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LOCAL WALK: WINE

WISHING ALL OUR READERS A VERY

It’s an optimistic time of year with the longer days and lighter nights finally arriving. We try to produce an optimistic magazine every month of the year, and feedback I’ve had during 17 years of publishing is that reading Konect is always a positive and relaxing experience. So I hope this edition is no exception to that.

The local walk takes us up into a favourite spot in the Pentlands, where, speaking of optimism, William was lucky enough to spot a little egret at Harlaw reservoir. If you like getting out and about for a walk, besides William’s regular walk feature in Konect, there is a monthly “Ramble & Chat” run by Almond Valley Nature Action. This month’s ramble is in Almondell & Calderwood Country Park, see the What’s On page for details – the What’s On section is in fact full-to-bursting with things on locally, there is something for everyone, from model railways, local history, nature walks and of course Easter holiday fun.

I hope you enjoy Konect this month! If you are involved in community groups or events that you would like help publicising in future issues, please drop me a line.

All enquiries, E: M:

This is our go-to walk for an hour of fresh air and nature - and I’m sure is for many. It has become very familiar territory indeed. Yet, such is nature’s endless capacity to surprise and delight, that we can still be amazed even on a home patch that we know so well.

Setting off from the recently expanded Harlaw Car Park, we follow the lane between wood and field round past the old visitor centre. Another nice way to start this walk, especially when the rapeseed fields are in bloom, is to go through the gate and between the fields, both options bringing you to the eastern end of Harlaw reservoir within about ten minutes.

The breeze rustles the tops of Scots Pine which border the water to our right. A late clump of snowdrops nestles at the base of the drystone wall on our left, white blooms nodding

demurely. We cross the little bridge at the reservoir’s eastern end and, shortly afterwards, peel off to the left, heading over the rise towards Black Springs. I can still recall the first time I came this way – back then the pines that line either side of the track stood merely head height. Now, they tower above us and play host to many small birds, including the tiny goldcrest that announces its presence, singing cheerfully in rapid, high triplets, yet proves much harder to spot by eye. Also beloved by birds is the thicket of gorse we pass as we descend to the waters of Threipmuir. I recall a few summers ago when we braved the thorns to pick the sunyellow gorse bloom petals, making gorse tea at home later that day. Drinking that tea was like ingesting a breath of hillside air, transporting me immediately back to the gentle summer warmth of those moments on the hill and others like them.

Today, however, the last of winter’s bite lingers in the air as we turn westward to walk alongside Threipmuir Reservoir. Goldeneye and goosander bob upon the water. Another bird flies high across the reservoir. Its unusual shape - long rounded wings and blunt head - piques my interest. On reaching the far side it begins patrolling the lower flank of Black Hill and realisation dawns - it’s a short-eared owl. We watch as it pounces upon something in the undergrowth and is lost from view. Just then, a second owl appears over the field on the near side, where four crows have taken to the air in alarm. This second owl also flaps over to the far side of the reservoir, only to be rebuked by the first, which reappears, launching itself

aggressively upwards from the ground emitting a harsh, hissing call.

Owl number two retreats back across the reservoir where we watch it patrol the field for a while. Soon, however, it ventures over the Black Springs marsh, at the reservoir’s very easternmost extent. Suddenly, we notice a second, slightly smaller, bird in the air next to it – a kestrel. Showing behaviour I’ve never seen before, the two engage in an acrobatic aerial tussle for a minute or two before the owl retreats once more, drifting back over the field. Clearly, we are amidst prized hunting territories worth fighting for.

A kilometre farther on, we reach the weir and ford separating the two reservoirs. We cross the small footbridge and follow the wide track alongside Harlaw’s pine-lined northwest shore. On reaching the end of this wooded stretch we are delighted by another unexpected sight. We double-take at a pure white bird stepping along the shoreline in the shallows. This is no seagull, but in fact a little egret - a member of the heron family, smaller and rarer than the more familiar grey heron. Their foraging tactics differ from those of their larger cousin, who remains stock still waiting for prey to appear before spearing it with a lightning-fast strike of its dagger-like bill. The egret on the other hand is constantly on the move, stepping through the shallow water on long black legs, using its large yellow feet to disturb small creatures which it can devour as it goes. Little egrets only began to appear in the UK in the late eighties and nineties, expanding

their range northwest from continental Europe, first to the south of England, and now Scotland; this is the first time I’ve been lucky enough to see one in Lothian.

GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!

As we round the end of Harlaw to return our starting point we reflect on our good fortune – two wildlife firsts in one day! We are not quite finished yet though – a stroll through the wildlife garden by the old visitor centre is always an enjoyable conclusion to this walk. We admire the spring bulbs and watch the blue tits and coal tits flitting excitedly around the bird feeders in between squirrel raids, then we gaze down into the wildlife pond scanning for frogs. It’s worth being patient here – once you have got your eye in you may be surprised how many you can spot, just their rounded head and bulbous eyes breaking the surface. You may even notice a palmate newt shimmying through the submerged pondweed. Today, we are a little early to see those amphibious friends, but the marsh marigold just coming into flower by the water’s edge tells me it won’t be long…

WALK TIME: Approx. 1hr 20min on well-surfaced paths..

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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BIG Impact

To be included in Konect, please contact us. Our details are on page 3.

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

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

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

However, there is a useful technique we can all use, based on a simple method of recognising what we can control and what we have little impact on. We do have control over ourselves and how we act or react, however, we can’t stop the rain or decide how our loved ones live their lives. We may influence our families and can provide guidance and support but they will always make their own decisions. Finally we can have real concerns about political and global issues but, beyond how we use our vote, it’s unlikely that we will be able to affect what happens.

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

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

POTAGER IN A POT FOR THE PERFECT SALAD

Why not plant some salad crops in a trough or a pot this month?

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

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

1. Lettuces – providing a gentle background bulk and flavour. Try ‘Lollo Rosso’

2. Salad Leaves – adding strong flavour and a touch of colour. Try Rocket or mustards

3. Salad herbs – an extra hit of flavour. Basil, Parsley, Mint or Coriander

4. Salad Vegetables – slice thinly so they don’t sink to the bottom. Radishes, Peas, Cucumber or Fennel

5. Edible Flowers – Nasturtiums, Violas, Chive flowers or Marigolds for extra style

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

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

Textural Contrasts

Textural contrasts bring a room to life and help a home feel both welcoming and calm in a fast-paced world. Introduce materials that invite touch and bring comfort and variety to your home.

In 2026, interiors are moving towards greater sensory richness, blending the natural, the hand-crafted and the gently worn with the sleek precision of finely finished, contemporary materials.

USE NEUTRALS AND NATURALS: When you choose natural materials in gorgeous, neutral tones (think driftwood lamp bases, wicker chairs or sheepskin throws), a soft, sophisticated palette will come together easily.

CREATE A TEXTURAL FOUNDATION: Floors, walls, upholstery and window treatments form the base layers of a scheme. Create a calm, coherent backdrop – the ‘quiet’ textures of a room – with features such as a polished timber floor, linen curtains and softly upholstered seating. Walls can be covered in a chalky matt paint, wood panelling, ceramic tiles or a subtly textured wallpaper.

ABOVE: Made from 100% polypropylene, this carpet has the visual texture of sisal and can even be fitted outdoors. Anywhere Rope carpet in Natural, from Alternative Flooring

BELOW: Crafted using traditional techniques, each tile is unique, with pooled glazing that gives a motion of colours across its surface. Argyll Skinny Metro tiles, from Marlborough Tiles

LOOK DOWN: The large surface area of a floor sets the scene for everything else. Carpet brings instant softness, while natural fibres such as sisal, coir and jute add a subtle irregularity and character. For added comfort, a deep-pile wool rug offers plush warmth.

CHOOSE UPHOLSTERY FOR COMFORT: Simple, woven seating fabrics have a relaxed feel, while velvet, chenille and leather introduce richer tactile qualities. Layering cushions in complementary finishes – perhaps embroidery against plain weave, or velvet edged with satin – adds depth and interest.

BRING CONTRASTING MATERIALS TO LIFE: Carefully place floor and table lamps, uplighters or angled spotlights to highlight grain, weave and other delicate surface variations, and to reveal the subtle beauty of materials.

INTRODUCE ACCESSORIES: Simply layer in differing materials, such as woven baskets, faceted glassware, pom-pom-trimmed cushions or waffle throws, to add personality, informality and indulgence.

The Interiors column was contributed by Katherine Sorrell

THIS BROXBURN BOY’S LIFE

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

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

Following Vadim Baranov, a young artist in the 1990s, we watch as he rises through the ranks of the entertainment world until he eventually becomes Putin’s right-hand man. The film’s biggest weakness is its length; despite clocking in at just shy of two hours and twenty minutes, it contains too many peaks and troughs to justify its runtime. Despite this, the film can be utterly enthralling. For Baranov especially, “truth” becomes whatever they choose to present to the public, not the facts, leading to a reality shaped entirely by their will. It is a haunting reflection of what we are witnessing with our own eyes today. Paul Dano is excellent as Vadim Baranov, and Jude Law is great as Vladimir Putin, even if they make little attempt at a Russian accent (which may be a blessing).

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

In Cinemas from 17th April 2026

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

On Display at Broxburn and Uphall Community Museum, Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 22nd April – 30 September 2026

A new exhibition at Broxburn and Uphall Community Museum explores the story of Broxburn’s Michael Caton-Jones who went on to become one Scotland’s most successful film directors.

The display charts Michael’s journey from his Broxburn childhood, his early career in London and France to his emergence as a famous Hollywood film director. The exhibition includes never previously display props as well as display of photographs from his films including Rob Roy, Doc Hollywood and Memphis Belle. This exhibition as been developed in partnership with Partickular Films to coincide with their upcoming documentary “This Broxburn Boy’s Life”, much of which was filmed right here in West Lothian.

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

EXHIBITION OPENING HOURS

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

MICHAEL CATON-JONES

A simnel cake is a traditional Easter fruit cake, characterised by a layer of marzipan in the middle and toasted marzipan balls on top.

In Christian tradition, the marzipan balls represent the apostles. There are usually 11 –Judas is not included. Since we are in Scotland, a Dundee cake is perfect for the occasion and similar to the light fruit cake usually used for simnel. (As a short-cut but to still have the fun of decorating the cake and making the marzipan balls with children, you could buy a round Dundee cake to decorate). The recipe below includes orange zest and marmalade as a nod to the Dundee cake tradition, and the option of soaking the dried fruit in whisky.

Ingredients:

• 480g dried mixed fruit, including currants, raisins, sultanas

• 100g candied citrus peel (or a mix of citrus peel and glace cherries) [optionally, soak the fruit and peel in whisky for 2 hours beforehand]

• grated zest of 1 orange

• 170g self raising flour

• 170g unsalted butter, softened at room temperature • 4 tbsp milk

• 170g light muscovado sugar • 3 eggs

• 100g ground almonds • 1tsp mixed spice

• 3 tablespoons marmalade (or apricot jam)

Decoration:

• 500g packet of marzipan • marmalade

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 170oC (150oC fan). Line and grease a loose-based 20cm cake tin with baking paper.

2. Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Mix the flour, almonds and spices together in a separate bowl.

4. Add the orange zest, 1 egg and 1tbsp of the flour mixture to the butter/sugar, beat well to combine. Do the same for the other two eggs, then stir in the rest of the flour mixture.

5. Add the dried fruit/peel, marmalade, and just enough milk to make a soft, spreadable mixture.

6. Spoon half the mixture into the prepared tin and level the top.

7. Divide the marzipan into thirds. Roll out one third and cut into a disk slightly smaller than the diameter of the tin, and place on top of the mixture in the tin. Add the rest of the cake mixture, level off the top and make a slight indent in the middle.

8. Bake for 30mins, then lower the oven temperature to 140oC/130oC fan and cook for a further 1.5 to 2 hours, until a skewer comes out clean. Towards the end, if necessary cover with foil if the top is getting too cooked.

9. Remove and allow to cool in the tin for 10mins then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Roll half of the remaining marzipan into a disk the same diameter of the cake. Spread a thin layer of marmalade on top of the cake and place the marzipan circle on top.

11. Divide the rest of the marzipan into 11 and make little balls. Arrange on the top of the cake, sticking them on with a little jam.

12. Preheat grill then place the cake under it very briefly, until the marzipan on top of the balls starts to burnish.

58mm Vertical [RIGHT]

Cornish pasties and clotted cream are treats to look forward to when visiting Cornwall. Added to that list is something still delightfully under the radar: Cornish wine. Production is small, and with strong local demand, very little makes its way north to Scotland. Curious to discover Cornish wine, I travelled ten hours by train to visit Camel Valley Vineyard. Nestled in a sun-trapped valley near the River Camel, the vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate that feels almost continental. Long daylight hours and gentle ripening conditions allow grapes to develop bright acidity and delicate aromatics, exactly the right combination for award-winning sparkling wine!

Founded by Bob and Annie Lindo in 1989, Camel Valley has quietly become one of England’s most respected producers. Their sparkling wines, made in the traditional method, have won international awards and even been served at royal occasions. Alongside these elegant sparklers, they produce fresh, fruit-driven still wines and vibrant rosés that reflect the purity of the landscape.

What’s striking is the pride locals take in their produce! It’s no wonder very little makes its way north! Open any menu across Cornwall and you’ll find Cornish wines listed alongside regional gins and tonics, each celebrating a strong sense of place. Restaurants champion nearby vineyards, creating a true “drink local” culture.

For visitors, it’s a delicious discovery. For those of us further north, it’s a reminder that some of Britain’s most exciting wines are being crafted quietly, just a train journey away.

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

APRIL CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the MAY edition

ACROSS:

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

DOWN:

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

APRIL SUDOKU

^^^ Sudoku solution on page 39

FRI 27TH MARCH TO SUN 19TH APRIL

Mad Hatter’s Eggstravaganza at Almond Valley - Throughout the Easter holidays, families are invited to tumble down a rabbit hole or two and enjoy a packed programme of creative mischief, included with general admission tickets.

• The Mad Hatter’s Trail of Wonder

• Mad Hatter Craftivity Sessions: imagine and create your own curious world

• Build an Egg & Free-Build LEGO Sessions with Bricks Club (Dates: 28th March, 3rd April & 4th April – 2.00pm to 3.30pm in the cafe)

• Wonderland Lawn Games

• Animal Encounter Sessions

• Ultimate Den Building in the woodlands

• Easter Weekend (3rd to 6th April) Highlight: The Legendary Duck Race, 2.00pm. www.almondvalley.co.uk Almond Valley, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR

SATURDAY 4TH APRIL

Friends of Almondell Country Park

Volunteering session - The Friends of Almondell's monthly practical project meeting. Volunteer group helping to conserve and maintain the 220 acre Almondell & Calderwood Country Park including the Oakbank extension. Meet at the Visitor Centre on the first Saturday of the month 10am -12pm, new volunteers always welcome. To find out more contact the Ranger Service on 01506 882254, or email almondell&calderwood@westlothian. gov.uk. Facebook: 'Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park'. Please book a space (FREE) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements.

SATURDAY 4TH APRIL

Linlithgow Canal Centre opens for the season - Aqueduct cruises most weekends starting 4th April, Vintage Afternoon Tea Cruises once per month Falkirk Wheel Trips

bookable for June, July and August - and new for 2026, Linlithgow to Winchburgh Farmer’s Market cruise (May and July). All information and booking at bookings.lucs.org.uk

SATURDAY 11TH – SUNDAY 12TH APRIL

Lothians Model Railway ExhibitionThe Lothians Model Railway exhibition returns to Heriot-Watt University. The familyfriendly show features 17 working layouts, including the debut of a detailed Kinleith Paper Mill model. Enjoy a Thomas layout, shunting puzzle, traders and refreshments. Open 10.00am - 4.30pm. ADULTS £6, CHILDREN FREE WITH PAYING ADULT. Free parking and easy transport access.

SUNDAY 12TH APRIL

Monthly Ramble and Chat - Nature walk with Almond Valley Nature Action. Almondell Country Park, East Calder at 2.00pm. ALL WELCOME. On these easy 1-2 hour walks, we take time to notice nature, chat about what we find & share what we know. See our blog for details: avnatureaction.wordpress.com/events

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL

West Lothian History and Amenity Society - “Scotland Beneath the surface,” a presentation by L. Bruce Keith, retired civil engineer, historian and writer. Room 11, Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 1TZ. 7.30pm, NON-MEMBERS ARE WELCOME BY DONATION. If you’d like to join the society (£20 for all seven talks), come to a meeting and speak to any committee member. Email: info@wlhaas.org.uk Website: www.wlhaas.org.uk

SUNDAY 19TH APRIL

Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - Model Railway, train rides, drive-a-loco, tea, coffee and snacks. FREE PARKING, toilets and picnic area. 10.30am – 4.00pm. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF.

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...

CIRCUITS-KETTLES FITNESSKirknewton Village Hall, every Monday evening 7pm-8pm. Cost is £5 per class. To book a place contact Michael Crosbie 07488 327050.

KIRKY KLUB - Kirky Klub is a FREE family-friendly social event with a Stay & Play, Cuppa & Cake, and Preloved items. 1st Saturday of every month, Kirknewton Village Hall, 10.30am to 12noon. More info: bit.ly/4h3VFIh

WALKING FOOTBALL WEST

LOTHIAN - For everyone over 50, no matter your level of fitness. Come along and get yourself a wee bit fitter. Hot drinks, biscuits, good company included! We meet at:

Xcite Bathgate - Mon: 10.00am, £1; Broxburn Juniors Ground - Tue: 10.30, £3; Murieston Sports Park (Apr-Nov) Wed: 10.00am, £1; Xcite Craigswood (Dec-Mar) Wed: 10.00am, £3; East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, £1; Whitburn Community Centre - Thu: 10.30am, FREE

Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or contact: T: 07775 188218

E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL (Opportunities for Active Lives) works with people aged 60+ promoting active and fulfilling lives, creating and enriching communities which empower all to remain independent, living at home and socially connected. OPAL supports over 25 Community Groups throughout West Lothian for people to attend, engage with others and build new friendships. They also provide a time limited one-to-one befriending service built to improve confidence. To find out more please contact 01506 815 815 or opal@cyrenians.scot

FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - Run by Alzheimer Scotland. A relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. East

Calder Parish Church Hall, EH53 0HF, Last Thursday of the month, 10.00am – 11.30am.

E: westlothianservices@alzscot.org T: 01506 533108

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.

MID CALDER COMMUNITY HUB

- Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm. Institute Hall (Community Centre) Mid Calder. We have free teas and coffee along with cake and biscuits together with a warm welcome and friendly chat. Open to all. We look forward to seeing you soon. Any questions just pop in to see us.

MID CALDER WOMEN’S

GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s Group would like to welcome new members. We are a group aged 60+ who meet each Monday at the Institute Hall, Mid Calder, from 12.45pm until 3pm. Cost per week is £3/member. We organise various activities including, games, quizzes, bingo, well being exercises and regular talks from external speakers and entertainers. We also arrange coach trips to places of interest. Interested? Please contact Jackie on 01506 883205

SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means happiness, pleasure, ease or bliss. If any or all appeal to you come along to yoga sessions. Every Wednesday in Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. Now two sessions availablechoose either 6.00pm -7.15 pm or 7.15pm - 8.30pm. Contact me for more info or to book.

T: 07767 777044

E: ruth@sukha.co.uk

MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER

GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am - 11.30 am in The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We have a huge toy selection, offer arts and crafts and supply a small snack. Adults can have a hot drink and a chat whilst the children play happily. Session costs are £1 for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. Follow us on Facebook or email: midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com for further details

EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP

- Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 year olds @ The Dave King Partnership Centre. Lots of fun activities while learning through play. Stories, songs, craft, small

world, sand, water, outdoor fun & lots more. For more information call /text 07748053340 or pop in and see us.

SINGERGIE CHOIR - Singergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian.

MONDAYS: 7.00-9.00pm, The Village, Oakbank Road, East Calder. FRIDAYS: 10.00am – 12noon, East Calder Bowling Club. No auditions, no fees, no stress. Good songs, easy harmonies, friendship and fun. And you get a cuppa thrown in too. Won’t cost you a penny. No need to book, just turn up and you’ll be made very welcome.

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.

EAST CALDER NEEDLECRAFT CLUB - Get crafty with us! Join East Calder Needlecraft Club who meet every Thursday from 6.30pm-9.00pm at the Dave King Partnership Centre, Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EP. All crafts welcome, Meet fellow crafters, learn new skills and share your passion. Beginners and Pros alike. Call 01506 882699 for more info or drop by, we can't wait to meet you.

EAST CALDER OVER 50s CLUB

- Held in The Dave King Community Centre, Main Street, East Calder every Wednesday from 1.303.30pm (September-May) Please contact Gillian on 07415309886 for further details.

POTTER AROUND AT POTTER

AROUND - Potter Around is a local pottery and ceramic painting studio based in Kirknewton. We offer taster sessions on the potter’s wheel for ages 5+. We also do clay imprints – a great memento to keep forever and we have a huge range of pre-made ceramics which are great for handprints, but also for people of all ages to paint. Our shop sells gorgeous handmade gifts including pottery and jewellery. Check our website for details: www.potteraround.co.uk

EAST CALDER SCOUT GROUP - Providing fun and exciting scouting programmes for children in the local area, from

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

age 6 upwards. We meet on a Monday or Tuesday, depending on the child’s age. Adults interested in becoming leaders will be made very welcome. We also hire the scout hall for one off occasions or for other groups to use, to benefit the local community. Find out more at our website: eastcalderscouts.uk

SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder. Tuesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm, Wednesdays 9.30 & 11.30am and at Geddes House, Livingston, EH54 6GU on Thursdays 9.30. New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781

Clinic (face to face) & Benefits

Advice (phone or face to face). For information: 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. Contact: E: generationarts.info@gmail.com T: 07521 358 239

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Switch, 8. Aboard, 9. Used, 10. External, 11. Annoyed, 13. Pyres, 15. Litre, 17. Beneath, 20. Watching, 21. Tale, 23. School, 24. Needed. DOWN: 1. Ewes, 2. Studio, 3. Thieves, 4. Faith, 5. Hourly, 6. Broadest, 12. Nuisance, 14. Merging, 16. Reckon, 18. Esteem, 19. Silly, 22. Leek.

CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Would you like to join in with some fun at our friendly community choir? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30 pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of materials from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. We’d love to welcome singers from across West Lothian. To find out more or to join us please contact John Rankine at john.rankine@ lineone.net

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

MACMILLAN CANCER

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. T: 07810 824 195 E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk W: chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook

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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. 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 £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

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

Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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

NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

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SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PAGE 35

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

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858