Issuu

Best wishes for the MARCHES and GALAS!

COMMUNITY:

SPOTLIGHT:

GARDEN PROJECT:

PLUS: HEALTH & BEAUTY, puzzles, clubs & classes, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

Wishing all readers a wonderful time at the Linlithgow Marches this month, as well as the Linlithgow & Linlithgow Bridge Children’s Gala and the Bo’ness Children’s Fair Festival!

Heading into the summer months of abundance, New Hopetoun Gardens

offer a simple and delicious recipe for a favourite starter – bruschetta - and there is a packed What’s On section. With warmer weather (hopefully!) a couple of our columns deal with summer safety – for pets in the Vet’s Tip, and a piece from the Seagull Trust about safe enjoyment of the Union Canal.

With everything you need for help with looking after home and garden too, hope you enjoy Konect this month!

As warmer weather approaches and visitor numbers rise, Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch is urging the public to take extra care around Scotland’s canals.

The Union Canal is already seeing increased footfall, cycling, paddle sports activity, and family visits, and with this seasonal surge comes a heightened risk of accidents and unsafe behaviour near the water.

The charity, which provides free therapeutic cruises for people with additional support needs, relies on a safe and respectful environment to operate. In previous years concerns were raised about speeding cyclists, unsupervised children close to the water’s edge, dogs off leads near wildlife, and individuals entering the canal in unsuitable locations. These behaviours not only endanger the public but also disrupt moored boats, wildlife habitats, and the smooth running of accessible cruises. But this year there is another concern - crocodiles!

With water temperatures remaining cold even in spring and early summer, accidental immersion can lead to cold water shock within seconds. Seagull Trust Cruises is reminding visitors that canals are working waterways, with hidden hazards such as uneven banks, deep silt, submerged objects, and limited space for boats to manoeuvre. The charity is encouraging everyone to stay alert, avoid risky shortcuts, and keep towpaths clear for all users, including those with mobility aids.

Stuart Rennie, Immediate Past Chair of Seagull Trust Cruises Ratho Branch, emphasised the importance of shared responsibility: “The canal is a wonderful community space, but it only stays safe when everyone treats it with care. Our volunteers work hard to provide calm, enjoyable cruises for people who benefit greatly from time on the water. We’re asking

ABOVE: “The crocodiles don’t bite and we thought it would be a fun way to get across a serious message about water safety this summer.”

Seagull Trust Cruises run over 2000 cruises per year and take approximately 22,000 passengers and their carers on morning or afternoon trips of around 23-hour duration. Canal Day Cruises are FREE for the elderly, infirm, and those with additional needs. Our beneficiaries come from far and wide to enjoy the peace and tranquillity of cruising on our canals and the benefits to their health and wellbeing.

the public to help us protect that experience by acting responsibly as the weather improves.

The crocodiles don’t bite and we thought it would be a fun way to get across a serious message about water safety this summer.”

For information and bookings, please contact: 07511 055081 or email: rathobookings@seagulltrustcruises.org.uk

This article was contributed by Seagull Trust Cruises, Canalside, Baird Rd, Ratho, EH28 8RA. Scottish charity number SC027163.

Stress is something we are all too aware of, whether it’s the day to day kind where we are chasing our children round the house in the morning trying to get them to school or the last minute panic as that deadline looms at work.

The effects of stress can be as individual as we are. For some it’s headaches or other physical symptoms and for others sleep can be severely disrupted. However we react, stress is always characterised as a feeling of not being in control and it can’t be denied that it is disruptive and challenging as we try to go about our day to day lives.

When life is stressful, control or the lack of it, has a pivotal part to play but it is important to remember that we are not powerless and there are choices we can always make. Identifying our stress triggers and deciding to intervene early can support us to develop some healthy new habits.

If we always find ourselves running out of the door with minutes to spare panicking at anything that gets in our way as we dash to our destination; if we drive along the motorway cursing all those slow drivers who we think are just there to get in our way; or we find ourselves rushing to complete that task at the very last minute; developing healthy new habits, making a plan, using our time effectively and taking a deep breath before embarking on the day could make all the difference and lower those stress levels forever.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See orrganise.co.uk

You never stop learning about wine. There’s always a new vintage, a hidden gem of a producer, a different style to taste or an unexpected food pairing to discover. Just when you think you’ve got a solid grasp of the wine world, something comes along and surprises you all over again. Most recently for me, that surprise was Indian wine.

I’ll admit, I was sceptical. India’s climate brings heat, humidity and monsoon rains, hardly the classic conditions we associate with fine wine. Textbooks would have us believe the grapes would struggle and the wines would lack balance and finesse. But at a recent tasting, I tried wines from Sula Vineyards including Chenin Blanc, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz, and I was genuinely blown away.

While the aged Shiraz was very enjoyable, it was the white wines that completely stole the show. The Viognier in particular was delicious. The nose was beautifully perfumed; it was almost like walking through a tropical garden in bloom. There were layers of spice, generous texture and real personality in the glass. I would happily have a glass of the viognier chilled to drink alone or paired with a grilled seafood or perhaps a spiced fish dish. Wine has been made in India for centuries, but modern winemaking techniques, cooler high-altitude vineyards and careful vineyard management are transforming quality. It’s exciting to see a wine region challenge expectations like this.

Indian wine? Definitely one to watch and even better, one to taste! Cheers!

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

As we get older, hospital stays can become more frequent. While being discharged is often a relief, a safe return home depends on having a well-planned discharge process. Without the right support in place, people can quickly become unwell again and risk readmission.

NHS discharge teams play a key role in planning what happens next. A good discharge plan should look beyond the hospital doors and consider both immediate practical needs and longer-term care.

In the short term, this means making sure the person isn’t returning to an empty fridge and has essentials in place until family, friends or carers can help. Medication should be clearly explained, with easy-to-use packaging such as blister packs where possible, to avoid confusion at home.

Many people need ongoing support after discharge. The hospital may arrange a care

assessment to see whether NHS continuing healthcare or local authority support is appropriate. If state-funded care is delayed, it’s worth asking about direct payments or personal budgets, which can be used to arrange alternative community care and may speed up discharge.

Good communication is vital. Families should be given notice of discharge, especially if they need to provide care temporarily. Hospitals should also coordinate closely with care providers so that support is in place from day one.

Discharge planning should include onward referrals, such as rehabilitation services, and practical arrangements like transport home, suitable equipment, and access to new supplies such as continence products.

When discharge planning is done well, everyone benefits: hospitals free up much-needed beds, and people return home safely, with the right support to recover and stay well.

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

JUNE CROSSWORD

I think everyone who went to the cinema in the lead up to the release of The Sheep Detectives witnessed the trailer unfold on screen, a bizarre and weirdly hypnotic experience that makes you want to see the chaos play out in full. Finally getting to watch the finished film, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.

A family murder mystery directed by one of the minds behind Minions shouldn’t really work, even though only last month, I was talking about Detective Conan, which is essentially the same idea without the Minions pedigree. George Hardy has died, and his sheep, whom he regularly reads novels to, believe he has been murdered. Drawing on the knowledge they’ve absorbed from those books, they attempt to solve the crime themselves, especially since the local police officer is utterly useless.

Filled with a star studded cast, including Julia Louis Dreyfus, Bryan Cranston, Regina Hall, and Patrick Stewart, the voice ensemble delivers strong performances that bring the sheep to life in captivating ways. Without their commitment, the mystery wouldn’t work nearly as well, nor would the core theme of dealing with loss. Losing someone we love is inevitable, and The Sheep Detectives shows that even when those we care about are gone, if they are remembered, they are never truly forgotten. It’s a powerful message that never feels artificial or hollow. The Sheep Detectives isn’t a masterpiece of cinema, but it stands a step above much of the recent family entertainment released in the genre.

In Cinemas Now

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

ACROSS: 7. Type of fruit (6), 8. Astute (6), 9. Encounter (4), 10. Fluttering (8), 11. Diary (7), 13. Honestly (5), 15. Regularly (5), 17. Nearest (7), 20. Pupils (8), 21. Encourage (4), 23. Chortles (6), 24. Four score (6).

DOWN: 1. Very unusual (4), 2. Repartee (6), 3. Central (7), 4 .Customary (5), 5. Correct (6), 6. Diminishes (8), 12. Formal (8), 14. Clutched (7), 16. Sufficient (6), 18. Smear (6), 19. Fake (5), 22. Barrier (4).

The crossword solution will be published in

Hi, I’m Katie, founder of Circular Clothing Studio, a Livingston based resale service with a simple goal: to keep quality clothing in circulation for longer.

I grew up in Livingston and studied Fashion and Textile Design at university. After travelling and living abroad, I returned home with a very different perspective on sustainability. In many places, reuse was a normal part of everyday life. Second-hand wasn’t a second choice, it was an affordable and accessible alternative.

Coming home, I noticed a gap. While many people care about sustainability, the reality of clothing waste tells a different story. Quality items sit unworn in wardrobes or are donated without any real clarity on where they end up. Only around 10–30% of donated clothing is ever resold, the majority is baled and sold in bulk, often at a low per-kilo rate.

At the same time, selling clothes online can feel timeconsuming and overwhelming, creating another barrier.

Circular Clothing Studio was created to offer a simple, trusted alternative, making it easier for people to reclaim value and extend the life of their clothing while taking part in a more circular approach to fashion.

I offer a local, end-to-end service that removes the hassle of selling your preloved clothing online. From carefully curating pieces to photographing, pricing and listing them across platforms, every step is handled with care and attention.

My focus is on quality over quantity, ensuring each item is thoughtfully presented to attract the right buyer and achieve its true value. It’s not about volume, it’s about trust, quality and making pre-loved a first choice.

The business model is straightforward and transparent, with a 50/50

commission split on sales, allowing you to earn from items you no longer wear, without the hassle of managing it all yourself.

Born in Livingston, a town with a strong retail history, Circular Clothing Studio is rooted in community. Our mission is to reduce textile waste while helping individuals and charities earn from items they no longer use. If you have quality clothing sitting unworn in your wardrobe, Circular Clothing Studio offers a way to find it a new home, without the stress of doing it yourself.

Follow @circularclothingstudio on Instagram or Facebook to find out more.

This article was contributed by Katie, Founder of Circular Clothing Studio

START EARNING, SCAN TO GET STARTED

Katie

0131 235 1048

The smell and the taste of freshly picked tomatoes from your greenhouse are the epitome of summer in Scotland! Even if you don’t grow them yourself you will possibly have friends giving away some of their never ending crop.

Many years ago, quite unplanned, we gave each other Italian Cooking Experiences because we were planning our project ‘Tartan Tuscan Potager to Plate’. Dougal gave Lesley (and himself!) a week in Tuscany on a cooking course, the lasting memory being the endless supply of wine when twelve of us were cooking dinner in the Villa’s large kitchen. Lesley’s present was more practical and local, and surprisingly we still use the half dozen recipes from that afternoon’s lesson more often than the recipes from Italy.

Our favourite version of bruschetta is inspired by that afternoon. Originating in Italy many years

ago, it was really a dish for the poorer folk: stale bread toasted, with a topping of tomatoes and garlic with lots of olive oil. Now it’s very fashionable and offered with many different toppings. Our version is simple and very quick to make.

Finely chop tomatoes, losing excessive amounts of juice through a sieve; you want the ‘wetness’ to be olive oil. Finely chop 2 or 3 garlic cloves for every 4 or 5 medium sized tomatoes. Mix in a bowl with 6 chopped basil leaves, 2 tsp chopped marjoram or oregano, black pepper, juice of half a lemon and 3 tbsp olive oil. Spoon onto freshly toasted slices of baguette or sourdough bread… and enjoy.

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

valid until 30th June 2026

We’re heading into summer and hopefully some good weather! But every summer sees huge numbers of pets with heatrelated conditions, including heatstroke, burnt pawpads, sunburn and breathing difficulties.

Even a very short walk in the heat or being in a car for a few minutes can be fatal for dogs. This is especially true for brachycephalic breeds - those with shorter muzzles such as bulldogs and pugs - as they struggle to cool down through panting. Overweight animals and thick-coated animals are also at heightened risk.

Rabbits and guinea pigs cannot sweat or pant, so it is important that hutches or runs are not exposed to direct sunlight and have shaded areas.

Symptoms of heatstroke in cats and dogs include heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or pale gums, lack of coordination, lethargy, collapse and seizures. In rabbits, look for drooling, salivating, lethargy, short and shallow breaths, red and warm ears, wet nose and seizures.

If you suspect heatstroke, act quickly. Take your pet to a cool, well ventilated area and give it small amounts of cold water to drink. Pour cold water over them but do not place wet towels on them as this can trap heat in their body.

Never leave animals in cars and don’t walk them when it’s hot. If the ground is too hot for you to place the back of your hand on it for five seconds, it’s hot enough to burn pawpads.

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

JUNE SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 14. See page 30 for solutions.

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SATURDAY 6TH JUNE

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.

SUNDAY 7TH JUNE

Bo’ness Car Show - A day packed full of family fun, entertainment for the kids, a stunt show, along with a large traders village including plenty food and coffee vans! Tickets and information at bonesscarshow.co.uk Kinneil Estate, Bo’ness, EH51 0PR.

SUNDAY 7TH JUNE

Linlithgow String Orchestra Summer Concert - Linilthgow Burgh Halls, Kirkgate, Linlithgow. 2.30pm. Tickets £10/£8/£2 on the door or in advance via: linlithgowstringorchestra.uk

FRIDAY 12TH JUNE

Bathgate Concert Orchestra Summer Concert - with the Bathgate Band. St Michael’s Parish Church, The Cross, Linlithgow. Doors 7.00 for 7.30pm. Tickets £8 on the door (cash/ contactless).

SUNDAY 14TH JUNE

RNLI Queensferry Open Day - ALL WELCOME to come along to our annual Open Day at Hawes Promenade, South Queensferry with lots for all the family to see and do. Alongside our lifeboat proudly on display we will have a range of stalls and activities. 12noon - 4.00pm. Please check ‘RNLI Queensferry Lifeboat’ Facebook page for further details.

TUESDAY 16TH JUNE

Riding of the Marches - Commencing 5.00am with the flutes and drummers, and ending 5.45pm with Auld Lang Syne at The Cross, with every ceremony and tradition in

between. The full programme for the Riding of the Marches 2026 is at linlithgowmarches.org

WEDNESDAY 17TH JUNE

Coastal Capers - Come along to Blackness Castle and explore the seashore with the Historic Environment Rangers. Make some art and learn about the creatures that live call the shore their home. FREE. 1.00pm - 3.00pm. Meet at Blackness Castle. Information and booking via: historicenvironment.scot

SATURDAY 20TH JUNE

Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge Children’s Gala Day - Parade and floats, with a Battle 500 theme to celebrate the 500th anniversary this year of the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge. 10.00am to 5.00pm starting at the Kirkgate.

SUNDAY 21ST JUNE

Beecraigs Volunteer session - Join the West Lothian Ranger Service and Friends of Beecraigs for some practical conservation tasks and a Greater Butterfly Orchid Survey. All tools are provided. Please

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 WALKSEvery 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 semiretired 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 - LINLITHGOWWednesdays - 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

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.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.

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Potato, 8. Retain, 9. Bowl, 10. Speedily, 11. Adapted, 13. Conch, 15. Twist, 17. Cutlass, 20. Twilight, 21. Calm, 23. Prison, 24. Notion. DOWN: 1. Solo, 2. Wallop, 3. Boasted, 4. Aries, 5. Studio, 6. Dialects, 12. Downward, 14. Buttons, 16. Splash, 18. Locate, 19. Agony, 22. Loot.

(...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26)

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

bring gloves, and any snacks or drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! Meet Balvormie Car Park, Beecraigs, EH49 6PL. 10.30am – 12.30pm. FREE, but please book via the West Lothian Council Rangers Service eventbrite page so that they can update you if there are changes to the session arrangements.

FRIDAY 26TH JUNE

Bo’ness Children’s Fair Festival - From 7.30am with the judging of decorated arches, to 4.15pm with the conclusion of the Royal Command Performance at Douglas Park, and every ceremony and tradition in between. See www.thefairday.com for full timetable and details.

SUNDAY 28TH JUNE

Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - Model Railway, train rides, drive-a-loco, tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, toilets and picnic area. 10.30am - 4.00pm. Almondell Model Engineering Centre, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF.

SUNDAY 28TH JUNE

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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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Hall & Malloy - Hosted by Torphichen Summer Nights. Expect a joyous mix of classical violin and cello music, fused with folk music from Scotland and Ireland. Torphichen Kirk, 7.00pm. Tickets £15/children free. Booking via: torphichensummernights.org

EVERY MONDAY AND TUESDAY

Monday and Tuesday Kinneil Walks - Organised by Step Forth (Falkirk Council). Meet at Kinneil Estate and Museum, Bo’ness, EH51 0PR, every Monday and Tuesday, 10:30am – 11:30am. All of our walks are free to attend and there is no need to book - simply come along on the day. If you are new to our walks, you are welcome to get in touch before your first walk. We can help with any questions you might have and keep you updated in case there are any changes. Email: stepforth@falkirk.gov.uk

Our walks are welcoming, supportive, and led by trained volunteers who will help you feel comfortable and included. We also welcome new volunteers and provide full training and support if you would like to get involved.

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

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

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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