Konect Bathgate April14

konect APRIL 2014

bathgate

WIN Fairtrade Easter Egg & ÂŁ25 voucher to spend at Tesco ÂŁ50 cash konect reader survey prize draw

Feature 10 things to do in and around Bathgate this spring Bus Stop Cafe and Sweet Shop

Charity S& OFFER ERS H C U VO cal from lo ses s e busin

Smalls for All plus local businesses, community information and more!

The new community magazine for Bathgate

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Spring is most definitely in the air and we've been thinking about ways to make the most of facilities in the local area to celebrate the season – not to mention getting through the Easter school holidays. See pages 10-11 for a few suggestions.

I love cafes and teashops and always have to check them out whenever a new one opens. Each one has its own theme or “personailty” and I enjoyed learning about the Bus Stop Cafe and Sweetshop in Bathgate this month – see the article on pages 16 and 17. And a very different kind of cafe runs once a week in Boghall, a community kitchen called Betty's Kitchen for the Boghall community, see page 28.

Message from the Editor

Congratulations to Ronald Morgan of Bathgate who won the crossword competition in the March issue, he wins a meal for two at Karma of Whitburn.

Congratulations too to Pamela McCraig who won the Tesco competition, and to Yvonne Walker who won the Hilly Cow Wigwams prize draw. This month Tesco Bathgate is again offering a £25 voucher to spend in store as well as a Fair Trade Easter Egg, see page 36 for details.

Thanks for reading konect and supporting local businesses.

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

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

Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory www.konectdirectory.co.uk The Konect Directory is delivered to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen. Copies are also left at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.

Front cover photograph: Easter eggs

Contents Features 10 things to do 10 Bus Stop Cafe 16 Hydrokleen 22 Betty's Kitchen 28 Regulars Music Review 20 Stone Ring column 27 Charity of the Month 30 Walk column 34 Technology 38 Recipe 42 Competitions and Puzzles Crossword 32 Sudoku 32 Tesco prize draw 36 Konect reader prize draw 41 Community What's on 44 Useful Information 44 Clubs & Classes 45 Index of Advertisers 46

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Ten things to do in and around Bathgate this spring Easter holidays are coming up - children look forward to time off from school, older ones are aware of exams looming in the summer term.

Childcare may be complicated as not everyone can take time off work then, so may not look forward to them so much. How can we do a bit more than just get through them? One principle is to try to create good memories in your family, and this includes families without children. What can you do to celebrate the season?

Who knows what the weather will be like from day to day, but deciding to go out somewhere different, suitable dressed, whatever the weather, in itself may become memorable. There are many events locally and further afield, and you could invite another family to join yours on a day out. Sometimes the best things are on our doorstep – make sure you have done all (or most!) of the things on this list.

Go to a show at the Regal Theatre Huge variety of shows, something for everyone. Family show in the holidays is : Artie's Tartan Tales Thursday, 17th April at 2pm .Tickets £4.

Interactive Storytelling for kids with traditional tales, tricks, sing-along action, and kids helping on stage an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike from beginning to end. Book online at www. bathgateregal.org

Visit the Scottish Owl Centre at Polkemmet Country Park The Scottish Owl Centre re-opens to the public for the new season in April, from 10.30am – 5pm daily. Admission fee applies. See www. scottishowlcentre.com or call 01501 228184.

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Feed the lemurs at Five Sister's Zoo The zoo is always a delight to visit but one of my favourite things is feeding the lemurs!

Open 10am to 6pm. Admission fee applies. See www. fivesisterszoo.co.uk.

Do a charity fun run West Lothian Run organise an Easter Run each year at Beecraigs Country Park. Runs of 2k, 5k and 10k. This year it takes place on Sunday 20th April. Raise money for your chosen cause or just run for fun! Register at www.westlothianrun.co.uk or on the day.

The 4th annual Armadale Run for Fun will be held on Sunday 4th May, starting from the Volunteer Park in Armadale. 2k & 5k runs.

Register online at www.westlothianrun.co.uk or from 8.30 – 10am on the day.

Easter Egg hunt Devise your own at home, or join in a community one. Wester Inch Community Association are holding a spring event on 5th April, 1.30 – 3.30pm in the Community Wing, Simpson Primary School. Easter egg hunt, arts and crafts, fun fair games.

Bake hot cross buns Or attend Mad Hatter's Easter tea party at Howden Park Centre. Livingston. Sunday 13th April at 12.30 – 2.30pm. Easter family disco fun!

Tickets £6, includes a lunch box for each child with sandwich, juice, crisps, fruit and Easter treat. Come along in fancy dress and win a prize for the best Easter costume.

Plant some seeds in pots or in the garden Spring cleaning!

Spring clean your own room or house, or offer to help another household with their spring cleaning.

Visit Almond Valley Heritage Centre The farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of new arrivals. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (18th - 21st

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holiday activities for children Easter Kids in the Kitchen Kitchen course run by the Larder Cook School, Livingston, for primary school aged children, at Deans Community High School. An opportunity to get their sleeves rolled up get down to cooking high quality wholesome food. Both weeks of the Easter holidays, P2,P3 & P4 9am to 11am, P5, P6 & P7 12noon to 3pm. To book a place call 01506 437065 or email info@thelarder.org Honey Pot Ceramics craft workshops for ages 5 – 15. Mon 31st March to Fri 18th April, running from 10.30am – 12 noon and 1.30 to 3pm daily. £12 per head. Activities include jute bag decorating, throwing a pot on the wheel, candle making, glass fusing, canvas painting. Fully supervised, includes juice and snack. Located within EICA Ratho Climbing Centre. Call 0131 333 6348 or email :info@ honeypotceramics.com for more info and to book Potter Around Supervised craft sessions every day in the school holidays from 10.30-12.30. £12. Booking essential. This will include oil painting and potter’s wheel classes that will run over a number of days. Call the studio for details on blocks of classes.

April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade. Almond Valley Heritage Trust, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. Open 10am -5pm daily.

Admission fee applies. www.almondvalleyheritage. co.uk

Ramble in one of West Lothian's Country Parks One of the simplest pleasures is a ramble through one of our beautiful country parks.

Polkemmet, Beecraigs and Almondell & Calderwood are diverse and perfect for a ramble in nature. The Ranger service runs a programme of activities throughout the year, it was not quite ready at time of going to press but will be available online this month. Or the many other smaller parks and walks in West Lothian. Take your camera and get a snap to enter in Rural Connect's spring photography competition, closing date 24th May, see www. ruralconnectwestlothian.co.uk.

Canvas painting, clay modelling, knitting, potter's wheel, Zentangle art, felting. Located at Overton Farm, Kirknewton. To book call 01506 238961 or email: chat@potteraround.co.uk.

On Easter Saturday we will have an Easter Egg Trail in the woodland around the studio as well as a variety of Easter craft activities taking place in the studio including felted eggs, pottery painting, making Easter bonnets. See www. potteraround.co.uk.

SFA Easter football camp at Xcite Bathgate and Linlithgow for ages 3-15 years. 7th-14th April 10am – 12pm. £40. Call Bathgate Xcite on 01506 237910 to book.

Low Port Outdoor Centre, Linlithgow. For ages 8 to16. Variety of activities both on and off the water and plsu a multi-activity course. Biking, climbing, archery & pioneering, paddlesports, forest skills, sailing. To book call Low Port on T 01506 775390 or email lowport.centre@ westlothian.gov.uk Whitburn 'Active Fun Active Feet' Mon 7th - Wed 9th April, 9am to 2.30pm at Whitburn Academy for all pupils in P1 – 7.

Rugby, basketball, parachute games, football and much more. £10 per day or £25 for 3 days. For booking or more information, please contact Caroline McEwen at caroline.mcewen@ westlothian.gov.uk

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Spotlight on

Bus Stop Cafe and Sweet Shop

A new Bathgate cafe with its own special character

“I've travelled a lot and had many ideas for my cafe....but the most important thing was to find out what local people wanted.”

Pinar Mercan, proprietor of the Bus Stop Cafe and Sweet Shop in Bathgate, is explaining to me how she set up the cafe and the choices she made for everything from the décor to the menu. Since opening just four months ago she has built up a solid base of regular customers and the morning I was there interviewing her for this article, she was very busy with a constant stream of orders for cooked breakfasts and coffees.

Pinar came to Scotland from Turkey seven years ago when her husband's work brought them here.

Her journalism qualifications were not much use to her in this country as English is not her first language. She is also a qualified nurse but to get nursing work here she would have had to re-sit all her exams. So she worked for three years as a carer in old people's homes throughout West Lothian. “I loved that work,” she says. “I loved just speaking to older people and listening to their stories, the things they liked, the food, celebrations and days that were important to them. That's when I learned the most

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about Scotland. In a way it was market research for my cafe!” When she decided to set up her own business, a cafe seemed an obvious choice. “Back home in Turkey my two brothers both run large fish restaurants, so catering is in the family.”

The cafe very definitely has its own special character – shelves of vintage china line the walls, there are doilies on the tables, and dressers with rows of glass jars filled with brightly coloured sweets. It is bright and quirky. Most of the china and teapots have been donated by local people. “I feel it gives the place a certain atmosphere, a soul, knowing that each piece has a history,” says Pinar. Each piece is signed by the donor and you get a free coffee/cake when you donate china or a teapot; judging by the huge collection of teapots of every shape and size, the people of Bathgate have been quick to take her up on this offer!

The menu itself includes all the familiar favourites, with hot filled rolls, curries, pies from Boghall Butchers, homemade soup, sandwiches and cakes.

One item that caught my eye was “stuffed French toast with a choice of haggis and mozarella or bacon and cheese”.

cafe & sweetshop 24 South Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 1TL

All food is fresh and homemade

Breakfasts

Light lunches

homemade soup hot rolls macaroni & chips

Afternoon cakes

sandwiches curries cream tea

vegetarian & gluten free options available wide range of sugar free sweets Kids Menu available

Available for private parties (BYOB) | Outside Catering

Give us your unwanted China and Teapots - free coffee / cake!

Karaoke night with classic songs https://www.facebook.com/TheBusStopBathgate

Opening Times : 8.30 am - 4.30 pm

Sat 26th April 6.30 pm - 11.00pm 3 courses, tea/coffee, BYOB. £12.90 pp Call to book: 07790 503474

This was apparently an idea from Pinar's 15 year old son and it has proved very popular! All food is cooked on site; the kitchen area looks like a domestic kitchen, complete with fridge covered with notes held on with fridge magnets. You order at the counter and all the cooking is done right there in the kitchen behind the counter. And of course there is the Turkish Delight. Pinar imports it directly from Turkey, so it is the authentic thing and not the same as the Turkish Delight made here. It sells quickly and she re-orders regularly.

“You get a free coffee/cake when you donate china or a teapot; judging by the huge collection of teapots of every shape and size, the people of Bathgate have been quick to take her up on this offer!”

So if you're in need of a quick lunch as you go about your working day in Bathgate, or have time for a leisurely breakfast or just want a place to meet and have coffee with a friend, do stop by the Bus Stop Cafe and Sweet Shop to see what they have to offer.

Pinar would like to thank all her customers for their support and custom that has helped get her cafe off to a flying start!

Karaoke night with classic songs Sat 26th April 6.30 pm - 11.00pm 3 courses, tea/coffee, BYOB £12.90 pp Call to book: 07790 503474

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Music Review

The Regal Music Club

by James Kerr

“It was twenty years ago today…”– easy to sing along with as the opening lines of The Beatles Sgt Pepper, a little less comfortable perhaps for those coming to terms with the same time period having elapsed since the glory days of Britpop complete with Blur vs Oasis making the six o’clock news.

Whilst Suede may have been the first poster band for the Britpop movement back in 1992, the release of Blur’s second album “Parklife” and the debut from Oasis “Definitely Maybe” within a few months of each other in mid-1994 resulted in a sixties style saturation of pop music into all levels of mass media.

“Parklife” got the deluxe 2CD treatment last year, with a 3CD “Definitely Maybe” due out in May. How do the original albums stand up divorced from the frenzy that surrounded their original release?

Blur increasingly allowed a strain of melancholy to seep into their songs, and it is striking how

much of “Parklife” verges on the depressive (cheeky chappie title track notwithstanding). Tracks such as “Badhead” and the epic “This Is A Low” are typical of the introspective, inventive, and, incredibly, overlooked material hidden beneath “Boys and Girls”.

At the time Oasis were perceived to have lost the chart battle but were still expected to win the war having come up with stunning songs such as “Live Forever”, but the relentlessly hedonistic appeal of “Rock and Roll Star” or “Cigarettes and Alcohol” has faded with the memory of Cool Britannia, and possibly has been further diluted by the series of increasingly mediocre releases following second album “What’s The Story…”.

Whether either album benefits from a plethora of B sides and a box is debatable, but both still stand up as examples of pop music at its peak. If you don’t have either in your collection then now is the time to correct this.

The Regal Music Club meets fortnightly on Wednesdays at the Regal Theatre, Bathgate, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, and is for anyone who loves music. Come along to chat, discuss, meet new people, eat biscuits. You do not need to play or sing but if you do then there is always a chance to perform.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/RegalMusicClub for more info, or just drop in. £2 including refreshments.

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Quality installations guaranteed Providing quality windows, doors & conservatories to West Lothian since 1991 Misted windows & double glazing repairs t: 01506 633823 m: 07885 185677 e: david@dcdoubleglazing.co.uk www.dcdoubleglazing.co.uk

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Door to door pickup & drop off Ironing and laundry service We won’t be beaten on price www.tiptoplaundryservices.co.uk Quick 4hr turnaround available for a nominal fee. Phone Nicole for more details Mon - Sat service 8am - 5pm 01506 460773 07741 284006

Artisan Cheesecakes We are a dedicated, enthusiastic team and cheesecakes are our passion Cheesecake and freshly ground coffee to take away New flavours every week

Gentle Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates classes Abseil from the Forthto Railimprove Bridge 2013 health

Available by the slice or a mini cheesecake, or order a whole 9” cheescake for a special occasion

Classes in Livingston and Bathgate.

Classes are gentle and tailored to the needs of people living with conditions such as MS, ME, Parkinson’s, arthritis, diabetes and many others.

Improve your health Meet new people Self-manage your condition

87 South Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 1TJ www.artisancheesecakes.co.uk

Call 07436102726

01506 238030

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All aspects of building work undertaken

Specialists in Home Extensions & Brick Stone work

All trades supplied

All work is guaranteed

Extensions Sunrooms Garages (conversions) Porches Renovations/ alterations Chimney repairs Patio/driveways Garden walls Stonework/lime pointing Architect services

Jenny on 07824 469266

0131 453 6259 07931 101523

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

www.deanjonesbuildingservices.co.uk

konect 21

Spotlight on

Hydro Kleen (Scotland) We might keep our kitchen and bathroom surfaces clean, but how often do we think about what bacteria might be lurking underfoot in our houses?

of insects in a sample of water from cleaned carpets, and enough pollen to pollinate an entire meadow. A real nightmare for allergy sufferers.”

“One thing that I am constantly surprised about is how neglected carpets can be,” says Lindsay Russell of Hydrokleen (Scotland).

“We have been inspired to produce a range of packages to cater for all of our customers, from the Asthmatic Package, which keeps dust mites at bay for 12 months, the cat and dog loving Pet Package and the Newborn Baby Package.

“Many people never get them professionally cleaned, some people do it themselves and have carpets that are wet for two or three days.

Some people wait until the carpets are visibly dirty and this is a real danger. I have an honours degree in Biological Sciences and know that the bacteria levels on any type of flooring that isn't cleaned regularly is massively high."

Lindsay continued, "A study carried out several years ago showed that there were body parts of 30 species

All of this is with our customers in mind and its a rare day where we have more than two customers with the same requirements.”

“You can call us on 08000 463 422 from 7am to 11pm, seven days a week so that you can always get hold of us when it counts.

We are available seven days a week, with our weekend slots often being booked well before our midweek slots.”

3

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It’s the perfect time of year to have your carpets and upholstery Spring cleaned by Hydro Kleen

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www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk Email: info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk 22 konect

Bathroom Studio Bathgate Quality, Choice and Service at an Affordable Price

COMPRISING: Quality Bathroom Suite

A Complete Bathroom Refurbishment

£3,950 Including VAT

Mira 9.5Kw Electric Shower 16 Sq. Metres Ceramic Wall Tiles 3 Sq. Metres Ceramic Floor Tiles Overbath Screen

All supplied and fitted by our expert installation team

West Lothian’s Most Experienced Bathroom Specialists To arrange a free quotation call in to our newly extended showroom at

10 Hopetoun Street, BATHGATE, EH48 4EU or T:

01506 632913

E: quotes@bathgatebathrooms.com

www.bathgatebathrooms.com

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm | Saturday 10am – 3pm | Wednesday 10am - 1pm ( Or by appointment )

konect 23

7 day membership

£747

5 day membership

£533

Intermediate from £257 (under 35) For further details contact the Club secretary on

0131 333 0068 or email secretary@rathogolfclub.co.uk www.rathoparkgolfclub.co.uk

26 konect

The Stone Ring Reiki and Crystal Healing

TAROT READINGS £25 Complimentary Therapies Crystals and Crystal Jewellery Angel Cards Development classes and work shops - contact the shop to see what’s on

Shop open Mon - Sat 10.00 - 17.00

40 Kings Street, Bathgate Call Marie 07727 178701

www.thestonering.co.uk

Upcoming events at The Stone Ring.

Call 07727 178701 to book your place!

Wednesday 9th April - West Lothian Moot (7pm - 9pm) £5 Tuesday 15th April - Pyramid Power talk (7pm - 9pm) £10 Tuesday 22nd April - Introduction to Law of Attraction (7pm - 9pm) £10 Saturday 26th April - Future Life progression with Graeme Harvey (10am 5pm) £50 Saturday 3rd May - Holistic Fair - therapies and readings available (11am - 5pm) Saturday 10th May - Angel Workshop for Beginnners (9.30am - 2.30pm) £45 Friday 16th May - Tarot for Beginner (price & time TBC) Saturday 17th May - Level 2 Crystal Healing Workshop

Angelite for April Angelite is a crystal that combats fear of speaking the truth.

daily life. Healers and Mediums very often use this crystal because of its special qualities.

It is a very down to earth solid crystal that instils wisdom and combats cruelty and brutality. It teaches acceptance of self and is helpful for bringing acceptance of personality traits that cause mental anguish.

Angelite grounds you in the moment allowing you to release that which no longer serves your highest good, it is also an excellent stone to help you connect with the Angelic realm.

It emits a calm loving energy that encourages tranquillity creating a place of love for perfect communication between you and your angels, so that they may be able to guide and help you through your

konect 27

Local Life

Betty's Kitchen Community Cafe in Boghall Betty's Kitchen started as a small community event where Betty Young wanted to bring the community together and help families to become more aware of the services available in Boghall.

The Kitchen became so big it was moved to the spacious church hall of Boghall Parish Church.

Unfortunately Betty's passed away on the 7th August 2013 but her legacy lives on...

Volunteering opportunities

Betty's Kitchen is the perfect environment to come and meet your neighbours while enjoying some healthy, affordable food. It is organised by the Boghall Drop in Centre and run by volunteers. It is normally held every Friday, although as they are currently in the process of moving to a new building the Kitchen is held just once a month – the last Friday of the month.

Children dedicated play zone

Once they have trained a few volunteers it will be back to running every Friday from 11.45am until 2pm. Betty's Kitchen serves healthy, affordable meals to encourage the community to come together and strengthen community spirit.

Community Benefit

There is support and advice available for families to help with any problems they may be facing.

Boghall Parish Church minister, Chris Galbraith The Boghall Outreach Worker

Services offered

In addition to healthy affordable food there will be sessions available from the following:West Lothian's Health Improvement Team will provide cooking tips and hints. They can come in and do taster samples

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Whether you want to volunteer at Betty’s Kitchen or elsewhere staff are available to help you with volunteering opportunities.

The youths who volunteer bake a selection of cakes to sell every week.

Provided by a Childcare student volunteer, supported by the Boghall Outreach Worker.

Betty's Kitchen

Boghall Parish Church, Elizabeth Drive, Boghall, Bathgate, West Lothian 01506 283201 facebook.com/BoghallBettysKitchen

“The sense of community in Betty’s Kitchen is a real boost to be around.

A credit to all who have worked tirelessly to ensure the Boghall Community including the children are able to pop in and have an affordable lunch, meet new people and have access to services they may not be aware of. ” Chris Galbraith Minister of Boghall Parish Church

Spotlight on

Bernie Rowen Consulting Psychology and Astrology

When you were preparing to leave school, did it ever occur to you to go to an astrologer to find out what your vocation could be?

There are so many careers to choose from - do you have the right temperament for nursing, or maybe you should have been a journalist, or a p.a. or why not an astronaut?

Psychology and astrology blended is known as psychological astrology. It takes into account the strengths and weaknesses you posses, and astrology can see if this would be constant or if you will change your mind…after all life is not static, and the planets move in predictable patterns.

LEAP (life empowerment awareness process) is a system where we look at the family patterning to ascertain if we have adopted negative patterning from our childhood or recent past.

Bernie Rowen is a registered psychotherapist with many a modality under her belt. She brings a fresh idea to counseling and talking therapy by the inclusion of astrology data to develop the most individual treatment possible, so why not invest in yourself?

Bernie Rowen Consulting It’s never too late to have a happy future Astrology readings ♦ Counselling ♦ Hypnotherapy Call

Bernie Rowen 01506 798573

Registered Psychotherapist

kin Elegance Skin rejuvenation

For both men and women

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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 Lip enhancement with dermal fillers gives you fuller, more sensual lips

Limited offer, 20% off on muscle relaxant treatment

By Anita De Longie Medial Aesthetic Practitioner, trained in Harley Street, London Easter run 2013

For a free consultation, at your home, call 07730 756498 konect 29

Charity of the Month

Smalls for All After volunteering trips to different African countries working in orphanages several years ago, Livingston resident Maria Macnamara learnt about the major problem of underwear shortage for women and children in some parts of continent.

She decided to do a one-off collection, aiming for 2000 items, to take with her on her next trip.

That “one-off” collection was in 2009; four years and 65,000 items later, the charity Maria ended up founding, Smalls for All, is still collecting and distributing underwear!

Shortage of underwear is a serious problem in parts of Africa; women often have only one pair of tattered old pants or none at all so it's a health and hygiene problem, as well as a status symbol – a woman who can afford underwear is seen as having have a husband or other male family member to look after her and therefore less likely to be alone and vulnerable. Children often have no underwear at all.

Maria was astounded by the response to her first call for donations. She collected 1501 pairs of pants and headed out to Kenya, with suitcases bursting, to distribute them. And she soon realised that this would not be one-off exercise. The donations kept coming in; people wanted to donate money as well as underwear; she received offers of help from people she barely knew but who were keen to get involved.

And the need in the countries she was familiar with was still there. Although she had never intended to found a charity, she was forced to register, get a bank account to handle the monetary donations and administer it formally as a charity. And so Smalls for All was born.

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Maria runs the charity at weekends and in her spare time, as she has a full time job in Edinburgh and is also a parttime foster carer, providing carer's relief at weekends for full time foster parents. So she is a very busy lady!

The donations of underwear kept coming in and her garage at home in Livingston became so full of boxes and bags that it was hazardous to open the door as you risked being hit by an avalanche of boxes! So Maria invested in an office in the garden, a summer house style construction named, you guessed it, the Pantagon!

Here, the donations are stored and charity administration done. She has developed links with other reputable charities, one of which collects boxes of donations from her door in Livingston and ships them free of charge to be distributed in Africa.

Maria occasionally has moments of doubt about sending underwear to Africa – never about the huge immediate health and security benefits that Smalls for All brings to hundreds of women and children, but about how she can help in a more long-term and sustainable way.

So at the same time she is working on various other projects which have long-term benefits – for example with the monetary donations Smalls receives, and money from re-cycling unusable bras, she is currently paying for seven girls in Kenya to go to school. Several other initiatives in place to help people become self-sufficient, so it is growing into much more than “just” underwear distribution. Maria is highly conscious, she explains, when taking into consideration cultural issues, “I

Smalls for All is very grateful for underwear donations: might think I know what's best, but actually I don't necessarily know. I never make assumptions as I have had too many shocks.”

Maria's message to the local community in West Lothian is simply – thanks for all the support and donations of underwear that Smalls for All has received over the past few years, it makes a huge difference to individuals' lives. She would like more people to be aware of the problems faced by women and children due to a lack of what we take for granted.

See our website on www.smallsforall.org and on Facebook at “Smalls for All”.

NEW pants only please – Smalls for All does not distribute used pants.

When you're doing your regular shop at the supermarket, simply pick up a packet of pants to add to your basket. Dark colours and patterns work best. Children's (boys and girls) and women's.

All bras – new, gently worn or totally worn out, are needed. The new or gently used ones are distributed in Africa. The very well worn ones are recycled here for cash which is used for other Smalls projects such as the girls' educational fund.

Donations can be dropped off at 108 Buchanan Crescent, Eliburn, EH54 7EF

konect 31

Puzzles Crossword 1

2

3

4

5

8

10

6

7

9

11

12

13

14

15

16

19

20

22

17

18

21

23

Across 1 Denied (7) 5 Not ours (5) 8 Amazing (9) 9 Spot (3) 10 Nap (5) 12 Replies (7) 13 Nearly (13) 15 Mum’s mother (7) 17 Healed (5) 19 Lodging house (3) 20 Ethereal (9) 22 Dizzy (5) 23 Convent (7) Down 1 Disagreements (5) 2 Supporter (3) 3 Used for cleaning (7) 4 Insistence (13) 5 Sailboat (5) 6 Vests, boxers (9) 7 Fulfil (7) 11 Made clear (9) 13 Fishing (7) 14 Sale by bidding (7) 16 Covered with fine powder (5) 18 Hold up (5) 21 Employ (3)

4 Insistence (13)

13 Fishing (7)

5 Sailboat (5)

14 Sale by bidding (7)

Sudoku solution 6 Vests, boxers (9) on page 46

16 Covered with fine powder (5)

7 Fulfil (7)

18 Hold up (5)

1 Made clear (9)

21 Employ (3)

Sudoku

Weren't you even a little bit curious to see what happens if you wind the window down in a car wash?

32 konect

FORMULA 1

The Mobile Body Shop, We Come To You!

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konect 33

Local walk

The road less travelled Karen Murray goes off-road near Blackridge

In my search for a new view or a road less travelled perhaps, I am always on the lookout for paths leading off into woodlands while I am out and about for work travelling through West Lothian.

It really is a diverse county with so many walking paths of all terrain that is not difficult to spot a hidden treasure here and there.

One such find was while visiting Blackridge. This is an ancient town situated at the very edge of West Lothian and on the old Edinburgh to Glasgow route.

It is almost fully surrounded by countryside and has a nature reserve too - Blawhorn Moss - which I have visited often. However I decided to explore a little by car and see where it took me.

Taking a road on the left travelling east to west through the town called Heights Road (B718) – the name indicating the fact that the road winds upwards – I came upon a small layby with a stile about a mile up the road on the left hand side.

I parked and jumped the stile to see what lay beyond. It transpires this is a privately owned area of woodland, part of Blackridge Farm, but is open to the public.

It appeared to be a local dog walking haunt and there are plenty of wide paths running throughout

34 konect

the woodland. The best thing however was the views. By gaining the height from the town, you can get excellent views of the Pentland Hills and can look across Breich Brays. The area comprises wetland, grassland and a mixed woodland, but the wonderful thing is that by coming just a short way from the town of Blackridge you can feel that you are away from everything.

After I had wandered some of the waymarked paths in the woodland, I continued on the road by car to see where it might take me. Further along on the right hand side was another layby and pulling in I decided to take another stroll. By this time I was as high up the ‘Heights’ as you could get with farmland and common ground all around.

The views were more spectacular from here. By now I could look down on Armadale and the rutted path ahead of me split in several directions. I only had time to walk a little way and take in the views but it appeared to me you could walk for miles here.

There is an archaeological site in the vicinity which has fairly recently been investigated and while I didn’t come across the main parts of the dig, it is easy to imagine the layout of stone shelters and structures as you survey the gently rolling hills strewn with stones.

As I continued to drive along this very narrow back road snaking along above Blackridge and Armadale, I could have stopped many times and just headed off on foot into the scrubland - it was extremely tempting to do so with so many paths leading off into the distance with 360 degree views.

I intend to come back and investigate many more of these paths, woodland areas and, if time allowed, I would park the car in the town and head off on foot up the Heights Road following it along while surveying the Scottish countryside around me in all its natural glory.

As I have reiterated many times when talking about walking, it doesn’t really matter where you walk; the exercise and fresh air are an excellent tonic for both body and mind. However, when the walking route is in the depths of the country with woodland, grassland, heath and heather all around... well that just makes it all the better.

I could easily keep driving and skip the fresh air as I rush from A to B, but I am always glad I stopped and checked out the local landscape for any interesting walks and then took those walks. It makes all the difference to my day.

konect 35

!

N I W £25

voucher to spend at Tesco plus a Fairtrade Easter Egg

Simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to:

07854 492638 or editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with subject Tesco Bathgate Closing date for entries

15th April Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date

Local Life

Tesco Bathgate prize draw My name is Tracey Harrison and I am the community champion for Tesco Bathgate. The main aim of my job is to promote my store as a good neighbour that can bring genuine benefit to my local community.

Saturday 1st April - Start of Easter Egg Appeal. Customers can donate Easter eggs for West Lothian River Kids Children's Charity.

Donate in store.

Monday 7th-Friday 11th April - Free vehicle omissions testing in our car park, all welcome Friday 11th April - some of our staff are going to Jane Place Sheltered Housing (Academy Street) for an Easter bingo night with the residents Knightsridge Primary School (Livingston) is going to be our first school to get involved in our new farm to fork initiative.

This is just a little example of what we can do in or out of the store.

If your group or organisation feels I could help in anyway please contact me on 07822 866634 or email me at blackburnroad@ communityattesco.co.uk or you can come into store to meet me in person.

• • • •

Fundraiser

Marching for Max David O'Neill, Aimee Brown, Patrick Rolink and Louise O'Rourke are all taking part in the Glasgow Kiltwalk on Sunday 27th April a 23 mile walk from Glasgow to Loch Lomond in one day.

We are doing this in aid of Edinburgh's Sick Kids Friends Foundation, and in memory of David's little brother, Max, who was cared for by the staff at Sick Kids and by Sunndach in Livingston.

We want to support the people that supported Max throughout his life, the amazing staff and friends at Edinburgh's Sick Kids, Max's friends and carers at Sunndach Respite Home, his teachers and support assistants at Beatlie School in Livingston and for everyone that helped this 'Little Braveheart' through his fight for life!

Marching4Max @Marching4Max 36 konect

Please visit our fundraising page here http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/MarchingForMax to support these fantastic organisations.

Every contribution gratefully received.

Thank you!

Livery Street Bathgate EH48 4HS

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Opening Times Mon-Fri : 8.30am to 5.00pm Sat : 8.30am to 12.30pm

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konect 37

Technology

Pet Projects Pet owners are famously free with their cash: nothing’s too expensive for a beloved dog, cat, budgie or Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. It’s taken a while for the technology industry to notice, but now they have and there are all kinds of high-tech gizmos for your furry or feathered friends.

Forget automatic pet flaps and antibark collars: the new wave of pet tech includes health monitors, cameras and even exercisers.The star of this year’s Consumer Electronics Show - or its pet division at least - was Voyce, which is essentially a fitness tracker for dogs.

Another way to get an insight into your pet’s life is to shell out for an Eyenimal camera. The Petcam is available for cats and dogs, attaches to your pet’s collar and records whatever he or she sees; you can then transfer the footage to your computer. Expect to pay around £60.

Some pet gadgets appear to be practical jokes, but the GoDogGo is perfectly serious: its Automatic Ball Thrower is a £99 gadget based on the automated tennis ball machines that tennis players use in training.

Petcube

It isn’t cheap - it’s around £200 for the collar and another £10 per month but the pitch is that by monitoring your dog’s activity, breathing, heart rate and calories it’ll give you early warning of any potentially dangerous and expensive health problems.

Voyce will go on sale later this year, and it’s entering a market that’s already looking a bit crowded: in addition to Voyce there are pet fitness trackers including Fitbark (around £60) and Whistle (also around £60).

If you think that’s a bit odd, wait until you hear No More Woof: the £50 No More Woof gadget promises to convert doggy brainwaves into human speech. Don’t expect to engage in scintillating conversation with your Shih-Tzu, though: the repertoire is currently limited to “I’m hungry”, “I’m tired”, and “who are you?”

The developers say that No More Woof is a work in progress, though, and early sales of the device will enable them to make it smarter, more useful and - we hope - more comfortable. We can’t imagine our own dog putting up with a No More Woof headset for more than a few seconds.

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GoDogGo Automatic Ball Thrower

Voyce fitness tracker for dogs

The GoDogGo will happily hurl tennis balls 5 to 10 metres, exercising your dog while you sit back and relax.

Have you ever wished you could take your pet bird for a walk? The people behind the Feather Tether hope you have, because their £12.99 bird harness means your bird can go wherever you are without fear of injury or “the tragedy of fly-aways.”

The harness comes in five sizes and a range of colours.

If you can’t always be with your pet, Petcube might be the answer: it’s a smartphone-powered gadget which contains a wide-angle camera and microphone for streaming high definition video and audio to your iPhone or iPad. There are speakers and a low-intensity laser pointer to transmit your voice and amuse your cat respectively.

Eyenimal Petcam

It’ll cost around £160 when it goes on sale in May. If you don’t have a pet, the iPhone/iPad app also enables you to log into other people’s public Petcubes (with their permission) and annoy their pets instead - and if it’s just the laser pet toy you want, the Frolicat Bolt automatic laser toy is currently £20.01 on Amazon.

Buster the Dog

Get paid to keep fit!

If you are interested in helping us deliver Konect in this area, please call 07904 443005 or email distribution@konectdirectory.co.uk Good rates of pay, a few hours per month

Livingston Practice: Howden South Lodge, Howden South Livingston, EH54 6AD | Tel: 01506 437096 Surgery Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pm & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm & 2pm - 4pm Livingston Practice: Bathgate Practice: Howden South Lodge, Howden 64 Mid Street, Bathgate, EH48 South 1QD Livingston, EH54 6AD |634176 Tel: 01506 437096 Tel: 01506 Surgery Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pm & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm 2pm - 4pm Saturday: 9am - &12pm Livingston Practice: Bathgate Practice: Email: info@rsvets.co.uk Howden South www.rsvets.co.uk Lodge, Howden 64 Mid Street, Bathgate, EH48 South 1QD Website: Livingston, EH54 6AD Tel: 01506 437096 Tel: 01506 Find us on|634176 Facebook Surgery Hours: 24 Hour EmErgEncy Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pmSErvicE & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm 2pm - 4pm Saturday: 9am - &12pm Bathgate Practice: Email: info@rsvets.co.uk 64 Mid Street,www.rsvets.co.uk Bathgate, EH48 1QD Website: Tel: 01506 Find us on634176 Facebook Surgery Hours: 24 Hour EmErgEncy Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pmSErvicE & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm Email: info@rsvets.co.uk

rivErSiDE viP HEALTH PLAn Budget monthly - the easy way to pay for looking after your pets healthh!

rivErSiDE viP Licensed veterinary medicines HEALTH PLAn Two free health checks a year for your pet

Budget monthly - the easy way to pay for looking afterworm your pets healthh!

Flea and protection

- all year round

rivErSiDE viP Licensed veterinary medicines Convenient monthly payments Directchecks Debit HEALTH PLAn Two freebyhealth a year for your pet

Discounts on- additional services Budget monthly the easy way to pay for looking afterworm your pets healthh!

Flea and protection Discounts-on all long year term roundmedication LicensedAccidental veterinaryInjury medicines Optional Cover Convenient monthly payments

by Direct Debit Two free health checks a year Extended Payment Scheme for your pet Discounts on additional services Flea and worm protection Discounts on long term medication - all year round Optional Accidental Injury Cover Convenient monthly payments

by Direct Debit Extended Payment Scheme Discounts on additional services

konect 39 Discounts on long term medication

Join us for an Easter / Spring event on the 5th April 1.30 - 3.30pm Community Wing, Simpson Primary School

Easter Egg Hunt, Arts and crafts, fun fair games

40 konect

konect

bathgate reader survey prize draw

Konect is your local community magazine and it needs to be useful and interesting to you!

Tell us what you think about Konect, and what you would like to see in it.

Completed responses will be entered into our draw for ÂŁ50 cash prize!

Return completed forms by 20th April to: Konect Survey, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD Or enter online at: http://tinyurl.com/KonectApril14 (you can use the QR code here) Entries will be drawn at random after the closing date.

1. What do you love about Konect?

(You can select more than one!)

Our local history articles Interviews with local folk Our column on local walks Spotlights on local businesses Recipe and Food Notes (yum!)

Charity of the Month Technology Music Review Competitions Property Matters Other (please specify)

2. What do you use the most in Konect? (you can select more than one!)

Clubs and Classes pages The adverts for local businesses Articles on local businesses What's On pages Other (please specify)

3. What else would you like to see in Konect?

Your local community magazine needs to be even more interesting and useful, so give us your ideas!

What other features or information could we include?

4. Nearly done! Any other comments about the magazine?

5. How old are you? :) 18 to 24 45 to 64

25 to 44 75 or older

To enter the prize draw, we need your contact details here: Name Phone number

FEB RUA RY 2 014

FEAT

Art

AP

RIL

URE

konect 41 S

b

Recipe and Food Notes

Potatoes

By Anne Pinkerton Most of us eat potatoes, in some form, daily; they can be crisps, chips, baked, roast, mashed, as salad, in meat stews and curries or just plain boiled.

There are different varieties of potato more suited to each method of preparation. All are delicious if made with care, for example King Edward for roast, Maris Piper for baked, Pentland Ivory or Golden Wonder for mash, Desiree for salads.

The main research station for potato development was situated to the south of the Pentland Hills as part of Edinburgh University, hence the Scottish sounding names.

Potatoes play such an important part in our daily food that it seems strange to think they are in fact a new comer to our diet.

It was not until South America was “discovered” by Spanish explorers in the 16th century that Europeans first ate the tubers of a plant which grew in the high Andes mountains.

The tubers were small, ranging in colour from white through pink to purple, and sometimes quite bitter.

Adaptation to local conditions made them the staple diet of Britain and Ireland by mid 18th century.

The first potatoes each spring are a special pleasure as they herald the beginning of the new season.

Cyprus and Egypt send their beautiful thin-skinned earthy harvest as early as February. “Jersey Royals” from the Channel Isles are a really special treat, only available from April to June. The first crop in Scotland is usually from Ayrshire.

Potatoes deserve to be treated with the same care as any other vegetable. They do not need to be peeled except for roast and the crisp skins of baked potatoes are a positive delight.

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The Best Ever roast potatoes Peel and cut into egg sized lumps, King Edward or Lady Balfour potatoes. 4 bits per person Method Put in a pan and cover with cold water, bring to the boil and simmer for 3 minutes. Drain the water off and dry the potatoes a little. Meanwhile heat some sunflower oil (or even better, goose fat) in a roasting tin.

Sprinkle a handful of plain or whole wheat flour over the potatoes and replace the pan lid. Shake the pan hard to coat each piece with a little flour and to knock the hard edges off the spuds. Turn the potatoes into the smoking, hot oil or fat, baste and roast for one hour.

Check every 20 minutes and turn them to achieve an all over golden crisp crunchy roast potato. These are a great pleasure eaten with any roast meat.

Potato salad This need not be a sad mixture of old, cold potatoes covered in dull bottled mayonnaise. Made in anticipation and with thought, it should be a glorious part of any cold meal 200gm Anya, Pink Fir Apple, Desiree or other salad potatoes per person Well flavoured oil of your choice, (olive, sunflower, rapeseed (Canola) and if liked a little walnut or sesame to give extra taste) Onion chopped Chopped herbs;-mint, parsley, chives, sorrel, lovage, thyme.

Vinegar;- red or white wine, cider or balsamic Salt, pepper, mustard, chopped gherkins or cappers, marigold flowers.

Method Gently boil potatoes for about 20 minutes. While still hot cut into even, bite size pieces and then turn them in a dressing of oil, onion and salt and ground black pepper. Leave to cool and soak up the flavours. This can be up to 24 hours. Taste for salt. Make a well -flavoured vinaigrette dressing (3 oil to 1 vinegar) turn the potatoes in this second dressing and add herbs, gherkins and other flavours to compliment the meal.

Potatoes are good at soaking up rich flavours and if baked in cream, stock or layered with other root vegetables they make a winter meal more interesting. The classic dish of this kind is:

Gratin Dauphinoise (below) 750 gm Maris Piper or any floury potato sliced thinly 4 cloves garlic chopped salt, black pepper ½ litre boiling milk 250ml double cream Method Heat oven to 200/ gas 6. Generously butter a shallow oven-proof dish. Layer the potatoes and garlic in the

dish. Pour in the seasoned milk, then add the cream.

Bake for up to an hour. It should be crisp on top and luscious below.

You can add grated Gruyere but this is not classic!

Baked Potato (top) The simplest food for when you are hungry but feeling in need of comfort must be the baked potato.

Wash and dry the potato and stab it a couple of times to prevent it exploding in the oven.

Microwaved spuds are good but real baked potatoes with a crisp dry skin are even nicer. I think they are best with butter and pepper, but you can add almost anything from tinned fish to curried beans and cheese as a topping.

In the privacy of your own kitchen who cares!

Potatoes are good food.

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What’s On and Useful Information The Stone Ring Events Wednesday 9th April West Lothian Moot (7pm - 9pm) £5 Tuesday 15th April Pyramid Power talk (7pm - 9pm) £10 Tuesday 22nd April Introduction to Law of Attraction (7pm - 9pm) £10 Saturday 26th April Future Life progression with Graeme Harvey (10am - 5pm) £50 Saturday 3rd May Holistic Fair - therapies and readings available (11am - 5pm) Saturday 10th May Angel Workshop for Beginnners (9.30am - 2.30pm) £45 See The Stone Ring advert on page 27

See also Spring Activities feature on pages 8-9

Saturday 5th April Easter/Spring event in Wester Inch Join us for an Easter / Spring event 1.30 – 3.30pm in the Community Wing, Simpson Primary School. Easter Egg Hunt, Arts and crafts, fun fair games. Organised by the Wester Inch Community Association.

Sunday 20th April My Fayre Lady craft fair.

Not-on-the-high-street treats and treasure provided by local businesses.

At the Regal Theatre, Bathgate. 12pm – 3pm. Entry £1.

Sunday 27th April 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

The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events.

A unique venue for your performance, celebration, conference or event, and spaces for classes and workshops.

See website at www.bathgateregal.org for complete up to date listing.

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

Bathgate Library Information Simpson Library Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, EH48 1TS Tel 01506 282910 bathgate.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am – 8.00pm Sat 9.00am – 5.00pm

Easter holiday craft activities To be confirmed, check with the library

Bookbugs Bookbug West Lothian delivers free story, song and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children in local libraries, working in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust.

April Bookbug sessions are Friday 4th April 10.30am & Tuesday 22nd April 10.30am.

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E-BOOKS ARE HERE! You can now register online and download up to 6 e-books from the library website www.westlothian. librarybooks.co.uk - full instructions on login.

EMAGAZINES Free digital magazines available to all Library customers Popular publications available 24/7 Easily read on any internet-enabled device Go to – https:/www.rbdigital.com/westlothian/zinio EAUDIOBOOKS have arrived! – more information from your local library The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www.westlothian.gov.uk

Clubs & Classes

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

BATHGATE 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 beginning 6th Jan 2014 For more info contact Lianne on 07737 927463 Email: moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Like us on facebook www.facebook.com/moveitdanceandfitness Simpson Art Club We meet every Tuesday 7 - 9pm in the community wing of the Simpson Primary School, Bathgate All over 18, including beginners, are welcome; Regular demonstrations and teaching from professional artists, work in all mediums; We also have regular exhibitions in Polkemmet Cafe and the Regal Theatre in Bathgate For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com Contact 07762 933138 Yoga Class For people living with long term conditions.

Bathgate Community Centre, 5–6.30pm on Wednesdays.

The class is run by KICC Active Lothian, a partnership with MS Therapy Centre Lothian. £5.50 per class or £20 for four weeks.

First class is free! Call Joanna on 07436 102726 to book.

Zumba with Lindsay Simpsons Primary School Bathgate, Tuesday 7.15 to 8.15pm Strathbrock Parish Church Hall Uphall, Wednesday 7 to 8pm East Calder Church Hall, Monday 7 to 8pm Facebook Zumba with Lindsay 07834183084 Parent and Toddler's St Johns Church, Mid Street. Fridays during term time, 9.30-11.30 am. From Birth to Pre-schoolers.

For further information, contact Irene on 01506 654579 31st West Lothian Scouts Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7pm – 9pm

The Stone Ring 40 King Street, Bathgate Beginners Self awareness & Development.

Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) - £6.50 Self Awareness & Development. Tues 7-9.30pm (appox) £6.50 Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month.

7-9.30pm (approx) £5 Thai Chi Fridays - 7pm - 8.30 pm (approx) West Lothian 50 Plus Network New members always welcome for educational, social, 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.

2nd Bathgate Girls' Brigade Meets on Wednesday evenings in St John's Church Halls, Mid Street Explorers P1-3 Girls: 6.15pm - 7.30pm Juniors P4-7 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm Brigaders S1-S6 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm Please contact Alison Weddell (Captain) on tel 07710 619264 or email alison.weddell@ gmail.com for further details Action for Happiness Action for Happiness helps people learn practical ways to increase their own wellbeing and help others be happier.

At our local action group we explore different topics every month that will help you to feel happier and more positive. It's fun, friendly and very practical. We meet at the 1912 Cafe in Bathgate on a regular basis. For more details contact Carol on 07800 772607.

Bathgate Playgroup Bathgate Partnership Centre Mon–Fri 9-11.30am and afternoon sessions Mon & Wed 12.30-3.30pm

Training Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.50pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre Senior Band Mondays 8.00 – 9.30pm in the band hall on Belvedere Rd For more information see the website at www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk MOMS (Mums Offering Mums Support) Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate Mon 1pm–3pm. Group for new and expectant mums to meet other mums, share ideas and experiences and generally have a chat and a cuppa! £1 includes hot drink. Call Kidzeco for more info 01506 815534.

Pop Skool NEW! Dance / Singing fun classes for ALL! Based in the brand new Boghall Community Wing.

Monday Evenings 5.30 - 6.30 Minis (4 - 7yrs) 6.30 - 7.30 Juniors (8 - 11yrs) 6.30 - 8.00 Seniors (12 - 15yrs) 7.30 - 9.00 Elite (16yrs+) www.popskool.com Regal Music Club The Regal Theatre, Bathgate.

For anyone who loves music. We meet fortnightly on Wednesdays. 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Come along to chat, discuss, meet new people, eat biscuits. You don’t need to play or sing but if you do there is always a chance to perform. Check out the facebook page or just drop in. £2 including refreshments.

OTHER AREAS 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

Baby and Toddler activities Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate Classes include Kidz Play (soft play), Baby Times (songs and rhymes for 0-1 year olds), Kidz Tales (storytelling), Sunshine Kidz, (play, toys, crafts); various dance classes including cheerleading, street and hip hop, Baby Discovery (explore textures and sounds), Toddler Times and Eco Kidz.

Please call Kidzeco for class times and availability on 01506 815534.

Newland Concert Brass

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.

Friendly band based in Bathgate. We welcome brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities.

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Index of Advertisers Accessories Stick & Cane Shop 26 Aerials Aerial Man 19 Astrologist Bernie Rowan Consulting 29 Bathrooms Bathbase 15 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 23 JK Bathroom Specialists 8 Beauty Skin Elegance 29 Building Services David Bathgate 15 Dean Jones Building Services 21 Cafe The Bus Stop 17 Car Repairs Car Medic 33 Chips Away 37 Finishing Touch 33 Car Services Ace Exhausts & Tyres 37 Formula 1 MOT 33 Carpet Cleaning Cleaning Doctor 15 Hydro Kleen Scotland 22 Charity Smalls for All 30 Children's Activities Edinburgh Ballet 15 Overboard Soft Play 4 Children's Clothes / Equipment Jack & Jill Market 4 Complementary Therapies Bernie Rowen Consulting 29 The Stone Ring 27

Domestic Cleaning Cleanleeness 7 Double Glazing DC Double Glazing 20 Dresses Six Little Ladies 4 Electrical Advanced Electrical Solutions 19 A.F.A Electrical 24 Estate Agent Aberdein Considine 5 Furniture Grove Bedding 12 Fitness KICC Active Lothian 21 Flooring CM Flooring Contractors 4 Gardens and Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes 7 Allium Garden Services 7 KR Landscaping 4 Woodford Timber Products 13 Golf Club Ratho Park Golf Club 26 Home Improvements AC Contracting 6 S & S Home Improvements 9 Joinery Elphinstone Joinery 7 Laundry Services Tip Top Laundry 21 Minibus Hire W.S. Hamilton Minibus Hire 15 Mobility Med-Ecosse 18 Scottish Medical Supplies 14

Solution Mar 14 Crossword

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ss: 1 Cash, 3 Chess set, 9 Upbraid, 10 Email, 11 Spring greens, 14 Let, 16 Bongo, p, 18 Roller-skater, 21 Riots, 22 Bayonet, 23 Pedestal, 24 Golf.

46 konect

Painter/Decorator DM Decorators 15 Nu-Walls 20 Photographer Knightshades Photography 47 Plasterer Nu-Walls 20 Plumbing Services JK Bathroom Specialists 8 Restaurant Karma 48 Roofing Future Roof 19 Security Services A.F.A Fire and Security 25 Soft Furnishings Grove Bedding 12 Knight Shades Blinds 47 Takeaway Artisan Cheesecakes 21 Karma 48 Taxi Bluebird Radio Cars 2 Tyres Ace Exhausts & Tyres 37 Veterinary Riverside Veterinary Practice 39 Vocational Training Sibbald Training 8 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 33 Windows DC Double Glazing 20

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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T V OU C

HE erfect RS gift fo r your loved ones

The p

For the finest authentic Indian cuisine

Pre Theatre Menu 2 course £11.95 3 course £13.95 Monday - Thursday 5pm - 6.45pm

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email: karmawhitburn@yahoo.co.uk