Konect Linlithgow August 2025

WINE:

FEATURE: LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

You will have noticed the Commonwealth War Graves signs dotted around West Lothian at various cemeteries – all over the country in fact - but how much do you know about them? With 2025 marking the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Days, a local resident who works for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission has contributed an informative feature about the sites and the work of the Commission, see pages 8-9.

We have a new column starting this month –wine notes from Edinburgh sommelier Joanne Frette of Swirl Sip Socialise. Joanne has been writing about wine for us for several years in our Edinburgh Konect magazines, so I am delighted to bring her insights and accessible presentation to Linlithgow area readers too!

As schools go back later in August, remember there are also adult learning opportunities locally and it’s never too late to pick up new skills, as well as taking up new hobbies and interests as the routine gets back to normal. See the Clubs & Classes pages for ideas locally, there is something for everyone!

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

Join us for a guided tour of our wonderful school and grounds with an opportunity to meet the students, teachers and Headteacher and discover what Clifton Hall can o er your child.

Clifton Hall treats each pupil as an individual and we seek to personalise their education so that they can benefit from being given the opportunity to shine. With this structure, we can discover talents, care and nurture and help to assist in the development of character and self-belief. Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LQ 0131 333 1359 • office@cliftonhall.org.uk www.cliftonhall.com

Research shows Kumon students are over a year ahead of the national average, and over six months ahead of their peers in maths at the end of primary school.* Book your free maths and English assessment today and help your child beat learning loss, catch up and get ahead with Kumon.

*Offer valid until 31st August 2025

what do you know about them?

The Commonwealth War Graves signs are a familiar sight; from large CWGC war cemeteries and memorials to single headstones in remote churchyards, you’re never too far away from one of our sites.

But how much do you know about the war graves, and who maintains them? Did you know you can book informative tours, or arrange a talk for your group? With 2025 marking the 80th anniversary of both VE Day and VJ Day, it’s time to learn more about these sites in our communities.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) was founded by Sir Fabian Ware in 1917, and is responsible for commemorating all Commonwealth war dead from both World Wars individually and equally.

We care for war graves at 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries around the world, commemorating 1.7 million individuals.

Our global estate is run by a multinational and multilingual workforce numbering approximately 1,300, the vast majority of whom are gardeners and stone masons.

Since our establishment by Royal Charter we have constructed 2,500 war cemeteries and plots, erected headstones over graves and where the remains are missing, inscribed the names of the dead on permanent memorials. More than a million

burials are now commemorated at military and civil sites around the world.

Despite being set up over 100 years ago our work is still relevant today as we amend records, search for missing names, build new memorials and where historical inequalities in commemoration are found, ensuring all those who fell are equally remembered. Additionally, war dead are still being identified and when this happens the individual is buried with full military honours. Their name is then removed from the memorial to the missing where they had previously been remembered as they now have their own grave and headstone.

We also have a duty to ensure our sites remain well visited so remembrance of the war dead continues, creating information centres, volunteering opportunities and education programmes designed to engage and educate generations to come.

In Scotland alone we commemorate over 21,000 casualties. Amongst these is the youngest casualty of WWII, 14 year old Reginald Earnshaw who is here in Edinburgh. His grave is in Comely Bank cemetery (you can read his story on our website). In addition to those from the

UK we care for the graves of numerous Americans, Canadians, Norwegians, Poles and Czechs plus a further 15 other nationalities. In short, you’re never far from the grave of a Commonwealth casualty.

There are 12 cemeteries in West Lothian that have CWGC grave/commemorations, including locally in Boghead Cemetery (containing 9), Fauldhouse Cemetery (15). Linlithgow (32), Ecclesmachan (27), Uphall (30), Whitburn (17), Livingston Adambrae (1), Livingson Churchyard Extension (9), Kirknewton Parish Church (3), Winchburgh (7).

Locating cemeteries anywhere in the world can be done easily with our app: ‘Commonwealth War Graves’.

We also have the For Evermore app, an excellent resource where individual’s stories are told in more detail. It’s a wonderful tool not just for research, you can upload your own CWGC casualties’ stories. www.cwgc.org/stories/home

We are fortunate to have volunteers in a

host of roles including ‘Eyes On Hands On’ (these are the people who after training, monitor and clean some of the War Graves), researchers, tour guides and speakers.

JOIN A TOUR OR REQUEST A TALK

- You can arrange to join a free War Graves Tour to find out more about the work of the CWGC. The list of available tours is on the website at www.cwgc.org/visitus/events-tours-and-talks, and is updated regularly when tours are added.

You can also request a free talk about the Commission for your group. There are four talks to choose from: an introduction to our work; CWGC gardening; Architecture; Archives. So, if you know of a group who may be interested in having a talk please do get in touch.

If you’re interested in knowing more please go to our website www.cwgc.org.uk

This article was contributed by Elaine Edwards. Elaine is the Public Engagement Co-ordinator for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) Scotland, East & North. If you would like to know more, drop Elaine an email at elaine.edwards@cwgc.org

It can’t be denied that some individuals are at their very best and most productive when they are in the open air. For them, talking about important or troubling issues, setting goals and making plans for the future may be easier when walking and talking.

This popular therapy is based on engaging in conversation with a therapist while walking in a natural setting such as a park or a shore path and it combines the benefits of physical activity and being out in nature with the therapeutic process of talking and processing emotions. This can be particularly positive for those of us who struggle to talk about our feelings especially when we are communicating face to face and somehow, the vastness of the outdoors can help us all to put things in perspective. Another key benefit is that physical activity can increase those endorphins

which has the potential to improve mood and reduce feelings of anxiety or stress.

This therapy adapts to accommodate individual needs with options to adjust pace and speed as necessary. Even our unpredictable weather needn’t present a barrier to enjoying walking and talking outdoors. We can walk with brolly and raincoat or relocate to a sheltered venue. Here in Linlithgow, where Orrganise is based, people can enjoy the beautiful canal and lochside walks while walking and talking. While walking and talking in nature may not be for everyone, for those who are attracted by the idea of being outdoors, this way of working provides a unique and potentially powerful way to address mental health concerns.

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

SHOWER SAFELY WITH A BMAS BATHROOM

WALK-IN SHOWER ROOMS AND BATHROOMS, DESIGNED AND INSTALLED

Visit our Showroom at Dobbies Lasswade

Call for your FREE home visit 0131 241 2447 bathingmobility.co.uk

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults – but many are avoidable with simple changes around the home.

Start by clearing walkways. Clutter, loose rugs, or trailing cables can become hidden hazards. Ensure hallways, stairs, and doorways are free of obstacles to create a clear, safe path through the home.

Proper lighting is also key. Dimly lit staircases or bathrooms increase the risk of tripping. Replace weak bulbs and consider installing nightlights in bedrooms, corridors, and bathrooms to make night-time movement safer.

Small home adjustments can go a long way:

• Install grab rails in bathrooms and by stairs for extra support.

• Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen to prevent slipping on wet floors.

• Organise essential items at waist height to avoid bending or overreaching.

• Wear sturdy, supportive shoes – avoid backless slippers or socks.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle supports balance and coordination. Gentle exercises like walking or stretching strengthen muscles and improve stability. Regular eye tests are also vital, as clear vision may help to avoid missteps.

If you or a loved one may be at risk of falling, consider requesting a falls assessment through your GP. This can help identify risks and guide support options.

You might also consider a CareLine alarm system for emergency help – contact the Home Safety Service on 01506 284440 or visit westlothianhscp.org.uk/home-safety-service for more information.

A few simple precautions today can help keep you safe, steady, and independent.

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

AUGUST

CROSSWORD

crossword solution will be published in the SEPTEMBER edition of Konect

ACROSS: 7. Improve (6), 8. Picked (6), 9. Assists (4), 10. Obstinate (8), 11. Happier (7), 13. Joint (5), 15. Higher than (5), 17. Searched (7), 20. Keeps you dry (8), 21. Musical instrument (4), 22. Alcove (6), 23. Star sign (6). DOWN: 1. Long for (6), 2. Enemies (4), 3 Broken (7), 4. Clean thoroughly (5), 5. Merges (8), 6. Fuel (6), 12. Went backward (8), 14. Organise (7), 16. Abundant (6), 18. Consuming (6), 19. Nearby (5) 21. Light (4).

SMALL AD

BIG Impact

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

I love the smell of the garden after a summer rainstorm. Wet gravel and earth, saturated plants and refreshed grass. Even the tarmac and felt roofs—baking hot just moments before—seem to sigh as the rain hits. When the rain stops and the steam start to rise, the air fills with a beautiful scent. It’s the smell of wet soil and wet flagstones, it’s mineral, flinty, leafy and damp… it’s petrichor.

Petrichor comes from the Ancient Greek words petro (stone) and *ichor* (the golden fluid said to run in the veins of the gods). It’s the aroma released when rain hits dry ground.

In wine, I look for this same sense of minerality, flint, ozone, wet stone. It’s a tasting note I love spotting on a label, and it appears in both reds and whites.

My favourite white wines with this character include Austrian Riesling and Sancerre. Both are grown in cooler climates, often on stony soils that lend a savoury, rain-on-rock quality. I remember the first time I tasted Sancerre, the aroma triggered a memory of walking through a herb garden after a summer storm.

Petrichor isn’t just for whites. Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley can smell like a forest floor after rainfall with leafy, earthy and mineral notes. Look for wine from Chinon or Saumur-Champigny. Even lighter reds like Nerello Mascalese from Mount Etna can offer that same lifted, volcanic freshness.

Petrichor is the silver lining after the rain!

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

ART IN THE GARDEN

Summertime… and its garden visiting time! During July and August we run an event called art in the garden here at New Hopetoun Gardens.

We install original works of art in our gardens to entertain and inspire you and we run a people’s vote for your favourite piece of art with Gift Voucher prizes to be won.

A piece of art in your garden lends all year round interest and will create a focal point for your eyes in your garden. A stone birdbath not only lends something to catch your eye but also the antics of visiting feathered friends will delight you, so long as you can secretly watch them from inside.

We are very lucky as we have garden all round our house and we have made sure that we have great views into the garden from all

‘Colour and Light Standing’ by Lizzy Paton, 2025

our windows. Most of them have at least one piece of art in view so all year round there is something to see. We are reminded of family, friends and places each time we look at a piece as well as its beauty. We can’t imagine a garden without some art in it, what have you got displayed in your garden?

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

This is a perfect light summer pudding. The pistachio brittle stores well, so feel free to make a lot of it. Ring the changes and use plums in place of apricots.

Serves 4 | Prep 25 minutes

Cooking time 30-35 minutes, plus cooling

Ingredients:

• 6 apricots (or plums), stoned and quartered

• Juice of ½ orange

• 1 heaped tbsp honey

For the pistachio brittle

• 100g caster sugar

• 2 tbsp water

• 80g unsalted shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

For the cream

• 200ml double cream of choice

• ½ tsp ground cardamom

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C, fan 170°C, Gas 5 and line two baking trays with baking parchment.

2. Start by making the brittle. Put the sugar and water in a small saucepan over a low heat.

Bring to the boil, swirling the pan until the sugar has dissolved. Continue cooking the sugar for about 10 minutes – it will change colour from light golden to deep amber. Watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn – it’s a fine line! Once it reaches deep amber, remove from the heat and add the pistachios, stirring to coat the nuts, then pour onto one of the lined baking trays while still malleable. Set aside to cool – it will need about 15-20 minutes to set fully before you can crack it into pieces.

3. Next, lay the apricot quarters on the other lined baking tray. Pour over the orange juice and honey, and mix well. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20 minutes until tender. Let them cool for 15 minutes before serving.

4. While the apricots are in the oven, whisk together the cream and cardamom to a thick dropping consistency.

5. Once the apricots are cooked, spoon a couple of dollops of cream onto a small plate, create a well in the middle using the back of a spoon, and then spoon a few apricots in followed by a drizzle of their juices. Top with the brittle and serve.

Recipe extracted from ‘Cooking Fast and Slow’ by Natalia Rudin, published by Penguin Life, price £25, with photography by Issy Croker.

I’ve lost

count of how many times

I’ve

been to the Isle of May

but I think

my visit in June this year was my favourite for weather conditions. It was pretty windy and watching the puffins was a sheer joy. They looked like they were loving every second of it as they hovered in the wind, trying to back themselves in to where they wanted to land.

Some puffins nailed the landing straight away. Others hovered for ages, misjudged it, or got pushed off course entirely. A few overshot their burrows and had to make an undignified U-turn. One came in sideways and almost collided with a razorbill, who wasn’t impressed.

I’d made my way to one of my favourite spots on the island, Bishops Cove and stayed put for a while, just watching the constant activity. The sound of wings as the birds whoosh past you, the calls of the kittiwakes nesting on the cliffs, and the occasional squabble. Depending how far they’ve had to go for fish, puffins can land pretty close before heading back to the burrow. What made it funnier was the sand eels they were holding in their beaks were flapping about — as if they had minds of their own and were trying to escape mid-air.

There’s always a lot going on if you stop and watch for a while. I didn’t take as many photos as usual, but it didn’t matter. Sometimes it’s just good to observe.

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.

It’s an issue we hear more about at the practice than probably any other – off the leash dogs. Last year in this column we took a look at the law surrounding keeping your dog on a lead, now I want to focus on polite and considerate behaviour.

Firstly, if you want to take your dog off the lead, you must have good recall. If you can’t call your dog back even when there are distractions, then don’t let it off until you’ve done more training.

If your dog is off lead you must be able to prevent it from running up to on-lead dogs, children or other humans. Put your dog on a lead as you go past if you aren’t certain they won’t approach them – keeping treats in your hand as well to keep their attention as you pass can help.

There may be several reasons why on-lead dogs do not want to be approached – they could be sick, old, reactive, frightened –and let’s face it, humans could be all those things too.

Even if your dog is on a lead, be careful approaching another dog on a lead – they are meeting head-on, and all the reasons why you shouldn’t approach an on-lead dog still apply. Remember a dog wearing anything yellow – lead, jacket etc – is signalling that they should not be approached – see The Yellow Dog Project for more details: yellowdoguk.co.uk

Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com

AUGUST SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 12. See page 30 for solutions.

SATURDAY 2ND AUGUST AND SATURDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER

Linlithgow Artisan MarketLinlithgow’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. 10am – 4pm.

WEDNESDAY 6TH AUGUST

4 hands at the piano - Duos and solos by RCS students Sophie Robertson and Chloe Moodie. Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. Sophie and Chloe will play a selection from Rachmaninoff’s arrangement for 4 hands of Tchaikovsky’s “Sleeping Beauty” Suite, plus individual solos to be confirmed. St Michael’s Parish Church, 2pm (doors open 1:30pm) Tickets free, donations invited at the door. Details are available at www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk

FRIDAY 8TH AUGUST

Bo’ness Fair Fundraiser:

Cheezingo - Country Hoedown! - Howdy, y’all! Dust off your boots, grab your cowboy hats, and get ready for a night of boot-stompin’, hand-clappin’ good old-fashioned country fun with some Bingo thrown in! Come on down to Bo’ness Fair Day fundraising ‘Cheezingo’ Country Hoedown where we’ve got music that’ll have you two-steppin’ in no time, a watering hole and plenty of games and surprises to keep the wagons rollin’! Gather round the fire at Bo’ness Town Hall, Glebe Park, Stewart Avenue, Bo’ness, EH51 9NJ Doors open at 7pm with Bingo kicking off at 8pm. Tickets £15pp plus £1.13 booking fee tikt.link/bfdcheezingo

SUNDAY 9TH AND SUNDAY 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

SUNDAY 10TH AUGUST

Scottish Greyhound Sanctuary

Summer Show - Join us for the Scottish Greyhound Sanctuary Summer Show, at Livingston Cricket Club, for a fun filled day, including:

• a guided walk through the beautiful Murieston Trail

• a fun dog show with lots of prizes

• yummy treats from our food vendors

• craft stalls

• massage and reiki for both dogs and humans!

THE FUN BEGINS AT 10AM AND ENTRANCE IS FREE!

SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST

Cello and piano classics - Emily Brockett and Karolina Kubálkova. Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. Emily and Karolina play Beethoven cello sonata No.3, Bach cello suite 2, Rachmaninoff Prelude for solo piano and Debussy cello sonata. St Michael’s Parish Church, 2pm (doors open 1:30pm) Tickets free, donations invited at the door. Details are available at www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk

SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST

Friends of Beecraigs

Volunteering session - We will be conducting a freshwater invertebrate

survey to gather baseline data on the condition the freshwater habitat. All equipment and demonstrations will be provided by the Ranger, who will be leading the pond dip from 11am until 1pm, drop in (not into the water!) for as long as you like. Families are welcome, under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult. Wellies are advised as the edges of the pond can become quite wet. The meeting place will be at Balvormie Pond in the centre of Beecraigs Country Park, which is 15 minutes walk from 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.

FRIDAY 29TH AUGUST

- SATURDAY 30TH AUGUST

On Location at Blackness Castle - Blackness Castle has served as an artillery fortress, royal castle, prison and armaments depot. But in more recent years it has been the star of films and TV shows, from Mary Queen of Scots (2018) and Outlaw King (2018) to Outlander. Join us as the castle to learn about the movie magic that brings history to life. Our crew will be on hand to help you practice your stunt work or try on some costumes - if you’re lucky, maybe the director will pick you out to be the star! 12pm -4pm, Tickets from £8, booking and more info at www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/ whats-on

FRIDAYS IN AUGUST

Kids Go Free Fridays – Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway - We are running our KIDS GO FREE on August 1, 15, 22, 29 (not 8th August)

Trains depart Bo’ness Railway Station at 10:30, 12:30 and 14:30. Adults £17, Children (2-15) £10, Infants (0-2) free. One child aged 2-15 can travel free with every

fare paying adult, i.e., if there are two adults, travelling, two children can travel free, children otherwise travel at standard fares. Information, booking and availability at www.bkrailway.co.uk Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway season tickets and SRPS member’s tickets can be used for travel on these trains but not in conjunction with the kids go free offer

BO’NESS AND CARRIDEN BAND –BANDHALL ROOF APPEAL

We Need Your Help! Our band hall is more than just a building – it’s the heart of Bo’ness & Carriden Band. It’s where our musicians come together twice a week to rehearse, preparing for concerts and contests, and where generations have learned, played, and shared their love of music.

Sadly, years of wear and tear have taken their toll on the roof, leading to leaks and structural issues. Without immediate action, this vital space for music and culture in our community is at risk.

Works have already begun to replace the roof, but right now this is being funded from the money we use to run the band day-today. This fund is depleting very quickly, putting our future sustainability at risk. Replacing the roof will ensure our hall remains a safe, welcoming, and functional environment for rehearsals, concerts, and community events. The estimated cost for the roof replacement is £15,000, and we need your help to make this project a reality.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will bring us closer to our goal. If you can support us please visit our facebook page for more information and to find the JustGiving link: www.facebook.com/Carridenband

Thank you for helping keep music alive in Bo’ness for generations to come.

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FORPROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.

EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

The West Lothian History and Amenity Society starts its 2025-26 season (its 60th year!) with a talk on a local topic: Bo’ness whaling in the age of sail, to be given by Bo’ness local historian, Christine Simm, and to be held in Ecclesmachan Village Hall.

Why not come along and try us – we’re a friendly society, and you’d get the talk for the price of a donation. As extra incentive, it’s a good evening to try us out as the first meeting of the session is followed by tea, coffee and home baking!

The Society meets on the third Wednesday evening of the month at 7.30pm, and offers seven talks in the course of the year – see below for the syllabus. We’re always glad to see new faces and if you like what you see, you can join the society for £20, which works out at

Programme 2025-26

• 17th Sept 2025

• 15th Oct 2025

• 19th Nov 2025

• 18th Feb 2026

• 18th Mar 2025

• 15th Apr 2026

• 20th May 2026

less than £3 per evening. Interesting talks on a wide variety of topics – last year we covered from prehistoric brochs to Cold War Scotland - by experts in their field, plus the occasional organised visit to a place of interest – all this and cakes too!

We meet at a number of ventures throughout West Lothian – see the details below. You can join at any meeting, or by emailing us at wlhaas@hotmail.com

Third Wednesday of month, 7.30pm

Bo’ness whaling in the age of sail

Christine Simm, retired librarian & local historian, Bo’ness Ecclesmachan Village Hall

Edinburgh New Town

Tom Harrison, retired teacher & local historian

Bathgate Partnership Centre

Scottish migrations to Ulster in the 17th century

Dr John Young, Strathclyde University

Linlithgow, Mackinnon Hall

James VI and I and the legacy of witchcraft panics Dr Steven Veerapen, Strathclyde University

Ecclesmachan Village Hall

Mary Queen of Scots

Jade Scott, author of ‘Captive Queen: the decrypted history of Mary Queen of Scots’ - Mid Calder, Glenalmond Hall

Scotland beneath the surface

L. Bruce Keith, retired civil engineer, historian and writer

Bathgate Partnership Centre

Harvie’s Dyke: the people’s struggle for the liberty of the Banks of the Clyde

Prof. Christopher Whatley, emeritus professor of Scottish history, Dundee University - Linlithgow, Mackinnon Hall

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

SANDSCHULE – 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’ W: angelfire.com/folk/sangschule T: 07557 797139 E: sangschule@hotmail.com

A SCOTTISH SEAMSTRESS BRINGING LIFE TOGETHERNew 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 12-3pm 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: utterlybespoke@icloud.com 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 & District Art Group’

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 mid-August 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 for details, 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 8.00pm - 9.45pm. 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 semiretired 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/West-Lothianu3a-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

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: E: generationarts.info@gmail.com T: 07521 358 239

MACMILLAN CANCER

INFORMATION & SUPPORTA 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 Centre - call to book a place. 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.

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

ACROSS:

7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, 9 Heir, 10 Sculptor, 11 Capsule, 13 Untie, 15 Scent, 17 Average, 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23 Stolen, 24 Nearly.

DOWN:

1 Dime, 2 Yearns, 3 Falsely, 4 Syrup, 5 Happen, 6 Allowing, 12 Accurate, 14 Evident, 16 Neatly, 18 Repeal, 19 Agent, 22 Rile.

SOLUTION

TO JULY CROSSWORD

3D animation is currently experiencing a renaissance. Overly glossy and similar-looking visuals are a thing of the past ever since Across the Spider-Verse burst onto the scene.

ACROSS:

7 Cinema, 8 Yearly, 9 Heir, 10 Sculptor, 11 Capsule, 13 Untie, 15 Scent, 17 Average, 20 Arranged, 21 Purl, 23 Stolen, 24 Nearly.

DOWN:

1 Dime, 2 Yearns, 3 Falsely, 4 Syrup, 5 Happen, 6 Allowing, 12 Accurate, 14 Evident, 16 Neatly, 18 Repeal, 19 Agent, 22 Rile.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 23

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

K-pop Demon Hunters continues this trend with truly incredible off-model facial expressions, infectious K-pop music, and kinetic action. It blends what is loved about animation from the East with the high production values of the West. This film had the recipe for success, but its lacklustre story, which feels clichéd and derivative, hampers what could have been an incredible film.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

It follows the K-pop trio Huntrix, who are pop sensations one moment, then demon hunters aiming to stop demons from stealing souls the next. However, the demon realm decides to fight fire with fire by sending a group of five demons to the human realm, disguised as a boy band, to win over Huntrix fans. While this is all happening, lead vocalist Rumi must grapple with the fact that she is half-demon, half-human, and the stress of hiding this fact from her other group members.

K-pop Demon Hunters might have the strongest opening of any film this year, as when ‘How it’s Done’ kicks into high gear and the creative and fluid animation ramps up, you will be fully invested. However, when the film attempts to explore deeper themes, it falls flat, as none of the drama feels authentic. Still, if you’re looking for something unique that the whole family can enjoy, I don’t think you can go wrong with this film.

Available now on Netflix

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.

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.

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858