Konect Linlithgow October 18

OCTOBER 2018

linlithgow

PLUS: HEALTH & BEAUTY, Garden Project, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

The monthly community magazine for the Linlithgow area

THIS ISSUE

TO OUR OCTOBER EDITION

I

t was a gorgeous summer but I must admit I love the onset of autumn too, and a walk through Beecraigs or a scramble up in the hills in October is a must, to enjoy the spectacular colours.

Team Jak is our Charity of the Month and they are running a volunteer recruitment week in the first week of October. It was a pleasure to meet them for an update on where they are up to three years since Jak set this in motion; see page 8 -9.

I also visited the West Lothian Bike Library, a small voluntary organisation based in Livingston providing a fantastic service. Although they set out initially with a focus on adaptive bikes, they are about making cycling accessible for all, see the feature on page 19. And David’s sports column this month is about Lothian Disability Sport, which develops the theme somewhat, see page 14.

All our usual columns are here, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month, and as always, do get in touch if you have any local events to promote, topics you would like to see covered, or any other comments and feedback.

P14 Can you help ease the journey?................. 8 Gardening: Autumn Pots............................12 Sport: Lothian Disability Sport...................14 Health & Beauty...........................................18 West Lothian Bike Library..........................19 Property Matters..........................................20 Vet’s Tip.........................................................22 Music Review...............................................24 Parenting: Hopped up on Halloween......25 Linlithgow Film Society...............................26 What’s On......................................................27 Clubs & Classes..........................................28

Konect is delivered monthly to 7500 homes and businesses in Linlithgow, Linlithgow Bridge and the surrounding area. Copies are also left at the library, post offices and other locations.

COVER IMAGE: See P27 for Halloween events in West Lothian

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

JENNY THOMSON

Email: editor@konect.scot

07772 941899 charlene@konect.scot

Email: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

Account Manager

LINLITHGOW | 3

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LINLITHGOW | 5

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LINLITHGOW | 7

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Can you help with “easing the journey”?

If you’ve been living here more than a couple of years, you’ve probably heard of the local charity Team Jak Foundation or seen their collection tins in local shops and organisations.

Jak Trueman was the teenager from Mid Calder who touched everyone’s hearts with his sudden and short fight three years ago with the rare cancer T-Cell Lymphoma. In his short time he set up a charity as he wanted other young people touched by cancer – themselves and their siblings – as well as their families, to have emotional and practical support to ease the journey. Jak ploughed through a bucket list of activities before he left; and this energy and sense of grasping life for what it is, is what infuses the charity Team Jak today.

I met last month with one of their stalwart volunteers, Hazel McLinden, and the chairman of the board and Jak’s grandpa, Walter Barr, to see where they are up to. At their premises in Livingston, “Jak’s Den” offers counselling, activity days, magic shows, teen days, X-Box and PS4 challenges, arts and crafts, coffee mornings, music therapy, counselling, pamper days, alternative therapies and much, much more. They are currently supporting over 100 families with their activities in Livingston, and have also started offering outreach services at hospitals and “pop-up Dens” elsewhere in Scotland.

“Support for Team Jak has been phenomenal,” says Hazel, “but people move on, another cause comes along, which is understandable. We need to get the message out that we still rely very much on volunteers to deliver our services, and we need more volunteers to enable us to carry on delivering them and to develop the charity.”

Jak’s Den 8 | LINLITHGOW

People can help in just about any capacity with the activities of Team Jak. Whether you have some specialist skills, or just a few hours a month to contribute, your help will be very welcome. Please contact Team Jak if you can help, contact details on next page. @KonectMagazines

Team Jak needs volunteers to: • Drop off and pick up the collection tins in local shops • Help at events • Help with office and admin work • Raise funds, through events or grant applications • Help with marketing, social media, website and technical • Join the board to help direct the charity going forwards • Provide befriending services, for children and their parents • Cleaning at the Den and offices Team Jak Foundation was Jak’s personal vision. It provides practical, social and emotional support to children and young people with cancer, related illnesses, their families and those bereaved. “Creating smiles, easing the journey” Address: Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, EH54 6GU T: 01506 412302 | W: www.teamjak.org.uk Facebook: Team Jak Foundation- Jak’s Den Charity Registration: Team Jak Foundation is a charity registered in Scotland, SC045586.

Every day 11 children are diagnosed with cancer. 3 won’t survive. Help us create smiles and ease the journey of these families. A donation of: • £5 could provide snacks for 2 kids • £10 could provide art and craft activities for a child in Jak’s Den • £20 could provide an hour of outreach support from a Support Worker for a week in hospital • £25 could pay for a counselling session for our warriors or siblings • £50 could provide 2 counselling sessions for our young people • £100 could pay for an activity session for our warrior and angel families in Jak’s Den This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting with Hazel McLinden and Walter Barr of Team Jak Foundation.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines. @KonectMagazines

TEAM JAK

VOLUNTEER WEEK 1ST TO 7TH OCTOBER 2018 Launch of volunteer week with Volunteer Information Drop-In on Sunday 30th September, Mercure Hotel, Livingston 12.00 - 2.00pm: Pop in for a coffee and chat and find out how you can be part of our volunteer team making a difference for the families we support.

Every day of volunteer week 1st-7th October - Facebook introductions to some of our fabulous volunteers.

Team Jak Volunteer Awards Ceremony on Saturday 27th October: Next year it could be you receiving an award. Awards presented for 10 hours volunteering onwards.

Here is what a few of our fabulous volunteers had to say about volunteering: “Volunteering for Team Jak is rewarding and gives me a sense of achievement knowing I am helping make children with cancer smile a little during treatment.”

“I love volunteering for Team Jak, I have also learned so many new skills as Team a Jak makes sure I have training opportunities to help me help others.”

“Team Jak is a fabulous charity to volunteer for, I really feel appreciated and I can see volunteers are an integral part of the team.”

“I was delighted to receive an award at last year’s volunteer award ceremony.

A lovely event that made me feel special and has actually made me aim for my next award all whilst helping families living with childhood cancer.”

To find out more about the recruitment activities happening during this week visit the website on www.teamjak.org.uk or find us on Facebook.

LINLITHGOW | 9

FEATURE

Developing the, Young Workforce - a local parent s perspective Arlene Nicol is the Project Liaison Officer for the Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) Regional Group and parent of two children at secondary school in West Lothian. Arlene gave us her perspective on the importance of young people interacting with industry whilst at school.

“When I was in school in the late 1980s, the nearest thing I experienced to Developing the Young Workforce was a quick meeting with the Deputy Head whilst in S5, who advised me that I didn’t need to worry about work since I would be going to university. Whilst we have moved on from these days, I feel that it’s vital to provide pupils with exposure to industry and the world of work, so that they understand the skills and qualities employers are looking for and the vast number of opportunities there are.

Having met numerous young people starting out

10 | LINLITHGOW

on their career, I can honestly say the majority of those who’ve had some exposure to the world of work whilst at school - a part time job, volunteering, work placements or internships - are more confident, aware of employer expectations and more ‘work savvy’.

My kids (S2 and S4) are starting to think about what they would like to do when they leave school. As a parent, it is important to me that they understand all the options available to them.

The number of industries - and opportunities therein - is mind-boggling. While the HE route is perfect for many young people, work-based learning is an equally valuable path.”

If you would like to find out more about DYW or get involved, please contact: Arlene Nicol: Lauren Brown: Anna Ramsay:

arlene.nicol@dyw-wl.com lauren.brown@dyw-wl.com anna.ramsay@dyw-wl.com

This article was contributed by DYW West Lothian. DYW aims to connect employers with schools and colleges and prepare young people for the world of work.

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LINLITHGOW | 11

GARDENING PROJECT

On your patio or at your front door this is the season between Summer and Winter when some of your summer pots may still be looking too good to dump but other pots definitely need something fresh to cheer up your display.

On our patio we have still enjoying the tender pink Salvia’s flowers, but we will soon have to put tender plants like this into our cold greenhouse if we are to have any chance of them surviving the winter cold and wet. We’ve added pink bud flowering heathers, cyclamen, pansies and what you can’t see are the dwarf spring flowering bulbs like crocus, tulips and daffodils buried in the pots to give us a late winter sparkle.

There is a hardy mint on the mosaic table that will be replaced with an evergreen

12 | LINLITHGOW

shrub in a pot once the mint has died down and we’ll start lighting the candle in the lantern as the evenings get dark earlier.

Don’t forget that you’ll need to regularly water your pots as most of the rain will miss them even in Winter!

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

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LINLITHGOW | 13

SPORTS

THE MOST UPLIFTING SPORTING DEVELOPMENT OF THE LAST 50 YEARS…. ….has to be the growth, the image, the popularity of Sport for the Disabled.

I went to school in Prescot (with the fifth Beatle, the tragic Stu Sutcliffe), in an era when conformity ruled but the edges, mercifully, had started to fray, nay disintegrate, by the time I joined the Cavern Club. When I was a teenager, the great debate was whether Sport and Politics should mix. Time has provided the answer.

The roles of Rock’n’Roll and Sport in the process of liberation and equality cannot be underestimated. I reckon that when RnR ran out of puff, it left Sport to ride point virtually alone.

There have been so many landmark moments: female athletes in Olympics 1900; Jesse Owens stuffs Hitler 1936; Ali refuses the draft 1967; Black Power 1968; Billie Jean beats Riggs 1973; South Africa win World Rugby Cup 1995.

In 1948 in the UK, Sir Ludwig Guttman incorporated sport in the rehabilitation of war vets with spinal damage. Come Rome 1960 (the first televised Olympics), BREAKTHROUGH! he took 400 of his wheelchair warriors to compete in the “Parallel Olympics”; cut to London, 2012, and 4302 Paralympians from 164 nations competed in 503 events. Wow! Sports today are the great influencer - fashion, entertainment, economics at all levels, politics, identity (group and personal) - to the extent that the UN has declared them a “Human Right”!

But Sport, at root, is about participation, hence the importance of bodies like Lothian Disability Sport, an offshoot of Scottish Disability Sport.

Disability Sport Officer, Jack Brodie, tells me the raison d’être is “to promote sport and physical activity for people with a physical, learning or sensory impairment,” to be achieved primarily through the delivery of a Lothian wide programme of competitive and participatory events in selected sports, for school-aged and senior athletes.

“Alongside this, we also support disability specific 14 | LINLITHGOW

clubs within the region and athletes all the way up the pathway to Paralympian standard. I have cerebral palsy myself and was involved in LDS opportunities as a child, becoming a national level swimmer. I play and coach a bit of basketball. I coordinate and deliver the school and senior calendar of events, club development and ensure that Lothian is represented at national events. Our work is closely linked to the four Lothian authorities, who all support our delivery of sporting opportunities.

Sport has given the majority of our athletes lifelong friendships, a sense of belonging, an improvement in their confidence levels plus the obvious health benefits. Many appreciate the difference sport has made in their lives and stay involved in things through volunteering or coaching, myself included.”

LDS run a comprehensive programme which allows approximately 1500 young people and adults with a disability the opportunity to take part in sport each year.

Archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, boccia, bowls, curling, cycling, fencing, football, golf, judo, multisports, rugby, swimming, table tennis, tennis available via LDS. That’s some list! Long may their team continue to hit the bullseye!

For more information and full catalogue of sports, see www.lothiandisabilitysport.co.uk The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. @KonectMagazines

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LINLITHGOW | 15

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Weight Loss tip #9: Success with support Seek out the right support and you’ll have more success in reaching your goal weight. Whether you choose your friends or your local weight loss club – set aside a regular date to check in with each other, review progress and set tasks for the week ahead. Within support groups you’ll often find members that have experienced the issues that you are facing; they’ll understand why you are doing it, the problems you’ll encounter and will encourage you through the tough times when you may want to give up.

Support groups can also help you to problemsolve, celebrate when goals are reached and encourage you to believe in your abilities. As a group member, you benefit by becoming more committed to your goal and less likely to back out.

What makes support so effective in weight loss?

When you are trying to lose weight, you are effectively trying to change habits, which can be difficult. If you struggle to self-motivate then you need to link habits related to weight loss to actions involving other people.

If you hate letting other people down, use this knowledge to help you to commit - arrange to go to the gym/class with a friend – that way when you can’t be bothered going – you will – so you don’t disappoint her.

Whatever your weight loss goal, find your support group/buddy, and get them involved in helping and encouraging you on the path to success.

To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition-focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise for information on nutriclub classes in Linlithgow.

Xcite Linlithgow - every Tue 9.30am & 5.30pm Longcroft Hall - every Wed at 9.30am Bowling Club, Philip Avenue - every Wed 5.30pm Facebook: /nutriclublinlithgow Tel: 07837 794112 (Louise) e-mail: nutriclub@virginmedia.com Website: www.nutriclub.co.uk 18 | LINLITHGOW

How to let go of Anxiety

Last month I offered three ways to help curb worrying and put problems into perspective.

This month I have three more ways you can reduce your anxiety.

1. Don’t Worry About What People Think Of You…. ...they are too busy thinking about themselves. The theory that everyone else is too busy thinking about themselves is completely true! Commit to only dealing with issues as they come up – if someone confronts you with an issue, then address it. If they don’t confront you, presume there isn’t an issue - you can’t spend your life worrying about what people think of you.

If you begin to notice a pattern in people’s behaviour and it feels like it’s the same people causing the drama, you may choose to spend less time with these people until you feel better within yourself and are in a position to deal with it.

2. Deal With Your Past Much of anxiety stems from trauma that you have experienced throughout your life. If anxiety is getting on top of you, it might be time to have a mental clear out. Working with a coach or therapist can help you close chapters on your past and help you get ready for the next one.

3. Cry It Out Crying is just a way of relieving yourself of built up emotion, it doesn’t mean you have to feel sad or angry or anything really.

Crying can bring closure and peace to issues so never bottle it up - a good cry occasionally is healthy!

The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. She co-hosts weekly Mind & Soul Clinics at The Retreat Livingston and The Retreat Linlithgow where the focus is on holistic healing and wellbeing.

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HEALTH

• Please donate your pre-loved bike to West Lothian Bike Library. It will be serviced and refurbished and either sold for fundraising or used as part of the lending library. All bikes of any size and shape are welcome!

• If you can spare a few hours and want to volunteer in any capacity, the Bike Library will be delighted to hear from you! Full training is provided • Consider purchasing a bike from the Bike Library to help boost their funds

Contact the West Lothian Bike Library on:

It is pretty much what it sounds like: a place where you can borrow a bike if you haven’t got one, or need a specially adapted bike. And it’s much more than that too.

“Anyone can hire a bike,” says David Liddell, the project’s co-ordinator. “The library exists to make cycling accessible to all. So that may be people who just want a friendly hand and loan of a bike to get them back on their wheels; people who need a specially adapted bike to accommodate a disability; or, subject to referral, free hire for people who are not able to afford their own bike.”

A bike lending facility used to be part of the council’s Health Improvement Team, but with council restructuring over the past couple of years the service was at risk of being discontinued.

In order to keep it going, David headed up the formation of a social enterprise, and last August the West Lothian Bike Library was born.

Operating from premises provided by the council at Craigsfarm, Livingston, everything is done by a band of some twenty dedicated volunteers who refurbish donated bikes, manage the hires, offer bike servicing, lead bike rides and a host of related services which are continually being added as the Bike Library develops.

“Our project is about inclusive cycling,” says David. “I want to normalise cycling for all and we have some wonderful adaptive bikes for people with additional support needs.”

“There is a vibrant community here at Craigsfarm.

We have a Monday evening bike group, we lead bike rides for several schools and groups who come here, as well as facilitating rides for people on the adaptive bikes.” As well as refurbishing bikes for the library use, they also sell bikes @KonectMagazines

T: 07724 667321 E: info@wlbikelibrary.co.uk W: www.wlbikelibrary.co.uk Facebook: /wlbikelibrary

West Lothian Bike Library is incorporated as a Community Interest Company registered in Scotland No. 573140 at very affordable prices to help generate funds to put back into the project; the adaptive bikes in particular are very expensive to purchase. They also have electric bikes available for hire.

“I’d like to see the bikes out everyday,” says David. “Either on private loan or on the bike rides we lead. We have a fantastic cycle network at our disposal. I’d like to get to a stage where we can keep the doors open 9 – 5.”

The West Lothian Bike Library is currently open from Wednesday to Friday 10am to 2pm. David is keen to extend these hours, especially to be able to open at weekends.

Pete, one of those who have benefited from the project This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after visiting the West Lothian Bike Library and speaking with David Liddell, Project Co-Ordinator.

Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family.

LINLITHGOW | 19

PROPERTY MATTERS

When looking to rent a property, it is natural to want to see as many properties as possible before making the “right” choice and common sense dictates that you should view a handful of alternatives before deciding which to rent.

Our job as professional letting agents is to help tenants make decisions that are genuinely in their best interests, which, without our assistance, they might have had difficulty making. So here are some pointers for those who might be struggling to balance the merits of No.33 with its new kitchen against No.16, with the better garden.

First, there is a place for instinct and sometimes the heart should be allowed to influence, if not rule, the head. This is a home after all. Ask yourself the obvious question, “could I be happy here?”

However, sometimes you need your head to agree with your heart. Is your favoured property a significant improvement on where you already live, or are you just being bowled over by a smart exterior or fashionable lighting?

Weigh up the important aspects of life – commuting time, school run, parking, 20 | LINLITHGOW

entertaining space (although do you really entertain that much?) Satisfy these first before allowing the view or the extra storage space to sway you away from your reason for moving.

Finally, you can bet your bottom dollar that if you instinctively like a particular property, other tenants will as well. We usually find that a property that fills most people’s basic needs, as opposed to their wants, will let very quickly. The more you see, the more difficult it becomes to make a decision at all. So our advice is: decide your minimum criteria with your head and once these are satisfied in a property, let your heart take it from there. Happy hunting!

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

VET’S TIP

BUSTER THE DOG

Alabama Rot

Cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy – not a name to roll off the tongue, is it?

But it is a condition pet-owners might well be hearing more of in the future. Also known as Alabama rot, this horrible disease is just spreading to Scotland with four confirmed cases in the last two years – and 150 in the UK as a whole since 2012.

But while the numbers are small here, it is a very serious condition – a case in May in Galashiels saw a young dog die – and if left too long can lead to acute kidney failure.

Most cases of Alabama rot are seen between November and May so bear it in mind as we move into autumn. The disease causes tiny clots in the dog’s blood vessels, blocking the blood supply. This leads to ulcers and sores on the skin, often on the feet and legs. Kidney failure, which frequently kills, can follow within days.

The cause is unknown, there has been no link to one particular site and it affects dog of all ages and breeds. One theory links the disease with wet muddy areas so some vets advise avoiding these areas in the colder months or washing and drying your dog afterwards, although this has not be proven. Most important is to be aware of the symptoms and take your dog to the vet if it has unexplained lesions on its skin.

The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 8 Preston Road. Call: 01506 844 165, or visit: www.westportvets.com 22 | LINLITHGOW

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LINLITHGOW | 23

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

MUSIC REVIEW

All Stations In-Between The nights are finally starting to draw in, and dare we say it but Christmas is now just 2 months away!

Before we get too carried away, there’s still plenty of other things to do across West Lothian.

In Linlithgow, the Town Twinning association will be hosting a very special concert in both English and French featuring Christine Bovill. This takes place on Saturday 13th at the Academy Theatre. The Arts Guild in Linlithgow are hosting Yu Kosuge on the 20th. Her programme for this performance is entitled “Fire” and it includes music by Tchaikovsky, De Falla, Liszt, Debussy, Scriabin and Stravinsky.

One of the biggest events of the year is of course Halloween! There will be many events taking place towards the end of the month to keep the young (and old!) ones occupied, starting in Livingston on Friday 26th and Saturday 27th for fright Nights at Almond Valley.

A little extra horror once the sun goes down, with a scary surprise around every corner, ghost trains to nowhere, and trailer rides circuiting the graveyard. The event is not suitable for very young children.

On Sunday in Linlithgow, why not get into the more traditional spirit with some pumpkin carving? At the Burgh Halls from 13.00 you can have a go at carving some spooky designs and transform your pumpkin into the best Halloween Lantern in the town.

That’s just a few of the great events going on this month, for more and for full details of location and prices of these events, visit our website at www.visitwestlothian.co.uk.

Don’t forget, many of these venues are participating in the West Lothian Passport scheme. Why not take your passport along and get some stamps for visiting top attractions this month? The competition closes October 31st so don’t miss out!

Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 24 | LINLITHGOW

Paul McCartney is working hard.

Recording his new album “Egypt Station” must have been a dawdle compared to the relentless round of ongoing promotional appearances. Come on Paul, dredge up one more anecdote about Hamburg 1961 and then we will play your single.

The titles of McCartney’s 21st Century albums betray his need to be seen as an ongoing modern writer – Chaos and Creation, Memory Almost Full, and, most blatantly, New. This album brings a welcome step back to the pleasantly jumbled feel of the first few solo albums, the most obvious nods being to bucolic classic Ram, not least via the sleeve which deliberately echoes the home made designs favoured in the early days.

Leaving aside grim single “Fuh You” - itself a continuation of the composer’s schoolboy delight in single entendre songwriting going right back to Why Don’t We Do It In The Road and Hi Hi Hi – these songs are mainly gentle, unambitious in many ways, and it is this lack of determination to compete which rewards repeated listening. Fluff like “Brazil” has not been allowed on a McCartney release since the last days of Wings, and it is the return of these flashes of eccentricity that lift the album clear of the inevitable piano plodders calling for world peace.

You wonder what rankles though, what motivates.

I recall an interview with Elvis Costello discussing his brief nineties co-writing sessions in which he said, “It was Paul McCartney though...I couldn’t just say we’re going to write a song about a big (expletive) crow!”.

Well received second track here, I Don’t Know, is a dark tale of “crows at my window and dogs at my door”.

Hmmmm.

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

PARENTING

Hopped up on Halloween

When I was a little girl, the seasons and celebrations that make up a year were the anchors by which I measured the passing of time. I’d happily hop from one to the next; giving absolutely no thought to the work my mum and dad were putting in to making said festivities so exciting.

For me it was a case of “Christmas is over, next stop Easter”. As an adult you grow out of that and the year is a blur of working and weekends.

Halloween of course was one of those pivotal occasions. I’m ashamed to say once I hit my “adult” years I was that person who always forgot to stock up on sweets. On Halloween night my husband and I would invariably lock the door, switch of the lights, and pretend not to be home…ducking below the window when moving about the house lest we be seen by a keen-eyed guiser.

But with kids in the house now, I see it all through fresh eyes. And happily throw myself into it with gusto. So while in days gone by October meant getting out my cosy cardigans, swapping my sandals for furry boots, and enjoying pub lunches by an open fire; now October means Halloween. Panicking about what the kids want to dress up as, hoping they don’t change their minds once I’ve got everything, rushing about getting last minute make-up and accessories, decorating the house, carving pumpkins, and coming up with suitably @KonectMagazines

funny jokes for Trick or Treating. And of course making sure we have enough sweets to sink a battleship (thanks to the mums who give out fruit, I say every year we should…but never do!).

Luckily in West Lothian with all manner of local shops and big discount stores on the doorstep picking up last minute decorations, accessories and sweets is a relatively easy feat. But I still keep an eye out for activities and events to entertain the kids and foster their interest in all things spooky (not that they need encouragement!).

Last year we enjoyed a spooktacular visit to Almond Valley. We’d been there late in the summer and my daughter peeked behind a curtain she undoubtedly wasn’t supposed to and saw the makings of a Halloween extravaganza. I told her we probably wouldn’t be back again so soon but who can resist those puppy dog eyes!

So come October back we went under duress. But I was absolutely in awe of the effort that went into transforming the place for Halloween. The

kids whizzed about with their trail sheets looking for clues.

And there was literally a spooky surprise around every corner. So I reckon whatever takes your fancy this year – a broomstick-making workshop, a pumpkin carving course or just whipping up some creepy cakes at home - it’ll be worth it to see the kids all hopped up (on something other than sweets). Big-up to all the mums and dads out there making Halloween all its hyped up to be!

The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls.

LINLITHGOW | 25

COMMUNITY

Then come and join us at Linlithgow Film Society every two weeks between September and March for an interesting and varied programme of films.

Linlithgow Film Society was founded in 1973 when the local cinema closed. With support from the Town Council, the Society started with two borrowed projectors and a temporary screen in Linlithgow Burgh Halls. Over the years the Society has progressed to the most up to date projection and sound equipment available and the comfort of raked seating in the theatre at Linlithgow Academy.

In addition to the programme shown in Linlithgow Academy Theatre the Society takes films out to the wider community, to residential 2018-2019 PROGRAMME

10th September...................................................

24th September...................................................

8th October .........................................................

29th October .......................................................

5th November .....................................................

12th November ...................................................

26th November ...................................................

10th December ...................................................

14th January .......................................................

21st January .......................................................

4th February ........................................................

18th February .....................................................

4th March ............................................................

18th March ..........................................................

VENUE All shows are held in the Linlithgow Academy Theatre at 7.30pm.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS • Individual £28.00 • Joint £44.00 • Concession £24.00 Guest tickets are available on the evening: • Individual £6.00 • Young Person £4.00 • Concession £5.00 26 | LINLITHGOW

care homes, sheltered housing and the local hospital and Day Care Centre. If you wish to help in the community aspect of the Society please contact us.

Linlithgow Film Society is a member of the British Federation of Film Societies (B.F.F.S.) It has twice won the B.F.F.S National Awards for Community Service (the only Society to have done so), received three B.F.F.S. (Scotland) awards and has previously won the West Lothian’s “Arts Organisation of the Year “.

Paddington 2 3 Billboards outside Ebbing Missouri Darkest Hour Hostiles A Man Called Ove Shape of Water A Quiet Place The Greatest Showman The Post Finding Your Feet The Midwife Murder on the Orient Express Breathe Death of Stalin FURTHER INFORMATION More details can be found at the society’s website www.linlithgowfilmsociety.org.uk Email all enquiries to Anton Shelton (antonks2000@gmail.com)

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WHAT’S ON

FRIDAY 5TH OCTOBER Linlithgow Link Fundraiser: Valuation Day Linlithgow Link is holding a Valuation Day 11am and 3pm in the Queen Margaret Hall, next to St Michaels RC Church. If you have anything you would like valued please bring it along where it will be valued by a professional from an Edinburgh auction house. Cost £5 per item. Light refreshments will be available and there will be a few stalls provided by local businesses and also displays from some local organisations.

Please come along and support Linlithgow Link.

SATURDAY 13TH OCTOBER Christine Bovill tribute to Piaf, singing in French and English - Spirit of the Fringe winner - Edinburgh 2017.

Linlithgow Town Twinning Association are hosting this Fundraising Concert as part of their 30th anniversary of annual exchanges with Guyancourt. Linlithgow Academy Theatre, 7.30pm – 9.30pm. BYOB. Tickets from Far from the Madding Crowd, 20 High Street, or Fair Trade Winds, 131 133 High Street, or online from linithgowfolk.com TUESDAY 16TH OCTOBER Wildlife Superheroes - Our local wildlife can sometimes need a helping hand to get through the long and chilly winter. Find out what you can do to help feed it and keep it warm! Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult. 10.30am – 12.30pm. Free but booking essential. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot FRIDAY 26TH TO SUNDAY 28TH OCTOBER The Linlithgow ExFEARience - As you tour the magnificent Linlithgow Palace you will soon discover all is not what it seems. Will you be brave enough to face what the archaeologists have uncovered? This event is not suitable for people of a nervous disposition, those who are pregnant, have a heart condition or epilepsy. Entry is for over 14s only and all under 18s must be accompanied by an adult throughout. Please note this is a new age restriction for 2018, as the event is spookier than ever before! Please be aware that the experience takes place in the dark and that there will be strobe lighting and loud noises. Booking essential.

Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot 6.30pm, 8.00pm and 9.30pm.

Tickets £12, or £10.80 for Historic Scotland Members. Book via website www.historicenvironment.scot SATURDAY 27TH OCTOBER Linithgow Farmers Market The Cross, High Street, Linlithgow SUNDAY 28TH OCTOBER Kinneil House Tour - Historic Environment Scotland has joined forces with The Friends of Kinneil charity to run a series of free open days in 2018. Once home to the Dukes of Hamilton, you’ll get the chance to see inside this impressive mansion, which dates back to the 15th century and boasts some of the best renaissance wall paintings in Scotland. October’s open day will have a halloween theme!

12pm – 4pm, no booking required. www.kinneil.org

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LINLITHGOW FILM SOCIETY Linlithgow Academy Theatre, Braehead Road, 7.30pm Adults £6, Concessions £5, Under 16 £4.

See www.linlithgowfilmsociety.org.uk MONDAY 8TH OCTOBER: Darkest Hour (2017) MONDAY 29TH OCTOBER: Hostiles (2017) SUNDAY 28TH OCTOBER Fabulous Fungi at Hopetoun - We hope to explore the fruiting fungi at Hopetoun. With internationally important fungi lawns, and woodlands bursting with mushrooms of all shapes and sizes, you will be guided on a gentle walk to explore the fascinating world of fungi. Please note- we will not be collecting for the pot on this walk. Meet: Main Visitor Car Park at Hopetoun House. Cost: Grounds entry fee £4.75 adult £2.95 child (not suitable for under 12’s) Booking essential, please contact the ranger service on ranger@hopetoun.co.uk or 0131 319 3956 SATURDAY 3RD NOVEMBER Autumn Concert: The Glasgow Phoenix Choir Hosted by the Rotary Club of Linlithgow and Bo’ness, in aid of international good causes. St Michael’s Parish Church at 7.30pm (doors open from 7pm). Tickets £10 available from Platform 3, 1 High St, Linlithgow; The Tile Studio, 18 High St, Linlithgow; online at www.wegottickets.com/event/449246

SUNDAY 11TH NOVEMBER Winter Warmer Walk at Blackness Come along on a guided walk to learn more about Blackness Bay on the shore of the Firth of Forth. Learn what makes this area such a special place. Discover all about the wildlife inhabiting this internationally important stretch of shoreline. 1Pm – 2.3pm/ Free but booking essential. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot

FIREWORKS

SATURDAY 3RD NOVEMBER: Hopetoun House www.hopetoun.co.uk MONDAY 4TH NOVEMBER: Deer Park, Livingston www.deer-park.co.uk

SATURDAY 3RD NOVEMBER: Linlithgow Rugby Football Club - www.facebook.com/LinlithgowRFC/ MONDAY 5TH NOVEMBER: Callendar Park, Falkirk www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.

EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

LINLITHGOW | 27

COMMUNITY

A REAL DUMMY I’m always slightly nervous saying to someone at the bridge table: “You’re the dummy.” It just sounds so disrespectful. So, I usually depersonalize it by saying something like; “I think East is the dummy in this hand.”

But during one recent session I made a horrible mistake when someone might justifiably have said to me: “Tonight, you really are the dummy.”

It was during a bridge holiday in Gatehouse of Fleet in Galloway at the Cally Palace Hotel. In my defence it was the last evening of play after a convivial black tie dinner and everyone was in a relaxed mood. (Maybe too relaxed in my case.)

The auction was unremarkable and when one opponent bid two diamonds in response to 1NT, her partner helpfully said: “Transfer to hearts.” Not understanding transfers at that time, I was grateful. The contract was reached.

We were defenders and my partner played her lead. The opponent on my right laid down his cards. What on earth was going through my mind I can’t now recall but there was a long silence while we waited to see what the declarer would play from dummy.

The strange thing is that everyone at the table (including me) knew something was terribly wrong but no one seemed to be able to put their finger on it for quite a while. Then everyone seemed to get it all at once. For some unfathomable reason, I had got it in my mind that I was dummy and had laid my hand down as well. When the truth dawned, we laughed our heads off for about five minutes.

Unfortunately, I’m teetotal so I couldn’t even blame the demon drink. It was on one of those boiling evenings in early July, so I’ll blame heat exhaustion. Bridge is always fun but not usually as hilarious as that evening.

The Bridge column is contributed by John Samson. John lives in Currie and is a member of Balerno Bridge Club, organiser of the Bo’ness Bridge Club and plays regularly at various groups in the area. Enquiries to jsamson23@hotmail. com with the heading ‘Bridge News Konect.’

28 | LINLITHGOW

CLUBS & CLASSES

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

LINLITHGOW LINLITHGOW LONGCROFT TABLE TENNIS GROUP (LLTTG) The club will restart for the new 2018/19 season on Wednesday 5th September.

The LLTTG meets every Wednesday night from 8.15pm to 9.45pm in the Longcroft Hall, Philip Avenue and gives an opportunity to play Table Tennis in a friendly and not too competitive atmosphere. Open to everyone and we have a mixed range of ages and ability. No special kit is required. Bats can be provided. Cost is £3.00 per night or £2.00 for under 18’s. For further information please contact Allan Scott on 01506 842602.

RAINBOW UNITS (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

BROWNIE UNITS (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

GUIDE UNITS (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

SENIOR SECTION UNIT (Girls aged 14 - 25 years old) take place on Friday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/ get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

POSITIVE PATHWAYS – BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Meets in the Canal Tearoom at 6.30 pm on Thursdays fortnightly. The group is led by a trained bereavement listener. £3 per meeting which goes towards the cost of hiring the tearoom. There is no magic formula which will take away the pain, but by listening and sharing with others, it is often possible to lessen the sense of isolation, chaos and despair felt after the death of a loved one. You will be warmly welcomed. For further information contact Sheila Rae by phoning or texting 07719 966273 or email sheila.ruth.rae@gmail.com. Bereavement Support Team St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow.

2ND LINLITHGOW GIRLS BRIGADE Girls Brigade P1 – S6. Come and join in the fun 6.30 Wednesday evening in term time. St Michaels Kirk Hall, Cross House. Contact Captain Clare at 2ndlinlithgowgirlsbrigade@gmail.com 2ND LINLITHGOW BOYS BRIGADE Meet at Cross House on a Thursday evening. Anchor Boys (P2-P3) 6.30pm-7.30pm; Junior Section (P4-P6) 7.00pm-8.15pm;Company/ Seniors (P7-S6) 7.45pm-9.45pm.

You can contact us on facebook at 2nd Linlithgow Boys Brigade or email us at linlithgowBB@outlook.com.

CLASSICAL PILATES CLASS – FIRST CLASS FREE! Linlithgow Bowling Club on Thursdays at 10am. Starting on 12th April. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information contact Maria on 07513 116490, e: mariahybszerpilates@gmail.com or check our website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.com

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NUTRICLUB Nutrition-focussed weight loss classes, Xcite Linlithgow Tues 9.30am & 5.30pm, Longcroft Hall Wed 9.30am and Bowling Club, Philip Avenue, Wed 5.30pm. For more info see Facebook: nutriclublinlithgow - tel: Louise on 07837 794112 or e: nutriclub@virginmedia.com w: www.nutriclub.co.uk Facebook: /nutriclublinlithgow SANGSCHULE We are a friendly and informal group who meet together to sing and learn new songs from our tutors. Meeting most Wednesdays in term-time in Linlithgow Academy staff room, 7.30-9.30pm All welcome, no experience needed, no need to read music. Under-16s must be accompanied. More details from Susan on 01506 843592, and on our website www.angelfire.com/folk/sangschule/programme LINLITHGOW NIBBLE & NATTER Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet some new people?

Come and join our fortnightly get together in Longcroft Hall, Linlithgow, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people. Have a chat and a choice of biscuits and cakes with a cup of tea. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you! Cost is just £1 and all are welcome. If you’d like more info get in touch with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) service on 01506 815815 or e: opal@cyrenians.scot LINLITHGOW WRITERS CIRCLE We meet every second Wednesday in the Linlithgow Tap in Linlithgow, from 7.30pm until 10pm. It’s for aspiring writers in and around Linlithgow to come together and write, share our work for critique and make some writing friends. It’s free to come along. For further details e:linlithgowwriters@gmail.com or findr us on Facebook.

2ND WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS The Scout Hall, 6 Dog Well Wynd, Linlithgow. Beavers (age 6-8) meet Wednesdays; Cubs (age 8-10.5) meet Mondays; Two Scouts troops (age 10.5 -14) meet Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact Group Scout Leader Nick Moody at scouts2wl@hotmail.co.uk. Substantial waiting lists for all sections - new adult volunteers always welcome.

THE CARING CAFE Low Port Centre, 1 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ. The Caring Cafe is a meeting place where people with dementia and their carers have a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am-12noon (Lunch available after the café in the Lowport Centre cafeteria). For people who are able to attend safely on their own or who are accompanied by someone to support them. Contact Margaret or May from Linlithgow Link on tel: 01506 845137 or e: co-ordinator@linlithgowlink.org.uk LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS Are you and your staff interested in improving speaking in public and leadership skills? Do you know about Toastmasters?

Linlithgow Speakers is a local voluntary group that can help develop these skills. We are looking for new members in Linlithgow. Come and visit on Tuesday night (we meet every second Tuesday at 7.30 at the Low Port Centre in Linlithgow. Please contact me for more info: Sheila Fraser 01506 650953 or 07968 233324.

LINLITHGOW KEEP FIT CLUB We meet every Thursday from 19:00-21:00 at the gym at the rear of Linlithgow Academy. We have limited spaces for new male members. We resume on the 27th August. Call Brian on 07984 930235 or e: gallacherbrian@hotmail.com for further information.

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA The Linlithgow String Orchestra for adults (18+) with a minimum standard Grade 5 meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge (2 Market Lane, Linlithgow).

New players from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Please contact us in advance on: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com or search for us on Facebook BADMINTON CLUB Small, friendly club meets Wednesday evenings at Lowport Centre, 7-9pm. We are looking for new members who have played before.

Adults only.

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LINLITHGOW & DISTRICT EMBROIDERS GUILD Linlithgow and District Branch of the Embroiderers Guild meet the last Wednesday of the month in Linlithgow Academy Library from 7pm till 9pm, September to May. Variety of Speakers and classes. Beginner or experienced, or not a stitcher all are welcome.

SUNSHINE SINGALONG Kirk Hall, St Michael’s Parish Church, second Thursday every month 12-1.30pm.

Caring for those living with memory loss. Light lunch then singing your favourite songs. A warm welcome awaits you, no church connection needed, just turn up on the day. Disabled parking in the Vennel Car Park adjacent to Kirk Hall.

SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Star and Garter (Above the lounge), Station Road. Thursday nights 7pm – 9pm. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device. Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Contact: Dougie Baird, Linlithgow Computer Club. Call 07929 120129 or just call in.

PHYSIO LED PILATES The Scout Hall in Linlithgow, Monday evenings 6pm & 7pm and Sunday mornings at 10am. The Old Pavilion in Linlithgow Wednesday evenings 6:30pm.

At Physio Led Pilates you can feel assured that exercises will be performed safely, effectively and modified to the appropriate level for you under the expert guidance of an experienced Physiotherapist.

For booking and further info please see www.physioledpilates.com

FORTH VALLEY ORIENTEERS Come and try orienteering! Learn to navigate with map and compass with FVO club coaches. Junior classes (9-13 years old, with or without parent). Adult newcomer classes for all ages. £5 per session. Contact Jen Lenoard on 01506 843552 or e: membership@fvo.org.uk for more info.

MALE VOICE CHOIR We meet every Monday from 19:45 in the Rugby Club. If you would like to come and try us out please do. Or if you have any questions please phone Chris Thomas on 07823 884802.

STEP TOGETHER FAMILY SUPPORT Support for those affected by the addictive behaviour of a loved one. Being in a close relationship with someone struggling with addiction can be a painful, frustrating and lonely journey. Our group focuses on establishing healthier relationships with our loved one and others, restoring balance to our lives and developing more helpful coping strategies. We meet in the evening on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month. For more info call or text 07592 226917.

LINLITHGOW BRIDGE LINLITHGOW BRIDGE PLAYGROUP Chalmers Hall, Main Street, Linlithgow Bridge. Tue-Thu: 9:15am11:45am during term time. No minimum number of sessions. £7.50 per session. For more info contact lbplaygroup@gmail.com. We can also now be contacted by phone or text tel: 07379 519645 or Facebook Page.

Children need not be resident within Linlithgrow Bridge to attend and are admitted from 27 months.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.KONECT.SCOT

LINLITHGOW | 29

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair 23 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 S and S Home Improvements 2 BOILER SERVICES The Gas Engineer 13 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett 23 CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES Mini Monkey Gym 5 COMMUNITY Lothian Buses 7 COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES Yoga With Amy 6 COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 23 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce 13 CYCLE SHOP Elevation Cycles 5 ELECTRICIAN SL Electrical 11 ESTATE AGENT Turpie & Co 21 FABRIC SHOP Fabric and More 23

FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES Welding & Fabrication Solutions 4 FINANCIAL ADVICE Link Housing Association 6 FINE FOODS Sebastian Kobelt - Pâtissier • Chocolatier 4 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 12 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 17 HOTEL Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 16 JOINERY Create Enhanced Spaces 6 Geoff Vinter Joinery 13 LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION The Leaflet Lady 32 LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 6 MOBILITY SERVICES Ableworld 15 PLASTERING Nu Walls 11 PLUMBING AND HEATING McLellan Plumbing and Heating 11

SPORTS AND LEISURE Edinburgh International Climbing Arena - EICA 4 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 11 VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Mackie & Brechin 22 YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 10 Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com

The Rotary Club of Linlithgow & Bo’ness presents

The Glasgow Phoenix Choir

Autumn Concert St Michael's Parish Church Linlithgow Sat 3rd Nov 2018 at 7.30 pm Doors open 7.00pm.

Tickets £10 each available from :-

Platform 3, 1 High St, Linlithgow The Tile Studio, 18 High St, Linlithgow www.wegottickets.com/event/449246

Organised by our International Committee in aid of International good causes

30 | LINLITHGOW

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SPORTS

SOGGY - SAVE OUR GRANGEMOUTH GOLF YES Our golf tour: the route approaching the star course in our itinerary dominated by high rise blocks! “Where have you brought us Jonesy?” groaned “the Donkey”, Eddie Orr, (E.Orr geddit?)

Our unpromising destination - the magnificent Downfield, where deer meandered nonchalantly mid the pines. First impressions eh?

Recently I enjoyed a mirror experience at Grangemouth municipal golf course. From unprepossessing beginnings, (Jim Ratcliffe’s oil refinery landmarks the way to the course; do you know Jim’s uplifted his 21 billion to the tax haven of Monaco?), Grangemouth instantly captured my heart.

The personable, professional, married dad of two Greg McFarlane, in locum 21 years, still passionate about his vocation, proclaims “It’s a hidden gem! We must promote it constantly.”

The cash-strapped Falkirk Council has the course in its financial crosshairs, so promotion IS vital. In the cost-cutting drive, John Scotland, captain of the course-based club, finds himself bartending more than golfing when a captain’s year should be all fun. 21 year member John feels positive about the future. As he heads a working party exploring survival solutions, including a takeover of the course from the Council, his opinion counts.

He expresses admiration for the dedicated green staff and the pro. “It’s a family type club but we’re short on youngsters”, he says. D, aged 15, gets animated in his enthusiasm for the place. Playing 2 years, lessons with Greg improved

his game, so he’s off 18 handicap, aiming for 10.

He feels golf, mixing with older players, teaches respect and manners. His favourite hole is 10, closely followed by 19, where he wolfs the wicked chicken pakora in the homely restaurant run by Stevie of Wee White Dog catering.

Incidentally, the Clubhouse boasts a huge room, ideal for parties, even licensed to conduct weddings!

I’ve golfed around the world; I recognise a great course. Grangemouth has the classic characteristic of opulent treelines divorcing each hole from its neighbour, in rolling countryside.

Even with ample fairways, the course plays long.

There’s a certain charm in the juxtaposition of the course, festooned by an abundance of trout lake, trees, rabbits, buzzards, butterflies and brambles, with the gloriously ugly tribute to Industry that sprawls below.

I enjoy the Olympic torch of flame, the comfort of the alarm test, the occasional whiff of oil, because here, in the space of six square miles, reside two fascinating human talents: the nous to invent a game that went viral, (a source of frustration but also of mental peace if you let it), and the genius to discover and employ to the full, black gold.

Greg, John, D and I are bound by our adoration of the game. As a community, surely we cannot let this magnificent flagship for the game and for our area, die by the sword of Council cuts!

Play/join/support the course/cause urgently please. Play anytime for £10 (pro tem). Take the yearly contract for a bargain price.

Book the splendid room, (free), for your celebration. SOGGYes!

The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. @KonectMagazines

LINLITHGOW | 31