Konect Calders May 2026

MAY 2026

CHARITY:

COMMUNITY:

LIVING WELL:

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I

f you have attended an event or had lunch at Reconnect Howden Park, Livingston, in the past couple of years, you’ll recognise the chairs on the front cover of this issue of Konect! A colourful welcome to a venue which benefits from the clear vision of its operators, Reconnect Theatres; see the feature on pages 8-10.

Another and very different local charitable organisation, Seagull Trust Cruises, have just launched a new offering - audiodescribed canal cruises, so that people who are blind or partially sighted can enjoy the beauty, history and tranquillity of the Union Canal; see page 22 Full of information and services supporting our health, happiness, home, entertainment and more, all in the local area, I hope you enjoy Konect this month!

If you are involved in community groups or events that you would like help publicising in future issues, please drop me a line, we’re here to help.

Feature: Reconnect Theatres................ 8-10 Life Coaching: Tricks of the mind.............14 Living Well: Breast Screening...................15 Puzzles..........................................................16 Money Matters: Buy to let..........................17 Charity: Audio-Described Union Canal Cruises...............................................22 Garden Project: Statement planters.........28 Film Review: Detective Conan..................30 Recipe: Salmon & herb traybake..............32 Wine: Disco Scallops..................................33 What’s On: May Events..............................34 Clubs & Classes.................................... 36-37

COVER IMAGE: Heritage, Art & Reconnection - See our feature on pages 8-10.

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

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

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The much-loved Howden Park in Livingston came under threat of closure in 2023, so Reconnect put in a bid to take on this vital local arts venue. “Crucially, we wanted to ensure that these two local theatres would not end up in competition with each other, which is what had been happening,” said Pete. And so, since 2023, Reconnect have run the two theatres, benefitting from the synergies of having both venues.

Operating two landmark West Lothian venues, a busy programme of performing arts events, and an ecosystem of local cultural life – Reconnect Theatres is keeping the magic of theatre alive in West Lothian. I went behind the scenes to find out how they do it, and what we as the local community can do to support them.

“The vision has always been about promoting access to our cultural assets and historic landmarks in a living, vibrant way,” says Pete Sneddon, Founder and Artistic Director of Reconnect Theatres. The organisation operates both the listed art deco Regal Theatre in Bathgate and Howden Park in Livingston.

Sitting on the colourful sofas in the atrium at the Howden (“The first thing I did was bring in the colourful furniture in the Howden, because I wanted the place to feel fun and exciting to be in”) Pete explains how the two iconic venues have come together.

The journey started at the Regal in 2017.

Bathgate-resident Pete has always worked in performing arts as a technician doing lighting, sound, special effects (plus a stint with a death metal band). With his creative priorities diverging from those of the theatre trust he was working with in Glasgow at the time, he was looking to create something locally that matched his vision. Somewhere, he says, where local

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arts groups could have a permanent home, and where the local community could come together to experience the joy of performing arts, where the human aspect of theatre could be nurtured.

When the company which had been operating the Regal went into liquidation in 2017, West Lothian Council invited bids from organisations to take over the operation of the building. This was Pete’s opportunity; he set up Reconnect SCIO, and that year they put on a panto as a proof of concept.

“We had to overcome the fact that the theatre’s reputation had suffered some damage previously,” he says, “and it was a bit of a long road to bring it back.” The dedicated team included Pete’s brother Robert Sneddon, friend Lorna McCormack and Craig Forest, who had been a volunteer at the Regal up until it closed.

They pushed along for two years; then Covid hit.

“Covid was an opportunity for us to pause and look at the long term strategy. That’s when we concluded we needed another venue so that we could get economies of scale to achieve our vision.”

There are several priorities. Firstly, to bring people into these special and iconic local buildings, breathing life into them and preserving them whilst providing a nice place for the local community to have positive, fun experiences.

Secondly, to provide a stable home for local arts groups. Thirdly, to run a production company where local talent has an outlet, creating new material as well as bringing a fresh perspective to established theatre repertoire. Reconnect’s in-house theatre company currently consists of a creative team of four, with three young writers producing original plays.

The colourful atrium at Reconnect Howden Park

If you had told a teenaged Pete that he would be creating “art”, he would not have believed you for a minute. “But,” he explains, “I remember a trip to an exhibition, which included a sculpture involving melting ice. That piece had a profound effect on me and has endured in my memory, but I hadn’t classed it as art at the time.”

This experience is something he has drawn on to steer the direction of Reconnect Theatres.

“I want to create places where you come for entertainment and have a good experience. It needs to be accessible to everyone - theatre that doesn’t speak down to you, or make you feel stupid, but instead shows you your life in a way that changes your perspective of it.”

With the two venues making a natural and logical operational pairing buzzing

There is a something for everyone at each theatre Art Gallery

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with activity, Pete makes it look easy. But it hasn’t been an easy journey. He had to bid against stiff competition for each venue, and in fact didn’t even win the bid for the Regal to start with. It’s an extraordinary combination of management skills, vision and determination required to bring each venue back from the brink and to make them fly. “It needed to be done, so I did it,” Pete says simply.

A core team of staff is supported by freelancers as well as volunteers for front of house and other vital roles. Reconnect Theatres doesn’t receive any regular public funding. They apply for ad hoc grants for various projects such as their youth theatre initiatives, but all other costs have to be covered by trading activities.

A proportion comes from venue hire by other theatre companies who bring a huge range of entertainment; from the bar and restaurant; and from ticket sales for their own productions.

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The listed art deco Regal Theatre, Bathgate

There is a varied programme of events at each theatre, with something for everyone.

Visit www.reconnecttheatres.com, browse the What’s On and book yourself in for a little magic this month.

There is a bar at both venues, and a restaurant at Howden Park for pre-show meals.

The café at Howden Park is open Mon to Sat 10.00am – 4.00pm and for Sunday roast lunches. Pop in for tea/coffee/cakes or lunch and light bites and get delicious food which helps support Reconnect and their vision to keep these fun places alive for us all.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after meeting with Pete Sneddon, Creative Director, at Reconnet Howden Park. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines. Reconnect SCIO is a charity registered in Scotland Number.

SC048076.

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A varied programme of events

The restaurant at Reconnect Howden Park is available for pre-show meals CALDERS | 11

Join us for our next events Cairdean House care home, Colinton Summer Fete Saturday 27th June, 2pm - 4pm Murrayside care home, Corstorphine

Knit and natter Last Tuesday of the month, 10:30am - 12 noon Lauder Lodge care home, Portobello

Dementia Cafe First Monday of the month, 10am - 11am

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Trusted to care To attend please call 0131 516 7133 or visit careuk.com/scotland

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BIG Impact

To be included in Konect, please contact us. Our details are on page 3.

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LIFE COACHING

TRICKS of the Mind Sometimes when we feel out of control, it can be the easiest and most natural reaction to feel outside of ourselves and everything else.

The world can feel oddly far away, a conversation can be unfolding around us but somehow the words don’t register, colours are less vivid, and it can feel like life is happening at arms length. This is what dissociation can feel like, a form of escapism, often involuntary, that can disrupt the everyday and block out those difficult feelings.

Most of us have experienced dissociation without even realising it, those long train journeys when we zone out, that car journey when we can’t recall the last few miles or the way time slips through our fingers during a long and busy day.

That kind of dissociation is common and perfectly normal, it’s the mind’s way of moving

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into autopilot to conserve our energy. At one end of the spectrum there are heightened levels of dissociation which require specialist care but what we are dealing with here is the subtler and milder ways dissociation appears in day-to-day life.

Dissociation is a safety mechanism, the body’s natural response to emotional overload.

When panic, anxiety or stress becomes overwhelming, the mind creates distance, like a screen that stops us from feeling too much all at once, allowing us to feel absent from life while still being able to function. It’s the psyche’s way of getting us through whatever we need to by blurring the edge of reality and offering a path to inner peace.

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

LIVING WELL

Screening is the process of identifying people who appear healthy but may have an increased chance of developing a disease or condition.

Early identification means early support and treatment which can result in a better outcome.

You are five times more likely to survive breast cancer if it is found in the earliest stage.

The mobile breast screening units are coming to Bathgate and Livingston in the spring. During 2026 and into early 2027, eligible women from GP practices in West Lothian will be invited to attend for screening. All women, aged 50-70 years, are invited to breast screening every 3 years. Women over 71 years can self-refer for breast screening by contacting the Breast Screening Centre.

The appointment will last around 10 minutes.

During your appointment, mammograms (x-rays) are taken of each breast by a female mammographer. The images will be examined for any changes and the results sent to you in 3 weeks. Most women will require no further investigation and, if still eligible, are invited again in three years. If your results show that you need further tests, you will receive an appointment to attend the breast assessment clinic.

If you have any questions about screening, including how to change your appointment, contact the Breast Screening Centre on 0131 537 7400 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 4.00pm) or email loth.sesbreastscreening@nhs.scot Further information on breast screening and the other screening programmes is available at nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/screening 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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58mm Vertical [LEFT]

MAY CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the JUNE edition

ACROSS: 7. Starchy vegetable (6), 8. Keep hold of (6), 9. Dish (4), 10. Quickly (8), 11. Modified (7), 13. Shell (5), 15. Swivel round (5), 17. Type of sword (7), 20. Semi-darkness (8), 21. Serene (4), 23. Jail (6), 24. Idea (6).

MONEY MATTERS

Buy to let remains a popular investment, but the landscape is becoming more challenging.

While rents continue to rise across the UK, yields vary widely by region. Scotland’s comparatively lower property prices often mean stronger rental returns than in high value areas such as London, where rent growth has slowed.

However, for landlords, tax and regulation are shifting quickly. Scotland sets its own income tax bands, so the higher income tax rates being introduced for landlords in England, Wales and Northern Ireland do not currently apply here.

English landlords will soon face steeper taxes on rental income, while Scottish landlords continue under Scotland’s separate system.

Mortgage interest relief for individuals across the UK is still limited to a 20% tax credit, making company ownership attractive on both sides of the border.

Landlords also face rising costs and responsibilities. The LBTT surcharge on additional properties is now 8%, maintenance and repair costs have increased sharply, and new regulations give tenants stronger rights, which can lengthen notice periods and make it harder to deal with anti social behaviour.

Capital gains tax is also due on profits when selling a rental property, and the CGT allowance has been cut to just £3,000, meaning more of any gain is now taxable. Additionally, the sale of residential property incurs a higher tax rate than for other assets.

Despite these pressures, buy to let can still provide steady income. But for investors in West Lothian, it’s now essential to weigh the growing responsibilities and costs against the long term financial benefits before committing to or expanding a portfolio.

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.

DOWN: 1. Single handed (4), 2. Hit very hard (6), 3. Bragged (7), 4. Star sign (5), 5. Artist’s workroom (6), 6. Local languages (8), 12. Toward a lower place (8), 14. Fastenings (7), 16. Dash of liquid (6), 18. Find (6), 19. Extreme pain (5), 22. Stolen valuables (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 37

MAY SUDOKU

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ADD SOLUTION DETAILS CALDERS | 17

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NEW AUDIO-DESCRIBED UNION CANAL CRUISES Seagull Trust Cruises at Ratho is proud to announce the launch of a new series of Audio Described Canal Cruises, developed in partnership with RNIB Scotland (Royal National Institute of Blind People).

This initiative marks a significant step forward to ensuring that people who are blind or partially sighted can enjoy the beauty, history and tranquillity of the Union Canal.

The Audio Described Cruises offer a rich, immersive journey. Over 50 tracks are triggered automatically by GPS and provide vivid, real time narration that brings the canal environment to life describing wildlife, historic landmarks, boat movements and the unique sounds and sensations of travelling by water.

Stuart Rennie, Immediate Past Chair of Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch, said the organisation is committed to removing barriers to participation. “Our mission has always been to offer free, therapeutic cruises for people who need them most. Working with RNIB Scotland allows us to extend that mission even further.

These Audio Described Cruises open up the canal in a new way, ensuring that passengers are not restricted to their seats and are able to enjoy the open foredeck while still listening to the commentary on the wireless headsets.”

RNIB Scotland has supported the project with specialist guidance to ensure the narration meets the needs of blind and partially sighted passengers. Jane Coates, Senior Social Action Community Manager, RNIB Scotland, 22 | CALDERS

welcomed the collaboration. “Accessible leisure opportunities are vital for wellbeing and social inclusion. We’re delighted to work with Seagull Trust Cruises to create an experience that is not only enjoyable but genuinely empowering.”

The cruises will run on selected dates throughout the season from the Ratho base, with advance booking recommended. As with all Seagull Trust Cruises outings, the Audio Described Cruises are completely free of charge, supported by volunteers and charitable donations.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to accessibility, community and the belief that Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage should be open to all.

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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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you could choose a plant like a white Marguerite, an upright grass or perhaps a white Antirrhinum.

There are so many different summer flowers for pots to choose from at the garden centre, where might you start?

Of course you’ll have your favourite varieties that always perform for you, but can we tempt you to try something different in one of your pots this summer?

This dramatic tall terracotta pot would make a great statement on your patio, although you might need to tuck it out of the wind. We always start with choosing a pot, and what a choice of different shapes, sizes and colours will face you. Budget has to be considered as well, there is a huge range of different prices for different pockets. Use a good peat-free compost, either one for containers or multi-purpose with added John Innes.

Choose your tallest plant, a ‘thriller’. Here it is a dark leaved Dahlia, like Bishop of Landaff, but

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Surround it with some ‘fillers’. Here it is a terracotta coloured Calibrachoa, you’ll probably remember this as ‘Million Bells’. Surfinias or Brachycombe would also be good choices.

Finally, ‘spillers’ to tumble over the sides of the pot like this golden Trailing Fuchsia will complete your creation. Ivyleaf Geraniums, Lobelia, and trailing Begonias would also be good choices.

Then all you need to remember is to water and liquid feed regularly, and sit back and enjoy!

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

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

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Despite its bizarre 15 rating in the UK, Detective Conan: One-eyed Flashback is considered a family film in Japan.

The massive anime franchise is a mega hit across Asia, though that success has never quite translated to Western countries - a shame, because the 28th film in this long running series is one of its best. It follows young Conan Edogawa, who is actually a 17-year-old high school detective, Shinichi Kudo, shrunk to the size of a child after being forced to take a mysterious pill. In this adventure, the latest case hits close to home: a friend of Kogoro Mori has been killed, and the incident appears to be connected to an avalanche that occurred in Nagano ten months earlier.

Despite being the 28th instalment, you don’t need to be caught up on the previous films or the 1,000+ episodes of the TV show to enjoy this one. After all, the moment Conan jumps onto his jet powered skateboard to chase a criminal on a motorcycle, you’re fully invested.

The film should have you gripped by the time the signature opening theme kicks in, which is nothing short of magical to hear. The animation, while not as polished as anime like Demon Slayer or American productions such as Zootropolis 2, still makes the adventure thoroughly engaging. And yes, there’s no English dub, so subtitles are the only way to experience this gem. But One eyed Flashback remains a marvel of animation and is absolutely worth seeking out for some unique family entertainment.

Available to buy or rent from major digital platforms The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

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WINE TASTING

RECIPE & FOOD NOTES

Salmon and Herb Traybake Light, vibrant and bursting with flavour, this fantastic midweek one-pot meal can be on the table within 30 minutes. Asparagus is at its peak in Scotland this month, and the first local radishes are available.

Preparation time 15 mins | Cooking time 15 mins | Serves 2 Ingredients: • 50g butter, at room temperature

• 15g fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped • 250g asparagus, woody ends trimmed • 2 Scottish salmon fillets

• A handful of fresh radishes, trimmed and halved • 1 slice of lemon, cut in half

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 1 courgette • 100g fresh or frozen peas • 2 tbsp Opies Capers, drained.

• A few sprigs each of fresh dill and mint

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, fan 180°C, gas mark 6. Using a fork, mash the butter until soft, then add the parsley and season well. Roll the herby butter in greaseproof paper to create a small sausage shape

and freeze for 15 minutes (Alternatively, prepare ahead of time and keep in the fridge until solid).

2. Place the asparagus into a large roasting tray and top with the salmon fillets before scattering the radish around the sides. Top each fillet with a lemon slice.

3. Remove the herb butter from the freezer and cut into four rounds, then divide between the salmon. Season well, cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.

4. Using a peeler, slice the courgette into thin ribbons.

5. After 10 minutes in the oven, remove the tin and baste the salmon with the melted butter, then add the courgette ribbons and fresh peas to the tin and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes. If using frozen peas, cook these separately, drain and add to the tin prior to garnishing and serving.

6. Remove from the oven and scatter over the capers, fresh dill and mint and serve immediately.

This recipe is from www.bennettopie.com, where there is more recipe inspiration using the Opies range of products.

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I love scallops! However, more than 95% of scallops in the UK are gathered by dredging the seabed. This damages the marine habitat, isn’t sustainable and generates unwanted bycatch. On a recent trip to Cornwall, I was thrilled to discover ‘Disco Scallops’ a sustainable scallop option!

What is a ‘disco’ scallop? A) A scallop wearing 70’s flares? B) One that enjoys disco dancing? or C) A sustainable way of catching scallops? The answer of course is C! But what does a disco have to do with scallops and how on earth do I pair a disco scallop and wine?

The answer is quite fascinating and clever.

Scallops are attracted to LED lights! By adding LED ‘disco lights’ to lobster and crab pots, scallops actively swim inside the pots! This prevents damage to the seafloor, ensures high quality catch and supports smaller businesses working in the lobster and crab industry.

A disco scallop is excellent quality. I dined in a beautiful restaurant called Flora in Trelowarren, Cornwall. The scallops were exquisite! Locally sourced and carefully prepared. They were delicious. The texture was rich and buttery and the flavour was sweet. So, what to pair with disco scallops?

White wine with structure and elegance was required to support the flavour. A young, unoaked Chablis was the perfect choice.

The Chablis region was once an ancient seabed, predominantly a mix of clay, chalk and fossilised oyster shells. As vines push roots through the soil, mineral character is picked up and reflected in the character of the wine. A great disco partner!

Got a story?

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL! If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby..... get in touch via

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

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

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 2ND MAY Conservation Volunteering – Almondell & Calderwood - Join the Friends of Almondell and Calderwood at their monthly sessions to get involved with conservation and maintenance tasks in the Park! All tools will be provided. If you have some, please bring a pair of gloves, and bring any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! 10.00am to 12noon, meet at the Visitor Centre. The closest car park is North car park, approx. 8 minutes walk down the hill to the Visitor Centre. Please book a space (FREE) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements. (Friends group sessions are not always Ranger-led, may be led by volunteers).

FRIDAY 8TH MAY Toccata Ladies Choir Spring Concert - Uphall South Parish Church, 7.30pm.

Music, refreshments, tombola. Tickets £12/£6 cash at the door or via choir members. toccataladieschoir.co.uk SATURDAY 9TH MAY Toccata Ladies Choir Spring Concert - West Kirk of Calder, West Calder, 7.30pm. Music, refreshments, tombola. Tickets £12/£6 cash at the door or via choir members. toccataladieschoir.co.uk SUNDAY 10TH MAY Monthly Ramble and Chat - Nature walk with Almond Valley Nature Action, this month focusing on butterflies at Woodmuir, Breich. 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. See our blog for details: avnatureaction. wordpress.com/events

SUNDAY 17TH MAY Family Meet a Pony Day - At Ravelrig RDA. Fun for all the family. Meet our ponies, tombola, human show jumping, games, face painting, biscuit decorating, hot rolls, soup, refreshments & baking, Adopt a Pony. To be held in our new indoor arena, 12-3pm. Ravelrig RDA, 21 Ravelrig Gait, Balerno, EH14 7NH SUNDAY 17TH MAY The Carpenters Experience - Relive the timeless music of Karen and Richard Carpenter in this stunning live tribute show. The Carpenters Experience brings all the unforgettable hits to life, including Close to You, Rainy Days and Mondays, Top of the World, and many more. With beautiful vocals, outstanding musicianship, and a nostalgic journey through the golden era of soft pop, this is a night every music lover will cherish. Reconnect Howden Park, Livingston, EH54 6AE. 7.30pm, tickets £28/£26 plus BF. Information and booking via: www.reconnecttheatres.com WEDNESDAY 20TH MAY West Lothian History and Amenity Society - “Harvie’s Dyke: the people’s struggle for the liberty of the Banks of the Clyde,” a presentation by Prof. Christopher Whatley, emeritus professor of Scottish history, Dundee University. Mackinnon Hall, Linlithgow.

7.30pm, 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 info@ wlhaas.org.uk Website: www.wlhaas.org.uk SUNDAY 31ST MAY 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.

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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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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 SPORTS, HOBBIES, across West Lothian.

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

GROUPS & MORE...

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

Hall, 10.30am to 12noon.

More info: bit.ly/4h3VFIh MID CALDER WOMEN’S GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s WALKING FOOTBALL WEST Group would like to welcome new LOTHIAN - For everyone over members. We are a group aged 50, no matter your level of fitness.

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

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

East Calder FC - Thu: 11.00am, £1; Whitburn Community Centre SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means - Thu: 10.30am, FREE. happiness, pleasure, ease or Just turn up 15 mins before KO, or bliss. If any or all appeal to you contact: T: 07775 188218 come along to yoga sessions.

E: jim.barrie@hotmail.co.uk 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 MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER socially connected. OPAL supports GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday over 25 Community Groups and Friday 9am - 11.30 am in throughout West Lothian for people The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We to attend, engage with others and have a huge toy selection, offer build new friendships. They also arts and crafts and supply a small provide a time limited one-to-one snack. Adults can have a hot drink befriending service built to improve and a chat whilst the children play confidence. To find out more happily. Session costs are £1 please contact 01506 815 815 or for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. opal@cyrenians.scot Follow us on Facebook or email: FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - Run midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com

by Alzheimer Scotland. A relaxed for further details informal meeting place that gives EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP people living with dementia, their - Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 carers, people who may have year olds @ The Dave King concerns about their memory Partnership Centre. Lots of fun or just want to a chance to meet activities while learning through others in a similar situation. East play. Stories, songs, craft, small Calder Parish Church Hall, EH53 world, sand, water, outdoor fun & 0HF, Second Tuesday of the lots more. For more information month 1.30pm - 3.00pm. call /text 07748053340 or pop in E: westlothianservices@alzscot.org and see us.

T: 01506 533108 36 | CALDERS

SINGERGIE CHOIR - Singergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian.

MONDAYS: 7.00-9.00pm, The Village, Oakbank Road, East Calder.

FRIDAYS: 10.00am – 12noon, East Calder Bowling Club. No auditions, no fees, no stress. Good songs, easy harmonies, friendship and fun.

And you get a cuppa thrown in too.

Won’t cost you a penny. 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 - 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 SOLUTION TO APRIL SLIMMING WORLD - East CROSSWORD 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 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 yoga7.5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa ACROSS: Polish, 8. Parity, 9. Hurl, Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday.

10. Railways, 11. Knotted, 13. Giddy, Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and 15. Scare, 17.

Giggled, 20. Gasoline, Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm 21. Clap, 22. Breeze, 23. Cuddle.

Wednesday.

Iyengar yoga 6.00DOWN: 1. Column, 2. Till, 3. Churned, 7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm 4. Spoil, 5. Brawling, 6.Thursday.

Stayed, Iyengar yoga14.

9.45-11.00am 12. Turnover, Silence, 16. Chairs, Friday.

Carmondean, Livingston.

18. Enable, 19. Fixed, 21.

Cede.

T: 07810 824 195 E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk SOLUTION TO SUDOKU W: chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on ON PAGE XX 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 Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept E: office@carers-westlothian.com responsibility for loss or damage caused W: www.carers-westlothian.com by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' this publication. All material is accepted CHOIR - Would you like to join for publication on the understanding it is in with some fun at our friendly copyright free. No part of this publication community choir?without We meet may be reproduced prior consent of in Calder at 7.30 pm on a theMid publisher.

Wednesday. Our music consists Publisher: Lothian of Publications of a wide range materialsLtd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, from musicals, traditional, pop West Lothian EH54 6GU. favourites and lots more. We’d love to welcome Magazine Design: singers from across West Lothian. To find out Alan Stewart Design more or911858 to join us please contact T: 07729

John Rankine at john.rankine@ lineone.net GENERATION ARTS - We are a Creative Arts charity based in West Lothian. Our classes are as follows: Generation Dance (Thursdays) - 10.30am at Livingston United Parish Church, Carmondean.

Music&Singing Group (Thursdays) - 12.00pm at Bathgate Partnership Centre.

Generation Dance Bathgate, Seated (Fridays) - 10.30am at Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street.

All classes have a suggested donation of £4. Other arts projects available. Contact: E: generationarts.info@gmail.com T: 07521 358 239 MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Phone and email support also available.

Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £36.

Follow our Facebook page, visit westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

SOLUTION TO APRIL CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Polish, 8. Parity, 9. Hurl, 10. Railways, 11. Knotted, 13. Giddy, 15. Scare, 17. Giggled, 20. Gasoline, 21. Clap, 22. Breeze, 23. Cuddle.

DOWN: 1. Column, 2. Till, 3. Churned, 4. Spoil, 5. Brawling, 6. Stayed, 12. Turnover, 14. Silence, 16. Chairs, 18. Enable, 19. Fixed, 21. Cede.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON 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. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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