Konect Broxburn February 2019

FEBRUARY 2019

broxburn

SPORT:

FEATURE: LOCAL CHARITY:

PLUS: GARDEN PROJECT, PROPERTY MATTERS, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

The monthly community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn & Winchburgh

THIS ISSUE

TO OUR FEBRUARY EDITION

W

elcome to the first Konect of 2019, we’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things Winchburgh, Broxburn and Uphall.

The Broxburn and Uphall Development (BUD) Group is up and running to work on what’s next for our communities - see page 26 for an update and if you want to get involved with shaping it in 2019!

It’s a special year for me as it’s the 10th year of publishing Konect, and we’ll be celebrating plenty!Even after 10 years of 11 issues per year, there is something new and fresh to learn every month and it keeps me excited and motivated to work on the editorial every month. I meet a wonderful range of people locally. The Charity of the Month continues to be a really important part of our editorial, and this month we’re featuring Neils’ Hugs Foundation – see pages 28-29.

It’s well known that by February most new year’s resolutions have been ditched, especially the ones to do with health and fitness. Our local health and wellbeing contributors have produced special columns this month to help you get back on track.

I hope you enjoy Konect this month, as ever I’m always happy to get feedback in my inbox.

P12 Well-being Feature......................................12 BUD Group Update.....................................13 Gardening: Gardens are good for you!....17 Puzzles..........................................................22 Property Matters..........................................24 Sport: Here come the girls.........................26 Charity: Neil’s Hugs.....................................28 Parenting: Mummy Me Time......................33 What’s On......................................................35 Clubs & Classes..........................................36

COVER IMAGE: Winter well-being feature starting on p12

Konect is delivered monthly to 7,500 homes and businesses in Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh.

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

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

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delivering more Put yourself in safe hands with our highly experienced legal and property teams.

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FEBRUARY HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Start addressing your energy drains now for a better 2019 Many people want to make positive change, but positivity and plans quickly disintegrate as the old energy drains kick in and you’re unable to make progress.

Here are just some of the energy drains that may be holding you back.

1. Stuff

If you don’t feel completely at peace in your personal space, it’s time to make a change.

Less really is more. If you get rid of stuff, you get more space.

It’s time to have a house overhaul and get rid of anything that no longer serves your new purpose. Keep only the things that have real daily meaning to you.

Struggling to get motivated? Start a clearing circle – a group of people that all want to achieve the same goal, and make arrangements to help each other clear the clutter. Throw in a bottle of wine and some snacks and you’ve turned into a fun opportunity to catch up and discuss what you’re going to do with all this space you’re creating!

2. Financial

Most financial advice focuses on your ‘variable’ costs i.e. get rid of your daily coffee and it will change your life. But real change happens when you address your fixed costs – the monthly ones that keep you stuck in the same cycle. Every pound saved is a pound earned; every pound is earned through the exchange of your ‘life energy.’

Mortgage/rent, car loans, other loans, gas/ electricity, phones, TV etc. The higher your fixed costs, the more life energy you need to exchange to pay for them. Examine what you really need to live the life you want.

Most of our lives is habit, you may need to try living without something to really know if you need it.

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3. Relationships

There’s a high chance you have relationships that leave you feeling mentally and physically drained. Relationships are difficult to change – you either need to adjust the interactions you have with people, or walk away. It might be that you’ve fallen into unhealthy habits with someone, and they may find it a relief to change too.

The saying ‘be the change you want to see’ is relevant here – if you can see you’re both in unhealthy patterns, be the person willing to speak with love and make changes. If the other person isn’t ready to change, you may need to make a decision on whether that relationship is something you want to continue with.

4. Health

Sickness, anxiety, depression – we can feel trapped if we don’t feel able to make changes. Address your health issues. Ask yourself: am I making myself sick? Is my lifestyle supporting good health? Do I want to get better?

Not all health complaints may be curable, but you can choose how you live with it. If it’s part of your life, you need to adjust to accommodate it.

It may take real commitment, and time to discover what works for you.

The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. See her “LifeHeal” facebook page at www.facebook.com/LifeHealCoaching @KonectMagazines

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BROXBURN | 9

FEBRUARY HEALTH & WELL-BEING

_LOVE ME_ Valentine’s Day is a key date for many in the February calendar.

This month I think we should celebrate love for ourselves. With the world of social media taking over, heavily filtered and photoshopped images are flashing through our news feeds subconsciously telling us we are not good enough. The urge to compare and want to ‘fix’ ourselves is a constant for some.

However, presenting ourselves is not purely aesthetic it’s about wellbeing.

That inner glow that comes from loving ourselves a little more each day. Letting go of the worry and comparing ourselves to the heavily filtered images we are endlessly subjected to. Making time to do the things that make us feel good. Whether that is getting your hair done, maybe having a facial or taking 5 minutes in the morning to meditate and give yourself a compliment, make time for fitness or learn a new skill.

The world could be a different place if we all celebrated the things we love about ourselves, leading the way in self love for the next generation.

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

THE BEST FITNESS FOR THE BEST YOU The member attrition rates in the average gym are ridiculous. The upsurge in January, the month of “new year, new you”, is followed by a steep drop-off come February, when the good intentions and aspirations have collapsed like an old couch.

There are a million ways to get fit and healthy. But we’re all so set on the quick fix that we forget, to truly be fit and healthy, we need to live fit and healthy.

“The best exercise is the one you will do often” Fitness should be like brushing your teeth, or sleeping; something that is an integral and essential part of your wellbeing that you do almost automatically. Let’s be honest though, exercise takes up significantly more energy and motivational requirement than sleeping, which is why, if we’re going to make fitness a daily part of our lives, the people and the environment you’re training in are almost as important as the exercise itself. Humans are social animals, and that social interaction can make any tough workout feel achievable and enjoyable.

The key to sustainable fitness is not only finding a form of exercise you enjoy doing, but at a place you enjoy being at, with people you enjoy training with. Find a gym or sports team with likeminded people, a great service offering and a strong community feel to match.

This article was contributed by Ross Paterson, Synergy Group Fitness, Scotland’s Gym of the Year 2018 UK’s Functional Gym of the Year 2018.

Website: synergy groupfitness.co.uk Facebook: @synergygroupfitness Instagram: @synergygroupfitness 10 | BROXBURN

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Would you like to be included in the health and beauty pages of Konect?

See our contact details on Page 3.

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FEBRUARY HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Sue Scorer runs Slimming World groups in East Calder. She says: “Successful weight loss isn’t just about losing weight, it’s about keeping it off. The key is to make realistic changes to your lifestyle that you can keep up for the rest of your life. Here are my top ‘New Year, New You’ tips to do just that.”

– Never go hungry. If you feel hungry or deprived it’s impossible to keep up. Keep your appetite satisfied with wholesome, healthy meals the whole family can enjoy – think spag bol, roast dinners, curries, stir-fries, cottage pie, chilli, …even homemade chips! Visit slimmingworld.co.uk for recipe inspiration!

– Easy changes to make. Cook all your favourite meals, just tweak them slightly. Switch to lean meat, trim off visible fat and remove skin from poultry.

Swap cooking oil for low calorie sprays, whole milk for skimmed/semi-skimmed, sugar for sweetener and calorie-laden salad dressings for fat-free vinaigrettes.

These substitutions may seem small but together they will really boost your weight loss.

– Write a weekly plan. Plan your week’s menu; you’ll feel in control of your healthy eating and know exactly what to get at the supermarket, saving pennies and time. Thinking ahead about any potential pitfalls such as a social event will help you stay on track.

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– You choose. Keep your fridge stocked with natural foods you can snack on such as fresh fruit, vegetable crudités and lean meat. When you’re feeling peckish you’ll be able to dive right in, rather than eating that extra chunk of cheese or packet of crisps. You don’t have to cut out treats completely to lose weight; in fact a little bit of what you fancy can do you a world of good. At Slimming World we recommend flexibility in your diet along with just enough structure. With one or two treats per day (a glass of wine or a chocolate bar for example) you’ll feel beautifully in control.

– Enlist super support. Support is a vital component in losing weight and keeping it off. Slimming World members attend weekly groups led by a Consultant who has lost weight themselves.

It helps you stick to your promise when you make a commitment at group each week.

– Add some activity. Start off slow and find something you enjoy. It could be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the lift or parking the car further away from work or the shops.

Sign up to a short race; or apps such as ‘Couch to 5k’ are brilliant at building your confidence. Those who make a habit of being active are more likely to maintain their weight loss.

– Remove Guilt. Recognising that we’re only human and all have lapses at times can make it easier to get back on track with achieving our weight loss dreams.

You’ll find more slimming support, advice and inspiration at Slimming World groups in Broxburn (Canon Hoben Hall, Weds 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30), and Uphall (S. Parish Church) Tues 5.30 & 7.30 For details please contact Lisa on 07736 316400. For groups in East Calder, please contact Sue on 07803 520781 or sue_scorer@hotmail.com. @KonectMagazines

COMMUNITY

Broxburn and Uphall Development (BUD) Group 2018 was an exciting year for those who live, work and play in Broxburn and Uphall. A small group of interested citizens formed a steering group to research what’s next for the community and what residents want to see.

It was amazing to recognise the hundreds of effective teams, activities, groups and councils that are beavering away, just in Broxburn and Uphall, let alone the wider connected communities. As well as West Lothian Council services, there are two separate community councils for both Broxburn and Uphall, there are two vibrant community centres, an award-winning Family Centre and two organisations which support and promote our local businesses - the Broxburn and Uphall Town Centre Management Group and the Broxburn and Uphall Traders Association. A high school and four primary schools. A range of religious organisations, including the main churches.

There are two gala day committees and a host of sporting activities. Community Councillors work tirelessly across a range of committees and groups to fulfil their remits.

However, at the same time as all this activity, and in common with towns and villages across Scotland, we’ve seen the slowing down of the high street. There is a feeling that the area lacks available hubs - places which encourage us to leave the comfort (or loneliness) of our homes to get together socially. And although there is so much going on, very few people are actually aware of much of this.

As a result, the research and community consultation recommended four areas which could be improved for Broxburn and Uphall: • a heart and hub for the community which brings people together and reduces isolation @KonectMagazines

• services from the cradle to the grave • creation of a vibrant town centre • building a community which is in control Whilst all the existing groups are doing great work and an play important role, they do have limitations including their abilities to independently raise money for community improvements. The separate groups also have no overarching remit to develop both Broxburn and Uphall communities.

So the Steering Group formed a new “BUD (Broxburn and Uphall Development) Group” specifically with the goal of investigating the feasibility and purpose of a community development trust for Broxburn and Uphall.

Community Development Trusts exist to reinvigorate communities with similar needs to Broxburn and Uphall. Several already exist in West Lothian, with the ability to be enterprising about creating fundraising opportunities for the benefit of their communities. Examples of these include West Calder, Whitburn and Winchburgh which have already been successful at introducing enterprising events and innovative approaches to celebrating and promoting the heritage and appearance of the villages and towns they operate in.

The BUD group currently meets on the last Thursday of every month at 7pm in the Strathbrock Community Centre. We have some ideas about what we want to achieve in 2019, but are still seeking input and new members. Please get in touch if you’d like to be involved! Email: contact@bud.scot BROXBURN | 13

“DANCING WITH MYSELF” - YOU DON’T HAVE TO! If you’re over 60 and spend a lot of time on your own, ironically you’re not alone…

There are half a million older people in the UK going without any social interaction for a week at a time (Research by Age UK, 2018). And in Scotland, an Age UK report in 2015 stated that two in five older people regard the television as their main form of company.

If you feel you could benefit from more socialising the good news is that there are groups in West Lothian to help you meet new people.

Cyrenians “Older People Active Lives” (OPAL) project exists specifically for older people in West Lothian and they offer a range of services. One of those services is running weekly social groups at various locations all over West Lothian for anyone in the community who is over the age of 60 and feels they want to get out.

The groups are all-inclusive. Whether you are fit and able, visually-impaired, hearing-impaired, have limited mobility or are in early diagnosis of dementia, there is a group to suit you. From a cuppa and a blether to activities out and about, there is something for everyone.

You don’t need to be referred by anyone, you can simply turn up and be assured of a warm friendly welcome in a relaxed environment.

The activity groups include music, trips, speakerevents, crafts, movie days, board games, new age curling, quizzes – and anything else that group members want to explore! Tea, coffee and good craic guaranteed. Whilst the groups are facilitated and organised by OPAL, they are self-led in that the members themselves decide what they want to do.

Groups last about two hours and cost £1 per session to help cover costs - you simply pay as you go.

If you would like to find out more, please call 01506 815 815, email opal@cyrenians.scot, or visit us at www.cyrenians.scot - Facebook: @OPALCyrenians

This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after speaking with Pauline Moffat, OPAL Groups Co-ordinator, at the Cyrenians offices in Bathgate.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect and lives in West Lothian with her family.

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You are welcome to attend any of these groups in West Lothian. Some of the groups are in sheltered housing but are open to non-residents.

“Activity Group” means that there is a range of activities which vary from week to week. All groups are £1 per week, pay as you go, except the singing group* which is £1.50 per week.

BROXBURN: NEW group starting 14th NEW Feb 2019. Strathbrock Partnership Ctr, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH • Activity group, weekly on Thursdays 10 - 12pm BLACKBURN: Blackburn Partnership Centre, Ashgrove, Blackburn, EH54 7LL • Activity Group weekly on Mondays 10am - 12pm CRAIGSHILL: Craigengar Park, Almond Rd, EH54 5NY • Activity Group weekly on Mondays 1.30 - 3.30pm BATHGATE: Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street, EH48 1QW • Activity Group weekly on Tuesdays 2- 4pm Royal Scot Court, 76 Academy Street, EH48 1QR • Nibble n Natter group weekly on Wednesdays 1.30 - 3.30pm MID CALDER: Cunnigar House, Avenue Park West, EH53 0AH • Activity Group weekly Tuesdays 2 - 4pm UPHALL: St Andrew’s Court, 20 Hawthorn Place, EH52 5BX • Activity Group weekly on Wednesdays 10 - 12pm CARMONDEAN: Ability Centre, EH54 8PT • Singing Group fortnightly on Wednesdays 2.30 - 4pm (*Singing for Health in partnership with Ageing Well) FAULDHOUSE: Blackfaulds Court, EH47 9DR • Activity Group weekly Wednesdays 2 4pm ARMADALE: Colinshiel Court, McNeil Crescent, EH48 2NB • Activity & Dominoes Group weekly Thursdays 2 - 4pm LINLITHGOW: Longcroft Hall, Philip Avenue, Linlithgow, EH49 7BH • Nibble & Natter group weekly on Thursdays 2 - 4pm @KonectMagazines

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GARDENING PROJECT

Gardens are good for you!

Although we are told that 50% of us do some gardening every week the rest of us can get great benefits for our well-being from gardens themselves.

In the winter these benefits are generally gained by looking out of the window rather than visiting a garden and one of the most absorbing things to see are our garden birds consuming the food we put out for them.

25 years ago we would only give our garden birds the leftover scraps from the kitchen.

Today as a nation we have become a vital source of food for our feathered friends who are continually having to adapt to their changing habitats. Recent research has shown us that the quality of birdfood we buy can vary enormously and we generally get what we pay

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for. The real test is in the eating - do our birds enthusiastically eat what we give them!

Do try to keep your feeding stations hygienic to stop the build up of potentially killing diseases.

Keep fresh water available for your visitors and maintain the supply of food. Caring for these visitors will put a smile on your face.

SMILE: Gardening has great benefits for our well-being.

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

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

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Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Home Improvements pages.

Contact details are on page 3.

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BROXBURN | 23

PROPERTY MATTERS

Think you’re saving money with a ‘low-cost’ agent?

They could cost you more than you think!

Over the past 2 years, house prices nationwide have enjoyed positive growth - and West Lothian has outperformed the majority of areas in several of the national housing statistics. The county enjoyed a 13.3% increase in house prices over 12 consecutive months during this period, making it the second highest region for growth in Scotland. Rightmove also reported recently that Livingston had the fastest-selling market in the UK last year at just 25 days, as opposed to the UK average of 61 days.

It would be easy therefore to think that, in a sellers’ market where buyer demand outstrips supply, a sale is all but guaranteed and that choosing the right estate agent is less important than it would typically be in a tougher market. In my experience, however, this approach usually turns out to be a false economy as the difference 24 | BROXBURN

between a good agent and a mediocre one can be highly significant in terms of the hard cash that you get for your property.

Not all estate agents are the same The difference between the cheapest home selling service on the market and the highest quality service is typically around 0.75% of the property value, which represents a difference of £1,500 in agent fees on a property selling for £200,000.

The ability however, of an experienced agent, who knows the local market, has a dynamic list of real buyers and the marketing knowledge to produce a bespoke sales campaign for each property they handle, could be worth much more to a seller in real money than any perceived savings when the real return (i.e. the price achieved for your property) is measured rather than simply the fee level.

The client story below better illustrates this; it is by no means an isolated case.

‘Low-cost’ can cost you time and money A seller contacted our company recently to invite us to conduct a market appraisal of their property in Livingston. The house was currently on the market with a ‘low-cost’ agent who had charged their full selling fee up-front.

This charging method in itself conflicts with the whole ethos of any type of ‘agency’ work in my view, and, when broken down to what a seller is actually paying for, it can often be no more than a very expensive advertising fee.

The original campaign by the low-cost agent did not go well and the owners informed us that they had very few viewers. Worse still, viewers had not even been properly qualified by way of suitability as buyers for their property. The sellers received no feedback from the agent or even suggestions about how the sales campaign could be sharpened up; the only suggestion the agent had was that the seller should simply reduce the selling price, which would of course cost them even more money!

A fresh approach to get the real financial return on your asset As the photography and marketing material being used was of such poor quality, we instructed our own professional photographers and professional copywriters to produce a new marketing campaign specifically designed to attract a particular buyer profile. We then @KonectMagazines

proactively presented this information to our registered list of qualified and active buyers. Our Property Manager developed interest from a number of interested buyers, which resulted in a closing date being set and a sale being agreed after only 2 weeks of the new campaign. More significantly, by presenting the property to the correct audience and creating a competitive selling environment, the property sold for a figure that was several thousands of pounds above the home report value!

To summarise this case, the owners had already paid almost £1,000 up front to their previous agent (which they didn’t get back) and were being advised to lower their selling price. We advised against this and recommended a bespoke, fully managed sales campaign which was directly marketed and sold to a buyer registered on our database for a price that was higher than the market value. This not only covered the fee charged by the first agent but also covered the fee charged by our company - and still returned a hefty net return on investment of several thousands of pounds for the seller. The price achieved for the seller’s property was higher than the valuation figure on the home report. In life and in property, you only get one chance to make the best first impression! To quote the clients on the low-cost agency in this case, “We only realised we had made the wrong decision after it was too late!”

It’s your equity and your money, so, when choosing the right agent to sell your home, what’s more important to you? Low fees that could well end up costing you more? Or the most money in your pocket and the security of a well-managed sale? I know which one I’d choose!

SELLING PRICE (AGREED OFFER) AGENT FEE NET PROCEEDS OF SALE BENEFIT TO SELLER (£)

In the examples shown below, the additional £1,500 in fees could actually have protected a potential net loss of £20,000 or more!

The Real selling price of a property is the Offer price agreed minus the professional fees and this Real figure can often be overlooked with so many other things to consider when choosing the right selling agent.

£

?

£

EXAMPLE: For a property with a Home Report of £200,000. The following scenarios show the difference in the net figures received for the sale after agents’ fees have been deducted and also the difference a professionally managed campaign can yield in terms of valuation, offer and selling price in relation to Home Report Value.

£190,000

£200,000*

£210,000

0.5%

1.0%

1.25%

£189,050

£198,000

£207,375

-

NB: This table is a guide only and any combination of fees/selling price can apply in each case. * Denotes HR Value

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.over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines

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SPORTS

Twenty-one, tears flowing, end of a school match. Biggest game of the season, against next door neighbours, Seel Road chockablock full of talent, on pro club books to a man; this was Huyton, hotbed of soccer, like Livingston.

Before teacher training, I’d joined St Augustine’s senior school to get experience. The head, Mr Smart, entrusted first-team soccer to me. We boasted Peter Johnson, (on Bolton’s books), tricky wee Davey Hawley, (tragically fated to be one of the Hillsborough 96), but in truth, we were otherwise a team of tryers.

Every year we were slaughtered, usually double figures. I organised them, roused them, prayed. Then cried with pride. I can still hear Smart’s tone in assembly: “Seel Road 2 St Augustine’s 2?”, voice rising at the end with prank or mistake implied.

So I have a smattering of Martin Eadie’s feelings.

32-year-old Martin has been coaching for 5 or 6 years since older daughter, stylish right back Erika, caught the football bug and infected him.

They typify Murieston United Football Club, proud bearers of the Scottish FA quality mark.

From its 8-pitch Bankton Mains base in Livingston, the Club runs over 20 boys’ teams, 6 for girls plus fun games for under 7s. Martin’s team, playing this season in a competitive 11 a side league for the first time, train for an hour and a half on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Players use other facilities too - for strengthening and conditioning, for example. Martin’s philosophy is competitive - he wants the best from each girl, no less. After flying solo, this season Martin will enjoy the able voluntary assistance of Alan White, Craig Smith and Larry Masterton, each devoting some 10 hours a week to the cause.

The club receives zilch in grants so must raise all funds by its own efforts, like sponsored walks or bag packing. Fees paid by the girls just cover the basics like kits and balls. Your sponsorship or donation gratefully welcomed, dear reader!

Martin believes girls equal to boys in ability and attitude but the football culture amongst girls is infant.

However, Scotland’s participation in the Women’s World Cup, starting 7th of June 2019, could kickstart culture growth. I hope so. Currently, there is a quartet of girls’ teams Murieston, Linlithgow, Broxburn and Blackburn in West Lothian but that could well soon change.

This article was suggested by a grateful Mum, Julie Grieve, whom I hereby quote: “Could you write an article on the wonderful coaches of girls at Murieston. My daughter started last year and today their U13 team won the league for the second successive year. They have given my daughter a feeling of inclusion with regular training and matches something to focus on and a sense of achievement. They do a great job for this community and never miss a training session or match.

It takes a lot of time and skill to develop the girls.

I’d love to see this fantastic club getting the recognition they deserve.”

Bravo Martin and volunteer coaches everywhere.

Facebook: @MuriestonUnitedCFC Twitter: @MUCFC_Ladies Website: scottishfa.co.uk/football-development The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer.

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CHARITY OF THE MONTH

gives a glimpse of the driving force behind it: “I am lucky to be Neil’s Mum. That does not change because he is no longer on earth. He is always safe in my heart. I have founded this charity because I shared his journey, I believe I should do something in his memory to help families in similar circumstances to ours...

“I will speak for someone who can’t speak out,” says Donna Paterson-Harvie. And she is speaking as a mother who has lost her son to suicide, knows an ocean of pain and is now running a charity to support people touched by suicide in West Lothian.

The above comment was in the context of reducing the stigma surrounding suicide.

Something Donna comes across a lot is that for many people who have lost a loved one to suicide, talking about it is made all the more difficult by the stigma surrounding it.

I’m catching up with Donna over coffee at West Lothian College where she can be found most of the time as the students and lecturers, she explains, has been phenomenal in raising awareness of the charity, which is called Neil’s Hugs Foundation in memory of her son. Neil’s Hugs runs a twice- monthly support group here at the college (as well as at other places), and Donna also works with student support services to provide group or one to one support where it is requested. I first heard about Neil’s Hugs from one of the students at the college, Yvonne Beveridge, via the Konect charity distribution scheme. It is Yvonne’s nominated charity for the scheme, and I was keen to find out more.

Donna PatersonHarvie, Neil’s mum 28 | BROXBURN

Donna’s story that led her to this point is heartbreaking and inspiring. She wants all the focus to be on the work Neil’s Hugs is doing now, but a short extract from her words on the charity’s website

I brought my son back to life on two occasions, I had to listen to him as he asked me why I had saved him as he did not want to live. I heard how he planned to take his life and was never sure when I left him if it would be the last time I saw him alive. He called me the morning he died and he knew I was working and could not get to him in time to save him.”

That was seven years ago. One can only imagine the journey Donna has been on, but when she emerged it led to her going on a counselling course at West Lothian College, and setting up Neil’s Hugs. She started it in December 2016, and launched officially in September 2017 - on Neil’s birthday.

“I wanted to help others going through what I went through. If I have a roof, a kettle and a biscuit, I can look after someone,” she says.

So Neil’s Hugs is a counselling and support organisation infused with Donna’s deeply caring nature. “You never get over your grief”, says Donna, “but it changes you as a person and you learn to live with it. It changes your priorities. I am a very different person to the one I was before; I’m much less bothered about the housework now and less able to multi-task than I did when I had a career as a casino manager. I live in a house that is perhaps not ideal for us, but it is where I spent most time with Neil, so it’s where I want to be.”

A huge benefit can be gained from talking with others who are going through the same pain, and this applies to people who may be at risk of suicide too. While many suicides are related to mental health issues, it’s not always the case. “Life is a really tough place, and some people are just not as resilient as others,” says Donna. Some people come to the support groups who have not spoken about suicide of a loved one for 30 years or more.

Everyone grieves in their own way, there is @KonectMagazines

no right or wrong. “And it can be a vicious cycle; a proportion of suicides are a result of another one in the close family.

Neil’s Hugs wants to be there for those people too, and suicide prevention is a large part of what we do.” Donna is also a member of a Scottish Government group called the Lived Experience Panel that is looking at priorities for suicide prevention strategy. “As a charity we encourage people to talk, but there needs to be comprehensive government support. We’re working on it in the strategy group.”

Since starting out, Neil’s Hugs has seen a huge demand for the counselling and support services. There is a kind of silent cry in the community, as there is little support available within the health services, with long waiting lists and so on.

Donna’s ultimate dream is that every school, college and university in Scotland will have a peer support group for suicide prevention. It is still early days for the charity, but she has been asked to speak at high schools where there have been recent tragic losses. Students have been deeply engaged with Neil’s Hugs, and when they ask what they can do to help, Donna says, “This charity is your charity, what would you like it to do?”

Neil’s Hugs support groups for people who have lost someone to suicide. See the details below - just turn up, or feel free to contact Donna first.

Open to everyone, general support group: Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month 6.30pm - 8.30pm at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Broxburn Men’s Peer Support Group: 2nd Wednesday of the month 6.30pm - 8.30pm, Strathbrock Parthership Centre, Broxburn For West Lothian College students and staff. 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, 12-2pm, college campus.

Neil’s Hugs is also available for one to one and group counselling, please contact Donna on the details below.

Donna leaves me with a hug. I was deeply moved by this interview. Let me sum her up for you: diamonds are formed through intense pressure.

To find out more about Neil’s Hugs, see contact and social media details below.

Email: neilshugsfoundation@gmail.com Donna’s Mobile: 07446 717501 Website: neilshugsfoundation.com Facebook: /neilshugsfoundation Neil’s Hugs is charity registered in Scotland, number SC047055 This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting with Donna Paterson-Harvie, founder of Neil’s Hugs. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines

Fund raising If you can help raise funds to support the work Neil’s Hugs is doing, please contact them! They benefited hugely from people doing the Kiltwalk in September 2018. World Suicide Prevention day is in September, so why not consider doing the Kiltwalk this September for Neil’s Hugs?

Or consider them for your organisation’s Charity of the Year, sponsorship opportunities or any other fundraising ideas you have: every piece of support is hugely appreciated.

BROXBURN | 29

FEATURE

Developing the Young Workforce , - a local teacher s perspective Aynsley Bates is Principal Teacher (Acting) at Linlithgow Primary School. Aynsley gave us her perspective on Developing the Young Workforce and the importance of school pupils developing skills for the workplace.

Here at Linlithgow Primary, we are keen for all pupils to not only know what they are learning and why, but also what skills they are developing in the process.

To aid pupils’ understanding of skills development, Linlithgow Primary has a very visual tool – The Skill Sack. The Skill Sack has a list of detachable skills such as cooperation, thinking, problem solving, evaluating and time-management. We briefly stop lessons to ask pupils to identify and remove the skill/s they are using. We repeat this across a wide range of lessons, so that children begin to understand the process of ‘transferable skills’

30 | BROXBURN

and how the same skills are needed within different disciplines.

We have also held a P7 Christmas Market Place for the last three years, allowing pupils to create their own mini-company, complete with a product to make and sell. Many other classes also run enterprising projects throughout the year. We take part in many activities that allow our pupils to understand the world of work, such as The Primary Engineer Leaders Award competition, field trips to The South Queensberry Crossing and events run by the DYW West Lothian Regional Group.

Having spent 13 years in industry prior to teaching, I am very aware of the range of skills needed within the workplace. It is hugely important for schools to highlight and discuss the skills pupils use within their learning in order to prepare them for their future careers, which is why we are further increasing our focus on Developing the Young Workforce.

This article was contributed by DYW West Lothian. DYW aims to connect employers with schools and colleges and prepare young people for the world of work.

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Value for money, quality dance products including shoes, patterns, swords, music, accessories, books & gifts All you need for Highland at the lowest prices We are based in East Calder so email to arrange collection and avoid postal costs!

Contact us at staff@highlanddanceshop.com Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com

Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Families/Education pages.

Contacts details are on page 3.

32 | BROXBURN

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PARENTING

Artisan Cheesecake

Mummy ‘Me Time’

s Retro Game

One of the great joys of being a parent is all the quality alone time you get. If you are anything like me you are forever taking little breaks to enjoy a cuppa, read a book, watch your favourite TV programme, or pop to the shops just because you can…yeah, me neither!! I can barely remember the last time I finished a cup of tea while it was still hot, or read a book that didn’t have pictures. Our TV is permanently on CBeebies and I haven’t popped anywhere since 2011.

I often wonder, does wanting some ‘me time’ when you are a parent make you selfish?

But when you think about your daily life as a mum – or dad - how often are you putting yourself first and doing what you want to do?

Chances are the answer is not very often.

The closest I usually manage is a trip to Artisan Cheesecakes in Livingston where the kids will happily wile away an afternoon playing retro games like Misfits or Ludo while I treat myself to a very large, wonderfully indulgent slice of cheesecake in a place blissfully free of any kind of soft play.

I feel like I’m always driving past places and reading about things to do right on my doorstep, saying to myself that I’ll do it “one day”.

So my plan this year is to find that “one day” so that I @KonectMagazines

can do at least one of these things that I keep talking about and never doing. I’d like to…

• Drop in to an adult chocolate-making workshop at Gooey Events • Take on my first Livingston parkrun • Enjoy a lazy pub lunch at the Fork and Field in Mid Calder • Browse the boutiques in Linlithgow and buy something other than pocket money toys • Head to the cinema in Livingston or Bathgate and see a film that isn’t U-rated • Enjoy a spa day with my friends at the Macdonald Houstoun House Hotel in Uphall Face the challenge of an Escape room in Livingston What would be on your list of things you want to finally get around to doing nearby?

I think most parents probably

spend their days doing activities and going to places they know their kids will love.

But that doesn’t mean we don’t all need some time for ourselves once in a while.

I haven’t quite cracked it yet, so do as I say not as I do! I’m sure we could all benefit from squeezing in a little more ‘me time’ (without feeling guilty about it). If you take time to recharge and be off mum duty for a little while, you will probably be a much happier and more relaxed mum when you get back to your kids.

For at least 5 minutes anyway!

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

BROXBURN | 33

BUSTER THE DOG

34 | BROXBURN

@KonectMagazines

WHAT’S ON

February FRIDAY 1ST MARCH Broxburn United Sports Club Inaugural Comedy Club - Come along to our inaugural Comedy Club, taking place at Broxburn United’s Room for All on Friday 1st March 2019, 7.30pm.

It promises to be a great night, with our bar open for refreshments and the opportunity to buy snacks/supper. Our headliner on the evening is Lubna Kerr, who appears at the Edinburgh Festival and has made various appearances on stage, tv and in films.

Tickets are priced at £10 and are on a first come first served basis, so please don’t delay and order your tickets today. Tickets can be bought from the BUSC reception 01506 858057 or email l.lauder@busc.org.uk RUNS UNTIL SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 2019 Brick City at Blackness Castle - Brick City is a celebration of iconic buildings from cities around the world, carefully recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore and his team. Included in normal castle admission price. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot for further information.

BROXBURN COMMUNITY COUNCIL Broxburn Community Council bridges the gap between West Lothian Council and our local community.

Our primary purpose is to find out your opinions & needs and then to make the council and other public bodies aware of these. Our meetings are open to every resident in Broxburn and we extend a warm welcome to those who attend.

We meet on the last Monday of every month (except July & December) in the Old Town Centre in Broxburn at 7pm.

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

BROXBURN | 35

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

BROXBURN NEW ACTIVITY GROUP - NEW GROUP STARTING 14TH FEB 2019 Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Join our new activity group, a mix of quizzes, games, tea and chat. Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Weekly on Thursdays 10am-12pm. For more information contact Cyrenians OPAL (Older People Active Lives) on 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot MEMORIA CAFÉ For people with Early to Moderate Dementia. Strathbrock community centre, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. 2pm to 4pm every 2nd Wednesday of the Month. For more information please contact Maurice - on 07864 502899.

DE-STRESS, GET FIT AND LEARN HOW TO RELAX WITH YOGA Mondays Adult Yoga Classes all levels welcome: Broxburn United Football Club Greendykes Road, EH52 5BP. Claire Chant 1.00-2.30pm Drop in £6.

Tel: 07766602629.

Maxine Burke 7.00-8.00pm Drop in £5.

Tel: 01506 843091.

SCOUTING Come and join in the scouting adventure at our local Beaver, Cub or Scout groups. Meeting once a week at Broxburn Scout hut on Station Road to play games, plan camping trips and earn badges.

• Beavers (Age 6-8) Tuesday night 6pm • Cubs (Age 8-10.5) Tuesday night 7.15pm • Scouts (Age 10.5-14) Friday night 7.30pm Groups are open to all, come along for a free trial!! Email enquiries to jo.cook1403@gmail.com RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5-7 years old) take place on Thursday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

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

BROXBURN LUNCH-TIME YOGA Monday 13.00-14.30. Adult drop in classes, located in beautiful studio at Broxburn United Sports Club, Greendykes Rd, Broxburn, EH52 5BP. £6 per session (all levels welcome) no booking required. For more details contact Claire on 07766 602629 or clairenicolachant@icloud.com

36 | 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 BurnIt. 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 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 Aidan Forbes on a.forbes@busc.org.uk or Nina Anderson on nina.anderson@live. co.uk or call 01506 858057.

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 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 l.lauder@busc.org.uk

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.

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!

WEST LOTHIAN IWAMA RYU AIKIDO CLUB Broxburn Black Belt Academy, EH52 5BB, Broxburn.

Dedicated to the traditional study and practice of Aikido through ken, jo and taijutsu. The club meets at Broxburn BlackBelt Academy Thursdays 8pm to 9:30pm. Come along and give it a try. For information please call 07784 006851 wliwamaryu@gmail.com

The BUSY Project

• Engage Youth Club: P7-S6 Wednesday 6-8pm @ The Open Door. Games, food, prayer & Bible study. FREE!

• Youth Café: P7-S6 Friday 1-3pm @ Uphall South Church Hall.

Games, trips & Cooking etc. 50p • Pizza Wednesday: lunch club, Broxburn Academy. Pizza, music and games. S1-S6, Base 6 opposite guidance. FREE!

• Drop In: Thursday lunch group, Broxburn Academy. Discuss Faith and God, milkshakes & games. S1-S6, M13. FREE! Check out our web site – www.thebusyproject.org.uk or email@thebusyproject.org.uk

@KonectMagazines

BROXBURN GYMNASTICS CLUB Broxburn Academy’s Dance Studio, Broxburn. Fun filled gymnastics class for children in P1-P7. Hourly classes on Saturday mornings 10am (Beginner), 11am (Intermediate), Advanced 12pm.

First week is a free no obligation trial. For more information please contact Gemma on 07775 900624 or broxburngymnasticsclub@yahoo.co.uk w: www.broxburngymnastics.com BROXBURN SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTE (formerly SWRI) We meet in Broxburn Community Centre at 7pm on the 2nd Monday of each month from September to May. Contact: Fay Young , tel 01506 854141 or email fayyoungis@hotmail.com SLIMMING WORLD South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30.

Please call Lisa on 07736 316400.

UPHALL REGAL YOUTH DRAMA Uphall Community Centre, Tuesdays 7pm – 9pm. Starting 23rd Oct 2018. For more information contact admin@regalyouthcompany.com.

SLIMMING WORLD South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30.

Please call Lisa on 07736 316400.

WEST LOTHIAN BAKING CLUB We meet every 6th Monday 7.30 – 9.30pm at Uphall Community Centre 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.

RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5-7 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

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

GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10-14 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

ST ANDREW’S COURT ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people?

Come and join in our activity group in St Andrew’s Court, Uphall, weekly Wednesdays (10am-12midday). A mix

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of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot.

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 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.

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 WINCHBURGH MORNING ART GROUP We meet in the Winchburgh Community Centre every Thursday (9.30 - 11.30) and we have regular tutors. If interested, please contact the Secretary on 07980 321989 or 01506 859422.

BOUNCE BACK TO NETBALL (WINCHBURGH WARRIORS) Bounce Back to Netball is a Netball Scotland initiative to get women 18+ back into sport. Netball is great fun, fantastic exercise and a fab way to meet new people! Suitable for all levels of fitness/ ability, even complete beginners! Join our friendly group of ladies at either of our weekly sessions which are held at Winchburgh Primary School. Mondays 7.30-9pm (£4) and Fridays 7-8pm (£3) Sessions are drop in with no commitment to attend every week and your first night is free.

Find us on Facebook or email us at winchburghwarriors@gmail.com for further info.

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

GUIDE UNIT (girls aged 10-14 years old) take place on Tuesday night.

For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

DECHMONT DECHMONT 50+ ARTS GROUP This group of enthusiastic amateur painters meet every Wednesday from 13.30 - 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.

GENTLE YOGA Dechmont Memorial Hall, Monday night 6.30-7.30pm at Dechmont Memorial Hall. Contact Rhona on 01506 811700.

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

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

BROXBURN | 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair

22

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 19 Dream Doors 6 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 5 BOILER SERVICES Gilmour Gas Services The Gas Engineer

16 23

CARPET & FLOORING SALES Forever Flooring 6 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Lothian Buses

2

COMPUTER/PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 23

CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce

18

DENTIST No.9 Practice

11

DANCE: CLASSES / SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop 32

DOORS/WINDOWS UPVC Doors ELECTRICIAN SL Electrical Task Scotland

ESTATE AGENT Alba Property Drummond Miller LLP Turpie & Co FURTHER & HIGHER EDUCATION West Lothian College

GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens

GARDEN DESIGN / MAINTENANCE Evergreen Balerno

7 23 4 40 4 27

31 17

16

GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate 20

GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 38 | BROXBURN

21

GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 9 JOINERY Create Enhanced Spaces

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

4

LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 23 MAKE-UP ARTIST Alyna Amaan Studio

11

MOBILITY SERVICES Ableworld 15

PAINTING & DECORATING Braekirk Decorators 22 Manic Street Painters 16 PLASTERING Nu Walls

23

ACROSS: 1. Relate, 4. String, 9. Develop, 10. Issue, 11. Curve, 12. Offices, 13. Distinguish,18. Uniform, 20. Tooth, 22. Dried, 23. Nailing, 24. Rulers, 25. Agency DOWN:1. Reduce, 2. Lover, 3. Tallest, 5. Thief, 6. Insects, 7. Grease, 8. Appointment, 14. Initial, 15. Untying, 16. Murder, 17. Shaggy, 19. Older, 21. Onion

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Dewar Plumbing 19 SOLUTION TO SUDOKU Hometech Heating & ON PAGE 22 Plumbing 7 McLellan Plumbing 22 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 18 TUITION Kumon Livingston

32

VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Mackie & Brechin 34 Riverside Veterinary Practice 34 WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 6

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 30

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: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com

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BROXBURN | 39

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