Konect Bathgate December 14

DECEMBER 2014

bathgate

WIN!

ÂŁ30 voucher from Tesco!

FEATURES

Ex-circus lions appeal Party season style Fracking West Lothian plus local businesses, community information and more!

S& OFFER ERS H C U O V cal from lo ses s e busin

The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

FREE HOME

25BRPL KonectAdvert 148X210mm DEC14 (MXS)incover V1.qxp_148mm x 210mm 11/11/2014 09:55 Page 1

REPORT Instruct us before

31st December 2014 and have your property ready to go in the NEW YEAR! 01506 420800

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Message Contents from the Editor Features

Five Sisters Zoo Lion Appeal

8

Party season style

14

Fracking West Lothian

36

Regulars

It’s the last Konect of the year. We’ve had a fantastic year learning something different every month about the local area and meeting new people. We hope you’ve enjoyed reading the magazine – as always, if you’ve got something interesting and different going on that you’d like to share with the local community, do get in touch and we may be able to feature your story.

Our main feature this month is on the ex-circus lion appeal launched by Five Sisters Zoo in October, see pages 8-9 and lend some support if you can. We also take a quick look at party season style and, on a more serious note, the likelihood of the fracking industry coming to West Lothian – we provide a quick summary on page 36 but please do your own research into the details.

Congratulations to Wendy Moore who won the Tesco Bathgate competition last month. This month’s Tesco prize is another £30 voucher to help during this expensive time of year. (see page 40).

We don’t produce a January issue, so will be back in February. In the meantime, we’d like to wish all readers and local business customers a very happy festive season, from the Konect team.

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

Property Matters

24

Stone Ring column

27

Technology 32 Walk column

34

Music Review

38

Recipe 44

Competitions and Puzzles Tesco prize draw

40

Crossword 48 Sudoku 48

Community What’s on

50

Useful Information

50

Clubs & Classes

52

Index of Advertisers 54

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 @KonectDirectory

Front cover image: Christmas in Bathgate Photo by Stuart Vance

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.

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Simply Electrical

For all jobs, big or small just SIMPLY call!

Darren Wemyss

Electrician P.A.T. Testing e: simplyelectrical@contractor.net

t: 07563 548348

Look on facebook page for deals of the week! www.facebook.com/SimplyElectricalElectrician

SPECIAL OFFER THIS WINTER

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FEATURE

Circus Lions Appeal

from Five Sisters Zoo

Five Sisters Zoo (West Calder) has launched an urgent appeal to rescue four ex-circus male lions from an uncertain future.

Just over three years since they launched an appeal which led to their successful rehoming of three ex-circus bears, the plight of four ex-circus lions has come to the attention of Five Sisters Zoo. And, with overwhelming support from the public, they have launched a new appeal to bring Simba, Mufasa, Sangaka and Tiny to a new permanent home.

In May 2014 the four male lions were confiscated by the Belgian government from a travelling French circus.

Belgian law forbids the use of wild animals in circuses but despite warnings the circus refused to stop. A few days after the final warning, Government officials confiscated the circus trailer and drove it to a Belgian rescue centre which has provided a safe and secure area for them. But they’re not able to keep them indefinitely and were desperately looking for a permanent home.

The solution is Five Sisters Zoo! Having identified a suitable two acre site, the aim is to raise £150,000, build an enclosure and, within six months, bring the lions to live permanently at the Zoo. Brian & Shirley Curran, owners of the Five Sisters Zoo, said, “This is an enormous undertaking but with all the pledges of help we’ve had we are confident we can make this happen. We had not intended asking

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Ways to d

nding a CS or by se Fund A B l, a p y a P e e website’s e Circus Lion Rescu to th * Viaqth le b a y hirts, a p e che u dges, tee-s andise: ba p or on-line h rc e m n o sho us li sale in the ase ex-circ * Priustrchbands and mugs are for l lovers: for anima w s a e id t n as prese .00 e Christm Board : £10 Alternativ n Sponsor io L e th to 0 ur name age : £50.0 * Add yo alise a mess n o rs e p to e Lion plaqu 0– e @ £500.0 * Buy a sor packag Zoo n o sp y n a * Compfurther details from the

8 konect

for public donations but the overwhelming response was that the public want to help and for this we are so grateful. We have estimated that the enclosure and housing will cost around £150,000. We have a very short timescale to make this happen.”

The exact history of the lions is not known - not even their age or breed. They have all been castrated, probably at a very young age - possibly the reason for them being so large and giving the appearance of a lioness.

Once the Rescue centre had removed the lions from the circus trailer – the only home they had ever known – they found it to be in a terrible condition with large pieces of metal jutting out, holes in the floor and the space terribly cramped for four large wild animals.

Despite this the Belgian Rescue Centre has confirmed that “they are huge and in good health” The lions don’t have claws on their fore-paws, which is very sad because cats must be able to scratch; presumably they were either cut off or pulled out.

Apparently this frequently happens in circuses, to make them less dangerous when they hit the animal trainer.

A video clip provided by the Rescue Centre shows the lions’ reaction to a stick - they stress. “It’s something we normally would never do in the rescue centre ... but I think it’s important to show how the animals react to a stick.... they were often beaten up, and really know the stick. When I show the stick to my dogs, they are happy because they think they can play. The lions however cringe, showing that they had a terrible life. “

Five Sisters Zoo, Gavieside, West Calder, West Lothian EH54 9HH Email: enquiries@fivesisterszoo.co.uk Tel: 01506 870000 www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk

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Five Sisters

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Five Sisters Zoo in West Lothian

has launched an urgent appeal to raise £150,000.00 to re-home 4 ex-circus male lions from an uncertain future. e!

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Full details of the rescue can be found at www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk or by calling 01506 870000 The o

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Donations can be made via the website, BACS or by cheque made payable to : Circus Lion Rescue Fund r have

ey neve e sure th Let’s mak erform again!! to p

We have until March 2015 to make this happen – thank you for your support. marketing support by

konect 9

Find us on

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Simpsons Primary School Bathgate

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Tuesday 8.20 - 9.20pm

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Don’t have a Smelly Christmas, have a Merry Christmas!

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22 Shairps Business Park Houston Road, Livingston EH54 5FD For more information:

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konect 13

PARTY SEASON STYLE AND BEAUTY

Top Hair Style for this Season

by Sophie Laidlaw

Sophie co-owns Wonderland Hair and Beauty in Livingston and works as a stylist for ghd.

“Lots of braiding was seen on the catwalks over spring/summer so its almost like hair has grown up for this Winter season moving away from the girlish plaits and moving towards something a little more sophisticated.

I worked backstage at London fashion week with ghd for this season’s hair. One of the top trends on the catwalks this winter was the ponytail. From messy and textured, slicked back, middle parted, loose and low, to the side, high, volumised. You name it and it was happening.

I really started to see the simple ponytail as something much more relevant. My favourite look for this season has to be the high pony. Invest in a good bristle brush to get a smoothness to your ponytail. I have a polishing brush (about the size of a blusher brush) and i spray it with shine spray and hairspray and paint it on to the hair which gives it ultimate shine and gloss.

Alternatively for a more undone feel use dry shampoo and backbrush the root throughout your hair and pull in to a loose pony on the crown area, use a pin to pull down random tendrils of hair. It should always look healthy and touchable - that will never go out of fashion.”

Seasonal Style for your Festive Parties Christmas is just around the corner and the party season is in full swing!

by India Neckel, Personal Stylist

The festive season is all about glitter and sparkle.

So don’t be afraid to go all out, whatever your age or bodyshape, there’s something to suit all.

To help you along, where’s what The Livingston Centre has to offer.

If you would like style advice or personal styling session, email india.neckel@btinternet.com Facebook Page IndiaNeckelPersonalStylist Top Shop £68

Top Shop £70

River Island £50

Top Shop £46

H&M £34.99

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Top Shop £50 New Look £22.99

H&M £14.99

River Island £30

H&M £29.99

River Island £70

River Island £10

konect 15

Men/Boys

Ladies/Girls

Haircut Wash and cut All over cut Hot Shave Head Shave

£10 £12 £7 £15 £15

Shave and Haircut Monday - Thursday Friday - Saturday

£20 £25

Face & head shave

£25

Beards trim with clipper

£5

Beards half shave and trim (hot towel included)

£10

Kids under 5 years old Kids under 10 years old

£5 £7

Hair Tattoos, Tramlines Kids under 10 years old Adults

£3 £5

Dry Cut Cut & blow dry Blow dry Wash & Blow dry

£17 £25 £15 £18

£10 £14 £10 £12

Under 8 years old Haircut

£7

Under 14 years old Haircut Extra for Hair Wash Hair ups

£10 £3 £17 - £25

Ladies colour prices from: Full head £30 Full head foils £50 Half head foils £40 T Bar foils £25 Colour correction - Price upon consultation *Prices may vary*

Appointments are not always necessary • We are now open on Bank Holidays Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9.00am - 6.00pm Thursday: 9.00am - 7.00pm Saturday: 8.00am - 5.00pm Sunday: Closed 1-3 George Place, Bathgate, EH48 1PA

TEL: 01506 657551 16 konect

DREAM:U is a gorgeous new salon situated in Bathgate Town Centre

We offer the following services:

Calgel & Shellac nails HD brows & Semi permanent lashes Waxing, Massage, Facials & Spray tan Group fitness and Personal Training Hairdressing - Cut, colour and colour correction Hair extensions, keratin blowdrys and hair ups

07769 187642 • 07445 327084 1 Union Road Bathgate EH48 2RH

DON’T GET LEFT BEHIND THIS WINTER...

We’ve got some special offers for 2015 Call now for details: Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

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Tatta Ltd

Laser tattoo removal

Professional Service Fading for cover up or full removal Advanced Laser Technology Enhanced removal technique Free consultation

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WEST LOTHIAN LOCKSMITHS PROVIDE 24HR LOCK & SECURITY LOCKED OUT? WE GAIN ENTRY UPVC DOUBLE GLAZING DOOR LOCK REPAIRS ALL MAKES OF LOCKS FITTED, CHANGED OR UPGRADED ELECTRONIC SECURITY DOOR ENTRY SYSTEMS AND ALARMS FITTED LOCAL FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FRIENDLY & RELIABLE www.westlothianlocksmith.com Call 01506 238048 or 07542 781131

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EDINBURGH WOOD FUEL

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07747 062426

Local ■ Established ■ Reliable www.dbgeneralbuilders.co.uk david_bathgate@sky.com

ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Regular Garden Maintenance and Landscaping Grass cutting, turfing, paving, patios, driveways, mono blocking & fencing

Local, reliable, professional

Call Ryan: 07723 587389 or Email: ryantosney@live.co.uk

The Leys

The Crescent, 81 Russell Place, Bathgate, EH48 2GJ 2 & 4 bed homes available

Buy with Help to Buy* and move in 2015 Whether you’re a first time buyer or an existing homeowner Help to Buy (Scotland)* can help you.

2 bedroom homes

from £127,000 4 bedroom homes

from £168,000

Help to Buy applies to a wide range of properties up to £250,000 and is available on new homes for April 2015 onwards.

If you have a 5% deposit, the Government will give you a loan of up to 20%, therefore you may only need a 75% mortgage.

Call: 01506 530 655 or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk/TheLeys Sales centre open: Thursday-Monday 11am-5.30pm To avoid disappointment, please contact the relevant Sales Centre for opening times before travelling. Prices correct at time of going to press 12-11-14. Internal images depict typical Taylor Wimpey showhomes and may include optional upgrades at additional cost. *Taylor Wimpey terms and conditions apply. Eligible applicants will offered an equity loan of up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value) Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. The equity loan is provided by the Scottish Government and held as a second charge. This scheme is available on homes up to a value of £250,000. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject and only available on selected developments and properties. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT.

SET INCLUDES: CONT KING SIZE BEDFRAME, 2 X 2 DRAWER NIGHT STANDS, SINGLE DRESSER, MIRROR + 4 DOOR ROBE. DAYA SET ALSO COMES IN BLACK/SILVER, STONE & WHITE/SILVER COLOUR 2 TIER WALNUT FINISH BLACK TEMPERED GLASS TV STAND

£150.00

RRP £299

BELLA BLACK GLASS TV STAND

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FLORS 4`6 DOUBLE CRYSTAL BED FRAME AVAILABLE IN WHITE & BLACK, & VARIETY OF SIZES

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MAYFAIR 4`6 DOUBLE TAUPE FAUX LEATHER BED FRAME

MILANO WHITE HIGH GLOSS/GLASS EXT DINING SET + 6 CHAIRS

ALSO AVAILABLE IN BROWN MATTRESSES ALSO AVAILABLE IN STORE, PRICES STARTING FROM £65

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CHAIRS AVAILABLE IN BLACK, GREY & WHITE MIX AND MATCH VARIOUS OTHER CHAIRS IN STORE TABLE ALSO IN BLACK/WHITE & BLACK

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EX WALMSLEY FURNITURE SUPERSTORE • VARIOUS OTHER RANGES AVAILABLE

20 konect

MARCO 4`6 DOUBLE ORTHO DIVAN SET + 2 DRAWERS

£199.00 RRP £329

KIDS CABIN BEDS IN PINK OR BLUE

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INDIGO WHITE HIGH GLOSS DINING SET + 4 DINING CHAIRS

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

COMPRISING: Quality Bathroom Suite

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£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

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

konect 21

ALL TRADES SPECIALIST

Slaters, Roughcasters & Plasterers â—? JOINERY â—? PLUMBING â—? ELECTRICAL â—? DECORATING â—? TILING â—? FLOORING â—? PLASTERING

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Find us on Facebook

Phone: 07739 637319

Email: martinhood248@msn.com www.mhdevelopmentscotland.co.uk

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Slating | Roughcasting Roof Tiling | Plastering Flat Roofing | Extensions Property Maintenance & Renovations

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FREE kitchen survey with 3D drawings.

Specialise in kitchen & bathrooms.

All internal/external work undertaken - from changing a door handle to full house renovations and extensions.

All work carried out with least amount of mess and hassle to customer.

All trades supplied, taking the pressure of home renovations away from customers.

All domestic & commercial work undertaken.

FREE no obligation quotes.

For a professional, tidy and reliable job done in your property or business - look no further than SM Joinery!

22 konect

with FR eve EE B r for y win LIND Kon do S ect w in read sta ers lled

Telephone: 01506 333002 Fax: 01506 636666 Showroom now open

Showroom now open

Unit 5 Standhill Ind. Estate | Bathgate | EH28 2HR We now take card payments

konect 23

PROPERTY MATTERS

by Craig Turpie

“How Long Has It Been On The Market?”

One of the first things a buyer will ask an estate agent when offered a property is “How long has it been on the market?”, and with good reason. Buying a property is a large transaction and it takes courage to commit to undertake such an apparently huge decision – often with very little support other than pure instinct.

One of the most persuasive and apparently reliable indications as to the suitability of a property is to check out whether other people have expressed an interest. There is great comfort in knowing that you are not the only one who would like to buy the property.

Once people hear that others have expressed an interest, then everyone seems to want the property, as the power of “social proof” kicks in. This competition can often stimulate a quick sale at a high price, and usually occurs when a property is

24 konect

attractively priced in relation to other properties available for sale and is new to market.

Of course the opposite is also true. When the price of a property is overly ambitious, the excitement that should surround a property that is new on the market is reduced, and it can begin to go stale. This is when nobody has made an offer and the property is seen to be repeatedly advertised. When buyers find out that it is no longer new on the market they think “Well nobody else wanted it – perhaps we are making a mistake.”

So our advice would be to position your property as one of the best available in its price range from day one. This will prompt interest and encourage asking price offers from qualified buyers. Under your agent’s advice, you should then have a choice of buyer, resulting in a fast, reliable, sale at the highest price the market will pay.

These clients switched to Turpie & Co*

On market

Previous agent

1 year

Turpie & Co

71 days 18

On market

Viewings

Previous agent

3 months

0

Turpie & Co

35 days 5

On market

Viewings

Previous agent

6 months

0

Turpie & Co

39 days 4

*existing home report valid.

Telephone: 01506 668448 www.turpies.com

Viewings

1

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

Marie would like to thank all of her customers for their business in 2014 and wish all the best for 2015 We have a range of different classes available every week, each a new experience. Call 07727 178701 for more information.

10% OFF

Medical Gi Gong (usually £35 per session)

10% OFF

when you spend £50 or over in store

Just bring Konect magazine! Valid to 24/12/14

Just bring Konect magazine! Valid to 24/12/14

Tai chi Fridays 6.30 - 8.30 pm, £25 per month

Jet for December

By The Stone Ring Jet is a fossilized wood. It is often used to protect those who are in pursuit of business and enhances the stability of ones finances.

It can also be used to dispel negative and fearful thoughts and was often to used to protect the wearer from illness and violence.

This mineral helps to align the base chakra and stimulate the awakening of the kundalini. When placed on the upper body the Jet will enable the movement of the kundalini towards the crown chakra.

Jet is a very calming mineral and was often used to help those who suffered from depression It was also used as an aid for those who had migraine headaches stomach pains and cold.

This mineral is also the astrological sign of Capricorn.

konect 27

Christmas in Bathgate

Entertainment for all the family organised and provided by West Lothian Council.

Saturday 6 December 2014 The Steelyard and George Street (12.30pm – 5.15pm)

Come along and enjoy the

FESTIVE FAMILY FUN Santa Parade from Balbardie PS (12.30pm) Family and Street Entertainment (1.00 to 4.00pm) Torchlight Procession (4pm for 4.15pm) Carol Singing and switching on the Christmas tree lights (4.45 to 5.15pm) For further details, contact West Lothian Council: Nairn Pearson, BID & Town Centre Manager,

T. 01506 637537

Buster the Dog

Business New Years Resolution ... the best deal on advertsing ď ?byGetbooking early for next year!

Book now for special offers for 2015 Please call: Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

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

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Email: info@rsvets.co.uk

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

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konect 31

TECHNOLOGY

Shape Up - Digitally!

It’ll soon be that time of year again: come January, everybody’s on a diet and the gyms are packed with people whose memberships will last much longer than their willpower. But there’s no need to take extreme measures if you overdo it a bit at Christmas: a few well-chosen gadgets can make losing weight much easier.

The trick to weight loss is to make little, permanent changes. For example, using an oil mister (from around £9) reduces the amount of oil you use in cooking while a set of measuring spoons and a digital scale can ensure you’re not putting too much of any ingredient into your food. If you can’t bear to give up fried food, go for a low-fat fryer such as Breville’s Halo Health Fryer (£79.99) or Tefal’s ActiFry (£119) which will mean Prepara Tabletop Oil you get all the taste with a Mister Spray Bottle fraction of the fat.

Gadgets can help you cook healthy meals in other ways, too: if you have a smartphone, an iPod touch or a tablet you can take advantage of stacks of cooking apps ranging from celebrity chefs’ apps Breville Halo Health Fryer to specialist apps such as the British Heart Foundation’s Healthy Heart Recipe Finder, which is free on both iOS and Android.

No weight loss programme comes without the recommendation to exercise more, and there are plenty of gadgets designed to help with that too.

Fitness trackers keep an eye on how many steps you take and calories you burn, with devices such as the Fitbit Surge smartwatch (£199) and Fitbit Charge activity tracker (£99) and Nike’s Fuelband (£89) making it easy to track your progress.

32 konect

If you have an iPhone, Nike’s device also enables you to share your progress with friends in private groups.

There’s a huge trend for health monitoring in smartphones, with both Google’s Android Fitbit Charge and Surge fitness trackers and Apple’s iPhones offering health tracking apps. In both cases the apps can talk to other devices such as fitness trackers, and there are plenty of third-party apps for recording your food intake, the workouts you do in the gym or anything else you might want to track and record.

How can you tell if your new regime is working?

While it’s tempting to climb on the scales every day that’s a bad idea, because our body weight fluctuates quite dramatically from day to day. It’s better to track the longer term trend, and once again technology can help with that: smart scales such as Withings’ wireless scales (from around £80) can help you track your weight loss by storing over 100 readings. The scales are also compatible with smartphones, which can take the readings and turn them into inspiring and motivational graphs.

If you really want to see what’s happening to your body, gadgets such as Omron’s Body Logic Omron Body Logic Fat Analyzer Fat Analyser (£74) can tell you how much muscle you have, how hydrated you are and how much fat you’re carrying. That’s useful if you’re working out as well as eating well, because muscle weighs more than fat - your weight might not change but your body composition will.

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Professional expertise in: · Preparation of specification and drawings · Submission for Planning approval and Building Warrant · Assistance with competitive tenders and selection of contractors · Site and financial supervision to final account and certification · Energy and H&SE issues

email: wmachastings@gmail.com konect 33

LOCAL WALK

by Karen Murray

A Wee Wander in the Woods As it is a busy time for me (and I am sure for all of you) my walking has been curtailed somewhat – walking darkened streets is not very exciting to talk about and my occasional early morning run isn’t much to write home about either. However in my various visits out and about I have been looking out for little patches of green to take a breath of air and enjoy the outdoors when I can so I thought that for December I would extol the virtues of our wonderful community woodlands.

You may simply whizz by in your car dismissing just little oases of joy as a few trees not worthy of a closer look, but there you would be wrong. Community Woodlands are run by a variety of people/ organisations, everything from local councils to a local community group or perhaps a combination of one or two.

Trees are such amazing, wonderful things. From the remnants of our ancient Caledonian pine forests to the delicious deciduous oak woods, Scotland’s woodlands are fantastic places to explore and enjoy and the Lothians have them in their plenty. They are especially pretty when the leaves have turned golden, burnt umber, red and orange with the low sunlight filtering through them.

While we may think of woodland areas as lovely and remote, there are many urban and community woodlands and they are just as important and

34 konect

special as the more remote ones. So we need to is explore them – take that breath of fresh air, walk the dog, take a lunchtime stroll – wander the woodlands and simply enjoy.

On the A89 on the eastern edge of Armadale is Hardhill Community Woodland where there is parking for a few cars. The wood was planted in 1999 as a Millennium community woodland and has a wide central avenue, perfect for bowling buggies or strolling hand-in-hand.

If you like views, you can get some great vistas over Uphall and Broxburn looking towards the Pentlands from Broxburn Community Woodland. You can even see as far as the Forth Road Bridge on a good day.

The site has a young broadleaf woodland, grassland and open tracks between the trees to explore. An added attraction to this walk is that you will see one of the public art sculptures that are part of the Kirkhill Pillar Project and are interpretations of the different planets in the solar system.

Away from West Lothian and towards Edinburgh there are more of the typically urban community woodlands that you might find near to cities. If I am on a trip into Edinburgh I can often manage to find one and park up so I can fit in my fix of fresh air and a walk in the woods. It is the urban community woodlands that I really appreciate as areas within a built up environment where you can escape to and

If you want to find other community woodlands or wooded areas to walk, try these websites: www.communitywoods.org/ www.woodlandtrust.org.uk www.forestry.gov.uk find a little peace and tranquillity. Recently I have been to the Roundell Community Woodland tucked away at the back of the Buckstone area of Edinburgh.

It is just a small woodland but pretty enough to take a circular walk through and come out at the grassy area of park.

Close by is the Braid Hills Community Woodland.

This is part of the Braid Hills circular walk of around 4.5km, taking in a nature reserve, trig points and more. The Braid Hills are the southernmost of the seven hills on which Edinburgh is traditionally said to be built and the views from these hills are

spectacular. However you need time to explore the whole area so a wee wander in the woodland was just perfect for the time I had available.

The Harmeny Community Woodland is a small area of mixed woodland in Balerno, adjacent to the Bavelaw Burn. The wooded area is owned by the Harmeny Education Trust but was gifted to the community and is a wonderful area for locals to enjoy. You can also join fungi foraging or bat walks, even bush craft and storytelling events that all take place. The woodland is well looked after and everchanging.

These are just a few of the many community woodlands and of course there are other such areas of woodland that are not community owned/ managed but are equally worthy of a walk through.

Between the Forestry Commission, The Woodland Trust, Communities and Councils, these patches of woodland are being cared for and they make such a difference to the built up areas around them. I enjoy walking in wide open spaces, on bleak windswept hills and over fields, but there is something special about a woodland walk and with so many of them to choose from around us, there really is no excuse.

konect 35

FEATURE

distraction from investment in renewable energy sources. Fracking has been banned totally in five European countries so far. Prime motivators to press ahead with it here are that it could reduce our reliance on imported gas short term, and decision-makers at government and top industry level stand to gain financially from the industry.

Fracking in West Lothian Talk of fracking for gas and oil has crept up to Scotland with the whole of the central belt currently available to license for exploratory drilling. This map from Department of Energy and Climate Change shows the areas most likely to be exploited as identified by the British Geological Survey, which includes a large part of West Lothian.

In countries where fracking and CBM extraction has been carried out onshore there has been massive community protest on the grounds of public health and environment. Communities in Airth (near Falkirk) and Canonbie (Dumfries and Galloway) are currently battling against further CBM drilling. Objections include: contamination of ground water (once the fracking fluids have been injected they remain underground, and some are known to be toxic); industrialisation of the landscape (vast number of wells needed especially for CBM); impact on houses and land (earthquake risk);

99% of respondents to a UK Government consultation (May to August this year) opposed any fracking in the UK. The consultation was actually on a change to trespass laws (the Infrastructure Bill) to allow firms to drill under people’s home without permission, so the results were dismissed on the grounds that the respondents hadn’t directly answered the questions about trespass laws. The legislation is currently going ahead and will remove householders’ rights to protest to drilling under their homes (and their right to be notified about it).

The Scottish government has condemned the Infrastructure Bill, and although it cannot control licensing it could impose planning controls that would make it impossible for licensees to get planning permission from local councils. One suggestion so far has been to impose a buffer zone 2km from residential areas, although there is as yet no definitive policy besides recognition of the need for much tighter regulation of the industry.

Shading indicates areas most likely to be exploited, as identified by the British Geological Survey

West Lothian

Source: DECC

Already licensed Available for licensing

Fracking (hydraulic fracturing) involves injecting water and other chemicals at high pressure deep underground to expand fractures in the rock to release trapped oil or gas. Rather than existing in an underground reservoir, this “unconventional” oil or gas is trapped throughout the rock - like in all the holes in a sponge - so many incursions into the rock are necessary to release and collect it. A second and very common type of unconventional gas is coal bed methane (CBM) where methane trapped in coal seams is accessed by pumping out the ground water that is trapping the gas; some fracking often follows at a later stage in the well’s lifecycle.

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FOR LESS STRESS, CHOOSE S&S! konect 37

Music Review

The Regal Music Club

by James Kerr

“The Endless River” is the first album of new music from Pink Floyd for 20 years. This will be the soundtrack to plenty Christmas dinners I suspect but it is it a golden goose or great big turkey?

The generous selection of tracks comprise mainly restructured works in progress left over from 1994’s “The Division Bell”, by which point the group had come to terms with the absence of lead songwriter Roger Waters, and re-integrated ex keyboard player Rick Wright fully back into the fold. Drummer Nick Mason mentioned in mid-nineties interviews that the group had toyed with the idea of an ambient/ dance album compiled from these sessions called “The Big Spliff”, but if this material is one and the same then that looks to have been a bit of a tease.

We will try and beat any other quote 38 konect

“The Division Bell” had no shame in pulling out many of the classic Floyd tricks, at times sounding a little desperate with the soundalike choir from DSOTM here, and numbing synth there, yet managed a mainly contemporary feel. “The Endless River” is a different experience entirely. The absence of lead vocals on all but one track invites comparison with the more spacey side of the band, and much also plays as if newly discovered instrumental breaks from the “Wish You Were Here” album. There is one hairs on the back of the neck moment when “August ‘ 68” briefly and entirely successfully transports the listener back to the strangeness of the sixties via some Farfisa organ.

Without lyrical context it is difficult, on first listening at least, to hear past the novelty of what could easily have been a bootleg in years gone by instead polished and shining. Like a crazy diamond?

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konect 39

Local Life & Competition

Tesco Bathgate Prize Draw I have had another busy year but it’s not over yet.

• •

Throughout December we will be visited by our local primary schools doing their carol singing.

The weekend of Saturday 13th December we will be having our “Race to the North Pole” in aid of diabetes UK in store.

I have also been invited along to Homestart kids Christmas party were I hope to see Santa.

Once I have eaten my way through Christmas, in January I will be ready for our “Health Week” which will kick off on Saturday the 10th.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

•

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

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voucher to help with Christmas shopping Simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to: 07854 492638 or editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with subject

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konect 41

Prepare your Christmas Dinner the easy way with tips from EKCO There’s nothing like sitting around the table with your loved ones on Christmas Day and enjoying a well prepared meal with a glass of wine. It doesn’t just happen by magic however, someone needs to put in some hard work to prepare the Christmas feast and if the extent of your culinary skills is to open a packet of frozen fish fingers and a bag of peas then pulling together a multi-course meal of epic proportions is going to be testing to say the least. To help you with this mammoth task and allow you to enjoy the day with family and friends here are some quick tips from EKCO. Firstly you should get some help and advice from someone who knows what they’re doing. If you have access to the internet or a smartphone then take a look at Jamie Oliver’s two day Christmas meal preparation by logging on to jamieoliver.com.

He’ll take you through the full preparation step by step beginning on Christmas Eve with stuffing and preparing the turkey to par-boiling, seasoning and storing the roast potatoes and veg. Then, on Christmas Day, you just need to transfer the dishes from the fridge to the oven or hob and serve. This is just one of those simple things that can allow you to enjoy the big day stress free.

The most important appliance in your kitchen in the lead up to Christmas is your oven and if yours is on its last legs then maybe you should look at replacing it with a steam oven from Siemens. Steam cooking is a gentler and more energy efficient way to ensure you serve up a succulent turkey with no loss of flavour. It doesn’t require any plumbing but instead holds a water chamber to keep your food moist while cooking, even at high temperatures.

One of the most enjoyable things about Christmas dinner is having a glass of sparkling wine before the meal. There’s no need to splash out on champagne, a decent Prosecco or vintage cava will taste just as good. If you like to entertain regularly and are thinking of buying a new kitchen then a Neff wine cooler which stores several bottles could be for you. If however, you just want somewhere to chill a few bottles of cava for the big day but are limited for space in your fridge then put your bottles into a bucket and fill with a mix of ice and water. Then sprinkle some table salt over the ice to help it melt quickly. This will bring the temperature of your wine down rapidly so it’s chilled and ready for your guests arriving.

Have a wonderful Christmas from EKCO.

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RECIPE AND FOOD NOTES

by Food Creations

Pulled Pork and easy make BBQ Sauce Pulled pork is great on its own, superb for lunches, a great topping for burgers or chicken and can add loads of flavour to any dish.

Ingredients

Sauce 6 fl oz ketchup 4 fl oz cup apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp paprika

4 fl os cup of cola (yep - Coke or Pepsi or such – full sugar!)

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp maple syrup

2 tbsp coarse salt 1 tbsp garlic powder

Method

1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper

Mix all the dry ingredients together, rub liberally over the pork, wrap the pork in tinfoil and place in a tray, in the oven at about 150 degrees.

1 tsp dry mustard

Cook for 6 hours, remove and rest.

½ tsp cayenne pepper

Mix the sauce ingredients in a saucepan, bring to boil and simmer for 15 – 20 min until thickened – leave to cool.

1 tbsp onion powder

½ tsp ground coriander ½ tsp ground cumin 2 - 3 kg pork shoulder roast (skin off, but leaving the bone in gives better flavour)

Shred pork (off the bone) and mix with the sauce till mixture is ‘wet’ but not runny and serve hot or cold.

Great on a bun with some coleslaw!

Enjoy! - Simon Preece

44 konect

Celebrate Christmas with Food Creations Christmas Party Nights Our party nights include a fabulous 3 Course Christmas Dinner, crackers and, of course, music music music. We set the atmosphere for a Christmas party you will cherish and enjoy!

£32.95 per head We have festive party nights available at the following locations Harburn Golf Club (West Calder) Kingsknowe Golf Club (Edinburgh) Bathgate Golf Club Uphall Golf Club Livingston Football Club Party Dates - 5th and 6th Dec; 12th and 13th Dec; 19th and 20th Dec

Private Parties Want to hold your own company Christmas party? Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Christmas Day Celebrations Christmas Day lunches are available at Kingsknowe and Harburn Golf Clubs 1:30pm for 2:00pm.

Only £38 per head Children under 12 half price and children under 5 eat for free!

Book now for a fabulous Christmas!

Go online at www.foodcreations.co.uk/xmas14 Email xmas14@foodcreations.co.uk Tel 01506 412232 konect 45

Wester Inch Community Association welcomes Winter and Christmas!!

Come and join us for a

free winter celebration

on 7th December 1.30 – 4pm at Simpson Primary School  Mulled wine  mince pies  Christmas carols  arts and crafts Christmas Card Competition  Christmas wishes for the community tree

www.westerinchvillage.org Find us on facebook Wester Inch Community Association 46 konect

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Dec 14 - Mar 15

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

December wed 3rd SAT 6TH SUN 7TH SAT 13TH -SUN28TH wed 31ST

LocaL Hero - FILm (1983) LGbT Prom NIGHT cINDereLLa

7.30pm £4 7.00pm Free 12 & 4pm £12 & £6

robINsoN crusoe PaNTo

/ 7.30pm £15 £12.50

HoGmaNay

8.00pm £30

savING mr baNks - FILm (2013)

7.30pm £4

20 FeeT From sTarDom - FILm (2013) NeIL DIamoND & keNNy roGers TrIbuTe TaLoN - acousTIc coLLecTIoN bob marLey TrIbuTe baNDs meaTLoaF & ceLINe DIoN TrIbuTe kasT oFF kINks

7.30pm £4

JaNuary wed 14TH

February wed 4TH Fri 6TH THU 12TH Fri 13TH SAT 14TH THU 19TH

7.30pm £15 7.30pm £17 7.30pm £20 7.30pm £10 7.30pm £16

marcH wed 4TH SAT 14TH wed 18TH SAT 21ST

THe INvIsIbLe WomaN - FILm (2013) ac/Dc TrIbuTe THe LuNcHbox - FILm (2013) bIG yIN revIsITeD & FaNkLe

7.30pm £4 7.30pm £15 7.30pm £4 7.30pm £10

See website at WWW.baTHGaTereGaL.orG for complete up to date listings and booking. box oFFIce is open 10-2pm weekdays and 1 hour before evening shows. ring 01506 630 085 and leave a message.

24-34 North Bridge Street, Bathgate, eH48 4PS konect 47

Puzzles Crossword

Solution in the February 2015 edition of konect 1

2

3

4

7

6

8

9

11

5

10

12

13 14

15

16

17

18

19 20

21

23

24

22

Across 7 A red fruit (6) 8 On every side (6) 9 Deceased (4) 10 Hold back (8) 11 Sprinkle (7) 13 Weeps (5) 15 Concerning (5) 17 Farewell (4-3) 20 Acquainted (8) 21 Require (4) 23 Disclose (6) 24 Thick, oily substance (6) Down 1 Finished (4) 2 Outlaw (6) 3 Expedition (7) 4 Severe (5) 5 Terror (6) 6 Completely (8) 12 Green vegetables (8) 14 Bravery (7) 16 Allied (6) 18 Beast of burden (6) 19 Feminine (5) 22 Simple (4)

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 54

48 konect

konect Wishing all our readers & customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Thank you for reading Konect in 2014 and supporting local businesses We look forward to another year of all things local, interesting articles, competitions and great offers • If you are involved in a commmunity group or charity locally we will list your organisation in the Clubs and Classes section FREE of charge.

We may also be able to feature you as “Charity of the Month”.

• If you have an interesting story relating to the local area or a local personality, we may be able to feature you.

Please contact editor@konectdirectory.co.uk

• If you run a business locally call us before Christmas to ask about special early-bird offers on 2015 advertising packages!

Please call Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

www.konectdirectory.co.uk konect 49

What’s On

and Useful Information Sunday 30th November Jack & Jill Market With markets across Scotland, and an online market you will find up to 45 stalls bursting with quality nearly-new baby & kids toys, buggies, clothes, cots & more for 0-9yrs!

Adults £1.50 to come & shop or BOOK A STALL today, clear out and cash in!! West Lothian College, 10.30am to 1pm. www.jackandjillmarket.co.uk

Saturday 6th December Christmas in Bathgate Entertainment for all the family! Santa parade, family and street entertainment, torchlight procession, carol-singing and switching on of the Christmas tree lights. See centre pages of this magazine for details.

Sunday 7th December Geocache Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world with GPS devices. Find hidden containers called Geocaches which contain swaps and a log book. Sign the log book and share your experience online at www.geocache.com.

Suitable for: All. Time: Call the Visitor Centre for details on 01506 844516, email: mail@beecraigs.com.

Meet: Sutherland Building, Beecraigs Country Park

Sunday 7th December Wester Inch Winter Celebration.

Simpson Primary School 1.30 - 4pm. Mulled wine, mince pies, Christmas carols, arts and crafts, Christmas Card Competition, Christmas wishes for the community tree.

Friday 12th December Christmas Concert Presented by Toccata Ladies Choir 7.30pm at Carmondean Church, Nether Dechmont Farm.

Tickets £5, see toccataladieschoir.co.uk

Saturday 20th December Crafty Christmas Come and make some homemade craft items for Christmas. Materials provided. Suitable for all.

Meet: Visitor Centre, Polkemmet Country Park.

Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £2.36.

Booking essential, call the rangers on 01501 743905, email: polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk

50 konect

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

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

See Page 47 for December programme To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638

Where to find Santa The Centre, Livingston Everyday until 24th December. Book your slot online at shopthecentre.co.uk, or just turn up – come early to avoid the queues!

Dobbies, Livingston Santa’s grotto open on selected dates until 24th December.

Tickets must be booked in advance (Santa only sees children with a magic ticket). Call Dobbies on 01506 812000.

Overboard Soft Play, Polbeth Sunday 7th December 11:00am - 4:00pm.

Christmas Fayre with special guest Santa. Santa will arrive at 12:00pm, there will be a selection of great stalls ranging from cakes to craft. For more details on prices and entertainment please contact Overboard on 01506 873888.

Mrs Claus at Potter Around, Overton Farm, Kirknewton Saturday 6th Dec 11am. Mrs Claus and elves will be helping make Christmas decorations, hot choc and icing biscuits.

Lots of glitter mess and fun! £12, booking essential, please call Potter Around on 01506 238961 Edinburgh International Climbing Centre, Ratho Every Saturday and Sunday in the 3 weekends before Christmas. 10:00 - 12:30 & 13.30 – 15:30.

Children 0-7, £10. Sleigh ride, softplay and Santa’s Grotto: an hour’s play in Scrambes or Rock Tots Play Cafe, followed by a sleigh ride to see Santa in his Grotto.

Breakfast with Santa at EICA, Ratho Mon 22nd, Tues 23rd & Wed 24th December 9.30–11.00am.

Have a yummy breakfast with Santa Claus. His little helper will read the children a magical story and Santa will hand out presents to all the children. There will also be fun and games and a little face painting too! Children 0-7 £12.95

Support Worker Vacancies Due to expansion we have vacancies in: Ratho, Kirkliston, Livingston, Bathgate, Armadale and West Edinburgh Starting Salary from £14,500-£17,000 Casual Support Worker rate £7.50 p/h FULL, PART-TIME & CASUAL VACANCIES NOW AVAILABLE For further details or an application form please contact us:

Citizens Advice Bureau West Lothian is working with West Lothian Women’s Aid to provide a tailored money advice service to individuals who have experienced domestic abuse.

We can offer assistance with:

Benefit issues Money management/budgeting Debt Housing issues For more information, please contact: Citizens Advice Bureau on

01506 436132

or West Lothian Women’s Aid on

www.actiongroup.org.uk 0131 475 2315 / 01506 410 668

Christmas Deer Walks Saturday 13th December 11am Sunday 14th December 11am and 2pm Saturday 20th December 11am and 2pm Sunday 21st December 11am and 2pm Accompany the Ranger as we feed the deer their magic food and make sure everything is OK for the work ahead. Wear warm clothes and sturdy footwear or wellington boots.

Suitable for: Families.

Meet: Sutherland building, Beecraigs Country Park.

Cost: Adult £4.65 Child £2.60.

Booking essential, call the rangers on 01506 844516 or email: mail@beecraigs.com

01506 461938

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

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.

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. The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www.westlothian.gov.uk

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Clubs & Classes

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

BATHGATE Bathgate & District Flower Club NEW!

We are a friendly group who meet on the 3rd Monday of each month from September to June (no meeting in December) in the Regal theatre Bathgate at 7.15pm.

We have a Floral Art demonstrator at each meeting who does around 5 arrangements which are given as raffle prizes at each meeting. We also arrange outings each year. The club was established 48 years ago and we celebrate our 50th Anniversary in September 2015. Contact Carole.

Hawkins48@yahoo.com

Bathgate History Group We are a friendly group who meet on a Wednesday afternoon at 2pm in The Tryst behind St John’s Church, Mid Street, Bathgate. We have interesting speakers on various topics with tea and coffee.

A warm welcome awaits old and new members, the first meeting for the 2014/2015 session is Wednesday 3rd September. For further information contact Dorothy on 01506 652505.

Simply Play Provides flexible after school care and holiday programmes for children aged 5-14. Our clubs are based in Simpsons Primary School Community Wing and Bathgate Partnership Centre.

We offer a range of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked with no fee for `holding` an unused space.

For more information visit www. simplyplay.org or call 01506 856444.

Any Dog ‘ll Do Rescue Group A friendly group of volunteers based in and around Bathgate.

Looking for new members to help raise awareness and fundraise for the dog rescue charity.

A good way to meet new, like-minded people and have fun at the same time. Contact Lyn Pattison on info@anydogildorescue.org to find out when the group will next meet and how to get involved.

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Bathgate Concert Orchestra We are a friendly, enthusiastic group of musicians and are always happy to welcome new players of whatever level.

We rehearse on Friday evenings during school term time from 7:30pm-9:30pm at St John’s Church Bathgate.

Anyone interested in coming along to join us should contact the Secretary Joan Proven at Joan_Proven@hotmail.com Tel: 0131 331 3187.

See www.batchgateconcertorchestra. org.uk. You can also find us on facebook.

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.

Yoga Class For people living with long term conditions.

Bathgate Community Centre, 5–6.30pm on Wednesdays. 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 Simpson Primary School Bathgate Tuesday 7.15 to 8.15pm East Calder Church Hall Monday 7 to 8pm NEW VENUE Uphall Station, Uphall Institute Hall, Wednesday 7 to 8pm.

Facebook Zumba with Lindsay Email - lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk Tel - 07834 183084

Piloxing with Lindsay Simpson Primary School Bathgate Tuesday 8.20pm to 9.20pm Facebook Piloxing with Lindsay Email - lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk Tel - 07834 183084

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

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

Baby and Toddler activities Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate.

Range of classes including soft play, storytelling, craft and dance. Please call Kidzeco for class times and availability on 01506 815534.

31st West Lothian Scouts Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street.

Thursdays 7pm – 9pm

Lead a Happier Life We meet monthly to learn about empowering ourselves to lead the life we want and deserve.

With different with guest speakers on happiness related topics. Also meet in between times to go walking/theatre/ other personal development workshops.

Meet 1st Mon of each month at Community Wing, Marina Road, Boghall, Bathgate EH48 1SY (next to the school) 7.00 pm. For more info contact Carol on 07800 772607.

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.

The Stone Ring 40 King Street, Bathgate. Beginners Self awareness & Development. Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) - £6.50. Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month. 7-9.30pm (approx) £5 Thai Chi Fridays - 7pm - 8.30 pm (approx)

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

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

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 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 Food for Life Nutrition and Cooking Classes Food for Life Nutrition and Cooking Classes in The Green Room, Kirknewton

Christmas Nutrition and Cooking Class: Saturday 13th December, 10.30am – 12.30pm Christmas Nutrition and Cooking Class: Saturday 20th December, 10.30am – 12.30pm Food for Life Kickstart Your Health – The Power of Food for Healthy Weight Management 7 Class Series: Every Saturday from 10th January – Saturday 21st February, 10.30am – 12.30pm Burns Supper Nutrition and Cooking Class: Saturday 24th January, 2pm – 4pm.

Places are limited and must be booked in advance as there’s lots of food to sample at each class, recipes and handouts to take away. To reserve your place call Caroline on 01506 885393, email: caroline@ carolinesplantbaseddiet.com or go to www.carolinesplantbaseddiet.com

Lothian Running Club 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 too from age 6.

Training sessions in/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 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

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.

Getting Gooey Chocolate and Craft Workshop Livingston’s first chocolate workshop!

Kids make chocolate, sweet and crafting items. Suitable from 2 to 12 years. £8.50 per child - sessions last around 1 hour.

Please check www.gettinggooey.com for session times, call 07576 964099 or email info@gettinggooey.com to book.

Livingston Business Centre, 1 Charlesfield Lane, Kirkton Campus, Livingston, EH54 7BT.

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

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Index of Advertisers Accessories Stick & Cane Shop 35 Accountancy / Bookkeeping TaxLink 33 Aerials Aerial Man 18 Army Surplus Bathgate Army Surplus Store 4 Bathrooms 1st Choice 6 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 21 Ekco 43 MH Developments 22 S&S Home Improvements 37 Beauty Dream: U 17 Building Services DB General Builders 18 Building Surveyor David Hastings 33 Cafe East Meets West 10 Car Bodywork Car Medic 39 Chips Away 31 Finishing Touch 38 Protek 39 Car Service and Repair D&G Autocare 4 Formula 1 MOT 39 M&S Auto Solutions 31 Catering East Meets West 10 Food Creations 45 Charity Action Group 51 Citizens Advice Citizens Advice Bureau 51 Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning 33 Time For You 23

Community Enterprising Bathgate 28 Complementary Therapies The Stone Ring 27 Computer Repairs A&T Computer Solutions 4 Double Glazing Weathertight Windows and Doors 23 Electrical Simply Electrical 4 Entertainment Howden Park Centre 10 Estate Agent Aberdein Considine 2 Turpie & Co 25 Firewood Edinburgh Wood Fuel 18 Fitness Piloxing with Lindsay 12 Zumba with Lindsay 12 Furniture Grove Bedding 26 Imaginex Furniture & Interiors 20 Gardens and Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes 18 Golf Club Ratho Park Golf Club 40 Hairdressers Dream: U 17 Eva Morrison 15 Razor Sharp 16 Highland Dress The Kilt Studio 6 Home Furnishings Imaginex Furniture & Interiors 20 Homes for Sale Taylor Wimpey 19 Indoor Football 36Fives 12 Joiner SM Joinery Services 22

Solution to Nov Crossword

Solution to Sudoku Page 48

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Across: 7 Concentration, 8 Uttering, 9 Easy, 10 Smashes, 12 Omens, 14 Knell, 16 Jollier, 19 Show, 20 Estimate, 22 Investigation

54 konect

Down: 1 Colt, 2 Access, 3 Entices, 4 Brags, 5 Stream, 6 Nonsense, 11 Munching, 13 Hostage, 15 Lawyer, 17 Limits, 18 Hefty, 21 Tool

Kitchens 1st Choice 6 Ekco 43 S&S Home Improvements 37 Locksmith West Lothian Locksmith 18 Mobility Med-Ecosse 41 Oven Cleaning The Clean Team 12 Painter / Decorator Nu-Walls 18 Photographer JA Houston Photography 5 Plasterer Hannah Roofing & Roughcasting 22 Nu-Walls 18 Property Letting LetLink 33 Public House Dreadnought 11 The Lounge 5 Restaurant Karma 7 Roofing Hannah Roofing & Roughcasting 22 Takeaway Baguette Express 55 East Meets West 10 Karma 7 Tattoo Removal Tatta Ltd 17 Taxi Bluebird Radio Cars 56 Theatre Bathgate Regal Community Theatre 13, 47 Venue Dreadnought 11 The Lounge 5 Veterinary Riverside Veterinary Practice 30 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 38 Protek 39 Windows Weathertight Windows and Doors 23

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

“Thanking all our customers for your custom in 2014 and wishing you all the best for 2015” 5 George Place, Bathgate, EH48 1PA

07594 031 420

Open: Mon/Tues/Wed 8am to 6pm, Thurs/Fri 8am to 8pm, Sat 9am to 4pm

Call for collection or delivery

We deliver to Bathgate, Blackburn, Armadale and Whitburn - from £1.50

Christmas Deal

Sliced turkey, cranberry sauce with sage & onion stuffing

£1.99

Pasta Pronto now available!

Various flavours

£1

Baguette 1st Wednesday of the month

Pizza

Buy 1 get 2nd for only £1 !

● 7” £2.50 ● 10” £4.00 ● 12” £5.50

(buy 2 & get 2 cans of juice FREE) FREEf can o ith w juice pizza Available up to 12 noon every ght bou *single filling roll regular drink with this advert only

with this advert only

£3

Baguette Meal Deal

Baguette, can of juice & packet of crisps

with this advert only