Konect Livingston August 2014

konect AUGUST 2014

livingston

WIN!

Tickets to see the Janet Seidel Trio at Howden Park Centre!

FEATURES S& OFFER ERS H C U O V cal from lo ses s e in bus

When Torphichen was the centre of Scotland Around the Loch We Go - local walk plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Livingston

Quality Dental Care in state-of-the-art surgeries Computerised injection (virtually pain free) Cosmetic teeth alignment in less than 6 months

We are now registering new NHS patients

Thanks for reading konect and for supporting local businesses. We strongly believe in keeping local money local, so if you need work done on the house, garden or car have a look through the pages of this magazine to find local trades people and give them the first chance for your work.

We're heading into the last couple of weeks of the school holidays, if you're home from travels and looking for things for the children to do check the What's On pages as there are still holiday clubs running, or try the local walk this month on page 28 which is a great one for all ages.

Message from the Editor

Just along the road between Bathgate and Linlithgow is the tiny village of Torphichen. It is a quiet and charming village and you possibly usually have no reason to go there, but it used to be the Scottish HQ of the famous Hospitaller Knights of St John. Read about it in our history article on pages 46-47 and try and fit in a visit some time this summer – they are open until the end of September.

Congratulations to Yvonne Munnelly Reid who won the Howden Park competition last month. This month Howden Park are offering tickets again, see the competition on page 57.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638

Advertising enquiries Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print www.konectdirectory.co.uk www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory @KonectDirectory The Konect Directory is delivered to 20,000 homes throughout Livingston, alternating between two areas of 10,000 homes each. Copies are also left at libraries, community centres, convenience stores, post offices and other locations throughout Livingston.

Front cover image: The funfair is in Livingston until 18th August.

Photo by Jenny Thomson

Contents Features Bathgate Music Festival 18 Spotlight on Knight Shades 22 When Torphichen was the centre of Scotland 46 Regulars Local Walk 28 Technology 34 Chriselle's Column 38 Style Column 38 Music Review 42 Property Matters 44 Recipe 48 Thought for the Month 52 Competitions and Puzzles Crossword 54 Sudoku 54 Kid's Puzzles 56 Howden Park ticket competition 57 Community What's on 55 Useful Information 55 Clubs & Classes 58 Index of Advertisers 63

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Large or Small Jobs Interior & Exterior Work Homes & Commercial Properties We’ve got it covered!

Just call us for advice or a no-obligation quote:

07932 647595 or 01506 416641

E: ediciacca@hotmail.co.uk Skivo Farm, Livingston EH54 9AN

NO PASS, NO FEE...

SIMPLES!* SERVICING & REPAIRS TYRES BRAKES EXHAUSTS DIAGNOSTICS ECU RE-MAPPING DPF REMOVAL SERVICE 01506 632123 - Bathgate

Email - info@mandsautosolutions.co.uk Web - www.mandsauto.co.uk

The only garage in Scotland with this amazing offer.

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ANY NEW TYRE *With MOT

*Terms and conditions apply, cannot be used with any other offer, photocopies not accepted, no cash value, call or check website for details, please mention voucher when booking.

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There’s listing and then there’s selling!

Nationwide branch network Fully trained valuers Professional marketing Rightmove & Zoopla Hot buyers list Property alerts Accompanied viewings Solicitors property centre AC property journal Dedicated legal support Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest & You Tube Get Scotland’s No.1 Solicitor Estate Agent working for you 69 South Bridge Street, Bathgate EH48 1TJ bgt@acandco.com

Ochil House, Beveridge Square, Livingston EH54 6QF liv@acandco.com

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Anderson Home Improvements For all your home improvement needs All trades supplied

Specialists in : Kitchens Bathrooms Windows Doors Roofline Roofs EPDM Rubber Roofs

AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk

P.I.P.e

Pruce Independent Plumbing

Please call Michael on

07711 240999

mj-anderson@hotmail.co.uk

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Home 01506 462753 Mobile 07748 802 016

Your LOCAL Accountancy & Letting solution

NEW TO BATHGATE 93 South Bridge Street Bathgate EH48 1TJ

Tel: 01506 537888

Tel: 01506 537999

The first 3 months management fees

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email: enquiries@letlink.org.uk email: enquiries@taxlink.org.uk

The first years fees

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Improving homes all over

Martin Pruce

Local family-ru n busines s

LVS Garage Services Livingston has been providing servicing and MOT services since our founding in 1986. It is our mission to achieve total customer satisfaction in everything we do.

Find us on Facebook

(Includes FREE Air Freshener and Screenwash top-up) (Includes FREE Car Wash & Air Freshener) Limited one voucher per customer,per visit. Cash value 0.001p. Subject to availability.Not valid with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted.

VALID UNTIL 30th September 2014

Limited one voucher per customer,per visit. Cash value 0.001p. Subject to availability.Not valid with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted.

VALID UNTIL 30th September 2014

Limited one voucher per customer,per visit. Cash value 0.001p. Subject to availability.Not valid with any other offer.

Photocopies not accepted.

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DONATE YOUR FURNITURE AND ELECTRICALS and we’ll pick up your items for FREE

Your unwanted furniture and electricals can help us fight back against heart disease. We collect all sorts of items: • • • • •

Sofas, beds, tables, chairs TVs, Hi-Fi’s Washing machines, fridges Small electrical items Games consoles, docking stations

Call 0131 341 2992 or book online at bhf.org.uk/collection Please don’t be disappointed if we are unable to accept items for reasons of safety or quality © British Heart Foundation, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

C and W Cleaning Services www.cwcleaningservices.co.uk

0131 334 2080 Livingston 0800 695 1101

Edinburgh

Your local Blinds ■ Carpets ■ Rugs ■ Upholstery ■ specialists Quick drying carpets and upholstery Same day blind cleaning available

MHPS Property Services Trusted property maintenance & repairs

Electrical • Plumbing Gas • General repairs

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Mexican Night Friday 29th August

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Pottery Painting and Craft Studio and Gift Shop Overton Farm, Kirknewton, West Lothian, EH27 8DD

01506 238961

chat@potteraround.co.uk Drop in to paint pottery, decopatch or make jewellery anytime

Plus

• Potter's wheels parties • Potter's wheel workshops with international potter • Oil painting classes • Glass fusion workshops • Lip balm workshops • Jewellery • Oil Painting • Flower Arranging • Felting • Stained Glass • Handprints in Clay • Clay modelling Glass painting Knitting/crochet Hand made jewellery and pottery available in the shop Art Club Fridays 2pm-4pm Holidaysevery weekday morning

s ight es n Ladi Tuesday y Ever -10pm nd 7.30 beads a r o y in f tter Drop ether, po d l n b a a ting pain itting kn

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eni ng Mon time s 10a -Sat m-5 Sun p 1pm m Tue -5p s7 m .30 pm -10 pm

Warhammer Club Friday afternoons

www.facebook.com/potteraround

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MOT’S

SERVICING

TYRES

REPAIRS

EXHAUSTS

BRAKES

DIAGNOSTICS

AND MORE

Class 4 & Class 7 MOT Station

Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm Saturday: 8am - 2pm

49a West End, West Calder, EH55 8EJ

01506 871388

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Spotlight on

Ableworld

New Mobility Store, Broxburn Ableworld, the UK’s leading mobility company, is delighted to announce the opening of its latest franchise store in Broxburn. Ableworld Broxburn is owned by local residents David Gaffney and wife Audrey as well as sister Maureen McIvor and is located at 2 Dunnet Way, East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5NN (previously Mark Wallace Motors). Ableworld is easy and convenient to reach with ample free parking.

From spacious premises, Ableworld offers customers a wide selection of quality mobility and homecare products. A local store staffed by local people is often the place to go for the best service and that is certainly the case here, but Ableworld is also the place to find the keenest prices and enjoyable shopping experience. The store stocks a very wide range of products including larger items such as mobility scooters, wheelchairs, adjustable beds and rise and recline chairs but also many smaller items to help with day to day tasks. They also hold a wide range of products to help with bathing, toileting and dressing as well as a range of continence care products.

Ableworld also installs stairlifts and service scooters.

Whatever the product, the aim is to help people to lead easier, more comfortable and independent lives. The Directors of Ableworld Broxburn are all local people who have significant experience behind them. David has a wealth of Retail/Customer Service and Management experience which resulted in him owning and managing three car sales showrooms.

Audrey is a primary school teacher and has been working in West Lothian schools for the past 36 years. Maureen has experience in many fields.

She has worked as a nursing auxiliary for severely handicapped children, she has also worked in retail and has recently been employed by Edinburgh City Council working closely with OT’s and carers.

All three directors have undertaken Ableworld’s extensive and rigorous training programme so that they can assess customers correctly and provide the right solutions for the variety of customer’s needs

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they will face. David has a clear view how he and his fellow directors can help local people who need mobility equipment. “I am looking forward to a new challenge and fulfilling customers’ expectations.

When we were researching other mobility retailers, we were disappointed by the number of times we would walk into a store and be completely ignored.

We also noticed how the stores were small, dark and not welcoming. Our new store is completely the opposite of all those things and I believe that it is every customer’s right to be treated fairly and honestly which is exactly what we intend to do at Ableworld Broxburn.”

Whatever your needs, you can be assured of a range of quality products from names you can trust. Why not call in?

Open 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday you can visit your new Ableworld store at 2 Dunnet Way, East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5NN. Tel: 01506 856565.

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NURSERY & OUT OF SCHOOL CARE

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Open mORnInG

SaTuRDaY 4 OcTOBeR 2014 9.30am–12.30pm

Principal’s Address 9.30am

One SchOOl, One campuS

www.gwc.org.uk choice of International Baccalaureate Diploma programme or SQa Qualifications for S5/S6 pupils School Bus pick-up at haymarket Station West lothian School Bus stops at east Whitburn, West calder, livingston, east calder, Kirknewton, Bol o Bere and Balerno Financial help available for p7 and S1 entry, including free places George Watson’s college Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk konect 15

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Local Life

Bathgate Music Festival 2014 4th to 7th September Now in its 7th year, the Bathgate Music Festival has gone from strength to strength and 2014 will be no exception. The festival aims to celebrate numerous different styles of music such as jazz, soul, traditional, classic and rock music and will feature a combination of professional musicians, bands and local performers.

The BMF is predominantly a FREE music festival open to all genres and ages. We aim to increase the profile of the local musicians and bring new music into West Lothian through the various events that we run.

Over the main Festival weekend this year we will be running in excess of 30 events in local bars, restaurants and venues. A large outdoor festival stage will be erected in the centre of the town, at the Steelyard, on the Saturday where live music will be played throughout the day from some big up-and-coming artists such as Pronto Mama and The La Fontaines who went down a storm at T-In-The-Park last weekend.

The full schedule of events will shortly be available on www.bathgatemusicfestival.com The Ambition Bathgate and the wider West Lothian community has a very strong musical heritage and passion and it’s the overall aim of the BMF Committee to nurture and promote this heritage for the local residence and businesses.

The Support As this is a free festival we rely fully on the support and funding from local businesses and organisations and we are extremely grateful to all the sponsors for supporting BMF2014, without your continued support we simply could not make this happen. If you would like to get involved via sponsorship for BMF2015 please get in touch at enquiries@bathgatemusicfestival.com The Committee A tireless bunch of volunteers of all ages and walks of life dedicate their spare time to making sure the festival runs smoothly. The year long process starts immediately after the festival ends in September and again without the dedication and hard work from this team we would not be able to achieve this. If you would like to join the BMF2015 committee please get in touch at enquiries@bathgatemusicfestival.com West Lothian Schools Now firmly an annual event the BMF committee for the first time this year worked closely with the West Lothian Schools to run an inter-school Battle of the Bands competition.

2 Heats and a Final saw around 20 local youth bands come together to fight for some amazing prizes. Watch out for the announcements for the 2015 West Lothian Schools Battle of the Bands towards the end of the year.

“The Bathgate Music Festival is a predominately FREE music festival open to all genres and ages�

More news and plenty of pictures at https://www.facebook.com/BathgateMusicFestival

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Spotlight on

Knight Shades Blinds From butcher to blinds Martin Sweeny has lived in Livingston all his life and been involved in a variety of ventures including Desperate Dan's Burger Van, a butcher's shop, managing a local rock group.... and running a made to measure blinds shop, Knight Shades.

It's not an obvious career progression from butcher to blinds, so what's Martin's story and how has it made Knight Shades Blinds into the business it it today?

“I never actually wanted to be a butcher,” he explains.

“It was the one career I really didn't want to have, but I went to the shops one Saturday with my mum when I was twelve and the local butcher was advertising for a Saturday boy. I took the job on the spot, was given an oversize white apron and mum left me there to start work!” He had that Saturday job until he left school by which time he'd gained a wealth of experience and knowledge, then just stayed in the butcher trade, eventually setting up his own business.

Martin made a name for himself during the meat on the bone ban between 1997 and 1999, attracting media attention for continuing to sell beef on the

bone regardless (the ban was lifted when it become clear that potential health issues were negligible).

Ironically perhaps, Martin was so thoroughly up to date with perfectly documented health and safety conformance in his butcher's shop that an inspector commented that he was too well qualified to be a butcher and should work as an Environmental Health officer! But he loved the front line of customer service too much - the banter and the social interaction with customers in the shop....which is how he ended up selling blinds.

“My apprentice in the shop had decided to leave and set up a blinds business, and invited me to sell for him. The timing was right so I decided to give the blinds a shot.” After three years there he ended up taking over the blinds business, naming it Knight Shades. That was 14 years ago, and Knight Shades is still going strong.

“One of the first things I did was to make the pricing clear. It's important for customers to know that an offer is honest – we don't make it up on the spot based on how big the house is or how expensive the

“Martin is keen to encourage young photographers to make use of the studio so they have access to equipment that would otherwise be too expensive for them.”

Martin Sweeny

fabric. The options are clearly labelled and priced so when we arrive at a customer's house pricing is always consistent.” There are permanent offers such as “3 blinds for £99,” depending on the type of blind and range of fabric you choose from. “We're not pushy, and customers appreciate that. When you call us to make an appointment, we come to your house, show you the samples and leave you to choose while we measure your windows. There is no pressure.”

Knight Shades have a huge catalogue of colours and styles available , and have recently added matching cushions and curtains.

Whites and creams are also permanently on special offer, making Knight Shades the obvious choice for plain neutral blinds. In addition, all end-of-line fabrics are on special offer – any leftovers from large jobs are discounted so if you only need one or two blinds you can get good fabrics at a great rate.

With experience fitting commercial premises and new home builders as well as domestic customers, Martin is confident that Knight Shades has something for every window.The business moved from Deans to its current premises in Young Street, West Calder, about 4 years ago. The Young Street premises was a vast empty space that had previously been used as a truck washing area, so Martin has done a lot of work

Logo blinds Knight Shades supply logo-printed blinds for businesses. to subdivide it and make it suitable for his business.

There is plenty of space here so besides the blinds manufacturing area, Martin has room to indulge in his main hobby – photography.

“The photography is actually a separate business now, though it started out as a hobby.” He has created a studio for portraits, and he also does a lot of wedding and event photography. The studio is available to hire at the weekends for photography students, or anyone else who needs to hire it for a photography project.

Martin is keen to encourage young photographers to make use of the space so they have access to studio equipment that would otherwise be too expensive for them.

And – when blinds and photography are simply not enough – Martin has used some spare space to create an impressive bar and music area, complete with bubbling fish tanks. Martin says “Some have a den or a shed, but I have a bar at work!”

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West Lothian

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Local Walk

Around the Loch We Go

by Karen Murray With a couple of hours off work and the children needing to get out of the house, where can we go for a walk that the kids will enjoy, is not too far away but far enough to be a trip?

Answer - Linlithgow Loch. I am all for combining activities and killing two birds with the one stone, so for this outing not only can we walk, we can utilise our Historic Scotland membership by taking in the Palace too. So choose your route to Linlithgow – either via Torphichen Road or along the A801 - and once in Linlithgow park in the car park by the Palace (the Vennel Pay and Display) or if you are visiting the Palace you can park right outside.

We decided on walk first, Palace visit second - bribery works best with my urchins! So from the Palace entrance, go around the left side of the building and walk down to the edge of the loch. You can also take the steps directly out of the Vennel carpark if you're parked there. Turn left and follow the path around the loch in a clockwise direction.

The area surrounding the loch is known as Linlithgow Peel and comprises land which used to be the garden and grounds of the Palace of Linlithgow which has been added to over the years and is now maintained

by Historic Scotland. There is a bridge at the far end (west end) of the loch - head over the bridge and veer right. Once on the other side of the loch you will get some great views of the Palace. Between April and August this section of path often has a number of nesting swans at the waterside so you are advised

28 konect

not to go too close or antagonise them as they can be aggressively protective of their young. The loch is home to a large number of water birds including the rare Great Crested Grebe.

Information boards along the way explain some interesting features of the loch, its geology, history and wildlife. There are remains in the loch of two small man-made islands dating back 2000 years, which had wooden homes built on them.

They may have been constructed for defensive reasons or as a status symbol, but in either case building homes there would have been difficult and expensive.

The loch itself was formed at the end of the ice age when a huge chunk of ice was left behind from the retreating glaciers that covered Scotland at that time.

Today, it is used for watersports including kayaking, canoeing and sailing with courses run by the Low Port Centre in Linlithgow, see http://www.lowportcentre. co.uk/ When you come to a road beyond the east end of the loch, turn right and go through a kissing gate. We love these and everyone is made to kiss everyone to great shouts of derision and 'do we have to?' You then cross some sheep grazing land to another road which you

will go along for around 100m, before turning right down an alleyway by a house to come back to the Palace grounds and a children's play area. You will also pass the jetty for the sailing dinghies that can often be seen out on the water along with wind surfers and swans.

The circuit is 2.3 miles, taking around an hour depending on stops for throwing stones in the loch, discussing swans and some dawdling - so not too long but long enough to deserve a visit to the Palace.

The palace is actually in view for most of the walk. A large square sandstone shell, it was built by James I in 1424 following the ruin of the previous building by a fire. It became a popular palace for the Stewart family linking the route between Edinburgh and Stirling castles, and served as the nursery for Mary Queen of Scots. The palace fell into decline after 1603 when James VI moved the royal court to London, and in 1745 fire swept through the building leaving the ruin seen today.

However, the fact that the Palace is in ruins adds added interest for my children who love running up and down the towers and trying to find all the nooks and crannies.

konect 29

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konect 33

Technology

The Smart Time to Buy a Smartphone Smartphones have changed the way we work and play, and even the cheapest ones are incredibly powerful, delivering lots of bang for your buck - but is this the right time to buy one? The short answer is: that depends on what you want.

If you’ve got to have the latest and greatest, keep an eye on the calendar. Apple tends to bring out new iPhones every September, so there’s no point in buying the iPhone 5S when the iPhone 6 is imminent. A Samsung Galaxy S5 is a safer bet, though, because Samsung's flagship phones usually come out in the spring. It’s worth checking out sites such as techradar.com to see what’s incoming: there’s nothing more annoying than buying something cutting edge, only to see it superseded a few weeks later.

Not everyone wants the latest technology, of course.

Many of us just want a good phone for a good price.

For that, the trick is to buy the previous version, so for example when the iPhone 6 comes out the price of iPhone 5Ses - and associated contracts - will drop.

For example HTC’s current flagship, the HTC One M8, is a great phone but it’s significantly more expensive than HTC’s earlier flagship, the HTC One. There’s another reason to pay attention to the calendar - if you’re planning to trade in your old phone. If you’re trading in an iPhone 5 you’ll get more for it before the iPhone 6 comes out than afterwards, and it’s a similar story for Below - HTC One Right - Samsung Galaxy S5

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other high-end smartphones: you’ll get a better price before upgraders flood the trade-in sites with their existing phones. It’s worth shopping around, though: for example, at the time of writing Carphone Warehouse is offering an extra £100 on top of any phone’s trade-in value on certain new phones.

If you want the best value for money it’s a very good idea to eschew Apple and high-end Android devices and look at alternatives. There are stacks of very good Android and Windows Phone smartphones, and in many cases you can pick them up for a fraction of what you’d pay for an iPhone or Samsung device: for example, while a Samsung Galaxy S5 starts at around £99 up front and £33 per month for a basic contract, the rather nifty HTC One is free on a £25 per month contract. If you’re going to have your new phone for two years, that’s a big saving.

It’s a similar story with Windows Phone smartphones.

Nokia’s Lumia 1020, a 4G phone with a fantastic camera, is free on contracts costing £25 and up; if all you want is a basic smartphone the simpler Lumia 520 is just £7.25 per month with no up front cost.

There’s another factor you should consider, and that’s whether your current contract entitles you to an upgrade. Many pay monthly contracts do, usually after 18 months to 2 years, and such upgrades can cut the cost of getting a new phone (although it does mean signing up for another long contract with the same provider). Don’t assume that’s the best deal, though. As with most purchases, it pays to shop around.

Left - iPhone 5s Below - Nokia Lumia 1020

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When we enter this world, we’re born into a family who will always be there for us. But in many cases families can fall apart or as we get older we realise that sometimes the family you end up with isn’t always the family you’re born into.

As I’ve got older I’ve realised that as much as I have a wonderful family who are by my side no matter what, I have gained some friends who are also like a family to me. My very own family, if you will.

The people who have spent every day in high school with me, or helped me with deadlines at college or even those who have simply made an 8 hour shift at work fly by on a miserable Monday. These are the people that are the first to remind me that no matter what happens in my life, they’ll be there to try and brighten it up a little. They can make it brighter by doing the simplest things, such as making you a cup of tea when you’re upset, staying up to the small hours of the morning talking about nothing in particular with you , or simply showing up and giving you a cuddle.

Chrisselle's Column

Thank You

By Chrisselle Mowatt

These are the people who remind you that you’re never going to face anything in this world alone, and these are the people that I am thankful for every single day. They can make the hardest things that little bit easier, and they know exactly who they are.

I want to take this opportunity to thank them from the very bottom of my heart for everything they have done and continue to do for me.

Simply: Thank you.

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BABERTON GOLF CLUB SPECIAL 2014 LIMITED OFFERS ON MEMBERSHIPS See the fantastic new clubhouse and course improvements!

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Music Review

The Regal Music Club

by James Kerr Summer songs There is only one test for a great summer song - will it sound fantastic played at high volume whilst you are on the Waltzer or the Dodgems?

The Manic Street Preachers have been so prolific over the past twenty years that they need to pull something exceptional out of the hat to get noticed, and have done just that with current single "Take Me To The Bridge". I have some misgivings over the fact that, whilst the band swears otherwise, the lyric appears to relate to the disappearance (and almost certain suicide) of Richey Edwards, and it does appear the media will only pay attention when new material is tied to their personal tragedy.

However, with shimmering sheets of electo-pop guitar and organ mixing with a triumphant melody, this track will sound brilliant crashing from outside speakers up into the blue sky.

Also in an electo-pop vein, La Roux has continued to mine the retro eighties sound with an entirely successful synthesis of Eurythmics, Abba and hints of Bowie's "Lets Dance" in the ultra-catchy and clever "Uptight Downtown".

Both tracks have a compressed, overly bright and brittle sound which may do them no favours on an expensive hi-fi, but seems to be a return to the days when pop bands would play their track through a cheap cassette player or transistor radio to make sure it had enough punch. The use of built in speakers in phones and tablets to stream music is bringing back the requirement for music to sound best either at tiny, tinny, levels or pumping through a distorted speaker that gives hearing to loss to anyone within fifty feet, and I'm all in favour.

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Property Matters thinking about selling your property please contact our office to arrange a Property Inflation tionBy and market appraisal.

Craig Turpie I recently came across this poem about investing in property, and thought you might find it interesting.

Once you have read it, and only then, take a look at the date of first publication. Makes you think!

pies.com • telephone: 01506 668448 “PROPERTY INFLATION” I hesitate to make a list Of all the countless deals I’ve missed.

Bonanzas that were in my grip I watched through my fingers slip.

The windfalls that I should have caught Were lost, because I over-thought.

I thought of this, I thought of that I could have sworn I smelled a rat; And whilst I thought things over twice Another grabbed them at the price.

It always seems I hesitate Then make my mind up much too late A very cautious man am I And that is why I never buy.

How Nassau and how Suffolk grew New Jersey, Statten Island too When others culled those sprawling farms And welcomed deals with open arms A corner here, ten acres there

Compounding values year by year I chose to think, And as I thought They bought the deals I should have bought The golden chances I had then, are lost And will not come again Today I cannot be enticed For everything’s so overpriced The deals of yesteryear are dead The market’s soft And so’s my head At times a teardrop drowns my eye For deals I had, but did not buy And now life’s saddest words I pen “If only I’d invested then!”

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Feature

When Torphichen was the centre of Scotland

By Helen-Jane Shearer The village of Torphichen is quietly nestled between Bathgate and Linlithgow and you probably don't have a reason to go to the village itself much. But for centuries Torphichen was a bustling busy centre, a destination for royalty, a stop-off point for long-distance travellers and the Scottish headquarters of what was effectively an independent sovereign state.

It's an ancient settlement which has been occupied for millenia, but the arrival in the 12th century of The Order of St John, or the Hospitaller Knights of St John, really put Torphichen on the map and they have left their mark even today in West Lothian – local street names, organisation names, the symbol of the Maltese cross that appears in various logos. But who were they and what does it all mean?

It started off a long way away from Scotland, in Jerusalem. A group of individuals who ran a hospital in Jerusalem for Christian pilgrims to the holy land found themselves, at the end of the 11th century, dealing with the many casualties involved in the First Crusade. In recognition of their work, the pope created the Order of Hospitallers.

Their hospital was built on the site of a monastery dedicated to St John the Baptist, hence their name.

They used a white eight pointed cross as their symbol, symbolising the eight nations (“tongues”) they came from and the eight vows they took. As the Crusades dragged on, the Hospitallers took on the role of providing armed escort to protect pilgrims, and thus ended up fighting too – they became a military order waging war on Islam as well as tending the poor and sick. Along with the Knights Templar, the Knights Hospitaller were one of the most famous and

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powerful religious military orders. The Order was granted estates throughout Europe by the crusading nations to provide income for their work. They came to Britain to recruit and collect funds, arriving in Scotland during the reign of David I, who was a keen supporter of the Crusades and who gave them land at Torphichen.

This became the headquarters from whence their growing estates were administered. David's successor granted, in 1153, “to God and the Hospital of Jerusalem a toft (land) in every burgh of our land.”

So they had land all over Scotland and were well respected for their charitable works.

In Torphichen their Preceptory (headquarters) consisted of a small hospital, as this was the prime calling of the Order, along with the church and attached administrative and domestic buildings including dormitories, kitchen, dining area and Preceptor's lodgings. Much of their day to day life was involved in administration of their Scottish estates as well as the necessary duties of growing food and herbs for medicines in the gardens around the Preceptory. Rents for all their Scottish properties were collected here, and there would have been considerable traffic relating to administration and financial affairs. It became a significant and very well-resourced community, in keeping with the knights' status in Scotland, receiving many guests and travellers.

Once such famous guest was William Wallace. As he prepared to face Edward I in 1298, we know he stayed at Torphichen - the only surviving document we have signed by him was written at Torphichen at this time (It was a letter sent in March 1298 to Alexander Scrymgeour, giving him land as reward for his loyalty).

The Torphichen Preceptory, though, came under the authority of the English Priory of the Order (a higher office) in London. In the early days many of the knights were English, and during the Wars of Independence in Scotland they supported the English side. After his victory over the Scots at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, King Edward I headed to Torphichen for rest and for treatment of a horseinflicted chest wound. These ties with England made the Order less popular in Scotland during this time.

But as time went on naturally more knights were native Scots, and they made several petitions to gain independence from their English Priory. Much later, in the 16th century, King James IV - a regular visitor to Torphichen where he prayed in the church and played cards with the Preceptor – wrote to the Grand Master of the Order in Rhodes expressing his surprise that “members of this Order, even when Scottish by birth and residing in Scotland, had to live so that they looked on the Prior in England as their lord and protector.” Eventually Torphichen did arrange to by-pass the English office and report directly to the Grand Master, based latterly in Malta.

The Order of St John was suppressed during the Reformation and in Scotland all its lands were handed to Mary, Queen of Scots. Much monastic property was razed but Torphichen was spared, possibly as it had been used as a Reformation office or because the Preceptor, James Sandilands of Calder House, Mid Calder, became Protestant and befriended John Knox... However by 1750s, the administration and domestic buildings associated with the Preceptory were demolished and the stones used elsewhere in the village. Only the tower, transcepts and nave were spared.

St John's exists in Britain today as the Most Venerable Order of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem. It was re-established in the 19th century with the foundation of St John Ambulance Association, independent of the remnants of the original Roman Catholic Order of Malta, and in 1888 Queen Victoria made it a Royal Order of Chivalry.

St John's ambulances and first aid training are well known in England and many other countries. A Scottish Priory was reconstituted in 1947. It doesn't run the ambulance service here, as St Andrews Ambulance Service was already established, but they do run hospitals, nursing homes, sheltered housing, hospices and rest homes in Scotland as well as mountain rescue services.

They support the St John Eye Hospital in Jerusalem and have links with Malawi. Their motto is to “improve the safety, health and quality of life of people in need.” So the Order today is close to what the original monks set out to do 900 years ago before getting embroiled in war.

And St John's are custodians of Torphichen Preceptory on behalf of Historic Scotland. The remains of the Preceptroy are well worth a visit and consist of the tall central tower with the transepts on each side, and the foundations of the associated buildings. St John's have installed an informative display so you can learn more about this fascinating site and its people.

The Preceptory is open at weekends from 1pm to 5pm, April to September.

For more on the order of St John in Scotland, visit http://www.stjohnscotland.org.uk/

konect 47

Recipe and Food Notes

Becoming a Good Food Nation

by Anne Pinkerton In June this year the Scottish Government published a consultation document “Becoming a Good Food Nation. Recipe for Success: Scotland’s Food and drink Policy”* You might think this has little to do with ordinary folk, but in fact it's a very important document for everyone in Scotland today and for the population of the future. The plan is to change the whole way we all think about and react to our food. The Government want us to be fit, well and eating in a better way in 12 years’ time. Radical stuff and an amazing ambition for us all.

The hope is that “the most intractable dietaryrelated diseases will have begun to decline by 2025, and people from every walk of life will take pride and pleasure in the food served day by day in Scotland. An increase in Scottish food exports will attract overseas visitors and the quality of the food we serve will become one of the key reasons to travel to Scotland. Everyone will know what constitutes good food and why. All players in Scottish life – from schools to hospitals, retailers, restaurants and food manufacturers – will be committed to serving such food” Some points from the document are : • Poor diet contributes significantly to the main causes of death and poor health in Scotland, including heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

• Children’s diets are particularly poor.

• The proportion of adults in Scotland that are overweight or obese is 64% and rising.

• Scotland has the fifth highest prevalence of obesity compared to other countries worldwide • Fruit and vegetables consumption in the poorest 20% has fallen by 20% since the recession.

• Diet-related disease contributes substantially to healthcare costs in Scotland.

“Many people in Scotland are disconnected from their food. There are considerable efforts being made in schools and elsewhere, to engage with children.

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Nevertheless, many people of all ages in Scotland remain profoundly unaware of how and where the food they eat – and its ingredients – are produced.”

“I was profoundly depressed on a plane returning to Edinburgh recently. There were good food deli packs, meal deals and low calorie sandwiches on offer BUT the Kid’s Pack consisted entirely of highly processed food with special treats of sweets and chocolate spread with a fizzy drink!”

Try to read what is planned, and if you have strong views tell the Government what you think should happen.

In our area schools are helping children to eat better and breakfast clubs give many young pupils a good start to their learning day. *http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/0045/00453219.pdf

Allotment holders grow food and involve their kids in understanding where food originates. Still there is much, much more we can do for ourselves. Food is the fuel for life and preparing, cooking, sharing and eating it is a cultural event every day of our lives.

We need to consider what we buy and how much we eat.

Processed food forms the bulk of most people’s diet, but this can change. If we cook we know what we are giving our family and we are in greater control of the quality of our diet. In the long run it is cheaper to cook, even when you take account of fuel costs. It need not take much more time to prepare a family meal especially if weekly shopping is planned with this in mind. Uncooked ingredients keep better than ready meals and leftovers are often the base for soup or a casserole later.

If you learn good eating and exercising habits from birth you are more likely to keep fit and well the rest of your life. I was profoundly depressed on a plane returning to Edinburgh recently. There were good food deli packs, meal deals and low calorie sandwiches on offer BUT the Kid’s Pack consisted entirely highly processed food with special treats of sweets and chocolate spread with a fizzy drink! If we continue this double-think we will never reduce the heart, obesity and diabetes statistics of the nation.

August is a good time to eat well. There is an abundance of fruit, veg and fish in season.

Salmon steaks with a green sauce

1 packet watercress and spinach leaves Small onion finely chopped Lemon juice Olive oil, pepper, 1 salmon steak per person Heat a little oil and cook the onion till pale and soft Add the leaves and cook all together till wilted.

Add a little water and lemon juice and wiz with a hand blender or liquidizer. Keep warm.

Either bake in a hot oven or grill the fish, turning once.

Add any fish juices to the sauce and reheat.

Serve with small new potatoes and perhaps a tomato, cucumber and olive salad.

Poached peaches, nectarines, apricots or plums Either cook one type of fruit or a mixture as you prefer.

Wash the fruit.

Cut each fruit in half and remove the stone.

With nut crackers crack the stones and put the kernels in the pan with the fruit.

Add about 2 pudding spoonfuls of sugar and a very little water (just to prevent burning).

Bring slowly to the boil.

Turn the fruit to make sure it cooks evenly.

Serve cooling or cold with plain yoghurt.

For an indulgence have a shortbread or ginger biscuit.

Any leftovers could go as the base of an up-sidedown cake.

konect 49

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www.broxburndentist.com

Dougie Cleland is a qualified instructor in these areas: Weight Loss Management, Core Stability, Kettlebells, Medicine Ball Training, Management of lower back pain & Muay Thai

1 on 1 Personal Training Do you want to reach your goals with expert advice and training in a 1-1 studio?

Do you feel self conscious going to a big gym?

Do you feel that you can’t join a gym because people will be looking at you?

Training plan tailored to your individual needs. t | 07766310926 e | dougie@dcl-fitness.co.uk w | www.dcl-fitness.co.uk

(qualified instructor since 1999)

kin Elegance Skin rejuvenation For both men and women

• • • • •

Wrinkles of the forehead and around the eyes (crow’s feet) are removed with muscle relaxant treatment Lines below the nose and around the mouth and chin are reduced with dermal filler containing Hyaluronic acid, a natural substance Chemical peels give you a fresher, younger look, also effective for acne Lip enhancement with dermal fillers gives you fuller, more sensual lips Treatment with dermal roller is effective for acne, acne scarring and stretch marks

By Anita De Longie Medial Aesthetic Practitioner, trained in Harley Street, London

www.skinelegance.co.uk

For a free consultation, call 07730 756498 konect 51

Thought for the Month

The importance of good communication

By Tina Gilbert I heard someone say recently, “it's better to get on than be right!� How often do you dig your heels in about being right, potentiating conflict. Good communication is fundamental in all we do in life, especially with those we are closest to.

qualities, breaking the habit of being absorbed in our own feelings and views. When both sides expand their thinking to include the other's point of view, new possibilities are available and conflict can dissolve.

Stress arises from interaction between people. There are those who cause conflict wherever they go, manifesting in control over others, getting their own way, being abrasive and insensitive. There are those who feel threatened by anger or conflict and will do anything to avoid a blowup - they tend not to show people how they are feeling to avoid conflict by being passive. These patterns are habits developed over time.

When we open up to mindful awareness of our own communications style, a whole new world of opportunity arises in our relationships to those we love. When you have a difficult encounter, reflect on it: who was it with, how did it come about, what you wanted from the person / situation, what they wanted from you, how you were feeling about it and open up to seeing more clearly the whole picture and not just your point of view. Try it and see what happens.

We have the ability however to reflect, think and be aware of our actions, but we need to cultivate these

Tina lives in Livingston and teaches yoga and meditation.

Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk.

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48 Main St West Calder EH55 5DR FREE PARKING www.littlewhisperssanctuary.co.uk

01506 253467

One stop spiritual shop

Spiritual Gift Shop & Holistic Therapies Crystals, buddhas, angels, wiccan, new age Spiritual readings and holistic treatments by appointment

Coffee Shop

Special Deal drink and cake £3.50

All welcome .....tea leaf readings optional!

The Toning & Beauty Clinic MICRODERMABRASION A wonderful skin revival treatment to give you a really fresh look

£25

SHELLAC & MINX

£35

£10 TANS – Wed 27 August Vani-T for that golden sunkissed look – no orange tones 20a Houston Mains Holdings Uphall EH52 6PA We are on the A89 – past Dobbies, Williamsons Garden Centre & American Golf – just before the lights at the crossroads

Check out our new website -

www.thetoningclinic.co.uk enquiries@thetoningclinic.co.uk

CALL NOW TO BOOK 01506 855105

Dr Long’s Botox Clinic Monday 24th November @toningbeautysal The Toning & Beauty Clinic

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Puzzles

Across 1 Deprive of food (6) 4 Scribble (6) 9 Complicated (7) 10 Meal of raw vegetables (5) 11 Additional (5) 12 Exactly alike (7) 13 Meeting (11) 18 Down-payment (7) 20 End of day (5) 22 Type of oil (5) 23 Result (7) 24 Process (6) 25 Holds firmly (6)

Crossword

Solution in the September edition of konect 1

2

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8 9

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Down 1 Private (6) 2 Allow to enter (5) 3 Krakatoa (7) 5 Beginning (5) 6 Sea mammal (7) 7 Not youngest (6) 8 Test (11) 14 Young dogs (7) 15 Hideous beast (7) 16 Fools (6) 17 Speaks (6) 19 Kind of turnip (5) 21 Increases in size (5)

17 20

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5 Beginning (5)

15 Hideous beast (7)

6 Sea mammal (7)

16 Fools (6)

7 Not youngest (6)

17 Speaks (6) Sudoku solution on page 61 19 Kind of turnip (5)

8 Test (11)

4 Young dogs (7)

Sudoku

3 (5) 21 Increases in size 2 3 8

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EASY

7 1 4

6 8 3 2

9 2 1 3 5 2 7 8 6 9 1 7 8 9

4 6 9 3

5 1 4

#1

What’s On and Useful Information Sunday 31st August

Jack & Jill Market Quality nearly-new baby and children's market. Forty stalls bursting with quality nearly new baby and kids bargains!

West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston.

10:30am – 1:00pm www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk 4th - 7th September

Bathgate Music Festival and Party in the Park Full programme of events at various venues within Bathgate, with live music, schools programme and culminating with the Party in the Park on 7th September.

See article on page 18 and also visit www.bathgatemusicfestival.com.

Overboard Soft Play (DAKS building, Polbeth) is open 7 days a week during the school holidays.

Use the voucher on page 43 for Half Price Entry!

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638

CRAFT WORKSHOPS Summer Workshops at Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton run until 15th August.

10.30am -12pm. £12 a session or £50 for a block of 5.

Weekly themes, with craft activities including clay modelling/potter's wheel, ceramic painting, decopatch, canvas painting, knitting/crochet, candle-making, jewellery, felting. Call to book on 01506 238961 Summer Workshops at HoneyPot Ceramics, EICA Ratho run until 8th August 10.30am -12pm and 2pm – 3.30pm. £12 per session.

Range of craft activities incl glass fusing, t-shirt decorating, decopatch, jute bags. Call to book on 0131 333 6300 Messy Church Holiday Club on until 13th August at Dedridge Baptist Church. Two hours of craft, sports, bible stories, food, celebration, prayer, mess, competitions and much more for all the family. During the summer holidays every Wednesday 10am-12.

Exhibition Group Twelve: A Score and More A diverse textile exhibition, bringing together the highly original work of Group Twelve and its 25 textile artists based in Fife, Central and Southern Scotland.

With a focus on embroidery, there is a wide range of two, three-dimensional and mixed media pieces on display. Discover the beauty of textiles by examining its details. From the intensity of colour and abundance of stitch to minimalistic touches, you’re in for a visual treat.

Friday 1st August to Sunday 28th September, free entry. Howden Park Centre, Livingston.

Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm, Sat & Sun 10am – 5pm

Top: Alison Wardlaw Bottom: Jenni Young

For more info contact visit the Howden Park Centre website www. howdenparkcentre.co.uk or contact the box office on 01506 777666

Free swimming is still on until the end of the holidays at Xcite pools for all children under 15.

Mon to Fri 10am-4pm at Xcite pools at Armadale, Bathgate, Livingston, Whitburn, Broxburn and Linlithgow. (Programme also runs at West Lothian Council run facilities at Inveralmond Community High School, Deans Community High School and at Fauldhouse Partnership Centre).

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Win 2 tickets to The Janet Seidel Trio (Jazz) 30th August With 18 critically acclaimed albums to her name, vocalist / pianist Janet Seidel currently enjoys a rare and enviable international reputation.

In the Penguin Guide to Jazz on CD she is described as “Australia’s first lady of jazz”. Her version of A Man and a Woman also featured on an episode of the US hit TV show GLEE. Joining Janet is the excellent guitarist Chuck Morgan and her brother David on double bass. The band's repertoire will be drawn from jazz standards and the trio's new album featuring songs from the 1920's.

“Her voice is as pure and warm as a soft summer breeze” Weekend Australian

Saturday 30th August, 7.30pm. Tickets £13 or £11 concession.

Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Box Office: 01506 777666 www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk To enter simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to: editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or 07854 492638 with subject Janet Seidel Closing date for entries15th August Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date.

Livingston Library Information Almondbank Library

Shiel House, Shiel Walk, Craigshill, EH54 5EH. Tel: 01506 283133 email: almondbank.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri 09.00 – 18.00

Tues & Thu 09.00 – 20.00

Sat 09.00 – 13.00 Customer Enquiry Service now available providing a proactive approach to resolving all enquiries from the public at first point of contact, dealing with all types of enquiries from booking a bulky uplift to revenues and benefits Book bug - Enquire at the library for this month's dates.

Stories, songs and rhymes for preschool children and parents.

Graphic Novel group - 6pm – 7.30pm. Enquire at the library for this month's dates. New Members Welcome.

Story time - Every Wednesday at 10.30am, for preschool children come along and enjoy a story.

Saturday Club - Every Saturday 10.30 – 11.30am. Come along and join in the activities.

Lanthorn Library

Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6NY Tel: 01506 777700 email: lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon & Fri 09.00 – 18.00

Tues & Thu 09.00 – 20.00

Wed 11.00 – 18.00

Sat 09.00 – 13.00 Book bug - Enquire at the library for this month's dates.

Stories, songs and rhymes for preschool children and parents.

Bookgroup - Join our friendly meeting of book lovers and share your thoughts over a cuppa.

Mythical Maze Activities in Lanthorn Library Mythical Creature Treasure Hunt – can you spot all our Mythical Creatures?- this will be an ongoing challenge throughout the summer.

Design your own Nessie Monday 4th August, 2pm Carmondean Library

(Carmondean Connected), Carmondean Centre, EH54 8PT. Tel: 01506 777602 email: carmondean.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri 09.00 – 18.00

Tues & Thu 09.00 – 20.00

Sat 09.00 – 13.00

Summer Reading Challenge 2014 On until the end of the holidays All children 4 – 11 years are welcome to take part in this 6 book summer reading challenge. Fun activities and prizes for everyone that takes part.

Sign up for free and receive a free poster to start your challenge.

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Clubs & Classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more...

Jog Scotland Jog Scotland groups around Livingston aim to get people outdoors and get fit whilst meeting new friends. There are groups suitable for beginners to advanced at different locations and times around Livingston. Check out jogscotland.org.uk.

MS Society afternoon meetings Group meeting in the afternoons once per month at Dobbies, for those who can't make the evening meeting.

Support group to help people with MS, emotional, financial difficulties and to signpost them to legal and other help.

Call Alison Ritchie on 01506 201439 or email viadoc@hotmail.co.uk for more details and the date of this month's meeting.

Lothian Running Club We welcome runners of any standard.

We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6.

Training sessions in and around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park. For more info see website www. lothianrunningclub.co.uk.

West Lothian Clarion Cycling club - Our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk

West Lothian 50 Plus Network New members always welcome for social, educational, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc.

See www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510.

Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

The Livingston Players Amateur theatre company always pleased to welcome new members with or without experience.

For more information please contact Carol, Membership Secretary, on 01506 881398 or see www.livingstonplayers.co.uk

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Firefly Arts Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts. co.uk for more information on our current programme. Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE www.fireflyarts.co.uk email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk

West Lothian Breast Cancer Support Group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm-9pm.

Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 01506 655739

Livingston FC League players and juniors, social and corporate events. Almondvale Stadium Tel 01506 417000 or see www.livingstonfc.co.uk

Livingston Speakers Toastmasters Club A fun & friendly way to improve your Communication & Leadership skills. Our meetings are always entertaining and educational. We meet at West Lothian College, Livingston. Alternate Thursdays 7:15pm to 9:30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more. For more info see www.livingstonspeakers.org.uk http:// www.facebook.com/LivingstonSpeakers

CRAIGSHILL Lodge Almondale Social Club Our Social Club convenor cordially invites all members, associate members and their guests to visit our social club.

The Social Club is open every evening and Saturday afternoon (except Sunday and meeting nights) with Live Music, Dancing and Bingo every Saturday evening and Bingo every Wednesday evening. Non members welcome.

Masonic Hall, Craigshill Rd East, Livingston EH54 5DT Tel: 01506 439418

Craigshill Good Neighbour Network Practical help, social and volunteering opportunities to socially isolated people of all ages in Craigshill and South Howden.

Lunch club, Tuesday social club, optional transport to and from clubs, outings and befriending. Almondbank Centre.

Tel 01506 435851

Trampoline Classes for children Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill 6 years + .

Please call 01506 412314 for more info.

Craigshill Thistle u15’s Training Tues 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm at Craigsfarm in Craigshill 3g pitch. Friday at Craigswood sports centre playing fields 6.30pm - 8.00pm weather permitting (if weather is bad Friday’s training is held at Craigsfarm 7.30 - 8.30 pm).

For further details contact Mark on 07951 528398.

Parents Together West Lothian Support group for families with child on the Autism Spectrum.

Meet up once a month for a chat and a coffee, regular guest speakers. First Thursday of each month (during school term). For more information contact parentstogetherwestlothian@live.com

DEANS Pottery Classes NEW! Deans community High - Eastwood Park, Livingston, EH54 8PS ILA approved Wed 7pm-9pm, Fri 10am-12pm Children's craft class Thur 4pm - 6pm Primary 5-7 Tutor Kim McCulloch. To join or for more information please contact DCHS 01506 282155 or Kim 07836 332165 or email deanscommunityeducation@wled.org.uk

Diabetes UK West Lothian Voluntary Group Regular group meetings are held on 1st Wednesday of each month (not January) at 7-9pm at Inveralmond Community High School, Willowbank, Ladywell Livingston.

For more info contact may@dukwl.info or by phone 01506 834 877 Mob: 07708 919 064. www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org. We also have Facebook and Twitter pages.

Livingston Station Playgroup Livingston Station Community Centre Spaces available for 2 – 5 yr olds, Mon-Thurs 9.30-11.50am, Fri 9.15-11.30am £4 per day plus £1 per wk for healthy snack.

Contact us on 07954 044260 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on facebook for more info.

Livingston Fiddlers A group of amateur musicians who meet for regular practise sessions in Deans and play for local events.

New members always welcome. Must be able to read music and not suitable for complete beginners. Fiddle/accordion or any other instrument considered.

Venue - St Andrews Church Hall, Deans, Livingston.

Time: most Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm.

Contact secretary: eric@livingstonfiddlers.co.uk Tel 01506 654 189 www.livingstonfiddlers.co.uk

Deans Community High School Playgroup Care and education for children from 2 years 6 months.

Dean Community High School, Eastwood Park, Livingston Mon-Fri 9.10am – 11.10 am term time. £20/ week, or flexible days at £4/session (min of 2 per week). For more information please phone Cheryl or Lesley on 01506 282155 and ask for playgroup between 8.45am and 12.15pm, or pop in any time for a visit.

Deans Art Club New Deans Community Building Tuesdays 7 – 9pm.

Beginners welcome. We are a friendly class, £2 per adult per week, paints provided. For more information please call Jim Tripney on 01506 418838.

Lothians MS Support Group Open to anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis, family & friends. Informal fortnightly meetings for support, information and activities.

Membership and meetings free. For more info and for dates of this month’s fortnightly meetings, contact Val on valsteward1msgroup@yahoo.co.uk or call 01506 201107. Fortnightly meetings are at the Ability Centre, Livingston, EH54 8PT on a Tueday 7pm–8.30pm.

Kiddies Corner Carmondean Community Centre, For Preschool Children.

Tues 9.00am – 12 noon. Child minders available Mon & Wed 9.00am – 12 noon.

For more info tel 01506 439568.

DEDRIDGE The Lanthorn Toddlers Group – Music Makers Meets on Mondays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. From 9:45 to 10:45 - £1 per session

The Lanthorn Toddlers Group – Parent & Toddlers Meets on Fridays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge From 10:00am to 12 noon. Snack provided £1 per session. Contact Susanne Brunton at lanthorntoddlers@gmail.com Or find us on Facebook Lanthorn Toddler Group.

Baby and Toddler 0-5 years - Wednesdays 9:15-11:15 am.

Cafe Connect Friendly community cafe with homebaking and refreshments Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30-12 Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837

Dementia Cafe For those suffering with dementia and their carers 1st Wednesday of the month 2pm-3:30pm Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837

Lunch Club 12:30pm every Thursday for any over 60s Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 41583

Livingston Camera Club Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG Every Mon 7.15pm-9.30pm from early Sept to late May. (Summer syllabus between these dates). Evening activities incl. speakers, competitions, photo editing, studio and lighting classes. www. livingstoncameraclub.org.uk contact@ livingstoncameraclub.org.uk

Bump and Baby Group Dedridge Baptist Church. For precrawling babies and their carers - Mondays 9:30-11 Come and have a cuppa and a natter with other new and expecting parents while your little one enjoys themselves.

Livingston and District Amateur Radio Society (LaDARS) Full amateur radio station at the club operating on the High Frequency and VHF bands.

Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, Tuesdays 7-9 pm. Training can be provided to achieve all levels of the amateur license by fully accredited assessors and trainers. Happy to assist with your radio and electronics projects or just to get you started with amateur radio as a hobby.

Come along and speak to the world.

See our website uk.groups.yahoo.com/ group/ms0liv/ or just come along on any Tuesday.

Brighter Days Support group for families living with ADHD and assosciated disorders.

The group meets once a fortnight on a Thursday at Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge 7 – 9pm.

For more info see www.brighter-days.com or email brighter_days@rocketmail.com. Kids club coming soon - every Saturday weekly for children. Activities available will include arts, crafts and music.

Penumbra Unit 20 Grampian Court, Beverige Square, Dedridge. Every fortnight from 14 March 2012. For anyone experiencing mental health problems : the group can help people who need information on illnesses, understanding from others in similar situations or even just a chat to get out of the house.

For more information contact: cinderbelle@hotmail.co.uk or 07854 316139

Crofthead Hickory House Playgroup Crofthead Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG For children 2-3 years. Mon-Thurs 9.1511.15 am term time. £4.25/day includes healthy snack. Pre-school nursery also available for children 3-5 years funded by WLC. For more info call 01506 467650, email crofheadhickoryhouse@googlemail.com www.croftheadhickoryhouse.co.uk

1st Livingston Girls Brigade Company The Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Meet on Wednesday evenings.

Explorers (P1-3) 6.15pm till 7.15pm Juniors (P4-7) 7.15pm till 8.30pm Brigaders (S1+) 7.15pm till 8.45pm For further information email 1stlivingstongb@gmail.com or phone Holly Morrison on 01506 420225

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Clubs and Classes continued . .

5th Livingston Boys’ Brigade Thursdays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge Anchor Section P1-P3 meet 6:30 to 7:45pm Junior Section P4-P6 from 6:30-8:00pm Company Section P7 – to 18 years from 7:30 to 9:45pm For further information contact Stuart Dalgleish 01506 440303 or email admin@5livingston.co.uk

Livingston Highland Society Monthly ceilidhs are run on a Saturday between October and April each year in the Lanthorn Complex, Dedridge. Each month we have a different band and guest artist.

The Society now has vacancies for new members. You don’t have to be highland to join our Society. For further details please contact the Secretary on 01506 491545 or 07900 475511.

Livingston South Community Church We are situated in the south of the town.

Everyone welcome.

Alternating venues for Sunday worship: Sunday 30th June 2013 - Lanthorn, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Sunday 7th July 2013 - Murieston Community Hall, Murieston, and alternately thereafter.

All services commence at 10am.

Check us out on Facebook or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail. com. Charity number is SC044088.

Parent and Toddler Group Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise Tues: 12.30 – 2.30pm & Wed: 9.15 – 11.15am. £1.00 0 – 5 years old. Tel 01506 203683 Craft, snack (lunch on Tuesdays), sports, outings & visitors

Lanthorn Readers Lanthorn Library, Dedridge Informal and relaxed reading group.

Free. Group meets monthly and is an ideal way to have some fun and lively discussion over tea/coffee & biscuits. New members always welcome.

Please contact 01506 777700 or lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk

ELIBURN 14th West Lothian Scout Troop Peel Primary School. Girls and boys.

Beavers (6-8yrs) Mon 6.15-7.15pm, Scouts (10-14yrs) Mon 7.30-9pm, Cubs (8-10yrs) Thurs 6.30-8pm £20/£25 per session, 3 sessions per year. Contact Mary Tel 01506 416620

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Sunshine Break, SPPA (Scottish PreSchool Play Association) Group Eliburn Community Centre, Peel Primary School Toddlers - Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9.00 – 11.00am After school club for Primary 1-7, Mon – Thur 3.15 – 6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00pm, during school holidays 8.30am – 5.30pm.

Tel 01506 415492

HOWDEN GOSH - Group Ostomy Self Help NEW! Led by volunteers, we are there to help, advise, encourage and discuss problems which may arise in the management of members' Stoma, from time to time.

Members can exchange views on how they manage their Stoma, and beginners can pick up tips on the best way other Ostomists have found to solve problems. Remember, you are not alone. We meet in St. Johns Hospital at 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of each month in OPD4. All Ostomists and their partner/friend are invited. For more info contact Alistair on 01506-822695.

Braid House Day Centre Labrador Avenue, Howden. Social activities for older members of the community. Bowling, art, music. Drop-in service for people who can make their own way to Braid House and can have lunch and join in a range of activities. Cost £5.

For more info contact 01506 430615 or see www.braidhouse.co.uk

29th West Lothian Scout Group Community Wing, Toronto Primary School Cubs Mon 6.30-8.00pm, Beavers Wed 6.307.30pm, Scouts Wed 7.30-9.00pm Tel 01506 441852

14th Livingston Guides Community Wing, Toronto Primary School Tues 7.30 – 9.00pm, All girls aged 10 years upwards, £17 per term. Tel 01506 418285

14th Livingston Rainbows Community Wing of Toronto Primary School. Tuesdays 6.30 - 7.45 pm.

Girls 5 years old and attending school.

Tel: Rainbow Guide Leader on 07532 182197

Livingston Art Association Howden Park Centre. Day and evening classes in painting and pottery for all levels. For more details call 01506 440449 email liviartassoc@msn.com or see www.livingston-art-assoc.org.uk.

KNIGHTSRIDGE Baby/Toddler Stories and Singing Sessions Knightsridge Early Years Centre, Cameron Way. Mon, Tues, Thur: 09.15 – 11.15am or 12.45 – 2.45pm – “In Betweenies” Wed: 1.00 – 2.00pm – “Baby Peet” - stories and singing, baby/toddler drop in 1.00 – 3.30pm. For more info tel 01506 444970

LADYWELL West Lothian Diabetes UK Group Inveralmond Community High School, Ladywell, EH54 6HW Meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm. See http://www.westlothian.diabetesukgroup.org

Fitsteps - Get fit ‘Strictly style!’ - NEW! Ballroom and Latin dance fitness class- no partner required Wednesday 6.15-7.00pm, Inveralmond Community High School - £4.00 Wednesday 7.30-8.15pm, St Mary’s Hall, Bathgate - £4.00 Thursday 7.30-8.15pm - Currie Community High School - £4.50 Classes start week beg 6th Jan 2014. For more info contact Lianne on 07737 927463.

Email: moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com, Like us on facebook http://www.facebook. com/moveitdanceandfitness

Almond Valley Baptist Church A Church for you and your Family! Sunday School and Worship services starting at 11am Meeting at the Newyearfield Farm Community Centre on Hawkbrae in Livingston Contact phone number 07946 835037 or email at almondvalleybc@yahoo.co.uk

Rosebery Centre for Dementia Care Day care for people with all types of dementia. Stimulating activities, counselling and training and support groups for carers.

Volunteers always required.

Tel: Nancy on 497046.

Email - info@roseberycentre.org.uk.

Website: www.roseberycentre.org.uk

Ladywell Neighbourhood Network 28 Heatherbank, Ladywell Community services in Ladywell, a range of social groups including craft, lunch club, fitness. Befriending service and much more.

For more information call 01506 437746 or see www.ladywellnn.org.uk

Ladywell Star Community Football Club

Livingston Village Parent and Toddler Group

Inveralmond Community High School.

A range of teams and fixtures.

See www.ladywellstarcfc.co.uk

Livingston Village Primary School, Community Room 2.

Mondays & Wednesdays 9-11am.

For babies and children aged 0-5 years accompanied by an adult. £1 per family.

Term-time only.

For more information email livitoddlers@ yahoo.co.uk or visit www.facebook.com/livitoddlers

SPPA (Scottish Pre-School Play Association) Group Newyearfield Farm.

Toddlers Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 09.30 – 11.30am. Tel 01506 462458

MURIESTON

Kids Club Forrestbank Community Centre A varied programme of educational games, art & drawing, children 5-9yrs. Mon 6.00 7.45pm £1 per week – term time only. Tel 01506 430035

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE Physiotherapist Led Pilates Classes Danz 4 u studio, Centrex House, Kirkton Campus. Fridays, 10-11am.

All bookings online: www.physioledpilates.com.

Email: lucy@physioledpilates.com Tel: 07415426228

Free Coaching Lessons for both Adult and Junior bowlers.

Junior Coaching is on every Tuesday 5pm till 6pm and Sunday 11am till 12am for children aged 8 till 16 years old. Memberships available now for Full, Family, Social, and Junior members. Special deal for Family Membership. Hire of the function hall available.

For more info go our website at www.banktonmains.co.uk or phone 01506 460233

Livingston South Community Church

Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village.

For children 2yrs 3 months to 5 years.

9.30 - 11.30am Mon - Fri, £4/session including snack.

Child can attend between 2 & 5 sessions a week. For more information please contact the placement secretary 01506 417343

Solution to July Crossword

Solution to Sudoku Page 54

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Across: 1 Deaf, 3 Formerly, 9 Croquet, 10 Annoy, 11 Manufactured, 14 Era, 16 Cease, 17 She, 18 Nevertheless, 21 Coast, 22 Putting, 23 Everyday, 24 Asks

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Livingston Walking Group Looking for Fitness Friendship and Fun! Meeting on Wednesday afternoons 2-4pm ending the walk with tea and cake and a good blether! Contact Penny Clark to join penmex55@hotmail.co.uk

OTHER AREAS

Bankton Mains Bowling Club

We are situated in the south of the town.

Alternating venues for Sunday worship: Sunday 30th June 2013 - Lanthorn, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Sunday 7th July 2013 - Murieston Community Hall, Murieston and alternately thereafter.

All services commence at 10am. Everyone welcome, check us out on Facebook or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@ gmail.com.

Charity number is SC044088.

Livingston Village Playgroup

Livingston Cricket Club Cricket fixtures as well as a busy social calendar.

See http://livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel 07799 025795

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Down: 1 December, 2 Adorn, 4 Out, 5 Measurements, 6 Runners, 7 Yo-yo, 8 Sufficiently, 12 Chart, 13 Messages, 15 Average, 19 Exits, 20 Acre, 22 Pea

Tai Chi for people with health conditions Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road, Livingston Weds 1.30pm-2.30pm, starting Feb 19th.

Call Joanna 07436 102726 for more info.

Baby Massage with Jo Stuart Mid Calder Community Centre (opposite the Black Bull) Thursday mornings 10.30am -12. Each block lasts 5 weeks. Suitable for babies from birth to 1 year. Contact Jo for more information or to book a place on 07971696617 or email thestuarts22@hotmail.co.uk

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings.

See our website for details www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

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Index of Advertisers Accessories Stick and Cane Shop 29 Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Kevin Thomson Accountant 6 Taxlink 6 Aerials Aerial Man 20 Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio 21 Beauty Skin Elegance 51 The Toning & Beauty Clinic 53 Building Services Almond Building Company 26 David Hastings Building Surveyor 26 Dean Jones Building Services 36 Cafe Little Whispers 53 The Coffee Cup Cafe 8 Car Bodywork Car Medic 17 Central Garage 17 Colin Nixon 63 Finishing Touch 16 Smart Tech Vehicle Solutions 24 The Wheel Specialist 16 Car Sales Colin Nixon 63 Car Service and Repair AMK Auto Centre 11 Central Garage 30 Fair Deal Autos 17 Finishing touch 30 Livingston's Car Care Centre 7 M&S Auto Solutions 4 Carpets Kelly's Carpets 9 Steven Sher Carpets & Vinyl 21 Carpet Cleaning and Upholstery C&W Cleaning Services 8 Cleaning Doctor 20 Handy Mike 31 Hydro Kleen Scotland 30 Catering Food Creations 40 Charity British Heart Foundation 8 Children's Activities Overboard Soft Play 14 Potter Around 10 Children's Nursery ABC Nursery 14 Chiropodist Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 50 Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning 31 Cleanleeness 30 Handy Mike 14

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Complementary Therapies Little Whispers Sanctuary 53 Computer Repairs Sprint Computer Repairs 39 Craft Studio and Shop Potter Around 10 Dentist Bankton Dental Practice 2 No9 Dentist 50 Dog Grooming Animal Magic 43 Double Glazing Red Hot Windows 25 Electrical Simply Electrical 35 Estate Agent Aberdein Considine 5 Turpie & Co 45 Financial Services TaxLink 6 Fitness DCL Fitness 51 KICC Active Lothian 40 Fostering Fostering Relations 14 Furniture Grove Bedding 37 Garden & Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes 26 D Greaves 27 GT Paving Contractors 4 Woodford Timber Products 27 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 40 Home Improvements AC Contracting 32 Anderson Home Improvements 6 Donald Does It All 25 Ian Merriman 31 MHPS Property Services 8 S & S Home Improvements 19 Joiner Central Scotland Joinery 33 Geoff Vinter Joinery 27 Kitchens & Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio 21 Locksmith Caledonian Locksmith 20 Mobility Ableworld 13 Med-Ecosse 41 Oven Cleaning Shiny Bright Ovens 31 Painter / Decorator Braekirk Decorators 25 EDC Painters and Decorators 4 JD Decorators 25 Nu Walls 35

Plasterer Nu Walls 35 Top2Bottom Plastering 8 Plumbing Services Almondvale Plumbing & Heating 25 BJ Fleming Domestic Plumbing 36 Derek MacDonald 35 EPH Scotland 25 Property Letting LetLink 6 Property Maintenance Cleaning & Maintenance 35 Roof Repairs Cleaning & Maintenance 35 School George Watson's 15 Soft Furnishing Knight Shades Blinds 23 Style Rite Blinds 20 Taxi Lothian Radio Cars 64 Telephone Engineer John McGraw 35 Tiler Service With A Tile 35 Traders Quality Scheme West Lothian Trusted Traders 24 Veterinary Riverside Veterinary Practice 43 Vocational Training Sibbald Training 39 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 16 The Wheel Specialist 16 Windows Red Hot Windows 25

COLIN NIXON MOT SALES & SERVICE CENTRE

Looking for a quality, reliable second hand car?

Come to a local well-established business for honest advice and excellent customer service.

On-site selection of pre-selected quality, low-mileage vehicles ... or tell us what you need and we will source a suitable vehicle to your specification and budget

All vehicles have had our stringent pre-sales service 12 month warranty* We only deal with good quality cars so you can buy with confidence

Tel: 01506 882 185 Email: info@colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Web: colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Edinburgh Road, East Calder EH53 0ET

ESTABLISHED OVER 25 YEARS *some vehicles excepted

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