Konect Calders August 2026

IMAGE CREDIT: WILLIAM WEIR

AUGUST 2026

LOCAL WALK: FEATURE: LOCAL HISTORY:

PLUS: HEALTH & BEAUTY, puzzles, clubs & classes, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

A

s we were putting the August Konect together we were enjoying July’s warm sunny days. We may have had four seasons by the time this magazine is distributed, but in the warmth of the moment an article about our local St Tropez seaside resort seemed appropriate – meaning Blackness, self-styled twin to St Tropez! See the history article starting on page 8.

A different kind of tartan army is hoping to make a mark on the States next year – West Lothian Schools Pipe Band! They are planning to attend the 2027 New York Tartan Day parade in celebration of their 20th anniversary. See p34 and consider if you can help make this dream come true for our dedicated young local musicians!

It’s back to school soon, and the recipe idea in this issue is for some easy, healthy homemade packed lunch snacks. As usual there is plenty going on locally covering all interests from music, food, nature, arts and crafts so do check the What’s On, Clubs & Classes and other community pages.

As ever, feel free to get in touch to let me know what you think of the content, and I hope you enjoy Konect this month.

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

P8 Local History: Blackness, a flyover through time.................................................... 8 Living Well: Make the most of summer....12 Health: Living with chronic pain................14 Life Coaching: Coping with stress...........17 Garden Project: Keeping in shape...........22 Film Review / Puzzles.................................28 Recipe: Tropical Oat Bars..........................30 Wine: A spritz with a twist..........................31 Local Walk: An evening walk along the Union Canal - Hermiston to Ratho............32 Community: WL Schools Pipe Band........34 What’s On: August Events.........................36

COVER IMAGE: An evening walk along the Union Canal Hermiston to Ratho (See p32).

Konect is delivered monthly to 6,000 homes throughout East Calder, Mid Calder, and Kirknewton. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe CALDERS | 3

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LOCAL HISTORY

BLACKNESS, A FLYOVER THROUGH TIME It has a boat club, a beach, some brightly painted buildings, great food and an ancient fortress overlooking the town. The tongue-in-cheek comparison between Blackness and St Tropez, proclaimed on the wall of the Lobster Pot in the centre of the village, seems entirely reasonable!

For centuries, Blackness was hugely strategic for both trade and military purposes. As a result, it changed hands many times between private land ownership, the Crown and the Burgh of Linlithgow. Today, it sits unassumingly on its long and interesting history. Let’s go back in time and see some of the action…

A visitor to Blackness in the 16th century would have been greeted by the view of a busy harbour with ships coming and going with all manner of cargo, a town centre bustling with residents and military personnel, and a large customs house dealing with the lucrative taxes. In the bay there was a tidal mill to grind corn, salt pans, and a sea-cruive to catch fish. There was a chapel, already several centuries old, dedicated to St Ninian on the hill above the town. And of course the imposing royal fortress dominating it all. Our 16th century visitor was unlikely to be coming for leisure, but business.

Coal, salt, grains, cloth and hides were exported through the port at Blackness,

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and a huge range of imports from all over the world came to Scotland here, including timber from the Baltic and Delft tiles. As the main port for the royal residence at Linlithgow, there were also rich and exotic items landed here, such as wine and other alcohol. Chinese silks from Holland, fine linens; tapestries from Flanders and food from afar including exotic spices, figs, raisins, almonds and olives.

Settled since ancient times and probably by the Romans, Blackness rose to prominence as a port associated with Linlithgow in the 12th century. Its development and strategic importance was linked with Linlithgow for centuries. Already in the early 1300s, when Edward I, Hammer of the Scots, had taken and fortified the royal residence at Linlithgow, he made use of Blackness to land supplies for his army’s successful attack on Stirling Castle in 1304. When Linlithgow was made a Burgh of Regality in 1389, its “haven of Blaknes” was included.

The castle itself was originally built as a private property, not as a royal one.

Sign on the The Lobster Pot

In the 1430s James I had granted the lordship of Blackness to his loyal servant George Crichton, Sheriff of Linlithgow.

George became entangled with political intrigues and fall-outs with his in-laws, who happened to be the very powerful Douglas family, and it could have been retaliatory property burnings that led Crichton to first build himself a stronghold at Blackness.

A deal with James II however meant he agreed to leave Blackness in his will to the Crown, not to his own son. George’s son James Crichton understandably took a dim view of this deal. Ironically, as the castle was to become a prison in later centuries, its very first prisoner was its own builder, imprisoned by his son: in a futile attempt to thwart the deal, James Crichton took over the castle and imprisoned his father. It was a brief a captivity though - James II arrived with his soldiers and guns and took the castle without too much difficulty. He even brought his wife along to watch the siege.

And thus Blackness became a royal castle.

The castle and St Ninian’s Chapel (the foundations of which are visible today) were handed to the burgh of Linlithgow during the minority of the next king, James III, for the town to build a harbour. Seemingly

this was because the keepers of the castle has been practising “vexations, troubles, harassments, and extortions” on the merchants of Linlithgow and others frequenting the port. The Crown resumed control of the castle later in the 15th century, in a policy to reverse grants of strategic properties made during the minority of James III. The sheriffs of Linlithgow were the royal keepers, paid from a percentage of port custom revenue, control over the fishing and salt industries at Blackness, and revenue from the royal rabbit warrens and brewery. The latter were managed by the priest of St Ninian’s Chapel.

In 1512, James IV’s magnificent new flagship, the Great Michael, was undergoing sea trials in the Forth. In December, he was at Blackness with his wife queen Margaret Tudor, and went on board the Great Michael in the bay here for an audience with the French ambassador. The occasion was the renewal of the Auld Alliance, the agreement between Scotland and France to assist each other against the English. (The Auld Alliance was renewed by every Scottish and French monarch from its inception in 1295 up to 1560). Less than a year later, James IV lay dead at the Battle of Flodden, where he had gone to fight the English in honour of the Auld Alliance.

The bustling trade and industry of Blackness harbour was becoming increasingly punctuated by conflict and military presence. James V embarked on massive fortification project in the mid 16th century, so our visitor at this time would have seen the construction work

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...continued from Page 9 underway at the castle to heighten the central towers, thicken the curtain walls and construct new defences. During the Reformation in Scotland, it was used as a state prison for religious prisoners. It continued to serve as a state prison until around 1745, and had a reputation as “a prison pre-eminently wretched when compared with other prisons.” Prisoners had to pay for their own upkeep, and there are records of one particularly impoverished lord serving a life sentence there for treason, constantly appealing to the government for money. Blackness was used by the French as an ammunition depot while they supported Scotland in the Rough Wooing. Then, during the civil war that followed the arrest of Mary Queen of Scots, Blackness held out for the Queen, but surrendered after Edinburgh fell to the king’s party.

Besides political and military disruption to trade at Blackness, there was another threat to its prosperity: ships were getting bigger, and just along the coast Bo’ness was rising to prominence as a port that was favoured over Blackness. It was closer to Linlithgow and more modern, being able to take larger ships. The presence of the castle and associated disruption at Blackness was becoming more of a hindrance than a help to the harbour’s fortunes.

In 1651 Blackness Castle was bombarded

by Cromwell from both land and sea, and surrendered. (The political prisoners in it at the time were delighted to be free). The ancient chapel of St Ninian’s was destroyed during the bombardment. Subsequent

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decades saw the castle repaired and back in service as a prison, and it was garrisoned and improved during various conflicts in the 19th century.

But the town as a whole never regained its strategic importance.

Today you can walk or cycle along the foreshore, part of the John Muir Way, spot seals and the remains of the post-medieval sea mills in the bay, enjoy great food at the Lobster Pot (al fresco on a nice day), tour the distillery, and visit the castle which now has “film location” added to its history portfolio.

The foundations of St Ninian’s 7th century chapel are visible in the grounds just south of the castle. I took the photos for this article on one of the hot days last month following lunch at the Lobster Pot, and was as happy as if I had been in St Tropez.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, using material from Historic Environment Scotland, the Falkirk Local History Society and Archaeology Scotland.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

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LIVING WELL

August may have arrived, but there is still plenty of summer left to enjoy across West Lothian – whether you fancy live music, local history, a family day out or simply an opportunity to try something new.

Linlithgow will be especially lively. Party at the Palace returns to The Peel on 8th & 9th August, while the Battle 500 programme continues with performances of While the Battle’s at the Brig in Linlithgow Palace courtyard on 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th August. The celebrations lead up to a major battle re-enactment weekend on 5th & 6th September.

Broxburn Gala Day takes place on 15th August and is the final confirmed date in West Lothian’s 2026 gala calendar – bringing a busy season of celebrations across our towns and villages towards a close. Music lovers can also enjoy the Motown

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Brothers’ tribute to The Drifters, soul and Motown at the Reconnect Regal in Bathgate on 22nd August, with both afternoon and evening performances.

Hopetoun House hosts a guided foraging walk on 16th August and Victorian Day on 23rd August, offering history, activities and beautiful surroundings. For a quieter outing, Leo du Feu’s Homecoming art exhibition remains at Linlithgow Burgh Halls until 13th September.

There are also hundreds of regular social groups, exercise classes, hobby groups and support activities for older people throughout West Lothian. Find them in our free What’s On Where Guide at: www.homeinstead.co.uk/westlothian/whats-on-where Dates and arrangements can change, so please check with organisers before travelling.

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

Please contact Cheryl on 07483 179022 CALDERS | 13

HEALTH

Suffering with chronic pain for the past two years, and unable to do many of the things she used to enjoy freely, Livingston resident Arpita Mishra shares with Konect her coping strategies in the hope that her story might help others facing health challenges.

“I’ve lived with chronic pain since surgery nearly two years ago, and it’s unlikely to ever leave me. I don’t want to mourn myself, or limit myself, so I have searched for something I can do that allows me to live with my chronic pain.

Through this journey, I've found that protecting my mental peace is just as important as managing the physical side of things.

“Whenever I have the energy and time, I turn to mosaic art. Piecing together small fragments into something whole has become both a creative outlet and a quiet form of healing for me.

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“For anyone living with chronic pain, I would say: find any kind of activity that you can do without support, and that gives you confidence.

Others will love and support you, but it is important to find ways to love and care for yourself. I have found it to be so important to find something I can do entirely independently; that is the beauty of the mosaic art, for me.

“I hope this helps others in our community who may be navigating similar challenges, and show that creativity can be a source of strength even on difficult days.”

Arpita has a gallery of her mosaic art online at arpitas-mosaics.netlify.app

IMAGE: Supplied by Arpita

EXPERIENCE: LIVING AT PEACE WITH CHRONIC PAIN

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ENTERTAINMENT

THE TRAVELLING AUCTIONEERS • Is your home overflowing with unwanted antiques, heirlooms or collectables?

• Would you like to turn that clutter into cash?

• And do some of your items need a touch of TLC to restore them before they head to auction?

BBC’s The Travelling Auctioneers is back on the road, looking for people to take part in the show.

Whether you are navigating life transitions, considering downsizing, or simply feeling overwhelmed by your collections, we want to hear from you! This is a chance to rediscover treasures, learn from our experts, and have fun in the process.

The Travelling Auctioneers features an auctioneer and a restoration expert who take their travelling auction-house-come-restoration-workshop around the country, helping families discover the hidden value in their unknown treasure. They identify valuable items and pieces in need of restoration to reach their potential before returning to the area for a live auction event to give these items a new home for years to come and raise some money for something close to the family’s heart.

Apply today by visiting www.stvstudios.com/ take-part/the-travelling-auctioneers You can also text or WhatsApp us on 07342 393 786 to request an application, or email auctioneers@stv.tv

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LIFE COACHING

There’s so much going on in the world at the moment and, despite trying to resist ‘doom scrolling’, somehow those gloomy headlines seem to make their way in to our consciousness no matter what we do.

Stress is epidemic at the moment and anxiety levels seem to be climbing among all sections of our society and I don’t want to suggest that there are simple solutions nor do I want to minimise very real challenges.

However there are three helpful techniques that I recommend to everyone and most find them helpful. When I tell people about the benefits of taking three deep breaths some look at me as if I’m being completely ridiculous, after all, we all breathe don’t we? And yes of course we do, but many of us don’t do this consciously. Taking time and space for three, slow and deep breaths has an immediate impact, calming the nervous system and quieting all those chattering voices in our heads.

Secondly, popping on some music and moving as if no one is watching is one of the most upbeat things any of us can do and using some simple, positive affirmations is the final step. These aren’t some mysterious spells, they simply express our inner wishes and thoughts as if they are here and now such as ‘I am enough’ or ‘I am loved and loving’, we tailor them to ourselves and our own needs.

Like anything else we want to do for ourselves these techniques work best when we use them.

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 orrganise.co.uk

Got a story?

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL!

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

editor@konect.scot and we may be able to share it.

(You need to live and/or work in the Mid Calder, East Calder, Kirknewton, or Pumpherston areas to feature in this magazine)

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What a lot of growth all our shrubs have made this year! There are several reasons for pruning shrubs but the most common one is to keep them within the space you have allotted them. This shrub rose Maigold is trained around a stout post and sits in a small bed surrounded by a beech hedge.

The first picture was taken in 2014, the second this summer, twelve years later.

Annual pruning has kept the beech hedge and the shrubs where we want them.

The hedge is cut in September, the rose pruned in February, the golden Berberis and Potentilla Summer Sorbet given a light trim in February and the golden broom, Genista Lydia, has never been touched. Probably a light pruning after flowering would have kept it shorter and neater, but now its too late and a new plant should replace it.

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Most deciduous shrubs have now finished growing for this year and started storing food in their roots to provide the energy to replace their leaves next spring. If you need to be ruthless with a shrub because it has got too big, do it now! If you do it in the winter it already has the energy stored in its roots to replace everything you have cut off, and your winter work will be wasted. Think like your plants and it’s really true that talking to them helps you understand their habits.

The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

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Hidden in the dark and murky depths of Netflix’s library is a gem so obscure to Western audiences that not highlighting it would be doing it a disservice.

High & Low: The Worst is a Japanese action film and a spin-off from the main High & Low series, which is a bizarre project that blends J-pop and action cinema to create something truly spellbinding and one of a kind. As a great entry point to the franchise, the film follows Fujio Hanaoka as he attends Oya High School. As he begins to build his presence within the school, a drug gang starts to stir conflict between Oya High and Housen Academy, a school from a far-off city.

Given that some of the leads, like Kazuma Kawamura and Hokuto Yoshino, are members of a J-pop group, you wouldn’t expect them to be such incredible action stars.

However, when “Swag & Pride” (a song they perform) starts playing as they charge headon toward Housen Academy, leading into an immaculate action scene, you can’t help but get caught up in it while witnessing some wirework that will make you jump out of your seat. The choreography is groundbreaking, but the story is also compelling.

No prior knowledge of the series is needed, and its exploration of loyalty and family is thrilling, leading to an ending that will make you want to watch the incredible sequel, The Worst X. High & Low: The Worst is an absolute banger of a film .

Available to stream 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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AUGUST CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the SEPTEMBER edition

ACROSS: 7 Corporations (13), 8. Emotions (8), 9. Poverty-stricken (4), 10. Modified (7), 12. Confess (5), 14. Incident (5), 16. Place of education (7), 19. Slice open (4), 20. Sidewalk (8), 22. Chances (13).

DOWN: 1. Complimentary (4), 2. Thump (6), 3. Innovator (7), 4. Artificial (5), 5. Torn (6), 6. Irritating (8), 11. Evolves (8), 13. Nunnery (7), 15. Country (6), 17.

Boundaries (6), 18. Notices (5), 21. Require (4).

AUGUST SUDOKU

^^^ Sudoku solution on page 39

62mm Vertical [RIGHT]

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FOOD & DRINK

Naturally sweetened

It’s back to school this month and the perennial search for easy, healthy packed lunch snacks.

This is a perfect naturally sweetened flapjack-style bar ideal for packed lunches, graband-go breakfasts or as a healthy pick-me-up snack. The combination of slow-releasing oats, seeds and protein powder with the fresh and dried mango keeps the body energised throughout the day. Ideal as a pre- or post-workout snack. The bars will keep in the fridge for up to a week or can be frozen for up to three months. A healthy alternative to shopbought snack bars for children and adults!

Ingredients:

• 250g dried mango slices, without sugar, chopped • 3 limes • 200g frozen or fresh mango chunks • 150ml (1⁄4 pint) light olive oil • 175g gluten-free rolled oats • 175g self-raising gluten-free flour • 30g / 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, optional • 1⁄2 tsp baking powder • 30g mixed seeds (e.g. sunflower, sesame, pumpkin) • 100g desiccated coconut

Nutrition:

* Per serving: 254kcal, Fat 15.2g (of which saturates 5g), Carbohydrate 23.7g (of which sugars 7.6g), Protein 3.6g.

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Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C fan /gas mark 4.

2. Place the dried mango pieces in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Leave for 15 minutes to soften, then drain.

3. Zest then juice the limes.

4. Place half of the dried mango in a food processor with the fresh mango, lime juice, lime zest and oil, and process to form a thick puree.

5. Place the oats, flour, protein powder, baking powder, seeds and coconut in a large bowl. Stir in the remaining dried mango. Pour in the puree and mix thoroughly.

6. Spoon the mixture into a greased and lined baking tin that is approximately 25cm by 30cm. Bake in an oven for 30 minutes until golden brown. Leave to cool in the tin then cut into slices.

Makes 16 bars • Preparation time: 15 minutes • Soaking time: 15 minutes • Cooking time: 30 minutes

“I don’t like sherry” is something I hear quite often when I’m presenting a wine tasting.

Sherry conjures up ghosts of Christmas’s past. Memories of Granny enjoying a cheeky sherry poured from a dusty bottle stored in the back of the cupboard. While other retro drinks have enjoyed a revival, sherry can’t seem to shift this dated reputation.

I think it’s time to relook at sherry and start appreciating one of the most fascinating and versatile wines in the world. I would like to introduce you to a fun, refreshing twist that gives it the fresh start it deserves.

Meet the Manzanilla Spritz.

Made in the beautiful coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda in southern Spain, Manzanilla is a wonderfully dry style of sherry. Thanks to the cool Atlantic air and a magical layer of yeast called flor, it develops delicate flavours of green apple, toasted almonds, chamomile and a gentle salty tang that reminds me of standing beside the sea.

Served over ice with sparkling soda or premium tonic and finished with a slice of grapefruit or orange, it becomes something entirely different. Crisp, elegant and effortlessly refreshing, it’s the perfect summer aperitif and a brilliant introduction for anyone convinced they don’t like sherry.

The beauty of a Manzanilla Spritz is that it doesn’t hide the wine’s character—it simply lets it shine in a more approachable way. Before long, curiosity takes over and people begin asking about Fino, Amontillado and Oloroso. That’s when the real adventure begins.

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 CALDERS | 31

CREDIT: ALL IMAGES BY WILLIAM WEIR

Daytime’s heat has begun to subside, but it’s still a balmy evening as we step off Hermiston House Road onto the canal path at West Hermiston Bridge. The sounds of songbirds fill the air – from the strident virtuosity of the song thrush, each clipped phrase as surprising as the last, to the blackcap’s twisting, turning repartee and the blackbird’s liquid melody – these cheerful voices encourage us on our way.

We head west along the old canal towpath, now popular with walkers, joggers and cyclists alike. It’s easy to see why – amidst these tranquil surroundings a little more of the day’s cares seems to fall from the shoulders with each stride we take. The narrow strip between path and canal is a riot of wildflowers. Diffuse creamy clouds of meadowsweet, pinkishwhite umbels of valerian, magenta clover and thistle, and pungent hogweed too with its attendant, red-bodied flies, all jostle for

position, giving way nearer the water’s edge to reeds and fuzzy-topped bullrushes.

On the far side of the canal, silvery willows stoop as if wishing to kiss its still surface whilst, near-side, cherry trees are beginning to bear fruit. We look through their swaying limbs to rolling fields beyond. To the south are potatoes, planted in rich rusty earth gathered into lines of steep hills and furrows. The crop has burgeoned rapidly in the fertile soil – just a few short months ago, we watched proud pheasants strut the bare furrows. To the north is a golden expanse of wheat. As we walk, we spot a few hares lolloping around the edges.

I catch occasional disturbances of the water out the corner of my eye. Each time I turn and look only to see ripples expand in rings from the spot where a fish has plucked an insect from the surface before disappearing below. It’s worth remaining alert – I have seen otters here on occasion. The invertebrates experience an onslaught from above as well as below; swallows hawk the canal line, wheeling and swooping to feast on an airborne bounty.

It’s easy walking, on a perfect level - the canal having been engineered to track exactly the contour of 73 metres above sea level. Our paces lengthen, arms swinging like metronomes. After half an hour or so, the canal widens and we catch glimpses of Ratho Park Golf Course through gaps

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relay of night and day, to footsteps, bird song melodies and even the bat’s ultrasonic echoes. To tune into them is to open a channel to the great comforting power of nature and her GET THE ROUTE ON perpetuity. Perhaps OS MAPS! that’s one reason why many have come before us in decades past, to use and enjoy this peaceful space – here’s to many more doing so for a long time to come. in the mature woods opposite. Then it’s not too long before we see an assortment of barges lining the opposite bank, signalling our arrival at the pretty Ratho moorings.

As twilight sets in, there’s something Turner-esque about the tree-lined winding hole this evening, overlooked by the old Bridge. The Bridge Inn stands adjacent, a perfect halfway stop for sustenance before returning home.

An easy, level walk, taking 1.5 - 2hrs for the return trip.

As we set off eastward on the return leg, the sun is a deep red orb hugging the horizon.

This signals a change of shift in the natural world as swallows retreat to roost and are replaced by their nighttime counterparts – bats. The frequency of ultrasonic clicks on my bat detector tells me these are soprano pipistrelles. We watch mesmerised as sharp black silhouettes execute deft fluttering turns, clicks merging to a zipping buzz each time they home in on an insect.

I fall to thinking as our walk concludes, so many of nature’s rhythms have been evident here tonight. From the slow annual cycles of growth in field and hedgerow, to the daily 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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FUNDRAISER TO ATTEND THE

NEW YORK TARTAN DAY PARADE For almost two decades, the West Lothian Schools Pipe Band has been inspiring young musicians while proudly representing the region at home and beyond.

Formed in 2007, the band has been supported from the outset by West Lothian Council’s Instrumental Music Service, which provides free tuition to primary and secondary school pupils. What began as a small initiative has grown into one of Scotland’s most successful youth pipe bands, with hundreds of young people progressing through its ranks over the years.

Membership has always been free, giving aspiring musicians the opportunity to learn the bagpipes, snare drum, tenor drum or bass drum while helping to preserve Scotland’s rich musical heritage. Alongside regular performances at community events, the band has proudly represented West Lothian Schools in competitions across the country, performing in the official West Lothian tartan, Spirit of West Lothian.

The band’s dedication and hard work reached new heights in 2025 when they were crowned both Scottish Champions and World Champions in the Novice Juvenile A grade.

These remarkable achievements reflect not only the talent and commitment of the young musicians, but also the dedication of their instructors and the continued support of West Lothian Council’s Instrumental Music Service.

Looking ahead, 2027 promises to be another landmark year as the band celebrates its 20th anniversary. To mark the occasion, members will take part in the world-famous Tartan Day Parade in New York—an unforgettable opportunity to represent West Lothian on an international stage.

For many of these young musicians, the trip would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, creating memories that will last forever while 34 | CALDERS

APRIL 2027 TO CELEBRATE OUR

20TH ANNIVERSARY

SCAN

to visit the West Lothian Pipe Band Parent Fundraising Committee

JustGiving Page

showcasing Scottish culture to audiences from around the world.

To help make that dream a reality, the band is fundraising to reduce the financial cost to families and ensure every member has the chance to take part. Every donation, no matter the size, brings them one step closer to marching through the streets of New York.

Every contribution makes a difference. Every pound helps these talented young performers celebrate their 20th anniversary in a truly unforgettable way.

Please visit: www.justgiving.com/ crowdfunding/wlspbnewyork This article was contributed by West Lothian Schools Pipe Band

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SAT 1ST AUG AND SAT 5TH SEPT Conservation Volunteering – Almondell & Calderwood - Join the Friends of Almondell and Calderwood at their monthly sessions to get involved with conservation and maintenance tasks in the Park! All tools will be provided. If you have some, please bring a pair of gloves, and bring any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! 10.00am to 12noon, meet at the Visitor Centre. The closest car park is North car park, approx. 8 minutes walk down the hill to the Visitor Centre. 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. (Friends group sessions are not always Ranger-led, may be led by volunteers).

SUNDAY 2ND AUGUST 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.

join in, we aim to showcase a welcoming, inclusive community where everyone can embrace the thrill of the game. Get ready to fire up your passion and join us for a day filled with action, camaraderie, and foam-tastic fun! Family events for all ages: West Lothian College 10.00am – 3.00pm, convention and hall games £5. Galaxy Blast evening game 5.00pm – 7.30pm, all ages, £10.

Tickets and info via www.foam-fest.co.uk SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST Crafters Destash Sale - Lots of crafters have been clearing out their cupboards to offer you crafting supplies at bargain prices!

20 tables full of crafty bargains, so come along and check out what is on offer. Fabric, wool, card making, beads, ribbons, jewellery making equipment, craft books, haberdashery and much more. Crafting for business or pleasure, youth / children’s leader, teachers, great bargains available, come and have a look. Cafe open, selling breakfast rolls, home baking and refreshments. Entry free! So pop in and grab yourself a bargain. Winchburgh Parish Church, EH52 6TT. 10.00am 12.30pm.

SUNDAY 9TH AUGUST Monthly Ramble and Chat - Nature walk with Almond Valley Nature Action, 2.00pm, ALL WELCOME. August’s event is a woodland walk, location TBC. On these easy 1-2 hour walks, we take time to notice nature, chat about what we find & share what we know. Second Sunday of every month. See our blog for details: avnatureaction.wordpress.com/events

SATURDAY 29TH AUGUST Currie Horticultural Show - The annual celebration of everything homemade! Baking, growing, knitting, photography, painting and more! Balerno High School, 1.30pm – 4.00pm, ENTRY £3. Kirknewton residents are welcome to submit entries, categories include flowers, fruit, vegetables, baking, preserves, needlework, painting, jewellery and photography. See currieshow.weebly.com for entry form and details.

SATURDAY 22ND AUGUST Foam Fest Nerf Convention - The ultimate convention for Nerf enthusiasts and foam-flinging fanatics! It’s a celebration of everything Nerf and foam dart sports, where we highlight the creativity, skills, and fun that make this hobby one-of-a-kind. Whether you're a seasoned foam warrior or just curious to

SATURDAY 12TH SEPTEMBER Dog Show - Annual fun family dog show in aid of the Scottish Greyhound Sanctuary.

Various categories, dog-related market stalls, artisan crafts, food and drinks stalls. Livingston Cricket Club, 10 Murieston Valley, Livingston, EH54 9HB. 10.00am – 3.00pm. ALL WELCOME. www.scottishgreyhoundsanctuary.org

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. 36 | CALDERS

A FEATHER IN WEST LOTHIAN'S BUNNET! 25 years ago a scattered bunch of bards found each other...and Quill was born: basically because, in Lithgae, Lorna Johnstone had been inspired to create a poetry club as a Millennium Project.

Many gifted folk have passed through Quill's ranks, but Lorna is the one constant factor.

We've launched five anthologies and one DVD, gigged at the Linlithgow Folk Festival (with The West Lothian Songwriters) and participated in Burns Suppers and Rotary and West Lothian Write events and much besides…

But we ain't necessarily performers, just folk with that niggling urge to,"Turn it into a few lines." Meeting by meeting, as new recruits discover what new comrades are thinking and how they're expressing it, that urge becomes compulsive!

This ever-renewing comradeship is one reason we've kept going, even as Quill has morphed and remoulded.

And, in Scots, fir we are in nae wey haudendoon bi onie language hierarchy -- it's scrieve awa in the tung o yer hert! -- oor present band o bards has shared poems on work an religion, budgies, hot-water bottles, lossin oor looks, the heroism an waste o war, oor faimilies, on joy an sadness, and on the mystery and excitement o

bairnhood...and muckle mair. Aye, thir's been grimness, but sidesplittin humour an aw.

This isnae meant as a recruitin poster, but we ay need fresh experiences, ideas, angles on life.

Thir are hunners o potential poets oot thair...aw ethnicities, dialecks, leids an lingoes welcome: dinnae be shy! Come aw ye!!

We meet monthly in Bathgate 's Jim Walker Centre, first Monday o the month, forby holidays etc, sae dae text first…

Lorna on 07932 590241 | Davie on 07591 681791 A swatch o some sweet lines:

"Twenty-five years, inspiration and tears."

"Fieldfares chantin on the wing Seem tae mak oor ain herts' sing " "Through mist and rain and heavy seas, The Buckie boats have fished all night."

"Plough your thoughts for reasons why These conflicts never end."

"Gaining interest, accepting debts, My bank of good neighbours."

"Avian migrants ebb and flow."

"Power cut! Candles quick Not the holy ones!

The ones that never get lit."

"Safe from the light in words' shadows I dwell."

"A tanner doon the drain, Nae new baffies fur the wean."

Meadowsweet sun in a larksong sky."

WE PLAN A 25TH CELEBRATION IN OCTOBER. WATCH THIS SPACE! CALDERS | 37

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.

SPORTS, HOBBIES, MID CALDER COMMUNITY HUB LEARNING, SUPPORT - Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm.

Institute Hall (Community Centre) GROUPS & MORE...

Mid Calder. We have free teas and KIRKY KLUB - Kirky Klub is a coffee along with cake and biscuits FREE family-friendly social event together with a warm welcome and with a Stay & Play, Cuppa & Cake, friendly chat. Open to all. We look and Preloved items. 1st Saturday forward to seeing you soon. Any of every month, Kirknewton Village questions just pop in to see us.

Hall, 10.30am to 12noon. More info: MID CALDER WOMEN’S kirknewton.info/activities/kirky-klub GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s WALKING FOOTBALL WEST Group would like to welcome new LOTHIAN - For everyone over members. We are a group aged 50, no matter your level of fitness.

60+ who meet each Monday at Come along and get yourself a wee the Institute Hall, Mid Calder, from bit fitter. Hot drinks, biscuits, good 12.45pm until 3pm. Cost per week company included! We meet at: is £3/member. We organise various Xcite Bathgate - Mon: 10.00am, £1; activities including, games, quizzes, Broxburn Juniors Ground - Tue: bingo, well being exercises and 10.30, £3; regular talks from external speakers Murieston Sports Park (Apr-Nov) and entertainers. We also arrange Wed: 10.00am, £1; coach trips to places of interest.

Xcite Craigswood (Dec-Mar) Interested? Please contact Jackie Wed: 10.00am, £3; on 01506 883205.

East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means £1; Whitburn Community Centre happiness, pleasure, ease or - Thu: 10.30am, FREE. bliss. If any or all appeal to you Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or come along to yoga sessions. contact: T: 07775 188218 Every Wednesday in Dave King E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk Partnership Centre, East Calder.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE Now two sessions available LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL choose either 6.00pm -7.15 pm or (Opportunities for Active Lives) 7.15pm - 8.30pm. Contact me for works with people aged 60+ more info or to book. promoting active and fulfilling lives, T: 07767 777044 creating and enriching communities E: ruth@sukha.co.uk which empower all to remain MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER independent, living at home and GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday socially connected. OPAL supports and Friday 9am - 11.30 am in over 25 Community Groups throughout West Lothian for people The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We to attend, engage with others and have a huge toy selection, offer build new friendships. They also arts and crafts and supply a small provide a time limited one-to-one snack. Adults can have a hot drink befriending service built to improve and a chat whilst the children play confidence. To find out more happily. Session costs are £1 please contact 01506 815 815 or for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. opal@cyrenians.scot Follow us on Facebook or email: midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - For for further details people living with dementia and their carers. Come and join us at EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP one of our monthly cafés. Come - Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 for the whole session or just drop year olds @ The Dave King in. For information please email Partnership Centre. Lots of fun westlothianservices@alzscot.org activities while learning through Second Tuesday of the month 1.30 play. Stories, songs, craft, small – 3.00pm, East Calder Parish world, sand, water, outdoor fun & Church Hall, Main Street, EH53 0HF. lots more. For more information call /text 07748053340 or pop in GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a and see us. range of groups from age 4-14. All 38 | CALDERS

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. To join our waiting list, please email: info@singergie.com 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 1.003.00pm (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 SOLUTION TO JULY at our website: eastcalderscouts.uk CROSSWORD SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder. Tuesdays 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm, Wednesdays 9.30am & 11.30am and at Geddes House, Livingston, EH54 6GU on Thursdays 7.30 & 9.30am. New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781 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 ACROSS:Iyengar 1. Autumn, 4. 6.00-7.15 Weight, recovery. yoga 9. 7.30-8.45pm Immense, 10. Along, 11.AnteAmong, & 12. October, 13. Monday.

Microscopes, natal yoga 5.45-6.45 andPolka, Vinyasa 18. Despair, 20. Total, 22.

23. Trouble, 24. Sister, 25. Frisky.

Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday.

DOWN: 1.yoga Animal, 2. Tempo, Seasonal 5.30-6.30 and 3. Manager, 5. Exact, 6. Good-bye, Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm14. Insults, 7. Tigers, 8. Demonstrate, Wednesday.

Iyengar yoga 15. Outdoor, 16.

Adapts, 17.6.00Sleepy, 19. Amaze, 21. Tubas.

7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday.

Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am SOLUTION TO SUDOKU Friday.

Carmondean, Livingston.

T: 07810 824 195 ON PAGE XX 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 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 (faceThe to face) & Benefits Disclaimer: publisher cannot accept Advice (phone or face to face). responsibility for loss or damage caused For information:

by error in the printing of an advertisement.

T: 01506 448000 We do not endorse any advertisers in E: office@carers-westlothian.com this publication.

All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is W: www.carers-westlothian.com copyright free. No part of this publication CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' may be reproduced without prior consent of CHOIR - Would you like to join the publisher. in with some fun at our friendly Publisher: Lothian Publications community choir?

We meetLtd. Geddes House, Kirkton Livingston, in Mid Calder at 7.30North, pm on a West Lothian EH54 6GU. Wednesday. Our music consists of a wideDesign: range of materials Magazine from musicals, traditional, pop Alan Stewart Design favourites and lots more. We’d T: 07729 911858

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 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 MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Phone and email support also available.

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.

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SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Autumn, 4. Weight, 9. Immense, 10. Along, 11. Among, 12. October, 13. Microscopes, 18. Despair, 20. Total, 22. Polka, 23. Trouble, 24. Sister, 25. Frisky.

DOWN: 1. Animal, 2. Tempo, 3. Manager, 5. Exact, 6. Good-bye, 7. Tigers, 8. Demonstrate, 14. Insults, 15. Outdoor, 16. Adapts, 17. Sleepy, 19. Amaze, 21. Tubas.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 28

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

CALDERS | 39