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LOCAL HISTORY:

LOCAL CHARITY:

WISHING ALL OUR READERS A VERY

It’s an optimistic time of year with the longer days and lighter nights finally arriving. We try to produce an optimistic magazine every month of the year, and feedback I’ve had during 17 years of publishing is that reading Konect is always a positive and relaxing experience. So I hope this edition is no exception to that.

The delightful cover photo highlights local charity Cycling Without Age Scotland, Linlithgow chapter. You will have seen their trishaws around town, a wonderful way of helping people with mobility challenges to get out and about. Maybe you or someone you know could use their services – or perhaps you’d like to volunteer to ride one (fitness goals achieved for 2026 in the coolest way!) – see the article on page 15.

I took advantage of a lovely meander across in South Queensferry last month to look into the history of the crossing, pre-bridges. The bridges are rightly very celebrated, but it was fascinating to look into the old landing places and how it was managed previously. I hope you enjoy the articleSouth Queensferry is always a lovely place for a walk, coffee, independent shops and ice-cream.

With full-to-bursting What’s On and Clubs & Classes pages, and all our usual columns, 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.

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

(Linlithgow)

find out for more

THE BUSINESS OF PIERS & PERILS

– BEFORE THERE WERE BRIDGES

In October 1809, a most melancholy accident occurred at the Newhalls Pier [now Hawes Pier, South Queensferry], owing to the very reprehensible practice of driving the coaches to the water’s edge along the piers, to receive passengers from the boats.

A young lady and a female servant were precipitated with the coach, into which they had just entered, into the water, and drowned before they could be extricated. The mother of the lady and a gentleman had nearly shared the same fate. Since that fatal day, which will not be speedily forgotten, the practice of driving on the pier has been abandoned.”

Since even before the days of Queen Margaret who, nearly 1000 years ago embarked at the rocky ledges to cross the Forth at its narrowest navigable point near Edinburgh, the best way of crossing this strip of water has been in constant evolution.

For centuries, the complicated business of

Account of South Queensferry, in 1796, describes watching people board and disembark at one of the landing places: “It is painful for a spectator to witness the difficulties passengers meet, the dangers to which they are exposed getting to and from that place, as they have to scramble a considerable way among rocks and large stones, rendered slippery by being covered with wet seaweed. To this landing place the boatmen are often obliged to carry, with much jeopardy to themselves, the great mail on the north road.”

The New Statistical Account of Queensferry tells us that in 1809: “There were no suitable

William Brassey Hole, The Landing of St Margaret at Queensferry A.D. 1068, ‘National Galleries of Scotland’

and to purchase land for boatmen’s houses and other infrastructure. Scottish civil engineer John Rennie was engaged for the works, and by around 1812 four new piers were constructed on the south – New Halls Pier (replacing the original one), a small pier at Port Neuk (behind Honey Pot Creative, almost no remains), a pier at Port Edgar and one at Long Craig. While Hawes Pier has been in constant use and has been resurfaced, the stonework on Long Craig Pier is original, albeit repaired in places. The South Queensferry

THE QUEEN’S FERRY

Queen Margaret was born in Hungary, the daughter of an 11th century English prince of the House of Wessex, who had been exiled there. When her father was named heir to the English throne in 1057, he took his family, including Margaret and her siblings Edgar and Cristina, back to England. Dying shortly after, he left Edgar as heir, who inherited the throne after the death of Harold at the Battle of Hastings. But he was never crowned – with the Normans victorious, the royal family fled north, not before Edgar had spent some time in the custody of William the Conqueror. They landed in Scotland and were welcomed by King Malcolm III. Within a year, Margaret was married to King Malcolm. A devout catholic, Margaret funded a free ferry for pilgrims to cross the Forth to St Andrew’s Cathedral, at the narrowest navigable part of the Forth to the west of Edinburgh; hence the establishment of the settlement at the Queen’s ferry. Malcolm and Margaret’s marriage was a long and happy one. She was extremely active and influential in Scottish religious life, and while Malcolm was not particularly religious himself he was happy for her to pursue her reforms.

Lighthouse, nestled between the RNLI shop and the cruise ticket office, was part of these works too and was in operation until the Hawes Pier Light was installed in 1877. Hawes Pier was used constantly by passenger and cargo ferries until the opening of the Forth Road Bridge in 1964. The pier is now used by primarily by the RNLI and commercial sight-seeing tours. Long Craig pier is used and maintained by the Scouts. Old stonework is still visible on the piers at Queensferry Harbour. Port Edgar was heavily used by the Royal Navy during both wars, and the associated development there makes it harder to trace the earlier infrastructure.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.

The things we CAN control

Worry is an exhausting process that can leave us depleted of energy and unable to focus on day to day activities while robbing us of the nourishing sleep that supports us.

We find ourselves indulging in repetitive thoughts about possible negative events in the future, we rehearse solutions to things we have no control of or we brood on past actions, ruminating on things we may have done or said that could have offended.

There are some real consequences to allowing ourselves to focus on things we can’t do anything about. These range from generalised anxiety disorder to extreme stress which doesn’t allow us to function.

However, there is a useful technique we can all use, based on a simple method of recognising what we can control and what we have little impact on. We do have control over ourselves

and how we act or react, however, we can’t stop the rain or decide how our loved ones live their lives. We may influence our families and can provide guidance and support but they will always make their own decisions. Finally we can have real concerns about political and global issues but, beyond how we use our vote, it’s unlikely that we will be able to affect what happens.

Recognising what we can and cannot control can be really beneficial and helps focus the mind but it isn’t a magic bullet. Worry comes and goes for all of us and the best thing any of us can do is to decide to let go of the things we can’t control and remember always that everything passes.

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

A welcome sight around Linlithgow in recent years have been the Trishaws of the local Cycling Without Age Scotland Linlithgow Chapter (CWAS Linlithgow), transporting senior citizens and people with limited mobility around the town giving them the opportunity to get out and enjoy the fresh and scenery. As the Chapter starts its fifth season in April our pioneering green-energy Trishaws will still offer regular trips from the local care homes, sheltered housing establishments. We also offer private booking for those who live at home or are visiting Linlithgow.

CWAS Linlithgow are able to provide free-ofcharge rides due to the on going continuous support of the local community.

We do this for anyone of any age dealing with mobility challenges or living in loneliness or isolation, especially the elderly. Also we support No Limits Sports Club on Saturday mornings and that enables us to take the children around the West Lothian Cycle Track (WLCT) slightly faster than our usual up-town speed.

Our routes include a guided tours of Burgh Beautiful flower beds, Linlithgow Rose Football Ground, the Union Canal from the Basin to the Aquaduct, The West Lothian Cycle Track, the Bo’ness Foreshore and The Forth Road Bridge.

This year we are expanding our Hector Woodhouse inspired cycles across the Forth Road Bridge to a full week. Also in the calender is a Commonwealth Games at the West Lothian Cycle Track with many of our local community groups participating. We are also involved in the Marches, planting flowers for Burgh Beautiful, help pull pints at the Round Table Beer Festival, Remembrance Day Parade, Platform 3 quiz night, Christmas Trees Festival, MacMillian Coffee Morning and the Advent Fayre.

This article was contributed by Cycling Without Age Scotland Linlithgow Chapter.

As we look forward to our new busy season we are always looking for volunteer cyclists (Pilots) and non-Pilots who walk beside the Trishaw for support. Volunteering usually involves a 2 hour stint starting at 10.00am or 2.00pm during the week, or on the weekend from 11.00am-1.00pm.

Full training and PVG checks are carried out before anyone can transport any passengers.

Further information on all our activities can be found on our Facebook page: @CyclingWithoutAgeScotlandLinlithgow 07835 938469 | cwaslinlithgow@gmail.com

Thank-you everyone who supports CWAS Linlithgow and please say hello as we travel around Linlithgow.

0131 235 1048

POTAGER IN A POT FOR THE PERFECT SALAD

Why not plant some salad crops in a trough or a pot this month?

Your potager pot would look very pretty sitting on the patio as well as offering you some lovely pickings to add to a salad, ready for eating in May.

Sarah Raven’s ‘Rule of Five’ for the perfect salads helps us to make scrumptious salads from luscious leaves. Choose one ingredient for each category:

1. Lettuces – providing a gentle background bulk and flavour. Try ‘Lollo Rosso’

2. Salad Leaves – adding strong flavour and a touch of colour. Try Rocket or mustards

3. Salad herbs – an extra hit of flavour. Basil, Parsley, Mint or Coriander

4. Salad Vegetables – slice thinly so they don’t sink to the bottom. Radishes, Peas, Cucumber or Fennel

5. Edible Flowers – Nasturtiums, Violas, Chive flowers or Marigolds for extra style

Use a large pot and fill with good compost like a Multipurpose with added John Innes. This has a bit of body to encourage strong plants. Add liquid fertiliser after a month and water very regularly.

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

Easter is a time for eggs, chocolate and lots of Easter bunnies! But if all the cute bunny decorations are making you think of getting a real-life rabbit, bear in mind they do need more particular care than many people realise.

Firstly hutches should be at least 1.5m in length and allow the rabbit to stand on its hind legs. Flooring should be solid, not wire, and they shouldn’t be kept in the hutch all day – they need access to a run or other secure space.

Never keep rabbits with guinea pigs, but do keep them with other rabbits – they are social creatures and get depressed on their own. A neutered male and neutered female are the best combination.

A rabbit refusing food is an emergency and must be seen by a vet asap. Rabbits must have constant access to food to keep their gut moving. Hay or grass should make up around 80% of their diet but never feed rabbits cuttings from a lawnmower – it can contain mould.

Rabbits are a prey species and so many don’t like being picked up and may run away, hide, nip or bite – your hands are not dissimilar to the claws of a predator bird swooping down.

They also live for up to 12 years and need annual vaccinations! If you’re still keen on being a bunny owner, have a look at our rabbit health care plan at www.westportvets.com/ friends-of-westport

Stuart McMorrow is senior vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, Unit 42 Mill Road Road Industrial Estate, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | westportvets.com

APRIL CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the MAY edition

ACROSS:

7. Buff up (6), 8. Equality (6), 9. Throw (4), 10. Used by trains (8), 11. Tangled (7), 13. Dizzy (5), 15. Frighten (5), 17. Laughed (7), 20. Fuel (8), 21. Applaud (4), 22. Light wind (6), 23. Hug (6).

DOWN:

1. Pillar (6), 2. Cash register (4), 3. Agitated (7), 4. Ruin (5), 5. Fighting (8), 6. Remained (6), 12. Revenue (8), 14. Without sound (7), 16. Seats (6), 18. Authorise (6), 19. Repaired (5), 21. Surrender (4).

APRIL SUDOKU

• All Building Works

• Renovations/Alterations

• Roughcasting

• Garage Conversions

• Building Repairs

• Stonework Repairs

info@pentlandconstruction.co.uk

Please call or WhatsApp:

Dean 07931 101 523

Michelle 07739 509 839 Office 01506 885419 @PentlandBrickworks

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Switch, 8. Aboard, 9. Used, 10. External, 11. Annoyed, 13. Pyres, 15. Litre, 17. Beneath, 20. Watching, 21. Tale, 23. School, 24. Needed. DOWN: 1. Ewes, 2. Studio, 3. Thieves, 4. Faith, 5. Hourly, 6. Broadest, 12. Nuisance, 14. Merging, 16. Reckon, 18. Esteem, 19. Silly, 22. Leek.

26TH MARCH TO 18TH APRIL

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

Easter Chicks Trail - Free, fun family trail! Pick up a trail map from the BID rack inside Tesco Linlithgow or from many local businesses in Linllithgow town centre. Find all the Easter Chicks with letters in local shop windows and write down the letter on the trail map to work out the secret message. Once you’ve found them all, head to Tesco Linlithgow Customer Service Desk to say the magic sentence and collect your FREE CREME EGG!

SATURDAY 4TH APRIL

Linlithgow Canal Centre opens for the season - Aqueduct cruises most weekends starting 4th April, Vintage Afternoon Tea Cruises once per month Falkirk Wheel Trips bookable for June, July and August - and new for 2026, Linlithgow to Winchburgh Farmer’s Market cruise (May and July). All information and booking at bookings.lucs.org.uk

SATURDAY 4TH APRIL

Linlithgow Artisan Market - Linlithgow’s monthly artisan market on the first Saturday of each month. Stalls on the High Street, the Vennel and also indoors in the EH49 Hub (old Library). Lots of unique and local stalls offering foods and drinks, meats, fish and game, fruit and veg, arts and crafts, dog treats, plants, and lots more. 10.00am – 3.00pm.

SATURDAY 11TH APRIL

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 24

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

The Silver Keys clarinet ensemble - Hosted by Linlithgow Art Guild. An entertaining selection of lighter classical and dance pieces played by three members of “The Silver Keys” clarinet ensemble. Low Port Centre, 8:30pm. Ticket information and booking via www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk

SUNDAY 12TH APRIL

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

Easter Ceilidh - Hosted by Bo’ness Dance. Join us alone or with friends and family for a fun ceilidh, and an egg hunt for the kids! Traditional and modern dances with live music, calling and teaching all the dances. Meet new people, change partners and hopefully laugh a lot. No experience, partner or kilt are needed! Bring comfy shoes and your sense of humour and have an hour of fun with us. Under 18s should be accompanied by a responsible adult. Bridgeness Miners Welfare, Harbour Road, Bo’ness, EH51 9LF. 1.30pm – 4.00pm. Tickets £5/£2 on the door, or in advance via Eventbrite

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL

West Lothian History and Amenity Society - “Scotland Beneath the surface,” a presentation by L. Bruce Keith, retired civil engineer, historian and writer. Room 11, Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 1TZ. 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. Email: info@wlhaas.org.uk Website: www.wlhaas.org.uk

SATURDAY 18TH APRIL

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

Spring Stroll - Join Historic Environment Scotland Rangers and discover some of the spring wildlife emerging in and around the beautiful setting of Linlithgow Loch. 1.00pm to 3.00pm, FREE, meet at Linlithgow Palace.

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

CYCLING WITHOUT AGE SCOTLAND LINLITHGOW

CHAPTER (CWAS LINLITHGOW)

- We offer Free Trishaw rides around the beautiful town of Linlithgow. We have two types of Trishaws the normal two seater and a wheelchair accessible one. These Trishaws allow people of all ages who might have limited mobility access to our many routes. Our friendly, qualified volunteers are happy to give guided tours around the town. Please contact us to arrange a tour.

T: 07835 938469

E: cwaslinlithgow@gmail.com

FB: Cyclingwithoutagescotlandlinlithgow

WEST LOTHIAN SAILING CLUB

- A group of friendly locals who sail on picturesque Linlithgow Loch on Sunday afternoons. We welcome beginners and experienced sailors to sail a range of club dinghies or your own boat, for fun, to develop skills, to race, all with safety equipment and support. Dinghy sailing is many things - social, good exercise, challenging, exciting, competitive, confidence building, scenic and relaxing. For more info: westlothiansailing.org.uk E:membership@westlothiansailing.org.uk

LINLITHGOW CYCLE KITCHEN

- Bring your bike along for free advice and support for repairs and maintenance from qualified mechanics from 1st Step. Fortnightly on Tuesday evenings, 5-7pm, at the Hub (6-7 The Vennel, Linlithgow). Drop in on the day, or book a free stand via Eventbrite (Linlithgow Community Development Trust). Visit movefogood.org or the LCDT social channels for more information and future dates. E: hello@trust-linlithgow. org.uk T: 01506 846991

LED BUGGY AND SLING WALKS -

Every Wednesday, meet at 10.30am at the Hub (Linlithgow Community Development Trust, 6-7 The Vennel, Linlithgow). Short walks around Linlithgow with a friendly qualified walk leader. Free. Drop in on the day. Buggies, prams, carriers, slings all welcome! Visit moveforgood.org for more details.

E: hello@trust-linlithgow.org.uk T: 01506 846991

BADMINTON GROUP (LINLITHGOW) - Any badminton players out there, looking for somewhere to play? Join us at Springfield Community Wing (next

to Springfield primary school) on Monday nights 7.30 to 9.30. We are a friendly group who are looking for some more players to join us (preferably not beginners). If you are interested please phone or message Rachel on 07956 410167

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

BLACKNESS SCOTTISH

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE - A friendly group who usually meet on the 1st Wednesday of the month (Sept to May) at 7pm, Blackness Community Hall (beside former Blackness Primary School). New members and visitors welcome. Come along to make new friends, hear speakers, see demonstrations and learn new craft skills or revisit old ones. Contact Maureen on 07546 552970 for more details.

SANGSCHULE – WEST LOTHIAN’S COMMUNITY

SINGING GROUP - For over 30 years, Sangschule has been bringing people together from West Lothian and around to enjoy folk songs, particularly Scottish. We’re not a traditional choir; no need to be a confident singer, or to be able to read music or remember song words – we teach tunes by ear and provide song sheets. Linlithgow Academy each Wednesday evening.

Facebook: ‘Sangschule West Lothian’ T: 07557 797139

E: sangschule@hotmail.com

A SCOTTISH SEAMSTRESS

BRINGING LIFE TOGETHER - New Community Group. Create time to look at, experience and contribute with a Guest Speaker in topics of your choice in nature, pen, thread, music, colour.. Each Wednesday 123pm at Low Port Centre, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ Room 3 ground floor. Bring your handiwork & ideas, lunch, to strengthen your own expression during our time together. Donation at the Door around £10 to cover speaker & room.

E: caroline@utterlybespoke.scot T: 07814 906355

BELLSBURN BOWLING CLUB - A welcoming and friendly lawn bowls club open for all ages and abilities.

Join us for social or competitive playing. For more information, see our Facebook page and website www.linlithgowsportsclub.com/bowlszone, or email linlithgow.sports.club. bowls@gmail.com

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.

THE CARING CAFE - Alzheimer Scotland’s Caring Cafe provides 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. Every third Wednesday of the month 10.30am – 12.00pm, Queen Margaret’s Hall, 53 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7JA.

LINLITHGOW & BO’NESS

PROBUS CLUB - We are a friendly and sociable club for retired and semi-retired men and women. We meet every second Wednesday morning from September to May in Linlithgow Rose Social Club. Tea/ coffee is available from 10.00am followed by a wide range of interesting talks. We also have occasional outings, meals, musical activities and fun games mornings. Visitors and potential new members are very welcome. Details and the current programme are available at www.bolinprobus.org

LINLITHGOW SPORTS CLUB - A friendly club with lawn bowls, squash and tennis on offer. For more info go to www.linlithgowsportsclub.com

LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS - Do you need to develop and improve your public speaking skills? We have been helping people in the Linlithgow area do that for almost 20 years. At our friendly, supportive and fun events, you will also improve your listening, thinking and leadership skills. Develop at your own pace and grow in confidence. When? Every second Tuesday. Where? Mel Gray Centre by Canal Basin. Dates and further info at www. linlithgowspeakers.org.uk. Guests are always welcome.

LINLITHGOW AND DISTRICT ART GROUP - Mixed group of amateur artists from beginners to more advanced members dabbling in mixed mediums. Professional tutors who develop our skills, outdoor painting trips, exhibition visits and gallery talks. Meet Tuesdays 7.00-9.00pm in the Low Port Centre. We are a

friendly bunch and welcome new members.

Contact: Brian:

E: brianmcdonagh1948@gmail.com T: 07909 577272 or, Margaret: E: magsbruce1@bluehyonder.co.uk T: 07906 021875

Facebook:‘Linlithgow&DistrictArtGroup’ WEST LOTHIAN DADS OF NEURO DIVERSE CHILDREN

- A support Group for Dads and Granddads of neuro diverse children, providing a safe space to talk about the additional challenges and benefits we face. We meet up at 7.00pm on the last Thursday of every month at Cross House, Linlithgow, EH49 7AL. You can Join the Whatsapp group by messaging Richard on 07788 583445.

WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS

CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Bowling Club (from midAugust to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk

SAMBALISTIC - A friendly bunch of people covering all abilities and ages, enjoying drumming/percussion together. Practice - Thursday evenings during term-time at Linlithgow Academy (7.30 - 9.30pm). All instruments supplied. No musical knowledge required. We offer performances throughout the year. You may have seen us at local galas/ fairs! Why not come along and have a go? Or if you wish to discuss an event, just turn up on Thursday or email sambalistic@live.com

LINLITHGOW FLORAL ART CLUB

- A friendly group who meet on third Wednesday of each month (Sept to May) in the Rose Social Club, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, 7:30 pm. Come along, bring a friend and sit back and enjoy an entertaining and colourful demonstration by a qualified demonstrator, followed by refreshments and a chat with your friends. All designs created in the demonstration are raffled. Contact Pamela Galloway: E: pjgalloway.18@gmail.com T: 07742 060877

WINCHBURGH ART CLUBWe meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall. Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk

WEST LOTHIAN EAGLES –

AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL

- Come along and try Australian Rules football! We are recruiting for the 2022 season for both our men’s and women’s teams. If you’re looking for a new sport, new friends and looking to get fitter then get in touch today! No experience is required and our team of coaches are on hand to teach you all there is to know! We train at Linlithgow Academy every Thursday 7.00pm-9.00pm, see you there! Find us on social media. W: linktr.ee/WestLothianEagles E: westlothianeagles@gmail.com

TABLE TENNIS - LINLITHGOW

Wednesdays - Longcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm9.45pm. Annual Membership £12.00 [Under 18’s £6.00] Play Table Tennis in a friendly atmosphere. The Club has “Active Assured” status (West Lothian Council Accreditation scheme) and is affiliated to Table Tennis Scotland. For those of a more competitive nature there is the opportunity to represent our team in the Stirlingshire & Midland Counties League. Contact Allan Scott T: 07485 001819 E: linlithgowlttg@gmail.com W: linlithgowtabletennis.co.uk

WHITBURN AND DISTRICT

PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see; W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274

LINLITHGOW STRING

ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. Any players with a minimum standard

Grade 5 or equivalent (no audition) from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us via email: linlithgowstringorchestra@ gmail.com through our website: linlithgowstringorchestra.co.uk or search for us 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

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 KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.

Vladimir Putin is a ruthless leader of the modern era, raising the iron curtain that had been lowered in the early ’90s.

The Wizard of the Kremlin may state that it is a fictional account of actual events, but it feels more like a disclaimer. After all, anyone who knows the truth are either dead or will never talk.

Following Vadim Baranov, a young artist in the 1990s, we watch as he rises through the ranks of the entertainment world until he eventually becomes Putin’s right-hand man. The film’s biggest weakness is its length; despite clocking in at just shy of two hours and twenty minutes, it contains too many peaks and troughs to justify its runtime. Despite this, the film can be utterly enthralling. For Baranov especially, “truth” becomes whatever they choose to present to the public, not the facts, leading to a reality shaped entirely by their will. It is a haunting reflection of what we are witnessing with our own eyes today. Paul Dano is excellent as Vadim Baranov, and Jude Law is great as Vladimir Putin, even if they make little attempt at a Russian accent (which may be a blessing).

The Wizard of the Kremlin isn’t a perfect film, far from it. However, it offers an interesting look at the rise of one of modern history’s most influential leaders, and how he used every ounce of power at his disposal to shape Russia in his own image.

In Cinemas from 17th April 2026

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.

Cornish pasties and clotted cream are treats to look forward to when visiting Cornwall. Added to that list is something still delightfully under the radar: Cornish wine.

Production is small, and with strong local demand, very little makes its way north to Scotland. Curious to discover Cornish wine, I travelled ten hours by train to visit Camel Valley Vineyard. Nestled in a sun-trapped valley near the River Camel, the vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate that feels almost continental. Long daylight hours and gentle ripening conditions allow grapes to develop bright acidity and delicate aromatics, exactly the right combination for awardwinning sparkling wine!

Founded by Bob and Annie Lindo in 1989, Camel Valley has quietly become one of England’s most respected producers. Their sparkling wines, made in the traditional method, have won international awards and even been served at royal occasions. Alongside these elegant sparklers, they produce fresh, fruit-driven still wines and vibrant rosés that reflect the purity of the landscape.

What’s striking is the pride locals take in their produce! It’s no wonder very little makes its way north! Open any menu across Cornwall and you’ll find Cornish wines listed alongside regional gins and tonics, each celebrating a strong sense of place. Restaurants champion nearby vineyards, creating a true “drink local” culture.

For visitors, it’s a delicious discovery. For those of us further north, it’s a reminder that some of Britain’s most exciting wines are being crafted quietly, just a train journey away.

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