Konect Livingston May 2018

MAY 2018

livingston

PLUS: Patterns For Living, Gardening Project, Puzzles and much more inside!

The community magazine for Livingston

Classroom to a class of your own Get out of the classroom and learn something new. With hands on work experience and first class qualifications, you’ll get a real head start in your career.

Combine school and college with a Foundation Apprenticeship.

Your future starts today.

STUDY YOUR WAY WITH A FOUNDATION APPRENTICESHIP COMBINE SCHOOL WITH INDUSTRY-LED STUDY

www.west-lothian.ac.uk TAKING APPLICATIONS NOW

2 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

TO OUR MAY EDITION

THIS ISSUE

I

t’s the countdown to summer! So inevitably Konect has quite a large garden and outdoors section this month.

And in keeping with the season, for the local charity feature I visited to The Brock in Broxburn which could be described as a secret garden as not many people know about it! They are trying to change that though - it’s a garden and wood craft centre which is a vital part of mental health therapeutic services in West Lothian with a history going back to Bangour Village psychiatric hospital. See the feature on pages 8-9 and try and support them if you’re looking for garden plants for the summer.

Chatting to one of the business owners who advertises in this magazine, I discovered she had a very interesting back story, which she was happy to share, see the article on pages 36-37. This is one of the things I like most about this job, learning about the wonderful range of experiences and interests people have. For example, last month I interviewed a footgolfer. I’d never heard of footgolf, either, but you can play it here in West Lothian. See page 46.

I’m looking for a couple of columnists for Konect at the moment. If you fancy writing a magazine column, please see pages 46 and 52 for details on the two topics available.

Once again, thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

COVER IMAGE: Springtime in Livingston the perennial poppies at Dobbies

Sports Columnist wanted!

P46 The Brock – Secret Garden Centre?..............8 Garden Project.................................................. 14 Health & Beauty................................................ 22 Motoring – QX50 test drive............................ 26 Make the most of a small bathroom............ 29 Diane Bryson – Leave it 2 us......................... 36 Property Matters............................................... 40 Puzzles................................................................ 42 Footgolf – Yes, it is what it sounds like....... 46 Recipe & Food Notes...................................... 48 Music Review.................................................... 49 Vet’s Tip.............................................................. 51 “Calling all parents and grandparents”...... 52

Konect is delivered to 20,000 homes throughout Livingston, alternating between two areas of 10,000 homes each. Copies are also left at libraries, community centres, convenience stores, post offices and other locations throughout Livingston.

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

JENNY THOMSON

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

Email: hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

Account Manager

LIVINGSTON | 3

Atsecuritas Scotland’s Security Specialist

4 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

è Interior or exterior work è Home or business è Jobs big and small è Choose a local professional

Call Ernest for advice or a quote:

Landline: 01506 41 66 41 EDC Painters & Decorators, Skivo Farm, Livingston EH54 9AN

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 5

David DavidB BCarruthers Carruthers Architectural Architectural Technologist Technologist

DBC DBCarchitecture. architecture.

07713873698 07713873698

dbcarruthers@hotmail.com dbcarruthers@hotmail.com - 3D- Design 3D Design Packages Packages - Planning - Planning Applications Applications - Building - Building Warrant Warrant Applications Applications - Construction - Construction Information Information - Project - Project Management Management - Consultation - Consultation

6 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 7

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Did you know there is a garden centre behind the Strathbrock Partnership Centre in Broxburn?

You can buy a wide range of plants, hanging baskets, planters, garden furniture and everything else you’d expect from a garden centre; but The Brock is special because it’s run as a social enterprise to support people in the community who have severe and enduring mental illness and mental health issues .

Gardening has fantastic therapeutic value and is very beneficial for mental health.

The Brock traces its beginnings to when Bangour Village Hospital at Dechmont was a psychiatric hospital. There was a garden centre there with plants cultivated by the service users, and when the hospital closed down the NHS moved the gardening facility to Dedridge. It moved to Broxburn in 2011, with a plot of land behind the Partnership Centre provided by West Lothian Council. It is still not very well known in the community, but a recent grant from Big Lottery has allowed The Brock to take on a General Manager and a Project Worker/Administrator to raise its profile and expand the scope of its activities and the therapeutic services it provides. The only way to keep it open is to ensure it is self-sustaining financially. For this it relies on sales of plants, garden accessories and other craft items produced by the service users.

You can get pretty much everything you need for your borders and planters, although if you are looking for something specific it’s best to contact them first to see if it is available. Besides annual and perennial flowers, there are vegetables, 8 | LIVINGSTON

herbs, and, unusually, bonsai plants (above).

The Brock also sells hanging baskets, wooden garden furniture, bird tables, planters and other woodcraft items that are made by the woodworking group within the Mental Health Resource Centre at Strathbrock. You can commission pieces if you want something in particular. They are hoping to acquire more land to expand in the near future. This month (May) they are installing a new wee potting-shed style kiosk at the entrance to the garden for a till and small shop (please note it is cash only at the moment, no card facilities). And they are working on getting some signage at the Partnership Centre to let people know they are there!

The Brock is the only place in West Lothian where members of the community who have severe and enduring mental illness @KonectDirectory

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! There are a range of volunteering opportunities at The Brock. They are particularly looking for people to help out in the shop handling the plant sales over the summer. If you are able to help, please contact Kevin or Emily (contact details below).

Wooden garden furniture and planters

The Brock Garden, Wood and Craft Centre is a charity registered in Scotland, number SCO44528. and mental health issues are able to come and get the therapeutic benefits of gardening, woodwork and other craft activities. Support them by buying your plants & garden furniture here.

Open: Weekdays (10am – 4pm) Closed: Weekends The Brock Garden, Wood and Craft Centre Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH Follow the carpark around the to back of the Partnership Centre. You’ll see the greenhouses of The Brock. There is plenty of parking, and the entrance is near to the back door of the Partnership Centre.

Tel: 01506 858080 Email: info@thebrock.org Online: Facebook, Twitter & Instagram Helen-Jane interviewed The Brock’s Manager, Kevin McElroy, and Project Worker Emily Simpson at The Brock in Broxburn for this article. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 9

AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk

10 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

Virtuoso Composite Doors by Design up to 60% less Virtuoso Composite Doors Fully installed from £899

Upvc Doors Canopies Fully installed from £399

Upvc Doors

Fully installed from £599

French and Patio Doors .

@KonectMagazines

Fully installed from £1199

Fully inclusive prices www.upvcdoorshop.com For a no obligation quote Call: 01506 655202 LIVINGSTON | 11

Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573

All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, #11419-Edinburgh-92x128-Spring-TUF10-13feb18-R2-PRINT.pdf Decking & Fencing

12 | LIVINGSTON

1

15/02/2018

12:19

@KonectDirectory

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 13

GARDENING PROJECT

Heartsease

ones as they no longer had any fragrance and so the farmers’ crops weren’t damaged any more and their wrath was assuaged.

To this day Heartsease has no fragrance nor do its Viola progeny that you find in garden centres. But what they may lack in fragrance they more than make up with flower power and their cheeky little faces keep appearing for weeks and weeks in your borders and containers. Invite some Violas to come and live in your garden this Spring!

Heartsease (Viola tricolor) is a cheeky little member of the Viola family and has been the one of the parents of the many seasonal bedding Violas that we are offered nowadays in garden centres.

A long time ago Heartsease had a lovely fragrance and folk would trample over the crops of corn in farmers’ fields to seek, find and pick the little flowers in the fields. The little flowers were so embarrassed at the anger they caused with the farmers that one moonlight night they all turned their little faces to the skies and begged the Creator to remove their fragrance. This he did and thereafter folk were not attracted to pick the little flowers for their loved

14 | LIVINGSTON

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

@KonectDirectory

Weekdays 9am till 5pm

High quality timber garden products

Sat & Sun 11am till 3pm

Play Houses

Garden Sheds Garages/Workshops

Summerhouses Dog Kennels & Garden Stores

Picnic Tables

BBQ Shelters

Garden Seats, Benches & Tables

Table & Chair Sets

Log Edging & Log Roll Fence Panels,Gates & Posts

Gazebos/Pavilions

Arches Planters

Arbours Grow Your Own

Woodchip & Mulch Decking & Sleepers

Specialists in High Quality Timber Products and Wood Fuels at Competitive Prices For comprehensive information on all of our products please visit our website

www.champfleurieestate.co.uk

Phone 01506 847999 - E-mail sales@champfleurie.co.uk - Champfleurie Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 6NB

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 15

GARDENING

MAKE A DATE FOR

Gardening Scotland 2018

Summer is just around the corner so now’s the time to embrace your outdoor space by putting a date in your diary for Gardening Scotland 2018.

The national festival of plants and flowers has everything you need to transform your garden and it’s also a great day out for everyone, from novice gardeners to expert growers and families in search of outdoor fun.

This year’s show takes place from Friday, 1 June until Sunday, 3 June and for three days the Royal Highland Centre Edinburgh will be transformed into the biggest plant sale in Scotland, with a country fair atmosphere, crafts, live music, show gardens, a lively cookery theatre, expert advice for gardeners and lots, lots more.

IMAGE ABIOVE COURTESY OF ‘SCENE AND HERD’

Green-fingered gardeners and complete beginners are equally welcome and there will be something for every plot amongst the glorious shrubs, roses, alpines, bulbs and perennials that will be on sale.

Outside in the show ground, exhibitors will be selling every kind of gardening tool and accessory and top designers will be showcasing the latest trends in garden design, from contemporary outdoor rooms to wild places for tiny spaces, with ideas on how to turn the average back garden into a haven for butterflies and bees.

Or turn yours into a space for relaxation with stylish furniture, sun houses and everything you need to create a stylish outdoor room.

This year at Gardening Scotland The Secret Herb Garden will be creating The Secret Gin Garden, where they will be growing the plants used to flavour their unique colourchanging spirits. Sample the delicate flavours of Apothecary Rose, Lavender & Echinacea and Chamomile & Cornflower made from

16

|

hand-picked ingredients, grown at the foot of the Pentlands.

Book in advance and you can enjoy afternoon tea amongst the glorious flowers in the Floral Pavilion or visit the Food Fayre take some of the best produce that Scotland has to offer.

Head to the Big Back Garden for family fun, including bouncy castles, close encounters with bees and a chance to dig up the past with Archaeology Scotland.

There are more hands-on activities in the Garden for Life area, especially for anyone with a passion for bugs, butterflies and conservation, while live music throughout the three days will make Gardening Scotland go with a swing.

Have your gardening dilemmas solved in the Royal Horticultural Society’s Advice Clinic, learn from the experts in Q&A sessions and demonstrations or just enjoy the sights and scents of beautiful flowers in full bloom. Gardening Scotland 2018 has something for everyone.

For more information visit www.gardeningscotland.com

Save £5 on the gate price to Gardening Scotland 2018 by entering promo code SAVEK18 when you book online at www.gardeningscotland.com/tickets.

Code valid until 30th May 2018.

This article was contributed by Gardening Scotland

|

Save £5 on the gate price Online Code: SAVEK18 Valid Unitl 30th May 2018

Scotland’s Gardening Festival 1st - 3rd June 2018 Kids Go Free!

Book your tickets online at www.gardeningscotland.com SAVE MONEY on our gate ticket prices!

Enter Promo Code SAVEK18 to get this special offer. @KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 17

18 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Patios • Removals • Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more....

Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com @KonectMagazines

ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Regular Garden Maintenance and Landscaping Grass cutting, turfing, paving, patios, driveways, mono blocking & fencing

Local, reliable, professional

Call Ryan: 07723 587389 or Email: ryantosney@live.co.uk LIVINGSTON | 19

Hearing Testing ● Wax Removal

●

Latest Digital Hearing Aids

Hearing HearingTesting Testing●●Wax WaxRemoval Removal

● Latest LatestDigital DigitalHearing HearingAids Aids ●

D DD

id you know your local Hearing Aid Audiologist Amanda Brady id you know yourlocal local Hearing id you know your Hearing is aAid four time runner up in the Audiologist Amanda Brady Aid Audiologistof Amanda Brady UKisAudiologist the Year?

This a four time runner up in the is a four time runner up in the means that clientsofnominated UK Audiologist the Year? This UK Audiologist of the Year?

This that clients nominated hermeans for showing exception skills means that clients nominated her for showing exception skills in understanding of their hearing her showing exception skills infor understanding of their hearing problems, product selection, futting in understanding of their hearing problems, product selection, and tuning of the hearing aidsfutting and and tuning of the selection, hearing aids and problems, product futting herher aftercare service. aftercare service. and tuning of the hearing aids and her aftercare service.

01506856 856500 500 01506

01506www.abchearing.co.uk 856 500 www.abchearing.co.uk

Hearing for for Life Life info@abchearing.co.uk Hearing info@abchearing.co.uk www.abchearing.co.uk 16 Ecclesmachan Road, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6DB Ecclesmachan Lothian, EH52 6DB Hearing 16 for LifeRoad, Uphall, West info@abchearing.co.uk 16 Ecclesmachan Road, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6DB 20 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 21

HEALTH & BEAUTY

GO HAIR DRYER FREE! After focusing on the best way to use your hair dryer in my last column I want to share with you the best ways to go hair dryer free!

If you don’t like your natural texture, or you think it’s too frizzy or not wavy enough here are some tips that will help you get beachy waves.

Firstly your hair needs moisture. Use an intensive moisture treatment once a week, or coconut oil can also work wonders for moisture.

When leaving your hair to dry, give it the best chance of longevity. After washing rake through your hair with a wide tooth comb, smooth a little oil down the shaft of the hair and a product with a light hold.

If your hair doesn’t curl enough for your liking shake your head a little to cause natural sections of hair to divide and twist these small sections lightly, always working down the hair shaft.

The key to keeping it smooth is now to leave it! Don’t touch and DO NOT SCRUNCH! When you scrunch the hair you go against the cuticle causing friction and therefore frizz! The less touching the less frizz!

Hair by Wonderland

Many people think these waves are for long hair, but I really love this on shorter styles like

shaggy crops and chin length

bobs. Easy hair is

always a winner.

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 22 | LIVINGSTON

To befriend our inner world is an exciting journey and, although it requires courage and honesty with ourselves, it surely makes sense to get into the ‘driving seat’ of our lives?

During the first seven years of life everything we experience is directly downloaded into our subconscious mind. Our little, susceptible brains record all that we’re told and those messages that we hear most frequently are received as a form of ‘hypnosis’.

Although our conscious mind is creative, with adult-type wishes and understanding, when we go into a ‘thinking mode’ we disconnect from direct experience of the current moment. We shift instead into connection with our ‘database’ of all those old downloaded programmes.

In other words, considering that 95% of the day we’re thinking, at those times our behaviour is by default controlled by old messages. So we only have 5% of our day when our behaviours may be in line with our creative wishes and dreams.

There are various ways to change outdated, unhelpful ‘programmes’. But this research suggests it’s even more important to be vigilant about the 95% of the day when we’re lost in thought.

Let’s pause occasionally, take a slow and conscious breath, and return to this moment as wholly as possible …

This column is contributed by Rosanna Veitch.

“I have worked as a counsellor for 30 years, I see clients of all ages and with all forms of emotional distress in my peaceful therapy room at my home. Please feel free to call for a chat.

Everyone is welcome, and I'm happy to adjust my fee if money is tight.”

T: 0131 449 2580 W: www.effectivecounsellingedinburgh.com

@KonectDirectory

Please contact us if you would like to be included in the Konect health & beauty pages. See page 3 for our details

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 23

Now located at 29 W Main Street Uphall EH52 5DN

Clear Aligners to create your ideal smile

G Free consultation & personal animation of possible tooth movement G Free whitening

24 | LIVINGSTON

Tel: 01506 857717 www.broxburndentist.co.uk no9dentalpractice

@KonectDirectory

DALMAHOY

LEISURE & FITNESS

SHAPE UP FOR SUMMER

6 WEEKS OF HEALTH & FITNESS Summer is just around the corner and we want to help you make the most of it. Whether it’s the chance to get into shape before your holiday, to improve your fitness or to relax with friends and family, Dalmahoy is the perfect venue for you.

6 Week Membership

JUST £49

Leisure and fitness facilities include:

Heated indoor swimming pool with sauna and steam room

per person

6 Week Family Membership

JUST £89*

State-of-the-art gym Beautifully appointed changing facilities Outdoor tennis courts

*Valid for 2 adults and children under 18 go free.

Daily exercise classes

To take advantage of your six week membership trial offer and arrange your visit, simply call us on

0131 335 8012 www.dalmahoy.co.uk Terms & Conditions:

*Offer only applicable during June, July & August 2018 at Dalmahoy. All offers subject to availability. Places may be limited. To continue using the club after your 6 weeks trial has expired you must join on a full membership category. 6 Week trial members will be issued with a temporary trial membership card which must be shown on each visit.

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 25

MOTORING

Infiniti QX50 Launched in the UK less than 10 years ago, Japanese luxury brand Infiniti is still attempting to establish itself as an alternative to the German trio and struggling to top 3,500 sales a year.

The firm’s latest attempt to change that is a midsize SUV to tempt buyers away from the BMW X3 or Audi Q5. With smart technology, a distinctive design and a clever new engine, Infiniti is hoping the QX50 will become their best-selling car.

It debuts a number of world-first gadgets: dynamic noise-cancelling technology in the engine, seats designed in conjunction with NASA, and a petrol engine that promises sports performance with the economy of a diesel.

What’s under the bonnet?

That clever new VC-Turbo engine is a world-first variable compression ratio engine, offering the power of a 2.0-litre turbo petrol with the torque and efficiency of a four-cylinder diesel. Currently there are no plans to offer a diesel engine.

The 2.0-litre engine produces 268bhp and 380Nm of torque, whereas a petrol-powered BMW X3 20i offers 184bhp and 290Nm – thus apparently giving the QX50 the upper hand.

What’s it like to drive?

The engine generates impressive performance, hitting 60mph in 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 143mph. Much of the noise it makes is synthetically generated, teetering between deeply

satisfying and incredibly

annoying. The CVT

automatic gearbox

becomes very

audible at

higher revs.

Although Infiniti’s drive-by-wire steering allows the car to do clever things – like independently steer individual wheels, hundreds of times a second – it lacks feel, particularly at slow speeds. Whether that’ll bother the average buyer remains to be seen.

The QX50’s new chassis and ground-up design has certainly resulted in a quiet and comfortable ride, and a dynamic noise-cancelling engine mount, which stops noise entering the cabin, means it’s calm inside too.

Hit the car’s ProPilot button and it’ll steer for you (but you’ll need to keep a hand on the wheel), speeding up and slowing down with traffic. The Forward Collision Warning system uses radar to spot traffic slowing down and Infiniti says it can even detect a slowing motorbike hidden in front of an HGV.

How does it look?

The QX50 has a welcome and genuinely different design, and the quite hard-on-the-eye look of Infiniti SUVs of the past has been toned down.

Inside, hand-stitched leather panels, alcantara and a swooping dash give it a luxury feel, and it’s far better packaged than early Infiniti models.

What’s the spec like?

The QX50 is slated to arrive either late this year or very early in 2019, so Infiniti is remaining tight lipped about specification and pricing. Executives did tell us that it would undercut BMW and Audi rivals and it’s likely much of the new technology will be included as standard.

Verdict Infiniti believes the QX50 is the best car it has ever made – and we’d find it hard to argue with them. The clever new VC-Turbo engine is impressive, the ride quality and interior finish excellent and we even like the looks. Quite how Brits will react to a petrol-powered SUV with no diesel option remains to be seen, though, and its success will hinge on just how much it undercuts established rivals from the German brands.

This article was contributed by James Baggot.

26 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

● MOT’S ● BRAKES ● EXHAUSTS ● TYRES ● DIAGNOSTICS ● SERVICING ● ALL GENERAL REPAIRS

Tel: 01506 418881 (Also at: 8 Bathgate Road, Armadale)

@KonectMagazines

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding Call Jim now for your free quote

07581 829297

Unit 47b, West End, West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8EJ

MOT £25.00 SERVICE FROM £59.95 Unit 10 Fairbairn Road, Livingston Village, EH54 6TS (next to royal mail sorting office) LIVINGSTON | 27

28 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

HOME IMPROVEMENT

A large mirror, a pale, neutral colour palette and raising fittings off the floor promote a feeling of spaciousness

make the most of a

Small Bathroom

Even a tiny bathroom can function brilliantly and look gorgeous.

1

Choose subtle colours: A neutral colour palette opens up a small bathroom, giving it a sophisticated, contemporary feel. If you want colour, watery blues and greens help the room feel light and airy. To avoid a clinical feel, add texture – timber shelving, wicker baskets, waffle towels and linen blinds.

2

Fit excellent storage: Slimline cupboards take less floor space; false walls conceal pipework and can have inset cupboards or niches; look for anywhere that storage could be added, from above the door to below the basin, even behind the bath panel or a rack inside the shower.

3

Make the most of natural light: Get the most light possible through the windows – keep sills clear and don’t cover any of the glass with window treatments. Bounce light around the room using mirrors and glossy tiles.

4

Select fittings wisely: Bathroom fittings designed for small bathrooms don’t compromise on looks or function, including shortprojection WCs, shower-baths, thin-but-tall towel rails and ultra-slim basins. For awkward spaces, consider corner showers, basins and WCs. Wall or mixer taps create room on a small basin, and if space is tight add a wall-mounted soap dispenser.

5

Raise it off the floor: A bathroom can appear more spacious by the installation of wallmounted pieces to show off the floor space beneath.

6

Lighting is vital: Lighting should meet all requirements, from putting on make-up to reading in the bath. Choose recessed spotlights, or neat directional lights mounted on a slender track. Fit LED strips beneath wall units as a hidden light source, with a baffle board in front to avoid glare, and include an illuminated mirror.

Note that fittings will need to be IP-rated for safety (check with your electrician). @KonectMagazines

Make the most of natural light

7

Two-in-one is best: Choose multifunction, such as towel radiators, storage seats, mirrored cabinets and basins with cupboards beneath.

Consider underfloor heating: If you are

8 renovating, installing underfloor heating is

relatively easy and inexpensive, and saves the space taken up by a radiator.

Employ visual tricks: Large-format tiles (wall or floor) can work better in compact bathrooms than smaller tiles, and with fewer grout lines, large tiles look sleek and are easier to maintain.

10

Assess your window options: Curtains contrast the hard surfaces, but avoid anything too flouncy. Floaty sheers in simple gathers work well, such as a flat panel of muslin threaded onto a pole or wire across the bottom half of the window. Alternatively, try a neat Roman or roller blind, waterproof louvre shutters or simple frosted glass.

LIVINGSTON | 29

EPH

SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount

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

30 | LIVINGSTON

123871

LB250

@KonectDirectory

QUALITY BATHROOM AT LOW LOW

PRICES

CMYK

EDINBURGH

556-568 GORGIE RD, EH11 3XN OPEN 7 DAYS.

0131 297 2896

OVER

70 LIFESTYLE DISPLAYS

BROXBURN

EAST MAINS INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, EH52 5NE Pantone 115 Yellow. and 100% Black

OPEN 6 DAYS.

01506 533 396

• RADIATORS • MIRRORS • TAPS • FURNITURE • WALL & FLOOR TILES • WETWALL PANELS • ENCLOSURES • WHIRLPOOLS • ACCESSORIES

VISIT US: WWW.BUYRITEBATHROOMS.COM

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 31

32 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

We specialise in household alterations and repairs. To discuss your construction project, please call Colin on: or email:

Extensions | Bathrooms | Kitchens Alterations | Structual Work Maintenance & Repairs | Landscaping Driveways | All Trades

Bathrooms | Heating | Showers | Boilers Drainage | Radiators | Repairs | Maintenance Servicing | Landlords Certificates T: 07517 245 202 E: colin@builditltd.com 34 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

•All joinery work undertaken • Door repairs & replacement • Kitchen planning & installa�on • Solid, Engineered & laminate flooring • Skir�ng & facings • Fi�ed wardrobes Bespoke joinery • Bespo • Home improvements

07432 495 285 01506 300 190 info@create.scot

Reviews and photos can be found at

www.trustatrader.com

Made to measure replacement doors - New Edinburgh Showroom

Call us for a FREE estimate:

2 East London Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4BH

0131 516 8654 www.dreamdoors.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 35

LOCAL PEOPLE

Diane Bryson: LEAVE IT 2 US

“I joined the army as it was the only way out of the area I was in, in London, at that time,” says Diane Bryson when I meet her at her home in Linlithgow Bridge.

Diane runs a cleaning business, but when I met her at a local business event last month I had a feeling that she had quite a back story. Happily, she invited me into her

36 | LIVINGSTON

(spotless, of course) home and was willing to share her story.

“It was the only chance for a job with career progression. I had wanted to join up at 16, but my grandma didn’t want me to. So I said ‘OK granny, I will try other jobs first.’” But before her 20th birthday she had joined up, went through basic training, and was offered work in Military Administration.

In the course of her army career, Diane spent time in Germany, Northern Ireland, Belize, Woolwich and Oxford. The posting in South America was her “wish posting.” “When you’ve been posted to a difficult area, you’re offered the chance to choose where you want to go next. I looked at the options and went for the craziest thing I could see – I went to Belize with the Special Forces to help with their admin and accountancy, but ended up doing jungle training too! It was the hardest thing I have ever done, but an absolute blast!”

Diane married Billy, whom she met during training five years previously and

@KonectDirectory

who was in the same corps. With difficulty getting postings within a reasonable distance of each other, Diane signed off. Then their son Charlie was born.

Then her husband was posted to Bosnia. She was fairly isolated, with no family nearby and no longer really integrated into the military community. “But I didn’t mind, I was quite happy just getting on with being with Charlie with no-one else around. He needed many hospital visits and that kept me very busy.”

It must have been hard, after years in the army, travel and adventure, to be at home alone with the baby while her husband was away. “It was incredibly hard, yes,” says Diane. “Especially when he went to Bosnia.

I so wanted to go. And he was wishing he was home with Charlie!” For various reasons, they weren’t able to get the facilities and care in London that Charlie needed, and it was increasingly difficult with Billy being away for months at a time. Billy signed off, and they decided to leave and head north. They packed as much as they could into their wee car and drove north, leaving everything behind, to start a new life in Edinburgh.

“But I couldn’t get work! Interviews went well until I mentioned I had a child with special needs.” So with her typical independent and “just-get-on-with-it” attitude, she set up in business herself as an interim solution until Charlie was stronger - “because there was no way I was going to sit around doing nothing!”

Remembering the importance the army attached to cleaning all their office equipment before and after each move, Diane set up a computer equipment cleaning business - just temporarily. That was nearly 20 years ago; the business is still going! When her daughter Erin came along, she was able to keep the business going. “I have many long-term clients, some of whom have been with me since those early days. But you’re not locked into a contract or a minimum number of cleans. I don’t want to be there just because the contract says so. I want to be there because my clients want me there, it’s a simple as that.”

I’m guilty of eating lunch at my desk; my cat sits and washes on my desk right next to my keyboard; I hate to think what’s lurking @KonectMagazines

Diane at her home in

Linlithgow Bridge

beneath the keys, but Diane has offered to clean it for me. Besides computer cleaning, which requires special handling, Diane cleans whole offices and homes. Billy now works in sports media, covering match web-streaming for all the main football clubs in Scotland. “I absolutely love football!” says Diane. “I watch all the England games of course too!”

It was a pleasure to interview this incredibly strong and interesting woman. Diane has done special forces jungle training in Belize.

There is nothing your office or house can throw at her that is going to faze her in the slightest.

To get in touch with Diane for office and computer cleaning, see the Leave it 2 Us advert on opposite page, or visit www.qcclinlithgow.co.uk Helen-Jane Shearer interviewed Diane Bryson in Linlithgow Bridge for this article.

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

LIVINGSTON | 37

Linlithgow Loch, West Lothian. 55.980280°N, -3.5973411°W

sell with no upfront marketing costs Sell your home with Aberdein Considine’s West Lothian property experts and pay no upfront marketing costs until your property is sold. When navigating the property market, let us be your map and compass.

Book a free valuation today on 01506 420800 or visit aberdeinconsidine.com

we know how the land lies www.aberdeinconsidine.com

z Deep Carpet/Rug Cleaning z Curtain Cleaning z Upholstery Cleaning

z Mattress Cleaning

z Stain Removal

z Dust Mite Elimination

z Odour Removal

z Fabric Protector

z Stone Floor Restoration

z Pet Accidents

Contact Bill Weir for more information:

T: 0800 695 7575 (freephone) T: 01506 536990 E: bill.weir@aquateccg.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 39

PROPERTY MATTERS

Some landlords, especially those who are new to the experience, understandably wish to use a letting agent simply as a route to market in order to find a tenant.

However, whilst a return on investment is one thing, sleeping well at night is quite another.

A managed service is not just about chasing late rent, resolving disputes and inventory control.

When your property is professionally managed, it’s all about accountability. This means regular inspections to check that your tenant is treating your investment with the respect it deserves. During these inspections, well-trained staff are able to identify any areas that should be investigated in order to avoid or reduce costs later. An example would be a blocked gutter. Normally, you would only hear about this when the tenant calls you to tell you that water is coming in, plaster has come away from the wall and there is mould on the ceiling. Call in the dehumidifier, plasterer, and painter – and you have a large bill and an unhappy tenant.

Many tenants also prefer to rent a property that is managed through a letting agent, possibly because they have had a “problem landlord” in the past so they tend to stay longer.

40 | LIVINGSTON

Additionally, no matter how compliant a tenant may seem at the outset, the last thing a landlord needs is someone phoning him/ her at all hours with some minor issue over a draft, dripping tap, clanking pipes, noisy neighbours, etc. All or these are part of a day’s work for a dedicated managing agent.

One of the most important considerations of a property manager is to get to know their clients’ tenants, and have a good understanding of their plans, often preempting a premature departure, so that they can prepare and let the property in time to avoid it being empty – even for a day!

Most landlords derive great value from a professionally managed service and I would invite you to experience the difference yourself.

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. @KonectDirectory

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

DONALD DOES IT ALL

making a house into a home ■ SLABBING & DECKING ■ PAINTING DECORATING ■ JOINERY WORK ■ AIMS TAPING & PARTITIONINGS

Solution in the June edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Starchy vegetable (6), 8. Keep hold of (6), 9. Dish (4), 10. Quickly (8), 11. Modified (7), 13. Shell (5), 15. Swivel round (5), 17. Type of sword (7), 20. Semi-darkness (8), 21. Serene (4), 23. Jail (6), 24. Idea (6) DOWN: 1. Single handed (4), 2. Hit very hard (6), 3. Bragged (7), 4. Star sign (5), 5. Artist’s workroom (6), 6. Local languages (8), 12. Toward a lower place (8), 14. Fastenings (7), 16. Dash of liquid (6), 18. Find (6), 19. Extreme pain (5), 22. Stolen valuables (4)

DONALD STONE 01506 651212 or 07720 123216 no job too small ■ free quotations and creative advice

Solution on Page 61

SUDOKU

42 | LIVINGSTON

We repair Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Ovens, Dishwashers and Washer Dryers

0772 965 1692

info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook

@KonectDirectory

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 43

44 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

ESTABLISHED 1985

FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING REQUIREMENTS: Interior and Exterior Paperhanging Coving Plastering Free estimates

Tel: 07585 509 811 Email: manicstpainters@hotmail.com 71 Marjoribanks St, Bathgate, EH48 1AL

Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging

All electrical services Fusebox Upgrades Lighting Sockets Showers Fault Finding Repairs Testing and Inspection

07841 331 888 email: electric_al@ymail.com facebook: electric_al

17th Edition qualified, ECS/CSCS Registered

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 45

FEATURE

FOes,Oit isTwhatGit sounds like...F d tio n at Bridgen

Y

We’re looking for a sports writer to contribute a monthly column for Konect.

You need to be sports-mad, any or many sports :) You need to be familiar with the scene in West Lothian and West Edinburgh - this is about celebrating and supporting local clubs, fixtures, people, competitions and so on (not national). It will cover a range of different sports and include, for example, interviews with local sportspeople or club managers, opinion pieces, analysis on team outlook, sports in education, and so on (i.e. anything except news or match reports). You need a good level of written English and ability to work to deadline.

Email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk to apply, attaching a sample of your writing.

46 | LIVINGSTON

ac

Freelance Sports Columnist

n “I’d never heard of ni footgolf until you called Decla me about this article,” I say to Declan Reid when we meet in the Black Bull Inn in Mid Calder to discuss his upcoming UK footgolf tour.

“Neither had I until 18 months ago!” he responds.

And here he is now, representing Scotland in footgolf tournaments and raising sponsorship to get himself to the next level.

Spell checker is underlining the word footgolf in red in my word processor as I write this article, so it’s not made its way into the Word dictionary yet. What is it?

Footgolf is exactly what it sounds like – kicking a football into a course of holes. A fairly new sport, it’s seen an explosion in popularity in the past two years and is being considered by the Olympic Committee for inclusion as an Olympic sport. Where does West Lothian sit on that map?

“There is one footgolf club in West Lothian, at Bridgend Golf Club, near Linlithgow,” says Declan. “Bridgend is a brilliantly maintained course. We’re in a league with footgolf clubs in Cumbernauld, Roodlea in Ayr and Caprington in Kilmarnock. So long as you can kick a ball, you can have a go at footgolf.” It doesn’t require the athleticism of football; you go at your own pace in small teams around the course, making it a very accessible sport.

The Bridgend Footgolf Club has members of all ages, both men and women. @KonectDirectory

First things first, what do you wear for footgolf? I see a smattering of Argyle pattern socks and tops in many of the photos I’ve looked at. “Wear pretty much what you’d wear for football, but no studs on your boots. The studs are too harsh on the golf greens.”

Declan first came across footgolf at Conifox Garden Centre in Kirkliston where they have a wee course for kids. His football mad kids loved it. Declan looked it up, found the club at Bridgend, booked the course and is now hooked on it. With a dedicated footgolf course at Gatwick, courses such as Celtic Manor hosting footgolf events, and former England and Liverpool striker Stan Collymore giving footgolf attention on his show in February, the sport’s profile is definitely on the rise. I pass a message of solidarity to Declan’s wife, “Hang in there, I’m sure the prize money will increase proportionately...”

Declan is seeking sponsorship to help him cover his costs.

“This year I will be playing in the Scottish Tartan Tour, UK National tour singles and pairs events. I would also like to continuing representing Scotland in the Tri-Nations event, having a 100% win record from my international debut against England.” He has a range of business sponsorship options including organising company footgolf days out.

If you are interested in helping, please contact Declan via the Bridgend Footgolf Facebook page (West Lothian Footgolf) or call Bridgend Golf Club on 01506 834140 and leave a message for him.

For more information about the sport, see “West Lothian Footgolf” on Facebook and www.ukfootgolf.com.

cla

f ck n (r ight) at the Gatwi

tg oo

ll!

De

ol fc ou rse

Helen-Jane Shearer interviewed Declan Reid for this article. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family.

ra

CREDIT: Background photograph provided by UK Footgolf

Footgolf is played with a standard size 5 football on an existing golf course, kind of superimposed over the golf course but with the 21” footgolf holes just off to the side of the golf greens.

Golfers and footgolfers co-habitate quite happily; the usual rules of courtesy on the course apply.

Most footgolfers have a background in playing football, and there is a smattering of national and international ex-professional footballers in the sport. With its focus on precision, I ask Declan if training in footgolf would be a good idea for all footballers? “It’s quite a different skill really,” he explains. “Yes, precision is important in football, but when you’re passing the ball it has to arrive at your team member with momentum.

In footgolf, you’re aiming at a fixed spot and you want the ball to stop at that point.”

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY

tf or p s Footgolf: A @KonectMagazines

o

LIVINGSTON | 47

48 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

MUSIC REVIEW

The singer not the song: Discuss Own up - did someone here order a single from Sting and Shaggy? Or is this like when your ex gets Dominos to deliver thirty pizzas to your flat?

No, it’s real. “Don’t Let Me Wait” arrives in spite of public demand. It’s Shaggy I feel sorry for, his hangdog toasting is hard to dislike but when married to Sting’s winy, I was old man jumper but now I’m reggae again with my stripy top on and everything, re-tread of old Police melodies all charm dissolves. There is a whole album of this stuff. Don’t have nightmares.

With rather more goodwill available, Roger Daltrey releases his first solo single for twenty five years albeit there is a chequered history of collaborations in-between. RD featuring Wilko Johnson in 2014: good. RD featuring McFly in 2003: doubleplus bad.

“As Long As I Have You” tries hard to provide an exciting soul/rhythm and blues setting for a very convincing vocal from the 74 year old, certainly

@KonectMagazines

more recognisable as the screamer of old than on the 2006 Who album, say. Once the riffs and gospel choir have done their part there is a slight sense of sound and fury signifying nothing, rather than testifying, but better this than another soundtrack team up.

The voice alone is never enough though, is it? Even Elvis couldn’t salvage absolutely everything, Sinatra maybe if you are a devotee, but not Florence Welch despite the advance press for “Sky Full Of Stars”. A striking folk-esque acapella beginning gives way to an admirably stripped back accompaniment of bass and harmonies, but the subsequent lack of development in either lyric or melody allows only for admiration and not connection.

The dog days are back, I’m afraid.

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’.

LIVINGSTON | 49

BUSTER THE DOG

To be included please contact us!

See page 3 for contact details

50 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

VET’S TIP

Why is dentistry important?

You know that moment when your pet breathes on you and it smells like they’ve raided the bottom of the bin?

Some naughty pets probably have, but for most that tell-tale smell is one of the hallmarks of dental disease. We know that this problem affects more than 80% of cats and dogs over the age of 3, making it the most common condition affecting our pet population.

help to prevent this! If the problem is mild then daily brushing is the best advice; this helps remove plaque before it has a chance to damage the gums. Human toothpaste isn’t safe to be used in pets, but lots of pet friendly alternatives are available. There are also specialised dental diets which help strip the plaque from your pet’s teeth as it eats. If the gums are very inflamed it’s probably too sore to start brushing; instead it would be advisable to let your vet have a look first and they can arrange any treatments needed to help give your pet back its Hollywood smile.

Dental disease isn’t just a case of smelly breath; it can lead to pain, abscesses, tooth loss, and damage to other organs.

Within the mouth bacteria form a substance called plaque, which, though invisible to the naked eye, infects the gums, initially causing them to become red and inflamed (known as gingivitis), but eventually causing them to recede, loosening the tooth, and ultimately leading to its loss.

The good news is there is plenty we can do to

The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Michael McCallum, BVM & S, MRCVS, GP Cert (Ophthal), Vet Surgeon at The Lamond Veterinary Clinic

The longest serving vet prac�ce in West Lothian

LAMOND Veterinary CLINIC YOUR PETS ARE OUR PRIORITY

DURING JUNE AND JULY

BOOK A FREE DENTAL CHECK UP FOR YOUR PET...

10% DISCOUNT IF FOLLOW UP TREATMENT IS NEEDED

The Lamond Veterinary Clinic Limited Bankton Square, Murieston, Livingston EH54 9EY

Telephone: 01506 461 462 E: info@lamondvet.co.uk

www.lamondvet.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 51

PARENTING IN WEST LOTHIAN

CALLING ALL PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS...

Have you ever wanted to write your own magazine column? Are you a busy parent or grandparent with a sense of adventure and exploration?

Konect Magazines are looking for new talent to contribute a Grand/Parenting column to our successful community magazine.

To apply, please email or post in 500 words on the subject of …

“A great day out with the kids in West Lothian!”

Contributions will be reviewed by the editor, with one or more entrants being invited to contribute on an ongoing basis for an agreed fee, according to availability and preference of contributors.

What might you write about? Anything!

• Have you recently taken the wee one to a show or an exhibition aimed at young people?

• Are you keen on the local play-park provision round your way?

• Maybe your child has additional needs, and a local attraction has been top notch in their approach to your family.

• Have you used any local charities or support organisations?

• Has a local business really shone in their attitude to grand/parents and their families?

52 | LIVINGSTON

So if you’ve got a writer’s soul and a spot of free time each month, please send in your entry!

Deadline is 31st May 2018. Email application to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk Our regular columnist Nicola Jengaenga turns out to be not superhuman afterall, and no longer has time to continue this column as well as her full time job and full time parenting. “Contributing the ‘Parenting in West Lothian’ column to Konect magazines has been a brilliant experience - it has given our family the push we have sometimes needed to seek out new adventures to share with our little ones, and has opened my eyes more fully to the wealth of wonderful businesses, activities, and heritage sites that are on our doorstep.

On a personal level, writing my column has given me the chance to vent, share joys, frustrations, and laughter with Konect’s warm and inclusive readership. I would dearly love to have continued in my role, but a new job that’s heavy on travel, and my son’s developing needs, it’s sadly impossible.

So parents and grandparents everywhere, be brave and send in your article!”

@KonectDirectory

THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH

Adapting to the change that is daily life

We try hard so often to keep things within the status quo, for life not to change. All the time it remains the same; we are happy and contented with our lives.

But what happens when circumstances out of our control change our plans? We call this a bad day and struggle with eventualities, often fighting against change. Fighting against the flow creates our suffering!

This week has been an example of how all of my plans rapidly changed due to external circumstances. I found myself getting a little irritated initially, tension building in the body indicated disharmony and thoughts of how I could get things back on track began to dominate my mind. I then observed what

was happening, and it was through this deep connection to my body and mind that I was able to see how my thoughts were beginning to influence not only how I behaved but how I was feeling. Mindful awareness enabled me to pause, breathe and bring awareness to my present moment experience, which allowed insight to discern the best way forward. I was able to let go of fighting against the world and allow things to just be. Fighting against life wasn’t helping me; it was just causing me more suffering. I let go, accepted and this was liberating and freeing.

You could try this next time life throws a curve ball your way and explore a different way of meeting the experience.

Tina Gilbert lives in Livingston and teaches yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk

Across the globe, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes advance students beyond their school level.

Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Livingston Study Centre Ella Ritchie 07753 213626 Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

@KonectMagazines

kumon.co.uk

LIVINGSTON | 53

COMMUNITY

@ WEST LOTHIAN CANCER INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SERVICE

If you’re affected by cancer you may want to know there’s someone you can turn to for help.

Working in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support, our service is available across West Lothian and offers anyone affected by cancer, access to information and support. You may have cancer yourself or be a relative, friend or carer of someone with cancer. We provide: • A free and confidential drop in service.

• Time to talk in a relaxed atmosphere.

• Help to access benefits and financial advice.

• Access to counselling and complementary therapy provided by Cancer Support Scotland.

• Links to other relevant local organisations.

• Leaflets on cancer topics and help to access quality internet sites for cancer information and support

Try Orienteering!

Orienteering is an outdoor adventure activity that provides both physical and mental exercise. The aim is to navigate between control points marked on a special map and decide on the best route to get from point to point until you reach the finish.

You can go on your own or with others. You can walk, jog or run, whatever suits you.

People of all ages are welcome to take part.

You don’t need any special equipment, just suitable footwear and clothing which should include leg cover i.e. tracksuit bottoms or similar, bearing in mind it might be a bit muddy!

Local club, Interlopers (INT) will be organising a series of events in West Lothian on Saturdays throughout the year. These are especially aimed at beginners.

Saturday 2nd June - Polkemmet Country Park

Saturday 4th August - Almondell Country Park

Mon: 10am - 1pm and Thur: 1pm - 3pm

There will be a series of courses available from complete beginners to those with more experience. Help and assistance will be on hand to tell you what to do. Just turn up between 1.30pm and 2.30pm. (Costs are £3 per child or £6 for adults or family groups).

Wed: 1pm - 3pm and Fri: 10am - 12.30pm

We hope to see you there!

Our venues and opening times are:

Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, Bathgate EH48 1TS Strathbrock Partnership Centre 189A West Main Street, Broxburn EH52 5LH

Further details will be available nearer each date at www.interlopersedinburgh.org.uk

Fauldhouse Partnership Centre Lanrigg Road, Fauldhouse EH47 9JD Tue: 10am - 12pm

Carmondean Connected Carmondean Centre, Livingston EH54 8PT Wed: 11am - 1pm & Thu: 10am - 12pm

54 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

WHAT’S ON

Friday 11th May and Saturday 12th May TOCCATA LADIES CHOIR CONCERT Howden Park Centre, 7.30pm. There will be favourite songs from film and musical mixed with a sprinkling of traditional and contemporary songs. Tickets £11.00, for more information see www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk Friday 18th May KIDZECO BUMPATHON Are you pregnant?

Do you want to raise money for a good cause?

Join us Friday 19th May and get your “bump” painted in aid of loveoliver.org.uk. Registration and sponsorship forms available from Kidzeco. net. 10am-4pm at Kidzeco Bathgate.

Saturday 26th May WEST LOTHIAN HIGHLAND GAMES Meadow Park, Bathgatge, from 9:00am.

Highland Dancing and Solo Piping 10am.

The RSPBA Pipe Band competition starts at 10:15am. Heavy Athletics at 12:30pm, Weslo Hill Race at 2:30pm.

For more information and programme www.westlothiangames.com Saturday 26th May SING ON THE BING Pumpherson. See page 56 for details. Ticket hubs are Milk Hair, Mid Calder; Cawburn Inn and Pumpherston Bowling Club.

TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE, THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS. WWW.KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

May in West Lothian

Scotland tends to see warmer weather a little later than most places, so May is usually the unofficial beginning of our short but sweet summer!

West Lothian is absolutely beautiful at this time of year, and there is so much going on as all of our attractions have reopened and are teeming with life for the summer!

One of West Lothian’s biggest and busiest events of the year is the West Lothian Highland Games. Based in Meadow Park, Bathgate and running from 9am-6pm on the 26th, this year’s Highland Games is set to be a colourful musical spectacle, featuring highland dancing, solo piping and traditional Scottish heavy events such as tug of war. There will be something for everyone to enjoy, including plenty of demonstrations and food stalls.

The outstanding Jupiter Artland opens its doors on the 12th for another season. Packed with a variety of interesting and unusual sculptures and landscapes known as ‘earthwork’, Jupiter Artland is a truly magnificent garden of discovery for everyone to enjoy.

Howden Park Centre is hosting an all-singing, all-dancing tribute to ABBA on the 13th.

ABBAMANIA! will be celebrating over forty years of ABBA with Europe’s leading ABBA tribute band. This 2 hour show will have you dancing in the aisles.

If you fancy picking up a new hobby this month, Photography Tuition Scotland is running a 4-week course every Saturday for beginners.

Based in Almondell and Calderwood Country Park, this is a perfect course for beginners. You will receive a camera to use for the duration of the course, plus an SD card so you can keep all of your photos.

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

HOWDEN PARK CENTRE has a busy programme of events including live music, dance, theatre, workshops and exhibitions.

See their website at www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk for complete up to date listing or contact the box office: 01506 777666.

@KonectMagazines

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian LIVINGSTON | 55

56 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectDirectory

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

LIVINGSTON JOG SCOTLAND Jog Scotland groups around Livingston aim to get people outdoors and get fit whilst meeting new friends. There are groups suitable for beginners to advanced at different locations and times around Livingston.

Check out jogscotland.org.uk.

MS SOCIETY AFTERNOON MEETINGS Group meeting in the afternoons once per month at Dobbies, for those who can’t make the evening meeting. Support group to help people with MS, emotional, financial difficulties and to signpost them to legal and other help. Call Alison Ritchie on 01506 201439 or email viadoc@hotmail.co.uk for more details and the date of this month’s meeting.

LOTHIAN RUNNING CLUB We welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6. Training sessions in and around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park.

For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub.co.uk.

WEST LOTHIAN CLARION Cycling club - Our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK New members always welcome for social, educational, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

THE LIVINGSTON PLAYERS Amateur theatre company always pleased to welcome new members with or without experience. For more information please contact Carol, Membership Secretary, on 01506 881398 or visit www.livingstonplayers.co.uk LIVINGSTON FC League players and juniors, social and corporate events.

Almondvale Stadium telephone 01506 417000 or see www.livingstonfc.co.uk

LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS GROUP We are a non profit walking group with members from around Livingston including Bathgate, Armadale, East, West and Mid Calder, Kirknewton, Blackburn, Uphall and Broxburn. We have 3 walking groups. Thursdays, once a fortnignt offering walks of 5 – 8 miles, starting at 10.00 am. Saturday Challenge walks starting at 7.00 or 7.30 am, walks

@KonectMagazines

include Corbetts and Munros. Sunday Venture walks start at 8.00am and offer a variety of walks of 7-13 miles, from coast to hills. You are welcome to try any of our walks. Contact 01506 880980 for further information.

ALMONDVALE SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Muffin Break Café, Almondvale Centre, Livingston. 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!

Tuesday mornings 10am - 12 noon.

Contact: Chris Cosgrove. Livingston Computer Club. Call 01506 656153 or just call in.

LIVINGSTON SPEAKERS TOASTMASTERS CLUB A fun & friendly way to improve your Communication & Leadership skills. Our meetings are always entertaining and educational. We meet at West Lothian College, Livingston.

Alternate Thursdays 7:15pm to 9:30pm.

Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more. For more info see - www. livingstonspeakers.org.uk, or find us on facebook @LivingstonSpeakers

BELLSQUARRY SPIRITUAL & PSYCHIC AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT GROUP Bellsquarry Village Hall. Every second Thursday 7:15pm - 8:45pm Please call or email Tracey 07754 499344 ghost.scotland@outlook.com for more info.

BROWNIES Brownie unit (girls 7-10 years) Tues nights. For more information please see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com

CRAIGSHILL ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60?

Looking to get out and meet new people?

Come and join in our activity group in Craigengar Park, Craigshill - a mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot

NEW TOWN ROLLER GIRLS Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page (/NewTownRollerGirls) or email newtownrollergirls@hotmail.co.uk. Please contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you.

WEST LOTHIAN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS CLUB Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, EH54 5LU. Rhythmic is gymnastics with rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. We welcome all girls from 5 -18 year old, from beginners to Elite level.

For more information contact Liz McNeill – 01506 434789 or 07710 472213.

CRAIGSHILL GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK Practical help, social and volunteering opportunities to socially isolated people of all ages in Craigshill and South Howden. Lunch club, Tuesday social club, optional transport to and from clubs, outings and befriending. Almondbank Centre. Tel 01506 435851.

LODGE ALMONDALE SOCIAL CLUB Our Social Club convenor cordially invites all members, associate members and their guests to visit our social club. The Social Club is open every evening and Saturday afternoon (except Sunday and meeting nights) with Live Music, Dancing and Bingo every Saturday evening and Bingo every Wednesday evening. Non members welcome. Masonic Hall, Craigshill Rd East, Livingston EH54 5DT Tel: 01506 439418.

TRAMPOLINE CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill 6 years+. Please call 01506 412314 for more info.

CRAIGSHILL THISTLE u15’S Training Tues 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm at Craigsfarm in Craigshill 3g pitch. Friday at Craigswood sports centre playing fields 6.30pm-8.00pm weather permitting (if weather is bad Friday’s training is held at Craigsfarm 7.308.30 pm). For further details contact Mark on 07951 528398.

PARENTS TOGETHER WEST LOTHIAN Support group for families with child on the Autism Spectrum. Meet up once a month for a chat and a coffee, regular guest speakers.

First Thursday of each month (during school term). For more information contact parentstogetherwestlothian@live.com DAISY DROP IN Almondbank Centre, Craigshill. Information centre for parents/ carers of pre-school children. Drop in, play and have fun! Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 12 noon, Mon & Thurs afternoons 1.30pm - 3.00pm.

CRAIGSHILL DANCE CLASS Riverside Wing, Craigsfarm. Wednesdays 5.306.30pm. Fridays 2.00– 3.00pm. Join Craigshill’s new intergenerational dance class for people over 60 and their families.

There will be traditional and modern dances, no partners are required and everyone is welcome from 0 – 100. Classes will run every week except during school holidays.

Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality, so everyone can take part. Every child must have a participating adult. £1 Individuals / £3 Family of 3 or more, payable each week. Can’t come but want to know more? Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239 or Jane on 07473 102 669. www.generationarts.co.uk

LIVINGSTON | 57

CRAIGSHILL ...cont.

WEST LOTHIAN GYMNASTICS Craigwillow Centre. Pre school classes for boys and girls, learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility.

Classes lead by fully qualified coaches and morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months - 3 years and 3-5 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list. First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail.com

DEANS SANDS LOTHIANS (STILLBIRTH & NEONATAL DEATH SOCIETY) Support group meets 2nd Monday of every month at 7-9pm.

Pregnancy support group – as and when required. Mother and toddler group- for women who have other children but want to continue to chat and meet others who understand. For further information see www.sands-lothians.org.uk. Unit 3, Carmondean Business Units, Carmondean Centre South Road, Livingston, EH54 8PT CRAFT ‘N’ STITCH CLUB Livingston Station Community Centre, Wed 1.30pm - 3.30pm. We do a variety of stitching and craft work and are looking for new members and new ideas, if you are interested in coming along to see us or joining us contact Grace on 01506 415719.

RAMPAGING ROOKS JUNIOR CHESS CLUB Deans Community High School - Meets every Wednesday from 5:30-7:00. For further information contact rampagingrooks@gmail.com or just turn up during the session. Cost is £2 per session.

SINGING FOR HEALTH Come and join our fortnightly singing group at the Ability Centre in Carmondean. No singing skills required!

We enjoy doing our versions of classic songs together and have a great time while doing it. Cost is £1.20 per session – all welcome! Group run by Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives), 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot YOGA Carmondean Community Centre, Mondays 6.30 – 7.45 and Tuesdays 6.30 – 7.30. Please contact Tina on 07834 970409 or email tina@yogamed.co.uk.

See www.yogamed.co.uk DEANS BOWLING CLUB Bowling Season is April – October, Social Club open all year round 7 days/week (Mon-Fri 12:30 - 23:00 & Sat/Sun 11:00 - 23:30).

Entertainment plus bingo every Saturday evening and bingo every Wednesday evening. Other social events such as quiz nights, race nights, fundraisers held regularly over the year. Hall available for

58 | LIVINGSTON

bookings (ex Wednesdays or Saturdays).

To our members & their guests, thank you for your continued support for our Club.

Non members welcome. Applications open for bowling and social membership. Deans Bowling Club, 2 Main Street, Deans, Livingston, EH54 8BE. Tel. 01506 413789 or find us on Facebook.

13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS Deans Community Hall. Beavers: 6 - 8 years. Tues 6.30 - 7.30pm. Cubs: 8 - 10 years. Thurs 6.30 - 8.00pm. Scouts: 10 -14 years. Thurs 7.00 – 9.00. We are also looking for new leaders or helpers to help out on the nights.

All are welcome. Please contact Steven Graham steven_graham1@gmx.co.uk or by phone 07786638442 or 1506 630360 after 6.30pm.

YOGA FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH CONDITIONS Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road. Wednesdays 1.15-2.30pm.

Contact Bijam on 07966 573 804 or email: info@yogawithbijam.co.uk LIVINGSTON STATION PLAYGROUP Livingston Station Community Centre.

Spaces available for 2-5 year olds. Monday – Friday mornings 9.10 – 11.30. £5 per session and £1 per week for a healthy snack. Please contact us on 07525 156407 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on Facebook for more information.

LIVINGSTON FIDDLERS A group of amateur musicians who meet for regular practise sessions in Deans and play for local events. New members always welcome. Must be able to read music and not suitable for complete beginners.

Fiddle/accordion or any other instrument considered. Venue - St Andrews Church Hall, Deans, Livingston. Time: most Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm. Contact secretary: eric@livingstonfiddlers.co.uk. Tel 01506 654 189. www.livingstonfiddlers.co.uk PILATES FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH CONDITIONS Livingston Station Community Centre. Mondays 11.00am 12noon & Fridays 10.30-11.30am. Contact Rhona at rhonawatt@btconnect.com DIABETES UK WEST LOTHIAN VOLUNTARY GROUP Regular group meetings are held on 1st Wednesday of each month (not January) at 7-9pm at Inveralmond Community High School, Willowbank, Ladywell Livingston. For more info contact may@dukwl.info or by phone 01506 834 877 Mob: 07708 919 064. www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org.

We also have Facebook and Twitter pages.

LOTHIANS MS SUPPORT GROUP Open to anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis, family & friends. Informal monthly meetings for support, information and activities. Membership and meetings free.

Meet at the Ability Centre, Carmondean, EH54 8PT on the second Tuesday of each month, 7-8.30pm. For more information please contact Jeff Warren, Chairperson, on 07810 104759.

DEANS ART CLUB New Deans Community Building. Tuesdays 7 – 9pm.

Beginners welcome. We are a friendly class, £2 per adult per week, paints provided. For more information please call Jim Tripney on 01506 418838.

KIDDIES CORNER Carmondean Community Centre. For pre-school children. Kiddies Korner runs on a Tuesday and a Thursday from 9am-12.00. Parents, guardians and Childminders are all welcome.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AND YOGA CLASSES Carmondean Comunity Centre. FREE courses and weekly dropin’s for cancer patients. Email: Tina@yogamed.co.uk for more information LIVINGSTON UNITED PARISH CHURCH Meets on Sundays at Nether Dechmont Community Centre, Fells Rigg. 8.45 – Eucharist. 9.30 – All-age Worship.

10.00 – Children’s Group, Discussion Group and Coffee Bar. 11.00 – Traditional Service. Transport can be provided – call 07806 628506 to arrange. Also meets on Thursdays at Lanthorn Community Centre, Dedridge, at 10.15am for Holy Communion. www.lupc.org.uk.

UKULELE CLUB Deans Community High School. Every Tuesday from 7pm, except during July and August. All are welcome, no standard required, absolute beginners to experienced. It’s for anyone who wants to play the Uke and have fun. If interested please just turn up £2 to cover room hire.

2ND LIVINGSTON GIRLS’ BRIGADE COMPANY Meets Tuesdays in St Andrew’s Church Hall 4A Main Street, Deans. Explorers (P1-3) 6.30-7.45.

Juniors (P4-7) 6.30-8.00. Brigaders (S1-6) 6.30-8.00. For further information email lazylaura@sky.com, phone Laura Brooks on 01506 418272 or find us on facebook.

RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow units (girls 5 - 7 years) Wed & Mon nights | Brownie unit (girls 7 - 10 years) Mon nights | Guide unit (girls 10 - 14 years) Mon nights. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

DEDRIDGE KINGS CHURCH WEST LOTHIAN A family friendly church. Sundays 3pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre.

Everyone’s welcome. More info at www.kingschurchwl.org DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK A local voluntary organisation offering Mother/Toddler Group, Lunch & Social Groups, Craft Classes, Gentle Exercise and volunteering opportunities.

Based in Lanthorn Community Complex.

Tel: 01506 416137

@KonectDirectory

SPACE ACADEMY CHILDREN’S CLUB Monthly club for primary aged children held on the last Friday of each month from 1.30-3.30pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre. Games, stories, songs, science, crafts, cooking and more – free of charge.

Visit facebook.com/lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information.

JYHS BADMINTON CLUB at James Young High School on Saturdays. Open to school children in the Livingston area of any age or ability. Primary School age (P1-P7) 9am - l0am. High School age (S1-S6) l0am - 11am. Contact: Ann (01506 438717) or Joyce (01506 462430).

DEDRIDGE SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Crofthead Community Centre, Templer Rise. Wednesdays 7.30pm. We are one of the oldest running spiritualist church in Livingston. We have been serving the community since 1985. We have a different medium every week. No admission fee. Find us on Facebook and website:dedridgespiritualstchurch.co.uk LIVINGSTON CAMERA CLUB Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge. We meet every Monday evening at 7:15pm - 9:30pm.

All welcome. Annual subscription £25, weekly attendance £2.50 (concessions available). Annual programme of visiting speakers, members digital, print & AV evenings, internal & external competitions, tutorials and outings. The central aim of the club is to encourage individual members to share ideas, knowledge and experience, and develop their photographic skills. www.livingstoncameraclub.org.uk. Email – contact@livingstoncameraclub.org.uk Facebook – /livingstoncameraclub Twitter – @LiviCamClub CAFÉ CONNECT Friendly community café with homebaking and refreshments.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:3012. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837.

THE LANTHORN TODDLERS GROUP – MUSIC MAKERS Meets on Mondays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. From 9:45 to 10:45 - £1 per session.

THE LANTHORN TODDLERS GROUP – PARENT & TODDLERS Meets on Fridays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge From 10:00am to 12 noon. Snack provided - £1 per session. Contact Susanne Brunton at lanthorntoddlers@gmail.com Or find us on Facebook ‘Lanthorn Toddler Group’.

CAFE CONNECT EXTRA For those suffering with dementia and their carers.

1st Wednesday of the month 2pm-3:30pm.

Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837.

LUNCH CLUB 12:30pm every Thursday for any over 60s. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 41583.

@KonectMagazines

BUMP AND BABY GROUP Dedridge Baptist Church. For precrawling babies and their carers - Mondays 9:30-11. Come and have a cuppa and a natter with other new and expecting parents while your little one enjoys themselves.

CROFTHEAD HICKORY HOUSE PLAYGROUP Crofthead Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG. For children 2-3 years. Mon-Fri 9.15-11.15am term time. £4.50/day includes healthy snack. For more info call 01506 467650, email crofheadhickoryhouse@gmail.com or visit www.croftheadhickoryhouse.co.uk WEST LOTHIAN DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A free self-help group for adults living with depression, low mood and anxiety or those who support others.

We meet the first Wednesday of every month at 7.00 - 9.00pm within Crofthead Farm, Dedridge, EH54 6DG. DEDRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP Wednesdays 9.15am – 11.15am: Baby and Toddler group (children 0-5 years old)Fridays 10-11am: Little Fishes. (Children 0-5 years old) 50p per child. Crafts and snacks.

01506 415837 Facebook: Dedridge Baptist Church 0-5 groups.

LIVINGSTON & DISTRICT AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY (LADARS) Full amateur radio station at the club operating on the High Frequency and VHF bands. Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, Tuesdays 7-9 pm. Training can be provided to achieve all levels of the amateur license by fully accredited assessors and trainers.

Happy to assist with your radio and electronics projects or just to get you started with amateur radio as a hobby. Come along and speak to the world. See our website www.LADARS.org.uk or just come along on any Tuesday.

BRIGHTER DAYS Support group for families living with ADHD and assosciated disorders. The group meets once a fortnight on a Thursday at Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge 7 – 9pm.

For more info see www.brighter-days.com or email brighter_days@rocketmail.com.

Kids club coming soon - every Saturday weekly for children. Activities available will include arts, crafts and music.

1ST LIVINGSTON GIRLS BRIGADE COMPANY The Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Meet on Wednesday evenings. Explorers (P1-3) 6.15pm till 7.15pm. Juniors (P4-7) 7.15pm till 8.30pm. Brigaders (S1+) 7.15pm till 8.45pm. For further information email 1stlivingstongb@gmail.com or phone Holly Morrison on 01506 420225.

5TH LIVINGSTON BOYS’ BRIGADE Thursdays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge.

Anchor Section P1-P3 meet 6:30 to 7:45pm. Junior Section P4-P6 from 6:30-8:00pm. Company Section P7 to 18

years from 7:30 to 9:45pm. For further information contact Stuart Dalgleish 01506 440303 or email admin@5livingston.co.uk BABY & TODDLER ACTIVIES Kidzeco Livingston, 3a The Centre, Almondvale South, Livingston, EH54 6NB. Monthly sling meets (Baby Wearing West Lothian).

Please contact Kidzeco Livingston on 01506 238283 for more information. Large family area with feeding/changing area and play area for children too!

LIVINGSTON SOUTH COMMUNITY CHURCH With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates.

LANTHORN READERS Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Informal and relaxed reading group.

Free. Group meets monthly and is an ideal way to have some fun and lively discussion over tea/coffee & biscuits. New members always welcome. Please contact 01506 777700 or lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk LANTHORN BOOK BASHERS Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Are you aged between 8 – 11 years old? Come and join the Library Book Bashers. We meet once a month on a Thursday at 6.15pm to discuss our favourite books. New members welcome.

Please call 01506 777700 for information.

LIVINGSTON AMATEUR FLUTE ENSEMBLE A voluntary group for learning and improving technique of playing flute, percussion, recorder & keyboard. We play a variety of music. Everyone is welcome from experienced players to those wishing to learn and those who played at school and want to get back to playing. Our classes cater for adults and children from 6 years. Thursdays 7 – 9 pm in Crofthead Farm Community Centre, Livingston. For further information please contact Alice on 01506 462623. Email mgolshan951@btinternet.com

ELIBURN CELEBRATE RECOVERY Livingston Free Church, 7 Jackson Place, Eliburn, EH54 6RH. Tuesdays 7.30 to 9.00pm.

If you’re struggling with addiction issues come along or tel. Brian 07534 335528 Email brianwilsonferguson@outlook.com 14TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT TROOP Peel Primary School. Girls and boys.

Beavers (6-8yrs) Mon 6.15-7.15pm, Scouts (10-14yrs) Mon 7.30-9pm, Cubs (8-10yrs).

Thurs 6.30-8pm £20/£25 per session, 3 sessions per year. Contact Mary Tel 01506 416620.

LIVINGSTON | 59

ELIBURN ...cont.

SUNSHINE BREAK, SPPA (SCOTTISH PRE-SCHOOL PLAY ASSOCIATION) GROUP Eliburn Community Centre, Peel Primary School. Toddlers, Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9.00 – 11.00am. After school club for Primary 1-7, Mon – Thur 3.15 – 6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00pm, during school holidays 8.30am – 5.30pm. Tel 01506 415492.

CHURCH OF CHRIST Garden Place, Eliburn, EH54 6RA, Livingston. Service Times: Sunday Bible Study and Sunday School - 10.00 am.; Worship Service 11.15am; Tuesday Bible Study - 7.30pm.

LITTLE JEWELS BABY AND TODDLER GROUP Free Church of Scotland, Jackson Place, Eliburn. Tuesdays 10-11:30am, term time only. Play time, craft, snack and songs for babies, toddlers and their parents/carers. 50p per family.

For more information email littlejewelslivingston@gmail.com or find us on facebook @littlejewelslivingston

HOWDEN GOSH - GROUP OSTOMY SELF HELP Led by volunteers, we are there to help, advise, encourage and discuss problems which may arise in the management of members’ Stoma, from time to time.

Members can exchange views on how they manage their Stoma, and beginners can pick up tips on the best way other Ostomists have found to solve problems.

Remember, you are not alone. We meet in St. Johns Hospital at 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of each month in OPD4.

All Ostomists and their partner/friend are invited. For more info contact Alistair on 01506-822695.

ST MUNGO’S LIVINGSTON Come be part of our vibrant church community which meets every Sunday at 10.30am, St Margaret’s Academy. www.stmungos.org 29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP Community Wing, Toronto Primary School.

Cubs Mon 6.30-8.00pm, Beavers Wed 6.30-7.30pm, Scouts Wed 7.30-9.00pm Tel 01506 441852 BRAID HOUSE DAY CENTRE Labrador Avenue, Howden. Social activities for older members of the community. Bowling, art, music. Drop-in service for people who can make their own way to Braid House and can have lunch and join in a range of

60 | LIVINGSTON

activities. Cost £5. For more info contact 01506 430615 or see www.braidhouse. co.uk LIVINGSTON ART ASSOCIATION Howden Park Centre. Day and evening classes in painting and pottery for all levels. For more details call 01506 440449 email liviartassoc@msn.com or see www. livingston-art-assoc.org.uk.

FIREFLY ARTS Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk for more information on our current programme.

Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE. Website: www.firefly-arts.co.uk Email: admin@firefly-arts.co.uk LIVINGSTON 20 MILERS CYCLE RIDES Monthly free guided ride organised by volunteers from West Lothian Sustrans Group. 20 milers are at the easy to moderate level, suitable for occasional and less experienced cyclists to encourage cycling for leisure and commuting. We favour easy paths and gentle gradients where possible, and aim to avoid heavy traffic. We will wait on stragglers, help with punctures. The rides are not suitable for unaccompanied children. We meet monthly at Howden Park Centre, details on our web or Twitter page.

Email: livi20milers@outlook.com Web: www.livi20milers.blogspot.co.uk/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/LMilers RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow units (girls 5 - 7 years), Brownie unit (girls 7 - 10 years), and Guide unit (girls 10 - 14 years) all take place on Tues nights in Howden. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

KNIGHTSRIDGE MESSY CHURCH Monthly time of craft, celebration and food for all the family held on the first Sunday of each month from 4-6pm at Mosswood Community Centre.

Free of charge, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit facebook. com/lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information.

BABY/TODDLER STORIES AND SINGING SESSIONS Knightsridge Early Years Centre, Cameron Way. Mon, Tues, Thur: 09.15-11.15am or 12.45-2.45pm - “In Betweenies”. Wed: 1.00-2.00pm - “Baby Peet” - stories and singing, baby/toddler drop in 1.00-3.30pm. For more info tel 01506 444970.

RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow unit for girls aged 5-7, Tuesday nights. For more information see wwwgirlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com

LADYWELL CELEBRATE RECOVERY Forrestbank Community Centre, Forrestbank, EH54 6DX. Thursdays 1.30pm to 3.00pm. If you’re struggling with addiction issues come along or tel. Brian 07534 335528 Email brianwilsonferguson@outlook.com WEST LOTHIAN DIABETES UK GROUP Inveralmond Community High School, Ladywell, EH54 6HW. Meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm.

See www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org ALMOND VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH A Church for you and your Family! Sunday School and Worship services starting at 11am. Meeting at the Newyearfield Farm Community Centre on Hawkbrae in Livingston. Contact phone number 07570 790862 or email at avbc@btinternet.com KIDS CLUB Forrestbank Community Centre. A varied programme of educational games, art & drawing, children 5-9yrs. Mon 6.00 - 7.45pm £1 per week – term time only. Tel 01506 430035.

LADYWELL NEIGHBOURHOOD NETWORK 28 Heatherbank, Ladywell.

Community services in Ladywell, a range of social groups including craft, lunch club, fitness. Befriending service and much more. For more information call 01506 437746 or see www.ladywellnn.org.uk LADYWELL STAR COMMUNITY FOOTBALL CLUB Inveralmond Community High School. A range of teams and fixtures. See www.ladywellstarcfc.co.uk SPPA (SCOTTISH PRE-SCHOOL PLAY ASSOCIATION) GROUP Newyearfield Farm. Toddlers Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 09.30 – 11.30am. Tel 01506 462458 MEMORY CAFE Newyearfield Farm Community Centre, Hawk Brae, EH54 6AB. For those suffering with dementia and their carers. Runs the first Thursday of every month 2pm to 3.30pm.

WEST LOTHIAN BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in Oscars, Ladywell, from 7pm-9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 01506 655739

@KonectDirectory

RAINBOWS, BROWNIES & SENIOR SECTION Rainbow unit (girls 5 - 7 years) and Brownie unit (girls 7 - 10 years) take place on Wed nights in Ladywell. Senior Section unit (girls 14 - 25 years) take place every other Thurs night. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved or email westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com.

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE LIVINGSTON VILLAGE PLAYGROUP Based in Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village. We are now part of Community Playgroups and are based in the large and bright community room of the primary school, with our own secure outdoor area. We run Monday to Friday 9.15am to 11.30am, offering early education through fun and play, with a wide range of resources, to children aged from 2 years. The cost is £7 per session and includes a varied and healthy snack every day. Pop in for a visit with your child, or please phone Cheryl or Lesley on 01506 417343 for more information.

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP Livingston Village Primary School, Community Room 2.

Mondays & Wednesdays 9-11am. For babies and children aged 0-5 years accompanied by an adult. £1 per family.

Term-time only. For more information email livitoddlers@yahoo.co.uk or visit www. facebook.com/livitoddlers RAINBOW, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow unit (girls 5-7 years) Wed nights.

Brownie unit (girls 7-10 years) Mon nights.

Guide unit (girls 10-14 years) Mon nights. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

MURIESTON LIVINGSTON ROUND TABLE Livingston Cricket Club, Murieston, EH54 9HB. The BEST young men’s club in the world: have fun, help your community and develop new skills. If you’re a man aged 18 - 45, why not come along to a couple of events and see what we’re all about?

Business meetings 1st Thurs of the month; social event 3rd Thurs of the month. For more info please email membership@ livingstonroundtable.co.uk or text Join and your postcode to 60066.

@KonectMagazines

RAINBOW, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow units (girls 5-7 years) Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs & Fri nights.

Brownie units (girls 7-10 years) Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs nights.

Guide units (girls 10-14 years) Mon & Tues nights.

Senior Section unit (girls14-25 years) Thurs nights. For more information see www. girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO APRIL CROSSWORD

KINGS CHURCH @ WEST LOTHIAN A relaxed and friendly family church. Our meetings are a mix of modern worship, relevant teaching from the bible and fun activities for kids. Visit us online at www. kingschurchwl.org or contact connect@ kingschurchwl.org for more info.

LIVINGSTON SOUTH COMMUNITY CHURCH With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates.

ACROSS: 7. Polish, 8. Parity, 9. Hurl, 10. Railways, 11. Knotted, 13. Giddy, 15. Scare, 17. Giggled, 20. Gasoline, 21. Clap, 22. Breeze, 23. Cuddle DOWN: 1. Column, 2. Till, 3. Churned, 4. Spoil, 5. Brawling, 6. Stayed, 12. Turnover, 14. Silence, 16. Chairs, 18. Enable, 19. Fixed, 21. Cede

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 56

LIVINGSTON CRICKET CLUB Cricket fixtures & busy social calendar.

See www.livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel: 07799 025795 LIVINGSTON BRIDGE CLUB Meets every Wednesday from the first Wednesday in September until the last Wednesday in March at Bankton Mains Bowling Club, 6.45 for 7.00 pm start.

Contact Dorothy Doak 01506 437977 for more information.

MURIESTON PARENT AND TODDLER Thursday 9.30am till 11am. Murieston Village Hall. £1.50 per morning.

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

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

LIVINGSTON | 61

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPING COUNSELLING Rosanna Veitch 22 AKT Bookkeeping 10 DENTIST AERIALS No.9 Dental 24 Beachwood Installations 6 DOORS APPLIANCE REPAIR UPVC Doors 11 Home Appliance Repair 42 John Caldwell Domestic Appliance DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR Repair 39 DC Double Glazing 27 ARCHITECT ELECTRICIAN DBC Architecture 6 D B Electrics 43 Electric Al 45 ATTRACTIONS/DAYS OUT Riddell Electrical 45 Gardening Scotland 16-17 SL Electrical 6 BATHROOMS 1st Choice Living 5 ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine 38 Anthony Jennett Bathrooms 30 Turpie & Co 41 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 31 FLOORING Bespoke 28 Kirkton Flooring 44 Buyrite 31 FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS BEAUTY Harvey Bruce 43 Beauty Within Therapies 23 GARAGE DOORS BLINDS & SHUTTERS Max’s Garage Doors 27 Harvey Bruce 43 GARDEN & LANDSCAPING BUILDER All Year Round Landscapes 19 Almond Building Company 43 Beatson’s 18 Build It 34 D Greaves 19 BUILDING SURVEYOR Evergreen Balerno 18 Plan It 34 Green Thumb 12 New Hopetoun Gardens 14 CAFE/TEAROOM R Grieve Landscapers 13 Little Whispers Sanctuary 23 Riccarton Garden Centre 19 CAR BODYWORK West Lothian JWG Car Care 27 Garden Maintenance 19 CAR SERVICE & REPAIR Gardening Scotland 16-17 Formula 1 MOT 27 Woodford Timber 13 LVS Garage Services 7 Wyndford Farm Plants 12 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY GARDEN BUILDINGS CLEANING Champfleurie Estate 15 Aquatec 39 GOLF CLUB Cleaning Doctor 39 Baberton Golf Club 49 James Burnett 42 GYM/HEALTH CLUB CARPETS & FLOORING Dalmahoy Hotel GM Flooring 6 & Country Club 25 CHARITY HAIRDRESSER Cyrenians 4 Back II Black 24 CLEANING SERVICES HEALTHCARE Clean Bee 42 ABC Hearing 20 Leave It 2 Us 36 HOTEL Organised For Life 6 Hilcroft Hotel 63 COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES JOB OPPORTUNITIES Beauty Within Therapies 23 Developing the Young Little Whispers Sanctuary 23 Workforce 52 COMPUTER SERVICES JOINER Sprint Computers 10 Create Enhanced Spaces 35 CONSERVATORIES Geoff Vinter Joinery 12 CR Smith 33 Timber Join 44

62 | LIVINGSTON

KITCHENS Bespoke 28 Create Enhanced Spaces 35 Dream Doors 35 S & S Home Improvements 32 MOBILITY Ableworld 21 MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Escapes 11 PAINTER/DECORATOR Braekirk Decorators 45 Donald Does It All 42 EDC Painters & Decorators 5 Manic Street Painters 45 Nu Walls 30 TML Decor 44 PET SERVICES Animal Magic 50 PLASTERER Nu Walls 30 PLUMBING SERVICES Almondvale Plumbing & Heating Services 30 BJ Fleming 35 EPH 30 Plumb It 34 RESTAURANT Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 25 ROOFING G Hughes Roofing 45 Pentland Roofing 43 SECURITY SERVICES AT Securitas 4 TANNING STUDIO Sun Shack 23 TAX CONSULTANT Mountain Enterprises 10 TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE Lothian Radio Cars 64 TUITION Kumon Livingston 53 Sax Lessons 10 West Lothian College 2 VENUE Hilcroft Hotel 63 VET Riverside Veterinary Practice 50 Lamond Veterinary Clinic 51 WINDOWS 1st Choice Living 5 CR Smith 33 DC Double Glazing 27

@KonectDirectory

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 63