Konect Calders December 2021

DEC 2021 / JAN 2022

PARENTING: COMMUNITY:

SPOTLIGHT:

Wishing all our readers & customers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Thank you for reading Konect in 2021 and supporting local businesses, charities and other organisations We look forward to another year of all things local, interesting articles, competitions and great offers • If you are involved in a community group or charity locally we will list your organisation in the Clubs & Classes section FREE of charge. We may also be able to feature you as “Charity of the Month” • If you have an interesting story relating to the local area or a local personality, we may be able to feature you • If you run a business locally, call us before Christmas to see how we can help with your marketing plan for 2022! We also offer leaflet delivery & business stationery printing All enquiries: email Helen-Jane at editor@konect.scot

P29 elcome to the

festive 2021 issue of Konect!

Have a look through

the local businesses

here for a host of special offers for the

THIS ISSUE

season, as well as gift vouchers and other gift ideas. All our columnists share their

wonderful expertise for the season in this

issue, and here’s hoping it will be a much more normal time than last Christmas.

For some, it’s not an easy season and there are a few ways of helping our

neighbours and local friends who may

be having a tough time. Home Instead are running a “Be a Santa” campaign for older people (see page 14); and

the Cyrenians have plenty planned for helping older people get through the winter (see page 8).

Charity: Cyrenians, it’s good to be back...........8 Community: Singergie, the beauty of a choir...9 Hair: How to gift haircare......................................12 Spotlight: FLOAT your way to wellbeing.........13 Living Well: Bringing Christmas cheer............14 Money Matters: Autumn Budget.......................19 Property Matters: Buy to Let portfolios............22 Home Improvement: Smoke Alarms...............25 Garden Project: Cheering winter pots.............26 Local Environment: Merry Christmas...............29 Recipe: Turkey Burgers........................................30 Wine Recommendation........................................31 Puzzles.......................................................................33 Parenting: This mum loves Christmas.............35 Film Review: Raging Fire.....................................38

I had an unusual, luxurious and very

relaxing experience at West Lothian’s

newest spa, FLOAT, this month, which you can read about on page 13, I can highly recommend it.

Wishing all our readers

and customers a safe and

Konect is delivered monthly to 5,500 homes throughout Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe

happy festive season.

Thank you for reading Konect this year.

@KonectMagazines

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638 CALDERS | 3

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“Tis the season to be jolly” is certainly the feeling at OPAL now that most of our services have resumed. There have been joyful reunions between volunteers and the older people we support whether at our local groups or visiting them again in their own homes.

Looking ahead, we have created a diverse winter package to suit all needs including blether buddies, online groups and in person groups, one-to-one support, digital support, pen-pals, walks catering for all abilities and shopping support.

Our one-to-one service focusses specifically on what matters to the individual, what they would like to achieve from the service and their personal interests. We then look for a likeminded volunteer as a suitable companion and introductions are made. Our volunteers can offer support to promote independence and well-being through visits, outings, shopping and other activities.

Our varied group activity plan includes gentle exercise, quizzes, entertainment, sing-a-longs, walking, meal get-togethers, cooking, book club and much more.

Anyone living in West Lothian over the age of 60 is welcome to come along and join in the fun and festivities planned for the months ahead. Alternatively, if you or anyone you know is interested in volunteering, we have

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Mates and meals a wide range of roles available and a robust training and support programme to cater for all.

Whether administrator, digital assistant, group facilitator, driver, coordinator or befriender, we have something to suit everyone. We have training sessions running every month throughout the year which include core and group skills, befriending safely during the pandemic, dementia friends, falls awareness and sighted guidance. We also offer bespoke, more tailored training for specialist work such as walk leader training with Paths For All. As a valued OPAL volunteer, you will have access to ongoing support and supervision, celebration events and encouragement to develop new or existing skills should you wish to do so. This may be by leading a group activity, doing a presentation on something of interest or supporting other volunteers on their journey.

So, if you are pondering what your new year’s resolution should be this year, give us a call and we will let you know more about the benefits to you and how best you may support older people in your local area.

For further information please call 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot

This article was contributed by Cyrenians OPAL, 27 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PG. Tel: 01506 815 815. Registered charity number SC011052. @KonectMagazines

S I N G E RG I E : T H E B E A U T Y O F A C H O I R “I set up Singergie, because I felt there was a real desire in people for a sense of community.

Lockdown was so isolating, and I personally really struggled with the lack of interaction. I think people now really appreciate the sense of togetherness, of belonging, of identity, and actually just the opportunity to have some shared fun.”

Lynne Jack of East Calder is speaking about the community choir she set up last year, Singerie.

“We believe singing should be fun for everyone, so we don’t care if you think you can’t sing, we don’t even have auditions! We have some people in our choirs who tell us they were told to MIME at school, and who firmly believe they can’t sing. We don’t care if you think you can sing or not – that’s the beauty of a choir; there’s safety in numbers and I promise you, you’re not as bad as you think you are. The look on members’ faces when a song comes together, and you can hear the other harmonies is just incredible.”

Everyone in the community is welcome. There are no fees, so it won’t cost you a penny. The group cover all genres of music, so there’s something for everyone – contemporary, folk, pop, rock, ballads, anthems, Scottish and more.

“The choir is going amazingly well, we have around 60 members on a Monday night, and around 20 on a Friday morning. The friendliness and the supportive vibe is unlike I’ve ever experienced. It’s just the best time, and people usually leave buzzing. We are really

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excited about leading the East Calder torchlight parade on the 28th November, providing the music for the walk. Then we are also singing at the Mid Calder Christmas Tree Switch On on the 4th December. For some of our members it will be the first time they’ve ever sung in public so there’s great excitement.”

They are all about the buzz, so come along and have some fun singing and meeting new friends – you’ll even get a cuppa while you’re here too! They are still new so there’s no need to feel daunted about joining a well established group.

MEET

- Monday nights upstairs at The Village (The old Doo Club) on Oakbank Road, East Calder, from 7.00pm - 9.00pm, and Friday mornings at the East Calder Bowling Club from 10.00am - 12 noon. (You don’t have to attend both!).

This article was contributed by Singerie. For more information see www.singergie.com, or search Facebook for ‘Singerie’. Lynne can be contacted by email on lynne@singergie.com

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HOW TO GIFT HAIR CARE It’s no secret that the festive season is the best time of year to stock up on haircare and beauty products. So, when it comes to buying for others there’s a few things you can do to get gifting haircare just right.

Moisture treatments are a fantastic stocking filler. At this time of year when the central heating is blasting and the air outside is dry and cold many of us suffer dehydration in our hair leading to static, so a hydration treatment is the perfect gift on its own or part of a full cleansing regime.

Does the person you’re buying for have coloured hair? Hydrating and or colour shampoo/conditioner, this hair will also benefit from moisture treatments.

If it is extremely damaged/chemically treated? Look for nourishment, protein and hydration in your shampoo and conditioner.

Treatments are essential and an oil is a great gift for someone with dashed hair If it’s extremely curly or wavy a curl enhancing regime could be the way to go which will smooth and add extra hydration.

Curl creams and curl styling products will always be well received by curly girls.

After that still not sure? Buy a voucher for a salon you know they’ll love or the salon they visit. The salon will appreciate you shopping local and your loved one gets to pamper themselves for a few hours and who wouldn’t love that!

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.com 12 | CALDERS

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FLOAT is a premium new health spa in West Lothian offering a unique well-being experience.

It allows you enter a deeply restorative, meditative state by weightlessly floating in a pod of Epsom salt water, with all external stimulation - including sound and light – completely removed.

People use float therapy for different reasons: it’s excellent for managing stress, anxiety and PTSD; it’s used by sportspeople to prepare mentally and physically for performance; and some people find their minds become incredibly creative under the conditions of sensory deprivation.

The high concentration of salt means that floating is effortless, allowing every muscle in your body to completely relax and trigger the release of endorphins. In addition, the health benefits of soaking in Epsom salts include pain relief, improved muscle and nerve function and skin condition.

Leaving the stresses of the external environment behind starts as soon as you step through the door of FLOAT at their luxury, purpose-built centre on Glasgow Road in Bathgate.

I booked a session to try it when they opened in November. The largest float therapy centre in Scotland, there is exquisite attention to detail here at every stage of your experience, from the calming décor that welcomes you, to the carefully-selected organic toiletries provided.

Each pod is in its own private room, where you shower before your float. FLOAT’s pods drain completely between each customer; you can see it filling freshly for your session while you shower. The pod designs here have a low threshold and a fully-opening lid, making them easier to access for people with mobility issues.

When you’re ready, step into the pod and, for the full experience, close the lid completely. For the first five minutes there is relaxing music and soft mood lighting, then it fades to silence and @KonectMagazines

darkness. (You can control the intensity of the experience by opting to leave the mood lighting on, or leaving the lid partially open). Initially I thought a full hour of doing absolutely nothing would drag. But it takes time for your body and mind to fully let go, and when they do, you very pleasantly lose track of time. There is nothing but the occasional sound of the water gently lapping.

The weightlessness, and the total absence of all usual sensory inputs for your mind to process, is deeply calming and restorative; you need make no effort to shut them out, as they are simply not there. The health benefits for both mind and body are becoming more and more understood and many people float regularly as an essential part of their health routine.

All too soon, the mood lights and music fade in to signal the end of the float. Shower again to rinse off the salt - beautiful toiletries are provided - and there is a pamper room equipped with Dyson supersonic hair dryers for you to prepare to emerge into the outside world. As a finishing touch, a hot drink awaits you in the post-float room before you leave feeling thoroughly recharged.

For more information, to book a session or purchase gift vouchers, visit floatscotland.co.uk or call 01506 639489. FLOAT, 6-10 Glasgow Road, Bathgate, EH48 2AA This article was contributed by Helen-Jane after experiencing a luxury float therapy session at FLOAT, Bathgate. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect and lives in West Lothian with her family.

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LIVING WELL

Christmas Cheer

Bringing to elderly people this year!

Businesses, organisations and schools across Livingston and West Lothian are coming together this Christmas to bring cheer to our local elderly population.

The ‘Be a Santa’ campaign, launched by local home care company, Home Instead Livingston, asks the community to donate gifts which are then distributed to older people who may not otherwise receive anything this Christmas.

Graham Stevenson, owner of Home Instead Livingston commented: “Many older people have been badly affected by the lockdown periods, feeling lonely and isolated - factors which are heightened throughout the Christmas period.

“Our ‘Be a Santa’ campaign brings the

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community together. We give well-deserved gifts to the older people in our local area at Christmas time. It’s key to remind them that we are thinking of them, and they are not alone.”

Home Instead is pleased that many local businesses and organisations have already signed up to take part, including local supermarkets and garden centres, but we’d like more to get involved. You can make a difference by donating a small gift at one of the local drop-off points or by purchasing something from Home Instead Livingston’s Amazon Wish List.

To find out more about the campaign and how you can ‘Be a Santa’ this Christmas, please call 01506 346046 or visit: www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston/be-asanta-to-a-senior-8/ to find out how and where you can donate.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead Livingston. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 539541 or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston

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SPONSORED CONTENT

MONEY MATTERS

The UK’s previous two Budgets had been dominated by the pandemic, which has wreaked havoc with the public finances. This time the backdrop was brighter.

The Chancellor took advantage of better than projected economic performance both to spend more and to put some money aside. He must hope that his war chest is enough to cover whatever COVID-19 and rising inflation/interest rates conspire to deliver in the coming year.

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS - Substantial amounts of revenue over the next five years will be raised from previously announced measures, such as the freezing of tax allowances and the introduction of the Health and Social Care Levy.

HMRC will be able to make 20% top-up payments for 2024/25 onwards in respect of contributions made by low-earning individuals saving in a pension scheme under a Net Pay Arrangement.

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From 27 October 2021, the deadline for reporting and paying CGT after selling UK residential property will increase from 30 days to 60 days after completion.

Freezing of business rates multipliers for a second year, from 1 April 2022 until 31 March 2023.

Income tax basis periods will be reformed so that a business’s profit or loss will be the profit or loss arising in the tax year itself, regardless of its accounting date.

Alcohol duty will be restructured so that all beverages will be taxed in direct proportion to their alcohol content.

A new domestic air passenger duty band will cover flights within the UK at a rate of £6.50 for 2023/24.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief is dependent on individual circumstances.

The Money Matters column is contributed

by Lucy Logan. Lucy lives in Calderwood and is Principal of Lucy Logan Wealth Management, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Selling a Buy-To-Let Property Portfolio Homeowners are not the only ones cashing in on the current housing boom. Landlords with buy-to-let investment properties are also capitalising on the shortage of properties for sale in the first-time buyer price bracket in anticipation that we may be nearing the top of the current market cycle.

Selling an investment property often requires a different approach to that of a typical sales campaign, and selling a portfolio of rental properties needs to be carefully planned to maximise the return on investment and ensure that the timing is in line with the seller’s exit strategy.

We have handled two portfolio sales recently and adopted very different selling strategies for each case.

The first campaign comprised of a block of six apartments in a small self-contained development in a town centre location. Each property had a sitting tenant. In addition to retaining the ongoing rental income from the outset, the main attraction of this portfolio to a new investor was the unique opportunity to have full ownership, therefore control, over the whole flatted development. This type of block ownership also allows a landlord to appoint a factor of their choice or maintain the development themselves meaning communal repairs, maintenance, upgrading can all be planned and factored into an investment schedule without the need for consultation or agreement from neighbours or third-party owners.

We suggested the optimum route to market in this case to be via an ‘off-market’ campaign introducing the portfolio as a whole to a list of pre-qualified investors. This approach had a number of benefits for both buyer and seller

and most importantly the tenants who enjoyed a seamless transfer of ownership without the stress and uncertainty of an open market sale.

The second buy-to let portfolio comprised of nine apartments in different blocks which formed part of a large-scale development.

Some of the tenants had already given notice to move on and the timing of this coincided with the landlord’s plans to exit the private rental sector. Our recommendations were based around staggered sales spanning three tax years over an 18-month period beginning with the properties that were already empty.

Careful and considerate consultation with the tenants resulted in a ‘win/win’ sale and purchases to some sitting tenants with the remainder of the properties being listed on the open market at carefully coordinated times in line with the plan. This approach attracted competitive interest from buyers in the market at the specific time of each individual campaign and avoided the potential impact that multiple properties for sale in the same development at the same time may have had.

Every buy-to-let portfolio has unique characteristics and careful consideration should be given to ensure the correct campaign strategy is used to optimise the sale.

If you are a buy-to-let investor looking to sell or buy single or portfolio rental properties please contact us to discuss the selling options or portfolios currently available.

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.

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More information

New Scottish Home Smoke Alarm Requirements

• Scottish Government website: www.gov.scot/publications/fire-andsmoke-alarms-in-scottish-homes • Older and disabled homeowners on low incomes can also contact their local “Care and Repair,” which gives independent advice and help: www.careandrepairscotland.co.uk • Scottish Fire and Rescue Service: www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/ at-home

From February 2022 all Scottish homes should have tamper-proof, interlinked (if one goes off they all sound) smoke alarms in living room and hall, and heat alarm in kitchen. In rooms with a gas, oil or solid fuel appliance, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms will also be mandatory.

Rented homes should already comply.

Alarms are either wired into your electricity mains or have long-life batteries sealed into the alarm so it cannot be disabled.

Mains-wired alarms last longer than battery installations. They require installation by a qualified electrician. If other work needs to be done, such as a rewiring or major alterations, get alarms done at the same time. Recently built homes are likely to already have mains-wired interlinked alarms. Professional installers often suggest battery systems for existing properties since there is no disruptive work involved.

Battery-operated units can be installed on a DIY basis. They have a life of about 10 years, then must be replaced. The batteries cannot be removed to disable the alarm or be replaced.

The Scottish Government gives typical DIY cost as £220 for battery alarms.

Most existing smoke, heat and CO alarms are not tamper-proof or interlinked so do not meet new regulations. They are still widely on sale. They could be used in addition to the new installation.

Here are some things to think about for a DIY installation or to ask your installer: TESTING - Think about testing (weekly) in planning your system. You need to reach ceiling mounted alarm test buttons (use a stick!) and check they all sound. Some systems have a remote control that helps. They are loud!

Use ear plugs when testing.

ESCAPE PLAN - Have an escape plan should alarms sound. @KonectMagazines

RESEARCH - Search online to compare suppliers and makes. Installation and user instructions should be available on manufacturer or supplier websites. Read these carefully to help decide whether to go DIY or to employ a professional.

Ensure the specification is for Scotland (England and Wales are different) and check manufacturer and/or supplier support (you might need it!).

If batteries are replaceable, they do not meet the new Scottish regulations.

The interlinking process differs between makes. Some are easier than others (similar to linking cordless phones). Instructions must be followed very precisely.

Alarms are fixed to the ceiling or high on a wall with screws or glue so you need a stepladder.

COSTS - Excluding installation, expect to pay £35 to £80 for each fire alarm (depending on make and features) and about £20 for each non-linked CO alarm. It is worth searching prices. Some suppliers offer discounted kits for Scotland.

In summary, for a DIY installation do plenty of online research, follow instructions precisely, take care on the stepladder and you should succeed! For professional installation, contact a reputable qualified electrician.

This article was contributed by Brian Shearey, Ratho. Brian has done his own DIY installation and is an amateur but experienced DIYer CALDERS | 25

CHEERING WINTER

During the short days of December and January it’s very cheering to have some planted pots near your front door or outside the patio doors to keep your spirits up!

There are lots of evergreen perennials and shrubs that you could use this month and so long as you use a frostproof pot they will be quite safe outside all winter.

This little group of pots has winter flowering heathers, the red berries of Gaultheria, a grassy Carex, Ivy, an upright golden Yew conifer, a flowering Christmas rose (Hellebore) and a variegated dwarf Skimmia with its pink buds which will open in the Spring. We have used some coloured dogwood stems pushed into one of the pots to give the group some festive flair and used some gold sprayed pine cones as a mulch around the conifer.

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If you are using a pot already full of compost left over from a summer display you need to tease it up with a trowel and work in some slowrelease fertiliser before you plant it.

If you need new compost a peat free multipurpose compost will be just the thing to use. If you are Winter choosing a new pot, or perhaps a Pots new group of pots, you can enjoy letting your ‘inner designer’ choose the colours and shapes – contrasting heights make for an interesting group, as in this picture’ where we have chosen the same coloured and similarly shaped planters.

Just remember that even if it rains, most of the water will bounce off the plants and not get into the pot so your plants will depend on you for all their water. You do feel a little silly to be seen watering your pots on a wet day, but your plants will appreciate your efforts!

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

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

I’ve gone a little further afield for this one, to the Glenshee area where I visit quite regularly to photograph red squirrels, and eat cake.

Thankfully, the squirrels were quite happy to take part in a festive photoshoot in return for some peanuts. At this time of year they’re busy caching their food, ready to see them through the winter when supplies are running low. It’s quite common for them to forget where they’ve buried their stash, which is why red squirrels are one of the best sources for tree planting! What’s their loss is nature’s gain. They also test their food for freshness and will discard a hazelnut which doesn’t sound like it’s worth eating. This is different to the invasive greys who are much less fussy and why they can out compete the native reds for food where their habitats cross over.

When it’s cold, squirrels will tuck themselves away in their drey high up in the canopies and will use their fluffy tails as insulation to keep themselves warm. They have huge variations in colours, from very dark (making @KonectMagazines

them easy to mistake for the grey squirrel) to bright orange, or red with blonde little tails.

You can see red squirrels at Morton Lochs (Tayport) Eskrigg Reserve (Lockerbie) or Aberfoyle. These places are great to spend a few hours wandering around whilst keeping a look out for squirrels scampering around the woodlands.

We hope you all have a lovely Christmas & New Year. See you in 2022!

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

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FOOD & DRINK

with Cranberry Sauce and Brussels Sprout Coleslaw Delicious turkey burgers topped with cranberry sauce and a Brussels sprout coleslaw.

Burgers:

• 250g turkey breast mince • ½ red onion, diced • 2 garlic cloves, grated • 1 egg, beaten • 1 small apple peeled and coarsely grated • 1 tsp smoked paprika • Salt and pepper • Olive oil (to cook)

Brussels Sprout Coleslaw:

• 125g Brussels sprouts, trimmed • ½ red onion • 1 carrot, peeled • 50g Greek yoghurt • 30g mayonnaise • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • 1 tbsp lemon juice • Salt and pepper • ¼ tsp ground cumin • Handful of chives, chopped • Handful of parsley, chopped

Rolls, lettuce and cranberry sauce, to serve Serves 2

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Delicious with cranberry sauce

Method:

1. Place the mince in a bowl with the remaining ingredients for the burger and mix well.

Shape the mixture into two burgers about 3cm thick. Chill for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven to 190oC/170oC fan/ gas mark 5. Place the burgers on a lined baking tray and brush the tops lightly with the olive oil. Bake in the oven for 20-25 mins, turning halfway through cooking, until cooked through.

3. To make the coleslaw, grate the Brussels sprouts, onion and carrot in a food processor. Place in a bowl. Mix together the yoghurt, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, salt and pepper and cumin. Pour the yoghurt mixture over the vegetables and coat thoroughly. Stir in the herbs.

4. Serve the burgers in buns with lettuce, a spoonful of cranberry sauce and the coleslaw.

Nutrition per burger with coleslaw: 340kcal, fat 14g (of which saturates 2.9g), carbohydrates 15g (of which sugars 13g), protein 36g, fibre 3.8g

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WINE TASTING

I presented a wine and food pairing event to members of The Merchant Company in the beautiful Merchant Hall on Hanover Street. A grand setting for one of my first in-person group events. It was wonderful to meet in person again!

The theme of the tasting was A Taste of the Festive Season.

Krasno is a Slovenian white blend of Sauvignon Blanc blend and Ribolla Gialla.

The careful balance of two grape varieties results in a cut grass, lemon and verbena nose and palate, without the high, sharp acidity we are used to with Sauvignon. Ribolla Gialla softens the acidity and rounds out the palate. If you like Sauvignon Blanc but prefer a softer acidity, Krasno is one to try. At £9.99 a bottle it is great value too!

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The red wine was a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. This is a classic Beaumesde-Vanise blend from the southern Rhone region of France. Beaumes-de-Vanise ‘La Traissiennes’ 2020 Maison Bouachon is perfect for cold evenings by the fire or paired with flavoursome stews or roasts. The blend of 3 red grapes results in a warming nose of dark plum and damson fruit, stewed blackberries, spice from the Syrah grape and wood spice from a spell in oak cask.

We finished the tasting with one of my favourite sherry’s Pedro Ximenez served over ice cream. PX is a real treat, look for it in the fortified wine section of your wine shop and serve over ice cream!

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

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FESTIVE SAFETY TIPS • Check your smoke and heat alarms are working. Replace batteries if necessary

• If you have an open fire make sure your chimney is swept before winter. Always use a fire guard, secured in position, to protect against flying sparks from hot embers • Never place Christmas cards or decorations around the mantelpiece

• Check your Christmas light plugs are fitted with the correct fuse, don’t overload extension leads and ensure all electrical devices are Intertek BEAB approved.

• Always switch Christmas lights off and unplug them before you go to bed • Decorations can burn easily – don’t place them near lights or heaters

• Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using hot oil. For early warning of fire consider fitting a heat alarm in your kitchen • Take time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas as they are at greater risk from fire, particularly if they suffer from ill health or disability

This year, with supply chain issues threatening Christmas deliveries and cautious attitudes towards returning to pre-Covid normality, shoppers are once again looking online in the search for those “must have” Christmas gifts and gadgets.

Although we have seen a return to the High Street, marketplaces are still a popular option for what is seen as stress-free shopping, with 35% of UK adults saying they will be using them to buy electrical gifts this Christmas.

However, sellers of counterfeit or substandard electrical products exploit online marketplaces for the ease with which they can sell their goods to a mass market – it can

be impossible to know what you are actually buying, with no guarantee that the product you receive will be genuine.

What to do if you think you might have purchased a fake electrical product: If you suspect you have purchased a fake, stop using it immediately. Report it to Trading Standards so that they can take action against the seller; selling fake products is illegal and puts people’s lives at risk. For more advice, visit electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/ spotthefake

This message is contributed by Paul Harvey on behalf of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Community Safety Engagement for West Lothian. Paul lives in Mid Calder with his partner and four children and would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas.

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PUZZLES

SUDOKU

^^^ Sudoku solution on page 38

CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Harbour (4), 3. Precious stones (8), 9. Implement (7), 10. Concur (5), 11. Produced (12), 14. Short sleep (3), 16. Coarse (5), 17. Pronoun (3), 18. Despite (12), 21. Modify (5), 22. Design (7), 23. Daily (8), 24. Musical instrument (4).

^^^ Solution in the February edition of Konect

@KonectMagazines

DOWN: 1. Imagining (8), 2. Wash (5), 4. Frozen water (3), 5. Sizes (12), 6. Créche (7), 7. Vomit (4), 8. Adequately (12), 12. Enumerate (5), 13. Pest (8), 15. Make ready (7), 19. All (5), 20. Imitation (4), 22. Vegetable (3).

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PUZZLE

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PARENTING

This Mum Loves

Christmas ... but it’s still a lot of work!

Forget kids writing their lists for Santa, at this time of year it’s parents the world over who are making lists and checking them twice.

After the kids explored all Two words that strike whitefor them…who’s idea was it to hot fear into most parents: invite an Elf on the Shelf into our the hidden corners of Far Christmas shopping. household, oh yeah…mine!!

From The Madding Crowd – a treasure trove of not just There’s nothing I love more Who can even fathom the toys books but all sorts of gifts than dawdling round the wish list currently doing the and stationery as well - we shops at Christmas, soaking rounds? I don’t know what nipped along to Rouken Glen in the festive cheer, seeing the half the things are they talk Garden Centre to check out excitement on the kids faces, about. Last year even after all the decorations. Of course humming along to the same I intercepted a scribbled list every single one had to be old Christmas tunes (even bound for the North Pole I had touched as we looked around. as someone else nearby is to instigate a lot of teatime And then we stopped in to moaning about Christmas conversations to help me Mannerstons Café because of music everywhere). But I can’t decipher what was actually course it wouldn’t be Christmas really relax enough to do that being asked for. without a milkshake in front of until the Christmas shopping Often it feels like a stab in the a roaring fire…yes I know, kids at least for the kids - is done. dark as to what kids actually are weird.

I spend a lot of November and want. But get it wrong and often December waiting for you’ll soon know about it. Most Here’s to hoping the biggest, baddest, coolest toys are that moment when the kids children have yet to learn the under the tree this year! announce what they want for socially necessary art of hiding Christmas. Hoping it will be disappointment so if they hate something reasonable and what they get it will be painfully easy to source…all the while obvious. knowing that more than likely Despite the stress of it all, a friend of theirs will casually after almost all our Christmas mention something to them shopping was done online in the playground the week last year I am craving those before Christmas and that Christmas shopping moments will suddenly be at the top of (even those when I have to their list. Of course I will then The parenting column try to sneak something to the explain that they’ve already is contributed by Laura till without the kids seeing it). written their letters to Santa Archibald. Laura lives in West So determined to shop local (any sensible parent gets that Lothian with her family and at least a little bit we headed locked down at the earliest their campervan Hank. She possible opportunity) only to be out late night shopping one is mummy, wife, blogger and Thursday to Linlithgow for it’s told it’s okay they will ask their full-time personal assistant to quirky independent shops. her two girlie girls.

Elf to tell Santa and he’ll get it @KonectMagazines

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

POTTER AROUND AT POTTER AROUND - Potter Around is a local pottery and ceramic painting studio based in Kirknewton. We offer taster sessions on the potter’s wheel for ages 5+. We also do clay imprints – a great memento to keep forever and we have a huge range of premade ceramics which are great for handprints, but also for people of all ages to paint. Our shop sells gorgeous handmade gifts including pottery and jewellery. Check our website for details. www.potteraround.co.uk SUKHA YOGA - Getting back on your mat with real yoga every Wednesday 7.00 - 8.30pm, Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. Feel the benefit from strengthening practice and regular relaxation. £6 per session or book 5 sessions for £25. All Covidsafe measures are in place. Bring your own mat and any other yoga equipment you need. Please confirm booking by pre-paying for your class. any further information, please contact me on 07767 777044. Everyone welcome.

EAST CALDER SCOUT GROUP Providing fun and exciting scouting programmes for children in the local area, from age 6 upwards. We meet on a Monday or Tuesday, depending on the child’s age. Adults interested in becoming leaders will be made very welcome. We also hire the scout hall for one off occasions or for other groups to use, to benefit the local community. Find out more at our website: www.eastcalderscouts.uk SEASONAL YOGA WITH LIANNE - Mondays 7-8pm at Mid Calder Community Hall. In Seasonal Yoga the intention, pace and flow of our practice changes with each Season, supporting our bodies and minds in the best way possible and keeping our practice interesting. This is a vinyasa flow class incorporating breathwork, Qigong and meditation. The class is suitable for all levels of experience and all bodies. Class passes available.

Bookings: bookwhen.com/ flowbyseason Email: lianne@flowbyseason.life Phone: 07985469162 Socials: @flowbyseason KIRKNEWTON SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTE - Anyone interested in meeting the ladies of the

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village, having a convivial evening once a month, and perhaps taking part in craft and other home skills. Contact Norma at normajane.dourley@icloud. com for more information.

SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder.

Tues 5.30 & 7.00pm; Wed 9.30 & 11.00am. New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781 CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Missing singing? We're back, following Covid restrictions that apply, but still having fun! Why not come along and join us? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30pm on a Wednesday.

Our music consists of a wide range of material from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. To find out more or to join us please contact John Rankine on 01506 880029. We'd love to see you!

CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston.

Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar Yoga - Mon 7.30-8.45pm; Vinyasa Flow - Tues 6.00-7.00pm and 7.208.20pm; Seasonal Yoga (gentle) - Wed 5.30 – 6.30pm; Yoga in Polish Wed 9.30-10.30am, Tai-Chi - Thurs 9.30-10.45am; Iyengar Yoga - Thurs 7.30-8.45pm; Yoga in Polish Fri 6.007.00pm. Carmondean, Livingston.

Email: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk Tel.: 07810 824 195 www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. Services currently via Zoom/ phone: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Virtual Power of Attorney Clinic & Benefits Advice and Counselling.

For information: T.: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all.

Contact generationarts.coordinator@ gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn.

Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £10. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

To include your Club or Class, please email details, up to 75 words, to editor@konect.scot Not-for-profit groups are FREE. There is a small charge for businesses. See konect.scot for information.

@KonectMagazines

EAST CALDER BOWLING CLUB The President, Committee & Staff would like to wish all our Members and their families a very Happy Christmas and prosperous new year

Tuesday 14th Dec: Seniors Christmas Party 6pm for 6.30pm Friday 31st Dec: Hogmanay Live. Tickets £10, on sale soon from bar. 7.30pm - 1am

JOIN THE POSITIVE STEPS CHALLENGE THIS JANUARY

Check our 255 Main Street facebook page and noticeboard East Calder, EH53 0EL for up-coming Tel: 01506 497008 Club Bowling/ Social events Email: info@ecbcnews.co.uk www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com

DISTRIBUTORS NEEDED IN THIS AREA

Sign up to a walking challenge designed to get you moving!

We aren’t asking you to climb a munro every day we just want you to do a little more each day!

GET PAID TO KEEP FIT! Door to door A5 magazine delivery, a few hours once per month in your local area (subject to routes being available).

For more information on helping us deliver Konect magazines please email distro@konect.scot or text 07854 492638.

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With some amazing prizes and cash prizes of up to £500 up for grabs, you don’t want to miss out! www.trashpandahq.com HEAD TO OUR PAGE TO FIND OUT MORE CALDERS | 37

Donnie Yen is back and this time he won’t be making men out of you as he’s using his Kung-fu fists to seek justice. Raging Fire is the latest cop action epic and the final film by the late great legendary Hong Kong director Benny Chan.

Raging Fire delivers in the action department.

This film contains some of the best action scenes of the year. The final fight alone is simply a masterclass in martial arts action and is honestly excellent. The way the fights are shot and edited are great, and while the editing in the gunfights is perhaps not as solid compared to the martial arts fights, everything is still crystal clear, and it never becomes visually confusing.

However, if you head into Raging Fire wanting a great story, you’ll be slightly disappointed.

While the story does pick up in the second hour, the first hour is sadly more of the same when it comes to Donnie Yen cop films. If you’ve seen Kill Zone or Flash Point, certain plot points that happen in Raging Fire are unfortunately predictable and formulaic. But the second hour is great, the story picks up and goes in a unique and fun direction, the action starts kicking into high gear and the actors are giving more to do which is great as both Donnie Yen and Nicholas Tse (the antagonist) are great in this. If you’re into Hong Kong action films check out Raging Fire, it’s a really fun time.

The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 30 ACROSS: 1. Closest, 5. Cheap, 8. Buffalo, 9. Chill, 10. Syrup, 11. Plateau, 12. Ballet, 14. Fettle, 17. Grandma, 19. Edged, 22. Inner, 23. Amateur, 24. Giddy, 25. Artists.

DOWN: 1. Cubes, 2. Offer, 3. Example, 4. Troops, 5. Cocoa, 6. Evident, 7. Pollute, 12. Begging, 13. Learned, 15. Elegant, 16. Banana, 18. Dirty, 20. Guess, 21. Dares.

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

M: 07729 911858

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W: www.universal-appeal.com

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E: alan@universal-appeal.com

@KonectMagazines

Eleven maids a-milking. Milk is very good for you, particularly children.

If you’re eating a balanced plantbased diet, milk alternatives are good too.

@KonectMagazines

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