Konect Bathgate April 2026

APRIL 2026

LOCAL HISTORY: VET'S TIP:

COMMUNITY:

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t’s an optimistic time of year with the longer days and lighter nights finally arriving. We try to produce an optimistic magazine every month of the year, and feedback I’ve had during 17 years of publishing is that reading Konect is always a positive and relaxing experience. So I hope this edition is no exception to that.

Easter is a good excuse to put indulgent treats on the front cover, and it also relates to the subject of the new Vet’s Tip column which is starting this month and contributed by the Practice Director at Lamond Veterinary Clinic in Livingson, see page 11.

Bennie Museum’s local history column looks at one of Bathgate’s many now-disappeared retailers, while I took advantage of a lovely meander across in South Queensferry last month to look into the history of the crossing, pre-bridges. The bridges are rightly very celebrated, but it was fascinating to look into the old landing places and how it was managed previously. I hope you enjoy the article - South Queensferry is always a lovely place for a walk, coffee, independent shops and ice-cream.

With full-to-bursting What’s On and Clubs & Classes pages, and all our usual columns, I hope you enjoy Konect this month! If you are involved in community groups or events that you would like help publicising in future issues, please drop me a line.

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

Local History: The Business of Piers & Perils...........................................................................8 April Puzzles.....................................................10 / 16 Vet’s Tip: Chocolate!.............................................. 11 Garden Project: Potager in a Pot.......................20 Life Coaching: The things we can control.....22 Community: BUSC - Easter Holiday Fun at Albyn Park............................................................25 Film Review: The Wizard of the Kremlin.........26 What’s On: This Broxburn Boy’s Life................26 Local History: John Hardy & Sons....................28 What’s On: April / Easter Events........................30 Clubs & Classes................................................32-33 Puzzle Solutions......................................................34

COVER IMAGE: Wishing all our readers a very Happy Easter! - See p30 for What's On

Konect is delivered monthly to 10,000 homes in selected areas of Bathgate and Broxburn. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe BATHGATE | 3

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LOCAL HISTORY

THE BUSINESS OF PIERS & PERILS – BEFORE THERE WERE BRIDGES

In October 1809, a most melancholy accident occurred at the Newhalls Pier [now Hawes Pier, South Queensferry], owing to the very reprehensible practice of driving the coaches to the water’s edge along the piers, to receive passengers from the boats.

A young lady and a female servant were precipitated with the coach, into which they had just entered, into the water, and drowned before they could be extricated. The mother of the lady and a gentleman had nearly shared the same fate. Since that fatal day, which will not be speedily forgotten, the practice of driving on the pier has been abandoned.”

Since even before the days of Queen Margaret who, nearly 1000 years ago embarked at the rocky ledges to cross the Forth at its narrowest navigable point near Edinburgh, the best way of crossing this strip of water has been in constant evolution.

For centuries, the complicated business of leasing the rights to landing places from the landowners, vessel ownership or leasing, and the rights to charge for taking passengers and cargo, all developed as the commercial value and volume of traffic at the crossing increased.

A major problem by the early 19th century was that the landing places were not wellmaintained, and there were not enough of them given how busy the crossing had become, Funding for landing-place maintenance was allocated from percentage of the gross freight takings, and was insufficient to cover the necessary costs.

The writer of the Old Statistical

Account of South Queensferry, in 1796, describes watching people board and disembark at one of the landing places: “It is painful for a spectator to witness the difficulties passengers meet, the dangers to which they are exposed getting to and from that place, as they have to scramble a considerable way among rocks and large stones, rendered slippery by being covered with wet seaweed. To this landing place the boatmen are often obliged to carry, with much jeopardy to themselves, the great mail on the north road.”

The New Statistical Account of Queensferry tells us that in 1809: “There were no suitable piers, no superintendents, boats only at the North Ferry, where all the boatmen lived, other traffic at the wharfs unconnected with the passage, and the arrangements at the piers so incomplete, as to admit of passage only four and a half hours in each tide. The rates and dues belonged to individuals, and the jurisdiction was such, that the proprietors could not be compelled to keep the piers in a state of repair.”

So an application to Parliament in 1809 led to the establishment of a Trust, with Trustees drawn from various public offices and landowners. With a mix of public and private funding, the Trust had the authority to construct piers

William Brassey Hole, The Landing of St Margaret at Queensferry A.D. 1068, ‘National Galleries of Scotland’

and to purchase land for boatmen’s houses and other infrastructure. Scottish civil engineer John Rennie was engaged for the works, and by around 1812 four new piers were constructed on the south – New Halls Pier (replacing the original one), a small pier at Port Neuk (behind Honey Pot Creative, almost no remains), a pier at Port Edgar and one at Long Craig. While Hawes Pier has been in constant use and has been resurfaced, the stonework on Long Craig Pier is original, albeit repaired in places. The South Queensferry

THE QUEEN’S FERRY Queen Margaret was born in Hungary, the daughter of an 11th century English prince of the House of Wessex, who had been exiled there. When her father was named heir to the English throne in 1057, he took his family, including Margaret and her siblings Edgar and Cristina, back to England. Dying shortly after, he left Edgar as heir, who inherited the throne after the death of Harold at the Battle of Hastings. But he was never crowned – with the Normans victorious, the royal family fled north, not before Edgar had spent some time in the custody of William the Conqueror. They landed in Scotland and were welcomed by King Malcolm III. Within a year, Margaret was married to King Malcolm. A devout catholic, Margaret funded a free ferry for pilgrims to cross the Forth to St Andrew’s Cathedral, at the narrowest navigable part of the Forth to the west of Edinburgh; hence the establishment of the settlement at the Queen’s ferry. Malcolm and Margaret’s marriage was a long and happy one. She was extremely active and influential in Scottish religious life, and while Malcolm was not particularly religious himself he was happy for her to pursue her reforms.

Lighthouse, nestled between the RNLI shop and the cruise ticket office, was part of these works too and was in operation until the Hawes Pier Light was installed in 1877.

Hawes Pier was used constantly by passenger and cargo ferries until the opening of the Forth Road Bridge in 1964. The pier is now used by primarily by the RNLI and commercial sight-seeing tours. Long Craig pier is used and maintained by the Scouts.

Old stonework is still visible on the piers at Queensferry Harbour. Port Edgar was heavily used by the Royal Navy during both wars, and the associated development there makes it harder to trace the earlier infrastructure.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

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The crossword solution will be published in the may edition of Konect

APRIL CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Buff up (6), 8. Equality (6), 9. Throw (4), 10. Used by trains (8), 11. Tangled (7), 13. Dizzy (5), 15. Frighten (5), 17. Laughed (7), 20. Fuel (8), 21. Applaud (4), 22. Light wind (6), 23. Hug (6).

DOWN: 1. Pillar (6), 2. Cash register (4), 3. Agitated (7), 4. Ruin (5), 5. Fighting (8), 6. Remained (6), 12. Revenue (8), 14. Without sound (7), 16. Seats (6), 18. Authorise (6), 19. Repaired (5), 21. Surrender (4).

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Easter is a wonderful time of year—longer days, spring flowers, and plenty of sweet treats to enjoy.

But while we’re busy unwrapping chocolate eggs and sharing seasonal goodies, it’s important to remember that some of our favourite Easter snacks can be very dangerous for our pets.

Chocolate contains a naturally occurring stimulant called theobromine, which dogs (and many other pets) cannot metabolise effectively.

Even relatively small amounts can lead to chocolate poisoning, and darker chocolates— such as baking chocolate or dark Easter eggs—contain particularly high levels.

Curious pets are often quick to sniff out hidden chocolate during Easter egg hunts or from baskets left within reach. Because of this, it’s a good idea to keep all chocolate

safely stored away and remind family members, especially children, not to share their treats with furry friends.

If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate, contact your veterinary practice as soon as possible—early treatment makes a big difference. Early clinical symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, and increased thirst. As the toxin affects the nervous and cardiovascular systems, pets may also develop a rapid heart rate, panting, tremors, or agitation. In more severe cases, seizures or collapse can occur.

With a little planning and awareness, you can keep chocolate out of paws’ reach and ensure that everyone in the household — two-legged and four-legged alike — has a safe and happy Easter.

The Vet's Tip is contributed by Roxanne Ferguson. Roxanne is Practice Director at Lamond Veterinary Clinic in Livingston.

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LIVING WELL

As we get older, hospital stays can become more frequent. While being discharged is often a relief, a safe return home depends on having a well-planned discharge process. Without the right support in place, people can quickly become unwell again and risk readmission.

NHS discharge teams play a key role in planning what happens next. A good discharge plan should look beyond the hospital doors and consider both immediate practical needs and longer-term care.

In the short term, this means making sure the person isn’t returning to an empty fridge and has essentials in place until family, friends or carers can help. Medication should be clearly explained, with easy-to-use packaging such as blister packs where possible, to avoid confusion at home.

Many people need ongoing support after discharge. The hospital may arrange a care

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assessment to see whether NHS continuing healthcare or local authority support is appropriate.

If state-funded care is delayed, it’s worth asking about direct payments or personal budgets, which can be used to arrange alternative community care and may speed up discharge.

Good communication is vital. Families should be given notice of discharge, especially if they need to provide care temporarily. Hospitals should also coordinate closely with care providers so that support is in place from day one.

Discharge planning should include onward referrals, such as rehabilitation services, and practical arrangements like transport home, suitable equipment, and access to new supplies such as continence products.

When discharge planning is done well, everyone benefits: hospitals free up much-needed beds, and people return home safely, with the right support to recover and stay well.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian

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APRIL SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 10. See page 34 for solutions.

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POTAGER IN A POT FOR THE PERFECT SALAD Why not plant some salad crops in a trough or a pot this month?

4. Salad Vegetables – slice thinly so they don’t sink to the bottom. Radishes, Peas, Cucumber or Fennel 5. Edible Flowers – Nasturtiums, Violas, Chive flowers or Marigolds for extra style

Sarah Raven’s ‘Rule of Five’ for the perfect salads helps us to make scrumptious salads from luscious leaves. Choose one ingredient for each category:

Use a large pot and fill with good compost like a Multipurpose with added John Innes. This has a bit of body to encourage strong plants. Add liquid fertiliser after a month and water very regularly.

Your potager pot would look very pretty sitting on the patio as well as offering you some lovely pickings to add to a salad, ready for eating in May.

1. Lettuces – providing a gentle background bulk and flavour. Try ‘Lollo Rosso’ 2. Salad Leaves – adding strong flavour and a touch of colour. Try Rocket or mustards 3. Salad herbs – an extra hit of flavour. Basil, Parsley, Mint or Coriander

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LIFE COACHING

The things we CAN control Worry is an exhausting process that can leave us depleted of energy and unable to focus on day to day activities while robbing us of the nourishing sleep that supports us.

We find ourselves indulging in repetitive thoughts about possible negative events in the future, we rehearse solutions to things we have no control of or we brood on past actions, ruminating on things we may have done or said that could have offended.

There are some real consequences to allowing ourselves to focus on things we can’t do anything about. These range from generalised anxiety disorder to extreme stress which doesn’t allow us to function.

However, there is a useful technique we can all use, based on a simple method of recognising what we can control and what we have little impact on. We do have control over ourselves

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and how we act or react, however, we can’t stop the rain or decide how our loved ones live their lives. We may influence our families and can provide guidance and support but they will always make their own decisions. Finally we can have real concerns about political and global issues but, beyond how we use our vote, it’s unlikely that we will be able to affect what happens.

Recognising what we can and cannot control can be really beneficial and helps focus the mind but it isn’t a magic bullet. Worry comes and goes for all of us and the best thing any of us can do is to decide to let go of the things we can’t control and remember always that everything passes.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk

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SPORT FOR ALL: EASTER HOLIDAY FUN AT ALBYN PARK As the Easter holidays approach, Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) is preparing for one of its busiest seasons yet. We offer two distinct pathways to keep our local young people active: our high-energy Multi-Sport Camp and our specialised All-Skills Football Camp.

Whether your child is a multi-sport enthusiast or a dedicated footballer looking to sharpen their game, Albyn Park is the place to be this Easter Break.

CHOICE 1: THE MULTISPORT ADVENTURE - In partnership with the Active Schools team, our Multi-Sport camp is all about variety.

It’s perfect for children who love to try a bit of everything.

From basketball and athletics to parachute games and tennis, every day is a new adventure designed to build confidence, coordination, and community spirit.

CHOICE 2: THE ALL-SKILLS FOOTBALL CAMP - For the football-focused, we’ve teamed up with Planet Soccer to deliver a curriculum packed with technical drills, 1v1 challenges, and smallsided games. It’s a fantastic opportunity for players (ages 5–14) to improve their footwork and game awareness in a fun, competitive environment, culminating in our popular camp tournament.

DATES, TIMES & BOOKING - Both camps run concurrently across the two-week break, offering families the flexibility they need.

THE SCHEDULE: • Week 1: Monday 30th March – Friday 3rd April • Week 2: Monday 6th April – Friday 10th April • Time: 9am – 3pm (MultiSport) | 10am – 4pm (Football)* • *Early drop-off from 9am is available for Football campers.

FLEXIBLE PRICING: • Full Week: £75 • Single Day: £25 (MultiSport) | Check portal for specific daily football rates • Half Day: £15 (Multi-Sport option) SECURE YOUR SPOT Spaces are strictly limited and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. §Please note that all bookings and payments must be made through our online portal to secure your child’s place.

BOOK NOW AT: busc.class4kids. co.uk/93 Football Camp busc.class4kids. co.uk/94 Multi Sports Camp We look forward to a fantastic Easter of sport. See you on the pitch!

BROXBURN UNITED SPORTS CLUB is situated in the heart of Broxburn at Albyn Park and we play a crucial role in supporting the health, wellbeing and education of our community. We deliver and host sessions to 2000 people every week from the age of 6 months to 90 years. We are delighted to be sharing a monthly update on our impact in our community and the programmes we will be running through the Konect Magazine.

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THIS BROXBURN BOY’S LIFE

Vladimir Putin is a ruthless leader of the modern era, raising the iron curtain that had been lowered in the early ’90s.

The Wizard of the Kremlin may state that it is a fictional account of actual events, but it feels more like a disclaimer. After all, anyone who knows the truth are either dead or will never talk.

Following Vadim Baranov, a young artist in the 1990s, we watch as he rises through the ranks of the entertainment world until he eventually becomes Putin’s right-hand man.

The film’s biggest weakness is its length; despite clocking in at just shy of two hours and twenty minutes, it contains too many peaks and troughs to justify its runtime.

Despite this, the film can be utterly enthralling.

For Baranov especially, “truth” becomes whatever they choose to present to the public, not the facts, leading to a reality shaped entirely by their will. It is a haunting reflection of what we are witnessing with our own eyes today. Paul Dano is excellent as Vadim Baranov, and Jude Law is great as Vladimir Putin, even if they make little attempt at a Russian accent (which may be a blessing).

The Wizard of the Kremlin isn’t a perfect film, far from it. However, it offers an interesting look at the rise of one of modern history’s most influential leaders, and how he used every ounce of power at his disposal to shape Russia in his own image.

On Display at Broxburn and Uphall Community Museum, Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 22nd April – 30 September 2026 A new exhibition at Broxburn and Uphall Community Museum explores the story of Broxburn’s Michael Caton-Jones who went on to become one Scotland’s most successful film directors.

The display charts Michael’s journey from his Broxburn childhood, his early career in London and France to his emergence as a famous Hollywood film director. The exhibition includes never previously display props as well as display of photographs from his films including Rob Roy, Doc Hollywood and Memphis Belle.

This exhibition as been developed in partnership with Partickular Films to coincide with their upcoming documentary “This Broxburn Boy’s Life”, much of which was filmed right here in West Lothian.

The exhibition will be launched at a special event at Strathbrock Community Centre on Wednesday 22nd April at 3.00pm and will include addresses from both Michael and the producer of the upcoming documentary, Joe McLean. If you are interested in attending, please email museums@westlothian.gov.uk to book your place.

EXHIBITION OPENING HOURS Mon: 8.30am – 5.00pm; Tue: 8.30am – 5.00pm Thu: 8.30am – 7.00pm; Fri: 8.30am – 4.00pm Sat: 10.00am – 1.00pm

In Cinemas from 17th April 2026 The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

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MICHAEL CATON-JONES

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Many of us will remember John Hardy & Sons (drapers) Ltd half way down George Street, Bathgate, but did you know the company actually dates back to 1865?

John Hardy Senior was born in 1843 and died aged 92 on January 22nd 1935. The family originally came from Stirlingshire and after some years working as a packman, selling goods from door to door, the first John Hardy (pictured here with his wife) made enough money to set up business in Bathgate in 1865. The first shop was on the corner of Hopetoun Street and Engine Street (now George Street) where Boots Opticians is now.

It was commonplace for larger shops to employ salesmen, selling haberdashery and small items “on the hoof” and take orders to deliver later. They gradually increased the workforce by employing tailors, cutters and dressmakers, offering a more comprehensive tailoring service. The blouse pictured was made by Hardy & Sons circa 1900.

They built their new three storey shop in 1892.

Behind the store, where the car park is now, they also constructed Hardy Hall, meeting place for the Bathgate Boy’s Club and venue for local events. The Boys Club put on pantomimes, written, performed and directed by the boys themselves.

John “the first” had two sons. One died of TB in the early 1900s and the other remained to eventually take over the business, although by all accounts, reluctantly as he aspired to be an engineer. The mantle was then passed to the third

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John who served as the provost of Bathgate between 1970 and 1973. The fourth and current John Hardy worked in Jenners before taking over the family business.

We all love the ease and quickness of jumping on the train and 30 minutes sees us in Edinburgh, however, there’s a flip side to every story. Many who used Bathgate as their main shopping area started taking the train into Edinburgh instead. This had a disastrous effect on local businesses and within a few short years most independent shops had to shut down.

Hardy’s was one of the last to survive but sadly finally closed their doors for the last time in 1999 after 134 years.

The ‘current’ John Hardy and wife Margaret to this day have been largely involved in local amateur operatic societies and fundraising events. John served as Trustee and administrator of The Bennie Museum for over ten years until March 1922.

I actually share a wee bit of history with John and Margaret having been a member of the Bathgate Operatic Society in the 1980s and this will be the focus of my next article. (see what I did there?)

As always, please come and have a wander round. You won’t be disappointed!

This article was written by Amanda Mackay, Bennie Museum Custodian and volunteer

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EVERY SATURDAY Bathgate Market & Car Boot Sale Bathgate Outdoor Market 9.00am to 2.00pm. Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains.

FRIDAY 10TH TO SUNDAY 12TH APRIL Hansel and Gretel – Easter Panto Bobbie the Bunny has moved some pages of the classic tale around and mixed many fairytale stories together. With characters such as Little Red Riding Hood, Rumplestiltskin and Goldilocks wandering around, this story gets a lot more dangerous for the siblings. Reconnect Regal Theatre, Bathgate. Ticket info and booking at reconnecttheatres.com SUNDAY 12TH APRIL Beecraigs Volunteer session Join the West Lothian Ranger Service and friends of Beecraigs for some volunteering sessions in the park. For this session we will be removing gorse saplings at Hillhouse. All tools are provided. Please bring gloves, and any snacks or drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! Meet Beecraigs Visitor Centre, Beecraigs, EH49 6PL. 10.30am – 12.30pm. FREE, but please book via the Rangers’ Eventbrite page so that they can update you if there are changes to the session arrangements.

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL West Lothian History and Amenity Society - “Scotland Beneath the surface,” a presentation by L. Bruce Keith, retired civil engineer, historian and writer.

Room 11, Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 1TZ. 7.30pm, NON-MEMBERS ARE WELCOME

THIS YEAR, TORPHICHEN SUMMER NIGHTS MUSIC SOCIETY WILL BE PRESENTING THEIR FIRST FULL SEASON SINCE THE PANDEMIC! We’ve been busy behind the scenes curating a fresh revised programme with a series of five excellent groups of musicians who are coming to Torphichen to play for our community. Watch out for an announcement coming soon! Follow our facebook page for updates: facebook.com/torphichensummernights In the meantime, please save the dates for our concerts in 2026: Sunday 31 May Sunday 26 April Sunday 28 June Sunday 26 July Sunday 30 August

BY DONATION. If you’d like to join the society (£20 for all seven talks), come to a meeting and speak to any committee member.

Email: info@wlhaas.org.uk Website: www.wlhaas.org.uk SUNDAY 19TH APRIL Polkemmet Country Park Volunteer Session - Join the West Lothian Ranger Service and Friends of Polkemmet for some practical conservation tasks. For this session, we will be improving our dead hedge habitat in the park. All tools are provided.

Please bring gloves, and any snacks or drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! Meet Ranger Office, Polkemmet Country Park 10.30am – 12.30pm. Free, but please book via the Rangers’ Eventbrite page so that they can update you if there are changes to the session arrangements.

WEDNESDAY 22ND APRIL Exhibition opens: “This Broxburn Boy’s Life” - At Broxburn and Uphall Community Museum, an exhibition on the story of Broxburn’s Michael CatonJones. See page 26 for more details.

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. 30 | BATHGATE

c e l e b ra te

EASTER a t c e nt re p o i nt c h u rc h

5th April, 10:30am Simpson Primary School

He isn’t here.

He has RISEN.

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and reinforce learning. We use card games, dominoes, simple readers, and conversation aids. You’ll meet other beginners and hear about their learning experiences. For more details, contactl Rob McEwan SPORTS, HOBBIES, T: 07742558580 E: raibeartmac@gmail.com LEARNING, SUPPORT JUMPING BEANS TORPHICHEN GROUPS & MORE...

- Stay & play group at Torphichen Community Centre Wednesdays and NICOLA’S SUPPORTING WOMEN Fridays 10.00am-12.00pm. Bring IN WEST LOTHIAN - Our goal is a snack for your wee one and we’ll to create a safe space where every provide tea, coffee and biscuits for you! woman feels listened to, understood £2 per child. Email: and supported on her health journey. torphichen.cec@westlothian.gov.uk With a compassionate approach, we focus on empowering women to seek THE BATHGATE MENZIES CHOIR the help they need and deserve. Drop- A mixed-voice 4 part choir singing a in for cuppa and chat: 2nd & 4th Sat of wide range of songs from all genres. the month, 10.00am-12noon at ISM We meet on Tuesday evenings at Psychology, 19B South Bridge Street, Bathgate Parish church from 7.15pmBathgate; last Friday of the month, 9.00pm. New members welcome for 10.00am-12noon at West Lothian new session starting at end of August College, Livingston, in the Compass - contact Johnnie on 01506 419904 for Point. www.nicolasmore information. Come and join us supporting-women.com as we celebrate our 100th anniversary session! bathgatemenzieschoir.com REGAL WIND BAND - Established BATHGATE CONCERT 30 years ago, we are primarily for ORCHESTRA - Do you play an adult learners/intermediate players. instrument? Would you like the The emphasis is on participation chance to practise and perform with a and fun, playing a range of pieces concert orchestra? We are a friendly and performing them annually at an orchestra who meet every Friday informal concert for family and friends. at 7.30pm – 9.30pm at Craig Inn We rehearse Tuesday evenings Community Centre, Blackridge. We 7.30pm – 9.30pm at Reconnect perform several concerts per year in Howden Park, Livingston, EH54 West Lothian, and offer opportunities 6AE. Members provide their own for musical development in a fun instruments. Membership £5/week. and social environment. Contact: Further information is available secretary@bathgateconcertorchestra. from Peter West, 07710 870024, org.uk peterwest@blueyonder.co.uk GAELIC BEGINNER WORKSHOP COZMIC CLUB - The Cozmic Club - Come along to the Bathgate Gaelic is a social club for young people Circle for a friendly and free Saturday age 11-25 on the Autistic Spectrum morning workshop, especially for who attend mainstream classes in a Gaelic beginners! We meet every mainstream school. The group meet two weeks from 10.00 - 12.00 in every Tuesday 6.45pm -8.30pm during rooms 8/9, Bathgate Partnership school term time in The Chill Out Zone Centre. It’s a great chance to practise in Bathgate. Annual fee £10 + £5 weekly on the night. For information your skills while having fun with card / to arrange a visit, please contact games, dominoes, simple readers, cozmicclubwl@gmail.com and conversation aids. We’d love to see you there and help you dive WALKING FOOTBALL WEST into the wonderful world of Gaelic! E: LOTHIAN - For everyone over 50, raibeartmac@gmail.com T: no matter your level of fitness. Come 07742 558580 along and get yourself a wee bit fitter.

Hot drinks, biscuits, good company OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE included! We meet at: LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL Xcite Bathgate - Mon: 10.00am, £1; (Opportunities for Active Lives) works Broxburn Juniors Ground - Tue: with people aged 60+ promoting 10.30, £3; active and fulfilling lives, creating and Murieston Sports Park (Apr-Nov) enriching communities which empower Wed: 10.00am, £1; all to remain independent, living at Xcite Craigswood (Dec-Mar) home and socially connected. OPAL Wed: 10.00am, £3; supports over 25 Community Groups East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, £1; throughout West Lothian for people to Whitburn Community Centre - Thu: attend, engage with others and build 10.30am, FREE. new friendships. They also provide Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or a time limited one-to-one befriending contact: T: 07775 188218 service built to improve confidence. To E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk find out more please contact 01506 815 815 or opal@cyrenians.scot BATHGATE GAELIC CIRCLE The Bathgate Gaelic Circle runs BACK INTO CIRCULATION - The a free drop-in workshop for Gaelic BIC group is partnered with Chest Beginners, on a Saturday morning Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) 10am -12 noon, once a fortnight, in and led by physiotherapists from rooms 8/9 of the Bathgate Partnership St. John’s Hospital. Programme of Centre, South Bridge Street. It exercises for people of all abilities and offers a great chance to practice ages that can be adjusted to meet your

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needs. We meet Monday 5.20-6.30pm at Uphall Community Centre EH52 6BN and Wednesday 5.20-6.30pm at St. John’s Hospital, Physiotherapy Dept on ground floor. £12 per month / first two weeks free. Please email y60rmd@gmail.com or call 01506 431950.

GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding.org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.

BATHGATE AMATEUR SWIMMING CLUB - Want to learn how to Swim Fast and Have Fun? At Bathgate Amateur Swimming Club we have a long history of developing swimmers at all ages with excellent coaches and partnerships. We are 90 years old this year and are looking to celebrate in style! We have spaces at all levels so please get in touch if you or your children are keen to swim! If you would like to find out more about how you can join us either as a swimmer or as a volunteer please contact us at the email address below: bascsecretary@ outlook.com MEMORY CAFÉ - Run by Alzheimers Scotland - Action on Dementia, 01506 533108.

Bathgate - First Monday of the month, 2:30pm-4pm, Rosemount Gardens, Mid street, Bathgate, EH48 1QW. Broxburn - Fourth Tuesday of the month, 10am- 11:30am, Strathbrock Partnership Centre (Entrance B) 189a West Main Street Broxburn EH52 5LH. 1271 (BATHGATE) RAF AIR CADETS - The RAF Air Cadets is a uniformed youth organisation for young people aged between 12 (In S2) - 20.

We offer lots of opportunities including flying, gliding, shooting, adventure training, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Leadership and much much more. We are based in Bathgate and parade on a Tuesday and Thursday evening...

Interested? Get in touch!

E: oc.1271@rafac.mod.gov.uk T: 01506 630784 POETS O WEST LOTHIAN - Nae need fir academic skill / Jist let yer thochts byle up an spill / In inky screivins frae yer QUILL / And sip from that Parnassian rill!...poetry in Scots, English, Mesolithic, Martian...Ice Age or Space Age...we are a cheery wee non-judgemental group meeting in Bathgate Partnership/Jim Walker Centre, first Monday of the month, except holidays. Share yer stuff, hae a blether and a laugh. Text Davie at 07591 681791.

ROUGHLY SPEAKING COMEDY Hosted by Midnight Breakfast Club in Bathgate, Roughly Speaking Comedy is an open mic for comedians and aspiring comedians alike. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, you can sign up either online or on the night. Free entry. See Facebook “Roughly Speaking Comedy” for confirmed dates or email roughlyspeakingopenmic@ gmail.com

LIVINGSTON & WEST LOTHIAN HOCKEY CLUB - Livingston & West Lothian Hockey Club are a friendly, sociable and competitive hockey club based at Deans Community High School in Livingston. The Club has one Men’s team, two Ladies teams and a large Juniors section. The Club is always on the look out for new members.If you feel you’d like to try hockey then please feel free to contact us through our social media channels, website (livingstonhockeyclub.uk), or E: livingstonandwlhockey@gmail.com BIPOLAR SCOTLAND SUPPORT GROUP - Bipolar Scotland invites patients, family, friends, partners and carers of those with a Bipolar diagnosis within West Lothian to come along to our monthly group meeting. Held every second Thursday of the month at Bathgate Partnership Centre (21-55 South Bridge St, Bathgate EH48 1TL), Rooms 8 & 9, 7.00pm-9.00pm. More information on Bipolar Scotland’s services available at bipolarscotland. org.uk or 0141 560 2050.

BATHGATE BELLES SWI - We meet on the last Wednesday of each month from 7-9pm in The Royal British Legion, 50 North Bridge Street, Bathgate. Our aim is to empower women through friendship, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of community. We offer lifelong learning opportunities by having talks, trips out and demonstrations and promote wellbeing by having lots of fun. For more information email at bathgatebelles@ outlook.com or just come along.

BROXBURN PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP - For children 2 to 5 years old. We provide a safe, caring, learning environment where children can realise their full potential in a fun manner while taking their first steps towards independence. Fully registered and insured Scottish Charity, with all necessary safeguarding credentials. Children who have attended our playgroup in the past have been reported as having had a smooth transition to mainstream nursery and school. broxburnpreschoolplaygroup.co.uk 17TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS - Canon Hoban Hall, Broxburn.

(What3words bubble.baroness. shepherds) Join in the adventure and gain life skills. If you are an adult or a young person and want to gain life skills come and join us. Monday:Beavers (6-8years) 6.15 - 7.15pm; Cubs (8-10years) 7.30 - 8.45pm.

Friday:- Scouts (10-14 years) 7.009.00pm; Explorers (14-18years) 7.30 - 9.30pm. Everyone welcome. Contact: info@17thbroxburnscoutgroup.co.uk or 07785 525 466.

BROXBURN GENERAL YOGA CLASS - Sunday morning 9.30 -10.30 - not as bad as it sounds! Class held in the lovely studio at Broxburn United Sports Club, Albyn Place. £5 per session, all welcome.

E: iyogawithc@gmail.com T: 07749 524 249

WINCHBURGH ART CLASS Winchburgh Community Hall, every Thursday 9.30am –11.30am. All levels welcome. We have tutors regularly.

All mediums used. Contact Secretary 07980 321989.

LOTHIAN PHOENIX WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CLUB - Meet on Thursday nights at Armadale Academy. All abilities are welcome, and no experience is necessary. We have spare sports chairs available to use. Adult’s session is 7.00 - 9.00pm in the large sports hall, juniors’ session is 7.00 - 9.00pm in the small hall. Come along and try something new! Contact Karen Redmond - walkerredmond@ aol.com or call 07982195006 to find out more or come along to one of our sessions.

WEST LOTHIAN LITTER PICKERS - We’re a group of over 3000 West Lothian residents, so if you want to help clean up your community, like we do, come join the group on Facebook “West Lothian Litter Pickers(Act Local Think Global)”. We organise group litter picks or put you in touch with a buddy in your area to get you started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.

WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian Facebook: ‘West Lothian u3a’ E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274 COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS - For children age 2-5 years. Armadale, Bathgate, Crofthead Farm, Fauldhouse, Uphall and West Calder.

Morning sessions 9.15-11.30am, £10.00 per session. Full Day sessions 9.15am-2.00pm, £22.00 per session.

Funded Places available.

W: www.communityplaygroups.org T: 07904 623176 BATHGATE AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - Come and enjoy weekly meetings with interesting speakers on a wide range of topics, together with exciting visits in the summer months. Join us for informal chats, with refreshments beforehand, every Tuesday from 10.00am to 12.00pm in Rosemount Gardens, Mid St, Bathgate. For further information, contact Sandy McAlpin (Secretary) on (01506) 630152.

WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship.

Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested?

Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults.

All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers.

Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face).

T: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com GENERATION ARTS - We are a Creative Arts charity based in West Lothian. Our classes are as follows: Generation Dance (Thursdays) 10.30am at Livingston United Parish Church, Carmondean.

Music&Singing Group (Thursdays) - 12.00pm at Bathgate Partnership Centre.

Generation Dance Bathgate, Seated (Fridays) - 10.30am at Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street.

All classes have a suggested donation of £4. Other arts projects available.

E: generationarts.info@gmail.com or T: 07521 358 239.

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

T: 01506 283053 E: MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £36. Follow our Facebook page, visit: westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@ KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

BATHGATE | 33

Almondell Model Engineering Centre

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Switch, 8. Aboard, 9. Used, 10. External, 11. Annoyed, 13. Pyres, 15. Litre, 17. Beneath, 20. Watching, 21. Tale, 23. School, 24. Needed.

DOWN: 1. Ewes, 2. Studio, 3. Thieves, 4. Faith, 5. Hourly, 6. Broadest, 12. Nuisance, 14. Merging, 16. Reckon, 18. Esteem, 19. Silly, 22. Leek.

ACROSS: 7. Switch, 8. Aboard, 9. Used, 10. External, 11. Annoyed, 13. Pyres, 15. Litre, 17. Beneath, 20. Watching, 21. Tale, 23. School, 24. Needed.

DOWN: 1. Ewes, 2. Studio, 3. Thieves, 4. Faith, 5. Hourly, 6. Broadest, 12. Nuisance, 14. Merging, 16. Reckon, 18. Esteem, 19. Silly, 22. Leek.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 16

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

34 | BATHGATE

Train Rides

- £5 each first ticket - £2 each next ticket

Drive a Loco - £8 each

Battery powered only

Almondell Model Engineering Centre

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept Drumshoreland Road, responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

Broxburn We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted EH52 5PF for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Tea, Coffee and Snacks

Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design - Picnic Area Free - Parking - Toilets - Model Railway T: 07729 911858

BATHGATE | 35