Konect Calders August 2025

AUGUST 2025

FEATURE: WINE: RECIPE:

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ou will have noticed the Commonwealth War Graves signs dotted around West Lothian at various cemeteries – all over the country in fact but how much do you know about them?

With 2025 marking the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Days, a local resident who works for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has contributed an informative feature about the sites and the work of the Commission, see pages 8-9.

As schools go back later in August, remember there are also adult learning opportunities locally and it’s never too late to pick up new skills, as well as taking up new hobbies and interests as the routine gets back to normal. See the Clubs & Classes pages for ideas locally, there is something for everyone!

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

Feature: What do you know about Commonwealth War Graves?...................... 8 Film Review: K-pop Demon Hunters........12

Living Well: Stay Steady.............................15 Life coaching: Walk & Talk Therapy........16 Wine: Notes of summer rain......................22 Puzzles..................................................22 / 26 Recipe: Apricots with pistachio brittle.....24 Garden Project: Art in the Garden...........28 Local Environment: Being Breezy............32 What’s On: August.......................................34

COVER IMAGE: Summery Treats!

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

Konect is delivered monthly to 5,500 homes throughout Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe CALDERS | 3

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what do you know about them?

The Commonwealth War Graves signs are a familiar sight; from large CWGC war cemeteries and memorials to single headstones in remote churchyards, you’re never too far away from one of our sites.

But how much do you know about the war graves, and who maintains them? Did you know you can book informative tours, or arrange a talk for your group? With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of both VE Day and VJ Day, it’s time to learn more about these sites in our communities.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) was founded by Sir Fabian Ware in 1917, and is responsible for commemorating all Commonwealth war dead from both World Wars individually and equally.

We care for war graves at 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries around the world, commemorating 1.7 million individuals.

Our global estate is run by a multinational and multilingual workforce numbering approximately 1,300, the vast majority of whom are gardeners and stone masons.

Since our establishment by Royal Charter we have constructed 2,500 war cemeteries and plots, erected headstones over graves and where the remains are missing, inscribed the names of the dead on permanent memorials. More than a million 8 | CALDERS

burials are now commemorated at military and civil sites around the world.

Despite being set up over 100 years ago our work is still relevant today as we amend records, search for missing names, build new memorials and where historical inequalities in commemoration are found, ensuring all those who fell are equally remembered. Additionally, war dead are still being identified and when this happens the individual is buried with full military honours. Their name is then removed from the memorial to the missing where they had previously been remembered as they now have their own grave and headstone.

We also have a duty to ensure our sites remain well visited so remembrance of the war dead continues, creating information centres, volunteering opportunities and education programmes designed to engage and educate generations to come.

In Scotland alone we commemorate over 21,000 casualties. Amongst these is the youngest casualty of WWII, 14 year old Reginald Earnshaw who is here in Edinburgh. His grave is in Comely Bank cemetery (you can read his story on our website). In addition to those from the

UK we care for the graves of numerous Americans, Canadians, Norwegians, Poles and Czechs plus a further 15 other nationalities. In short, you’re never far from the grave of a Commonwealth casualty.

host of roles including ‘Eyes On Hands On’ (these are the people who after training, monitor and clean some of the War Graves), researchers, tour guides and speakers.

There are 12 cemeteries in West Lothian that have CWGC grave/commemorations, including locally in Boghead Cemetery (containing 9), Fauldhouse Cemetery (15).

Linlithgow (32), Ecclesmachan (27), Uphall (30), Whitburn (17), Livingston Adambrae (1), Livingson Churchyard Extension (9), Kirknewton Parish Church (3), Winchburgh (7).

JOIN A TOUR OR REQUEST A TALK - You can arrange to join a free

Locating cemeteries anywhere in the world can be done easily with our app: ‘Commonwealth War Graves’.

We also have the For Evermore app, an excellent resource where individual’s stories are told in more detail. It’s a wonderful tool not just for research, you can upload your own CWGC casualties’ stories. www.cwgc.org/stories/home We are fortunate to have volunteers in a

War Graves Tour to find out more about the work of the CWGC. The list of available tours is on the website at www.cwgc.org/visitus/events-tours-and-talks, and is updated regularly when tours are added.

You can also request a free talk about the Commission for your group. There are four talks to choose from: an introduction to our work; CWGC gardening; Architecture; Archives. So, if you know of a group who may be interested in having a talk please do get in touch.

If you’re interested in knowing more please go to our website www.cwgc.org.uk

This article was contributed by Elaine Edwards. Elaine is the Public Engagement Co-ordinator for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Scotland, East & North. If you would like to know more, drop Elaine an email at elaine.edwards@cwgc.org CALDERS | 9

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3D animation is currently experiencing a renaissance. Overly glossy and similarlooking visuals are a thing of the past ever since Across the Spider-Verse burst onto the scene.

K-pop Demon Hunters continues this trend with truly incredible off-model facial expressions, infectious K-pop music, and kinetic action. It blends what is loved about animation from the East with the high production values of the West. This film had the recipe for success, but its lacklustre story, which feels clichéd and derivative, hampers what could have been an incredible film.

It follows the K-pop trio Huntrix, who are pop sensations one moment, then demon hunters aiming to stop demons from stealing souls the next. However, the demon realm decides to fight fire with fire by sending a group of five demons to the human realm, disguised as a boy band, to win over Huntrix fans. While this is all happening, lead vocalist Rumi must grapple with the fact that she is half-demon, half-human, and the stress of hiding this fact from her other group members.

K-pop Demon Hunters might have the strongest opening of any film this year, as when ‘How it’s Done’ kicks into high gear and the creative and fluid animation ramps up, you will be fully invested. However, when the film attempts to explore deeper themes, it falls flat, as none of the drama feels authentic.

Still, if you’re looking for something unique that the whole family can enjoy, I don’t think you can go wrong with this film.

Available now on Netflix 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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LIVING WELL

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults – but many are avoidable with simple changes around the home.

Start by clearing walkways. Clutter, loose rugs, or trailing cables can become hidden hazards. Ensure hallways, stairs, and doorways are free of obstacles to create a clear, safe path through the home.

Proper lighting is also key. Dimly lit staircases or bathrooms increase the risk of tripping.

Replace weak bulbs and consider installing nightlights in bedrooms, corridors, and bathrooms to make night-time movement safer.

Small home adjustments can go a long way: • Install grab rails in bathrooms and by stairs for extra support.

• Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen to prevent slipping on wet floors.

• Organise essential items at waist height to avoid bending or overreaching.

• Wear sturdy, supportive shoes – avoid backless slippers or socks.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports balance and coordination. Gentle exercises like walking or stretching strengthen muscles and improve stability. Regular eye tests are also vital, as clear vision may help to avoid missteps.

If you or a loved one may be at risk of falling, consider requesting a falls assessment through your GP. This can help identify risks and guide support options.

You might also consider a CareLine alarm system for emergency help – contact the Home Safety Service on 01506 284440 or visit westlothianhscp.org.uk/home-safety-service for more information.

A few simple precautions today can help keep you safe, steady, and independent.

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

It can’t be denied that some individuals are at their very best and most productive when they are in the open air. For them, talking about important or troubling issues, setting goals and making plans for the future may be easier when walking and talking.

This popular therapy is based on engaging in conversation with a therapist while walking in a natural setting such as a park or a shore path and it combines the benefits of physical activity and being out in nature with the therapeutic process of talking and processing emotions. This can be particularly positive for those of us who struggle to talk about our feelings especially when we are communicating face to face and somehow, the vastness of the outdoors can help us all to put things in perspective.

Another key benefit is that physical activity can increase those endorphins which has the potential to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress.

This therapy adapts to accommodate individual needs with options to adjust pace and speed as necessary. Even our unpredictable weather needn’t present a barrier to enjoying walking and talking outdoors. We can walk with brolly and raincoat or relocate to a sheltered venue.

While walking and talking in nature may not be for everyone, for those who are attracted by the idea of being outdoors, this way of working provides a unique and potentially powerful way to address mental health concerns.

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 16 | CALDERS

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Reuse and Thrive are looking for Volunteer Shop Assistants

Reuse and Thrive is a charitable, social enterprise, supporting the development of a thriving community that cares about its people and its resources.

With an ethos to reuse, our shop has been established at 148 Main Street, East Calder, selling quality clothes and household bric-a-brac items.

As a shop volunteer you will welcome customers, help them with making purchases and use our till system to record sales and process payments. Help with pricing and displaying stock and ensuring the shop is clean and tidy.

WHAT YOU NEED FOR THIS ROLE:

• Have a friendly and welcoming manner • Be a good organiser • Able to handle money, with good numeracy • Sympathetic to R&T’s ethos and values: the prevention and relief of poverty; the advancement of citizenship or community development; the advancement of education/experience We can help and support you to develop the skills you need for this role. A full induction and training will be provided.

Contact us for more information or to note your interest: info@reuseandthrive.org.uk or dm on Facebook: @reuseandthrive

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WINE TASTING

I love the smell of the garden after a summer rainstorm. Wet gravel and earth, saturated plants and refreshed grass.

Even the tarmac and felt roofs—baking hot just moments before—seem to sigh as the rain hits. When the rain stops and the steam start to rise, the air fills with a beautiful scent. It’s the smell of wet soil and wet flagstones, it’s mineral, flinty, leafy and damp… it’s petrichor.

Petrichor comes from the Ancient Greek words petro (stone) and *ichor* (the golden fluid said to run in the veins of the gods).

It’s the aroma released when rain hits dry ground.

In wine, I look for this same sense of minerality, flint, ozone, wet stone. It’s a tasting note I love spotting on a label, and it appears in both reds and whites.

My favourite white wines with this character include Austrian Riesling and Sancerre.

Both are grown in cooler climates, often on stony soils that lend a savoury, rain-on-rock quality. I remember the first time I tasted Sancerre, the aroma triggered a memory of walking through a herb garden after a summer storm.

Petrichor isn’t just for whites. Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley can smell like a forest floor after rainfall with leafy, earthy and mineral notes. Look for wine from Chinon or Saumur-Champigny. Even lighter reds like Nerello Mascalese from Mount Etna can offer that same lifted, volcanic freshness.

Petrichor is the silver lining after the rain!

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 22 | CALDERS

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

AUGUST CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Improve (6), 8. Picked (6), 9. Assists (4), 10. Obstinate (8), 11. Happier (7), 13. Joint (5), 15. Higher than (5), 17. Searched (7), 20. Keeps you dry (8), 21. Musical instrument (4), 22. Alcove (6), 23. Star sign (6).

DOWN: 1. Long for (6), 2. Enemies (4), 3 Broken (7), 4. Clean thoroughly (5), 5. Merges (8), 6. Fuel (6), 12. Went backward (8), 14. Organise (7), 16. Abundant (6), 18. Consuming (6), 19. Nearby (5) 21. Light (4).

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FOOD & DRINK

This is a perfect light summer pudding. The pistachio brittle stores well, so feel free to make a lot of it.

Ring the changes and use plums in place of apricots.

Serves 4 | Prep 25 minutes Cooking time 30-35 minutes, plus cooling Ingredients: • 6 apricots (or plums), stoned and quartered • Juice of ½ orange • 1 heaped tbsp honey For the pistachio brittle • 100g caster sugar • 2 tbsp water • 80g unsalted shelled pistachios, roughly chopped For the cream • 200ml double cream of choice • ½ tsp ground cardamom

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C, fan 170°C, Gas 5 and line two baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Start by making the brittle. Put the sugar and water in a small saucepan over a low heat.

Bring to the boil, swirling the pan until the sugar has dissolved. Continue cooking the sugar for about 10 minutes – it will change colour from light golden to deep amber. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn – it’s a fine line! Once it reaches deep amber, remove from the heat and add the pistachios, stirring to coat the nuts, then pour onto one of the lined baking trays while still malleable. Set aside to cool – it will need about 15-20 minutes to set fully before you can crack it into pieces.

3. Next, lay the apricot quarters on the other lined baking tray. Pour over the orange juice and honey, and mix well. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until tender. Let them cool for 15 minutes before serving.

4. While the apricots are in the oven, whisk together the cream and cardamom to a thick dropping consistency.

5. Once the apricots are cooked, spoon a couple of dollops of cream onto a small plate, create a well in the middle using the back of a spoon, and then spoon a few apricots in followed by a drizzle of their juices. Top with the brittle and serve.

Recipe extracted from ‘Cooking Fast and Slow’ by Natalia Rudin, published by Penguin Life, price £25, with photography by Issy Croker.

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AUGUST SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 22. See page 37 for solutions.

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ART IN THE GARDEN Summertime… and its garden visiting time! During July and August we run an event called art in the garden here at New Hopetoun Gardens.

We install original works of art in our gardens to entertain and inspire you and we run a people’s vote for your favourite piece of art with Gift Voucher prizes to be won.

A piece of art in your garden lends all year round interest and will create a focal point for your eyes in your garden. A stone birdbath not only lends something to catch your eye but also the antics of visiting feathered friends will delight you, so long as you can secretly watch them from inside.

We are very lucky as we have garden all round our house and we have made sure that we have great views into the garden from all

‘Colour and Light Standing’ by Lizzy Paton, 2025 our windows. Most of them have at least one piece of art in view so all year round there is something to see. We are reminded of family, friends and places each time we look at a piece as well as its beauty. We can’t imagine a garden without some art in it, what have you got displayed in your garden?

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

Come and explore our displays of art during July & August Free entry and open every day 10am-5pm

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been to the Isle of May but I think my visit in June this year was my favourite for weather conditions. It was pretty windy and watching the puffins was a sheer joy. They looked like they were loving every second of it as they hovered in the wind, trying to back themselves in to where they wanted to land.

Some puffins nailed the landing straight away. Others hovered for ages, misjudged it, or got pushed off course entirely. A few overshot their burrows and had to make an undignified U-turn. One came in sideways and almost collided with a razorbill, who wasn’t impressed.

I’d made my way to one of my favourite spots on the island, Bishops Cove and stayed put for a while, just watching the constant activity.

The sound of wings as the birds whoosh past you, the calls of the kittiwakes nesting on the cliffs, and the occasional squabble.

Depending how far they’ve had to go for fish, puffins can land pretty close before heading back to the burrow. What made it funnier was the sand eels they were holding in their beaks were flapping about — as if they had minds of their own and were trying to escape mid-air.

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There’s always a lot going on if you stop and watch for a while. I didn’t take as many photos as usual, but it didn’t matter. Sometimes it’s just good to observe.

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.

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SAT 2ND AUG AND SAT 6TH SEP 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 www. eventbrite.co.uk/o/west-lothian-council-rangerservice-60064115123 WEDNESDAY 6TH AUGUST Pond Dip at Campbridge Pond - Join West Lothian Council Ranger Service for a wild adventure exploring the hidden treasures of Campbridge Pond through our exciting Pond Dip event! Under 16s must be accompanied by parent/guardian. Starts 10am - 12noon, free but please book via WL Council Rangers eventbrite page. Campbridge Pond, Murieston, EH54 9EW SUN 9TH AND SUN 10TH AUG Open Day and Train Rides Public Open Day for all the family with train rides, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, picnic area. Train rides £5. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF SUNDAY 10TH AUGUST Scottish Greyhound Sanctuary Summer Show - Join us for the Scottish Greyhound Sanctuary Summer Show, at Livingston Cricket Club, for a fun filled day, including: • a guided walk through the Murieston Trail • a fun dog show with lots of prizes • yummy treats from our food vendors • craft stalls • massage and reiki for both dogs and humans!

The fun begins at 10am and entrance is FREE!

SATURDAY 16TH AUGUST Summer Fayre - Outdoors fayre with jazz band, stalls, tombola and silent auction with great prizes! All in aid of Kirk of Calder roof repairs. Kirk of Calder, 10am to 1pm SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST Learn About Pollinators - Join Buglife Scotland and Almond Valley Nature Action for an introduction into pollinator identification at Almondell Country Park. Learn how to identify pollinators and carry out flower -insect timed counts to help track pollinator numbers. Free to attend, booking essential via trybooking.com/uk/ EXMZ. 2pm – 4pm. For more info please email melissa.shaw@buglife.org.uk FRI 29TH AUGUST - SAT 30TH AUGUST On Location at Blackness Castle Blackness Castle has served as an artillery fortress, royal castle, prison and armaments depot. But in more recent years it has been the star of films and TV shows, from Mary Queen of Scots (2018) and Outlaw King (2018) to Outlander. Join us as the castle to learn about the movie magic that brings history to life. Our crew will be on hand to help you practice your stunt work or try on some costumes - if you’re lucky, maybe the director will pick you out to be the star! 12pm -4pm, Tickets from £8, booking and more info at historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/ whats-on SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST BeeWalk - Join Almond Valley Nature Action in Livingston Village Park at 11am to help spot, identify and record bumblebees. No experience or knowledge required, participants will be given identification guide and free wildflower seeds to help pollinators at home.

More information on avnatureaction.wordpress. com. Meet by the picnic tables east side of Livi Village Park.

SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER Autumn Craft Fair - Reconnect Howden Park, 11am-3pm. Stalls from local artisans, The Kitchen at Reconnect open for food and drinks.

FREE ENTRY.

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. 34 | CALDERS

The West Lothian History and Amenity Society starts its 2025-26 season (its 60th year!) with a talk on a local topic: Bo’ness whaling in the age of sail, to be given by Bo’ness local historian, Christine Simm, and to be held in Ecclesmachan Village Hall.

Why not come along and try us – we’re a friendly society, and you’d get the talk for the price of a donation. As extra incentive, it’s a good evening to try us out as the first meeting of the session is followed by tea, coffee and home baking!

The Society meets on the third Wednesday evening of the month at 7.30pm, and offers seven talks in the course of the year – see below for the syllabus. We’re always glad to see new faces and if you like what you see, you can join the society for £20, which works out at

less than £3 per evening. Interesting talks on a wide variety of topics – last year we covered from prehistoric brochs to Cold War Scotland - by experts in their field, plus the occasional organised visit to a place of interest – all this and cakes too!

We meet at a number of ventures throughout West Lothian – see the details below. You can join at any meeting, or by emailing us at wlhaas@hotmail.com

Programme 2025-26 Third Wednesday of month, 7.30pm • 17th Sept 2025 • 15th Oct 2025 • 19th Nov 2025 • 18th Feb 2026 • 18th Mar 2025 • 15th Apr 2026 • 20th May 2026

Bo’ness whaling in the age of sail Christine Simm, retired librarian & local historian, Bo’ness Ecclesmachan Village Hall Edinburgh New Town Tom Harrison, retired teacher & local historian Bathgate Partnership Centre Scottish migrations to Ulster in the 17th century Dr John Young, Strathclyde University Linlithgow, Mackinnon Hall James VI and I and the legacy of witchcraft panics Dr Steven Veerapen, Strathclyde University Ecclesmachan Village Hall Mary Queen of Scots Jade Scott, author of ‘Captive Queen: the decrypted history of Mary Queen of Scots’ - Mid Calder, Glenalmond Hall Scotland beneath the surface L. Bruce Keith, retired civil engineer, historian and writer Bathgate Partnership Centre Harvie’s Dyke: the people’s struggle for the liberty of the Banks of the Clyde Prof. Christopher Whatley, emeritus professor of Scottish history, Dundee University - Linlithgow, Mackinnon Hall

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SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

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 36 | CALDERS

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 available choose 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 - We are back….We meet every Thursday evening from 6.30pm - 9pm at the Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder.

All crafts are catered for whether you are a beginner or experienced in your favourite craft, we want to welcome you to our group. Why not give us a try? Call 01506 882699 for more information.

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 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: www. 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 SOLUTION TO always JULY returning members CROSSWORD welcome.

Contact Sue: 07803 520781 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 ACROSS:

7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, Heir, 10 Sculptor, CHOOSE YOU9YOGA STUDIO 11 Capsule, 13 Untie, 15 Scent, 17 Average, & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23 Stolen, 24 Nearly. yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston.

Build strength, flexibility DOWN: and resilience, support 1 Dime, 2 Yearns, 3and Falsely, 4 Syrup,mental 5 Happen, 6 Allowing, 12 Accurate, 14 Evident, 16 Neatly, health, joint pain/illness/injury 18 Repeal, 19 Agent, 22yoga Rile. 6.00-7.15 recovery.

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Flow 7.00-8.00pm 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

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 Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept our social groups: weekly Coffee responsibility for loss or damage caused Morning; monthly Mental Health by error in the printing of an advertisement.

Support Support We do notGroup, endorse Evening any advertisers in Group & Bereaved Carer Support this publication.

All material is accepted Group as well for Young for publication onas thegroups understanding it is copyrightand free.Young No partAdult of this Carers. publication Carers may be reproduced without for prior consent of Regular Social Groups Adults the publisher. with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Advice (phoneKirkton or face to face).

Geddes House, North, Livingston, Westinformation: Lothian EH54 6GU. For T: 01506 Design: 448000 Magazine E:office@carers-westlothian.com Alan Stewart Design W: www.carers-westlothian.com T: 07729 911858

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for adults across West Lothian to increase arts engagement in a non competitive, expressive and inclusive way. Promoting independence, confidence and good mental and physical health through dance, music and song, visual arts, creative writing and cinema. Contact: generationarts. info@gmail.com or phone 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.

Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre call 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 £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.

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, 9 Heir, 10 Sculptor, 11 Capsule, 13 Untie, 15 Scent, 17 Average, 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23 Stolen, 24 Nearly.

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SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 26

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

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

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

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