There was a lot to fit into this issue of Konect. November is a time for Remembrance, and this year our article takes a different angle - the Arctic Convoy Museum in the Highlands have contributed a biographical piece about a West Lothian resident who worked on the brutal Arctic Convoys in the Second World War. In her wine column, Joanne has Remembrance on her mind too.
A charity that we feature regularly is the School Bank, who are looking for donations for their Winter Jacket appeal – see page 22. New Hopetoun Gardens becomes a gorgeous Christmas Emporium in November, and they always have unique and beautiful gift ideas. They have a series of Christmas shopping evenings in November and December, when if you take their Konect advert – page 13 – you get a free coffee or hot chocolate for two to keep you going on your shopping trip!
A local history feature from Bruce Jamieson, and all our usual columns, complete this issue! Bruce raises money for local good causes via his local history Zoom presentations, and thanks to people signing up has been able to donate to a number of causes this autumn already.
Thank you as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.
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This 18th century long case, “grandfather” clock is for sale – at £10,000! It is beautifully carved from mahogany showing details such as Scottish thistles, acorns, grotesque heads and dragons.
It also carries a silver disc showing that the maker was “John Davie of Lithgow”.
He was born in 1753 – the son of another clockmaker, also called John. Town Council records show that the elder Davie not only made his own chronometers but was also in charge of the town clock installed in the tower of the Burgh Halls. In 1760, following a report from Robert Thomson, a Bo’ness clockmaker, John Davie was commissioned to carry out necessary repairs – for a payment of £6. After his father’s
death, John Davie junior took over the supervision of the town’s timepiece. He was much respected on account of his expert knowledge of toothed wheels, pinions, plates, pillars and escapement movements.
The Town Clock which John Davie cared for was not the first to be installed in the burgh. There had been one on the original Tolbooth from at least 1590 when the Council appointed Mr Moneypenny as Master of the Town Grammar School, Bible Reader in St Michael’s Church and Town Clock-Keeper, charged with the task of “keeping the knok and horloge (clock and bell)) of the Tolbooth in good order and temper so that they shall not be spoiled from negligence.”
LEFT
: The Burgh Halls with its 18th century clock
until his premature death in 1783. His son Christopher also became a noted clockmaker. This is his work: Christopher and then his son, another John, continued to look after the Burgh timepiece until 1847 when a fire swept through the upper floors of the Town Hall, bringing down the steeple which crashed through the clock mechanism. It was ten years before a replacement time-keeper was installed. Made by Mackenzie of Glasgow it was the first in Scotland to be made on the principle of the Westminster Palace clock, i.e the Great Clock within the Elizabeth Tower, popularly known as Big Ben. The Linlithgow mechanism worked well for almost a century until it was turned off during World War Two. When it was turned on again in 1945, it took exception to its long lay-off and thereafter proved very temperamental, requiring regular attention from its caretaker, Willie Morton. Thanks to him, and his successors, it’s still going today!
The original Town Hall was leveled by Cromwellian troops, so it was 1710 before a replacement clock was fitted in the new Tolbooth and put under the care of George Brown, Deacon of the Wrights, on payment of £18 a year plus a quart of oil. His exertions were followed by the likes of John Davie,
Linlithgow
Burgh Halls clock today
This Local History article was contributed by local historian Bruce Jamieson. Bruce runs a series of local history Zoom Presentations from September until December. (Please contact Bruce at brucejamieson@yahoo.com for details). All proceeds donated to local causes.
WHY DO GARDEN CENTRES BECOME CHRISTMAS EMPORIUMS AT THIS TIME OF YEAR?
Visit any garden centre after October and you will be immersed in Christmas decorations, lights and gifts. This has become the norm in the last twenty years and customers sometimes moan that ‘Christmas’ has started too early, but they then go on to spend!
As we all start to stay indoors our gardening tends to be mainly tidying up and, apart from bulb planting, renewing our indoor plants and refreshing our patio pots, we don’t spend much on our gardens. Garden centres have wonderful teams and to hang onto them we need to find different jobs for them. So catering becomes very important, but not really what the gardening team would choose. So Christmas sales have become the norm, and
the team are brought indoors and become Elves for the last months of the year.
But whatever the weather, when we start selling Christmas trees the Elves have to put on their waterproofs and gloves and manhandle trees, unwrapping them for you to examine them as if you are buying a tree for life, and then rewrapping them to fit into your car. We are opening for three early evenings (Thursdays November 27th, December 4th and 11th) so our customers can enjoy coming out of town, with easy car parking and no crowds between 5pm and 7pm. The sparkle of Christmas lights will kick off an early festive season!
The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
FROM
KIRKNEWTON
TO THE ARCTIC CONVOY:
ADAM LITHGOW
Adam William Pollock Lithgow was born in Glasgow on the 15th July 1915. As a young man he lived in the village of Kirknewton, West Lothian, and worked as a shepherd on farms in the Borders.
Naturally then, Adam was hardened and used to being outdoors in all kinds of weather. In March 1940, at the age of 24, he volunteered for naval service, enlisting for 12 years.
After initial training at Portsmouth and aboard the training carrier HMS Argus as a Stoker, Adam was assigned to HMS Forester (H74), an F-Class destroyer, the first of several destroyers he would serve on. It was aboard HMS Forester that Adam first experienced Arctic Convoy duties. Before he embarked on the most perilous of journeys, he married Ada (Barth) in February 1942, in Surrey.
For four years, more than 1,400 merchant ships under the
flags of 11 states completed their journeys to Murmansk and Arkhangelsk as part of 78 allied convoys, escorted by 441 warships. The convoys delivered vital supplies to the Soviet Union. They assembled in the waters of Loch Ewe and Scapa Flow. The summer route took the convoy high up into the Arctic Circle via Iceland, so as far as possible from Occupied Norway. In winter, the convoys were forced to sail on a more southerly route due to the extent of pack ice, much closer to the Norwegian coastline and German U Boat/ Luftwaffe bases.
The risks were enormous, not only from the threats posed by enemy shipping, mines
and aircraft but also due to mountainous seas and bitter cold. 85 merchantmen and 16 Royal Navy escort vessels were lost along with around 3,000 lives. It was for good reason that Sir Winston Churchill labelled the convoys “the worst journey in the world”.
In late March 1942, Convoy PQ14 assembled at Loch Ewe and sailed for Murmansk via Iceland. HMS Forester, with Adam aboard as ship stoker, was assigned close cover duties, along with HMS Foresight and HMS Edinburgh. One week in, they detached from the convoy to intercept and deter enemy destroyers. Only 7 of the 25 Merchantmen
made it to Murmansk. Most Merchantmen were damaged by pack ice and were forced to return to Iceland. SS Empire Howard was sunk by a German U Boat.
The return convoy (QP11) of 13 merchant ships and eighteen warships, including HMS Forester, sailed for Iceland in late April 1942. They were attacked first by Junker aircraft then by U boats. HMS Edinburgh was significantly damaged by two direct hits and ordered to leave the convoy and return to Murmansk, escorted by HMS Forester and HMS Foresight. But they were intercepted by German destroyers. In the exchanges that followed, all three ships took direct hits. HMS Forester suffered serious damage fore and aft as well as in the boiler room. Twelve men were killed, ncluding the captain, and another nine men were wounded. HMS Edinburgh managed to sink one of the German destroyers before she was struck again midship. HMS Edinburgh finally succumbed to a torpedo from HMS Foresight, once survivors had been rescued. HMS Forester limped back to Murmansk for temporary repair, subsequently arriving at Scapa Flow on 18th May,1942, whereupon she took passage to the Tyne shipyards for repair. It must have been an enormous shock to young Adam’s system to leave the rolling hills of the Scottish Borders and find himself north
of the Arctic Circle aboard a British warship. From the tranquillity of sheep farming to the horrors of war in the most hostile of conditions.
In World War II, a ship’s stoker was a member of the engineering crew responsible for maintaining the ship’s boilers, primarily by managing the coal supply and fire in the furnaces. This was a physically
It was for good reason that Sir Winston Churchill labelled the convoys “the worst journey in the world”.
demanding and dangerous job, often performed in hot, cramped, and dirty conditions.
The stokehold was a dangerous environment with intense heat, the risk of burns, and potential for explosions from boiler malfunctions. The confined spaces and the presence of coal dust also presented health hazards. Ironically, the “Shepherd of the Borders” would have been more equipped than most ratings to bear the freezing conditions in the Arctic Ocean, yet he would have spent most of his time below decks.
In December 1942, Adam joined the I-Class destroyer, HMS Impulsive (D11). He safely completed a further four Arctic Convoys in 1943 (JW53, RA53, JW54A and RA54B). JW53 is notorious for sailing through probably the worst weather of any convoy. Ferocious gales and mountainous seas took their toll on the convoy. Six merchantmen were damaged and were forced to return to Iceland. Even the light cruiser, HMS Sheffield was forced to return to port as some of her armour plating was ripped off by the wind and seas.
In January 1944, Adam transferred to brand new U-Class destroyer HMS Ursa (R22). Two months later, he found himself once again in the Arctic Ocean as HMS Ursa acted as escort to convoys JW58 and RA58. On 6th June 1944,
HMS Ursa was to be found on duty off Gold Beach, protecting allied forces invading Normandy.
Adam spent the next 12 months or so in the Indian Ocean and South Seas engaging Japanese forces. He subsequently went on to serve aboard HMS Comus, HMS Mull of Galloway, and HMS Jupiter.
During his service Adam progressed through the ranks to Petty Officer Stoker Mechanic (POSM). He ended his naval career with HMS Rattlesnake and was discharged in December 1953 after 12.5 years dedicated service.
Sadly, Adam died less than two years after his discharge from the Royal Navy, aged 40. After he left the service he had planned to take his family to New Zealand to continue his sheep farming but medical tests revealed that he had contracted bladder cancer.. Studies have shown that seafarers, including those
who worked as stokers, had a higher incidence of bladder cancer compared to the general population. This is likely due to exposure to various hazardous substances present in the maritime environment.
Adam is buried in Kirknewton. His widow Ada and young son Colin (aged 9) suffered much financial hardship after Adam’s premature death. They remained in Kirknewton until Colin married. Ada passed away in 2014 at the ripe old age of 101.
The “Shepherd of The Borders” served his country well. Adam completed eight Arctic Convoys in his 12.5 years of service, as well as supporting the D-Day Landings and fighting Japanese forces in the Indian Ocean. At 5 foot 4 and a half inches, Adam William Pollock Lithgow was
not a big man physically, but in character, and in industry, he was huge. He, and many other brave men like him, should never be forgotten.
The Arctic Convoy Museum has been working with remote volunteers to uncover stories in their archive. This piece about Adam Lithgow was written by one of the Arctic Convoy Museum Volunteers and submitted by Dr Karen Buchanan, Curator.
The Museum and Exhibition Centre near Loch Ewe is a lasting legacy to those who braved Arctic waters under constant threat of attack from enemy aircraft and u-boats. arcticconvoymuseum.org
Arctic Convoy Museum, Aultbea, IV22 2HZ
The season of storms is here – and thunder, lightning and wild winds can be very disconcerting for our pets.
If you know a storm is coming, walk the dog before it arrives and consider keeping outdoor cats in – or least make sure they aren’t stuck outside when the bad weather hits.
There’s more risk of dogs being spooked in bad weather so keep them on a lead and make sure their ID tags and microchip are up-to-date. Check your garden is still secure after a storm.
Secure outdoor hutches and runs beforehand and check for damage or leaks after – and consider bringing rabbits and guinea pigs in.
Make sure your pet has a place to hide so they can feel safer and provide water (and a litter tray for cats) there.
Tackle stress the first time you notice it – anxiety will only get worse with each episode. There are training methods that can help – ask your vet. And never worry about comforting your pet if they are scared – fear is an emotion not a behaviour so you will not be reinforcing it. Do not force animals to go out in stormy weather and keep children away from stressed animals. During thunderstorms dogs, especially long-haired breeds, are sensitive to feeling the electrical changes in the air. Copper neutralises this which is why dogs will often hide in kitchens or bathrooms during storms where there are copper pipes.
Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com
SATURDAY 1ST NOVEMBER
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. 10.00am – 4.00pm.
SUNDAY 9TH NOVEMBER
Beecraigs Country Park Volunteer Session - Join the West Lothian Ranger Service for some conservation tasks in Beecraigs Country Park. For this session we will be based at Witchcraig woodland, and we will be doing some tree aftercare or ‘beating-up’ in forestry terms: checking the condition of saplings planted by volunteers in spring 2024, replacing any damaged tree tubes and stakes, and re-planting as necessary. All equipment and demonstrations will be provided by the Ranger. Please bring along any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary to take part in the sessions, new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run for two hours starting at 10am, and the meeting place is the Korean War Memorial, on the road between Linlithgow and Bathgate. 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.
WEDNESDAY 19TH NOVEMBER
West Lothian History and Amenity Society - “Scottish Migrations to Ulster in the 17th Century”, talk by Dr John Young,
Strathclyde University. 7.30pm, Mackinnon Scout Hall, Mill Road, Linlithgow. Nonmembers are welcome by donation. If you’d like to join the society (£20 for all seven talks), come to a meeting and speak to any committee member, or email us on wlhaas@hotmail.com
SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER
Linlithgow Antique Vintage and Collectors Fair - In Queen Margaret Hall, Blackness Road Linlithgow, EH49 6AG. Over 30 dealers will be selling jewellery, postcards, bottles, militaria, and all kinds of antiques, Ample free parking, disabled access and on site catering. Early entry 9.00am - 10.00am £2; Public entry 10.00am - 3.00pm £1. All proceeds in aid of Linlithgow Heritage trust
SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER
Christmas Fair at Winchburgh Parish Church - The Christmas Fair is always a popular event. This year there will be a variety of stalls, with some local crafters and charities adding to the popular church stalls including home baking and crafts, not forgetting the ever-popular chocolate tombola. The coffee bar will be open during the event selling filled rolls, homebaking and refreshments including gluten free options. 10.00am – 1.00pm at Winchburgh Parish Church, EH52 6TT
SATURDAY 29TH NOVEMBER
Advent Fayre and Christmas Lights switch on - From 10.00am, Craft Fair in the Burgh Halls and Street Fair at the Cross Well. Santa Dash at 4pm and Torchlight Procession at 5.00pm. All details at www.facebook.com/LinlithgowAdventFayre
Sometimes we fall into relationships that suit us at a particular time in our lives. There are those childhood friendships based on sharing our secrets or that friend we made on the first day in our new job who took us under their wing. Then there are those friends we made when our children were small and we stood at the school gates waiting for the bell to ring. As life moves on our social circles narrow and it can be more difficult to encounter people through shared life experiences. But, maybe we find a new friend who is interesting and funny whose life is full of drama and we are the lucky one they choose to call when there is a new adventure in their life. This can feel exciting but the downside is that the relationship can settle down into a pattern, where one party talks and shares all their issues and anxieties and the other listens patiently. This is fine if it suits both parties but the problems begin when resentment sets in and the friend who listens and is always available starts to feel put upon and resentful.
When a relationship is out of balance we can start to seethe inwardly and decide that it’s all about them and not us. This can signal the breakdown of the friendship but, if we communicated clearly and found the courage to share our feelings honestly we could find that our friendships move onto a new and more equal footing and can be the supportive relationships we needed but hadn’t dared hope for.
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
Pear and GingerBircher Muesli
Get your day off to a flying start with this flavoursome breakfast bursting with fruit, nuts, oats and seeds.
Serves 4 | Prep time 30mins, plus at least 4hrs’ refrigeration | Cooking time 2hrs 15 minutes
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe pears, diced
• 30g caster sugar
• 100g rolled oats
• 350ml almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 1 tbsp Opies Stem Ginger syrup
• 1 Opies Stem Ginger
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• A pinch of ground cinnamon
To serve:
• 30g pecan halves
• Coconut flakes
Method:
1. Poach the pears by placing them in a pan with the sugar. Cover with water and cook on a low heat until the sugar has dissolved and the pears are tender. Drain and place in a bowl or jar in the fridge.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, pumpkin seeds and syrup, and grate over the ginger. Stir well to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Add the chia seeds and a pinch of ground cinnamon to the mixture. Mix everything together until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to allow the flavours to meld and the oats to soften.
4. Before serving, give the muesli a good stir and check the consistency. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash of milk to reach your desired thickness.
5. Serve the muesli in bowls topped with poached pears, pecans and a scattering of coconut flakes.
For more recipe inspiration using the Opies range of products, visit www.bennettopie.com
NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
^^^ Solution in the DECEMBER edition
ACROSS: 7. Type of fruit (6), 8. Opulence (6), 9. Touch (4), 10. Start (8), 11. Modified (7), 13. Impede (5), 15. Remove from home (5), 17. Water closets (7), 20. Calculation (8), 21. Horrid (4), 23. Male relatives (6), 24. Snub (6). DOWN: 1. Manufactured (4), 2. Horse’s fastest pace (6), 3. Observed (7), 4. Chubby (5), 5. Specialist (6), 6. Piece of jewellery (8), 12. Splitting (8), 14. Advisory group (7), 16. Cold (6), 18. Caring (6), 19. Slightly drunk (5), 22. Lie in wait (4).
NOVEMBER SUDOKU
58mm Vertical [LEFT]
There are moments in wine tasting that feel almost magical. When I nose a wine, it often unlocks a hidden door to memory. I’m reminded of Marcel Proust and his famous madeleine — that small, unassuming cake which, dipped in tea, transported him instantly back to his childhood. For me, it’s not a madeleine, but the opening of a bottle of wine and the aroma in the glass.
Our sense of smell is extraordinary. It can summon a long-forgotten moment in an instant. The perfumed scent of Viognier can take me to a summer garden, where the air hums with bees and the fragrance of honeysuckle drifts on the breeze. A glass of Chianti, with its black cherry and trace of wood smoke, recalls autumn walks through leaf-strewn woodland, the smell of blackberry fruit and the comforting scent of burnt logs. These moments are deeply personal, yet wonderfully universal. When I’m presenting a wine tasting, I often explore the memory or image a wine evokes. My first question is ‘what season does it remind you of?’ This helps tasters identify a sensory theme that can lead to shared descriptors which help connect with the aroma of wine. We all know what burnt rubber, old leather, or wild herbs smell like, the art lies in finding the image that resonates. Each scent becomes a thread woven into the tapestry of flavour.
Wine tasting, in essence, is an act of remembrance. It is a celebration of joy found in a shared, sensory moment.
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
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
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@trustlinlithgow.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’
W: angelfire.com/folk/sangschule T: 07557 797139
E: sangschule@hotmail.com
A SCOTTISH SEAMSTRESS
BRINGING LIFE TOGETHER - New Community Group. Create time to look at, experience and contribute with a Guest Speaker in topics of your choice in nature, pen, thread, music, colour.. Each Wednesday 123pm at Low Port Centre, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ Room 3 ground floor. Bring your handiwork & ideas, lunch, to strengthen your own expression during our time together. Donation at the Door around £10 to cover speaker & room.
E: caroline@utterlybespoke.scot T: 07814 906355
BELLSBURN BOWLING CLUB - A welcoming and friendly lawn bowls club open for all ages and abilities. Join us for social or competitive playing. For more information, see our Facebook page and website www.linlithgowsportsclub.com/bowlszone, or email linlithgow.sports.club. bowls@gmail.com
GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding.org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.
THE CARING CAFE - Alzheimer Scotland’s Caring Cafe provides a relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Every third Wednesday of the month 10.30am – 12.00pm, Queen Margaret’s Hall, 53 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7JA.
LINLITHGOW & BO’NESS
PROBUS CLUB - We are a friendly and sociable club for retired and semi-retired men and women. We meet every second Wednesday morning from September to May in Linlithgow Rose Social Club. Tea/ coffee is available from 10.00am followed by a wide range of interesting talks. We also have occasional outings, meals, musical activities and fun games mornings. Visitors and potential new members are very welcome. Details and the current programme are available at www.bolinprobus.org
LINLITHGOW SPORTS CLUB
- A friendly club with lawn bowls, squash and tennis on offer. For more info go to www.linlithgowsportsclub.com
LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS - Do you need to develop and improve your public speaking skills? We have been helping people in the Linlithgow area do that for almost 20 years. At our friendly, supportive and fun events, you will also improve your listening, thinking and leadership skills. Develop at your own pace and grow in confidence. When? Every second Tuesday. Where? Mel Gray Centre by Canal Basin. Dates and further info at www. linlithgowspeakers.org.uk. Guests are always welcome.
LINLITHGOW AND DISTRICT ART GROUP - Mixed group of amateur artists from beginners to more advanced members dabbling in mixed mediums. Professional tutors who develop our skills, outdoor painting trips, exhibition visits and gallery talks. Meet Tuesdays 7.00-9.00pm in the Low Port Centre. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new members. Contact: Brian:
- 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.
WINCHBURGH ART CLUBWe meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall. Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk
WEST LOTHIAN EAGLES –AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL
- Come along and try Australian Rules football! We are recruiting for the 2022 season for both our men’s and women’s teams. If you’re looking for a new sport, new friends and looking to get fitter then get in touch today! No experience is required and our team of coaches are on hand to teach you all there is to know! We train at Linlithgow Academy every Thursday 7.00pm-9.00pm, see you there! Find us on social media. W: linktr.ee/WestLothianEagles E: westlothianeagles@gmail.com
TABLE TENNIS - LINLITHGOW -
Wednesdays - Longcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm9.45pm. Annual Membership £12.00 [Under 18’s £6.00] Play Table Tennis in a friendly atmosphere. The Club has “Active Assured” status (West Lothian Council Accreditation scheme) and is affiliated to Table Tennis Scotland. For those of a more competitive nature there is the opportunity to represent our team in the Stirlingshire & Midland Counties League. Contact Allan Scott T: 07485 001819 E: linlithgowlttg@gmail.com W: linlithgowtabletennis.co.uk
WHITBURN AND DISTRICT
PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.
WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see; W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274
LINLITHGOW STRING
ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. Any players with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent (no audition) from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us via email: linlithgowstringorchestra@ gmail.com through our website: linlithgowstringorchestra.co.uk or search for us on Facebook.
CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support
Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T: 01506 448000
E: office@carers-westlothian.com
W: www.carers-westlothian.com
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 & 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.
The latest whodunnit by writer and director Rian Johnson, Wake Up Dead Man, is the newest instalment in the Knives Out franchise and currently the last confirmed sequel to the hit 2019 film.
Drawing inspiration from Father Brown mysteries and other eclectic murder mystery novels, Wake Up Dead Man cements the Knives Out series as one of the greatest modern trilogies and establishes Benoit Blanc as an all-time great film detective.
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.
A murder has taken place on Good Friday: Monsignor Jefferson Wicks has been murdered, and the most obvious suspect is Father Jud Duplenticy, who is new to town. Enter Benoit Blanc, who will uncover the truth behind the lies to identify the true culprit.
Addressing contemporary issues such as political discourse, where people spew hatred for its buzz rather than genuine belief, Wake Up Dead Man explores themes of faith, belief, and why we believe. Rian Johnson walks a very fine line, being critical of religion without shaming those who believe in God. For Benoit Blanc, religion is a form of storytelling, and just like film or fictional novels, storytelling can carry emotional weight and alter our worldview.
Surrounding this meaningful storytelling is an incredible mystery with tantalising twists that kept me guessing until the final reveal. Gothically beautiful and accompanied by an amazing score, Wake Up Dead Man, aside from some pacing issues, is nothing short of incredible and a must-see for fans of the Knives Out series or anyone eager to satisfy their love of mysteries.
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.
In select cinemas from 26th November and on Netflix from 12th December
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
Help children in West Lothian stay warm this winter and succeed in school!
A warm jacket lets children focus on learning instead of being distracted by cold, damp clothes. For these kids, it’s a chance to thrive - and you can make that difference. This winter, we expect more than 300 requests for jackets for children aged 5 to 17. Here’s how you can help:
1. Become a sponsor: Buy a brand-new jacket for a specific child. SCAN THE QR CODE [see above] to register and we’ll contact you when a referral comes in. After buying the jacket, drop it off, and we’ll handle the rest.
SCANME
The child was avoiding the playground as she was cold. She wished for a warm jacket with a furry hood.
2. Buy a jacket: Buy and donate a warm jacket (ages 5-17), which we’ll distribute to a child in need.
3. Make a monetary donation: Short on time? Donate online, and we’ll buy a jacket for you. Each one costs around £25 but every single contribution, no matter the size, is appreciated. See our website for full details.
4. Donate winter essentials: Along with jackets, we frequently receive requests for
brand-new thick/cosy socks, tights, hoodies, wellies, gloves and hats. Pick up a few items whilst you are out shopping and drop off at any of our red collection bins located in supermarkets and community spaces across West Lothian. Or order from our Amazon Wishlist and deliver directly to us. See our website for a full list of drop-off points.
5. Donate gently used items: If your child has outgrown their jackets or wellies, we can give them a second life! These can also be dropped into our red bins.
For further details, reach out to us via email at admin@schoolbank-westlothian.org or visit the pinned post on our Facebook page “TheSchoolBankWestLothian” or our website at schoolbank-westlothian.org
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for any support you can give. Your kindness will change lives. Every single jacket, every donation, every gesture of support is a lifeline to a child. Together, we can ensure no child faces winter alone.
This article was contributed by School Bank West Lothian. Charity registered in Scotland number SC046483. Visit: schoolbank-westlothian.org
