Konect Bathgate June 2024

JUNE 2024

LOCAL CHARITY: LIVING WELL: LOCAL WALK:

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hidden army of volunteers keep our communities running in so many ways, from helping people in crisis with their most basic needs for food and shelter, through to keeping our local environment and main streets beautiful with floral displays. The first week in June every year is Volunteers’ Week, a time to highlight and celebrate this effort, as well as to showcase opportunities for more people to get involved. Volunteering is open to everyone. There is a Volunteer Fair in Bathgate on 5th June where you can learn about the range of organisations locally, see page 34 for details.

How to create a beautifully fragrant summer planter; how to understand the different valuation options for your home; how to get the most out of a healthcare appointment; what’s on locally - whatever you’re up to with home, health or family, I hope you find Konect’s columns from our highly experienced, local expert contributors are helpful and interesting.

We also highlight the West Lothian School Bank’s annual summer appeal to help ensure all children can go back to school in August with their heads held high, see pages 8-9.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638

Charity: West Lothian School Bank Summer Appeal............................................. 8 Living Well: Realistic Medicine.................10 Life coaching: And breathe.......................12 Property Matters: Understanding property valuations......................................14 Puzzles..................................................16 / 28 Garden Project: Fragrant plants...............20 Local Environment: Grub’s up!.................22 Walk: Cobbinshaw Reservoir Loop..........26 Film Review: Coraline.................................30 What’s On......................................................31 Clubs & Classes.................................... 32-33

COVER IMAGE: June - Summer fairs, fun and fundraisers

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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Not every child starts school in August with a new uniform, and this can profoundly impact their self-esteem.

At The School Bank West Lothian our mission is to ensure that every child experiences the same sense of belonging as their classmates and can look forward to returning to school.

Over the past eight years our charity has supported over 8,000 families facing

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financial hardship, providing new uniforms, jackets, shoes, and school bags. We collaborate with various community professionals, such as Schools, Charities, Social Services, Women’s Aid, and The Advice Shop who have referred over 2,000 young people to us in the past year alone and demand is rising every year.

A new uniform can significantly reduce the risk of bullying, bolster self-confident, foster a sense of inclusion, and improve school attendance. That’s why we’re launching an appeal for donations of new and gently used uniforms, ensuring every child in West Lothian feels valued and accepted at school.

SPONSOR-A-CHILD AND BUY A UNIFORM PACK – scan the QR code to register and we’ll send you the details of items required for a child who has been referred to us (typically 3-6 items). After purchasing the items drop them off and we’ll arrange for their delivery to the family.

FILL-A-BAG WITH VITAL SCHOOL SUPPLIES - such as socks, tights, pencil case, stationery, and a water bottle. After you’ve packed your bag (you could use a school bag or draw string gym bag), simply drop it off at one of our numerous red drop-off points across West Lothian, conveniently situated in various supermarkets and community establishments. See our website for the full list.

Collette Moran, Project Manger, with a Sponsor-A-Child pack

MAKE-A-DONATION - donate to The School Bank West Lothian and we will buy items on your behalf. For example, £18 could buy a 5-pack of white shirts for a teenager, £45 would buy a pair of school shoes and jacket. The estimated cost of a full uniform pack is £140, although all donations are gratefully received. See our website for full details.

RECYCLE UNIFORMS – we enthusiastically welcome ‘good quality’ pre-loved uniforms that still have plenty of life left in them, including jackets (except items with school badges, blazers, or kilts). Items can be dropped into one of our red drop-off points.

School Bank team, Fill-A- Bag

For further details, reach out to us via email at admin@schoolbank-westlothian.org or visit the pinned post on our Facebook page “TheSchoolBankWestLothian” or our website at schoolbank-westlothian.org This article was contributed by The School Bank West Lothian, Registered Charity No. SC046483 BATHGATE | 9

LIVING WELL

Realistic Medicine -

It’s OK to ask

Realistic Medicine means putting you at the centre of decisions made about your care. It is about moving away from a “doctor knows best” culture and recognising that a one size fits all approach to health and social care is not the most effective path for you or the NHS.

• Flexible Advertising • Advertisement Design • Access over 45,000 readers in West Lothian & SW Edinburgh

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This can apply to all different types of healthcare professionals including nurses, pharmacists, counsellors, physiotherapists and social workers.

When you understand what’s going on with your health, you can make better decisions about your care and treatment. Knowing the right questions to ask can make all the difference.

To help you get the most out of any health appointment, here are four questions it’s worth remembering to ask (also known as the BRAN questions).

B – Benefits: what are the benefits of my treatment?

R – Risks: what are the risks or possible side effects of my treatment?

A – Alternatives: are there any alternative treatments I can try?

N – Nothing: what happens if I do nothing?

By asking these questions you will be able to make an informed choice about the treatment and care that’s right for you.

For more information, visit: nhsinform.scot/campaigns/its-ok-to-ask

Your health professional should explain to you the benefits and risks of your available options. They should also discuss the option of doing nothing and what effects this could have. You should expect to be given enough information and time to make up your mind.

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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LIFE COACHING

Most of us hold onto tension when life is stressful. Whether it’s tightness in our shoulders, pain in the neck and jaw or even aches and pains in our backs.

There are many signs that our bodies reflect lack of self-care and the fact is that many of us just don’t prioritise ourselves when life is hectic. It’s easy to get into the habit of ignoring our symptoms but adopting a few really simple habits can make all the difference.

One of the most powerful things we can do is to take control of our breathing. People often laugh when I suggest this because we all breathe, don’t we? But breathing mindfully and bringing our awareness to our in and out breaths and taking three deep breaths in and out can instantly calm us down and relieve those symptoms of stress.

Breathing exercises can be a form of meditation but they are also one of the best techniques for relaxation and can be done anywhere. Even in the midst of feeling panicky, taking those three deep breaths can make all the difference. As a bonus, following up by carrying out progressive muscle relaxation, tightening and relaxing every muscle from the top of the head to the soles of the feet takes very little time but has enormous benefits.

Just finding a few minutes every day to relax and focus on self-care can make all the difference if we can just turn off that phone and drift away into that comfortable space.

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

Award winning care homes

We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care, winning more awards than any other provider in the last three years.

If you’re considering a care home, call 0131 516 7418 or visit careuk.com/edinburgh

Trusted to care Cairdean House care home, Colinton Murrayside care home, Corstorphine Lauder Lodge care home, Portobello

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Understanding Property Valuations and Market Appraisals At Turpie & Co, we provide three different options for homeowners who are considering selling their property. Each service is tailored depending on what stage you are at in the process of deciding whether to sell your property.

All of the services are free and come with no obligation to sell or to use our agency. They can offer invaluable advice when considering the sale of your largest asset. The information below should help you decide which valuation service is most suited to your needs.

ONLINE VALUATION - An ‘online’ or instant’ valuation is produced by various software platforms and provides an estimated valuation figure by using collated data of historic sales within your postcode area, and applying algorithms which take into account inflation as well as the prices of currently advertised properties. This in-turn produces an estimated valuation range for your property. These tools are often not accurate when compared with the valuation figures that an agent would provide a homeowner at an in-person valuation appointment.

Probable accuracy range between £50k to £100k depending on the price bracket your property falls into

DESKTOP OR VIRTUAL VALUATION - A ‘desktop’ or ‘virtual’ valuation is conducted via a pre-arranged telephone appointment or virtual meeting such as ‘Teams’ or ‘Zoom’.

The agent will carry out the same research as they would for a physical (in-person) appointment, however they wouldn’t visit your property so the advice, guidance and recommendations would be based on their individual and company experience and track record of similar sales in the area. A desktop valuation can be useful when you

are planning to sell in the coming 3-6 months and are gathering information to allow you to set a realistic and affordable budget for your onward move etc. The desktop valuation is typically followed up by a physical in-person valuation when you are within 4 weeks of being ready to list your property for sale.

Probable accuracy range between £25k to £50k depending on the price bracket your property falls into IN-PERSON VALUATION - This is a traditional physical appointment where the agent visits you at your property. The agent will carry out the same pre-meeting research as with the Desktop valuation, however will be able to provide a more comprehensive survey and appraisal of your home and provide more specific and bespoke recommendations on how to market your property and a more accurate valuation. This will include estimated Home Report value and anticipated selling price (these figures can often be quite different depending on the property, location and current market conditions) An accuracy of within approximately £10k of the anticipated HR value with estimate of potential upside selling price (i.e. anticipated selling price - different from predicted HR value) If you are thinking about selling your property in the coming months, please contact us to discuss which valuation option is right for you.

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.

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The crossword solution will be published in the July edition of Konect.

ACROSS: 1. Well known (6), 4. Long curtains (6), 9. Grandparent (7), 10. Concur (5), 11. Flavour (5), 12. Loosening (7), 13. Marvellous (11), 18. Season’s crop (7), 20. Star sign (5), 22. Bet (5), 23. One of the three r’s (7), 24. Go back (6), 25. Alcove (6).

DOWN: 1. Brawls (6), 2. Breakfast, dinner etc (5), 3. Remove clothes (7), 5. Respond (5), 6. Piece (7), 7. Vehicle used on snow (6), 8. Make, produce (11), 14. Type of piano (7), 15. Turn aside (7), 16. Light rainfall (6), 17. Tree branches (6), 19. Mistake (5), 21. Elevate (5).

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Fragrant plants included in a garden can turn a good-looking garden into an unforgettable one!

This old wicker basket is full of fragrant plants and you could move it around the garden with you, especially to a west facing evening ‘sundowner’ patio. Many fragrant plants smell best later in the day. You can use any container you have, but make sure it has drainage holes. This basket is lined with a bit of landscape fabric to stop the compost washing out.

The central plant with purple flowers is one of the perennial wallflowers (Erysimum Bowles Mauve). There are many different coloured forms to choose. The white flower is a small pink (Dianthus dwarf border

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variety).

Both of these waft their lovely fragrances into the air. At the back of the basket is a Rosemary and a Lemon Verbena, both need you to brush your hand over them to let their fragrance escape. Finally in the front right corner is a variegated Lemon Thyme which releases its richly smelling essential oils when you gently crush it.

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

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

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It’s that time of year when adult birds are busy providing for what is likely a quickly growing brood of babies. This female stonechat was definitely bringing home a tasty (if you’re a bird) snack for her young, who would’ve been tucked away in the heather, out of my sight.

Why are they called stonechats? Well, for once it makes sense, their call sounds like two stones being tapped together. They’re a fairly common bird, with populations being a mix of resident and migratory birds. Quite often the male of the species is the more striking looking, usually to attract a mate, however I find the female stonechat a bonnie wee bird and she was far more keen to have her picture taken than he was!

This was taken at Sheriffmuir, which is behind Dunblane, however you can find these little rock dwellers (that’s what part of their latin name, Saixcola, translates to) in heathlands all over the country so places like the Pentlands are ideal for them. During lockdown there was a pair on the reed beds in Wester Inch, so they really can turn up anywhere.

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I also saw and heard plenty skylark, which is always a joy as you watch them parachute down through the sky. It was brilliant to have my first cuckoo encounter of the year too, a true sign of spring’s arrival and the start of the challenge of getting a good picture of them.

So far, cuckoo 1 - Clare 0.

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian.

Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Follow them on Facebook: @ScottishSistersPhotography

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As I emerge from the car, I am immediately met with the sweet aroma of warm spring air drifting over open country on a slight breeze.

CREDIT: All image by William Weir

The air is filled with the gently lilting, descending, laid-back song of willow warblers.

The bubbling, haunting call of a curlew echoes across the plain laid out below.

I pause to take in the uninterrupted vista. I can see clearly to Tinto Hill (the highest point in Lanarkshire) in the south and, turning to my left, the profile of the Pentlands lies off to the north-east beyond Cobbinshaw Reservoir – my destination today. Cobbinshaw lies just five miles south of West Calder and was built by engineer James Jardine to feed the Union Canal. Although I am only twenty minutes or so from home, the big country views conjure the sensation of having been transported somewhere altogether more remote.

Having taken a small access road half a mile north of Woolfords, I’m parked in a layby beneath the forest plantation of Pearie Law. It’s a peaceful morning as I tramp down the tarmac in the direction of the reservoir. Red

campion and cuckooflower are in bloom by the roadside. A meadow pipit alights on a power line above. Soon, I am crossing a bridge over the railway line and arrive at a farmstead by the shore. Here, swallows swoop over the gardens and the song of blackbird and chaffinch reverberates through the trees.

I make my way over to the water’s edge and watch as anglers set out in small motorboats, puttering forth into open water. Lines are cast, rods arcing through the air, as gigantic wind turbines wheel silently on the horizon behind. I head down to the causeway that separates the southern quarter of the reservoir from the main body of water. As I make my way across, I feel the south-westerly breeze pick up and it ushers the clouds on sufficiently for the sun to break through, imbuing a little warmth and dressing the water’s wind-rippled surface in shimmering gold. Water breaks against stone in gentle, hollow slaps. Greylag geese are grazing on a promontory opposite. A small group take off, circling past. A redshank whirs by too, propelled by rapid wingbeats.

Once across, I head up the rise to another steading, then bear right, down towards a second, shorter, causeway. Here I spot more geese, Canada geese this time, who take to the water, meandering in my direction. A tufted duck forages in an inlet and is soon joined by another small flotilla of geese. A lapwing executes tumbling, diving aerial acrobatics whilst emitting surreal radio-tuner whistles, perhaps to distract the gulls, who soar the thermals above, from an egg-laden nest.

I sit on a large stone at the side of the causeway and pull out my notebook. The only sounds I can hear are the honk of the geese, the lapping of water, and the

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song of a lark high over the fields nearby.

If I were mixing a tonic of sounds to relax and nourish the soul, I could scarcely think of a better combination. Suppressing the urge to close my eyes and drift off, I make to set off again and, looking up, see two oystercatchers have alighted on the path ahead, looking splendid in their black and white attire with long, lipstick-red bill and legs. They retreat, flapscurry fashion, as approach.

I continue over rough pasture and, coming over a rise, the rust-red form of Tarbrax bing looms into view like a volcanic cone. In the foreground, a flock of sheep with young lambs regard me quizzically. Soon I reach a rough track which I join, heading west. This takes me past the remnants of old mine workings and, farther on, some ruined buildings standing forlorn, the windfarm as their backdrop – old and new juxtaposed. I am back at the railway now and cross a footbridge before turning right at a sign marked ‘0.7m to Cobbinshaw’.

The path is also intriguingly signposted ‘The Fairy Path’. The reason for this soon becomes apparent - tree stumps decorated as fairy houses line the route and bring a smile as I pass. As well as its more mystical inhabitants, the railway siding is populated by rowan, birch, and goat willow – the catkins of the latter each a tiny explosion of pollen-laden bristles. Boughs are a-buzz with bees gathering nectar. An orange tip butterfly flaps by.

Before long, I am back at the access road and ascend back towards the car, thoughts elevated by this delightful walk. This area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and it’s easy to see why, with the wonderful variety of landscape, flora and fauna to be found here.

As I cast my eye back the way I came, a low rumble signals the passage of the West Coast Line. I turn and continue back towards the car and the warblers sing me home.

The walk is approx. 3 miles over mostly level terrain and can be completed in 1-1.5 hrs, but it’s worth allowing a little longer for stops.

This article was contributed by William Weir.

William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.

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JUNE SUDOKU

JUNE SUDOKU

is finding your customers • Flexible Advertising • Advertisement Design • Access over 45,000 readers in West Lothian & SW Edinburgh

It’s easy to be included!

The crossword puzzle can be found on XX.See Seepage page30 XXfor forsolutions. solutions. page 16.

The crossword puzzle can be found on editor@konect.scot page XX. See page XX for solutions. www.konect.scot

JUNE SUDOKU

JUNE SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

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FILM REVIEW

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

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

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

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 28

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

2009 was an incredible year for cinema; we had ACROSS: 7. Mediterranean, 8. Revealed, 9. Anti, like 10. Advance, 12. Refer, Study, all-timers released in that year Avatar and14.Harry 16. Warmest, 19. Zinc, 20. Lemonade, Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

However, the film 22. Demonstration.

Coraline is in a way forgotten about.

DOWN: 1. Here, 2. Cinema, 3. Reflect,

The stop-motion film was written and5.directed

by Henry 4. Crude, Inhale, 6. Tactless, 11. Detailed, 13. Hammers, 15.

Doctor, 17.

Minute, Selick who also directed The Nightmare Before Christmas.

18. Blush, 21. Drop.

It follows the title character Coraline as she moves to a SOLUTION TO SUDOKU new home with her parents, who are constantly occupied with work. One day she discovers a door XX in her house that ON PAGE leads to another world. This world is the opposite of reality and is her dream world. However, there is more to this other world than meets the eye.

Coraline is an utterly gorgeous film that has stood the test of time. Watching it on the new US 4K release was a feast for the eyes. Stop motion is truly a timeless form of animation and Coraline proves this. However, what is truly amazing about this film is the narrative.

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. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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The film is so engaging and combines family entertainment and, in a way, horror to make a film that is in part a fun time and in part edge-of-your-seat tense. I was also shocked by how good the voice acting is. Everyone embodies their characters in truly amazing ways.

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept

responsibility for loss or damage caused Coraline is just an incredible film that everyone should error in the printing of an advertisement. watch, as it feels like a film of aby bygone era when family We do not endorse any advertisers in films weren’t scared to be scary. this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is

Coraline is available tocopyright rent on allNomajor free. part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of platforms. the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd.

Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, The Film Review is contributed

by Robert Ewing. Robert West Lothian EH54 6GU. is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light Magazine Design: on films that may not be on people’s Alan Stewartradar.

Design Robert is from Kirknewton.

T: 07729 911858

be provided by the Ranger. No experience is necessary to join, so please pop along if you’d like to help out. Families are welcome, but under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. More information on the Friends facebook page @FriendsofPolkemmet EVERY SATURDAY Bathgate Market & Car Boot Sale Bathgate Outdoor Market 9am to 2pm.

Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains SUNDAY 9TH JUNE Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre A fantastic family day out, with train rides on their new extended track through the woodland. Tea, coffee and snacks.

Free parking, picnic area. 10.30am - 4.00pm.

Drumshoreland Muir, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF

MONDAY 24TH JUNE Food and our Earth 2024 - West Lothian Climate Action Network Hub bringing together leading voices in production and distribution such as community groups, local growers, CDTs, farmers, food producers, private/commercial, statutory & support agencies to discuss Earth’s precious soil and the importance of local food production. There will be speakers and workshops on how food production affects climate change, poverty, inequality and health. West Lothian College, Livingston, 10.00am - 3.00pm. To book or more information: email Neil@wlcan.scot or call 07830 290242

SUNDAY 9TH JUNE Ramble & Chat, Easter Breich Wood With Almond Valley Nature Action Group, a monthly social walk with like-minded folk to blether about nature, climate action, biodiversity or whatever comes to mind. This month we are walking in Easter Breich Wood, looking for wildlife at the pond for Pond Watch weekend and explore the community woodland. Meet at the noticeboard at the Oakbank Cottages Entrance, 2.00pm. Full details at www.almondvalleynatureaction.blog/events

SAT 29TH JUNE TO SUN 30TH JUNE Spectacular Jousting Experience exhilarating horsemanship and impressive skills at the brave and courageous knights battle it out, at Linlithgow Palace for Historic Environment Scotland’s annual jousting spectacle. Hear the thundering of hooves and the clash of lances as our four champions take to the arena for this spectacular show. Why not wander through the living history camps and meet some soldiers fresh from battle. Advance booking required to guarantee entry, see www.historicenvironment.scot

SUNDAY 16TH JUNE Pond Dip at Polkemmet Pond - With the Friends of Polkemmet Country Park, 11.00am - 1.00pm. Pond dipping is a great way to look at the creatures that live in and around pond water. We need your help in recording what we find, and what can we do to help these creatures in their natural habitat.

All of the equipment and demonstrations will

SAT 29TH JUNE TO THU 15TH AUGUST Summer Adventures at Almond Valley - Schools Out, it’s time to kick back and enjoy the fun of the summer. Daily alpaca feeding, meet the Clydesdales, animal handling, train and tractor rides and den building - how are you going to fit it all in one visit! Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR

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 | 31

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

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 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 32 | BATHGATE

Bathgate Partnership Centre (21-55 South Bridge St, Bathgate EH48 1TL), Rooms 8 & 9 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 see: W: u3asites.org.uk/ westlothian Facebook: ‘West Lothian u3a’ E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274 COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS BATHGATE - Available for Children from 2 years old at Bathgate Partnership Centre. We offer morning or full day sessions.

Mon-Fri 9.15am to 11.30am and Mon-Thurs 9.15am to 2.00pm.

Cost £9.00 per am session, £20.00 per all day session Eligible 2 funding accepted. E: bathgate@ communityplaygroups.org or T: 07985 645871.

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 Drop-in 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 on the 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm 9.00pm. 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. Ante-natal 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 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.4511.00am 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.

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West Lothian Volunteer Network

Volunteer’s Week 1 - 7 June, 2024

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A VOLUNTEER? Come along to our fair to find out about local volunteering opportunities!

Jim Walker Partnership Centre, Bathgate

WEDNESDAY 5TH JUNE FROM 1.00PM TO 3.00PM