PLUS: HEALTH & BEAUTY, puzzles, clubs & classes, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!
ishing all readers a wonderful time at the galas this month!
The local history article this month looks at the origin behind the road name “Alderstone”, one of Livingston’s main through roads. I’m sure many of us use this road regularly, and it’s interesting to delve into the history. I hope you enjoy the article on pages 8-9.
Heading into the summer months of abundance, there are two recipe ideas, as well as a packed What’s On section. All our regular columns are here, and with warmer weather (hopefully!) approaching, the Seagull Trust have contributed a piece about safe enjoyment of the Union Canal.
With everything you need for help with looking after home and garden too, hope you enjoy Konect this month!
All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
ALDERSTONE:
Plague-watching duties, muster and civil war
they were in the right place. Alderstone Road cuts through Livingston north to south, from the roundabout on Houston Road at Deans, past the College and into Murieston. The name is deeply rooted in the history of the area.
Sketch of Alderstone House, from The History and Antiquities of the Parish of Mid Calder, by Hardy Bertram M’Call. Published 1894.
tucked behind Klondykes in the remains of its mature parkland, about halfway between Dedridge and Livingston Village. It was renovated in 2010 as a commercial premises. Here are some glimpses we have into what was the Barony of Alderstone.
Scotland’s measures to control epidemics were generally well in advance of England’s, although still shrouded in superstition and misunderstanding”
Originally an estate within the ancient Barony of Calder Comitis, Alderstone developed into one of the largest estates in the area and eventually became a free barony in its own right.
Our time-travelling guest would find the lairds’ seat, Alderstone House,
Alderstone House (Today)
The estate boundaries broadly encompassed the tract of land from Livingston Village out to the south west, taking in Crofthead Farm, Howatston, Over and Nether Alderston, Brucefield and Gavieside, where Five Sisters Zoo is. Acquired by the Kinloch family in the mid 1500s, it was in their hands for a few generations, and the laird’s seat at Alderstone House was originally a simple rectangular tower, probably build by the first Kinloch laird, Henry.
Henry’s son Peter was described in his will, on his death in 1621, “Mr Peter Kinloch of Alderstoun, writer and indweller in Edinburgh,” so he possibly lived mostly in Edinburgh, at least latterly. Peter was required, along with other vassels of the Baron of Calder (James Sandilands) to present himself at a wappinschaw held on the 4th August I586. A wappinschaw was a “weapon-showing” - a compulsory muster of men presenting themselves for an exhibition of arms. After the establishment of Protestantism, the government was still jumpy about potential attack from “papists” and barons were required by law to see that every vassal was armed according to his rank. Peter Kinloch had to present “a horse, a jak-speir and steil bonat, plait slewis, sword and pistolet.”
Peter’s son Patrick, an advocate, inherited the estate. He married the next year, then his brother died in 1625 and Patrick inherited his brother’s rental income from Howatston and Gavieside that their father had left him.
Perhaps the extra cash was the deciding factor in his 1626 conversion of the old tower into Alderstone House, a more palatial residence. A doo’cote was built around the same time and is also still in the grounds.
Patrick and Agnes’s eldest son James was laird of Alderstone when an outbreak of plague hit Scotland from 1644 – 1649. Along with the lairds of Linhouse and Charlesfield, James was on plague-watching duty at Kirk of Calder on Sundays and preaching days; they made sure that “no strangers nor persons suspected of the pestilence came within the church.” Scotland’s measures to control epidemics were generally well in advance of England’s, although still shrouded in superstition and misunderstanding. It didn’t help that a different kind of plague – a civil war – was going on at the time; there is evidence that the plague spread along roads often linked to military operations through rural districts.
The civil war had started over an argument about a prayer book, and pitched Scottish Royalists - supporters of Charles I and his religious policies (under James Graham, 1st Marquis of Montrose) against the Covenanters, who were allied with the English Parliament.
On 13th July 1645 all men within the Mid Calder parish above the age of twelve years were ordered to present themselves on Alderstoun Muire (this must have been a moor in the Livingston area) on the following Wednesday. The republican minister of the Kirk of Calder, Hew Kennedie, wanted to do a little recruiting for the Covenanters in the civil war.
James must have fallen under suspicion of having Royalist sympathies. He was interrogated by the parish minister the following year regarding his links with Montrose, along with James Sandilands and others. They all declared they had never had anything to do with the Marquis of Montrose. They denied being Royalists - as you would when, the way things are going, the king is shortly to lose his head. James appears to have had financial issues and was at risk of losing Alderstone. There are several Letters of Inhibition against him, one in 1657 “under the signet of Oliver Cromwell.” In the turbulent political times where winners, losers and allegiances swapped frequently, perhaps he was targetted due to his suspected royalist views. (Mid Calder’s minister Hew Kennedie ended up losing his job in Mid Calder in 1660 due to his covenanting views; such was the changing wind of political fortune).
Patrick and Agnes’ doo’cote
In any case, Alderstone changed hands several times and in 1692 was purchased by a Mr John Mitchell, a writer from Edinburgh. He set about getting a charter from King William to create “the Barony of Aldingstoun,” a free barony. The Charter mentions the “tenants, tenandries and service of free tenants,” as well as “with mills, multures, hawkings, buntings, and fishings,” and more ominously the “infangthief, outfangthief, pitt, stocks, and gallows” over which the new baron had jurisdiction. This charter is dated in Edinburgh, 14th February 1696.
John subsequently expanded it westwards, adding Wester Dressilrig (Westfield), Cairns Easter and Wester, Baadpark, Wester Colzium, all of which “by Crown charter disjoined from the barony of Calder and all other baronies to which they were previously annexed, and united to the barony of Alderston.” He built a mill at Adambrae, “the miln of Alderstoun,” to which the vassals and their tenants had to send their grain.
Over the next 300 years Alderston House itself was extended and remodeled by different owners and the barony gradually split up. By 1894 an author of parish history referring to Adambrae Mill wrote: “the baronial jurisdiction thus erected has been gradually alienated and abandoned; it is long since the sound of the grinding was hushed in Alderstoun; and of any special powers or dignities which the lands once possessed the sole remaining privilege consists in that undeniable charter of respectability - the right to keep a dove-cot.”
This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Gisbourne. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.
As we get older, hospital stays can become more frequent. While being discharged is often a relief, a safe return home depends on having a well-planned discharge process. Without the right support in place, people can quickly become unwell again and risk readmission.
NHS discharge teams play a key role in planning what happens next. A good discharge plan should look beyond the hospital doors and consider both immediate practical needs and longer-term care.
In the short term, this means making sure the person isn’t returning to an empty fridge and has essentials in place until family, friends or carers can help. Medication should be clearly explained, with easy-to-use packaging such as blister packs where possible, to avoid confusion at home.
Many people need ongoing support after discharge. The hospital may arrange a care
assessment to see whether NHS continuing healthcare or local authority support is appropriate. If state-funded care is delayed, it’s worth asking about direct payments or personal budgets, which can be used to arrange alternative community care and may speed up discharge.
Good communication is vital. Families should be given notice of discharge, especially if they need to provide care temporarily. Hospitals should also coordinate closely with care providers so that support is in place from day one.
Discharge planning should include onward referrals, such as rehabilitation services, and practical arrangements like transport home, suitable equipment, and access to new supplies such as continence products.
When discharge planning is done well, everyone benefits: hospitals free up much-needed beds, and people return home safely, with the right support to recover and stay well.
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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58mm Vertical [RIGHT]
Stress is something we are all too aware of, whether it’s the day to day kind where we are chasing our children round the house in the morning trying to get them to school or the last minute panic as that deadline looms at work.
The effects of stress can be as individual as we are. For some it’s headaches or other physical symptoms and for others sleep can be severely disrupted. However we react, stress is always characterised as a feeling of not being in control and it can’t be denied that it is disruptive and challenging as we try to go about our day to day lives.
When life is stressful, control or the lack of it, has a pivotal part to play but it is important to remember that we are not powerless and there are choices we can always make. Identifying our stress triggers and deciding to intervene early can support us to develop some healthy new habits.
If we always find ourselves running out of the door with minutes to spare panicking at anything that gets in our way as we dash to our destination; if we drive along the motorway cursing all those slow drivers who we think are just there to get in our way; or we find ourselves rushing to complete that task at the very last minute; developing healthy new habits, making a plan, using our time effectively and taking a deep breath before embarking on the day could make all the difference and lower those stress levels forever.
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
JUNE CROSSWORD
^^^ Solution in the JULY edition
ACROSS: 7. Type of fruit (6), 8. Astute (6), 9. Encounter (4), 10. Fluttering (8), 11. Diary (7), 13. Honestly (5), 15. Regularly (5), 17. Nearest (7), 20. Pupils (8), 21. Encourage (4), 23. Chortles (6), 24. Four score (6).
Hi, I’m Katie, founder of Circular Clothing Studio, a Livingston based resale service with a simple goal: to keep quality clothing in circulation for longer.
I grew up in Livingston and studied Fashion and Textile Design at university. After travelling and living abroad, I returned home with a very different perspective on sustainability. In many places, reuse was a normal part of everyday life. Second-hand wasn’t a second choice, it was an affordable and accessible alternative.
Coming home, I noticed a gap. While many people care about sustainability, the reality of clothing waste tells a different story. Quality items sit unworn in wardrobes or are donated without any real clarity on where they end up. Only around 10–30% of donated clothing is ever resold, the majority is baled and sold in bulk, often at a low per-kilo rate.
At the same time, selling clothes online can feel timeconsuming and overwhelming, creating another barrier.
Circular Clothing Studio was created to offer a simple, trusted alternative, making it easier for people to reclaim value and extend the life of their clothing while taking part in a more circular approach to fashion.
I offer a local, end-to-end service that removes the hassle of selling your preloved clothing online. From carefully curating pieces to photographing, pricing and listing them across platforms, every step is handled with care and attention.
My focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring each item is thoughtfully presented to attract the right buyer and achieve its true value. It’s not about volume, it’s about trust, quality and making pre-loved a first choice.
The business model is straightforward and transparent, with a 50/50
commission split on sales, allowing you to earn from items you no longer wear, without the hassle of managing it all yourself.
Born in Livingston, a town with a strong retail history, Circular Clothing Studio is rooted in community. Our mission is to reduce textile waste while helping individuals and charities earn from items they no longer use. If you have quality clothing sitting unworn in your wardrobe, Circular Clothing Studio offers a way to find it a new home, without the stress of doing it yourself.
Follow @circularclothingstudio on Instagram or Facebook to find out more.
This article was contributed by Katie, Founder of Circular Clothing Studio
START EARNING, SCAN TO GET STARTED
Katie
Is it Time to Move from Saving to Investing ?
Do you have money “squirreled away” in a cash account? You aren’t alone.
Recent research1 shows that seven million people in the UK hold at least £10,000 in cash, yet nearly half have no investments. While many of us want to grow our wealth, we often hesitate because investing feels complex, risky, or simply “not for people like us.”
To bridge this gap, the Invest for the Future campaign aims to make investing a normal everyday conversation. The effort is spearheaded by the UK trade body - the Investment Association (IA) - and backed by St. James Place. Research for the campaign shows that 40% of savers feel more confident after a simple, informal chat with someone they know.
The key is to stop viewing investing as a giant leap and see it as a natural evolution of saving.
While cash feels safe, it can lose value over time as living costs rise. By breaking down long-term goals—like retirement or financial security—into manageable, regular contributions, the process becomes much less daunting.
And when we treat investing as a mainstream habit rather than an elite club, we all feel more empowered. So, why not start the conversation? Next time you’re with a friend, ask about their experience—it might be the “lightbulb moment” you need to secure your financial future.
1 Financial Conduct Authority/Opinium research among 4,000 UK adults, 7 – 12 April 2026.
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.
As warmer weather approaches and visitor numbers rise, Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch is urging the public to take extra care around Scotland’s canals.
The Union Canal is already seeing increased footfall, cycling, paddle sports activity, and family visits, and with this seasonal surge comes a heightened risk of accidents and unsafe behaviour near the water.
The charity, which provides free therapeutic cruises for people with additional support needs, relies on a safe and respectful environment to operate. In previous years concerns were raised about speeding cyclists, unsupervised children close to the water’s edge, dogs off leads near wildlife, and individuals entering the canal in unsuitable locations. These behaviours not only endanger the public but also disrupt moored boats, wildlife habitats, and the smooth running of accessible cruises. But this year there is another concern - crocodiles!
With water temperatures remaining cold even in spring and early summer, accidental immersion can lead to cold water shock within seconds. Seagull Trust Cruises is reminding visitors that canals are working waterways, with hidden hazards such as uneven banks, deep silt, submerged objects, and limited space for boats to manoeuvre. The charity is encouraging everyone to stay alert, avoid risky shortcuts, and keep towpaths clear for all users, including those with mobility aids.
Stuart Rennie, Immediate Past Chair of Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch, emphasised the importance of shared responsibility: “The canal is a wonderful community space, but it only stays safe when everyone treats it with care. Our volunteers work hard to provide calm, enjoyable cruises for people who benefit greatly from time on the water. We’re asking
ABOVE: “The crocodiles don’t bite and we thought it would be a fun way to get across a serious message about water safety this summer.”
Seagull Trust Cruises run over 2000 cruises per year and take approximately 22,000 passengers and their carers on morning or afternoon trips of around 23-hour duration. Canal Day Cruises are FREE for the elderly, infirm, and those with additional needs. Our beneficiaries come from far and wide to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of cruising on our canals and the benefits to their health and wellbeing.
the public to help us protect that experience by acting responsibly as the weather improves.
The crocodiles don’t bite and we thought it would be a fun way to get across a serious message about water safety this summer.”
For information and bookings, please contact: 07511 055081 or email: rathobookings@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk
This article was contributed by Seagull Trust Cruises, Canalside, Baird Rd, Ratho, EH28 8RA. Scottish charity number SC027163.
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The smell and the taste of freshly picked tomatoes from your greenhouse are the epitome of summer in Scotland! Even if you don’t grow them yourself you will possibly have friends giving away some of their never ending crop.
Many years ago, quite unplanned, we gave each other Italian Cooking Experiences because we were planning our project ‘Tartan Tuscan Potager to Plate’. Dougal gave Lesley (and himself!) a week in Tuscany on a cooking course, the lasting memory being the endless supply of wine when twelve of us were cooking dinner in the Villa’s large kitchen. Lesley’s present was more practical and local, and surprisingly we still use the half dozen recipes from that afternoon’s lesson more often than the recipes from Italy.
Our favourite version of bruschetta is inspired by that afternoon. Originating in Italy many years
ago, it was really a dish for the poorer folk: stale bread toasted, with a topping of tomatoes and garlic with lots of olive oil. Now it’s very fashionable and offered with many different toppings. Our version is simple and very quick to make.
Finely chop tomatoes, losing excessive amounts of juice through a sieve; you want the ‘wetness’ to be olive oil. Finely chop 2 or 3 garlic cloves for every 4 or 5 medium sized tomatoes. Mix in a bowl with 6 chopped basil leaves, 2 tsp chopped marjoram or oregano, black pepper, juice of half a lemon and 3 tbsp olive oil. Spoon onto freshly toasted slices of baguette or sourdough bread… and enjoy.
The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
I think everyone who went to the cinema in the lead up to the release of The Sheep Detectives witnessed the trailer unfold on screen, a bizarre and weirdly hypnotic experience that makes you want to see the chaos play out in full. Finally getting to watch the finished film, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
A family murder mystery directed by one of the minds behind Minions shouldn’t really work, even though only last month, I was talking about Detective Conan, which is essentially the same idea without the Minions pedigree. George Hardy has died, and his sheep, whom he regularly reads novels to, believe he has been murdered. Drawing on the knowledge they’ve absorbed from those books, they attempt to solve the crime themselves, especially since the local police officer is utterly useless.
Filled with a star studded cast, including Julia Louis Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Regina Hall, and Patrick Stewart, the voice ensemble delivers strong performances that bring the sheep to life in captivating ways. Without their commitment, the mystery wouldn’t work nearly as well, nor would the core theme of dealing with loss. Losing someone we love is inevitable, and The Sheep Detectives shows that even when those we care about are gone, if they are remembered, they are never truly forgotten. It’s a powerful message that never feels artificial or hollow. The Sheep Detectives isn’t a masterpiece of cinema, but it stands a step above much of the recent family entertainment released in the genre.
In Cinemas Now
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.
Mini Summer Berry Nests
At their most flavourful – and abundant – during June and July, sweet and succulent strawberries combine with other soft fruits in these irresistible treats, and are easy to make with the children.
Makes 12
Ingredients:
• 50g butter
• 1 x 270g pack of 6 frozen filo pastry sheets (defrosted) – use 3 sheets
• 150ml double cream
• 1 x 400g tin low-fat ready-made custard
• Grated rind of 1/2 orange and 1 tbsp juice
• 3 tbsp strawberry jam
• 450g mixed berries (whole raspberries and blueberries, and strawberries, halved or quartered)
• Icing sugar, sifted, to decorate
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4.
2. Warm the butter in a small saucepan until melted and use a little to grease a 12-
hole deep muffin tin. Separate the pastry sheets and brush each one with butter, then cut into 12 rectangles.
3. Lay one piece in each section of the muffin tin, then arrange a second and third piece, each at a slight angle to the previous one, to give a jagged, nest-like effect.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes until golden and crisp. Leave in the tin to cool.
5. When cooled, carefully take the pastry cases out of the tin and arrange on a large serving platter. Whip the cream until it forms soft swirls, then fold in the custard and orange rind. Spoon into the filo cases.
6. Warm the jam and orange juice in a small saucepan, stirring until the jam has melted. Add the berries and coat with the jam glaze, then spoon into the nests. Dust the top edges of the pastry nests with a little sifted icing sugar and serve.
For more sweet and savoury recipe inspiration using strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries, along with nutritional information, visit www.lovefreshberries.co.uk
You never stop learning about wine. There’s always a new vintage, a hidden gem of a producer, a different style to taste or an unexpected food pairing to discover. Just when you think you’ve got a solid grasp of the wine world, something comes along and surprises you all over again. Most recently for me, that surprise was Indian wine.
I’ll admit, I was sceptical. India’s climate brings heat, humidity and monsoon rains, hardly the classic conditions we associate with fine wine. Textbooks would have us believe the grapes would struggle and the wines would lack balance and finesse. But at a recent tasting, I tried wines from Sula Vineyards including Chenin Blanc, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz, and I was genuinely blown away.
While the aged Shiraz was very enjoyable, it was the white wines that completely stole the show. The Viognier in particular was delicious. The nose was beautifully perfumed; it was almost like walking through a tropical garden in bloom. There were layers of spice, generous texture and real personality in the glass. I would happily have a glass of the viognier chilled to drink alone or paired with a grilled seafood or perhaps a spiced fish dish.
Wine has been made in India for centuries, but modern winemaking techniques, cooler high-altitude vineyards and careful vineyard management are transforming quality. It’s exciting to see a wine region challenge expectations like this.
Indian wine? Definitely one to watch and even better, one to taste! Cheers!
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 www.swirlsipsocialise.com
SAT 6TH JUNE AND SAT 4TH JULY
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! 10am 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).
SATURDAY 13TH JUNE
East Calder Gala Day - Parade commences Almondell Cemetery Car Park 12.45pm. Entertainment in the park from 2.15pm, ALL WELCOME to come and be part of the community celebrations.
SUNDAY 14TH JUNE
RNLI Queensferry Open Day - All welcome to come along to our annual Open Day at Hawes Promenade, South Queensferry with lots for all the family to see and do. Alongside our lifeboat proudly on display we will have a range of stalls and activities. 12noon - 4.00pm. Please check 'RNLI Queensferry Lifeboat' Facebook page for further details.
SUNDAY 14TH JUNE
Monthly Ramble and Chat - Nature walk with Almond Valley Nature Action, this month pond-dipping in Murieston. 2.00pm, ALL
WELCOME. On these easy 1-2 hour walks, we take time to notice nature, chat about what we find & share what we know. Second Sunday of every month. See our blog for details: avnatureaction.wordpress.com/events
WEDNESDAY 17TH JUNE
Coastal Capers - Come along to Blackness Castle and explore the seashore with the Historic Environment Rangers. Make some art and learn about the creatures that live call the shore their home. FREE. 1.00pm - 3.00pm. Meet at Blackness Castle. Information and booking via: www.historicenvironment.scot
FRIDAY 19TH JUNE
Traditional Storytelling Show - Dealings with Death & the Devil, a traditional storytelling show exploring the consequences of coming face to face with forces beyond our control. Ages 14+. Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Livingston, 7.30pm - 9.00pm. Tickets £10/£8 via Eventbrite, search “dealings with death and the devil”.
SATURDAY 20TH JUNE
Kirknewton Gala Day
SATURDAY 20TH JUNE
Club 80s Live - The Club 80’s Live show will take you on a rollercoaster ride back through one of the greatest eras of music. Hits by Cyndi Lauper, Culture Club, Guns & Roses, Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Erasure, Bon Jovi, Wham, Deacon Blue! and many, many more are crammed into a non-stop, musical trip, back-combed, to the time that fashion forgot. Reconnect Howden Park, Livingston, EH54 6AE. 7.00pm, Tickets £26 plus BF. Information and booking via: www.reconnecttheatres.com
SUNDAY 28TH JUNE
Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - Model Railway, train rides, drive-a-loco, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, toilets and picnic area. 10.30am - 4.00pm. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF.
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
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SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
KIRKY KLUB - Kirky Klub is a FREE family-friendly social event with a Stay & Play, Cuppa & Cake, and Preloved items. 1st Saturday of every month, Kirknewton Village Hall, 10.30am to 12noon. More info: kirknewton.info/activities/kirky-klub
WALKING FOOTBALL WEST
LOTHIAN - For everyone over 50, no matter your level of fitness. Come along and get yourself a wee bit fitter. Hot drinks, biscuits, good company included! We meet at: Xcite Bathgate - Mon: 10.00am, £1; Broxburn Juniors Ground - Tue: 10.30, £3; Murieston Sports Park (Apr-Nov)
Wed: 10.00am, £1; Xcite Craigswood (Dec-Mar) Wed: 10.00am, £3; East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, £1; Whitburn Community Centre - Thu: 10.30am, FREE
Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or contact: T: 07775 188218
E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL (Opportunities for Active Lives) works with people aged 60+ promoting active and fulfilling lives, creating and enriching communities which empower all to remain independent, living at home and socially connected. OPAL supports over 25 Community Groups throughout West Lothian for people to attend, engage with others and build new friendships. They also provide a time limited one-to-one befriending service built to improve confidence. To find out more please contact 01506 815 815 or opal@cyrenians.scot
FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - Run by Alzheimer Scotland. A relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. East Calder Parish Church Hall, EH53 0HF, Second Tuesday of the month 1.30pm - 3.00pm. E: westlothianservices@alzscot.org T: 01506 533108
GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding. org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.
MID CALDER COMMUNITY HUB
- Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm. Institute Hall (Community Centre) Mid Calder. We have free teas and coffee along with cake and biscuits together with a warm welcome and friendly chat. Open to all. We look forward to seeing you soon. Any questions just pop in to see us.
MID CALDER WOMEN’S
GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s Group would like to welcome new members. We are a group aged 60+ who meet each Monday at the Institute Hall, Mid Calder, from 12.45pm until 3pm. Cost per week is £3/member. We organise various activities including, games, quizzes, bingo, well being exercises and regular talks from external speakers and entertainers. We also arrange coach trips to places of interest. Interested? Please contact Jackie on 01506 883205
SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means happiness, pleasure, ease or bliss. If any or all appeal to you come along to yoga sessions. Every Wednesday in Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. Now two sessions availablechoose either 6.00pm -7.15 pm or 7.15pm - 8.30pm. Contact me for more info or to book.
T: 07767 777044
E: ruth@sukha.co.uk
MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am - 11.30 am in The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We have a huge toy selection, offer arts and crafts and supply a small snack. Adults can have a hot drink and a chat whilst the children play happily. Session costs are £1 for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. Follow us on Facebook or email: midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com for further details
EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP
- Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 year olds @ The Dave King Partnership Centre. Lots of fun activities while learning through play. Stories, songs, craft, small world, sand, water, outdoor fun & lots more. For more information call /text 07748053340 or pop in and see us.
SINGERGIE CHOIR - Singergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian.
MONDAYS: 7.00 - 9.00pm, The Village, Oakbank Road, East Calder. FRIDAYS: 10.00am - 12noon, East Calder Bowling Club. No auditions, no fees, no stress. Good songs, easy harmonies, friendship and fun. And you get a cuppa thrown in too. Won’t cost you a penny. 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 1.303.30pm (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: eastcalderscouts.uk
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SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder. Tuesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm, Wednesdays 9.30 & 11.30am and at Geddes House, Livingston, EH54 6GU on Thursdays 9.30. New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781
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:
CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Antenatal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.007.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston. T: 07810 824 195
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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 (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
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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.
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
NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.
Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
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