Welcome to March, when it can feel that the winter has more than outstayed its welcome and we grab onto every sign of spring! I love Francine’s approach to it in her Life Coaching column this month – we can’t change the weather but we can change the way we think about it!
A new support group for women launches in Bathgate this month: Nicola’s, to fill a huge need in the community and as a fitting tribute to the memory of Bathgate mum Nicola who tragically passed away last year. See page 10 for details and spread the word.
Bathgate was historically part of Linlithgowshire before it became West Lothian. The Local History article this month looks at one of Linlithgowshire’s most memorable MPs, and there is a link to the fountain in the Steelyard. Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations. All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
PRICE MATCH PROMISE
PETER MCLAGAN MP,
Scotland’s first non-white MP, and “suffragetist in trousers”
Peter McLagan MP, was an extraordinary local character, and the longestserving MP, next to Tam Dalyell, that this area had in 300 years.
Peter McLagan was born in 1823 in Demarara, the then-colony of British Guyana in South America. His father - also known as Peter - jointly owned a plantation there. Of his mother we know nothing, only that his father had a ‘relationship’ from which he and an elder brother, John, were born. As a result of a decision by the British Parliament to compensate slave owners after the emancipation of ‘their’ slaves, his father came to Scotland with his sons where he purchased the estates of Calderbank and Pumpherston.
John studied to become a doctor at the University of Edinburgh, and after graduation returned to Demarara where unfortunately he died in 1851. Peter also went to Edinburgh University, where he cultivated a great interest and knowledge of farming, both practical and theoretical. Indeed, so esteemed was he that he was invited along with several others to set up the “Scottish Agricultural Association” – the first of its kind in the world and an exemplar for the English and all other succeeding bodies.
“His support for women’s suffrage earned him the sobriquet of being a ‘suffragetist in trousers’ – a rare honour indeed”
When his father died in 1860, Peter became the Laird of Pumpherston. He invested in shale oil works although didn’t make any significant money from it, and he continued with his agricultural interests - which ranged from the types of manure to be used in growing turnips to the best measures to control disease in cattle. We don’t know when or how his political interests were aroused, but he was elected in 1865 as MP for the county of Linlithgowshire* – a position which he was to hold for the next twenty eight years, thereby making him the longest serving MP next to Tam Dalyell that this area has had in 300 years.
During his parliamentary career he was amongst the first to call for the establishment
of a separate Minister for Agriculture. He had a range of opinions on such topics as the education of children in rural areas (he regarded rural education as every bit as important as that to be found in towns, and when primary education became free in 1870 he wanted all educational endowments to be made over to the State for the sole purpose of the establishment of secondary education for the ‘poorer classes’); he called for the creation of the post of Secretary of State for Scotland and for that post to be a Cabinet one, as well as for the number of Scottish MPs to be increased to reflect the growth in the Scottish population and the amount raised in tax in Scotland (he thought that there should be 70 MPs, which was near to the actual figure of 72 before the creation of the Scottish Parliament); or whether MPs who were atheists should still be allowed to take their seats in Parliament simply by swearing an ‘Oath of Affirmation’ (he thought that that should suffice – indeed, he admits that if he had his way, he would do away with all such oaths).
But even more controversial where his views on women’s suffrage. He believed earnestly that women should be given the right to vote and, more, that anyone who paid rates irrespective of how much they paid should be allowed to vote in local council elections. However it is his support for women’s suffrage which earned him the sobriquet of being a ‘suffragetist in trousers’ – a rare honour indeed. There is no record of how many times he visited his constituents here, but what we can gather from newspaper reports of meetings he held in Bathgate, Armadale, Linlithgow and Bo’ness, to name a few, he is described as being a ‘household name’ and a man for whom there was no real need for an introduction
since he was so well known to all them all – remember this is at a time when there was little in the way of mass communication, except newspapers.
That he was well thought of by his constituents is best exemplified by the outpouring of sympathy and compassion when he was declared bankrupt in June 1893. Although his income by his own calculations stood at some £4000 per annum, his annual expenditures were almost as much. In addition both he and his wife (Elizabeth Anne Taylor a widow whom he had married in 1876 but who died in 1882) were both know for their support of numerous charities and helped build various halls throughout the county. Mr McLagan fell in with bad company commercially speaking, and ended up over £110,000 in debt – an enormous sum in those days.
Whilst the Pumpherston estate was not listed as an asset, all his shares and farm were taken away from him and sold off to help pay his creditors. He was left virtually penniless and as a result of his bankruptcy resigned as the county’s MP on the 2nd June; only three weeks later his political rival for the past eight years Captain James Hope was elected in his stead.
A few weeks after his resignation and his bankruptcy a testimonial was organised to provide him with some means of comfort for his old age (he was already 70). Within a few weeks the sum of over £1800 was raised in his honour. The last seven years of his life appear to have passed in virtual anonymity, as aside from an obituary notice when he died on the 31st August 1900 there are no other reports.
He was buried in Mid Calder churchyard, and his funeral attended by various local ‘grandees’ was a dignified and solemn occasion; Lord Torphichen himself was one of the pall bearers.
*EDITOR’S NOTE: Peter’s election as MP was directly related to his inheritance, which sprang from the compensation his father had received as a slave owner. He would not have been able to stand for election without the land holdings of a certain value.
This local history article was contributed by David Main, Bathgate.
Bathgate’s Drinking Fountain in the Steelyard was donated by Peter McLagan’s wife in 1879 to commemorate the supply of safe drinking water to the town. A very significant occasion in Bathgate’s history as the dearth of safe drinking water in the 19th century was one of the principal reasons that Bathgate had not grown as quickly as others.
Peter McLagan MP
A new Women’s Support Group launched in Bathgate :
Nicola’s is a new Women’s Support Group that will be held the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of each month from 10am till 12pm in the Cran Gevrier Suite at the Jim Walker Partnership Centre in Bathgate.
If you’re struggling, feeling lonely or need support we are here to listen. Pop along and have a cuppa Nicola’s aims to:
Promote Mental Health & Wellbeing Provide Support & Advice to Women
No charge to attend Coffee, Tea & Biscuits provided Our NEW website:
www.nicola-s. online
Nicola’s has been set up in memory of Nicola who was an amazing daughter, mum, sister, cousin, auntie, friend, mental health nurse & soldier. A truly beautiful person inside & out.
We identified a need for a free, safe, supportive space similar to what Andy’s Man Club provide. We did not expect the response we got on face book. In 2 weeks we have had over 225,000 views.
At Nicola’s we have backgrounds in health, social care & education. Our goal is to eventually have a Nicola’s in every town in West Lothian. We plan to work collaboratively with those services already providing women’s services in West Lothian to ensure we get women the best help possible.
We are a small firm of solicitors representing clients throughout West Lothian. We practice solely in family law and guardianships.
Lesley Fairfield is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a Specialist in Family Law
Home Instead recently carried out research into people’s perception of dementia, revealing that 84% of people felt that more should be done to educate families about living with dementia.
In light of this, Home Instead have launched a dedicated YouTube channel ‘Home Truths’ designed to highlight the ‘real’ side of living with dementia. The channel features personal stories and helpful tips and advice to support people on the journey. Visit youtube.co.uk/homeinsteaduk or search ‘HomeTruthsDementia’ on social media.
Other findings from Home Instead’s research showed that:
• 39% thought dementia was a bigger threat than cancer.
• 38% were worried that a family member may have undiagnosed dementia.
• 64% of people thought home is under-utilised as a place to treat people with dementia.
• 45% said that looking after a family member with dementia meant they were unable to work as much as they used to.
• 52% said that they had less time to spend with their own children and partner because they were looking after a family member with dementia.
• 45% of people said that looking after a family member with dementia had left them struggling financially.
For more information or to read a full copy of the report, visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/newageing-index/
To find out more about the support that is available for families supporting a loved one with memory issues, contact Carers of West Lothian on 01506 448000.
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
Two national saints days occur in March: St David of Wales and St Patrick of Ireland. It’s interesting to consider what traditional foods are connected with Scotland’s neighbouring Celtic countries. Both the political and social history and climate of Wales and Ireland have had huge influence on the crops and cooking of the people of these two lands.
Roman imports never influenced Ireland so food was limited to what flourished on this mild, Atlantic-weathered landscape. Oats, wheat and rye, a little later peas and beans, and then dairy cattle hence milk, butter and cheese became the staples and were very important exports. By the 16th century potatoes arrived, changing the habits and the diet of the pre-industrial population and in time led to the disastrous reliance on this one crop, causing the famine and massive depopulation of the whole island in the 19th century.
Wales is more mountainous and has poorer soils and a harsher climate than Ireland; but it has land links with England and became heavily industrialised in the 19th century. However, people in the two countries had similar basic cooking utensils which led to similarities in
Ingredients:
• 1kg potatoes. Maris Piper or King Edwards are best
• 100g butter
• Salt, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, a little oil
Method:
1. Peel the potatoes if you prefer but it is not necessary.
2. Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little till you can handle them.
foods. These were a flat griddle and a three legged cooking pot which stood in the fire on the hearth. Hence stews, soups, flatbreads, cheese, autumn fruit and nuts with the addition of the occasional luxury of meat or game became the cuisine of both countries.
Potato cakes, leek soup, Cawl, Bara Brith and Laver bread (nori seaweed) are the traditional foods of Wales. The Irish are proud of their Irish stew, soda breads, pancakes, beer, corned beef (salt beef) champ, Boxty (potato bread), colcannon (bubble and squeak) and cheeses.
All these dishes are good to eat while the days are short and not too warm. They are comfort food at its best and quickest, using ingredients most people have to hand and do not take a great deal of work - just slow, gentle cooking.
3. Oil or well-butter an oven proof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or some dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish. Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down.
4. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180o, for 1¼ to 1½ hours. Turn out to serve.
5. Serve with colds meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.
Leeks are the national symbol of Wales and are worn in the headgear of the armed forces on St David’s Day. They are good eating at this time of the year.
2. Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little till you can handle them.
Ingredients:
• 3 or 4 leeks sliced
• 1 onion finely chopped
• Chicken breast cut in 4 or 5 pieces
• 3 or 4 rashers bacon cut small
• 75g butter or some oil
• 2 tablespoons plain flour
• 3/4 pint milk, or mix of milk and chicken stock.
• Salt, pepper chopped fresh coriander, chives or parsley.
Method:
1. Peel the potatoes if you prefer but it is not
It’s a brave person to offer a recipe for this, as with most traditional food every family has its own way of doing it!
Ingredients:
• 1kg neck of mutton chops, chump chops or shoulder of lamb
• 500-750g potatoes
• 3 or 4 onions chopped
• 100g pearl barley
3. Oil or well-butter an oven proof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or some dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish. Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down.
4. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180o, for 1¼ to 1½ hours. Turn out to serve.
5. Serve with colds meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.
• Depending on the time of year and family tradition: carrots, cabbage, kale, turnip, swede or parsnips
Method:
1. Brown the meat in a little oil (not traditional), put in an ovenproof casserole dish and layer up on top whichever other vegetables you fancy.
2. Brown the onion in the same oil, then add it to the meat. Add the barley and seasoning. Some say white pepper is needed. Add water to just cover the contents of the casserole.
3. Slice the potatoes and layer on top to make a lid. Bake in a medium oven for 2 hours or till the meat is very tender and the potatoes are brown and crispy.
This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.
Pop-up events at Turpie & Co
See and be seen: exclusive shopping experiences by brand-aligned local businesses
In a world where in-person transactions and personal service seem ever more difficult to come by, the opportunity to meet customers and deepen relationships are gold for businesses which don’t have a physical premises.
And as a customer, meeting the people behind the brand, seeing products and discussing ideas are of course all invaluable. But a town centre premises isn’t a viable option for many businesses, and so the no-pressure, drop-in element of the buying decision process isn’t possible.
Enter Turpie & Co’s local “pop-up events,” a new and unique opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products or services, in person in Bathgate, to a gathering of brand-aligned and mutual clients.
The Turpie & Co premises is located in central Bathgate. Spacious and with ample parking, it’s an ideal space to host events. Looking for ways to support other local businesses as well as offer something special for their own clients, CoDirector Gillian Greenwell came up with the idea of hosting pop-up events for local businesses who may have potential clients in common with Turpie & Co, or aligned brands offering services of interest to Turpie & Co’s customer base.
Unlike a business fair or trade show, a Turpie & Co pop-up idea is an event dedicated to just one, or at the most two complementary businesses. So host businesses can be confident that attendees have come because they are interested in what is on offer. It is also a unique opportunity to shape the event to best suit the specific offering, as well as to create a social ambience with drinks and food. “Our business is built around nurturing long term relationships,” explains Gillian, “so to be able to offer exclusive shopping experiences to our
clients, at our premises here, very much builds on that. At the same time, both businesses involved benefit from meeting each others’ client base.”
The first event kicked off towards the end of 2024 with a shopping event with stylist Leigh Maybury of Life with Style, a Bathgate-based stylist whose business is predominantly online. “We knew we already had some customers in common, and with the party season approaching it was perfect timing to offer our clients the opportunity to shop with a stylist and to see how the concept worked,” says Gillian. “Both ourselves and Life with Style promoted the event to our respective client-bases.”
It’s safe to say that it was immensely successful, to the point that Leigh has already booked dates for four more pop-up days at Turpie & Co to run seasonally throughout 2025. “It was my most successful pop-up ever in terms of sales,” says Leigh. Aided by the fizz, tea, coffee and cupcakes, the in-person social networking was as much a part of the event as the shopping itself. “We found that people were in no hurry to leave, and wanted to linger and chat besides shopping,” she explains. “People who knew each other from my online fashion group were delighted to meet in person and share the style shopping experience, trying on clothes and comparing notes.” Leigh also found that customers came who followed Life with Style online but hadn’t been confident previously to make a purchase. “They liked what I put out on social media, but needed the opportunity to meet me and see the clothes for themselves before buying.”
Service-based businesses such as health and leisure, interior designers, architects and other professional services could also benefit by arranging an evening with talks, demonstrations, consultations or by attending with a complementary product-based company.
It’s never been more important for local businesses to support each other, and matching the facility of a large central premises, with clients wanting in-person exclusive experiences with brands, Turpie and Co have hit on a format that ticks all the boxes.
If you run a business and would like to partner with Turpie & Co to offer a pop-up event in Bathgate, please contact Gillian Greenwell on the details below. They are open to suggestions for pop-ups from range of businesses where the brand alignment and client base potentially overlap with theirs.
“It was my most successful pop-up ever in terms of sales”
Kestrels have been a bit of a sore spot for me when it comes to photographing them until recently. I’ve watched them hovering over a field, using their excellent eyesight to spot a mouse or vole scurrying around in the grass.
They can see in ultraviolet light, which allows them to see the urine trails around rodent burrows. They’re excellent hunters, and I watched this one stoop down from the tallest tree to grab this vole. Whilst they hover, they keep their head perfectly still. It’s well worth watching a video of it as it’s quite incredible to see.
I’ve been lucky to have a pair hunting not far from my house recently. They were very confiding, allowing me to walk under them as they perched on an overhead wire, where usually they’ve been quite distant.
I’m not one for naming wild animals but my husband has christened this one Kevin. You can tell it’s a male because it’s got a grey head, whereas the female is generally brown all over. They’re beautiful little birds and much like the foxes I saw last year, they come with a certain sense of nostalgia
as they featured heavily in the Animals of Farthing Wood.
It’s always enjoyable coming across wildlife like this in such an urban environment and though I hope they might nest over the summer, it’s unlikely given it’s quite busy but you never know.
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.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
Calm down!! In March we start getting requests for summer bedding plants like the petunias and tuberous begonias in this window box.
But they are too tender to go outside until late April, so resist buying them if you see them at the supermarket. Instead there are lots of tougher plants like pansies, violas and Senetti to cheer up your pots until the tender summer plants can start to fill your garden.
Tuberous Begonias, like these yellow ones, with their great range of colours, have become very popular in recent years, probably since busy lizzies became vulnerable to the dreaded busy lizzie downy mildew. Resistant strains of busy lizzies are now fighting back but we have fallen in love with the begonias because they perform so well in our gardens, in borders and pots. There has been so much interbreeding of begonias that has given us a great range
of habits and colours, with different leaf colours as well.
If you have some of the unplanted hairy tubers you can start them off in little pots now but you must have a warm light space to grow them on until late April when you can start putting them outside. If you can’t offer them this protection just wait until they are available in garden centres at the end of April. They prefer not to be in full sun, enjoy regular watering and feeding and generally need no more attention, apart from your attention to sit back and enjoy their displays.
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
58mm Vertical [RIGHT]
Billy Connelly famously said that there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes, and there can be no argument with that, if what we are talking about is stepping out into the rain in shorts and sandals or going out in winter chills.
But, the issues that so many have with adverse weather conditions has very little to do with what is going on in the sky above us and very much more to do with what’s happening within ourselves.
Although there are limited official statistics to tell us how many people are actually suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the link between grey skies and mood is clear and it’s no surprise that a rainy day can have a significant impact on our mood. Going out in the rain, even wearing the right clothes, can dampen more than our spirits but there are some simple steps we can all take to change how we think about cold and damp weather. Sitting by a window in the daylight or wrapping up warm and getting out of doors for half an hour sounds simple but it is a really good place to start and even finding a calming soundtrack of falling rain to support our meditation could change our attitude to the rain falling on us as we walk.
Maybe we will always prefer sunny weather and blue skies but changing how we think about the winter and developing a new attitude is surely better than wishing months of the year away while waiting for spring.
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
DOWN: 1. Wealthy (4), 2. Sculpture (6), 3. Motors (7), 4. Protrude (5), 5. Accompany (6), 6. Achievable (8), 11. Slinging (8), 13. Dicken’s character (7), 15. Type of gun (6), 17. Presume (6), 18. Mixes (5), 21. Zero (4).
MARCH SUDOKU
WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH
Older People Providers Fayre - Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Stalls from the various providers across West Lothian as well as a schedule of talks on a variety of topics. FREE ENTRY. Doors open 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm
SATURDAY 8TH MARCH
Women in History (International Women’s Day) - Join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of women throughout history at this event in Linlithgow Burgh Halls. A day of interactive workshops and engaging discussions. Discover the remarkable women who have shaped our world and explore their lasting impact on society. Don’t miss this opportunity to honour the trailblazers, innovators, and leaders who have made history. Organiser: Women in History - Funded by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. Linlithgow Burgh Halls, 9.30am – 4.30pm. Tickets free but booking essential (limited places) via the What’s On page at www.linlithgowburghhalls.co.uk
SATURDAY 15TH MARCH
Strictly Irish Dancers - Strictly Irish Dancers invite you to their fundraising St Patrick’s Day Concert for a fun evening of Irish dance, music and song. Canon Hoban Hall, Broxburn. Doors open 7.00pm. Please contact Margaret on 07865 492137 or email strictlyirish@hotmail.com for tickets and info.
SATURDAY 15TH MARCH
Friends of Beecraigs & Witchcraig Volunteer session - For this session we will be carrying out tasks at the pond in Beecraigs Country Park. The Beecraigs pond has become choked by an alien invasive plant called New Zealand pygmy weed, which is often unknowingly introduced by people emptying ponds or aquaria. We need your help to remove this invasive weed to help improve the water quality and habitat for amphibious and invertabrate species. All tools
and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger. If you have some, please bring a pair of gloves, and wear appropriate clothing/footwear. Please bring along any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run for two hours starting at 10am. Meet at the Balvormie car park, Beecraigs Country Park. Free, but please book via eventbrite on the West Lothian Council Ranger Service page so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements.
SATURDAY 22ND MARCH
Just Beatles - Just Beatles, Scotland’s home grown ensemble of musicians, will perform their spectacular critically acclaimed show that gives you a concert experience of 120 minutes of pure Beatles’ nostalgia 7.30pm (doors open 6.30pm) Reconnect Regal, Bathgate. Tickets £24 via reconnectregal.com
FRIDAY 28TH MARCH
The 2025 Spring Concert - From the Bathgate Concert Orchestra. Conductor Steven Meikle. Entry by donation, 7.30pm, Winchburgh Parish Church, 1 Millgate, EH52 6TT
EVERY SATURDAY
Bathgate Market & Car Boot SaleBathgate 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.
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.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
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), Facebook, 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 www.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 (1014 years) 7:00-9:00pm; 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 Redmondwalkerredmond@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 s§ee: 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 - Retired? Fed up with lockdown and covid restrictions? 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 St John’s Church hall, Mid Street, Bathgate. For further information, contact Sandy McAlpin (Secretary) on (01506) 630152
LITTLE MONSTERS UNDER 5 GROUP A new look Little
Monsters at Boghall Drop-in Centre. Children 0 – 5 with their parent/carer, Tues, Wed & Thurs. Coffee, tea & refreshments 9.009.30am, followed by FREE Drop-in Sessions. 9.30-10.30am or 11am-12noon. Afternoon (FREE) 12.30-13.15 Storytime/arts/music classes. Email: arlene@bdic.org. uk Or call the drop in centre on 01506 283201 to register
WHITBURN AND DISTRICT
PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semiretired 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.
CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Antenatal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.007.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston. E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk
T: 07810 824 195
W: www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook
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 people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.
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. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centrecall to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email: 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 £24. 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.
British animation staples Wallace and Gromit returned to our television sets this Christmas with their latest caper, marking the first time the buddying duo have starred in a direct sequel.
While the previous films reference each other, this film continues the plot of the Wrong Trousers (debatably one of the best pieces of animation ever) as Feathers McGraw returns to steal the blue diamond yet again. Aardman Animation’s previous film, Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, was not my cup of tea, but Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl is a return to form for the studio. It features their unique and always funny sense of humour and clever action set pieces that push the limits of stop motion animation.
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.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX
Gromit is undeniably my favourite character in all of media; his facial expressions bring so much depth and emotion to a character that never barks, let alone talks, and the fact he can stand Wallace even after all these years is a testament to how much free accommodation will make up for his shortfalls. That is honestly my only criticism of this film - as per every previous film, that status quo ultimately resets upon the introduction and similar antics are brought to the forefront. Honestly, how many times do we have to see Wallace not believe Gromit? However, when Feathers McGraw and Gromit begin the chase scene on the canal boats, all is forgiven, and you fall back in love with these characters. A truly scrumptious film.
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.
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.
