Konect Broxburn February 18

FEBRUARY 2018

broxburn

WIN! A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE FOR VALENTINES! Plus local Local History: Marvellous Merchiston businesses, community GARDEN PROJECT: FLOATING FLOWERS information & more!

Charity: Home-Start West Lothian The community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn & Winchburgh

PAGE 12

GARDEN PROJECT

M ESSA G E FRO M TH E ED I T O R

W

elcome to the first edition of Konect for 2018 (we didn’t publish a January issue).

Our Charity of the Month is Home-Start West Lothian, who offer support, friendship and practical help to parents with young children in the community to give the next generation the best possible chance in life.

I interviewed them at their Livingston office – they are always looking for volunteers, see the feature on page 34.

I’ve been looking a little into the history of the namesake of one of Edinburgh’s universities this month – if you have anything to do with Napier University you may be interested in the story of John Napier, see pages 8-9.

All our usual columns are here, and we’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things local!

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

Cover Image: Valentines Day, 14th February

FEATURES Marvellous Merchiston Health & Beauty Garden Project Home Improvements Property Matters Music Review Recipe Visit West Lothian Parents in West Lothian Charity of the Month

08 10 12 16 22 28 30 32 33 34

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku Competition

28 32

COMMUNITY Clubs & Classes

36

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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

KONECT BROXBURN | 3

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LOCAL HISTORY

If your home was garrisoned by soldiers and under threat of bombardment, you might pick somewhere else to get married. But 22 year old John Napier, namesake of Edinbugh Napier University, signed his wedding contract with his 16 year old bride at home in Merchiston Tower in just those circumstances in April 1572.

The hobbyist mathematician and seventh Laird of Merchiston would probably have preferred to be remembered for his works of theology. He changed the world, but not in the way he imagined - his invention of logarithms is the work for which he is most celebrated.

John and his new wife moved to Gartness Castle (on the western edge of Stirlingshire today). He took the task of running the Napier estates very seriously.

He was known in Edinburgh as “Marvellous Merchiston” as he was always working on ideas to improve productivity. He experimented with salt fertiliser, invented an apparatus to remove water from flooded coal pits, and built land surveyancing devices. Part of the inheritance was the title of the King’s Poulterer, and the “Pultrielands” at Dean Village - a plot of land for raising poultry to be supplied to the king on request.

John Napier was born at Merchiston Tower (now one of Edinburgh Napier University’s campuses) in 1550. We don’t know what he studied but he went to the University of St Andrews at the age of 13.

There is no record of him graduating from there; he most likely finished his education in Europe, arriving back in 1571, aged 21, when Scotland was in the But Napier considered himself first and foremost a grip of a civil war in which his family was reluctantly theologian. The Reformation in Scotland was young, involved. Four years previously, Napier’s maternal it was a time of religious and political turmoil and he uncle Adam Bothwell, the Bishop of Orkney, had was a fervent protestant. In 1593 he published what performed the he considered to be coronation of baby his most important James VI after his and urgent work, “The Logarithms allowed the German mother’s forced Plaine Discovery of mathematician and astronomer Johannes abdication, and the Whole Revelation Kepler to show that the Earth was not at civil war ensued of St. John” - detailed between supporters exposition that the centre of the universe but revolved of the deposed the Pope was the around the sun. This breakthrough Catholic queen and Antichrist. He sought underpinned Newton’s theory of gravity supporters of the to alert the king to baby king (or rather, “the apparent danger of the Regent who of Papistry arising ruled in his minority). Merchiston Tower, being in a within this Island… .” fearing, like many, threat from strategic location, was garrisoned by the Regent’s Catholic Spain. men to prevent supplies reaching the Queen’s supporters holding Edinburgh. The Tower was Following the publication of the “Plaine Discovery” severely bombarded by the Queen’s men in May (which gained him international recognition) Napier 1572 in a failed attempt to gain control. Archibald worked on designs for various instruments of war Napier, John’s father, whose loyalties appear to - “designed by the Grace of God, and the worke have been ambiguous, probably stayed in the of expert craftsmen.” He was covering all bases, tower throughout, although it is unknown if the rest evidently, in the case of a Spanish invasion - if the of the family did. theological writings didn’t head off the catholic 8 | KONECT BROXBURN

threat, he wanted to make sure Scotland had some new weaponry! It included two kinds of burning mirrors, a piece of artillery, and a metal chariot from which shot could be fired through small holes.

exaggerated over time. With James VI on a fanatical quest to eliminate witchcraft, had Napier seriously been suspected of anything he would not have been spared. It’s more likely that the nightgown was academic garb, and that his incredible and diverse output led him When Napier had a problem with pigeons to appear eccentric eating his grain in the fields at Merchiston, and misunderstood.

At this time, Napier also turned his attention to developing he solved it by scattering grain laced with a means of simplifying the very long He moved back to alcohol on the fields; the drunken birds and complicated Merchiston with his were then easy to capture - a feat which calculations he family on the death no doubt fuelled the stories of his magical needed for his work of his father in 1608, powers in an age of superstition. on astronomy. From until his own death 1594 he worked on a in 1617. methodology, finally publishing what he called logarithmic tables twenty I visited Merchiston Tower last month to wander years and seven million calculations later, in 1614. It through the rooms and get a feel, if possible from was a mathematical breakthrough immediately taken this distance in time, of the building that was up enthusiastically by scientists as it saved them first and foremost a family home but swept up in years of calculations and allowed radical progress in turbulence. Its matter-of-fact integration into the astronomy and navigation.

Napier University campus, with a modern corridor running right though it, somehow echoes for me He made other signification contributions to the way the Archibald Napier carried on business mathematics including promoting the use of as usual; the marriage in the garrisoned home; decimals, and “Napier’s bones” - numbering rods and how John Napier’s monumental invention for multiplying, dividing and taking square roots and of logarithms was almost incidental to what he cube roots. Made of ivory, they looked a little like considered his main life’s work. One thing is for bones, hence the name. He also described a method sure, he would be very happy to see his home part of using metal plates in a box to rapidly perform of a place of higher education. multiplication and division problems - the earliest known attempt at using a type of calculating machine.

For Napier, though, mathematics was a hobby, a means to an end that he worked on as and when he had time besides his theological work. The Statistical Account of 1795 says: “Adjoining the mill at Gartness are the remains of an old house in which John Napier of Merchiston, Inventor of Logarithms, resided a great part of his time (some years) when he was making his calculations. It is reported that the noise of the cascade, being constant, never gave him uneasiness, but that the clack of the mill, which was only occasional, greatly disturbed his thoughts. He was therefore, when in deep study, sometimes under the necessity of desiring the miller to stop the mill that the train of his ideas might not be interrupted.”

Perhaps unsurprisingly he cut an eccentric figure.

The Statistical Account also records he “used frequently to walk out in his nightgown and cap. This, with some things which to the vulgar appear rather odd, fixed on him the character of a warlock.” But stories of his supposedly magic powers have been

Merchiston Tower: Now one of Edinburgh Napier University’s campuses

This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Shearer. Helen-Jane lives in West Lothian and is the editor of Konect magazines.

KONECT BROXBURN | 9

HEALTH & BEAUTY

NewYear, NewYou??

As we start a fresh new season we tend to feel the need to spring clean, detox and update our wardrobes.

But what about hair and make-up? We see a lot of people come to the salon looking to make big changes come January but sometimes all we need is a fresh approach to our hair rather than changing it just because we feel the urge for something new.

When you visit your stylist really try and get the most from their expertise. Ask about the different ways you can wear your style; how versatile is it? a good stylist will talk you through the best ways to blow-dry your hair and give you ideas for easy up-dos and what staples you need in your ‘beauty wardrobe.’

Big on the catwalk for spring 2018 is lowslung simplistic buns, midi pony tails and really beautiful paired back blow dries. Less is definitely more this season. Ask what colours suit your skin tone, this will give you make up ideas and wardrobe ideas too.

Your stylist is a wealth of knowledge so get the most from your appointment and ask all the questions. You will leave feeling inspired and ready to update your style!

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk

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If we’re a passenger in a car or on a bus, we usually trust that the driver has a clear sense of the route to follow. If they don’t, we won’t reach our hoped-for destination. So, it is in the journey of life.

Where do we want to go? What do we want to change? Our brain, being a ‘habit organ’, automatically repeats patterns of yesterday. If we want something different, we need a clear new route - or at least, to get us started, a strong sense of the sort of ‘place’ we’d like to go.

Our brain needs a specific route to follow... a step-by-step plan of what to do each day to move us in a new direction. And then progress unfolds when we carry out that plan regardless of any unwillingness which may surface. After all, it’s entirely normal for us creatures of habit to resist change. But resistance is actually just energy like a passing breeze - not the more central observing self who is in the driving seat of our life.

If we fail in our plans it can feel awful - perhaps even worse than not trying in the first place.

But if we think of others we admire who strive despite difficulties, or we look back on the times we learned and progressed because of the difficulty we faced, we can see that challenge and discomfort are completely normal - and sometimes even helpful.

This column is contributed by Rosanna Veitch.

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Lothian

Dental Laboratory

Unit 6 Crofthead Centre Templar Rise, Livingston EH54 6DG Tel: 01506 884653 info@lothiandentallab.co.uk

Lothian Dental Laboratory can repair fractured dentures, chipped teeth and replace missing teeth so they look like new.

We can repair your denture while you wait, usually within the hour minimising the amount of time you are without your denture.

We are open: Monday to Friday 08.00 – 16.00 Saturday morning 10.00 – 12.30

KONECT BROXBURN | 11

GARDENING PROJECT

Floating Flowers

BRING OUTDOORS INDOORS

Floating Hellebores

We believe that every garden should be able to supply flowers or foliage to fill a small vase every week of the year… or to float in a bowl!

Floating is the easiest way to arrange flowers and at this time of the year it is often the most comfortable way to enjoy them. The classic flower heads to float are these different hybrid hellebores that are starting to flower in our gardens. Just cut off the flower heads with a tiny bit of stem and float on clean water.

As the month progresses try floating snowdrops upside down – it’s a wonderful way to see the double skirts that some of them have. Each week you garden may offer you some heads to float – in high summer roses make perfect displays.

Just have fun experimenting!

The gardening project is contributed by New Hopetoun Gardens. Pick up more of their weekend garden projects from the garden centre.

Are you 35 this year?... or do you know someone who is?

35 is the ‘Gardener’s Birthday’ Send us their name, date of birth and address and we will send them a £35 Voucher to spend here at New Hopetoun Gardens!

New Hopetoun Gardens by Winchburgh, West Lothian, EH52 6QZ t 01506 834433 www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk

12 | KONECT BROXBURN

WINDOW CLEANING Cleaning windows in Broxburn for 28 years Also gutters and conservatory roofs

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KONECT BROXBURN | 13

Now located at 29 W Main Street Uphall EH52 5DN Through high levels of training and teamwork, alongside the latest technology, we give patients time in order to provide the best individual solution

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

February can be a dreich month, a good time to pay attention to your lighting.

Could a quick update make it bright where necessary, cosy where wanted and as fashion-forward as anyone could desire?

Brighten up your lighting • Using just one central pendant to illuminate a room creates a flat light with dark corners, making the space seem dull and small. If you are renovating, now’s the time to add wall lights, install some additional ceiling lights, or include some track lighting in cornices or bookcases.

• To improve a boring lighting scheme quickly and easily, add extra lights at different heights – a table lamp in the corner, a floor lamp in another, maybe a clip light attached to a shelf. The aim is to create layers of light that come from different directions, and that you can adjust to suit your mood or the way you’re using the room.

• Think about bulbs – save money by changing to LEDs, which last for years and are very cheap to run. How ‘warm’ or ‘cool’ they are is marked in kelvins - look for around 2,700K for a pleasant indoor light.

Dimmer switches give flexibility to your lighting, but they’re not always compatible with LEDs, so check with your electrician.

• ‘Smart’ lighting is the way to go – use a remote control or an app on your phone to dim your lights, switch them on and off or even change their colours.

ABOVE: Smart lighting systems are easy to use and surprisingly affordable. Tradfri dimming kit, from £15, PS 2017 Table Lamp, £25; both Ikea.

16

Light up your winter MAIN IMAGE: Illuminate a corner of your living room – and provide a snuggly spot for curling up with a good book – by swapping a tired old floor lamp for a good-looking, on-trend new one. Slam Dunk floor lamp in antique brass, £175, Loaf.

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KONECT BROXBURN | 19

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PROPERTY MATTERS

It would not be unreasonable to assume that as a property comes onto the market, the instructed estate agent will post the property details on various property portals and wait for the enquiries to roll in.

However, this approach is somewhat simplistic!

Estate Agents need to take a much more strategic and proactive approach to handling new buyer enquiries. There is a fallacy surrounding property marketing in that many people think that a property sells as a direct result of the publication of its corresponding listing on a property portal. This is simply not true in most cases.

In fact, the overwhelming majority of buyers who enquire about a specific property do not go on to buy it, but buy something else instead.

This is because only limited information can be conveyed online, such as price, location, accommodation and condition. Yet the decision to buy is usually much more complex, and is something that cannot adequately be assimilated until the property is actually visited.

So whilst it is important to choose an agent that advertises extensively online (every agent should be advertising your property on Rightmove, 22 | KONECT BROXBURN

Zoopla, Primelocation, S1 Homes) it is more important to choose an agent who knows what to do with an enquiry than simply putting the buyer on a mailing list!

A good agent will use the best marketing to attract buyers, and then use their skill, training and judgement to help the buyer identify the right property – which in all probability will not turn out to be the one about which they enquired.

This effective method is one of the reasons that the best agents have such an excellent ratio of new applicants to sales agreed, which is of course to their clients’ substantial advantage.

The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.

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KONECT BROXBURN | 23

Over the next three years RiverLife will continue to tackle the next four fish barriers, ultimately opening up the full length of the river to our important native fish for the first time in generations. Action will also start within the Avon catchment to improve the local river and involve local individuals and groups to develop better access and information about the water environment and its connection to the local communities.

FEATURE

First fish pass completed

in Livingston for the

RiverLife: Almond & Avon project

The works would not have been possible without the support of the Centre and also the staff at Memsstar who allow access across their land. They have been undertaken alongside enhancements to one of the Almond’s main tributaries, the Killandean Burn where the RiverLife staff have trained and then worked alongside community volunteers to create more natural river habitats, upgraded paths and steps, a new bench for visitors and riverside tree planting. RiverLife has also run a successful small grants scheme where funds were provided to Firefly Arts to enable children and young people to produce, direct and star in a film about the river called “River Where

In the March issue of Konect last year we wrote about Riverlife: Almond & Avon, the river restoration programme launched by River Forth Fisheries Trust to make improvements for wildlife, and wider benefits for the communities living and working alongside our two rivers.

Over the winter, a state of the art fish pass was completed at Kirkton weir in Livingston, to allow native fish to swim over what has long been a barrier to them. Kikrton weir is owned by West Lothian Council and was built to provide water to the corn mill in Livingston Village (now the Almond Valley Heritage Centre). The new pass will help fish such as Atlantic salmon, sea and brown trout, eels and lampreys to more easily migrate between spawning and feeding areas in different parts of the river. By opening up new habitat for fish RiverLife is doing its bit to create a flourishing and sustainable fish population in the Almond. A wide variety of other animals will also benefit including insects, heron, otters and kingfishers.

Councillor Tom Conn, West Lothian’s Executive councillor for the environment, said: “I am delighted that the Kirkton Weir is once again passable to migrating fish species. This represents a step change in the fortunes for the River Almond, once one of the most polluted in Scotland, but one which has been improving incrementally over the last twenty years or so through long-term, multi-partner commitment.”

I am delighted that the Kirkton Weir is once again passable to migrating fish species” RiverLife: Almond & Avon is a partnership project between the River Forth Fisheries Trust, West Lothian Council & City of Edinburgh Council, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, SEPA Water Environment Fund, The Scottish Government, West Lothian & City of Edinburgh Councils. www.river-life.org.uk

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24 | KONECT BROXBURN

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KONECT BROXBURN | 25

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KONECT BROXBURN | 27

PUZZLES

MUSIC REVIEW

Let’s get metaphysical

CROSSWORD

The single of the year is already out, so pencil in a break for compiling any lists for December.

Following hard on the heels of the well-received album “Heavy Meta”, Philadelphia-based “insurgent poet and rock ‘n’ roll disruptor” Ron Gallo hits his fellow musicians where it hurts with the wonderful “Really Nice Guys”.

Solution in the March edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Red fruit (6), 8. An agreement (6), 9. Water activity (4), 10. Pieces (8), 11. Non-attendance (7), 13. Slightly inebriated (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Brine (7), 20. Holding tightly (8), 21. Pain (4), 22. Customer (6), 23. Soak up (6) DOWN: 1. Spider’s trap (6), 2. Tepid (4), 3. Neat (7), 4. Begin (5), 5. Determined (8), 6. Smells badly (6), 12. Supplied with (8), 14. Line drawing (7), 16. Infrequently (6), 18. Cling to (6), 19. Unclean (5), 21. Plus (4)

Solution on Page 38

SUDOKU

28 | KONECT BROXBURN

A blistering 2 minutes 8 seconds kicking off with a sweet Velvets style riff, the raucous melody and studiously sloppy layered vocals bemoan the requirement to compliment your friend’s terrible band. As the arrangement breaks down into an approximation of the horrors we have all endured, the various punctuations of “Nice!” amount to that very rare thing, a genuinely funny musical joke. As with the best of Zappa however, it is easy to laugh but can you be sure that the joke is not on you?

“I say nice set, then I get upset because I feel so plastic”. I went quiet on one of the repeated listens as I realised that I had heard that “Nice!” before.

Once you have enjoyed the single, head back to his most recent album. “Heavy Meta” came out in February 2017, but recently the single “Young lady, You’re Scaring me” has been popping up again in new music lists online. A good representation of the album, this previous single has the wild mercurial sound of electric Dylan, piling irregular meter and rhyme against rigid pop blues. “you’ll line my mattress with nails/ One for every time something psycho came out of your mouth...a sales pitch for the circus in your mind”.

Elsewhere on “All the Punks are Domesticated” Gallo laments the fall of the outsider musician. “All of the freaks have gone to bed/ All of the pioneers are saved for information tech”. Heavy Meta - 2017 album of 2018.

The monthly music review is contributed by James Kerr. James presents the Regal Music Club show on Regal Radio (www.regal-radio.net) and is a member of the local band ‘Snakeskin Shoe Review’.

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KONECT BROXBURN | 29

FOOD & DRINK

Spiced Bean &

Carrot Patties

Serve with salad and herb yoghurt dressing

This is a great recipe for meat-free Monday - or any other day of the week!

Harissa paste is a fiery hot blend of spices from North Africa sold near the dried herbs in most large supermarkets. If unavailable, replace with 2 tsp curry paste or sun-dried tomato puree.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, peeled and chopped 2 carrots, peeled and grated 1tsp harissa paste 400g can cannellini beans, drained 400g can red kidney beans, drained 3 tbsp freshly chopped mint 100g fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs Vegetable oil for shallow frying Salad and herb yoghurt dressing, to serve (see TIP)

Makes 15 Ready in 35 minutes, plus chilling time 30 | KONECT BROXBURN

Method: 1. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened. Cool for 5 minutes then place in a food processor with the carrots, harissa paste, beans, mint and breadcrumbs.

2. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and process for about 30 seconds until well blended. Shape the mixture into 15 small round patties. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.

3. Shallow fry the patties in hot vegetable oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper then serve with salad and dressing.

Tip: Serve these patties with dark green salad leaves such as baby spinach and watercress with chunks of cooked beetroot. For a quick herb dressing, stir lemon juice and freshly chopped mint into natural yoghurt and season to taste.

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KONECT BROXBURN | 31

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

This month we have everything from ballet to comedy so even if you don’t have a valentine this year you’ll be sure to still be in love… with West Lothian.

A night at the theatre is hard to beat but a night at the theatre with Ballet West might just do it!

Bringing the story of Giselle live to the stage at Howden Park Centre you will witness the story of a peasant girl named Giselle, who dies of a broken heart after discovering her lover is betrothed to another. This is a world class production that will be sure to pull on your heart strings. Showing on the 7th at 19:30pm.

On Saturday the 10th head on down to Linlithgow Peel for a Wetland Wildlife Wander.

This is certain to be a fun filled day of exploring and learning. You will tour the Peel with an incredibly knowledgeable guide as you stroll around this historic and beautiful area.

Now we have two options, one for those with a Valentine’s date and for those without a date this February 14th. For those who will be sharing an evening with a loved one then why not check out one of Linlithgow’s magnificent restaurants? With a wide range of high end and award winning establishments to choose from you won’t be short for choice in this Royal Burgh. Alternatively if you don’t have a date then head on down to Howden Park Centre to witness the comedy genius that is Jimeoin. His UK tour has been a smash hit and we are certain you will be bent double with laughter.

Whatever you decide to get up to this February we hope you spend it in West Lothian.

For more information, or the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit:

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 32 | KONECT BROXBURN

WIN A BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNe For your chance to win simply answer the following question: IN WHICH COUNTRY WOULD YOU FIND THE CHAMPAGNE REGION? Email your answer, along with your name & phone number, to win@konectdirectory.co.uk Closing date for entries: Monday 12th February 2018. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter.

PLEASE NOTE: All entrants must be 18 years old or over.

PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

...be the right kind of frog as we leap into the New Year “Five frogs sat on a log. Four decided to jump off.

How many remain? Still 5, because ‘deciding’ and ‘doing’ are not the same.”

Most of us, including myself, probably like to think of ourselves as adventurous types, willing to try new things, and be spontaneous. In fact, a famous psychological study in 1948 by Bertram Forer showed that the vast majority of us will blithely accept almost any feedback that paints us in a good light – no matter how accurate it really is or isn’t.

In reality, I’m much less devil-may-care today than I used to be. At one time I was pretty adventurous but these days I’m the sort who has only ever tasted one menu item from Subway; who, upon finding a well-fitting pair of shoes, buys them in every colour, and who simply cannot stray more than one or two shades from magnolia paint under any circumstances.

So this year, I decided that instead of New Year’s resolutions, I would set a series of goals whose success could be achieved and built on throughout the year, all based around doing something new – completing a sign language qualification, doing a 50s dressmaking course, and completing a Couch to 5K program – but most importantly, trying a new type of activity with the kids every month.

My kids are admirably open to trying new things, so I took my lead from them when I heard that a new type of play centre was opening in West Lothian – Bramble Cottage Constructive Play Centre in Bathgate.

The new thing for me about Bramble Cottage is, it’s not a soft-play.

Instead, it’s a physical and imaginative play arena, designed to stimulate little imaginations and promote pretend play. There are little cavern-like rooms where little ones can pretend to be in a supermarket, a kitchen, or a little

bedroom.

I worried if Quinn would enjoy it to be honest because his speech and social play is very delayed and he tends not to join in such play at nursery, but almost at once my two made for the pretend kitchen area, and something brilliant happened.

They began pretending - together. They were serving each other toast and coffee, putting clothes in the washing machine, pretending to eat from little plates. All the while, Quinn was saying thank you, repeating phrases he hears in that setting at home (“Watch out Penny, beans are hot hot hot!”) and responding to Penny’s pretend-play. Channa and I crouched at the little entranceway, mouths wide in awe.

I loved the fact that we were able to sit in the café area and have our snacks (well-priced home-baking and coffee) while being well within earshot of our little cherubs – and while the air was rippled by a gentle buzz of laughter and chatter, it wasn’t the same loud, frantic, intermittent-injury laden environment that I’m used to at traditional soft-plays – it’s much more easy-going.

And so one of my goals has borne fruit already – and it has shown me the importance of not just deciding to try something new, but of actually doing it too.

Here’s to an adventurous 2018!

The monthly Parenting column is contributed by Nicola Jengaenga. Nicola lives in West Lothian with her two pre-schoolers and hubby Channa.

They juggle hectic work schedules with the everevolving demands of their two tiny overlords and also squeezing in time for each other!

KONECT BROXBURN | 33

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Sometimes when things are hard, knowing you’re not alone can make all the difference

Bringing up young children is a tough job. And if over and above the usual hard work of parenting, life is complicated by isolation, mental health issues, or a child with additional needs, it can quickly become overwhelming.

Home-Start West Lothian provides friendly support at home for young families. By helping the parents, the children have a better chance at a good start in life, hence the charity’s name.

It was originally set up in Leicester, England, in 1973 by a woman who ran parenting groups.

She noticed a lot of the mums wanted a oneon-one chat with her in addition to the group activities. So she started visiting them at home on a one-on-one basis, and Home-Start was born. There are now independent local HomeStart groups all over Britain. The West Lothian one has been in existence since 2000.

It’s really about having life experience and an ability to empathise, non-judgementally Sometimes when things are hard, knowing you’re not alone, you’re not a bad parent, that it’s normal to find it tough, and knowing that others have similar challenges, can make all the difference to how you cope. “Our volunteer befrienders visit at home, provide peer-to-peer support, lend a hand practically (such as watch the toddler while mum has a chance to have a shower in 34 | KONECT BROXBURN

peace), be a non-judgemental, confidential listening ear and provide signposting to local groups or services that may be able to support with specific issues,” explains Allie, Manager of Home-Start West Lothian. I met Allie and Carol-Anne, Volunteer Co-ordinator, at the Home-Start premises in Livingston.

“The main difficulty people used to come to us for was social isolation; people moving out from Edinburgh or Glasgow for cheaper housing in West Lothian, but not having a network or knowing how to meet other young families, and struggling alone. There may be language barriers, health problems or other difficulties in addition to that. In recent years, we see a lot more families in crisis though - through domestic violence, poor mental health, disabilities, a whole range of issues.”

Home-Start see people from all walks of life. “It makes no difference how big your house or your bank account is,” says Allie. If as a parent of young children you’re not coping, then that is pretty normal and help is available. And, while most of the families they help tend to be in crisis or have multiple challenges, it’s not all about crisis. “We have some families we help as they have triplets, and not necessarily any other challenges. Three babies is challenging enough!”

Referrals for Home-Start’s befriending service can come from anywhere – health workers, social workers, GP and even self-referral. The choice as to whether to engage or not is with the family – it’s not like a formal social service where there may be mandatory engagement, although Home-Start may be supporting a family who already has social work, healthcare or other professionals involved. Navigating the numerous agencies that exist to help, and understanding the jargon thrown around, is one of the things the befriender can help with. It’s peer-to-peer support, where the parent/s and the Home-Start befriender work through things together. Volunteers are carefully matched to families to maximise the chance of the relationship being successful.

“We work predominantly with young mums and single mums, but also sometimes with dads or both parents. And we are always looking for more volunteers.” Older volunteers are welcome - sometimes a grandparent figure is just what a young family needs. Every family’s needs are different, so a wide range of volunteers with

West Lothian Volunteers different experiences is ideal. Male volunteers are also welcome. “It’s really about having life experience and an ability to empathise, nonjudgementally,” summarises Allie.

If you can spare two or three hours a week to make daily life just that bit less daunting for a local young parent, please contact Home-Start West Lothian on the details below.

Contact Details: Telephone: Email: Website: Facebook: Address:

01506 415755 admin@homestartwl@org.uk www.homestartwl.org.uk /HomeStartWL Cameron House 13a Fairbairn Road, Livingston EH54 6TS

Home-Start West Lothian is a charity registered in Scotland, charity no. SC029770.

For this article, Helen-Jane interviewed Allie and Carol-Anne of Home-Start West Lothian. HelenJane lives in West Lothian with her family and is the editor of Konect magazines.

KONECT BROXBURN | 35

WHAT’S ON

Saturday 24th February

Crafters Destash Sale 10am to 12.30pm in Strathbrock Church Hall, Uphall, EH52 6BY. Lots of Crafters are clearing out their craft supplies to offer you some crafty bargains. Fabric, wool, card making, beads, ribbons, jewellery making equipment, craft books, haberdashery and much more..... Over 30 tables !!

Crafting for business or pleasure, youth / childrens leader, teachers, bargains available, come and have a look. Cafe open, selling filled rolls, homebaking and refreshments Entry free!! So pop in and grab yourself a crafty bargain Like our facebook page “Strathbrock Craft Fairs”

CLUBS & CLASSES

BROXBURN Learn Guitar Strathbrock Community Centre.

Kids classes: Saturdays during term time; Adult Group Class: Thursday evenings. A fun and friendly way to get started or hone your skills further and become the guitarist you’ve always wanted to be. For more info call Dan 07794 824544 email danbarr.guitar@gmail.com

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 9am9pm, Wed & Fri 9am-12 noon and 6pm -9pm, Thurs 9am-3pm and 6:00pm-9pm.

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

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.

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 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.

Church Street Baby & Toddler Group

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.

New members welcome, contact John Sneddon on 01501 770911 for dates and more details

2 Church Street, Broxburn EH52 5EL. Every Thursday from 09.15-11.00 and is based in the Church Hall behind Broxburn Parish Church. Suitable for children from birth to 3 years.

Each session costs £2 per and includes a healthy snack for the children and a cuppa & biscuit for the grown-ups. Visit our Facebook page for more information www.facebook.com/ BroxburnChurchStreetBabyandToddler

Ladies only outdoor fitness sessions

Craft Cuppa

Livingston Highland Society

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 goals. For more info contact Leigh Lauder on 01506 858057 or email l.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 (P1P3) 2.25-3.15 (P4-P7) cost £3 per week. To book please contact Aidan Forbes on a.forbes@busc.org.uk or Nina Anderson on nina.anderson@live.co.uk or call 01506 858057.

36 | KONECT BROXBURN

We are a small group of crafters who meet on Saturday afternoons 1-3 pm at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Community Wing, entrance B. We meet to share expertise, have a natter and a cuppa. We would welcome anyone who wants to come along. For more info please email craftycuppaclub@mail.com or just come along!

West Lothian Iwama Ryu Aikido Club Broxburn Black Belt Academy, EH52 5BB, Broxburn.

Dedicated to the traditional study and practice of Aikido through ken, jo and taijutsu. The club meets at Broxburn BlackBelt Academy Thursdays 8pm to 9:30pm. Come along and give it a try. For information please call 07784 006851 wliwamaryu@gmail.com

Broxburn Gymanstics Club

Broxburn Academy’s Dance Studio, Broxburn Fun filled gymnastics class for children in P1-P7. Hourly classes on Saturday mornings 10am (Beginner), 11am (Intermediate), Advanced 12pm. First week is a free no obligation trial. For more information please contact Gemma on 07775 900624 or broxburngymnasticsclub@yahoo.co.uk Website: www.broxburngymnastics.com Broxburn Scottish Women’s Institute (formerly SWRI) We meet in Broxburn Community Centre at 7pm on the 2nd Monday of each month from September to May. Contact: Fay Young , tel 01506 854141 or email fayyoungis@hotmail.com

Slimming World

South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30. Please call Lisa on 07736 316400

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

St Andrew’s Court Activity Group

Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people?

Come and join in our activity group in St Andrew’s Court, Uphall, weekly Wednesdays (10am-12). A mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot.

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.

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.

West Lothian Art

West Lothian Art is a group of enthusiastic amateur artists who meet regularly to paint, draw and chat in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere on Tuesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm in Uphall Community Education Centre. If you’d like to know more, please email us at info@westlothianart.co.uk

West Lothian U3A (University of the 3rd Age)

A group of retired people who like to keep their minds active by learning in an informal environment. We meet in Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall on the third Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m., when we have speakers on a variety of topics. U3A also has a number of interest Groups who also meet once a month, including Art Appreciation, Singing for Pleasure, History, Walking and Cinema. New members are always welcome – please contact the Membership Secretary Helen on 01506 655976. You will find a list of speakers and a full list of Groups on our website u3asites.org.uk/westlothian

Slimming World

South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30. Please call Lisa on 07736 316400

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 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 7.45pm-9.30pm; Table Tennis 7.45pm-9.30pm. FRIDAYS: Little Flyers 12 noon-6.00pm; Scouts 6.15pm- 9.15pm SATURDAYS: Children’s Activity Club 9.45am12noon; 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

DECHMONT 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! £3 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

Dechmont 50+ Arts Group

This group of enthusiastic amateur painters meet every Wednesday from 13.30 - 16.00 in Dechmont Memorial Hall to practice their art and socialise. There are a few membership places available and new members would be more than welcome irrespective of their painting skills. For more details email dechmontartgroup@gmail.com or visit their website at dechmontartgroup.wix.com/home.

Gentle Yoga

Dechmont Memorial Hall, Monday night 6.30-7.30pm at Dechmont Memorial Hall. Contact Rhona on 01506 811700 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

KONECT BROXBURN | 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIR Home Appliance Repair 26 BATHROOMS Bathgate Bathroom Studio 19 Ellis & Scott 17 BEAUTY Mara Beauty 11 BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce 19 CABINET MAKER LMB Kitchens 18 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett Carpet Cleaning 13 CARPETS & FLOORING Land of Carpets 2 CATERING Food Creations 31 CHILDREN’S SPORTS Kestrel Gymnastics Group 4 CLEANING SERVICES Clean Bee Domestics 13 CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 13 COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers 25 CONSERVATORIES CR Smith 21 COUNSELLING Rosanna Veitch 10 DANCE SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop 11 DENTIST No 9 Dental 14 Lothian Dental Laboratory 11 DOORS UPVC Doors 6 ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine 20 Drummond Miller 25 Turpie & Co. 23 FENCING/GATES The Smithy 4 FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce 19 GARDEN & LANDSCAPING New Hopetoun Gardens 12 GUITAR LESSONS Dan Barr Guitar 11 GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 7

38 | KONECT BROXBURN

HEATING SERVICES Hometech 17 Milex Heating 26 JOB OPPORTUNITIES Courtyard Marriott 31 Developing the Young Workforce 4 JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces 26 Domestic Joinery and Maintenance Services 26 KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces 26 Dream Doors 27 Ellis & Scott 17 LMB Kitchens 18 LEAFLET DELIVERY The Leaflet Lady 40 LOCKSMITH 1st Call Locksmith 4 MOBILITY Ableworld 15 Scot Mobility 14 OVEN CLEANER The Clean Team 26 PAINTER/DECORATOR Braekirk Decorators 17 Manic Street Painters 27 Nu Walls 17 PLASTERING Nu Walls 17 PLUMBING SERVICES Hometech 17 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Domestic Joinery and Maintenance Services 26 RESTAURANT Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 7 SECURITY SERVICES Circle Security 6 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader 18 TUITION Kumon Livingston 5 VET Mackie & Brechin 29 Riverside Veterinary 29 WASTE DISPOSAL Bare Bins 13 WINDOW CLEANING CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 13 SPM Window Cleaning 13

WINDOWS 1st Choice Living CR Smith

5 21

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 28

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Breeze, 8. Reckon, 9. Ugly, 10. Subtract, 11. October, 13. Needy, 15. Twice, 17. Staying, 20. Pamphlet, 21. Aids, 22. Hovers, 23. Opened DOWN: 1. Tragic, 2. Deny, 3. Measles, 4. Probe, 5. Scarcely, 6. Forced, 12. Occupied, 14. Station, 16. Weapon, 18. Nodded, 19. Close, 21 Apex.

The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication.

All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, EH54 6GU.

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