Konect Livingston Feb 14

konect FEBRUARY 2014

livingston

FEATURES

Interview with Mickey Weir He's here, he's there, he's everywhere . . .

The Douglas Method Interview with Susan Douglas

CHARITY

Bosom Buds of Scotland S& OFFER ERS H C U VO cal from lo ses s busine

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Livingston

01506

433 333

£5

or less anywhere in livingston

Welcome to the February konect, our first issue of 2014 (we don't produce a January issue). We're looking forward this year to continuing to celebrate all things local.

The front cover story is of one local fitness instructor who is developing her own fitness method, see pages 14 – 15. I've personally benefited from her skills!

Besides this, we have a couple more interviews for you in this issue – for football fans, we caught up with Mickey Weir, a Hibs hero in the 80s and 90s who is now involved in a new project in West Lothian.

Message from the Editor

And you may already be familiar with the work of local charity Bosom Buds of Scotland; it was a pleasure to learn more about their work, and they feature as our Charity of the Month this issue.

We also went behind the scenes at the Toning and Beauty Clinic, don't miss their feature on pages 20-21.

So it's been a busy start to the year. We hope you enjoy the magazine!

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638

£1 Surcharge for Industrial Estates Advertising enquiries

24 Hour Service

Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Saloons | Doblos | 5, 6, 7 & 8 Seaters Wheelchair Access

Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Taxicards Welcome £5 or less - Dedridge, Howden Livingston Village, Craigshill, Ladywell, Eliburn, Knightsridge, Deans £6 or less - Pumpherston, Uphall Station £7 or less - Murieston Edinburgh Airport

Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory www.konectdirectory.co.uk The Konect Directory 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.

Edinburgh Central Glasgow Airport

Front cover photograph: Susan Douglas of The Douglas Method

Glasgow Central Terms and conditions apply

Contents Features Mickey Weir 10 The Douglas Method 14 Toning & Beauty Clinic 20 Regulars Style 22 Thought for the Month 24 Property Matters 28 Chrisselle's Column 38 Technology 48 Recipe and Food Notes 50 Charity of the Month 52 Competitions and Puzzles Crossword and sudoku 46 Community What's on 56 Useful Information 56 Clubs & Classes 58 Index of Advertisers 62

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He’s here, he’s there, he’s everywhere…

Karen Murray chats with former Hibs winger Mickey Weir “He's here , he's there, he's everywhere...” A very familiar chant if you were a Hibs fan in the 1980's and 90's with the addition of "he’s Mickey Weir".

Michael (known to the fans as Mickey) Weir now lives a rather more sedate life in Kirknewton but his involvement in football has never stopped, more of which we shall talk about later.

First a little more of the legend that is Mickey Weir - the football obsessed youngster from Pilton was signed to Hibs as a teenager from Portobello Thistle, initially helping to maintain the Easter Road ground as well as play football. It wasn’t long however before football became all he did, playing as a winger for the Edinburgh side.

Mickey is not the tallest and his size was considered by some to be a drawback but he never let it bother him, getting around the pitch at speed of lightning - hence the "he’s here, he’s there, he’s everywhere..” chant. The Hibs website describes Mickey as having "craft and guile underpinned by boundless energy, an insatiable appetite for success and a genuine love for Hiberian". He was (and is) considered inspirational.

I asked Mickey if he had a best moment from his footballing career and straight away he smiled recalling Hampden on 27 October 1991 when Hibs won the League Cup beating Dunfermline 2-0 to lift the Skol Cup. Mickey took centre stage and was in dazzling form, setting up the second goal to help Hibs win the club’s first trophy since 1972.

Mickey was man of the match for that game, but he also recalls that while it was the highlight of his career, simply getting to play at the top level for the team you always supported as a child is his biggest achievement.

Included in Mickey’s career was a short spell at Luton but he came back to Hibs where he felt at home and where he wanted to really make a name for himself. This he did in the aforementioned League Cup game.

He ventured down south again on loan to Millwall, finally ended his playing career at Motherwell where he also coached. It was while coaching that he

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discovered the likes of James McFadden, Stephen Pearson and Stevie Hammel, all top players and internationals.

“I loved playing football and then coaching and would have continued but a back injury got the better of me,” he sighs. However, if you can’t play football what is the next best thing? Talking about it.

Mickey was soon snapped up as pundit on various radio programmes, firstly on Talk 107 Radio and then with presenter Gordon Dallas and some other former players, he worked on a weekly podcast football show - Kickabout. That format was so successful that Gordon and Mickey have taken it a step further.

Log on to www.westlothianondemand.com and you can watch the antics of the pair and their pals with special guests presenting Kickabout in all its visual glory, along with other programmes on this online tv on demand channel, such as entertainment, music and lots of community information and involvement.

WLTV launched in October 2013. It is gaining new viewers daily with its coverage of local events highlighting ‘all the good that happens in our community’. The show pulls the big names in, particularly in sport through Mickey’s contacts but other stars have featured on the shows including Susan Boyle, James McAvoy and Irvine Welsh. Mickey laughs as he emphasises how much fun they have making the programmes. “On the sports programme, we enjoy some good natured banter and a laugh at some of the incidents that have happened in football and other sports through the week.”

The programmes are filmed in a studio in Livingston but the team likes to get out and about in the community and it would seem from the programmes I have viewed that the presenters know how to have a good time, as well as how to promote a business. And that is the other side of WLTV - to promote other businesses, getting their message out to a much wider audience.

“The community aspect is the most important part of what we are doing though,” says Mickey, adding

that the plan is for people with talents to make their own short videos and send them in. If you fancy yourself as a programme maker or a presenter, get involved, make your own little show and you might just get it aired.

As I have discovered while writing the walking articles for Konect, West Lothian is a large and varied county and Mickey said much the same thing, amazed at the amount of talent coming from one county. “There are sports stars, musicians, singers and we want to showcase them all on West Lothian TV.” There are also plans to have an ex-pats show to bring West Lothian to those who are living away.

The website is developing all the time and spreading to Edinburgh and Glasgow – you never know, if the success continues this channel could soon be nationwide. “That is the beauty of the internet,” acknowledges the erstwhile technophobe Mickey; “you can get your message across the globe at the click of a button!”

Mickey is as enthusiastic talking about this new challenge and his presenting as he is when asked about his football career, but naturally combining both – i.e. talking all things football – is the perfect scenario. It would seem the football chant so familiar on the pitch still rings true – Mickey is still everywhere – this time on your computer screen!

Mickey has two sons – so maybe one day, he will be watching them play football just as his proud dad, who very sadly passed away recently, used to watch him at Hibs, cheering him on to greatness. And if it is not his football skills he passes on, maybe it will be his presenting ones!

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Spotlight on

The Douglas Method New fitness method from local instructor Susan Douglas is all that you would expect a Pilates instructor to be: full of energy, fit, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about her work... except that she is absolutely not your typical Pilates instructor at all.

In fact, as she explains to me, she calls her classes “Pilates classes” so that people know approximately what type of exercise it is. But after more than 20 years in the fitness industry and with many qualifications under her belt, she has developed her own exercise method which she is in the process of copyrighting as “The Douglas Method.”

it also integrates a number of other techniques. It is much more about meeting people’s health and fitness goals rather than slavishly following a predefined set of exercises.”

Susan is well-qualified to develop her own method: after an early career as an aerobics instructor, massage training and personal fitness training, Susan worked for the Pilates Institute for several years, travelling to London, South Africa and Germany to deliver their syllabuses to new Pilates instructors.

So what is different about The Douglas Method and why is Susan doing this rather than teaching standard Pilates classes? “I love getting at the root cause of people’s problems, be it a niggling back pain, limited movement, or anything else preventing you from living life to the full.

"It is much more about meeting people’s health and fitness goals rather than slavishly following a pre-defined set of exercises."

"I found in all the years I did Pilates training that the ‘one size fits all’ approach wasn’t working for a lot of people and problems were going unsolved. So while the Douglas Method uses, and develops, Pilates,

But she became unhappy at some of the things she had to teach. Her own passion for fitness, knowledge of anatomy and physiology and years of experience told her that some of the moves are not good for everyone and may even be harmful.

Moreover she was very concerned that it was possible for people to set up as Pilates instructors with very little training or anatomical knowledge and to be simply delivering a syllabus but without the understanding required to tailor it to individual client’s problems.

Anyone who has participated in group exercise will be familiar with instructors saying things like, “if it hurts to do this exercise on your hands, do it on your elbows.” Susan though prefers to get at the root cause of why you might find it painful to do

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Her track record speaks for itself, with many satisfied customers including some who have managed to avoid surgery by using Susan’s exercises. an exercise a certain way. And nine times out of ten she has found she can identify and fix it.

Her classes of Douglas Method exercises have been running locally now for around seven years, and while it is a constant journey of discovery (she is always refining her method based on experience) she has never looked back.

And her track record speaks for itself, with many satisfied customers including some who have managed to avoid surgery by using Susan’s exercises.

When she is not running her classes or doing personal fitness sessions, Susan can be found with her horses near home in West Calder.

Susan is so enthusiastic about The Douglas Method results that she is even working on a programme to train and license other Douglas Method Instructors.

What is pilates?

Officially launching The Douglas Method Training School will involve writing a handbook, getting the Method endorsed by National Qualifications Awarding bodies and endorsement by a medical body. “I’m not so good on the paperwork though,” she laughs, “so it might take a while!”

So, moment of truth... at the end of our conversation I explain to Susan that I’ve got a niggling pain in my back preventing me from doing crunches properly.

After watching me attempt a crunch and identifying what position I am in when the pain kicks in, Susan shows me some stretching exercises to do to relieve the muscle responsible for the problem.

It works, and the next crunch is smoother and almost pain-free!

See more on the Douglas Method plus the schedule of local classes at Susan’s website www.douglaspilates.com

Pilates is an exercise regime focussed on building core muscle strength with an emphasis on correct posture and alignment.

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Spotlight on

Spotlight on

The Toning and Beauty Clinic

The Toning and Beauty Clinic

Luxury beauty sanctuary

shop for all beauty treatments from waxing, Near Uphall at the crossroads of the A89 shellac nails, facials, massage and so on, to and Station Road there is a hidden gem specialist treatments designed to improve, which owner Val describes as “a girl's make beautiful or just relax. designed Plus a new nail bestNear friend.”

Toning andofBeauty UphallThe at the crossroads salon and specifically to target bar is planned for Called the near future.

Clinic, has beenRoad open forissix thewhich A89 and Station there a years, cellulite.

Acoustic Wave Therapy, has hidden recently gem which owner Val Fisher this machine is designed to break down onewhich of the rooms undergone describes as “a girl’s best friend.” The the fattyIn tissue forms the “orange Toningof and Beauty Clinic, which has peel” effect as cellulite.

A fifteen is aknown machine exclusive a change been open for six years, has recently minute free trial salon. is available on request to this Called management and a change of management if you are interestedWave in trying this. This is Acoustic Therapy, is a undergone beauty clinic is a beauty clinic with a apparently the only salon in Scotland with this machine is designed withand a difference.

Val Fisher, Proprietor difference. this particular machine. to break down the fatty tissue which forms the There are very are very few beauty salons The reception andpeel” toningeffect rooms are based Sharon, Therapist Val Fisher, Proprietor “orange fewThere beauty salons locally which offer toning so I visited in the cottage of the grounds of the large known as cellulite. A locally which to find out what it’s all about and house. These rooms have the Digislim fifteen minute free trial is available on offer toning so I visited to find out what was impressed by the enthusiasm, toning system and i-fit machine. They have request if you are interested in trying this. it's all about and was impressed by the professionalism and range of services a range of monthly toning membership This is apparently the only salon in Scotland enthusiasm, professionalism and range of on offer, as well as the lovely rooms options for toning and beauty – another with this particular machine. services on offer,were as well as the lovely rooms - the premises formerly a large innovative aspect of the Toning and Sharon, therapist - theguest premises were formerly a large guest house so every treatment room Beauty Clinic.

The reception and toning rooms are based house so every room is each spacious is spacious andtreatment elegantly decorated cottage the grounds of are thefully large andwith elegantly decorated each with its its own en-suite bathroom, making for a very in the The salon’s fourofpart-time therapists house.

These rooms have the Digislim ownluxurious en-suite bathroom, feel to the wholemaking place. for a very qualified, cover all treatments offered by the clinic toning system and i-fit advice machine.

Theyeating have luxurious feel to the whole place. and are on hand to give on healthy a range monthly toning membership And luxury is what it’s all about. The Toning and and theofbest treatment for you. reallyit's is a all one-stop shop for all options for toning and beauty – another AndBeauty luxuryClinic is what about.

The beauty treatments from waxing, nails, This year they are concentrating on and promoting innovative aspect of the Toning Toning and Beauty Clinic reallyshellac is a one-stop

Luxury beauty sanctuary

facials, massage and so on, to specialist treatments their wedding package. They have a fully qualified designed to improve, make beautiful or just relax. beautician/hairdresser and can offer the full beauty Body PlusConditioning a new nail bar is planned for the near future. works plus hair up or GHD curled and Airbase In one of get the rooms is a machine exclusive thisThe Toning airbrush make-up.

The bride and her bridal To help you into shape and look your to best & Beauty Clinic can offer either a party can choice of treatments or a combination package.

Body Conditioning

Shrinking violet wrap Digislim toning : An initial course of 8 x45 min sessions are recommended with amazing results...

Thiscover wrapall is applied To helpto you intoworkout shape and *Equivalent a get 3hour atlook the your gymbest *16 pads to areas with an oil which actually breaks down fat resulting in inchloss.

The Toning Beauty Clinic can offer either a The benefits you&can expect: choice of treatments or a combination Nsl (non-surgical *Noticeable lifting and toning within firstpackage. treatment *Proven average lipolysis) inch losswrap of 6-11 inches *Reduction oftoning cellulite Digislim Again this promotes the breakdown of fat stores.

This is a luxurious, natural base formulation An initial course of 8 x45 min sessions are Shrinking violet wrap : This wrap is applied with an oil which actually breaks down fat resulting containing shea butter resulting in hydrating and recommended with amazing results... in inchloss. improving your skin as well as inchloss.

• Equivalent to a 3hour workout at the gym Nsl (non-surgical lipolysis) themachine breakdown of fat stores. This is a • 16 pads to cover all wrap areas : Again this promotesI-fit luxurious, natural base formulation containing shea butter resulting in hydrating and Consisting of a vibrating plate and animproving oscillating The benefits you can expect your skin as well as inchloss. plate.

While you stand on this the vibrating • Noticeable lifting and toning within first motion helps the breakdown of fat. treatment I-fit machine: Consisting of a vibrating plate and an oscillating plate. While you stand on this the “Shrink Down-Tone Up” package consists of a • Proven inchbreakdown loss of 6-11 inches vibrating motionaverage helps the of fat. combination of toning, wraps and i-fit sessions.

• Reduction of cellulite “Shrink Down-Tone Up” package consists of a combination of toning, wraps and i-fit sessions.

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Beauty Clinic. The salon's four part-time therapists are fully qualified, cover all treatments offered by the clinic and are on hand to give advice on healthy eating and the best treatment for you.

This year they are concentrating on promoting their wedding package.

They have a fully qualified beautician/ hairdresser and can offer the full beauty works plus hair up or GHD curled and Airbase airbrush make-up. The bride and her bridal party can have everything done The “Peach Room” under one roof.

Theeverything whole clinic a friendly, have donehas under one roof. welcoming atmosphere and is a restful haven in which The whole clinic has a friendly, welcoming to relax, pamper and haven tone. in They would atmosphere and is a restful which to relax, be delighted seewould you be so delighted do pop in next pamper and tone.to They to see time you are passing seepassing for yourself you so do pop in next time and you are and see for yourself what theyto have to offer. what they have offer.

They run special offers every month and you can either

They run special offersmonthly every month and you can subscribe to their newsletter, either subscribe to theirWest monthly newsletter, see see Konect advert, Lothian Courier, Konect advert, West Lothian Courier, Facebook Facebook and Twitter @toningbeautysal and Twitter @toningbeautysal and, of course, and, of course, their new website. their new website www.thetoningclinic.co.uk.

20a Houston Mains Holdings, Uphall, EH52 6PA

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We are situated on the A89 – past Dobbies, Williamsons Garden Centre & American Golf – just before the lights at the crossroads

Introducing the new NSL wrap £40 (normal price £50)

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Otherspecialist specialist treatments available: Other treatments available Microdermabrasion: gently thethe skin Microdermabrasion: gentlyexfoliates exfoliates skin Glycolic Peels: deep cleanses and improves Glycolic Peels:lines deep acne, reduces etccleanses and improves acne, reduces lines etc Non surgical facelift: lifts and firms the eye Non surgical facelift: lifts and firms the eye area and and redefines muscles. area redefinesfacial facial muscles.

Every three to four months the Every three to four monthsthey theyengage engage the servicesof ofDr Dr Long Long for services forBotox, Botox,Sculptra Sculptraand and Restalyneand and have have all 2014.

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Thought for the month

Restraint can be applied to all elements of life

By Tina Gilbert At the end of last year I decided to try the 5:2 diet as I put on half a stone and needed to lose weight.

I never dieted before so this was a new experience, and like everything in my life understanding and researching was the key to trying it. I therefore read the book by Dr Michael Mosley and Mimi Spence “The fast diet” which states the simple secret of intermittent fasting is lose weight, stay healthy and live longer.

With the 5:2 you can eat 500 calories for two days (Monday and Thursday) and normal for five. It certainly was not an easy option, eating only 500 cal on two days leaves you feeling hungry for most of the day. The usual response to this is to eat.

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My challenge therefore, was to deal with my desire to eat, watch my thoughts about it and work with my motivation, determination and ability to be mindful of the experience. I lost 9 pounds and felt wonderful, it certainly had worked. It wasn't easy but was well worth the challenge of not giving into my desire constantly.

I read recently the 5:2 can be applied to all elements of life; how about two days of no electronic gadgets, emails, iPad, phone, internet, facebook etc. Instead, have family time going out, sharing, laughing without gadgets ... how radical would this be!!

I now fast one day per week to keep the weight away and also because I feel so good mentally and physically.

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

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Property Matters

Embracing Help to Buy

By Craig Turpie The economic downturn of recent years was widely blamed on irresponsible lending by the banks.

Whilst this did not apparently result in a huge numbers of repossessions, it did highlight banks’ exposure to high-risk debt and The City clamped down in order to protect its best interests.

This resulted in lenders deciding to limit future mortgage loans to around 80% of the purchase price. All of a sudden, buyers had to find a minimum 20% deposit, causing the market to stagnate.

Indeed, some 40% of non-homeowners say they cannot afford the deposit required to buy (source FSCS).

In order to stimulate a “recovery”, as well as the building of sorely needed new homes, the Government introduced a Help to Buy Equity Loan for first time buyers and a New Build scheme. But these were rather limiting and did little to provide the stimulus required to prompt significant activity in the housing market.

These clients switched to Turpie & Co*

A healthy housing market is so important to the wider economy that the Government has now extended Help to Buy to everyone. In essence the government will act as a guarantor to the lender for 15% of the value of a property purchase up to £400,000 in Scotland (as long as you do not own any other properties), meaning that most people will now be able to secure a loan with just 5% deposit, subject to other lending criteria such as earnings and credit-worthiness. There is no complicated application paperwork required – that’s all taken care of by the lender.

During these times of continuing low interest rates and property values already starting to show signs of a recovery, this could turn out to be the last chance for those who thought they might never have been able to get a foot on the rung of the property ladder or indeed those who felt trapped by falling house prices and reducing equity.

On market

Previous agent

1 year

Turpie & Co

71 days 18

On market

Viewings

Previous agent

3 months

0

Turpie & Co

35 days 5

On market

Viewings

Previous agent

6 months

0

Turpie & Co

39 days 4

Viewings

1

So 2014 might just turn out to be one of those pivotal moments for the British property market after all!

*existing home report valid.

Telephone: 01506 668448 www.turpies.com

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Local family-ru n busines s

Anderson Home Improvements For all your home improvement needs All trades supplied

Specialists in : Kitchens Bathrooms Windows Doors Roofline Roofs EPDM Rubber Roofs Please call Michael on

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37

Chrisselle's Column

New Year, New Beginnings

Buster the Dog

By Chrisselle Mowatt It’s that time of year again where everyone is swearing that they are going to change who they are and they are going to be better at this, that, and the next thing.

But one thing that’s important to remember at this time of year is that what you have in front of you is a brand new canvas that can be filled with whatever you want it to be.

It is a new beginning, but it is completely up to you as to what it is the beginning of. Last year I said that I was going to try and be more confident, and I was going to try and get my writing out there to the public; and looky here!

You’re reading my column!

If you work hard enough, and take risks then you can get where you want to be, when you want to be.

You get nowhere if you don’t ask.

Be daring, be different and be brave.

Whatever your plans are for this New Year, I wish you every success possible.

I hope that this is a year filled with love, success and happiness for all of you and that it brings everything you’re hoping for with it.

Here’s to a New Year and all the new memories it will hold.

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konect the

■ ■

TARGET YOUR LOCAL MARKET with

directory

Four quality local community magazines ... dedicated to helping people shop locally, support local tradespeople and provide a platform for community groups and charities to promote themselves in the local area.

Weddings Private Dining ■ Buffets ■ Outside Catering ■ Corporate Events

Current advertising not hitting the mark?

Konect

● Four editions reaching 42,000 local households ● Flexible packages ● Low cost adverts start at £21 + vat per month

Livingston edition

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Free room hire and a ottle of wb hisky for all c har bookin ity gs

Have you a Special Event Planned?

Bathgate edition

reaching 10,000 homes in Bathgate and Torphichen every month

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

Calders edition

reaching 5400 homes in Mid Calder, East Calder, Kirknewton and Pumpherston every month

Balerno edition

Our locations:

Bathgate Partnership Centre | Uphall Golf Club Kingsknowe Golf Club | Centrex Conference Centre Bathgate Golf Club

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reaching 7000 homes in Balerno, Currie, Juniper Green and Baberton every month

If you run a business locally and want to be included, please call

Call us now and any confirmnd booking before the end of March will get an additional 10% discount on our existing low prices.

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FEBRUAR Y 2014

Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or

For table reservation call

01506 872215 07889 416177

Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk If you are involved in a commmunity group or charity locally we will list your organisation in the Clubs and Classes section FREE of charge. We may also be able to feature you as a “Charity of the Month”. Please contact editor@konectdirectory.co.uk If you have an interesting story relating to the local area or a local personality, we may be able to feature you. Please contact editor@konectdirectory.co.uk

FEATURES

Artisan Ch

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secakes Bathgate's newest ind ulgence

Interview with He's here,

he's there,

Local Hist

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Westwood

FEBR U

Mickey Wei

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House

OFFERS & VOUCHERS from local businesses

FEAT

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Like us on facebook to keep up to date with offers, vouchers and all things local www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory www.konectdirectory.co.uk

He's h

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8

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20

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Across 1. European country (7) 5. Scour (5) 8. Inflamed (7) 9. Precise (5) 10. Strict (5) 11. Operating room (7) 12. Painter (6) 14. Lethal (6) 17. Non professional (7) 19. Likeness (5) 22. Edgy, anxious (5) 23. Revised (7) 24. Father (5) 25. Harnessed to ride (7) Down 1. Types of transport (5) 2. Not tight (5) 3. E.g. Crete, Rhodes (7) 4. Tiny (6) 5. Stage set (5) 6. Oven cooked (7) 7. Torch power cell (7) 12. Made suitable (7) 13. Coached (7) 15. Once lived (7) 16. Destroys (6) 18. Including all (5) 20. Fourth month (5) 21. Finished (5)

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Technology

Fit for purpose The gadgets that give you a handle on your health A gadget a day keeps the doctor away: health and fitness gadgets are big business, whether it's trendy fitness trackers such as the Nike FuelBand (£129) and the Fitbit Force or more serious devices such as blood glucose meters and body composition analysers.

As tech becomes smarter, smaller and cheaper, DIY health monitoring has never been easier or more affordable. Diabetics need to monitor their glucose levels regularly, and there are lots of gadgets designed to help, such as the Lifescan One Touch UltraMini (around £33) and the Bayer Contour NEXT USB (£29.99).

Using health monitors has become something of a craze, and it even has a name: Quantified Self, or QS for short. Devotees use gadgets to monitor pretty much everything, They'll wear devices such as the Jawbone Up (£99), a bracelet that's designed to be worn 24/7 and which records the steps you take, the activity you undertake and even your sleeping patterns.

The accompanying software enables you to add additional information such as your food and drink intake, and translates all that data into graphs and charts so you can see how well you're doing and track your progress towards goals, such as losing LifeMax Talking Wrist Heart Monitor

Nike FuelBand Bayer Contour NEXT USB glucose monitor

KICC Active Lothian KICC Active Lothian offers Pilates, Tai Chi and yoga classes which are specially tailored to the needs of people with long term health conditions. The classes are gentle and designed to be adapted to each individual’s needs and requirements.

Regular participants in our classes notice increased strength, greater flexibility and improved sleeping patterns as well as better posture, balance and coordination. Over time people also notice increased energy levels and reduced fatigue.

Classes have already started in Bathgate and start in Livingston in February. Classes are taught by fully qualified and experienced tutors who understand the different needs people with mobility issues might have. Classes are gentle and can be done from a seated position if preferred.

People living with chronic fatigue, diabetes, MS, Parkinson’s, arthritis, stroke and many other conditions attend our classes as well as people who have had traumatic injuries and those who use

wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility aids.

Classes are at the Bathgate Community Centre and Livingston Ability Centre.

Please contact the co-ordinator Joanna on 07436102726 or joanna@kiccactive.org.uk for more info.

We look forward to meeting you in class soon! www.kiccactive.org.uk

Gentle Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates classes to improve health Classes in Livingston and Bathgate.

Classes are gentle and tailored to the needs of people living with conditions such as MS, ME, Parkinson’s, arthritis, diabetes and many others.

Improve your health Meet new people Self-manage your condition Call 07436102726

www.kiccactive.org.uk

The Wellbeing Centre in Carmondean has

rooms available to rent LifeScan One Touch UltraMini glucose monitor Both devices enable you to analyse your blood glucose levels and can store the results - 50 in the case of the UltraMini and 2,000 with the Contour NEXT. The latter device can also plug into your computer to create easy-to-understand charts and tables to help you spot patterns.

That's not all you can monitor. A trip to Maplin or Amazon uncovers all kinds of health monitoring gadgets, including blood pressure monitors that can upload data to your PC (around £39), finger pulse oximeters (£27) and fully digital heart rate monitors (around £29), and you can also buy bathroom scales that analyse your body composition: for around £30 you can pick up scales that can tell you not just how heavy or light you are, but what your BMI (Body Mass Index) is and what percentage of your body is made of fat. Scales such as the Omron BF508 also have a guest mode, so visitors won't see your vital statistics.

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Suitable for self employed alternative therapists. Weekly and monthly rent available

weight, running faster or just being out and about more. Many such gadgets also enable you to share your progress on social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.

Devices such as the Jawbone Up, Nike FuelBand and Fitbit Force are designed to work with smartphones, using low-power radio signals to share data with compatible apps. 60beat offers the £29 BLUE heart rate monitor for iPhone and iPad users, AliveCore has a £170 heart monitor for iPhone 5 users and there are various connected blood glucose monitors, pulse monitors and fitness trackers for both iOS and Android.

While the various devices differ, they all have the same idea in common: by recording the data, they enable you (or your doctor) to have a much better picture of your health.

For further information, please contact Janet on 07908 413126

Colin Williamson

Formal/After Dinner Speaker Specialising in Scottish history, ethnology & folklore.... Colin uses his professional storytelling skills to entertain & Diploma in Scottish Studies inform MA (Hons) Scottish Ethnology

Get paid to keep fit!

If you are interested in helping us deliver Konect in this area, please call 07904 443005 or email distribution@konectdirectory.co.uk Good rates of pay, a few hours per month

Accredited Storyteller with the Scottish Storytelling Centre

t. 07927 962 120 e. colin@scotstory.co.uk

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If you roast a slightly larger piece of meat or chicken than usual you will have leftovers to make into the next meal. A large chicken will feed 4-6 people hot but will leave enough meat to make a pasta sauce and the bones can be used for stock for soup for a third meal. It is a little fiddly picking off the cold meat from the bird but worth it when you have enough to add to a pack of stir fry veg which, with rice or glass noodles, then makes a weekday supper.

Stock from chicken bones Take all the bones, bits of skin you don't fancy and any jelly or tasty bits left in the roasting tin. If you roasted garlic, lemon or onion in the bird’s cavity, so much the better; add them all to the pot and cover with water and bring slowly to the boil. Boil gently for 20 minutes and then sieve the liquid into a scrupulously clean bowl or container suitable for freezing. Stock will keep in the fridge for 2 or 3 days.

If you want to keep it longer, freeze it and use from frozen for soup, stews or cooking rice.

Leftover Cottage Pie

Recipe and Food Notes

Leftovers

By Anne Pinkerton At first glance leftovers doesn't sound very appetising as a topic. However for busy people leftovers are a starting point for all kinds of good and economical things to eat.

Much classic family British food relied on leftovers.

In older household management cook books there was often a chapter on them but rather grandly named…. “Rechauffes.” Shepherd’s Pie, Beef Hash, Bubble and Squeak, croquettes, fish cakes and rissoles all needed leftovers as a main ingredient.

Even small amounts of cooked vegetables and gravy

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can become warming soup with a depth of flavour not obtainable from stock cubes.

In July 2013 the Office for National Statistics announced that food prices had risen by 12% in the previous 12 months. Since then some food prices have dropped back but fruit is still 10% more expensive than last year. Don't let this depress you; we can use the food we buy carefully, waste as little as practical and still enjoy a varied diet.

Cooking at home, planning ahead and being alert to special offers and reductions all play a part.

If you are not like me - a collector of old fashioned kitchen tools! - and don't have a hand mincer, use a food processor or even a hand wand to mince the meat from leftover roast lamb or beef. About 300/350g will give you enough for Cottage Pie for four people.

2 onions chopped 2 sticks celery 2 medium carrots grated 2 parsnips peeled and grated 1 leek washed and finely sliced little oil (sunflower or corn oil) for frying. leftover plain boiled or mashed potatoes salt and pepper to taste flour

boiling water for a couple of minutes to start the cooking process. This saves time and ensures the spuds are cooked. Cook at 180oC for half an hour till bubbling and the top brown and crusty.

Serve with peas or cabbage if you want more veg but you can treat it as a meal in one.

Left over pastry is really useful. Cheese straws, jam tarts, fruit turnovers and Eccles cakes can all be made from scraps.

Cheese straws pastry, puff or short will do. finely grated strong cheese - old and looking dried out is perfect black pepper and, if liked, paprika Pile the scraps of pastry on top of each other; try not to mush them together. Roll them out thinly into as regular a shape as you can.

Cover 2/3 of the surface in grated cheese and seasoning. Fold the plain 1/3 over the cheese and then fold in again.

Roll out, not too thin, and do the same thing again with more cheese.

Roll out and cut into strips about as thick as your little finger. Bake at 200C for 10 minutes till pale golden. (Do not burn, as they go bitter).

Fruit turnovers or Eccles cakes

Method Heat the oil, fry the onions and then add all the other prepared veg. Add the minced meat and get all the ingredients really hot. Mix in 2 or 3 flat tablespoons of plain flour to take up any juice, cook a few moments.

Add ½ pint water and bring back to the boil.

The mixture should be thick. Put the meat in an oven-proof dish and cover with sliced cold, cooked potatoes, leftover mash or newly sliced and blanched potatoes.

Add a few dots of butter or a little oil to help top brown in cooking. Blanching is just putting into

Puff leftovers are nicest but either will do. Roll out the pastry into a circular shape. In the middle put stewed fruit, apple is most commonly used but whatever you have will be good.

For an Eccles type cake - mix currants, a little butter and soft brown sugar together and place in the middle of the pastry.

Bring the edges together and seal. Turn the cake over and roll lightly. Slash with a sharp knife paint with a little milk and sprinkle with a sugar. Bake at 200C for 10/15 minutes till golden.

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Charity of the Month

Fundraising

Bosom Buds of Scotland The mother of a local cancer patient was distressed by the lack of support for daily living with cancer and its treatment.... so along with her daughter (a breast cancer patient) and some friends, they set out to fill the gaps for other cancer patients.

Since 2009 their West Lothian charity, Bosom Buds of Scotland, has brought dignity and hope to hundreds of women and men struggling with the daily challenges of living with cancer.

I met Mags, the lady behind Bosom Buds, and Trish, a patient who has become an important volunteer in the charity. “Cancer affects absolutely every aspect of your life. It's in the hundreds of details of daily life, things we take for granted but that a cancer patient struggles with, as well as emotional well-being and the rest of your family – that is what Bosom Buds addresses,” they explain.

Mags' daughter Kate was an extremely fit 23 year old when breast cancer

Bosom Buds are here for us in West Lothian when we are touched by cancer, as everyone will be at some point either directly or indirectly.

All money Bosom Buds spends or donates comes from fund-raising activities - the generosity and support of the local community and local businesses.

struck. Although there are organisations that help younger people, for those over the age of 24 there was little support available locally. Chemotherapy is exhausting, and one thing Kate found, having been very fit before, was that you're too tired to go to normal fitness classes.

One of the main services Bosom Buds offer is free fitness classes specially designed for cancer patients, where you can also meet people going through the same thing. These classes are run by Michael Smith of Personal Best in Armadale and there are classes at various locations in West Lothian. Michael is fully qualified to help cancer patients with their rehabilitation, as well as carrying out massage therapy and arranging a walking group.

It affects everyone in different ways, but many lose their hair through chemo, including Bosom Buds Tough Mudder team 2013

Abseil from the Forth Rail Bridge 2013 eyebrows and eyelashes. Bosom Buds have an arrangement with a hairdresser to procure real-hair wigs which are free of charge to patients, as well as arranging eyebrow tattoos (via a local salon) for those who want them until their own eyebrows grow back. Working closely with the oncology unit at St John's Hospital in Livingston (to which they donate regularly) Bosom Buds also run pamper days for patients referred by St John's.

I spoke to a patient whose life had fallen to pieces after her cancer diagnosis – a successful career women who lost her job and house within a short space of time and wasn't coping well. Until she was referred to “mindfulness” classes via Bosom Buds. “Mindfulness changed my life,” she says. “The classes helped me to manage my situation a lot better.” The classes are run by Tina Gilbert, a yoga and mindfulness instructor from Livingston. They are free of charge to cancer patients as well as their relatives and friends and have proved invaluable to many patients in coping with their situation.

The activities of the charity are too numerous to mention here. From providing individuals with mastectomy bras through to donating nearly £50,000 to Breakthrough (the breast cancer research organisation) last year, the real contribution that Bosom Buds makes is incalculable – there is no way of measuring the emotional well-being, self esteem, even the will to live that can be given back through providing practical support with every aspect of daily living. As Bosom Buds say, “Cancer can take away your dignity, Bosom Buds helps get it back!”

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Ladies nights, sponsorship events such as an abseil from the Forth Rail Bridge in June and October this year, and a “Bing Blazer” in May are examples of their activities. Teams under the Bosom Buds banner enter demanding events such as Tough Mudder and the Edinburgh Marathon. Anyone is welcome to get involved and every single contribution is valued.

Contact Bosom Buds at info@ bosombudsofscotland.org to get involved.

Bosom Buds are especially grateful to Harburn House for the use of their beautiful premises for the pamper days, and to Rhoddy Stewart Photography who provides his services free of charge for the pamper days; Michael Smith of Personal Best in Armadale who goes over and above regularly by donating his time and skills at events; Policy Services of Grangemouth named Bosom Buds their charity of the year last year, and continue to fundraise and provide support; Atkin Framers of Livingston have been very supportive, providing prizes for events, fundraising and networking; Dobbies Livingston have nominated them as their charity of the year 2014 so there is a collection box at the tills (please drop your change in it next time you're there, every penny counts!)

Dobbies also provide raffle prizes and host events for them. Many other local businesses an individuals donate raffle prizes, time and expertise.

Contact Bosom Buds on info@bosombudsofscotland.org www.bosombudsofscotland.org www.facebook/Bosom Buds of Scotland

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TAEKWON-DO KIDS

TAEKWON-DO KIDS

is a revolutionary

program for children aged 3-5 years that is endorsed by the ITF (International Taekwon-Do Federation) as the official program to prepare young children for Taekwon-Do. The course covers many important aspects of growing up including Danger awareness, behaviour and listening skills.

The children learn through fun activities and role playing games, they learn about friendly and unfriendly behaviours and how to report the situations to their parents as well as recognising that they should not speak with people that they don’t know. They will also learn about road safety, fire safety and water safety whilst building their self awareness and confidence at every stage.

Creative Activity for 3-5 Yrs ★Have Fun learning Life Skills ★Build ConÞdence through Role Play ★Age Appropriate Martial Arts ★Increase Awareness of Dangers ★Learn about Stranger Awareness

CALL 07734 926574

www.gmacmartialarts.co.uk Solution Dec 13 crossword

Across: 1 Dock, 3 Diamonds, 9 Execute, 10 Agree, 11 Manufactured, 14 Nap, 16 Crude, 17 You, 18 Nevertheless, 21 Adapt, 22 Pattern, 23 Everyday, 24 Lyre Down: 1 Dreaming, 2 Clean, 4 Ice, 5 Measurements, 6 Nursery, 7 Spew, 8 Sufficiently, 12 Count, 13 Nuisance, 15 Prepare, 19 Every, 20 Fake, 22 Pea

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There are 5 key characters, each of them representing a continent in the World and also a Tenet of Taekwon-Do, together they form “The Strongest 5″. The Tenets are 5 words that the children will learn about and try to accomplish tasks based around them. They are Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control and Indomitable Spirit.

Our professionally trained instructors will guide your child through our course and work with you to help them achieve the best foundations in life for when they attend school whilst having fun, interacting with other children, all in a safe environment.

Call now to book your child’s 4 week trial

07734 926574

www.gmacmartialarts.co.uk

Children’s Nursery

“Where your child comes first”

01506 466668

www.stepbystep-childcare.co.uk We offer flexible childcare and creche facilities.

For more information contact Lynne Robertson Step by Step Nursery, Centrex House, 1 Simpson Parkway, Kirkton Campus Livingston, EH54 7BH (Opp. Lloyds Bank)

Professional guitar tuition For all ages and levels

Contact Mark on 01506 495812

www.gtrstuition.co.uk e: gtrs@sky.com

Solution to Sudoku

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

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

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What’s On and Useful Information February Friday 14th February Kisses for CLAPA Masquerade Musical Mayhem

At the Bankton House Hotel, Murieston, Livingston. 7.30 –12pm T’is the season of love...come and join some of West Lothian’s finest musicians and bands celebrate St. Valentines Day as they raise awareness for CLAPA - Cleft Lip And Palate Association.

Entertainment from: The Changes, Little Songbird, Danny Livingston, Cousin Kenny and more...

Dress code on the night: Black and white attire with, of course, the choice of colourful masquerade mask - the brighter the better!

This event is for over 18s only. Tickets: £6 each/£10 per couple.

Available from www.facebook. com/LynzieDray-MillArtBanktonHouseHotel Sunday 23rd February Jack & Jill Market Quality nearly-new baby and children’s market. Forty stalls bursting with quality nearly new baby and kids bargains!

West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston

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.

10:30am – 1:00pm

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

Livingston Library Information Almondbank Library Shiel House, Shiel Walk, Craigshill, EH54 5EH. Tel: 01506 283133 email: almondbank.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri 09.00 – 18.00

Tues & Thu 09.00 – 20.00

Sat 09.00 – 13.00 CUSTOMER ENQUIRY SERVICE now available providing a proactive approach to resolving all enquiries from the public at first point of contact, dealing with all types of enquiries from booking a bulky uplift to revenues and benefits Carmondean Library (Carmondean Connected), Carmondean Centre, EH54 8PT. Tel: 01506 777602 email: carmondean.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri 09.00 – 18.00

Tues & Thu 09.00 – 20.00

Sat 09.00 – 13.00 NEW HIGH/LOW BOOK COLLECTION AVAILABLE AT CARMONDEAN High in interest but low in boredom - Dyslexia friendly reading collection now available to borrow from Library.

Lanthorn Library Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6NY Tel: 01506 777700 email: lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk

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Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri 09.00 – 18.00

Tues & Thu 09.00 – 20.00

Sat 09.00 – 13.00 Follow us on Facebook or Twitter.

NEW HIGH/LOW BOOK COLLECTION AVAILABLE AT LANTHORN High in interest but low in boredom - Dyslexia friendly reading collection now available to borrow from Library.

Valentine crafts Tuesday 11th Feb 3.30pm - 4.30pm Bookbug Storytime Tuesday 18th Feb 10.30am All under 3’s – bring your grown up for stories and rhymes E-BOOKS ARE HERE! You can now register online and download up to 6 e-books from the library website www.westlothian. librarybooks.co.uk - full instructions on login.

EMAGAZINES Free digital magazines available to all Library customers Popular publications available 24/7 Easily read on any internet-enabled device Go to – https:/www.rbdigital.com/westlothian/zinio EAUDIOBOOKS have arrived! – more information from your local library The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www.westlothian.gov.uk

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Strictly-Style in Bathgate and Livingston!

Clubs & Classes

Move It Dance and Fitness

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

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.

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@fireflyarts.co.uk for more information on our current programme.

Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE www.firefly-arts.co.uk email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk 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 see www.livingstonplayers.co.uk Livingston FC League players and juniors, social and corporate events.

Almondvale Stadium Tel 01506 417000 or see www.livingstonfc.co.uk 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 http://www. facebook.com/LivingstonSpeakers West Lothian Breast Cancer Support Group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm-9pm.

Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 01506 655739

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CRAIGSHILL 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 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 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 7.30 - 8.30 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

DEANS Livingston Station Playgroup Livingston Station Community Centre Spaces available for 2 – 5 yr olds, Mon-Thurs 9.30-11.50am, Fri 9.15-11.30am £4 per day plus £1 per wk for healthy snack.

Contact us on 07954 044260 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on facebook for more info.

Deans Community High School Playgroup Care and education for children from 2 years 6 months.

Dean Community High School, Eastwood Park, Livingston Mon-Fri 9.10am – 11.10 am term time. £20/ week, or flexible days at £4/session (min of 2 per week). For more information please phone Cheryl or Lesley on 01506 282155 and ask for playgroup between 8.45am and 12.15pm, or pop in any time for a visit.

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 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.

Lothians MS Support Group Open to anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis, family & friends. Informal fortnightly meetings for support, information and activities.

Membership and meetings free. For more info and for dates of this month’s fortnightly meetings, contact Val on valsteward1msgroup@yahoo.co.uk or call 01506 201107. Fortnightly meetings are at the Ability Centre, Livingston, EH54 8PT on a Tueday 7pm–8.30pm.

Come along and try the newest dance fitness craze that's sweeping the nation!

Fitsteps is an exciting new Ballroom and Latin based dance fitness class choreographed by Strictly Come Dancing stars Nathalie Lowe and Ian Waite. Fitsteps consists of fun, easy to follow Latin and Ballroom moves, with no partner required!

Classes cost £4pp and are as follows: Wednesdays 6-6.45pm Inveralmond Community High School, Livingston Wednesdays 7.30-8.15pm, Regal Theatre, Bathgate If you would like more info please contact Lianne on 07737 927463 email moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com or visit our facebook page www.facebook.com/moveitdanceandfitness

We will be dancing the Cha Cha, Jive, Waltz, Paso Doble, Rumba, Quickstep and Tango to some awesome modern and traditional tunes. Our classes are fun, friendly, easy to follow and will get you dancing your way to fitness in no time at all!

See you on the dancefloor!

Livingston Speakers – Toastmasters Club at West Lothian College Livingston Speakers offers a series of “learn-by-doing” workshops where you can enjoy public speaking among a group of friends, people who are there for similar reasons to yourself.

Toastmasters International is a non-profit voluntary organisation, set up in 1924 to help people develop their communication and leadership skills. The Toastmasters education programme provides a cost-effective and efficient way to develop these skills through its worldwide network of 13,500 clubs in 116 countries.

Benefits of Membership include: i) A free inspirational monthly magazine which includes feature articles with hints and tips on public speaking ii) Free access to Toastmasters clubs world-wide to meet local people who are all training with the same materials and meeting structure as your local club, and in a similar environment iii) The chance to enter the world public speaking championships to grow as a speaker beyond your club and other geographic boundaries

Become more confident in front of an audience Improve your presentation skills

Sample a FREE taster meeting of Livingston Speakers A Toastmasters International Club

Meetings: alternate Thursdays from 6:45 – 9.00pm Our new venue for club meetings is West Lothian College For further details and meeting dates go to:

Kiddies Corner Carmondean Community Centre, For Preschool Children.

Tues 9.00am – 12 noon. Child minders available Mon & Wed 9.00am – 12 noon.

For more info tel 01506 439568.

Are you a Strictly Come Dancing fan? Do you imagine yourself doing all the dances you see on the programme? Well, now you can! Come along and give it a try, you will be hooked! Please wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing and decent footwear for chassying, sweeping and flicking your way around the floor (i.e. trainers or dance sneakers are fine).

Practise impromptu speaking

http://www.livingstonspeakers.org.uk/

Why should I join Livingston Speakers?

To meet and work with lots of supportive, positive people, to have fun, and to improve your presentation and speaking skills.

You will : 1) enhance your personal effectiveness 2) increase your confidence and communication skills 3) boost your career prospects with world-wide recognised qualifications in leadership and public speaking, including thinking on your feet (impromptu speaking).

Enjoy speaking to your audience, and have fun!

https://www.facebook.com/LivingstonSpeakers

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Clubs and Classes continued . .

DEDRIDGE Livingston Camera Club Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG Every Mon 7.15pm-9.30pm from early Sept to late May. (Summer syllabus between these dates). Evening activities incl. speakers, competitions, photo editing, studio and lighting classes. www.livingstoncameraclub. org.uk contact@livingstoncameraclub.org.uk Livingston and 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 uk.groups.yahoo.com/ group/ms0liv/ or just come along on any Tuesday.

Bump and Baby Group Dedridge Baptist Church. For all bumps and precrawlers 9:30-11 every Tuesday.

Come and have a cuppa and a natter with other new and expecting parents while your little one enjoys themselves.

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.

Penumbra Unit 20 Grampian Court, Beverige Square, Dedridge Every fortnight from 14 March 2012 For anyone experiencing mental health problems : the group can help people who need information on illnesses, understanding from others in similar situations or even just a chat to get out of the house.

For more information contact: cinderbelle@hotmail.co.uk or 07854 316139

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Crofthead Hickory House Playgroup Crofthead Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG For children 2-3 years. Mon-Thurs 9.15-11.15 am term time. £4.25/day includes healthy snack. Pre-school nursery also available for children 3-5 years funded by WLC. For more info call 01506 467650, email crofheadhickoryhouse@googlemail.com www.croftheadhickoryhouse.co.uk 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 Parent and Toddler Group Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise Tues: 12.30 – 2.30pm & Wed: 9.15 – 11.15am. £1.00 0 – 5 years old. Tel 01506 203683 Craft, snack (lunch on Tuesdays), sports, outings & visitors

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

ELIBURN 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 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

HOWDEN

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 Livingston Highland Society Monthly ceilidhs are run on a Saturday between October and April each year in the Lanthorn Complex, Dedridge. Each month we have a different band and guest artist.

The Society now has vacancies for new members. You don’t have to be highland to join our Society. For further details please contact the Secretary on 01506 491545 or 07900 475511.

Livingston South Community Church We are situated in the south of the town.

Everyone welcome.

Alternating venues for Sunday worship: Sunday 30th June 2013 - Lanthorn, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Sunday 7th July 2013 - Murieston Community Hall, Murieston, and alternately thereafter.

All services commence at 10am.

Check us out on Facebook or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com.

Charity number is SC044088.

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 activities. Cost £5.

For more info contact 01506 430615 or see www.braidhouse.co.uk 29th West Lothian Scout Group Community Wing, Toronto Primary School Cubs Mon 6.30-8.00pm, Beavers Wed 6.307.30pm, Scouts Wed 7.30-9.00pm Tel 01506 441852 14th Livingston Guides Community Wing, Toronto Primary School Tues 7.30 – 9.00pm, All girls aged 10 years upwards, £17 per term.

Tel 01506 418285 14th Livingston Rainbows Community Wing of Toronto Primary School.

Tuesdays 6.30 - 7.45 pm.

Girls 5 years old and attending school.

Telephone: Rainbow Guide Leader on 07532 182197.

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.

SPPA (Scottish Pre-School Play Association) Group Newyearfield Farm.

Toddlers Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 09.30 – 11.30am. Tel 01506 462458 Kids Club

KNIGHTSRIDGE 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

LADYWELL 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 07946 835037 or email at almondvalleybc@yahoo.co.uk Fitsteps - Get fit ‘Strictly style!’ - NEW! Ballroom and Latin dance fitness class- no partner required Wednesday 6.15-7.00pm, Inveralmond Community High School - £4.00 Wednesday 7.30-8.15pm, St Mary’s Hall, Bathgate - £4.00 Thursday 7.30-8.15pm - Currie Community High School - £4.50 Classes start week beg 6th Jan 2014. For more info contact Lianne on 07737 927463.

Email: moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com, Like us on facebook http://www.facebook. com/moveitdanceandfitness Rosebery Centre for Dementia Care Day care for people with all types of dementia. Stimulating activities, counselling and training and support groups for carers.

Volunteers always required.

Tel: Nancy on 497046.

Email - info@roseberycentre.org.uk.

Website: www.roseberycentre.org.uk 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

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

Livingston South Community Church We are situated in the south of the town.

Alternating venues for Sunday worship: Sunday 30th June 2013 - Lanthorn, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Sunday 7th July 2013 Murieston Community Hall, Murieston and alternately thereafter.

All services commence at 10am. Everyone welcome, check us out on Facebook or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail. com.

Charity number is SC044088.

Livingston Cricket Club

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE Physiotherapist Led Pilates Classes Danz 4 u studio, Centrex House, Kirkton Campus. Fridays, 10-11am.

All bookings online: www.physioledpilates.com.

Email: lucy@physioledpilates.com Tel: 07415426228 Livingston Village Playgroup Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village.

For children 2yrs 3 months to 5 years. 9.30 - 11.30am Mon - Fri, £4/session including snack. Child can attend between 2 & 5 sessions a week. For more information please contact the placement secretary 01506 417343 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

MURIESTON Bankton Mains Bowling Club Free Coaching Lessons for both Adult and Junior bowlers.

Junior Coaching is on every Tuesday 5pm till 6pm and Sunday 11am till 12am for children aged 8 till 16 years old. Memberships available now for Full, Family, Social, and Junior members. Special deal for Family Membership. Hire of the function hall available. For more info go our website at www.banktonmains.co.uk or phone 01506 460233 Bellsquarry & Murieston (ABM) Walking Group Looking for Fun, Fitness and Friendship then join our Ladies Walking Group.

We meet on Mondays at 10.00. Contact Penny Clark - penmex2@hotmail.co.uk

Cricket fixtures as well as a busy social calendar.

See http://livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel 07799 025795

OTHER AREAS The Crafty Pedlars Workshops The Gallery, West Calder Learn to Sew class - Mondays 7.00pm 9.00pm Learn to Knit (1) class - Wednesdays 7.00pm - 9.00pm Rag Rug Making - Thursdays 7.00pm - 9.00pm Sewing - altering, repairing, upcycling Mondays 7.00pm - 9.00pm from 18/11/13 All £8 per session, join any time. www.craftypedlarsworkshops.co.uk or phone 01506 870145 Baby Massage with Jo Stuart - NEW! Mid Calder Community Centre (opposite the Black Bull) Thursday mornings 10.30am -12. Each block lasts 5 weeks. Suitable for babies from birth to 1 year. Contact Jo for more information or to book a place on 07971696617 or email thestuarts22@hotmail.co.uk Tai Chi for people with health conditions - NEW! Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road, Livingston Weds 1.30pm-2.30pm, starting Feb 19th. Call Joanna 07436 102726 for more info.

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk.

Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings.

See our website for details www.konectdirectory.co.uk.

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Index of Advertisers Accessories Stick and Cane Shop 25 Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Kevin Thomson Accountant 43 Aerials Aerial Man 30 Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio 41 Beauty One Life Leisure 6 The Beauty Spot 24 The Toning & Beauty Clinic 21 Bridal Shop Susan Gregory 22 Building Services Almond Building Company 12 Dean Jones Building 12 JW Plans 5 Mackenzie Contracts 40 Building Surveyor David Hastings 26 Business Premises JC Enterprises 49 Cafe The Coffee Cup Cafe 22 Car and Van Hire Euro Hire Drive 6 Car Sales Colin Nixon 63 Car Service/Repair Car Medic 34 Central Garage 34 Chips Away 47 Finishing touch 47 Lothian Powder Coating 34 Smart Tech Vehicle Solutions 35 Carpet Cleaning Cleaning Doctor 43 Hydro-Kleen 42 Catering Food Creations 45 Charity Bosom Buds of Scotland 52 CLAPA 57 Childcare / Children's Nursery ABC Nursery 55 Blossom Tree Nursery 55 Step by Step Children's Nursery 55 Children's Activities GMAC Martial Arts 54 Chiropodist Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 13 Cleaning Services Housemaids 42 The Clean Team 42 Complimentary Therapies Beauty Within Therapies 22 MK Hypnotherapy 24

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Computer Repairs Sprint Computers 43 Dentist Bankton Dental Practice 7 East Calder Smile Centre 16 No9 Dentist 19 Dog Grooming Animal Magic 39 Groom at the Top 39 Double Glazing 1st Choice Living 5 Red Hot Windows 26 Dressmaking/Alternations Stitch Express 43 Electrical Advanced Electrical Solutions 4 A.F.A Electrical 32 Engraving Services GHB Industrial Engravings 34 Entertainment Scottish Opera 23 Estate Agent Aberdein Considine 64 Turpie & Co 29 Financial Services Cheque Centre 4 Fitness KICC Active 49 Move It 59 One Life Leisure 6 The Douglas Method 15 Furniture Grant's of Bathgate 31 Garden & Landscaping D Greaves 36 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 25 Ratho Park Golf Club 13 Hairdressers Nikki's Mobile Hair 5 Handyman West Lothian Handyman 40 Heating Services Mech A Tech 12 Home Improvements 1st Choice Living 5 Anderson Home Improvements 30 Home Fires Stoves 5 Ian Merriman 40 S & S Home Improvements 9 Industrial Machinery WMH Material Handling and Fabrication 8 Joiner Central Scotland Joinery 37 Geoff Vinter Joinery 26 Scott Stockdale Joinery 8 Kitchens & Bathrooms 1st Choice Living 5

Bathgate Bathroom Studio 41 Mackenzie Contracts 40 Locksmith Caledonian Locksmith 26 Masonic Lodge Lodge Almondale 42 Mobility Med-Ecosse 17 Scottish Medical Supplies 18 Painter / Decorator Braekirk Decorators 35 JD Decorators 36 Nu Walls 35 Pet Services Karen's Dogs 39 Plasterer Nu Walls 35 Plumbing Services Almondale Plumbing & Heating 40 BJ Fleming 36 EPH 12 Forth Plumbing 36 Property Management JC Enterprises 49 Restaurant Bombay Spice 45 Roofing BG Roofing & Guttering 4 Future Roof 8 Security Services A.F.A Fire and Security 33 Soft Furnishing Knight Shades Blinds 27 Style Rite Blinds 30 Storyteller and Public Speaker Colin Williamson Public Speaking 49 Livingston Toastmasters 59 Scotstory 49 Takeaway Bombay Spice 45 Taxi Lothian Radio Cars 2 Telephone Engineer John McGraw 35 Tiler Service With A Tile 40 Tuition GTRS 55 Veterinary Riverside Veterinary Practice 38 Wheel Repair Finishing Touch 47 Windows 1st Choice Living 5 Heritage Windows 36 Red Hot Windows 26

COLIN NIXON MOT SALES & SERVICE CENTRE NOW OPEN - BODY REPAIRS

AND SPRAY PAINTING FACILITIES

Our choice of vehicles, selected by Colin Nixon, come complete with a Pre-Sales Service and 12 Month Warranty on some of our vehicles.

ESTABLISHED OVER 25 YEARS Telephone: 01506 882 185 Email: info@colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Web: colinnixonautosafe.co.uk

Edinburgh Road East Calder EH53 0ET

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Selling or Leasing?

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69 South Bridge Street, Bathgate EH48 1TJ bgt@acandco.com

Ochil House, Beveridge Square, Livingston EH54 6QF liv@acandco.com

01506 420800

acandco.com

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