Konect Calders April 2019

APRIL 2019

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

The monthly community magazine for East and Mid Calder, Kirknewton & Pumpherston

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TO OUR APRIL EDITION

THIS ISSUE

I

don’t often get to do editorial interviews in wellies, but this month I was visiting the lovely premises of West Lothian Riding for the Disabled, on a wet and windy morning! The dedicated volunteers there were getting it ready for the new season to start – what a fabulous organisation, see the article on pages 8 to 9 to see what they do.

The local history column this month is about Bathgate’s historic drinking fountain, which has an interesting back story and I’m including it in this edition as the couple behind it – the McLagans – were extremely interesting and Peter McLagan was Laird of Pumpherston at that time. We’re following up with more on him next month.

In our parenting column, Laura looks at the often-stressful topic of arranging children’s parties, and all our usual columns are here!

Thank you for reading Konect and I’d like to wish all readers a fantastic Easter break!

P8 Charity: West Lothian Riding for the Disabled........................................................... 8 Health: National Foot Health Month.........14 Health & Beauty...........................................16 Gardening: Gardens are good for you!....19 Property Matters..........................................26 Local History: the Laird of Pumpherston’s Fountain.........................................................28 Vet’s Tip.........................................................33 Music Review...............................................36 Parenting: It’s their party...! ......................39 What’s On......................................................40 Puzzles..........................................................42 Clubs & Classes..........................................43

COVER IMAGE: Egg Hunt! See P40 for local Easter activities

Konect is delivered to 5,500 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.

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

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Whitequarries, Abercorn, it is approached along a drive through a wooded area. Once you turn in through the entrance immediately after the turn off at the A9 Partnership, you start to feel relaxed in that way that a beautiful natural environment does for you.

“It’s more accurate to describe what we do as providing therapeutic riding opportunities,” says Carol Lamb of West Lothian Riding for the Disabled.

“It’s more accurate to describe what we do as providing therapeutic riding opportunities,” says Carol Lamb of West Lothian Riding for the Disabled.

“Our participants get huge emotional benefits from the riding sessions here, they come from a wide range of abilities and backgrounds, and some come regularly for many years.”

I’m meeting with two dedicated volunteers from Linlithgow, Carol and Sara, on a drizzly morning last month at the West Lothian Riding for the Disabled premises near Linlithgow. They were out taking their turn at looking after the ponies and getting the premises ready for the season starting up in April after the winter break. Apparently unfazed by the weather, their enthusiasm for what the organisation does was obvious.

Set in a lovely environment on ten acres of the Hopetoun Estate, at

Big smiles

West Lothian Riding for the Disabled has been providing therapeutic riding lessons in West Lothian for over 40 years. Participants range in age from 3 to 50 years; some are referred by healthcare professionals, some are self-referred – anyone can apply. The simple pleasure of working with horses is the cornerstone of all activities, and riding improves muscle strength, balance and motor skills, not to mention the benefits of freedom of movement, gaining confidence, building relationships, receiving life-enhancing physiotherapy, achieving individual goals and generally enjoying the outdoors.

“We couldn’t function without our volunteers,” says Carol. “We need 12–15 volunteers at each session for us to be able to provide the lessons.” There are eleven sessions per week at various times, delivered by one paid instructor, two volunteer instructors and a team of volunteer assistants who help participants during the lesson, look after the ponies, carry out field maintenance and much more. A lesson consists of the participants being helped onto the ponies and being led through a programme of horse skills. With an arena, a tree-lined walk and a large field, there is plenty of scope. Games such as egg and spoon on horseback and team games are part of the programme. They set targets through the year for participants and have award ceremonies, and watching the progress of participants is hugely rewarding and a large part of what keeps the volunteers coming back.

I asked Sara why she became involved in the group. “It was the combination of the opportunity to work with horses and to work with children that attracted me. I started helping out with lessons three years ago, and all the volunteers were so friendly and welcoming. The smiles and laughter of the participants are what make it so worthwhile for me.”

Carol has been volunteering with West Lothian RDA for six years, and is now

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a trustee. “I also was attracted by the horses initially, as I had ridden horses in my childhood. I saw that they were having a Volunteers Open Day here and came along to see what was involved - and I’m still here six years later!

You become very close to the families of the participants, as you are seeing them regularly at riding sessions, sharing their progress and joy. The day one of the participants, who never spoke, said ‘Walk On’ to his pony, was a big day.”

With currently eight ponies, 69 participants and 53 volunteers, the group delivered 300 sessions last year during their season from April to October. West Lothian RDA is one of a few in the Central belt – there is one in Balerno, then the next closest are in the east of Edinburgh, or to the west, Shiresmill in Dunfermline.

Tacking up

COULD YOU VOLUNTEER? There is a wide range of things to get involved with at West Lothian RDA, and all training and support is provided. The volunteer “family” is hugely supportive of each other. You don’t need any previous experience or skills; all you need is enthusiasm and the ability to commit to a regular time. You can volunteer once a week or 4 times a week whatever you can manage, all help is greatly appreciated. Our motto is #itswhatyoucandothatcounts!

For more information on West Lothian Riding for the Disabled, or to get in touch about volunteering, sponsoring, or participating as a rider, please visit their website at www.westlothianrda.org or facebook page West Lothian RDA. West Lothian RDA is a charity registered in Scotland, number SC028635.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after visiting West Lothian RDA at Abercorn and meeting volunteers Carol and Sara. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines

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We specialise in household alterations and repairs. To discuss your construction project, please call Colin on: or email:

Extensions | Bathrooms | Kitchens Alterations | Structual Work Maintenance & Repairs | Landscaping Driveways | All Trades

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Are your feet getting the care and attention they need?

Foot care is important through all stages of life, and local podiatrist Lynn McDonald is looking to raise awareness of the importance of good foot health as part of April Foot Health Month.

For children, extra care helps avoid problems and deformities later; and as we get older, everyday wear and tear can take its strain.

Podiatrists are experts in all aspects of the foot and lower limb, and undergo years of specialist training to enable them to diagnose, treat and help people to look after their feet and lower limbs.

“Feet are one of the hardest k ar m To , th working parts on M lth Foot Hea of our body, celebrate th to so al d an tcare’s 10 oo but they are F d al on McD ring Lynn is offe also one of the anniversary, a FREE Foot s most new patient g Product Moisturisin tend for neglected,” at when they during says Lynn. “We the first time . want to remind April 2019 people to get to know their feet and not ignore foot pain. Walking through pain or ignoring problems can cause damage to the feet and lower limbs. So if your feet hurt, or you notice anything unusual about them, visit a registered podiatrist who can diagnose causes of pain and provide appropriate treatment.”

Five ways to keep your feet healthy 1. Cut nails correctly: Cut straight across and not too low at the edge or sides. The corner of the nail should be visible above the skin.

Cut nails after a bath or shower when they are much softer 2. Moisturise: After washing feet, dry thoroughly and apply a good foot moisturiser all over the foot. Avoid moisturiser between the toes, as this can cause the skin to become overly macerated, causing it to break down. The best foot creams contain urea.

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3. Don’t assume Lynn McDonald flat is best: People are more aware of the health problems associated with wearing high-heels frequently, but completely flat slip-on styles, such as a ballerina pump, are not ideal for everyday wear as they offer very little shock absorption or support. Slip-on styles also cause the toes to claw in order to hold the foot in place 4. Alternate shoes and keep them clean inside: Feet naturally sweat, and wearing the same pair every day doesn’t give them a chance to dry out and they can then be a breeding ground for bacteria. Clean inside your shoes with some surgical spirit on a cotton wool pad to reduce the bacteria.

5. Check your feet regularly. Yellow, brittle and discoloured nails can be a sign of a nail infection; flaky skin that may be dry, red or itchy can be a symptom of athlete’s foot.

Check for any changes to the structure of the foot such as swelling to the joint around the ball of the foot. .

It is the combination of all of the above that has been a fundamental part of our success and we are proud to report that none of our wonderful tenants are currently in arrears!

This article was contributed by McDonald Footcare, who have a team of seven fully qualified podiatrists registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

Contact them at either clinic on 01506 871567 (West Calder) or 01506 884321 (Mid Calder). @KonectMagazines

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

TREND REPORT SPRING 2019 This spring colour is everywhere on the catwalk but in a way we haven’t seen it before.

Yellow is in abundance in clothing teamed with pared back nudes in delicate fabrics.

Hints of neon clashing with taupe, pale slate and earthy tones created a great juxtaposition of colour.

Hair as always follows suit in terms of brighter colours becoming more wearable,pinks, aquas and violets being used in much more subtle highlighting techniques and mixed with smokey beige bases and sandy blondes to create wearable everyday hair that is also office friendly.

Notions for top cuts this season are between two styles, the easy undone shattered cut, 100% not blunt with minimum styling and a grungy feel that can be worn at any length whether it’s pixie or elbow skimming or the coveted blunt fringed bob, think ‘Anna Wintour’ strong and empowering and the ultimate style statement. However this requires maintenance and a bit of time to tame each day.

Ask your stylist about updating your style this spring, remember to take in to account your lifestyle and the time you have to maintain your style and your stylist will advise you on what suits your look best!

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston.www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 16 | CALDERS

How can you raise your energy?

Self Care Start to treat yourself well , whether it be a nice home cooked meal, a relaxing bath, or a massage. This will help to raise your energy.

Flow Encourage yourself to start tasks you enjoy, if you get in the flow, remain doing them until the flow comes to an end. Flow results in an energy surge that you can use for other things.

Meditate Take time out to meditate; imagine yourself filling up with light and energy.

Gratitude Notice what’s good in your life and allow yourself to be uplifted.

Help Someone Helping others gives us a sense of pride and self worth that results in a boost of energy.

Read Reading books that you notice make you feel good. It could be light hearted fiction, or it could be spiritual or self development books.

Make progress towards your goals Making progress makes us feel good, success breeds success. Take a baby step and see where that will lead you.

Take a trip Being away gives you fresh perspective, seeing the opportunities in life will enthuse you and the energy to act will quickly follow.

Go for a walk in nature Go for a walk in a forest, breathe deeply and notice the beauty around you.

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

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Wedding and Event Florist T: 01506 200206 M: 07816 673 204 E: vicky@vickysflowers.com

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Gardening is Good for You - No. 3 We think that we all understand that colour can influence how we feel, maybe stimulating us or calming us down.

Studies have shown that looking out of a window at lawns, shrubs and trees can, for instance, aid recovery from illness and calm down pupils in a classroom. Indeed the many shades of green that dominate our outdoor spaces have a very restorative effect on our well-being.

But other colours can also control our moods.

So if you wanted to be stimulated and be excited choose flower colours of bright yellows, oranges, reds and purple. Place contrasting leaf and flower shapes together and use brightly coloured pots and garden ornaments in your garden.

If you need destressing from the rough and tumble of everyday life want to create a calming and relaxing space for yourself you need to

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select cool pastel colours and avoid too many harsh contrasts in the textures of leaves, pots and ornaments surrounding you. Choose whites, pale yellow, blues, pinks and mauve.

You might choose to paint the walls and furniture in these gentle colours too to give an all year round calm oasis.

Pick up our free plant collection leaflets on Calm & Relaxed or Exciting & Vibrant themes.

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

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

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Apart from actually finding a tenant and agreeing a rent the one headache about which many landlords are concerned is, “will the rent be paid – on time? ” Many landlords operate their buy-to-let investment as a business and even one month’s rent in arrears can put strain on the finances as mortgage payments, insurance etc still have to be paid.

According to recent research by LSL, up to 7% of all rent is not paid on time, with 1.6% of tenants being in arrears of at least two months and some 67,000 households were struggling to pay their rent each month.

This seems so unnecessary when there are certain procedures that a good managing agent should have in place to ensure that a tenant always pays on time, not least the following: 1. Extensive referencing at the outset including previous landlords’ references and formal credit check.

2. Qualifying tenants by securing clarification of income and expenditure.

3. Never compromise. Only let to fabulous tenants!

4. Where a property is has more than one tenant, ensuring that every tenant is jointly and severally liable for payment of the rent. People don’t like to let their friends down!

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5. Guarantors in place, who have also be credit checked. A tenant is less likely to default if their arrears might be disclosed to their guarantors.

6. Ongoing friendly communication with the tenants. A tenant is far less likely to default when they are on good terms with their landlord or managing agent and more likely to default if the landlord/ agent is faceless or remote.

7. Nipping issues in the bud as soon as they occur. In our book, even one day late would be cause for concern!

8. Ensuring that the property remains well maintained and that issues are addressed promptly. Happy tenants who like their landlord/agent are the best payers.

It is the combination of all of the above that has been a fundamental part of our success and we are proud to report that none of our wonderful tenants are currently in arrears!

The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines

LOCAL HISTORY

THE LAIRD OF PUMPHERSTON’S FOUNTAIN From Bangalore in India to Rondebosch in Cape Town, from the city of Manaus in Brazil to Bathgate in Scotland. What common feature links these places – and many others – together?

Every time you walk across the Steelyard in Bathgate, or sit in the traffic on George Place, you pass it: the drinking fountain.

The fountain was cast by the Saracen Iron Foundry in Glasgow, then the world’s leading manufacturers of architectural iron work, and it is this fact which links all these cities to Bathgate -each of them has examples of this company’s work, from drinking fountains to iron balustrades, from iron fret work in botanical gardens to rotundas.

The link with Pumpherston is that the fountain was presented to Bathgate as a gift to the town in August 1879 by the wife of the then MP Peter McLagan, to celebrate the opening of the town’s new Water Works at Petershill on

the 1st of June 1878. Peter McLagan MP was also at that time proprietor of the Pumpherston estate, having inherited it from his father. He was an extraordinary man and we’ll be following up with more details on his life and career in next month’s Konect.

So why did Peter McLagan go to all the bother and expense to have a drinking fountain installed in Bathgate – after all, it’s ‘only’ water? On its own a drinking fountain is ‘only’ a drinking fountain so why the fuss?

The new Water Works, which the fountain commemorates, were hugely significant step in Bathgate’s development. One of the speakers who attended the dinner which was held to celebrate the opening of the new water works recalled summers when the town could only be supplied with 20% of its needs from existing wells. The dearth of safe drinking water was one of the principal reasons that the town had not grown as quickly as others. Indeed even as recently as the 1830s the town had witnessed an outbreak of cholera which led to the halls of the new Bathgate Academy in Marjoribanks Street being temporarily used as a hospital - since the Academy was closed during the outbreak – and the sick being attended to both by the Rector and one of the town’s ministers – a fact which endeared him further to his parishioners since his attendance on those so afflicted by the cholera was regarded as little short of sainthood; cholera was the disease most feared by the Victorians.

So, when it was eventually decided by the Town Council to secure a supply of safe

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drinking for all of the town’s inhabitants – a decision which took twenty-odd years before it was agreed upon – and then put into effect, no wonder that the day on which the new water works were declared open was made a day off school, and that there was a procession of local dignitaries and the town’s trades and friendly societies from the town centre to the reservoir at Petershill at which Mrs. Peter McLagan was given the first glass of water to be drawn from there.

So she committed herself to commemorate this occasion by commissioning the drinking fountain which we have today.

The fountain has several representations of animals both real and imagined which add to its significance. Thus we have griffins, salamanders and a crane which appears underneath the canopy of the dome. The crane in Classical times was taken as a symbol of vigilance since it was believed that one crane would keep watch over the flock as they slept. (It should be remembered that at the time of its installation the fountain also had a lamp on top before that was removed and the fountain itself from its original location at the junction of Hopetoun Street with George Street and Livery Street to its current position (almost!) in the Steelyard.) Salamanders were taken as symbols of bravery and courage that could never be extinguished by fire – in Classical times it was thought that salamanders were born from fire hence they could not be killed by it as water can not be ‘killed’ by fire. Finally, we have griffins. Again, these mythical creatures were interpreted by the Victorians as guardians of priceless possessions – and what could be more priceless to a thirsty man, woman or town than water itself?

So, the next time you are in the Steelyard either on your way to or from Costa, Greggs or Dnisi’s, please take a look at the Mclagan Memorial Fountain and pause for a moment on what it symbolises, for without regular access to a secure supply of fresh drinking water Bathgate as we know it could not exist.

This article was contributed by David Main of the Bathgate Community Council. @KonectMagazines

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BUSTER THE DOG

Alistair Taylor

Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Pet Services pages.

Contacts details are on page 3.

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Beam me up Scottie Did you know that some vets are now offering laser therapy that can help to reduce inflammation and pain and accelerate healing without drugs?

Laser light waves are “coherent” – they maintain their energy along the beam, so the energy applied to specific areas of the body, and absorbed by the tissues, can be very precisely controlled.

We’ve all heard about lasers used industrially for heating or cutting. Lasers used by vets act directly on the tissues, deep under the skin, with no cutting involved, and very little heating of tissue. (This type of laser is often called “cold laser” for this reason).

Laser energy is delivered as photons (particles of light) at a very specific wavelength to modify the function of the specific cells we target. These target cells absorb the laser energy, and this energy

boost means the cells work more efficiently, reducing inflammation and pain and accelerating healing.

Although the beam can penetrate tissue to a certain depth, the deeper the target the less effective it’s likely to be, so we use it primarily to target tissues that are relatively close to the skin, especially: • Slow healing wounds • Muscle tears or strains • Tendon and ligament injuries and sprains • Osteoarthritis Is it safe? Used wrongly, laser energy can be harmful, but in the hands of a trained vet or nurse, with protective goggles on everybody including the patient, the process is safe, with no known side effects.

If you think your pet might benefit from this new therapeutic technique, speak to your vet and bear in mind – Google isn’t a vet.

The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Michael McCallum, BVM & S, MRCVS, GP Cert (Ophthal), Vet Surgeon at The Lamond Veterinary Clinic

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RBS MOBILE BANK: A recent study by the University of California concluded that pop music has become massively sadder in the course of the past thirty years.

You might look around and think since it is plainly the end of days this is not at all surprising, but things were pretty bleak back during the three day week and for most of that Tiger Feet by Mud was number one.

Although their request for my opinion must have gone into my junk mail, I would have suggested that this current phase started with REM’s “Everybody Hurts”. If that group had been able to copyright the phrase and feel of “hold on” then they would have made so much money from other people’s records that they wouldn’t have needed to carry on making all those recent albums that you can’t hum a single tune from.

EVERY TUESDAY The RBS mobile van stops at: • Balerno Scotmid 10:15 - 11:00 • Currie Library 11:15 - 11:45

• Juniper Green Iceland 13:00 - 14:00 This service is for RBS customers to make cash deposits, withdrawals, bill payments and administer their accounts. It is not a full substitute for a branch.

Recent improvements include better access for disabled customers and a new approach for those in wheelchairs.

The now sound of the top ten male chart star is a big, soulful, wash replete with endless images of broken souls, angels, loss and heartache. Tom Walker, Lewis Capaldi, Rag and Bone Man, wounded giants stoically bearing up under the pain. No wonder the ladies have all gone with Sigrid to the electropop disco, taking with them their confident, dominant and disposable affections in a bid to escape the onslaught of all these millennial Johnny Rays (yes you do, remember, he “sounded sad upon the radio/ moved a million hearts in mono”).

Hats off to Lewis Capaldi though for reaching number one in the charts though without compromising his personality during the promotional duties – check out his online advert for forthcoming album “Divinely Uninspired To A Hellish Extent”. You can take the boy out of West Lothian etc.

The monthly music review is contributed by James Kerr. James presents the Regal Music Club show on Regal Radio (www.regal-radio.net) and is a member of the local band ‘Snakeskin Shoe Review’.

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To celebrate 10 years in publishing, and to raise funds for the School Bank West Lothian, we would love you to join us.

Date: 31st May 2019 | Venue: Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club Drinks reception in the cocktail bar 7pm Three course meal, entertainment*, raffle and auction For further information please see www.konect.scot/charity-spring-ball-2019 Tickets £65 | table of 10 £600

springball@konect.scot *Entertainment will include Scotland’s foremost mentalist, Drew McAdam and music by Snakeskin Shoe Review

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PARENTING

Birthday

It’s their party… and I’ll Girl! cry if I want to!

Whether its their fourth birthday party or their fourteenth, making your child’s day as special as possible is at the top of every parent’s ‘to do’ list right?

For kids, birthday parties are a big deal! In my day you just invited your friends around to your house for a few party rings and a game of musical statues. Now everything seems to have to be bigger, better… and more expensive!

These days a game of pass the parcel and a few balloons just doesn’t seem to cut it, and arranging a birthday party can be a pretty stressful experience. There is the cake, the presents, the party bags, the food, the decorations, the invitations, not to mention the entertainment...and that’s before you start worrying about how it all measures up to the rest of the class.

Yes, it’s safe to say, that this is another one of those parenting tasks that has become a bit of a headache.

My littlest is about to turn four.

Up to now we’ve got away with just inviting friends and family around to our house for a ceremonial opening of presents and a quick rendition of Happy Birthday before blowing out the candles on @KonectMagazines

a shop-bought cake. But now that she is at preschool and her social calendar has exploded with parties her expectations have been well and truly raised.

Thankfully we’ve been through it with her big sister so this isn’t our first rodeo!

We’ve successfully managed to throw together a Fairy Kingdom party at Jupiter Artland (which I would highly recommend), and a Clip ‘n Climb party at the EICA Ratho (this went down a storm with the kids)…but it feels like with every successful party you just raise the bar a little bit higher for the next.

We’ve been to some great parties as well along the way.

One of my personal favourites was a party at someone’s house with a Cool Creatures (out of East Calder) animal handling session. But soft play parties are always a winner with my kids and they especially seem to the love The Hive in Bathgate.

Luckily (or maybe unluckily) for us my threenager knows

exactly what she wants and how to get it. So it looks like we’ll be booking the ‘big inflatable’, as she calls it, at Xcite East Calder. But it seems too easy. I just have that feeling that she is going to pull something out of the bag at the last minute to keep me on my toes. No doubt it will be me running around like a headless chicken on the day trying to deliver the impossible.

So, what’s the secret? How do you organise an unforgettable kids party without sending yourself (or your bank balance) into meltdown?...I’m sorry to say I don’t have the answer to that. But if you do please send in your answers on a postcard!

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

CALDERS | 39

April

BLACKNESS CASTLE: Join in our Easter eggsploration through some of our most iconic castles, abbeys, forts and palaces. Can you find all the clues to complete the challenge?

Drop-in throughout the day. This event is included in the normal admission price. Fri 19th to Mon 22nd April.

ALMOND VALLEY: Daily from 31st March, The farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (19th April to 22nd April) including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade.

3RD - 7TH MAY: Brilliant Beltane at Almond Valley A special long weekend of family fun when we can all wish each other a Brilliant Beltane. Turning our backs on the cheesiness and chocolates of an increasingly commercial Easter, we’re celebrating happier, simpler days when life was closer to nature, and ancient traditions marked the passage of the seasons.

There is a daily programme of lighthearted family activities that delight in the mysteries and wonders of a traditional springtime. Around the old buildings and watercourses of Livingston Mill there are mischievous sprites who will reveal secrets of fire and flowing water. Children can create masks that will change them into green boys and girls, with tickely mystical wands that have the power to surprise. Scribble down your secret hopes for the year to come, tie these with wool, ribbon or slices of fabric to decorate our clootie tree. Out in the gardens, craft a living bower to take home and nurture, while on the farm, the animals will be in their springtime finery.

Easter is almost here, and with that there’s plenty to do across West Lothian this month.

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

Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information:

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The final event of the 2018/2019 Linlithgow Arts Guild Programme, Lana Trotovsek & Maria Canyigueral, takes place on the 6th April. Tickets are just £12 for an adult, and the event takes place from 7.30pm at the Linlithgow Academy Theatre.

In Livingston, Easter Eggcitement runs from Saturday 30 March until Monday 22 April at Almond Valley Heritage Centre. The farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Over the four days of Easter, there will also be the famous plastic duck race.

You can join the Kids Gone Wild crew in Bellsquarry Wood for a fun Easter themed trail with woodland activities and tasks to complete along the way. Fancy dress is very much encouraged! The event takes place at various times on Saturday 20th, and you can book your spot through their website. Also in the countryside, Cairnpapple Hill has recently re-opened to visitors for the summer period. Just 2km east of Torphichen, you can explore a rare ceremonial complex in the Bathgate Hills as well as take in the stunning views across West Lothian.

A little further ahead, FLY Open Air Festival returns to Hopetoun House on the weekend of the 18th & 19th May. With the line-up featuring Solomun, Nina Kraviz, Sven Vath, Seth Troxler & Peggy Gou amongst others, it’s sure to be a good weekend.

Don’t forget, our website has comprehensive listings of events and activities to do in West Lothian – perfect for finding something to do over the Easter break! You can visit this through www.visitwestlothian.co.uk.

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian @KonectMagazines

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

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CALDERS | 41

Solution in the May edition of Konect

CROSSWORD

We’re sorry that the grid for the March crossword was wrong, and hope you enjoy this month’s crossword as usual.

42 | CALDERS

Sudoku Solution on Page 45.

SUDOKU

PUZZLES

ACROSS: 1. Protected from harm (4), 3. Ordinary; occurring regularly (8), 9. Animation (7), 10. Answer (5), 11. Go into (5), 12. To splatter, spray with liquid (6), 14. Nearest the bottom (6), 16. Person in charge of a newspaper (6), 19. Centre (6), 21. Striped animal (5), 24. Acting family, Sir John and Hayley (5), 25. Under (7), 26. Young frogs (8), 27. Fewer in number (4) DOWN: 1. Covertly (8), 2. Initial, original (5), 4. Disappear (6), 5. Rustic, in the countryside (5), 6. Down payment (7), 7. Child’s toy on a string (2-2), 8. Tennis playing areas (6), 13. Respires (8), 15. Spun around (7), 17. Sets of twelve (6), 18. Small stone (6), 20. Dance hall, nightclub (5), 22. Responsibility, guilt (5), 23. Miss out (4)

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CLUBS & CLASSES

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

EAST CALDER HULLABALOO Music classes for babies and toddlers with their carers. At Hullabaloo the focus is on having lots of fun with colourful props, toys and musical instruments. Through favourite songs and rhymes, children will develop early musical skills including a sense of beat, rhythm and pitch.

Mondays 10.00am (term time) East Calder Parish Church Hall. info@ mcmillanyoungmusicians.co.uk www.mcmillanyoungmusicians.co.uk/ hullabaloo/ KNEC BAIRNS’ ROCK Bible story, music, singing, craft, play, snack and support for all babies and preschool kids with parents/ carers. Wednesday 9.30-11.30am (in school term). East Calder Church Hall, EH53 0EN. Call or text Alistair on 07791 524504 for details.

FIREFLY ARTS 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 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 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

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age 5 without waiting list. First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@ gmail.com.

BODY AND CORE PILATES East Calder Partnership Centre.

Thursdays 9.30 -10.30am, 6.15 - 7.15pm & 7.30 - 8.30pm (Beginners/Intermediate).

Additional classes at Mid Calder, Hatton & the Corn Exchange, Edinburgh. Contact Mairianne 07912 963 851 for more details or email: pilates@bodyandcore.co.uk.

See www.bodyandcore.co.uk & facebook.com/bodyandcorepilates 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 Partnership 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 www.eastcalderfc.co.uk/ EAST CALDER OLD FOLKS CLUB East Calder Partnership Centre. Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm 3.30pm. Pensioners and non-pensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Sec).

EAST CALDER LADIES’ CIRCLE East Calder Partnership Centre. Second Thursday of the month, Sept to May at 1-3pm. Secretary: Mrs E Bennett, 73 Mansefield, East Calder, West Lothian EH53 0JE. EAST CALDER YOUTH CLUB East Calder Partnership 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 Partnership 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 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 Partnership Centre.

Mon-Fri 9am-11am from 2 years. For the best introduction to your child’s education - lots of fun to be had! £5.50 per session.

Contact Carol on 07748 053340.

RAINBOWS, BROWNIES AND GUIDES East Calder Church Hall, Main Street.

Rainbows: East Calder Church Hall, Mon 6.30-7.30pm & Wed 6.15-7.15 Brownies: Kirknewton Church Hall Tues 6.30pm-8pm. Brownies contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 or Sally buchanan. sally@btinternet.com Guides: Kirknewton Church Hall Mon 7pm-9pm and East Calder Church Hall Wed 7.30-9pm.

Guides contact Fiona Wilson 07595 679117 fionamhwilson@sky.com.

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. www.eastcalderscouts.org.uk EAST CALDER YOUTH CLUB For P6 to S4, Fridays 6.30-8.30pm. Entry £1. Contact Errin Anderson Community Education Worker 01506 871278.

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 Partnership 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 Partnership 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 East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EL Tuesdays at 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Wednesdays at 9.30am and 11.30am. 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/

CALDERS | 43

MID CALDER KIRKNEWTON COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS KIRKNEWTON Kirknewton Village Hall Main Street, EH27 8AH. Manager Claire Contact: 07958530681. Open Tues, Wed and Friday 9:15 to 11:30am £7.50 per session.

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

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

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

KIRKNEWTON BABY & TODDLER GROUP Every Thursday 9.30-11.30 in Kirknewton Church Hall. £1.50 per family includes snacks and hot drinks. Join us for child-led play and ending the session with fun group songs. Keep up to date with us on Facebook!

KIRKNEWTON RUNNERS Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday at 19.30

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.

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

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.

KIRKNEWTON PLAYGROUP A happy and friendly playgroup for children ages 2 to 5 years. Open Tues, Wed & Fri 9.15am - 11.30am in Kirknewton Village Hall.

Contact admin@communityplaygroups.co. uk / 07593165100 or pop in and see us in the hall. £7.50 per session. Funded places are also available for eligible 2 year olds.

BOOKBUG Songs and Stories for 0-5-years old, Kirknewton Church Hall Thursdays 10.45am – 11.15am weekly during term time.

ACCESS 2 EMPLOYMENT JOB CLUB 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.

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

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

GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10-14 years old) take place on Wednesday night.

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

BODY AND CORE PILATES East Calder Partnership Centre.

Thursdays 9.30 -10.30am, 6.15 - 7.15pm & 7.30 - 8.30pm (Beginners/Intermediate).

Additional classes at Mid Calder, Hatton & the Corn Exchange, Edinburgh. Contact Mairianne 07912 963 851 for more details or email: pilates@bodyandcore.co.uk.

See www.bodyandcore.co.uk & facebook.com/bodyandcorepilates 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.

STAR HARMONIES Musical Theatre School. Mid Calder Institue Hall.Tuesdays 10-30-11am- Baby Starz; 11-15-11-45amLittle 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

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.

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.

CUNNIGAR HOUSE ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in Cunnigar House, Mid Calder, weekly Tuesdays (2-4pm). A mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games.

We also love a good chat over a cup of tea!

All welcome, cost is just £1 per session.

Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815 or email opal@ cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot. at Cunnigar House, Mid Calder.

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-caldercolts.org. Contact Carole 883934.

Contact@mid-calder-colts.org.

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.

YOGA CLASSES 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 A choir of around 20 ladies, new members most welcome. An ability to read music is not necessary, just lots of enthusiasm with a focus on fun! We hold two concerts a year, in June and December. Accompanied by the excellent West Calder Brass Band. Available on request to perform at other venues eg fundraising, local clubs and sheltered housing. Wed 7.30pm - 9.45 pm in Kirk of Calder, Mid Calder. Please contact John 01506 880029; Janice 01506 437658; or Iris 01506 431410.

PUMPHERSTON 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.

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

WEST CALDER 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.

ALMOND VALLEY FOLK CLUB We meet at 8pm on the third Tuesday of the month at the Railway Inn, Main Street, West Calder. Come along to sing, play or just listen; or see our full programme on our Facebook page.

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WEST CALDER AND DISTRICT MODEL FLYING CLUB For all ages and genders focusing on model aircraft flying and building. Please see www.modelclub.org for further details.We have an excellent custom made flying site situated half a mile north of Woolfords Cottages (search Google Maps for West Calder and District Model Flying Club) A small annual fee applies. Please e-mail club-secretary@modelclub.org or visit on Saturday or Sunday mornings, weather permitting.

STAR HARMONIES Singing * Dance * Acting * Shows* Performance Group * 1:1 Singing and Musical Theatre Lessons Star Harmonies Musical Theatre School Polbeth Harwood Church Tuesdays: 5:30 - 8:30pm - Singing, dance and acting & show work (ages 3-18) Saturdays & Sundays - Dance classes including adult tap 1:1 Singing lessons in Mid Calder 07545178310 for more information.

See www.starharmonies.co.uk email: starharmonies.musicworkshops@ gmail.com

WEST LOTHIAN FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP Meets usually third Sunday of the month, 1.30pm-3.30pm, West Calder Community Centre. (No meetings July, Aug, Dec, Jan). New members warmly welcomed. Join us for support, advice, friendship, talks, outings.

Check website to confirm future meeting dates sites.google.com/site/wlfibromyalgia.

For more information phone Alison 07931355495 .

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS WEST CALDER West Calder Community Centre, Dickson Street, EH55 8DZ Manager Julie. Contact: 07591734155 Open Monday to Thursday 9:15 to 11:30am £7.50 per session.

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.

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 WEST KIRK OF CALDER & POLBETH HARWOOD CHURCH West Kirk of Calder Service 9.45am every Sunday; Polbeth Harwood Church Service 11.15am every Sunday. Minister: Rev Dr Jonanda Groenewald, 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. Tel 0131-261-7977 KIRKNEWTON AND EAST CALDER CHURCH Kirknewton Services: 9.45am in Kirknewton Church, Station Road.

East Calder Services: 11.15am in East Calder Church, Main Street.

EnerJ (Sunday School) available. Crèche

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available. Minister: Rev Alistair Cowper, 8 Manse Court, East Calder, EH53 0HF. Tel 01506 357083.

Our website: www.knec4jesus.org.uk has full details of current services/activities.

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.

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

ST THERESA’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Times of service - Sunday 11.30am. www.livingstoncatholicparishes.co.uk 01506 880918.

Parish Priest, Fr Kenneth Owens, Email: catholic126@gmail.com

OTHER AREAS LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS Livingston Ramblers has an enthusiastic group of walkers from Livingston and surrounding areas who enjoy a varied programme of mountain, coastal and woodland walks to suit different abilities.

We welcome new members. Walks are on most Sundays, second Thursdays and one Saturday a month.

Thursday walks are 5-8 miles with minimal ascent. Walkers meet at Livingston Football Club carpark at 10am Saturday walks are more challenging with Munros and Corbetts, starting at 7 or 8am from Livingston North railway station.

ACROSS: 7. Mediterranean, 8. Invented, 9. Even, 10. Usually, 12. Weeds, 14. Clamp, 16. Denmark, 19. Stun, 20. Coconuts, 22. Congratulated.

DOWN: 1. Fern, 2. Cinema, 3. Textile, 4. Bride, 5. Sneeze, 6. Calendar, 11. Solution, 13. Ketchup, 15. Manage, 17. Monday, 18 Scrap, 21 Toes.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 42

Sunday walks are more varied, around 1012 miles with some mountain, coastal or woodland. They meet at Livingston North railway station at 8 or 9am.

Please check us out on Facebook or Google to see the current programme or contact Hilda on 01506 882399 for more details or to join one of our walks.

CHOOSE YOU – YOGA STUDIO AND WELLNESS HUB Wide range of classes at our permanent wellness studio in Carmondean. Yoga classes include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Seasonal, Bihar, Hatha/Vinyasa and Core Strength as well as yoga for kids, teens and men.

We also offer Tai-Chi. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page - www.facebook.com/chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824 195 or email info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk for more information.

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

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com

CALDERS | 45

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTANCY & BOOKKEEPING AKT Bookkeeping 20 APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair 11 ARCHITECT Plan-It 11 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 Dream Doors 10 S and S Home Improvements 24 BEAUTICIAN Beauty by Annie 17 Lisa Blair 17 BOILER SERVICES The Gas Engineer 6 BOWLING CLUB East Calder Bowling Club 18 BUILDER Almond Building Company 22 Build-It 11 CAR SERVICING, MOT & REPAIR Autocare Solutions 31 JWG Car Care 30 Kirknewton Garage 31 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett Carpet Cleaning 7 CHILDREN’S NURSERY ABC Private Nursery 41 Angela Elizabeth Nursery 38 CHIROPODY / PODIATRY / FOOTCARE McDonald Footcare 15 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Lothian Buses 47 COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 6 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce 21 DANCE: CLASSES / SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop 41 DENTIST Artis Dental and Implant Studio 15 No 9 Practice 17 DOORS / WINDOWS DC Double Glazing 7 UPVC Doors 7 46 | CALDERS

ELECTRICIAN A&A Electrical Solutions 22 Riddell Electrical Services 32 ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller 20 Turpie & Co 27 FITNESS CLASSES Body and Core Pilates 18 FLORIST Vicky’s Flowers 17 FUNERAL DIRECTOR Mark Porteous Funeral Directors 12 GARAGE DOORS Max’s Garage Doors 30 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 19 GARDEN DESIGN / MAINTENANCE D Greaves Landscape Gardeners 35 Evergreen Balerno 34 West Lothian Garden Maintenance 35 GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate 23 GAS STOCKIST Charles Gas 32 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 25 GOLF CLUB Baberton Golf Club 18 HAIR SALON Jane & Friends 17 TJ Barbers 17 HANDYMAN 1st Call Handyman Services 10 JOINERY Craigcrook Joinery 22 Geoff Vinter Joinery 10 LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Beatson’s Building Supplies 34 LAWNS Green Thumb Lawn Service 35 LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 30 MARKETING / LEAFLETING The Leaflet Lady 48 MOBILITY SERVICES Ableworld 13

PAINTING & DECORATING Braekirk Decorators EDC Painters & Decorators PET SITTING / BOARDING South Lodge Cattery

7 5 32

PLASTERING Alexander Aitken Plastering 20 Nu Walls 20

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Currievale Plumbing & Drainage 22 Dewar Plumbing 7 EPH Scotland 22 McLellan Plumbing 22 Plumb-It 11 PUBLIC HOUSE Black Bull Inn

RESTAURANT Al Borgo Ristorante La Piuma Restaurant

2 36 4

STORAGE FACILITIES Morrison Dick Container Storage 20

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 21 TUITION Kumon Livingston

38

VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Lamond Veterinary Clinic 33 Pentland Veterinary Clinic

WHAT’S ON Heriot Watt

32 4

WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 6 Suburban Window Cleaning 35 YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 41

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