Konect Calders November 2016

NOVEMBER 2016

Changing local lives through food Home Heating Plus local West Lothian Eagles businesses, community Cosy home decor information Something fishy for Christmas & more!

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

East and Mid Calder, Kirknewton & Pumpherston

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WL2

FEATURE

M ES S AG E F ROM T HE ED I TOR

T

he drop in temperature outside does focus the mind on keeping the house warm! With this in mind, we checked out local suppliers of stoves, radiators and boilers and discovered some pretty stylish options, so if you’re looking for ideas see the feature starting on page WL2. Besides actually keeping the house warm, there are some simple décor and soft furnishing things you can do to give your home that really cosy autumn atmosphere, see page WL8.

There’s a lot going on in the villages and West Lothian over the next couple of months.

We had a lot of requests to publish events, fundraisers and things to do for good causes and/or just for fun! Our local charity of the month is The Larder – a cook school set up to provide opportunities for young people via food and cooking, I was so impressed to see what they have achieved - see the centre pages. I recommend booking a party night with a difference there, or joining a cookery course. You get to learn new skills, have fun and help fund really good work!

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

Enjoy autumn in West Lothian

CONTENTS West Lothian Eagles Thought for the Month Crossword Foodinbur gh Foodpicks What’s On Clubs & Classes

08 12 46 50 56 58

West Lothian regular

Home Heating Visit West Lothian Cosy autumn inter ior s Proper ty Matter s Charity – The Larder Home Secur ity Tips Parenting in West Lothian Food & Dr ink

wl2 wl6 wl8 wl10 wl12-13 wl17 wl19 wl20

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

62

Advertising Enquiries JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print.

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

Konect is delivered to 5500 homes in Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston every month. Copies are also left at the libraries, community centres, convenience stores and other locations within the area.

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk 48 Main St West Calder EH55 5DR FREE PARKING www.littlewhisperssanctuary.co.uk

01506 253467

Psychic cafe, tealeaf readings,

holistic therapies including reiki healing

Spiritual readings and holistic treatments by appointment

Coffee Shop

Drink, cake and cup reading £11.99

Good news - Tables can now be booked All welcome .....tea leaf readings optional!

Little Whispers Sanctuary

STEEL CONTAINERS FOR RENT Suitable for storing your stuff or run your business from here.

Based on a farm near East Calder. £15 per week For more information call 07814 915552

For details please call Michael on

Local family-ru n busines s

07711 240999 / 01506 411334 mjanderson0310@gmail.com Improving homes all over

All trades specialists Double Glazing | Roofline | Roofs Kitchens | Bathrooms | Flooring Attic Conversions | Extensions Find us on Facebook KONECT CALDERS 4

for all our pictures

LVS Garage Services Livingston has been providing servicing and MOT services since our founding in 1986. It is our mission to achieve total customer satisfaction in everything we do.

£25.00

(Includes FREE Air Freshener and Screenwash top-up)

Limited one voucher per customer,per visit. Cash value 0.001p. Subject to availability.Not valid with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted.

VALID UNTIL 31st January 2017

SERVICING 15% OFF all servicing options

Find us on Facebook

£3 OFF per tyre OR £15 OFF set of 4 tyres

Mot and Service Combo from £99.00

4 Wheel Alignment £34.99 when purchasing 2 or more Tyres

Limited one voucher per customer,per visit. Cash value 0.001p. Subject to availability.Not valid with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted.

VALID UNTIL 31st January 2017

Limited one voucher per customer,per visit. Cash value 0.001p. Subject to availability.Not valid with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted.

VALID UNTIL 31st January 2017

(Includes Air Freshener)

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A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573 All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, Decking & Fencing

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MADISON GARRAD www.madisongarrad.co.uk

01506 880991

The building company that always comes in on budget

We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches •Extensions •New builds •Alterations •Kitchens •Bathrooms •Roofing •Sunrooms •Garages

•Landscaping •Decking •Flooring •Plumbing •Electrical •Joinery •Conservatories •Windows

Established over 12 years we offer an all trades service with an excellent work ethic for producing quality work whilst respecting the homes which we work in.

We are happy to help with projects from the beginning with the design & planning stage & budget costs with our own architects or to come onboard with budget cost at a later stage.

info@madisongarrad.co.uk

BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding Call Jim now for your free quote

07581 829297

Unit 47b, West End, West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8EJ

EAST CALDER BOWLING CLUB 255 Main Street · East Calder · EH53 0EL Tel: 01506 497008 Emaill: info@ecbcnews.co.uk www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com

Annual Presentation of Prizes Saturday 5th November 2016 7pm for 7.30pm The return of Johnny Henderson Tickets £6.00

Christmas Events coming Soon Check our facebook page for upcoming events

Memberships available All levels.

Contact heatherwhyte@ rocketmail.com

Function Suite for hire

for members and non-members* (*with sponsorship from a member)

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FEATURE

West Lothian Eagles Mikey Allan, Head Coach and creator of the West Lothian Eagles, as well as being a Scotland International and qualified umpire, lives in East Calder. The Eagles play Aussie Rules on a rugby pitch in a 9-a-side format, although there is also a league for the original 18-a-side format played on a ground of more Australian dimensions! A maximum of 15 players are allowed to be included in a 9-a-side squad on game day and there are rolling substitutes known as interchanges. The ball is regarded as being in play pretty much all the time, so action comes thick and fast!

The most iconic feature of Aussie Rules is the spectacular mark, or “speccie”, one of the few ways to take the ball out of play. When a player catches the ball in the air after it has travelled more than 15 metres then play stops briefly while a free kick is awarded. For this reason you’ll often see players jumping high and contesting the ball in the air.

T

he West Lothian Eagles are Scotland’s newest Aussie rules football team! Unlike the famous West Coast Eagles in Australia, players and staff are recruited on the basis of wanting to turn up! All fitness levels, male and female - The Eagles train all winter at 15:00 every Saturday in Howden Park, Livingston. So if you want to see what the fuss is about you are encouraged to kick a ball and have a laugh with West Lothian Eagles.

You’ve probably seen the odd clip of professional Australian Rules Football (AFL). It’s the number one football code in Australia, where the rugby players call it “aerial ping pong”, due to the amount of time players spend airborne. AFL is a fast-paced, skilful and exciting sport which fosters a great community and team spirit. As a minority sport AFL has grown well over the last few years. Indeed it’s one of the fastest growing sports throughout Europe currently.

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The goals have four tall “It’s the number upright posts, with no crossbar. Since points one football are scored any time the code in Australia, ball passes between where the rugby the posts, high kicks are players call it preferable because there “aerial ping is no chance of stopping pong”, due to the a score no matter how amount of time tall the goalkeeper is! Six players spend points are awarded for a airborne” goal (between the middle posts) and one point for a behind (between a middle and outer post). The ball is shaped similar to a rugby ball and is handballed or kicked to your team mate, but never thrown.

There is a Scottish league and West Lothian Eagles hope to build a team to enter the league. In the meantime, The Eagles will play their first game - a friendly against Fife team The Kingdom Kangaroos - in the first week of December. In the spring there is the Haggis Cup to look forward to. This takes place in Edinburgh and teams from all over the UK compete in a mini tournament for this prestigious award. The men’s Scottish National team are call the Clansmen and women’s called the Sirens who

Sandy Bell, the oldest player in Scotland, plays for Scotland vs Norway recently. Sandy currently plays for the Kingdom Kangaroos in Fife but will play for the Eagles in the upcoming friendly

are run by AFL Scotland. Eagles coach Mikey Allan played for the Clansmen at these championships and has many years of experience at the highest level. In October the AFL Euro cup took place in Portugal where Croatia defeated Ireland in the Men’s final and Ireland defeated England in the ladies final. This was quite a comedown for Ireland since Gaellic Football has many similarities to Aussie Rules and there are regular intra-league tours.

For more information see West Lothian Eagles facebook page: www.facebook.com/wleaglesarfc/

Aussie Rules – Quick Facts • A full-size, 18-a-side Aussie Rules match is played on a very large ground, so it needs plenty of umpires. 9, in fact! Two goal umpires, four boundary umpires, and three field umpires. Field umpires need to be very fit, and there are increasing numbers of women umpires at the highest level.

• “ Up There Cazaly” is a 1979 hit tune in Australia celebrating the marks of a famous player. The song is often heard at matches.

• S cotland is just one of 80 countries outside Australia where Aussie rules are played. The Australian Football League encourages and supports teams wherever they can be found.

• T he “Wooden Spoon” is the common term for the team that comes last in Aussie Rules competitions, and yes, there is a Wooden Spoon award even in the Scottish league.

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Jane & Friends Hairdressers

109 Main Street, East Calder

01506 880704

Up-do’s for special occasions Open: Tue/Wed/Fri - 9am - 5pm Thur - 11am - 7pm Sat - 9am - 3pm Closed: Sunday & Monday

OAP specials: All day Tues/Wed Thur 11am - 4pm

Announcing the arrival of

Artis Dental and Implant Studio is a modern dental practice, which has recently opened in Main Street, Balerno. As soon as you walk through the door you cannot miss how beautifully different and welcoming this practice is. Artis provides National Health Service (NHS) and private dental treatment and much more, including services for the disabled and the elderly. Dental implants, cosmetic treatment, facial rejuvenation and aesthetics will be added to the already extensive portfolio following the opening of the new premises in late October.

Brian Clough, Principal Dentist of Balerno Dental Care, has transformed the former Royal Bank building on a prime site in the village into a contemporary, custom-designed practice. Brian commented: “When the building became available I perceived it as a perfect opportunity to provide a wider range of “When the building became available I perceived it as a perfect opportunity to services to my existing and new clients. We will now be able to cater for National Health Service (NHS) and provide wider range services to my existing and new Weand will now private dentalatreatment as wellof as dental implants, cosmetic treatment, facial clients. rejuvenation aesthetics. bebuilding able to for National Health (NHS) and private The hascater two surgeries and a lounge onService the ground floor meaning that, fordental the firsttreatment time, we canas well services as dental implants, cosmetic treatment, aesthetics. provide to the disabled and the elderly, something facial we haverejuvenation been keen to doand for some time.

So, what does Artis mean? Simply, Art. Teeth are, in a sense, a work of art. The name was chosen because, building surgeries and a lounge onform. the ground floor meaning asThe dentists, our skillhas and two craft is to create and preserve this art

that, for the first time, we can provide services to the disabled and the elderly,

Operating from the new prominently positioned building instead of a first floor property will help us something we have been keen to do for some time.” strengthen links with local projects and services.”

Official opening day/s will be held so local families can visit. Details will be issued via the practice website: www.artisdental.co.uk Contact the practice by telephone on: 0131 449 5545 or 0131 466 8206

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What is herbal medicine?

H

erbal medicine is a natural healthcare system using whole plant extracts to target the root cause of your problem and support you as a whole person.

Specialising in herbal medicine & tonics tailored to your specific needs

www.greenfieldherbalist.com

Call now for an appointment:

01506 842888 or 0777 3013357 annettegreenfield@gmail.com 5 Royal Terrace, Linlithgow EH49 6HQ

Qualified Medical Herbalist, Annette Greenfield explains: “It is the combined activities (synergy) of different compounds in whole herb extracts that are responsible for their effect, rather than single ingredients. In my experience the whole herb is more effective, more gentle on the body, and less likely to provoke side effects than isolated chemicals.” After a detailed consultation in which she considers all aspects of your health and wellbeing, Annette will dispense a unique combination of herbal tinctures specific to your individual needs. She sees people of all ages with everyday health complaints, as well as those with a more complex health picture. Call to find out how herbal medicine can help you.

Contributed by Annette Greenfield, www.greenfieldherbalist.com

White Christmas Offer Professional

half price whitening

9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB

Tel: 01506 857717

www.broxburndentist.co.uk

tooth whitening

£125

in December only

Christmas vouchers also available, - valid for 6 months

Please contact us for more information, we would love to see you

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THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

The Best Advent Calendar T

he festive season is fast approaching and as a tradition we all usually start to open our Advent Calendars on the 1st December, making the countdown to Christmas exciting for all the family.

What does it actually mean to us, a little bit of chocolate or a Christmas scene behind each door?

The Advent Calendar can mean a whole lot more to us if we reverse the process and give back to the community. This year, change tradition and have a Reverse Advent Calendar which can be filled with items to help homeless people, food banks, animal shelters, hospital wards or even a friend or neighbour in need. Get the family involved, plan some time to decorating the box or basket and share ideas. Starting on the 1st December, add

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something to the box/basket every day. The items don’t have to be expensive but be mindful that items will have to be non-perishable. Decide on you chosen recipient and try to fill the Advent Calendar with practical and fun items, think of what someone might enjoy or need. The possibilities are endless.

On the 24th December when the calendar is full donate the box/basket to an organisation/person of your choice. No matter what you put in the box or who you give your Reverse Advent Calendar to, the act of kindness will stay in your heart forever.

Below are a list of websites for local food banks and animal charities: • http://westlothian.foodbank.org.uk • http://edinburghcitymission.org.uk/ministries/ basics-bank • www.dogstrust.org.uk/our-centres/west-calder • www.cats.org.uk/west-lothian • www.scottishspca.org/rehome/our-centres

Thought for the Month is contributed by Tammy Wood of Happiness Works www.happinessworks. co.uk | happinessworks@outlook.com

7 Day Membership: £68.75 per month 6 Day Members: £61.88 per month, 5 Day Members: £51.56 per month Young Adult (18-19): £15 per month, Young Adult (20-21): £20 per month, Young Adult (22-25): £30 per month, Young Adult (26-30): £40 per month 12 ROUND MEMBERSHIP FOR £300 – contact us for details With the SGL affiliation fee of £12.60 Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

TRIAL ROUNDS FOR PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS AT £10.00 Club: 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri Pro shop: 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun

Email: manager@baberton.co.uk Website: www.babertongc.com

Don’t just put up with painful feet...

Foot Clinic

Nicola Brett B.A. Hons

Prom Dresses and Alterations “Bridal, bridesmaid and mother of the bride, designed and hand crafted exclusively for you”

07980 851756 215 Main Street, East Calder West Lothian, EH53 0EH

www.notabenedesignuk.co.uk

Elizabeth Storrie, Foot Care Professional 124 Main St, East Calder, EH53 0HD

Professional treatment for: • corns • ingrown nails • hard skin • hard-to-cut nails Call 01506 883379 for an appointment Available Mondays & Tuesdays : early, daytime and evening appointments KONECT CALDERS 13

EPH

Currievale Plumbing Plumbing & Drainage Services Emergency call outs

SCOTLAND LTD

Professional & reliable service Family business, over 15 yrs experience All plumbing work carried out

10% OAP discount

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

QUOTE KONECT

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT contact@ephltd.co.uk www.ephscotlandltd.co.uk

123871

When radiators get fashionconscious…

Keeping your home warm over winter is a must. See our feature in the West Lothian section for ideas and inspiration on home heating from local companies.

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Currievale Drive, Currie

CHARLES GAS CALOR GAS STOCKLIST Next to Clifton Garage, East Calder, EH53 0HS

07710 788457

charlesgas@btinternet.com

01506 882 643

23 Bank Street Mid Calder EH53 0AS

10% OFF on first job 07849 393364 • 0131 449 3071

Full range of Butane, Propane and Forklift Cyclinder in stock.

LB250

We supply both business and domestic customers.

Boiler Repair Boiler Service Boiler Replacement Full Central Heating Installation Gas Safety Certificates PAT - Portable Appliance Testing Boiler Service Contracts Power Flushing

0131 564 0940

info@lsheating.com www.lsheating.com

BEFORE

AFTER

Check Customer reviews on Trusted Trader www.westlothian.gov.uk/trustedtrader/joiner

Save £££’s on the cost of a new kitchen Don’t replace - reface!

Save up to 40% on price of a new kitchen

• • • •

KITCHEN REFACING NEW KITCHEN INSTALLATION BATHROOMS - SUPPLIED & FITTED HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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SG GARDEN SERVICES established 18 years • Fully Insured

For all your garden needs Garden tidy-ups, lawns, hedges, treework, patios, driveways, fencing etc.

Patio & driveway cleaning service Contact Steve on

07891 029764 • 01506 885944

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Removals Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more....

Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com

Contact us on: Tel: 07810 835 974 E: info@aalandscapesandgardens.co.uk www.AALandscapesandGardens.co.uk DO YOU WANT A PROFESSIONALLY MAINTAINED GARDEN AT A PREDICTABLE COST? Our unique system means you can create a fixed price package that suits your garden.

ARE YOU LOOKING TO DEVELOP YOUR OUTSIDE SPACE? Our dedicated landscaping team can provide everything you need. Our work is designed and built to last, and is covered by a 10-year guarantee.

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High quality timber garden products, log stores and wood fuels

Garden Sheds Garages/Workshops

Summerhouses

Childrens Play Houses

Dog Kennels Garden Stores

Zest Garden Furniture

Woodchip Log Stores Full Range Garden Furniture Firewood Logs and Wood Fuel Softwoods, Hardwoods, Kiln Dried Log Chests

Log & Tool Stores

Sold in small bags or giant bags

Garden Mulch Our New Polytunnel Drying Facility

Delivered to your door using small delivery trucks for easy access Kindling, Firelighters & Range of Briquettes

Open weekdays 9am till 5pm and Sat & Sun 11am till 3pm Specialists in High Quality Timber Products and Wood Fuels at Competitive Prices For comprehensive information on all of our products please visit our website

www.champfleurieestate.co.uk

Phone 01506 847999 - E-mail sales@champfleurie.co.uk - Champfleurie Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 6NB KONECT CALDERS 17

There’s life in your unwanted furniture and electricals

FREE & FAST COLLECTION

You may not want your old sofa, table or fridge, but we do. We’ll collect them from your home and find them a new life. Your donations will fund our pioneering research and help save lives.

BOOK A FREE & FAST COLLECTION:

CALL BHF EDINBURGH STORE 0131 341 2992 bhf.org.uk/collection © British Heart Foundation, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

With yarns to suit every budget. 1000’s of Patterns, Books, Needles and Notions.

We offer a friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere. Classes available for both Knitters and Crocheters.

Ironing Service Free Collection and Delivery

Find us at Just Sew, 57 Main Street, West Calder, EH55 8DP

Telephone: 01506 873139 Email: di@justsewonline.com KONECT CALDERS 18

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

Suburban Window Cleaning Window cleaning Rhones cleaned & painted Free estimates for houses, offices, shops, pubs, clubs.

Licenced and insured

Call Ian on 07834 685663 Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging

Red Hot

WINDOWS Unit 1, Mosshall Ind Estate Blackburn, EH47 7LY

01506 630036

Loca family l -ru busine n ss

redhotwindows@btconnect.com

Craigcrook Joinery sMALL WORKS AND REPAIRS

John Wilson

07734 906812 jh.wilson@virginmedia.com 101 Mansfield, East Calder, EH53 0JF

■ Supply and fit windows and doors ■ Trade welcome Major credit cards accepted See website and facebook page compliant for photos of our work www.facebook.com/redhotwindows www.redhotwindows.co.uk

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Regal Animation

xciting new facilities for animated E film production are being developed in West Lothian, in the Bathgate Regal Theatre. Always with an eye to opportunities to develop funding for the Community Theatre, Artistic Director Scott Kyle seized the chance recently to develop an animation production department.

Scott met visual effects artist Fraser Murdoch when they were both working on the set of Outlander (Scott played Ross the Smith in the second season).

Fraser was looking for people to collaborate with on his film ‘Bab: The Man Who Took Too Much’.

Scott offered the Regal’s facilities, and a separate production company - Regal Animation - was set up. “The aim of this department within the Regal Theatre is to create commercial films and series utilising top quality visual effects to tell great stories and bring interesting original characters to the world of entertainment. We use our facilities and skills to produce products and services for the theatre and its customers.”

The first project was to get Fraser to work on the renovation drawings for the theatre. Scott has plans to renovate the theatre’s studio areas and, eventually, the auditorium itself. Fraser has also helped create the fundraising Highlander 2017 calendar for the Regal by using his visual effects skills -usiting the green screen and ‘compositing’

the shots for the photgraphy. A new full-sized green screen is bring installed.

“We are currently building the audience for our animations through products, online entertainment, social media and events such as the Regal Animation Showcase and feature animated films.

We’re also getting involved in the community by training and providing support to animation students to develop skills locally - getting them involved in our projects whilst learning at the community theatre. This in turn provides with an audience of like-minded people ready to see our productions once they are released as well as seeing their progress, mentoring trainees who may get to work on our productions and building the name of Regal Animation as a respected and selfsufficient production company. This is all happening whilst contributing to the local community.”

As Fraser says, “The possibilities going forward are really endless, as anything is possible with animation” The characters for “Bab, the man who took too much.” Designed by Lynsey Schaschke (freelance storyboard artist and character designer in the games and children’s TV industries)

For more information see http://www.regalanimation.co.uk/. You can find out more about Fraser’s work by visiting his website www.frasermurdoch.co.uk

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Konect West Lothian VIEW

F

or seven years we’ve been researching and publishing local charity articles in Konect, and are always refreshed by the energy and dedication of local people to improve the lives of their neighbours within West Lothian.

Doing the interviews for the charity features is one of my favourite parts of the job. Most of the organisations we feature in Konect are set up by West Lothian residents, and some are nationwide organisations which have a West Lothian branch with local people volunteering.

In the run-up to Christmas, the season of goodwill and giving, we’re perhaps more mindful of the needs in society around us. But the need is there all year round, and these organisations are working constantly to keep up.

The word “volunteer” implies in a way it’s perhaps an optional extra, a “nice to have but not essential” service. But in fact most are definitely providing services that are an essential part of the fabric that holds our society together. It’s noticeable how sources of funding have become harder to access, and many charities are looking to run commercial services - in the field of their charitable services - to generate income. The Larder Cook School in Livingston, featured in this issue, is one such.

The West Lothian third sector is supported and developed by the Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian. Browse their extensive website at www.voluntarysectorgateway.org to get an overview of the sheer range and depth of services delivered to our local communities through volunteers. And I think you’ll agree inspirational and represents the very best of our West Lothian community!

If you have ates all things West Lothian.

This section of Konect celebr households 500 uld like to share with 40, information or services you wo can help We us. h wit , please get in touch in West Lothian every month erprise, ent ial soc , rity cha a business, spread your message if you are re. inspirational story to sha running and event or have an contact details. our See page 3 for

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 1

W

Heating Your Home This Winter

e all love to be warm and cosy in winter, but let’s face it – there’s a limit to the number of jumpers we can wear at any one time – especially at home! If it’s time to upgrade your heating system there are loads of options to choose from to suit your needs, and of course, your budget.

There’s life in the old boiler yet!

Before you rush off to buy a new boiler, consider having your current one serviced. If it has a few years still left in it, you may want to take out a maintenance agreement; it’s an affordable way to make sure your boiler doesn’t let you down when you need it most.

Make sure you choose a local heating engineer who is Gas Safe registered.

Aspect 5 wood-burning stove has a powerful 7kw output which can be reduced to 4kw instantly. With low CO2 emissions, you can keep warm while being eco-friendly. Available from J & A Hastie & Son and Linlithgow Stoves.

A great heating system starts with a great boiler. The Vaillant EcoTec range combines German design with UK engineering. Vaillant boilers are available from local suppliers.

Save around £340 a year with a new boiler

New boilers are energy-efficient and will definitely cut down your fuel bills. All modern boilers are ‘condensing’ boilers and by switching to a new A-Rated boiler you could save around £340 a year in fuel costs. To find out more about the right type of boiler for your home, log on to energysavingtrust.org.uk. You may even be eligible for a grant!

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Dewar Plumbing Ltd, 9 Nasmyth Square Houstoun Industrial Estate Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 5GG e. info@dewarplumbing.co.uk www.dewarplumbing.co.uk Find us on Facebook

Reina Broni radiator - designed for 21st Century living. The Reina range of radiators can be ordered online from D-MAC Services Scotland, Falkirk.

Reina Calix decorative radiator designed for 21st Century living.

The Reina range of radiators can be ordered online from D-MAC Services Scotland, Falkirk.

Funky or minimal? The art of the radiator

Gone are the days when we tried to hide our radiators with custom-made covers. Modern radiators can be works of art. Some are modelled in the retro-style of the old school classroom and in a range of funky colours, whereas others are sleek and minimal. You can also buy radiators cunningly disguised as mirrors to add a stylish look to any room.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

DESIGN • INSTALLATION • SERVICING • REPAIR

• Designer radiator and bathroom suite supplier • Design and install bathrooms, kitchens, boilers & heating • Offer finance on all installations • ‘Buy now, pay later’ scheme on boilers (0% APR if job is paid off within 12 months)

• Covering areas in central Scotland • Offer 10 years parts & labour warranty on all boiler installations

01324 578 559 | www.dmacservicesscotland.co.uk KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 3

Stromstad 5 is the epitome of modern design. Sleek and curved with Tripleburn technology, it adds a focal point to any room. Available from J & A Hastie & Son and Linlithgow Stoves.

Di Lusso R4 is a compact 4kw stove which is ideal for smaller rooms. It has a hot air-wash function to keep the glass clean and can be converted to multi-fuel. Available from J & A Hastie & Son and Linlithgow Stoves.

Relax in front of a brand new stove

There’s nothing like the crackle of flames and the smell of a real fire to bring us closer to nature. In fact, research has shown that watching a fire can lower our blood pressure and help us to relax. Wood-burning or multifuel stoves come in a whole host of models from the traditional cast-iron stove which everyone loves, to contemporary styles which provide a real focal point. Make sure you go to a local HETAS approved dealer who will install it for you.

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 5

“West Lothian’s Christmas Fairs will soon be in full swing”

November – Winter is coming.. to West Lothian!

I

t’s that time of year again, dig those woollies out from the back of the wardrobe and start writing your Christmas lists because winter is about to arrive.

And what a cracker of a Winterfest we have for you this year in West Lothian, from Christmas Fairs to cosy places for a cuppa; it’s set to be a very merry one!

The West Lothian Christmas Fairs will soon be in full swing so if you fancy a day out in glorious surrounding, then look no further than the Hopetoun Christmas Fair. Set in the iconic stately home, this fair with take place from 25th-27th November and is a must for those wanting to soak up the festive spirit and at the same time find the unique gift for special friends and family members. Enjoy a day out at the Linlithgow Advent Fair on the 26th November. With craft fairs, farmers markets, children’s entertainment, a visit from Santa and a grand torchlight procession, it is sure to be a fabulous start to the festive period.

Perhaps you are looking for a bit of festive family fun, then Bathgate may

be the place for you. Christmas in Bathgate takes place on Saturday 26th November from 1pm – 5pm, where you can enjoy some street/musical entertainment as well as Santa’s grotto and the Christmas tree lights-on countdown.

If the excitement of all of these Christmas Fairs gets too much, why not try one of West Lothian’s cosy cafes for a recharge and a nice warm hot chocolate. Enjoy a relaxing break in one of Bathgate’s finest cafes, the Bridge Café, Café 1912 or maybe even The Coffee Club, just to name a few. If you’re in Linlithgow, you can choose from – Brodie’s Café, the Taste Deli, So Strawberry Caffe and many more.

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

PUBLIC AUCTION

Antique and General Goods for sale Over 300 lots for sale including antique, vintage & modern furniture, general household items, lamps, rugs, collectables, china, etc Come along and grab yourself a bargain.

Cafe on site for tea, coffee etc SEE WEB SITE FOR DATE OF NEXT SALE ITEMS WANTED - CASH PAID OR ITEMS AUCTIONED HOPPERS AUCTIONS | 87 SOUTH STREET | ARMADALE | EH48 3EU TEL: 01501 229099 | WEB: www.hoppersauction.com

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 6

KING’S CHURCH WEST LOTHIAN

We’re a new church plant made up of people living in the West Lothian area. We want to see a lively church formed with great connections to the local community.

Please see our website or contact us for when and where we’re meeting.

We’d love to welcome you. www.kingschurchwl.org connect@kingschurchwl.org Text: 07860027575

contact alex on:

01506 203200 | 07798 530 247 e: info@aklimos.com www.aklimos.com available for Weddings and all special occasions

follow us at AK Limos we are licensed by West Lothian Council

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 7

Cosy autumn home décor

1 D

ress your home for winter with layers of cosiness and a few simple and inexpensive décor ideas.

Throw down a deep pile rug to add extra softness and a sense of warmth underfoot.

Swap sheer, pale, lightweight curtains or blinds for something heavier – wool, tweed, velvet, even felt, denim or mohair.

On sofas and armchairs, pile up cushions for a sense of cosy luxury and add a throw or two folded over the back: great for snuggling under. You could use a length of tweed edged with velvet ribbon, chunky knitting or crochet, fake fur or soft fleece.

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 8

Local Christmas Crafting Sessions: Wreath making and centrepiece making with Happiness Works: for details and booking visit http://www. happinessworks. co.uk/christmasworkshops Wreath Making: Livingston - 17th November 7pm; Kirknewton - 23rd November 7pm.

Centrepiece Making: Livingston - 21st November 7pm; Kirknewton 30th November 7pm.

Christmas Crafts with West Lothian Ranger Service: Christmas wreath making: Sunday 4th December. Materials will be provided.

Meet: Sutherland Building, opposite the Visitor Centre, Beecraigs Country Park. To book call 01506 844516 or email: mail@ beecraigs.com

Homemade craft items for Christmas: Saturday 10th December. Our cosy craft room awaits your crafty skills! Materials provided. Suitable for: Families.

Meet: Outside the Classroom, Polkemmet Country Park. To book call 01501 743905 or email: polkemmet@ westlothian.gov.uk Gathering and making Christmas decorations from nature: Sunday 11th December. Meet: Almondell Visitor Centre. To book call 01506 882254 or email: almondell& calderwood@ westlothian.gov.uk Each Country Park crafting session is 2pm-3.30pm. Cost: £3.65 per item.

Replace pale bed linen with sheets or a duvet cover in a deeper shade. Add quilts, eiderdowns, bedcovers, throws and blankets.

Feature walls may no longer be cutting edge, but they’re still good looking: paint one wall of a living room or bedroom in warm, boldly coloured emulsion – it’s easy enough to paint over again if you get bored with it.

Home-made decorations can be wonderful, and a weekend walk in one of West Lothian’s country parks collecting natural materials to make autumnal decorations is very satisfying. Wind some ivy around a row of chunky candles; make a wreath; fill hurricane vases with leaves, chestnuts or pine cones and stand a candle on top; fill a wooden bowl filled with clovestudded oranges, or place a string of white fairy lights clustered in a jar or glass vase. Involve the children in making paper chains, bunting or felt cut-outs for that charmingly wonky, homemade look.

2

3

4 1) Velvet cushion covers and some autumn foliage from outdoors makes this living area cosy 2) Velvet and Linen backed floor cushions (Available from www. grahamandgreen.co.uk) 3) place a string of white fairy lights in a jar 4) Candle decorations made with natural materials.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 9

PROPERTY MATTERS

“A Word to Landlords about Presentation”

W

hen letting your property, you naturally want your property to look its best, but how far should you go in terms of presentation?

Firstly, aim to understand how your property “sits” within the market. Not all tenants have the same criteria, so walk through the house with your letting agent to identify your property’s strengths and weaknesses. Look through the eyes of a typical likely tenant, and consider what aspects could be improved to enhance your chances of letting to that person.

A tenanted property can sometimes experience harder wear and tear than an owner-occupied one, and a new tenant will always prefer to “make it their own” rather than simply taking over from the last tenant. So a simple coat of paint can generally do wonders and need not be expensive.

Additionally, a tenant who moves into a fresh, clean, well-presented, newly-redecorated property, knowing they need to return it one day in the same condition, is more likely to look after it more carefully, and even stay longer. A tenant with a sense of pride is generally a good tenant. Landlords like good tenants! (So do Letting Agents!)

For example, it may be that Landlords should regularly ask your property is in generally “Not all tenants have a Letting Agent for advice as good condition, but the carpets the same criteria, to how to maximise the rental let it down. Whilst you could so walk through the return on their property. This take account of this in the rent, house with your letting advice should generally be free new, or professionally cleaned, agent to identify your of charge from any reputable property’s strengths carpets can transform the agent. and weaknesses.” presentation of a property and appeal to a tenant who might otherwise be put off. However, if your property is in need of general updating, a new carpet could be The monthly Property Matters column is a waste of money unless combined with an overall contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is the director of Turpie & Co Estate Agents. improvement in the presentation.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 10

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LOCAL CHARITY

The Larder Changing lives through food

n a gleaming new teaching kitchen Iprofessional in Bellsquarry, Livingston, a team of chefs and volunteers are transforming lives of people in West Lothian via food and cooking.

Set up in 2010 out of one woman’s vision to provide opportunities for young people via food and cooking (à la Jamie Oliver?), local charity The Larder now provides bespoke cookery courses for children and adults and a host of other food-focussed services. I visited their premises in Brucefield Industrial Estate last month and, over a capuccino from their new barista machine, learned about latest developments at The Larder and how they are rolling out a range of exciting services to individuals and businesses in order be self-sustaining.

Team building events With shows like Masterchef and Bake-off so hugely popular, an off-site day in a teaching kitchen with a professional chef is a great idea for a team-building event. The chef will step delegates (space for up to ten) through a dish from beginning to end, with packages tailored to your own requirements. Ample parking space, a separate meeting room as well as cafe seating area on site. At the end of the day, delegates sit down together to enjoy the food they have created!

An alternative works Christmas night out For up to ten team members, pay approximately the same as you might for a meal out with entertainment for your team, but it’s a night out with a difference as members are stepped through creating the meal by a professional chef. You still get to eat at the end of it, when the chef becomes your waiter, the music comes on and you’re served your meal with a complimentary glass of wine!

Cooking and eating together - a fantastic social experience.

Kids parties Besides children’s regular cookery courses, The Larder runs parties where the children prepare food from scratch under professional instruction!

There is always plenty left over to put in the party bags and take away! For ten to twelve children it’s £180 for the 2.5 hour all-inclusive party.

The Larder was set up as a social enterprise as the public purse is shrinking. Their key challenge, as with others in the Third Sector, is to deliver high quality services whilst moving towards selfsufficiency. To enable The Larder to do this they are seeking the support of local businesses to get on board and use their fantastic bespoke facility for staff reward, meetings, team development and staff nights out.

Nights out For a ladies nights out or even hen or stag do, The Larder’s professional kitchen is perfect.

Learn to make a new dish, and at the end of it the instructing chef becomes your waiter, and serves your meals to enjoy together with a complimentary glass of wine! Curry and Ale nights are popular, where you learn to make a curry from scratch, and local Livingston micro-brewery Alchemy attend to provide complimentary ales with ale-tasting and food matching notes.

After-school cooking club The latest Kids in the Kitchen course runs run every Wednesday from 4.30-6pm. Children will learn the basics of cooking and baking.

Xmas gift vouchers available

For any cookery courses or parties.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 12

“No matter what age or where you are in West Lothian if you want to cook we can help you” All money raised from the corporate and party events goes back into funding The Larder’s primary raison d’etre – changing lives through food. High school students who are struggling with main stream school attend The Larder part time working towards SQA Hospitality qualifications. One of their students, Sam Rafferty, now works for local catering company Food Creations who run several cafes in West Lothian. Sam told me, “The Larder helped me discover an interest in cooking that I didn’t know I had, and was instrumental in setting me on my career in hospitality.” Training officer Paul Holborn says, “The Larder has had great success in supporting young people into college or work in the hospitality sector. We do this by working with them in an informal learning environment that enables each person to grow their confidence and skills at their pace and based on their needs.’ A pop up cafe once a month gives them experience in front of house, waiting at tables and working the till. The next one is 8th November 1.30 to 2pm, all welcome.

West Lothian Council have funded free cookery classes for the over 50’s, to reduce isolation and support independent living. “Cooking for one can be a challenge, so that’s one of the things the over 50 sclasses focus on,” explains chef Tracy. “We’re

also keen to encourage older men “No matter to cook, so have an 8 week course what age or for men only early next year. It will where you include budgeting, basic cookery are in West skills, cooking for 1, cooking with a Lothian if slow cooker, smaller portions and eating for health. Each week you you want to will cook a range of courses then cook we can sit down and eat your freshly made help you” meal with the rest of the group.”

Dinner Clubs are also available until March 2017. These are one-off events where each person cooks their own meal and then everyone sits down to eat together. It is a social gathering as well as a learning activity.

Pictures: The Larder’s professional kitchen is ideal for team building events and parties.

For more information on any activities or to book parties, corporate events or to access charitable services, contact The Larder on 01506 412819, visit www.thelardercookschool.org.uk or Facebook. Unit 6 B2 Brewster Square, Brucefield Industrial Estate, Livingston. EH54 9BJ. courses@thelarder.org

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 13

Simply Electrical

For all jobs, big or small just SIMPLY call!

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t: 07563 548348

Look on facebook page for deals of the week! www.facebook.com/SimplyElectricalElectrician

David Hastings Building Surveyor BSc Hons., M.C.I.O.B., R.Maps., AMiAS

Thinking of having your house/office altered or extended or garage/loft converted? Call for free consultation.

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 16

This Christmas Keep Safe at Home *

Thieves know that over Christmas there will be high value presents and maybe more cash in your house than normal. Keep your home secure - lock all windows and doors, don’t leave gifts in view of the windows and keep cash in your home to a minimum.

*

If you’re going away for Christmas, keep your home secure. Lock all windows and doors, set your house alarm if you have one, use timers

*

on lights, cancel any deliveries and ask a neighbour or friend you trust to keep an eye out while you’re away.

If you’re having a house party with lots of guests, it can be all too easy for a thief to slip in unnoticed. Make sure you know everyone who is there.

If you’re going to a party, don’t let anyone tailgate you into a house or through a secured communal entry door who may not be a guest.

*

Protect any gifts you’ve bought for your friends and family. Get them to register mobile phones, tablets, laptops and cameras at www. immobilise.com. Don’t give them a good quality bike without giving them a good quality lock, and register bikes at www.BikeRegister.com.

These safety tips are taken from Police Scotland’s “Keep Safe” website

Magic Ideas for Christmas

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 17

AT LIVINGSTON DESIGNER OUTLET

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 18

Parents in West Lothian

How To Make The Leap From Couch Potato To Trampoline Champ

T

his morning I scraped frost off my car so I think I’m safe in saying that we have finally bid goodbye to all the decent weather we’re going to get this year.

And it’s farewell too it seems to my only-a-fewmonths-old routine of going running before work and cycling after, with the odd trip to the gym at the weekend. I’m afraid I can only put myself through that kind of horrific corporal punishment if the weather is extremely mild and its also light outside. And if I can summon a lift to bundle my near-lifeless body into the back of a car to be taken home then all the better.

Since August, my husband has been on my bike more than I have, I haven’t been to the gym at all, and my running shoes have been staring at me, judging me, while gathering a light film of dust on the shoe rack. Exercise in winter needs to be fun, easy, and comfortable … yet get you out of puff enough to still actually count as exercise …

Surely then, a trip to the Jumpstation in Livingston should provide the best of both worlds?

We found it pretty easily with the satnav, but it’s actually rather well sign-posted too, and upon arriving we got parked pretty easily near the door. We attended a safety briefing and donned our black and yellow ‘jumpsocks’ which are trainer-socks with rubber dots on the soles to allow you to grip wonderfully on the bouncy surfaces and have some control over your direction of travel. We went on Sunday at 10am for the under-5s only session … there is no lower

“Exercise in winter needs to be fun, easy, and comfortable...”

age limit, you just have to be sensible with your supervision What a place! Firstly there are obviously trampolines everywhere, all bordering each other so you can do big bouncing steps all around the place – but there is also trampoline basketball, a reaction-testing game, a massive air pillow that you dive into, foam pits, and an obstacle course.

There is even a game reminiscent of that game show Gladiators, where two people stand on a balance beam and beat each other with oversized cotton buds, and a section devoted to playing dodgeball.

While there we didn’t realise how much effort we were putting into bouncing, climbing out of the foam pits, and writhing about trying to get off the huge air pillow – but my word the next day we could feel it. My torso felt like it been trampled by a hundred excitable donkeys; my arms were as limp noodles; and my buttocks – let us speak as little of those startled, wretched muscles as we may.

Yet, despite all of this, we are convinced – all alight at the JumpStation for exhausting, exhilarating fun!

Picture: Channa with Quinn and Penny at Livingston’s Jump Station

The monthly Parenting column is contributed by Nicola Jengaenga. Nicola lives in West Lothian with her two pre-schoolers and hubby Channa.

They juggle hectic work schedules with the everevolving demands of their two tiny overlords and also squeezing in time for each other!

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 19

01506 848030 All our fish is

delivered fresh daily

from Scottish fishing ports.

Order on our COOKFISH site www.cookfish.co.uk for collection in store

Visit our Facebook Oyster Oyster Included in the selection: 2 Haddock 2 Bass 2 Salmon 2 Cod 2 Coley 2 Pie mix

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Taking Christmas orders NOW

We can supply any fish to order

Something fishy for Christmas ll over Europe people feast at Christmas, but not all celebrate on A December 25th; many eat on the evening of the 24th. This is true for Italy, Poland, Iceland and Spain.

All have special meals and many chose fish as the main dish. Italy even call it the feast of seven fishes and include fried eel as an anti-pasta. Iceland have a dish of fermented skate which is so pungent that many chose to celebrate in a restaurant to avoid their house being taken over by the smell! Austria, Poland and Slovakia all enjoy a roast carp - as we did in Britain in the Middle Ages when fish ponds were an important way of ensuring fresh protein in mid winter. The French include oysters as part of the festivities and the Portuguese make a salt cod dish. In Sweden pickled herring takes pride of place.

Nowadays we are blessed with an extensive choice of foods. We don’t have to be limited by what is still alive and in good condition at mid winter. Fish and shell-fish are perfect in December so here are some celebratory fish ideas which you might like to try for a different Christmas meal for your family this year. The last two traditional fishmongers in West Lothian - Oyster Oyster (Linlithgow) and Bathgate Fishmonger - supply delicious fresh, quality seafood.

Oysters Rockefeller 24 oysters opened left in the dished shell and the flesh loose.

Filli ng

• 200g spinach chopped in fine ribbons

Salmon Scallops Prawns Smoked salmon

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Fresh fish daily • Local home deliveries Bathgate Fishmongers

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 20

• 1 bunch or packet water cress chopped fine • 250g soft butter • Dry fine bread crumbs • 2 tablespoons Pernod or 1 teaspoon ground fennel • Grated parmesan To serve

Tabasco

“This dish was famous in the 1960’s and is worthy of reviving. Then, salmon was the preserve of the rich who knew people who fished. It was sometimes dry, but by wrapping the fish in buttery pastry this is prevented.”

Method

Either make the pastry in a food processor or by hand and let it rest in the fridge for a couple of hours; or buy the best butter pastry you can.

Salmon en croute Serves 6 (For a bigger party use a whole salmon filleted, skinned and sandwiched top to tail).

1 1/2 kilo salmon fillet no skin, no bones, cut into 2 equal halves.

Past ry

• 400g plain white flour • 200g butter • A little cold water Filli ng

• 200g seedless green grapes, halved • 3 inches root ginger, peeled & finely chopped • Parsley, chervil, dill weed, chives or a mixture chopped fine (about a tablespoon full) M e t h od

Combine all the filling ingredients, adding the dried bread crumbs little by little. Do not make it too dry.

On a flat tray that will fit the grill pan, crumple lots of cooking foil. This is to support the oysters as they cook. Nestle the shells in the foil, keeping them level. The juices are an important part of the dish.

Divide the filling between the shells and scatter some parmesan over them.

Have the grill on as hot as you can, and grill for about 5 to 7 minutes, till they are bubbling and the cheese is brown.

Serve the tray to table and let the guests chose their shells and add Tabasco. Some bread to go with this is all you need!

• 200g cold butter in small lumps • Salt pepper to taste • 1 egg beaten for the glaze

Make the filling by folding all the ingredients gently together and set aside.

Roll out the pastry so it is big enough to parcel up the fish.

Place one fillet of fish in the middle. Pile up all the filling on the fish and place the second piece on top, and press it down to make it even. Fold the pastry over to cover the fish and make a reasonably tight parcel, sealing the overlaps with water.

Line a baking tray with silicon paper and flip the fish parcel into it, making sure the join is underneath. With any extra pastry decorate the top with leaves, fish or what your artistic fancy dictates. This can stay in the fridge for up to one day.

Pre heat the oven to 180oC. Brush with egg and cook for 35 to 45 minutes till golden.

Serve with a herb sauce or hollandaise sauce and green vegetables.

The monthly Receipe and Food Notes are contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 21

7pm – 12am | £33.95 per person Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival followed by a festive 3 course meal with a tribute act and disco.

The perfect night out for couples, businesses or groups up to 200 people.

Thursday 8th: Diana Ross & Whitney Houston Sunday 11th: Freddie Mercury Thursday 15th: Michael Buble

www.deer-park.co.uk 01506 446699 Deer Park Golf and Country Club, Golf Course Road Livingston, EH54 8AB

10% DISCOUNT WHEN QUOTING’ KONECT’

M and N Catering

Royal British Legion 50 North Bridge St. Bathgate, EH48 4PP 07856 611425 mandncatering@yahoo.com

All functions catered for:

Funerals, birthdays, weddings, christenings, sporting and charity events and family gatherings

Christmas Party Nights @ Livi FC

2nd and 3rd December (fully booked) 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th,18th and 23rd Dec £35 per person including 2 drink tokens pp Special Sunday price for 11th & 18th December only £28 pp!

Private Parties

Want to hold your own company Christmas party?

Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite

Pre-theatre meals & Xmas dinners & lunches. Bookings being taken NOW.

Bar lunches served:

Book now for a fabulous Xmas!

Thursday & Friday 12.00–3.00pm Saturday 11.00–3.00pm M and N Catering

Join us in the Almondvale Suite for an evening of mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff.

Outside Catering

Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multicourse meals for large numbers.

Tel 01506 412232 yvonne@foodcreations.co.uk facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 22

@Food_Creations

To be included please call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Hopetoun turkeys

Low-mileage local food opetoun turkeys are reared freeH range on the estate’s farm, and are free to roam with their choice of inside and outside spaces on the farm.

Because there are poultry processing facilities on the estate each bird also has extremely low food miles, travelling fewer than five miles before being sold fresh at Hopetoun Farm Shop.

The entire flock are all pre-ordered in advance at the farm shop and collected by customers from the butchery department in the days leading up to Christmas. Other popular orders include the estate’s fresh beef, chickens, lamb and game as an alternative feast for Christmas.

To order a Hopetoun turkey visit Hopetoun Farm Shop now and you can find out more on Christmas food ordering by visiting www.hopetounfarmshop. co.uk. Pre-orders must be placed before 14th December.

10% OFF everything in store (excl. Christmas orders, event tickets & alcohol)

Tel: 01506 830 716 www.hopetounfarmshop.co.uk Hopetoun Farm Shop is located next door to New Hopetoun Gardens on the A904 near Newton

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 23

KONECT CALDERS 45

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the December edition of konect

Across 7 Factual books (13) 8 Announced (8) 9 Concerts (4) 10 Large church (7) 12 Main artery in the body (5) 14 Small dog (5) 16 Removal of data (7) 19 Unsuccessful (4) 20 Clapping (8) 22 Protest march (13) Down 1 Leg joint (4) 2 Rides a bike (6) 3 Frightened (7) 4 Used for digging (5) 6 Female child (8) 11 Remote (8) 13 Get ready (7) 15 Eight pints (6) 17 Begins (6) 18 Artificial (5) 21 Work hard (4)

SUDOKU

Sudoku solution on page 61

KONECT CALDERS 46

KIRKNEWTON GARAGE.co.uk 1-3 Main Street, Kirknewton, EH27 8AJ

M.O.T s £35.00

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

FREE FIT TYRES FREE BALANCING FREE VALVES FREE TRACKING CHECK

FREE RECOVERY 175x65x14........£35 FREE DIAGNOSTIC CHECK 185x65x15........£39 FREE PRE MOT CHECK 195x65x15........£39

•BRAKES • EXHAUSTS •CLUTCHES • BATTERIES •ENGINES • GEARBOXES •ELECTRICS • SUSPENSION • AIR CON • WINDOWS

185x60x15........£39 205x55x16........£38 205x50x17........£49 225x45x17........£48 195x70x15 8PLY.£50 205x65x16 8PLY.£53

ALL PARTS FITTED TO PRIVATE CARS AT TRADE PRICES ESTABLISHED 1950

Tel: 01506 885566

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Buster the Dog

Our family run practice is celebrating 15 years at the heart of Currie, Balerno and Juniper Green, developing close bonds within the community. We are a single centre clinic with all medical, surgical, diagnostic and dental facilities in house with no need to travel between branches.

Open 6 days a week with full emergency cover 24/7 through our specialised emergency provider. Our dedicated team of experienced vets and fully qualified nurses look forward to meeting you and your pets.

• Fully equipped in house surgical theatre • Separate fully equipped dental station • In-house laboratory machine and microscopy • X-ray • Ultrasound • Endoscopy • ECG See our website for more details including sample pricing.

5 RICCARTON MAINS ROAD, CURRIE, MIDLOTHIAN, EH14 5PX

T: 0131 451 5111 W: www.pentlandvetclinic.com KONECT CALDERS 48

South Lodge Cattery South Lodge, Oakbank Road, East Calder, EH53 0JP

Going away on holiday or business?

We treat your cat like royalty while you’re away... ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

individual attention collection & delivery service heated accomodation for the winter months 24 hour care microchipping service homesitting service afflilated with local vet for your complete peace of mind

Contact us on

01506 880767 or

macalbani@aol.com to discuss your pet’s requirements Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 8am-12 and 4pm-7 Closed Sundays (except school holidays)

Doggies Love Walkies Friendly, reliable and trustworthy dog walking service Home visits are available for small animals, dogs & cats Daily dog walking made in small groups We are also fully insured and Police checked

NEW SHOP NOW OPEN Pet supplies for your dogs, cats, rabbits, birds. Orders welcome and local home deliveries available.

01506 880015 thepetstop2016@outlook.com 07818 231719

doggieslovewalkies@hotmail.co.uk

111 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EP Like us on Facebook: The Pet Stop at Tillychance

Tillychance Dog Grooming Services 111 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EP

To be included please call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Please contact Suzanne on 01506 880015 s_buglass@hotmail.co.uk

Tillychance Dog Grooming Services

City & Guilds trained

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foodinburgh foodpicks October

1

5 1. Samp

hire at Orocco Pier With a truly awesome view of all three bridges over the Forth, you could forgive second rate food at Orocco Pier. No need, the food is every bit as good as the view, and the cocktails are some of the best we’ve had anywhere. Book early, ask for a window table (or a private booth) and sit back and let the very capable waiting staff look after you. 17 High St, South Queensferry EH30 9PP. 2. My Prep Perfect for those working on weight loss or building muscle, My Prep delivers freshly prepared, nutritionally balanced dishes to your door. All you need to focus on is the exercise. http://www.my-prep.co.uk KONECT CALDERS 50

4 3

3. Christmas Menu at Kyloe We were invited to preview the Christmas menu at Kyloe last month.

Having just won ‘Best Sunday Dinner in Scotland’, their Christmas Menu did not disappoint. If you order the ‘Mini Beef Wellington’ make sure you have a good appetite, it’s anything but mini.

With food this good; £28 for lunch and £38 for dinner represents great value.

1-3 Rutland St, Edinburgh EH1 2AE. 4. B adger & Co Badger & Co is a nice addition to the Edinburgh restaurant scene. Taking up residence in the former home of Kenneth Grahame, the author of Wind in the Willows, it’s one of the nicest examples of a themed restaurant we’ve seen. A beautifully seasonal and British menu will appeal to those that like good hearty fayre. We recommend the game pie. 32 Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3HT. 5. Nanyang Malaysian We’ve only managed lunch at Nanyang so far but after tasting how good even their classic dishes were, we can’t wait to go back and try some of the more adventurous Malay cuisine. http:// www.nanyangrestaurant.com

2 The monthly Foodpicks column is contributed by local blogger Erica Douglas of www.foodinburgh.com.

Erica provides us with inspiration on where to eat and drink next in and around Edinburgh and West Lothian.

Join the Foodinburgh Supper Club for a monthly digest and offers for some of their favourite monthly choices.

KONECT CALDERS 51

The Sky Kitchen

Telephone Orders Welcome

CHINESE RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY

Unit 6 Calder Drive, East Calder (On the B7015 next to Colin Nixon)

01506 885115 OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK (Closed Monday) FROM 4.30pm - 11.00pm

SPECIAL OFFER Until 30th November 2016

20% OFF

ANY MEALS SITTING IN ONLY SUNDAY-THURSDAY (not takeaway) WITH THIS VOUCHER

The Clean Team

Covering Clackmannanshire, Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothians and Perth & Kinross

Professional oven cleaning service: ovens, ranges, hob, BBQ, microwaves or extractor unit.

Give us a call for a free no obligation quote

New name, same great service! Alba Oven Cleaning is now part of The Clean Team

www.drycleanteam.co.uk tel 01506 432100

To be included please call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

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BLACK BULL INN Market Street, Mid Calder, EH53 0AA Tel: 01506 882170

Email: blackbullmidcalder@sky.com

1 voucher per table with a minimum spend of £15 on food Valid until 30th Nov 2016. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer

Have you got your BLACK CARD yet?

Ask today to get great savings off your food bill

facebook.com/blackbullmc KONECT CALDERS 53

The Rotary Club of Linlithgow & Bo’ness proudly presents

The Glasgow Phoenix Choir Celebrate Christmas 2016 St Michael's Parish Church Linlithgow Sat 3rd Dec 2016 at 7.30 pm Doors open 7.00pm.

Tickets £8 each available from :-

St Michael's Church Office Platform 3, 1a High Street, Linlithgow or phone ticket hotline on 01506 847999

The Rotary Club of Linlithgow & Bo’ness

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In Aid of

• • • •

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

Nursery for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years Flexible childcare options Full and part-time sessions Small, home-from-home nursery, in the heart of the community • Large learning garden • Range of childcare vouchers accepted the bees knees • Wraparound service to/from Currie Primary Nursery nursery Opening hours: Mon- Fri 7.30am-5.30pm

Enquiries: tel: 07770 060 373 email: thebeeskneesplaygroup@virginmedia.com www.thebeeskneesnursery.co.uk

Currie Community Centre, 280 Lanark Road West, Currie, EH14 5RU

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WHAT’S ON & USEFUL INFORMATION Thursday 3rd November Kirknewton Community Firework Display Kirknewton Park 7.30pm. Donations accepted on the night. See page 57 for details.

Sunday 6th November Ladies Afternoon Tea with prosecco and fashion show At Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club, 2-5pm. In aid of Jak’s Den. Tickets £40, on sale in Jak’s Den (Livingston) and through our online Shop and virgin money http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ fund/TeamJakLadiesDay. Saturday 19th November West Lothian Highland Society Monthly Ceilidh Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, 7.30pm. Band will be The Ian Cruickshank Trio, Singer Joe Aitken and piper Natalie Kerr.

Members - £6.00, Non-Members - £7.00.

Saturday 19th November Harburn Annual Craft Fair Harburn Village Hall from 11am till 3 pm. An ideal opportunity to find that special Xmas gift handmade by our local craftsfolk and artists.

Homebaking, raffle, free admission.(Proceeds to Hall Funds SC 028394) Saturday 20th November Kirknewton Christmas Gifts, Food Fair and Family BBQ 12-4pm at The Stables, Kirknewton. Fundraiser for village projects.

See page WL8 for Christmas Crafting events.

Access 2 employment Job Club. Kirknewton Green Room, Fridays, 9.30am-1pm. Contact Fraser on 07899 063971.

Community Councils East Calder and District Community Council meet the first Tuesday of every month (except July) at 19:00 in East Calder Community Education Centre. Tues 2nd June, Tues 4th Aug, Tues 8th Sept.

Where to find Santa this year 26th November: Christmas in Bathgate event 26th November Linlithgow Advent Fair 10am - 3pm From 5th November Livingston Centre From 22nd November: Dobbies Livingston From 3rd December: Almond Valley Heritage Centre. (selected days, please check their website www.almondvalley.co.uk)

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Kirknewton Community Council meet on the second Tuesday of each month (except July) at 6.45pm in the Green Room on the Main Street.

All welcome.

Mid Calder Community Council meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30pm (except July and August) in Institute Hall, 15 Market Street, Mid Calder.

Pumpherston Community Council meet on the first Tuesday of each month at Pumpherston and Uphall Station Community Primary School at 7pm ~ All meetings are open to the public and we would be delighted to see you. www. pumpherstoncc.org/

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

Library information on page 58.

ANGELA ELIZABETH PRIVATE NURSERY The longest-running private nursery in West Lothian

...the caring nursery Babies & children from 3 months - 5 years Open 52 weeks a year 7.30 am - 6.00pm Full or part time spaces available

Daily Activities : ● Sand &Water ● Baking ● Painting ● Glueing ... and much, much more! ● weekly sports class with A-Star Sports ● weekly French lessons

/ Pick up to Drop off rity tho local au es nurseri

New! garden room & mud kitchen

Secure outdoor play

Breakfast & afternoon snack provided

t: e:

0131 333 1949

enquiries@angelaelizabethnursey.co.uk

w:

School House, Bonnington Road, Wilkieston, EH27 8BD

www.angelaelizabethnursery.co.uk

St Paul’s Primary School Christmas Fayre Saturday 26th November, 10.00-12.00 in the school

hether you’re W looking for Christmas shopping

ideas or seeking family entertainment there will be something for you at St Paul’s Primary School morning of festive themed fun with prizes galore!

Why not try your luck in our Christmas Hamper raffle or at one of our popular themed tombolas? Our cake and candy stall will be loaded with sweet treats, or sit down and relax with

friends over a cuppa and snack from the refreshment stall. A range of Christmas crafts will be on offer to keep the children entertained as well as Santa in his Grotto and a pocket money Lucky Dip. The Christmas Fayre, organised by the St Paul’s Parent Council, is a key fundraising event in the school calendar. Money raised goes directly towards much needed additional resources for the school and nursery like tablet computers for the classes and outdoor play equipment for the nursery purchased last year.

Each year at the Christmas Fayre a donation is also made to a local charitable cause and this year we are supporting West Lothian Foodbank.

Representative Tim Potter welcomes this support saying: “Thank you to St. Paul’s Parent Council for the donation to West Lothian Foodbank. We will use it to feed people in crisis here in West Lothian.” £1 entry per adult (payable at the door), children free – includes tea/coffee and biscuits. For further information contact: cstpauls@gmail.com

WHAT’S ON & USEFUL INFORMATION

Library Information

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

East Calder Library Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EJ T: 01506 883633 E: eastcalder.lib@westlothian.gov.uk

Firefly Arts

Opening times: Mon & Fri 10am – 5pm, Tues 10am-3pm, Wed 11am-4pm, Thurs 12pm-7pm, Sat 10am-1pm. Please note Registration Services are now available by appointment only. Monday – 2.00 to 4.30. Wednesday – 11am1pm. Friday – 2.00 to 4.30. Telephone 01506 883633.

Lothian Running Club

Other facilities we offer are: free internet access, cheap printing facilities and free scanning. There are daily papers to read and magazines to browse in a warm safe environment.

Cycling club – our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre.

See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@ westlothianclarion.co.uk

Book bug sessions: Monday 14th November 10.30-11 & Saturday 26th November 10.30-11 with Scottish theme for book Week Scotland.

Adult book groups: Thursday 17th November 5.45-6.45 & Thursday 26thNovember 5.30-6.45 Local poet Colin Mitchell presenting his new book of poems as part of Book Week Scotland Junior Craft Table: Friday 25th November 2-4pm.

Pumpherston Library Drumshoreland Road, Pumpherston, EH53 0LF T: 01506 280996.

E: pumpherston.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Monday – 14.00 to 17.00.

Wednesday – 14.30 to 16.30. Thursday – 14.00 to 18.00.

West Calder Library & Customer Information Service

West Calder Library and Customer Information Services are temporarily relocated at 24-26 Main Street, West Calder. T: 01506 771630.

Opening Times: Monday – 10.00 to 16.00.

Tuesday – 10.00 to 19.00. Wednesday – 11.00 to 16.00. Thursday – 11.00 to 18.00. Friday – 10.00 to 15.00. Saturday – 10.00 to 13.00. CIS enquiry desk closed each day 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm.

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Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk for more information on our current programme. Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE. www.firefly-arts.co.uk We welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6. Training sessions in/around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park. For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub. co.uk.

West Lothian Clarion

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! £2 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

West Lothian Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Classes in South Church Hall, Uphall Starting on Thurs 17th Sept 7.30 to 9.30pm. 10 weeks through to the 19th Nov, then starting the 7th January through to 10th Mar 2016. £3 per week. Teacher Mrs Margaret McGregor. Dancing for fun & fitness, any new beginners very welcome. For more info contact Sandra Cheyne, tel 01506 430600 email sdcheyne77@ yahoo.com.

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 3­5 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list.

First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail. com.

EAST CALDER Ante-natal Yoga - Yamma Mamma

Prepare for your Baby with Yoga birth preparation and fitness.

Sunday morning 10am to 11.30am. For more details please contact Ruth on 07767 777044 or ruth@sukha.co.uk

Forget-Me-Not Café

East Calder Church Hall, Manse Court. Last Thursday of the month, 10am – 12pm. A meeting place for people with dementia and their carers of all ages. Drop in and join us for information, support and social activities. Supported by Alzheimer Scotland and East Calder Church. For more information please phone 01506 533 116.

East Calder Bowling Club

Bingo every Sun and Wed 8pm– 9.30pm. Junior coaching (10 to 16 years old) every friday 2pm – 4pm. We can also coach adults,

free, so come along and give it a try. Hats every Mon 6-30pm.

See club website at www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com. Members can find details here of competitions, play by dates and club news.

East Calder Jog Scotland Group

Meet every Tuesday at East Calder Health centre car park at 7pm. All abilities welcome, a social way to get fit, make friends and enjoy local countryside. Contact Dawn on 01506 883330 or 07806 772935 for more details.

Yoga for Everyone

East Calder Community Centre. Wed 7.00pm – 8.30pm For further info contact Ruth Plevin: 01506204338 or ruth@sukha. co.uk

East Calder Colts FC

East Calder Park. Soccer school every Friday night and teams for all ages groups please check website for details http://www. eastcalderfc.co.uk/

East Calder Old Folks Club

East Calder Community Centre. Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Pensioners and nonpensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Secretary).

East Calder Ladies’ Circle

East Calder Community Centre. Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1-3pm. Secretary: Mrs E Bennett, 73 Mansefield, East Calder, West Lothian EH53 0JE.

East Calder Youth Club

East Calder Community Centre. Fri 6.15pm - 8.45pm. Ages 10 to 14 yrs. Cooking, football, baseball and other outdoor sports, pool, video games, board games and arts/crafts. Contact Gary Sneddon 01506 774473.

New Mums Group

This group is for new mums of any age. East Calder Community Centre. Mon 11.00am – 12.30pm. Free. Contact health visitor via health centre for further details 01506 880582

Breast Feeding Support Group

East Calder Church Hall. Wednesday 11.30 am – 12.30 pm.

Contact Health Visitors via Health Centre for further details 01506 880582

Bingo

Pigeon Club, East Calder. Sun 8.00 - 10.00 All welcome

Boys Brigade

East Calder Church Hall. Anchors (age 5 - 8) Fridays 6.30 7.30pm. Juniors (age 8 - 11) Fridays 6.45 - 8.15pm. Company Section (age 11-18). Fridays 7.30 - 9.45pm. Call Jean Gilchrist 01506 880367

East Calder Playgroup

Now located in East Calder Community Centre. Mon-Fri 9am11am from 2 years. For the best introduction to your child’s education - lots of fun to be had! £5 per session. Contact Carol on 07748 053340.

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides

East Calder Church Hall, Main Street. Rainbows Mon 6.30 – 7.30pm and Wed 6.15 – 7.15pm. Brownies Tues 6.30 – 8pm & Wed 6.30 – 8pm. Guides: Wed 7.30-9pm. Monday Guides meet in Kirknewton Chuch Hall 7pm-9pm. Guides contact Fiona Wilson 07595 679117 fionamhwilson@sky.com. Contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640.

Toddler Clinic

East Calder Health Centre. 1st Tues every month. Drop in for advice & support 1.30–3.30pm.

East Calder Scout Group

Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace. Beavers Mon 6.15 - 7.15pm (boys 6 - 8 yrs). Cubs Mon 7.30 - 9.00pm (boys 8 - 10 yrs). Scouts Tues 7.15 - 9.00pm (boys 10 - 14 yrs). Contact Jack Galloway on 077907 93889. eastcalderscouts.org.uk

East Calder Needlecraft Club We are a group of ladies who would like to invite you to our weakly Thursday meetings, between 7 and 9.30 pm in the Community Centre. We enjoy a range of needlecrafts including cross stitch, embroidery, knitting, crochet, sewing. Friendly tuition given. Our members range in age from 18 to 80. Outings include a trip to Hobby Craft in Glasgow, S.E.C.C. Also away day trips - something to please everyone. Tea and biscuits provided.

Please contact 01506 882427 for more information.

East Calder Old Tyme Dance Club

East Calder Community Centre We meet Tuesday afternoons from 1 pm to 3 pm, and dance to live music from Iain MacPhail, accordionist. Beginners/learners are very welcome to join us in this very friendly club.

Slimming World

Pigeon Club, Oakbank Road, East Calder Tuesdays at 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm and Wednesdays at 9.30am. Contact Sue on 07803 520781 for more information.

West Lothian Eagles – Aussie Rules Football We have just started and are looking for new players, of all shapes and sizes, beginners especially for free training sessions. Get fit, have a laugh, make new friends and play a new sport. We train mainly in East Calder football pitch on the Main St. on Monday evenings at 7.15pm but we also train on various other places throughout West Lothian.

Check the facebook page for details. www.facebook.com/ wleaglesarfc/

KIRKNEWTON Mini & Me Music Group

The Green Room Thursdays 2pm-2.45pm. Songs, stories and rhymes just for the little ones. Meet other mums & make new friends. Contact Amanda on 07814 055499.

Kirknewton Youth Group

Village hall or Green Room. Fridays 6-8pm. For P7+. Please Contact Jennifer at jenniferkirknewton@gmail.com

Kirknewton Starlets

Kirknewton Primary School. Babies class up to age 8 Thurs 5.30 - 6.30pm. Junior/senior class Thurs 6.15 - 8.00pm. For info contact Trisha on email t.ewing@btinternet.com

Kosy Kaff

Kirknewton Village Hall. Fridays 4pm – 5pm term time. Free home baking, hot chocolate, games and activities for primary school aged children. See www.knec4jesus.org.uk for more information.

Pilates Classes

Kirknewton Village Hall: Tuesdays 6.45pm to 7.35pm (Improvers and Intermediates); Thursdays 9.10am to 10.00am (Intermediates) and 10.10am to 11.00am (Beginners and Improvers). Balerno Scouts Hall: Tuesdays 9.10am to 10.00am (mixed). For more details contact elise@ekpilates.co.uk. You’ll also find me on facebook.com/ekpilates.

Kirknewton Rainbows and Brownies

Kirknewton Village Hall. Rainbows Wed 5pm-6.15pm; Brownies Wed 6.30pm-8pm. Contact Gill on 01506 883261 or gillww@ hotmail.com

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Toddler Group

Kirknewton Church Hall. Parents/carers with tots aged 0-3 yrs, friendly group with play, stories and craft for the children and meet up/chat for parents. Thur 9.30 - 11.30am.

Physio Pilates Classes

Modified Pilates taught by a Chartered Physiotherapist.

Kirknewton Village Hall. Tuesdays 6.45pm and 7.45pm - suitable for beginners or improvers. Spaces are limited so for more information or to book contact Dianne on 07795466464. diannemackenzie1@gmail.com. Facebook: Physio Pilates Classes.

Myra Mackie School of Dance

Classes in Livingston, Uphall Station, Mid Calder and Broxburn.

Please see our website for full timetable and venues. Children from 2 years to adult.www.myramackieschoolofdance.co.uk incorporating our competitive cheer division the Scottish Starlets.

Star Harmonies

Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday at 19.30

Musical Theatre School. Mid Calder Institue Hall.Tuesdays 10-3011am- Baby Starz; 11-15-11-45am- Little Starz. Other classes in Polbeth. Black Bull Inn Thursdays 6:10-7:10pm Liv’n Harmoneez Kids/Teenz Choir; 7:30-9:30pm The Liv’n Harmony Singers adult choir. Contact 07545 178310 for more information. See www. starharmonies.co.uk email: starharmonies.musicworkshops@ gmail.com

Hatton Sports Club

West Lothian Women’s Cycle Club

Kirknewton Runners

Tennis and squash. Burnwynd, Kirknewton. Social and competitive play. LTA-qualified tennis coaches. Contact Carol Blamire 01506 880208

Kirknewton Stompers

Walking group, meeting at Kirknewton Park entrance on Park Terrace. Every Wed 7.30pm. Join the group on the community facebook page where people post details of the walk, or any other time they are walking.

Simply Play

Kaspars Out of School Care for Kirknewton. Kirknewton Primary School. Mon – Thu 3.15-6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00. Call 07871 791000

Kirknewton Women’s Institute

Come and join us for a friendly evening of craft, demonstrations and fun. 2nd Thursday of each month, 7.15pm in Kirknewton Church Hall.

Potter Around

Meet every Thursday at Mid Calder Primary School Car Park at 6pm. Get on your bike! All abilities welcome, should have own bike and kit. A great way to get fit, have fun and meet new friends around the local area. Contact Elizabeth Logan on 07515 161 307.

Welcome Café

Glenalmond Hall. Every Tuesday 10am-12noon. This is a Fair Trade Café all proceeds of which to the Vine Trust in Peru. Do come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and some home baking with friends.

Mid Calder Camera Club

Institute Hall, Market Street. Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm. All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www. mccc.org.uk or call Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616.

Mid Calder Colts FC

Art and craft studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton EH27 8DD. Drop in anytime for ceramic painting and decopatch or have fun playing with clay. Book both adults and children’s parties in a wide range of arts and crafts. Open the first Tuesday of each month for those who prefer evening. Book into one of our many workshops including candle making, potter’s wheel, felting, jewllery and glass fusion. Regular classes include oil painting for both adults and children and our Kids Art Club on a Friday afternoon as well as the Warhammer Club on a Saturday afternoon. We take commission for painted pottery and artwork and we have a gift shop selling hand made items from jewellery through to art. Look out for our summer workshops running for children through the holidays. For more information call 01506 238961, email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround. co.uk www.facebook.com/PotterAround

Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-calder-colts.org. Contact Carole 883934. Contact@ mid-calder-colts.org.

Kirknewton Play Group

Yoga Classes

Kirknewton Village Hall. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9.15am to 11.30am. Ages 2 to 4 1/2 years. £5 per session. Call in and see us during session times or email kirknewtonplaygroup@yahoo.com

Celtic Stepz

Kirknewton Village Hall. Adult dance class to encourage adults back into dance and raise money for good causes. Wednesdays 8.15-9.30pm. Contact Cathy on 01506 881674

MID CALDER 5th West Lothian Mid Calder Cub Group

Mid Calder Institute Hall. Thursdays 7.20 to 8.30. New cubs welcome. Aged betweem 8 – 10 years. Please contact Vroni on 07900 907297.

Mid Calder School of Dance

Mid Calder Institute Hall. Highland, Disco Tues 6.00pm - 7.00pm and Fri 6.00pm - 9.00pm. Various ages. Contact Heather 01501733054.

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Mid Calder Baby & Toddler Group

Institute Hall, Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am-11am. £1 per baby / £1.50 per toddler per session, all welcome. Please email midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com for more details.

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Rainbows Wed night, Brownies Tues night, Guides Mon and Wed nights. To register please go to the Girl Guiding website, Parent’s sections.

Masonic Hall. Wednesday evening class 7.30 -9pm. Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115. www.wholebodybalance.co.uk

Folk Club The MidCalder Inn, Mid Calder. Meets every third Tuesday of the month 8pm at the “Tap Shop”.

Choral Highlights Ladies’ Choir We would like to invite all ladies with a love for singing and music to come and join us. You don’t have to be able to read music. We are a well established three part choir and have a membership of around 20 ladies. We sing a wide variety of songs including music from films and shows, spiritual, traditional and pop music. We hold two concerts annually, one before Christmas and one in the summer accompanied by West Calder Brass Band. We also sing at venues across the region on request. The choir practices in Kirk of Calder on Wednesdays 7.30 - 8.45pm. New members are always most welcome to join.

Contact John Rankine - 01506 880029.

POLBETH Star Harmonies

Musical Theatre School Polbeth Harwood Church. Mondays: Drama: 6-6-40pm- P1-3; 6-45-7-25pm- P4-7; 7-30-8-10pm- S1+.

Dance: 6-6-30pm- Nursery-P2; 6-30-7-30pm-S1+; 7-30-8-10pmP3-P7. Tuesdays: 3-15-3-45pm- Baby Starz; 3-50-4-20pm- Little Starz; 4-20-5pm- Little Harmoneez. Other classes in Mid Calder. Contact 07545 178310 for more information. See www starharmonies.co.uk email: starharmonies.musicworkshops@ gmail.com

Polbeth W.R.I.

1st Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Come along for an interesting programme of talks and demonstrations. New members always welcome. Further info on 01506 435708.

PUMPHERSTON Pumpherston United FC

Four groups, including a soccer school for 5-12 yrs (Thur 6.00pm - 7.30pm); 1998 age group (Tuesdays); 1997 age group (Mon and Wed) and 1995 age group (Mon and Wed). Training at Pumpherston Recreation Park. For more information, please email feedback@pumpherston-united.co.uk

Uphall Station Creative Play

Meets in Uphall Station Institute Hall. Tues 1-3pm and Thurs 9.30-11.15am. Parents/carers of babies/toddlers age 0-5 very welcome. Supported by SureStart. Different play activities every week.

Mid Calder

Services 10.30 every Sunday in the Kirk of Calder, Main St, Mid Calder. Sunday School and crèche available. Pumpherston services - The Kirk of Calder also holds fortnightly services on Wednesday mornings at 10:15 at the Pumpherston Institute Hall.

The website www.kirkofcalder.com has full details of current activities/services.

St Theresa’s Catholic Church Masses - 11.30AM every Sunday. 9am every Monday and Friday.

6pm every Wednesday. Confessions - After Mass on Sundays, or on request. www.livingstoncatholicparishes.co.uk; 01506 880918 frpaul@livingstoncatholicparishes.co.uk.

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

Solution to October Crossword

Across: 1 Rafters, 5 Extra, 8 Textile, 9 Verbs, 10 Ridge, 11 Despair, 12 Twenty, 14 Abroad, 17 Nervous, 19 Rises, 22 Ideal, 23 Failure, 24 Noted, 25 Lighter.

Down: 1 Rotor, 2 Fixed, 3 Evident, 4 Steady, 5 Elves, 6 Tornado, 7 Assured, 12 Tension, 13 Earnest, 15 Burning, 16 Useful, 18 Oiled, 20 Squat, 21 Spear.

The Look Group

Outdoors activities in Almondell and Calderwood Country Park for ages 8-12. Meeting at Visitor Centre 10.30 - 12.00 Saturdays - not every Sat, check programme with the Rangers on 01506 882254.

WEST CALDER West Lothian Fibromyalgia Support Group

Meets on the third Sunday of the month 1.30pm – 3.30pm, at West Calder Community Centre. New members always warmly welcomed. Join us for support, information, friendship, talks and outings. There is no group meet in July, August or December. See sites.google.com/site/wlfibromyalgia or call Sheila on 0844 887 2388 for more information.

Solution to Sudoku Page 46

18th West Lothian Scout Group

West Kirk Hall, West Calder. Beavers Mon 6-7pm. Cubs Wed 6.16-7.30pm Scouts Thurs 6.30-8pm. Girls and boys 10.5 - 14 yrs.

Contact Jean Walkinshaw 01506 873638.

West Calder Walking Group

Every Thurs at 12.30. Meet outside the Co-op, West Calder Main Street. Walk approx 1 hr then coffee/tea stop to finish. Call 01506 871773 for more info.

CHURCHES Polbeth Harwood Church

Service 11:15 am every Sunday. West Kirk of Calder Service 9:45 am every Sunday. Minister: Rev Dr Jonanda Groenewald, 8 Manse Court, East Calder EH53 0HF. Tel 01506 884802

Church of Scotland Kirknewton Services 9:45 in the Kirknewton Kirk, Station Rd. East Calder Services 11:15 in the East Calder Church, Main St. Sunday School and creche available. Rev Dr AJ Groenewald 8 Manse Court East Calder EH53 0HF. 01506 884585 or 07588 845814. groenstes@yahoo.com website www.knec4jesus.org.uk

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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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Bookkeeping 4 Architect Plan It Design 6 Attractions/Days Out Paradise Island Golf WL18 Auction House Hoppers Auctions WL6 Barber TJ’s Barbers 13 Bathrooms Anderson Home Improvements 4 Bathgate Bathroom Studio WL16 Beauty Lisa Blair Beauty Therapy 10 Bowling Club East Calder Bowling Club 7 Builder Almond Building Company 6 Build-It 6 Madison Garrad 7 Building Surveyor David Hastings WL14 Butcher Hopetoun Farmshop WL23 Cafe/Tearoom Little Whispers Sanctuary 4 Car Bodywork JWG Car Care 7 Car Sales Hermiston Motors 2 Car Service & Repair Autocare Solutions 47 Hermiston Motors 2 Kirknewton Garage 47 LVS Garage Services 5 Catering Food Creations WL22 M&N Catering WL22 Charity British Heart Foundation 18 Children’s Activities/ Entertainment Jump Station WL18 Paradise Island Golf WL18 Children’s Nursery Angela Elizabeth Nursery 57 The Bees Knees Nursery 55 Church Kings Church WL6 Cleaning Services C and W Cleaning Services WL8 Multi Level Contracts Ltd WL14 Complementary Therapies Greenfield Herbalist 11 Little Whispers Sanctuary 4 Computer Services Sprint Computers WL7 Conservatories Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL15 Greenburn Glass WL5 Dance Supplies Highland Dance Shop 55

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Decorating Graham & Brown WL9 Dentist Balerno Dental Care 10 Currie Dental Care 12 No9 Dentist 11 Doors UPVC Doors WL14 Dressmaking/Alterations Just Sew 48 Nota Bene 13 Electrician A&A Electrical 6 Riddell Electrical Services 19 Simply Electrical WL14 Estate Agent Remax 64 Turpie WL11 Fishmonger Bathgate Fishmonger WL20 Oyster Oyster WL20 Florist Vicky’s flowers 13 Food & Groceries Hopetoun Farmshop WL23 Foot Care Foot Clinic 13 Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd 16 Garden & Landscaping AA Landscapes 16 Beatson’s WL15 D Greaves 16 SG Garden Services 16 Garden Buildings Champfleurie Estate Ltd 17 Woodford Timber Scotland WL18 Gas Stockist Charles Gas 14 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 13 Deer Park Golf & Country Club WL22 Hairdresser Jane & Friends 10 Handyman 1st Call Handyman 7 Heating Services D Mac Services Scotland WL3 Dewar Plumbing WL2 L & S Heating 14 Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) AK Stretch Limousines WL7 Joiner Craigcrook Joinery 19 Create Enhanced Spaces Ltd WL4 Geoff Vinter Joinery 6 Kitchens Anderson Home Improvements 4 Create Enhanced Spaces Ltd WL4 S & S Home Improvements 15 Life Coach Life Coach Edinburgh 4 Locksmith Livingston Locksmith WL16 Saltire Lock & Security WL17

Mobility Med-Ecosse WL24 Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland WL7 Oven Cleaner The Clean Team 52 Painter/Decorator Braekirk Decorator’s 19 Nu Walls WL9 TML Décor 48 Pet Services Doggies Love Walkies 49 Milrig Kennels 49 South Lodge Cattery 49 Tilly Chance Dog Grooming 49 Pet Supplies The Pet Stop@Tilly Chance 49 Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering 19 Nu Walls WL9 Top 2 Bottom Plastering WL8 Plumbing Services Capital Heating WL4 Currievale Plumbing 14 D Mac Services Scotland WL3 EPH 14 Public House Black Bull 53 The Grapes Bistro 51 Restaurant Al Borgo 52 Sky Kitchen 52 Security Services Maplin WL17 Saltire Lock & Security WL17 Shopping Livingston Craft Association 45 Storage Unit Storage Containers 4 Takeaway Sky Kitchen 52 Taxi & Private Hire All The Fours 63 Tiling Service With A Tile 19 Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader WL5 Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic 48 Wallpaper Graham & Brown WL9 Wedding Services Nota Bene 13 Vicky’s flowers 13 Window Cleaning Suburban Window Clnr 19 Windows Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL15 Greenburn Glass WL5 Red Hot Windows 19

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