Konect Livingston February 18

FEBRUARY 2018

livingston

Local History: Marvellous Merchiston KIRKTON WEIR UPDATE Charity: Home-Start West Lothian

Plus local businesses, community information & more!

The community magazine for Livingston

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PAGE 21

HOME IMPROVEMENT

M E SSAG E FR O M TH E ED I T O R

W

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

Our Charity of the Month is Home-Start West Lothian, who offer support, friendship and practical help to parents with young children in the community to give the next generation the best possible chance in life. I interviewed them at their Livingston office – they are always looking for volunteers, see the feature on page 38.

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

All our usual columns are here (except Thought for the Month, which will be back next issue). I hope you enjoy the magazine this month.

FEATURES Local History Garden Project Health & Beauty Local People Home Improvement Property Matters Music Review Charity of the month Recipe & Food Notes Parents in West Lothian Visit West Lothian

10 12 14 16 21 30 36 38 42 44 46

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku

46

COMMUNITY Clubs & Classes

49

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

54

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk ADVERT BOOKING DEADLINE: 10th of the month prior to print.

ARTWORK/COPY DEADLINE: 13th of the month prior to print.

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

Cover Image: Early Spring flowers in West Lothian.

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

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 9

LOCAL HISTORY

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

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

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

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

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

There is no record of him graduating from there; he most likely finished his education in Europe, arriving back in 1571, aged 21, when Scotland was in the But Napier considered himself first and foremost a grip of a civil war in which his family was reluctantly theologian. The Reformation in Scotland was young, involved. Four years previously, Napier’s maternal it was a time of religious and political turmoil and he uncle Adam Bothwell, the Bishop of Orkney, had was a fervent protestant. In 1593 he published what performed the he considered to be coronation of baby his most important James VI after his and urgent work, “The Logarithms allowed the German mother’s forced Plaine Discovery of mathematician and astronomer Johannes abdication, and the Whole Revelation Kepler to show that the Earth was not at civil war ensured of St. John” - detailed between supporters exposition that the centre of the universe but revolved of the deposed the Pope was the around the sun. This breakthrough Catholic queen and Antichrist. He sought underpinned Newton’s theory of gravity supporters of the to alert the king to baby king (or rather, “the apparent danger of the Regent who of Papistry arising ruled in his minority). Merchiston Tower, being in a within this Island… .” fearing, like many, threat from strategic location, was garrisoned by the Regent’s Catholic Spain. men to prevent supplies reaching the Queen’s supporters holding Edinburgh. The Tower was Following the publication of the “Plaine Discovery” severely bombarded by the Queen’s men in May (which gained him international recognition) Napier 1572 in a failed attempt to gain control. Archibald worked on designs for various instruments of war Napier, John’s father, whose loyalties appear to - “designed by the Grace of God, and the worke have been ambiguous, probably stayed in the of expert craftsmen.” He was covering all bases, tower throughout, although it is unknown if the rest evidently, in the case of a Spanish invasion - if the of the family did. theological writings didn’t head off the catholic 10 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

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

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

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

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

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

Perhaps unsurprisingly he cut an eccentric figure.

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

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

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

KONECT LIVINGSTON | 11

GARDENING PROJECT

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

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

Just have fun experimenting!

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

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

NewYear, NewYou??

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PROPERTY MATTERS

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

However, this approach is somewhat simplistic!

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

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

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

So whilst it is important to choose an agent that advertises extensively online (every agent should be advertising your property on Rightmove, 30 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

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

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

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

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

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 31

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Rural charm goes hand in hand with convenience

Cathlaw Lane Some houses seem to sit naturally in the landscape and The Beeches is just such a home. Situated on a plot of around 1 acre in a semi-rural setting off a quiet country lane, and on the edge of the beautiful and welcoming conservation village of Torphichen, this stunning house has been skilfully designed and constructed to make the most of its imposing and beautiful natural surroundings.

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For further information please call 01506 668448 or visit www.turpies.com KONECT LIVINGSTON | 33

34 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 35

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

MUSIC REVIEW

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

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

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

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

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

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

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 37

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

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

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

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

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

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

It’s really about having life experience and an ability to empathise, non-judgementally Sometimes when things are hard, knowing you’re not alone, you’re not a bad parent, that it’s normal to find it tough, and knowing that others have similar challenges, can make all the difference to how you cope. “Our volunteer befrienders visit at home, provide peer-to-peer support, lend a hand practically (such as watch the toddler while mum has a chance to have a shower in 38 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

KONECT LIVINGSTON | 39

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40 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

BUSTER THE DOG

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 41

FOOD & DRINK

Spiced Bean &

Carrot Patties

Serve with salad and herb yoghurt dressing

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

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

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

Makes 15 Ready in 35 minutes, plus chilling time 42 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

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

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

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

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

KONECT LIVINGSTON | 43

PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Instead, it’s a physical and imaginative play arena, designed to stimulate little imaginations and promote pretend play. There are little cavern-like rooms where little ones can pretend to be in a supermarket, a kitchen, or a little 44 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

bedroom.

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

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

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

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

Here’s to an adventurous 2018!

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

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

konect Outside Catering Helping your business get the wee lift it needs It’s a team effort

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From simple buffets for small groups all the way to multi-course meals for large numbers, we are happy to work with you to provide the perfect catering solution.

Host an elegant dinner party in your own home: We can do the shopping, the prep, the cooking, and even the washing up.

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 45

PUZZLES

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

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

CROSSWORD

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

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

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

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

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

SUDOKU

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

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

Solution on Page 54

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

46 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian

KONECT LIVINGSTON | 47

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

FEATURE

First fish pass completed

in Livingston for the

RiverLife: Almond & Avon project

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

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

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

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

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

|

www.fishforth.co.uk

48 | KONECT LIVINGSTON

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@ForthFishTrust

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

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 see www.livingstonplayers.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 PHYSIO LED PILATES The Dance Studio at West Lothian College, Almondvale, Livingston. Wed evenings at 6pm & 7pm. At Physio Led Pilates you can feel assured that exercises will be performed safely, effectively and modified to the appropriate level for you under the expert guidance of an experienced Physiotherapist. For booking and further information please visit www.physioledpilates.com

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 further information.

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 or email opal@cyrenians.scot 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 www.facebook.com/ NewTownRollerGirls or email newtownrollergirls@hotmail.co.uk. Please contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you.

LIVINGSTON FC

WEST LOTHIAN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS CLUB

League players and juniors, social and corporate events.Almondvale Stadium telephone 01506 417000 or see www.livingstonfc.co.uk

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.

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 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.

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.

KONECT LIVINGSTON | 49

CRAIGSHILL THISTLE U15’S

DEANS BOWLING CLUB

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.

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 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.

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 preschool children. Drop in, play and have fun! Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 12 noon, Mon & Thurs afternoons 1.30pm - 3.00pm.

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.

CRAIGSHILL DANCE CLASS

YOGA FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH CONDITIONS

Riverside Wing, Craigsfarm. Wednesdays 5.30-6.30pm. 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

Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road. Wednesdays 1.15-2.30pm. Contact Bijam on 07966 573 804 or email: info@yogawithbijam.co.uk

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 groupfor women who have other children but want to continue to chat and meet others who understand. For further information see http://sands-lothians.org. uk. Current venue Craigsfarm Community Centre, Maree Walk, Craigshill – but venue changing in 2016 please contact SANDS before attending.

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 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.

CHOOSE YOU YOGA Carmondean House, Carmondean Centre South, Livingston, EH54 8PT. Mon 9.45-11.00am Seasonal yoga; 6.00-7.15pm Iyengar yoga; 7.30-8.45pm Iyengar yoga. Tues 6.00-7.30pm Ashtanga yoga; 7.45-8.45pm Vinyasa flow yoga. Wed 5.30-6.30pm Seasonal yoga; 7.00-8.30pm Bihar yoga; 8.30-9.10pm Meditation. Thurs 6.00-7.15pm Iyengar yoga; 7.30-8.45pm Iyengar yoga. Fri 9.45-11.00am Iyengar yoga;4.00-5.00pm Children’s yoga age 8-12; 5.306.30pm Vinyasa Flow yoga. For information please call Eva on 07810 824195 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 or email opal@cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot YOGA Carmondean Community Centre. Tuesdays 6:30-7:30. Please contact Tina on 07834 970 409 or email tina@yogamed.co.uk. See www.yogamed.co.uk

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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 07930 372345 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on Facebook for more information.

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 3 per week). For more information please phone Claire 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 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

CAFÉ CONNECT

Carmondean Comunity Centre. FREE courses and weekly drop-in’s for cancer patients. Email: Tina@yogamed.co.uk for more information

Friendly community café with homebaking and refreshments. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30-12. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837

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.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AND QIGONG Carmondean Community Centre. FREE courses and weekly drop-in’s for families / friends of patients. Email: Trish@bosombudsofscotland.org for more information 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 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 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.

Noadmissionfee.FindusonFacebookandwebsite: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 – www.facebook.com/ livingstoncameraclub twitter – www.twitter.com/LiviCamClub

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.

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.

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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

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, 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 activities. Cost £5. For more info contact 01506 430615 or see www. braidhouse.co.uk

LANTHORN BOOK BASHERS

LIVINGSTON ART ASSOCIATION

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.

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.

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 mgolshan@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.

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 - 11.15 am; Tuesday Bible Study - 7.30 pm.

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 visit us at www.facebook.com/ littlejewelslivingston

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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 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: http://livi20milers.blogspot.co.uk/ Twitter: https://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, 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

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.

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 http://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 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/get-involved 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

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 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.

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.

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.

LIVI DADS Playgroup for dads and preschoolers. Craft, snack, games, music and bacon rolls for the dads. Every Saturday 10-11.30am Livingston Village Community Centre, EH54 7EQ

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 The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPING AKT Bookkeeping 26 AERIALS Beachwood Installations 6 APPLIANCE REPAIR John Caldwell Domestic Appliance Repair 6 Home Appliance Repair 8 BATHROOMS 1st Choice Living 5 Anthony Jennett Bathrooms 4 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 34 Ellis & Scott 34 BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce 20 BUILDER Almond Building Company 24 Build It 25 Worlds End Roofing & Building 32 BUILDING SURVEYOR Plan It 25 CAFE/TEAROOM Little Whispers Sanctuary 17 CAR BODYWORK JWG Car Care 36 CAR SERVICE & REPAIR Formula 1 MOT 37 LVS Garage Services 7 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Cleaning Doctor 26 James Burnett 27 CATERING Food Creations 45 CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES / ENTERTAINMENT Bramble Cottage 45 CHILDREN’S SPORTS Kestrel Gymnastics Group 4 CLEANING SERVICES Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning 26 White Cleaning Company 15 COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES Access 2 Balance 17 Heavenly touch 17 Leigh Kerr Reflexology 16 Little Whispers Sanctuary 17 COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers 23 CONSERVATORIES CR Smith 29 DENTIST Lothian Dental Laboratory 15 No.9 Dental 18 DOORS UPVC Doors 6 DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR DC Double Glazing 8 ELECTRICIAN D B Electrics 8 Electric Al 23 Riddell Electrical 24 ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine 28 Drummond Miller 20 Turpie & Co 31, 33 FITNESS CLASSES Choose You (Wellness Hub) 2 FLOORING Kirkton Flooring 8 FOOD & GROCERIES Hornigs Haggis 43

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FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce 20 GARAGE DOORS Max’s Garage Doors Ltd 36 GARDEN & LANDSCAPING All Year Round Landscapes 40 D Greaves 40 New Hopetoun Gardens 12 GOLF CLUB Baberton Golf Club 37 GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 13 Cambridge Weight Plan 16 HAIRDRESSER Back II Black 17 HOTEL Hilcroft Hotel 9 IRONING SERVICES Iron Breeks and Blouses 27 JOB OPPORTUNITIES Lidl Recruitment 16 Courtyard Marriott 16 Developing the Young Workforce 15 JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces 34 Geoff Vinter Joinery 27 Domestic Joinery and Maintenance Services 22 KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces 34 Dream Doors 32 Ellis & Scott 34 S & S Home Improvements 55 LEAFLET DELIVERY The Leaflet Lady 56 MOBILITY Ableworld 19 Scot Mobility 18 OVEN CLEANER The Clean Team 27 PAINTER/DECORATOR Braekirk Decorators 23 Donald Does It All 36 EDC Painters & Decorators 24 Manic Street Painters 35 Nu Walls 23 TML Decor 27 PET SERVICES Dapper Dogs 41 PICTURE FRAMING Almondvale Picture Framing 26 PLASTERING Nu Walls 23 PLUMBING SERVICES Almondvale Plumbing & Heating Services 26 BJ Fleming 40 EPH 35 Milex Heating 24 Plumb It 25 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Domestic Joinery and Maintenance Services 22 RESTAURANT Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 13 Liberta Restaurant 43 ROOFING Pentland Roofing 6 Worlds End Roofing & Building 32 G Hughes Roofing 8 SECURITY SERVICES Circle Security 22

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader TUITION Kumon Livingston Sax Lessons VENUE Hilcroft Hotel VET Inglis Vets Riverside Veterinary Practice WASTE DISPOSAL Bare Bins YOGA CENTRE Choose You (Wellness Hub) WINDOWS 1st Choice Living CR Smith DC Double Glazing

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 27

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

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

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KONECT LIVINGSTON | 55

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