Konect Calders December 2025

DEC 2025 / JAN 2026

FEATURE:

LOCAL CHARITY:

GARDEN PROJECT:

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t’s the season fairy lights, spicy hot drinks and Christmas events to attend. Check the What’s On pages for plenty of ways of enjoying the season out and about locally, in particular at Almond Valley where there is a packed programme of family activities.

Our charity of the month for this issue is Livingston-based The Larder. The work they do locally is wide-ranging. For this feature we focused on their community meals service, and their Christmas Giving campaign - see pages 8-9.

There is more of course, and all our regular columns. I hope you enjoy this last issue of 2025. We take a break over Christmas and Hogmanay, so there is no January issue; we will be back with the February Konect.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers and local organisations featured in Konect a wonderful and peaceful festive season.

Local Charity: The Larder............................ 8 Health: Overcoming Gym Anxiety............12 Feature: Re-gifting.......................................14 Life Coaching: Friends for Life..................15 Garden Project: Seasonal Tablescaping................................................23 Money Matters: Are you being (pension) scammed?..................................27 Local Environment: Merry Christmas.......28 Recipe: Chunky “Clam” Chowder............30 Wine: Port......................................................33 What’s On: December................................34 Puzzles..........................................................37 Film Review: Fantastic Four.......................37

COVER IMAGE: Wishing all our readers a peaceful festive season!

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

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GOOD FOOD SERVED WITH WARMTH AND DIGNITY “We want to reach as many people as we can who are experiencing food insecurity in our community, and to help them out,” says David Fitzpatrick, Director of Operations at The Larder.

The Larder is a social enterprise in West Lothian tackling food insecurity, and tackling poverty more broadly through food-centred services. From serving affordable meals to providing cooking and hospitality training, they believe everyone deserves to eat good, healthy food and to have the skills to thrive.

“We’re seeing the gap widen between people who are doing ok and those who are not,” explains David, “and the cost of living crisis is unlikely to go away any time soon. The number of people unable to regularly obtain enough affordable, nutritious food is on the increase.”

The Larder works in partnership with a range of organisations across West Lothian, supporting them with preventing people from becoming food-insecure during challenging times. It could be issues with accommodation and homelessness, long term unemployment, poor health, a recovery programme – regardless of the reason, The Larder is there for anyone who is struggling to feed themselves or their family.

“Food with dignity is an important part of our ethos,” says David. “We sit somewhere between a food bank and managing on your own. We offer extremely affordable, nutritious fresh food, and we are all about helping people to make their limited resources go further. There are people in full time work who are still struggling to feed their family, but don’t want to admit it. Our cafés are judgement-free, stigma-free places.”

For just £5, you can purchase a freshly-made three course meal and a drink, at one of The Larder’s two cafes in West Lothian. This is their Community Meals programme, through which they are aiming

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CHRISTMAS GIVING This Christmas is your chance to be part of our ‘Christmas Giving’ campaign and join our movement that uplifts and transforms lives, creating lasting change. Whether it’s through a one-time donation or a regular contribution your support makes all the difference. When you donate to The Larder, you’re not just giving to a cause, you’re investing in the future of someone who might one day mentor others, start a business, or create their own positive impact in our shared community. To donate please visit: thelarder.beaconforms.com/ form/91e83151

to feed over 100 people each week. The meals are sit-in and consists of soup, a main, a desert and drink. Not only is the food extremely good value for money, it is nutritious and a much better option than fast food.

Community Meals are served at: • The Larder Cafe in Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Mon & Wed at 3.30pm • The Larder Cafe in Blackburn, Sycamore Walk, Blackburn, EH47 7LG. Tue & Thur at 4.00pm If you or someone you know is struggling to eat well, come into a safe space and get a good meal, served with warmth and dignity.

Everyone is welcome.

Besides the Community Meal times, the cafes are open for breakfasts, lunches, coffees and cakes. “More than a cafe”, they are welcoming, friendly places. The Larder understands the physical and mental health implications for people affected by food insecurity, so not only can you get a bowl of homemade soup for £1, they offer a sign-posting service for other sources of support. Each cafe also has a community shop on site selling affordable groceries. The Larder Community Shops are stocked with quality food and toiletries

which have been recovered by volunteers from surplus supplies from producers and supermarkets, helping reduce food waste as well as tackling food insecurity. Profits are reinvested into The Larder’s services. The surplus food recovery is part of The Larder’s environmentally- conscious approach, saving perfectly good food from landfill.

There is more. A bakery at Bellsquarry selling delicious cakes to the public, at Unit 6 Brewster Square, Livingston, EH54 9BJ; The Larder Training department providing training and qualifications in cooking and hospitality; a catering service; anti-poverty campaigning behind the scenes; a relentless push towards their mission to empower the most disadvantaged children, young people, adults and communities to improve their life chances, through access to learning and good food.

W: www.thelarder.org T: 01506 412819 E: communications@thelarder.org This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after speaking with David Fitzpatrick, Direct of Operations at The Larder. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines. The Larder is a registered charity in Scotland, SC042554.

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LIVING WELL

Home Instead’s quarterly New Ageing Index explores how older people, their families, and carers feel about ageing in Britain today.

It tracks attitudes, highlights challenges, and shines a light on where action is most needed.

The latest findings paint a mixed picture: deep concerns about social care and living costs, but also resilience, optimism and fresh opportunities to age well.

KEY FINDINGS AT A GLANCE: • 91% believe cutting the winter fuel allowance will harm older people • 40% say they’ll need to cut back on food or medication to heat their homes • 57% want dementia declared a national health emergency • 90% call for a national dementia screening programme

• 74% of family carers say they need more support • 63% believe diet and exercise can slow ageing WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU: • Staying warm this winter: Check eligibility for local energy grants, use heated throws, and seek community “warm spaces” schemes.

• Facing dementia together: Early diagnosis can help families plan; support groups and charities offer advice and companionship.

• Backing carers: Explore flexible working and respite care – help is out there, but too often underused.

• Healthy ageing: Even gentle daily exercise and balanced nutrition make a real difference.

• Smart support: From video calls to AI companionship, technology is helping to tackle loneliness and keep people connected.

To download the full New Ageing Index visit: www.homeinstead.co.uk/new-ageing-index/ 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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Three in five adults in the UK received an unwanted gift last Christmas. That equates to around 31 million unnecessary presents, many of which ended up in landfill.

In a bid to simultaneously put a stop to this staggering seasonal waste and to help families who may be struggling to make ends meet, one local Community Interest Company is launching a brand-new Re-Gifting Tree project.

This season, all Leith Collective stores across Scotland feature a Christmas tree adorned with gift tags. Each tag bears the name of a gift, from a children’s book or a warm scarf to a box of chocolates or toiletries set. Visitors to the store can take a tag and drop off the corresponding gift at the store, where they will be collected and distributed to those in need this Christmas. Crucially, the emphasis of this project is on re-gifting good quality, unopened presents, rather than encouraging people to purchase new items.

The Leith Collective founder Sara Thomson said; “We live in such a divided society where some people are literally throwing away unwanted presents while many others are struggling to afford basic essentials such as heating and food, let alone Christmas presents.

By launching our Re-Gifting Tree project, we hope to keep as many unwanted presents as possible out of landfill and instead direct them to people who will truly appreciate them.”

The Leith Collective’s popular Christmas Tree Exchange project is also back this year. Locals are being urged to search their homes for any unwanted Christmas trees and decorations that may be languishing in cupboards and attics. Instead of sending them to landfill, they can drop them off at The Leith Collective stores where they will be passed on to struggling families whose budgets can’t stretch to non14 | CALDERS

essentials such as festive trimmings.

Commenting on the return of the Christmas Tree Exchange, Sara added; “We need to pull together as a community because everyone deserves to enjoy the sparkle and magic of waking up to a Christmas tree with a present beneath it.”

Christmas trees and decorations will be available for anyone to collect at The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet, as well as Edinburgh’s Fort Kinnaird, Ocean Terminal and Dundee’s Overgate store, during opening hours completely free of charge. No stigma, no judgement, no questions asked.

For more information about The Leith Collective head to www.theleithcollective.com, email info@theleithcollective.com, or call 07447 659 999.

• The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet - Almondvale Avenue, Livingston, EH54 6QX Open: Monday 9am - 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am - 6pm, Thursday - Saturday 9am - 8pm, Sunday 9am - 6pm • The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird Newcraighall, Edinburgh, EH15 3RD Open: 10am - 8pm, seven days a week • The Leith Collective at Ocean Terminal - Ocean Drive, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ Open: Monday - Saturday 11am - 6pm, and Sunday 11am - 5pm

issues and anxieties and the other listens patiently. This is fine if it suits both parties but the problems begin when resentment sets in and the friend who listens and is always available starts to feel put upon and resentful.

LIFE COACHING

Sometimes we fall into relationships that suit us at a particular time in our lives.

There are those childhood friendships based on sharing our secrets or that friend we made on the first day in our new job who took us under their wing. Then there are those friends we made when our children were small and we stood at the school gates waiting for the bell to ring.

As life moves on our social circles narrow and it can be more difficult to encounter people through shared life experiences. But, maybe we find a new friend who is interesting and funny whose life is full of drama and we are the lucky one they choose to call when there is a new adventure in their life. This can feel exciting but the downside is that the relationship can settle down into a pattern, where one party talks and shares all their

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When a relationship is out of balance we can start to seethe inwardly and decide that it’s all about them and not us. This can signal the breakdown of the friendship but, if we communicated clearly and found the courage to share our feelings honestly we could find that our friendships move onto a new and more equal footing and can be the supportive relationships we needed but hadn’t dared hope for.

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

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Winter Flowering Jasmine, Pansies, Violas, Heather or Viburnums.

Have you tried Tablescaping since our June item in Konect?

As we fall into winter there is huge resistance to getting out into the garden despite the nation being told how good gardening is for us; physically, mentally and environmentally.

A little tablescaping is just the thing to tempt us outside. Lesley keeps a tablescape going throughout the year on our hall table, using an assortment of little glass jars, vases and candle sticks.

At this time of year she relies heavily on evergreen foliage but always manages to find a few flowers from the garden: Hellebores, yellow

She suggests that you choose some evergreen leaves like Holly, Pittosporum, Viburnum or Euonymus and repeat your chosen leaves in several of the little vases to give a unifying rhythm to your tablescape.

Having chosen your main ‘rhythm’ plant you’ll quickly spot leaves and blooms to go with it and before too long you’ll have enough plant material to allow you to escape back indoors.

Using small containers your pickings will be easily kept upright without using plastic floral foam and you just need to remember to keep them topped up with clean water and enjoy your creation.

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

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MONEY MATTERS

Pension scams cost UK savers over £17.7 million in 2024, with average losses of £33,848 per victim1. Taking advantage of regulatory changes fraudsters are using increasingly sophisticated tactics and vigilance is essential.

According to Action Fraud, 519 pension scam cases were reported in 2024, totalling £17.7 million in losses—equivalent to £48,129 stolen per day. The most common tactics include pressuring individuals into risky investments and impersonating pension holders to access accounts. Despite the scale of the problem, fewer than one in five victims report the crime2.

The Pensions Regulator warns that scammers are exploiting confusion following recent changes to inheritance tax and pension rules. Savers considering early access to tax-free lump sums or transferring funds outside pension wrappers may be especially vulnerable.

KEY RED FLAGS INCLUDE: • Unsolicited contact offering a “free pension review” or “guaranteed returns” • Cold calls about pensions (illegal in the UK) • Requests for personal details following an offer • Pressure to act quickly, often with false deadlines • Recommendations to transfer to a single investment fund with incentives TO PROTECT YOURSELF: • Verify advisers on the register.fca.org.uk • Use strong passwords and enable two-step verification • Monitor accounts regularly for suspicious activity If you suspect a scam, contact your bank and pension provider immediately, and report it to actionfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040.

1 ActionFraud, October 2024 2 The Pensions Regulator, March 2025 The Money Matters column is contributed by Lucy Logan. Lucy lives in Calderwood and is the Principal of Calderwood Financial, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Is it just me or has this year absolutely flown by? It’s fast approaching Christmas and it only feels like yesterday we were welcoming in the new year and I was gearing up for my 40th birthday trip to Kenya.

It was a really lovely summer, especially in comparison to last year which I remember being a bit more wet and windy. I’d been looking forward to watching and photographing the foxes I spent time with last year, but they didn’t show up. Neither did my hares or dippers, so it’s safe to say my photography took a bit of a back seat. I had a wonderful week on Mull in May hosting a workshop, which I’m looking forward to doing again next year. It’s always such a joy to share that incredible island with others and watch people experience its wildlife for the first time.

is usually achieved through strategically placed nuts.

Given I haven’t been out much, this image is from a couple of years back when I bribed some squirrels to take part in a Christmas photoshoot. It takes them a while to get used to it and even more time for them to sit in just the right place. They’re naturally inquisitive animals and this task

Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.

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I hope this photo brings a smile and a touch of festive cheer—wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy start to the new year.

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.

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FOOD & DRINK

Inspired by the classic American chowder, this indulgent chunky soup features a thick and creamy non-dairy milk base, tender potatoes, fragrant aromatics, and oyster mushrooms as the perfect substitute for clams. An ideal vegan option for Christmas eve or Christmas Day starter.

Serves 4-6 | Prep Time 15mins | Cooking Time 30 mins | Dietary requirements: Dairy-free, Egg-free, Vegan Ingredients (Mushrooms):

• 1 tbsp olive oil • 250g/8¾oz king oyster mushrooms, sliced. If you can’t get oyster mushrooms, substitute with small button mushrooms, halved.

• 1 garlic clove, minced • 1 tsp soy sauce

Ingredients (Soup Base):

• 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 medium onion, diced • 2 celery stalks, diced • 2 medium carrots, diced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 120ml/4fl oz dry white wine • 1 litre/1¾ pints vegetable stock • 3 tbsp plain flour • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bitesized pieces • 2 bay leaves • 1 tsp dried thyme • 2 tsp kelp granules or dulse flakes. If you prefer not to have the taste of the sea, replace with 1–2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill • Salt and cracked black pepper to taste • 100ml/3¾fl oz vegan cream

Method:

1. Heat the oil on a medium heat in large heavy based pan. Fry the mushrooms until soft, then add one clove of garlic. Fry for 1 more minute.

2. Add in the soy sauce and mix well to coat the mushrooms. Place the mushrooms in a bowl and set to one side.

3. Heat the remaining oil and fry the onions until soft. Then add the celery, carrots and the rest of the garlic and fry until tender.

4. Add the wine and turn up the heat to boil.

Once boiling reduce the heat and stir in the flour, stirring for a minute to remove any lumps.

5. Gradually stir in the stock then add the potatoes and herbs. Simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. Return the mushroom mixture to the pan.

6. Add the kelp/dulse or parsley/dill, and season to taste.

7. Stir through cream and serve with crusty bread.

This recipe was contributed by Claire Bannerman, Vegetarian for Life’s (VfL) dedicated Roving Chef for Scotland working mostly in West Lothian and Forth Valley. Nourishing Plant Based Food : Life Long Skills, Not Quick Fix Pills. [ vforlife.org.uk ] 30 | CALDERS

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WINE TASTING

Port season is here! Although available throughout the year, winter is the season we appreciate it most.

In 1659 two events coincided helping create Port as we know it today. The British overnment placed an embargo on French wine, and a Portuguese Abbot confessed the secret to his delicious wine: he added grape spirit (brandy) to his wine during fermentation! By adding brandy to the wine, the process of fermentation was halted, leaving a naturally sweet, fruity ‘fortified’ wine.

Port styles vary and so do the prices! White and Ruby Ports and youthful, fruity and uncomplicated. Serve these slightly chilled and enjoy!

Aged Tawny is delicious! The label will state how long the wine has been aged in oak casks. Aged Tawny is aged 10, 20, 30, 40+ years. As the Port ages, the vibrant red colour becomes a reddish-brown, ‘tawny’ colour. A 10-year-old will tend to retain some fruit with a suggestion of nuts, dried fruit and caramel. The older the tawny port, the more the nutty, dried fruit notes dominate.

Vintage Port is a very special style of Port.

It’s only produced in exceptional years and only from the best grapes. It can age for decades, evolving and developing complexity in the bottle. Sediment will form in the bottle, so Vintage Port needs to be carefully decanted.

Late Bottled Vintage Ports (LBV) are a user-friendly style of port. These wines are bottled later following cask aging, they are ready to drink on release but retain much of the depth of vintage port.

Join us online for more articles, updates, reader offers and more!

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 | 33

Saturday of the month 10.00am -12.00noon, 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.

EVERY DAY FROM SATURDAY 6TH DECEMBER WEDNESDAY 24TH DECEMBER Christmas at Almond Valley - Santa’s elves are taking over Almond Valley in the most dazzling way imaginable, decking the halls (and everything else!) from top to toe in twinkling lights, festive cheer, and a generous sprinkle of mischief with the launch of their inaugural Festival of Christmas. During the daylight hours Christmas comes to life with a range of magical activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Discover the joys of Christmas at Almond Valley where everyday is filled with festive cheer and unforgettable fun! Elf Workshop, Polar Post Station, meet the reindeer, and much more.

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS EVENTS AVAILABLE TO BOOK SEPARATELY: After Dark Experience - Saturday 6th December to Sunday 4th January Santa’s Express Train – Daily in December Meet Santa in his cosy cottage - various dates starting 6th December Santa for Tots and Toddlers – special mid-week offer, various dates starting 8th December Relaxed Santa visits - 6th and 7th December For more information, pricing and to book the special events please visit almondvalley.co.uk/whats-on/ festival-of-christmas Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 7AR T: 01506 414957, E: info@almondvalley.co.uk FRIDAY 5TH DECEMBER Bathgate Concert Orchestra Christmas Concert - Craig Inn, Blackridge, EH48 3SP. 7.30pm, admission by donation SATURDAY 6TH DECEMBER 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

WEDNESDAY 10TH DECEMBER Cinema Screening – White Christmas - Join us for this Christmas classic along with tea/coffee and a mice pie to start off the festive season. Certificate U. Tickets £5 includes film, tea/coffee and mince pies.

Reconnect Howden Theatre, tickets and info via www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk 13TH, 14TH, 20TH, 21ST & 24TH DECEMBER Selfies with Santa at Reconnect Howden Park Step into the magic of Christmas at Santa’s Grotto!

Little ones will be greeted by Santa’s helpers before meeting Santa himself in his cosy grotto. Share your festive wishes, take some selfies with Santa or snap a few with your own camera. No gimmicks no hidden charges just your phone and your photos to remember the moment, you’ll also leave with a special gift from Santa. A truly enchanting experience for the whole family to make this Christmas extra magical.11.00am – 3.00pm, £10 per child, Reconnect Howden Theatre, tickets and information via: www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk SUNDAY 14TH DECEMBER Christmas Concert: Toccata Ladies Choir Livingston United Parish Church, Carmondean.

6.30pm. Tickets £10/£5 on the door or from choir members. www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk WEDNESDAY 18TH FEBRUARY West Lothian History and Amenity Society “James VI and I and the legacy of witchcraft panics” talk by Dr Steven Veerapen, Strathclyde University.

7.30pm, Ecclesmachan Village Hall. Non-members are welcome by donation. If you’d like to join the society (£20 for all seven talks), come to a meeting and speak to any committee member, or email us on wlhaas@hotmail.com EVERY SATURDAY Bathgate Market & Car Boot Sale - Bathgate Outdoor Market 9.00am to 2.00pm. Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains.

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. 34 | CALDERS

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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

DECEMBER CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the FEBRUARY edition

ACROSS: 7. Light wind (6), 8. Add up (6), 9. Not pretty (4), 10. Take away (8), 11. Tenth month (7), 13. Deprived (5), 15. Two times (5), 17. Remaining (7), 20. Booklet (8), 21. Assists (4), 22. Floats (6), 23. Unlocked (6).

DOWN: 1. Horrendous (6), 2. Refute (4), 3. Childhood illness (7), 4. Investigate (5), 5. Barely (8), 6. Coerced (6), 12. Engaged (8), 14. Stopping place (7), 16. Gun or knife (6), 18. Bowed (6), 19. Nearby (5), 21. Pinnacle (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 39

DECEMBER SUDOKU

Marvel’s first family has finally joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). While the quality of the MCU post-Endgame has been inconsistent, with forgettable TV shows that have little impact on the films’ continuity, WandaVision is not essential viewing to understand Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps feels like a nostalgic piece of entertainment, as the film is stripped back and character-driven, quickly recapping the fluff and beats we already know to tell its story. Due to this simplified approach, the film ranks among the best MCU entries in some time.

Galactus has marked the planet for death, declares the Silver Surfer in a retro-futuristic take on New York City. Immediately striking is the film’s ’60s aesthetic, with visuals that set the film apart from the main MCU timeline, which mirrors our own world. The film works so well because the entire cast functions as a family unit. Pedro Pascal is having an incredible year and makes an excellent Reed Richards, while Vanessa Kirby is also fantastic as Sue Storm.

The inclusion of Galactus, however, may be divisive. His inclusion allows the fantastic four to travel off planet and have incredible action set pieces in space. He is also an iconic villain of the Fantastic Four, and ties into the film’s themes of family and unity. But it leaves you questioning where we go next. Aside from that, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is an enjoyable film worth watching now that it’s available on Disney+.

Available now on Disney+ 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 ADDisSOLUTION DETAILS people’s radar. Robert from Kirknewton.

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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 SPORTS, HOBBIES, range of groups from age 4-14. All LEARNING, SUPPORT girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and GROUPS & MORE... go on adventures. Visit girlguiding. org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.

KIRKY KLUB - Kirky Klub is a FREE family-friendly social event MID CALDER COMMUNITY HUB with a Stay & Play, Cuppa & Cake, - Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm. and Preloved items. Launch: Institute Hall (Community Centre) Saturday 15 November, 10.30am Mid Calder. We have free teas and to 12.00noon, Kirknewton Village coffee along with cake and biscuits Hall. After launch, Kirky Klub runs together with a warm welcome and the 1st Saturday of every month friendly chat. Open to all. We look (6 Dec, 10 Jan, 7 Feb). forward to seeing you soon. Any More info: bit.ly/4h3VFIh questions just pop in to see us.

WALKING FOOTBALL WEST MID CALDER WOMEN’S LOTHIAN - For everyone over GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s 50, no matter your level of fitness.

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

Wed: 10.00am, £3; Interested? Please contact Jackie East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, on 01506 883205. £1; Whitburn Community Centre - Thu: 10.30am, FREE. SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or happiness, pleasure, ease or contact: T: 07775 188218 bliss. If any or all appeal to you E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk come along to yoga sessions.

Every Wednesday in Dave King OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE Partnership Centre, East Calder.

LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL Now two sessions available (Opportunities for Active Lives) choose either 6.00pm -7.15 pm or works with people aged 60+ 7.15pm - 8.30pm. Contact me for promoting active and fulfilling lives, more info or to book. creating and enriching communities T: 07767 777044 which empower all to remain E: ruth@sukha.co.uk independent, living at home and socially connected. OPAL supports MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER over 25 Community Groups GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday throughout West Lothian for people and Friday 9am - 11.30 am in to attend, engage with others and The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We build new friendships. They also have a huge toy selection, offer provide a time limited one-to-one arts and crafts and supply a small befriending service built to improve snack. Adults can have a hot drink confidence. To find out more and a chat whilst the children play please contact 01506 815 815 or happily. Session costs are £1 opal@cyrenians.scot for under 1s and £2 for over 1s.

Follow us on Facebook or email: FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - Run midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com

by Alzheimer Scotland. A relaxed for further details informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP carers, people who may have - Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 concerns about their memory year olds @ The Dave King or just want to a chance to meet Partnership Centre. Lots of fun activities while learning through others in a similar situation. East 38 | CALDERS

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 SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER leaders will be made very welcome.

We also hire the scout hall for one CROSSWORD off occasions or for other groups to use,Mto benefit the P community.

E B G W local Find L U X U R Y B Aout N more A N at Aour website: eastcalderscouts.uk U P A D L T SLIMMING East E N C E C O M-M F E E L WORLD Calder Bowling P 255R E O HClub, Main Street, East Calder.

S T A L L A D A P T E D Tuesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm, I D Wednesdays 9.30 &C11.30am E L E T S I C T House, T O ILivingston, E Vat Geddes and O9.30.

I 6GU H on T U EH54 Thursdays V I L E D returning I T I O members N A Dand New always ISue:U I welcome.

L P Contact C 07803 520781 L E S I G N O R E U N C G K G YHIGHLIGHTS Y L CHORAL LADIES' CHOIR - Would you like to join ACROSS: 7 Banana, 8 Luxury, in with some fun at our friendly9 Feel, 10 Commence, 11 Adapted, 13 Stall, community choir?

We meet 15Mid Evict, 17 Toilets, 20 Addition, in Calder at 7.30 pm on a21 Vile, 23 Uncles, 24 Our Ignore.

Wednesday. music consists DOWN: Made, of 2 Gallop, 3 Watched, of a wide1 range materials 4 Plump, 5 Expert, 6 Bracelet, from musicals, traditional, pop 12 Dividing,and 14 Council, 16 We’d Chilly, favourites lots more.

18 Loving, 19 Tipsy, 22 Lurk. love to welcome singers from across West Lothian. To find out SOLUTION TO SUDOKU more or to join us please contact John RankineXX at john.rankine@ ON PAGE lineone.net 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 Disclaimer: The195 publisher cannot accept E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk responsibility for loss or damage caused W: chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on by error in the printing of an advertisement.

Facebook We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. materialLOTHIAN is accepted CARERS OFAllWEST publication on the understanding it is -forSupport and social activities copyright free. No part of this publication for Carers, Young Carers and may be reproduced without prior consent of Disabled Adults. All our carers the publisher. groups are offered blended – both Publisher: Publications in person Lothian and face to face, Ltd. as are Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, our social groups: weekly Coffee West Lothian EH54 6GU. Morning; monthly Mental Health Support MagazineGroup, Design:Evening Support Group & Bereaved Alan Stewart Design Carer Support Group well as groups for Young T: 07729as 911858

Carers and Young Adult Carers.

Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face).

For information: T: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com 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. 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.

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD P E B M G W L U X U R B A N A N A U P A D L T C O M M E N C F E E L P R E O H S T A L A D A P T E D E I C D T O I L E T E V I C T O I H T U V I L A D D I T I O N I U I L P C I G N O R U N C L E S G

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ACROSS: 7 Banana, 8 Luxury, 9 Feel, 10 Commence, 11 Adapted, 13 Stall, 15 Evict, 17 Toilets, 20 Addition, 21 Vile, 23 Uncles, 24 Ignore.

DOWN: 1 Made, 2 Gallop, 3 Watched, 4 Plump, 5 Expert, 6 Bracelet, 12 Dividing, 14 Council, 16 Chilly, 18 Loving, 19 Tipsy, 22 Lurk.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 37

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT

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.

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

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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

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