Konect Bathgate September 2023

SEPTEMBER 2023

COMMUNITY: SPOTLIGHT:

PROPERTY MATTERS:

P30

T

he incredible energy and drive that keep Bathgate and the surrounding area moving forward is in full evidence in this issue! Bathgate Together, featured on pages 8-9, is a forum that has been meeting monthly for around a year now, where community minded individuals get together to see how we can help each other to get Bathgate moving. The next meeting is on 20th September at the Partnership Centre.

Browse the What’s On and Clubs & Classes sections for plenty of ideas for events and activities in the local area as the new terms gets underway, and remember if you are involved in clubs or events locally and would like to share them with the local community, drop me a line with the details for inclusion in the next issue.

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

Community: Bathgate Together.................. 8 Spotlight on Mobility Bathing Advisory....10 Living Well: Alzheimer’s Month.................12 Life Coaching: The Light............................13 Property Matters: Get an all-year ................. summer advantage......................................20 Local Environment: What are you ............... looking at?.....................................................26 Puzzles..........................................................28 Garden Project: Garden Glut....................29 Local Lab: The future of technology: How do you feel?.........................................30 What’s On..............................................32 / 33 Film Review: Gran Turismo........................34 Clubs & Classes..........................................34

COVER IMAGE: What are you looking at?

See P26

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

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

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BATHGATE | 3

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BATHGATE | 7

“Bathgate Together” provides a forum through which groups such as local arts organisations, sports clubs, local businesses, churches, voluntary agencies, to name but a few can come together, talk to and learn from each other with the aim of not only raising awareness of both the variety and wealth of the range of groups to be found in the town but also provide support and help in a non-political and non partisan way.

Whilst several of the town’s councillors attend the meetings – generally, monthly – they are there principally to listen and when required, to offer advice. The forum is chaired by Pete Sneddon of Regal Reconnect Ltd, and Donald Stavert of Bathgate Community Council. However each member – on average the attendance is about 15-20 members – is on the same footing as everyone else.

From the range of members who take part, a wide range of issues is covered - from looking at what space might be available for bands to practice in to what events are to be staged as part of this year’s programme from the Bathgate Hills Venture Group; from a review of work engaged in by the local group of OPAL Cyrenians to the need to source additional storage space for the town’s Bennie Museum. These are merely a random selection of what is raised and discussed at our meetings.

What brings this group together - the glue, if you like, which keeps this “umbrella” from falling apart – is an increasing and encouraging willingness to share and learn from each other. Sometimes it can be difficult for groups (let alone individuals!) to see the “bigger picture” and simply beaver away in isolation. With such an agency as “Bathgate Together” a space both mutually supportive and encouraging is provided whereby members talk, discuss and make connections 8 | BATHGATE

- both personal and professional – with others within the group which either might not have occurred at all or perhaps not as quickly if these meetings had been held in more formal surroundings.

In short, what links all these groups and people together is a genuine desire to make the town that little bit better for all of us who live here – whether that be in finding out what might attract teenagers in Bathgate actually to shop in the town or else a call for volunteers – training will be provided! - to act as radio DJ’s on “Regal Radio.” All issues are at least aired in the unique environment which is provided and fostered by “Bathgate Together”.

The future? Well, one of the issues which has occupied the attention of several members is how to lure BBC Scotland to include Bathgate in the next series of “My kind of town ..” If successful, Bathgate and several of its groups, clubs and bands would be aired on prime time television. Now, when did Bathgate last feature on BBC Scotland?

The next meeting of the Group will be in the Partnership Centre, Bathgate, on the 20th September at 7.00pm. All interested parties are invited to attend.

This article was contributed by Bathgate Together @KonectMagazines

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BATHGATE | 9

REVOLUTIONISE YOUR BATHING EXPERIENCE Take advantage of a free BMAS home visit and consultation to make your bathroom a safer, more accessible, more enjoyable place to be.

Bathrooms are an essential part of our homes. They are a place where we freshen up, relax, and unwind.

However, for some people, bathrooms can be a hazardous place, especially if they are not designed with accessibility in mind. The dangers of a bathroom with poor accessibility cannot be over-stated, and it’s high time that we started taking them seriously.

One of the biggest risks of an inaccessible bathroom is falls. According to the NHS, falls are the most common cause of accidents in the home, with bathrooms being a particular danger zone. Slippery surfaces, uneven floors, and poorly placed fixtures can all contribute to falls, which can result in serious injuries, especially for the elderly or those with disabilities.

Another risk is difficulty accessing the bathroom. For people with mobility issues, navigating through

narrow doorways or trying to use a bathtub can be a real challenge. This can lead to a loss of independence and dignity, as well as physical strain and discomfort.

Fortunately, there are ways to address these dangers and make your bathroom a safer and more accessible place. One solution is to have a free home visit and consultation with a professional who specialises in accessible bathroom design. These experts can evaluate your bathroom and provide customised recommendations based on your needs, budget, and preferences.

Some of the changes that might be suggested include: • • • •

Installing grab bars Widening doorways Removing tripping hazards Replacing a traditional bathtub with a walkin shower.

These modifications can not only reduce the risk of falls and injuries but also make it easier and more comfortable for people to use the bathroom.

If you or a loved one is struggling with an inaccessible bathroom, don’t wait until an accident happens. Contact Bathing Mobility Advisory Service to schedule a free home visit and consultation.

Contact: Bathing Mobility Advisory Service 7a Grange Road EH9 1UH and Dobbies, Lasswade EH18 1AZ bathingmobility.co.uk 10 | BATHGATE

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Dementia advice from experts One step at a time A video guide to navigating dementia Our new video guide offers expert advice to help you navigate dementia, from initial diagnosis, to living well with the condition and self-care tips for carers.

Download the guide at careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time

Trusted to care Cairdean House, Colinton Lauder Lodge, Portobello Murrayside, Corstophine careuk.com/edinburgh

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BATHGATE | 11

LIVING WELL

World Alzheimer’s Month, observed every September, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing global battle against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurological disorder, robs individuals of their memories, cognitive abilities, and independence. It not only affects the afflicted but also places immense strain on families and caregivers.

World Alzheimer’s Month offers a platform to foster understanding, share information, and encourage early detection.

If you would like information or support relating to Alzheimer’s, or would like to get involved in World Alzheimer’s Month here are a list of organisations that you can contact: Alzheimer Scotland - West Lothian Branch: Call: 01506 533 108 | alzscot.org Dementia UK: Call: 0800 888 6678 | dementiauk.org

West Lothian Advice Shop: Call: 01506 283000 westlothian.gov.uk/benefits-advice-older-people Carers of West Lothian: Call: 01506 448000 | carers-westlothian.com While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s yet, ongoing research is shedding light on potential treatments and interventions. World Alzheimer’s Month underscores the importance of continued investment in scientific exploration and support networks, offering hope to millions of people affected by these conditions.

Keep an eye out for local fundraising and awareness events taking place throughout September. Alzheimer Scotland are seeking to encourage individuals and groups to complete Memory Walks across the area between 15-17th September, so keep an eye out for your local Home Instead team who will be completing one in Livingston.

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

www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian

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LIFE COACHING

Many years ago the poet Rumi wrote, ‘it’s the cracks that let the light shine through’ Ancient as these words may be they contain a fundamental truth that has definitely stood the test of time.

Everything we endure, and come out the other side of, teaches us that we have all the resources we need to deal with anything life throws our way.

Anxiety and stress have become ever present in many of our lives and it can sometimes feel like we are dealing with one thing after another, the car develops a clunking noise, the boiler is on the blink and the price of everything is ridiculous.

Then comes the last straw, ..someone absentmindedly walks behind our car when we are reversing and we find ourselves screaming with pent up rage.

At this point we can decide to add all these unrelated facts together and have an enormous pity party or we can work through everything one step at a time and accept that good and bad events happen to everyone. It never helps to panic and stress ourselves out and it is important to remember that absolutely everything passes and that we most certainly have been here before and are still standing.

Every difficulty that we have successfully navigated in the past builds up our resilience and provides us with the tools we need to deal with anything life throws at us. There will always be challenges and it is important to remember that if we can’t change what happens to us the only choice we have is to change how we think about it.

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 @KonectMagazines

BATHGATE | 13

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BATHGATE | 15

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PROPERTY MATTERS

A “must do” if you plan to sell your home in the next 9 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 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 nine 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.

Free Consultation For a free consultation and to get your property photographed looking its best over the summer months, please call us on 01506 668448. There is no commitment to sell; simply ensure you are in the best possible position if you do decide to sell.

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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BATHGATE | 23

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BATHGATE | 25

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

No I-deer! Ok, I apologise, that was a terrible joke. One morning in July I gave up on trying to sleep at about 6am and went for a little wander around Wester Inch.

Seeing roe deer around the small amounts of woodland we have isn’t uncommon but they can be very wary and tend to hide in the trees. Given the early hour, there weren’t many people around so they didn’t run off at the first crack of a twig, they waited until at least the second accidental misstep before taking cover.

We’re so used to seeing footage of the red deer rut, with huge stags roaring and chasing other males across the hills. This usually takes place in October through to November but we’re actual-ly in the middle of the roe deer rut now, with the males (also known as bucks) becoming more ag-gressive to retain their territory and breeding rights with the does. Their antlers aren’t as impres-sive as red deer but they can still do a serious amount of damage to a rival male if it came to it.

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With the current absence of large carnivores, they have no natural predators and along with the red deer are native to Scotland with numbers of around 200-350k.

Whilst they tend to be found in woodland, as we encroach and build on their habitat, it is becoming more common to see them in urban areas across the country.

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 @KonectMagazines

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BATHGATE | 27

SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

^^^ Sudoku solution on page 32

SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the October edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Look sulky (4), 3. Trader (8), 9. Saved (7), 10. Tacks (5). 11. Concerns numbers (12), 14. Not working (3), 16. One hundred centimetres (5), 17. Glimpse (3), 18. Recognition (12), 21. Solitary (5), 22. Alleviate (7), 23. Poured onto salad (8), 24. In addition (4).

DOWN: 1. Found in Egypt (8), 2. Distressed (5), 4. Finish (3), 5. Substantial (12), 6. e.g. dogs and cats (7), 7. Throw (4), 8. Self-service stores (12), 12. Loft (5), 13. Twists and turns (8), 15. Condemn (7), 19. Perfect (5), 20. Hairless (4), 22. Move quickly (3).

HALF-PAGE Hz ADD SOLUTION DETAILS 28 | BATHGATE

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TURN YOUR GARDEN GLUT INTO A DISH OF DELIGHT! This is the month when too much of your garden crops are ready to pick

The courgettes seem to grow overnight and the tomatoes ripen just as quickly. One of our purple piglet projects is full of easy recipe to help you cope with this summer abundance, whether its tomatoes, courgettes, grapes, or apples. Here is a recipe for some of your courgettes.

Mint & Courgette Frittata - Frittata is easy and quick to make and you can use any seasonal vegetables you have available.

Cook 1 thinly sliced onion in oil in a 9” frying pan for 10 minutes on a low heat. Add 2 thinly sliced courgettes and cook for a few minutes.

Beat together 2 tbsp of chopped mint leaves

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and 6 eggs and season with lemon juice and pepper. Add to the vegetables in the frying pan – good to arrange the veg evenly at this stage.

Cook over low heat for 10 minutes until all but top of frittata is set.

Sit under a hot grill to complete the cooking till just golden.

Best served warm or at room temperature although cold leftovers from the fridge are irresistible!

Tip: Use peas, broad beans and basil instead The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

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

BATHGATE | 29

LOCAL LAB

Are you interested in the future of technology?

We’d love to hear from you!

From prosthetic devices to AI surgical assistance, the future is exciting – but what does it mean to future patients and their families? How do people feel about these types of technologies in a medical setting?

Researchers at Heriot-Watt University are exploring how technology can be used in healthcare settings and assisted living – using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics.

Many people will have an Alexa, Siri or other AI devices at home, but using them in a medical setting may be a whole new ball game. How do you feel about the future of these technologies? Could you see AI devices becoming an increasing ally in our day to day? Do you have reservations around trusting AI developments?

As we progress with ongoing research, it’s vital we learn more about how the public feel about new technologies. As part of this, we’ll be carrying out public focus groups to gather ideas and public opinions. This project aims to identify the hopes, challenges and future of technology in relation to public perceptions.

We are interested in learning about how you currently use technology, how comfortable you feel using it and what your hopes would be for future applications across the health and care sector.

Join us in a focus group to share your thoughts, we want to learn from you. Your views will help shape future research!

Focus groups will take place in person across West Lothian Library locations.

If you’re interested in taking part, contact: hwengage@hw.ac.uk 30 | BATHGATE

As a thank you for your time and contribution, you will be given a £20 shopping voucher to spend.

These focus groups are open to anyone aged 18+. We welcome anyone of any age, gender, race, background. If there is anything we can do to accommodate your needs in terms of access and participation with in-person events and activities, please get in touch with Heriot-Watt University’s Public Engagement Team.

This article was contributed

by Heriot-Watt Engage. @KonectMagazines

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SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD FRIDAY 1ST TO SUNDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER Steam Gala At Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway. Featuring an intensive timetable, a visiting loco, goods trains and a selection of locally brewed real ales, join us for an unforgettable weekend of steam! Bo’ness Station Union Street Bo’ness EH51 9AQ. Visit: www.bkrailway.co.uk SUNDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER Bathgate’s Doggy Day Out - See poster opposite

ACROSS: 1. Decide, 4. Fences, 9. Swollen, 10. Tiara, 11. Earth, 12. Oranges, 13. Countryside, 18. Exiting, 20. Reply, 22. Eaten, 23. Nearest, 24. Endure, 25. Stream.

DOWN: 1. Dispel, 2. Choir, 3. Dolphin, 5. Extra, 6. Changed, 7. Sparse, 8. Encouraging, 14. Omitted, 15. Servant, 16. Delete, 17. System, 19. Inner, 21. Piece.

SOLUTION SOLUTION TO TO SUDOKU SUDOKU ON ON PAGE PAGE XX 31

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 M: 07729 911858 E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

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EVERY SATURDAY ACROSS: 1. Decide, 4. Fences, 9. Swollen, 10. Tiara, 11. Earth, 12. Oranges, 13. Countryside, 18. Exiting, Bathgate Market 20. Reply, 22. Eaten, 23. Nearest, 24. Endure, 25. Stream.

Bathgate Outdoor Market 9:00am to 2:00pm. Parking DOWN: 1. Dispel, 2. Choir, 3. Dolphin, 5. Extra, available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car 6. Changed, 7. Sparse, 8. Encouraging, 14. Omitted, 15. Servant, 16. Delete, 17. System, 19. Inner, 21. Piece.

Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX UNION CANAL CRUISES Linlithgow Union Canal Centre is open on weekend afternoons until 24th September.

Tearoom and museum at the canal basin open 1.30pm – 4.30pm, regular short boat trips.

Weekends only: Avon Aqueduct cruise, 2.5 hours, starting 2:00pm.

For booking and information please visit: bookings.lucs.org.uk/ SUNDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - All welcome. Free admission and parking. Extended train route, train Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept rides £5 first ride, £2 subsequent responsibility for loss or damage caused rides. Driver Experience £8. by Picnic error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in Areas. Refreshments and toilets. this publication. All material is accepted Open 10:30am to 4:00pm. Edinburgh Society of Model for publication on the understanding it is Engineers, The Almondell Model Engineering copyright free. No part of this publication be reproduced without prior consent of Centre Drumshoreland Muir,may Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd.

Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? West Lothian EH54 6GU. COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT Magazine Design: LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. Alan Stewart Design M: 07729 911858

EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com W: www.alanstewartdesign.com OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. @KonectMagazines

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BATHGATE | 33

Video game adaptions are interesting.

The Last of Us adapts great to live action bringing the captivating story to a new audience. On the other hand, adaptions like Street Fighter which are translating games mainly known for their gameplay, become films that are at best dumb fun and at worst uninspiring.

Gran Turismo as a franchise should realistically have fallen into the latter group as at the end of the day it is a racing simulator. In theory, that’s not exciting and when I heard that Gran Turismo was getting a film adaption, I thought it was an impossible task. But somehow Gran Turismo manages to do something different which leads to an energetic and gripping film.

The main appeal of this film is the driving and I’m happy to say the driving scenes are some of the best in recent memory.

The racing scenes also highlight the film’s love for the game. The race lines, the use of the game’s font, and the use of the menu’s recognisable sound tone just add to the overall experience and show a level of respect and love for the original games.

The acting is solid. Archie Madekwe as the main is good but David Harbour steals the show. He’s truly incredible and carried the film in many ways. Gran Turismo is not going to redefine live-action video game adaptations but if you’re looking for a great time cinema you cannot go wrong with this film.

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

BATHGATE HISTORY GROUP - Are you interested in the past? Come and join your local history club and meet others with a similar interest. We meet on the first Wednesday of every month in St John’s church Hall at 2.00. First meeting of the new session on Wednesday 6th September. You will be made very welcome £3.00. tea/ coffee included. See you there!

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 (10-14 years) 7:00-9:00pm; Explorers (14-18years) 7:309:30pm. Everyone welcome. Contact: info@17thbroxburnscoutgroup.co.uk or 07785 525 466.

SIMPSON ART GROUP - We are a recreational art group for people aged over 18 years and meet every Tuesday, 7.00pm - 9.00pm at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. All levels welcome. There is no charge for member’s first month and you can utilise our art materials during that time. Thereafter, membership fees apply. We have regular demonstrations from local artists. For further information or to apply for membership, please email or call us: E: simpsonartgroup@outlook.com T: 07845 643536 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 or 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.

BATHGATE SPEAKERS - Learn public speaking and leadership skills in a safe, supportive environment.

Confidence building, social situations, father of the bride, impromptu speaking. Tuesdays 11am12noon (except school holidays) Royal British Leagion, Bathgate. Meetings are free. Optionally, join Toastmasters International educational programme, £20 one-off payments for course materials. Please contact Helen Kelly E: helen.toastmaster@gmail. com or T. 07733 100595.

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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: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317 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. MonFri 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 9.00-9.30am, 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 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 semi-retired 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.

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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 6.007.15 & 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 9.45-11.00am 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 £20. Follow our Facebook page, visit: www. 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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