KonectBathgateMarch14

konect MARCH 2014

bathgate

WIN Meal for two at Karma, Whitburn Bunch of flowers for Mother's Day & ÂŁ25 voucher to spend at Tesco

Two nights' family stay at Hilly Cow Wigwams

FEATURE Let's go fly a camera kite Bathgate Castle and tragic Marjorie

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

West Lothian Run plus local businesses, community information and more!

The new community magazine for Bathgate

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Once again I have been reminded and impressed, whilst preparing this month's konect magazine, by the energy of West Lothian people and the range of activities they get up to!

I interviewed local people from two totally different fields of endeavour – a specialist in kite aerial photography for archaeological research; and a local lady from Boghall who set up West Lothian Run a few years ago, the charity which features on the front cover and as our Charity of the Month in this issue.

Message from the Editor

Along with all our regular columns, there are a couple of competitions in this issue. Karma of Whitburn are offering a meal for two for crossword competition prize so turn to page 34 and try your luck.

Look out for Mother's Day special offers and ideas from local businesses throughout the magazine.

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: West Lothian Run's mascot FitKit, at the 2013 Easter Run with a young fund-raiser. See Charity of the Month feature on page 28.

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Contents Features Let's go fly a camera kite Cleaning Doctor Bathgate Bathroom Studio Regulars Music Review Stone Ring column Charity of the Month Walk column Property Matters Technology Recipe Competitions and Puzzles Prize Crossword Sudoku Tesco prize draw Community What's on Useful Information Clubs & Classes Index of Advertisers

10 14 18 20 22 28 32 36 38 42 34 34 40 44 44 45 46

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konect 9

Let's go fly a camera kite...

by Helen-Jane Shearer

Kite flying has timeless appeal... but how many people realise that flying a kite can be used to discover what lies underground?

Researching an article on Bathgate Castle, I came across aerial photographs of the site taken with a camera attached to a kite string. I contacted the photographer Jim Knowles, who is Trust Archaeologist and Secretary of West Lothian Archaeology Group, to find out more and see what else he could tell me about Bathgate Castle and other historical sites in West Lothian.

Jim is one of several members of the group who specialise in Kite Aerial Photography (KAP). The technique dates to around 100 years ago when we have the first known use of a “kite camera” to photograph an archaeological site in Sudan. Aircraft soon took over, but kites have seen a resurgence in popularity since the availability of digital cameras in the 1990s. However, according to Jim, “they are still used very little by archaeologists and still seen as a novelty or simply not known about despite the obvious benefits.”

Kites are used to photograph things from a lower height than aircraft to therefore obtain more detail.

I ask Jim the obvious question about using drones instead of kites. “Drones definitely have their place, such as when there is no wind to fly a kite or close to structures,” he explains. “Kites are cheap, generally stress free when flying them, they can remain in the sky for hours, are very environmentally friendly using no fuel and creating little noise. They are extremely portable, there are no running costs, require a low skill level to operate, can lift heavy loads and are relatively safe. Drones, on the other hand, can be dangerous due to their high spinning propellers, have a short flying time and should be flown by an experienced pilot with another on standby in case of failure. Drones will get better and cameras will get lighter, but kite flying places you in the landscape and lets you feel the sky.

Today I use all of my technology, from quadcopters to radio controlled kite rigs, but I still prefer the simplicity of just flying a kite”.

West Lothian has a rich pre-historic and medieval heritage, and we have really only just scratched the surface in terms of archaeological investigations. West Lothian Archaeology Group aims to investigate, record and publicise archaeological and heritage sites of West Lothian and beyond.

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They have investigated many sites across West Lothian - you can see photographs and interpretive details at www.westlothianarchaeology.org.uk. They select sites based on personal interest, by invitation or recommendations from members of the community – perhaps someone has information on a site that has existed in the past but has since disappeared. The most tantalising, says Jim, are those where there is very little written history - they are marked on old maps but nothing remains. Bathgate Castle is one such site, as is Ogilface Castle in Armadale.

“Ogilface is basically a series of humps and bumps in a field” says Jim. “The West Lothian Archaeological Trust, working with the Edinburgh Archaeological Field Society, carried out a number of field investigations to try and understand what these grassy lumps represent.

After carrying out numerous surveys, including magnetic and earth resistance geophysical surveys, Below: Jim's 12 year old daughter flying a KAP rig

Bathgate Castle and tragic Marjorie investigation one day. I got permission from Club to walk the site and take a few photos from ground level.

Below: KAP picture of Bathgate Castle using a camera adapted for the near infra red. This technique is useful for increasing contrast and identifying features by different moisture content or the condition of the overlying flora. Castle mound is a rounded oblong with ditches visible curving round the left hand side.

Inset: Ground level view of castle mound and ditches.

This area of Bathgate Golf Course, at the 10th hole, is protected by Historic Scotland.

KAP picture: West Lothian Archaeology

Marjorie, the eldest daughter of Robert the Bruce, led a short and tragic life.

Her 19 year old mother died giving birth to her. Her childhood was overshadowed by the struggles of Scottish independence (Edward I invaded Scotland the year she was born). Her father was crowned king of Scotland in 1306, and the 9 year old princess had to flee, along with her step mother and aunts, as Edward I and her father did battle.

But the women were captured by the English and the princess Marjorie was held hostage in solitary confinement in a nunnery in England, until her father's victory at Bannockburn in 1314 led to her release. She was just 17, having spent half her life as a prisoner.

The following year she married Walter Stewart, hero of Bannockburn, and the barony of Bathgate and its castle was part of her vast dowry that Robert the Bruce gave to Walter (along with Kilbride and other baronies). It was to have been their family home.

But tragedy struck a year later; a heavily pregnant Marjorie fell from her horse whilst riding near Paisley and went into premature labour.

Her baby, the future King Robert II, was delivered by c-section (the earliest authentic record of such an operation since Julius Ceasar) and the 19 year old Marjorie died a few hours later. Walter Stewart lived at Bathgate Castle until his death there in 1327, after which it was left to fall into ruin.

So where is Bathgate Castle?

The site lies in the grounds of Bathgate Golf Club. Not much is known about it – at least not readily available historical documentation. West Lothian Archaeology investigation revealed a low mound with three moated ditches curving along one side and evidence of a square building at an entrance causeway. They intend to carry out further we began to understand more of the layout of the structure. We followed up with numerous kite aerial photographic surveys using specialist cameras from the visible to the near infra-red end of the electromagnetic spectrum to try and tease out extra information that cannot be seen under normal circumstances. Our combined findings suggest that there was indeed a fortification here, possibly from the medieval period or even earlier.”

Anyone can learn to fly a kite for KAP, and West Lothian Archaeology Trust is keen to encourage people to photograph sites in their own area using kites. It has launched a scheme to introduce KAP into local schools.

Torphichen Primary school is about to start a project on Cairnpapple Hill using KAP. The Trust also runs the Scottish National Aerial Photography Scheme, providing KAP kits to children, students and their mentors in Scotland.

Not quite “up to the highest height” (the Civil Aviation Authority impose a restriction of 60 metres) ... but even a child can use this coupling of ancient technology with the latest digital camera to find buried treasure.

See more pictures and information on the photographic techniques at www.westlothianarchaeology.org.uk

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Spotlight on

Cleaning Doctor Bill Weir

Carpet and upholstery cleaned to as good as new Bill Weir, owner of Cleaning Doctor Carpet & Upholstery Services Edinburgh West & West Lothian, looks after the health of your indoor environment by giving you cleaner, brighter, fresher, safer, healthier carpets, curtains and upholstery.

Bill explains his services, “My cleaning and restoration services can save you a lot of money, as you won’t have the expense of buying new so often. Regular vacuuming, combined with periodic professional cleaning, unquestionably extends the life of your carpets and upholstery. Let me explain. Carpets act like a filter; they trap dirt, grit and sticky substances that are carried into your home on shoes and clothes.

But this trapped dirt and grit grinds into the fibres and slowly destroys them. Regular vacuuming removes the majority of these abrasive elements. Professional cleaning gets rid of the remaining dirt and grit along with sticky and oily deposits. A regular cleaning cycle vastly improves the appearance and extends the life of your carpets and furnishings.

Bill continues, “My aim is to give you the best-ever, professional carpet and upholstery cleaning services at affordable prices. I use either my top-of-the-range, hot-water, deep-extraction system or the WoolSafe® approved Dry Fusion system, which cleans, stainblocks, deodorises and heat-dries your carpets all in the one process. I can leave your carpets dry and ready to walk on in about 30 minutes after cleaning.”

Bill also carries out specialist cleaning, including spot, stain, odour and chewing gum removal, dust mite elimination, rug cleaning, leather cleaning, mattress cleaning and curtain cleaning.

If your carpets, curtains or upholstery are looking a little under the weather, and they need reviving, call Cleaning Doctor Bill Weir to restore them to a clean and healthy condition.

Call free on 0800 695 7570, or call 01506 880 357 or mobile 07921 068 926.

“How frequently, daily or weekly, you need to vacuum depends on your home circumstances. On the other hand, professional cleaning should be carried out every six to twelve months.

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Spotlight on

Bathgate Bathroom Studio In the heart of Bathgate town centre you will find a bathroom specialist with a remarkable family history, stretching back to mid 19th century.

the modern bathroom or shower room. With over 20 complete displays, as well as extensive tile and shower wall ranges, the showroom is well worth a visit. The Bathroom Studio is a perfect example of a family-run business moving with the times to meet the needs of the present day, as illustrated by these comments from satisfied customers: "Thanks for all your help and advice and your amazing customer service. Our bathroom is stunning. I will be recommending you to everyone. Glad I decided to shop local" The Carson family, Bathgate

The Bathroom Studio in Hopetoun Street is a modern bathroom showroom full of contemporary and practical ideas to meet the needs of customers today. However the family roots of the business can be traced back to the 1840s, when the original firm of J.B. Marr & Sons, Plumbers, was established in Bathgate town centre.

Caroline Irvine (nee Marr), co-owner of today’s specialist bathroom business, is the sixth generation of the Marr family to run a plumbing or bathroom business in the town, with six members of the extended family currently employed in the business.

“We cover the full spectrum, from as little as a shower installation through to full luxury bathrooms,” explains Marie Marr, Showroom Manager. “We carry out all work with our own fitting teams who are fully qualified in all aspects of bathroom installation, joinery, plumbing and tiling, meaning that the work is carried out efficiently and we can keep a close eye on quality control.” An extensive range of reputable brands is offered, including Mira and Aqualisa for showers; Vitra, Ideal Standard and Roca for sanitaryware, and Utopia, Mereway and Tavistock bathroom furniture.

The Bathroom Studio have recently completed a refurbishment of the showroom and office premises at Hopetoun Street, with extended space to display the latest design solutions for

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"To everyone at The Bathroom Studio who made our dream a beautiful reality....

To Caroline who spoke my language and sold me my dream in the first place...

To Sam for sharing his vision and eye for design....

To the 'A' Team who took the time to care about all the important little details, tidied up, worked hard, were polite and most of all....produced a beautiful end result which we will enjoy every day!

We could not recommend you highly enough!"

Jacqueline and Donald, Livingston "A big thank you for the lovely job in my bathroom. I am delighted with it." Mrs Peat, Ratho Bathroom Studio is currently taking delivery of new tile and furniture ranges for 2014. Why not pay them a visit at 10 Hopetoun St, Bathgate (next door to RBS), or call to arrange a free estimate and design service which uses the latest software to help you visualise your finished bathroom.

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Music Review

The Regal Music Club

by James Kerr

How have Abba retained their image as a flares on party band when the group latterly consisted of ex-husbands making their ex-wives sing song after song about how miserable separation is? This was one of the questions we tried to unravel at the Music Club this month.

For a group which called it a day in 1982 with the fan-baiting "First Ten Years" collection (total number of songs released in next ten years: one), Abba are still able to command equal amounts of love and loathing amongst music lovers. Having formed as something of a Swedish supergroup, and not even having a name at the time of their first album as a foursome, "Ring Ring" (1972), the early years have their share of endearingly odd tracks, overshadowed by the colossal success of Eurovision winner Waterloo in 1974.

constructed unstoppable pop juggernauts like "SOS" and "Mamma Mia" against the still in evidence horrors of tracks with titles such as "Bang-ABoomerang" and "Tropical Loveland".

In truth even the most sophisticated of their albums never quite managed to avoid the odd clunker, although 1977's "Arrival" and their final album, the despondently melancholic "The Visitors" from 1982 came closest.

All eight studio albums plus a CD of bonus tracks can normally be picked up in a box set for under £20 without too much trouble. Amazing value though that is, it is hard to argue that the two volume ABBA Gold and More ABBA Gold set isn't the best way to hear the group, the latter collection also being the only place to find the elusive and excellent, "second ten years" track, "I Am The City".

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.

Unable initially to capitalise in hit single terms after "Waterloo", their third and self-titled album managed to tip the balance in terms of ruthlessly

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The Beauty Spot is delighted to introduce the new CACI ultimate machine.

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Moonstone for March As its name suggests it is a stone linked to lunar energy. The energy of moonstone is balancing; it is both introspective and reflective.

It helps with changing structures of life on all levels, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.

This stone allows you to recognise that new beginnings are the fruition of the end of each cycle in your life.

This is a stone of feeling and understanding via intuition and emotional thoughts. It is a stone for wishing and hoping, it allows you to absorb what you need from the universe; (however not necessarily what you want). It also enhances perception and discernment enabling you to make decisions painlessly to further your future development. These are only a few attributes of this stone.

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Charity of the Month

West Lothian Run

Marathon season is coming up and our streets and parks are full of runners training for various marathons. If you're not up to running a full marathon but want to run for charity, or want to participate in a shorter run for training, you need to know about West Lothian Run. “We're the local West Lothian version of the Edinburgh marathon, except we have fun runs for non-runners too”, explains organiser and the charity's CEO Lindsay Colman. “We wanted to set up a series of runs where people and charities could raise money for their chosen cause without the high entrance fees required by larger marathon organisations.”

Winding back to the beginning of the story of West Lothian Run... Lindsay tells me that the idea was born when she was planning to enter a large marathon a few years ago in order to fund-raise.

She wanted to support a fund set up in memory of her great-nephew who had died as a baby from Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome. The condition is operable and the memorial fund provides families with vital monitoring equipment needed at home after the surgery.

“The entrance fee was so high it would have taken a huge chunk out of what I was able to raise. So I set up West Lothian Run instead.” In consultation with others, West Lothian Run was born in July 2008.

The charming logo depicting the iconic Five Sisters bings was designed by John Hardie of Blackburn; the route for their first event, a half marathon starting from Meadow Park in Bathgate, was planned and tested by Alan Reid (keen runner and retired community beat officer from Bathgate). The inaugural event took place in May 2009.

Since then the runs have steadily grown in terms of number of participants and number of runs arranged each year. The aim of the charity is to promote fitness for all the family within West Lothian and to provide accessible events for people to fundraise for their chosen causes.

There are now three running events held annually.

They include short fun runs too so that there is something for everyone including non-runners and young children. Any group, charity or individual can enter a run, there is no minimum team size and the entrance fees are very low (the half marathon entrance fee is just £15).

West Lothian Run's mascot FitKit, with Joshua Duncan at the 2013 Easter Run. Joshua was raising funds for the Lothian Autistic Society.

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“We are an approachable and friendly organisation,” says Lindsay, “and we're here to help people run, have fun and of course raise money if they choose.”

runners, local business people as well as Councillor Willie Boyle - who keep the charity going behind the scenes.

The Easter event is held in Beecraigs Country Park (near Linlithgow) and consists of 2k, 5k and 10k runs and will be held on Sunday 20th April.

West Lothian Run provides expertise and help to other running events in particular the Armadale Run for Fun – they help with registration process and marshalling.

The Half Marathon event starts from Meadow Park in Bathgate and also has 2k and 7k options, and will be held on 11th August.

The Santa Fun Run consists of a 2k and a 5k run and starts at Livingston Football Stadium and will be held on 30th November.

So what is involved in planning and organising the runs? Lindsay explains to me that the routes are well established now, although there are seemingly endless permission forms to be completed each time for the council, police and Rangers (in the case of the Beecraigs event).

Route marshalls have to be arranged (the air cadets, army cadets and scouts usually step in to help here); first aid coverage for the day has to be in place.

And or course the never-ending task of promoting West Lothian Run. There are seven board members who come from all walks of life – runners and non

Registration is open now for the Easter Beecraigs run, visit the website at www.westlothianrun.co.uk to register.

If you want to get involved in West Lothian Run in any other way please contact them.

They meet once a month in the Bathgate Partnership Centre and new volunteers are always welcome to bring new ideas to the run and help promote and grow it throughout West Lothian.

Corporate sponsorships are available for local businesses.

You can contact them on the following: www.westlothianrun.co.uk facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothianRun

Easter run 2013

konect 29

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konect 31

Local walk

A ramble among the rocks

by Karen Murray

It never ceases to amaze me how much you find out about where you live when you go looking for somewhere different to take a walk. West Lothian is full of interesting discoveries - both historical and geological.

Chatting to a friend who works for the Geological Survey I heard about the Petershill Wildlife Reserve near Bathgate and decided to take a look. Lying off Drumcross Road around 1km east of Bathgate, the reserve was once a limestone quarry.

Quarrying began here around 1768 until two of the workings were converted into drinking water reservoirs in 1886 and 1905. However the reservoirs were redundant by 1981 and were drained in 1986.

The 5.4 hectare site was first notified as a part of a larger Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in 1976 and was gifted to the Scottish Wildlife Trust as a nature reserve in 1990. By 1999 it was also designated a Regionally Important Geological Site (RIGS).

There is a small car park on the side of the road where the reserve is marked with a wooden signpost, but it's easy to miss as it can get a little overgrown. There is only room for a couple of cars - take care not to obstruct entrance to the field adjacent. Park up and head over the stile to follow the footpath around the perimeter of the reserve.

It was a beautiful day when I visited, but I imagine that it can get pretty wet and slippery, especially if you walk on the rocks. However it is best for both safety and to protect the fragile environment to stay on the footpaths.

As you begin walking you can take in all the geological exposure which plunges down to the left, before heading into a more wooded area and then through a rather lovely meadow towards the northern end of the reserve. In the summer this meadow blooms with a variety of flower including orchids. The path then heads south over a wooden footbridge and veers down towards a lagoon which tends to be dry in summer but filled in winter months.

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The path then heads up a steep hill and along the opposite side of the reservoir with fabulous views toward the Bathgate Hills. It eventually comes out at an opening in the wall and onto Drumcross Road where you simply turn left and find your way back to the car park.

The geological importance of the site is down to the limestone reef which is full of fossils. The reef was formed over 330 million years ago in shallow sea or lagoon when volcanoes were active and the ash and lava flows built up to eventually form the Bathgate Hills.

The fossils that have been found at Petershill include corals and sponges, crinoids (sea lilies) and molluscs - species that all lived in shallow tropical waters during Carbonifereous times. If you have any interest in geology then it’s worth a visit to this interesting site. However, tempting though it is to take a fossil home, you are encouraged to leave any you find just where they are.

As for living wildlife, the combination of high humidity and limestone is quite rare so you will find various unusual mosses. Keep an eye out on the higher ground for the gorgeous greater butterfly orchid and many other pretty flowers such as fairy flax and twayblade.

If you are more interested in the fauna you can find at Petershill, look out for squirrels, badgers, brown hares, rabbits and roe deer which are regular visitors to the nature reserve along with fifteen species of butterfly and moth and numerous species of birds.

Nature reserves are always a great place to take a walk away from it all as you can be close to built up areas but feel miles away. Petershill offers this but is also geologically fascinating.

Petershill in winter

Petershill in summer

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Puzzles Prize Crossword WIN Meal for two at Karma, Whitburn. See advertisment on back cover.

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Complete the crossword and send to :

Across 1. Money (4) 3. Used in board game (5,3) 9. Scold severely (7) 10. Electronic post (5) 11. Young cabbage plants (6,6) 14. To allow (3) 16. Type of drum (5) 17. Joint (3) 18. Seen in a rink (6-6) 21. Violent disturbances (5) 22. Stabbing weapon (7) 23. Supporting column (8) 24. Popular sport (4) Down 1. Advises (8) 2. Serious (5) 4. Stowed away (3) 5. Lock picks (8,4) 6. Loyal (7) 7. Story (4) 8. Eats its own kind (12) 12. Doomed (5) 13. Alcoholic appetiser (8) 15. Twice as much (7) 19. South American dance (5) 20. Hold tightly (4) 22. Type of snake (3)

5 LockThepicks (8,4) 13 Alcoholic appetiser (8) Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD.

Please include your name, address and phone number.

15 Twice as much (7) 6 Loyal (7) Closing date for entries 15th March 2014

Sudoku

7 Story (4)

19 South American dance (5)

8 Eats its own kind (12)

20 Hold tightly (4)

2 Doomed (5)

22 Type of snake (3)

Sudoku solution on page 46

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konect 35

Property Matters

It's Good to be Seasonal

Craig Turpie, MD of West Lothian premier estate agency Turpie & Co explains why seasonality is good for buyers and sellers alike in the property market Just about everyone will know of, or have experienced at first hand, the trials and tribulations of buying and selling property over the past few years. Until very recently, and since the start of the recession in 2008, the number of buyers and sellers in the property market was so low that traditional seasonal trends had all but disappeared.

It’s meant huge pressure for individuals looking to move, and for the estate agencies that serve them. Not even large, multi-office estate agencies have been immune from market forces, with many large chains recording months of no sales – that’s a situation that would quite simply have been unthinkable before the financial crash.

Many smaller agencies have quite simply not weathered the storm, which in turn has meant less choice for buyers and sellers in the housing market.

All of this has been to no-one’s benefit.

Changing fortunes There have been many ‘false dawns’, with agencies recording a couple of consecutive months of higher sales in the region – only for the market to fall back to zero after this brief sunny interlude. Now, at last, the tide seems to be turning.

Looking back, 2012 does seem to have marked a real change in fortunes for the property market. Volumes gradually started to rise again in 2012 and the first three quarters of 2013/2014 have seen a dramatic increase in volume. The number of sales transactions handled by our firm has doubled in 2013, compared with 2012. Across Scotland transactions for the third quarter of 2013 are up by 23% on the previous year, and across the UK mortgage approvals at 60,000 are at a monthly high compared with the last four years.

The return of seasonality This improvement has been marked by the return of traditional patterns of strong spring sales, quietening down over summer holidays until the

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schools go back in August, with a second surge in sales volumes through the autumn months - with October being the highest volume of monthly sales recorded in 2013. Seasonality is definitely back.

And, as in the pre-2008 period, the volume of buyer enquiries has fallen off as we approach Christmas.

Take advantage of the winter period – get ahead of the competition Contrary to what many sellers believe, bringing your property to market just before Christmas can be very strategic and give you a real competitive advantage.

Buyers viewing over the so called ‘quieter’ winter months of December, January and February can become frustrated by lack of choice as many sellers simply fail to put their property on the market.

Many sellers suffer from the mistaken belief that nobody will be looking to buy until spring, but evidence does not bear this out. It all means that canny sellers can take advantage of this seasonal temporary imbalance of supply and demand by being one of the properties that is actually ‘new on the market’!

Other signs of recovery in the market Another sign of confidence returning to the market is the return of the closing date. Closing dates are still a rarity in West Lothian, where we mainly operate, with the exception of unique or ‘one-off’ properties or in the consistent property hot-spot that is Linlithgow, where demand often outstrips supply.

There’s more good news too. Over the last 5 years of recession the gap between a home report valuation and the real selling price of a property has averaged anything between 5-15%. 2013 has seen this reduce dramatically and many houses are now selling for the full home report value or very close to it. This fact alone is a subtle indicator that house prices are rising, or at the very least, stabilising. Unlike in previous years, prices are most certainly no longer falling.

The return of new developments

Looking forward to 2014

The final positive sign (and probably the most significant of all) is the welcome return of new house building as demand improves.

Craigengall Crofts in rural West Lothian is a good example. As an exclusive high-end pioneering development, many questioned its viability at the time. Marketing new-build properties which aim to smash through the ceiling prices previously set for new-build houses in the area by several hundred thousand pounds is ambitious even in a strong housing market. In a recession, some might think it is nothing short of lunacy.

No-one should be suggesting that the property market is ‘normal’ again. It’s far from being ‘normal’.

I simply don’t recognise the ‘housing bubble’ that London media seem to think we might be about to enter or already have entered.

December 2013 has seen the last property sold – in fact 50% of the site sold out in the last 12 months.

It’s a real achievement in such challenging times and it is yet more evidence of returning confidence – among buyers, sellers, builders and, just as vitally, lenders.

And that’s some really positive news for the economy and for all of us in 2014.

Nevertheless, if the last quarter of our financial year continues in the same way as the first three quarters, I think most estate agents would be prepared to stick their necks out and say that both buyer and seller confidence has most definitely returned to the property market in Scotland.

konect 37

Technology

Garden of Delights

How tech can take the grunt out of gardening It’s that time of year again: spring is almost upon watering system sticks a timer onto your tap, turning us and the grass will start to rise. While robot it on and off at the times you program, and options lawnmowers haven’t quite reached bargain basement range from a simple sprinkler to an entire microprices just yet - even the cheapest online shops charge irrigation system. Some timers even have rain sensors around £850 - technology can still help: firms such as that mean they won’t turn on the tap if the weather Bosch, Greenworks and Mountfield forecast turned out to be overly offer battery-powered lawnmowers for optimistic. the convenience of cable-free mowing WORX cordless without the noise, smell and hassle of Not all gardening gadgets need lawnmower petrol engines. Prices range from just electricity to function. The iconic over £200 to around £500.

Leatherman multi-tool isn’t exactly cheap, but its products - and their What’s even easier than a cordless many imitators - offer a huge range mower? That’s right: grass that you of tools in one handy gadget. For don’t have to mow in the first place. example the Leatherman Charge AL Hi-tech turf (www.hitechturf.co.uk) includes two kinds of pliers, a knife, looks and feels like grass, but it’s a saw and a serrated knife, a wood entirely artificial - and if you have and metal file, wire cutters and wire Black & Decker terrible memories of plasticky artificial strippers.

Cordless Lopper turf you’ll be relieved to discover that this is a very different proposition. For If you find gardening is, literally, a pain, around £29 per square metre (for HT it’s worth taking a look at the range of Luxury) you can lay a lawn that looks tools made by Radius Garden, whose just like the real thing without any of slogan is “Garden more. Hurt less.” The the work. If your budget’s more limited odd-looking tools have been designed there are more affordable options with ergonomic grips to make them Hozelock auto including a budget artificial turf at more comfortable and less likely to watering system £7.99 per square metre. aggravate repetitive strain injuries, with rain sensor and the range includes trowels, forks, Lawns aren’t the only places where transplanters, weeders and cultivators. technology can make life easier.

Expect to pay around £9 for each Battery power has reached the point individual tool or around £30 for a set where it’s good enough for seriously of four. demanding garden tasks.

If taking the grunting out of gardening Black & Decker will happily sell you sounds like something you’d like to battery-powered chainsaws, pruning do, you might also want to consider saws and loppers. The batteries deliver a device such as Fiskar’s Weed Puller plenty of oomph - the chainsaw (currently £25), which is designed Radius will power through up to 150 3.5cm to remove weeds without using ergonomic branches before it runs out of puff chemicals or wrecking your lower gardening but boffins have yet to invent a device back: it’s a long L-shaped stick tools that ensures we remember to charge containing deep-reaching stainless the power tools before we actually steel claws that effortlessly grab need them. weeds by the roots. It might not be an exciting robot mower but anything More modest gardening can benefit that helps with a hard day’s weeding from gadgetry too. Hozelock’s autosounds like a great gadget to us.

38 konect

Buster the Dog

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konect 39 Discounts on long term medication

Local Life

Tesco Bathgate prize draw

£25

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.

Our charity of the year is Diabetes UK who we will be continuing to support until August. Thursday the 7th to the 9th we will celebrate this by having a crazy hair party weekend in store.

We will also be running a Mother's Day competition this month also in aid of our charity.

The weekend of the 14th and 15th March we will be fundraising for little Rhys, a local boy who needs to go to American for some life saving treatment.

This month our brand new exciting "Farm to Fork" campaign starts for all local primary schools. If you would like more information on this please see our website.

• • • •

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.

win!

!

N I W

voucher to spend at Tesco

plus a lovely bunch of flowers for Mother's Day 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 March Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date

a family two night stay at Hilly Cow Wigwams, near Kirknewton!

Enjoy two nights in one of our beautiful heated wigwams, for two adults and two children (excluding August or Hogmanay). We are based at Leyden, a working farm near Kirknewton.

See www.hillycowwigwams.co.uk Simply text or email your name, phone number and email address to: 07854 492638 or

editor@konectdirectory.co.uk

Heated wigwams • Heated toilet and shower block Disabled/family toilet and shower room • Kitchen diner with cutlery and crockery • Camp fires • BBQ’s • Children’s play area Games room with pool table, air hockey and darts board 40 konect

with subject Hilly Cow Closing date for entries 15th March Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date

CAN YOU HELP FOOD TRAIN WEST LOTHIAN To offer practical support to older people in your community?

We are currently recruiting volunteer shoppers, drivers and helpers for our core shopping and delivery service as well as recruits for our EXTRA service.

To find out more please contact: Tel: 01506 413013 Office 6, Ochil House Beveridge Square Dedridge, Livingston EH54 6QF

Email: linda@thefoodtrain.co.uk www.thefoodtrain.co.uk The Food Train Lt. Company No.158165 is a Company Registered in Scotland.

The Registered Office of the Food Train Ltd. is 30 Castle Street, Dumfries DG1 1DU Scottish Charity No. 024843

konect 41

Recipe and Food Notes

The Best Things to do with an Old Loaf of Bread

By Anne Pinkerton

This month I want to continue the theme of good housekeeping and thrift.

Bread was the staple food in Europe for centuries, for this reason every last bit it was valued. Recipes evolved to use even the old, stale leftovers. In Britain bread was also used as traditional accompaniment to eek out expensive meats.

Bread sauce, croutes and fried breadcrumbs used to be served with roast game and poultry. Stuffing made from bread crumbs, herbs, onions and spices are now Christmas staples in larger birds such as turkey and goose. Roast pork with sage and onion stuffing makes a splendid Sunday lunch.

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Old bread can be used to make Melba toast, croutons, tart cases and bread crumbs. Flour, egg and bread -crumbing foods before frying is essential for fish cakes, rissoles, schnitzels, epigrammes and croquettes. Bread crumbs, mixed with a little grated cheese, butter or oil, make a crunchy topping on baked dished such as fish pie, macaroni cheese, or baked aubergines.

Melba toast Cut the crusts off stale sliced bread. (These can be used for crumbs.) Lay the bread flat on the work surface, and with a long bladed knife, held parallel to the surface, split the slice in half through its thickness. This might leave some balls of soft dough on the surfaces.

Fry the onion in a little oil, when transparent add the crushed garlic and the chopped stalks from the basil and cook for a couple minutes more. Add the tinned tomatoes bring back to the boil.

Add water, stock, herbs, seasoning and roasted cherry tomatoes. Cook together for 10 minutes check seasoning, add the bread and serve with the cheese scattered on the top.

Bread is also the key ingredient for many puddings: Bread and Butter Pudding, Apple Amber, Summer Pudding, Treacle Tart and Welsh Bread Pudding or Steamed Cabinet Pudding to name a few. The most impressive is Queen of Puddings.

Turn the slice over and rub these off. Put the bread on a baking sheet and dry off in a 160oc oven. Cook till dark biscuit colour. Take care it can burn if you leave it too long. Store in an airtight tin. Serve with pate, soft cheese, humus or soup.

French onion soup would not be right without its floating croutes covered with melting gruyere cheese and the Italians are good housekeepers to.

Their crostini covered in delicious rich tomato and olive sauce or roasted vegetables are just another way of using old bread. This is easily copied at home or you can even use a good bottled sauce if you are pressed for time.

All over Italy you will find different country soups based on stock and left-over bread. Some are full of winter veg others lighter with poached eggs floating on the cheese covered bread. Here is an adaption of the idea from Jamie Oliver; as ever quick, easy and not expensive.

Jamie’s Ribollita (left) 4 or 5 toasted rough slices of left-over ciabatta or any good non-sliced bread, torn up 300g cherry tomatoes halved and roasted in a hot oven for 15mins with a little olive oil 1 onion chopped 2 cloves garlic if liked Fresh basil Tin of chopped tomatoes: cherry tomatoes if possible, plus can of water Chicken or veg stock cube dissolved in mug of hot water Salt, pepper, teaspoon sugar and teaspoon cider or wine vinegar Grated parmesan cheese

Queen of Puddings (above) ½ pt milk Grated rind of 1 lemon 30g butter 50g sugar 100g fresh white bread crumbs 2 eggs Raspberry or strawberry jam slightly warmed 120g more sugar to make the meringue topping Warm, to just below boiling, the milk with the lemon rind, butter and 50g sugar. Add the bread crumbs cover the pan and leave to cool.

Separate the eggs; add the beaten yolks to the breadcrumb mixture. And turn into a buttered ovenproof dish (or ramikins). Let it stand for 30 mins then bake at 160oC for 25-30 minutes till set. Turn oven to 120oC .

Make meringue with the egg whites and the rest of the sugar. Spread the warmed jam on the baked pudding. Pile up the meringue on top and bake in the, now, cool oven till set and straw coloured.

NB. By making this in ramekins you can make this as individual puddings. The cooking times are then shorter.

konect 43

What’s On and Useful Information February Last chance to see some of these local history displays this month: Bathgate Once More Display at Broxburn Community Museum, Broxburn Library, until 31st March Memories and souvenirs of working life at the British Leyland Plant.

West Main Street, Broxburn 01506 775600

"Medals of a Local Soldier" is shown in the Museum room and tells some of the story of the army service of Tom Stewart (1941-2012).

Planning is beginning for a redisplay of Whitburn Community Museum to tell the story of Whitburn in a better way for the 21st century.

If you would like to help to contribute to our plans please contact the Museums Development Officer on 01506 776347 or e-mail museums@westlothian.gov.uk

Story of Blackridge Display at Blackridge Community Museum, Blackridge Library, until 31st March A visual display on the history of the village highlighting the coaching history of Craig Inn.

King Coal and Medals of a Local Soldier Whitburn Community Museum, Whitburn Library, until 31 March "King Coal" is shown in the library and focusses on the local history of mining.

Sunday 30th March 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

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.

Bookbug Bathgate is the first Friday of each month, 10.30am – 11.00am in the Simpson Library.

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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

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 Regal Community Theatre in Bathgate on the first Tuesday of every month and at the Howden Park Centre on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 7.00 pm. For more details contact Carol on 07800 772607 or Ally on 07801350435.

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.

31st West Lothian Scouts Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7pm – 9pm 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

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

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.

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Index of Advertisers Accessories Stick & Cane Shop 26 Aerials Aerial Man 6 Bathrooms Bathbase 15 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 19 Beauty Rococo 23 Skin Elegance 30 The Beauty Spot 22 Building Services Almond Building Company 17 David Bathgate 16 Cafe Breakfast At Tiffany's 31 The Bus Stop 6 Car and Van Hire Euro Hire Drive 15 Car Repairs Car Medic 35 Chips Away 13 Finishing Touch 35 Car Services Ace Exhausts & Tyres 13 Formula 1 MOT 35 Carpet Cleaning Cleaning Doctor 14 Hydro Kleen Scotland 16 Charity Food Train 41 West Lothian Run 28 Complementary Therapies Rococo 23 The Stone Ring 22 Double Glazing DC Double Glazing 16

Dressmaking / Alterations Stitch Express 20 Dry Cleaner Stitch Express 20 Electrical Advanced Electrical Solutions 17 A.F.A Electrical 24 Estate Agent Aberdein Considine 5 Furniture Grove Bedding 8 Fitness KICC Active Lothian 31 Golf Club Ratho Park Golf Club 26 Hairdressers Eva Morrison 3 Handyman West Lothian Handyman 17 Heating Services Mech A Tech 6 Home Improvements 1st Choice Living 21 Home Fires Stoves 6 S & S Home Improvements 9 Hotel Fairway Hotel 31 Laundry Services Tip Top Laundry 20 Minibus Hire W.S. Hamilton Minibus Hire 22 Mobility Med-Ecosse 27 Scottish Medical Supplies 12 Painter/Decorator DM Decorators 16 Nu-Walls 16

Solution Feb 14 Crossword

Solution to Sudoku

Across: 1 Belgium, 5 Scrub, 8 Swollen, 9 Exact, 10 Stern, 11 Theatre, 12 Artist, 14 Deadly, 17 Amateur, 19 Image, 22 Tense, 23 Altered, 24 Daddy, 25 Saddled

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Down: 1 Buses, 2 Loose, 3 Islands, 4 Minute, 5 Scene, 6 Roasted, 7 Battery, 12 Adapted, 13 Trained, 15 Existed, 16 Breaks, 18 Every, 20 April, 21 Ended.

Photographer Knightshades Photography 7 Plasterer Nu-Walls 16 Plumbing Services Plumbase 15 Restaurant Karma 48 Fairway Hotel 31 Roofing Gray & Son 21 Future Roof 17 Security Services A.F.A Fire and Security 25 Soft Furnishings Grove Bedding 8 Knight Shades Blinds 7 Takeaway Artisan Cheesecakes 31 Baguette Express 47 Breakfast At Tiffany's 31 Karma 48 Taxi Bluebird Radio Cars 2 Tyres Ace Exhausts & Tyres 13 Veterinary Riverside Veterinary Practice 39 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 35 Windows 1st choice Glazing 21 DC Double Glazing 16

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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ts i av de ai ca la te bl rin e g

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GIF

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