There is plenty on in the area for the children during the school holidays, including a visit to Almond Valley Heritage Centre, featured on our cover this month and always a fantastic day out. Check the What’s On section for ideas for all the family.
The walk feature this month takes into the Heriot-Watt campus, thanks as ever to our knowledgeable guide William Weir who shares his highlights of the flora and fauna, see pages 8-9. It’s nice to be reminded that there is a lovely series of carefully thoughtout trails to be enjoyed in the context of the very accessible university campus.
West Lothian School Bank are running their annual Summer Uniform Appeal to help local families facing financial hardship ensure their children have a new uniform and, crucially, to feel equal and included on their first day back next month. Please see page 34 for ways you can help.
All our usual columns are here and as ever, I hope you enjoy Konect this month.
All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
A joyful, chaotic choir of birdsong emanates from the campus’ Central Woodland and lifts my spirits as I begin my walk, striding along a sunstreaked path beneath the clear blue of a pristine spring morning.
There’s a wonderful array of paths and routes on offer through Heriot Watt’s landscaped grounds – the Discovery Trail, the Tree Trail, the Bird Trail, the Heritage Trail. Today, I’m doing a loop within a loop, to take in a selection of the best this local campus has to offer. Starting at Car Park K, I head south, soon coming to an old, whitewashed milestone (reclaimed from the A1 near Dunbar). Turning right here takes me through a grassy area of elegantly curved stone brochs. One of these sits atop a mound and I ascend to stand there a while, taking in the songs of chiff chaff, chaffinch and thrush, which echo from the woods through air thick with the heady scent of hawthorn.
At the halls of residence buildings, I bear left, entering the wood and passing beneath a canopy of lime-green new leaves. A little way beyond some railings stands a neat array of gravestones. This peaceful spot is small burial ground once used by the GibsonCraig family who, for centuries, owned the estate. The Heritage Trail and Tree Trail coincide here and lead me past a splendid array of specimens, from Mountain Hemlock of
North America to Sawara Cypress of Japan. It’s a squirrel paradise; I watch one pair engaged in a spiral chase up a nearby trunk.
I emerge at the south-west corner of The Lawn, once overlooked by Riccarton House (now the site of the University Library). Here, a blackcap sings its twisting, turning song from the top of a large holly. Going past the library, I come to what was the fire pond for the old house. Enormous sequoiadendron, the giant redwoods - nature’s skyscrapers - stand sentinel here, their silent strength lending and air of calm as I pass beneath an elevated corridor to reach The Loch.
The centrepiece of the campus, The Loch is a beautifully landscaped oasis. Majestic trees and benevolent blue skies are reflected in its gently rippled surface. The sharp, highpitched cry of a coot rings out from near a tree-topped island while a heron hunches on the far bank, watching as mallards dabble.
Crossing the bridge at the eastern end, I cut diagonally across the grass, down some steps, and back beneath the elevated walkway, following signs for the chaplaincy. I turn left, then right to bring me back to The Lawn and trace its north and western edge. I’m back at the library now, but this time turn with my back to it and head west. On the right are tall oaks and Scots pine, their tops a cacophony of caw-ing from the resident rookery. Turning left at another halls of residence building, I cross the road (The Freeway) and strike out towards West Gait and the edge of the campus.
Now a chance to really stretch the legs. Just before reaching Curriehill Road, I turn left and follow a wooded path uphill and round the perimeter of the campus. The cool shade of the trees is welcome as the sun arcs higher.
Shouts from a football match signal that I’m passing the Oriam. I round the back of the building and pass the car park which bustles with weekend sports club drop-
GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!
offs. I cross the Avenue to walk alongside Boundary Road East, continuing on the verdant Hermiston Walk. To my right is woodland again, dense with Rhododenron, Holly, Laburnum and Oak. The gentle trickle of a small stream is my relaxing soundtrack. I then turn left to walk the length of the campus on Research Avenue North, the way lined with young lime trees, as willow warblers’ laid-back calls drift across the fields.
Just before a ‘Road closed’ sign, I turn onto a path which takes me to the north edge of the estate, following a wooded route parallel to the A71. In the shade, trunks of young rowan, beech and cherry are spotted with prettily patterned snails. Finally, the path turns parallel to Currhiehill Road again and, on reaching Boundary Road North, I turn left, back into the campus, following a pleasant, pine-lined forest path to arrive back at the brochs, and my starting point.
A university’s campus is in many ways a miniature community - a world within a world. In the way Heriot-Watt have woven the natural fabric of the estate into theirs, I feel I’ve found many little worlds here today. Why not see which of them you can uncover?
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.
Edinburgh’s skyline is iconic and instantly recognisable. A recent addition is the Ribbon Building which whips above the W Hotel and St James Quarter. Within the Ribbon sits the W Lounge where I recently had the pleasure of meeting Wine Director and Sommelier, Sumith Alahakoon who expertly guides his guests through the extensive wine list.
My friends and I had a table in W Lounge, located within the Ribbon. The 360 degree views across Edinburgh are breathtaking! It’s usually my job to select the wine, but this evening, I could relax!
To my delight Sumith selected a beautiful red from the South of France, Cigalus Rouge 2021 by Gérard Bertrand. The wine is a blend of Syrah, Carignan, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Each grape variety has its own superpower: Syrah is silky with peppery spice, Carignan gives dried fruit and baking spices, Grenache brings a bright top note and freshness and Mourvèdre delivers inky brambles, earthiness and sophistication. Bertrand carefully blends this combination and wraps it in an oak barrel, aging it for 12 to 14 months. The resulting wine is magical! Deep ruby in colour, the nose is full of dark red and black fruits, there’s spice, black cherry and vanilla with a hint of chocolate on the finish. The tannins weave together to give the wine structure and a velvet finish. For dessert, to pair with my Sticky Date Cake arrived a perfectly chilled and frosted bottle of ”umelicious” Kamoizumi Umeshu Saijo, Japanese plum liqueur. It was the perfect pairing!
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
To attend please call 0330 173 4876 or visit careuk.com/scotland Join us for our next events Murrayside care home, Corstorphine Summer fair
Saturday 19th July, 2pm - 4pm
Cairdean House care home, Colinton Understanding dementia
Thursday 24th July, 2pm - 3.30pm
Lauder Lodge care home, Portobello Scruffs & Crufts
Saturday 2nd August, 2pm - 4pm
When we were young we might have found ourselves rebelling as a ‘default’ when some-one told us what to do.
When we have little control of what is going on around us it’s easy to develop the habit of defiance, declaring ‘no’ when parents, teachers or other authority figures appear to boss us about and disregard our voice. Whether this habit was formed as a small child, at school or in an early job, what we regard as an unfair rule can invoke a strong reaction that may be completely out of proportion to what we are actually dealing with. When we find ourselves poised to argue, it’s important to check whether the current situation requires the same degree of emotional self-defence as we once needed. There is absolutely nothing wrong with healthy rebellion against ideas we disagree with and feel strongly about when it takes the form of discussion that takes account of the views of others. Being mindful of automatically opposing everyone else’s viewpoint and expressing our views in a way that isn’t seen as challenging can help us avoid a reputation as someone who just isn’t that comfortable to be around.
Our inner rebel may have served us well when we were growing up and dealing with life’s challenges and there is absolutely nothing wrong with using basic assertiveness skills and expressing our thoughts, but it’s important to remember that we have limited energy and what we do have is needed when there are real challenges to deal with.
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
60mm Vertical [RIGHT]
Although you may not be familiar with Takeshi Kitano’s entire filmography, you are likely acquainted with some of his work, whether by seeing the heavily edited version of Takeshi Castle, where he portrayed the evil Count Takeshi, or through his roles in Battle Royale or the live-action Ghost in the Shell film.
Takeshi Kitano is an icon of Japanese media, yet I believe his work is greatly underappreciated. His film Hana-bi (Fireworks) is a true masterwork, not just of Japanese filmmaking but of filmmaking as a whole. Written, edited, directed by, and starring Takeshi Kitano, Hana-bi follows Nishi as he leaves the police force due to professional and personal circumstances. To cope with this tragedy, Nishi makes several decisions to enjoy the final moments with his wife, who is suffering from terminal cancer.
Takeshi Kitano is a master of expressing so much emotion with little to no dialogue. The opening shot of Kitano as he proceeds to assault car cleaners evokes immense emotion despite the sparse dialogue. Hanabi was ahead of its time in its portrayal of depression and how Nishi can never escape violence, even when seeking happiness. It results in a film that is equal parts joyful, with moments of light-hearted humour, and filled with sheer, unfiltered violence. All of this is accompanied by an incredible score from Joe Hisaishi that is nothing short of extraordinary. Hana-bi is a masterpiece, a film that will undoubtedly be remembered as a true classic, and one that everyone should experience, if you can find it.
Available on DVD and Blu-ray
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.
JULY CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Picture house (6), 8. Annually (6), 9. Successor (4), 10. Type of artist (8), 11. Space craft (7), 13. Loosen (5), 15. Perfume (5), 17. The mean (7), 20. Put into order (8), 21. Knitting stitch (4), 23. Taken without consent (6), 24. Almost (6).
DOWN: 1. American coin (4), 2. Longs for (6), 3. Incorrectly (7), 4. Thick sweet liquid (5), 5. Occur (6), 6. Permitting (8), 12. Precise (8), 14. Obvious (7), 16. Tidily (6), 18. Revoke (6), 19. Representative (5), 22. Annoy (4).
JULY SUDOKU
^^^ Solution in the AUGUST edition of Konect
Working in care is a highly skilled, professional role – and one that is becoming increasingly valued as more people recognise its importance. But what does being a care professional actually involve?
Whether in residential settings or supporting individuals at home, carers provide vital companionship. This is essential, with over 500,000 older adults saying they go five to six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone, and two in five saying that they rely on the TV for company.
Companionship can take many forms – having a chat over a cup of tea, enjoying a puzzle, or going on a day trip. Strong relationships built on trust and empathy are at the heart of care, helping clients feel supported, comfortable, and valued.
Beyond companionship, carers perform a wide range of skilled tasks. These can include personal care such as helping with dressing, bathing, and mobility, as well as administering medication and monitoring health needs. Carers also support clients with everyday activities like shopping, cooking, and light cleaning – ensuring a safe, well-rounded environment. Care work demands empathy, communication, adaptability, and problem-solving – all hallmarks of a professional career. It also offers real progression opportunities, with many carers moving into supervisory or management roles, or specialising in areas like dementia or palliative care.
No matter your background or experience, if you’re motivated to make a difference, care could be the career for you. It’s not just a job - it’s a respected profession that changes lives every day. For more information on opportunities with Home Instead, visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/ recruitment or call us on 01506 346046
The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian
The Right People
Gillian & Craig (Directors)
Despite the fact that many people regard estate agents as more or less the same, there are in fact numerous selection criteria on which to judge the good from the bad, and the exciting from the mildly indifferent.
For example, there are many services and innovations which can make a difference to how effectively your property is marketed, and how the subsequent sale is handled. These could be the use of drone videos, twilight photography, interactive floor plans, professional copywriting, bespoke social media campaigns, multi-media window displays, online client progress tracking, chain management, e-newsletter and property magazine to name but a few.
However, despite the advances in technology it is the people that make or break a service-led industry such as our own.
Selling your home is an intensely personal and emotive experience, and unless a sale is handled with sensitivity, courtesy, consideration and care, then such add-ons are wasted.
Excellence in recruitment should be as important as achieving high prices or securing fast moves for clients as every member of staff should be reflection of the core values of the company that they represent. Among the most valued of these qualities include transparent and honest communication delivered by qualified and experienced professionals who exhibit the highest levels of personal integrity.
Regular and meaningful communication is key, delivered by pleasant and personable people who are thoroughly on your side throughout your move. Of course, they may not always tell you what you want to hear – but then there are plenty of estate agents who will – it’s your call but we all know the saying that sincerity is worth more than flattery!
The Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.
Helen (Accounts)
Steven (Property Manager)
Kirsty (Property Manager)
Anne-Marie (Viewing Agent)
Lynda (Sales Support)
Kirsten (Sales Support)
Jenna (Marketing) Ava (Sales Support)
pulling more people into higher tax brackets as wages rise.
is the Principal of Calderwood Financial, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.
Most of our gardens have got a dull, dusty looking corner that we’d like to freshen up. Deep shade and dry soil are the hardest conditions in which to get plants to survive, but ‘partially shaded’ areas are relatively easy to manage. Partial shade is where the plants can see the sky if they look up but they don’t see any sunshine. If your partially shaded corner is also very dry you will need to water very regularly to get the plants established.
There are a few tips to achieving a lush bright look: Choose golden leaved deciduous (lose their leaves in winter) plants like Golden Marjoram, Golden Philadelphus, golden Japanese Maple and golden Spiraea.
Choose plants with evergreen leaves with white and green variegation to add some sparkle: Euonymus Emerald Gaiety, Brunnera Jack
Frost and Cotoneaster horizontalis variegata (a third of your plants should be evergreen).
Choose plants with white flowers to add a freshness like Viburnum tinus, Vinca minor Gertrude Jekyll and white foxgloves.
See our small demonstration garden, ‘Bright Shade’, when you visit us this summer to explore our summer event art in the garden
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
The above phrase is a little lesson in Gaelic, which roughly translates to “the bird with the sunlit eye” which is a beautifully descriptive phrase for the white tailed eagle. It’s one of two native species of eagles we have in Scotland.
The white tailed eagle is our biggest bird of prey, with a wingspan of up to 8ft. Their size gives them the nickname of “flying barn door” which is apparent when you see them soaring in the sky.
They were heavily persecuted and the last white tailed eagle was shot in 1918 before a reintroduction project began in 1975 on the Isle of Rum. They’re now mainly found in the Highlands and Islands but this image was taken on the Isle of Mull during a photography workshop I was co-leading earlier this month. Whilst I was away, the oldest wild white tailed eagle in the UK passed away at the grand age of 32. Frisa lived an incredible life on Mull, one which saw her raise a total of 25 chicks with her partner Skye. He has since taken up with another female, which is quite normal for birds of prey.
I took this shot from a boat, which is licensed to feed the birds a small amount of fish each day. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve done this trip over the years but seeing these birds power up the loch never gets old.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
Uniforms Matter –Help Kids Return to School with Confidence!
The School Bank West Lothian’s Summer Uniform Appeal is now LIVE!
Not every child returns to school in August with a new uniform — and this can have a deep impact on their confidence and self-esteem. At The School Bank West Lothian, we believe every child deserves to feel equal and included on their first day back. And you can help make that happen.
Over the past 9 years The School Bank West Lothian has supported over 10,000 young people from families facing financial hardshipproviding new uniforms, jackets, shoes and school bags. We collaborate with various community professionals, such as Schools, Charities, Social Services, Women’s Aid and
The Advice Shop who have referred almost 2,000 young people to us in the past year alone and demand continues to grow.
A new uniform can significantly reduce the risk of bullying, boost self-confident and school attendance as well as foster a sense of belonging. That’s why we’re launching an appeal for donations of new and gently used uniforms, ensuring every child in West Lothian feels valued and accepted at school.
SPONSOR-A-CHILD AND BUY A UNIFORM PACK – scan the QR code to register and we’ll send you the details of items required for a child who has been referred to us (typically 3-6 items). After purchasing the items drop them off and we’ll arrange for their delivery to the family.
FILL-A-BAG WITH VITAL SCHOOL SUPPLIES - pack a school bag or gym bag with any combination of the following items socks (black, grey or white - no knee high), tights (black for teenagers or black/grey for primary kids), white polo shirts or PE t-shirts (white or black), stationery (for teenagers such as note pads, post-its) and a water bottle. Drop your bag off at one of our numerous red drop-off points across West Lothian located in supermarkets and community venues. See our website for the full list.
MAKE-A-DONATION – SHORT ON TIME? - Donate to The School Bank West Lothian and we will buy items on your behalf: £18 buys a 5-pack of white shirts for a teenager, £50 covers shoes and jacket. Donate online at our website. Every pound makes a difference.
RECYCLE UNIFORMS – we enthusiastically welcome ‘good quality’ pre-loved uniforms that still have plenty of life left in them, including jackets (except items with school badges, blazers, or kilts-these should be recycled back to the specific school). Items can be dropped into one of our red drop-off points.
Together, we can help every child walk into school with pride.
For further details, reach out to us: admin@schoolbank-westlothian.org
Search: “TheSchoolBankWestLothian” schoolbank-westlothian.org
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTIVE LIVES - Cyrenians OPAL (Opportunities for Active Lives) works with people aged 60+ promoting active and fulfilling lives, creating and enriching communities which empower all to remain independent, living at home and socially connected. OPAL supports over 25 Community Groups throughout West Lothian for people to attend, engage with others and build new friendships. They also provide a time limited one-to-one befriending service built to improve confidence. To find out more please contact 01506 815 815 or opal@cyrenians.scot
FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - Run by Alzheimer Scotland. A relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. East Calder Parish Church Hall, EH53 0HF, Last Thursday of the month, 10.00am – 11.30am. E: westlothianservices@alzscot.org T: 01506 533108
GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding.org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.
MID CALDER COMMUNITY HUB
- Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm. Institute Hall (Community Centre)
Mid Calder. We have free teas and coffee along with cake and biscuits together with a warm welcome and friendly chat. Open to all. We look forward to seeing you soon. Any questions just pop in to see us.
MID CALDER WOMEN’S GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s Group would like to welcome
new members. We are a group aged 60+ who meet each Monday at the Institute Hall, Mid Calder, from 12.45pm until 3pm. Cost per week is £3/member. We organise various activities including, games, quizzes, bingo, well being exercises and regular talks from external speakers and entertainers. We also arrange coach trips to places of interest. Interested? Please contact Jackie on 01506 883205
SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means happiness, pleasure, ease or bliss. If any or all appeal to you come along to yoga sessions. Every Wednesday in Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. Now two sessions availablechoose either 6.00pm -7.15 pm or 7.15pm - 8.30pm. Contact me for more info or to book.
T: 07767 777044
E: ruth@sukha.co.uk
MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am - 11.30 am in The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We have a huge toy selection, offer arts and crafts and supply a small snack. Adults can have a hot drink and a chat whilst the children play happily. Session costs are £1 for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. Follow us on Facebook or email: midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com for further details
EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP - Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 year olds @ The Dave King Partnership Centre. Lots of fun activities while learning through play. Stories, songs, craft, small world, sand, water, outdoor fun & lots more. For more information call /text 07748053340 or pop in and see us.
SINGERGIE CHOIR - Singergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian. MONDAYS: 7.00-9.00pm, The Village, Oakbank Road, East Calder. FRIDAYS: 10.00am – 12noon, East Calder Bowling Club. No auditions, no fees, no stress. Good songs, easy harmonies, friendship and fun. And you get a cuppa thrown in too. Won’t cost you a penny. No need to book, just turn up and you’ll be made very welcome.
WEST LOTHIAN LITTER PICKERS - We’re a group of over 3000 West Lothian residents, so if you want to help clean up your community, like we do, come join the group on Facebook “West Lothian Litter Pickers(Act Local Think Global)”. We organise group litter picks or put you in touch with a buddy in your area to get you started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.
EAST CALDER NEEDLECRAFT CLUB - We are back….We meet every Thursday evening from 6.30pm - 9pm at the Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. All crafts are catered for whether you are a beginner or experienced in your favourite craft, we want to welcome you to our group. Why not give us a try? Call 01506 882699 for more information.
EAST CALDER OVER 50s CLUB
- Held in The Dave King Community Centre, Main Street, East Calder every Wednesday from 1.303.30pm (September-May) Please contact Gillian on 07415309886 for further details.
POTTER AROUND AT POTTER AROUND - Potter Around is a local pottery and ceramic painting studio based in Kirknewton. We offer taster sessions on the potter’s wheel for ages 5+. We also do clay imprints – a great memento to keep forever and we have a huge range of pre-made ceramics which are great for handprints, but also for people of all ages to paint. Our shop sells gorgeous handmade gifts including pottery and jewellery. Check our website for details: www.potteraround.co.uk
EAST CALDER SCOUT GROUP
- Providing fun and exciting scouting programmes for children in the local area, from age 6 upwards. We meet on a Monday or Tuesday, depending on the child’s age. Adults interested in becoming leaders will be made very welcome. We also hire the scout hall for one off occasions or for other groups to use, to benefit the local community. Find out more at our website: www. eastcalderscouts.uk
SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder.
SOLUTION
TO JUNE CROSSWORD
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
CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Would you like to join in with some fun at our friendly community choir? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30 pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of materials from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. We’d love to welcome singers from across West Lothian. To find out more or to join us please contact John Rankine at john.rankine@ lineone.net
ACROSS: 7. August, 8. Prince, 9. Stun, 10. Relation, 11. Present, 13. Oddly, 15. Start, 17. Playful, 20. Bungalow, 21. Hike, 22. Stalls, 23. Rodent.
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
SOLUTION TO JUNE CROSSWORD
DOWN: 1. Mutter, 2. Ruin, 3. Staring, 4. Apple, 5. Birthday, 6. School, 12. Struggle, 14. Glowers, 16. Taunts, 18. Unkind, 19. Close, 21. Hide.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX
CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Antenatal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.007.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston. T: 07810 824 195 E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk W: chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook
CARERS
INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer –yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centrecall to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk
WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS
ACROSS: 7. August, 8. Prince, 9. Stun, 10. Relation, 11. Present, 13. Oddly, 15. Start, 17. Playful, 20. Bungalow, 21. Hike, 22. Stalls, 23. Rodent.
DOWN: 1. Mutter, 2. Ruin, 3. Staring, 4. Apple, 5. Birthday, 6. School, 12. Struggle, 14. Glowers, 16. Taunts, 18. Unkind, 19. Close, 21. Hide.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PAGE 16
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.
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
Magazine Design:
NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £36. Follow our Facebook page, visit westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.
TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT
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.
E:office@carers-westlothian.com
W: www.carers-westlothian.com
Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
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
SAT 5TH JULY & SAT 2ND AUGUST
Friends of Almondell Country Park
Volunteering session - Volunteer group helping to conserve and maintain the 220 acre Almondell & Calderwood Country Park including the Oakbank extension. Meet at the Visitor Centre on the first Saturday of the month 10am -12pm, new volunteers always welcome. To find out more contact the Ranger Service on 01506 882254, or E: almondell&calderwood@westlothian.gov.uk
Facebook: 'Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park'. Please book a space (FREE) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/westlothian-council-ranger-service-60064115123
WED 9TH TO FRI 11TH JULY
Summer Art Camp at Reconnect Howden Park - Suitable for age 8-12yrs. Try out different arts techniques with a range of materials in our summer art camp. The theme of the week will be nature inspired art and will include a visit to the walled garden behind Howden House to explore the outdoor space and the local environment. Finish the week with several pieces of art work to take home. Time: 10am- 4pm. Ticket Price: £75 + booking fee. Book via www.howdenparkcentre. co.uk/events/summer-art-camp/
THU 24TH JULY
West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - Provides help and support for men recently diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. Next meeting, which includes guest speakers, is at 7.00pm on Thursday 24th July at Crofthead Community Centre, Livingston, EH54 6DG. ALL WELCOME!
SAT 26TH JULY
BeeWalk - Join Almond Valley Nature Action in Livingston Village Park at 11.00am to help spot, identify and record bumblebees. No experience or knowledge required, participants will be given identification guide and free wildflower seeds to help pollinators at home. More information on avnatureaction.wordpress.com. Meet by the picnic tables east side of LivingstonVillage Park.
SAT 9TH AUGUST & SUN 10TH AUGUST
Open Day and Train Rides - Public Open Day for all the family with train rides, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, picnic area. Train rides £5. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF.
After a busy 18 months the East Calder Health Centre Campaign Group are taking a break over the summer to hopefully enjoy some sunshine and will be back in the autumn to focus on the next steps for the campaign.
Our key wins over the last 18 months include:
• Public meeting in January 2024 to share the story so far
• Establishing our core campaign team
• Collected signatures for our petition to submit to Holyrood parliament
• Attended all 2024 gala days to collect petition signatures and raise awareness of the campaign
• Met with all MSPs across the parties to gain their support
• Attended a cross party meeting at Holyrood in December, with a follow up meeting in January to secure committed action
• Coordinated a visit of MSPs to the Health Centre
After our summer break, our next steps will be:
• Recruiting more volunteers- if you want to get involved please indicate your interest in the comments and we'll be in touch
• Holding a public meeting
• Further engagement with MSPs
• Taking affirmative action ahead of the Holyrood elections in 2026
Despite all these activities we remain frustrated by the lack of progress and accountability that NHS Lothian and the Scottish Government are demonstrating. We plan to return in the Autumn with direct action to highlight the needs of the community and we will be looking for your help, to join the group, attend public meetings and take appropriate action. There is an argument that says whatever we do nothing will change, while that may be the case, it is certain if we do nothing, nothing will.
If you are interested in getting in involved in the Campaign, please contact: michelle@enhancepeople.co.uk
