Konect Bathgate March 2015

MARCH 2015

bathgate

WIN!

£20 voucher from Tesco

plus a bunch of Spring flowers.

FEATUREs Regal Radio - Behind the scenes at West Lothian’s community radio station Hooked on Huskies - West Lothian’s dog-sled team

Jak Trueman - Fulfilling the dream Prom Photoshoot s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

Sunday 15th March MOTHERS’ DAY Mothers’ Day High Tea- £13.95/£7.95 (kids) Mothers’ Day 3 Course Lunch in 108 -£16.95 (inc. glass bubbly for mum!)

Sunday 5th April EASTER SUNDAY LUNCH IN 108 Adult £14.95 Kids £7.95 - served from 12.30 til 9.30pm Easter Bunny Disco - Kids 2 course £7.95, Adults Main Course £10.95 -1pm til 6pm Friday 15th May GREASE V. DIRTY DANCING TRIBUTE SHOW 3 course dinner and tribute £30 per person Or why not stay over for £20 per person sharing double/twin room

2015 / 2016 Wedding Packages WINTER WEDDING January, February & March 2015 - £2995 | 2016 - £3295 WEDDING PACKAGE 2015 - £3995 | 2016 - £4295 ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE 2015 - £6995 | 2016 - £7295 *All prices inclusive of V.A.T* Bar & Restaurant 108 East Main Street. Whitburn.

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KONECT

08

FEATURE

M ess ag e f ro m the e d itor

A

s we look forward to Spring with lighter evenings starting at the end of this month, in this issue we take a look back at one slightly unusual winter activity in our main feature – it’s all about a West Lothian ­based team of huskies.

We also learnt about West Lothian’s new local community radio station and, after tuning in a few times, went behind the scenes at their studio in the Regal Theatre, Bathgate – see the feature on page 32 and make sure you tune in and support them!

We also wanted to pay our own tribute to Jak Trueman this month, and after speaking with Jak’s mum, our writer Suzanne Green has put together a piece about his legacy and moving forward with his dreams and his vision, see page 44.

Business spotlights, music review and other regular columns are all here. If you’ve got something interesting and different going on that you’d like to share with the local community, do get in touch and we may be able to feature your story in an upcoming issue.

29th March 0100 clocks go forward 1 hour

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

Front cover: Prom photo shoot at YOLO, Bathgate.

Photography by JA Houston Photography of Bathgate.

KONECT

FEATUREs Hooked on Huskies Prom Photo shoot Spotlight on Weather tight Regal Radio Jak’s Journey (continued)

08 16 20 32 44

REGULARS Stone Ring column Proper ty Matter s Recipe Music Review

22 24 40 43

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword Sudoku Tesco pr ize draw

42 42 49

COMMUNITY What’s on Useful Information Clubs & Classes

46 46 48

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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Advertising Enquiries CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print.

Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print.

The Konect Directory is delivered to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen. Copies are also left /KonectDirectory at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.

@KonectDirectory

3

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FEATURE

By Yvonne MacMillan

The month of March sees the beginning of spring and brings to an end the dogsled racing season. To find out about the sport I catch up with a Livingston-based dog-sled team, and Ladywell resident, Ewan Robertson, who eats, sleeps and breathes Siberian Huskies and dogsled racing.

Ewan and his wife, Bridget, have kept Siberian Huskies for 18 years. For them, daughter Kayleigh and many of their friends, Siberian Huskies are a way of life with a social circle all its own. An Openreach engineer and seasoned musher, Ewan’s been involved in dog-sled racing for 17 years, ever since joining the Scottish Siberian Husky Club and the Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain and meeting others who worked their dogs. “It’s the best way to exercise Sibes,” he says, “They’ve been bred for hundreds of years as working dogs.”

The Siberian Husky is a breed he’s always liked and explains why. They’re independent animals but live as a group and work well together, they’re intelligent and tough with a desire to please. They have great stamina too, his dogs will happily run for 5 miles, and in the past he’s run teams for 10 plus miles. And they come wrapped in a duvet-like coat of two layers - a dense, soft undercoat and a rougher topcoat, designed to protect the breed in temperatures as low as -50 to -60°C, topped off with another distinctive trait - almond-shaped eyes, varying in colour from pale blue to dark blue, amber, green and brown.

His dogs are named after the original, captive Sawtooth wolf pack in Yellowstone. Matomo is grey and white and his name means “He who Goes First” in Native American, the others are mainly dark dogs with marked faces (sometimes known as dirty-faced dogs) and their names are Wyakin

8

Ewan and another competitor on a passenger rig at a fund-raising event at Keilder Castle (meaning Spirit Guide), Chemukh (meaning Black), Piyip (meaning Boy) and Amani (meaning To Speak the Truth). The team’s name is SnoPeak and is Kennel Club registered.

The 5 dogs (2 bitches and 3 dogs, age range sixyears-old to ten-years-old) run together in harness, pulling a 3-wheeled rig (looks like a tricycle without a seat) or a sled, depending on conditions. When competing, the idea is to get round the course in one piece in a reasonable time. There’s no lead dog in the team, says Ewan, all the dogs are trained to run in any harness position so that if a dog can’t run due to illness or injury, the impact on the team is limited. An X-back harness is used, plus a shedload of other equipment - collars, leads, team lines, stake-out lines and pins. And depending on the number of dogs you’re running, a scooter, mountain bike or 3 or 4-wheeled rig or sled if there’s snow, plus a quad or passenger rig for heavy training and a suitable vehicle for transporting the dogs and gear.

Between October and March, Ewan and his welltravelled dogs compete in rallies the length and breadth of the UK. His favourite course, he tells me, is Bowland Trails just outside Blairgowrie, a good course and amazing views.

KONECT

Husky Heroes - The 1925 serum run to the town of Nome, also known as the Great Race of Mercy, saw the safe delivery of diphtheria antitoxin by sled-dog relay across Alaska. Twenty mushers and 150 sled-dogs covered 674 miles (1,085 km) in five and a half days, in blizzards, across shifting ice, and in temperatures of -31C, saving the citizens of Nome and the surrounding communities from an epidemic.

Balto, a Siberian Husky, led his team on the final leg. He became a national hero - a statue of him stands in New York City’s Central Park.

FEATURE around 1 mile per dog). The best conditions as far as Ewan’s concerned are around 2°C or below, because the dogs don’t heat up as quickly, so run faster and longer. Each team is allocated a start time. As the start time approaches, the four-legged competitors’ excitement levels go crazy like fans at a boy band concert. Desperate to run, the dogs work themselves up to a frenzy of barking, whining and howling, then suddenly the barking stops as the dogs are released and whoosh! Over 100kgs of DNA-fuelled dog power disappears down the trail.

Top teams, says Ewan, exceed 25mph and average about 18 - 20mph over a four to six mile course.

Piyip and Matsi having a well-earned drink.

At a rally, different classes of competition for a variety of breeds are on offer. Junior sections mean 8 -11 year-olds can run 1 dog and 12-15 year-olds can run 2 dogs. Most rallies attract at least 50 dog teams, and big events like The Siberian Husky Club of Great Britain’s annual rally over two days at Aviemore in January, attracted 250 mushers and 1,000 sled-dogs. Frustratingly but understandably, due to iced-over trails, racing on the second day was cancelled for the safety of both dogs and mushers. If the weather see-saws the other way, some Race Organisers will cancel rallies if temperatures go above 10°C, as it’s considered too warm for the dogs’ welfare.

“As the start time approaches, the four-legged competitors’ excitement levels go crazy like fans at a boy band concert.”

Mushers shout encouragement. They yell, “Hike on!“, and “Gee” to turn right, left is “Haw” and stop is “Woah”. No-one says “Mush!” except in the movies. How does he feel during a race? “Relaxed and calm. Just out on the trail with the team.”

Has he had any narrow escapes? It’s certainly dangerous, he says, friends have broken bones and been knocked out but, touch wood, all he’s had are a few scratches, bruises and cuts.

And future plans for the SnoPeak team? That’s easy, “Keep running the dogs as long as they are happy to,” says Ewan. www.sleddog.info

Ewan’s dog Matomo

The routine on a race day is always the same. An hour before the race the dogs are given a drink, so they’re properly hydrated, (they’ll be covering a distance of about four to six miles, on average

10

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15

FEATURE

Prom photoshoot Bathgate businesses working together

High school proms are a big deal; a ritual imported from the States, we’ve given it a Scottish twist and whether you start planning a year before your prom, or throw together an outfit the night before, it will be a memorable part of your high school career.

These photos are from a local prom photo shoot that Konect was invited to observe last month.

Karen Holland of Nineteen explains the idea behind the photo shoot - “We wanted to bring together local businesses involved in the prom market which is massive - so that we could all showcase our products and services, and get some good photos to use in promoting them for the prom season. For this shoot I have selected dresses according to what is most popular currently – a lot of pastel colours, some bling but not too much...”

Jacqui Houston (JA Houston Photography) was behind the camera. Jacqui has been in business as a photographer for two years, covering a range of commissions including weddings, portraits and

16

corporate. “I’ve done quite a bit of work for other local businesses. It’s all about supporting each other locally, and other businesses have been fantastically supportive,” she says. Jacqui studied photography and graphic design at college but went on to have a career in sales before coming back to her artistic side a couple of years ago. “I always wanted to, so am really happy to be doing this again. I have a studio for portraits but do a lot of commissions out and about.” She’s clearly in her element here as she sets the photos up : “Hold the bag in your left hand....lean against the wall slightly....come on girls, a bit of attitude for this one please!” One of the male models, Connor Browning, is Jacqui’s cousin who has been drafted in for the shoot and is tackling it like a pro.

The boys’ outfits are supplied by the Kilt Studio, Bathgate, which is entering its 12th year in business this year. They supply formalwear including suits and Highland wear for hire and have been supporting school prom shows and the proms themselves for many years. They have a huge range of ties and accessories so you are guaranteed to be able to find the all-important matching tie to go with the dress. Outfits are available for collection a week before your prom.

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Dresses: Nineteen, Hopetoun Street, Bathgate and Deja Boutique, Bothwell Road, Hamilton. Kilts/suits: The Kilt Studio, Academy Street, Bathgate. Accessories: Missy Macs, Hopetoun Street, Bathgate.

Hair and make-up: Dolled Up, Glasgow Road, Bathgate.

Photography: JA Houston Photography, Bathgate. Shoot venue: YOLO, Hopetoun Street, Bathgate. Models: Connor Browning, Fraser McMurdo, Samantha Ross, Katie Brand, Megan Guthrie, Laura Santi and Chloe McFadden.

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19

SPOTLIGHT ON...

WEATHERTIGHT

WINDOWS & DOORS Interview: Ian McLeod Interview:

Ian

McLeod

When Ian McLeod turns up to quote for your new windows, doors or home extension project, his name may ring a bell with you if you know anything about Scottish boxing.

And yes, sure enough, the Ian McLeod now running Weathertight is the former professional boxing legend who was British No 1 in the eighties. Ian grew up in Livingston, and only discovered his boxing talent by accident; he walked in on a boxing match in Craigshill one day, along with some friends, and ended up doing some sparring for fun; the champion boxer he was up against couldn’t believe Ian had had no previous training – he was a natural. He took the sport up with enthusiasm and by the age of 16 became the youngest ever Scottish boxer competing at an international level - a record that still stands.

So how do you get from being a professional boxer to running a home improvements business? It turns out that Ian served a carpentry apprenticeship as a young man - “although at that stage I wasn’t interested in it, I just wanted it over and done with as quickly as possible so I could get back to fighting” he says. It’s just as well someone made him go through with the apprenticeship though, as it meant he had another skill to fall back on when he left boxing.

“I started off in sales, selling sheet materials,” he says, (and I reckon Ian is as much a born talker as he is a born fighter) “and moved on to set up a security company with my brother which we ran for many years.” He sold out around seven years ago and has been back in the home improvements business since. After working for a couple of other companies, he set up Weathertight, along with George Graham, and a team of fitters. He located a suitable site at Standhill Industrial Estate and set about building the showroom himself. Weathertight opened their doors for business in August last year.

So what’s different about Weathertight? It’s a competitive market with a lot of businesses serving

Ian McLeod in the Weathertight showroom. the local area, how does Ian think he can make a difference? “It’s about having proper values. You don’t pay until you are happy with the work we have done, and so far we’ve not had a single unhappy customer. We have a premises here in Bathgate with a showroom that you can visit, so you know who we are and where to find us. You’ll be dealing with either George or myself, so you know where you stand. We come to your house, measure up and give you a quote, it is a simple as that. There is no hard sell where you can’t get us out of your kitchen until you have signed up, or any nonsense like that.”

Besides doors and windows, Weathertight sell UPVC roofline, A rated boilers, sliding wardrobe doors and larger projects such as sun lounges and garage conversions. They also supply made to measure blinds - the finishing touches for your project.

Ian has maintained his interest in boxing, participating in various charity fights, and taking part in the Commonwealth Games last year. He is planning to open a boxing gym in Livingston in the near future. It sounds intriguing but I couldn’t get the details out of him as the project is still under wraps, but his motivation is clear – to help local young people the way he was helped through boxing. “Boxing was my life from the day I walked into that ring in Craigshill until I retired at 30.” He wants to provide professional coaching using his network of contacts in the boxing profession, and pass on his skills. “Who knows, I may have been on the streets without that outlet. Maybe now I can help other young people.

Ian as professional lightweight boxing champion

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23

property matters

Twenty Points of Difference Part OnE

by Craig Turpie

Choosing an estate agent to market your property can be a difficult task as many of them all appear to do more or less the same type of thing!

That’s why we want to make it easy for you to see what distinguishes Turpie and Co from the rest and why so many people choose to sell their property through us when the time comes. Here are the first ten in a series of twenty:

1

Award-winning! We were recently recognised by the property industry “Marketing Team of the Year” nationally.

2

Prime office location. When some other agents are reducing their visibility by going solely on-line, our prestigious offices provide a reassuring presence, giving confidence to buyer and seller alike.

3

Experience. Our people are among the most highly regarded and professional in the area, with a continual focus on integrity, honesty, commitment and results.

4

Accompanied viewings. When buyers are shown around by well-trained experts, sale happen more readily! The figures speak for themselves.

5

Professional Photography. Most agents simply take their own photos. You’ll notice the difference when they are taken by professional photographers who are highly creative in maximizing the sale potential of your home.

6

Expert writing. We don’t just write property details. We “interview” our clients in order to and create meaningful lifestyle text so that buyers engage with your property in the same way you have enjoyed living there.

8

Market leading brochures. High quality printed brochures remain effective alongside digital methods in elevating the importance of a property and promoting both viewings and offers.

9

External Videos. Taking fullest advantage of virtual “kerb-appeal” to those who might not have otherwise considered viewing the property.

10

Online property file. In addition to personal feedback, you have full 24h access to your personal progress file online, which is fully updated in real time.

However, it’s usually less about “what we DO” that counts, and more about “WHO we are” that makes the difference to our happy clients. Why not pop in for a coffee or contact us on 01506 668 448 and judge for yourself.

See next month’s series for more points of distinction.

7

Interactive floorplans. Properties with floorplans receive 60% more interest than without. With ours, buyers can drag and drop furniture as well!

Pictures from top: Turpie & Co office, Interactive Floorplans.

If you’re thInkIng about sellIng your property, call us for a copy of our Must read property MarketIng brochure and free valuatIon appraIsal.

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- we’ll he

busine lp your ss leap fo r

ar

w

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g in s rti dve a M h Marc

konect Please call:

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Support Worker Vacancies Due to expansion we have vacancies in:

Ratho, Kirkliston, West Lothian and West Edinburgh Starting Salary from £14,500-£17,000

FULL, PART-TIME & CASUAL VACANCIES NOW AVAILABLE For further details or an application form please contact us:

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30

KONECT

The Stone Ring Reiki and Crystal Healing

TAROT READINGS £25 Complimentary Therapies Crystals and Crystal Jewellery Angel Cards

We have a range of different classes available every week, each a new experience. Call 07727 178701 for more information.

Sun 8th March David Tyrrell: Working with your Guides Workshop. 10.30am - 4pm. £55 Sun 8th March An evening with spirit 7.30pm - 9pm £7.50 Mon 9th & Tues 10th March Private reading 30-40 minutes £30

Spend £50 or more in store

Development classes and work shops - contact the shop to see what’s on

Shop open Mon - Sat 10.00 - 17.00

40 Kings Street, Bathgate Call Marie 07727 178701

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(excl. courses/workshops, healings & readings) between

1st February & 31st March you will be entered into a free prize draw to win :

Pr z e Draiw !

2 tickets to Tony Stockwell Medium demonstration at the Bathgate Regal on 23rd April Clairvoyant readings every Wednesday £40 with Georgina booking preferred

Stone of the month - Tanzanite for March

by The Stone Ring

Tanzanite works on a very high vibration.

It facilitates altered states of consciousness inner and outer journeying. It has metaphysical abilities and also helps with deep meditation, helping to connect with the angels and ascended masters, Christ consciousness and your spirit guides.

tive people. If it induces uncontrolled psychic experiences or mental overload from unwanted telepathy, remove and replace with an appropriate protection stone.

Tanzanite also facilitates living in the now consciousness. It opens subtle chakras aura to access the next level of spiritual evolution, downloading information from the akashic records. When combined with iolite and Danburite, tanzanite brings about multidimensional cellular healing, ascertaining your true vocation.

It is beneficial for overworked people - smoothing fluctuations of energy and assisting in taking time for yourself. Tanzanite jewellery should be worn with care as it may stimulate sensi-

KONECT

31

FEATURE

Regal Radio With around 20 hours of live shows per week, West Lothian’s fledgling community radio station is already off to a flying start.

Have you tuned in yet?

Around 12 months ago, a Facebook message drew a few interested individuals to a Bathgate cafe to discuss developing a community radio. The upshot is a station broadcasting from a studio built by the enthusiasts themselves from recycled equipment and hard work in two small rooms on the top floor of the Bathgate Regal Theatre.

I called in one Monday evening, when their regular Brothers In Soul show was being broadcast. There is a different live show every weekday evening, and a live show for 1.5 hours every morning. The rest of the time, prerecorded shows and music is broadcast 24/7. Their website states, “The main aim of Regal Radio is to bring you as much audio content about our area as possible, plus a varied mixture of music chosen by our enthusiastic presenters.”

“Our first rule is to have a lot of fun!” explains Station Manager Steve Webster. Steve’s background is in the telecommunications and broadcasting industry so it falls to him to look after the technical health of the station and to keep it on air. The quality of the sound is a testament to the skill of the little team; they broadcast at a bitrate of 128kbps – on a par with most stations in the UK.

“The main aim of Regal Radio is to bring you as much audio content about our area as possible, plus a varied mixture of music chosen by our enthusiastic presenters.”

A team of 11 individuals now operate the station, doing everything from presenting, interviewing and technical operations; only a few had any previous experience in broadcasting. Their aim is to develop from their current 20 hours of live shows per week to a full schedule including news and local interest talk-based content, “although,” adds Mike Kelly (lead presenter and trainer) “we’re less interested

32

Monday night - the management team plus Brothers in Soul. in broadcasting a generic hourly news update – which you can get anywhere – than in shows specifically relating to West Lothian and the people here. I’d rather concentrate on one significant piece of West Lothian news per day than an hourly repeat of the same news as everywhere else.” This sums up the motivation behind Regal Radio’s incredibly enthusiastic volunteers – orientated towards community service and wanting the station to be genuinely useful and interesting to West Lothian listeners, as well of course as playing a great selection of music and having fun in the process!

They are developing more and more ideas from people keen to get involved to make programs with a local community flavour. The main limitation is the time availability of the volunteers for training more presenters and recording programs. The opportunity to be creative on a community radio brings a great sense of pride and achievement and it’s a great learning opportunity to improve public speaking, recording and technical skills.

Tune in and you’ll be impressed at what the time, skills, energy and creativity of this small group of volunteers has created.

Regal Radio can only be received with an Internet connection – go to RegalRadio.net or via the mobile phone radio app, TuneIn.com.

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The Regal Radio studio has been put together from donated and recycled equipment; the sound quality is on a par with any commercial station.

The group is totally unfunded, and without the support of the Regal Theatre the radio couldn’t have happened. Besides hosting the studio free of charge, the Theatre has promoted the radio group and many other community arts start ups under The Regal Theatre’s umbrella. Bathgate is fortunate to have this unique art hub which hosts an impressive list of local groups, media activities, training, musical development, touring shows and the arts. Regal Radio have broadcast live shows from the theatre’s auditorium and hope to develop opportunities to do more of this to take productions on to the web.

Sponsors, donations of equipment and suggestions for funding are being sought to take the station to the next level, and if you can help with any of these things they would love to hear from you.

Contact Campbell Troup, Communications Manager on info@ regalradio.net, tel 01506 632669 (answering machine) KONECT

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ACE EXHAUSTS & TYRES 01506 630 694 At Ace Exhausts and Tyres we have over 28 years experience looking after people and their cars. From our fully equipped garage in Bathgate, with our time served mechanics at Ace we offer a wide range of services for cars from M.O.T’s, Servicing, Tyres, Exhausts, Timing Belts, 4 Wheel Laser Alignment, Coil Springs, Engine Diagnostics and much more.

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35

Interiors feature

5 reasons why the free-standing bath is the choice of celebrities by ecko

What do Julianne Moore, Nicholas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker all have in common apart from being fabulously wealthy and in the movie business?

They all have sumptuous bathrooms and the focal point in every case is a luxurious free-standing bath. There’s something about a free-standing bath that exudes an air of opulence even if it is the simplest of designs. With that in mind EKCO brings you 5 reasons why the free-standing option is the bath of choice for many celebrities.

1

Traditional styling – Imagine a roll-top enamel bath with ornate claw feet and you have just conjured up the most popular image of the free standing version preferred by the likes of Christina Aguilera or Kate Winslet. This has been a firm favourite for the past few hundred years and blends in well with period features and lots of gold leaf. However it can contrast well with more modern and contemporary surroundings

2

Modern and contemporary – A free-standing bath doesn’t have to be traditional. The quirky SJP of Sex And The City fame has opted for a bath with a beautiful low and long eggshell design and single filler tap. The bath is centrally located and flanked by his and hers vanity basins. I wonder which one is Matthew Broderick’s?

3

Freedom of expression – The free-standing bath allows you to create a focal point and build around it. Julianne Moore for example converted the entire third floor of her townhouse into a bathroom which is light and airy with a bath in the centre and a marble fireplace to one side just in case she feels the need for some extra heat

4

The spacious choice – We all need some space from time to time and having your bath in the middle of the room gives you just that. Maybe you could do what Mariah Carey did and paint your ceiling blue with fluffy white clouds so you can drift away. Or is a ceiling mural similar to the Sistine Chapel more your thing?

5

Lap of luxury – People of a certain age will remember a TV ad for Imperial Leather soap in which the leading character and his wife are enjoying a soak in a freestanding tub when the good lady suggests that they should go to Bermuda. Her husband picks up the phone and says ‘Simon, Bermuda.’ Simon replies ‘Roger, Wilco’ and takes the private jet they are all in to a different destination. Well it’s not a private jet but Nicholas Cage has a bathroom which could have been plucked straight off a sumptuous ocean liner. His free-standing bath sits in the middle of a marble surround and is complemented by the same cream coloured materials around the walls. Some people really know how to live. I wonder if he uses Imperial Leather?

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home.

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ED RS E AI ANT P RE AR U YG 39

RECIPE & FOOD NOTES

Cookery Books

By Anne Pinkerton

Cookery books are highly collectable. They are a source of daily information, social history and answers to the question “what shall we eat tonight?”

Elizabeth David (personality writer and cook) left a library of 6000 volumes on food; I have a smaller collection, but the books give inspiration, recall past meals and aid in the daily business of cooking at home. Nowadays you hardly need any cook books with internet, magazines and information cards in the supermarket; tap in the food you have in the fridge and an app on your phone will suggest a dish.

So why are there new books almost daily? What makes a good cook book and do you need one at all?

Old books still have a point. You could live well on the food in the original Mrs Beaton published in 1861. Some of the instructions are for work we no longer even have to consider (keeping the fire in the range, cleaning pans with silver-sand), however recipes for biscuits, roasting meat and making salads are all relevant today.

The instruction manuals for the early gas or electric cookers are still worth reading if only to make you

Lady Warner’s Green Tea Ice Cream From Vogue 1970 ½ pint milk 2 large eggs Sugar…. (No amount given but about 1 heaped tablespoon) 3 teaspoons powdered green tea ½ pint double cream

40

pleased with the efficiency of modern equipment.

My grandmother’s Cannon Cookery Book, 1932, has a good and -from the stains on the paper - much used baking chapter. The Overnight Cake is a standby for me.

“Learning to Cook the Girl Way,” published by the Gas Council in collaboration with Girl Comic (remember that?) in 1959, uses strip cartoons to instruct the reader in everything from Risotto and Cheese Soufflé to Meat Loaf. Liver-Sausage in Aspic and Cabbage Rose for “party snacks” may not be quite our style today!

By the 1960s colour printing and photography was changing the look of cookery books. Developments in style are beautifully covered in “Food in Vogue” 1976 - Six Decades of Cooking and Entertaining.

Vogue published top class food journalism and always used the most highly regarded writers of the day. So here we find Aldous Huxley, Robert Carrier, Elizabeth David and Jane Grigson, their work illustrated by fashion photographers Cecil Beaton, Norman Parkinson and Tessa Traeger.

At the same time reference cookbooks were reinventing themselves. The French “bible” of food, La Rousse Gastronomique, was translated.

The Constance Spry Cookery Book, Good House Keeping, Reader’s Digest and revised Mrs

Method - Heat the milk. Beat together the eggs, sugar and green tea and pour on the milk, stirring. Return the mixture to the pan and, without boiling, heat until custard coats the back of the wooden spoon. Cool, add the whipped cream. Cover and freeze.

This reflects the style and assumed understanding of both the cook and the magazine reader; very Vogue. An elegant end to a smart meal.

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Beaton were the mainstay of many kitchens. Personality writers were being popularised, the first of whom was Elizabeth David, who it is said changed the style of cooking from the dull, overcooked food of depressed post war Britain to the lively cuisine of the south. She and Jane Grigson, Julia Child, Margaret Costa, Katie Stewart and Delia Smith all published books designed to support people more interested in flavours and ingredients.

They removed the mystery of complicated old methods and simplified classical dishes to meet modern tastes.

Since then, we’ve met chefs/personalities with every style of cooking in studio setups and on camp fires in exotic travelogues.

They’ve been filmed on bikes, boats, trains and any other transport editors can dream up. Competitive knock-out shows try to find new foodie talent. All have produced books. Some full of fabulous photos and good recipes; all beautifully produced.

But they have not made us, as a nation, cook any more or better. Equipment such as microwave ovens or deep freezers have in a way permitted us to buy fantasy food whose hidden ingredients are making us fat and in some cases long-term ill.

Some have tried really hard to influence food policy and worked on school and hospital food; Jamie Oliver is a hero for his efforts. Internet blogs are a good place to look-up ideas but you have to feel sure the writers know what they are doing before you spend cash and time on their ideas.

Sainsburys’ replacement for Jamie, “Jack Monroe: cook, campaigner, Guardian columnist, mother, author etc” is down to earth and practical. Look her up at http:// agirlcalledjack.com My cookery heroes include Simon Hopkinson, Tessa Kiros, Lady Mclean, Delia and Raymond Blanc. But most of all I love the recipes on backs of envelopes and scraps of paper hand written by friends and relatives.

We do need cook books to help us and I urge you to cook for yourself because when you do you know what you’re eating.

The two recipes in this feature are from books mentioned above.

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Overnight Cake from the Cannon Cookery Book 1930 250g flour 125g granulated sugar 70g butter 125 g mixed dried fruit 70g mixed peel 1 large egg Pinch of salt 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda breakfast cup milk Method - Rub the butter into the flour till you have fine bread crumbs, add the sugar and fruit and mix in the beaten egg. Dissolve the bicarb and salt in the milk and add to the mixture. It should be sloppy. Leave in a cool place overnight.

Next day bake in a slow oven, 120C, in a silicon paper lined cake tin for up to 2 1/2 hours. Test with a metal skewer after 2 hours.

I love this cake and usually double the ingredients making a bigger cake! You can vary the proportions of fruit but need the same total weight.

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD Solution in the April edition of konect

Across 1 Unkempt (6) 4 Bogs (6) 9 Get better (7) 10 Command (5) 11 Not dirty (5) 12 Rational (7) 13 Honourable (11) 18 Consistent (7) 20 Hoard (5) 22 Blockade (5) 23 Impartial (7) 24 Tasks (6) 25 Remained (6) Down 1 Swap (6) 2 Type of fruit (5) 3 Adult (5-2) 5 Incorrect (5) 6 Relating to healing (7) 7 Saunter (6) 8 Substitute (11) 14 Apparent (7) 15 Reckon (7) 16 Cared for (6) 17 Shouted (6) 19 Overweight (5) 21 Transport (5)

SUDOKU Sudoku solution on page 50

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KONECT

MUSIC REVIEW

Van Morrison is in his kitchen.

by James Kerr, Regal Music Club

The kettle is boiling, and the radio is on. His ears perk up as he hears the DJ say “... and coming up next, it’s Van Morrison with...”.

1993, and finally “Precious Time”, 39 with a bullet in 1999. So, genuinely, “not brown eyed girl”.

His hands grip the edge of the sink as he lowers his head, staring intensely at his whitening knuckles as they fix the stainless steel ever tighter. He begins to mutter under his breath, faster and faster “Not brown eyed girl not brown eyed girl not brown eyed girl”. “...Brown eyed girl!” says the DJ.

This means that Jackie Wilson Said, Crazy Love, Wild Night, Bright Side Of The Road, or whatever selection you want to make did not trouble the UK charts. Bown Eyed Girl though was a top ten hit in the US, which perhaps now skews the perception of the song as a worldwide smash. Increasingly, even greatest hits albums are themselves cherry picked through streaming and download, with the familiar becoming more familiar and the broader material, of whatever quality, being ignored.

Radio play is, for the most part, governed by chart success. ‘Twas ever thus. In a 45 year solo career, Van Morrison has had precisely three UK top forty singles. The duet with Cliff “Whenever God Shines His Light” in 1989, a re-make of Them’s “Gloria” in

But what about that forty five year legacy of albums? No wonder Van gets grouchy when the mainstream media reduces him to that one afternoon behind the stadium, with his brown eyed girl.

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TRIBUTE

Fulfilling the dreams of my beautiful boy

Jak Trueman

by Suzanne Green

It’s hard to overestimate the impact made on local communities by 15-year-old Jak Trueman from Mid Calder.

This young man, who last August learned that he had the rare form of cancer, Gammadelta T-cell lymphoma, was known and loved by so many people in the Calders, Livingston, Balerno and beyond! My daughter Julia met him, at St Mungo’s youth group, and I wish I’d had the same privilege.

“Jak was an ordinary boy, but these last six months have defined him,” said Mark Traynor, Jak’s tuba tutor. And, as I’ve reviewed the past half year’s posts

by Jak on his Facebook page, Jak’s Journey, soon to be renamed Jak’s Journey (continued), I have been touched by his positive outlook, his gratefulness to those who encouraged him and supported his fundraising efforts and his lovely smile.

The posts describe Jak’s treatment, his good days and bad days. They detail the progress of Team Jak, the fundraising initiative he set up to help lymphoma and leukaemia patients (more than £65,000 has been raised so far). And they’re full of photos of his mum, Allison Barr, and sister Aimee, his girlfriend Hannah Boyd, his grandparents Walter and Ishbel Barr, and many others. There are photos of Jak with footballers who called in at the hospital to see the young Rangers fan, and photos of Jak and Hannah at their prom – organised by

44

West Calder High School two years early so that he could attend.

He was due to have a bone marrow transplant in January. But, sadly, this plan had to be abandoned when doctors discovered that the cancer had spread. “When we knew Jak didn’t have long, I asked him what his wishes were,” Allison explained. “Right away he said, ‘I want you to be happy, Mum, and I want you to continue with Star Harmonies’.”

Star Harmonies is primary teacher Allison’s Musical Theatre School. Jak’s sister, Aimee, tutors Singing, Dancing and Drama there, and Jak was Sound Engineer and helped backstage. It is open to children aged 5-18, and there are no auditions.

“Every child can shine in some way,” says Allison.

“We try to bring out the best in each one.”

Jak, who was goalie for the Mid Calder Colts 99s, had wanted to gain qualifications and then teach football and other sports and act as a referee at Star Harmonies. Now that this is not possible, Allison’s goal is to see his wishes for Team Jak fulfilled. He was very definite about the need to establish the purpose-built “Jak’s Den” somewhere near Mid Calder, to be used by Star Harmonies as well as cancer patients. It will help not just cancer patients and their families, but also children and young people from West Lothian and beyond by providing:

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Jak’s d en • Counselling rooms, and professionally trained counsellors, for the siblings and families of cancer patients and others • Loud room, for those who want to scream, shout or let off steam • Large hall for musical theatre and sports classes/parties • Music and drama rooms • Neutropenic café (with a football and fast car theme) for cancer patients who can’t risk infection • Ordinary café (with a music theme) • Outdoor football goals, a music sensory garden and quad bike tracks • Claw machine (filled with sweets)

Allison Barr with Walter Barr and Neil Alexander

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In addition, Jak wanted funds to support continuing lymphoma/leukaemia research and to aid affected families. It was also his desire to assist the hospitals that had helped him.

Allison says her family has been overwhelmed by the kindness and support of the local community, as well as many other people, some of whom were complete strangers. One day she received a phone call from Joanne Alexander, whose husband Neil is a Hearts star and ex Rangers’ goalie. “She asked me if Jak would want Neil to visit him,” says Allison. “I said yes, and this was the start of a great friendship between my son and Neil. One day Jak asked him to be the patron of his charity, and Neil agreed. I know that we gained more than a patron – Neil and Joanne will be our friends for life.

“Of course, I am devastated at the loss of my lovely boy. “But I’m comforted by the fact that Jak’s fundraising will help other cancer patients. My son’s legacy will be to improve many, many lives.”

To find out more, to donate or to help with fundraising, go to www.teamjak.co.uk Learn more about Star Harmonies Musical Theatre at www.starharmonies.co.uk

Jak’s prom night

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WHAT’S ON The Stone Ring Events David Tyrrell - Sunday 8th March: working with your guides workshop 10.30am - 4pm £55. Sunday 8th March: an evening with spirit 7.30pm - 9pm £7.50. Monday 9th & Tuesday 10th March: private reading 30-40 minutes reading £30.

and Useful Information BATHGATE Saturday 28th February Fairtrade Coffee Morning In the hall of the EU URC Church in Majoribanks Street, 10am-12 noon.

Delicious home baking and a large stall of Fairtrade items including delicious chocolate and other food of a very high quality - often organic because of the production methods. Everyone will be made very welcome - please come and join us. Donation of £2 at the door. Bathgate has been a Fairtrade town since 4/7/11 and West Lothian has been a Fairtrade zone for nearly as long (other towns with Fairtrade status are Linlithgow, Livingston, Whitburn, the Breich Valley area and Uphall village).

The local fairtrade town steering group exists to try and make known the values of Fairtrade and to encourage people to use products/choose gifts which are Fairtrade.

Saturday 7th March

email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

BATHGATE library information Simpson Library Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, EH48 1TS Tel 01506 28291. Email: bathgate.lib@westlothian.gov.uk. Opening hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am – 8.00pm Sat 9.00am – 5.00pm.

Bookbugs

Charity Night at Bathgate Golf Club Disco by DJ Willie Galloway. Tombola, raffle, silent auction. Tickets £10 includes disco and buffet. For tickets contact Caroline Lawrie on caroline.lawrie@yahoo.co.uk

Saturday 7th March Easter Craft Cafe Strathbrock Church Hall, Uphall, EH52 6BY. Craft Fair with over 25 stalls selling high quality handcrafted goods. Café will be open all morning selling home baking and refreshments. 10am - 1pm free entry.

Saturday 28th March Fund Raising Ladies Night At the Kaim Park Hotel. Tickets £8, which includes glass of fizz on arrival, disco plus snacks. Money raised will help pay for the Simpson Primary float for Newlands Day.

Sunday 29th March Jack and Jill Market Up to 45 stall bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids toys, buggies, clothes, cots & more for 0-9 yrs! Adulst £1.50 to come & shop or BOOK A STALL today, clear out and cash in! West Lothian College, Livingston. 10.30am – 1pm. www,jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Bathgate Regal Community Theatre The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events. See page opposite for upcoming events and website at www.bathgateregal.org for complete listing, and more information on some of the acts.

46

To include your event here, please

Bookbug West Lothian delivers free story, song and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children in local libraries, working in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust. Friday 6th March 10am and Tuesday 17th March 2pm.

E-BOOKS ARE HERE! You can now register online and download up to 6 e-books from the library website www.westlothian. librarybooks.co.uk – full instructions on login.

EMAGAZINES Free digital magazines available to all Library customers. Popular publications available 24/7 Easily read on any internet-enabled device Go to – https:/www.rbdigital.com/westlothian/zinio AUDIOBOOKS have arrived! – more information from your local library. The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www.westlothian.gov.uk

KONECT

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Mar - Apr 15

The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy & children’s events.

March wed 4th fri 6th Sat 7th fri 13th Sat 14th wed 18th thu 19th fri 20th Sat 21St fri 27th Sat 28th

The InvIsIble WoMan - FIlM (2013) regal rocks scoTTIsh opera - opera hIghlIghTs paranorMal InvesTIgaTIon ac/Dc TrIbuTe The lunchbox - FIlM (2013) The regal shoWcase carol Mcgee MeDIuM bIg YIn revIsITeD & Fankle Weslo coMeDY nIghT ssW WresTlIng

7.30pm £4 7.30pm £4 7.30pm £11 / £5 9pm-3am £30 7.30pm £15 7.30pm £4 7.30pm £10 7.30pm £16 7.30pm £10 7.30pm £10 7.00pm £10 / £5

aprIl wed 1St fri 3rd Sat 4th thu 9th fri 10th Sat 11th Mon 13th fri 17th

prIDe - FIlM (2014) neW JerseY boYs paula sWarbrIck - psYchIc MeDIuM roY orbIson regal rocks FreDDIe sTarr a nIghT oF DIrTY DancIng MeeT The McDougalls

7.30pm £4 7.30pm £15 7.30pm £10 7.30pm £20 7.30pm £4 7.30pm £25 7.30pm £20/ £18.50 1pm £8 / £6.50

See website at WWW.baThgaTeregal.org for complete up to date listings and booking. box oFFIce is open 10-2pm weekdays and 1 hour before evening shows. ring 01506 630 085 and leave a message.

24-34 north Bridge Street, Bathgate, eh48 4PS KONECT

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clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more...

BATHGATE Bathgate & District Flower Club We are a friendly group who meet on the 3rd Monday of each month from September to June (no meeting in December) in the Regal theatre Bathgate at 7.15pm. We have a Floral Art demonstrator at each meeting who does around 5 arrangements which are given as raffle prizes at each meeting. We also arrange outings each year. The club was established 48 years ago and we celebrate our 50th Anniversary in September 2015. Contact Carole.Hawkins48@ yahoo.com

Bathgate History Group We are a friendly group who meet on a Wednesday afternoon at 2pm in The Tryst behind St John’s Church, Mid Street, Bathgate.

We have interesting speakers on various topics with tea and coffee.

A warm welcome awaits old and new members, the first meeting for the 2014/2015 session is Wednesday 3rd September. For further information contact Dorothy on 01506 652505.

Simply Play Provides flexible after school care and holiday programmes for children aged 5-14. Our clubs are based in Simpsons Primary School Community Wing and Bathgate Partnership Centre. We offer a range of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked with no fee for `holding` an unused space. For more information visit www. simplyplay.org or call 01506 856444.

Any Dog ‘ll Do Rescue Group

Piloxing with Lindsay Simpson Primary School Bathgate Tuesday 8.20pm to 9.20pm Facebook Piloxing with Lindsay Email: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk. Tel: 07834 183084

Parent and Toddler’s St Johns Church, Mid Street Fridays during term time, 9.30-11.30 am. From Birth to Preschoolers. For further information, contact Irene on 01506 654579

Simpson Art Club We meet every Tuesday 7 - 9pm in the community wing of the Simpson Primary School, Bathgate All over 18, including beginners, are welcome; Regular demonstrations and teaching from professional artists, work in all mediums; We also have regular exhibitions in Polkemmet Café and the Regal Theatre in Bathgate. For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com. Contact 07762 933138

Baby and Toddler activities Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate Range of classes including soft play, storytelling, craft and dance.

Please call Kidzeco for class times and availability on 01506 815534.

Lead a Happier Life

A friendly group of volunteers based in and around Bathgate.

Looking for new members to help raise awareness and fundraise for the dog rescue charity. A good way to meet new, like-minded people and have fun at the same time. Contact Lyn Pattison on info@anydogildorescue.org to find out when the group will next meet and how to get involved.

We meet monthly to learn about empowering ourselves to lead the life we want and deserve.

With different with guest speakers on happiness related topics.

Also meet in between times to go walking/theatre/other personal development workshops. Meet 1st Mon of each month at Community Wing, Marina Road, Boghall, Bathgate EH48 1SY (next to the school) 7.00 pm. For more info contact Carol on 07800 772607.

31st West Lothian Scouts

2nd Bathgate Girls’ Brigade

Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7pm – 9pm

Meets on Wednesday evenings in St John’s Church Halls, Mid Street.

Explorers P1-3 Girls: 6.15pm - 7.30pm Juniors P4-7 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm Brigaders S1-S6 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm Please contact Alison Weddell (Captain) on tel 07710 619264 or email alison.weddell@gmail.com for further details.

Bathgate Concert Orchestra We are a friendly, enthusiastic group of musicians and are always happy to welcome new players of whatever level. We rehearse on Friday evenings during school term time from 7:30pm-9:30pm at St John’s Church Bathgate. Anyone interested in coming along to join us should contact the Secretary Joan Proven at Joan_Proven@hotmail. com Tel: 0131 331 3187. See www.batchgateconcertorchestra.org.uk.

You can also find us on facebook.

West Lothian 50 Plus Network New members always welcome for educational, social, recreational and cultural activities.

Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

Yoga Class For people living with long term conditions.

Bathgate Community Centre, 5–6.30pm on Wednesdays. Class is run by KICC Active Lothian, a partnership with MS Therapy Centre Lothian. £5.50 per class or £20 for four weeks. First class is free! Call Joanna on 07436 102726 to book.

Zumba with Lindsay Simpson Primary School, Bathgate Tuesday Zumba® 7.15-8.15pm; Piloxing® 8.20pm-9.20pm East Calder Church Hall

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Monday Zumba® 7-8pm; Piloxing® 8.10pm -9.10pm Facebook Zumba with Lindsay Email: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk. Tel: 07834 183084

The Stone Ring 40 King Street, Bathgate Beginners Self awareness & Development. Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) £6.50. Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month. 7-9.30pm (approx) £5.

Thai Chi Fridays - 7pm - 8.30 pm (approx)

Bathgate Playgroup Bathgate Partnership Centre Mon–Fri 9-11.30am and afternoon sessions Mon & Wed 12.303.30pm

Newland Concert Brass Friendly band based in Bathgate. We welcome brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities.

Training Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.50pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Senior Band Mondays 8.00 – 9.30pm in the band hall on Belvedere Rd. For more information see the website at www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk

MOMS (Mums Offering Mums Support) Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate Mon 1pm–3pm. Group for new and expectant mums to meet other KONECT

mums, share ideas and experiences and generally have a chat and a cuppa! £1 includes hot drink. Call Kidzeco for more info 01506 815534.

Pop Skool Dance / Singing fun classes for ALL! Based in the brand new Boghall Community Wing. www.popskool.com Monday Evenings 5.30 - 6.30 Minis (4 - 7yrs) 6.30 - 7.30 Juniors (8 - 11yrs) 6.30 - 8.00 Seniors (12 - 15yrs) 7.30 - 9.00 Elite (16yrs+)

Regal Music Club The Regal Theatre, Bathgate For anyone who loves music. We meet fortnightly on Wednesdays.

7.30pm to 9.30pm. Come along to chat, discuss, meet new people, eat biscuits. You don’t need to play or sing but if you do there is always a chance to perform. Check out the facebook page or just drop in. £2 including refreshments.

PACE (Parents and Children’s English) Group Bathgate Early Years Centre For parents and pre-school children where English is not first language. Come along for songs, play and crafts. Fridays 10am to 11.15am. Tel: 01056 776234.

Wester Inch Parent & Toddler Group Thursday mornings 9am - 11am. £1 per adult and 50p per child. For more information contact us via our facebook page Wester Inch Parent and Toddler Group or email on westerinchtoddlers@hotmail.com

Bathgate Reading Group Simpson Library, Bathgate Meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 6.00pm, all adults are welcome.

other areas New Town Roller Girls Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page www. facebook.com/NewTownRollerGirls or email newtownrollergirls@ hotmail.co.uk. Please contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you.

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

Lothian Running Club 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 too 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 Breast Cancer Support Group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm-9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel 01506 655739.

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk.

Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details.

Tesco Bathgate Prize Draw I can’t believe it’s nearly Spring already with Easter just around the corner. On Thursday 5th March we will be launching our Easter Egg Appeal for River Kids, were you can donate an Easter egg in store and it will given to a local child in your area.

Last year we collected about 150 eggs, let’s see if we can do even better this year!

Our Farm to Fork trails that we give to Primary school children are well under way with the introduction of local Beaver, Cubs and Scout groups.

Tesco have been working with this organisation to even make it one of their badges which they receive if they take part.

This year we would also like to introduce one of our new Charity Partners, The British Heart Foundation.

They will join together with Diabetes UK and work together to get the message out there about eating well and keeping fit. We look forward to seeing how we can all work together for these causes.

“My name is Tracey Harrison and I am the community champion for Tesco Bathgate. The main aim of my job is to promote my store as a good neighbour that can bring genuine benefit to my local community. If your group or organisation feels I could help in any way please contact me on 07822 866634 or email me at blackburnroad@communityattesco. co.uk or” you can come into the store to meet me in person.

WIN

£20 Voucher and a bunch of Spring flowers Simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to: 07854 492638 or editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with subject Tesco Bathgate Closing date for entries 15th March 2015 Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date

www.konectdirectory.co.uk KONECT

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accessories M & A Jewellery Aerials Aerial Man Army Surplus Bathgate Army Surplus Store Barber Razor Sharp Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio Ekco Car Bodywork Car Medic Chips Away Finishing Touch Protek Car Sales Peoples Ford Car Service & Repair Ace Exhausts & Tyres Formula 1 MOT M & S Auto Solutions Charity Action Group Church Centre Point Church Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd Housemaids Strata Cleaning Limited Complementary Therapies The Stone Ring Distribution The Leaflet Lady Dog Grooming Baileys Dog Salon Morven’s Dog Grooming Electrical D B Electrics

18 22 14 15 14 35 34 39 35 34 07 35 34 12 30 43 14 14 13 31 12 22 23 05

Solution to Feb Crossword

Across: 7 Vacant, 8 Operas, 9 Taxi, 10 Contrary, 11 Lighter, 13 Groat, 15 Often, 17 Parsley, 20 Freezing, 21 Rest, 23 Battle, 24 Impede.

50

Electrician Simply Electrical Estate Agent Turpie Events Razzmatazz Occasions Fitness Funky Fitness Sweat Zone Garage Doors The Garage Door Company Garage Services D & G Autocare Garden & Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes Beatson’s Gifts The Kilt Studio Graphic Design KABOOM! Hairdressers Razor Sharp Heating L & S Heating Home Improvements S & S Hotel Hilcroft Hotel Jewellery M & A Jewellery Joiner SM Joinery Services Kilt Makers The Kilt Studio Kitchens Alba Kitchens Ekco Locksmith West Lothian Locksmith

13 25 18 05 06 28 39 28 04 19 38 15 05 27 02 18 04 19 38 37 13

Mobility Med-Ecosse Oven Cleaning Shiny Bright Ovens The Clean Team Painter/Decorator Nu Walls Tru Decor Pet Supplies Morven’s Dog Grooming Photography JA Houston Photography Plasterer Nu Walls Printing KABOOM! Property Letting Your Move Restaurant Hilcroft Hotel Karma Swimming Classes Swim IT Ltd Takeaway Karma Tattoo Removal Tatta Ltd Taxi Bluebird Radio Cars Theatre Regal Community Theatre Bathgate Veterinary Albyn Veterinary Centre Riverside Veterinary Practice Windows 1st Choice Glazing Andrew James Windows & Conservatories Weathertight Windows & Doors

26 14 14 28 13 23 19 28 38 11 02 51 06 51 18 52 47 22 23 28 29 21

Solution to Sudoku Page 42

Down: 1 Mama, 2 Vanish, 3 Stacked, 4 Joins, 5 Nearer, 6 Carriage, 12 Informal, 14 Bargain, 16 Elects, 18 Scrape, 19 Fixes, 22 Soda.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication.

Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

KONECT

GIF

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ER erfect S gif loved t for your one

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For the finest authentic Indian cuisine

Silver Award 2009-2012

Finalist

Winner 2012, 2013 & 2014

AA Rosette 2010/2011/2012

Finalist 2012, Winner 2013, Finalist 2014

Bookings now being taken for Mother’s Day

Sunday 15th March Mother's Day lunch available 2pm - 4pm (open as normal from 5pm)

01501 744 024

KONECT

154 West Main St, Whitburn, EH47 0QR | Open 7 days from 5pm 51 www.karmawhitburn.co.uk | email: karmawhitburn@yahoo.co.uk