Konect Bathgate May 2016

MAY 2016

bathgate

WIN!

Family ticket to West Lothian Highland Games - FIVE chances to win! ÂŁ10 plus fruit and veg from Tesco Bathgate FEATUREs s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

Scottish Owl Centre, Polkemmet Bathgate Procession and John Newland Festival plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

Available from:

Call us on: 01506 633 14E Blackburn Road, Bathgate, EH48830 2EY 14E Blackburn Road, Bathgate, EH48 2EY

Call us on: 01506 633 830

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Competition

M e ss ag e from th e e ditor

I

had the pleasure of visiting the Scottish Owl Centre within Polkemmet Country Park last month and speaking with the lovely couple who run it – Rod and Niccy Angus. Rod is inspirational with his knowledge of owls - read about the centre and how it came to be here on pages 8-10.

It is of course the local festival season, with both the John Newland Festival and the Highland Games coming up this month. The Games organisers are generously offering the chance for FIVE Konect readers to win a family ticket to the event, turn to page 40 for your chance! Behind the scenes the various committees are working really hard to make sure it all comes together, so a big thanks to them!

Tesco Bathgate are offering the chance to win a £10 voucher to spend in store, plus a bag of fruit and veg from their new range. And all our usual columns are here.

Thanks for reading Konect, and wishing everyone a great local festival month!

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

FEATUREs Scottish Owl Centre Bathgate Procession & John Newland Festival REGULARS Music Review Inter ior s Proper ty Matter s Recipe Parenting in West Lothian Visit West Lothian COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword Tesco Pr ize Dr aw West Lothian Highland Games ticket dr aw COMMUNITY What’s on & Useful Information Clubs & Classes INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

08 16 20 26 28 34 38 39 32 35 41 42 43 45

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 at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.

Front cover: Rod and Niccy Angus of the Scottish Owl Centre, Polkemmet.

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FEATURE

Great Grey Owl “Education, Inspiration, Conservation.”

“When was the last time you saw an owl in the wild?” is the question that Rod Angus, founder of the Scottish Owl Centre in West Lothian’s Polkemmet Country Park, poses to anyone asking why he has dedicated his life to these magnificent birds.

“The answer,” he says, “is usually along the lines of ‘maybe once, a long time ago.’ There are over 200 species of owl in the world but hardly anyone has actually seen one.”

There are very few visitor centres in Britain dedicated wholly to owls. As Rod explains, “It’s a totally different ethos here to a falconry centre.

Falconry displays are all about the hunting prowess of the birds, which are very spectacular.

Falcons and hawks have been kept and trained for millennia. But owls are wild nocturnal creatures.

They are trained to the glove of course but they are 8

silent, stealth hunters, they swoop past without you hearing them – and they are slightly more likely to refuse to fly on demand!” So although the highlight of a visit to the Centre may well be one of the entertaining flying displays, the focus is not on dramatic hunting techniques but on everything to do with owls and their habitat. As Rod says,’’The owl becomes an environmental educator. Through the study of owls we can understand a broad spectrum of issues to do with conservation and natural history.”

There are approximately 120 owls resident in the centre at Polkemmet, representing species from all over the world. The uniqueness of the centre, whose motto is “Education, Inspiration, Conservation,” means that it attracts people to study owls at all levels – from preschoolers to PhD students (they currently have a PhD student doing a project on owl communications). “No creature exists in isolation,” Rod says, “it’s all about their environment. Already by keeping them in captivity you’ve removed a bit of what it is to be an owl. So there is no petting of the owls here; the ethos is KONECT

always to make them accessible without dumbing them down to just fluffy big-eyed things. We want to inspire visitors with the wonder and the design of these birds. People love to learn so we give interesting presentations. I keep abreast of latest research and we discuss how to impart up to date natural history information to the public.” (You can hold the owls for photo sessions after the flying displays). Rod’s wife Niccy was formerly a teacher (secondary and nursery), so she designs educational material that is fun and interesting for kids from pre-school age. She also takes care of all the art and design side of the business, designing the signage and interpretative boards around the centre.

Rod’s interest in birds dates back to very early childhood. He attended a boarding school in Kent and remembers watching the birds and reflecting on how they were so free (“a boarding school can be quite a traumatic environment.”) One of the teachers was a keen amateur ornithologist and encouraged Rod’s interest in birds; he ended up setting up a bird club at the school. He trained as a bird ringer in the 70s, and was employed at an RAF base to monitor and look after the bird and wildlife population. He was involved in a couple of foundational ornithological studies on the west coast - of buzzards and barn owls. He also helped establish the Machrihanish Seabird Observatory. “I took part in the British Trust for Ornithology’s Project Barn Owl in Argyll between 1995-1997, which involved knowing the owls’ habitats, tracking them, finding nests and counting them. Barn owls like ruined buildings best – they need to be sheltered and private. We discovered that the majority of Scotland’s small barn owl population is in the south west.” Rod had also attended an owl symposium at Chester Zoo, and on a family holiday visited a small private owl centre. They became increasingly inspired to set up their own owl centre, and Rod got his first owls in 2002, starting off by taking them to shows and doing flying demonstrations. They finally set up an owl centre in their home town of Campbeltown, converting an old hospital for use as both family home and owl centre. They ran it successfully for several years, but as their own children left home they eventually decided that in order to make the owl centre sustainable they had to move to the more populous Central Belt. They considered many options before choosing Polkemmet Country Park, where the old walled garden provided a good KONECT

Rod, Niccy and “Sarabi”, the Milky Eagle Owl. sheltered spot, in addition to the proximity to the new junction 4a of the M8. So after much hard work the new Scottish Owl Centre opened in 2011.

Besides Rod who is obviously an authority on owls, the team consists of a senior keeper Trystan, who previously worked for the World Owl Trust, and a second keeper Lauren, from Armadale, as well as a valuable team of volunteers.

The aviaries are carefully designed to give the owls their privacy and make them feel secure, but at the same time make sure they are visible to visitors.

The owls which are used in flying displays are introduced to the public as chicks so they are used to being handled. The large purpose-built flying arena is an indoor area so they are not affected by the all-too-predictable rain and can fly every day.

As Rod admits, keeping birds in captivity is very unusual for an ornithologist. But he says, “I don’t find it hard to reconcile; all our owls are bred in captivity and they are happily breeding well – if they were not happy they would not breed. It’s very unusual to get close up to an owl in the wild. Like any zoo, if we didn’t study them we’d never see them to learn about their needs and conservation issues surrounding them and 9

their habitat. Humans are intimately involved with the natural environment, and it’s essential to unde rstand it for humans and animals work together.”

Rod’s top five owl facts • O wls have eyes but they can’t move them.

• O wls have ears but you can’t see them.

• O wls have wings but you can’t hear them.

• O wls lay eggs but they don’t build nests.

• O wls hunt at night so you rarely see them.

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And what do they do outside of work? Niccy is a member of Livingston Players (you may have seen her in their recent production of Steel Magnolias…) and of Shotts Opera Group, and is a keen hillwalker with Linlithgow Ramblers. And Rod’s interests outside of work? “Anything bird-related but also classical music and opera and extensive theological reading.’’

Visit the Scottish Owl Centre in Polkemmet Country Park, 7 days a week April - August: 10.30am – 5pm (last entry 1 hour before closing).

Admission charges apply, please see website www.scottishowlcentre.com for full details.

Daily Flying Displays: 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm.

There is ample free parking at the Polkemmet Visitor Centre car park, and a cafe adjacent (the Courtyard Cafe – separate from the Scottish Owl Centre, check cafe opening times direct with the cafe)

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15

COMMUNITY

Titan The Robot

Bathgate Procession & John Newland Festival 2016 The time is once again upon us when we can start to think of Procession Day and all the festivities that surround it.

STREET FAIR: George Street, Bathgate, 11.00am – 3.00pm.

Looking back though – we hope that the weather is a lot kinder to us than last year when the day itself was just dreadful. However – many thanks to those that came out and braved the day and made the best of what we had.

Sunday 22nd May

If you missed us at the door to door collection in April, you can donate online via our website at www,bathgateprocession.co.uk. Go to About Us and chose “donate”.

All donations are most welcome and after such a disaster last year we are even more in need of everyone’s support.

We have a full programme of events lined up as you can see below: full details will be in The Procession Programme – delivered free to all Bathgate residences in May.

Friday 20th May

SCOOTER RACING: Morrisons car park, 6.30pm.

Saturday 21st May

MILE OF PENNIES: George Street 10.00am – 4.00pm.

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A wide and varied range of stalls and entertainment at this popular event. If interested in having a stall please contact the secretary.

INTER DENOMINATIONAL CHURCH SERVICE: EU – United Reformed Church, Marjoribanks Street - Service 3.00pm. Prior to the service, Bathgate Youth Organisations will parade from The Guide Hall, Mid Street, leaving at 2.30pm.

CAR TREASURE HUNT: Guide Hall, Mid Street, 6.00pm. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. Entry fee is £5 per car and includes a BBQ on return.

Monday 23rd May

INTER SCHOOL POTTED SPORTS: Bathgate Sports Centre, 6.30pm.

This popular event will see the six primary schools compete for The Procession Trophy.

Tuesday 24th May

CONCERT: The New Bathgate Partnership Centre, 7:30pm Featuring Newland Concert Band including the training section - FREE admission.

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Wednesday 25th May

INTER SCHOOL SWIMMING GALA: Bathgate Sports Centre, Balbardie Park. Starting at 6.30pm

Sunday 29th May

5-A-SIDE FOOTBALL: Balbardie Park 5-a-side pitches, 1.00pm.

All teams must be registered for the start of the competition at 1.15pm.

This competition is for children resident in Bathgate and of primary School age only.

Tuesday 31st June

CHILDRENS SPORTS: Meadow Park, 6.30pm.

Wednesday 1st June

TRIVIA QUIZ: Bathgate Royal British Legion, 8.00pm Team Quiz. Anyone wishing to enter a team should contact Jim Walker on 01506 652483.

Friday 3rd June

THE NEWLAND ORATION: Bathgate High Church Hall, 8.00pm

Saturday 4th June

PROCESSION DAY: pageant characters, bands, floats, fancy dress, schools, clubs etc will all parade at 12 noon from The Old Academy building through the town.

Following this we have a full afternoon’s entertainment in Meadow Park. Music Marquee, Chidrens Marquee, Arena performances by Riders Of The Storm (horse stunt show); Jason Smyth (stunt show), Massed bands and special guest Titan The Robot.

The day finishes off with a torchlight parade and fireworks in Meadow Park.

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If you want a career in musical theatre, acting or dance consider studying full time at the historical Regal Theatre, Bathgate.

You will work toward your HNC/HND, but the course is much more than mandatory units. The tutors are professionals who have dedicated their lives to the arts and to nurturing young talent toward successful careers.

The musical theatre course will include chances to perform, a variety of extra dance units, classes in musicianship, individual singing, weekly performance classes, and guest workshops with visiting professionals.

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This is an opportunity to live each day inside a working theatre with access to many of the performances taking place. Here is an excellent learning opportunity where you will be encouraged to hone your skills while being inspired to embrace the performing arts.

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19

MUSIC REVIEW

Crowds Chords and Cabaret

by James Kerr, Regal Music Club

The Searchers might be the only group who could fight The Stones for title of longest running sixties band. They are also more likely to play The Regal in Bathgate, and so it was on the 9th April.

The stage act was intact, three guitarists crowding around the drums, black suited, backs to the audience, suddenly spinning and breaking into the unmistakeable introduction to Needles And Pins - even if only as a feint, one example of the slick management of their material for maximum effect.

Bassist Frank Allen takes most of the lead vocals, and clearly relishes his role as frontman (and straight man to the well-rehearsed spontaneity of lead guitarist John McNally). Allen, McNally, and “new boy” (only been in the band for thirty years)

Spencer James all sing, with the combined vocals being very strong. Speaking candidly, given the age of the performers, the strength of lead vocal and harmonies seemed nothing short of miraculous considering the deterioration in the voice of a certain Merseybeat contemporary.

Inevitably there was an element of cabaret to the show, but this must have been the case at the beginning when the craft was learned on the package tours and the shows in the many hundreds of dance halls and theatres just like, possibly including, The Regal. The hits flowed, Sweets For my Sweet, Goodbye My Love, Take Me From What I’m Worth, and diversions into the decades of records that had the quality but not the airplay were received as generously, and deservedly so. Do yourself a favour and Google, say “Desdemona” from 1971. I know, right?

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Interiors feature

‘Cleaning the Oven? I’d Rather be Watching Outlander.’ by ecko

Four kitchen appliances to make your life easier It’s back! You know the programme? It’s the one where the married nurse in post-World War II Scotland gets mysteriously whisked back to the pre-Jacobite era and falls in love with a hunky Highlander. Outlander, based on the historical romantic novels by Diana Gabaldon, has been a massive hit and season 2 on Amazon Prime looks set to give an even bigger boost to the Scottish film industry. But what do we at Ekco love most about the programme? Is it the beautiful Scottish scenery, the authentic period costumes or the…well, the other bits? Actually no. It’s imagining how, in Castle Fraser, they can possibly serve several, culinary courses to hordes of hungry clansmen prepared only on a tiny cooking range. Nowadays, we would break out in hives if we had to prepare a feast for ten guests let alone a hundred, without a host of kitchen appliances within easy reach in our cooking triangle.

There’s no doubt that life in the kitchen has become easier over the centuries and modern innovations from the simple electric cooker and kettle, to the microwave and food processor has revolutionised the way we live our lives. So what’s the latest in the line? Here are four new kitchen appliances from Ekco designed to make your life easier.

1. Quooker is a Dutch invention that’s replacing the need for a kettle. It’s a single tap which dispenses cold, hot and boiling water. If you’ve ever switched on your electric kettle and been amazed at how 26

quickly your power meter clocks up the energy, you’ll be delighted to know that the cost of running a Quooker is around 3p per day.

2. Pyrolitic self-cleaning ovens from top manufacturers like Neff and Siemens mean you’ll never have to break out the Mr Muscle again. A pyrolytic oven is cleaned when you lock the door and set the temperature to around 500 degrees. In the absence of oxygen, the intense heat reduces any baked-on food to ash which is then simply wiped away with a damp cloth.

3. Steam Ovens – The French call this type of cooking ‘sous vide’ and it’s been a popular culinary method for years in top restaurants. Now sous vide ovens are available for the home. Basically you steam cook your food in special pouches which not only helps to keep nutrients in, it saves on washing up.

4. Induction hob – The induction hob has been around for a while but is only beginning to be widely embraced. It’s a smooth ceramic surface which only heats up when the pot is placed on it.

It has the speed and controllability of gas with the added safety feature of staying cool on the surface except under the pot itself.

The beauty of these appliances is that they’ll give you even more free time than ever before – more time to rev up your broadband and catch up on Claire and Jamie’s latest bodice-ripping exploits – honestly, it’s the poor husband left at home I feel sorry for.

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KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

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Featured local propertIES

South Lodge, Craigbinning

Hamilton Way, East Whitburn

Combining Scottish tradition and modernity in a great location

Country style and substance – right next to the town

With panoramic views and a semi-rural location, South Lodge is a 4 bedroom property that effortlessly combines the best of tradition with the best of modernity.

The house is just 12 years old and yet its Scottish vernacular style makes it look as if it has been an architectural feature of the landscape for over a century. It is a solidly built, double-fronted house with mansard windows, and is set in an acre of ground with substantial, easily maintained gardens and outbuildings over a 1 acre plot.

Set on an elevated position overlooking a large green, 6 Hamilton Way is a truly imposing 6 bedroom family home that is built in a pleasingly elegant Palladian style.

The views to the rear of the house are out across mature trees and pasture, owned by a nearby equestrian centre. The house is on an exclusive estate, which is located around a large, central and well maintained village green, well away from the main road. It makes it an extremely safe place for children.

South Lodge, Craigbinning – Offers Over £499,000

Hamilton way, East Whitburn – Offers Over £475,000

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

Homes & Gardens

Extensions West Lothian company 1st Choice Living provide their tips for a successful home extension project.

Most people’s needs for their home change over time. More space, updating the home, changing the style – there are many reasons to embark on a home extension project! Many people are moving to a more open plan design, while others are investing to increase the value of their home, and for others the trend of working from home brings a need for a home office or two. But where to start?

First of all, you might want to get a rough idea of whether or not you need planning permission, which can help give you some idea of costs.

Just adding a porch or modifying the internal layout doesn’t require permission, nor do many other kinds of changes but you need to refer to the West Lothian planning page to be sure: http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/article/10804/ Householder-planning-application-guidance.

Even then it helps to have a professional help you navigate the possibilities, because sometimes it gets tricky and a mistake made at this stage can be very expensive. Imagine you have decided on the approximate scope of your project - a stylish orangerie perhaps, or a single or double storey extension – you need to consider what the budget might be.

We spoke to Derrick Findlay of home improvements company 1st Choice Living in Bathgate about things to think about when planning an extension: “The starting point is, ‘What is the purpose of the room to be?’” says managing director Derrick Findlay. The design and therefore the budget requirements start from there. “The design

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is paramount and can transform the way you live”, he says. 1st Choice has an in-house architect to work on the design with you, advise on what is most likely to get planning permission, and apply for all relevant permissions all the way through to the final building warrant. Derrick’s top tip – go for the biggest extension you can with the space you have available. You may have to compromise perhaps on the interior decorating or other details, but in the end it is much easier to upgrade these than expand the walls another day!

1st Choice always offer a pre-install build meeting - all the details of your project are discussed at the outset, including right down to where the power points are going to go. They can be changed of course but it’s important to think through all the details and the interior design, think about where the sofa is going to be, where the desk is going to be. This is where you really think through the realities of living in your new space and the experts are there to help you.

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“Once the design is right, the build is the easy bit,” says Derrick. It can be done any time of the year except when the temperature falls below 5 degrees. A responsible builder will ensure you have a schedule of work and a timeline so you have the reassurance of knowing that everything is on track. For larger projects that 1st Choice carry out, Derrick fully manages them himself and keeps in regular contact with the home owner.

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Snagging stage. It’s a fact of life that sometimes things go wrong despite the best of planning, or perhaps your initial use of the space threw up some unanticipated problems. 1st Choice offer a 10 year warranty on labour and materials and, like any professional builder will stay in touch during the handover period and make sure the home owner continues to be delighted.

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Central Scotland's One Stop Home Improvement Design Centre

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PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the June edition of konect

Across 7 A large sea (13) 8 Disclosed (8) 9 Opposed to (4) 10 Move forward (7) 12 Allude to (5) 14 Learn (5) 16 Not coolest (7) 19 Zn (4) 20 Fizzy drink (8) 22 Practical example (13) Down 1 Not there (4) 2 Picture house (6) 3 Think about (7) 4 Unrefined (5) 5 Breathe in (6) 6 Insensitive (8) 11 Thorough (8) 13 Mallets (7) 15 Physician (6) 17 Tiny (6) 18 Show embarrassment (5) 21 Let fall (4)

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Recipe & Food Notes

by Anne Pinkerton

Seasonal Foods

like rhubarb for pies, fools or just simply stewed with yoghurt for pudding. If you need inspiration look at the website www.eattheseasons.co.uk for seasonal food information, tips and recipe ideas.

Here is a homely dish using new season produce.

Rhubarb and Orange Pudding 250g new pink rhubarb cut into short lengths 50g butter 200g sugar 1 small orange, rind grated and juice strained 2 eggs, separated 1/4pt milk with the egg yellows beaten in 50g plain flour

Method Set oven to 160oC. Put the rhubarb into a 2 pint oven proof dish. Cream the butter, orange rind and 2 tablespoons of the sugar till soft. Beat in the rest of the sugar with the flour alternating with the egg/milk mixture. Add the orange juice, mix well.

Beat the egg whites till stiff and gently fold into the rest of the pudding mix. Pour over the rhubarb and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top will be firm and there will be a delicious sauce with the fruit at the bottom. Serve with cold, plain yogurt or Cornish cream.

May is the start of the new season for fresh local food.

We’re lucky to have growing areas from the warmth of the Channel Isles and the west of Wales and the cooler areas of Scotland, giving us spring lamb, sea trout, Jersey Royal and Ayrshire or Pembroke potatoes, watercress, rhubarb and asparagus all ready at much the same time. People who like to gather “wild food” will be able to find nettle, dandelion and wild garlic leaves for more interesting salads, quiches or soups.

We’ve become used to expecting a huge variety of fruit and veg all year but this has in some ways restricted what we eat. Fewer varieties of individual plants are grown for mass markets so we eat a smaller range of trace nutrients. There are always some staples on the shelves such as apples so perhaps we forget about seasonal pleasures 34

Rhubarb and Orange Pudding KONECT

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Tesco Bathgate Prize Draw What a busy month in store it’s going to be. Farm to Fork continues to be very popular with 10 trails booked in for this month alone.On Wednesday 18th May a group of us from store will be going to help at the Ageing Well Olympic Games. This is organised

by West Lothian Council and will be held in Broxburn Sports Centre.There are about 200 participants all needing a well-deserved cup of tea at the end, we always have a great afternoon. On Thursday 26th look out for the 2nd year pupils from Bathgate Academy in store. They will be from the winning group from the schools Make it with Meat competition. The pupils had to design and make a beef burger, from its taste to the packaging. I have been involved with this project for a number of years but this year we have added an extra incentive. The

winning burger will be made and sold in store for charity. Local business Food Creations will be there to help us with this, please come along and have a taste of the winning product.

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

£10 voucher and a bag of Tesco's new range in fruit and veg 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 May, 2016. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date.

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Parents in West Lothian

d How To Keep The Old MacdngonYoalur Song Clean While Not Losid Wellies In The Mu About a week ago I was sitting in the Centre in Livingston, taking a break from manic shopping with my two wee monsters, and the place was heaving and buzzing with kids’ chatter and varied squeals and moans according to each little cherub’s mood.

“Mummy, she’s got my juice!” from a boy with a keen sense of justice and lack thereof …

“Daddy, I want popcorn!” from a peckish pigtailed pre-schooler …

“Mummy, I’m tired!” from a weary child in a superman onesie, complete with sewn-in sixpack …

“Noooooooo give to me!” from an aggrieved, chubby-faced toddler …

It twisted my heart to hear these things; I would dearly love to be rudely ordered to surrender some toy or foodstuff, but thus far my little boy Quinn who is coming up for 3 has delayed speech and only uses a couple of words sporadically.

I’m constantly worrying about whether he will speak, how will it affect his ability to make friends if he doesn’t, will he be able to say “I love you Mummy.”?

We do lots to encourage him, and just now the theme of our bedtime books is ‘farms’. Recently while driving we had a breakthrough - as we belted out a particularly rousing rendition of ‘Old MacDonald’ Quinn quietly interjected in the duckverse with ‘wack-wack’ (close enough for me and certainly surprising enough for me to nearly crash the car) so a trip to see some real ducks (and 38

Our column is West Lothia t: Nicola Jengaenga li ves in n with Quin months an d her hubby n 2, Penny 10 Channa, 33 .

Nicola & Ch anna both w ork, jugglin schedules w ith g their two tin the ever-evolving dem hectic y overlords, ands of in some tim and also sq ueezing e for each ot her!

In this new bl the adventu og for Konect she chro nicles res (and m isad Mummy an d Daddy wh ventures) of a the happy ti o aim to wri m ng all babies in w es they can from life w onderful W est Lothian ith their !

other assorted residents of Old MacDonald’s farm) was soon high on the agenda.

Cue a trip to Craigie Farm! It’s on the way to Queensferry through some pretty winding roads, and when we arrived we had a look for the animals. First up were the pigs and their piglets. Lots of interesting country smells around that area but after a bit of coaching Quinn was repeating ‘pig’ more or less perfectly! Next! Across a little road to the next field to see two ponies (I called them horses for simplicity and also so that the appropriate line in Old MacDonald would still scan smoothly) and after a little coaxing I got a whispered ‘hoss’ – superb! Next, to the chickens and their tiny baby chicks in their little hot house – after some spirited efforts to encourage Quinn to ‘cluck’, the actual noise elicited sounded a lot like a bad word so that project was quickly abandoned …

After a quick bite in the café, and a trolley-dash in the farm shop (chicken stock, tablet, fresh bread; check, check, check!) we braved the newly gusty weather for a go in the play park just outside the café area. This area has been re-done with fake grass underfoot so it is now possible to partake in the sliding and swinging fun without looking like you’ve attended a wet Glastonbury.

In the car on the way home we had another go of ‘Old MacDonald’ – I could see in the mirror a couple of words were mouthed as we sang.

The only audible contribution from Quinn? The chicken noise which wasn’t quite ‘cluck’ … oh well.

k

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The Countdown to Summer in West Lothian The clocks have gone forward; the nights are getting lighter and the final countdown to summer has begun!

With the spring season in full force, some of our top attractions have now re-opened for the season. Take a stroll through Hopetoun House and Grounds, enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the canal at The Linlithgow Canal Centre or take a visit to Annet House Museum for a fun and educational day with the family.

There are a whole host of events coming up throughout May, for you and the family to look forward to. The Festival of Museums will be taking place at Almond Valley Heritage Centre on the 14th & 15th May. West Lothian Rangers Services have also released their Events Program for 2016 which includes a number of outdoor activities for children to enjoy

throughout the summer at West Lothian’s country parks. With our final event in the May calendar being the West Lothian Highland Games which will be taking place in Bathgate on the 28th of May. So check out these fabulous events and let’s get excited about summer in West Lothian!

If you haven’t seen our fabulous new Visitor Guide yet, then check out our leaflet stands at locations across West Lothian or you can simply check out our online version which is available on our website www.visitwestlothian. co.uk

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit www.visitwestlothian.co.uk, Facebook. com: VisitWestLothian and Twitter.com: @teamwestlothian

Parties, Workshops, Schools and Groups welcome To book, please call:

01506 411978

www.gettinggooey.com Party packages available

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Wester Inch Community Association (WICA) is run on a day to day basis by a committee of volunteer residents and holds four meetings in the village every year open to all residents. Volunteers are needed to support the committee to put on events and activities for the village.

Do you have some spare time? 



Would you like to volunteer to help at WICA events? In particular our Autumn Fayre, which this year will be Saturday 17th September.

Would you like to become involved in our Neighbourhood Watch scheme?



Do you have an interested which you could learn or share with other residents? Knitting, craft, reading, music and WICA could try to support the group.

Please contact us by: Email at: committee@westerinchvillage.org or Private Message via our Facebook page. www.westerinchvillage.org 40

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A great spectacle and family day out at the

45th West Lothian

Highland Games

SAT 28th MAY Meadow Park, Bathgate

West Lothian Highland Games returns to its traditional site this year in Meadow Park, Bathgate.

Come along and enjoy traditional Scottish entertainment, including: Highland Dancing Competition Pipe Band Competition Solo Piping Competition ‘Heavies” Competition Veterans’ Road Race Other great attractions include: Children’s Entertainment Cookery Demonstrations Craft Stalls ... and more.

45th Visit our website for details

westlothiangames.com

COMPETITION

Admission: Adults: £5 - Children 5 & over: £3 - Family ticket: £12

5 chances to Win a Family Ticket to the West Lothian Highland Games!

For your chance to win simply answer this question:

Where will the West Lothian Highland Games take place this year?

Text or email the answer, your name, phone number and email to 07854 492638 or email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk Closing date for entries 15th May 2016.

5 Winners will be chosen at random after the closing date.

WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information Friday 6th & Saturday 7th May Toccata Ladies Choir Annual Concert Howden Park Centre, Livingston, 7.30pm Musical Director: Eleanor Howat; Accompanist: Don Finlay; Baritone Iain McLean; Keyboard: Peter Horsfall; with guests.

Tickets £11 are available from Howden Park Centre Box Office on Tel: 01506 777666 Online: www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk.

For more information see www. toccataladieschoir.co.uk

Primary School, from 9am until 11am on the last Friday if every month Saturday 28th May West Lothian Highland Games in Meadow Park 10am -6pm. See page 41 for details.

Saturday 7th May Family Fun Day in aid of Cancer Research UK From 12noon at Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Inflatables, Climbing wall, bungee trampoline, stalls, cakes, icecream.

Wristbands for inflatables £7 unlimited use.

Bathgate Procession & John Newland Festival 20th May to 4th June, see page 16 for programme details.

Bathgate Regal Community Theatre - The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events. See www.bathgateregal.org for complete listing.

Monday 23rd May Caterpillar Club – Spring in your step!

Discover nature and the outdoors with your toddler. Each session has a different natural theme to explore through crafts, stories, songs and outdoor fun! Suitable for: Parents and toddlers (age 2-4) local to Polkemmet.

Meet: Outside the classroom, Polkemmet Country Park Time: 10am-12 noon. Cost: Free.

Book with the Rangers on 01501 743905, email: polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk.

Friday 27th May Family Friendly Badger Watch Join the Ranger Service in Beecraigs Country Park to discover more about these intriguing animals. There will be a short presentation followed by an evening in our badger hide.

Wear sturdy footwear and bring binoculars and a torch. Suitable for: Families. Meet: Sutherland Building, opposite the Visitor Centre. Time: 8pm-9.30pm. Cost: £3.65 adult, £2.50 child. Book with the Rangers on 01506 844516 email: mail@beecraigs.com Friday 27th May Wester Inch Community Association Coffee Morning Held in the community wing of Simpson 42

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

BATHGATE library information Simpson Library Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, EH48 1TS. Tel 01506 282910.

Email: bathgate.lib@westlothian.gov.uk.

Opening hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am – 8.00pm Sat 9.00am – 5.00pm.

Bookbugs: 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. Call the Simpson Library for dates of this month’s book bug sessions.

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clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm BATHGATE Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked 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

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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

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.

31st West Lothian Scouts

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

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.

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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.

Baby and Toddler activities

Kidzeco, 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Range of baby and children’s activities including Hartbeeps, Soft Play, Baby & Kidz Times. Please see our events page on facebook for class times and prices, or call Kidzeco Bathgate on 01506 815534.

2nd Bathgate Girls’ Brigade

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.

Friends of Polkemmet Country Park

Group meets on the second Sunday each month between 10am – 12pm to carry out practical conservation projects in Polkemmet Country Park. Dates for 2015 are: 12/04; 10/05; 14/06; 12/07; 09/08; 13/09; 11/10; 08/11. Please contact the Ranger Service on 01501 743905, Polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk or visit the Friends of Polkemmet Facebook page if you would like to join us.

West Lothian Table Tennis Club

West Lothian Table Tennis are a friendly club who are always happy to welcome new people who have played in the past or would like to pick up the sport for the first time. Whether you are seven years old or 70...Everyone is welcome! Meet at Bathgate Academy. For further information contact: David Stephen, Club Secretary david.stephen2@sky.com or 07979 095772. See www. wlttc.co.uk.

Paranormal Investigation group based in Bathgate

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 - 6.30-8.30pm (approx) £25 per month.

We’re looking for people to join our small group. Will meet on the first Wednesday of the month 7.30pm venue tbc. Investigations to be carried out approximately every 6-8 weeks at various locations around West Lothian and beyond so own transport essential. Both believers and skeptics welcome. Must be over 18. Please contact Tracey at ghost.scotland@outlook.com for further information.

Bathgate Playgroup

Bathgate Fairtrade Group

The Stone Ring

Bathgate Partnership Centre. Mon–Fri 9-11.30am and afternoon sessions Mon & Wed 12.30-3.30pm

Newland Concert Brass

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

Training Band Mondays 6 – 7pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Senior Band Mondays 7.45 – 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, 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Mon 1pm–3pm. Group for new and expectant mums to meet other mums, share ideas and experiences and generally have a chat and a cuppa! £1 includes hot drink. Call Kidzeco for more info 01506 815534.

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.

Bathgate Reading Group

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

Bathgate Memory Cafe

Kaim Park Hotel, Edinburgh Road, Bathgate. A meeting

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place and caring supportive group for people with dementia and their carers. The Memory Cafe runs the 1st Monday of every month from 1.30pm to 3.00pm. For more information please contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533114.

Bathgate Fairtrade is a small group and welcomes more members locally to support fairtrade. We meet up periodically and attend local events. If you are interested please contact the secretary Gillian Reid on 01506 653366 or email mrs_g@btinternet.com

West Lothian Run

Little Runners – free of charge: Wednesdays at Boghall Community Wing, 6-7pm; Thursdays at Boghall Community Wing 6-7pm (for kids with autism);Saturdays at Kirkton Park, Bathgate 10-11am. Adults - £2 per session. Saturdays from Kirkton Park, Bathgate from 10-11am, taking a different route to the kids. Book your place in any of the groups at westlothianrun.org.uk.

Generation Dance Bathgate

St Mary’s Hall, Livery St. Every Friday 10.30am– 11.30am.

Join the community dance club for anyone over 60 years. There’s no need to book, just turn up. Regardless of your mobility, independence and experience, come along, try us and tell your friends. Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality. Everyone can take part.

Suggested weekly donation £2. Can’t come but want to know more? Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239. www. generationarts.co.uk

Royal British Legion

Ex-service male/female organisation. The Club offers comradeship, social activities, e.g. golf, fishing and bowling events. Bingo, cabaret and dancing. Our function hall is available for hire by members, families and friends. Friday night bingo 8.00 pm; Karaoke Saturday night in the Lounge. Watch notice Board for special events.

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Bathgate Bridge Club

Meets every Thursday from first Thursday in October until the last Thursday in May at EU Church Hall, Church Park, Marjoribanks Street, Bathgate. 6.45 for 7.00pm start. All Welcome. Contact Georgette Nicol 01506 203498 for more information.

The Regal Youth Company

Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate Music workshops for 13-25 year olds - Monday evenings 7pm to 9pm, £2. Drama workshops for 13-25 year olds - Wednesday evenings 7pm to 9pm £2. For information see www.rycbathgate.com or contact us via our facebook page

Learning English

A group for preschool children and parents to learn English through fun: singing, play and stories.

Mondays 10 to 11am, Bathgate Early Years Centre. Tel 01506 776234. No fee.

Bathgate Theatre Company

Ever wanted to be onstage or help out behind the scenes? Bathgate Theatre Company are always looking for new members to take part in their annual show which takes place in November with rehearsals usually being every Thursday from 7pm – 9pm at the Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate. Annual members fee £30 plus £10 insurance if going onstage. For more info contact the Secretary on bathgatetheatrecompany@ gmail.com or visit our website www. bathgatetheatrecompany.moonfruit.co.uk

WESTER INCH

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 & information, contact Nan McDonald 01506 655739.

The Tree Club

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

Office at 19c South Bridge Street, Bathgate. West Lothian’s only afterschool club for children and teenagers with additional support needs. Stimulating and creative activities with high staff to child ratio. See www.thetreeclub.org.uk

Simpson Art Club

Alternative Company Entertainers (ACE)

Wester Inch Parent & Toddler Group

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. For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com. Contact 07762 933138

Meet every Thursday in Whitburn academy at 7:00 – 9pm. Ages 5 to 105+. Contact acompanyentertainers@ gmail.com or find us on facebook.

Harmony Dance Club Armadale

Simpson Primary School. Sunday Worship Gathering, Weekly 10:30am. Contact: Tom Jackson m: 07540391081 e: tom.jackson@centrepointchurch.org

We are a not for profit club for retired ladies, dancing to CDs - mostly sequence dancing. We meet every Tuesday afternoon in the Community Centre, South Street Armadale, from 1.30 to 3.30pm. We would welcome old and new members to our club. Don’t worry if you don’t know the dances, we can teach you.

Messy Church

West Lothian Baking Club

Centrepoint Church

Held by St. John’s Parish Church in Community Wing, Simpson Primary School. Third Thursday of each month 6.45pm-8.15 pm. Join us for fun, games, craft activities, stories and singing. All ages welcome. No charge, donations welcome. For more information contact Parish Minister, Rev. Duncan Shaw on 01506 653146 or westlothian@churchofscotland.org.uk or Rev. Zoltan Safrany on 07411 444 743 email safiref@gmail.com

other areas New Town Roller Girls

Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays KONECT

We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £2 per meeting.Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

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. www.konectdirectory.co.uk

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accessories M & A Jewellery Auctions Hoppers Auctions

19 17

Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio 6 Duffy McLean 32 Ekco 27 MK Property 12 Beauty Natrabrow 4 Building Supplies MKM Building Supplies Building Surveyor David Hastings

4 12

Car Service & Repair Ace Exhausts & Tyres Auto Fitness Formula 1 MOT M & S Auto Solutions Meadowpark Garage

11 22 22 14 23

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services

36

Catering Food Creations

35

Children’s Activities/Entertainment Getting Gooey Chocolate & Craft Workshop 39 Church Centre Point Church Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd Dusters Cleaning Services Multi Level Contracts Ltd Time For You Edinburgh

43 36 36 20 22

Clothes & Fashion Original Factory Shop

19

Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance 16 White Buffalo Spiritualist Sanctuary 17 Youyen Thai Massage 16 Computer Services Sprint Computers DIY/Building Supplies & Hire Bathgate Hire Centre

33 2

Doors UPVC Doors

11

Electrician D B Electrics Simply Electrical

10 33

Estate Agent Turpie

29

Garden & Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes Beatson’s GF Garden Services Green Thumb Naia Garden Services Woodford Timber

12 6 12 5 4 13

Garden Buildings Champfleurie Estate Ltd

7

Heating Services Duffy McLean

21

Joiner GR Construction

36

Kitchens Duffy McLean 32 Ekco 27 S & S 37

Solution to April Crossword Across: 7 Vision, 8 Auntie, 9 Asia, 10 Athletic, 11 Insects, 13 Pelts, 15 Bills, 17 Ponders, 20 Nibbling, 21 Only, 23 Issued, 24 London.

Down: 1 Zips, 2 Pirate, 3 Infants, 4 Yacht, 5 Sneeze, 6 Sinister, 12 Noisiest, 14 Roughly, 16 Labour, 18 Drowns, 19 Birds, 22 Loot.

Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady

47

Locksmith Saltire Lock & Security West Lothian Locksmith

33 21

Mobility Med-Ecosse 24 Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland

10

Oven Cleaner The Clean Team

35

Painter/Decorator Nu Walls

33

Pet Services Morven’s Dog Grooming

23

Property Letting & Management Newman Properties 14 Restaurant Liberta Restaurant

25

Roofing J Taylor Roofing

21

Shopping Original Factory Shop

19

Taxi & Private Hire Bluebird Radio Cars

48

Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader

36

Vet Ayrton Veterinary Hospital Riverside Veterinary Practice

15 23

Windows 1st Choice Living DC Window Studio

31 4

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

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