Konect Calders October 2015`

OCTOBER 2015

WIN! Family ticket to Hopetoun House fireworks WIN! Pair of tickets to Resurrection local gig!

FEATUREs Masterpieces in Miniature - West Lothian bonsai group West Lothian Friends of Chernobyl’s Children Selm Muir to Little Vantage - New waymarked local walk They are the “Resurrection” - Local Stone Roses Tribute band

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

plus local businesses, community information and more!

East and Mid Calder, Kirknewton & Pumpherston

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KONECT

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FEATURE

M ess ag e fro m the ed ito r he local West Lothian bonsai T club caught the attention of our writer Yvonne McMillan

this month, and in the Konect tradition of seeking out local people doing something a bit different, she tracked them down and ended up learning a lot about bonsai! The National Collection is housed at Ecclesmachan, and the group meets at Almond Valley Heritage Centre in Livi. See Yvonne’s article on pages 8-9.

Likewise, I learnt about some local families hosting children from Belarus under the umbrella of the charity Friends of Chernobyl’s Children and decided to find out more – see the article on page 16.

Some gig tickets are up for grabs this month for Konect readers thanks to the Livi band member of the Stone Roses tribute band “Resurrection.”

We caught up with Ricky this month and you can read about him and the band on pages 50-51 and make sure you enter the draw!

And the nights are drawing in this month, which means bonfire night is on the horizon! We’ve teamed up with Hopetoun House to offer a lucky reader a family ticket to their spectacular annual display on 7th November! See page 31 for competition entry details.

All our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading Konect and for supporting local businesses.

FEATUREs Masterpieces in Miniature Friends of Cher nobyl’s Children Spotlight on Bodyshop Edinbur gh They are the “Resur rection”

08 16 36 50

REGULARS Village People Thought for the Month Walk Recipe

18 20 42 54

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Hopetoun Firewor ks pr ize dr aw Crossword & Sudoku “Resurrection” gig pr ize dr aw

31 46 51

COMMUNITY What’s on Useful Infor mation Clubs & Classes

58 58 59

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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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.

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

Front cover photograph by Jenny Thomson: Selm Muir to Little Vantage walk, see page 42.

KONECT

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

The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green, Baberton and Ratho. Copies /KonectDirectory are also left at the library, community centres, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

@KonectDirectory

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KONECT

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KONECT

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FEATURE

Masterpieces No prizes for guessing, but what do you think links an Ayrshire master butcher, Binny Plants in Ecclesmachan and the Japanese Consul-General in Scotland? Answer: The National Bonsai Collection of Scotland.

When he retired, the late Bill Graham (d. 1983), a master butcher from Maybole, dedicated the last 30 years of his life to the ancient and gentle art of bonsai, building and nurturing a mammoth collection of 300 trees, known as the Graham Trees, and becoming a leading figure in the bonsai world.

The National Bonsai Collection of Scotland was set up in 1984 by members of the Scottish Bonsai Association (SBA) as a horticultural haven where bonsai could be donated, cared for and maintained, as happened with many of the Graham Trees. A registered charity, the National Collection found its way to Binny Plants via a roundabout route - Malleny Gardens in Balerno (from 1986 – 2000) was followed by a move to Suntrap Gardens in Gogar, but when Suntrap shut down the Collection’s future looked bleak. To the rescue however, like some big-screen superhero, came Billy Carruthers, offering a home within the peaceful setting of Binny Plants and 14th August 2011 saw the National Bonsai Collection settled in West Lothian and officially re-opened by the Japanese Consul-General to Scotland.

The part of the National Bonsai Collection available for viewing by the public is situated in a red, glassfronted pavilion where about 15 bonsai are on show at any one time, the bonsai looked after by nine trustees, all time-generous volunteers. Their plans for the future include continuing to promote interest and involvement in the art and craft of bonsai through well-presented displays, and – funding permitting – installing a polytunnel on site to store trees, 8

in Miniature

by Yvonne MacMillan

overwinter less hardy species such as maples, hold classes and demonstrations and generally spread the word.

Pines feature in the National Collection, as do beeches, larches, oaks and other species indigenous to Scotland, and these are complimented by more exotic varieties including a Persimmon, gifted from Xi’an, Edinburgh’s twin city in the People’s Republic of China. At 200 years old, one of the oldest trees in the Collection is a Japanese White Pine standing serenely on its plinth outside the pavilion, under a blue pergola. It was imported 50 years ago and passed into the care of the Collection when its owner died. Bonsai not on display are fostered out between trustees for the ongoing and skilled job of maintenance.

Monthly meetings are held up and down the country

by Scottish Bonsai Association (SBA) members to chat and work on their trees. Thursday evenings at

Andie and Brian at work on their bonsai KONECT

Almond Valley Heritage Centre in Livingston is the meeting place for the West Lothian Bonsai Group.

Lee, a retired bank manager from West Calder is the group’s organiser, he’s also a trustee and Treasurer for the National Collection and has been under the spell of bonsai for 35 years. He tells me, “Once bonsai enthusiasts start talking about the subject, it’s difficult to shut us up”.

For a beginner to bonsai, Lee recommends starting with a larch sapling, (nurseries sell larch saplings for hedging), it’s cheap, grows quickly and it’s very forgiving – just what a beginner needs. Or the smallleaved cotoneaster would be good too. No specialised tools are needed to start with, just garden secateurs and wire to wind round branches which acts like a splint on a broken leg, helping shape the tree.

Margaret from Stoneyburn, a bonsai convert for 30 years, is President of the SBA and got interested in bonsai-growing for practical reasons because her dogs kept wrecking the garden, but besides, something in a pot is manageable, so bonsai was the perfect solution. She tells me that members of the SBA exhibit at shows throughout the year – Gardening Scotland in May attracted 150 - 200 exhibits, a forest of bonsai, including many from the National Collection.

The National Bonsai Collection at Binny Plants in Ecclesmachan is open to view 10am till 5pm.

Trustees are on site on the last Sunday of the month (weather permitting) 11am till 2pm. (from scottishbonsai.org) What is Bonsai? - Bonsai is a Japanese term meaning tree (bon) in a tray (sai). It is derived from an ancient Chinese hor ticultural practice called Penjing and has been around for well over a thousand years.

Bonsai aren’t genetically dwarfed plants, any tree species can be used to grow one.

With scissors in hand, and working on a 30cm tall, 8 year old Juniper, Sandie from East Calder who was a medical secretary before retiring, traces her love of bonsai back 30 years to when she saw a Scots Pine in the wild and was struck by its beauty. She started with a tiny self-seeded rowan from her garden. Brian, her husband, a former Royal Marine, soon followed in Sandie’s footsteps. He’s working on a young beech tree and enjoys the hands-on of bonsai growing. The whole group feels their hobby is a powerful stressbuster. Kenny, from Deans, is trimming a group of Golden Larch - he runs a bonsai class at the mental health resource centre in Broxburn’s Strathbrock Partnership.

As we drink tea in the wood-scented meeting room, I find out that the bonsai-grower aims to grow each species as it looks in nature, aiming to make it look natural, and bonsai is a mix of disciplines - 80 per cent horticulture, 20 per cent art. The best way to view or contemplate bonsai is to focus 2/3 of the way up the trunk, spaces are created between branches (otherwise it’s just a bush, says Lee) which let the eye see twists and turns, curves and curls. There are sixteen styles of bonsai, the informal upright style is easiest to grow but, everyone agrees, a tree tells the bonsai-grower how it wants to grow, though each person will have his or her own interpretation.

Looking at bonsai, says Lee – who is fascinated by Oriental culture - you appreciate the workmanship, skill, time and patience involved and when it’s your own, you can picture the whole story from day one and how it’s turned out. There’s satisfaction and a sense of achievement because you’ve created something beautiful.

So if you’re looking for a down-to-earth hobby, take a leaf out of the bonsai-growers’ book, and have a bash at bonsai.

For more information visit scottishbonsai.org KONECT

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West Lothian Friends of Chernobyl’s Children A number of families across West Lothian are involved in an extraordinary programme that sees them hosting a child from Belarus for a month each year for five years.

I caught up with the group last month as they visited Potter Around (an arts and craft studio in Kirknewton), as part of their programme of activities during their stay here. As the children painted pottery and made jewellery, group co-ordinator and Broxburn resident Kenny Turnbull told me about the background to the group.

“Most of these children are from households in impoverished and contaminated conditions, living in homes that are little more that wooden sheds with no running water and from communities suffering a range of health problems.” Through coming to a host family in West Lothian, each year the children experience a month of clean air, healthy food, medical care and a whole new world of experiences of things we take for granted (such as indoors flushing toilets) and build up a fantastic and lasting relationship with their host family.

“They arrive with nothing more that the clothes they are wearing, and leave a month later with a suitcase full of clothes, toiletries, toys, gifts for their parents and siblings, and a year’s supply of vitamins to combat their poor diet and environment and help keep them healthy until they come back next summer,” explains Kenny.

All the charity workers are volunteers. “No amount of payment could be the same as the loving relationships that develop between the kids and their host families,” says Kenny. “We develop lasting relationships.” One of the translators who was with

the group in 2013 was a guest child in the first group to come across in 1995. “Some hosts have been across to Belarus for the wedding of their guest children. We keep in touch with the boy we had for five years - every year I go across to visit and the family throw open their tiny home and the hospitality is fantastic. We think of him as our third son, and he called us Dad and Mum when he was here.”

It’s a huge cultural change for the children who come here, and challenges in the early days include persuading them to have a daily shower when they are used to little or no washing – water has to be pumped from a well in the street and carried.

Host families come in all shapes, sizes and ages all you need is a spare bed and a big heart. There are currently families in Bathgate, Broxburn, Blackridge, Stoneyburn, Tarbrax, Mid Calder, Uphall , Blackburn and Livingston hosting a child.

Kenny says, “We can only do this ‘job’ thanks to the kindness of others.” While they have enough host families at the moment, the charity has to raise £1100 per child per year to cover the cost of flights, visits to Belarus to meet families in need, the month’s programme of activities, providing food parcels to their homes in Belarus, and other costs. The host families generously give their Belarussian child clothes and toys and look after all their needs for the month. The charity is also very grateful to local businesses Optimeyes in Broxburn who generously provide eye tests and glasses for any children needing them, and Broxburn Dental Practice who carry out dental checks on all the kids and provide any dental treatment free of charge.

If you would like to help out, FOCC would be delighted to have suggestions for fund-raising events or for you to help raise money for them.

You can also donate via their website www. foccwestlothian.com where you can see more information about their work.

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village people

by Laura Bilton

The Word on The Street…

You can picture the scene. A dark-clothed, hooded figure crouching furtively in a shady underpass or skate park after hours, brandishing a can of spray paint - clearly up to no good.

Well, what if that figure was actually a married father of three with a respectable and successful career, performing some Urban Beautification on an unloved and forgotten area? What if he’s acting as a bridge between the original street artists (now pensioners) and young up and coming artists in an intergenerational share of ideas and respect? What if he’s painting in an area where people from all over the world have gathered to make original, transient works of art?

Furthermore, what if he’s legally allowed to be there, painting on hoardings that he has himself campaigned to the council to install so that street artists have an area where they can practice their craft without being accused of vandalism?

Kirknewton resident Ross “TrenchOne” grew up in Edinburgh, and his artistic streak was initially influenced by his musical father who used to take him around music and model shops every weekend. Ross started practicing his craft in old and abandoned sites. He states, “This was never about tagging. It was about taking dilapidated spaces and making them into something new.”

He recalls warmly the sense of camaraderie with other young street artists. There was competition and rivalry, but there was also a strong sense of etiquette and coming together to share ideas.

After studying Art followed by Music Production at Telford College, Ross started employment in the events industry as a trainee sound engineer.

He has stayed in the events industry ever since and currently works for MCL Create, the largest audio-visual company in the country.

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Ross at work Alongside this, Ross creates solo art under his “TrenchOne” moniker and helps run Projector Club. This is an arts collective that takes images and uses mapping software to project and wrap images onto buildings alongside original music composition. Projector Club has created largescale, breathtaking exhibitions at the Botanical Gardens, Grassmarket Hotel at Christmas, the Hidden Door Festival and a pro-democracy piece on Calton Hill for the General Election. Recently they produced a piece at Kirknewton’s Hilly Cow Wigwams where they projected speciallydesigned tartan onto the wigwams (pictured).

Ross’ work can also be seen in the park – he painted the designs on the shelter there.

Ross loves art as it’s about “…freedom of expression, a time to switch off and think of nothing else,” which is also a wonderful antidote to all the stresses of juggling family and working life. Ross has no firm plans for his future work.

He wishes to build on the creative and technical ends, to see where his art will evolve, and continue mentoring young people because, as he says, “today’s street artists are tomorrow’s designers”. And of course, to experience as much as possible and enjoy life.

Ross’ TrenchOne drawings and Projector Club videos can be found on Facebook.

k KONECT

Projector Club work on Hilly Cow Wigwams, Kirknewton.

The shelter in Kirknewton Park.

I think what we wear matters as it both can reflect our mood and influence our mood.

When we feel good and confident we tend to wear our favourite clothes with pride but when we feel low or insecure we tend to opt for dark comfortable clothing. Research has shown that people who spend most of the time dressed in frumpy, baggy clothes tend to feel more depressed and have low self-esteem.

We are what we wear!

By Tammy Wood, Happiness Works

The other morning I was getting ready for work and put on black trousers and a grey top.

Looking in the mirror I looked gloomy and felt quite dismal so I immediately done a quick change and put on a bright pink top which instantly lifted my mood. On reflection I wondered if I was feeling down that morning and the grey top echoed my mood.

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Our mood is reflected in the colour and style of clothing we wear; we can do this subconsciously.

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A change of clothes can shift our mood, so the next time you are getting dressed make an effort to dress in the garments that make YOU feel happy and confident. This will boost your mood and enhance your self-esteem. Clothing can become a source of pride and pleasure.

Make the choice to dress happy!!!

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KONECT

21

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Hi Neighbour!

5 reasons why Aloe Vera gel could improve your life

My name is Tracy and I am a fellow resident in East Calder. I run a home based health and wellbeing business with products based on the purest Aloe Vera and bee propolis.

I am offering everyone in the area a chance to trial a basket of my products personalised to their needs. This is completely FREE of charge with NO OBLIGATION to buy for 48 hours.

The basket will include a selection of the most popular products in the range and I will include a catalogue which lists the full 250 items.

If you would like to trial these fantastic products or would like any more information please contact me.

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Aloe gel can be used as a makeup remover and can even replace your hair conditioner and also treat minor burns!

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feelings and explore ways of dealing with them.

The service works within the ethical codes and guidelines of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland. You can contact the service directly yourself or a professional such as a GP or Occupational Therapist can refer you to the service. If you want more information about the service or speak to the counsellor informally, then please give us a ring or pop in to see us.

You can contact us by telephone, electronically, by letter or dropping in to our accessible offices.

Capability Scotland Advice and Support Service West Lothian is a local disability advice and support service based in Livingston. We provide free confidential advice and information on a range of disability issues to disabled people living in West Lothian.

Capability Scotland Advice and Support Service West Lothian Ability Centre Carmondean Centre Livingston, EH54 8PT Telephone: 01506 674 955 Freephone: 0800 820 3820 Email: AdviceWestLothian@capability-scotland.org.uk

Information As a locally-based service we can provide relevant up-to-date information about what services and support is available nearby as well as further afield. No matter what your enquiry our experienced staff will try to get the information you need, whether that be where you can hire a wheelchair, where to buy disability equipment or supply a RADAR key.

Advice and Support Capability Scotland can offer advice and support around a range of disability-related issues. If there is a situation or problem you are dealing with our trained staff can talk through potential options and help you consider what the best solution could be. We can provide practical support with things like sourcing funding for adapted equipment or applying for a blue badge. No matter what your enquiry is, we will do our best to help you get the help and support you need.

Peer Counselling Capability Scotland offers a free, confidential and accessible peer counselling service for disabled people. A disabled counsellor will give you the time and opportunity to express your

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Building on Hopetoun’s established reputation for putting on one of the biggest and most spectacular fireworks displays in West Lothian this year’s celebrations will certainly not disappoint Taking place against a backdrop of Hopetoun House, the magnificent 17th century stately home, the family friendly event also includes a fun selection of pre-show entertainment, fantastic food stalls and a huge bonfire to keep everyone nice and warm.

The evening concludes with a grand finale of fireworks set to music which is once again designed and choreographed by the award winning team at 21CC Fireworks.

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A) China B) Portugal C) Argentina Simply text or email the answer plus your name, phone number and email address to 07854 492368 or editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with the subject “Fireworks”. Closing date for entries 15th October 2015. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date.

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33

It’s

“Stoptober”!

A Kirknewton-based hypnotherapist is urging the public to look for practitioners registered with the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) if they want to use hypnotherapy to help them give up smoking during the NHS’s Stoptober campaign.

Stoptober is a 28 day NHS campaign - evidence suggests that if you can stop for 28 days you are five times more likely to give up for good...

Many people use hypnotherapy to provide extra help when giving up smoking. The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) is the UK

HYPNOTHERAPY ease, simplicity, results Shonagh M Terry

NCH, Dip Cad, SHF, CNHC, FCIPD

Want to stop smoking?

Use hypnotherapy to stop this October “Stoptober" campaign supported & accredited by the CNHC

Weight management, anxiety & stress, insomnia, smoking cessation, irritable bowel syndrome, pain management, habits, public speaking, phobias, exam and pre wedding nerves.

My job as a counsellor and hypnotherapist is to enable you to achieve a state of relaxation and change For more information, please get in touch

07724 741570 Based in Kirknewton

info@access2balance.co.uk

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regulator for complementary therapists, set up with government funding and support.

Shonagh Terry of Kirknewton-based Access 2 Balance says: “Hypnotherapy is often used to help clients achieve the behavioural change needed to stop smoking but it’s so important to use someone who knows what they are doing.”

Shonagh says she has had good success rates with those determined to stop smoking using a variety of methods to support her clients. During a hypnotherapy consultation she uses strategies such as suggestions to address the harm from cigarettes, the benefits of being a non-smoker and assertions that the patient can cope with any withdrawal symptoms. She provides an Mp3 to support clients on a daily basis and with selfhypnosis. All these interventions aim to weaken the desire to smoke, build motivation and confidence in quitting.

One of her clients said “Since being hypnotised

by Shonagh, I cannot believe how easy it has been to not smoke, It was like someone turning off a switch, I can honestly say I haven’t wanted a cigarette. What surprises me most is if I’m out socialising, and there are smokers around me I have not been tempted and I very rarely notice them smoking. A huge plus has been no weight gain - I’m actually losing weight, and no Mr Grumpy!”

Hypnotherapy is one of 15 therapies registered by the CNHC. There are around 5,300 practitioners on the register and you can search the CNHC register to find practitioners in the local area. More than 300,000 searches have been carried out since the register first opened in 2009.

For further information, please contact Shonagh Terry on email info@access2balance, tel 01506 794606 or 07724 741570 .

Visit the CNHC website for a list of registered practitioners www.cnhc.org.uk.

For information on Scotland’s national stop smoking helpline please visit www. canstopsmoking.com

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

Having taken over Smart Tech Vehicle Solutions in April this year and rebranded, bodyshopedinburgh is now in it’s 6th month of trading and is going from strength to strength.

Situated in the Camps Industrial Estate East Calder, bodyshopedinburgh is a vehicle accident repair and car & van body shop.

With dedicated customer parking and a welcoming waiting area, you will be greeted by Michael and Lee who will be happy to give you a competitive quote and answer any questions you may have.

They will talk you through the repair work, the procedure and also help with any insurance guidelines or rules.

After a lot of investment into its top of the range Spraybake* commercial oven and in house paint system, you can be assured of a high quality finish and full warranty.

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“We have been delighted to welcome so many Konnect customers here at bodyshopedinburgh. I think the key to our success has been the quality of the service that we’re focused on providing to each and every customer, new or returning. Many of our customer’ are surprised that we have been able to repair damage and paintwork to their vehicle cheaper than your average insurance excess.

We have also helped many customers avoid hefty fines from lease companies by repairing any bodywork damage before the customer hands the car back in, and have been able to offer this at a fraction of the cost of the fines.” bodyshopedinburgh carry out all work from minor repairs to accident damage and paint refinishing.

For more information please visit our website at www.bodyshopedinburgh.co.uk and facebook page.

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41

WALK

Selm Muir to Little Vantage Karen Murray found out more about a new signposted route made possible by The Friends of the Pentlands

As regular readers will be aware, I am always on the look-out for a new walking route so it I was naturally delighted to be invited to the launch of a new official waymarked route being opened by The Friends of the Pentlands.

The launch was held at Hilly Cow Wigwams on the outskirts of Kirknewton, as the route begins at the nearby Selm Muir Forest (entrance, and a small space to park, on Leyden Road) and crosses through the Wigwam site before heading over the hills to ultimately meet up with the beginning of the Cauldstane Slap path at the Little Vantage car park on the A70.

A tree planting ceremony, words of praise from local councillors and the publication of a new map showing the route were all part of the celebration of the completion of the route – as well as coffee and delicious home-baking too! Well – walkers need their sustenance after all.

To give you a little history, courtesy of The Friends of the Pentlands, in the 1890s a regular walk for Edinburgh outdoor people started with the train from the Caledonian Station to Midcalder Junction (now Kirknewton Station), via Selm Muir Wood, Little Vantage, Cauldstane Slap to West Linton and ended with the train back to Edinburgh. While you could do still do this walk, the Selm Muir Wood to Little Vantage section was difficult to navigate and the trains no longer run from West Linton.

The Friends were approached by West Lothian Council and asked to construct a path from Selm 42

Enjoying the new Selm Muir Wood to Little Vantage walk Muir Wood to Little Vantage which they would finance. “We jumped at the opportunity, as it demonstrates the authority’s confidence in our workforce (comprising willing volunteers),” said John Stirling, President of the Friends of the Pentlands. That is the path that has now been constructed and officially launched. It consists of four gates, nine lengths of boardwalk and all necessary way-marking.

The route of course goes back way further than the 1890s. Steeped in history, this is a truly fantastic route for walkers as well as cyclists and horse-riders who can contemplate the days when the path was made by the cattle drovers.

This particular route was called the Road to Queensferry in a map of 1755. Cattle were driven from Falkirk over the Pentlands to West Linton and ultimately to England. It is thought too that James IV travelled this path in November of 1490 after buying a horse at Linlithgow. There must have once been tens of thousands of cattle travelling across this path every year and going the opposite way would have been sheep from the Linton markets being driven to the Highlands.

Over the years there are many who have walked this path, initially the drovers out of necessity and more recently, outdoor enthusiasts simply enjoying the beaten path for pleasure. However, KONECT

until this additional signposting, the route has begun (or ended) at Little Vantage, with any maps or walking instructions suggesting walkers follow the A70 to the Leyden road turn off and then walk down the tarmac surface of Leyden Road (or in reverse). The new signage makes a huge difference, taking walkers directly from Selm Muir wood over the hills.

More than just marking a route however, is the desire to encourage responsible access to the Pentlands. The Friends of the Pentlands seek to protect and enhance the Pentlands, and to ensure that the hills are explored in a responsible manner.

Since the passing of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act by the Scottish Parliament in 2003, ‘freedom to roam’ has been enshrined in Scots law, making formal the tradition of unhindered access to the open countryside in Scotland.

The Act, combined with the Outdoor Access Code, puts responsibility on visitors to the countryside while giving them rights for access to most of it.

The Friends of the Pentlands are all for this and the signposting they have added from Selm Muir to Little Vantage does just this.

The map they have published clearly marks the route, meaning it is now much easier for those who want to follow the entire Cross Borders Drove Road. If you are in for the long haul you could begin at the railway station in Kirknewton and go all the way to West Linton or even Hawick. More realistically, you could just enjoy this new section, which won’t take up too much of your day but will be great exercise and will give you a new route to try out close to home.

Photos by Jenny Thomson.

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PUZZLES

CROSSWORD Solution in the November edition of konect

Across 1 Used for drinking (6) 4 Warmed (6) 9 Impartial (7) 10 Sleepy (5) 11 Used for chewing (5) 12 Oblivious (7) 13 Contest (11) 18 Female grandparent (7) 20 Terrible (5) 22 Musical instrument (5) 23 Remove (7) 24 Simpler (6) 25 Windy (6) Down 1 Sound mental health (6) 2 Course (5) 3 Adore (7) 5 Additional (5) 6 Whirlwind (7) 7 Avoided (6) 8 Added pictures (11) 14 Citrus fruits (7) 15 Farm vehicle (7) 16 Disregard (6) 17 Showy (6) 19 Dimwit (5) 21 Distress signal (5)

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49

FEATURE

Karen Murray chats to Ricky Toner of the Stone Roses tribute band “Resurrection”.

Livingston local Ricky Toner has had music running through his veins since his earliest days. He wanted to learn every instrument he could while at primary school, starting of course, with the drums. Soon he had mastered keyboards and guitar too and he can sing. As well as that, he also writes lyrics.

“I love all aspects of musical performance,” he smiles. “From writing a song, to playing, singing, production, lighting, stage sets – everything. I do the lot.” Ricky has always lived in Livingston and from an early age he has been involved in the Livingston music scene.

He is a fan of many musical genres, but it is the Stone Roses that captured his imagination when he first saw the Fools Gold video in 1989 as an impressionable teenager. “They had the right sound, right image – the whole package,” he remembers fondly. Seeing them live the following year sealed the deal and his friends all loved the band too so that made it all the more special. “I think I have the Stone Roses running through me like a stick of Blackpool Rock,” he jokes.

However it was not his passion for the Stone Roses that led to the establishment of a tribute band.

“That was an accident”, he told me. “I was looking for a bass player for my band and wanted someone influenced by the Stone Roses. I was contacted by someone that thought I was that bass player and long story short, I got talked into a tribute band.

That was in 1998 and we have never looked back.”

The original name of the band was The Complete Stone Roses and in that format, they were joined by original Stone Roses band member Mani, who was the tour DJ for three years. He played on stage with the band and Ricky says he is still pinching himself.

“It was totally surreal.”

Ricky and co left the Complete Stone Roses in 2001 and formed Resurrection. Some members have changed over the years as family commitments

have got in the way of being rock gods, but the band per se has gone from strength to strength and while Ricky says it’s a lot of hard work while also keeping down the day job, he just loves every minute of it.

The band name comes from the Stone Roses single ‘I am the Resurrection’ and as a tribute band resurrects the original in some way, it is an entirely apt name. Ricky and the other band members take it all very seriously and want to emulate the original band as completely as possible. “If you go to see a tribute band it is because you love that music and you expect the band to do the original justice. I feel we do this and that those who come have a fantastic night out. I get a buzz from watching the audience really enjoying themselves. There performances are always a sell-out.”

While Ricky’s passion is the Stone Roses and Resurrection is an important part of his life, he has lots of fingers in lots of musical pies. He likes to be involved in all aspects of musical production. He has played around with lighting, produced songs and manages the tribute band as well as other bands. “I really enjoy all of it,” he says. I am not sure how he manages to fit it all in with a 9 to 5 job, but

From left to right: Ricky Toner - vocals, Mark Harper - drums/vocals, Jerry Levy - guitar & Matt Checkley - bass.

as well as Resurrection, Ricky leads another band where he writes his own material and the songs are all original. “We rehearse once a week for Resurrection, but more often with the other band and I am out gigging somewhere every weekend.

to release a 7” single on that record label, so watch this space. Meantime it’s all about having fun.

“The gigs are mainly local, but with Resurrection we have been all over the UK and Ireland.” There are some local gigs coming out soon however so readers can get a chance to check them out.

Club Faith - Bathgate - Fri 16th October. The support band is Oasis tribute band Stop the Clocks. Tickets are available from the Club, Glamorous Hair and Beauty and online at http://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Edinburgh/ Club-Faith/Resurrection--Stop-The-Clocks(Madchester-Night)/12520331/

Ricky admits to being quite a shy person really but when he is on a stage, it is like the best form of escapism. As for the big time, I get the impression that Ricky is involved in music simply for the love of it, but with everything else he does, he has also established his own record label – Red Telephone Records. The names comes from another song title, this time by 60s band Love, the other great musical passion in Ricky’s life. He has plans afoot

Upcoming dates to see Resurrection (tickets are selling fast):

Tower Music Rooms, Livingston - Sat 5th December. Support from local Livingston band the Changes. Tickets from The Tower Bar or online at https://www.wegottickets.com/event/328192

“Who sings lead vocals for the real Stone Roses?”

A pair of tickets for each gig is up for grabs for 2 lucky Konect readers. All you have to do is answer this question:

Simply text or email your name, phone number and answer to 07854 492638 or email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with the subject “Ressurection”. Please state which gig date you are interested in. Closing date for entries 15th October 2015.

Interiors feature

The EKCO guide to slow cooking by ecko

How do we define the seasons?

According to the Met Office it’s fairly straightforward. June, July and August are the summer months which means that we’re well and truly into autumn.

However, living in a country where we often see four seasons in one day maybe we should redefine the boundaries not by months but by the meals we eat - a new ‘Julienne’ Calendar if you will. If that were the case then autumn is defined by heartwarming soups and casseroles and there’s one must-have kitchen appliance we just have to have.

Yes, the hardy perennial of the wedding gift list, the slow cooker, is making a comeback in a big way. So, if you happen to have one languishing unwanted in a cupboard somewhere, perhaps just behind the foot spa and marginally left of the fondue set, then it’s time to put it to good use. If you don’t have one already then it’s an investment worth making.

If time is an issue for you then taking 30 minutes to plan your weekly menus and getting up a little earlier in the morning to prepare your dish will buy you back more time than you use up. Plus slow cookers are brilliant for cooking almost anything and they aren’t just restricted to casseroles and

soups. Sticky, ‘falling off the bone’ ribs, slow cooked in homemade maple barbecue sauce is easy and quick to prepare. Google a few recipes and you’re on your way. Even a roast chicken done in a slow cooker without the addition of water will turn out perfectly succulent and juicy. Just crisp the skin up for 10 minutes in the oven before serving with your favourite veg.

One of our personal slow cooker favourites here at EKCO is chilli con carne. Chilli is a controversial dish and some die-hard chilli aficionados will advocate a kidney bean free recipe. However, it’s down to personal taste and we think the beans add to the dish. A basic slow-cooked chilli can use either cubed steak or full-fat mince depending on your preference, browned on the hob first with some finely chopped onions, chilli powder and cumin. Then add it to your slow cooker with a 400g tin of chopped tomatoes per 500g pack of meat, two tablespoons of tomato purée, a sprinkling of oregano and some seasoning. We like ours fairly hot so we’ll add a couple of split Scotch Bonnet chillies (seeds removed -carefully), a tin of kidney beans, a couple of squares of dark chocolate and then we just leave the dish to cook away in slow for a few hours. Serve in a bowl with some tortilla chips or rice and some soured cream. Now to tackle that fondue!

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home.

And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN MAKE YOUR IDEAS COME TO LIFE CALL OUR DESIGN TEAM ON

01506 857 007 www.ekco.co.uk EDINBURGH 0131 343 6007 Abbeyhill Industrial Estate EH8 8HL

DALGETY BAY 01383 667 048 Western Approach Rd KY11 9XP

UPHALL 01506 857 007 54 West Main Street EH52 5DW

Recipe & Food Notes

by Anne Pinkerton

Cookery Myth Busters 2 Soufflés

There are rumours that soufflés are difficult and failure is a judgment on ones skill as a cook. This need not be.

If you follow well-understood rules it will turn out well. The trick with soufflés is trapping air into a mixture so that when it’s baked a firm structure is created and the mixture of rich flavours is supported by the rest of the ingredients. Soufflés can be sweet or savoury, baked or steamed, hot or cold, individual or large for a spectacular main course. They can even be rolled up like a swiss roll.

This soufflé is a great treat and can be made days or weeks in advance. Once you have made this version it can be varied by using different cheeses and the taste will be totally different but still delicious.

Twice Baked Cheese Soufflé Serves 4, you need 4 individual ramekins. (Save them from the Gu puddings you’ve bought in the past...)

Ingredients: 110g grated strong cheddar eg Mull Cheddar 225ml milk For flavouring:- Small onion cut in half, 1 bay leaf, a little grated nutmeg or mace, 5 or 6 black pepper corns 25g butter 25g self-raising flour (a bit of a cheat but helps ensure a rise) 3 large eggs, separated 225ml single cream Grated parmesan or more cheddar Method: Slowly warm the milk with the flavourings till they just boil. Set aside to infuse and cool.

Butter the ramekins - this helps the mixture rise up the sides of the dishes.

Heat the oven to 200C or gas 6.

In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour, with a wooden spoon, mix them and heat till just beginning to change colour. Do not burn.

Add the strained, flavoured milk bit by bit heating and mixing as you go. You will have a thick sauce. Let it glup and bubble. This cooks the flour. Away from the heat beat in the cheese and the egg yolks one by one.

In a mixing bowl whip the egg whites till they hold their shape but are not dry. The traditional test was to see if the whites fall out of the bowl if you turn it upside down; but you need iron nerves for such tricks.

When the whites are ready, mix a spoonful into the sauce with a large metal spoon. Then put everything into the bowl and mix together by lifting the mixture from the bottom and folding it all together but not knocking the air out.

Divide the mixture between the ramekins and place them in a roasting tin,into which you add boiling water to halfway up the side of the pots. Bake for 15 minutes. DO NOT open the oven “just to see how they are doing.” They must be well-risen and springy.

Remove from the roasting dish cool. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for use later.

When you want to eat the soufflés slip a hot knife round the edge of the ramekins and turn them out onto an oven proof shallow dish. Try to get them the right way up. Pour the cream around them and scatter some cheese on top. Bake for 20 minutes till golden and well risen.

Serve as they are as a starter, or with a green salad or summer vegetables for a main meal.

Good luck!

01506 881896 130 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0HD

SP & PRIZES N E E S LLOW Y DRES

HA

31ST URDAY

SAT

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ULA C A T K OO

- FANC

Thursdays - Quiz Night 9pm Fridays - Disco & Karaoke 9pm - 1am Saturdays - Disco 9pm - 1am FOOD SERVED 12PM-8PM 7 DAYS A WEEK Family Friendly • Large Beer Garden • Free Parking for details of all our events and menus KONECT

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West Lothian has something more to shout about!

West Lothian College’s The Terrace Restaurant has been crowned Restaurant of the Year at the recent Food Awards Scotland 2015. The restaurant, which helps the next generation of Hospitality and Professional Cookery students work towards a successful career in the industry, beat big city restaurants and those with Michelin Stars, such as The Kitchin in Edinburgh, to the top accolade.

Here in West Lothian we are blessed with some of the finest eateries in Central Scotland. Peruse our extensive listings of restaurants, pubs, cafes and delicatessens www.visitwestlothian.co.uk. We feature 48 food and drink businesses in the area and no matter what you are after, from a light bite to a feast fit for a king, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your tastebuds.

West Lothian is also home to a range of award-winning tourist attractions and events. Here is what Tony Foster, new Chair of Visit West Lothian, has to say about the area, “The Terrace Restaurant Restaurant of the Year award highlights yet again what wee food, drink and tourism gems we have throughout West Lothian.

Visit West Lothian strive to support the success and growth of current and new tourism destinations to

The Sky Kitchen

visitors from the UK and abroad. We also welcome people who live and work in West Lothian, as we see an explosion in our population and businesses taking advantage of our links to the airport, Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The number of new food, drink and tourism based businesses is reflected in our own membership which has increased over 200 per cent in the last three months and continues to grow. It’s exciting to see business waking up to the endless tourism possibilities in and around Livingston, from the Heartlands to East Calder. Visit West Lothian, actively supported and funded by relevant stakeholders, will be with you every step of the way to help the local economy, job creation and the visitor experience.”

Are you a tourism related business or Food and Drink outlet interested in the benefits of membership of Visit West Lothian then contact Tel: 01506 283 090/ Email: visitwestlothian@westlothian.gov.uk.

For more information about all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit www.visitwestlothian.co.uk, facebook. com/VisitWestLothian or twitter.com/ teamwestlothian

Telephone Orders Welcome

CHINESE RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY

Home Delivery Service

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 October 2015

20% OFF ANY MEALS SITTING IN ONLY SUNDAY-THURSDAY (not takeaway) WITH THIS VOUCHER

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Coffee Shop and Hall also available to hire for private use

PARK VIEW COFFEE SHOP FIND US ON FACEBOOK

OPENING HOURS Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Saturday:

09.00 09.00 09.00 09.00 09.00 09.00 10.00

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15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 14.00

BREAKFAST ROLLS ● FULL BREAKFAST HOMEMADE SOUP ● FILLED ROLLS PANINIS ● TOASTIES ● BAKED POTATOES HOME BAKING ● FRESH COFFEE SPECIALS ● MEAL DEALS

Tel: 07555 406 474

Auld School, School Lane, Mid Calder, EH53 0AT

Xmas 2015

Celebrate Christmas with Food Creations at Harburn Golf Club, Uphall Golf Club, Livingston FC or Kingsknowe Golf Club

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Special Offers!

Book and pay a deposit before end of October for some special offers. See website for details.

tes Party Da Dec 4th & 5th Dec th 12 11th & Dec 18th & 19th

Book now for a fabulou s Xmas!

Join us at one of our very special party nights for a fabulous 3 course dinner, decorations, glitter, great fun and music by Roadrunner.

Venue dressing by

Go online at www.foodcreations.co.uk/xmas15 Email xmas15@foodcreations.co.uk

or call 01506 412232

facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations @Food_Creations 57

WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information Art for the Heart - Art Therapy Workshops Kirknewton Green Room 7-8pm. Cost £2.

6th Oct, 20th Oct, 3rd Nov, 17th Nov, 1st Dec & 15th Dec. Run by Happiness Works. www.happinessworks.co.uk

Friday 16th October - Monday 26th October Big Autumn Challenge Take part in the Big Autumn Challenge and discover more about West Lothian’s Country Parks. Pick up information from any of the three Country Park Visitor Centres (Polkemmet, Almondell & Calderwood or Beevraigs). Suitable For: Families.

Meet: the Visitor Centre at any of the three Country Parks.

Time: Drop in between 9am – 4.30pm./ Cost: FREE.

Sunday 18th October Lantern Making Create luminous lanterns from willow and paper just in time for dark nights and Halloween. Suitable for: Families. Meet: Almondell Visitor Centre. Time: 2pm-3.30pm. Cost: £4.65 per lantern. For more information and booking please contact the Rangers on 01506 882254 email: almondell&calderwood@ westlothian.gov.uk

Wednesday 21st October Polbeth Woods Taster Come and join the Ranger Service for taster sessions in your local park. Learn about nature on your doorstep. Look out for posters in your local area. Suitable for: Families. Meet: Polbeth Woods, Polbeth. Time: Drop in between 2pm-3pm.

Cost: FREE.

Saturday 24th October West Lothian Highland Society monthly ceilidh Our first ceilidh of the season. Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn 7.30pm – 11pm. Music will be played by Dick Black’s Band. Tickets £5.

Wednesday 28th October Mid Calder yoga annual charity fundraiser 7,30 till 9 in the Masonic Hall. Mid Calder Yoga group have chosen to raise funds for the Friends of St Johns Hospital.

Mini therapies, teas home baking etc. raffle, auction, small admission. All monies raised go to the charity. Please come and support!

Howden Park Centre has a busy programme of events including live music, dance, theatre, workshops and exhibitions. See their website at www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk for complete up to date listing or contact the box office: 01506 777666.

Bathgate Regal Community Theatre - The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events. See website at www. bathgateregal.org for complete listing.

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Oakbank Bowling Club, Oakbank Road, East Calder, EH53 0BT. Tel: 01506 880023.

Saturday 10th October - Cabaret Night starring “Occasions” - not to be missed 8pm - till late all welcome Saturday 31st October - Presentation Dance (Please note this is a week earlier than previously advertised) Saturday 21st November - Fund Raising Race Night (horses for sale and sponsors required – see noticeboard in Club - please try and come as the club needs your support).

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

Library Information East Calder Library Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EJ 01506 883633 or email: eastcalder.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: The library opening times have recently changed. See new hours below.

East Calder Library: 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 – 10.30 to 12.30. Friday – 2.00 to 4.30. Telephone 01506 884680.

Bookbug: All under 3’s bring along your adult for some stories and rhymes - phone or email library for dates and times.

Bookgroup: 1st Tuesday and last Thursday each month at 6.45-7.45pm.

IT Class: New Drop in IT class for all your employment issues. Every Thursday 10.00 – 12.00. Come along for free help and advice.

Drop-in Employment based computer class: every Thursday from 10.00-12.00, open to everyone.

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.

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.

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. http://www. pumpherstoncc.org/

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clubs & classes

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

Firefly Arts

East Calder Old Folks Club

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

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).

Lothian Running Club 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 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

West Lothian Baking Club - NEW! 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 - NEW! 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.

EAST CALDER Pre-birth Yoga East Calder Community Centre. Wed 5.15pm – 6.45pm. 6 week programme starts 24 September. For more details: 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 Ladies’ Circle East Calder Community Centre. Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1.30pm - 3.30pm. 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 9am-11am from 2 years. For the best introduction to your child’s education - lots of fun to be had! £4.50 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 Bowling Club

East Calder Scout Group

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.

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 Jog Scotland Group

East Calder Needlecraft Club

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.

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.

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. We are currently recruiting for an under 10’s team born 2002. For information required regarding any of our teams please visit our website www.eastcaldercolts.co.uk or contact Head Coach Paul Garrad on 0797 959 2674. Let’s put the fun back into football. All welcome.

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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 Bobby Abbot, accordionist. Beginners/learners are very welcome to join us in this very friendly club.

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clubs & classes

KIRKNEWTON Kirknewton Babies Music Group The Green Room. Thursdays, 1.30 – 2.15pm. Songs, stories and rhymes just for the little ones. Meet other Mum’s & make new friends.

Kirknewton Youth Group The Green Room. Fridays 6-8pm. For P7+

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.

Daytime Pilates Classes Thursdays in Kirknewton Village Hall: 9.10am to 10.00am.

10.10am to 11.00am for beginners. For more details contact elise@ ekpilates.co.uk. You’ll also find me on facebook.com/ekpilates.

Kirknewton Rainbows Kirknewton Village Hall. Wed 5.00pm - 6.00pm. For girls aged 5-7.

Please contact Gill Greaves for more info on 01506 883261

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

Douglas Pilates Classes Designed to help achieve health and fitness goals through expertly designed exercises. Because classes are limited a maximum of 12 people, you will get plenty of personal attention.

To contact Susan Douglas and for classes info visit http://www. douglaspilates.co.uk/

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

Kirknewton Runners Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday at 19.30

Hatton Sports Club 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 Rural 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 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

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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

Kirknewton Play Group Kirknewton Village Hall. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9am – 11.15am. Ages 2- 4 ½ years. £5.00 per session.

Call in and see us during session times.

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.

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 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

Mid Calder Mother and Baby Group Institute Hall, Tuesdays Drop in 10am-12pm. Newborn to Walking, £1 per baby, all welcome. Please e-mail midcalderbabygroup@ gmail.com for more details or find us on facebook

West Lothian Women’s Cycle Club 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.

The Willows Playgroup School Lane Mid Calder. Children from 2 - 5 years (nappy changing facilities). Mon - Thurs 9 - 11 am. £5 per session (snack provided).

Further information available from Karen on 01506 882832.

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 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-caldercolts.org.

Mid Calder Mother & Toddler Group Institute Hall, Tuesdays and Thursdays 9am-11am. £1.50 per child per session, all welcome. Please e-mail 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.

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

Folk Club Meets every third Tuesday of the month 8pm at the “Tap Shop”.

The MidCalder Inn, Mid Calder.

KONECT

Choral Highlights Ladies’ Choir

Church of Scotland

Kirk of Calder. Rehearse Sun 11.45 -12.45pm and Wed 7.30 8.45pm. Repertoire includes songs from Musical shows, Scottish songs, Religious and Pop music. Perform 2 concerts a year, one in May/ June and a Christmas concert in early December. All concert venues considered. New members very welcome, come and join us! Contact: John Rankine, Musical Director LLCM (TD) on 01506 880029. www.kirkofcalder.com (Church Organisations)

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

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

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.

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 September Crossword Across: 1 Pout, 3 Merchant, 9 Rescued, 10 Nails, 11 Mathematical, 14 Dud, 16 Metre, 17 See, 18 Appreciation, 21 Alone, 22 Relieve, 23 Dressing, 24 Plus. Down: 1 Pyramids, 2 Upset, 4 End, 5 Considerable, 6 Animals, 7 Toss, 8 Supermarkets, 12 Attic, 13 Meanders, 15 Deplore, 19 Ideal, 20 Bald, 22 Run.

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 9.3011.15am. Parents/carers of babies/toddlers age 0-5 very welcome.

Supported by SureStart. Different play activities every week.

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.

Solution to Sudoku Page 48

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. See sites.google.com/site/wlfibromyalgia or call Sheila on 0844 887 2388 for more information.

18th West Lothian Scout Group West Kirk Hall, West Calder. Beavers Mon 6-7pm. Cubs Wed 6.167.30pm 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 KONECT

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 Accomodation Linwater Caravan Park Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Bookkeeping Architect Plan It Design Barber TJ’s Barbers Bathrooms 1st Choice Living Bathgate Bathroom Studio Duffy Mclean Ekco Beauty Beauty @ No. 20A Forever Living Lisa Blair Beauty Therapy Bowling Club East Calder Bowling Club Builder Almond Building Company Build-It Madison Garrad Building Surveyor David Hastings Cafe/Tearoom Park View Coffee Shop & Takeaway Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh Car Sales Colin Nixon Hermiston Motors Car Service & Repair Autocare Solutions Chips Away Colin Nixon Hermiston Motors Kirknewton Garage Caravan Service & Repair Pumpherston Autocentre Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning James Burnett Carpet Cleaning Carpets & Flooring P F Flooring Catering Food Creations Charity British Heart Foundation Children’s Nursery ABC Private Nursery Angela Elizabeth Nursery Chiropody/Podiatry Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry Chiropractor West Lothian Chiropractor Cleaning Services C and W Cleaning Services Strata Cleaning Ltd Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance Whole Body Balance Computer Services Sprint Computers Dance Supplies Highland Dance Shop Dentist Balerno Dental Care Currie Dental Care No 9 Dentist

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7 11 41 6 10 28 30 53 20 23 35 14 28 41 45 10 57 37 64 32 37 49 64 32 38 49 10 5 57 26 17 17 21 35 10 47 34 6 29 17

Dressmaking/Alterations Nota Bene Electrician A&A Electrical Optical Lighting Riddell Electrical Services Simply Electrical Fireplaces Stylerite Fires and Surrounds Florist Flowers by Jak Quite Contrary Vicky’s flowers Williamson Foot Care Foot Clinic Funeral Director Porteous Funeral Directors Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd Garden & Landscaping Beatson’s D Greaves Ladies Who Garden Riccarton Garden Centre SG Garden Services Glazier R McNeill Joiner & Glazer Golf Club Baberton Golf Club Marriott Dalmahoy Hairdresser Jane & Friends Handyman 1st Call Handyman Healthcare Forever Living Heating Services L & S Heating Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) Pixo Van Rental Homes for Sale Persimmon Homes/Charles Church Jewellery Jewellery Workshop Joiner Craigcrook Joinery Geoff Vinter Joinery R McNeill Joiner & Glazer Kitchens Alba Kitchens Duffy Mclean Ekco S & S Home Improvements Lighting Optical Lighting Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith West Lothian Locksmith Mobility Ableworld Med-Ecosse Optician Lothian Optical Oven Cleaner The Clean Team

17 39 30 45 40 12 7 6 17 6 7 35 6 26 47 46 11 47 40 14 13 22 14 23 45 11 2 7 10 40 40 44 30 53 63 30 28 10 15 25

Painter/Decorator Braekirk Decorator’s DM Decorators Nu Walls TML Décor Paving W Tarmacadam Pet Services Milrig Kennels Coxydene Farm Feeds Photographer Kelly Ryan Photography Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering Nu Walls Plumbing Services Currievale Plumbing EPH Livingston Plumbing Company Property Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance Public House Black Bull The Grapes Bistro Restaurant Al Borgo Marriott Dalmahoy Sky Kitchen Roofing Fairmile Roofing Simply Roofing Thomson Roofing Services Slimming Slimming World Soft Furnishings Stylerite Blinds Storage Unit Storage Containers Storedge Takeaway Park View Coffee Shop & Takeaway Sky Kitchen Tattoo Removal Tatta Ltd Tiling Service With A Tile Tile-a-ramic Tree Surgery Maxwell Tree Care Venue KCDT Vet Pentland Veterinary Clinic Wedding Services Flowers by Jak Nota Bene Quite Contrary Vicky’s flowers Window Cleaning Gordon Scott Window Cleaning Windows 1st Choice Living Red Hot Windows

46 39 40 41 5 38 39 17 5 40 40 46 45 47 33 55 56 13 56 27 41 28 5 44 11 12 57 56 6 39 45 46 29 39 7 17 6 17 46 10 40

4 5

35 21 22 KONECT

KONECT

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