Konect Calders September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

COMMUNITY:

COMMUNITY:

SCIENCE COLUMN:

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

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

TO OUR SEPTEMBER EDITION

THIS ISSUE

I

t’s a time of big changes in the East Calder area, as we welcome many new residents to the area as a result of the housing developments. Members of the East Calder & District Community Council are carrying out a public consultation with a view to setting up a Development Trust which would carry out improvements to services in the local area - please see the article on page 42 and go online to complete the survey.

September is a time of getting back into routine after the holidays, especially if you have children at school or college. It’s a good time to look at joining in new social or sports activities, and as ever the Clubs and Classes pages at the back of Konect are packed with lists of local clubs, with quite a few new ones listed this month.

Also the West Lothian 50+ Network is a lively social group welcoming new members, see their article on page 17.

It’s also a good time to get some home improvements booked in of you’re wanting work done before the weather gets wintery. Please support local businesses and check the traders in these pages for quotes.

P31 Doors Open Days........................................... 8 Interiors: Window Shutters...........................13 Property Matters............................................14 Community: West Lothian 50+ Network.....17 Garden Project: Summer Glut.....................19 Health & Beauty............................................20 Puzzles...........................................................26 Local Lab.......................................................31 Vet’s Tip..........................................................33 Parenting: Crazy about Canals...................38 Sport: Small Fry.............................................40 What’s On......................................................41 Clubs & Classes..........................................43

COVER IMAGE: Kirk of Calder: See P8 for more about ‘West Lothian’s Doors Open Days’

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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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

The weekend of 14th / 15th September 2019 will see the annual Doors Open Days event taking place throughout West Lothian.

Doors Open Days forms part of Scotland’s contribution to European Heritage Days, which sees over 25 million people from 50 countries take part annually, uniting our communities in a unique celebration of heritage in our own special ways.

Doors Open Days is now Scotland’s largest free cultural festival. It celebrates the built environment and gives free access to around 1,000 venues across the country throughout the month of September, every year.

Doors Open Days is coordinated nationally by the Scottish Civic Trust with annual support from Historic Environment Scotland and others. Local area programmes are coordinated by a network of local authorities, heritage consultancies, civic societies and heritage groups who are in turn supported by a large number of volunteers, businesses, community organisations and building owners.

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 8 | CALDERS

Linlithgow Civic Trust has organised West Lothian’s Doors Open Days since 2011 and are proud to be doing so once more in 2019. We have a varied programme again this year.

There are a few of the regular participants this year including the Crossview Studios and the Canal Centre in Linlithgow, Duntarvie Castle near Winchburgh and a number of ecclesiastical properties in and around Linlithgow including St Michael’s Parish Church, Abercorn Parish Church and Kingscavil Church. @KonectMagazines

Blackburn House in Bathgate makes a welcome return, as do Strathbrock St Machan’s and Strathbrock St Nicholas’ Churches in Uphall. Donaldson’s in Linlithgow also returns to the programme.

St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow

There is also the new Linlithgow Museum, opened in Easter 2019 having moved from Annet House to the new Tam Dalyell House St Michael’s (aka Linlithgow Partnership Centre) a short Interior distance along the High Street. The dramatic 1960s Boghall Parish Church in Bathgate and the more traditional Category A Listed Kirk of Calder in Mid Calder are also back in the programme this year.

Copies of the programme for West Lothian have been distributed in a number of venues throughout West Lothian. Pick one up and hopefully it will inspire you to take part. The programme can also be downloaded from the Linlithgow Civic Trust Doors Open Days website at lbt.scot/civic-trust.

Please note that this year the Doors Open Days event in West Lothian coincides, as it often does, with the Linlithgow Folk Festival event.

The overlap has been mutually advantageous – well exemplified on sunny afternoons when building visitors have mingled with the audiences at the various music sessions.

Coincidentally, the Doors Open Days event is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and Linlithgow Folk Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Now if that is not an excuse for a cultural celebration I don’t know what is!

For more details of what is happening with Doors Open Days in West Lothian and across the country as whole, check out the official event website at www.doorsopendays.org.uk.

This article was contributed by Allan M Robertson, Linlithgow Civic Trust and West Lothian Doors Open Day Co-ordinator. For more details about the activities of the Scottish Civic Trust visit www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/.

For more details on the activities of Linlithgow Civic Trust visit lbt.scot/civic-trust.

St Michael’s West Doors Linlithgow Museum

Donaldson’s Exterior

Duntarvie Castle

Donaldson’s Interior

Blackburn House Kirk of Calder

Linlithgow Civic Trust is part of Linlithgow Burgh Trust. Linlithgow Burgh Trust is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (Scottish Charity No. SC047211). @KonectMagazines

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INTERIORS

Window shutters are an often-overlooked form of window furnishing.

Most people turn to curtains or blinds to dress their windows, but shutters can offer an attractive and quirky alternative, and they have many practical benefits, too.

Sound and Thermal Insulation - While shutters are closed, the wooden panels offer good sound insulation, and some heat insulation, too. This works both ways – in the summer, it’s possible to open the windows while keeping the panels shut, allowing air to flow while keeping the heat from the sun out.

You can achieve similar results with thick, heavy curtains if you want a more traditional look for your living room. Shutters make a good choice for a kitchen or bathroom, however, where thicker fabrics aren’t ideal. That leads us to…

Low Maintenance Requirements - Blinds and curtains can attract dust, and keeping the fabrics clean can be difficult. Plantation shutters are a good choice for people with allergies, because they are easy to keep clean. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth from time to time and you won’t have any issues with dust build-up.

When you need a fresh look, simply re-paint the shutter in a different colour!

Added Privacy - When you close a set of shutters they cover the whole window. When you adjust the louvres you can let light in, without making it easy for people to see inside your home, in a similar way to how you can let a little light in by adjusting venetian blinds.

Curtains, on the other hand, are either open or closed, so unless you have net curtains behind them to filter the light, you lose all privacy when you open them.

They look fabulous - Interior shutters are a nice added-extra that could make your home more @KonectMagazines

appealing to prospective buyers. They are a more ‘semi-permanent’ fixture than curtains or blinds, however, and this could backfire if the prospective buyer doesn’t like them. That said, it’s relatively easy to remove a set of shutters and replace them with blinds or curtains if that’s what the buyer prefers, and you can remind them of this.

UV Protection - Shutters with louvres can be angled to control how much light gets into the room – in much the same way that blinds can be angled. When you want to let light flood into the room, the panels can be fully opened. Adjusting the louvres can direct light away from furniture and flooring, prolonging the life of the furniture and preventing patterns from fading.

Many shutters are finished with a UV-protective layer, which will protect the paint or wood stain finish, and stop the panels from warping.

Shutters are timeless, and are a stylish and eye-catching window treatment. They may not suit every room, but there is a certain appeal to having them on the ground floor – especially for kitchens, and “the den”. If you like the soft and elegant look of curtains, don’t forget that you can use tie backs as a trim around your shutters, to enjoy the best of both worlds.

This article and illustrations were contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors. www.harveybruce.co.uk Williamson’s Garden Centre, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6PA CALDERS | 13

A ‘Must do’ if you plan to sell your home in the next 6 months!

Gain a real marketing advantage We’ve all heard about a house having kerb appeal. You know…that attractive, wellmaintained look that draws in potential buyers. But did you know that the seasons can play a vital role in your marketing too?

The marketing of your property needs to take account of this and show your home to its best marketing advantage.

Market your home all-year round Images are a major factor in conveying the appeal of a property. Your property may be a home to you, but it has to be packaged like a product if it is to be marketed and sold effectively. Your estate agent will advise you on all these matters, and a good estate should always be trying to ‘get ahead of the game’ – that includes getting the right images together at the right time so that your marketing can happen when you want it to happen and to best effect at any time of year.

Plan ahead and get ahead There are many things in life that you can’t control, but you can control when you get your pictures taken. A little bit of forward planning goes a long way, and getting pictures taken during the summer months is a great way to take charge of your house sale and put yourself in the best position to sell at the best price. Like kerb appeal, good pictures draw people in – and the right ones really set the tone.

At Turpie & Co, we use advanced photo editing software and techniques to ensure our clients’ properties look great in any weather at any time of the year and always 14 | CALDERS

retake new external photographs in the best weather as there is no substitute for natural light. However, long summer days with warm light conditions really do provide the optimum conditions to show your property in its best light.

Get an all-year ‘summer advantage’ At this time of year, a service we offer to our prospective clients who are thinking of selling over the next six months is to take pictures of the exterior of their home before the verdant grass and the flowers fade, and the leaves fall from the trees.

If you are listing your home for sale over the winter months, it’s really important to give buyers a true and vibrant impression of what your home looks at its best when seen from the outside. The exterior picture is after all the first one any buyer will see of your home when browsing online, so it has to be an arresting one that makes them want to click through to further details and book an appointment to view.

Get a ‘summer advantage’ all year round and a clear jump on any competing homes that decide to list during the winter months by making sure your house looks its best with the best possible pictures taken now.

Time really can be on your side if you use it correctly.

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

Show your home in its ‘best light’

If you are thinking about selling your home before next spring, contact us to book your external photography now. *No contract or payment required until you are ready to sell.

West Lothian’s Premier Estate Agents www.turpies.com • telephone: 01506 668448

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ST LOT WE

TWORK NE

AN 50+ HI

BEST MEDICINE FOR THE OVER 50s There’s a new trend in “social prescribing” - referring patients to social activities to improve wellbeing and reduce demand on health services.

It’s particularly pertinent to older people, where social isolation – loneliness - has been linked to very adverse health effects.

The West Lothian 50+ Network has known this for the last 25 years and continues to address the problem with their prescription for activity, companionship and fun.

The 400 strong membership organisation for West Lothian residents aged over 50 celebrates its silver anniversary this year. Some of its founders are still going strong, passing on the baton to younger members who are introducing new ideas whilst maintaining the principle of “making things happen for ourselves.”

Over 35 interest groups are on offer - from walking, bowls, board games, music and crafts - all run by volunteer members who want to share their knowledge or passion. A “men only” group recognises that older men have particular difficulty in creating changes in their lifestyle.

The Network helps to give a sense of purpose, often called into question after retirement, bereavement or when families spread their wings. Through activities which keep mind and body active, there’s the chance to meet a new network of friends and companions. Members have called the organisation a “life saver”, especially after the loss of a partner, a close friend, or as a newcomer to the area.

Some activities are purely social – bingo night, beetle drive, cheese and wine evening, car treasure hunt – with lots to look forward to in the coming months including a race night, craft fair, St Andrew’s dinner and Christmas parties.

The chance to go on holiday with a group of friends is very attractive, especially for those who find themselves alone in later life, and the @KonectMagazines

Group outing to Rosslyn organisation of group holidays has always been an important part of the Network’s offering, which has seen members venture far and A day at the races wide over the years.

A new activity this year has been the monthly coach trip on the last Sunday of each month.

Come rain or shine, members have enjoyed days out in Dundee, St Andrews, Loch Lomond, Callander, Melrose, Alnwick and more. “Better than staying indoors in front of the telly” can frequently be heard.

There’s an over-riding determination to enjoy oneself and enjoy good company that permeates most of the West Lothian 50+ Network’s activities. It might be explained by the organisation’s motto: “Make the rest of your life the best of your life”. Members seem determined to do just that.

If you would like to find out more about the West Lothian 50+ Network and how to join in the fun there’s lots of information online, or you can call or visit our Bathgate based office..

This article was contributed by the West Lothian 50+ Network.

Website: www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk Facebook: @westlothian50plusnetwork Email: wlothian50plus@btconnect.com Tel: (01506) 635510 Address: 48G Linbar House, North Bridge Street, Bathgate Scottish Charity No. SC024257 Info.:

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Coping with a summer glut in the garden

Remove from heat, add 250g Philadelphia light cheese, 1 tsp chopped chives, 1 tsp chopped parsley, black pepper & lemon juice to season. Blend in food processor until smooth. Serve hot or chilled with garnish of chopped parsley and chives.

We often have a glut of some crop or other in the garden at this time of the year, whether it is courgettes, tomatoes, apples or grapes.

This summer it is all four, and our new Purple Piglet Project has a recipe for each of these crops: Cream of Courgette Soup, Bruschetta, Apple and Parsnip salad & Grape Chutney with no added sugar.

CREAM OF COURGETTE SOUP

You can never keep up with the production of courgettes and this soup is a lovely different way to eat them – Dougal likes it chilled.

Gently fry a chopped garlic clove in rapeseed oil till soft add 1kg chopped courgettes, more oil and a crumbled stock cube and cook for 5 minutes. Add water to cover courgettes, bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes.

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

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THE ‘PLEX’S’ A favourite to the Kardasians and the Hollywood crew, you may have heard of the innovation Wellaplex, or variations olaplex, fibre plex - known in the industry as ‘the plexs’

The focus of these products is to protect and rebuild the inner bonds. Used as a professional service and mixed with your colour in the salon, a plex treatment will probably add 15 minutes on to your appointment and cost around £20, the ‘at home’ treatment tends to be a little more pricey but with more applications in the bottle.

Ideal for previously damaged hair effected by excess colouring, lightening or excessive heat styling, by multiplying and rebuilding the hair’s bonds, it eliminates breakage whilst making colour last much longer. This results in healthy hair that is revitalised with a new lease of life.

It’s pricey, is it worth it? If your hair is bleached or damaged in any way then yes, this is one of the best products for retaining the bonds and minimising breakage during colouring and for maintaining at home. As a colourist I wouldn’t work without it, it allows me to do so much more with colour with the assurance of minimal damage and knowing my client’s colour is going to look better for longer.

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

Are you in a depressive cycle?

It is believed that depression has its roots in childhood experiences, especially those relating to loss. These experiences sensitise the individual making it difficult for them to cope with future pain and loss. A person in a depressive cycle can easily misconstrue experiences as negative and always expect the worst.

Life events such as the breakdown of a relationship, a redundancy, or a significant failure can trigger a depressive episode as the individual finds that old feelings of loss resurface. Once a loss has been experienced, the individual sees no value in setting future goals or engaging in constructive activities; life feels meaningless.

A lack of positive action forces the individual into a downward spiral where they begin to feel completely worthless. Negative thinking results in negative feelings, which ends up in negative and self destructive behaviours.

The aim of cognitive behavioural therapy is to break this cycle. Your coach can help you question your perception of reality, which may be framed in the negative. This can help to release feelings of worthlessness, and then small goals can be set to help you raise your self confidence and self esteem.

If you suffer from the following, you may be depressed.

1. A general feeling of sadness 2. Inability to feel anything at all – you’re neither up nor down. Nothing excites you, you just feel flat 3. No sense of pleasure anymore, even in activities and events you used to enjoy 4. Loss of your sense of humour 5. You feel apathetic about life 6. You have feelings of wanting to escape from people, or even life itself 7. Everything feels pointless or meaningless 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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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

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

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CROSSWORD

Solution in the October edition of Konect

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SUDOKU Sudoku Solution on Page 45.

PUZZLES

ACROSS: 1. Hairy and unkempt (6), 4. Detector (6) 9. Make comprehensible (7), 10. Vagabond (5), 11. Fear greatly (5), 12. Empowered (7), 13. Sections (11), 18. Replicating (7), 20. Ransack (5), 22. Presses (5), 23. Where plays are performed (7), 24. Required (6), 25. Remained (6).

DOWN: 1. Firm (6), 2. Round fleshy fruit (5), 3. Your parent’s mother (7), 5. Surplus (5), 6. Type of onion (7), 7. Fast running waterways (6), 8. Make inquiries (11), 4. Detonate (7), 15 Sincere (7), 16. Activity (6), 17. Rely upon (6), 19. Publication (5), 21. Not lean (5)

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CREDIT: Sebastia n Hennige

LOCAL LAB

CREDIT: Nick Kamenos

Is there still hope for our endangered coral reefs?

Our coral reefs are under threat. Around the world, the long-term survival of reefs is in question because of the environmental stress that climate change is placing on them.

Dr Heidi Burdett is a Research Fellow based in the Lyell Centre* where she and her team are investigating the physiology of ‘resilient reefs’.

Why are coral reefs so important?: Coral reefs comprise less than 0.25% of the marine environment, yet are home to around 25% of all the fish in the ocean.

Tropical coral reefs are probably the most biodiverse ecosystems in the oceans, and support fishing industries and tourism to the value of US$36 billion a year.

What’s causing them to become endangered?: When corals are exposed to an environmental stress such as a sharp increase in temperature, the relationship corals have with the various species of microalgae that live inside their tissues can break down. These algae are expelled, leaving the coral devoid of colour and, more importantly, its food source. This is known as coral bleaching. If they don’t regain their algae quickly enough, essentially the corals starve to death.

Does your research give us hope for the future?: Yes, some corals appear to be more resilient to stress than others.

Understanding how these corals are different may hold the key to better predicting how reefs will fare in the future, and perhaps even finding ways to help protect them. Corals have a long @KonectMagazines

evolutionary history, and even in today’s rapidly changing climate some display a remarkable resilience to environmental stressors such as warming events. This should give us hope for their continued survival.

How do we protect the future of our coral reefs?: The greater the warming, the smaller the window of resilience. This means for the long-term survival of coral reefs, we still need to take more action to deal with climate change and limiting the extent of global warming over the next 50 to 100 years.

The Local Lab column is contributed by Heriot-Watt University to engage the public in a range of their research projects. You can find out more about Heidi’s work and meet her colleagues during this year’s Doors Open Day festival, when the Lyell Centre welcomes visitors for a day of tours, talks and hands on activities for all ages. *The Lyell Centre is a collaboration between British Geological Survey (BGS) and Heriot-Watt University.

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BUSTER THE DOG

September On the weekend of the 14th and 15th Doors Open Days return to West Lothian for 2019. Offering free access to a variety of different sites, Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free festival that celebrates heritage and the built environment. You’ll find listings of venues taking part on our website.

That same weekend, in Broxburn the Bridge 19:40 Canal Society are holding a Narrowboat Cruise to the Almond Aqueduct. Tickets always sell fast so make sure you book in advance to confirm your chance to visit.

The 28th also marks the first show of Linlithgow Art Guilds 50th anniversary season. The Concert for Clarinet and Piano, featuring Jean Johnson and Steven Osborne, takes place at Linlithgow Academy Theatre from 19.30.

Tickets are available online, as well as at a variety of shops in Linlithgow.

If you’re looking for a challenge, don’t forget the John Muir way has recently launched their new “Passport” scheme.

The route, split into a variety of sections, goes all the way from Dunbar in the East to Helensburgh in the West - with the route passing through West Lothian near Linlithgow. You can complete the route in parts as you wish, with passports available to purchase at Linlithgow Museum. Within West Lothian, you can get your passport stamped at Burgh Halls, Linlithgow Museum & Linlithgow Palace.

There’s always plenty more going on across West Lothian, so why not check out our collection of great day out ideas on our website – the perfect inspiration for whatever the Scottish weather throws at us! www.visitwestlothian.co.uk Follow us on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian

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

Contacts details are on page 3.

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 32 | CALDERS

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FORGET THE MEERKAT...

COMPARE THE SMALL PETS! Not all small furry pets are the same, so what makes the ideal companion for you or your children? It very much depends on the individual family. It’s wise to do some research before embarking upon small furry ownership so let’s look at hamsters: The Hamster Lifespan: 2-3 years Equipment and care requirement: Moderate Fascinating fact: The dwarf breeds of hamster can be as small as 2 inches long Pros: Often the first pet a child is given due to the relative ease of care required, compared to other small furry pets. They do however have specific needs which

must be met to keep them healthy and happy. They are usually kept indoors without creating too much of an odour, provided their cage is cleaned regularly.

Larger breeds such as the Syrian can be handled carefully by adults and respectful children and often enjoy interaction and attention from people.

Things to consider: Of course personalities vary and some will have a little nip from time to time especially if fingers smell of food. They are nocturnal, becoming active at night (so get that squeaky hamster wheel sorted!) and don’t always appreciate being awoken for handling during the day.

Smaller breeds such as the Russian dwarf can be very skittish and therefore tricky for children to handle. There are some that are so small it is not recommended that they are handled at all. Ask your vet for advice and recommendations.

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

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PARENTING

Crazy about Canals

Ahoy there!

rd!

When you’ve lived somewhere for a while All aboa it’s easy to feel like you know a place.

Especially as a parent. Knowing all the good places to take your kids is a must!

But I’m always surprised how many people forget about the Union Canal in West Lothian. There are lots of things to do with kids beyond just enjoying a family walk along the towpaths (although there is a lot to be said for that as well).

To really experience the canal in all its glory taking kids out on a boat trip is a must. Linlithgow Union Canal Society run town boat trips and longer Aqueduct Cruises from Linlithgow every Saturday and Sunday until the end of September. Kids can check out the only canal museum in Scotland and the tearoom at Linlithgow Canal Centre is open at weekends as well for an extra treat.

Or you can enjoy a canal boat trip from Port Buchan in Broxburn. On the first Sunday of the month Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society do short trips on their boat Bluebell or you can head out on a round trip cruise over 38 | CALDERS

Lin’s Mill Aqueduct on some Saturdays.

appreciate that…they at least get a shot of being Captain!

A canal boat really is a boat trip like no other. My two love watching the world go by and spotting wildlife along the way. You don’t usually have to book the shorter boat trips either. You can just be spontaneous and turn up when the mood takes you or when you are at a loss for what to do with the kids at the weekend.

For something a bit different I’d also recommend checking out Narrowboat Farm on the banks of the canal just east of Linlithgow.

It is something still relatively new and completely quirky and different. You can enjoy fresh pickings from their honesty box Veg Shack; ask about their Friday afternoon Farm Club for kids and families. And keep an eye out for news of their spooky Pumpkin Picking canal cruises come October too.

They are sure to book up early!

All these trips and services are run solely by volunteers and purely for the love of it. So everyone involved is really passionate…and in my experience great with the kids. They really want to encourage use of the canals so it is a great cause to support and teach children about.

Every time we’ve done it my girls have managed to get their hands on the tiller as well. So it’s a great way to support the community and if they are too young to really

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. @KonectMagazines

ANY CHILD CAN ACHIEVE BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

1 - 30 SEPTEMBER

Find out how Kumon maths and English study can help your child to achieve beyond expectations. Book now!

Livingston Study Centre 07753 213626 Ability development for any child at any age Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating study centres only.

Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

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kumon.co.uk

CALDERS | 39

You have Tommy Maybury to thank or blame for my articles; I could have been a Liverpool Echo headline.

I hated the water, felt fundamental fear. Aged 9, determined to conquer the fear on a school session, untutored, teeth clenched, I descended the pool steps and foolishly commenced to walk from one end to the other, (unaware that the pool deepened). I clearly remember feeling chuffed - until the water rose over my mouth; I panicked and started to thrash and yes, my short life did flash before me. Enter Tommy, the school bully. He had spotted my impending doom (where were the teachers?) dived in and classically rescued me.

It didn’t stop him knocking seven bells out of me on a subsequent occasion but I guess he’d earned the right.

There’s little chance of similar disaster befalling the mites who experience the water before they can even walk and talk, either with parents or in a formal teaching environment. Olympic gold medallist, Rebecca Adlington, took her baby, Summer, for the first time at four weeks, before she’d even had her jabs! Humans learn effectively via play, so positive aqua experiences in formative 40 | CALDERS

years create a strong foundation for progress. Whilst it’s not true that babies are born with the ability to swim, they do have reflexes that make it look that way.

“Bradycardia response” causes babies to hold their breath and open their eyes underwater. A second reflex “laryngeal” - enables baby to seal off the throat and divert water to the stomach. These reflexes prevail until baby is about six months old but by around age one, they’ve gone.

Further, a baby supported belly down in water will automatically move arms and legs as if swimming. Babies can’t keep heads above water so, as well as avoiding the risk of drowning, it must be ensured that the infant doesn’t swallow too much pool water (10% of body weight max).

What a wonderful gift at dawn of life: to get used to the water, to feel comfortable in it, not to panic if water floods an orifice.

According to the Swimming Teachers’ Association, carefully introduced submersions should help establish a platform for the growth of water confidence for life. But correct submersion is vital and must

be done “with the baby” not “to the baby”: a great opportunity for early bonding, especially with grandparents! Truly uplifting to participate.

Former nanny, Maggie, describes the heady exhilaration of the experience: “You give full attention to the instructions. You feel nervous, apprehensive. But you just have to let go and the thrill when you see the sheer joy on baby’s face, well it’s one of my loveliest memories. They quickly reach the stage where they can’t get in the water fast enough and moan when you take them out.” A picture of a happy baby Freya underwater adorns Maggie’s wall, confirming her feelings.

I beg you to consider it for your family’s baby - Tommy Mayburys are rare. Do use acknowledged specialists or at least take guidance from experts before you start. And, FYI, I can manage a breadth (on a good day).

The sports column is contributed by David Levin.

David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian who describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. @KonectMagazines

SATURDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER Antique, Vintage and Collectors Fair - Linlithgow Academy, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, EH49 6EH. 9.00am – 4.00pm, admission £1.00. In aid of Linlithgow Heritage Trust for the Linlithgow Museum.

SAT 14TH & SUN 15TH SEPTEMBER West Lothian Doors Open Days - See inside the county’s buildings! Lots of West Lothian’s buildings open to the public, including in and around Bathgate: Boghall Parish Church, Blackburn House, St Columba’s and more. See pages 8-9 for information. On Sunday 15th Abercorn Church is offering homebaking, tea and coffee in the church hall from 11am until 4pm, as well as home-made jams and crafts available. The historic church and museum will also be open to visitors during this time, all welcome.

DAILY FROM 5TH TO 31ST OCTOBER Spooky Happenings at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - As the nights get darker, mysterious creatures emerge from the dark corners of the old farm. Grab your trail sheet and look out for the clues on your spooky quest. Find your way through a world of magic and shadows with mysteries to solve, games to play, and some scary surprises around every corner. Get creative in the craft area where you can make spooky masks and manufacture monsters. All of this silly scary fun can be enjoyed any day from the 5th of October until Halloween during usual opening hours (10.00-17.00) with no need to book in advance. See www.almondvalley.co.uk

THE SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTES The Scottish Women’s Institutes is Scotland’s leading member based organisation created by women in 1917, designed to bring women together, with a vision to welcome every woman in Scotland to join us. We aim to educate, to share, to campaign, to learn, to socialise, to build a community, to have fun - and to eat cake!

From life skills and arts and crafts to raising awareness of current affairs affecting women and helping inform government issues, the SWI is proud of its heritage and its future vision.

There are 12 institutes in West Lothian and we welcome women of all ages. Each institute has its own programme of speakers, craft workshops and monthly competitions, and we hold our annual Show of Work every Spring.

For more information please contact wlfedsec@hotmail.com, see the SWI website www.theswi.org.uk or phone 01506 670436.

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.

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CALDERS | 41

East Calder Community Development Trust - Have Your Say? Members of the East Calder & District Community Council are planning to set up a charitable organisation that will allow grants and funds to be donated directly to the community for the benefit of the rapidly growing village, new and existing residents alike.

Many towns and villages in the area have a Development Trust or other charitable body for the purpose of developing projects that their communities have identified as priorities. They provide services and local improvements that West Lothian Council don’t provide, although the council is often very supportive. They are very much run by the community, for the community.

It’s time for East Calder to have one.

The initiative has come from some members of the Community Council, and the idea formed after the Chair, David Philip, set up a men’s mental health group earlier this summer. He had been attending a men’s mental health group in Glasgow as had been unable to find anything like it locally, benefited hugely from it and was inspired to set one up here. With the uptake of the group overwhelmingly positive, it became apparent that there is an appetite and a need for services that the NHS or West Lothian Council are not able to provide, or at least not without a long wait time. So David and other members of the Community Council have rolled up their sleeves and are now launching a consultation to see what services people would like to see available locally. This will inform the activities of the new trust.

“We are looking to use a few different buildings in East Calder including the Partnership Centre to be used for a whole range of new services,” explains David. “We’ve identified a source of funding from the Scottish Government to enable

42 | CALDERS

us to potentially kick the project off, and are undertaking a community consultation to identify what services to provide.”

“Interest has been very positive so far, a lot of people have said they would be willing to volunteer their healthcare and other skills under the auspices of the new charity.” David’s own focus is on well-being, as this is particularly close to his heart and was the impetus for the whole initiative. The Community Council team have many exciting ideas and ambitions for what the new charity will be able to do, but it will be the community consultation that ultimately informs what services will be provided.

“We are already working with other local groups, and will continue to develop and expand these links. Some of what we do will be signposting to existing groups and facilities, some will be direct service provision.”

It’s a time of huge change for East Calder, and the Community Council want to hear from you - what services and facilities you would like to see provided in the area; what would make your everyday life better?

Please fill in the consultation questionnaire at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/NJN9387 For more information please contact the Chair of East Calder & District Community Council, David Philip, at eccdt@outlook.com

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CLUBS & CLASSES

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

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 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.

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. e: info@mcmillanyoungmusicians.co.uk w: 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.

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EAST CALDER NEW MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH GROUP Are you a man that suffers from Anxiety/ Depression/PTSD/OCD/Addiction/Panic Attacks/Social Anxiety/Mental Health Issues? The first step to getting better is coming along to our group. You are not alone! Free, drop in Wed 7pm-9pm, East Calder Partnership Centre 143 Main Street, East Calder.

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 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

44 | CALDERS

to 5 years. Open Tues, Wed & Fri 9.15am - 11.30am in Kirknewton Village Hall.

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

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

ACCESS 2 EMPLOYMENT JOB CLUB Kirknewton Village Hall. Adult dance class to encourage adults back into dance and raise money for good causes.

Wednesdays 8.15-9.30pm. Contact Cathy on 01506 881674.

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.

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

WELCOME CAFÉ Glenalmond Hall.

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

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

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

All welcome, cost is just £1 per session.

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

MID CALDER CAMERA CLUB Institute Hall, Market Street. Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm. All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www.

mccc.org.uk or call Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616.

MID CALDER COLTS FC Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-caldercolts.org. Contact Carole 883934.

Contact@mid-calder-colts.org.

MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER GROUP Institute Hall, Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am-11am. £1 per baby / £1.50 per toddler per session, all welcome.

Please email midcalderbabygroup@gmail. com for more details.

YOGA CLASSES Masonic Hall.

Wednesday evening class 7.30 -9pm.

Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115. www.wholebodybalance.co.uk

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

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

PUMPHERSTON UPHALL STATION CREATIVE PLAY Meets in Uphall Station Institute Hall.

Tues 1-3pm and Thurs 9.30-11.15am.

Parents/carers of babies/toddlers age 0-5 very welcome. Supported by SureStart.

Different play activities every week.

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

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

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

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

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e-mail club-secretary@modelclub.org or visit on Saturday or Sunday mornings, weather permitting.

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

See www.starharmonies.co.uk email: starharmonies.musicworkshops@ gmail.com WEST LOTHIAN FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP Meets usually third Sunday of the month, 1.30pm-3.30pm, West Calder Community Centre. (No meetings July, Aug, Dec, Jan). New members warmly welcomed. Join us for support, advice, friendship, talks, outings.

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

For more information phone Alison 07931355495 .

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

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

18TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP West Kirk Hall, West Calder. Beavers Mon 6-7pm. Cubs Wed 6.16-7.30pm Scouts Thurs 6.30-8pm. Girls and boys 10.5-14 yrs. Contact Jean Walkinshaw 01506 873638.

WEST CALDER WALKING GROUP Every Thurs at 12.30. Meet outside the Co-op, West Calder Main Street. Walk approx 1 hr then coffee/tea stop to finish.

Call 01506 871773 for more info.

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

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

EnerJ (Sunday School) available. Crèche 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.

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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

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SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

NEW MOVE IT Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Craigshill, Livingston, EH54 5BP

Tues 1.30-2.30pm FAB- For All Bodies.

A light intensity, dance fitness class with sway and swing roots. Get fit at your own pace while learning dancing styles from across the ages such as; Bossa Nova, Flamenco, Argentinian Tango, Disco, Jazz, Foxtrot and more. Easy to follow, fun routines suitable ‘For All Bodies’ £5 per class. moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Tel 07737 927463 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.

ACROSS: 1. Crop, 3. Opponent, 9. Mistake, 10. Chess, 11. Enthusiastic, 13. Casual, 15. Morsel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Lunar, 21. Silence, 22. Speeding, 23. Orbs.

DOWN: 1. Commerce, 2. Onset, 4. Poetic, 5. Occasionally, 6. Eyelids, 7. Toss, 8. Manufactured, 12. Clusters, 14. Science, 16. Loosen, 18. Inner, 19. Plus.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 26

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.

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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

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTANCY & BOOKKEEPING AKT Bookkeeping 8 APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair 28 ARCHITECT LanArc 7 Plan-It 28 BARBER TJ Barbers 21 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 4 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 2 S and S Home Improvements 29 BEAUTICIAN Browhau5 Microblading 21 Lisa Blair 21 BOWLING CLUB East Calder Bowling Club 4 BUILDER Build-It 28 CAR SERVICING, MOT & REPAIR Autocare Solutions 34 JWG Car Care 35 Kirknewton Garage 34 CHILDREN’S NURSERY ABC Private Nursery 41 Angela Elizabeth Nursery 39 CHIROPODY/PODIATRY/ FOOTCARE McDonald Footcare 23 CLEANING: HOUSE/OFFICE Time for You West Lothian 11 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Cyrenians 7 COMPUTER/PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 6 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce 12 DANCE: CLASSES/SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop 22 DENTIST Livingston Dental Care 21 No.9 Practice 23 DOORS/WINDOWS CHS Windows 6 46 | CALDERS

ELECTRICIAN A&A Electrical Solutions 18 Riddell Electrical Services 12 ENTERTAINMENT & ATTRACTIONS Eeek Escape Rooms 36 ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller 30 Turpie & Co. 15 FLORIST Vicky’s Flowers 21 FUNERAL DIRECTOR Mark Porteous Funeral Directors 47 GARAGE DOORS Garolla 35 Max’s Garage Doors 35 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 19 GARDEN DESIGN/ MAINTENANCE D Greaves Landscape Gardeners 27 Evergreen Balerno 26 GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate 24 GAS STOCKIST Charles Gas 12 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 25 GOLF CLUB Baberton Golf Club 36 HAIR SALON Jane & Friends 23 HANDYMAN 1st Call Handyman Services 16 IRONING/LAUNDRY SERVICES Jax Ironing 8 JEWELLER Jewellery Workshop 22 JOINERY Craigcrook Joinery 18 Geoff Vinter Joinery 18 LANDLORD SERVICES Weslo Property Management 5 LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Beatson’s Building Supplies 27

LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 8 West Lothian Locksmith 4 MARKETING/LEAFLETING The Leaflet Lady 48 PAINTING & DECORATING Braekirk Decorators 12 PEST CONTROL Frontline Pest Control 27 PLASTERING Alexander Aitken Plastering 18 Nu Walls 18 PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Currievale Plumbing & Drainage 12 EPH Scotland 18 Mech A Tech Home Heating Services 16 McLellan Plumbing & Heating 16 Plumb-It 28 PUBLIC HOUSE Black Bull Inn 37 RESTAURANT Al Borgo Ristorante 36 ROOFING Taylor Roofs 10 STORAGE FACILITIES Morrison Dick Container Storage 8 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 10 TUITION Kumon Livingston 39 VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Lamond Veterinary Clinic 33 Pentland Veterinary Clinic 32 WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 7 Suburban Window Cleaning 27 YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 30

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