Konect Bathgate February 2026

FEBRUARY 2026

HEALTH: LOCAL HISTORY:

LOCAL WALK:

W

e often start the year with a focus on health and fitness; all too often by February the will is fading! (Francine has some useful insights into this in her Life Coaching column on page 14). So our health feature in this issue looks at the wonderful facility that is parkrun - a free, organised, weekly walk or jog in one of West Lothian’s country parks. It’s on every Saturday, and is a lovely supportive community if you’re looking for a way to incorporate more movement in your life without pressure.

Continuing the health theme, Broxburn United’s feature this month is on their excellent adapted sports and activities programme for children and adults with Additional Support Needs and their families, see page 11.

Bennie Museum’s column looks at the intriguingly-name “Death Penny” from their collection, and the Film Review is an extended version this month as Robert managed to get an interview with one of the actors. With all our usual columns included, it’s great to be back publishing after the festive break, and I hope you enjoy Konect this month.

William Weir’s walk feature in Livingston doubles as Local Environment notes, with his wonderful descriptions as ever of the nature to be enjoyed. Getting outdoors for an hour is an antidote to many things, and we have so many paths and trails locally to enjoy without needing to go far at all. Make a batch of the Brownie Bite Energy Balls from Nutrition Scotland on the recipe page and take them for a mid-walk treat!

We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things local with you!

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

P25 Health: parkrun....................................................8-10 Community: Inclusive fun for all at BUSC....... 11 Living Well: Getting Home Safely......................12 Life Coaching: Let’s give up on giving up.....14 Local History: “Death Penny”.............................17 Puzzles.......................................................................20 Recipe and Food Notes.......................................22 Garden Project: Snowdrops...............................25 Film Review + Actor Interview: Ballad of a Small Player..............................................................26 Local Walk: Eliburn Reservoir and Livingston Village....................................................29 What’s On: February..............................................31 Puzzle Solutions......................................................30

COVER IMAGE: Parkrun: “Free, for everyone, forever” - See pages 8-10.

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Every Saturday morning a little before 9:30am, a small crowd gathers in each of West Lothian’s three beautiful country parks, and in a few other locations in the surrounding area.

Many dressed in what could be described as “garish casual” attire, and sometimes with a fun dress-up or two thrown in, they are meeting to walk or jog an organised scenic 5km trail through the park.

This is parkrun and parkwalk. It’s a global phenomenon that has been responsible for transforming the mental and physical health of countless people over the past 21 years.

Parkrun and parkwalk are the same event: you choose to either walk or run the route.

It’s seemingly incredibly simple: the opportunity to walk or jog once a week and at informal yet organised event. It’s completely free to participate, the trail is fully marshalled,

there is the option of recording your time if you wish, going to a nearby cafe for breakfast afterwards, or going straight home.

What’s the attraction? Why has the simple act of meeting for a walk or jog with a bunch of people you don’t know (yet) become such a successful and well-loved institution? There are currently nearly 900 parkrun locations in the UK, with 80 in Scotland; more are being added regularly.

One of Livingston parkrun’s Run Directors, Alan, says, “I think that the most amazing thing with parkrun is the strong sense of belonging that can develop over time for runners, walkers and volunteers alike.

We definitely feel like a big family, with relatives all over the country!”

Since its beginnings in England in 2004 parkrun has managed to maintain an informality combined with excellent organisation. Their strapline is “free, for everyone, forever.” For people who want to walk or run with others but are anxious about joining a group, parkrun and parkwalk perfectly strike the balance. You can turn up and be part of it without joining a group, or having to introduce yourself

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in any way, or committing to attendance.

You can participate alone, or with a friend; you’re encouraged to register, but can go anonymously; attend once, or go every week – nobody is counting except you. Take your dog and your kids; go to one closest home or visit one the other side of the country.

It’s a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and completely judgement-free. People of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels participate.

Walk, walk/jog, or run flat out, it’s entirely up to you. There is always a tail-walker so you are never alone at the back. (If you’re very fast you may be alone at the front, but there are marshals to guide you!).

And it can become addictive! Some people travel all over the country - and the world chasing different parkrun challenges. Speaking with some of the organisers of local parkruns for this article, David from Polkemmet Country parkrun and Ian from Beecraigs told me that a number of them have completed the “Albateer” challenge – doing all Scottish parkruns (although with new ones popping up regularly, it’s not fully complete for long!) David has done a parkrun in all 26 countries in the world where there is one.

Some people reach 100 parkruns (or more!) and complete it with balloons and celebration cakes to share; some quietly complete their 100th without telling anyone. You genuinely run your own run, or walk your own walk. The magic of parkrun is that the way you do it is the right way for you, and you will be fully supported by the community regardless.

An article on parkrun and parkwalk would not be complete without mentioning the volunteers who make it happen every week. As a free event, parkrun relies entirely on volunteers to check the course, marshals directing the way and applauding participants, time-keepers, tail-walkers and a host of other roles. People volunteer for many reasons; I have spoken to some who do it to give back as parkrun has helped them turn their own lives around in some way; some do it for the camaraderie and community; some want to be part of parkrun without actually running or walking.

For David, who runs and volunteers regularly at Polkemmet, parkrun started as a social run on a Saturday, and he ran nearly 70 times before volunteering...but now the BATHGATE | 9

volunteering is on an equal footing with the running. He says, “It’s a great community and a good chunk of the volunteers are now very good friends and it is this, as well as the obvious benefits of a run/jog or walk, that make a Saturday morning a parkrun morning.” Whatever the reasons, everyone who volunteers, either one-off or regularly, is making an enormous contribution to a community which is quietly changing lives for the better.

If you are looking for a way to improve your mental and physical health this year, try parkrun on Saturday. Register at parkrun.org. uk and rock up at one of the locations below.

All commence at 9:30am every Saturday morning. There is a pre-event briefing so aim to arrive by around 9:15am if you have not been before. If the weather is bad, please check each parkrun Facebook page for updates in case of cancellation. It is unlikely to be cancelled for a bit of rain, but ice or snow may stop play.

• Polkemmet Country parkrun - All details at parkrun.org.uk/polkemmetcountry.

Updates at facebook.com/ Polkemmetparkrun • Beecraigs Country Park parkrun - All details at parkrun.org.uk/beecraigscountrypark Updates at facebook.com/ beecraigscountryparkparkrun • Livingston parkrun - All details at parkrun.org.uk/livingston. Updates at facebook.com/livingstonparkrun • Auldcathie District parkrun - All details at parkrun.org.uk/auldcathiedistrict.

Updates at facebook.com/ auldcathiedistrictparkrun • Bo’ness Foreshore parkrun - All details at parkrun.org.uk/bonessforeshore.

Updates at facebook.com/ bonessforeshoreparkrun A map of all events is at the main parkrun website: www.parkrun.org.uk This article was written by Helen-Jane, editor of Konect magazines, who recently discovered the joy of parkrun!

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BREAKING BARRIERS:

INCLUSIVE FUN FOR ALL AT BROXBURN UNITED

The Physical and Learning Disabilities Activity Programme at Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) is a vibrant community designed to ensure everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to play, grow, and connect.

What began in March 2025 as a response to a local family’s request has blossomed into a vital hub for children and adults with Additional Support Needs (ASN). Our goal is simple: to provide a safe, supportive, and active environment where participants and their families can enjoy adapted activities together.

A PROGRAM BUILT FOR EVERYONE - We believe that physical activity should be accessible to all. Our sessions are designed to be fully inclusive, offering a wide range of adapted sports and creative outlets: • Adapted Sports: From the precision of New Age Curling and Archery to the excitement of Axe Throwing and multi-sports.

• Sensory & Creative Arts: For those who prefer a calmer pace, we offer sensory activities and arts and crafts.

• Education Partnerships: We work closely with local ASN schools, welcoming students during school hours on Wednesdays to integrate activity into their learning.

COMMUNITY & CONNECTION FOR FAMILIES - This is a collaborative program where parents and carers attend alongside the individual. While the participants engage in the activities, it provides a unique opportunity for families to: • Decompress & Socialise: Connect with other parents and carers who understand your journey.

• Share Experiences: Chat and share advice in a relaxed, non-judgmental setting.

• Recharge: Enjoy a sense of community with a cup of tea, coffee, and plenty of cake always provided.

WHEN & WHERE - Join us at BUSC for our regular weekly and fortnightly sessions: • Wednesdays: • Sundays:

10.00am – 12.00pm 1.00pm – 3.00pm (Every second Sunday)

HOW TO GET INVOLVED - Whether you are looking for a new weekend activity or want to join our Wednesday group, there is a place for you and your family here. We look forward to welcoming you to our community club!

For more information about activities or dates for our Sunday sessions please contact alan.chambers@busc.org.uk BROXBURN UNITED SPORTS CLUB is situation 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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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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LIFE COACHING

, Let s Give Up ON GIVING UP

Winter is a beautiful season with its cosy lights, warm fires, and crisp weather encouraging us to wrap up well and get outside. However, after the sparkle and shine of Christmas it can feel a little flat when all the twinkly lights come down and we are faced with a darker and colder time of the year.

It’s no surprise then that we are drawn in by the notion that, if only we can make huge, dramatic and often painful changes to our lives, we will expel the darkness and have a bright new future. We convince ourselves that, by declaring that this will be the year that we will give up alcohol, carbohydrates or sugar forever, we will transform our lives. However, choosing to focus only on withholding the things we enjoy is what ensures that many of these aspirations fall at the first hurdle.

Live life your way

It’s important to celebrate the fact that we are already doing many things well, whether that’s managing family commitments or our workload.

Sitting down and identifying our achievements instead of putting all our energy into another list of things we think we should give up is a positive first step. When any life changes we want to make are focussed on thinking differently about ourselves and building on what we do well instead of feeling the need to make big sacrifices, everything suddenly feels easier and more sustainable. Deciding to do more of what we love and less of what we think we should do could transform our lives forever.

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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I hope you all enjoyed our little jaunt down Jarvey Street in the last issue. As promised, we now turn our attention to the “Death Penny,” a memorial plaque which was issued to the next of kin of all British Empire service recruits who died overseas.

The one pictured here was awarded to David Anderson who succumbed to his injuries on the 27th April 1918 aged 38 at a non-disclosed area of France. He was husband of Janet and father of four residing at Engine Place, Bathgate. Before the war, David was a wellrespected hairdresser and tobacconist with premises in South Bridge Street.

1,355,000 of these plaques were produced and used 450 tons of bronze in their manufacture.

It has been colloquially referred to as the “Death Penny” for its resemblance to the old penny. The picture shows the difference in size between the “Death Penny” and the one penny (30.86 mm as opposed to 120mm).

The design was chosen as part of a competition won by Edward Carter Preston who earned himself a whopping £250.00. It depicts a lion and Brittania with a trident in one hand and olive branch in her other outstretched hand. Under this, rests the ansate tablet showing the deceased name. Around the inside is inscribed “HE DIED FOR FREEDOM AND HONOUR.” The design was altered by E.C. Preston slightly to enable the letter ‘S’ to be added to HE in the inscription for the women who died overseas. Approximately 1,500 of these were produced.

No rank or title was ever included as each recruit was deemed to have given equal sacrifice for their country. The plaques were issued in a pack with a commemorative scroll from King George V, also pictured. The War Penny was initially produced after WWI, however, continued to be issued until the 1930s.

We at the Bennie Museum thank all of those fallen at home and abroad for their service.

Now, talking about a different type of service, we are all moaning about our local health services just now, especially during the winter months, so my next stroll down memory lane will be a trip to the doctors down the ages.

When you see some of the instruments they used a hundred years ago you might be a bit shocked and a wee bit thankful that medicine has progressed as far as it has! They’re all on display in the museum, so come have a look in person. We’re open Monday through Saturday from 11.00am to 3.30pm.

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

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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the MARCH edition

ACROSS: 7. Red fruit (6), 8. An agreement (6), 9. Water activity (4), 10. Pieces (8), 11. Non-attendance (7), 13. Slightly inebriated (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Brine (7), 20. Holding tightly (8), 21. Pain (4), 22. Customer (6), 23. Soak up (6).

Get paid to keep fit!

DOWN: 1. Spider’s trap (6), 2. Tepid (4), 3. Neat (7), 4. Begin (5), 5. Determined (8), 6. Smells badly (6), 12. Supplied with (8), 14. Line drawing (7), 16. Infrequently (6), 18. Cling to (6), 19. Unclean (5), 21. Plus (4).

FEBRUARY SUDOKU

Door to door A5 magazine delivery, a few hours once per month in your local area XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 34

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RECIPE & FOOD NOTES

Parsnip and apple combine deliciously in this seasonal soup. If you like a creamy texture just serve with some vegan yoghurt and toasted almonds! Apples are so versatile in cooking, they’re great in both savoury and sweet dishes. They add sweetness and can be grated into breads, scones, curry or tomato sauces.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp of olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 1 clove garlic finely chopped or crushed • 600g parsnips – diced • 600g Bramley or Braeburn apples – peeled and diced • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar • 1 tbsp dried sage • 1.5-2L of vegan stock • Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Heat the oil in a large pan and add the prepared vegetables and apples. Cook for about 5 minutes 2. Add the vegan stock and sage. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables and apples are soft 3. Remove soup form the heat and blitz with a hand blender until smooth. Add cider vinegar and stir well 4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, serve and enjoy!

These energy balls are perfect for snacking and carrying on the go! Packed with slow release carbohydrates in the oats, they’ll give you the energy boost you need!

Plus- chocolate flavour and no baking required, what more could you ask for?!

Various ingredients can be added to the basic recipe, like nut butters or desiccated coconut. You can use Medjool dates instead of honey if you have a food processor or blender- just make sure to check the consistency so you’re able to roll into balls that will keep their shape!

Ingredients:

• 90g oats (gluten-free if needed) • 3 tbsp cacao powder • Water • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp honey

Method:

1. In a bowl mix together the oats, cocoa powder, vanilla extract and honey 2. Add a tablespoon of water if needed, to help the mixture ball together 3. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll into a ball. Repeat until you have approximately 12 balls Keep in an air-tight container for up to 10 days

Both recipes supplied by Nutrition Scotland www.nutritionscotland.org

In collaboration with Dr Laura Wyness (RNutr), the Registered Nutritionists at Nutrition Scotland helped to create the Scottish Eatwell Guide, the first Scottish adaptation of the UK Eatwell Guide. By showcasing the wide range of delicious and nutritious foods available in Scotland, we hope to inspire individuals to adopt a healthy, balanced diet, while also celebrating Scotland’s natural larder. We aim to promote better health outcomes, promote environmental discussions and bolster the economy through the consumption of locally sourced produce.

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Do you remember the story of how snow got its colour? A long, long time ago everything on earth had its own colour apart from snow.

Snow asked everyone if they would share their colour but no one offered to help apart from the snowdrop who offered to share its colour white with snow, and so snow became coloured white from that time forth.

We mightn’t be hoping for snow this month but we know that the first snowdrops will appear later on and give us carpets of white across our gardens. This carpet is at House of the Binns, the National Trust of Scotland’s property just outside Linlithgow. Seeing these early flowers excites everyone with the thought that Spring is on its way and this enthusiasm

has resulted in the annual great Snowdrop Festival. For details of gardens open under the Snowdrop Festival visit discoverscottishgardens.org.

We have had more success in establishing snowdrops in our own gardens by planting clumps of them ‘in the green’ rather than the little bulbs available in the autumn. Either buy pots of bulbs from the garden centre or dig up existing clumps of them when they are flowering, or have just finished flowering, and divide them into smaller clumps before replanting. They enjoy soil that doesn’t get waterlogged or too dry in the summer, in sun or partial shade.

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

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INTERVIEW WITH

ALAN K CHEN

Bombastic and melodramatic. Those were the first two words that came to mind when the credits rolled on Edward Berger’s latest tale, Ballad of a Small Player.

Reminiscent of Hong Kong and Chinese dramas in both tone and heightened emotion, the film follows Lord Doyle, played immaculately by Colin Farrell, a compulsive gambler who is one hand away from paying off all his debts, and he has a lot of them. From the hotel he’s staying in to the people he’s wronged in the past, everything is closing in.

We follow Lord Doyle as he spirals into despair, clinging to the hope that he can find enough money to make that final, life-changing bet.

Visually striking, this may go down as one of the best-looking films on the entire Netflix platform. The score is overwhelming to the senses, its prominence in the mix is impossible to ignore, yet musically sublime. There isn’t a single technical misstep, and performance wise there isn’t a weak link either. Colin Farrell is a generational actor, and with the right material, he can work wonders.

It’s that material, however, that may prove divisive. The narrative, while not cliché, is predictable, and the ending won’t surprise many viewers. It’s a slight disappointment, especially given how central Lord Doyle’s navigation of Macau’s gambling underworld is to the story.

Still, the journey is thrilling enough to make it worth watching, and the fact that it’s on Netflix makes it even more accessible.

ROBERT: Can you give a brief introduction of yourself?

ALAN K: I’m Alan K Chen. I was born and raised in Hong Kong. I was really a shy kid; it wasn’t until I studied abroad in Melbourne that I started acting, and I started auditioning for other things. I started my own theatre company. I started auditioning for short films and commercials. I just made a lot of student films from there on, and then one thing led to the other, and then here I am landing on this amazing project.

ROBERT: So how much of the script were you given?

ALAN K: I was given the whole script. I went to Macau for a costume fitting, and there were table reads in the afternoon. I was so nervous, and that table read was epic; I couldn’t even count how many awards they had around that table. Colin Farrell was there, and I was with Anthony Wong, and we were sitting together, some of them were on Zoom, and Edward Berger; they’re all such talented people. I’ve never seen so many talented people around the same table.

ROBERT: What was it like working with Colin Farrell and Edward Berger?

ALAN K: It was intimidating at first, but they turned out to be some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. From the call backs to the table reads, on set, and even when I saw them at the Zurich Film Festival, they were consistently calm, kind, and generous. Personalities can get exaggerated on film sets, but theirs never did.

Available to stream on

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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If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby.....get in touch via

editor@konect.scot

Got a story?

and we may be able to share it.

(You need to live and/or work in the Bathgate or Broxburn area to be featured in the Bathgate magazine)

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL!

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The sun has yet to breach the horizon and it’s bitterly cold, a thin layer of snow covering the ground, as I make my way across the park from Livingston FC Community Club towards the reservoir.

It’s not long before I reach the water’s edge, but instead of the waterlily patchwork of summer I am met with a three-acre expanse of ice, product of the past week’s freezing temperatures. In that moment, I realise that today my search for the usually abundant water birds may be in vain.

Created in the 1970s, Eliburn Reservoir acts as both a flood prevention measure and a water source for the town of Livingston. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife and is a popular course fishing site, stocked with trout, carp and other species. And it’s as I round a corner approaching one of the numerous fishing platforms that I encounter a wonderful sight that makes my morning.

CREDIT: All images by William Weir

The entire reservoir is not frozen over after all. At the edge of a triangular inlet, an area roughly twenty metres by ten is free of ice and within it are congregated the reservoir’s entire population of waterfowl. The contrast with the otherwise deserted icesheet is stark.

Today, this is The Centre of Livingston’s bird world. There are adult swans, impossibly white, accompanied by two immature birds - last year’s cygnets. There are ubiquitous mallards too, tufted ducks dapper in white and jet black, coots, moorhens, and the diminutive dabchicks (little grebes) who dive shyly below the surface when I first appear.

The swans are the chief icebreakers of this collective; they have the weight and strength to break through the newly frozen surface before the ice becomes too thick. Drawn by these openings and the need to feed, other species follow suit and it is only by their continual movement that the surface remains ice free.

There’s certainly much motion this morning.

Ducks dabble back and forth, periodically hauling themselves up on to the edge of the ice to shake and preen. A coot high-steps across the ice on large, lobed feet, like a snorkeler who has forgotten to remove his flippers. One of the young swans tests its wings enthusiastically with a great whooshing of air.

After a while I pull myself away from this engaging scene and continue onwards. Past the dam at the reservoir’s western end the terrain drops away, and the path descends into pinewoods. A woodpecker drums somewhere in the tops. I make my way down through the trees to pick up the Lochshot Burn path.

It’s easy walking along this well-made path, accompanied by relaxing babbling of the burn.

Within one curve of the waterway stand nine mysterious snow-dusted figures, waiting in the cold - the Livingston Stone Circle, a modern take on the neolithic.

Where the burn flows into the River Almond I bear left and continue along the river in pleasantly wooded surroundings,

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dating back to the 12th century. All that now remains is a grassy mound marking the site.

Adjacent are the ruins of Livingston House which stood here from the 17th to 19th centuries.

GET THE ROUTE Today, snow lies ON OS MAPS! upon the cracked and weathered walls, or what’s left of them. I wander through the ruin, pausing in front of the old hearth. In my mind’s eye I am transported back three hundred years to a dark, cold January day when the fire roaring within would have been a welcome sight for the returning residents. Perhaps even Burns himself may have come to call?

stopping on my way to admire the delicate almond-rose hues of a female bullfinch in the overhanging branches. Soon I reach a bridge, which extends Livingston Village’s Main Street across the river. Glancing up to my left I see the historic Livingston Inn and saunter up for a closer look. The Inn dates from c1760 and Robert Burns is reputed to have stayed here. From here you can walk along Main Street and rejoin the river path, accessed just after Bloom Place. The trail then passes through the elongated expanse of Livingston Village Park where the trees on all sides are alive with the calls of a host of winter birds - goldfinch, blue tit, great tit, coal tit and robin. Towards the eastern end of the park, I track away from the water, picking up the Alderstone Path which skips north past the Geddes House business centre where I turn west, making for Cousland Road.

Passing briefly through Cousland Woods and a residential street I follow a sign for the Folly Burn path, spiralling up and over a footbridge then on to Peel Park.

Peel Park takes its name from the original Peel of Livingston, a moated, fortified tower house

I cross the Folly Burn, following a path northwest beneath Eliburn Road and through some residential streets to join Kirk Road Strip running west. This leads me into Old Livingston Wood. It’s mid-morning now and the sky has cleared to azure blue. The low sun shines through bare birches, casting long shadows across the path, alternating with white snow like one long bar code. Soon, I’m back at the reservoir’s eastern shore. Glancing across the ice, I notice a family now feeding the ducks and swans and, smiling, return to my starting point.

Allow 1.5 -2hrs (6 km), all paths are well surfaced.

This article was contributed by William Weir.

William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.

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Bring your dancing shoes, your friends, and your best moves! Bar open for snacks & drinks.

A perfect way for the kids and parents to celebrate Valentine's in style!

Tickets available via the ticketsource link on "Broxburn Bowling and Social Club" Facebook page

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“As with all our events, this is ASN-friendly, welcoming and inclusive, with a relaxed and supportive atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy themselves.”

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.

hear an excellent speaker on a fascinating topic. 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

THURSDAY 5TH FEBRUARY West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - Provides help and support for men recently diagnosed with Prostate Cancer.

Next meeting, which includes guest speakers, is at 7.00pm on Thursday 5th February at Crofthead Community Centre, Livingston, EH54 6DG. ALL WELCOME.

THURSDAY 19TH FEBRUARY Stuart Mitchell & Friends: On The Road - 18+ Following on from his debut sold-out UK Tour, join star of social media, TikTok, and all round good guy Stuart Mitchell as he brings his famous weekly Stuart Mitchell & Friends show, and two special comedy guests direct from Glasgow, to your front door (nearly). 7.30pm. Reconnect Regal Theatre, Bathgate. Tickets £22.50 + booking fee. 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’. The speaker is Dr Steven Veerapen of Strathclyde University whom you may have seen recently as one of the talking heads on a television documentary about Guy Fawkes. Two or three years ago he published ‘The Wisest Fool: the lavish life of James VI and I’, a biography that was acclaimed by reviewers, and by Philippa Gregory, no less: ‘It does not flinch from the flaws of character and the errors of rule… makes a fair analysis of James the man as he struggled to become James the king… a real page-turner.’

But Dr Veerapen’s talk will direct our attention to the witchcraft panics that seized Scotland and many parts of Europe in the late 16th and 17th centuries – from which, of course, West Lothian was not exempt, with some 100 accused. But the subject of the talk is not the witches or witchcraft cases themselves but the legacy of the panics in the shifting power balance between church and state, shifts in belief and in judicial thinking. Come along and

THURSDAY 26TH FEBRUARY Living the Life of Riley - A nationally acclaimed stage play which is heartwarming, heart-breaking and hilarious.

Serious laughter combined with serious issues bring the Riley Family to life in front of your eyes. “Centered on the dynamics of an ordinary family trying to cope with everyday life including a diagnosis of autism for their youngest son. This could only have been written by someone with firsthand experience!” 7.30pm. Reconnect Regal Theatre, Bathgate. Tickets £26 + booking fee. Information and booking via: tickets.reconnectregal.com WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FORPROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. BATHGATE | 31

you! £2 per child. Email: torphichen.cec@westlothian.gov.uk THE BATHGATE MENZIES CHOIR - A mixed-voice 4 part choir singing a wide range of songs from all genres.

We meet on Tuesday evenings at SPORTS, HOBBIES, Bathgate Parish church from 7.15pmLEARNING, SUPPORT 9.00pm. New members welcome for new session starting at end of August GROUPS & MORE...

- contact Johnnie on 01506 419904 for more information. Come and join us as we celebrate our 100th anniversary REGAL WIND BAND - Established session! bathgatemenzieschoir.com 30 years ago, we are primarily for adult learners/intermediate players.

BATHGATE CONCERT The emphasis is on participation ORCHESTRA - Do you play an and fun, playing a range of pieces instrument? Would you like the and performing them annually at an chance to practise and perform informal concert for family and friends. with a concert orchestra? We are We rehearse Tuesday evenings a friendly orchestra who meet 7.30pm – 9.30pm at Reconnect every Friday at 7.30pm – 9.30pm Howden Park, Livingston, EH54 at Craig Inn Community Centre, 6AE. Members provide their own Blackridge. We perform several instruments. Membership £5/week. concerts per year in West Lothian, Further information is available and offer opportunities for musical from Peter West, 07710 870024, development in a fun and social peterwest@blueyonder.co.uk environment. Contact: secretary@ bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk COZMIC CLUB - The Cozmic Club is a social club for young people GAELIC BEGINNER WORKSHOP age 11-25 on the Autistic Spectrum - Come along to the Bathgate Gaelic Circle for a friendly and free Saturday who attend mainstream classes in a morning workshop, especially for mainstream school. The group meet Gaelic beginners! We meet every every Tuesday 6.45pm -8.30pm two weeks from 10.00 - 12.00 in during school term time in The Chill rooms 8/9, Bathgate Partnership Out Zone in Bathgate. Annual fee Centre. It’s a great chance to practise £10 + £5 weekly on the night. For your skills while having fun with card information / to arrange a visit, please games, dominoes, simple readers, contact cozmicclubwl@gmail.com and conversation aids. We’d love WALKING FOOTBALL WEST to see you there and help you dive LOTHIAN - For everyone over 50, into the wonderful world of Gaelic! E: no matter your level of fitness. Come raibeartmac@gmail.com along and get yourself a wee bit fitter.

T: 07742 558580 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 Murieston Sports Park (Apr-Nov) and enriching communities which Wed: 10.00am, £1; empower all to remain independent, Xcite Craigswood (Dec-Mar) living at home and socially connected.

Wed: 10.00am, £3; OPAL supports over 25 Community East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, £1; Groups throughout West Lothian for Whitburn Community Centre - Thu: people to attend, engage with others 10.30am, FREE. and build new friendships. They also Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or provide a time limited one-to-one contact: T: 07775 188218 befriending service built to improve E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk confidence. To find out more please BATHGATE GAELIC CIRCLE contact 01506 815 815 or opal@ The Bathgate Gaelic Circle runs a cyrenians.scot free drop-in workshop for Gaelic BACK INTO CIRCULATION - The Beginners, on a Saturday morning BIC group is partnered with Chest 10am -12 noon, once a fortnight, in Heart and Stroke Scotland (CHSS) rooms 8/9 of the Bathgate Partnership and led by physiotherapists from Centre, South Bridge Street. It St. John’s Hospital. Programme of offers a great chance to practice exercises for people of all abilities and reinforce learning. We use card and ages that can be adjusted to games, dominoes, simple readers, meet your needs. We meet Monday and conversation aids. You’ll meet 5.20-6.30pm at Uphall Community other beginners and hear about Centre EH52 6BN and Wednesday their learning experiences. For more 5.20-6.30pm at St. John’s Hospital, details, contactl Rob McEwan Physiotherapy Dept on ground floor.

T: 07742558580 £12 per month / first two weeks free.

E: raibeartmac@gmail.com Please email y60rmd@gmail.com or JUMPING BEANS TORPHICHEN call 01506 431950.

- Stay & play group at Torphichen GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a Community Centre Wednesdays and range of groups from age 4-14. All Fridays 10.00am-12.00pm. Bring girls are welcome to join in, learn life a snack for your wee one and we’ll skills, do crafts, earn badges and go provide tea, coffee and biscuits for

32 | BATHGATE

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 - 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

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

P T D M R E B R E E Z E O A N A U G L Y S U B T E I L O C T O B E R N C S S

P T D M R E B R E E Z E O A N A U G L Y S U B T E I L O C T O B E R N C S S

S F C K O N A R R A C T C E E E D Y L T W I C E S T A Y I N G O E U C A A I D S P A M P H L E T P D P I O I H O V E R S O P E N E D N

D

E

N

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D

S F C K O N A R R A C T C E E E D Y L T W I C E S T A Y I N G O E U C A A I D S P A M P H L E T P D P I O I H O V E R S O P E N E D N

D

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X

D

ACROSS: 7. Breeze, 8. Reckon, 9. Ugly, 10. Subtract, 11. October, 13. Needy, 15. Twice, 17. Staying, 20. Pamphlet, 21. Aids, 22. Hovers, 23. Opened.

ACROSS: 7. Breeze, 8. Reckon, 9. Ugly, 10. Subtract, 11. October, 13. Needy, 15. Twice, 17. Staying, 20. Pamphlet, 21. Aids, 22. Hovers, 23. Opened.

DOWN: 1. Tragic, 2. Deny, 3. Measles, 4. Probe, 5. Scarcely, 6. Forced, 12. Occupied, 14. Station, 16. Weapon, 18. Nodded, 19. Close, 21. Apex.

DOWN: 1. Tragic, 2. Deny, 3. Measles, 4. Probe, 5. Scarcely, 6. Forced, 12. Occupied, 14. Station, 16. Weapon, 18. Nodded, 19. Close, 21. Apex.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 20

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.

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.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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BATHGATE | 35