Konect Calders June 2019

JUNE 2019

CHARITY:

WISHING ALL READERS A FANTAS TIC GALA DAY!

LOCAL PEOPLE:

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

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

TO OUR

JUNE EDITION

ishing all readers a wonderful gala day – in East Calder, Mid Calder and Kirkenwton!

A huge thanks is due to the bunch of dedicated volunteers who put the galas and all associated events on. The first week of June every year is Volunteers’ Week, a time to thank volunteers for their contributions that keep our communities running in so many ways, as well as celebrating volunteering and finding ways locally of getting involved. Volunteering is open to everyone as is a great way of not only contributing to a cause you care about, but is rewarding personally - a way of learning new skills, gaining confidence, being part of a community, gaining experience and of course having fun! There is a huge range of organisations always happy to have a helping hand. A volunteer at an event I was at recently said, “I can’t imagine not volunteering now. It becomes part of your life.”

Our Charity of the Month for this issue is HandiCabs Lothian – like me, you may have seen their white and green liveried taxi and bus buzzing around locally, and not realised exactly who and what they are for. They provide a fantastic service, and you may know someone who could benefit from using them but perhaps doesn’t realise – take a look at the feature on pages 8-9. They are also looking for volunteers.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations!

THIS ISSUE

P8 Charity: HandiCabs Lothian.......................... 8 Property Matters............................................10 Local People: 16 Green Fingers.................16 Gardening: Transformers!...........................18 Health & Beauty............................................20 Vet’s Tip..........................................................30 Puzzles...........................................................33 Interiors: Sustainable roller blinds...............35 Recipe............................................................36 Parenting: Find their spark!..........................39 What’s On......................................................40 Music Review................................................41 Clubs & Classes..........................................43

COVER IMAGE: ArtSparks at Jupiter Artland. Photo by Laura Archibald. See the Parenting column P39.

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

CALDERS | 3

Craigcrook Joinery sMALL WORKS AND REPAIRS

John Wilson

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

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

4 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

STEEL CONTAINERS FOR RENT

AKT Bookkeeping

Suitable for storing your stuff or run your business from here.

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

Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 5

6 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 7

You’ve probably seen the HandiCabs minibus dropping people off at the Centre, Morrisons, Dobbies or Tesco and not given it a second thought; that’s certainly the case for me. But last month I was contacted by the organisation looking for help with letting people know what they do, because it is so much more than specialist transport for wheelchair users.

“You might need help with transport for a wide range of reasons. Handicabs is about making sure people are not stuck, for whatever reason, and that includes people who are isolated due to a lack of public transport where they live and have no other means of getting about,” explains Gary Toner, Assistant Operations Manager. “And of course we help people who have mobility challenges and cannot use public transport, which covers a broad range of issues.” It may be that you are recovering from surgery, undergoing chemo, or have a longer term challenge – whatever the case, HandiCabs is there to help. There are a lot of people in the community who could benefit but don’t know about it.

Handicabs Lothian covers Edinburgh, West Lothian, Midlothian and East Lothian, and offers two services which are a lifeline to many people in the community. Dial-A-Bus is a scheduled regular bus service Mondays to Fridays, to and from popular shopping destinations, where you book on and are collected from and dropped off at your home as opposed to a bus stop.

8 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

Dial-A-Ride is more like a taxi service, where you book your date, time and destination. Doctor’s appointments, family celebrations, airport drop-off or collection, social night out; Edinburgh Tattoo; even a Christmas Day dinner trip has been booked in the past.

Both services are “door through door” i.e. the driver is willing and able to assist with, for example, carrying your shopping bags into your kitchen; taking you right into the airport terminal building; giving you that extra helping hand with getting your coat on, whatever is required. “Many of our drivers have been with us a long time. They have built a personal rapport with customers, know them well and what their particular preferences are. And the banter on the bus between the regular customer is part of what makes it a really enjoyable service,” explains Laura Kearney.

Laura joined HandiCabs last year and is tasked with finding new sources of grant income for the charity, as, whilst the four councils in the areas covered provide operational funding, new sources are needed in order to be able to replace vehicles, as funding for this is dropping off.

A certain amount of the cost is also offset by the fares customers pay, although theses are kept very low – Dial-A-Bus is £3.80 return anywhere in West Lothian; Dial-ARide is £4.75 for the first mile and 40p per mile thereafter, fixed rate. (Your first journye on Dial-A- Bus is free, and you get £5 off your first Dial-A-Ride, to try the services).

HandiCabs allow their customers, crucially, some independence that they wouldn’t otherwise have. It takes the pressure off family members, and gives you more independence to get your weekly shopping and jobs done, freeing up those “lifts for mum” for other events. It’s also a social safety net for many; Laura recounts an incident where one regular customer hadn’t booked on the bus, and the driver commented that she was missing, asking her friend if she was ok. Her friend said “She is coming, she’s waiting.” She had just forgotten to call and book, so they swung round and collected her. The camaradie of the group of regular customers made this possible. @KonectMagazines

Gary has been with HandiCabs for 26 years, starting out as a driver, then moving onto dispatch and now management. There are several others who are long serving, and the drivers tend to stay for a good number of years. It speaks volumes for the ethos of the charity, the work they do, the relationships with each other and with customers. “It’s like a big family. We even have a few families where several members of the family all work or volunteer here” says Laura.

COULD YOU VOLUNTEER? Volunteers are very welcome to help out with driving, dispatch or other work in the offices to keep things going behind the scenes. There are offices in Bathgate and Bilston Glen (Midlothian).

Dial-A-Ride enabled me to become more independent and gave me a new lease of life.

I was able to go to Livingston to meet friends; travel on a day out to Edinburgh Festival and to hospitals. If this service was not available I would be confined to my home town which has limited shop entrances for wheelchairs.

Dial-A-Ride gives an excellent service. I cannot travel on ordinary bus service or taxis.

I no longer exist, but live.

HandiCabs Customer If you, or someone you know, needs a hand with getting out of the house, as a one off or regular, please call HandiCabs to see if they can assist. The cheery team will be happy to answer any questions. A registration form needs to be completed in order to start using one of the services.

Contact HandiCabs Lothian on: • Dial-a-Ride: 01506 633953 • Dial-a-Bus: 01506 633336

You can also find them online at www.hcltransport.org.uk and on facebook @handicabs.org.uk This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting with Laura Kearney and Gary Toner of HandiCabs Lothian. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family.

CALDERS | 9

The Power of Pre-Marketing There is a strong argument for creating maximum exposure for a property during its time on the market, and much of an Estate Agent’s effort and resources are spent achieving the right exposure in the right places.

However, one of the most powerful ways of securing a fast sale at a high price can actually result from minimal exposure – or rather exposure only to a select few!

Many sellers like the idea of an initial period of quiet marketing, especially in instances of a marriage break up, a death in the family, a prominent house in a small town, financial difficulties or any other reason where people It works by taking advantage of the fact that don’t yet want it to be publicly known that people enjoy being offered something on they are selling. The concept also reduces an exclusive basis, especially when it is a the risk of overexposure or of the property property that is “just about to come onto the “going stale” on the market and provides the market”. Good Estate Agents often offer their opportunity to gauge buyer feedback and new instructions “off-market” to their pregather market intelligence to help position registered “hottest” buyers first, resulting an open-market campaign should it be in sales that were never even advertised! required.

Additionally, promoting to potential buyers Of course, it does rely on a strong register that they also have properties that don’t of qualified buyers, extensive knowledge appear on their website or any portals of the local area and some ‘good old creates a curiosity and a feeling that the fashioned estate agency work’ which, in buyer could be missing out on something the days of a heavy reliance on internet good. This encourages people to register advertising, is often overlooked. with the agent in order to gain access to a potentially popular property with little or no competition.

The monthly Property Matters column is The prices achieved using this method tend contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a to be good as well, as buyers of such a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and property know that (a) it is unlikely that the Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of seller would consider anything other than the West Lothian Property Market and over the asking price during these early days of 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing and (b) don’t want to lose out. marketing.

10 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 11

Currievale

Plumbing & Drainage Services Emergency call outs Professional & reliable local plumber Family business, over 15 yrs experience No job too small All work guaranteed Call Alexander:

07849 393364 • 0131 449 3071 Currievale Drive, Currie

EPH

SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

QUOTE KONECT

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT 01506 882 643

contact@ephltd.co.uk www.ephscotlandltd.co.uk 23 Bank Street Mid Calder EH53 0AS

12 | CALDERS

123871

LB250

@KonectMagazines

Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance

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

Licenced and insured

Call Ian on 07834 685663 @KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 13

14 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 15

Dougal and Lesley

GREEN FINGERS,

OR HOW TO GROW A BUSINESS

Ideal mentors would be Lesley Watson and Dougal Philip, who set up New Hopetoun Gardens 41 years ago and today oversee a thriving concern that employs almost forty staff. Lesley is well known to TV gardening fans as a stalwart of the evergreen “Beechgrove Garden” programme for 16 years, till the demands of travelling became excessive.

Over four decades, their working and personal relationships have matured effectively, like the red wines that Dougal adores, till today they mesh like Rolls Royce gears.

Dougal quietly impresses. A son of Watford, his four-year stint at St Andrews Uni, (where he achieved an M.A. in Geographical Studies), led him to a new home and a consuming career. Through the calm exterior, the passions shine: passion for their two families (between them four children, four grandchildren, though none aspire to enter the business), his business, his gardening, his wine, his charity work, his clientele and his mission to foster the love of gardening. The business acumen is in the DNA, as Dougal was born into the George Philip dynasty, a map and book publishing company established in 1834 and sold 20 years ago.

The Garden Centre emanated from a chance remark in a chance encounter at a dinner party: Dougal (already a self-employed, self-taught landscaper), suggested the struggling Hopetoun House could generate fresh revenue by setting up a garden centre, whereupon the factor of the trust promptly 16 | CALDERS

offered Dougal the opportunity he couldn’t refuse; but, by golly, it was hard going, as Dougal also had to continue his landscaping business to make ends meet.

A major breakthrough came in 1988 when Hopetoun Gardens took gold in the Glasgow Garden Festival; turnover doubled in a year!

There was consequential glory - judging Show Gardens every year at the prestigious RHS shows in Cardiff, Malvern, Hampton Court and Chelsea; vice- presidency of the RHS; chair of Perennial, the Gardeners’ Royal Benevolent Society, which fills a yawning void in the provision of pastoral and material care for gardeners in hard times. Once, Dougal explains, the focus was almost entirely on problems in retirement for, like ministers, gardeners usually had homes that went with their jobs. Today, sad to say, the vast preponderance of need lies in the fields of debt and mental health.

I asked Dougal for “a secret.” I hope you relish the reply!

“I was working at Hopetoun House when they had Royal visitors. I knock on the door of Princess Margaret’s room as I need to @KonectMagazines

tend the plants and flowers. No answer, so I gingerly open the door and peek in.

Just a dishevelled, unmade bed so in I go and I’m watering away when a nervous voice squeaks ‘Who’s there?’ I freeze but manage to stutter ‘Just me, ma’am, watering your plants. So sorry!’ and I flee. I later had to endure a grilling from her security and from Hopetoun hierarchy but escaped unpunished. She was so tiny, she was lost amid the covers on the large bed.”

I guess one reason for the success of the Philips is that they still have the common touch, which includes stints on the info desks, (“we’re not smart enough for the tills!”), and frequent interaction with customers - advising, commiserating, inspiring.

And the future? More time walking (wherever they be), reading - crime for Dougal, classics for Lesley, fundraising for Perennial and, for sure, continuing to spread far afield their infectious enthusiasm for gardening, gardens and gardeners.

Tearoom Terrace

You can visit New Hopetoun Gardens from 10.00am - 5.00pm daily. The garden itself is a joy to wander through, with different themed areas for inspiration and a well-stocked garden centre. There is a gift shop, and a tea room which is open daily from 10.00am - 4.30pm, (lunches served 11.30am - 3.00pm)

This article was written by David Levin after interviewing Dougal and Lesley at New Hopetoun Gardens. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer.

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

Estate Agency and Conveyancing Buying, selling and marketing of residential and commercial property.

Private Client Wills, trusts, inheritance tax, powers of attorney, guardianship.

Family Law Divorce and separation, contact and residence, adoption.

Immigration All visa applications , citizenship, EU Law, appeals.

64 South Bridge Street, Bathgate EH48 1TL

T: 01506 656645 W: drummondmiller.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 17

If you only grow one edible thing... …Let it be one of the ‘transformers’. ‘Small in volume, large in flavour, transformers add zip and zest to your meals’ says Mark Diacono, the well-known gardener/cook.

We recommend a dozen great transformers to grow in your garden. They are a mix of herbs, salad crops and veggies that can turn a good dish into an exquisite dish.

Our top recommendations this summer would be to try a mint, perhaps spearmint, to add zest to new potatoes, garden peas or perhaps a courgette frittata. Chives with its edible, crunchy purple flowers and leaves to chop over a potato salad or to add an oniony zip to a green salad.

A third character that, like these other two, is so easy and reliable to grow would be one of

18 | CALDERS

the rosemary bushes. The different ones are all great transformers and our favourite thing is to chop the leaves finely and sprinkle them over parboiled potatoes before you roast them in the oven with some rapeseed oil.

Pick up our full list of transformers in our purple piglet project leaflet.

Rosemaried Roast Potatoes

Salad Trough

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

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

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 19

SIMPLE STEPS TO GROWING BETTER HAIR, FASTER Treat your hair like an expensive fabric you wear every day! You wouldn’t wash a gucci silk scarf in Fairy….would you?!

Treat it regularly, use olaplaex for strengthening or ask your stylist to treat it for you, use good moisture treatments. We love the Sebastian Hydre moisture mask and the Davines OI range for a daily moisture boost.

You are what you eat! To promote great hair it’s about what you put in your body, make sure your getting good amounts of protein, zinc and vitamins A, C and E as well as omega 3 fatty acids.

Use protection! When styling with heat are sure your not working with anything hotter than 200 degrees and always use a protector, it seems simple but can make a huge difference to damaged brittle hair.

Be gentle! Think about the type of brush you use on wet hair, hair is particularly susceptible to breakage when it’s wet so use a specifically designed tangle teezer or our new favourite - the manta brush. Technique is equally important, start at the bottom and work your way up.

Get a trim! It won’t make it grow faster but it will keep the ends strong, retain its volume, smoothness and stop the hair becoming weak and breaking. Healthy hair is always in fashion!

Stop Buying, Start Living

There’s one big thing that keeps people from the life they dream of. It’s not confidence or motivation or a great business idea. It’s consumption.

Maintaining the lifestyle to which you’ve become accustomed becomes all consuming.

It keeps a person (or more likely persons) working at least 40 hours or more per week to ensure they earn enough money to maintain their lifestyle. This would be absolutely fine if they were happy, but they’re not.

The answer to this unhappiness? To buy more of course. The adverts have promised that when we own a particular model of car or a diamond encrusted watch we will have ‘arrived’ and will finally be happy.

The truth? Big companies and the advertising machines behind them will never allow you to be happy. Happiness equals satisfaction and satisfaction means no more purchases.

If you truly want to be happy then take some time out from being a consumer to assess what you really want from your life. You might be surprised to find that you have goals and ambitions and hopes and dreams that have nothing to do with accumulating money and buying stuff. You may discover that to be truly happy you require much less money than you thought and you now have the freedom of choice. You can choose to work forty hours a week or you can choose to go part-time. You may even choose to volunteer or start a microbusiness that allows you to pursue a passion.

When you stop believing that buying leads to happiness and you realise that happiness is a mindset – you can begin to create the life that you desire.

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 20 | CALDERS

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 @KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 21

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

www.vickysflowers.com

22 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 23

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

M.O.T s £35.00

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

FREE FIT TYRES FREE BALANCING FREE VALVES FREE TRACKING CHECK

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

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

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

ALL PARTS FITTED TO PRIVATE CARS AT TRADE PRICES ESTABLISHED 1950

Tel: 01506 885566

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

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

Please contact us if you would like your vehicle business included in our Motoring pages.

Our details are on page 3.

We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

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

07581 829297

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

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 27

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

28 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 29

A Pot Pourri of Summer Ailments

• Separation anxiety is a common problem in dogs and contributing factors include lack of socialisation, owner behaviour, lack of self-confidence and previous mistreatment. If you’re worried that your dog may be suffering separation anxiety, contact your vet • Cats can get asthma too! There is a range of treatments that can help to relieve symptoms • Does your cat crave tuna? It shouldn’t make up more than 10% of their diet so should only be used for special treats!

Keep to the spring water version to make sure their salt intake isn’t too high

• Combing your pets regularly will let you know if they have fleas but will have NO effect on getting rid of them!

You need proper treatments for that and preventative treatments are really effective • Worm eggs can stay active in soil for up to two years, which is why ANY pet that goes outdoors is at risk of worm infestations!

• Lungworm is a parasite that is becoming more common in the UK. Dogs pick it up from eating slugs or snails. Prevention is much better than cure, so speak to your vet The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Michael McCallum BVM&S, MRCVS, GP Cert(Ophthal), Vet Surgeon and Director, The Lamond Vet Clinic

LAMOND Veterinary CLINIC YOUR PETS ARE OUR PRIORITY

ASK ABOUT THE LAMOND HEALTH CARE PLAN, GIVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO BUDGET MONTHLY AND SAVE MONEY ON YOUR PETS’ PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE The Lamond Veterinary Clinic Limited Bankton Square, Murieston, Livingston EH54 9EY Telephone: 01506 461 462 E: info@lamondvet.co.uk

www.lamondvet.co.uk

30 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

Oriana with her dog Tyler

Dogs

can help your HEALTH AND WELLBEING If you have recently retired, you might still be getting used to retirement and being at home. Or maybe you work from home and don’t see many people all day. Perhaps you don’t exercise as much as you would like to and want to improve your fitness and wellbeing.

If you are an experienced dog lover then PetStay West Lothian and Falkirk has an opportunity for dog lovers to join their team of pet sitters.

“It’s a great way to meet new people and their dogs, keep active and healthy and get paid a little extra too”, says Oriana, who owns PetStay West Lothian and Falkirk Branch who have been providing holiday care for dogs in West Lothian, Falkirk and surrounding areas since 2018.

Oriana explains, “I’ve always wanted to work in a pet care environment and decided to open PetStay West Lothian and Falkirk when I had the opportunity to change career. I’ve had dogs for many years and know how difficult it can be to find the right care for your beloved family pet when you go on holiday. I have a great team of pet sitters, we’re like a PetStay family and sometimes I meet our doggy guests too, which is great!”

Marion, who recently joined the PetStay team says, “being a PetStay host has really helped me get fitter and healthier.

I have lost over a stone in the 7 months I have been part of the PetStay team. I have met lovely dogs and their owners. Our @KonectMagazines

customers have peace of mind that their much-loved family pet will be given one to one attention and lots of cuddles! I live on my own which can be lonely at times so I really enjoy the companionship of a doggy guest. I used to have my own dog, but I can’t commit to owning my own dog anymore, so this is a great way to get my “doggy fix”. PetStay are great they make sure that I am matched to the dog that best suits me and my lifestyle. It’s flexible too.”

This article was contributed by Oriana McArthur of PetStay West Lothian and Falkirk. For more information on becoming a pet sitter please contact Oriana on 07795 179340, or oriana@petstay.net or visit www.petstay.net CALDERS | 31

Coffee and canines

How about lunch at a place where your dog is not only welcome, but where the whole place is designed specifically around them, so you and your best friend can lunch together on an equal footing?

This is what the “Paw Stop” in Bathgate aims to do. Set up by local sister-team Nicole and Natalie Senior, it’s a place you can pop in for coffee and cake, lunch or even hire for special events, all where it is not simply “dogs welcome” but the dogs are the main show.

“The idea for the Paw Stop came about as I was unhappy about having to leave Nala home when I was out at work,” says Nicole.

“She experienced separation anxiety. I studied Business at Napier University and had gone into the recruitment industry, but really wanted to set up my own business, so doing something around my dog was the dream idea.” With her sister Natalie a willing accomplice to look after the food side of the business, they set about creating what is a unique venue. There are cafes populated with dogs or cats popping up in various locations where you can eat amongst the animals, but at the Paw Stop the difference is that it’s a space where you can bring your own dog, giving them a chance to socialise with other dogs too.

Besides the usual cafe menu that covers all the basics you would expect, there is a doggy menu including dog biscuits and dog muffin snacks that Natalie and Nicole make themselves. Their dogs Nala and Tara are usually in attendance. It was a busy Thursday lunchtime when I visited,

Nicole and Natalie with Jodi 32 | CALDERS

accompanied by a friend and her dog, and over a veggie wrap and salad we learned a bit more about how the place works. It’s a little like a parents and toddlers meet up, except instead of watching your kids interact and swapping notes about them, it’s all about the dogs. A couple came in for lunch with no pooch, so if you love dogs and just want to enjoy the atmosphere without a pooch in tow that’s fine too. I enjoyed my lunch, although as a coffee-lover I wasn’t able to order cappuccino (they offer filter coffee only) but with window seats complete with cushions and dog baskets, a box of toys and a few other nice touches, they’ve put careful thought into making it a venue where you can truly feel welcome whether you have two legs or four. Your dogs can be off their leads if you’re comfortable with that.

“We’re offering a series of events and workshops here in the evenings,” explains Nicole, “starting with a training workshop with a dog training expert.” You can also book the place for a doggy birthday party, which includes a special canine birthday cake, and “pawsecco.”

With plans for a chill-out zone for dogs who need a quiet space rather than the hustle and bustle when the cafe is busy, and other ideas in the pipeline, Natalie and Nicole are looking forward to developing the Paw Stop into something really special.

For more information, visit their Facebook page “Paw Stop,” call 07523 176222 or drop in at 1 Jarvey Street, Bathgate, during opening hours: Weekdays 9.30am - 4.00pm (ex. Wed), Sat 9.00am - 4.30pm, Sun 10.00am - 4.30pm.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer, after visiting the PawStop. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines

BUSTER THE DOG

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the July edition of Konect

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

Contacts details are on page 3.

ACROSS: 7. Manage, rule over (6), 8. Outfitter (6), 9. Information (4), 10. Set sail (8), 11. Most simple (7), 13. Vacant (5), 15. Caper, amazing feat (5), 16.Protection(7),18.Stress,accent(8),19.Otherwise(4), 21. Foolish (6), 22. 5 cent coin (6) DOWN: 1. Settee (4), 2. Connections, alliances (13), 3. Examine, study in detail (7), 4. Plump, rotund (5), 5. Outside edge of circle (13), 6. Household (8), 12. Tries (8), 14. Taunting, goading (7), 17. Separate, detached (5), 20. Trunk of plant (4)

Solution on Page 45

SUDOKU

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 33

34 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

INTERIORS

Plastic debris + Beach = Devastation We can’t get away from the plastics problem; the debate about how to deal with our environmentally devastating plastic habit permeates every part of our lives and most of us are keen to do whatever we can to help address the problem.

So our interiors column this month is contributed by local company Harvey Bruce, who are now supplying a sustainable roller blind with fabric made from recycled plastic ocean waste.

This unique eco-thread blind fabric, called Greenscreen Sea-Tex, is helping tackle the waste pollution problem in our oceans. The fabric uses an innovative high performance eco-thread called FLX yarn. Created by the engineering company Bionic, it’s formed by heating and spinning dozens of strands of recycled plastic together, recovered from beaches, shorelines, and coastal communities.

FLX yarn is strong and versatile, and comes with a 2-3% openness factor which means the fabric weave is tight; great for privacy, light control and retaining heat and energy in your home. There are five standard Sea-Tex colours including graphite, haze, sand, pearl and white, as well as custom options available.

There is a conservative estimate that there are currently 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic floating in the world’s oceans with even more continually washing up on shorelines. This incredible amount of plastic waste is having a serious @KonectMagazines

detrimental effect on the environment and marine ecosystems around the world. Types of plastic waste found include cups, bottles, milk cartons and abandoned fishing nets that can all poison or trap marine life including fish, dolphins, seals, turtles and whales. Plastic does not biodegrade quickly, often taking hundreds of years, so any plastic waste remains in the ocean for a very long time. This build-up of plastic waste has also accumulated into five ocean gyres - large circulating systems of wind-driven surface currents located across the world including the North Atlantic, South Atlantic, North Pacific, South Pacific and Indian Ocean. Floating plastic trapped within these gyres is estimated to take at least ten years to cycle back out again.

Volunteers around the world are tackling this growing issue through organised cleanups of shorelines and coastal communities. Plastic and other debris is removed and recycled to prevent it from re-entering the ocean. There is still a long way to go, but finding commercial uses for recycling plastic is one way of keeping it out of the oceans, and as a bonus it makes a very suitable blind fabric.

This article and illustrations were contributed by Derek Lamb of Harvey Bruce Interiors, Houston Mains, Williamson Garden Centre, Uphall, EH52 6PA. www.harveybruce.co.uk | Tel: 0800 756 5286 CALDERS | 35

FOOD & DRINK

Dainty pastries

Filled with sweetened whipped cream and fresh strawberries, these dainty pastries make a great treat for afternoon tea or can be served as a delicious summer dessert.

Swap the strawberries for fresh raspberries or blueberries, if liked.

Ingredients:

Method:

Tip:

2. Preheat the oven to 220oC, fan 200oC, gas mark 7.

Line a large baking sheet with baking paper. Beat the eggs into the mixture, a little at a time, until smooth and glossy. Spoon the mixture into a large piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Pipe 8 x 10cm lengths, spaced well apart, onto the baking sheet.

• 50g butter, chilled and diced • 65g plain flour, sifted • 2 medium eggs, lightly beaten • 300ml double cream • 1 tbsp icing sugar, plus extra for dusting • 150g small strawberries

You can make and bake the choux pastry eclairs a day in advance. If the pastry goes a little soft simply reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes until crisp.

Makes 8, Ready in 50 minutes, plus cooling

1. Place the butter and 150ml cold water in a small pan and heat gently until the butter melts. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil then quickly remove from the heat and add all the flour. Beat thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes away from the sides of the pan and forms a ball. Leave to cool for 3-4 minutes.

3. Bake for 12-15 mins until the eclairs are well risen and golden. Remove from the oven, pierce each eclair with the tip of a small knife and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes. This allows the steam to escape and dries out the centres of each eclair. Transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.

4. Whip the cream and icing sugar in a bowl until softly peaking. Spoon into a large piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Hull and slice most of the strawberries (reserving four for decoration).

5. Halve each eclair and fill with the cream then top with sliced strawberries. Sandwich back together and dust with icing sugar. Decorate each one with a swirl of piped cream and a reserved strawberry.

36 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

We repair Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Ovens, Dishwashers and Washer Dryers

0772 965 1692

info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook

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

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 37

38 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

PARENTING

Having fun.. .

Find their spark at Jupiter Artland! ...at Artsparks

” “Jencks Walk the

My girls are just bursting with energy at this time of year. The weather perks up and so do they. And it seems they are always desperate to get outside.

And so I am always on the lookout for new things to try…especially as the summer holidays draw nearer and seven weeks of empty days looms ahead of us. But right now I’m giving myself a big parenting pat on the back for finding a great new activity that they both loved and are dying to go back and do again.

At Easter they went along to Artsparks at Jupiter Artland for the first time; two-hour sessions during the school holidays that promised to be filled with fun art and craft activities and lots of outdoor play. And boy did they deliver!

I wasn’t sure how they’d take to it; my littlest in particular can go one way or the other when you try to drop her off at activities where adults don’t get to come along for the ride. And I knew they’d be in different groups because of their ages (it’s always more of a gamble when they don’t have a pal with them). But when we first arrived at the woodland classroom to drop them off @KonectMagazines

it was a hive of activity with outdoor crafts and activities going on everywhere we looked. They were hesitant only because they didn’t seem to know where to begin. And honestly I kind of wanted to join in too! So my husband and I made a swift exit as they got stuck in and before we’d even made it out of the gate one of them was bubble painting and the other was spray painting a canvas strung between a couple of trees.

It was a gorgeous sunny day so we decided to just make the most of the beautiful surroundings of Jupiter Artland. We wandered along the sculpture trail and then sat down on “the Jencks” where we stumbled across the older kids doing some pond dipping. I could see my eldest jumping up and down with excitement from a mile off.

By the time the sessions finished they were both paint-splattered and sun-kissed but absolutely beaming from ear to ear.

They didn’t stop talking

about it for days and of all the things they did over Easter (which was a lot!) it was the one thing that really seemed to capture their imaginations. They have been asking ever since if they can go again.

So if you are on the lookout for something different to do during the school holidays I would definitely recommend checking out www.jupiterartland.org for more information. Jupiter Artland are offering twohour Summer Sessions on Fridays in July and August for 3-5 and 5-10 year olds.

We will definitely be booking for my girls to go back for more…they have lovingly preserved their paintsplattered clothing especially for the occasion!

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

WISHING ALL READERS A FANTASTIC GALA DAY MID CALDER GALA DAY SATURDAY 1ST JUNE

EAST CALDER GALA DAY SATURDAY 8TH JUNE

KIRKNEWTON GALA DAY SATURDAY 15TH JUNE

SUNDAY 9TH JUNE Seashore Foraging - Explore the shore with Anna Canning from Floramedica and find out about some of the ancient natural remedies that can be found around Blackness Castle.

Venue: Blackness Castle. Cost: £10, book via historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/whats-on/ SATURDAY 15TH JUNE Wildflower Wander - Join a Historic Environment Scotland Ranger on a guided walk to learn more about the flowers and plants that can be found around Linlithgow Loch and Peel. 1pm-3pm at Linlithgow Palace. Free of charge. For more information please contact HES on 0131 652 8150 rangers@hes.scot SUNDAY 16TH JUNE Fun Dog Show in aid of Ravelrig RDA Judged by RDA’s Rufferees show the Puparazzi how pawfect your best friend is. £2.00 per dog/class or £10 unlimited classes per dog. Best junior handler, best puppy, waggiest tail, best trick and much more!

BBQ from 1pm, drinks and homemade cakes. 21 Ravelrig Gait, Balerno, EH14 7HN. All proceeds to Ravelig RDA, for mor information, visit: www.ravelrig-rda.org.uk 40 | CALDERS

SATURDAY 22ND JUNE Linlithgow Classic Cars - Monthly meet up at the Cross, Linlithgow, 4th Saturday of every month through the summer. 10am – 2pm. See www.linlithgowclassics.co.uk SATURDAY 29TH & SUNDAY 30TH JUNE Spectacular Jousting at Linlithgow Palace - Hear the thunder of hooves and the clashing of lances as Linlithgow hosts Historic Environment Scotland’s annual jousting tournament. Watch as noble knights battle it out to be crowned champion. Buy your event tickets online in advance to save 10%. Book via www.historicenvironment.scot/ visit-a-place/whats-on/ (Historic Environment Scotland members free) DAILY UNTIL 6TH AUGUST In the Footsteps of John Muir – Photography Exhibition - At Blackness Castle. Exploring the landscape that inspired John Muir, this photography exhibition traces Muir’s travels from his childhood in Dunbar to the American National Parks he helped to establish. Presented by the American Scottish Foundation, the works of Scottish photographer Ken Paterson shares the beauty of both Scottish and American wilderness that John Muir was so passionate about. Daily 9.30am – 5.30pm, last entry 5pm. Included in castle entry price.

DAILY FROM 29TH JUNE TO 20TH AUGUST Den-Building Adventures at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - Join the tribe for daring daily adventures exploring some of the wildest and most remote corners of the Almond Valley site. Build your shelter, set up camp, forage for food, keep a look out for wild animals, and learn how to survive in the wild for at least half an hour. www.almondvalley.co.uk WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

@KonectMagazines

MUSIC REVIEW

Nobody listens to techno

Madonna believes she is being discriminated against for being 60. This could be the case, pop music has always been a release for the young, it spoils it if your gran likes it, or, as in this case, makes it.

Maybe it is not her age that is the issue with grim new single “Crave”. It could be the slavish imitation of one thousand autotune merchants, complete with imported generic relationship misery, rather than anything resembling the spark that has run through previous attempts to keep up with the pack. Plus, that eyepatch.

It’s over, you’re too old, let go.

In a week for it, Mark Hoppus (47) of Blink 182 takes the bare faced cheek award for making the statement “After playing in this band for 27 years, I want to push it and do different things and take blink to places where we haven’t been before,” and then delivering “Blame It On My Youth”, an anaemic soundalike to every Blink 182 single previously and, I

@KonectMagazines

confidently predict, yet to come. From the title I was hoping for a knowing barb, nodding to the conundrum faced by middle aged Californian rockers whose shorts are now not the only things which are baggy, but, you know, Blink 182. I have listened to this so that you don’t have to.

Which brings us to Beiber. Twenty Five year old Beiber. Who would have thought we would be so pleased to see him at this party, even if he has bought his nerdy mate Ed Sheeran along. Tech- nically Ed gets top billing, well, he is twenty eight, but this is Justin’s show. I played this yesterday and it forced the sun to come out. The sound of the summer, proper pop.

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

CALDERS | 41

June

Jupiter Artland, West Lothians newest five star attraction, has recently reopened for the season. Check out the sculptures set amongst the beautiful backdrop of West Lothian countryside. New for 2019 is the partnership with Edinburgh based restaurant “Fhior” – providing tasty, seasonal food after a day’s exploring!

At Blackness Castle, join Anna Canning from Floramedica to find out about some of the ancient natural remedies that can be found around Blackness Castle. A perfect way to explore the “ship that never sailed” as well as learning something new. Sunday 9th June from 1pm to 3.30pm One of the big highlights of the month is always the Spectacular Jousting at Linlithgow Palace. This year’s jousting takes place on the weekend of Saturday 29th June until Sunday

30th June – and tickets are now available, although it is free for Historic Environment Scotland members.

And last but not least, for the Abba fans – Europe’s leading tribute band, Abbamania, comes to Howden Park Centre on the 30th June. A sensational two hour show featuring record breaking and timeless hits from Waterloo to Dancing Queen which will have you dancing in the aisles.

There’s plenty more going on across West Lothian, so why not check out our website for full listings of events, as well as inspiration for places you can go this month? Don’t forget some events this month will need prebooking, so don’t miss out - head to www.visitwestlothian.co.uk to find out more.

Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian

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

Would you like to advertise your business to over 50,000 homes throughout West Lothian and Edinburgh (West)?

Our contact details are on page 3.

42 | CALDERS

@KonectMagazines

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

EAST CALDER NEW SEATED EXERCISE CLASS FOR OLDER ADULTS This class is ideal for older adults who can’t stand for any length of time. Have fun exercising to great music from the 1950s, 60s and 70s! 3. East Calder Partnership Centre, every Wednesday from 10am to 11am. Cost is £3 per class.

For more information please contact the instructor, Jan Malloch, on 07835 680984.

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.

@KonectMagazines

WEST LOTHIAN GYMNASTICS Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, Livingston Pre school classes for boys and girls, learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility. Classes lead by fully qualified coaches and morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months 3 years and 3­5 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list. First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail.com.

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

KIRKNEWTON NEW KIRKNEWTON STITCH ‘N BITCH Friendly informal group for men and women of all skill levels who have their own sewing projects they are working on or want to start working on. If you get stuck along the way you can ask for advice and we can all help each other. Thursdays 7pm-8.30pm at Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton. To take part you will need your own sewing machine and or any tools/materials for your project.

Cost: £2, to cover use of the room and for tea/coffee. For more information, please contact Amy McMillan - search “Kirknewton Stitch & Bitch” on Facebook and request to join the group.

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.

44 | CALDERS

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.

MID CALDER 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.

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 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.

WEST CALDER 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.

@KonectMagazines

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 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

@KonectMagazines

available. Pumpherston services - The Kirk of Calder also holds fortnightly services on Wednesday mornings at 10:15 at the Pumpherston Institute Hall. The website www.kirkofcalder.com has full details of current activities/services.

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

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

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

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.

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.

ACROSS: 7. Europe, 8. Walnut, 9. Used, 10. Precious, 11. Patches, 13. Waist, 15. Print, 17. Liberty, 20. Addition, 21. Lead, 22. Sliced, 23. Richer.

DOWN: 1. Russia, 2. Wood, 3. Peoples, 4. Sweep, 5. Ultimate, 6. Queues, 12. Convince, 14. Dinners, 16 Riddle, 18. Traded, 19. Giddy, 21. Lace.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 33

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 5 APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair 37 ARCHITECT Plan-It 28 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 Paragon Bathroom solutions 2 S and S Home Improvements 29 BEAUTICIAN Beauty by Annie 22 Browhau5 Microblading 22 Lisa Blair 22 BOILER SERVICES The Gas Engineer 28 BOWLING CLUB East Calder Bowling Club 42 BUILDER Build-It 28 CAR SERVICING, MOT & REPAIR Autocare Solutions 26 JWG Car Care 27 Kirknewton Garage 26 CHILDREN’S NURSERY Angela Elizabeth Nursery 38 CHIROPODY/PODIATRY/ FOOTCARE McDonald Footcare 23 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Lothian Buses 24 COMPUTER/PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 6 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce 34 DANCE: CLASSES/SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop 42 DENTIST No.9 Practice 23 ELECTRICIAN A&A Electrical Solutions 37 Riddell Electrical Services 12 ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller 17 Turpie & Co. 11 YOPA 13 46 | CALDERS

FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES John Gillan Fencing and Landscaping 14 FLORIST Vicky’s Flowers 22 FUNERAL DIRECTOR Mark Porteous Funeral Directors 47 GARAGE DOORS Garolla 27 Max’s Garage Doors 27 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 18 GARDEN DESIGN/ MAINTENANCE Evergreen Balerno 14 GAS STOCKIST Charles Gas 5 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 25 GOLF CLUB Baberton Golf Club 4 GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 21 HAIR SALON Jane & Friends 23 TJ Barbers 4 HANDYMAN 1st Call Handyman Services 14 HEARING AIDS & SERVICES ABC Hearing 19 JOINERY Craigcrook Joinery 4 Geoff Vinter Joinery 34 KILTMAKER The Kilt Studio 22 LANDLORD SERVICES Let Link 12 Turpie & Co. 11 LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Beatson’s Building Supplies 15 LAWNS Green Thumb Lawn Service 15 LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 5 OVEN CLEANING Shiny Bright Ovens 37

PAINTING & DECORATING Braekirk Decorators PEST CONTROL Frontline Pest Control

4 4

PLASTERING Alexander Aitken Plastering 13 Nu Walls 13

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Currievale Plumbing & Drainage 12 Dewar Plumbing 13 EPH Scotland 12 Mech A Tech Home Heating Services 6 McLellan Plumbing 34 Plumb-It 28

PUBLIC HOUSE Black Bull Inn

RESTAURANT Al Borgo Ristorante ROOFING Taylor Roofs

48 37 7

STORAGE FACILITIES Morrison Dick Container Storage 5 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 7 TUITION Kumon Livingston

38

VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Lamond Veterinary Clinic 30 Pentland Veterinary Clinic 33

WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 13 Suburban Window Cleaning 13

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 41

@KonectMagazines