Konect Broxburn February 2016

FEBRUARY 2016

broxburn

WIN!

A luxury hamper

from the Broxburn Gala committee!

FEATUREs

The Baker’s Boy who changed the world Broxburn and Uphall First Responders s& Offer ers h c u vo cal from lo ses s e busin

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh

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VILLAGE PEOPLE

M ess age fro m the ed ito r

T

his issue is the usual eclectic mixture of all sorts of different things that have one thing in common...Broxburn area and West Lothian. There is the local group the Broxburn and Uphall First Responders - I was just bowled over with amazement when I learnt about them and what they do in our community, see page 18. And I decided it was high time we ran an article on one of West Lothian’s most outstanding figures – James Young Simpson. Born in Bathgate and travelled the old main road through Broxburn and Uphall countless times on his way to and from Edinburgh. I hadn’t realised how incredibly significant he was in medical history until I started researching for this article, but he really did change the world. See his story on pages 8-10.

The Broxburn Gala committee are in full swing preparing for this summer’s gala. They are running a wee competition in this month’s Konect to raise awareness of the funds required to put the gala on each year. It’s like a “guess the number of sweeties in the jar” competition...but a bit different. Turn to page 13 and have a go!

And you’ll find everything you need for house, family, garden and leisure on offer from the local businesses advertising in these pages, so do support the local economy and whatever your project is always get a quote from a local company first!.

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

Valentine’s Day: look out for special offers from local businesses.

KONECT

FEATUREs The Bathgate Baker’s boy who changed the wor ld Spotlight on SCRT

08 16

REGULARS Village People Interior s by Ekco of Uphall Recipe and Food Notes

18 24 32

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Broxburn Gala Hamper competition 13 Crossword 34 Sudoku 34 COMMUNITY What’s on Useful Infor mation Clubs & Classes INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

36 36 36 38

Advertising Enquiries CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print.

Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print.

The Konect Directory is delivered to 7,500 homes throughout Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh. Copies are also left at the library, post offices, convenience stores and other locations.

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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FEATURE

JAMES YOUNG SIMPSON

THE Bathgate Baker’s boy who changed the world

by Helen-Jane Shearer

The face of Bathgate bairN Dr James Young Simpson is painted on the “pioneering spirit” route 20, 21 and 22 First Buses that you’ll have noticed on the Main Street of Broxburn and Uphall.

What is not painted there is a patient strapped into a surgery chair, or held down screaming while the surgeon cut, because Simpson made all that obsolete with his discovery of an effective anaesthetic. The full story is extraordinary.

Before anaesethetic the quicker a surgeon (“a savage armed with a knife”) worked the better the patient’s chance survival. One doctor wrote to Simpson, “a patient preparing for an operation was like a condemned criminal preparing for execution.” Many died from the shock of pain, and exploratory surgery was out of the question. Patients’ desperate attempts to anaesthetise themselves with drugs and alcohol was fraught with danger. Surgeons were often traumatised themselves, and like many aspiring doctors James Simpson almost abandoned medicine altogether after witnessing his first operation. But he was so deeply affected by the suffering he saw that his driving motivation became “Can nothing be done to prevent this suffering?”

James was the youngest child of Mary Jarvey of Balbardie Mains, descended from refugees who fled to Scotland during the French Huguenot persecution; and of David Simpson, who ran a struggling bakery in Main Street, Bathgate.

A few days after baby James was born on 7th June 1811, Mary found out how bad things were in the business and took it in hand. She must have been a remarkable woman - having just given birth to her eighth child, she took on the failing business and turned it into a success, so James’ early days were spent helping out with the bakery. A sweet-natured child, he was fondly called “the bonnie callant” at Balbardie House where he delivered hot breakfast rolls.

Bathgate was a weaving village, and James used to hang around a group of weavers who

were experts in natural sciences and absorb their conversations about geological finds and biological specimens. He had a thirst for knowledge and an extraordinary memory.

His grand uncle Jarvey (who ran a brewery in Bathgate) was a keen historian and also shared his knowledge and interests with young James. (Jarvey Street is named after him).

James’ mother, who had a huge impact on his formative years, died when he was just nine.

Simpson’s daughter writes in her biography, “His mother gave him freely of the treasures of her mind, and her earnestness, her contentment, her firm God-fearing faith, ever lived in his memory.” Mary’s dream was for her youngest to get a university education – an ambition that her husband and all their older children shared, realising that he had the best prospects of all his siblings. His eldest brother Sandy once warned him against the temptation to drink like most boys in Bathgate which was a village of hard-drinkers, “Others may do this, Jamie, but it would break all our hearts and blast all your prospects were you to do it.”

”He was less flattered by the Queen’s appointment as her physician, than by the fact that he had delivered a woman without pain.”

Bathgate parish school education concluded at the age of 14. Whereas most left for work or an apprenticeship locally, it was a foregone conclusion that James would go to university.

He described later in life his bewilderment at finding himself in Edinburgh “very, very young and very solitary, very poor and almost friendless.” He lived frugally so as not to be too great a burden on his family, sharing lodgings with two Bathgate men, John Reid and Mr McArthur, both older than him, who were studying medicine. Sometimes as a treat John Reid would take him to one of Dr Knox’s (of Burke and Hare fame) lectures in the evening.

He spent all his holidays back home in Bathgate helping out with the business. And despite the stress of nursing then losing his beloved father just before his final exams, James passed and became a member of the Royal College of Surgeons before he was out of his teens. Too young to become a medical doctor immediately, he lodged with his brother in Stockbridge and took a couple of jobs including assistant to a Professor Thomson, who was the first person to suggest the field of obstetrics to him. It was at that time the lowest of medical arts, still somewhat shrouded in mystery, but James took it up with his customary thoroughness and obstetrics went on to became his professional speciality. Finally, before settling down to open his own medical practice, his brothers funded him for a three-month tour of Europe. He sent regular letters home to Bathgate recounting and commenting on all he saw.

He opened his first practice in Edinburgh, living frugally, conscious as always of the burden he placed on his family in Bathgate. His sister Mary sent him boots, as he said “Bathgate ones last the longest”, walking many miles to see patients day and night. When he wasn’t seeing patients his insatiably curious mind was reading, learning, and writing papers on medical and other topics. His early patients were too poor to pay him, but in time, betterheeled, paying patients were attracted by his growing reputation. He never discriminated – he treated the paying and non-paying patients alike.

His career flourished as his reputation grew, and he became a popular lecturer in archaeology, religion, medicine, geology and more. A Professor at the shockingly young age of 29, he was appointed to the Midwifery Chair at Edinburgh University (first getting married, apparently an essential requirement!) Papers from his prolific output include a history of leprosy in Scotland; ideas on hospital reform; an improved design of forceps – still called the Simpson Forceps today – and other things. With nobility and aristocracy among his patients he often travelled to London, but preferred being near his beloved family in Bathgate, taking refuge there from his hectic professional life.

But Simpson always believed it was his duty as a physician to alleviate pain. On hearing about ether trials in America he enthusiastically adopted it, delivering the first baby with ether for the mother on January 19th 1847. At the same time he was appointed Queen Victoria’s physician – and he wrote to his brother that he was less flattered by the queen’s appointment than by the fact he had delivered a woman without pain.

Statue of James Simpson in West Princes Street Gardens

Chloroform - not a good choice for criminals...

The chloroform-soaked rag is the weapon of choice of vintage crime fiction anti-heroes. But in reality.. it takes around five minutes of inhalation before it knocks you out.

Do not try this at home!

Chloroform is dangerous.

Its use was eventually discontinued when it was proven to cause respiratory and cardiac failure.

Photo by First East Scotland

But ether was not a viable solution for various reasons. Throughout 1847 Simpson and his friends Dr George Keith and Dr Matthew Duncan would settle down after work every evening at Simpson’s house at 52 Queen Street to sample various narcotic drugs. A neighbour came in every morning to “see if the experimenters had survived!”

Pass-out party!

On 4th November 1847 they were trying various drugs at Queen Street in the usual manner.

Simpson pulled out a phial of chloroform he had ordered some time previously but not been inclined to try. The three took it simultaneously, and were “all under the table in a minute or two.” Simpson’s wife and three other family members who were in the room at the time were pretty used to these experiments, but were alarmed by this – the speed they passed out and how thoroughly unconscious they were.

When Simpson came to on the floor he noted that Dr Keith was under the table, kicking confusedly as he came to; and Dr Duncan was still out to it. He realised straightaway that he had found something “far stronger and better than ether.” The night turned into quite a party as they took chloroform to knock themselves out again and again until 3am!

Many people welcomed the discovery, but it was also met, incredibly, with opposition and

prejudice. While abhorring the pain of surgery, people were suspicious of pain relief, believing that to avoid pain was in some way unnatural and wrong. And pain-relief for childbirth was definitely contrary to the God-ordained course of nature! But Simpson battled on, spending hours answering his detractors with thorough and educated responses over many years.

He collected extensive statistics to prove the reduced mortality rates, and chloroform gradually won over. Friends in high places helped - Queen Victoria used it for delivery of her eighth child in 1853, and again for her ninth.

It revolutionised the operating theatre where it reigned for nearly 100 years. By the time it was eventually replaced by safer anaesthetics, massive advances had been made in surgery as a result and many lives saved.

Simpson never forgot his Bathgate roots, or how much he owed to the help of his loving family. He instigated a prize for the best darner in Bathgate school – in memory of his mother who had once taken him on her lap to darn a torn sock, and said to him “My Jamie, mind when your mither’s awa’ that she was a grand darner.”

Bathgate’s public library is called the “Simpson Library.” With his ceaseless reading and love of learning, I think James would approve.

Simpson, Keith and Duncan try chloroform for the first time. Wellcome images.

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Broxburn Gala Competition

WIN a luxury hamper courtesy of the Broxburn Gala committee!

Whilst for most of us the 2016 Broxburn Gala is still a remote prospect and we’re more concerned about keeping dry and staying warm than about organising BBQ food…the gala committee is ramping up the organisation for the August gala and getting stuck into the detail of what it will be like this year.

The small dedicated committee of 12 people (realistically about 6 make it to each meeting) work year-round to organise the gala, having rescued it from closure 4 years ago when the previous committee were unable to continue with the work. An emergency meeting was called, and a band of inexperienced but enthusiastic volunteers took on the task of organising it. They pushed the date back to August (from the usual June) in order to buy themselves some more time and not only rescued it but made it thrive! “We’re victims of our own success,” jokes Rab Condy “We’re under pressure now to keep it up and live up to expectations.”

He’s only half-joking though…it is actually a huge undertaking to put on a show as big as last year’s gala, and the biggest challenge by far is the fund-raising.

“We get a small grant from West Lothian Council, but have to raise the rest of the funds ourselves via fundraising events, business sponsorship and any other means we can!”

The music, entertainment, funfair, gala bags and all the other things that go into making the day a success don’t just appear...they all have to be paid for and organised.

KONECT

Competition In order to raise awareness locally of the fund-raising needed for the gala each year, the committee are running a fun competition. A bit like guess the number of sweeties in the jar…simply answer the question below for a chance to win a luxury hamper!

How much did the 2015 Broxburn Gala cost?

The winning answer will be the one closest to the actual figure, which will be disclosed by the Gala Treasurer once the competition is closed.

Submit your answer via email to “editor@konectdirectory.co.uk” with the subject line “Gala cost” or by text to 07854 492638 including the words “Gala cost” along with your estimate. *Please include your name, telephone number and/or email address in all entries.* Closing date for entries: 29th February 2015.

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

SCRT - New Year, New C areer?

The New Year is often the time when we take stock of our lives and make resolutions that will make us happier and more fulfilled.

we first started over 25 years ago! We like to help you develop and promote people internally into the next levels of care roles whether that’s being a Medication Champion, a Moving & Handling Assessor, a Care Supervisor or a Care Coordinator responsible for arranging all the care visits in one area.

We spend so much of our lives at work that a job needs to be more than just ‘a job’ – it needs to be your passion. Something that you enjoy doing every day – that has the added benefit of getting paid for! Whether you are already working in care or perhaps considering a change of career, now is a good time to reflect on your career and how you want to develop.

As an SVQ Training Centre we’re able to support employees through their SVQs and with specialist trainers in Dementia, Medication and Safer People Transfers you know that the expertise you need to flourish is always on hand. We even have our own hoist equipment in our offices so it’s easy to have a refresher session if you need to refine your technique.

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17

village people

“It doesn’t take much to dramatically change a situation”

When you dial 999 for an ambulance, did you know that as well as despatching an ambulance, in some circumstances the service calls a volunteer in your community to attend the emergency if they are likely to get there before the paramedics?

These life-saving volunteers are called Community First Responders. Not every community is fortunate enough to have them, but the Broxburn and Uphall Community Responders group was set up by Broxburn resident Mags Black last year, under the auspices of the wider area Bathgate group. I met with Mags, and her colleague Stefan Hickman from Bathgate, to find out more.

“It’s a very specific service focussed on emergencies related to suspected heart attack and related issues. Situations where getting the right help to someone in those vital first few minutes can make all the difference to the outcome,” explains Stefan. “As First Responders living in the community, we can often get to someone quicker and save them before the ambulance arrives.

Mags is a primary school teacher by day, and has been a First Responder in her spare time for four years. “It’s knowing that somebody’s life can be saved that keeps me doing this,” she says.

“Because it doesn’t take much to dramatically change a situation.” Besides being First Responders themselves, the group runs training sessions called “Heartstart” which is just two and a half hours covering the basics required for an emergency where the patient is not breathing and their heart has stopped - CPR, using a defibrillator, and being aware of related issues. And there is no minimum age for learning how to deal with this. “I do training sessions for children from P1 upwards; even if they are physically not able to turn an adult over into recovery position at that stage, it’s a matter of normalising it in our society so that children grow up with that knowledge – so that when someone is unwell it’s normal for just about anyone to know what to do.” They visit all sorts of groups including Brownies, Scouts, Boys Brigade 18

Mags Black of Broxburn and Uphall Community First Responders. and schools. “A defining moment for me a couple of years ago was when an 11 year old child, who had had the training, was present when his dad had a heart attack,” Mags explains. “The boy knew who to call, what to do whilst waiting for the ambulance and took control of the situation.”

A kit bag for one area of First Responders costs around £3000, besides running costs.

All fundraising for this is done by the group themselves. The new Broxburn and Uphall group so far has two trained First Responders on call and another two almost ready to start. These are volunteers who set the group up, got the training, raised the money and bought the equipment … then placed themselves on call in order to save the lives of their neighbours. If you’re looking for a worthy cause to support you’d be hard pressed to find a better one locally.

Please contact them: • if you’re interested in joining this team of local heroes. (You don’t have to have a first aid or medical background, as you are given all training required) • if you run a club of any sort and would like your group to receive the 2.5 hour life-saving “Heartstart” training session. Suitable for ages 5 – 105!

To contact the Bathgate, Armadale, Whitburn or Broxburn & Uphall Groups, please call 01506 313010 or email info@bathgatefirstresponders. co.uk. See also the local Facebook page Mags runs: “Broxburn and Uphall Community First k Responders.”

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BROXBURN ABLEWORLD

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Tel: 01506 856565 info@ableworldbroxburn.co.uk

(formerly Mark Wallace Motors at entrance to industrial estate)

www.ableworld.co.uk Ableworld are the main mobility retailer in the area approved as a Community Equipment Dispenser NHS Vouchers Welcome. *VAT exempt - ask in store for details. MRP - Manufacturer’s Recommended Price Previous Price - Sold for 28 days in last 6 months at our Nantwich store Ableworld are an Appointed Representative of Fish Insurance, who are authourised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

KONECT

21

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

Nu - Walls Qualified in all aspects of painting, decorating & plastering ■ internal plastering ■ external/internal painting & decorating ■ ceiling / wall replacement ■ coving All estimates free, insurance quotes welcome Established 1985 3 Turner Street, Bathgate, EH48 4AR Tel 01506 634056 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk

A Complete Bathroom Refurbishment From

6-10 Glasgow Road, Bathgate, EH48 2AA sales@1stchoiceliving.co.uk www.1stchoiceliving.co.uk

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

ASK FOR DETAILS OF OUR PACKAGE DEALS

£3,950 Including VAT

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

10 Hopetoun Street, BATHGATE, EH48 4EU

01506 632913

or T: E: quotes@bathgatebathrooms.com

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.bathgatebathrooms.com

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

22

KONECT

FORTH PLUMBING & HEATING 24 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBERS

D.B. General Builders ● ● ● ● ●

● Driveways Fencing ● Landscaping Decking ● Groundworks Monoblocking Snow clearing Kitchens & Bathrooms

Local ● Established ● Reliable www.dbgeneralbuilders.co.uk david_bathgate@sky.com Call David on KONECT

07747 062426 23

Interiors feature

Falling in Love with Your Home by ecko

If you’re a first time home owner who’s just moved in you’re no doubt going through a whole range of emotions.

You’re clearly excited but if it’s pre-owned it may not be, shall we say, exactly how you’d like it. In fact during the viewing you maybe had to put on your best fake smile and give your well-practised ‘it’s really lovely’ speech while inwardly thinking ‘good grief that wallpaper’s hideous!’ But budgets are tight and now you have to decide what needs changed right away and what can wait. So, here are some suggestions from Ekco to help you fall in love with your home as it is, warts and all, and prioritise any upgrades you’d like to make.

1

If the wallpaper really is not to your taste and you feel you can’t look at it any more then visit your local salvage yard. You’ll always find old mirrors and photo frames at bargain prices.

Cover up as much of the main wall as you can with images that make you feel warm and fuzzy until such times as you can attack it with a steam scraper and get the look you really want.

2

Providing your kitchen is usable you could just give the room a quick makeover. A fresh lick of paint, some cheap glass storage jars, some growing herbs on the window and hey presto you’ve created urban chic right in the middle of

suburbia. You can even change over your cabinet doors while keeping the current worktops for next to nothing and you’ll be amazed at the difference this will make.

3

Flooring is another area that can be given a quick makeover while you save up to have real oak boards fitted. If the carpet is reasonable but a bit grimy then hire a carpet cleaner for the day (or borrow one from a friend) and give it a good going over. Some allergens are caused by mites living in carpets and while your mites are okay and maybe even regarded as part of the family (and cheaper to feed) other people’s mites are anything but.

4

You already love the idea of having your own garden and some outdoor space to relax in.

You could however, bring the outside in by replacing the old patio doors with bifold doors which fully open up to create the illusion of one complete space. Plus, you get some fresh air without even stepping over the threshold which is great for the less active among us!

5

When it comes to the bathroom the most important thing is to make sure that the bath, sink and toilet are in good working order.

Then, get out the Marigold’s and give everything a good scrub. If there’s a carpet then invest in a piece of linoleum or other vinyl flooring instead to tide you over until you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom suite and flooring at the same time.

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home.

And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN MAKE YOUR IDEAS COME TO LIFE CALL OUR DESIGN TEAM ON

01506 857 007 www.ekco.co.uk EDINBURGH 0131 343 6007 Abbeyhill Industrial Estate EH8 8HL

DALGETY BAY 01383 667 048 Western Approach Rd KY11 9XP

UPHALL 01506 857 007 54 West Main Street EH52 5DW

Unit 9, Tartraven Place, Broxburn West Lothian, EH52 5LT

FREE WINTER CHECK *with this voucher

TOP WASH ONLY £4

*with this voucher

All Mechanical Repairs § MOT’s § Diagnostic Recovery § New Tyres § Part Worn Tyres from £10 Puncture Repairs £10 § Tracking £20 § Welding Services from £79 § Hourly Labour Charge £25 Even if you got your own parts or tyres we don’t mind we still fit them!

Mini Valet FROM £10 Full Valet FROM £25 Upholstery Shampoo ONLY £10 Hand Polish (Cars & 4x4’s) ONLY £25

Wash, Wheels & Wax Cars £5.50 4x4’s £6.50

50p donated to charity for every top wash

50p donated to The River Kids Charity for every top wash WIN 06 Punto with full year MOT! Raffle tickets £2 (half donated to charity) 26

KONECT

Estate Agency 25% OFF Selling Fees *During the month of February 2016 *Minimum fee £899

Letting Agency Two month’s management fees FREE *New landlord’s who sign up to full managed service during February 2016.

01506 852000 33 East Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5AB

Red Hot

WINDOWS Unit 1, Mosshall Ind Estate Blackburn, EH47 7LY

01506 630036

Loca family l -ru busine n ss

redhotwindows@btconnect.com

SG GARDEN SERVICES established 18 years

■ Supply and fit windows and doors ■ Trade welcome Major credit cards accepted See website and facebook page compliant for photos of our work www.facebook.com/redhotwindows www.redhotwindows.co.uk KONECT

For all your garden needs Garden tidy-ups, lawns, hedges, treework, patios, driveways, fencing etc.

Patio, decking & driveway cleaning service Contact Steve on

07891 029764 • 01506 885944 27

David Hastings Building Surveyor BSc Hons., M.C.I.O.B., R.Maps., AMiAS

t: 07803 289714 e: wmachastings@gmail.com Thinking of having your house/office altered or extended or garage/loft converted? Call for free consultation. · · · · ·

We offer professional expertise in: Health & Safety to comply with CDM Regs April 2015 Preparation of Specification & Drawings Submission for Planning & Building Warrant Approvals Site & Financial Control Energy & Sustainability Issues

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Tel: 0131 334 2080 Mob: 07768 632867 Ask for Kerr Middleton Rhone cleaning & repairs - cast iron or plastic Roof repairs - tiles or slates Moss removal, pressure washing Free estimates & advice given Over 35 years experience 28

LIVINGSTON LOCKSMITH 24hr Lock & Security

LIVINGSTON 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.livingstonlocksmiths.co.uk Call us on 01506 238048 or 07542 781131 KONECT

Mackie

Veterinary Surgeons Ltd

Buster the Dog

Established

1 9 3 0

Brechin

“All creatures great and small, we care for them all” Our caring, experienced and dedicated veterinary team is committed to providing the best possible care for your pet, horse or farm animal in the Edinburgh, Lothian and Central regions.

Our practice is modern, well-equipped and progressive, with a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare and advice.

24 HOUR ON-SITE EMERGENCY SERVICE 29 Main Street, Kirkliston EH29 9AE Tel: 0131 333 3203 www.mackieandbrechin.co.uk vets@mackieandbrechin.co.uk

GET 3 CARPETS THOROUGHLY DEEP CLEANED FOR THE PRICE OF 2 FREE no tion obliga s quote

All work is 100% guarante e for yo d satisfac ur tion

• Specialist Carpet Cleaning • Rugs - collected, cleaned and returned • Upholstery & Leather Cleaning • Stain Protection • Stone Floor Cleaning

Tel: 08000 463 422 Mob: 07789 007 072 www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk Email: info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk

KONECT

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Spot the Difference - Spot 10 differences between the two pictures

1. Watch 2. Pocket 3. Moustache 4. Hair colour 5. Oranges 6. Robot Eyes 7. Awning Loop 8. Scarf pattern 9. Ladies eyebrow 10. Ear missing

Fall in L ve with West Lothian We’ve made it! The January blues are over and now it’s time to fall in love with West Lothian this month.

With the exciting new national tourism theme of 2016 being ‘Innovation, Architecture and Design’, it’s time to start looking at new and fresh ways of celebrating your Valentine’s Day with loved ones.

West Lothian provides one of the best shopping experiences in Scotland. Therefore, if you’re struggling for a gift idea this Valentines, there are plenty of options to choose from, including designer products from the Livingston Designer Outlet or a fresh, new fragrance from one of the department stores. If it’s a romantic meal you are looking for, then West Lothian can offer many high quality restaurants which cater for all tastes. Also, for those who like a couple of drinks afterwards there is the added attraction

of having a number of welcoming and stylish bars and clubs within the area.

For those looking to do something different this Valentine’s Day, why not explore the outdoors and visit some of West Lothian’s scenic and historic landscapes. Get wrapped up warm and enjoy a romantic day with your loved one at Linlithgow Palace or take a stroll through one of our country parks with the family.

We all have something we love doing on Valentine’s Day so let’s reminisce on past experiences. Why don’t you share a description of your perfect Valentine’s Day on our social media pages?

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit www.visitwestlothian.co.uk,facebook. com/VisitWestLothian or twitter.com/ teamwestlothian

medium advert

BIG

impact

To be included please call Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Boogie Beat music & movement classes are great fun for preschool children! The classes are based on traditional nursery rhymes and classical fairy tales combined with a lively and active dance twist.

Your nearest class is Ratho EICA on Thursdays. Boogie Beat is also available for workshops in nurseries & private parties.

Full class timetable at www.boogiebeat.co.uk Contact zoe@boogiebeat.co.uk or tel 07841 109730 to book!

Value for money, quality dance products including shoes, patterns, swords, music, accessories, books & gifts All you need for Highland at the lowest prices We are based in East Calder so email to arrange collection and avoid postal costs!

Contact us at staff@highlanddanceshop.com Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com

ARE YOU AGED 13*-17?

INTERESTED IN AVIATION OR THE ROYAL AIR FORCE? THE AIR CADETS COULD BE FOR YOU.

20 YEARS OR OVER?

WE ARE ALSO RECRUITING FOR ADULT STAFF. YOU DO NOT NEED ANY MILITARY EXPERIENCE, JUST ENTHUSIASM AND AN ENERGETIC OUTLOOK. 1756(Broxburn) Squadron are recruiting now.

E-mail for further information: oc.1756@aircadets.org *The ACO can accept cadets from 12 years old if they are in 2nd year at School"

KONECT

31

Recipe & Food Notes

by Joe Boothroyd

Gluten free Bakewell tarts

Those of you who have tried making your own G/F pastry will know how difficult it is, not in the least like making ordinary pastry as there is no “ stretch” in the G/F flour.

Place a teaspoon of raspberry jam in to each case (I don’t bake blind) ... Raspberry is much better and more intense flavour than strawberry jam.

for the fillings: Mix together in your mixing bowl, 2 oz castor sugar, 2 oz g/f flour (rice flour or Doves plain flour) plus 2 oz soft butter, 1 oz ground almonds, 1 large egg, 1/2 teaspoon of g/f baking powder and some almond essence (the essence is essential to give the almondy taste) make sure the mix is not too stiff, if it is, just add a little milk.

I have started a small business called Nae Wheat, making and selling gluten free sweet and savoury home baking including favourites like cheese and onion quiche, macaroni pies, potato scones and caramel shortcake. I currently cook from home where I live in Bathgate and have recently started supplying Waterstones Cafe in the Livingston Centre as well as David Stein’s Butchers in Bathgate with a view to 1912 too. I only started the venture in November but have attended three Farmers’ Markets including Linlithgow where I will be returning in February. If interested visit the Facebook page or drop me an email!

F: https://www.facebook.com/naewheat/ E: joe.naewheat@gmail.com Gluten free Bakewell tarts: These are so easy to make and really tasty, that lovely homemade taste and gluten free!

Grease a bun tray (not cupcake tray) and roll out your G/F pastry and cut out the 12 cases with a scone cutter.

I use Mrs Crimbles shortcrust pastry which you can readily buy from a well known internet supplier, or sometimes available in the larger supermarkets. It rolls out really easily and saves time making your own with g/f flour.

Fill your cases, DON’T overfill or it will go all over the edge when in the oven - a spoonful should be sufficient.

Place in your pre heated oven at 190*, gas mark 5, but make sure your oven is pre heated!

I place a bowl of water in the base of the oven to add moisture to a fan oven. You don’t have to, but if you do, make sure the oven has reached the correct temperature before you put your baking tray in.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until a nice golden colour....... don’t over-bake till they are dark, as G/F flour is quite dry, and you want these tasty tarts to be moist.

Take out and leave for 5 mins to cool and then remove gently to a wire rack.... or eat one or two.

TOP TIPS: Don’t roll out your pastry too thinly or your jam will seep through it!

Don’t leave to cool completely in the bun tray, you may not get them out!

If you have no G/F flour replace with either polenta or ground almonds, and add a touch more raising agent.

ENJOY!

John Lawson Butchers &

Delicatessen

Scot�i�� F�m��� But���r S�n�e 1979

The Perfect Gift This

V ALENTINES O�� R����� A���� W������ B��� F��� O�� O�� F����� F��� www.johnlawsonbutchers.co.uk

or up to 80 Guests for £230

TO MAKE A BOOKING

Call: 01506 852264 14 Greendykes Road, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5AG info@theclub1.com www.theclub1.com

BRING THIS ADVERT IN WHEN BOOKING AND RECEIVE A FREE BOTTLE OF BUBBLY FOR YOUR TABLE KONECT

33

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD Solution in the March edition of konect

Across 1 Maybe (7) 5 Bike (5) 8 Cleaning liquid (7) 9 Precise (5) 10 Additional (5) 11 Cooking area (7) 12 Truthful (6) 14 Moves smoothly (6) 17 Dried grapes (7) 19 Aristocratic (5) 22 A small fruit (5) 23 Graceful (7) 24 Countryside (5) 25 Large jug (7) Down 1 Ski run (5) 2 Cook in a hot oven (5) 3 Becomes visible (7) 4 Scares (6) 5 Trunk (5) 6 Collided (7) 7 Makes larger (7) 12 Marina (7) 13 Louder (7) 15 Tolerant (7) 16 Not awake (6) 18 Perfect (5) 20 Overbearing (5) 21 Go into (5)

SUDOKU Sudoku solution on page 38

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KONECT

KONECT

35

WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information Saturday 20th February

Winchburgh Medical Practice

West Lothian Highland Society monthly ceilidh Monthly Ceilidh at Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn. 7.30 – 11.00pm. Music by Jim Cleland Band.

Guests – Scott Gardener Singer. Cost Members £5.00.

Non-Members £6.00 each. BYOD and snacks. New members welcome, contact John Sneddon 01501 770911.

Niddry Road, Winchburgh, EH52 6RX. Tel: 01506 890210.

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

Useful Information Broxburn Medical Practice Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn. Tel: 01506 771871.

Broxburn Library West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 2RH. Tel: 01506 775600. Email: broxburn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening Times: Please note new opening times are: Monday & Tuesday: 10am - 5pm, Wednesday & Friday: 10am - 3pm, Thursday: 10am - 7pm & Saturday: 9am 1pm. Bookbug Bounce and Tickle: Free song, story and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children. Bring a grown-up to join in the fun! Tuesdays and Wednesdays fortnightly 10.30am.

Computer access is available to find out about Information Services, or simply research a hobby, stay in touch with friends or look for work. This service is available for free – simply drop into your local Library or phone to book a free slot.

clubs & classes

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

BROXBURN Broxburn Woodcraft Club A members Club located within the community wing of the Strathbrock Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. We have a fully equipped workshop supporting all aspects of woodworking including woodturning, pyrography, scrollsawing, the making of toys, furniture, musical instruments, walking sticks and more. For further information use the Contact Us facility on the website: www.broxburnwoodcraftclub.org Our hours are Mon & Tues 9am-9pm, Wed & Fri 9am-12 noon and 6pm -9pm, Thurs 9am-3pm and 6:00pm-9pm.

Broxburn Children’s Chatterbooks – NEW book group!

Broxburn Library, West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5RH Love to read? Aged between 8-11? Want to join a bookclub? We choose books to read and also activities available. Meetings held every second Friday at 2pm, call the library on 01506 775600 for next date.

Livingston Highland Society Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189 W Main St, Broxburn Monthly ceilidhs on a Saturday evening between October and April. Each month we have a different band and guest artist. £5 each, new members welcome, contact John Sneddon on 01501 770911 for dates and more details

Ladies only outdoor fitness sessions Albyn Park, Greendykes Road Mondays 7-8pm, with Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) and Burn-It. Doesn’t matter your size or level of fitness. BUSC and Burn-It aim to create a fun fitness session based outside to enable ladies to meet their

36

goals. For more info contact Leigh Lauder on 01506 858057 or email l.lauder@busc.org.uk

Alive & Kickin Albyn Park, Greendykes Road A programme for older members of the community to remain active. Run by Broxburn United Sports Club and includes: Walking Football Tues 10.30am to 12pm, £3 per session with tea/coffee after.

Walking Club on Thurs 10am. Community walk starting and ending at Albyn Park. Free, everyone welcome. Invigor8 Multi Sports Thurs 2-3.30pm £2 per session. Try new sports and learn new skills. Each session is 1 hour of the new sport plus an inspirational/ informative chat for 30mins. For more info contact Leigh Lauder at Albyn Park 01506 858057 or email ll.lauder@ busc.org.uk

Zumba for Kids Albyn Park, Greendykes Road With the Poco Loco crew – learn some rocking dance routines using different styles and rhythms. For girls and boys aged 4 – 12. Fridays 1.15-2.15 (P1-P3) 2.25-3.15 (P4-P7) cost £3 per week. To book please contact Greig Taylor on g.taylor@busc.org.uk or Nina Anderson on nina. anderson@live.co.uk or call 01506 858057.

Broxburn Swimming Club We cater for swimmers from age 3 upwards and cover all levels of swimming from our Learn to Swim programme up to our top competitive squad.

Learn to Swim: Thursday night (6:00 - 7:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool; Friday night (6:30 - 7:00) - Broxburn Academy pool. Squad Swimming: Monday and Tuesday (7:30 - 9:00) and Thursday (7:00 - 9:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool; Friday (6:00 - 8:00) - Armadale Academy pool. For further information please contact: broxburn_ asc@hotmail.com KONECT

Strathbrock Community Centre: 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Tapestry; U3A, Calligraphy group,Computer Drop-in; Keep fit/ Line Dance for over 50s; Zumba, Brownies; WRI; Drama group, Karate.

Tuesdays: Playgroup; Spanish classes; Card making; Line Dancing; Irish Dancing; Ring Craft.

Wednesdays: Playgroup, Tai Chi, Scrabble groupl Chatterbook Book Club; Bingo; Computer Beginners Course; Brownies/Rainbows; Dog Obedience.

Thursdays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Art Group; Genealogy; Healty Respect; Lip Reading; Access to Employment; Drama; Hoola Hoop Class; Chilren’s Club, Youth Group; Guitar lessons, Tai Chi. Fridays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Carpet Bowling; after school club; Computer drop in; Tai Kwon Do; Polish Community Group; New Christian Life; Model Car Club.

Saturdays: Guitar lessons; Dance classes; Tae Kwon Do; Computer classes; Weight Watchers.

Please call Strathbrock Community Centre on 01506 771733 or email linda.sayers@westlothian.gov.uk for details of times and more information on any of the groups.

UPHALL Uphall Community Education Centre: Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Carpet Bowls; U3A Singing for Pleasure; Zumba; Craft Group; WRI; Scottish Country Dancing.

Tuesdays: Baby & Toddler; Uphall Outreach; 50+ Friendship Group; Walking Group; Indoor Curling; U3A Art Group; Taekwon-Do; Yellow Teapot Club; Youth Club.

Wednesdays: Indoor Curling; U3A Book Group; Cairbrock Association; Parkinson’s Uk; U3A History Group; Tea Dance; Zumba; Fusion Youth Group; Tribe West Belly Dance.

The People’s Café Meets the fourth Tuesday of every month 11am - 1.30pm at St Andrew’s Care Home, St Andrew’s Court, 20 Hawthorn Place, Uphall. For people who have any form of dementia, and their carers, to meet others in a similar situation for support and social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and home baking. Come for the whole session or just drop in.

WINCHBURGH Little Flyers After School Club Winchburgh Community Centre, Craigton Park, Winchburgh, EH52 6RW. Open during term time, from the end of the school day until 5.45 p.m. Collecting from Winchburgh and Holy Family Primary Schools. Please contact 07518 176781 for more information or see http:// www.littleflyersnursery.com/ Winchburgh Community Centre: Craigton Park, Winchburgh, EH52 6RW. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Junior Youth Club 7.00pm - 9.15pm.

Tuesdays: Slimming World 6.30pm - 9.30pm.

Wednesdays: Keep Fit 9.30am -10.30am; Computer Club 9.30am-12noon; Night Art 7.00pm-9.00pm; Dog Class 7.00pm-10.00pm.

Thursdays: Morning Art 9.30am-12noon; Senior Citizens 1.30pm-4.00pm; Little Flyers 3.00pm-6.00pm; Childrens Club 6.00pm-7.30pm; Guitar Club 7.45pm9.30pm; Table Tennis 7.45pm-9.30pm.

Fridays: Little Flyers 12 noon-6.00pm; Scouts 6.15pm9.15pm Saturdays: Children’s Activity Club 9.45am-12noon; Girls Allowed 7.00pm-9.00pm For more information on any of the groups please contact the Community Centre on 01506 890348 or email julie. witherwick@westlothian.gov.uk Winchburgh Community Council meetings are held second Monday of every month except January and July.

See www.winchburghcc.org.uk

Thursdays: Indoor Curling Adults with Carers; West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network; Line Dancing; U3A Quiz Group, U3A Music Group; Karate; Yellow Teapot Club; West Lothian Y-Cats.

other areas

Fridays: U3A Poetry Group; U3A Discussion Group; Children’s Club P3-P6); Reiki; Girls Group (S1 upwards)

Meet every Thursday in Whitburn academy at 7:00 – 9pm.

Ages 5 to 105+. Contact acompanyentertainers@gmail. com or find us on facebook.

Please call the Community Centre on 01506 854451 or email denise.doig@westlothian.gov.uk for details of times and more information on any of the groups.

Uphall Playgroup Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN For children aged 24 months and over. Open Monday to Friday 9:15 - 11:30am during term time. Choose 1, 2, 3 or 4 sessions per week. Each session costs £5 and includes a healthy snack. See http://www.uphallplaygroup.co.uk/ or tel 01506 854451 for further information.

KONECT

Alternative Company Entertainers (ACE)

West Lothian Baking Club We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £2 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

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

37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio Ekco MH Developments Beauty Allure Skin Clinic The Tan Stand

22 25 6 15 15

Builder DB General Builders John Lawson Butchers

23 33

Building Surveyor David Hastings

28

Cafe/Tearoom Ice Creations

4

Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh Chips Away

26 35

Car Service & Repair Car Craft D.K’s Autocare LVS Garage Services

11 26 5

Car Valet/Wash D.K’s Autocare

26

Caravan Service & Repair Auto Fitness Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services Hydro Kleen Scotland

4 27 29

Mobility Ableworld Med Ecosse

21 39

14

Painter/Decorator Nu Walls

22

23

Estate Agent Knight Bain Estate Agents

Paving Edinburgh Paving Company

27

Florist Just to Say Williamsons

Plastering Nu Walls

22

4 19

Property Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance

28

40

Restaurant The Club

33

19

Roofing MH Developments

Dance Supplies Highland Dance Shop

31

Dentist No 9 Dental Electrician Simply Electrical

Food & Groceries Real Foods Funeral Director Thomas Brown Funeral Director Furniture & Furnishings Broxburn Bargain Centre Shapes

4 7

6

6

Shoe Repair Mackenzies

12

Soft Furnishings Forth Fabrics

12

Storage Unit Storedge

20 4

Garden & Landscaping Greenhart Landscaping SG Garden Services

11 27

Hairdresser Mr Fella & Me. Bella Sassoon

14

Heating Services Forth Heating

Takeaway Ice Creations

23

Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader

23

17

Tuition Kumon

12 33

Home Help SCRT Ironing Services De-Creased Ironing Service

Children’s Activities / Entertainment Boogie Beat Music & Movement

19

31

Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestics Cleaning and Maintenance Strata Cleaning

Kilt Maker & Hire Caledonia Scotia Kiltmakers

Restaurant The Club

12

19 28 28

Kitchens Ekco

25

Vet Capital Vets Mackie & Brechin

2 29

Locksmith 1st Call Locksmith Mackenzies West Lothian Locksmith

19 12 28

Windows 1st Choice Living Red Hot Windows

22 27

Youth Group Broxburn Air Cadets

31

Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance

14

Computer Services Be One IT Sprint Computers

20 35

Solution to December Crossword Solution to Sudoku Page 34

Across: 1 Easy, 3 Phantoms, 9 Execute, 10 Visor, 11 Contemporary, 14 Ski, 16 Match, 17 Ear, 18 Overwhelming, 21 Pulse, 22 Easiest, 23 Treasure, 24 Plan.

38

Down: 1 Exercise, 2 Stern, 4 Hoe, 5 Nevertheless, 6 Observe, 7 Sure, 8 Supermarkets, 12 Pitch, 13 Frighten, 15 Involve, 19 Ideal, 20 Spot, 22 Err.

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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

KONECT

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