Konect Linlithgow March 2025

CREDIT: Image courtesy of Linlithgow Community Development Trust

MARCH 2025

LOCAL HISTORY:

COMMUNITY:

FOOD & DRINK:

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elcome to March, when it can feel that the winter has more than outstayed its welcome and we grab onto every sign of spring! I love Francine’s approach to it in her Life Coaching column this month – we can’t change the weather but we can change the way we think about it! Hang in there, the clocks go forward on 30th March.

With both Wales and Ireland celebrating national saints days in March, the Recipe and Food Notes this month look at food from our Celtic neighbours. There is a local history article from Bruce to enjoy, on royal visits to Linlithgow, and all our usual columns.

Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

Local history: Right Royal Visits.................. 8 Life Coaching: End-of-winter cheer.........12 Puzzles..................................................12 / 25 Living Well: Dementia Awareness............14 Food Notes: Our Celtic neighbours.........20 Garden Project: Begonias..........................22 Local Environment: Meet Kevin................24 Vet’s Tip: Lost dogs.....................................25 Community: Move for Good.......................26 What’s On......................................................27 Film Review: Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl ...............................30 Puzzle Solutions...........................................30

COVER IMAGE: Community: Linlithgow - Move For Good, see page 26.

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

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LOCAL HISTORY

RIGHT ROYAL VISITS

The last monarch to spend a night in Linlithgow Palace was King Charles 1st in 1633.

Since then, kings and queens have just briefly visited the one-time, royal residence as part of an overall visit to the Royal Burgh. With the town’s connection to the Jacobites (Bonnie Prince Charlie held

a reception in the palace in 1745) Hanoverian monarchs were loathe to come to Linlithgow and Queen Victoria drove through the burgh without stopping in September 1842.

^^^ The first ruling personage to actually spend time in the town was in 1914 when King George V came with his wife, Queen Mary. She returned on her own, as Dowager Queen, in September 1938 and then went on to lunch with the Erskines (Earl and Countess of Mar and Kellie) at Alloa House.

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Her granddaughter, Queen Elizabeth visited Linlithgow twice - in 1955 and in 1989 when she joined in the celebration of Linlithgow’s 600 years as a royal burgh – the last royal visit the burgh has had. >>> Queen Elizabeth, in 1989, was presented, as a tribute to the town’s famous coat of arms, a black female labrador called Lithca.

The year 1936 saw an unusual visit from a ruling monarch. This was the arrival in town of Sheik Hamad bin Isa bin Ali Al-Khalifa, ruler of Bahrain, along with some of his eight sons - born to his five wives – including, according to an article in the Qatar library collection, a Scottish beauty, Miss Clara Lindman Scholar.

No doubt there was the hope expressed here that Bahrain’s future wealth from recently discovered oilfields would be used wisely.

Here, the Sheik is having the palace pointed out to him by the Rev. Robert Coupar, with Gordon Loch looking on.

Hakim (King) Hamad was in Linlithgow on the invitation of British Political Agent in Bahrain, Gordon Loch – father of Tam Dalyell, MP for Linlithgow for 43 years.

Lieutenant-Colonel Loch had spoken at Sheik Hamad’s coronation in 1933 –

bravely stating that “the mark of a good Ruler is that his concern should be, not for his own welfare, but for that of his people, and in these days especially a modern Ruler has to take part in many activities for the prosperity, safety and advancement of his state.”

^^^ In this photo, King Hamad has entered the courtyard of Linlithgow Palace where a uniformed employee of the Office of Works is pointing out the ruined remains of King James V’s fountain which was not restored until 2007. To the right is the manager of the town’s British Linen Bank, Provost James Tulloch.

It’s high time Linlithgow received another visit from a reigning monarch, don’t you think?

This article was contributed by Bruce Jamieson, local historian.

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MARCH CROSSWORD

Billy Connelly famously said that there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes, and there can be no argument with that, if what we are talking about is stepping out into the rain in shorts and sandals or going out in winter chills.

But, the issues that so many have with adverse weather conditions has very little to do with what is going on in the sky above us and very much more to do with what’s happening within ourselves.

Although there are limited official statistics to tell us how many people are actually suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the link between grey skies and mood is clear and it’s no surprise that a rainy day can have a significant impact on our mood.

Going out in the rain, even wearing the right clothes, can dampen more than our spirits but there are some simple steps we can all take to change how we think about cold and damp weather. Sitting by a window in the daylight or wrapping up warm and getting out of doors for half an hour sounds simple but it is a really good place to start and even finding a calming soundtrack of falling rain to support our meditation could change our attitude to the rain falling on us as we walk.

Maybe we will always prefer sunny weather and blue skies but changing how we think about the winter and developing a new attitude is surely better than wishing months of the year away while waiting for spring.

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 12 | LINLITHGOW

The crossword solution will be published in the April edition of Konect. See p25 for this month’s Sudoku.

LIFE COACHING

ACROSS: 7. Stylish (13), 8. Talking (8), 9. Remove (4), 10. Soaked (7), 12. Attacks with knife (5), 14. Crawled (5), 16. Scratched (7), 19. Female sheep (4), 20. Ten hundred (8), 22. Support (13).

DOWN: 1. Wealthy (4), 2. Sculpture (6), 3. Motors (7), 4. Protrude (5), 5. Accompany (6), 6. Achievable (8), 11. Slinging (8), 13. Dicken’s character (7), 15. Type of gun (6), 17. Presume (6), 18. Mixes (5), 21. Zero (4).

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LIVING WELL

Home Instead recently carried out research into people’s perception of dementia, revealing that 84% of people felt that more should be done to educate families about living with dementia.

In light of this, Home Instead have launched a dedicated YouTube channel ‘Home Truths’ designed to highlight the ‘real’ side of living with dementia. The channel features personal stories and helpful tips and advice to support people on the journey. Visit youtube.co.uk/homeinsteaduk or search ‘HomeTruthsDementia’ on social media.

Other findings from Home Instead’s research showed that:

• 39% thought dementia was a bigger threat than cancer.

• 38% were worried that a family member may have undiagnosed dementia.

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• 64% of people thought home is under-utilised as a place to treat people with dementia.

• 45% said that looking after a family member with dementia meant they were unable to work as much as they used to.

• 52% said that they had less time to spend with their own children and partner because they were looking after a family member with dementia.

• 45% of people said that looking after a family member with dementia had left them struggling financially.

For more information or to read a full copy of the report, visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/newageing-index/ To find out more about the support that is available for families supporting a loved one with memory issues, contact Carers of West Lothian on 01506 448000.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian

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Two national saints days occur in March: St David of Wales and St Patrick of Ireland. It’s interesting to consider what traditional foods are connected with Scotland’s neighbouring Celtic countries. Both the political and social history and climate of Wales and Ireland have had huge influence on the crops and cooking of the people of these two lands.

Roman imports never influenced Ireland so food was limited to what flourished on this mild, Atlantic-weathered landscape. Oats, wheat and rye, a little later peas and beans, and then dairy cattle hence milk, butter and cheese became the staples and were very important exports.

By the 16th century potatoes arrived, changing the habits and the diet of the pre-industrial population and in time led to the disastrous reliance on this one crop, causing the famine and massive depopulation of the whole island in the 19th century.

Wales is more mountainous and has poorer soils and a harsher climate than Ireland; but it has land links with England and became heavily industrialised in the 19th century. However, people in the two countries had similar basic cooking utensils which led to similarities in

Ingredients:

• 1kg potatoes. Maris Piper or King Edwards are best • 100g butter • Salt, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, a little oil

Method:

1. Peel the potatoes if you prefer but it is not necessary.

2. Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little till you can handle them.

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foods. These were a flat griddle and a three legged cooking pot which stood in the fire on the hearth. Hence stews, soups, flatbreads, cheese, autumn fruit and nuts with the addition of the occasional luxury of meat or game became the cuisine of both countries.

Potato cakes, leek soup, Cawl, Bara Brith and Laver bread (nori seaweed) are the traditional foods of Wales. The Irish are proud of their Irish stew, soda breads, pancakes, beer, corned beef (salt beef) champ, Boxty (potato bread), colcannon (bubble and squeak) and cheeses.

All these dishes are good to eat while the days are short and not too warm. They are comfort food at its best and quickest, using ingredients most people have to hand and do not take a great deal of work - just slow, gentle cooking.

3. Oil or well-butter an oven proof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or some dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish.

Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down.

4. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180o, for 1¼ to 1½ hours. Turn out to serve.

5. Serve with colds meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.

Leeks are the national symbol of Wales and are worn in the headgear of the armed forces on St David’s Day. They are good eating at this time of the year.

Ingredients:

• 3 or 4 leeks sliced • 1 onion finely chopped • Chicken breast cut in 4 or 5 pieces • 3 or 4 rashers bacon cut small • 75g butter or some oil • 2 tablespoons plain flour • 3/4 pint milk, or mix of milk and chicken stock.

• Salt, pepper chopped fresh coriander, chives or parsley.

Method:

1. Peel the potatoes if you prefer but it is not necessary.

2. Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little till you can handle them.

3. Oil or well-butter an oven proof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or some dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish.

Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down.

4. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180o, for 1¼ to 1½ hours. Turn out to serve.

5. Serve with colds meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.

• Depending on the time of year and family tradition: carrots, cabbage, kale, turnip, swede or parsnips

Method:

It’s a brave person to offer a recipe for this, as with most traditional food every family has its own way of doing it!

Ingredients:

• 1kg neck of mutton chops, chump chops or shoulder of lamb • 500-750g potatoes • 3 or 4 onions chopped • 100g pearl barley

1. Brown the meat in a little oil (not traditional), put in an ovenproof casserole dish and layer up on top whichever other vegetables you fancy.

2. Brown the onion in the same oil, then add it to the meat. Add the barley and seasoning. Some say white pepper is needed. Add water to just cover the contents of the casserole.

3. Slice the potatoes and layer on top to make a lid. Bake in a medium oven for 2 hours or till the meat is very tender and the potatoes are brown and crispy.

This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.

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of habits and colours, with different leaf colours as well.

Calm down!! In March we start getting requests for summer bedding plants like the petunias and tuberous begonias in this window box.

But they are too tender to go outside until late April, so resist buying them if you see them at the supermarket. Instead there are lots of tougher plants like pansies, violas and Senetti to cheer up your pots until the tender summer plants can start to fill your garden.

Tuberous Begonias, like these yellow ones, with their great range of colours, have become very popular in recent years, probably since busy lizzies became vulnerable to the dreaded busy lizzie downy mildew. Resistant strains of busy lizzies are now fighting back but we have fallen in love with the begonias because they perform so well in our gardens, in borders and pots. There has been so much interbreeding of begonias that has given us a great range

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If you have some of the unplanted hairy tubers you can start them off in little pots now but you must have a warm light space to grow them on until late April when you can start putting them outside. If you can’t offer them this protection just wait until they are available in garden centres at the end of April. They prefer not to be in full sun, enjoy regular watering and feeding and generally need no more attention, apart from your attention to sit back and enjoy their displays.

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

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

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Kestrels have been a bit of a sore spot for me when it comes to photographing them until recently. I’ve watched them hovering over a field, using their excellent eyesight to spot a mouse or vole scurrying around in the grass.

They can see in ultraviolet light, which allows them to see the urine trails around rodent burrows. They’re excellent hunters, and I watched this one stoop down from the tallest tree to grab this vole. Whilst they hover, they keep their head perfectly still.

It’s well worth watching a video of it as it’s quite incredible to see.

I’ve been lucky to have a pair hunting not far from my house recently. They were very confiding, allowing me to walk under them as they perched on an overhead wire, where usually they’ve been quite distant.

I’m not one for naming wild animals but my husband has christened this one Kevin.

You can tell it’s a male because it’s got a grey head, whereas the female is generally brown all over. They’re beautiful little birds and much like the foxes I saw last year, they come with a certain sense of nostalgia 24 | LINLITHGOW

as they featured heavily in the Animals of Farthing Wood.

It’s always enjoyable coming across wildlife like this in such an urban environment and though I hope they might nest over the summer, it’s unlikely given it’s quite busy but you never know.

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.

MARCH SUDOKU

There are often posts on Linlithgow social media pages about lost dogs spotted running about the town. So if you come across a dog on the loose, what should you do?

If the dog is calm enough, check the tag on its collar for the owner’s contact details and get in touch directly. If that’s not possible, if you are able, take the dog to a local vet to get its microchip scanned which also should have all the owner’s details. Owners, make sure your microchip details are up to date!

However, dogs who have been spooked may be in survival fight or flight mode and should not be approached. Contact 101 to report the found dog – owners are also advised to contact the same number to report a lost dog.

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

Social media can be helpful but use with caution – it’s important a dog is returned to its legal owner, so make sure proof of ownership is confirmed. If you’ve spotted a dog that’s been reported missing on a social media post, make sure any comments are directly on the original, as they can easily be missed on a shared post. Photos are helpful.

While any vet can scan a microchip, not all can take a lost dog. Dogs can also be taken to the local police dog warden – for Linlithgow, this is Livingston Police Station, where staff can also scan chips and take the dog until it’s reclaimed.

Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com LINLITHGOW | 25

We are thrilled to reveal ‘Move For Good’, the new identity for Linlithgow Community Development Trust’s (LCDT) programme that promotes and supports the local community to engage in active and sustainable travel.

LCDT are delighted to soon be sharing our new walking resource: using the Go Jauntly app, locals and tourists alike can discover new routes and a friendly guide to explore Linlithgow’s diverse surrounding area. There will be routes available to those of all walking ability, and the

team welcomes newcomers who are looking for a physical guide or more social setting to led walks. These weekly walks include the Buggy Walk every Wednesday morning and the new led Health walk, both promoting wellbeing and interaction.

EACH TUESDAY EVENING UNTIL 25TH MARCH LCDT are delighted to build on their connection to cycling within the community at the Cycle Kitchen by inviting everyone to the Hub to learn maintenance and repair for their bikes. This is just one of LCDT’s cycling initiatives designed to empower individuals to take part in active travel through cycling.

Plus, we have four e-bikes

available for free loans of up to 30 days for anyone looking to try out this exciting new sustainable method of travel.

SATURDAY 29TH MARCH Save the Date for Linlithgow’s first Festival of Movement: a day for all to celebrate and learn about active travel with a programme of activities for all abilities and ages, experience our new artist-led cultural trail, as well as discussions around the importance of active travel for our environment, communities and health.

More information to come soon.

Move For Good not only champions the physical benefits of active travel, but also the positive impact to community wellbeing and as a way to address climate change in our everyday lives. LCDT supports the community in Linlithgow through a number of popular programmes (Circular Economies, Solar Energy and more), Move For Good adds to their contribution and strives to support and empower the community to travel actively and sustainably in their everyday lives.

This article was contributed by Linlithgow Community Development Trust.

Our aim is ‘To make Linlithgow a better place to live and work, through a community-led plan of action which provides services, amenities and/or financial support to local initiatives.’ trust-linlithgow.org.uk 26 | LINLITHGOW

CREDIT: All images courtesy of Linlithgow Community Development Trust.

For the past year, members of our community have been engaging in activities and classes to encourage active travel in our everyday journeys. This project, funded

by Paths for All, has shown that people are excited to engage in sustainable, active travel leading us to further develop the programme with access to more ways to participate.

Helen Grime - “The Little Note in Yellow and Gold”, “Lapis Lazuli” and “The Violet Note” 7.30pm, Linlithgow Primary School. Tickets £16/£6, via www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk

SATURDAY 1ST MARCH Spring Spotters - Join the Rangers at Muiravonside to spot signs of spring in thewoodland and take part in spring-themed nature crafts and activities. Suitable for ages 4-10. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Muiravonside Country Park, The Loan, Whitecross, EH49 6LW. 3.30pm, £3 per child plus booking fee, book via www.falkirkleisureandculture.org WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH Older People Providers Fayre - Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Stalls from the various providers across West Lothian, as well as a schedule of talks on a variety of topics. FREE ENTRY. Doors open 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm.

SATURDAY 8TH MARCH Women in History (International Women’s Day) - Join us in celebrating the incredible achievements of women throughout history at this event in Linlithgow Burgh Halls.

A day of interactive workshops and engaging discussions. Discover the remarkable women who have shaped our world and explore their lasting impact on society. Don’t miss this opportunity to honour the trailblazers, innovators, and leaders who have made history. Organiser: Women in History - Funded by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland.

Linlithgow Burgh Halls, 9.30am – 4.30pm.

Tickets free but booking essential (limited places) via the What’s On page at www.linlithgowburghhalls.co.uk SATURDAY 8TH MARCH Concert by Odysseus Piano Trio Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. We present two familiar classical piano trios by Beethoven and Dvorak, with a piece in 3 movements by

SATURDAY 15TH MARCH Friends of Beecraigs & Witchcraig Volunteer session - For this session we will be carrying out tasks at the pond in Beecraigs Country Park. The Beecraigs pond has become choked by an alien invasive plant called New Zealand pygmy weed, which is often unknowingly introduced by people emptying ponds or aquaria. We need your help to remove this invasive weed to help improve the water quality and habitat for amphibious and invertabrate species. All tools and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger.

If you have some, please bring a pair of gloves, and wear appropriate clothing/footwear.

Please bring along any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary, new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run for two hours starting at 10.00am. Meet at the Balvormie car park, Beecraigs Country Park. Free, but please book via eventbrite on the ‘West Lothian Council Ranger Service’ page SATURDAY 22ND MARCH Bo’ness Fair Dance - Always a sellout! Annual fundraiser in aid of Bo’ness Children’s Fair Festival. Three course meal and entertainment by Nae Danger providing the tunes to keep you dancing all night!

Bo’ness Town Hall, 6.30pm for 7.00pm start.

Tickets £30pp book via email: fairdayfundraising@gmail.com FRIDAY 28TH MARCH The 2025 Spring Concert - From the Bathgate Concert Orchestra. Conductor Steven Meikle. ENTRY BY DONATION, 7.30pm, Winchburgh Parish Church, 1 Millgate, EH52 6TT. WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. LINLITHGOW | 27

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

Door to door A5 magazine delivery, a few hours once per month in your local area (subject to routes being available)

For more information on helping us deliver Konect magazines please email

distro@konect.scot

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GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding.org.uk for times and days available 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 10:30 – 12pm, 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 7-9pm in the Community Hub 49 at the old library. 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 or 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 7pm 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 Primary School (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 or T: 07742 060877.

WINCHBURGH ART CLUB - We 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 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/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274.

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.309.30pm (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 people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

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.

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 £24. 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. LINLITHGOW | 29

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Attach, 4. Asking, 9. Shorten, 10. Untie, 11. Extra, 12. Extends, 13. Intertwined, 18. Needing, 20. Outer, 22. Helps, 23. Thirsty, 24. Rushed, 25. Ceased.

DOWN: 1. Answer, 2. Trout, 3. Cottage, 5. Stunt, 6. Intense, 7. Grease, 8. Investigate, 14. Needles, 15. Idolise, 16. Anchor, 17. Frayed, 19. Issue, 21. Tests.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 25

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD British animation staples Wallace and Gromit returned to our television sets this Christmas with their latest caper, marking the first time the buddying duo have starred in a direct sequel.

While the previous films reference each other, this film continues the plot of the Wrong Trousers (debatably one of the best pieces of animation ever) as Feathers McGraw returns to steal the blue diamond yet again. Aardman Animation’s previous film, Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, was not my cup of tea, but Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl is a return to form for the studio. It features unique and always ACROSS:their 1. Attach, 4. Asking, 9. Shorten, funny sense of humour and clever action set pieces that push 10. Untie, 11. Extra, 12. Extends, 13. Intertwined, 18. Needing, 20. Outer, the limits of stop motion animation.

22. Helps, 23. Thirsty, 24. Rushed, 25. Ceased.

Gromit is undeniably my favourite character of3.media; DOWN: 1. Answer,in 2. all Trout, Cottage, 5. Stunt,depth 6. Intense, 7. Grease, 8. Investigate, his facial expressions bring so much and emotion to a 14. Needles, 15. Idolise, 16. Anchor, character that never barks, let alone talks, and the fact he can 17. Frayed, 19. Issue, 21. Tests. stand Wallace even after all these years is a testament to how SOLUTION TO SUDOKU much free accommodation will make up for his shortfalls.

That is honestly my only criticism of this - as per ONfilm PAGE XXevery previous film, that status quo ultimately resets upon the introduction and similar antics are brought to the forefront. Honestly, how many times do we have to see Wallace not believe Gromit?

However, when Feathers McGraw and Gromit begin the chase scene on the canal boats, all is forgiven, and you fall back in love with these characters. A truly scrumptious film.

Available to stream on 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.

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.

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.

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

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

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