield Bowling Club Seafield Bowling Club DATE: 14th Dec 2024 DATE: 14th Dec 2024 TIME: 10.00 DATE: 14th Dec 2024 DATE: 14th Dec 2024 am grotto Pick up TIME: some 10.00 am TIME: TIME:10.00 10.00am am last minute gifts from our Arts and Crafts ,or Produce stalls .Or just grab a coffee ,tea or snack

Seafield Rows ,Seafield EH47 7AP

Seafield Bowling Club

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Seafield SeafieldRows Rows,Seafield ,SeafieldEH47 EH477AP 7AP

DATE: 14th Dec 2024 TIME: 10.00 am

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Seafield Bowling Club Seafield Rows ,Seafield EH47 7AP

DATE: 14th Dec 2024 TIME: 10.00 am

MUSIC 4U is a group for people with dementia and their carers. It meets in Livingston United Parish Church, Fells Rigg, Carmondean, Livingston on the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2.00pm – 3.30pm.

The group is organised by volunteers with a speciality in dementia care and music therapy. There is no cost for attendance and it is open to all throughout West Lothian.

It is a well known fact that music can have many benefits to a person with dementia including emotional well-being, reducing anxiety & depression as well as being a source of enjoyment and entertainment.

Music also helps maintain speech & language and can for many, improve their memory.

With all of this in mind, MUSIC 4U delivers all types of musical activity including singing, exercise, quizzes, dancing and reminiscence.

A short afternoon tea at the beginning ensures a domestic styled atmosphere.

Anyone interested in bringing someone with dementia along to our group should contact Nancy on 01506 419904 or burgoynenancy49@gmail.com for more information. We aim to keep our numbers below 25 to allow a relaxed family experience so there may be a waiting period before acceptance.

BATHGATE | 31