Konect Bathgate December 2025

DEC 2025 / JAN 2026

LOCAL HISTORY: LOCAL CHARITY: COMMUNITY:

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t’s the season fairy lights, spicy hot drinks and Christmas events to attend. Check the What’s On pages for plenty of ways of enjoying the season out and about locally, in particular at Almond Valley where there is a packed programme of family activities.

Broxburn United Sports Club is much more than a football club! They offer a huge range of activities for all ages and interests in the local community, and they will be running a series of features in Konect to highlight what they offer. To start with, in this issue the focus is on the “Alive and Kicking” programme for the over-55s – see page 7 for details.

Our charity of the month is The Larder.

The work they do locally is wide-ranging, you may be familiar with their cafes at Strathbrock and Blackburn. For this feature we focus on their community meals service, and their Christmas Giving campaign - see pages 8-9.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers and local organisations featured in Konect a wonderful and peaceful festive season.

Community: Alive and Kicking at BUSC... 7 Charity: The Larder....................................... 8 Crossword Puzzle........................................12 Life Coaching: Friends for Life..................13 Property Matters: Understanding Valuations......................................................16 Local Environment: Merry Christmas.......22 Garden Project: Seasonal Tablescaping................................................25 Local History: A walk along Jarvey Street..............................................................28 Clubs & Classes: Strictly Irish...................29 What’s On:.....................................................30 Film Review: Fantastic Four.......................34 Puzzle Solutions...........................................30

COVER IMAGE: Wishing all our readers a peaceful festive season!

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

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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STAY ACTIVE, MEET NEW PEOPLE: ALIVE AND KICKING AT BROXBURN UNITED SPORTS CLUB

The Alive and Kicking programme at Broxburn United Sports Clubs is for those over 55 (or near enough) and is a vibrant programme of many different activities that cater for all levels of ability.

Our goal is simple - to keep the over55s community active, connected and empowered through fun and engaging activities, no matter where they are on their personal health journey.

The programme includes a variety of sessions and activities that encourage participation.

Regular activity is one of the best ways to maintain good health as we age. It helps improve mobility, boosts energy, and strengthens the body, all while improving mental health and enhancing social connections.

The social aspect of the Alive and Kicking programme is just as important as the physical benefits, providing an opportunity to connect and share experiences with others in similar stages of life.

All sessions are free and are followed by social opportunities over a cup of tea/coffee and some cake (also free).

The programmes run every day Monday to Friday - please see our weekly timetable.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED -

Whether you’re interested in one activity or want to try them all, there’s a place for everyone! Please join us by contacting James Pegg on j.pegg@busc.org.uk or simply join us on the day. We look forward to welcoming you to our community club.

The Alive and Kicking programme is funded through the Scottish Government Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund, National Lottery Community Led Fund and Voluntary Sector Gateway-West Lothian. We are indebted to them.

BROXBURN UNITED SPORTS CLUB is situated in the heart of Broxburn at Albyn Park and we play a crucial role in supporting the health, well-being 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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GOOD FOOD SERVED WITH WARMTH AND DIGNITY “We want to reach as many people as we can who are experiencing food insecurity in our community, and to help them out,” says David Fitzpatrick, Director of Operations at The Larder.

The Larder is a social enterprise in West Lothian tackling food insecurity, and tackling poverty more broadly through food-centred services. From serving affordable meals to providing cooking and hospitality training, they believe everyone deserves to eat good, healthy food and to have the skills to thrive.

“We’re seeing the gap widen between people who are doing ok and those who are not,” explains David, “and the cost of living crisis is unlikely to go away any time soon. The number of people unable to regularly obtain enough affordable, nutritious food is on the increase.”

The Larder works in partnership with a range of organisations across West Lothian, supporting them with preventing people from becoming food-insecure during challenging times. It could be issues with accommodation and homelessness, long term unemployment, poor health, a recovery programme – regardless of the reason, The Larder is there for anyone who is struggling to feed themselves or their family.

“Food with dignity is an important part of our ethos,” says David. “We sit somewhere between a food bank and managing on your own. We offer extremely affordable, nutritious fresh food, and we are all about helping people to make their limited resources go further. There are people in full time work who are still struggling to feed their family, but don’t want to admit it. Our cafés are judgement-free, stigma-free places.”

For just £5, you can purchase a freshly-made three course meal and a drink, at one of The Larder’s two cafes in West Lothian. This is their Community Meals programme, through which they are aiming

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CHRISTMAS GIVING This Christmas is your chance to be part of our ‘Christmas Giving’ campaign and join our movement that uplifts and transforms lives, creating lasting change. Whether it’s through a one-time donation or a regular contribution your support makes all the difference. When you donate to The Larder, you’re not just giving to a cause, you’re investing in the future of someone who might one day mentor others, start a business, or create their own positive impact in our shared community. To donate please visit: thelarder.beaconforms.com/ form/91e83151

to feed over 100 people each week. The meals are sit-in and consists of soup, a main, a desert and drink. Not only is the food extremely good value for money, it is nutritious and a much better option than fast food.

Community Meals are served at: • The Larder Cafe in Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Mon & Wed at 3.30pm • The Larder Cafe in Blackburn, Sycamore Walk, Blackburn, EH47 7LG. Tue & Thur at 4.00pm If you or someone you know is struggling to eat well, come into a safe space and get a good meal, served with warmth and dignity.

Everyone is welcome.

Besides the Community Meal times, the cafes are open for breakfasts, lunches, coffees and cakes. “More than a cafe”, they are welcoming, friendly places. The Larder understands the physical and mental health implications for people affected by food insecurity, so not only can you get a bowl of homemade soup for £1, they offer a sign-posting service for other sources of support. Each cafe also has a community shop on site selling affordable groceries. The Larder Community Shops are stocked with quality food and toiletries

which have been recovered by volunteers from surplus supplies from producers and supermarkets, helping reduce food waste as well as tackling food insecurity. Profits are reinvested into The Larder’s services. The surplus food recovery is part of The Larder’s environmentally- conscious approach, saving perfectly good food from landfill.

There is more. A bakery at Bellsquarry selling delicious cakes to the public, at Unit 6 Brewster Square, Livingston, EH54 9BJ; The Larder Training department providing training and qualifications in cooking and hospitality; a catering service; anti-poverty campaigning behind the scenes; a relentless push towards their mission to empower the most disadvantaged children, young people, adults and communities to improve their life chances, through access to learning and good food.

W: www.thelarder.org T: 01506 412819 E: communications@thelarder.org This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after speaking with David Fitzpatrick, Direct of Operations at The Larder. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines. The Larder is a registered charity in Scotland, SC042554.

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LIVING WELL

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

DECEMBER CROSSWORD

Home Instead’s quarterly New Ageing Index explores how older people, their families, and carers feel about ageing in Britain today.

It tracks attitudes, highlights challenges, and shines a light on where action is most needed.

The latest findings paint a mixed picture: deep concerns about social care and living costs, but also resilience, optimism and fresh opportunities to age well.

KEY FINDINGS AT A GLANCE: • 91% believe cutting the winter fuel allowance will harm older people •ACROSS: 40% say7. they’ll need toAdd cutup back food Light wind (6), 8.

(6), 9.on Not prettyor(4), 10.medication Take away (8),to 11.heat Tenththeir month (7), 13. Deprived (5), homes 15.

Two times 17. Remaining (7), 20. Booklet (8) health •21.57% want(5),dementia declared a national Assists (4), 22. Floats (6), 23. Unlocked (6). emergency DOWN: 1. Horrendous (6), 2. Refute (4), 3. Childhood illness (7), 4.

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Coerced (6), • Investigate 90% call(5), for5.aBarely national dementia screening 12. Engaged (8), 14. Stopping place (7), 16. Gun or knife (6), 18.programme Bowed (6), 19. Nearby (5), 21. Pinnacle (4).

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• 74% of family carers say they need more support • 63% believe diet and exercise can slow ageing WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: • Staying warm this winter: Check eligibility for local energy grants, use heated throws, and seek community “warm spaces” schemes.

• Facing dementia together: Early diagnosis can help families plan; support groups and charities offer advice and companionship.

• Backing carers: Explore flexible working and respite care – help is out there, but too often underused.

• Healthy ageing: Even gentle daily exercise and balanced nutrition make a real difference.

• Smart support: From video calls to AI companionship, technology is helping to tackle loneliness and keep people connected.

To download the full New Ageing Index visit: www.homeinstead.co.uk/new-ageing-index/ 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

LIFE COACHING

Sometimes we fall into relationships that suit us at a particular time in our lives.

There are those childhood friendships based on sharing our secrets or that friend we made on the first day in our new job who took us under their wing. Then there are those friends we made when our children were small and we stood at the school gates waiting for the bell to ring.

As life moves on our social circles narrow and it can be more difficult to encounter people through shared life experiences. But, maybe we find a new friend who is interesting and funny whose life is full of drama and we are the lucky one they choose to call when there is a new adventure in their life. This can feel exciting but the downside is that the relationship can settle down into a pattern, where one party talks and shares all their

issues and anxieties and the other listens patiently. This is fine if it suits both parties but the problems begin when resentment sets in and the friend who listens and is always available starts to feel put upon and resentful.

When a relationship is out of balance we can start to seethe inwardly and decide that it’s all about them and not us. This can signal the breakdown of the friendship but, if we communicated clearly and found the courage to share our feelings honestly we could find that our friendships move onto a new and more equal footing and can be the supportive relationships we needed but hadn’t dared hope for.

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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PROPERTY MATTERS

At Turpie & Co, we provide three different options for homeowners who are considering selling their property. Each service is tailored depending on what stage you are at in the process of deciding whether to sell your property.

All of the services are free and come with no obligation to sell or to use our agency. They can offer invaluable advice when considering the sale of your largest asset. The information below should help you decide which valuation service is most suited to your needs.

ONLINE VALUATION - An ‘online’ or instant’ valuation is produced by various software platforms and provides an estimated valuation figure by using collated data of historic sales within your postcode area, and applying algorithms which take into account inflation as well as the prices of currently advertised properties. This in-turn produces an estimated valuation range for your property. These tools are often not accurate when compared with the valuation figures that an agent would provide a homeowner at an in-person valuation appointment.

Probable accuracy range between £50k to £100k depending on the price bracket your property falls into

DESKTOP OR VIRTUAL VALUATION - A ‘desktop’ or ‘virtual’ valuation is conducted via a pre-arranged telephone appointment or virtual meeting such as ‘Teams’ or ‘Zoom’. The agent will carry out the same research as they would for a physical (in-person) appointment, however they wouldn’t visit your property so the advice, guidance and recommendations would be based on their individual and company experience and track record of similar sales

in the area. A desktop valuation can be useful when you are planning to sell in the coming 3-6 months and are gathering information to allow you to set a realistic and affordable budget for your onward move etc. The desktop valuation is typically followed up by a physical in-person valuation when you are within 4 weeks of being ready to list your property for sale.

Probable accuracy range between £25k to £50k depending on the price bracket your property falls into

IN-PERSON VALUATION - This is a traditional physical appointment where the agent visits you at your property. The agent will carry out the same pre-meeting research as with the Desktop valuation, however will be able to provide a more comprehensive survey and appraisal of your home and provide more specific and bespoke recommendations on how to market your property and a more accurate valuation. This will include estimated Home Report value and anticipated selling price (these figures can often be quite different depending on the property, location and current market conditions)

An accuracy of within approximately £10k of the anticipated HR value with estimate of potential upside selling price (i.e. anticipated selling price - different from predicted HR value) If you are thinking about selling your property in the coming months, please contact us to discuss which valuation option is right for you.

SCAN SCAN SCAN ME ME ME SCAN ME

The Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Is it just me or has this year absolutely flown by? It’s fast approaching Christmas and it only feels like yesterday we were welcoming in the new year and I was gearing up for my 40th birthday trip to Kenya.

It was a really lovely summer, especially in comparison to last year which I remember being a bit more wet and windy. I’d been looking forward to watching and photographing the foxes I spent time with last year, but they didn’t show up. Neither did my hares or dippers, so it’s safe to say my photography took a bit of a back seat. I had a wonderful week on Mull in May hosting a workshop, which I’m looking forward to doing again next year. It’s always such a joy to share that incredible island with others and watch people experience its wildlife for the first time.

is usually achieved through strategically placed nuts.

Given I haven’t been out much, this image is from a couple of years back when I bribed some squirrels to take part in a Christmas photoshoot. It takes them a while to get used to it and even more time for them to sit in just the right place. They’re naturally inquisitive animals and this task

Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.

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I hope this photo brings a smile and a touch of festive cheer—wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy start to the new year.

This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.

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Winter Flowering Jasmine, Pansies, Violas, Heather or Viburnums.

Have you tried Tablescaping since our June item in Konect?

As we fall into winter there is huge resistance to getting out into the garden despite the nation being told how good gardening is for us; physically, mentally and environmentally.

A little tablescaping is just the thing to tempt us outside. Lesley keeps a tablescape going throughout the year on our hall table, using an assortment of little glass jars, vases and candle sticks.

At this time of year she relies heavily on evergreen foliage but always manages to find a few flowers from the garden: Hellebores, yellow

She suggests that you choose some evergreen leaves like Holly, Pittosporum, Viburnum or Euonymus and repeat your chosen leaves in several of the little vases to give a unifying rhythm to your tablescape.

Having chosen your main ‘rhythm’ plant you’ll quickly spot leaves and blooms to go with it and before too long you’ll have enough plant material to allow you to escape back indoors.

Using small containers your pickings will be easily kept upright without using plastic floral foam and you just need to remember to keep them topped up with clean water and enjoy your creation.

The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

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The Huguenots were a group of French protestants concentrated mainly in southern and western France dating back to the 1500s. Their growing popularity stirred resentment among the Catholic community and a series of conflicts known as The French Wars of Religion flared up periodically between 1562 and 1598.

Under the rule of Louis XIV, protestant persecution grew and in 1685 he issued the Edict of Fontainebleau, ending the legal recognition of Protestantism in France. The Huguenots were forced to either convert to Catholicism or flee the country. They spread far and wide, many ending up in Bathgate!

Bathgate’s standing as a hub of the weaving industry must have extended far south back then as many of the Huguenots were clothiers.

It seems to me that more people travelled and settled in foreign lands hundreds of years ago than they do today. How difficult that would have been! They didn’t have Google Maps or Google Translate and I’m pretty sure they couldn’t get frequent stagecoach or passenger ship miles!

The most well- known Huguenots here were the Jervais family, weavers of fine linens and silks, and so exalted was their reputation that Jarvey Street was named after them.

ABOVE: Jarvey Street during the heyday of the Jervais family Jarvey Street was the site of The Masonic Hall and next door we had The Co-operative Halls, opened in 1902, where I’m sure many of us enjoyed a Burns Supper, school, birthday or wedding party. This then became Room At The Top nightclub, visited by locals and party groups from all over Scotland until it burned down on 2nd February 1996.

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The first church in Bathgate was built in 1729 on what is now known as Jarvey Street and on the same site, between 1882 and 1884, Bathgate High Parish Church was constructed in sandstone in the Romanesque style by architects Wardrop & Reid.

To me, the best remembered haunts that I frequented on Jarvey Street and going back generations was the Volunteer Arms (‘The Vatican’) and the Palais de Danse. My mum and dad went there and my sisters and brother and I went there too. Anne Thornton, Bennie Museum’s Secretary, grew up just along from the ‘Pally’ and her mum would stand ready every weekend night at chucking out time armed with a bucket of water to drench those who decided to use the Close next to their house to relieve themselves!

Bathgate’s only millionaire was born on Jarvey Street. Richard B. Angus, born on 28th May 1831, made his fortune in Canada but started his education at Bathgate Academy.

So that concludes our short walk down Jarvey Street memory lane. Whilst writing the last article, a lady came into the museum to ask if we had a War Penny. I was on my own that day and I’m afraid to admit I’d never heard of a War Penny, however, I took her details and told her I would get back to her. Next time I’ll tell you about my results of this new investigation.

This article was contributed by Amanda Mackay, Bennie Museum Custodian and Volunteer.

Uphall resident Margaret Carson, who runs the local dance club Strictly Irish, has developed a new Irish Line Dancing class.

It is designed to make Irish dancing more accessible to people whose mobility is perhaps not what it was but who still want all the fun of Irish dance.

Margaret has been running Strictly Irish for 17 years, offering a number of Irish dance classes in Broxburn for both adults and children. She was approached earlier this year by Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) to run a dance class for their Alive & Kickin programme.

“I came up with the idea of Irish line dancing in order to offer an Irish dance class that is less bouncy and therefore less hard on the joints,” explains Margaret. The Alive & Kickin programme is aimed at over 50s. “Line dancing is already very popular, so my Irish version is proving to be a favourite!” Margaret had the line dancing sequences approved by Avril Clerkson, self-employed Line Dance instructor with 30 years of experience, and combined them with elements of traditional Irish dance, all set to Irish music.

The Alive & Kickin classes are free to attend as they are funded by the Scottish Government Community Health and Wellbeing Fund “Some of the people who come to the free classes on a Monday love it so much that they now come to my private classes too on a Thursday, and are doing two sessions a week!”

It is infectious fun, and a fantastic way to keep moving and meeting people.

STRICTLY IRISH CLASSES:

• MON 1.00-2.30pm - Irish Line Dance, at BUSC. FREE for over 50s. Tea/coffee/ cake after the class • MON 7.30pm-8.30pm - Traditional Irish Dance for adults, at JHM Studios • THU 5.00-6.00pm - Traditional Irish Dance for children, at BUSC • THU 6.00-7.00pm - Irish Line Dance and Traditional Ceildh for adults, at BUSC • THU 7.00-8.00pm - Traditional Irish Dance for adults, at BUSC Contact Margaret for further information on 07865492137orstrictlyirish@hotmail.com BATHGATE | 29

WEEKENDS & CHRISTMAS WEEK UNTIL 29TH DECEMBER Panto – Snow White - The perfect place to do your Christmas shopping and meet up with friends for a blether! Linlithgow’s monthly artisan market on the first Saturday of each month. Stalls on the High Street, the Vennel and also indoors in the EH49 Hub (old Library). Lots of unique and local stalls offering foods and drinks, meats, fish and game, fruit and veg, arts and crafts, dog treats, plants, and lots more. 10.00am – 3.00pm.

EVERYDAY FROM SAT 6TH DECEMBER - WED 24TH DECEMBER Christmas at Almond Valley - Santa’s elves are taking over Almond Valley in the most dazzling way imaginable, decking the halls (and everything else!) from top to toe in twinkling lights, festive cheer, and a generous sprinkle of mischief with the launch of their inaugural Festival of Christmas. During the daylight hours Christmas comes to life with a range of magical activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Discover the joys of Christmas at Almond Valley where everyday is filled with festive cheer and unforgettable fun! Elf Workshop, Polar Post Station, meet the reindeer, and much more.

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS AVAILABLE TO BOOK SEPARATELY: After Dark Experience - Saturday 6th December to Sunday 4th January Santa’s Express Train – daily in December Meet Santa in his cosy cottage - various dates starting 6th December Santa for Tots and Toddlers – special mid-week offer, various dates starting 8th December Relaxed Santa visits - 6th and 7th December For more information, pricing and to book the special events please visit www.almondvalley. co.uk/whats-on/festival-of-christmas Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR Phone: 01506 414957, e-mail: info@almondvalley.co.uk

FRIDAY 5TH DECEMBER Bathgate Concert Orchestra Christmas Concert - Craig Inn, Blackridge, EH48 3SP. 7:30pm, admission by donation.

FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER Christmas Concert: Toccata Ladies Choir Broxburn Parish Church, 7:30pm. Tickets £10/£5 on the door or from choir members. www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk WEDNESDAY 17TH DECEMBER Bathgate Christmas Night Market - 4.00pm – 8.00pm at the Bathgate Market Site, behind Argos (off Whitburn Road, EH48 1HH). Free festive fun for all the family, including: A special visit from Santa, Wishing Tree, Scavenger Hunt, Local stalls & gifts galore. It’s the perfect evening to shop local, soak up the Christmas spirit and make memories.

SATURDAY 17TH JANUARY Club 80s Live - A rollercoaster ride back through one of the greatest eras of music. Hits by Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Guns & Roses, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Erasure, Bon Jovi, Wham, Deacon Blue! and many, many more are crammed into a non-stop, musical trip, back-combed, to the time that fashion forgot. 7.30pm. Reconnect Regal Theatre, Bathgate. Information and booking via: tickets.reconnectregal.com WEDNESDAY 18TH FEBRUARY West Lothian History and Amenity Society “James VI and I and the legacy of witchcraft panics” talk by Dr Steven Veerapen, Strathclyde University.

7.30pm, Ecclesmachan Village Hall. Non-members are welcome 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, or email us on wlhaas@hotmail.com EVERY SATURDAY Bathgate Market & Car Boot Sale - Bathgate Outdoor Market 9am to 2pm. Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park.

Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains.

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

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a snack for your wee one and we’ll provide tea, coffee and biscuits for you! £2 per child. Email: torphichen.cec@westlothian.gov.uk THE BATHGATE MENZIES CHOIR SPORTS, HOBBIES, - A mixed-voice 4 part choir singing a range of songs from all genres.

LEARNING, SUPPORT wide We meet on Tuesday evenings at Bathgate Parish church from 7.15pmGROUPS & MORE...

9.00pm. New members welcome for new session starting at end of August REGAL WIND BAND - Established - contact Johnnie on 01506 419904 for 30 years ago, we are primarily for more information. Come and join us adult learners/intermediate players. as we celebrate our 100th anniversary The emphasis is on participation session! bathgatemenzieschoir.com and fun, playing a range of pieces BATHGATE CONCERT and performing them annually at an ORCHESTRA - Do you play an informal concert for family and friends. instrument? Would you like the We rehearse Tuesday evenings chance to practise and perform 7.30pm – 9.30pm at Reconnect with a concert orchestra? We are Howden Park, Livingston, EH54 a friendly orchestra who meet 6AE. Members provide their own every Friday at 7.30pm – 9.30pm instruments. Membership £5/week. at Craig Inn Community Centre, Further information is available Blackridge. We perform several from Peter West, 07710 870024, concerts per year in West Lothian, peterwest@blueyonder.co.uk and offer opportunities for musical development in a fun and social COZMIC CLUB - The Cozmic Club environment. Contact: secretary@ is a social club for young people bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk age 11-25 on the Autistic Spectrum who attend mainstream classes in a GAELIC BEGINNER WORKSHOP mainstream school. The group meet - Come along to the Bathgate Gaelic every Tuesday 6.45pm -8.30pm Circle for a friendly and free Saturday during school term time in The Chill morning workshop, especially for Out Zone in Bathgate. Annual fee Gaelic beginners! We meet every £10 + £5 weekly on the night. For two weeks from 10.00 - 12.00 in information / to arrange a visit, please rooms 8/9, Bathgate Partnership contact cozmicclubwl@gmail.com Centre. It’s a great chance to practise your skills while having fun with card WALKING FOOTBALL WEST games, dominoes, simple readers, LOTHIAN - For everyone over 50, and conversation aids. We’d love no matter your level of fitness. Come to see you there and help you dive along and get yourself a wee bit fitter. into the wonderful world of Gaelic! E: Hot drinks, biscuits, good company raibeartmac@gmail.com included! We meet at: T: 07742 558580 Xcite Bathgate - Mon: 10.00am, £1; Broxburn Juniors Ground - Tue: OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE 10.30, £3; LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL Murieston Sports Park (Apr-Nov) (Opportunities for Active Lives) works Wed: 10.00am, £1; with people aged 60+ promoting Xcite Craigswood (Dec-Mar) active and fulfilling lives, creating Wed: 10.00am, £3; and enriching communities which East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, £1; empower all to remain independent, Whitburn Community Centre - Thu: living at home and socially connected.

10.30am, FREE. OPAL supports over 25 Community Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or Groups throughout West Lothian for contact: T: 07775 188218 people to attend, engage with others E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk and build new friendships. They also provide a time limited one-to-one BATHGATE GAELIC CIRCLE befriending service built to improve The Bathgate Gaelic Circle runs a confidence. To find out more please free drop-in workshop for Gaelic contact 01506 815 815 or opal@ Beginners, on a Saturday morning cyrenians.scot 10am -12 noon, once a fortnight, in rooms 8/9 of the Bathgate Partnership BACK INTO CIRCULATION - The Centre, South Bridge Street. It BIC group is partnered with Chest offers a great chance to practice Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) and reinforce learning. We use card and led by physiotherapists from games, dominoes, simple readers, St. John’s Hospital. Programme of and conversation aids. You’ll meet exercises for people of all abilities other beginners and hear about and ages that can be adjusted to their learning experiences. For more meet your needs. We meet Monday details, contactl Rob McEwan 5.20-6.30pm at Uphall Community T: 07742558580 Centre EH52 6BN and Wednesday E: raibeartmac@gmail.com 5.20-6.30pm at St. John’s Hospital, JUMPING BEANS TORPHICHEN Physiotherapy Dept on ground floor.

- Stay & play group at Torphichen £12 per month / first two weeks free.

Community Centre Wednesdays and Please email y60rmd@gmail.com or Fridays 10.00am-12.00pm. Bring call 01506 431950.

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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 email 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 well-being 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 - Creative activities for adults across West Lothian to increase arts engagement in a non competitive, expressive and inclusive way. Promoting independence, confidence and good mental and physical health through dance, music and song, visual arts, creative writing and cinema.

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.

Contact: 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

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7 Banana, 8 Luxury, 9 Feel, 10 Commence, 11 Adapted, 13 Stall, 15 Evict, 17 Toilets, 20 Addition, 21 Vile, 23 Uncles, 24 Ignore.

DOWN: 1 Made, 2 Gallop, 3 Watched, 4 Plump, 5 Expert, 6 Bracelet, 12 Dividing, 14 Council, 16 Chilly, 18 Loving, 19 Tipsy, 22 Lurk.

SORRY, NO SUDOKU PUZZLE THIS MONTH

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 M: 07729 911858 E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

34 | BATHGATE

Marvel’s first family has finally joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While the quality of the MCU post-Endgame has been inconsistent, with forgettable TV shows that have little impact on the films’ continuity, WandaVision is not essential viewing to understand Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps feels like a nostalgic piece of entertainment, as the film is stripped back and characterdriven, quickly recapping the fluff and beats we already know to tell its story. Due to this simplified approach, the film ranks among the best MCU entries in some time.

Galactus has marked the planet for death, declares the Silver Surfer in a retro-futuristic take on New York City. Immediately striking is the film’s ’60s aesthetic, with visuals that set the film apart from the main MCU timeline, which mirrors our own world. The film works so well because the entire cast functions as a family unit. Pedro Pascal is having an incredible year and makes an excellent Reed Richards, while Vanessa Kirby is also fantastic as Sue Storm.

The inclusion of Galactus, however, may be divisive. His inclusion allows the fantastic four to travel off planet and have incredible action set pieces in space. He is also an iconic villain of the Fantastic Four, and ties into the film’s themes of family and unity. But it leaves you questioning where we go next. Aside from that, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is an enjoyable film worth watching now that it’s available on Disney+.

Available now on Disney+ 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.

BATHGATE | 35