Konect Broxburn August 2016

AUGUST 2016

broxburn FEATUREs

There was a soldier, or West Lothian Far From Ypres Broxburn Athletic Juniors – Support Your Local Team!

Charity of the Month – New Directions: local services for adults with disabilities

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

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh

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FEATURE

M e ss ag e fro m th e e d ito r

FEATUREs There was a soldier

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O

REGULARS Char ity of the month Homes Gardens Parenting in West Lothian Visit West Lothian Recipe and Food Notes

14 22 28 30 31 32

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword

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COMMUNITY Broxbur n United Spor t Club What’s on Useful Infor mation Clubs & Classes

17 35 35 36

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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nce again I’ve been impressed this month while doing the editorial interviews by the huge amount of talent and energy locally; a unique show commemorating West Lothian’s experience of the First World War will be shown at the Edinburgh Fringe this month, written and performed by a local cast, see pages 8-9 and make sure you get tickets for the show at Stockbridge Church. And the Charity of the Month is a small volunteer-run charity based in Livingston Village providing essential quality-of-life services for disabled adults locally, see page 14.

If you have an event on in the next couple of months that you’d like to promote to the local community, or if you’re involved in a club or hobby group, please let me know and we’ll make sure it’s included next month in the community pages at the back of the magazine.

Advertising Enquiries

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

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

Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print.

Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print.

The Konect Directory is delivered to 7,500 homes throughout Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh. Copies are also left at the library, post offices, convenience stores and other locations.

Front cover: Summer holidays!

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/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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KONECT

West Lothian Update

M

ortgage rates remain at record low levels - offering homeowners the chance to save significant sums on their monthly payments by remortgaging.

According to the Office for National Statistics, 34% of Sean MacMillan household expenditure goes Partner Aberdein Considine towards paying off the mortgage.

T 01506 420800 Therefore it is vital to ensure you are on the most valuable deal and are not paying over the odds for your mortgage.

So how can homeowners access these potential savings?

Here's the five things you need to do to make sure you get the best deal.

1) Check the value of your property It may have increased in value since you last checked.

The higher the property value in relation to the mortgage, the more deals may be available to you if you decide to remortgage – and you may be able to get cheaper deals.

2) Check the market for mortgage deals This is your starting point for comparing what you’re paying now with what you might be able to get elsewhere.

3) Make sure it's in your benefit to switch Even though there may be lower rates available you need to take into account any fees associated with switching and the remaining length of your loan.

4) Take what you've found to a mortgage broker They have access to mortgages that aren’t available on comparison sites so may be able to improve on what you’ve found. They’ll also double check the costs and benefits of switching. Ask for an advised service.

5) Review each year If you remortgage you may get an introductory deal on your interest rate – when this ends you’ll usually be put on a less competitive variable rate.

Speak to a local mortgage expert Aberdein Considine has a team of independent mortgage advisers spread across the central belt, including in West Lothian who would be happy to look at your current mortgage deal and examine whether you could save money.

Visit us at 69 South Bridge Street, Bathgate or call 01506 420800 to book an appointment. n Sean MacMillan is a Partner of law firm Aberdein Considine which

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Feature

“There was a Soldier...” or “West Lothian Far from Ypres” Did you know that work on Beecraigs Loch was started by German prisoners-of-war during the First World War, but due to their unwillingness to work the job was given to conscientious objectors instead?

This is just one of many snippets of information on West Lothian’s experience of war that two local people painstakingly researched in order to put together a show to commemorate West Lothian’s own war centenary from 2014 to 2018. Showing this summer for the third year running, and for the first time at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, “There was a Soldier...” is a unique show that pays tribute to the people of West Lothian in World War 1 and Bangour, the War Hospital. I met Liz Reid and Mary Boylan over coffee at their favourite cafe Williamson’s Garden Centre in Uphall - to learn about how the show came about.

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“We were clearing out my late aunt’s house a few years ago, and came across a bundle of letters addressed to her from a young soldier in WW1. Tied with a faded pink string, the letters and memorabilia from her sweetheart on the front line entranced us.” Mary and Liz became engrossed in the story of the young man, David Wallace Dinwoodie. At the bottom of the bundle came the almost-inevitable black-bordered envelope announcing his death in action.

teacher, set about researching West Lothian’s experience of war. The resulting musical show features David as the main character, and incorporates two songs written in an old jotter by George Coyle, in Flanders 100 years ago. “George came from Broxburn. Reading his good-humoured songs written on the front line, you can imagine he must have been an inspiring and positive man to be with in those terrible conditions,” Mary said.

“Tunes for them just came to me one day, Liz wrote them down, and Broxburn teenagers Lucas Rodger and Sam Malone sing them in the show.

“We researched and visited his grave in France, which led us to discovering much about the effects of the war here in West Lothian - about the young men who left with such enthusiasm and didn’t return,” explains Liz. “Then a few years ago we saw a show in Glasgow called Far from Ypres, written by Ian McCalman. Ian made the format of the show freely available to anyone wanting to produce a similar story about the war in their own area.” So Mary, a retired police officer and Liz, a retired music

The cast of twenty features young singers from Broxburn Academy and St. Margaret’s Academy, piper Callum Davidson and drummer Reed Cameron, who are all ages with the young men who left West Lothian for war. Callum and Reed are members of Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonian Pipe Band. They are joined by local groups “Tryst,” a female harmony trio, including Liz herself, folk duos Cockleroy from Linlithgow, and Iolaire from Bo’ness. Mary works frantically frontof-house to keep it all running smoothly.

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The show commemorates:

• The Linlithgowshire Cyclists Battalion who left on their bicycles from Bathgate to protect the East Coast.

• The women of West Calder who worked in the munitions factories with chemicals which turned their skin yellow, thus they were known as Canaries.

• Members of Broxburn Band who all volunteered together and the young father of six from Broxburn whose belongings were returned to his family including a jotter of humorous songs he had written.

• Men volunteered from all walks of life - Uphall shale oil worker Robert Beveridge, Broxburn police sergeant James Lyall, Col. Shairp of Houston House – all lost their lives.

• The Forth Rail Bridge area was blacked out to avoid being bombed, so there were many accidents on the surrounding roads as folk simply couldn’t see.

PictureS: Top: 2nd Lieut. David Wallace Dinwoodie. Bottom: Four very talented teenagers performing at the show in Bathgate Regal.

Some of the cast (including cardboard cut-outs) after the show in St Margaret’s Academy.

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Bangour Village Hospital at Dechmont, originally built for mental health patients, was used as a War Hospital, with wounded men being brought from Southampton

by Red Cross train straight through Edinburgh Waverley and out to Bangour Station. (Broxburn man Peter Duffy wrote two songs specially for the show, one of them, ‘Heading to Bangour’, about the Red Cross train.) Tents were required to house the eventual 3,000 patients in the hospital originally designed for 800. Volunteers from the surrounding towns helped with after-care for the men, including putting on concerts, and world famous entertainer Sir Harry Lauder performed there a few times.

“My aunt eventually married at the age of 50,” muses Liz. “We never knew about the years of pain and loss she must have felt from losing her sweetheart in the war until we found these letters.”

‘There was a Soldier...’, previously at Bathgate Regal Theatre, will be performed at Stockbridge Church on 16th and 17th August, 3pm and 7pm.

Tickets are available from The Fringe Box Office and from Dechmont Shop EH52 6LG. All proceeds will be donated to two groups: a project to have the names of all local war dead engraved onto a board beside the Broxburn War memorial; and the Broxburn Family History group who are researching all local people who went to war.

In order to put the show on for the other two centenary years 2017 and 2018, they urgently need sponsorship and support, financial and practical. If you can help in any way Liz will be delighted to hear from you, please contact her on 07907 550120.

Thanks to supporters Bathgate Film Society, West

Lothian History Library, West Lothian Archives, MacDonald Kiltmakers, Josh Brown (lighting) and Sandy Crawford (sound), and former sponsors Alan Steel Asset Management, Arnold Clark Automobiles, West Lothian Council, Boghall Butchers, Stein Butchers, The Oatridge Hotel, The Halfway House, The Green Tree, and Mark Wallace Cars.

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Charity of the Month

New Directions is a West Lothian, charitable organisation that provides services for adults with learning, physical or mental disabilities.

They currently need some practical help with their premises in Livingston Village, so in order to get some publicity for them I met with volunteer Lisa Stevenson from Bathgate to find out more about the charity and what their current projects are.

“We run various timetabled groups throughout the week, such as Zumba, arts, drama and a Friday lunch club, to name a few,” she says. “We also provide 1:1 support for people to access community activities and resources, participate in everyday living and practical tasks, manage health and well-being, improve skills, achieve independence and make new friends.” New Directions’ services are available for adults locally who have any kind of physical or mental disability, such as a brain injury or Downs Syndrome for example. They operate from their premises at Bloom House, Livingston Village, where there is an activity room with computers, and a kitchen where services users prepare their lunch for the Friday lunch group.

The charity’s services are recommended by Social Services, or you can self-refer if you have a family member or friend who you feel would benefit from the services.

The current focus is to tidy up the large garden at Bloom House so they can develop a vegetable patch and run a gardening group next year, as well as add a sensory garden and a picnic area. “At this stage we need manpower to tidy the garden up” explains Lisa, “Then we’ll be relying on donations of materials to build the raised beds and furnish the garden.” If you can lend a hand to do some garden clearing, New Directions would love to hear from you! If you are a local business and can donate plants, materials, garden furniture 14

Bloom House is an attractive old farm house which provides a nice environment, but it does require a lot of maintenance and New Projects is grateful to the following businesses for recent donations: - Crown Paints in Houston Industrial Estate - Green Fingers for Garden Furniture - N&P Flooring in Bathgate - GAP Plant and Tool Hire New Directions West Lothian

Bloom House, 10 Main Street, Livingston Village, EH54 7AF. Tel: 01506 464446.

Email: carolyn.craig@ndwl.org.uk

New Directions receives a little funding from the council but relies primarily on donations, sponsorship from local businesses and fundraising activities in order to keep going, maintain their premises and run the groups that are a life-line for many local disabled people. There is a small fee for the group activities and for other support services to help recover costs.

or anything else relevant to the garden project, please also contact New Directions at the contact details above. All help gratefully received.

New Directions also urgently needs support workers to join the team to support service users both out in the community and at Bloom House. If you have an SVQ Level 2 qualification in Social Care, and a few hours to spare, please contact new Directions at the contact details in the box above.

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Broxburn At h l e t i c J u n i o r s Broxburn Athletic Juniors are affiliated to the East Region Scottish Junior Football Association, and are currently in their fifth season playing in the East Region Super League. All home games are at the Albyn Park, Greendykes Road, Broxburn.

The present Albyn Park opened in 1948 with Hearts vs Rangers (3,500). It sits on the original ‘Albion Park’ used by Broxburn F.C. in 1889. Athletic took over the lease in 1894 until both clubs amalgamated in 1912 and played at the Sports Park (where the sports centre is now). Athletic then moved back in 1921 until going defunct.

COMPETITION

They moved back after being reformed in 1948, much to the help of its supporters who made the ground improvements. Mr G W Bartaby-Pearson in 1946 ,with the help of local businessmen started the process of reforming Broxburn and secured Albyn park from the Earl of Buchan.

Midstock Festival: music to your ears! Saturday 3rd September 2016, Dalkeith Country Park

We have the following Home League fixtures at the Albyn Park.

10th August v Fauldhouse United 7pm 13th August v Dundonald Bluebell 2.30pm 27th August v Jeanfield Swifts 2.30pm

Season Tickets can be purchased at the following prices: Associate Member Adult £100; Concession £55 Season Ticket Adult £84; Concession £42 We are always looking for Sponsorship, with opportunities available for Match, Ball, Player and Bus (to away fixtures). The support from our sponsors helps to alleviate the financial challenges we face.

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL TEAM, SUPPORT THE BROX!

Lineup: Scouting for girls, Reverend and the Makers, the pigeon detectives, vengaboys, dave pearce, Animals & Friends, Airport Impressions, Jamie & Shoony, Jack Robertson, Caitlyn Vanbeck, Fierce Pro Dancers & compered by arlene stuart

Spurred on by the fantastic energy and support of everyone who came along in previous years, Midstock Festival is back, pulling out all the stops for 2016!

Whether you’re looking for a fun family day out or a night of dancing to the best Scottish bands, Midstock has the best of bands, delicious local food, family activities and much, much more!

For tickets and more information see http://midstockfestival.com/ To enter please text or email your name, phone number, email address and the word “Midstock” to 07854 492638 or email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk.

Closing date for entries is 15th August 2016.

Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date. Entrants must be 18 or over. No cash alternative. Prize is one pair of tickets.

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ProPerty Matters

“Avoid the Void”

By CrAig Turpie

One of the worries that many landlords understandably experience is the possibility that a month or more will pass between lets when their investment property remains unoccupied.

This can be a serious problem that can adversely affect the short-term cash-flow you so meticulously planned as a route to longer term investment success. Even worse, each month during which a property remains un-let represents an 8.3% reduction in revenue – which can be more than a whole year’s yield!

Voids can happen for a number of reasons – a tenant leaving early, prospective tenants letting a landlord down at the last moment, personal circumstances, a glut of similar properties becoming available locally, or a dearth of suitable tenants, which can be seasonal. Perhaps the property is somewhat unusual or is simply too expensive.

Some landlords seek to avoid these void periods by immediately reducing the rent in order to secure a tenant quickly. What a shame – as over a year that loss may be as great as a month’s void!

The best way of avoiding void periods is to employ a good letting/managing agent whose job it is to plan for such eventualities in advance. A void should never be an insurmountable surprise to them, especially when they know a tenancy is coming to an end. We often have panicking landlords wondering what to do, but fortunately we always have a ready supply of waiting tenants, we are meticulously aware of current rental values, and can advise on how to present your property so that it lets quickly.

Whilst the National average void period is about 20 days (source ARLA), this can be significantly reduced by careful planning and pre-marketing by your agent. Our tenant referencing and other processing procedures are pretty slick, although we say so ourselves, and our greatest delight comes from knowing that our Landlords can sleep easy at night, knowing that they have tenants in their property doing likewise!

Landlords… how long does your average tenancy last?

The industry average in Scotland is 15 months* Turpie & Co’s average is 26 months!**

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Up-cycling gives old furniture a new lease of life CS Window & Gutter Cleaning are your local and reliable window cleaning service covering Broxburn, Uphall and the surrounding areas.

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In the 80’s, ‘Money for Nothing’ referred to a number 1 hit by Dire Straits. The phrase has now become synonymous with the BBC1 programme which sees presenter Sarah Moore scouring the rubbish dumps of Britain to find three objects, destined for landfill, which she then transforms into items that furniture dealers go cock-a-hoop for.

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Only in London’s trendy art circle will you find someone willing to pay hundreds of pounds for an iron manhole cover which has been lovingly re-created into a pink bedroom vanity table. Yes, up-cycling is the new buzz word but it means a bit more than finding a wood-worm riddled dining-chair and passing it off as an objet d’art. There’s a bit of elbow grease and know-how involved but with some pointers you can give some old furniture a new lease of life and save some cash into the bargain.

Sourcing your item We’re not

recommending hanging around your local dump like Sarah, or abseiling into the landfill skip to find that bit of treasure; there are definitely better ways to find that special little something.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 22

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Car boot sales are a good option if you’re prepared to haggle. Charity shops have sprung up everywhere and there are loads of antique shops where you can still pick up some bargains. Chairs with Queen Anne legs (although whether she actually had legs that shape is debatable), and retro style coffee tables, yearning to be loved, are there if you’re prepared to look. Another good place to shop is at reclamation yards where you can pick up real bargains. Also check out if your local area has a Facebook ‘For Sale, Free or Wanted’ page. Most people getting rid of items on these pages generally look for local currency wine or chocolate – in exchange for chests of drawers.

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Stripping your item You don’t have

to strip your furniture but if you do decide to, then use a good quality varnish remover such as Blackfriars which you can buy online or from your local hardware store. If you want to sand it instead you can hire an orbital sander from the Bathgate Hire Centre in Blackburn Road. If you Google ‘How to strip furniture,’ you’ll get loads of tips and there are You Tube videos showing you how it’s done. Make sure you type in the word ‘furniture’ when searching online though, or you’ll get different results entirely.

Finishing your item There are many

ways to finish your work of art. Re-covering an old chair in fabric, or painting a table instead of re-varnishing can look stunning.

All big-name brands produce one-coat paint specifically for the job and B&Q have their own make called Rust-oleum which comes in a chalky finish for a distressed look. Stencilling is another way to create a unique item of furniture especially if it’s plain. A pine chest of drawers for example, can be turned into something really special with the right colour of paint, some stencilling and a quirky set of handles you can pick up from reclamation yards or even TK Maxx. Have fun!

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27

Enjoy the summer with these garden furniture ideas The Kinks had the right idea; nothing beats lazing on a sunny afternoon in the summertime.

We’re not exactly blessed with a multitude of hot days in Scotland so when we do get one it’s good to make the most of it. So how do you spend your time? Entertaining friends over a barbecued brunch? Soaking up the sun by yourself, or with close family? Whatever you prefer to do here are a few suggestions for some excellent quality garden furniture and accessories that will make those precious few hours’ relaxation, all the more luxurious.

Rattan is all the rage Rattan is an extremely popular garden furniture choice and with good reason. Its woven appearance and clean lines deliver a cool, sophisticated look that conjures up poolside drinks at exotic hotels.

Rattan furniture is available in a wide range of colours. It can also be natural or synthetic and to be honest, it’s difficult to tell the two apart. The big difference however is in the durability. Natural rattan isn’t made for prolonged outdoor use. The sun can drastically alter the colours, and mould can set in if it gets continually wet so it’s essential to either cover it when not in use, or store it away during the winter months. On the other hand, synthetic rattan furniture can be left outdoors every day of the year. Rattan furniture can be bought locally at Dobbies in Livingston or from locally-based online company Greenfingers.com.

Whisky-barrel bespoke If you’d prefer something completely different with a bit of a wow factor, how about some rustic garden furniture made from re-claimed whisky barrels?

Edinburgh cabinet maker, Robbie Reid owns whiskybarrelrockers.co.uk. He supplies bars and restaurants across Scotland (and overseas) with 28

various uniquely designed tables and chairs but it’s his oak whisky-barrel rockers which have made him a hit with discerning homeowners. They can be ordered online, or look out for Robbie at local community markets.

The heat is on As the nights start to get a bit cooler a firepit, or patio heater could be a wise investment which will allow you to entertain guests well into the night. Firepits and chimineas come in various styles and can burn a selection of fuels including wood and coal. For those who really can’t be bothered getting in touch with their inner Bear Grylls, there are always the gas versions. Patio heaters are extremely effective when the sun goes down. You don’t even have to invest in a full-sized one either, as many stores now sell table-top patio heaters which are easy to store away when not in use. If you have a summerhouse which gets bitterly cold in winter, maybe you should think of installing a woodburning or multi-fuel stove. West Lothian-based Wood Burning Installations will make sure you stay warm and cosy in your man-cave or she-shed well into the wee, small hours.

KONECT

art in the garden Our summer event has original outdoor art pieces installed in our display gardens.

Take some time out of your own garden and explore our gardens! Free entry to art in the garden throughout July & August.

New Hopetoun Gardens by Winchburgh, West Lothian, EH52 6QZ t 01506 834433 www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk

KONECT

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Parents in West Lothian

from Hypothesis: Water evaporation rated saturated child can be accelebit using popular science exhi I have no problem admitting that science makes our lives easier and improves the world, but this all happens in ways I little understand.

The closest I’ve ever come to using science in a real-world situation was trying to measure how high up I was in a building by dropping an orange out the window and timing it’s descent.

No valid measurements were taken, I just wasted an orange and nearly injured a dog on the pavement below (recollection of Standard Grade Physics + fruit = error).

We usually go all together as a family on day trips but sometimes this isn’t possible. Last weekend was just such an occasion where I decided to venture out with both babies myself … (number of babies > number of adults = potentially foolhardy) This equation is particularly true now that Penelope has become a proper toddler and is walking about the place, albeit with the gait of a mildly intoxicated chimp.

The journey to Glasgow was pain-free enough (journey + satnav = destination at roughly expected time) and there was lots of parking very nearby which ended up only costing £3 for the whole day. The tickets were mid-priced as far as big attractions like this go, £11 for adults and kids under 3 go free. Our approach to the Glasgow Science Museum was heralded by the sight of a massive building with the look of a wedge of (admittedly grey) orange, discarded on the bank of the Clyde, but in a chic, modern kind of way.

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

Nicola & Ch anna both w ork, jugglin schedules w ith g their two tin the ever-evolving dem hectic y overlords, ands of in some tim and also sq ueezing e for each ot her!

stickle blocks representing molecules, and stood on rotating platforms rolling large balls about to simulate the effects of gravity. One of the most interesting observations I made was the number of adults who were engrossed in the various stations, quite oblivious to the fact that their kids were off looking at something else entirely.

With both babies out of the pram I fell prey to this tendency when trying to make a metal bowl of water ‘sing’ by rubbing the handles in a special way … out of the corner of my eye I spot Quinton climbing into a water-feature demonstrating the workings of the Archimedes Screw (small boy + forbidden activity – adult = scientific certainty of activity being carried out). After extracting my sodden progeny from the watery fun, a ‘Eureka!’ moment took me by surprise …

A few minutes later Quinn stepped back out of the wind tunnel exhibit looking pleased with himself and somewhat freshly laundered.

So yeah, science makes our lives easier?

Q.E.D.

k

Oh! The exhibits! We stood in a wind tunnel and were buffeted about hilariously, played with 30

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August – End the summer in Style The end of summer is fast approaching and autumn will be here soon, bringing with it colder weather and darker nights, so make the most of the sun (if we are blessed with any) and spend it enjoying the beauties of West Lothian! Whether you are trying to find activities to entertain the kids during the holidays, or you are looking to let your hair down after a long week at work, West Lothian has it covered.

Why not take a picnic to Almondell & Calderwood Country Park, open all year round and free to visit. Almondell & Calderwood is tucked out of sight in the valley of the River Almond, so take some time and enjoy its historic views and scenic green spaces. Or if the sun isn’t shining, take a trip to Potter Around in Kirknewton and get those creative juices flowing, whether it’s painting, making jewellery, spinning the potter’s wheel or much more.

August is also the time to get those camping chairs out, dust off the wellies and get your groove on, as it’s time again for Party at the Palace! Situated on the far side of Linlithgow Loch overlooking the iconic Palace, Party at the Palace will take place on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th August. With last year’s festival being a massive hit, this year is set to top it all, with acts such as The Proclaimers, Billy Ocean, The Fratellis, Andy Bell from Erasure and many, many more. It’s going to be a good one, so make sure you get those tickets!!

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit: www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook.com/VisitWestLothian Twitter. com: @teamwestlothian

Food to go - for picnics, festivals or the office

by Anne Pinkerton

Receiving updates from different food blogs and marketing spam, one is reminded how wide the difference is in eating habits and idealised, fantasy food for a “life style” advertisers want to sell you.

The practical food written about in blogs such as “A girl called Jack” and the recipes from the BBC are in marked contrast to hampers for sale for Wimbledon and other big summer events; you don’t need caviar, top notch wine and wild strawberries to enjoy a picnic or a meal at your desk.

You want something that is easy to eat and transport and has flavour. There’s an increasingly good variety of “food to go” in office areas, where people buy their lunch or evening meal, because they are in a rush and think cooking takes too long. But if you want to know what you’re really eating and monitor the cost of your diet there’s a great deal you can make at home and enjoy at the office, on the beach or on a walk.

All the food below will keep if looked after reasonably for a day. If out in a car a cool box can even be kept cool from the car’ battery, but that is for serious campers! Common sense is required; don’t leave food in the full sun in a locked car! For a whole week end, tins of beans or Russian salad, salami in vacuumed pack or other food in vacuumed packs will be fine if you eat it all in one sitting.

Homemade food added to bought salad and a piece of fruit and a lump of cheese makes a balanced meal. Bake together – cooking together is good for everyone! Bon Appetite.

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An alternative to home made lemonade for a packed meal could be Rhubarb Drink:

- 3 sticks rhubarb, cut in very small pieces - 1 lemon sliced very finely - 2 00g sugar -8 pints boiling water Method

Boil the water in a large pan. Add the rhubarb and sugar and mix till the sugar is dissolved. Add the lemon. Allow to cool, take out in a thermos. (This is very refreshing but it does not keep more than a couple of days in the fridge).

KONECT

Greek Feta and Spinach Pie Filling

-5 00g bag frozen whole leaf spinach, defrosted and as much of the water as possible pressed out. (Chopped frozen spinach will go to a wet mush).

- Large onion finely chopped - Bunch spring onions chopped including all the green - 2-3 tbs olive oil - 225g feta cheese crumbled - Chopped parsley, salt pepper - 3 large eggs beaten.

Method

Fry the onions in the oil gently till transparent. Add the spinach and seasoning and mix well. Set aside to cool a little and drain of there is a lot of liquid. Add the cheese and egg Pastry

Either buy filo or puff pastry. Filo is authentic, fun but more work. Puff pastry will make a good pie in a more British style.

Line a large, shallow, metal rectangular dish or quiche tin with 6 or 8 layers of filo, each layer painted with melted butter or a mixture of oil and butter. Or line the tin with a thin layer of puff pastry. Pile in the filling and top with more layers of filo (each on painted with melted butter) or a layer of puff pastry. Crimp the edges so the filling does not escape in cooking. With a sharp knife cross hatch the top on the pie and brush with melted butter. Bake at 200C for 35 minutes.

Cut up into squares or wedges for cold food-to-go. Individual slices can be frozen and be eaten over several weeks for office or school packups. The Greeks use this method to make a ham and gruyere with sliced tomato pie, and a sweet cheese and honey pie.

The French have another take on savoury tarts. For this you can either use bread dough or puff pastry. When you use dough the tart becomes a pissaladiere, a forerunner of the pizza!

Anchovy and Onion Tart -4 large mild onions sliced very finely - 2 0 or so black olives stoned -S mall tin anchovies in olive oil - F reshly grated Parmesan - Pinch of mixed herbs - Black pepper - Puff pastry Method

Sweat the onions very slowly with a little of the oil from the fish. When they are totally collapsed and a nearly dry mush they are ready, approx 20 minutes.

Cut the pastry into 4. Roll each square 3mm thick and cut into 4 rough squares. This avoids waste.

The irregular shape does not matter. With a fork prick each square and leave to rest on a baking sheet for 10 minutes or so.

Divide the onion between the squares leaving a border of about 2mm round the edges.

Add a few olives and divide the anchovies between the squares.

Dust lightly with Parmesan and bake at 220oC 10 or 15 minutes till puffed up and golden.

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KONECT

WHAT’S ON and Useful Information Canal trips at Broxburn: Take a short trip on the Union Canal, run by the Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society, in their restored narrowboat “Bluebell.” Trips take place on the first Sunday of each month from April to October and last approximately 1/2 hour. Cost is £3.00/adult, £2.00/child. All monies go back into maintaining the boat. Meet at Port Buchan, Broxburn.

Members of the public can also charter the boat with driver and crew for birthday parties, walking groups etc. The passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drink on board. See http:// www.bridge19-40.org.uk

Macmillan @ Bathgate Partnership Centre opens A new Cancer Information and Support Service for people living with cancer and their families in West Lothian has opened in Simpson Library at Bathgate Partnership Centre.

The new service, a partnership between West Lothian Council and Macmillan Cancer Support, is available for anyone affected by cancer, including the person with a cancer diagnosis, family, friends and carers. It is open on Mondays 10am - 1pm and Thursdays 6pm - 8pm.

The service can be accessed at any point in the cancer journey, no appointment is necessary visitors can drop in to use the service. For more information call: 01506 283053 or email: MacmillanWestLothian@westlothian.gov.uk.

Trained volunteers provide emotional and practical support, access to information materials on various types of cancer and its treatment, signposting to other support services such as benefits advice and counselling, or simply provide a listening ear. The volunteers are supported by West Lothian Council staff.

Councillor Anne McMillan said: “It is planned that during the next 12 months a number of cancer information and support service desk will open across West Lothian. If you are affected by cancer there is someone you can turn to for help. Someone who can help you to find answers to your questions, whatever they may be – Macmillan @ Bathgate Partnership Centre service is available to help.”

KONECT

3rd & 10th August Scotch Hop at Linlithgow Palace Experience the thrill of dancing in the open-air courtyard of the Palace. Live music from Scottish bands, Caller will talk you through the routines. If the weather is poor, adjourn to Low Port Centre instead. 7.30-10pm, tickets available at the door (cash only) include tea and shortbread. Full price £8.50, concessions £6.50, accompanied children under 12 free.

Sunday 14th August Canal Fun Day Linlithgow Canal Centre, Manse Road Basin.

Annual fun day, from 1pm. Variety of stalls in Learmonth Gardens, Cardboard Boat Race, Punch & Judy show, face painting, musical entertainment, canal boat trips, free ferry taking visitors from one side of the basin to the other.

Water Safety demonstration by International Rescue Corps, light refreshments, barbecue, ice cream.

Saturday 20th August Broxburn Children’s Gala For updates see the facebook page “Broxburn Gala Week”.

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

LIBRARY Information Broxburn Library West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 2RH. Tel: 01506 775600.

Email: broxburn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening Times: Please note new opening times are: Monday & Tuesday: 10am - 5pm, Wednesday & Friday: 10am - 3pm, Thursday: 10am - 7pm & Saturday: 9am - 1pm.

Bookbug Bounce and Tickle: Free song, story and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children. Bring a grown-up to join in the fun! Tuesdays and Wednesdays fortnightly 10.30am.

Computer access is available to find out about Information Services, or simply research a hobby, stay in touch with friends or look for work. This service is available for free – simply drop into your local Library or phone to book a free slot.

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Across 7 Not moving (6) 8 Conflict (6) 9 Horrible (4) 10 Wrapper for letter (8) 11 Thrift (7) 13 Loosen (5) 15 Type of snake (5) 17 Country dwelling (7) 20 Against the current (8) 21 Certain (4) 23 Cruel (6) 24 Necessary (6)

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the September edition of konect

Down 1 Celestial body (4) 2 Part of a flower (6) 3 Shrieks (7) 4 Higher up (5) 5 Pinched (6) 6 Tossing (8) 12 Hacking (8) 14 Order (7) 16 Keep (6) 18 Examined (6) 19 Fixes (5) 22 Regrets (4)

clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more...

BROXBURN Broxburn Woodcraft Club

A members Club located within the community wing of the Strathbrock Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. We have a fully equipped workshop supporting all aspects of woodworking including woodturning, pyrography, scrollsawing, the making of toys, furniture, musical instruments, walking sticks and more. For further information use the Contact Us facility on the website: www.broxburnwoodcraftclub.org. Our hours are Mon & Tues 9am-9pm, Wed & Fri 9am-12 noon and 6pm -9pm, Thurs 9am-3pm and 6:00pm-9pm.

Livingston Highland Society

Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189 W Main St, Broxburn.

Monthly ceilidhs on a Saturday evening between October and April. Each month we have a different band and guest artist.

New members welcome, contact John Sneddon on 01501 770911 for dates and more details Ladies only outdoor fitness sessions

Albyn Park, Greendykes Road. Mondays 7-8pm, with Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) and Burn-It. Doesn’t matter your size or level of fitness. BUSC and Burn-It aim to create a fun fitness session based outside to enable ladies to meet their goals.

For more info contact Leigh Lauder on 01506 858057 or email l.lauder@busc.org.uk Alive & Kickin

Albyn Park, Greendykes Road. A programme for older members of the community to remain active. Run by Broxburn United Sports Club and includes: Walking Football Tues 10.30am to 12pm, £3 per session with tea/coffee after. Walking Club

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on Thurs 10am. Community walk starting and ending at Albyn Park. Free, everyone welcome. Invigor8 Multi Sports Thurs 2-3.30pm £2 per session. Try new sports and learn new skills.

Each session is 1 hour of the new sport plus an inspirational/ informative chat for 30mins. For more info contact Leigh Lauder at Albyn Park 01506 858057 or email ll.lauder@busc.org.uk Zumba for Kids

Albyn Park, Greendykes Road. With the Poco Loco crew – learn some rocking dance routines using different styles and rhythms. For girls and boys aged 4 – 12. Fridays 1.15-2.15 (P1-P3) 2.25-3.15 (P4-P7) cost £3 per week. To book please contact Greig Taylor on g.taylor@busc.org.uk or Nina Anderson on nina. anderson@live.co.uk or call 01506 858057.

Broxburn Swimming Club We cater for swimmers from age 3 upwards and cover all levels of swimming from our Learn to Swim programme up to our top competitive squad. Learn to Swim: Thursday night (6:00 - 7:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool; Friday night (6:30 - 7:00) - Broxburn Academy pool. Squad Swimming: Monday and Tuesday (7:30 - 9:00) and Thursday (7:00 - 9:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool; Friday (6:00 - 8:00) - Armadale Academy pool. For further information please contact: broxburn_asc@hotmail.com Church Street Baby & Toddler Group

2 Church Street, Broxburn EH52 5EL. Every Thursday from 09.15-11.00 and is based in the Church Hall behind Broxburn Parish Church. Suitable for children from birth to 3 years.

Each session costs £2 per and includes a healthy snack for the children and a cuppa & biscuit for the grown-ups. Visit our Facebook page for more information www.facebook.com/ BroxburnChurchStreetBabyandToddler Craft Cuppa We are a small group of crafters who meet on Saturday afternoons 1-3 pm at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Community Wing, entrance B. We meet to share expertise, have a natter and a cuppa. We would welcome anyone who wants to come along. For more info please email craftycuppaclub@mail. com or just come along!

KONECT

Slimming World

South Parish Church, E. Main St. Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 5.30pm and & 7.30pm. Contact Lisa on 07736 316400. Canon Hoben Hall Wednesday 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm; Thursday 9.30am. Contact Alison on 07510 332851.

Strathbrock Community Centre: 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Tapestry; U3A, Calligraphy group,Computer Drop-in; Keep fit/Line Dance for over 50s; Zumba, Brownies; WRI; Drama group, Karate. Tuesdays: Playgroup; Spanish classes; Card making; Line Dancing; Irish Dancing; Ring Craft. Wednesdays: Playgroup, Tai Chi, Scrabble groupl Chatterbook Book Club; Bingo; Computer Beginners Course; Brownies/Rainbows; Dog Obedience. Thursdays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Art Group; Genealogy; Healty Respect; Lip Reading; Access to Employment; Drama; Hoola Hoop Class; Chilren’s Club, Youth Group; Guitar lessons, Tai Chi. Fridays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Carpet Bowling; after school club; Computer drop in; Tai Kwon Do; Polish Community Group; New Christian Life; Model Car Club. Saturdays: Guitar lessons; Dance classes; Tae Kwon Do; Computer classes; Weight Watchers. Please call Strathbrock Community Centre on 01506 771733 or email linda. sayers@westlothian.gov.uk for details of times and more information on any of the groups.

UPHALL Uphall Community Education Centre: Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Carpet Bowls; U3A Singing for Pleasure; Zumba; Craft Group; WRI; Scottish Country Dancing. Tuesdays: Baby & Toddler; Uphall Outreach; 50+ Friendship Group; Walking Group; Indoor Curling; U3A Art Group; Taekwon-Do; Yellow Teapot Club; Youth Club. Wednesdays: Indoor Curling; U3A Book Group; Cairbrock Association; Parkinson’s Uk; U3A History Group; Tea Dance; Zumba; Fusion Youth Group; Tribe West Belly Dance.

Thursdays: Indoor Curling Adults with Carers; West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network; Line Dancing; U3A Quiz Group, U3A Music Group; Karate; Yellow Teapot Club; West Lothian Y-Cats.

Fridays: U3A Poetry Group; U3A Discussion Group; Children’s Club P3-P6); Reiki; Girls Group (S1 upwards). Please call the Community Centre on 01506 854451 or email denise.doig@ westlothian.gov.uk for details of times and more information on any of the groups.

Uphall Playgroup

Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN. For children aged 24 months and over. Open Monday to Friday 9:15 - 11:30am during term time. Choose 1, 2, 3 or 4 sessions per week. Each session costs £5 and includes a healthy snack. See http://www.uphallplaygroup.co.uk/ or tel 01506 854451 for further information.

The People’s Café Meets the fourth Tuesday of every month 11am - 1.30pm at St Andrew’s Care Home, St Andrew’s Court, 20 Hawthorn Place, Uphall. For people who have any form of dementia, and their carers, to meet others in a similar situation for support and social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and home baking. Come for the whole session or just drop in.

Broxburn Art A group of enthusiastic amateur artists who meet regularly to paint, draw and chat in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

Tuesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm in Uphall Community Education Centre. If you’d like to know more, please email us at info@broxburnart.co.uk West Lothian Art West Lothian Art is a group of enthusiastic amateur artists who meet regularly to paint, draw and chat in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere on Tuesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm in KONECT

Uphall Community Education Centre. If you’d like to know more, please email us at info@westlothianart.co.uk West Lothian U3A (University of the 3rd Age) A group of retired people who like to keep their minds active by learning in an informal environment. We meet in Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall on the third Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m., when we have speakers on a variety of topics. U3A also has a number of interest Groups who also meet once a month, including Art Appreciation, Singing for Pleasure, History, Walking and Cinema. New members are always welcome – please contact the Membership Secretary Helen on 01506 655976. You will find a list of speakers and a full list of Groups on our website u3asites.org.uk/westlothian

WINCHBURGH Little Flyers After School Club

Winchburgh Community Centre, Craigton Park, Winchburgh, EH52 6RW. Open during term time, from the end of the school day until 5.45 p.m. Collecting from Winchburgh and Holy Family Primary Schools. Please contact 07518 176781 for more information or see www.littleflyersnursery.com Winchburgh Community Centre: Craigton Park, Winchburgh, EH52 6RW. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Junior Youth Club 7.00pm - 9.15pm.

Tuesdays: Slimming World 6.30pm - 9.30pm. Wednesdays: Keep Fit 9.30am -10.30am; Computer Club 9.30am-12noon; Night Art 7.00pm-9.00pm; Dog Class 7.00pm-10.00pm.

Thursdays: Morning Art 9.30am-12noon; Senior Citizens 1.30pm-4.00pm; Little Flyers 3.00pm-6.00pm; Childrens Club 6.00pm-7.30pm; Guitar Club 7.45pm-9.30pm; Table Tennis 7.45pm-9.30pm. Fridays: Little Flyers 12 noon-6.00pm; Scouts 6.15pm- 9.15pm Saturdays: Children’s Activity Club 9.45am12noon; Girls Allowed 7.00pm-9.00pm. For more information on any of the groups please contact the Community Centre on 01506 890348 or email julie.witherwick@westlothian.gov. uk. Winchburgh Community Council meetings are held second Monday of every month except January and July. See www. winchburghcc.org.uk

DECHMONT West Lothian Baking Club We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £3 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

Dechmont 50+ Arts Group

This group of enthusiastic amateur painters meet every Wednesday from 13.00 - 16.00 in Dechmont Memorial Hall to practice their art and socialise. There are a few membership places available and new members would be more than welcome irrespective of their painting skills. For more details email dechmontartgroup@gmail.com or visit their website at dechmontartgroup.wix.com/home.

OTHER AREAS West Lothian Gymnastics

Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, Livingston. Pre school classes for boys and girls, learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility. Classes lead by fully qualified coaches and morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months - 3 years and 3-5 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list. First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail.com To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details. www.konectdirectory.co.uk

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio 35 Buyrite 2 Beauty ACT Beauty & Hair Academy 12 Allure 15 Tan Stand 15 Building Surveyor David Hastings

22

Butcher John Lawson Butchers

34

Car Service & Repair D.K’s Autocare

4

Car Valet/Wash D.K’s Autocare

4

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services 22 James Burnett Carpet Cleaning 5 Hydrokleen 26 Catering Food Creations Children’s Activities/ Entertainment Broxburn Air Cadets

34

31

Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestics 26 CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 22 Multi Level Contracts Ltd 16 Computer Services Sprint Computers

6

Conservatories Andrew James Windows & Conservatories 5

Mobility Ableworld 13 Med Ecosse 11

Dance Supplies Highland Dance Shop

12

Dentist No 9 Dental

12

Doors UPVC Doors

Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland

6

27 6

Painter/Decorator Nu Walls Thomson Decorators

6 4

Estate Agent Aberdein Considine 7 Alba Property 40 Turpie 19

Plastering Nu Walls

6

Plumbing Services Currievale Plumbing

5

Electrician Simply Electrical

Garden & Landscaping Beatson’s 26 Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care 27 New Hopetoun Gardens 29 SG Garden Services 27 Woodford Timber 29 Garden Buildings Champfleurie Estate Ltd

20

Gym/Health Club Broxburn United Sports Club

17

Heating Services Capital Heating

24

Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) AK Stretch Limousines

4

Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady

39

Locksmith Livingston Locksmith Saltire Lock & Security

35 27

Security Services Saltire Lock & Security

27

Taxi & Private Hire All The Fours

21

Vet Mackie & Brechin

16

Window Cleaning CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 22 Premier Reach and Clean 5 Windows 1st Choice Living 23 Andrew James Windows & Conservatories 5 Red Hot Windows 24

Solution to July Crossword Across: 7 Banana, 8 Repeat, 9 Dawn, 10 Hundreds, 11 Distant, 13 Sloop, 15 After, 17 Clamped, 20 Properly, 21 Daft, 23 Demons, 24 Nearly.

Down: 1 Data, 2 Gannet, 3 Washing, 4 Drunk, 5 Spiral, 6 Handsome, 12 Inferred, 14 Cloying, 16 Employ, 18 Midday, 19 Brisk, 22 Fall.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication.

Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.

The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

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KONECT

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Picture Courtesy of West Lothian Local History Library

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