Konect Calders March 2019

MARCH 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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THIS ISSUE

TO OUR MARCH EDITION

W

elcome to the March issue of Konect. It’s good to see the first signs of spring out and about, and to be able look forward to the clocks going forward at the end of March. If you’re keen to get those spring cleaning and decorating jobs done around the house or to make a start on the outdoors jobs, try and use local businesses to help you whenever possible.

This year is a special one for me as it’s the 10th year of publishing Konect, and we’ll be celebrating plenty! We’re holding a fund-raising Spring Ball in May in aid of the School Bank West Lothian. All the details are on the inside back cover of this magazine, so if you’re looking for a glam night out in aid of a good local cause, we’ll be delighted to see you!

The local charity piece is a little different this month – it’s a special project being run by Disability West Lothian, to collect oral histories to record the impact disabled people have had on the landscape of West Lothian over the past 50 years. Turn to p8 and if you or anyone you know may be able to help, do get in touch with them.

P12 Charity: Back to the Future Project............ 8 Health & Beauty...........................................10 Technology: Cyber Security......................12 Sport: GymKarma........................................14 Interiors: Spring Tips...................................21 Gardening: gardens are good for you!...22 Property Matters..........................................26 Vet’s Tip.........................................................33 What’s On......................................................38 Parenting: Let me entertain you!..............41 Music Review...............................................42 Puzzles..........................................................42 Clubs & Classes..........................................43

COVER IMAGE: Crocuses in bloom throughout West Lothian

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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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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Windows & Doors Kitchens Bathrooms Garage Conversions Sun Lounges & Orangeries Conservatories Roofline

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Membership offers 2019 Limited offers from February for new members

B A B E RT O N GOLF CLUB 1893

7 day membership: £49/month* 6 Day membership: £39/month* 5 Day membership: £35/month* Young Adult: £10 - £26/month* *on direct debit NO JOINING FEES

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Baberton Golf Club 55 Baberton Ave Juniper Green Edinburgh EH14 5DU 0131 453 4911 manager@baberton.co.uk CALDERS | 7

12.00 midday - 3.00pm at the Livingston Reminiscence Centre, The Centre.

Please join us for tea, coffee, and information about the project, and see our miniexhibition which includes a vintage wheelchair salvaged from Bangour!

There’s been much debate in the media recently about the voice and representation of disabled people, sparked by the release of the movie The Upside this January, where the lead character has quadriplegia; the role is played by Bryan Cranston instead of a disabled actor.

So it’s interesting that local charity Disability West Lothian is currently undertaking a study of influence that disabled people have had on the urban landscape of West Lothian in the past 50 years. Called “Back to the Future West Lothian,” the project will be an oral history of the influence disabled people have had on many aspects of life such as public transport; the accessibility of public buildings, changes in educational facilities; health care facilities; parks, paths, and many others.

Invacar Did you have one of these cars? What school did you go to? What clubs, groups or activities did you participate in? Do you have any vintage disability aids lurking in the loft? If you, or an older relative, are happy to talk about your experiences of living with a disability in West Lothian, the Back to the Future team would love to hear from you.

“Older people with a disability can be quite invisible,” says Debbie Forsyth, Volunteer Project Coordinator. “You may not see them out and about especially if they have mobility issues; but we’re keen to capture their heritage.”

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Volunteers from the project will meet you wherever is convenient for you – in your home, or at the Disability West Lothian office in Pumpherston (which is fully accessible), to hear about and record your experiences. The volunteers are trained in oral history, and at the end of the project the recordings will be kept at the West Lothian Local History library, and a booklet and short video will be produced.

Gordon Mungall, Chair of Disability West Lothian, explained how the project came about: “There have been a lot of changes in the past 30 years, since Disability West Lothian was set up, so this is an opportunity to look back on what it was like living in West Lothian with a disability in the past to see how disabled people have driven change.”

Disability West Lothian (DWL) started in 1976 as a grass roots organisation and founded as a company in 1988. DWL works with people with disabilities to improve the quality of life of disabled people by promoting the ideals of the Social Model of Disability. If you would like to be involved in any way, to share your stories, or to volunteer to help collect the stories, to help at events or in any other way, please contact Disability West Lothian via the details below.

Facebook: “Back to the Future, West Lothian” Website: www.disabilitywestlothian.org

Call Debbie Forsyth Back to the Future Project Co-Ordinator, on 01506 774030 or email debbie.forsyth@disabilitywestlothian.org Back to the Future West Lothian is Heritage Lottery Funded.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

WHY YOU NEED TO TREAT YOURSELF Why do hairdressers insist on conditioning treatments?

Well there are man answers to this question but the main point of a conditioning treatment is to help the cuticle lie flatter.

Deep conditioning treatments will help the scale-like surface of the hair close down which will ultimately will keep colour locked in and not only lasting longer but looking brighter too as the hair surface will essentially be more reflective and hair will be shinier due to this.

Conditioning treatments will also make it easier to detangle your hair as a flatter cuticle reduces friction. They eliminate static and reduce breakage through intense hydration keeping the hair shaft supple.

Ideally a treatment should be done once a week, although I recommend more during winter as the cold dry air can be particularly harsh on the hair. Top recommendations would be the bond boosting Olaplex (for a specialist in salon colour service) or for at home Wella’s Nutri Enrich deep nourishing treatment is a 10/10.

Why You Should Probably Just Take The Leap

You’re not happy with your life. You’ve accepted you’re not happy. But are you motivated to change it?

Many people find themselves in just this situation, and they don’t make a change until something serious forces them. Death, divorce, and redundancy are some of the unfortunate events that it takes for a lot of people to make a change. They suddenly find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place and finally perceive there to be no risk in making the change. This usually results in a positive outcome and they wish that they’d had the courage to make the change sooner.

Consider this; Most people overestimate the risk of change, and underestimate the risk of staying the same.

If you’re not happy with your current situation then the chances are that by making a change you will experience the same or better.

Don’t be frightened to try something new.

Be terrified that you’ll come to the end of your life never having experienced real happiness and fulfilment. That is the scariest prospect of all.

You don’t have to wait to hit rock bottom to make a change. You can take the leap at any time.

Would you wait for a ship to sink before jumping to a life raft? No, you would jump on a life raft as soon as you sensed danger.

Don’t wait until you’re drowning before you make your leap.

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston.www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 10 | 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

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TECHNOLOGY

Computer Security is more important than ever as the scammers get more sophisticated and ever more ingenious in their quest to get your data, and in some cases, your money.

Here are five simple ways to protect you and your personal data:

Virus Protection - Every computer should have decent virus protection as it is your first form of defence against the spam / virus attacks. Even a free version is better than nothing; but we do recommend purchasing some commercial software to protect your devices (typically around £15 - £20 per annum).

Fraudulent Email Links - There’s recently been an increase in the number of e-mail scams which involve people trying to steal your information by getting you to click fraudulent links. An easy way to avoid falling for ‘spoofed URLs’ is to make sure any links in an e-mail actually point to the location they appear to be linking to in the name of the link itself. The location of any link shows up in the taskbar of your e-mail application or online e-mail service when you hover over it.

If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and go directly to the website. Watch for recent fake emails from BT, Microsoft Office 365 & Gmail asking for you to reset your password.

Telephone scams - The call will generally be from an anonymous number and they may claim to be from your bank, telephone company or internet provider. They will claim that they need to move money to a safe account or that your computer is having problems; neither of which are true. If unsure, ask to phone them back and then search for a legitimate number.

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Passwords - Most people use the same password for everything. This is an easy way to have your data compromised as one breached account can lead fraudsters to any other account. Some large companies have faced massive data breaches over the years which have led to the compromising of your personal data (Facebook, Gmail, LinkedIn, Sony).

Look at www.haveibeenpwned.com to query whether one of your e-mails has been involved in a breach. This doesn’t necessarily mean that one of your accounts has been hacked but it’s certainly knowledge you can use. Using a password manager is a handy way to keep track of all your passwords. Passwords should preferably be eight or more characters and a mix of letters number and symbols.

Backups - When was the last time you backed up your data?

If your computer stopped tomorrow you could lose everything – the photo library, an allimportant Word document or your entire music collection. With the advent of cloud computing data can be automatically backed up to a secure location on the Internet from as little as £5 per month.

This article was contributed by Angus Kerr, Technical Director of Worx24. Providing computer hardware, software & IT Support for Small Businesses and Home Users.

Based in Colinton, www.worx24.co.uk @KonectMagazines

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SPORTS

November 1962: 19 of us on a mass blind date organised by Barry Donnelly who, courtesy of a road accident, had an overnight grey streak down the centre of his black mane. Poor Beryl got the last choice, (me).

“What has this to do with gymnastics?” you ask.

Well, the occasion was the Christmas dance at I M Marsh College - the ladies’ equivalent of Loughborough for men - the foremost Sports Colleges in Britain. When our girls, Jo and Sue, were 7 and 5 respectively, Beryl took them along to West Kirby gym club where they commenced successful gymnastic careers lasting till their late teens. Beryl played a major role in the growth and success of the Club until her death over 30 years later, becoming a highly respected coach and judge and lifetime president of the club.

West Kirby produced Britain’s first female World Gymnastics gold medallist, Beth Tweddle, who inspired the next generation.

Thus gymnastics is close to my heart. My chest has swelled with pride as progressively higher medals were won; my heart has pounded with nerves as a risky move was attempted; I’ve suffered sympathy pains at times of injury. Above all, I watched the ability and life confidence of my girls grow with every new move they mastered, every level achieved, every medal won.

So I vigorously recommend you consider gymnastics as a leisure activity for your child or

grandchild. An ideal place to start (600 members can’t be wrong!), would be Livingston-based West Lothian Artistic Gymnastics Club, where balance, strength, flexibility, agility, coordination, endurance, selfconfidence, persistence, social skills should all improve rapidly under the dedicated guidance of their outstanding coaching team.

There are many disciplines recognised by the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique plus a few unrecognised. Artistic gymnastics is the bestknown: six disciplines for men, (floor exercise, pommel horse, still rings, vault, parallel bars and horizontal bars), and four for women (vault, uneven bars, balance beam and floor exercise).

Your West Lothian Club, (est.1985), offers classes starting from toddlers all the way through to adults, for recreational members or committed competitors. The club has produced many Scottish Internationals and even a competitor in the Commonwealth Games (Ellie Russell). The coaches are top-notch under head coaches John Campbell and Becki Campbell, so your “baby” would be in the ideal proven environment.

An operation like WLAGC, is no fluke. It requires a vision, then a plan and crucially the people with the will, energy and ambition to make it all happen and keep it driving forward. It’s impossible to remain unimpressed by the scale and efficiency of the WLAGC: the classes are merely the tip of a huge iceberg. Beneath the surface lie crucial fundraising schemes (donations or ideas gratefully welcomed!), coach development, summer camps, competition organisation, competition entries, competition/leisure trips abroad, plus the usual demands common to all businesses. Every day must be like a complicated tumble run! It’s exhausting just to contemplate!

But what a job they do in providing a safe, efficient, consistent and aspirational environment for youngsters to grow! Respect! www.facebook.com/westlothiangymnastics The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer.

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Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Health and Wellbeing pages.

Contact details are on page 3.

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

www.vickysflowers.com

Local tailored Pilates classes for one and all Body and Core Pilates oers expert and beginners Pilates classes throughout Edinburgh and West Lothian tailored for your needs and ďŹ tness levels.

Our classes run throughout the week at times to suit your busy lifestyle.

Classes are fun, friendly and focused on improving core strength to help you get the most out of life.

To book your class or for more information contact us today or visit our Facebook page /BodyandCorePilates.

Through Balance and Control, Gain Strength Contact Mairianne Kpedekpo to book your class on 07912 963851 email pilates@bodyandcore.co.uk or visit www.bodyandcore.co.uk

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Body & Core Pilates

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D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

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

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

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

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

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

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com 18 | CALDERS

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EPH

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WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

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

Contact details are on page 3.

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Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

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Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance 20 | CALDERS

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INTERIORS

If you are up for it and are looking to make the transition from the winter blues into a more bright and airy home; here are 5 spring interior design tips to inspire and get you started.

Refresh your wallpaper and paint - An easy way to make a change to your interior design is by refreshing the paint or wallpaper of your homes’ rooms. A fresh lick of paint or injecting some patterns or colour through the use of wallpaper is a great way to give your home a spring update. Nonexpensive options such as standard paints and removable wallpaper mean that refreshing your homes’ wall should be both cheap, and easy.

Invest in new window coverings - White crisp plantation shutters look to be 2019’s must have for your home. FSC Certified Basswood plantation shutters are not just environmentally friendly but also provide ideal shading and look fantastic both inside and out! Fresh voile drapes and roller blinds also give a cotton fresh feel to your interior space and enhance light control.

Go Vintage - Another on-trend style is vintage interior décor. Whether you own rental properties or are just looking to refresh your family home, going vintage is a bold style statement which won’t disappoint. Everything from cabinets to light fixtures can be sourced from vintage furniture specialists to give your home more of a touch of nostalgic, romantic feel.

Get Creative - Getting creative involves a little bit of arts and crafts, and if you enjoy this some ideas include making simple artwork to hang on your walls, or making tabletop ornaments out of recycled materials. Even creating a living display out of old containers and filling it with soil, moss and plants can make a huge difference to your interiors.

By tapping into your creative side you can refresh your home at very little cost. @KonectMagazines

Give your Furniture a Facelift - Another spring interior design tip that won’t cost the earth is to give your homes’ furniture a facelift. Ideas include repainting picture frames and window sills, re-upholstering chairs, or giving table and countertops a fresh coat of lacquer or paint.

Whatever your situation, or your tastes and interests, there are literally thousands of ways you can prepare your interiors for spring.

Hopefully the five tips above are enough to give you some inspiration to get started!

This article and illustrations were contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors. www.harveybruce.co.uk Williamson’s Garden Centre, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6PA CALDERS | 21

GARDENING PROJECT

How good do you want gardening to be for you?

New Year’s resolutions are far behind us and Spring’s arrival is always a bit fickle so how keen are you to get out into the garden and restore you mind and body with some creative gardening?

If you are one of the more reluctant gardeners can we persuade you to turn your thoughts to the wonderful and very fashionable Oriental Hellebores? No matter how reluctant you are it won’t take too much effort to plant one of these most rewarding plants in your garden and if you are lucky enough to already have some in the garden it will take even less effort to go out into your garden armed with scissors and snip off a few heads to bring indoors.

If you are treating yourself to a new plant they enjoy being planted in soil that is neither too dry

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nor too wet and where they will get a little sun and little shade. Do cultivate the soil well before planting. They should be placed somewhere you will see them at this time of year, we sometimes enjoy a new one flowering in a pot by the front door, only planting it in a permanent position after flowering.

Floating the heads in a bowl of water indoors really delights the soul and proves the point that even a little something from the garden is good for you!

HELLEBORES: Floating the heads in a bowl of water indoors really delights the soul 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

Cheap is not always cheerful As any retailer knows, these days we are all up for a bargain and we are all looking to make a saving. That’s perfectly understandable, but there are real pitfalls to being thrifty.

I recently decided to switch to a different brand of shaving product, having used the same one for over thirty years. My decision was made purely on price, which had steadily increased to the point where I began to feel that I simply wasn’t getting value for money. I was prompted to look at alternative options when a different brand of razor regularly started appearing in sponsored adverts online. The repeated awareness of the new brand name and my now wavering loyalty to my existing one pushed me towards trying the new product. The initial ordering system was very straightforward with monthly repeat orders customised to my personal requirements and the speed of delivery, free gift, quality of the packaging and the general presentation of the products were all very impressive.

So far so good. However, after trying the new razor for the first time, the experience was disappointing and reminded me of a low quality disposable product which was quite a surprise. I initially put it down to it being different rather than of inferior quality however after several weeks of persisting, I eventually concluded that the product was not of the same premium quality I had been used to and, despite the new product being 50% cheaper, I reverted to my original brand. Although the convenience, branding, ordering service, packaging, marketing and price were all excellent, the customer experience fell short when it came to using the product: it simply did not fulfil its brand promise. This kind of 26 | CALDERS

company and brand experience applies to all products and services: the final proof is to be found in how they perform.

The same is true when it comes to estate agents. The ultimate test of an estate agent is the price they can achieve for your property.

Again, like the razor story, some people are tempted by lower marketing and selling costs – only to find that they might have made much more money from the sale if they had invested in a better service.

Online estate agents, and for that matter many high-street agents, might sell your property more ‘cheaply’ but they will often do so by cutting corners – for example, by not investing in experienced staff or industry-leading marketing. Or they may, particularly in the case of online agencies and call centres, quite simply not have the requisite local property market knowledge to enable them to break through the ‘price ceiling’ for similar properties in your area. This could mean that you miss out on (tens of) thousands of pounds in the final sale price for your property. In the end, the cheapest option really can turn out to cost you the most…and that’s definitely not something to feel cheerful about.

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

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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

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

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

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

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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

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

M.O.T s £35.00

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

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BUSTER THE DOG

Alistair Taylor

BVMS MRCVS www.pentlandvetclinic.com

0131 451 5111

• 100% Small animal practice • Modern surgical, medical, x-ray laboratory and dental facilities • 24 Hour Emergency Service 5 Riccarton Mains Rd, Currie, EH14 5PX

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The importance of being well groomed

Grooming is always an important part of your pet care regime but when the weather gets warmer you can be sure your pet will want to shed their coat as much as we do.

Brush long haired pets at least once a day at this time of year. This makes them feel more comfortable and also helps prevent knots and tangles. In particularly warm weather, think about having your dog’s coat trimmed – much easier to groom, and less vacuuming required.

Regular grooming makes it more likely that you’ll spot fleas and ticks if they’re there.

Warm weather encourages them out, but they’re difficult to spot unless you get close up. For your pet’s comfort and wellbeing t’s important to take steps to keep the coat free of fleas and ticks and bear in mind that ticks, while not common in our local area, can cause serious illness.

Regular grooming makes it less likely that your pet will ingest lots of loose hairs when they are self-grooming. Cats in particular are fastidious about grooming and hairballs are a common problem, especially for long haired breeds. Hairballs can cause blockages in the digestive tract and brushing helps to minimise the risk by reducing the volume of hair being swallowed.

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

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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

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

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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

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.

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March

RUNS UNTIL SUNDAY 24 MARCH 2019 Brick City at Blackness Castle: Brick City is a celebration of iconic buildings from cities around the world, carefully recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore and his team. Included in normal castle admission price. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot for information.

TH

EVERY DAY UNTIL THE 22ND MARCH 2019 Afternoon Tea - (and admission is free) at Almond Valley: When you book a special high tea at Almond Valley, until 22nd March, admission is absolutely FREE, and you can take time to explore the site and meet the animals.

What’s better still is that fives and unders can enjoy a camping adventure deep in the teddy bear woods; a warm, bear-infested corner the tearoom that will remain in place until the end of March.

Bring along your own soft toy if you like - they eat for free....!

Afternoon tea is £9.95/ adult, £4.95/child, for a minimum of two people. Teas must be booked and paid for in advance by calling 01506 414957 during office hours and giving at least 24 hours notice.

Available between 2pm and 4pm, places are limited, especially at weekends, so book early.

The menu is executive chef Morag’s choice of dainty sandwiches, savouries and cakes, plus tea, coffee, or juice. We’ll do our best to cater for any special dietary requirements.

HOWDEN PARK CENTRE

has a busy programme of events including live music, dance, theatre, workshops and exhibitions.

See their website at: www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk for complete up to date listing or contact the box office: 01506 777666.

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. 38 | CALDERS

March

There’s plenty to see and do in March in West Lothian...

The West Lothian Variety Show takes place at Howden Park Centre on Sunday 17th March from 14.00. Celebrate talent of all ages across West Lothian, with performances from young and old all coming together to present an afternoon of music and theatre. Tickets are just £5 so don’t miss this fun event for the whole family. Also at Howden Park Centre, for the adults amongst us, the hit comedy “Dirty Dusting” on Wednesday 28th March is a hilarious, feel good comedy sure to have you laughing out loud.

For the kids, a Teddy Bears Picnic at Almond Valley always goes down a treat! Afternoon tea costs £9.95/ adults and £4.95/kids. Bring along your favourite teddy bear, doll or soft toy!

In Linlithgow, on the 6th April join the Linlithgow Arts Guild for a concert of Violin and Piano featuring Lana Trotovsek and Maria Canyigueral. The award multi award winning pair will be at the Academy Theatre from 19.30 for an evening of musical excellence.

If you’re thinking ahead to sunnier times, tickets are on sale for two festivals. Party at the Palace returns, featuring a line-up of Wet Wet Wet, Deacon Blue, KT Tunstall to name a few. Also, new this year at Jupiter Artland, following on from the success of Romanti-Crash, “Jupiter Rising” will take place in August. Don’t miss out on the chance to secure your tickets for both of these events as they’re sure to sell fast.

The new Visit West Lothian website has recently launched. With a completely refreshed appearance, updated venue listings and a comprehensive What’s On section, it’s the one stop shop for finding out what to see do in West Lothian.

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 @KonectMagazines

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CALDERS | 39

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PARENTING

Socks @

Let me entertain you!

Jumpstation

A wise friend said to me recently that oing Wild you grow with your child. She is already G the proud owner of a teenager so while she now has a whole new set of challenges to contend with, there are a lot of stages of parenting that are in the rear view mirror for her.

It’s kind of like parenthood is an obstacle course; every now and again you come across a new hurdle that you have to work out how to tackle. But once it’s behind you, you don’t need to worry about it any more.

When my girls were babies I knew where to find all the best changing facilities, feeding rooms, and places that were breastfeeding friendly. When they were potty training I knew where every toilet was within fifty paces and the fastest route to get there. For now I know all the best soft-play hangouts and places to go for lunch where I can get a kids box full of things they will actually eat. But what comes next?

My eldest, of course, is always the first one to venture into unknown territory. And she is now reaching an age where I need to think outside the box a little more often to come up with new and interesting things to do. She’s too @KonectMagazines

old for a lot of the soft play places but too young to go off on her own yet she is just raring to go…somewhere!

So I’m faced with the latest hurdle of coming up with new and different things to try now that she is a bit older.

So if, like me, you find yourself in no-man’s land somewhere between threenager and teenager here’s what I’ve come up with so far to keep the kids out of trouble.

Kids Go Wild run woodland activities, classes and workshops for kids and big kids alike. There are weekly Little Boots sessions for younger kids, while older ones can enjoy all manner of bushcraft and outdoor activities as they learn and explore in the wild. Den building, tree climbing, campfires, mini beasts, tool skills…what could be better?

JumpStation Trampoline Park with its interconnected trampolines and activity zones is jam-packed with fun for kids with energy to burn.

They offer trampoline classes if the kids really want to learn or general jumps sessions if they just want to play. They even offer the likes of disco nights, fitness sessions, and a dodgeball league. Look out for Tots Time sessions for pre-school children.

Edinburgh International Climbing Arena does Clip ‘n Climb sessions on cleverly designed walls and fun climbing challenges. I’d say my daughter was probably feeling equal parts fear and curiosity the first time we took her but she was totally hooked! It is a great new challenge and there is nothing like the sense of achievement they get when they reach new heights.

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.

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PUZZLES

Crawling from the wreckage

CROSSWORD

HMV is safe once more, some of them, and even Fopp in Byres Road is staying open.

Solution in the April edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Sea between Europe and Africa (13), 8. Created, designed (8), 9. Perfectly fair or flat (4), 10. Normally, typically (7), 12. Unwanted plants (5), 14. Holding device (5), 16. Copenhagen’s country (7), 19. Astonish (4), 20. Tropical fruits (8), 22. Celebrated, toasted (13) DOWN: 1. Green leafy plant (4), 2. Picture house (6), 3. Fabric (7), 4. Wedded woman (5), 5. Dust might cause this! (6), 6. Chart of dates (8), 11. Answer (8), 13. Tomato sauce (7), 15. Organize, oversee (6), 17. First working day (6), 18. Waste material (5), 21. Foot digits (4)

Solution on Page 45

SUDOKU

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Lazy TV reporting of asking people on the street who haven’t bought a record since 1985 for their informed opinion and concluding physical sales were dead anyway very swiftly turned into real trouble for The Specials, Busted, and Ian Brown, all of whom had new albums out that could not be stocked during the period of the company’s administration.

HMV, it turns out, accounts for 30% of all physical music product sold in the UK. My recipe for success: ditch the 400 big head funko pops taking up space where music should be and stop trying to sell graphic novels that everyone knows are half your price online elsewhere. Move the CDs to the front of the shop, toys and T shirts to the back, and open a cafe/listening area. Sorted. Next!

One CD available in HMV right now is Michael Head’s new album, “Adios Senor Pussycat”. If you don’t know Michael Head then you might know his groups The Pale Fountains, Shack, or The Strands. And if you don’t know any of them then I envy you because you have weeks worth of wonderful music to discover. ASP, for the most part, delivers a folky, almost Brazillian setting within which melodies rise up that seem familiar but twist away before you can place them, becoming new. Lyrically obtuse (“It’s not like in the movies/there may be police involved”) but immediate, the songs glide by like a dream, interrupted only by a throwback rocking take on Wild Mountain Thyme, described by a friend as “Poundshop Byrds”. He is not wrong, but I like it.

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’. @KonectMagazines

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

EAST CALDER NEW 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

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.

MINI & ME A local group combing play and music held weekly on Tuesday’s in Kirknewton Village Hall, 1:30 - 2:45 and cost £1.50 per family. Ideal from Birth to pre-school. Contact Amanda on 07814055499 for more info or go to our Facebook Page; Kirknewton Mini & Me. (Classes don’t run during school holidays) 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!

MUSICAL MINI & ME Kirknewton Village Hall Mondays (Fortnightly) 2pm-2.45pm.

Songs, stories and rhymes just for the little ones. Meet other mums & make new friends. Contact Amanda on 07814 055499.

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.

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.

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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 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

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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 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

OTHER AREAS NEW 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

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Biting, 4. Agreed, 9. Rubbish, 10.Icons,11.Teeth,12.Lifting,13.Impressions, 18. Develop, 20. Super, 22. Elbow, 23. Execute, 24. Breast, 25. Adapts.

DOWN: 1. Bursts, 2. Table, 3. Neither, 5. Grief, 6. Erosion, 7. Design, 8. Philosopher, 14. Movable, 15. Instead, 16. Adverb, 17. Creeps, 19. Lawns, 21. Plump.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 42

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.

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 & MOBILITY SERVICES ESTATE AGENT BOOKKEEPING Drummond Miller 28 Ableworld 13 AKT Bookkeeping2 8 Turpie & Co 27 PAINTING & DECORATING APPLIANCE REPAIRS FITNESS CLASSES Braekirk Decorators 35 Home Appliance Repair 37 Body and Core Pilates 15 EDC Painters & Decorators 5 ARCHITECT FLORIST PET SITTING / BOARDING Plan-It 35 Vicky’s Flowers 15 South Lodge Cattery 32 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS FUNERAL DIRECTOR 1st Choice Living 5 Mark Porteous Funeral PLASTERING Bathgate Bathroom Studio 34 Directors 29 Alexander Aitken Plastering 20 Dream Doors 34 Nu Walls 20 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 6 GARAGE DOORS Max’s Garage Doors 30 S and S Home PLUMBING & HEATING Improvements 24 GARDEN CENTRE SERVICES New Hopetoun Gardens 22 BEAUTICIAN Currievale Plumbing Beauty by Annie 4 GARDEN DESIGN / & Drainage 19 Lisa Blair 11 MAINTENANCE Dewar Plumbing 18 D Greaves Landscape BOILER SERVICES EPH Scotland 19 Gardeners 17 The Gas Engineer 32 McLellan Plumbing 19 Evergreen Balerno 16 BOWLING CLUB Plumb-It 35 West Lothian East Calder Bowling Club 37 Garden Maintenance 17 PUBLIC HOUSE BUILDER Black Bull Inn 2 Almond Building Company 18 GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Build-It 35 RESTAURANT Champfleurie Estate 23 CAR SERVICING, MOT & Al Borgo Ristorante 37 GAS STOCKIST REPAIR Courtyard by Marriott Charles Gas 32 Autocare Solutions 31 Edinburgh West 37 JWG Car Care 30 GLAZING REPAIRS Kirknewton Garage 31 ROOFING CR Smith 25 CARPET & FLOORING SALES The Flat Roof Co. 36 GOLF CLUB Forever Flooring 20 Baberton Golf Club 7 STORAGE FACILITIES CHARITY HAIR SALON Morrison Dick British Heart Foundation 9 Jane & Friends 11 Container Storage 28 CHILDREN’S NURSERY TJ Barbers 11 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME ABC Private Nursery 4 HANDYMAN West Lothian Trusted Trader Angela Elizabeth Nursery 40 1st Call Handyman Scheme 30 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Services 36 Cyrenians 9 TUITION JEWELLER COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS Kumon Livingston 40 Jewellery Workshop 15 Sprint Computer Repairs 6 JOINERY VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING CURTAINS & BLINDS Craigcrook Joinery 19 Pentland Veterinary Clinic 32 Harvey Bruce 20 Create Enhanced Spaces 18 Lamond Veterinary Clinic 33 Geoff Vinter Joinery 36 DANCE: CLASSES/SUPPLIES WINDOW & GUTTER Highland Dance Shop 4 KILTMAKER CLEANING DENTIST The Kilt Studio 4 Suburban Window Cleaning 17 Artis Dental and Implant LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Studio 11 Beatson’s Building Supplies 16 YOUTH EMPLOYMENT No.9 Practice 15 SCHEME LAWNS DOORS/WINDOWS Green Thumb Lawn Service 17 Developing the Young UPVC Doors 7 Workforce 39 LOCKSMITH ELECTRICIAN CVC Locksmiths A&A Electrical Solutions 18 and Security 32 Riddell Electrical Services 35 SL Electrical 19 MARKETING / LEAFLETING The Leaflet Lady 48 Task Scotland 18 46 | CALDERS

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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