Konect Linlithgow September 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025

LOCAL HISTORY: LOCAL CHARITY:

Palliative care, love and support

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

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s

ummer may be starting to fade, but there is still plenty to get involved with in the local area - check the What’s On and Clubs & Classes pages towards the back of the magazine. If you are involved in any events or clubs yourself which are not included, please feel free to get in touch with me – listings are free of charge for community/not-for-profit organisations.

Local historian Bruce Jamieson has contributed another fascinating article for this issue of Konect, see pages 8-9.

Bruce will be delivering his local history Zoom presentations once again from September to December.

All our usual columns are here. Featured charity this month is Strathcarron Hospice who do great work across the Forth Valley, and are looking for fundraising volunteers - see page 26 for ways to get involved.

Thank you for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

P22 Local History: The oldest house................8 Life Coaching: Happy now......................10 Living Well: Reminiscing.........................11 Interiors: Pattern Perfection.....................12 Garden Project: Hidden treasure............19 Puzzles....................................................21 Local Environment: Eye of the Survivor...22 Vet’s Tip: Pet Pains..................................23 What’s On: September Events................24 Charity: Strathcarron Hospice.................26 Recipe: Plum & Watercress loaf..............27 Clubs & Classes................................ 28-29 Film Review: Materialists.........................30

COVER IMAGE: Enjoying autumn berries

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

Konect is delivered monthly to 7,500 homes throughout Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe LINLITHGOW | 3

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LINLITHGOW | 7

LOCAL HISTORY

RIGHT: West Port House (as it can been seen today) High Street, Linlithgow

THE

OLDEST HOUSE IN THE HIGH STREET

Built in the late 16th century, West Port House can claim to be Linlithgow’s most venerable habitation.

A typical, partly fortified laird’s residence, it was constructed for the Hamiltons of Silvertonhill – a cadet branch of the influential Hamilton family whose ancestral home was Hamilton Palace in South Lanarkshire. The palace was demolished in the 1920s when new coal workings beneath the building threatened its structure.

In Linlithgow, however, West Port House

is still standing - having been continually occupied for over 420 years. Its lofty position was made even grander when the nearby West Port Gateway through the Town Wall was removed in the 18th century. Subsequent alterations, additions and road realignment have all changed its appearance but the house still retains its essential character.

LEFT: A muchaltered Hamilton Palace in 1870 8 | LINLITHGOW

Generations of the Hamilton family have lived in it including General Walter Hamilton, Sheriff Depute of Linlithgowshire during a period of Jacobite unrest. In 1715, he had to handle the arrival of 300 dragoons sent to Linlithgow to ward off a possible Jacobite march on Edinburgh. Another owner was Captain Walter Hamilton of Westport, a career soldier who served some thirty campaigns in the service of the Duke of Marlborough, leading his troops at the Battles of Ramillies and Blenheim. Retiring to West Port House, he would relive his military life, forming up chairs in line of battle and, with the help of his nurse, daughter and elderly aunt, recreate his famous encounters.

As an ex-military man, Provost Hamilton ensured that all the townsfolk participating in the annual Riding of the Marches were on their best behaviour (at least in the early part of the day!) and that all were dressed in their best apparel with their steeds beautifully caparisoned. The annual horse fair at Horsemarket Head, near West Port House, was frequented by those looking for a suitable mount. Provost Hamilton would stand in the elevated garden of his mansion and, adopting a military stance, supervise the haggling going on in the nearby marketplace, offering loud advice on the quality, or otherwise, of the horses being selected.

Servant’s Quarters next to West Port House

Another military resident was Lt-Gen Sir Robert Hamilton who saw active service during the American Revolution, leading his men of the 40th Regiment of Foot at the Battle of Ticonderoga in 1775. A stickler for discipline, Hamilton was known for his stiff bearing and self-importance and was given the nickname “Bombardian”. This larger-thanlife character retired to Linlithgow and died in 1786 in West Port House in 1786 where, reputedly, his ghostly presence is still felt.

Next door, in what was the Servants Quarters, another apparition has been seen – that of Mary Taylor, a 35-year-old maidservant who worked in West Port House, and who sadly took her own life by deliberately ingesting laudanum poison. Her body was found the next day by her father, Alexander, a weaver.

ABOVE: Mary Taylor’s registration of death During the Second World War, the Hamiltons decided to lease the house to other occupants and it became the home of local GP, Dr Carter. Later Dr Bill Wilson lived in the ancient edifice. He became Provost of Linlithgow - the last one to head up the Town Council before its abolition in 1974.

West Port House has now been converted into five apartments and I often wonder if the occupants are aware of the previous interesting incumbents of their ancient building!

This history article was contributed by local historian Bruce Jamieson. Bruce is once again running a series of local history Zoom Presentations from September until December (Please contact Bruce at bruceajamieson@yahoo.com for details).

All proceeds donated to local causes.

LINLITHGOW | 9

LIFE COACHING

We often find ourselves thinking that happiness is just round that next corner, when we are thin, when we meet that perfect partner, when the sun shines or when we get that brilliant job.

We become convinced that joy is found when this or that arrives or when an achievement is reached, but this thinking can perpetuate the belief that there is a formula for happiness and there just isn’t. If it were true that doing this or having that would automatically lead to a joy there would be universal happiness and no one would ever need any support of any kind.

It’s important to remember that any uplift in mood that results from a positive experience will pass and life will soon revert to normal. This is called hedonic adaptation and when we then immediately look forward to the next thing that boosts us we are on the hedonic treadmill. An

example of this is that experience so many of us have when we are returning from a beautiful holiday and find ourselves longing for the next one before the plane has even touched down on the tarmac.

There is no doubt that positive life events can improve our well-being and give us goals to work towards but clinging to them can reinforce the notion that happiness can only exist in future events.

When we postpone our happiness instead of acknowledging that it can be in the here and now, we miss the wonderful things that are happening in the moment we are living in.

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

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LIVING WELL

Autumn Reflections:

How reminiscing supports older adults’ wellbeing

As the days grow shorter and leaves start to turn golden, autumn is a natural time for reflection.

For older adults, reminiscing – remembering, sharing, and talking about past experiences – is a simple yet powerful way to support wellbeing.

Memories of past autumns, family traditions, or changing seasons can be comforting and spark happiness, helping to reduce feelings of isolation, and strengthen bonds with family.

Encouraging an older loved one to talk about school days, family gatherings, or favourite seasonal foods can lift their mood and create opportunities for warm conversation. For those living with dementia, long-held memories are often easier to recall than recent ones, providing a sense of identity and reassurance.

Simple Ways to Spark Memories • Storytelling: Invite your loved one to share tales of their younger years. Listening with interest helps them feel heard and valued.

• Music: Play songs from their youth. Familiar tunes can unlock joy and prompt shared singalongs.

• Photos & Keepsakes: Looking through albums, seasonal decorations, or treasured objects can bring back vivid memories.

• Creative Hobbies: Scrapbooking, writing, or autumn crafts like leaf-pressing can encourage self-expression and fun.

• Local Outings: Gentle walks around familiar places can provide comfort and spark memories of past visits.

This autumn, consider weaving reminiscence into your family life - it’s a simple, heartwarming way to brighten both you and your loved one’s day.

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

LINLITHGOW | 11

Pattern Perfection Whether it’s a textural geometric, a country-style floral or a bold, retro/modern design, introducing pattern always adds character.

It could be a few simple pieces that feature understated designs for subtle interest, an eyecatching, oversized pattern as a focal point or a complex combination of patterns for real impact.

FIND YOUR INSPIRATION: Look at books, magazines and websites for ideas, and then look for inspiration in the pattern books created by fabric and wallpaper designers, where everything is already coordinated, for example, stripes with damasks, spots with florals.

CREATE A MOOD BOARD: This allows you to assess how colours, patterns and surface textures work together. There are websites that will help, or you can pull together swatches of fabric, wallpaper and so on. Swap samples in and out, and, if you have large samples, hang them and live with them for a few days.

CONSIDER SCALE: In general, bigger patterns are better suited to bigger rooms and smaller patterns to cosier rooms – though there’s something to be said for the occasional use of a huge pattern in a small space.

A downstairs cloakroom is the obvious place to try out a large-scale wallpaper.

Beware: very bold patterns used extensively may date or you could get sick of them.

LAYER PATTERNS FOR DYNAMIC EFFECT: Think of starting with the most dominant pattern and adding in secondary and tertiary patterns (and maybe more). Remember that stripes and very small patterns can be brilliant at coordinating with more intricate patterns. And don’t forget textures – the slub of raw silk, the herringbone of woven linen, chunky knitted wool.

CHOOSE COORDINATING TONES: A cautious approach would be to match colours exactly. But it may become dull. You can achieve excellent coordination and sophistication by working with tones. Colours with similar tonal values will work together, making it easier to combine patterns. Density, too, is a factor, as loose, open patterns give a visual ‘breather’, while intricate patterns with closely placed designs have more drama.

MIX AND MATCH STYLES: You could choose everything from the same ‘genre’, for instance, florals or geometrics, but a mix-and-match approach can be extremely successful, provided there is some cohesion in terms of colour, tone, scale or style.

The interiors column was contributed by Katherine Sorrell

1) Headboard in Gingham Saffron (now available only in blue and sage), Cathy Nordstrom (cathynordstrom.com); Meadow Sweet wallpaper in Gold/Slate, Morris & Co. morrisandco.com (Photograph: Fanny Radvick). 2) Bamburgh grand sofa in Natural, DFS. dfs.co.uk 3) Cambridge chair in Kinsham Stripe Ochre Yellow; Bernwood wallpaper in Ochre Yellow; Bernwood eyelet curtains; Hedingham cushion in Seaspray Blue; jute rug; all Laura Ashley. next.co.uk/laura-ashley 12 | LINLITHGOW

LINLITHGOW | 13

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We always refer to autumn bulb planting as ‘planting hidden treasure’.

We bury the bulbs in the ground or in pots now and they remain hidden until the spring when their leaves burst through the soil followed by wonderful flowers, real treasures in the spring.

This tulip Finola was one of our favourites this year. First the pot is covered with the bold, dramatic glaucous green leaves, which herald the promise of flowers to come. The large peony-like flowers at 45cm (18”) tall appear in late April/early May and are soft pink, fading to pale pink as they mature. They belong in a group of tulips called ‘double late varieties’.

Why are there so many different varieties of tulips? They were introduced here over 500 years ago from Turkey and although they don’t offer an edible crop or a source of perfume which would have created a commercial demand, they caught the public’s imagination and demand for different ones grew very fast.

Tulip Finola ‘Tulipomania’ resulted, centred on Holland, and fortunes were made and lost by the sale of unusual bulbs, the colouring of the flowers was often the result of a virus, which eventually killed that variety!

Which ones might you choose to plant this autumn from the hundreds of different colours and different groups: early flowering Kaufmanianas, elegant Lily flowered, Parrot ones, Darwinians, Double Lates like Finola, or some of the few fragrant double ones like Peach Blossom?

The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

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

SPRING FLOWERING BULBS IN STORE RIGHT NOW! This month we have our biggest selection of Spring flowering bulbs on offer and ready to be planted!

LINLITHGOW | 19

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SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

58mm Vertical [LEFT]

^^^ Solution in the OCTOBER edition

ACROSS: 6. Attractive (6), 8. Allow (6), 9. Bite persistently (4), 10. Chosen (8), 11. Ripping (7), 13. Acknowledge (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Secured (7), 20. Non-military person (8), 21. Neat (4), 23. Suppose (6), 24. Surplus (6).

DOWN: 1. Midday (4), 2. Reply (6), 3. Type of fruit (5), 4. Found (6), 5. Similarly (8), 7. Relieving (6), 12. Soonest (8), 14. Alter (6), 16. Special (6), 18. Unbroken (6), 19. Conceals (5), 22. Hurry (4).

XX ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 30

SEPTEMBER SUDOKU

ADD SOLUTION DETAILS LINLITHGOW | 21

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

In 2022 there was a serious outbreak of the highly contagious avian flu. It’s estimated around 3.8m birds died that year in the UK. One of the worst affected species was the gannet, our biggest sea bird. For the first time since that year, I visited Troup Head, which is a gannet colony in the North of Scotland, near Fraserburgh.

Since this outbreak, there’s been an interesting physical change in gannets that no-one could have anticipated. Usually they have a pale blue iris but some birds with black eyes were discovered and after taking blood samples, scientists found out of the 8 who tested positive for the virus, seven had black irises. This indicated they survived the virus, which was an incredible discovery and though the reason for this change in colour has yet to be discovered, research continues to understand whether it could apply to other species and if it impacts their vision*.

These birds are incredible and can dive up to 100ft, at speeds of 62.13mph thanks to a number of features including no external nostrils, air sacs in the face and chest under 22 | LINLITHGOW

the skin which act like bubble wrap to cushion the impact as they hit the water, and how their eyes are positioned so they can judge distances accurately. How much food they can eat is thought to the be inspiration behind their name, unsurprisingly! * Information taken from the RSPB website.

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.

September is Animal Pain Awareness Month and you might think that’s quite a niche issue to have a whole month to highlight.

However, our pets are really good at masking pain and too often owners put changes in behaviour down to other causes and miss the fact that their pet is suffering.

Obviously sometimes pain is easy to spot – a dog yelping when it puts a sore paw down. But very often signs of pain are not what you would expect and can be quite subtle.

Aggression in dogs, for instance, can often be a sign of pain, as can being stiff and slow, sleeping more and not being keen to go out on walks.

Cats are particularly good at hiding pain – look out for a decrease in grooming, sleeping or meowing more, shaking, loss of appetite and aggression.

Even rabbits will conceal their pain – again aggression, reduced or altered appetite, reluctance to hop and move about and poor grooming can all be signs.

Any changes in your pet’s usual behaviour or habits could be down to pain – don’t just assume it’s just part of getting older if they are slower and stiffer.

If you notice any changes in your pet, it could be linked to pain and should always be checked out by a vet.

Never give them human pain relief medication as some can be toxic to animals.

Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com LINLITHGOW | 23

SATURDAY 6TH SEPTEMBER Crafters Destash Sale - Winchburgh Parsih Church, EH52 6TT. 10.00am – 12.30pm. Lots of Crafters have been clearing out their cupboards to offer you crafting supplies at bargain prices !!! 25 tables full, so if you are looking for a bargain why not come along and check out what is on offer. Fabric, wool, card making, beads, ribbons, jewellery making equipment, craft books, haberdashery and much more.....

Crafting for business or pleasure, youth / children’s leader, teachers, great bargains available, come and have a look. Cafe open, selling breakfast rolls, home baking and refreshments. Entry free! So pop in and grab yourself a bargain SAT 6TH SEPT AND SAT 4TH OCTOBER 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 – 4.00pm.

SATURDAY 13TH SEPTEMBER The Gesualdo Six - Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild, at St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow. The Gesualdo Six is a highly acclaimed British vocal consort comprising some of the UK’s finest consort singers, and the ensemble is known for its impeccable standard of performance. The group performs a broad-ranging repertoire, from the music of the medieval period through to contemporary compositions. Tickets £20, U26 £10, children free. More info and booking via: www.linlithgowartsguild.org.uk

SUNDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER Friends of Beecraigs Volunteering session - Join the Ranger Service as we undertake some practical tasks to help maintain Witchcraig Woodland. For this session we will be creating a new series of pond scrapes to better manage the seasonal wet areas within some of the woodland.

This will better regulate the water flow and help protect some of the new saplings.

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 10.00am, and the meeting place is at the Korean War Memorial car park, which is located 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.

Further conservation events at Beecraigs this month on Thursday 25th and Sunday 28th September, see the West Lothian Council Range Service’s Eventbrite page for details.

SATURDAY 4TH OCTOBER Craft Fair - Winchburgh Parish Church, EH52 6TT. 10.30am – 2.30pm. 25 stalls selling unique handcrafted gifts and products.

Some stallholders local with others coming from further afield, coming to the area for the first time with some new and unusual crafts.

A coffee bar will be open all day offering filled rolls, home baking and refreshments.

Entry to the Fair is free, so why not start your Christmas shopping early or enjoy a morning or afternoon out with friends!

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. 24 | LINLITHGOW

If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby.....get in touch via

editor@konect.scot

Got a story?

and we may be able to share it.

(You need to live and/or work in the Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge area to be featured in this magazine)

WE LOVE TO CELEBRATE ALL THINGS LOCAL!

LINLITHGOW | 25

Strathcarron Hospice prides itself in providing specialist palliative care, love and support for people with an illness which is no longer curable. With this in mind, we aim to allow people to live the best way that they can for as long as possible and when the time comes, die with peace, dignity and respect.

By giving your time you are actively helping others who need care and support every day of every year and we rely on special people like you to support us do this.

All this is made possible by the generosity of those who support us. Strathcarron Hospice is a charity supporting both patients and their families across the local areas of Forth Valley, Cumbernauld & Kilsyth, when and where we are needed the most.

Support comes our way in many forms; be that financial or time. Without either we could not provide the best level of care for patient and support for loved ones. Would you be able to become a part of our community by volunteering with the Fundraising Team? We have many varied opportunities available, from marshalling at events, helping promote fundraising campaigns in your local area or taking donations at public collections. Whatever suits you and fits in with your life is critical to the £19,500 needed every day in voluntary contributions to enable our work to continue.

Your time is precious and we do have roles to suit all availability, regularly or as a one-off.

As times change, the services we offer adapt to this. As an example, we encourage people to engage with us at a much earlier point, as soon as their illness is diagnosed as terminal (cannot be cured) so we are able to guide and support at this difficult time in their lives. As the majority of people show their preference to spend the end of their life in their own home we are now in a position to support this with the ‘Hospice at Home’ service, whilst maintaining care for 24 in-patients in the Hospice itself.

26 | LINLITHGOW

Our annual 10K this year is on SUNDAY 12TH OCTOBER 2025 in Denny and volunteers can sign up now to help by emailing fundraising@strathcarronhospice.net or visit the website for more info and to take part in the 10K: www.strathcarronhospice.net/Event/ strathcarron-hospice-10k-2025 If you would like to volunteer with the team at Strathcarron Hospice Fundraising or find out more about what’s involved please just get in touch: fundraising@strathcarronhospice.net or 01324 826222 (Fundraising Department) www.strathcarronhospice.net This article was contributed by Strathcarron Hospice, Randolph Hill, Denny, FK6 5HJ. Registered charity: SC006704

FOOD & DRINK

Plum, Pink Pepper and Watercress Loaves Making the most of in-season juicy plums, these deliciously sweet treats are perfect with morning coffee or an afternoon cuppa.

Serves 12 | Prep 10 minutes Cooking time 20 minutes Ingredients:

• Butter and flour, for lining the tins • 2 tsp lemon juice • 90g whole milk • 150g plums, stones discarded, flesh chopped into small pieces • 120g light muscovado sugar, plus 2 tbsp • 250g plain flour • 13g baking powder • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp pink peppercorns, crushed • 1 tbsp watercress, finely chopped • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 150g rapeseed oil • 2 large eggs

To serve:

• Icing sugar, for dusting • Plum slices, to decorate • Whipped cream (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4. Grease and lightly flour 12 mini loaf tins

2. Mix the lemon juice into the milk and set aside to room temperature.

3. Mix the chopped plums with the 2 tbsp muscovado sugar and set aside.

4. In a separate, large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, peppercorns, remaining sugar and watercress.

5. In a jug, mix the vanilla, reserved milk mixture, oil and eggs.

6. Pour the wet mixture into the dry and whisk from the edges inwards. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.

7. Carefully stir through the plums and the residual syrup and divide the mixture equally between the loaf tins.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.

Cool in the tins for 10 minutes before turning out to cool completely.

9. Once cold, dust with icing sugar and decorate with plum slices. This is fantastic with pillows of whipped cream, if liked.

For more recipe inspiration, visit www.watercress.co.uk and for more information on the health benefits of watercress, visit www.thewatercresscompany.com LINLITHGOW | 27

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

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.

SANDSCHULE – WEST LOTHIAN’S COMMUNITY SINGING GROUP - For over 30 years, Sangschule has been bringing people together from West Lothian and around to enjoy folk songs, particularly Scottish.

We’re not a traditional choir; no need to be a confident singer, or to be able to read music or remember song words – we teach tunes by ear and provide song sheets. Linlithgow Academy each Wednesday evening. Facebook: ‘Sangschule West Lothian’ W: angelfire.com/folk/sangschule T: 07557 797139 E: sangschule@hotmail.com A SCOTTISH SEAMSTRESS BRINGING LIFE 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 12-3pm at Low Port Centre, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ Room 3 ground floor. Bring your handiwork & ideas, lunch, to strengthen your own expression during our time together. Donation at the Door around £10 to cover speaker & room.

E: utterlybespoke@icloud.com T: 07814 906355 BELLSBURN BOWLING CLUB - A welcoming and friendly lawn bowls club open for all ages and abilities. Join us for social or competitive playing.

For more information, see our Facebook page and website www. linlithgowsportsclub.com/bowlszone, or email linlithgow.sports. club.bowls@gmail.com 28 | LINLITHGOW

GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding. org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.

THE CARING CAFE - Alzheimer Scotland’s Caring Cafe provides a relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Every third Wednesday of the month 10.30am – 12.00pm, Queen Margaret’s Hall, 53 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7JA. LINLITHGOW & BO’NESS PROBUS CLUB - We are a friendly and sociable club for retired and semi-retired men and women. We meet every second Wednesday morning from September to May in Linlithgow Rose Social Club. Tea/coffee is available from 10.00am followed by a wide range of interesting talks. We also have occasional outings, meals, musical activities and fun games mornings. Visitors and potential new members are very welcome. Details and the current programme are available at www.bolinprobus.org LINLITHGOW SPORTS CLUB - A friendly club with lawn bowls, squash and tennis on offer.

For more info go to www.linlithgowsportsclub.com LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS - Do you need to develop and improve your public speaking skills? We have been helping people in the Linlithgow area do that for almost 20 years. At our friendly, supportive and fun events, you will also improve your listening, thinking and leadership skills. Develop at your own pace and grow in confidence. When? Every second Tuesday. Where? Mel Gray Centre

by Canal Basin. Dates and further info at www.linlithgowspeakers.org. uk. Guests are always welcome.

LINLITHGOW AND DISTRICT

ART GROUP - Mixed group of amateur artists from beginners to more advanced members dabbling in mixed mediums.

Professional tutors who develop our skills, outdoor painting trips, exhibition visits and gallery talks.

Meet Tuesdays 7.00-9.00pm in the Low Port Centre. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new members.

Contact: Brian: E: brianmcdonagh1948@gmail.com T: 07909 577272 or, Margaret: E:magsbruce1@bluehyonder.co.uk T: 07906 021875 Facebook: ‘Linlithgow & District Art Group’ WEST LOTHIAN DADS OF NEURO DIVERSE CHILDREN - A support Group for Dads and Granddads of neuro diverse children, providing a safe space to talk about the additional challenges and benefits we face.

We meet up at 7.00pm on the last Thursday of every month at Cross House, Linlithgow, EH49 7AL. You can Join the Whatsapp group by messaging Richard on 07788 583445.

WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Bowling Club (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@ winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk SAMBALISTIC - A friendly bunch of people covering all abilities and ages, enjoying drumming/ percussion together. Practice - Thursday evenings during term-time at Linlithgow Academy (7.30 - 9.30pm). All instruments supplied. No musical knowledge required. We offer performances throughout the

year. You may have seen us at local galas/fairs! Why not come along and have a go?

Or if you wish to discuss an event, just turn up on Thursday or email sambalistic@live.com LINLITHGOW FLORAL ART CLUB - A friendly group who meet on third Wednesday of each month (Sept to May) in the Rose Social Club, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, 7:30 pm. Come along, bring a friend and sit back and enjoy an entertaining and colourful demonstration by a qualified demonstrator, followed by refreshments and a chat with your friends. All designs created in the demonstration are raffled.

Contact Pamela Galloway: E: pjgalloway.18@gmail.com 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 semiretired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned.

Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time?

Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see; W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/ home Facebook: www.facebook. com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274.

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge.

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

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers.

Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney

Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for adults across West Lothian to increase arts engagement in a non competitive, expressive and inclusive way.

Promoting independence, confidence and good mental and physical health through dance, music and song, visual arts, creative writing and cinema.

Contact: E: generationarts.info@gmail.com T: 07521 358 239 MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & 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 £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. LINLITHGOW | 29

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

With Celine Song’s second feature, she explores the modern dating scene in her attempt at a romantic comedy.

I say “attempt” because the moments of humour I found were more displays of societal pain. Modern dating’s obsession with material values in a partner, like height or wealth, is a plague on our society and obfuscates the fact that these values do not reflect a person’s true character.

ACROSS: 7. Reform, 8. Chosen, 9. Aids, 10. Stubborn, 11. Merrier, 13. Ankle, 15. Above, 17. Frisked, 20. Umbrella, 21. Lute, 22. Recess, 23. Gemini.

DOWN: 1. Desire, 2. Foes, 3. Smashed, 4. Scrub, 5. Combines, 6. Petrol, 12. Reversed, 14. Arrange, 16. Bumper, 18. Eating, 19. Close, 21 Lamp.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 21

This is examined through the lens of a matchmaker, Lucy, played superbly by Dakota Johnson, who is responsible for nine weddings. While attending the wedding of an ex-client, she encounters two men who are about to challenge everything she believes about dating. Harry, aACROSS: financier played flawlessly by 7.

Reform, 8. Chosen, 9. Aids, 10. Stubborn, 11. Merrier, 13. Ankle, 15. Above, 17.named Frisked, Pedro Pascal, and her ex-boyfriend, a struggling actor 20. Umbrella, 21. Lute, 22. Recess, John, played wonderfully by Chris Evans.

23. Gemini.

1. Desire, Foes, 3. Smashed, The issues with modern dating DOWN: invade every2.aspect of Lucy’s 4. Scrub, 5. Combines, 6. Petrol, life. While at work, she helps match people with their ideal 12. Reversed, 14. Arrange, 16. Bumper, 18. Eating, 19.often Close, 21 Lamp. partners. Their demands are simple, yet impossible, since her clients will always find something to complain about.

Yet SOLUTION TO SUDOKU her own dating life is just as chaotic as when ON PAGE XXshe is with Harry.

She appears to be living her dream life: a wealthy man, perfect height, and ideal lifestyle. But does that matter if the person you truly love would drop everything for you?

While I felt the film lacked some laughs typical of a romantic comedy, its sharp critique of modern dating is truly captivating, and I couldn’t help but fall in love with this film.

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

30 | LINLITHGOW

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

Robert is from Kirknewton.

T: 07729 911858

LINLITHGOW | 31