Konect Directory Calders December 2011

The

K nect direî‚ ory O

December 2011 / January 2012

The Calders, Kirknewton and Pumpherston

WIN prize crossword: Konect Directory seasonal hamper

LOCAL HISTORY: Local Buildings & Their Past PLUS local businesses, community information and more!

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Message from the Editor

www.konectdirectory.co.uk Find us on Facebook

Hello neighbours There has been a lot going on locally during November, and more events again this month in the run-up to Christmas.

It’s good to see so many fairs and other events in every village – we’re very fortunate to live in an area where there is a lot of community activity, so make sure you go along and support the various events and enjoy the community spirit!

We have been looking into the stories behind some of our interesting old local buildings this month, so you can read about them on pages 8 and 9. And as usual, plenty of other articles to inform and entertain, all relating to the Calders and surrounding area – our people, our businesses and facilities.

Congratulations to Sarah Gerhardt of Kirknewton who won the crossword prize last month. This month, we’re putting together a fantastic seasonal hamper of

Contents Feature Article Local Buildings & Their Past 8 Genealogy 18 Local Walk 30 Pets 36 Children & Family 50

local and other produce, so turn to the crossword on page 42 for your chance to win.

Have a fantastic holiday season, and a big thank you to all our readers and advertisers for your support of the Konect Directory this year. We value all the positive feedback we get about the magazine. Thanks are also due to the team of local people who have delivered the magazine through your door each month - in all weather - this year!

This is a joint December/January issue as we don’t produce a January issue, so look out for the February issue at the end of January.

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

Competitions & puzzles Prize crossword Children’s puzzles Community What’s on Useful information Clubs & Classes Index of Advertisers

42 50 54 55 58 62

The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston. Copies are also left at the libraries, sports centre, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Jenny Thomson, Sales 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Helen-Jane Shearer, Editor 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Front cover photograph by Eleanor Milligan: Kirk of Calder, Mid Calder

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Get in Gear with Rod Cameron DSA ADI

Driving with Rod YourÊLocalÊWestÊLothianÊLocksmithÊ Ê  UPVC Patio Door Repairs  Lock Changes/Upgrades  British Standard 5 Lever Insurance Approved Locks Fitted  24 Hr Emergency Lockout Service

Gift vouche r

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07715 856501 4

 Window Locks Supplied & Fitted

01506 238048 Or Call Tom On

07542781131 For All Your Security Needs www.caledonianlocksmiths.co.ukÊ

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Would you or someone you know benefit from additional care & support at home ?

11 Castle Road Winchburgh West Lothian EH52 6RQ 0131 339 1468 or 01506 890 970 For further information or to enquire online, please visit us at:

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We can provide carers to help you with;  Breakfast, lunch, tea and night time services  Personal Care & Supported Living

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All our staff are fully trained, undergo continual personal development and are members of the www.primecarehealthltd.co.uk PVG scheme.

email: admin@primecarehealthltd.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Christmas Worship at St Mary’s Church, Dalmahoy Just off the A71 at the entrance to the Marriott Dalmahoy Hotel

Please join us for any or all of our services

Carol Service

Sunday 18th December 6.30pm Mulled wine and mince pies served in the Church Hall after the service

Christmas Eve

11.30pm Midnight Mass

Christmas Day

10.30am Family Eucharist

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from everyone at St Mary's

CHRISTMAS STARTS WITH CHRIST Come and join us this advent Christmas time...

ST THERESA’S R.C.CHURCH EAST CALDER Mon 12th Dec East Calder Scouts & Guides Christmas Carol Service 7.00pm Sat 17th Dec Fourth Sunday of Advent. Mass 6.00pm Sun 18th Dec Fourth Sunday of Advent. Mass 10.30am Sat 24th Dec Carol Service 7.30pm Sat 24th Dec Christmas Evening Mass 8.00pm Sun 25th Dec Christmas Day Mass 10.30am Other services will be printed in the weekly newsletter KIRKNEWTON AND EAST CALDER CHURCH OF SCOTLAND Sun 4th Dec Bereavement Service in East Calder Church Fri 16th Dec Boys Brigade Company Carol Service in East Calder Church Sun 18th Dec Joint Family and Nativity Service in East Calder Church Sat 24th Dec Family Service in East Calder Church Sat 24th Dec Torchlight procession through Kirknewton village Sat 24th Dec Christmas Eve watchnight service in Kirknewton Church Sun 25th Dec Joint Christmas day service in Kirknewton Church Please check our web page www.knec4jesus.org.uk

Inserted by the ecumenical church group

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4.00pm 7.00pm 11.15am 7.00pm 10.00pm 11.15pm 10.00am

KIRK OF CALDER (MID CALDER) CHURCH OF SCOTLAND Sat 3rd Dec Carols in Church followed by torchlight procession to light Christmas tree Sun 11th Dec Lessons and Carols for Christmas Sun 18th Dec Family Service with Children’s nativity play Sat 24th Dec Christmas Eve watchnight service Sun 25th Dec Christmas day family service Please check our web page www.kirkofcalder.com

6.00pm 10.30am 10.30am 11.30pm 10.30am

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Jupiter has Christmas all wrapped up The perfect gift for any member of your family is a membership for Jupiter Artland. Free entry throughout Jupiter’s open season and invitations to a variety of fun events and 10% discount in our shop ... all wrapped up with a Christmas bow!

Adult £20 Family £35 Contact Ailsa Boag ailsa@jupiterartland.org or 01506 889900 to buy your gift now.

JUPITER BONNINGTON HOUSE STEADINGS NR WILKIESTON EDINBURGH EH27 8BB TEL 01506 889900 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

7

Local Buildings and Their Past

By Yvonne MacMillan

W

e have a rich architectural heritage and are spoilt for choice when it comes to delving into our old buildings’ histories. I stuck a pin in a local map and came up with a vanished country house, a centuries-old church and an art nouveau library, all with fascinating stories.

Almondell House

extensive damage to the building in the 1960’s which hastened its end. It was demolished in 1969. In 1971, the estate was officially designated as West Lothian’s first country park.

Almondell Visitor Centre has a photographic display of Almondell House.

Almondell and Calderwood Country Park was once the setting for Almondell House, the country retreat of the Honourable Henry (Harry) Erskine (1746 – 1817), a younger son of the 10th Earl of Buchan. Almondell was then a private estate belonging to the Erskine family and here, in stunning surroundings of woodland and a river valley, Erskine designed and built his mansion in 1786.

Almondell House had a two-storey centre section flanked by pavilion-roofed wings and stood where today the car park for disabled visitors is situated. This is a short distance from the Visitor Centre which occupies the former coach house and stables. Next to this, part of the walled kitchen garden still stands.

Erskine was an outstanding lawyer and politician with a great social conscience and was known as the “poor man’s advocate”. His illustrious career included two spells as Lord Advocate for Scotland, Dean of the Faculty of Advocates and Member of Parliament, first for Fife, and then for Haddington and Dumfries.

But an architect Erskine certainly was not. The building had major flaws in its design and construction. “The roof would not keep the water out,” said his son, “and the foundations would not let it away.” All the same, a young relation of Erskine, Henry David Inglis Esq., always looked forward to holidays at Almondell.

He wrote of the mail coach setting him down (always with his fishing tackle) at Almondell gate, about ¾ mile from the house, and “the beauty of that secluded domain.” And, best of all, a melon from the garden’s melon-bed.

The house and estate remained in the family until the 1950’s. A fire caused

Kirk of Calder A building that has stood the test of time is the 16th century Kirk of Calder in Mid Calder’s Main Street. The church has impressive Gothic, pointed arches and solid Ashlar blocks make up the walls.

These are prepared stonework – dressed or cut. Wonderful stone carvings on the outside walls catch the eye.

Records show a church, St Cuthberts, is believed to have existed on the present site since around 1150 and this was the building Peter Sandilands became rector of in 1526. He was the younger son of the Sandilands family who had been granted the Barony of Calder and large estates in the area in 1348. The head of the family later became Lord Torphichen and acquired the lands of Torphichen Preceptory after the Reformation in 1563.

This led to the church being known as St. John’s for a time. The family seat was (and still is) Calder House.

Sandilands was ambitious and had St. Cuthberts demolished in 1540 to make way for a larger, and more modern replacement which he commissioned, designed and paid for. The present church was built in two stages, the choir

and vestry between 1541 and 1547 to Sandilands’ original design, and the belfry, north and south transepts added in 1863. The transepts lie across the main body of the building turning it into the “T” shape then popular in Scottish churches. The church’s bell is dated 1663 and was recast in 1876. It is still rung today - and the bat colony doesn’t seem to mind!

The church has an intriguing and fascinating history, as colourful as its beautiful, stained glass windows. Holes from Covenanters’ musket shots in the 17th century can be seen in the walls, “witches” were tried here, John Knox came to preach and James Paraffin Young is remembered in one of the church’s stained glass windows. David Livingstone, the missionary and explorer, and the composer Frederick Chopin have all crossed the church’s well-worn threshold.

Visit the Kirk of Calder website at www.kirkofcalder.com

taxes alone would not be enough. But thanks to Andrew Carnegie, the Scot who made his fortune in the steel industry in America, the sum of £2,500 was given to the parish council for the construction of a new building.

The design chosen was by a young Glasgow-based architect, William Baillie.

A grand ceremony to lay the memorial stone took place on 30 July1903 with Mr John Fyfe, managing director of Young’s Paraffin Light and Mineral Oil Company, asked to do the honours. A bottle filled with coins of the realm was placed in the cavity of the memorial stone.

Baillie’s building is full of character and period details with the building work carried out by local firms and tradesmen.

On the outside, red sandstone walls are carved and decorated – the words, ‘poetry’, ‘science’ and ‘history’ carved above the windows. The entrance has an art nouveau-style, curved detailing.

Inside, original cream, green and yellow decorative tiles still line the stair banister, and there are etched glass panels in the large, wood- panelled vestibule. A wrought-iron, spiral staircase links the library to the librarian’s house below.

It was opened on 24th November 1903

by Lord Rosebery, former British Prime Minister; a gold key was used for the ceremony. Great celebrations followed with a wine and cake banquet provided in the library rooms and in the evening a ball was held in the Polytechnic Hall.

For more information see A History of West Calder Library by West Lothian District Council Dept. Of Libraries

West Calder Library West Calder library stands between Main Street and Harburn Road. The Illustrated Architectural Guide to West Lothian calls it “a jewel of a Carnegie Library”. The Public Libraries Act 1853 gave burgh councils the chance to have free public libraries by giving them the powers to raise their local tax rates by 1d in the £ to finance the libraries. The county’s population was small and raising local

Gerard Johnstone (Chiropractor) 183 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EW

10th anniversary celebration SPECIAL CIAL CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR OFFER AVAILABLE AS A GIFT VOUCHER

A course of 6 chiropractic sessions for

£120 (a saving of £65 - this is less than 2001 prices!)

Why not treat someone you love for Christmas or treat yourself by getting fit for the new year.

This limited offer ends on 28th February 2012 Terms and conditions apply

To arrange to purchase or to find out more please call

01506 880444

Payment accepted by cash, cheque or card

Ready for winter?

Give your feet some TLC with a treatment at Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry – your local foot care specialist.

Call now for an appointment

01506 466 006 Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 4 Bankton Square Murieston Livingston EH54 9EY

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UTOPIA HAIR AND BEAUTY 17a Bank Street, Mid Calder, West Lothian utopiahairandbeauty.co.uk

01506 885834

HAIR

BEAUTY Christmas vouchers available Christmas ghds in stock To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Thought for the Month

By Jackie Whigham

Y

our journey through this life time, with all it’s ups and downs, is there to teach you and show you, how to become the best possible version of who you can be.

You become that better version when your stay in conscious contact with the spiritual side of your nature. Spiritual wellness expands within you every time you send a loving thought, word or deed to someone.

The more spiritual you become the brighter your personality shines. And it is from the light that you radiate, that others, especially the young, will look on and want to follow you. They will be drawn to your light - not because of what you say but because of how you are being.

If you observe all life, you will notice that everything goes to the light! A seed

Lynn McDonald BSc, MChS.

34B

East End, West

H 55 er E d l a C

8 AD

PODIATRY/ CHIROPODY CLINIC Please call to discuss your requirements and to make an appointment

Tel: 01506 871 567 NEW PATIENTS WELCOME Professional Podiatry Services and Footcare Advice

buried under the soil will grow towards the sun. If you were in a dark room and someone sparked a match you would move towards the light. Everything and everyone moves towards the light.

It is because we are beings of light we intuitively know we are most nourished by the light!

This Christmas may you shine brightly and lead the way for others, expand you spiritual wellness by contributing kindness into your community for this day and all days.

Merry Christmas :-) Jackie is a Life Coach and Beauty Therapist at Xcite, East Calder. For more information you can reach her at jackiewhigham1@aol.com or on -: 07845239490

Glow this party season

9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB 01506 857717

To help you look your best this Christmas we have some great offers on our cosmetic fillers and deep wrinkle treatments.

With a full understanding of facial anatomy and the ability to give local anaesthetic we can target the specific areas you require in a pain-free manner.

Wrinkle treatments from £99 Fillers from £250 If you would like to know more please contact us

Registered with the Health Professions Council

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Centre for Sport and Exercise Community membership Community membership at Heriot-Watt University’s Centre for Sport & Exercise is available to all.

Membership includes access to all facilities including: Membership

Definition

Price

Community Gold

This membership will allow you unlimited access all of our facilities

£240 per year or £20 per month

This membership will allow you to access any of our facilities for £2.90 per visit between 07.30 and 12.15, 14.15 and 16.15 Mon – Fri and all day at the weekend

£29 per year £2.90 per visit £2.70 per 50+ class

Community Off-Peak

sports ACtive Sports Active provides a comprehensive range of

Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Chiropractor and Sports Science Services A team of professional and dedicated practitioners operate the services of Sports Active and are on hand to provide advice and treatment to get you going again, whether you’re a regular sports participant or just like to keep on the move.

For more information please phone Sports Active reception on 0131 451 8440.

5o+

GoLF ACADemy

Class

Day and Time

Description

Cost

The Centre for Sport & Exercise’s Golf Academy is a state of the art indoor facility open to all members as well as pay as you play users.

50+

Tuesday 09.15 – 10.15

This class is designed to improve your strength, flexibility and stamina

£4.80/class if you don’t have a membership, please see below for further information on membership prices

Moving Wisely

Tuesday 10.30 – 11.30

This class aims to improve your balance and co-ordination

£25 for a 6 week block (13th September – 18th October or 25th October – 29th November)

It includes the following: • 5 driving bays • 2 putting greens • 2 chipping mats • Self contained adjustable bunker Ideal facility for all levels of golfer.

Come rain or shine we are open and you’ll never need your waterproofs.

A brief induction is required in order to access this area – this is bookable at reception.

For more information please phone CSE reception on 0131 451 8400.

www.hw.ac.uk/sports

Charity fund-raiser in Mid Calder

E

very year Linda Bibby’s yoga class members choose a charity to support by their annual fundraising evening. This year they decided to help celebrate their ‘landlords’ Lodge St John’s 275th anniversary year, which was dedicated to ‘Celebrate by Helping Others.’ Funds raised this year are shared equally between the West Lothian Children’s Panel & West Lothian Young Carers.

The 2011 event was held on 26th October, was well attended and was their most successful ever -we raised £406.00!

The evening started with mini therapies including reiki, Indian head massage, facials, nail manicures and massage.

There was a raffle, auction of therapy

vouchers plus teas, coffee and home baking. Thanks to all who supported the evening. Linda would like to thank all the in house therapists, Rhona, Dawn, Annie and Catherine and visiting therapist (Norma Gray a Sports Massage Therapist), and all those who donated treatments for the auction including Barefoot Chiropody & Podiatry and Whole Body Balance. A huge thanks to Annie McLeman for her hand-made cards and to Violet McLeod for her beautiful crochet work.

The biggest thanks of all goes to everyone in the class, who year after year rally round, helping to organise and bringing family and friends. The evening couldn’t go ahead without them.

wholebodybalance INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE | REIKI | RELAXATION We encourage you to try our stress relieving therapies .

Visit our friendly new clinic for all your foot care needs.

We offer a wide range of treatments including:

Routine Footcare Problem & Ingrown Nails Corns, Callous & Verrucae Nail Surgery Biomechanical Assessments Insoles & Orthotics Footwear Advice To book an appointment please call Jackie on:

01506 884321 info@barefootchiropody.co.uk

www.barefootchiropody.co.uk 17 MAIN StReet, MId CAldeR, eH53 0AW

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The Ideal Christmas Gift Treatment Vouchers, the Gift that gives twice! (last minute e-vouchers available online)

01506 884115 & 07742 063080

within the Barefoot Clinic at 17 Main Street, Mid Calder linda@wholebodybalance.co.uk

www.wholebodybalance.co.uk

"Be sunkissed all year round" Mobile Spray Tan Therapist

available evenings & weekends.

Special Rates for Group Bookings

Contact Karen to book a tan bookgot2glow@live.co.uk www.got2glow.co.uk Facebook & Twitter 07583

119639

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Restylane & Deep Wrinkle Treatment Photorejuvenation Eye treatments Manicures & Pedicures Body Treatments Spray Tan Massage Nail Extensions SPECIAL CHRISTMAS OFFERS

Laser hair removal: 6 sessions £109 Nails and spray tanning: call for details 30 Main Street, West Calder

Tel 01506 870330

Livingston Designer Outlet Centre (opposite Vue)

Tel 01506 463661

BEAUTY THERAPY

Open : Mon-Thurs 10am-7.30pm Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm

Don’t just put up with painful feet...

Foot Clinic

Elizabeth Storrie, Foot Care Professional 124 Main St, East Calder, EH53 0HD

Professional treatment for corns • ingrown nails • hard skin hard-to-cut nails Call 01506 883379 for an appointment

Available Mondays & Tuesdays : early, daytime and evening appointments

TJ’S BARBERS 159 MAIN STREET EAST CALDER NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY GENTS £6.50 SENIORS £3.50 £5.50 BOYS

Tues - Fri 9am-5pm Sat 8am-3pm

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Photograph courtesy of Photos by George - 01506 881255

Katherine Hamilton Bridal Gowns

We also have a wide range of prom dresses, evening wear, mother of the bride outfits and accessories Open Sundays

11 Union Square West Calder West Lothian EH55 8EY Tel: 01506 873374 www.katherinehamilton.com

R&I MACDONALD K I LT M A K E R S Kiltmakers for over 60 years Highland dress specialists plus Full Highland dress hire.

We make only full hand sewn kilts of the highest standard.

L V Hair Design Lynn Veitch

Unisex Salon Children Welcome Wed 1/2 Price

45 Main Street, West Calder EH55 8DP Tel/Fax 01506 872678 Email todd@macdonaldkiltmakers.co.uk www.macdonaldkiltmakers.co.uk

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OAP Day Salon closed Mon & Tues Gift Vouchers Available Cuts 路 Colours 路 Perms 路 Styling Hair Extensions & Colour Corrections

Tel: 07525 838721 or 01506 880018 Almondell Garden Centre, Raw Farm, East Calder

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BeDaCra Gifts

SEMI-PERMANENT EYELASH EXTENSIONS

07851 604827

HAVE YOU BEEN EYELASHED YET? DON’T HIDE IN THE DARK! YOUR GORGEOUS EYELASHES ARE HERE...

2 Market Street, Mid Calder

Christmas Gifts

CALL KIRSTEEN TODAY ON 07788 413615 TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT

Personalised Christmas stock & Christmas Decorations Wedding, Birthday, New Baby, Aniversary or just to give a gift

Normal opening hours up to Christmas Eve until 3pm Re-opening Wed 28th Dec 9.30 Opening Times

Mon-Fri 9.30-5 • Wed 9.30-1 • Sat 10-5

Marys’ Patch “The Barn” at Veitchs Garden Centre, East Calder

Tel: 01506 882440

www.maryspatch.co.uk

We stock 2000 bolts of patchwork fabrics, yarns & haberdashery Patchwork/knitting classes NEW OPENING TIMES MON & FRI 10AM-1PM TUES, WED, THURS & SAT 10AM-5PM SUNDAY 11AM-4PM

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Tee Names

Family history column by Maureen McIntyre

T

here is an old Scottish tradition, which is now sadly fading, of naming your children after members of your immediate family.

You may well see some kind pattern in your own family – The eldest son would be named after his paternal grandfather, the second son would be named after his maternal grandfather and the third son would be named after his father and so on.

The eldest daughter would be named after her maternal grandmother, the second daughter would be named after her paternal grandmother and the third would be named after her mother and so on.

As you can imagine this would lead to great confusion – at family get-togethers you would have grandparents, fathers, sons and cousins all with the same forename.

This tradition, however, is a handy ‘tool’ when researching your family tree - if you start to see different names appearing in your tree it would be worthwhile double checking to make sure that you have not made an error and were following the wrong family.

In my tree I have six John Henderson’s who would have all known each other, they all lived in the same area and all attended the same church!

In many of the smaller communities throughout Scotland, ‘nick-names’ or ‘teenames’ are commonly used but although

Tee Names Recorded ALDIE ARTHURS SON BALONE HOCKS SANDY BUCHAN CHAMPIE CHAMPION DOUTY FELLOW GASHIE JOCKIES SON

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Valuation Rolls JOHN BALONES SON JOHNS SON JUMBLER JUNIOR MAGGS SON NIP NONNIE NONNIES SON ONAK OUZIE

this may have avoided confusion at the time the practice has created many a headache for the family tree researcher. I have mentioned in previous articles the Valuation Rolls, which recorded the owner, tenant and occupier of each piece of property in Scotland from 1855 – 1955. The assessors who recorded the information had to be very thorough as the person named was the one who was sent the bill for taxes due. Because of this the rolls contain many Tee names and they make fascinating reading.

The exact origins of many of these teenames have been lost, although some of those recorded in the Valuation Rolls in Argyle-shire would appear to be Gaelic, - there are many Og’s and Mhor’s - Og means young and Mhor means big. Some of the names are straight-forward and it is easy to understand why they have been used – for example Weavers Son and Johns Son but I would love to know why someone was known as Balone Hocks Sandy (see table) I have done a lot of research into Tee Names and if anyone would like to know more about them please contact me and I will be happy to help.

If you are just starting your tree, or having problems with any of your branches, please email me at rootsandbranches@hotmail. co.uk and I will endeavour to help.

1885 PANT PARK ELDER PARKS PETER PETERS SON PETTS JOHNNY ROBBIE ROBBIES SON ROTTY SAUNDERS SKIPPERS SON

St Combs, Aberdeen TONTIE WAKIE WEAVERS SON WILLIAMIE WILLIAMS SON WINKIE

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Tile-a-ramic

EPH

Specialist in ceramic, mosaic, porcelain & natural stone on walls and floors Under floor heating supplied & fitted

SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount

Alan McChesney

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

QUOTE KONECT

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT 01506 882 643

contact@ephltd.co.uk www.ephscotlandltd.co.uk 23 Bank Street Mid Calder EH53 0AS

Tel: 01506 871030 Mob: 07841 523624 www.tile-a-ramic.co.uk

Free estimates. All work guaranteed and fully insured

G BEATSON ELECTRICAL Currie

Free Estimates Tel: 0131 466 0214 Mob: 07732 866 983

123871

LB250

TELEPHONE ENGINEER New sockets fitted for phone, internet or sky •••• Removal of unsightly old wiring and sockets •••• Repair to internal phone and broadband faults •••• Old style phones converted to work on UK sockets I CAN SUPPLY AND INSTALL Easy to use big button amplified hearing aid compatible phone with hands free calling •••• Loud audio phone ringers with flash indicators

Free estimates – no call out charge

Contact John McGraw Tel : 0131 555 1314 Mob : 07771 927796

Email: gbeatsonelectrical@hotmail .co.uk

1st Call Handyman Services “No job too big or too small”

Joinery Decking Plumbing Kitchens designed & fitted Flat pack furniture Underfloor heating

Call Ian Mitchell now m 0780 678 7514 t 01506 203994 e mitch.i@hotmail.co.uk 21 Castle Crescent East Calder

Free estimates

ALL AREAS – PROMPT - RELIABLE To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

19

£20 off FU

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* £20 discount only applicable to bookings over £100 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Offer only available through ChipsAway Franchisee Name until 31st January 2011.

Please produce advert at time of estimate.

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L

FU

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Family business established over 40 years

EDINBURGH’S BEST selection of

USED VANS All makes and models OPENING HOURS

Mon - Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm Sat 8.30 - 2.00pm

Part exchange welcome Licensed credit broker Full dealer facilities

All major credit cards accepted

VOSA - Approved MOT Centre

Class 4,5 & 7 for cars, vans, campervans and minibuses All servicing and repair work carried out Same day service All makes and models Fleets welcome SERVICING • Tyres • Exhaust • Clutches • Batteries • Diagnostics Short walk from Heriot Watt University (Riccarton Campus) opposite park and ride on A71 Calder Road

0131 449 4098 07771 998546 or 07860 619850 sales@hermistonmotor.co.uk

www.hermistonmotor.co.uk 17 Hermiston Village, Edinburgh, EH14 4AW

S R S HE A C le b XM OU aila v V a FT w

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Elite Auto Care Prestige Car Valet and Detailing Service

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Prices: Elite: £40 Elite Plus: £75 Prestige: £125 Prestige Plus: £150 Call NOW for more details ■ Loyalty Scheme and Pick-up/Delivery service Unit 18, Camps Industrial Estate, East Calder, EH27 8DF

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227150

e-mail rimackinnon@hotmail.co.uk 22

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A71 HOT FOAM WASH Elmbank, Wilkieston, EH27 8DT

Winter under body steam cleaning from £16 by appointment call: 07879 644916 Pre winter car check including tyre pressure, anti-freeze checks and screen wash top ups from £10

All car wash prices include wheels.

Prices: £5.00 car Opening hours £6.00 4x4 £7.00 MPV 7 Days Make your car smile! £8.00 van 10am-4pm £1.00 extra for hot wax Find us on the A71 between East Calder B7015 & Wilkieston B7030

KIRKNEWTON GARAGE 1 - 3 Main Street

RECOVERY ANYWHERE IN WEST LOTHIAN ONLY £40

M.O.T’S £35.00

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

•CARS & VANS •SERVICING SERVICING EXHAUSTS TOP PRICES •EXHAUSTS PAID FOR M.O.T. FAILURES •WELDING • SCRAP CARS WANTED - FREE UPLIFT

ESTABLISHED 1950

FULL ENGINE SERVICE FROM BARRY’S TYRES

£65

PRICE INCLUDES FITTING 175x70x13........£21 165x70x14........£23 205x65x15........£30 195x60x15........£30 215x60x15........£35 205x50x16........£40 215x40x17........£49 225x40x18........£60 225x35x18........£70 175x14x8PLY......£33

TYRES FITTED FROM £10

Tel: 01506 885566

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

23

New showroom at Colin Nixon’s

W

hen it’s time to replace your car, navigating your way through the second hand car market can be a daunting experience; so many sellers - online and off; seemingly good cars that develop problems after a few miles, and the dealers who aren’t too interested in after sales care. What you really need is an honest person to sell you a good car at a fair price, and so much the better if they are local...

Luckily, we have such a business right here in East Calder. You may have noticed some changes recently as you drive past the car showroom on the main road through East Calder - next door to Colin Nixon’s garage. Colin Nixon has recently expanded his business to incorporate the adjacent showroom. Colin has invested heavily in a complete refurbishment inside and out, and has launched his own car sales business.

The new showroom is bright and airy and illustrates Colin’s commitment to the type of business he has run for twenty five years. Along with his (friendly and efficient) team, he brings the same honesty, integrity and customer service to his car sales that he is well-known for in his vehicle repair business There is a carefully selected range of cars in the new showroom. Rather than stock a huge range of vehicles - which can sometimes be a little overwhelming when you’re looking for a car - Colin and his team have already done an initial selection process, and you can be confident 24

when you enter the showroom that the only cars in there have been chosen for their quality, low mileage and for the good value they represent. If you are looking for something specific or at a specific price, at Colin Nixon’s they will offer to source this for you.

All the cars on sale have, of course, been put through Colin’s stringent pre sales service. Colin says, “We’re confident that we can offer better quality, better prepared vehicles than franchise dealers, at a lower price.”

In fact he is so confident of this that many of the vehicles come with a twelve month warranty, which is unusual for second hand cars.

Customer service, in the showroom as well as in the garage, is based on old-fashioned values. They are friendly and approachable and look after their customers well with the majority returning year after year for their car care. Indeed at Colin’s garage, rather than charging for your winter car “check up” (to get your anti-freeze checked or your tyres pumped up), this is just part of the service for all his regular customers.

They can also offer a collection and delivery service for you if you live in the immediate area (East Calder and Kirknewton customers).

So if you’re in the market for a car, make sure you call in and see what Colin Nixon has to offer first; you may well find that you don’t need to go any further.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

25

Visit our showroom at

We offer an extensive range of curtains, blinds and accessories and provide expert and friendly advice on all window dressings.

Our expertise covers: Huge range of curtains vertical, roller, roman, pleated, velux, wooden blinds, conservatory blinds intu blinds

Call free 0800 0837071

Unit 10 Abbotsford Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6QD

Perfect Fit blinds

www.stylerite-blinds.co.uk

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

Do you want your Christmas dinner to taste like everything else you’ve cooked this year?

Or would you prefer it to taste fresh and perfectly cooked in an Alba cleaned oven?

For a free quotation on our services beat the rush and book your oven clean in time for Christmas. Call us now on 01506 410530. www.albaovencleaning.co.uk 26

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

E

R

E NT

L SA

I

W

of Bathgate Ltd

WINTER SALE NOW ON Huge savings on furniture, beds and H floor coverings Many ex display items half price Friendly personal service FREE DELIVERY INTEREST FREE CREDIT AVAILABLE Terms and conditions apply

GRANT’S OF BATHGATE 74 North Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 4PP

Tel : 01506 633286 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

www.grantsofbathgate.co.uk 27

Property management service to landlords & tenants

0131 449 4858 07825 737 846 mail@khproperty.co.uk www.khproperty.co.uk

The

K nect direory O

“A very Merry Christmas to all our readers and advertisers.”

Please contact Jenny on 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Helen-Jane on 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk.

28

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

LOG CABINS • PLAY EQUIPMENT • GATES • FENCING • DECKING • FIREWOOD

Keep your family warm this winter.

We now cater for your winter fuel needs.

Black Diamond Smokeless Coal 20kg £7.00 Bord Na Mona Peat Briquettes (24 per pack) £3.50 Heat Logs Wood Briquettes (6 per pack) £2.50 Hardwood Logs per bag £4.00 Delivery Available All prices include vat

SPECIAL OFFERS

Jungle Gym - Special Reduced Prices Order NOW for Christmas

Products (Scotland) Ltd

Unit 17, Camps Industrial Estate, East Calder, EH27 8DF

Tel: 01506 238115

Email: mail@woodfordtimberproducts.co.uk www.woodfordtimber.com

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

29

Stroll in Howden Park

By Karen Murray

T

here are times when you really want peace and solitude when walking and you search out somewhere untrodden or at least somewhere where you might not meet the world and its Grandmother.

However, other times you just want to walk - stretch the legs, breath some relatively fresh air and simply exercise.

Many of us like to fit in a walk just whenever we can.

I work close to where I live and yet I generally drive there due to lack of time. There are days though when I just feel I really need to walk. I also try and grab opportunities when they arise and therefore when doing my bit as a school parent helper and taking some children to the Howden Park Centre, I decided to make use of the spare 45 minutes and get in some leg stretching, but where would I wander?

It turned out to be easy. Signposts for paths to everywhere hit me as soon as walked out of the centre and I headed along the tree-lined path to the Civic Centre. From there, there were numerous options, but I took a left on the path bordering the River Almond and heading East toward Mid Calder. This path is interspersed with a predominance of benches but as I was out for some exercise and on a time limit, I swept past, enjoying the red and gold of the autumn leaves and the freshness of the river sweeping by.

The pathway has at one time had some loving care and attention spent upon it but the interesting pieces of infrastructure such as wooden arches for flowers to grow over, have unfortunately seen better days.

Nonetheless, ignore the graffiti and

30

the foliage is still pretty as the autumn colours bring cheer. The path continues alongside the river all the way to Mid Calder and beyond but it branches off in various places. I took a left up a small car park off Howden South Road, then along the pavement back to the Civic Centre but this time crossing the road opposite Howden Park.

Paths criss-cross the park area but the main items of interest are of an artistic nature. The large-scale sculpture is called ‘Florum Cultura’ by award winning artist Michael Visocchi and comprises four large steel geometric shapes which link with a wall panel inside the Howden Park Centre.

It is a pleasant stroll through the park until you come across Howden House, the original Georgian mansion house whose stable block has been transformed into the wonderful arts centre, while the house has been utterly neglected.

Again however, there is a positive note.

The walled garden behind the house has been unveiled from beneath the undergrowth by a lot of hard work over the last couple of years under the ‘Green Gym’ project, run by the BTCV which organises the restoration of such places like this ‘secret garden’ by using volunteers to get themselves fit by working out in the garden.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

This particular place does give the peaceful tranquil outlook you may aspire to for your walking so a perfect way to finish off an urban stroll and it brought me back to the Arts Centre in time for picking up the children.

Time well spent!

I think you could take any one of the many paths around the Centre and find an interesting walk, be that ‘mall walking’, urban pathways or riverside ambles.

BABERTON GOLF CLUB Special 2012 Offers on Midweek and Young Adult Memberships from November 2011

Midweek Membership. Play Mon-Fri, £540 with NO ENTRY FEE Young Adult (Age 18-30) Membership. From £252 with NO ENTRY FEE Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

Number of places are limited so to book your discounted trial round (£10) and for further details phone :

Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri ■ Pro shop on 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun email: manager@baberton.co.uk website: www.babertongolfclub.com Be part of the changing face of golf at Baberton!

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

31

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS & CRUISES SANTA CRUISES December dates

Sat 3rd & Sun 4th • Sat 10th & Sun 11th • Sat 17th - Sat 24th

HOGMANAY FAMILY SUPPER 5PM - Drinks and Magician

HOGMANAY CELEBRATION DINNER 8PM - Dinner & Entertainment

The Bridge Inn at Ratho, 27 Baird Road, Ratho, Midlothian EH28 8RU Email: info@bridgeinn.com or call 0131 333 1320

www.bridgeinn.com 32

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Sky Kitchen

The

CHINESE RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY

Unit 6 Calder Drive, East Calder (On the B7015 next to Bargain Motors)

Home Delivery Service

01506 885115 Telephone Orders Welcome

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

EVERYDAY FROM 4.30pm - 11.00pm

“BRING YOUR OWN WINE”

OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY 2PM - 8PM Bookings now being taken

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

33

34

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Plan-It

Chartered Building Surveyors Plan-It provide architectural services to home owners & businesses throughout Edinburgh and West Lothian.

We are happy to help in the following areas:



        

 

 

Architectural Services Planning Permission Building Warrants Project Management Licence Applications We specialise in extensions and alterations



 

  

                      John Nothard  Property Repair Service   • Electrical solutions  and home sellers electrical Test Certificates • Landlord • Annual electrical testing and certification  

 







For a complimentary consultation please contact Bruce on

01506 884216 www.plan-it-design.co.uk

TML Decor Award Winning Decorators · Painting & Decorating · Wallpaper Hanging · Ames Taping · Artexing & Removal · Coving & Cornice · Internal & External · Drywall Lining · Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiling · Full Garage Conversions

For a First Class Job & Free Estimate call Thomas on: t: 01506 494295 m: 07956 061899 e: tmldecor@blueyonder.co.uk www.tmldecor.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638



• Portable appliance testing

Mobile 07977 685656 email: propertyselec@aol.com

Domestic, commercial and agricultural Free estimates • Professional and reliable service

Joinery | Painting | Tiling | Sash Window Repairs etc

‘No job too small’...we will even change a light bulb.

Kris Keegan Proprietor

Kris Keegan Proprietor 9 Rosehill Place t. 07988 682 609 t. 07988 682 609e. info@westlothianhandyman.co.uk Eliburn, Livingston e. info@westlothianhandyman.co.uk EH54 7DW w. www.westlothianhandyman.co.uk w.www.westlothianhandyman.co.uk

35

Petsearch West Lothian

P

etsearch West Lothian is a voluntary organisation whose aim is to get help for all animals and caged birds that are lost in the West Lothian catchment area. It is part of a national network of volunteers reuniting lost pets with their owners.

If you have either lost a pet or found an animal which appears lost or distressed, visit the Petsearch website at www.petsearchwestlothian. co.uk and fill in a form, or call them on 01506 870305. They will try to match the reports so that pets can be reunited with their owners. They maintain a list on their website of lost and found pets.

Petsearch is not a charity, but a voluntary organisation where the volunteers know firsthand what it is like to lose a pet to a motor vehicle or never to be found.

The helpline is run entirely voluntarily and no charge is made for Petsearch services.

Donations are gratefully received to cover administrative overheads i.e. telephone bills, stationery, petrol and cat food/ litter for overnight stays.

Medium ad,

BIG impact K nect re rer ry r y

The The

Diploma of excellence in dog handling ATDB certified in dog/puppy training New Hydro/Spa bath Therapeutic treatment Local pick up and drop off service Personal, one to one attention of your dog Professionally trained City & Guilds Qualified

To be included, please call Jenny on 07824 469266 or email jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk 100 Overton Crescent, East Calder EH53 0RH

www.scruffbusters.co.uk

36

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Need a regular dog walker?

Worried about your dog’s socialisation?

Minimum 45 minute daily walk in a country environment Pick up and drop off to your home Fully insured and disclosed

Call Ian on 07828 158644 ian@walkurdog.co.uk www.walkurdog.co.uk

Dog Walking: Free P/U within 3 miles E. Calder Pet Supplies: Reasonably priced pet food, free delivery within 3 miles E. Calder

Online Pet Shop: Toys & grooming products www.pawsdontpausedogwalkingservice.com

louise@westlothianpetsitters.co.uk www.westlothianpetsitters.co.uk

07591 351 789

FUR & FEATHERS PET LODGE Going on holiday?

We provide boarding at our home for all small pets & birds:

Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, ferrets, mice, rats, cage birds, fish, poultry, hens etc.

Pick up / Delivery service

At our pet lodge based in Kirknewton, on the A71, we aim to keep your pets healthy and happy while you are away.

Bookings now being taken for Christmas / New Year

01506 885775 - 07740 203254 info@furandfeatherspetlodge.co.uk www.furandfeatherspetlodge.co.uk

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

37

A real proper Christmas Tree

T

here is a huge array of glittery and different coloured artificial Christmas trees available in the shops, but there’s nothing quite like a real Christmas tree, with its needles and wonderful aroma – and so much the better if it’s purchased from a local supplier!

Buying a real tree is generally better for the environment than a plastic one.

Even if you re-use your plastic tree for many years, being made primarily from PVC it will hang around in landfill for centuries. A crop of Christmas trees will be absorbing CO2 as they grow, and tend to be cultivated without a lot of chemical fertilisers or pesticides. Buy a locally or at least a British-grown tree rather than one that has been transported from Europe.

• The Norway Spruce (Picea abies) is the traditional Christmas tree. It has dark green pointed needles which can be a little prickly, but its unmistakable aroma will remind you of traditional Christmases, and it tends to be lowest priced. It does tend to drop its needles, however, so if you can’t stand mess it might be better to go for one of the other species.

• The Scots pine is now a regular option as a Christmas tree, and with its long paired blue-green needles it’s quite distinctive. The needles are fairly densely packed on the branches and they hold quite well.

• The Nordman Fir (Abies nordmanniana) has a pleasing symmetrical shape, with mid-green soft needles. It is quite wide so you need space to be able show its shape off to best advantage.

• The Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri) has soft deep green foliage. Holds its needles well, and has a lovely Christmassy perfume!

Choosing a good tree and looking after it properly will ensure it stays fresh and fragrant throughout the festive season.

Don’t buy a cut tree too early as the 38

longer they hang around after they’ve been cut, the more likely they are to go downhill. The needles need to be free from pests and diseases - anything yellowed or inclined to shed, or with white fluffy bits should be avoided; buying a tree that has already been netted makes it a lucky dip.

If you do buy one early, keep it outside with the base in a bucket of water. If it was in a net when you bought it, remove this as it’s important for air to circulate around the needles. Before bringing it in, bang the base on the ground to remove any loose needles. Re-cut the end of the trunk and make sure that you use a stand with a water reservoir with water levels topped up daily. Avoid putting your tree too close to a radiator or fire as it will dry out too much and the needles will drop.

When it’s time for the tree to come down, make sure you recycle it – they’re not the easiest thing to recycle or compost at home, but West Lothian council usually offers a tree recycling service.

An alternative to a cut tree is to buy a real tree in a pot with its roots intact.

This way, after Christmas it can be planted out in your garden (acclimatise it gradually by putting in a greenhouse or other sheltered spot first) or re-potted into a larger pot and kept for next Christmas!

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

RICCARTON GARDEN CENTRE Riccarton Main Rd, Currie, EH14 5AA (between Hariot Watt Uni and Currie)

NOW IN STOCK . .CHRISTMAS TREES TRADITIONAL SPRUCE, NORDMAN (non needle drop), POT GROWN (alive) START FROM ÂŁ20

ALL UNDERCOVER - Choose your tree early and collect it or have it delivered when it suits you (small delivery fee applies)

Now Available WREATHS, POINSETTIAS, WINTER PLANTERS, CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS, and lots more...

IN STOCK NOW! SNOW SHOVELS ROCK SALT SCRAPERS

Tel: 0131 449 4004

10% OFF ANY CHRISTMAS TREE WITH THIS VOUCHER (1 VOUCHER PER TREE)

COMPLIMENTARY TEA OR COFFEE WITH THIS VOUCHER

(1 VOUCHER PER PERSON)

Be your own boss Our local eco-friendly business wants independent, hardworking individuals to share and promote natural and organic products.

Create a second income whilst having a positive impact on the environment.

- Be your own boss - Work from home - Choose your own hours - Rewards offered for hard work - Full training and support - You will love it For more information visit

www.wikanikowithcarla.com To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Wikaniko with Carla independent distributor ID 1004414

Contact Carla 07790 103770 wikanikowithcarla@gmail.com 39

B EDWARDS TILING SPECIALIST LOCAL WALL AND FLOOR TILER

All aspects of tiling undertaken including Kitchens, Bathrooms & Conservatories Using ceramics, porcelain, natural stone & mosaics

Brown’s Plumbing Plumbing – Heating – Gasworks

From tap washers to re-plumbs We undertake all plumbing work

0131 478 5356 07720 890 226 Free estimates

Braekirk Decorator’s

First class decorator

Professional & friendly service

For a free estimate call Barry Mobile: 07944 176663 Home: 01506 432159

64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton, EH27 8BL

Interior and Exterior work Wallpaper hanging

Call Willie Jamieson 07779 186298 maryjamieson64@googlemail.com

A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

40

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Professional property services… make sure they’re on your list, this Christmas Looking to buy, sell or rent your property?

Call Mavor & Co on 01506 870204.

Pat Mavor • Free valuations • Competitive fees • Independent property advice • Full property management services

By choosing Mavor & Co – a qualified member of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and a member of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) – you can be sure you are dealing with an experienced and professional agency.

Seasons Greetings and a Happy New Year from Mavor & Co. Telephone: Mobile:

01506 870204 07729 470093

www.mavorproperty.co.uk patmavor@mavorproperty.co.uk

J & A Hastie & Son Coal Merchants

Bank Park, Hartwood Road, West Calder EH55 8LB

01506 871358 VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

FOR OUR NEW BIGGER RANGE OF FIRES, BACKBOILERS, MULTI FUEL STOVES, PARTS & ACCESSORIES

NOW STOCKING Meg -

Inset & Freestanding Fires

Stratford -

Central Heating Fires & Back Boiler Stoves HOT BLOCKS Wood briquettes To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

41

Prize Crossword

Win a hamper of local and other produce, put together by the Konect Directory

Across

1

1. Used for measuring (4) 3. Goes before (8) 9. Against (7) 10. Removes sensation (5) 11. Immediate environment (12) 14. Uncooked (3) 16. Edition (5) 17. To colour (3) 18. Very keen (12) 21. Not dead (5) 22. European country (7) 23. Simultaneously (8) 24. Happy (4)

Down 1.

2.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Item of clothing (8) Writing material (5) Stick, cane (3) SigniďŹ cant (12) Broken (7) Type of window (4) Amazement (12)

2

3

4

5

6

7

8 9

10

11

12 13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20 21

22

23

24

12. Birds dwellings (5) 13. Received gladly (8) 15. Not losing (7)

19. Spin around (5) 20. Sour (4) 22. Farewell (3)

Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 15th December, 2011.

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 52

42

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

OAKBANK GARAGE SERVICES • and Buick is a newly established consultancy • Buick Coand is aCo newly established taxtax consultancy practice offering a wide range of services. practice offering a wide range of services.

• Based in Balerno and well placed to cover Edinburgh, • Based in Balerno and well placed to cover Edinburgh, West Lothian, Glasgow and the central belt.

West Lothian, Glasgow and the central belt.

• We specialise in taxin advice for for thethe older person, and • We specialise tax advice older person, and new businesses. new businesses.

• Our•taxOur tax return service starts from just £75 and as we return service starts from just £75 and as we are not VAT registered, we do not charge VAT. are not VAT registered, we do not charge VAT.

• Our services include: •

Our services include:

PHC or Taxi test due?

Car failed its MOT? Worried about the cost?

Ring Jim or Callum

and see if we can help All parts used fully guaranteed

MOT FAILURES AND SCRAP CARS WANTED

CALL JIM OR CALLUM

TEL: 01506 885662 MOBILE: 07775 638887

• Personal Tax, Business Tax, Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains•TaxPersonal Tax, Business Tax, Inheritance Tax and Capital advice; Gains Tax advice;

• Personal, Corporate and Trust Tax Return Completion;

•

Licensed Tattoo Studio

Personal, Corporate and Trust Tax Return Completion;

• Small Annual Accounts, Payroll and VAT Returns.

Small Annual Accounts, Payroll and VAT Returns.

• We offer a collection and drop off service for tax and

accounts information if required.

• We offer a collection and drop off service for tax and accounts information if required.

• Our mission is to provide our clients with a quality

personal service at a competitive rate.

• Our mission is to provide our clients with a quality • Get in touch for a FREE initial consultation. personal service at a competitive rate.

• Get in touch for a FREE initial consultation.

Buick & Co. Bavelaw Road. Balerno. Edinburgh. EH14 7AE. T: 0131 623 0488 E: info@buickandco.net W: buickandco.net Buick & Co. Bavelaw Road. Balerno. Edinburgh. EH14 7AE. T: 0131 623 0488

E: info@buickandco.net W: buickandco.net •

153a Main Street, East Calder

To Book an Appointment call Charlie Tel: 07825 813461 Ê

AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or email- akt.blue@blueyonder.co.uk

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

43

December Recipes and Food Notes

By Anne Pinkerton

Y

ou may just have missed “Stir-UpSunday”, the last Sunday before Advent so named because of a line in one of the church service readings usually associated with that day. Stir-Up-Sunday has been the traditional day to make Christmas puddings. All the family used to be asked to help mix the ingredients and stir in their good wishes for the people with whom the puddings would be shared - but it’s not too late to cook and store some delicious foods for Christmas.

It’s always a pleasure to make and receive gifts of handmade food, sweets, chutney or other eatables so this month I suggest several things easily made at home and some even youngish children might like to help you make. There is still time to make the Scottish Hogmanay Cloutie-Dumpling and even a Christmas pudding if you are quick.

Boxing-Day Chutney

Method Put the dried fruit to soak in the orange juice to soak overnight if possible, otherwise a couple of hours.

Put all the fresh ingredients in a jelly pan or other large pan and cook over a low heat until the onions are see-through and the cranberries have made the mixture pale pink. Add the soaked dried fruit, any remaining orange juice and the sugar. Bring slowly to a simmering boil stirring often, to prevent the mixture sticking or burning, and cook until the chutney is thick and syrupy. It will still be a pretty pink colour, if it goes brown it is either over cooked or it was not stirred enough and “caught”.

Let the mixture cool a little. Put into warm, clean jars, seal and cover. This is ready to eat, but it is best after a couple of weeks and will keep for 6 months. Add your own or family drawn label and tie some attractive cloth over the lid and it will look too good to give away.

This attractive looking chutney gets its name because it is just what you need to liven up cold ham and turkey eaten on Boxing Day. Add a baked potato and a chicory salad you have a meal to come home to after a walk.

Fresh ingredients 2lb Bramley apples peeled cored and rough chopped 2lb onions, red or white, peeled and fine sliced 1x 12 oz./340gm packet fresh cranberries 2 pints cider vinegar Zest 2 oranges 1 oz. fresh root ginger peeled and finely chopped 1 table spoon salt, sea salt is good but not essential 1 tea spoon ground mixed spice Dried ingredients 2lb dried apricots roughly chopped 6oz stoned dates roughly chopped 1 lb. raisins 1 pint orange Juice, include the juice from the zested oranges 2lb granulated sugar

44

Peppermint creams

These can be fun for young helpers!

Ingredients 250 gm. icing sugar sifted twice or make sure there are no lumps White of 1 large egg A few drops of good quality peppermint essence A drop or 2 green food colour.

Method In a bowl whisk the egg white and slowly add the icing sugar till you have a very 

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DICKSONS FARM SHOP

16 Raw Holdings, East Calder Xmas Opening Fri 23rd 9.30-6pm New Year Opening Fri 30th 10-4

Re-Open Sat 5th Jan

Just Off The A71

Opening Times Saturdays 9:30-4:30 Sundays 10:00-3:00

Thank you to all our customers Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

LOOK OUT FOR THE BIG CARROT SELLING A WIDE RANGE OF VEGETABLES GROWN ON SITE

Freshly baked bread

Fresh local organic produce delivered to your door

Vegetables * Fruit * Milk * Eggs & Wholefoods SPECIAL OFFER:

First standard vegetable box for £8.50 (normal price £11.50) FREE DELIVERY To order or for more information contact: bags@thewholeshebag.com or call: 01501 785436 or check out

Organic, rye, French and Italian breads straight from the oven

Tearoom

Homemade lunches & cakes baked on the premises

Breadmaking school coming soon !

www.thewholeshebag.com

Located inside Almondell Garden Centre, East Calder

Tel 01506 885572 SOPA Membership S14 Organic Membership UK3 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Open 7 days 10.00am - 4.30pm 45

December Recipes and Food Notes (cont.)

By Anne Pinkerton

 stiff mixture. Add the peppermint essence and mix again; you may need a little more icing sugar to keep the consistency really stiff.

Sift a little more icing-sugar onto the work surface and roll out the mixture till it is ¼ inch 6mm thick. Cut circles and place in a cool dry place on a rack to dry. You might need to put silicon paper on your wire rack to prevent any marks. If you like after half the mixture is cut out you can add a tiny amount of green colour to the cream and firm up as before with a little more sifted icing sugar. When boxed together the two colours look lovely. You can even drip melted chocolate over the finished creams.

Last but by no means least…

Cloutie Dumpling There are many different personal and family recipes but they share the same cooking method which gives the pudding its name. It is simmered in a cloth or clout.

The proportions and usually similar but exact weights are not vital.

Ingredients 500gm. Plain white flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 175gm. White bread crumbs ½ teaspoon salt 250gm sultanas 2 teaspoons each cinnamon, mixed spice and ground ginger 250gm currants 125gm.raisins 250gm black treacle 125gm chopped mixed peel 2 eggs 125gm soft brown sugar Zest and juice of an orange and a lemon 250gm suet 2 each grated cooking apples and carrots Milk to mix

46

Method In a large bowl mix all the dry ingredients together. Mix the liquids together and add to the bowl of dry ingredients using enough milk to give a soft consistency. Everyone can help just as with Christmas pudding!

Have ready a clean, scolded, square of white cotton cloth. Dust it with some white flour and pile the mixture on the cloth.

Draw the corners together and loosely tie with string leaving space for expansion but not leaving any holes from which the pudding can escape as it swells.

In a large pan of simmering water place a metal plate and put the pudding in the pot to cook. The water should come ¾ way up the dumpling. Simmer for 3 hours checking the water level now and then. You can cook the dumpling in a buttered ovenproof basin. To turn out a cloth cooked dumping you need to dip it in cold water for a moment to stop it sticking, turn it in to a bowl and then invert the bowl onto a plate. Dry it off in the oven. Sprinkle with sugar and serve with custard or thick cream.

Any left-overs can be fried and eaten with bacon.

These are only a few food ideas for sharing.

You can make oatcakes, shortbread, lemon curd, truffles, tablet, candied fruit, herb jelly, pate, sloe gin or gingerbeer. Whatever you make if you enjoy its manufacture then your friends will enjoy receiving it. Have a happy holiday.

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Christmas Postal Dates LAST RECOMMENDED POSTING DATES UK

SERVICE

LAST SERVICE RECOMMENDED POSTING DATES INTERNATIONAL AIRMAIL

Wed 14th Dec

Standard Parcels

Sat 17th Dec

Second Class and Recorded Signed for™

Monday 5th December

Tue 20th Dec

First Class and Recorded Signed for™

South & Central America, Caribbean, Africa, Middle East, Asia, Far East (including Japan), Australia and New Zealand

Friday 9th December

Eastern Europe, USA and Canada

Monday 12th December

Western Europe

Wed 21st Dec

Parcelforce express 48

Thurs 22nd Dec

Parcelforce express 24 Special Delivery ™

Fri 23rd Dec

Special Delivery™ with Saturday Guarantee

Scout Post 2011 in West Calder and Polbeth The 18th West Lothian Scout Group will be delivering Christmas post in West Calder and Polbeth for a cost of 20p per card to any West Calder or Polbeth address.

Boxes to deposit cards are in West Church Hall, Polbeth Church, West Calder Library or may be handed in to Library House, Harburn Road, West Calder by the 18th December.

Cards will be delivered week commencing 19th December.

Bombay Spice Indian Restaurant

79 Main Street, West Calder, EH55 8EB

01506 872215 01506 872722 OPENING HOURS 4pm-11pm 7 DAYS A WEEK

FULLY LICENCED

DELIVERY HOURS 4pm-10pm 7 DAYS A WEEK

Sunday Special Family Buffet

£8.50 per person Children under 10 free (with an adult) 1pm-9pm All Day Eat as much as you can!

TAKEAWAY AND HOME DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE

Free pick-up & drop-off service

when you reserve a table Mon-Thurs for 2 or 4 people Fri & Sat for 4 people only 6 mile radius maximum

2 Course Meal + Bottle Wine for 2 people £25.95 only Mon-Thurs

(eating in only) valid until 31st Jan 2011 with this advert

www.bombayspicelivingston.co.uk 48

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

10% DISCOUNT ON ALL ORDERS With this Voucher

Must state this offer before ordering!

(Excludes all Set Meals) Please cut out

Chinese Cuisine to takeaway

11 Bank Street, Mid Calder, Livingston EH53 0AS delivery service available

01506 88 47 30

130 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0HD

01506 881896

info@thegrapeseastcalder.co.uk www.thegrapeseastcalder.co.uk

Christmas Menu 1st-24th December 3 course ÂŁ17.95 Weekly Entertainment: 2 Course ÂŁ14.95 Tuesday: Poker Kids 1/2 price Thursday: Pub Quiz Saturday: Free play Jukebox night or live entertainment Sunday: Open Mic nights every 2nd week

Hogmanay - Live Entertainment!

Buy your tickets from December To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

49

Mega Maze!

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33 75

CATHY BIRD DANCERS Adult Line Dance Class Come and join in our (instructor Cathy Bird FUKA Ltd) Line Dance Xmas Party East Calder Pigeon Club on Friday 9th Dec 2011 on Monday Evenings 7.30pm till late... at the Pigeon Club Beginners 7pm Old and new members welcome !!!!

Improvers 8pm

Tel: 07809 423592

email: cathy.gb@gmail.com www.cathybirdhighlanddance.co.uk

Advanced 9pm Come along and give it a try New members welcome

Cathy and all her Highland & Line Dancers would like to wish you all a

Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year ...Keep Dancing

Michael Cochrane Piano Tuition

Experienced teacher (10+ years), classical, easy listening, jazz, hymns, etc.

Presentation for ABRSM exams Excellent pass record

Phone Michael on 07851 825610 33 Staunton Rise, Dedridge West, Livingston, EH54 6PB

by Ba

S e n so r

y

Rich and varied experiences to help your baby develop in every way

Come and

join us

Classes for Babies from birth to 13 months Classes run throughout Edinburgh, NEW CLASSES being held in Honey Pot Ceramics in EICA Ratho.

Tuesday 10-10.40am.

Emma-Louise Beeson

0781 886 3334

edinburghcentral@babysensory.co.uk

www.babysensory.com

With this advert you may attend a FREE trial class or receive 10% off a Block Booking of 10 classes!

Michael Cochrane Maths Tuition PROFESSIONAL HIGH QUALITY HIGHLAND DANCE WEAR

Maths graduate teacher with 10+ years experience, tuition at higher, advanced higher, standard grade, intermediate levels, etc. One-to-one tuition.

Phone 07851825610. 33 Staunton Rise, Dedridge West, Livingston, EH54 6PB.

Primary Maths Tuition phone Elizabeth Cochrane retired primary teacher, 40 years experience on 01506 536140.

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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 and arrange collection to avoid postal costs!

Please contact us at

staff@highlanddanceshop.com

Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com

51

Christmas at Jupiter

December 17th

• Recycle Christmas workshop for 5 to 14 year olds. Fun, Creative and Christmassy. Your little ones kept busy while you can do some last minute shopping.

• Sketchbook workshop – this all day class will help young artists aged 13 upwards to develop their skills at keeping their own sketchbooks and jam them full of ideas, inspirations, doodles, scraps and sketches.

BOOK NOW

www.jupiterartland.org

Across: 1 Impact, 4 Tender, 9 Station, 10 Tells, 11 Sleep, 12 Reaches, 13 Introducing, 18 Article, 20 Motor, 22 Above, 23 Treated, 24 Assist, 25 Stalls.

Down: 1 Insist, 2 Plane, 3 Crisper, 5 Extra, 6 Dolphin, 7 Resist, 8 Ingredients, 14 Nations, 15 Comment, 16 Banana, 17 Grades, 19 Chess, 21 Total.

52

Solution to Sudoku

Solution November 11 crossword

Solutions

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewtonk, EH27 8DD. Editor :Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Honey Pot Ceramics

Come and have a handmade Christmas To all our Customers - We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Hate Shopping and never know what to buy?

New Cosmetic Range Come and make your own beautifully scented cosmetics for a perfect handmade gift:

We have a whole ‘Santa’s Workshop’ of things to make.

Let us help you make something really special for your loved ones, teacher, swimming instructor, scout leader, next door neighbour!

Body scrubs, soaps, bubble bath, lip balms, bath muffins Check out our website for more information and if you ‘like’ us on facebook we have Christmas surprises for ‘lucky likers’!!

www.honeypotceramics.com or call us on: 0131 333 6348 Open 7 days (10am-5pm) Open late on Thursdays EICA, Ratho, Edinburgh EH28 8AA

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

other hours by arrangement

53

What’s On? December

Saturday 3rd December Cabaret starring “Easy Street” oakbank Bowling Club, East Calder. Tickets cost £5.00, all welcome.

Saturday 17th December 70’s Night plus Christmas draw, Oakbank Bowling Club, East Calder. Tickets £2.00, all welcome.

Sunday 4th December Kirknewton Playgroup Jumble Sale 2-4pm, in the village hall. Bric-a-brac, home baking and raffle. All funds raised go to the playgroup.

Sunday 18th December Crafty Christmas Christmas crafts with natural materials at Almondell and Calderwood Country Park Visitor Centre. £4. 2pm – 3.30pm. Booking advised, call the rangers on 01506 882254

Saturday 10th December Family Christmas Craft & Food Fair Potter Around, Kirknewton, in association with Kirknewton Community Development Trust.

12 – 3pm. Craft stalls, Christmas decorations, BBQ, home baking, tea, coffee, mulled wine, carol singing, Santa’s grotto and special Christmas surprises. Funds raised for various Kirknewton projects. Free entry.

Saturday 10th December Christmas Fair, Polbeth Village Hall 11am – 2pm. Come along to your Christmas Fair and get all your last minute gifts!

Jewellery, baby gifst, sweets and cakes, festive treats, florist, candles, hand painted glasses and much more. Free entry.

Saturday 10th December, Mid Calder Primary School Christmas Fayre 11am-1pm in the school. Cafe, Tombolas, Toy stalls, Local businesses, arts and crafts, kids games and much more. Visit our Grotto and meet our EXTRA SPECIAL Visitor!

Saturday 10th December Members Seniors Christmas Dinner, Oakbank Bowling Club, East Calder Thursday 15th December Christmas Concert Performed by members of the National Youth Choir of Scotland, West Lothian Area.

East Calder Parish Church, doors open 6.45 pm. Tickets Adults £5, Children £2.50, includes refreshments in the hall. All proceeds to the Compassion UK Project in Kibera, Kenya (charity no 1077216).

For more information call Stephen Ewins 07800611186 Saturday 17th December Table Top Sale at Kirknewton Primary School 9am to 12 noon, Tables available for rent £10 each. For more details contact us on events@psa.kirknewton.net or Mike Nolan 07834 982884

54

Christmas Day Lu

nch - for people who are spending Christm alone this year. as East Calder Scout Hall 12pm – 3pm.

Booking essential, please call Denise on 07772313826. “To ma lonely this year for ke the day a little less people who have no family nearby” A Santa is coming to EIC Dec, Santa

11th 3rd & 4th Dec and 10th & den 0 -7. £6 will be at the EICA. For chil get your face ta, includes present from San cial reindeer spe painted, make your own as Eve courtesy food to put out on Christm and cs, ami Cer of Honeypot k Tots room. play for an hour in our Roc 0-2.30pm & Session times 10-12pm, 12.3 intment. See ppo disa id avo to k 3-5pm. Boo advert page 53.

Santa Cruises at the Bridge Inn at Ratho

Come and join us in the Elves’ workshop in the gardens to write letters to Santa and draw pictures before boarding the sleigh barge to sail up the Union Canal to Santa’s magical Island Grotto. Booking essential, £12 /person. Call 0131 333 1320.

Dec cruise dates : Sat 3rd & Sun 4th; Sat 10th & Sun 11th; Sat 17th to Sat 24th

See “Inside & Out” article page 57 for details of events.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Useful Information cil mmunity Coun East Calder Co ery month in the ev of y da es 1st Tu re at 7.00pm Community Cent cil mmunity Coun Kirknewton Co ery month in the ev of y da 2nd Tues 0pm Village Hall at 6.3 cil mmunity Coun Mid Calder Co every month in the of ay July and 2nd Thursd 7.30pm. (Recess Institute Hall at August).

Registration of Bir th, Death and Ma rriage Registration Offices in West Lothian pro vide advice and assistance to anyone requiring information on the registration of births , deaths, marriages an d civil partnerships, and issue copy extract cer tificates. We can con duct civil partnership cer emonies and give ad vice on recording a change of name. No appoint ments are necessary at Eas t Calder Registration Office, situated within the library at 200 Main Street East Calder. The offi ce is open 10 - 12 an d25 Monday to Friday.

To include your event here, please email hj@konectdirectory.co.uk or post details to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD

Last Post Times

East Calder Library information Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EJ 01506 883633 email: eastcalder.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri: 10.00am - 5.30pm Tues & Thurs: 10.00am - 8.00pm Saturday: 9.30am - 1.00pm Mobile M obile library timetable Alternate Tuesdays in: Wilkieston Elmbank Wilkieston Hatton Inch Haig

1.15pm - 1.25pm 1.30pm - 1.40pm 1.45pm - 1.55pm 2.00pm - 2.10pm

Kirknewton Kaimes Crescent Sawmill Roosevelt Rd Churchill Way Braekirk

2.15pm - 2.50pm 2.55pm - 3.20pm 3.30pm - 3.40pm 3.45pm - 3.55pm 4.00pm - 4.10pm

Every Wednesday in: Mid Calder Spottiswood Cir 5.40pm - 5.50pm Spottiswoode Cre 5.50pm - 6.05pm Almondside 6.10pm - 6.25pm Post Office 6.30pm - 7.00pm

Kirknewton Post Office Mon - Fri 5.00pm then a few minutes later from the box near the level crossing. Sat 11.15am East Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.20pm Sat 11.15am Mid Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.35am Pumpherston Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.00am

The Mobile Library timetables are currently under review and updated ones will be available soon.

A new service with bigger libraries and a wider selection of books is due to be launched soon.

Collection from box at Livingston Delivery Office, Fairbairn Road, at 6.30pm

Opening times Mon: Wed: Thursday:

School Term dates

(from www.westlothian.gov.uk) Autumn (Term 1) Tue 16/8/11 - Thu 22/12/11 Winter / Spring (Term 2) Mon 9/1/12 - Fri 30/3/12 Mid Term: Fri 10/2/12 - Tue 21/2/12 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Pumpherston Library information Pumpherston Primary School, Main Street 01506 435837 2.00pm - 5.00pm 2.30pm - 4.30pm 2.00pm - 6.00pm

East Calder Medical Practice 147 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EW 01506 882882 St John’s Hospital 01506 523000

55

Inside & Out

By Tony Foster

I

f you like putting your feet up at home or love to go out, each month Tony Foster will take you through the highlights of what to do and where to go across the Lothians.

INSIDE Top 12 toys for Christmas Oh my! Santa was trawling the internet for a supplier for a must have present for my son. The suppliers of said present had taken off the ‘Buy direct’ button from their website. Disaster was brewing as every Argos supplier in the country were announcing ‘not in stock’ too. Then, as if by magic, Santa checked his local facebook group and the present was being offered by a neighbour who had found themselves with two! Yippee! Lucky old Santa. But what are the dream toys this year?

InnoTab and LeapPad Adults get an i-pad or kindle and the kids can swish their sticky little fingers around the ‘VTech InnoTab’ or by using a stylus on the ‘LeapPad Explorer’.

VTech have also refreshed one of the top toys from last year and launched the ‘Kidizoom Digital Camera Twist’.

Dance to some monster music ‘Fijit Friends’ dance and sing and Sesame Street’s Elmo rocks his bongo drums in the top 12 toys for Christmas list. Another well known TV character in the top 12 toys is Fireman Sam and his ‘PontyPandy Ultimate Rescue Set’. Or you can get up to date with the Moshi Monsters coming out of their online gaming world into the ‘Moshling Treehouse’. More moster fun can be found in ‘Monster High Lagoona’s Hydration Station’ and if all this monster chat isn’t scary enough then try out ‘Milky the Bunny’ – you won’t know what he plans to do next. Whatever it is, it will be horrible.

56

Lego lives Lego is still a popular choice and ‘Ninjago Fire Temple’ is the hit of the year. The boys will also be out with their ‘Nerf Vortex Nitron Blaster’ which I think will beat the lights and sounds of a ‘Star Wars Ultimate Force Tech Lightsaber’ in a battle any day.

However lightsabers may secretly be the weapon of choice for the over 40’s too – you know who you are!

Top Dog You won’t believe the top choice of toys for Christmas though. Yes, it is Doggie Doo. Yes, it is a dog. Yes, it does poo when you squeeze his lead. And yes, you do have to scoop the poop! A great training game for dog owners everywhere!

OUTSIDE Oh yes it is…

It’s panto season – oh, yes it is! Every theatre in the country will have a panto.

Aladdin, A Christmas Carol, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Mother Goose, Robinson Crusoe and The Singing Kettle will all be represented at a theatre near you – or you may prefer a local community version of a Christmas classic. Coupled with potential cinema outings to see Aardman Studio’s Arthur Christmas, Martin Scorcese ‘does kid movie shocker’ Hugo, Happy Feet Two, Puss In Boots featuring the character voiced by Antonio Banderas in Shrek and the third Alvin and the Chipmunks movie – ChipWrecked there will be plenty to do for you and the kids.

The question is when are you going to fit in all those work parties, drink outings, Christmas shopping, family get together’s and Doctor Who Christmas special?

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Kirknewton Christmas Festival Christmas is a time for indulgence. This month in’ Inside & Out’ I hope you don’t mind me indulging in letting you know about several events happening as part of the first Kirknewton Christmas Festival. Kirknewton is fast becoming known as the gateway to the Pentlands from the West (alongside our near neighbours Balerno in the east) and there are over twenty events from the 2nd to the 25th December in the village this year.

Friday 2nd December from 1.30 – 3pm: make Christmas Cards for Mum and Dad and from 2-4pm you can make fruity lip balm for you or for pressies at Potter Around, Overton Farm – entry is £10 for each Kids club.

Saturday 3rd December at 6pm: annual lighting of Kirknewton Village Christmas Tree. The event is meeting from 6pm in the school playground for a 6.15pm departure with a torch lit procession along to tree at Park Terrace.

Following the ‘switch on’ there will be festive refreshments in the village hall. Glowsticks are available to buy in advance from Kirknewton Community Development Trust office or Potter Around.

Sunday 4th December at 2-4pm: Playgroup Jumble Sale in the Village Hall. Donations of kids clothes, books, dvds, CDs, and games can be made to the Playgroup from 9am to 11am week the before please.

Saturday 10th December from 12 til 3pm: the Development Trust presents the ‘Kirknewton Family Christmas Craft and Food Fair’ at Potter Around.

There will be craft stalls, Christmas To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Inside and Oot on You can also follow line Ins Out online at the blo ide and g insideandoot.wordp ‘www. ress.com’ - this features the ‘directo r’s article, online links an cut’ of this have an event you wod videos. If you mention online or in uld like us to future issues of Konect then e mail insideandoot@gmail .com.

decorations, BBQ, home baking, tea, coffee, non alcoholic mulled wine, carol singing, Santa’s grotto and special Christmas surprises. Free entry.

Saturday 17th December: Christmas Tree and Table Top Sale in the School Playground. Hot drinks, mince pies and even Father Christmas will be there.

Some come along to find a bargain!

Sunday 18th December from 4 to 7pm: Christmas gig with vocalist Kenny in the Main Street Village Inn. As with other villages and towns there are plenty of school nativities and parties but for the true spirit of Christmas you can’t get any better than joining in the Carol Singing Torchlight Procession (followed by mince pies and hot chocolate) on Saturday 24th December from 10pm. The event is starting from Meadowbank Road, at the Roundabout from about 9.45pm (to leave at 10pm) The procession is followed at 11.30pm with the Watchnight Service in Kirknewton Church and on Sunday 25th December the Christmas Day Service is at 10am.

Inside and out I hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year whatever you do – inside or out!

57

Clubs and Classes

sports, hobbies, learning, support groups and more...

Busy Bee Club at Honey Pot Ceramics Friday’s 1 – 5pm term time. Arts and crafts, £10, booking essential. See www.honeypotceramics. com or call 0131 333 6348.

EAST CALDER Zumba with Lindsay Monday East Calder Church Hall 7pm to 8pm Wednesday Uphall south parish church Hall 6pm to 7 pm Check out my facebook page - zumba with Linday for more details or contact me at: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk 07834183084 www.zumba.com Ditch the workout and join the party East Calder Colts FC East Calder Park.

We are currently recruiting for an U9’s team born 2002/2003. Please come along to our soccer school Mondays 5pm - 6pm, ages P2 -P4 at East Calder Sports Centre. Any information required re Soccer School or any of our teams please visit our website www.eastcaldercolts.co.uk or contact Coach Graham Hamilton on 07545 758385. All welcome.

East Calder Bowling Club Bingo every Sun and Wed 8pm– 9.30pm. Junior coaching (10 to 16 years old) every Fri 2pm – 4pm.

We can also coach adults, free, so come along and give it a try. Hats every Mon 6-30pm. See club website at www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com, members can find details here of competitions, play by dates, club news.

Zumba with Lorraine Tues, Mid Calder institute hall 7.15am -8.15am Wed and Fri East Calder church hall 9.30am -10.;30am Thurs Mid Calder Primary School 8.30pm – 9.30pm Sat Mid Calder Institute Hall 10am- 11am Kids zumbatomic classes age 7 -12, East Calder scout hall Wed 3.45pm – 4.30pm, please contact Lorraine as spaces are limited. Lorraine Farmer 07816 835926, email lfarmer@f2s.com Circuit Training Sunday’s 6 – 7pm East Calder Scout Hall, £3 per session. An instructor-led class of pre set workout stations, the complete body workout, suitable for all levels of fitness, 16yrs plus. Under 16s welcome with participating adult, see website for further details Please contact: Email ailsa@amcfitness.co.uk Tel: 07808 161634 Web: www.amcfitness.co.uk Yoga for Everyone East Calder Community Centre Wed 7.00pm – 8.30pm For further info contact Ruth Plevin: 01506204338 or ruth@sukha.co.uk

East Calder Ladies’ Circle East Calder Community Centre Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Contact Frances Shearsby (Secretary) on 01506 494591, for more information.

Boys Brigade East Calder Church Hall Anchors (age 5 - 8) Fridays 6.30 - 7.30pm Juniors (age 8 - 11) Fridays 6.45 - 8.15pm.

Company Section (age 11-18) Fridays 7.30 - 9.45pm Calll Jean Gilchrist 01506 880367 East Calder Playgroup Now located in East Calder Community Centre.

Mon-Fri 9am-11:15am from 2 years For the best introduction to your child’s education lots of fun to be had! £4 per session. Contact Carol or Helen 01506 881923 Scottish Slimmers Pigeon Club Tues 6.00pm Call 0800 362636 for more info.

Toddler Clinic East Calder Health Centre 1st Tues of every month. Drop in for advice and support 1.30pm – 3.30pm Rainbows East Calder Primary School Wed 6.15pm – 7.15pm. Contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 Brownies East Calder Primary School Tues 6.30pm – 8.00pm & Wed 6.30pm – 8.00pm.

Spaces currently available in Tues group. Contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 Guides East Calder Primary School Mon 7.00pm – 8.50pm & Wed 7.30pm – 9.00pm.

Spaces curently availabe in Wed group Contact Gillian Maben 880640 Douglas Pilates See www.douglaspilates.co.uk or call 01506 870062 for class times and venue.

Karate East Calder Sports Centre Ages 5 - 15 yrs . Junior Class: Fri 6.00pm - 7.00pm Intermediate/Advanced Class: Fri 7.00pm - 8.00pm Wadokai Karate, both boys and girls welcome, £4.00/session. Contact David Ewing on 0131 657 2085

Patchwork Classes We run patchwork classes throughout the week at Marys’ Patch. Monday 10-12, 1-3, Tuesday 10-12, 1-3, Wednesday 9.30-11.30, 12.30-2.30, Thursday 9.30-11.30, 12.30-2.30 Saturday 10-2. Knitting classes also available.

Firefly Arts (Youth Theatre) East Calder Primary School Juniors (P5 - P7) Fridays 2.30pm - 4pm £2.50 per week (1st week free). Classes also availble in Kirknewton, West Calder & Howden Park Contact 01506 773883 East Calder Old Folks Club East Calder Community Centre Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Pensioners and non-pensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Secretary) East Calder Youth Club East Calder Community Centre Fri 6.15pm - 8.45pm. Ages 10 to 14 yrs. Cooking, football, baseball and other outdoor sports, pool, video games, board games and arts/crafts. Contact Gary Sneddon 01506 774473 Little Kicks football East Calder Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace, EH53 0BS. Saturday mornings 9.30 -10.15 :18 months old to 2 years 3 months 10.30 - 11.15 : 2 years old to 3 1/2 years old 11.30 - 12.15 : 3 1/2 years old to 5 years old All welcome for a free trial - boys and girls.... contact Deborah on 01506 881709 or 07590 849119 or email dparis@littlekicks.co.uk.

See our website www.littlekicks.co.uk for more information.

Cathy Bird Highland Dancers in East Calder Community Centre Tuesdays 4yrs up, 5-30-6-20pm.

Advanced Club in East Calder Community Centre Tues 6.30pm – 8.30pm tel: 07809 423592 email: cathybird.gb@gmail.com www.cathybirdhighlanddance.co.uk East Calder Scout Group Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace Beavers Mon 6.15 - 7.15pm (boys 6 - 8 yrs) Cubs Mon 7.30 - 9.00pm (boys 8 - 10 yrs) Scouts Tues 7.15 - 9.00pm (boys 10 - 14 yrs) Contact Jack Galloway on 077907 93889 eastcalderscouts.org.uk Breast Feeding Support Group East Calder Community Centre Wed 11.30am – 12.30pm except during school holidays. Free. Contact Health Visitor via Health Centre for further details 01506 880582 Young Mums East Calder Community Centre Mon 11.00am – 12.30pm. Free. Contact health visitor via health centre for further details 01506 880582

Bingo Pigeon Club, East Calder Sun 8.00 - 10.00 All welcome Needlecraft Club East Calder Community Centre Thur 7.00pm - 9.00pm Contact Sheila (Secretary) on 0131 333 2217 Adult Line Dance Class East Calder Pigeon Club Mondays: Beginners 7pm, Improvers 8pm, Advanced 9pm. Tel Cathy Bird 07809 423592 email cathybird.gb@gmail.com Step Into Dance with Vicky East Calder Church Hall Highland, Cheerleading, Tap, Freestyle Disco, Ballet, Hip Hop and a boys-only Hip Hop. Classes for ages 2 to adult, on Thurs & Fri. See www.stepintodancewithvicky.co.uk for more information or contact 07719 646942 EC Allsteps Cheerleaders East Calder Church Hall and West Lothian College Competitive cheerleading squad.

Also adult squad fun class at East Calder Sports Centre Mon 9.00pm - 10.00pm. For more information see www.ecallstepcheerleaders.co.uk or call 07719 646942

KIRKNEWTON Kirknewton Rainbows Kirknewton Village Hall Wed 5.00pm - 6.00pm For girls aged 5-7. Please contact Gill Greaves for more information on 01506 883261 Kirknewton Starlets Kirknewton Primary School Babies class up to age 8 Thurs 5.30pm - 6.30pm.

Junior/senior class Thurs 6.15 - 8.00pm.

For info contact Trisha t.ewing@btinternet.com Children’s Club at Potter Around Friday afternoons during term time – various crafts - £10 per head.

1pm-3pm 6-12 years; 3pm – 5pm 11+ See www.potteraround.co.uk, call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk Craft Club at Potter Around Saturdays 10.30am-noon.

Paper craft, pottery painting, clay making & general crafts; £10 incl materials, drink & snack.

Parents welcome to stay. See www.potteraround. co.uk, call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk Knitting Club at Potter Around Alternating between Tues 7.30 – 9.30pm and Wed 10.30am – noon : call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk for dates. £4.50 per head – includes tea and coffee

Clubs and Classes

sports, hobbies, learning, support groups and more...

Kirknewton Women’s Rural Institute Come and join us for a friendly evening of craft, demonstrations and fun.

2nd Thursday of each month, 7.15pm in Kirknewton Church Hall Hatton Sports Club Tennis and squash. Burnwynd, Kirknewton Social and competitive play. LTA-qualified tennis coaches. Contact Carol Blamire 01506 880208 Cathy Bird Highland Dancers Kirknewton Village Hall, Fridays 3-6yrs 5.30-6.20pm; 7+ yrs 6.30-7.20pm tel: 07809 423592 email: cathybird.gb@gmail.com www.cathybirdhighlanddance .co.uk Firefly Arts (Youth Theatre) Kirknewton Village Hall Juniors (P5-P7) Tues 4.30 - 6.00pm £2.50 per week (1st week free). Classes also availble in East Calder, West Calder & Howden Park Contact 01506 773883 KASPARS Afterschool Club Kirknewton Church Hall. Afterschool care Mon Thu 3.15 - 6.00, Fri 12.30 - 6.00.

Breakfast Club Mon - Fri 8.00 - start of school.

Call 07871 791000 Kirknewton Play Group Kirknewton Village Hall Mon – Fri 9.00am – 11.15am Ages 2 to 5 yrs. £4.00 per session. Call in and see us during session times Toddler Group Kirknewton Church Hall Parents/carers with tots aged 0-3 yrs, fridndly group with play, stories and craft for the children and meet up/chat for parents. Thur 9.30 - 11.30am Kirknewton Pensioners Club Kirknewton Village Hall 1st Wednesday of Month 1.00pm - 3.30pm and 3rd Thursday of Month 7.00pm - 9.00pm Everyone aged 60 years and over welcome

MID CALDER Folk Club Meets every third Tuesday of the month at the “Tap Shop” The Midcalder Inn, Mid Calder at 8pm Calder Bells Glenalmond Hall, Mid Calder Rehersals Mondays 7.30pm New members welcome

Mid Calder Mother and Baby Group Institute Hall Tuesdays 10.00 Please call Vicky Ramsay for details on 07515 495101 The Willows Playgroup School Lane, Mid Calder Recently refurbished, places available for children from 2 years.

Mon – Thurs 9-11am. £4 per session. Snack provided, nappy changing facilities.

For more information please contact Sam on 01506 882832.

Zumba with Lorraine Tues, Mid Calder institute hall 7.15am -8.15am Wed and Fri East Calder church hall 9.30am -10.;30am Thurs Mid Calder Primary School 8.30pm – 9.30pm Sat Mid Calder Institute Hall 10am- 11am Kids zumbatomic classes age 7 -12, East Calder scout hall Wed 3.45pm – 4.30pm, please contact Lorraine as spaces are limited. Lorraine Farmer 07816 835926, email lfarmer@f2s.com Yoga Classes Masonic Hall Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.00pm Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115 www.wholebodybalance.co.uk Pilates Classes Institute Hall, Market St. Wed 10.00am - 11.00am Beginners class Contact Rhona 01506 811700 rhonawatt@btconnect.com Welcome Cafe Glenalmond Hall Every Tuesday 10am-12noon. This is a Fair Trade Cafe all proceeds of which to the Vine Trust in Peru. Do come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and some home baking with friends.

Choral Highlights Ladies Choir Kirk of Calder, Mid Calder Rehersals Sundays 12pm - 1.00pm in summer and 7.30pm-8.45pm in winter. Musicals, Scottish. religious, pop and some very quirky little numbers!

2 concerts per year, requests to sing at other venues considered. New members very welcome, please contact John Rankin 01506 880029 Mid Calder Camera Club Institute Hall, Market Street Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www.mccc.org.uk or call Fred Roe at 01506 202190 or Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616.

Mid Calder Colts FC Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-calder-colts.org Contact Carole 883934 contact@mid-calder-colts.org

Pumpherston United FC Four groups, including a soccer school for 5-12 yrs (Thur 6.00pm - 7.30pm); 1998 age group (Tuesdays); 1997 age group (Mon and Wed) and 1995 age group (Mon and Wed). Training at Pumpherston Recreation Park. For more information , please email feedback@pumpherston-united.co.uk

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Rainbows Wed night Brownies Mon and Tues night, Guides Wed night.

Contact Katrina Wallace on 01506 883816

CHURCHES Church of Scotland Kirknewton Services 9:45 in the Kirknewton Kirk, Station Rd. Sunday School and creche available East Calder Services 11:15 in the East Calder church, Main St Sunday School and creche available

Mid Calder Mother and Toddler Group Institute Hall Tues 9.15 - 11.15, £1.00 per adult Please call Vicky Ramsay for details on 07515 495101 Mid Calder School of Dance Mid Calder Institute Hall Tap, Highland, Disco Tues 6.00pm - 7.00pm & Fri 6.15pm - 9.00pm. Various ages Contact Heather 01501733054

POLBETH Polbeth W.R.I. 1st Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Come along for an interesting programme of talks and demonstrations. New members always welcome.

Further information on 01506 435708.

PUMPHERSTON Zumba with Lindsay Monday East Calder Church Hall 7pm to 8pm Wednesday Uphall south parish church Hall 6pm to 7 pm Check out my facebook page - zumba with Linday for more details or contact me at: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk 07834183084 www.zumba.com Ditch the workout and join the party Myra Mackie School of Dance Classes in Pumpherston, Mid Calder & Broxburn Please see our website for full timetable and venues. Children from 2 years to adult. www.myramackieschoolofdance.co.uk incorporating our competitive cheer division The Scottish Starlets The Look Group Outdoors activities in Almondell and Calderwood Country Park for ages 8-12, meeting at Visitor Centre 10.30 - 12.00 Saturdays - not every Saturday, check programme with the Rangers on 01506 882254

Rev Dr AJ Groenewald 8 Manse CourtEast Calder EH53 0HF. 01506 884585 or 075 888 458 14. groenstes@yahoo. com website www.knec4jesus.org.uk Mid Calder services 10.30 every Sunday in the Kirk of Calder, Main St, Mid Calder. Sunday School and crèche available.

Pumpherston services - The Kirk of Calder also holds fortnightly services on Wednesday mornings at 10:15 at the Pumpherston Institute Hall.

The website www.kirkofcalder.com has full details of current activities/services.

WEST CALDER 18th West Lothian Scout Group West Kirk Hall, West Calder Beavers Mon 6-7pm, Cubs Wed 6.16-7.30pm, Scouts Thurs 6.30-8pm. Girls and boys 10.5 – 14 years. Contact Jean Walkinshaw 01506 873638.

West Calder Walking Group Every Thurs at 12.30. Meet outside the Co-op, West Calder Main St. Walk approx 1 hr then coffee/tea stop to finish. Call 01506 871773 for more info.

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