Konect Linlithgow November 2016

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NOVEMBER 2016

linlithgow

Linlithgow Tree of Light Changing local lives through food Plus local Home Heating businesses, community Cosy home decor information Something fishy for Christmas & more!

s& Offer ers h c vo u cal from lo ses s e in s bu

A new community magazine for the Linlithgow area

BEFORE

AFTER

Check Customer reviews on Trusted Trader www.westlothian.gov.uk/trustedtrader/joiner

Save £££’s on the cost of a new kitchen Don’t replace - reface!

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WL2

FEATURE

M ES S AG E F ROM T HE ED I TOR

T

he drop in temperature outside does focus the mind on keeping the house warm! With this in mind, we checked out local suppliers of stoves, radiators and boilers and discovered some pretty stylish options, so if you’re looking for ideas see the feature starting on page WL2. Besides actually keeping the house warm, there are some simple décor and soft furnishing things you can do to give your home that really cosy autumn atmosphere, see page WL8.

There’s a lot going on in Linithgow and West Lothian over the next couple of months.

We had a lot of requests to publish events, fundraisers and things to do for good causes and/or just for fun! Our local charity of the month is The Larder – a cook school set up to provide opportunities for young people via food and cooking, I was so impressed to see what they have achieved - see the centre pages. I recommend booking a party night with a difference there, or joining a cookery course. You get to learn new skills, have fun and help fund really good work!

If you have an event on in the next couple of months that you’d like to promote to the local community, or if you’re involved in a club or hobby group, please let me know and we’ll make sure it’s included next month in the community pages at the back of the magazine.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk Enjoy autumn activities in West Lothian

CONTENTS Linlithgow Tree of Light November Foodpicks Walk Vet’s Tip Puzzles What’s on Useful Information Clubs & Classes

09 39 40 42 44 45 45 45

West Lothian regular Home Heating Visit West Lothian Cosy autumn inter ior s Proper ty Matter s Char ity – The Larder Home Secur ity Tips Parenting in West Lothian Food & Dr ink

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

wl2 wl6 wl8 wl10 wl12-13 wl17 wl19 wl20 46

Advertising Enquiries CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print.

Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print.

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

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

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Mackie

Veterinary Surgeons Ltd

Established

1 9 3 0

Brechin

“All creatures great and small, we care for them all” Our caring, experienced and dedicated veterinary team is committed to providing the best possible care for your pet, horse or farm animal in the Linlithgow, Edinburgh, Lothian and Central regions.

Our practice is modern, well-equipped and progressive, with a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare and advice.

Linlithgow Branch Surgery, 256 High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7ES Tel: 0131 333 3203 reception@mackieandbrechin.co.uk www.mackieandbrechin.co.uk

24 HOUR ON-SITE EMERGENCY SERVICE At our Kirkliston Surgery, 29 Main St, Kirkliston, EH29 9AE Tel: 0131 333 3203

D.B. General Builders ● ● ● ● ●

● Driveways Fencing ● Landscaping Decking ● Groundworks Monoblocking Snow clearing Kitchens & Bathrooms

Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573 Local ● Established ● Reliable www.dbgeneralbuilders.co.uk david_bathgate@sky.com Call David on

07747 062426

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All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, Decking & Fencing



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Frog lightweight quality kids’ bikes available in store.

Get your order in to avoid disappointment this Christmas.

01506 847444

50% off all iphone cases excluding Spigan (during October)

1 hour iphone repairs when booked in advance Elevation Cycles, 103 High Street, Linlithgow

01506 845390 www.elevationcycles.co.uk

276B High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7ER KONECT LINLITHGOW 5

When radiators get fashionconscious…

Keeping your home warm over winter is a must. See our feature in the West Lothian section for ideas and inspiration on home heating from local companies.

Prices start from £9.50 One Off Clean £12.00

Dusters is a Domestic and Commercial Cleaning Company.

For a quote today, please contact: t: 07944 852 805 or visit us at: www.dustersonline.com

Welding and Fabrication Solutions Ltd All aspects of metal work gates | railings | fencing repairs | structural steel work T: 01506 827110 M: 07778 339980 E: wafsltd@btconnect.com www.weldfabsolutions.com Unit 13 Links Court, Bo’ness, EH51 9UD

Design | Advice | Manufacture | Installation KONECT LINLITHGOW 6

High quality timber garden products, log stores and wood fuels

Garden Sheds Garages/Workshops

Summerhouses

Childrens Play Houses

Dog Kennels Garden Stores

Zest Garden Furniture

Woodchip Log Stores Full Range Garden Furniture Firewood Logs and Wood Fuel Softwoods, Hardwoods, Kiln Dried Log Chests

Log & Tool Stores

Sold in small bags or giant bags

Garden Mulch Our New Polytunnel Drying Facility

Delivered to your door using small delivery trucks for easy access Kindling, Firelighters & Range of Briquettes

Open weekdays 9am till 5pm and Sat & Sun 11am till 3pm Specialists in High Quality Timber Products and Wood Fuels at Competitive Prices For comprehensive information on all of our products please visit our website

www.champfleurieestate.co.uk

Phone 01506 847999 - E-mail sales@champfleurie.co.uk - Champfleurie Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 6NB KONECT LINLITHGOW 7

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Linlithgow’s Rotary Tree of Light

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hristmas is a time for families, for remembering, for celebrating and for giving; it is at times such as this that the loss of a loved one can be most keenly felt.

To provide a focus for such remembrance, the Rotary Club of Linlithgow Grange, with the co-operation of Linlithgow Town Centre BID, have designated a special tree during the Festive Season — a Tree of Light.

“The Tree of Light allows donors to celebrate the memories of loved ones during the Festive Season” The name and the symbolism of Linlithgow’s Rotary Tree of Light are reminders that there is light and hope in the bleakest circumstances. The Tree of Light allows donors to celebrate the memories of loved ones during the Festive Season whilst, at the same time, raising funds for worthwhile causes which support others who are in need.

As the population increases in average age, dementia and other chronic age-related illnesses are also increasing. It is fitting, therefore, that this fund-

raising effort within Linlithgow at Christmastime supports the work locally of those who care for the people whose lives have been blighted with infirmity of body or mind.

Donation forms can be obtained from a number of High Street outlets, the list of which is on a dedicated website, www. linlithgowtreeoflight.org.uk.

Donation forms can also be downloaded from there. Names of those loved ones who are being remembered will be listed on a Roll of Dedication both in the Linlithgow library window from Advent Fayre, Saturday 26 November, until Wednesday, 4 January 2017 and on the website.

It is proposed that Linlithgow’s Rotary Tree of Light will become an annual charity-supporting event.

More details can be obtained from Linlithgow’s Rotary Tree of Light Committee Convenor, Chris Long, at chair@ linlithgowtreeoflight.org.uk (from 1st November) or on 01506 843461.

Linlithgow Grange Rotary are seeking to raise money for the support services for the elderly and infirm of Linlithgow such as at St Michael’s (Linlithgow) Day Care Centre which, in 2017, will be moving to new premises in the old County Buildings currently being converted into the Linlithgow Partnership Centre; Maple Villa in Craigshill which cares for sufferers of Alzheimer’s or dementia; and the Carers of West Lothian which directly supports the carers themselves, some of them children and young people, who are looking after family members with disabilities and chronic illnesses at home. The club’s benevolent fund will also receive a lesser portion for disbursement to smaller, more local, good causes through those donors agreeing to Gift Aid.

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THINKING OF SELLING IN LINLITHGOW? YOUR LOCAL AWARD WINNING AGENT Our Associate, Pam Leith lives in Linlithgow and has been an Estate Agent in West Lothian for more than 30 years. Offering you her wealth of experience, she will work with you from your first meeting to discuss valuation and fees, arrange a competitively priced Home Report, prepare a professional schedule and do all your viewings. Contactable by email, mobile, text 24/7 to ease any worries you may have.

She will also arrange for you to speak with competitively priced solicitors who will deal with the legal work for your sale and purchase.

www.knightbain.co.uk 33 East Main Street, Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5AB Tel: 01506 852000 Fax: 01506 300450 Email: info@knightbain.co.uk

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The Rotary Club of Linlithgow & Bo’ness proudly presents

The Glasgow Phoenix Choir Celebrate Christmas 2016 St Michael's Parish Church Linlithgow Sat 3rd Dec 2016 at 7.30 pm Doors open 7.00pm.

Tickets £8 each available from :-

St Michael's Church Office Platform 3, 1a High Street, Linlithgow or phone ticket hotline on 01506 847999

The Rotary Club of Linlithgow & Bo’ness

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In Aid of

Konect West Lothian VIEW

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or seven years we’ve been researching and publishing local charity articles in Konect, and are always refreshed by the energy and dedication of local people to improve the lives of their neighbours within West Lothian.

Doing the interviews for the charity features is one of my favourite parts of the job. Most of the organisations we feature in Konect are set up by West Lothian residents, and some are nationwide organisations which have a West Lothian branch with local people volunteering.

In the run-up to Christmas, the season of goodwill and giving, we’re perhaps more mindful of the needs in society around us. But the need is there all year round, and these organisations are working constantly to keep up.

The word “volunteer” implies in a way it’s perhaps an optional extra, a “nice to have but not essential” service. But in fact most are definitely providing services that are an essential part of the fabric that holds our society together. It’s noticeable how sources of funding have become harder to access, and many charities are looking to run commercial services - in the field of their charitable services - to generate income. The Larder Cook School in Livingston, featured in this issue, is one such.

The West Lothian third sector is supported and developed by the Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian. Browse their extensive website at www.voluntarysectorgateway.org to get an overview of the sheer range and depth of services delivered to our local communities through volunteers. And I think you’ll agree inspirational and represents the very best of our West Lothian community!

If you have ates all things West Lothian.

This section of Konect celebr households 500 uld like to share with 40, information or services you wo can help We us. h wit , please get in touch in West Lothian every month erprise, ent ial soc , rity cha a business, spread your message if you are re. inspirational story to sha running and event or have an contact details. our See page 3 for

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Heating Your Home This Winter

e all love to be warm and cosy in winter, but let’s face it – there’s a limit to the number of jumpers we can wear at any one time – especially at home! If it’s time to upgrade your heating system there are loads of options to choose from to suit your needs, and of course, your budget.

There’s life in the old boiler yet!

Before you rush off to buy a new boiler, consider having your current one serviced. If it has a few years still left in it, you may want to take out a maintenance agreement; it’s an affordable way to make sure your boiler doesn’t let you down when you need it most.

Make sure you choose a local heating engineer who is Gas Safe registered.

Aspect 5 wood-burning stove has a powerful 7kw output which can be reduced to 4kw instantly. With low CO2 emissions, you can keep warm while being eco-friendly. Available from J & A Hastie & Son and Linlithgow Stoves.

A great heating system starts with a great boiler. The Vaillant EcoTec range combines German design with UK engineering. Vaillant boilers are available from local suppliers.

Save around £340 a year with a new boiler

New boilers are energy-efficient and will definitely cut down your fuel bills. All modern boilers are ‘condensing’ boilers and by switching to a new A-Rated boiler you could save around £340 a year in fuel costs. To find out more about the right type of boiler for your home, log on to energysavingtrust.org.uk. You may even be eligible for a grant!

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Dewar Plumbing Ltd, 9 Nasmyth Square Houstoun Industrial Estate Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 5GG e. info@dewarplumbing.co.uk www.dewarplumbing.co.uk Find us on Facebook

Reina Broni radiator - designed for 21st Century living. The Reina range of radiators can be ordered online from D-MAC Services Scotland, Falkirk.

Reina Calix decorative radiator designed for 21st Century living.

The Reina range of radiators can be ordered online from D-MAC Services Scotland, Falkirk.

Funky or minimal? The art of the radiator

Gone are the days when we tried to hide our radiators with custom-made covers. Modern radiators can be works of art. Some are modelled in the retro-style of the old school classroom and in a range of funky colours, whereas others are sleek and minimal. You can also buy radiators cunningly disguised as mirrors to add a stylish look to any room.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

DESIGN • INSTALLATION • SERVICING • REPAIR

• Designer radiator and bathroom suite supplier • Design and install bathrooms, kitchens, boilers & heating • Offer finance on all installations • ‘Buy now, pay later’ scheme on boilers (0% APR if job is paid off within 12 months)

• Covering areas in central Scotland • Offer 10 years parts & labour warranty on all boiler installations

01324 578 559 | www.dmacservicesscotland.co.uk KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 3

Stromstad 5 is the epitome of modern design. Sleek and curved with Tripleburn technology, it adds a focal point to any room. Available from J & A Hastie & Son and Linlithgow Stoves.

Di Lusso R4 is a compact 4kw stove which is ideal for smaller rooms. It has a hot air-wash function to keep the glass clean and can be converted to multi-fuel. Available from J & A Hastie & Son and Linlithgow Stoves.

Relax in front of a brand new stove

There’s nothing like the crackle of flames and the smell of a real fire to bring us closer to nature. In fact, research has shown that watching a fire can lower our blood pressure and help us to relax. Wood-burning or multifuel stoves come in a whole host of models from the traditional cast-iron stove which everyone loves, to contemporary styles which provide a real focal point. Make sure you go to a local HETAS approved dealer who will install it for you.

HIGH QUALITY JOINERY SOLUTIONS • Door repairs & replacement • Kitchen planning & installaaon • Wood, Timber & laminate flooring • Fiied wardrobes • Bespoke joinery • Furniture repair & restoraaon • Home efficiency improvements • Window & door draa proofing

07432 495 285 01506 300 190 info@create.scot

FREE ESTIMATES Friendly, reliable and helpful service KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 4

LOCAL FAMILY PLUMBING BUSINESS BASED IN WEST LOTHIAN ● Boiler

Upgrades ● Boiler Servicing ● Gas Work ● Radiators fitted ● Plumbing Work CALL US ON 01506 238048 www.ctrades.co.uk

LET ONE CALL DO IT ALL Do you have broken or misted double glazing?

Why change your double glazing units when you may only need to change the glass?

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West Lothian

TRUSTEDTRADER

Looking for a reliable company?

Find a trader you can trust. www.westlothian.gov.uk/trustedtrader Tel: 01506 280000 Email: West Lothian tradingstandards@westlothian.gov.uk TRUSTEDTRADER

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“West Lothian’s Christmas Fairs will soon be in full swing”

November – Winter is coming.. to West Lothian!

I

t’s that time of year again, dig those woollies out from the back of the wardrobe and start writing your Christmas lists because winter is about to arrive.

And what a cracker of a Winterfest we have for you this year in West Lothian, from Christmas Fairs to cosy places for a cuppa; it’s set to be a very merry one!

The West Lothian Christmas Fairs will soon be in full swing so if you fancy a day out in glorious surrounding, then look no further than the Hopetoun Christmas Fair. Set in the iconic stately home, this fair with take place from 25th-27th November and is a must for those wanting to soak up the festive spirit and at the same time find the unique gift for special friends and family members. Enjoy a day out at the Linlithgow Advent Fair on the 26th November. With craft fairs, farmers markets, children’s entertainment, a visit from Santa and a grand torchlight procession, it is sure to be a fabulous start to the festive period.

Perhaps you are looking for a bit of festive family fun, then Bathgate may

be the place for you. Christmas in Bathgate takes place on Saturday 26th November from 1pm – 5pm, where you can enjoy some street/musical entertainment as well as Santa’s grotto and the Christmas tree lights-on countdown.

If the excitement of all of these Christmas Fairs gets too much, why not try one of West Lothian’s cosy cafes for a recharge and a nice warm hot chocolate. Enjoy a relaxing break in one of Bathgate’s finest cafes, the Bridge Café, Café 1912 or maybe even The Coffee Club, just to name a few. If you’re in Linlithgow, you can choose from – Brodie’s Café, the Taste Deli, So Strawberry Caffe and many more.

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit: www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook.com/VisitWestLothian Twitter.com/teamwestlothian

PUBLIC AUCTION

Antique and General Goods for sale Over 300 lots for sale including antique, vintage & modern furniture, general household items, lamps, rugs, collectables, china, etc Come along and grab yourself a bargain.

Cafe on site for tea, coffee etc SEE WEB SITE FOR DATE OF NEXT SALE ITEMS WANTED - CASH PAID OR ITEMS AUCTIONED HOPPERS AUCTIONS | 87 SOUTH STREET | ARMADALE | EH48 3EU TEL: 01501 229099 | WEB: www.hoppersauction.com

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KING’S CHURCH WEST LOTHIAN

We’re a new church plant made up of people living in the West Lothian area. We want to see a lively church formed with great connections to the local community.

Please see our website or contact us for when and where we’re meeting.

We’d love to welcome you. www.kingschurchwl.org connect@kingschurchwl.org Text: 07860027575

contact alex on:

01506 203200 | 07798 530 247 e: info@aklimos.com www.aklimos.com available for Weddings and all special occasions

follow us at AK Limos we are licensed by West Lothian Council

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Cosy autumn home décor

1 D

ress your home for winter with layers of cosiness and a few simple and inexpensive décor ideas.

Throw down a deep pile rug to add extra softness and a sense of warmth underfoot.

Swap sheer, pale, lightweight curtains or blinds for something heavier – wool, tweed, velvet, even felt, denim or mohair.

On sofas and armchairs, pile up cushions for a sense of cosy luxury and add a throw or two folded over the back: great for snuggling under. You could use a length of tweed edged with velvet ribbon, chunky knitting or crochet, fake fur or soft fleece.

Nu - Walls Qualified in all aspects of painting, decorating & plastering ■ internal plastering ■ external/internal painting & decorating ■ ceiling / wall replacement ■ coving All estimates free, insurance quotes welcome Established 1985 3 Turner Street, Bathgate, EH48 4AR Tel 01506 634056, 01506 799840 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk

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Local Christmas Crafting Sessions: Wreath making and centrepiece making with Happiness Works: for details and booking visit http://www. happinessworks. co.uk/christmasworkshops Wreath Making: Livingston - 17th November 7pm; Kirknewton - 23rd November 7pm.

Centrepiece Making: Livingston - 21st November 7pm; Kirknewton 30th November 7pm.

Christmas Crafts with West Lothian Ranger Service: Christmas wreath making: Sunday 4th December. Materials will be provided.

Meet: Sutherland Building, opposite the Visitor Centre, Beecraigs Country Park. To book call 01506 844516 or email: mail@ beecraigs.com

Homemade craft items for Christmas: Saturday 10th December. Our cosy craft room awaits your crafty skills! Materials provided. Suitable for: Families.

Meet: Outside the Classroom, Polkemmet Country Park. To book call 01501 743905 or email: polkemmet@ westlothian.gov.uk Gathering and making Christmas decorations from nature: Sunday 11th December. Meet: Almondell Visitor Centre. To book call 01506 882254 or email: almondell& calderwood@ westlothian.gov.uk Each Country Park crafting session is 2pm-3.30pm. Cost: £3.65 per item.

Replace pale bed linen with sheets or a duvet cover in a deeper shade. Add quilts, eiderdowns, bedcovers, throws and blankets.

Feature walls may no longer be cutting edge, but they’re still good looking: paint one wall of a living room or bedroom in warm, boldly coloured emulsion – it’s easy enough to paint over again if you get bored with it.

Home-made decorations can be wonderful, and a weekend walk in one of West Lothian’s country parks collecting natural materials to make autumnal decorations is very satisfying. Wind some ivy around a row of chunky candles; make a wreath; fill hurricane vases with leaves, chestnuts or pine cones and stand a candle on top; fill a wooden bowl filled with clovestudded oranges, or place a string of white fairy lights clustered in a jar or glass vase. Involve the children in making paper chains, bunting or felt cut-outs for that charmingly wonky, homemade look.

2

3

4 1) Velvet cushion covers and some autumn foliage from outdoors makes this living area cosy 2) Velvet and Linen backed floor cushions (Available from www. grahamandgreen.co.uk) 3) place a string of white fairy lights in a jar 4) Candle decorations made with natural materials.

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PROPERTY MATTERS

“A Word to Landlords about Presentation”

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hen letting your property, you naturally want your property to look its best, but how far should you go in terms of presentation?

Firstly, aim to understand how your property “sits” within the market. Not all tenants have the same criteria, so walk through the house with your letting agent to identify your property’s strengths and weaknesses. Look through the eyes of a typical likely tenant, and consider what aspects could be improved to enhance your chances of letting to that person.

A tenanted property can sometimes experience harder wear and tear than an owner-occupied one, and a new tenant will always prefer to “make it their own” rather than simply taking over from the last tenant. So a simple coat of paint can generally do wonders and need not be expensive.

Additionally, a tenant who moves into a fresh, clean, well-presented, newly-redecorated property, knowing they need to return it one day in the same condition, is more likely to look after it more carefully, and even stay longer. A tenant with a sense of pride is generally a good tenant. Landlords like good tenants! (So do Letting Agents!)

For example, it may be that Landlords should regularly ask your property is in generally “Not all tenants have a Letting Agent for advice as good condition, but the carpets the same criteria, to how to maximise the rental let it down. Whilst you could so walk through the return on their property. This take account of this in the rent, house with your letting advice should generally be free new, or professionally cleaned, agent to identify your of charge from any reputable property’s strengths carpets can transform the agent. and weaknesses.” presentation of a property and appeal to a tenant who might otherwise be put off. However, if your property is in need of general updating, a new carpet could be The monthly Property Matters column is a waste of money unless combined with an overall contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is the director of Turpie & Co Estate Agents. improvement in the presentation.

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Premier Letting

by Turpie & Co

• 100% accompanied viewings • Professional photographs • Floor plans • Landlord online login • Online maintenance reporting • Professional Lettings team • Prominent Offices with Multimedia Window Display

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• Dedicated Property Manager • 8 week property check-up, quarterly inspections thereafter • Reputable tradesmen/transparent prices

01506 668448 turpies.com

LOCAL CHARITY

The Larder Changing lives through food

n a gleaming new teaching kitchen Iprofessional in Bellsquarry, Livingston, a team of chefs and volunteers are transforming lives of people in West Lothian via food and cooking.

Set up in 2010 out of one woman’s vision to provide opportunities for young people via food and cooking (à la Jamie Oliver?), local charity The Larder now provides bespoke cookery courses for children and adults and a host of other food-focussed services. I visited their premises in Brucefield Industrial Estate last month and, over a capuccino from their new barista machine, learned about latest developments at The Larder and how they are rolling out a range of exciting services to individuals and businesses in order be self-sustaining.

Team building events With shows like Masterchef and Bake-off so hugely popular, an off-site day in a teaching kitchen with a professional chef is a great idea for a team-building event. The chef will step delegates (space for up to ten) through a dish from beginning to end, with packages tailored to your own requirements. Ample parking space, a separate meeting room as well as cafe seating area on site. At the end of the day, delegates sit down together to enjoy the food they have created!

An alternative works Christmas night out For up to ten team members, pay approximately the same as you might for a meal out with entertainment for your team, but it’s a night out with a difference as members are stepped through creating the meal by a professional chef. You still get to eat at the end of it, when the chef becomes your waiter, the music comes on and you’re served your meal with a complimentary glass of wine!

Cooking and eating together - a fantastic social experience.

Kids parties Besides children’s regular cookery courses, The Larder runs parties where the children prepare food from scratch under professional instruction!

There is always plenty left over to put in the party bags and take away! For ten to twelve children it’s £180 for the 2.5 hour all-inclusive party.

The Larder was set up as a social enterprise as the public purse is shrinking. Their key challenge, as with others in the Third Sector, is to deliver high quality services whilst moving towards selfsufficiency. To enable The Larder to do this they are seeking the support of local businesses to get on board and use their fantastic bespoke facility for staff reward, meetings, team development and staff nights out.

Nights out For a ladies nights out or even hen or stag do, The Larder’s professional kitchen is perfect.

Learn to make a new dish, and at the end of it the instructing chef becomes your waiter, and serves your meals to enjoy together with a complimentary glass of wine! Curry and Ale nights are popular, where you learn to make a curry from scratch, and local Livingston micro-brewery Alchemy attend to provide complimentary ales with ale-tasting and food matching notes.

After-school cooking club The latest Kids in the Kitchen course runs run every Wednesday from 4.30-6pm. Children will learn the basics of cooking and baking.

Xmas gift vouchers available

For any cookery courses or parties.

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“No matter what age or where you are in West Lothian if you want to cook we can help you” All money raised from the corporate and party events goes back into funding The Larder’s primary raison d’etre – changing lives through food. High school students who are struggling with main stream school attend The Larder part time working towards SQA Hospitality qualifications. One of their students, Sam Rafferty, now works for local catering company Food Creations who run several cafes in West Lothian. Sam told me, “The Larder helped me discover an interest in cooking that I didn’t know I had, and was instrumental in setting me on my career in hospitality.” Training officer Paul Holborn says, “The Larder has had great success in supporting young people into college or work in the hospitality sector. We do this by working with them in an informal learning environment that enables each person to grow their confidence and skills at their pace and based on their needs.’ A pop up cafe once a month gives them experience in front of house, waiting at tables and working the till. The next one is 8th November 1.30 to 2pm, all welcome.

West Lothian Council have funded free cookery classes for the over 50’s, to reduce isolation and support independent living. “Cooking for one can be a challenge, so that’s one of the things the over 50 sclasses focus on,” explains chef Tracy. “We’re

also keen to encourage older men “No matter to cook, so have an 8 week course what age or for men only early next year. It will where you include budgeting, basic cookery are in West skills, cooking for 1, cooking with a Lothian if slow cooker, smaller portions and eating for health. Each week you you want to will cook a range of courses then cook we can sit down and eat your freshly made help you” meal with the rest of the group.”

Dinner Clubs are also available until March 2017. These are one-off events where each person cooks their own meal and then everyone sits down to eat together. It is a social gathering as well as a learning activity.

Pictures: The Larder’s professional kitchen is ideal for team building events and parties.

For more information on any activities or to book parties, corporate events or to access charitable services, contact The Larder on 01506 412819, visit www.thelardercookschool.org.uk or Facebook. Unit 6 B2 Brewster Square, Brucefield Industrial Estate, Livingston. EH54 9BJ. courses@thelarder.org

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 13

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 16

This Christmas Keep Safe at Home *

Thieves know that over Christmas there will be high value presents and maybe more cash in your house than normal. Keep your home secure - lock all windows and doors, don’t leave gifts in view of the windows and keep cash in your home to a minimum.

*

If you’re going away for Christmas, keep your home secure. Lock all windows and doors, set your house alarm if you have one, use timers

*

on lights, cancel any deliveries and ask a neighbour or friend you trust to keep an eye out while you’re away.

If you’re having a house party with lots of guests, it can be all too easy for a thief to slip in unnoticed. Make sure you know everyone who is there.

If you’re going to a party, don’t let anyone tailgate you into a house or through a secured communal entry door who may not be a guest.

*

Protect any gifts you’ve bought for your friends and family. Get them to register mobile phones, tablets, laptops and cameras at www. immobilise.com. Don’t give them a good quality bike without giving them a good quality lock, and register bikes at www.BikeRegister.com.

These safety tips are taken from Police Scotland’s “Keep Safe” website

Magic Ideas for Christmas

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 17

AT LIVINGSTON DESIGNER OUTLET

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 18

Parents in West Lothian

How To Make The Leap From Couch Potato To Trampoline Champ

T

his morning I scraped frost off my car so I think I’m safe in saying that we have finally bid goodbye to all the decent weather we’re going to get this year.

And it’s farewell too it seems to my only-a-fewmonths-old routine of going running before work and cycling after, with the odd trip to the gym at the weekend. I’m afraid I can only put myself through that kind of horrific corporal punishment if the weather is extremely mild and its also light outside. And if I can summon a lift to bundle my near-lifeless body into the back of a car to be taken home then all the better.

Since August, my husband has been on my bike more than I have, I haven’t been to the gym at all, and my running shoes have been staring at me, judging me, while gathering a light film of dust on the shoe rack. Exercise in winter needs to be fun, easy, and comfortable … yet get you out of puff enough to still actually count as exercise …

Surely then, a trip to the Jumpstation in Livingston should provide the best of both worlds?

We found it pretty easily with the satnav, but it’s actually rather well sign-posted too, and upon arriving we got parked pretty easily near the door. We attended a safety briefing and donned our black and yellow ‘jumpsocks’ which are trainer-socks with rubber dots on the soles to allow you to grip wonderfully on the bouncy surfaces and have some control over your direction of travel. We went on Sunday at 10am for the under-5s only session … there is no lower

“Exercise in winter needs to be fun, easy, and comfortable...”

age limit, you just have to be sensible with your supervision What a place! Firstly there are obviously trampolines everywhere, all bordering each other so you can do big bouncing steps all around the place – but there is also trampoline basketball, a reaction-testing game, a massive air pillow that you dive into, foam pits, and an obstacle course.

There is even a game reminiscent of that game show Gladiators, where two people stand on a balance beam and beat each other with oversized cotton buds, and a section devoted to playing dodgeball.

While there we didn’t realise how much effort we were putting into bouncing, climbing out of the foam pits, and writhing about trying to get off the huge air pillow – but my word the next day we could feel it. My torso felt like it been trampled by a hundred excitable donkeys; my arms were as limp noodles; and my buttocks – let us speak as little of those startled, wretched muscles as we may.

Yet, despite all of this, we are convinced – all alight at the JumpStation for exhausting, exhilarating fun!

Picture: Channa with Quinn and Penny at Livingston’s Jump Station

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 WEST LOTHIAN 19

01506 848030 All our fish is

delivered fresh daily

from Scottish fishing ports.

Order on our COOKFISH site www.cookfish.co.uk for collection in store

Visit our Facebook Oyster Oyster Included in the selection: 2 Haddock 2 Bass 2 Salmon 2 Cod 2 Coley 2 Pie mix

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Taking Christmas orders NOW

We can supply any fish to order

Something fishy for Christmas ll over Europe people feast at Christmas, but not all celebrate on A December 25th; many eat on the evening of the 24th. This is true for Italy, Poland, Iceland and Spain.

All have special meals and many chose fish as the main dish. Italy even call it the feast of seven fishes and include fried eel as an anti-pasta. Iceland have a dish of fermented skate which is so pungent that many chose to celebrate in a restaurant to avoid their house being taken over by the smell! Austria, Poland and Slovakia all enjoy a roast carp - as we did in Britain in the Middle Ages when fish ponds were an important way of ensuring fresh protein in mid winter. The French include oysters as part of the festivities and the Portuguese make a salt cod dish. In Sweden pickled herring takes pride of place.

Nowadays we are blessed with an extensive choice of foods. We don’t have to be limited by what is still alive and in good condition at mid winter. Fish and shell-fish are perfect in December so here are some celebratory fish ideas which you might like to try for a different Christmas meal for your family this year. The last two traditional fishmongers in West Lothian - Oyster Oyster (Linlithgow) and Bathgate Fishmonger - supply delicious fresh, quality seafood.

Oysters Rockefeller 24 oysters opened left in the dished shell and the flesh loose.

Filli ng

• 200g spinach chopped in fine ribbons

Salmon Scallops Prawns Smoked salmon

07703 592949 or 07841 625593

Fresh fish daily • Local home deliveries Bathgate Fishmongers

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 20

• 1 bunch or packet water cress chopped fine • 250g soft butter • Dry fine bread crumbs • 2 tablespoons Pernod or 1 teaspoon ground fennel • Grated parmesan To serve

Tabasco

“This dish was famous in the 1960’s and is worthy of reviving. Then, salmon was the preserve of the rich who knew people who fished. It was sometimes dry, but by wrapping the fish in buttery pastry this is prevented.”

Method

Either make the pastry in a food processor or by hand and let it rest in the fridge for a couple of hours; or buy the best butter pastry you can.

Salmon en croute Serves 6 (For a bigger party use a whole salmon filleted, skinned and sandwiched top to tail).

1 1/2 kilo salmon fillet no skin, no bones, cut into 2 equal halves.

Past ry

• 400g plain white flour • 200g butter • A little cold water Filli ng

• 200g seedless green grapes, halved • 3 inches root ginger, peeled & finely chopped • Parsley, chervil, dill weed, chives or a mixture chopped fine (about a tablespoon full) M e t h od

Combine all the filling ingredients, adding the dried bread crumbs little by little. Do not make it too dry.

On a flat tray that will fit the grill pan, crumple lots of cooking foil. This is to support the oysters as they cook. Nestle the shells in the foil, keeping them level. The juices are an important part of the dish.

Divide the filling between the shells and scatter some parmesan over them.

Have the grill on as hot as you can, and grill for about 5 to 7 minutes, till they are bubbling and the cheese is brown.

Serve the tray to table and let the guests chose their shells and add Tabasco. Some bread to go with this is all you need!

• 200g cold butter in small lumps • Salt pepper to taste • 1 egg beaten for the glaze

Make the filling by folding all the ingredients gently together and set aside.

Roll out the pastry so it is big enough to parcel up the fish.

Place one fillet of fish in the middle. Pile up all the filling on the fish and place the second piece on top, and press it down to make it even. Fold the pastry over to cover the fish and make a reasonably tight parcel, sealing the overlaps with water.

Line a baking tray with silicon paper and flip the fish parcel into it, making sure the join is underneath. With any extra pastry decorate the top with leaves, fish or what your artistic fancy dictates. This can stay in the fridge for up to one day.

Pre heat the oven to 180oC. Brush with egg and cook for 35 to 45 minutes till golden.

Serve with a herb sauce or hollandaise sauce and green vegetables.

The monthly Receipe and Food Notes are contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 21

7pm – 12am | £33.95 per person Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival followed by a festive 3 course meal with a tribute act and disco.

The perfect night out for couples, businesses or groups up to 200 people.

Thursday 8th: Diana Ross & Whitney Houston Sunday 11th: Freddie Mercury Thursday 15th: Michael Buble

www.deer-park.co.uk 01506 446699 Deer Park Golf and Country Club, Golf Course Road Livingston, EH54 8AB

10% DISCOUNT WHEN QUOTING’ KONECT’

M and N Catering

Royal British Legion 50 North Bridge St. Bathgate, EH48 4PP 07856 611425 mandncatering@yahoo.com

All functions catered for:

Funerals, birthdays, weddings, christenings, sporting and charity events and family gatherings

Christmas Party Nights @ Livi FC

2nd and 3rd December (fully booked) 9th, 10th, 11th, 16th, 17th,18th and 23rd Dec £35 per person including 2 drink tokens pp Special Sunday price for 11th & 18th December only £28 pp!

Private Parties

Want to hold your own company Christmas party?

Please contact us and discuss your requirements.

Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite

Pre-theatre meals & Xmas dinners & lunches. Bookings being taken NOW.

Bar lunches served:

Book now for a fabulous Xmas!

Thursday & Friday 12.00–3.00pm Saturday 11.00–3.00pm M and N Catering

Join us in the Almondvale Suite for an evening of mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff.

Outside Catering

Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multicourse meals for large numbers.

Tel 01506 412232 yvonne@foodcreations.co.uk facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 22

@Food_Creations

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

Hopetoun turkeys

Low-mileage local food opetoun turkeys are reared freeH range on the estate’s farm, and are free to roam with their choice of inside and outside spaces on the farm.

Because there are poultry processing facilities on the estate each bird also has extremely low food miles, travelling fewer than five miles before being sold fresh at Hopetoun Farm Shop.

The entire flock are all pre-ordered in advance at the farm shop and collected by customers from the butchery department in the days leading up to Christmas. Other popular orders include the estate’s fresh beef, chickens, lamb and game as an alternative feast for Christmas.

To order a Hopetoun turkey visit Hopetoun Farm Shop now and you can find out more on Christmas food ordering by visiting www.hopetounfarmshop. co.uk. Pre-orders must be placed before 14th December.

10% OFF everything in store (excl. Christmas orders, event tickets & alcohol)

Tel: 01506 830 716 www.hopetounfarmshop.co.uk Hopetoun Farm Shop is located next door to New Hopetoun Gardens on the A904 near Newton

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN 23

KONECT LINLITHGOW 37

Regal Animation

xciting new facilities for animated E film production are being developed in West Lothian, in the Bathgate Regal Theatre. Always with an eye to opportunities to develop funding for the Community Theatre, Artistic Director Scott Kyle seized the chance recently to develop an animation production department.

Scott met visual effects artist Fraser Murdoch when they were both working on the set of Outlander (Scott played Ross the Smith in the second season).

Fraser was looking for people to collaborate with on his film ‘Bab: The Man Who Took Too Much’.

Scott offered the Regal’s facilities, and a separate production company - Regal Animation - was set up. “The aim of this department within the Regal Theatre is to create commercial films and series utilising top quality visual effects to tell great stories and bring interesting original characters to the world of entertainment. We use our facilities and skills to produce products and services for the theatre and its customers.”

The first project was to get Fraser to work on the renovation drawings for the theatre. Scott has plans to renovate the theatre’s studio areas and, eventually, the auditorium itself. Fraser has also helped create the fundraising Highlander 2017 calendar for the Regal by using his visual effects skills -usiting the green screen and ‘compositing’

the shots for the photgraphy. A new full-sized green screen is bring installed.

“We are currently building the audience for our animations through products, online entertainment, social media and events such as the Regal Animation Showcase and feature animated films.

We’re also getting involved in the community by training and providing support to animation students to develop skills locally - getting them involved in our projects whilst learning at the community theatre. This in turn provides with an audience of like-minded people ready to see our productions once they are released as well as seeing their progress, mentoring trainees who may get to work on our productions and building the name of Regal Animation as a respected and selfsufficient production company. This is all happening whilst contributing to the local community.”

As Fraser says, “The possibilities going forward are really endless, as anything is possible with animation” The characters for “Bab, the man who took too much.” Designed by Lynsey Schaschke (freelance storyboard artist and character designer in the games and children’s TV industries)

For more information see http://www.regalanimation.co.uk/. You can find out more about Fraser’s work by visiting his website www.frasermurdoch.co.uk

KONECT LINLITHGOW 38

foodinburgh foodpicks October

1

5 1. Samphire at Orocco Pier With a truly awesome view of all three bridges over the Forth, you could forgive second rate food at Orocco Pier. No need, the food is every bit as good as the view, and the cocktails are some of the best we’ve had anywhere. Book early, ask for a window table (or a private booth) and sit back and let the very capable waiting staff look after you. 17 High St, South Queensferry EH30 9PP. 2. M y Prep Perfect for those working on weight loss or building muscle, My Prep delivers freshly prepared, nutritionally balanced dishes to your door. All you need to focus on is the exercise. http://www.my-prep.co.uk

4 3

3. C hristmas Menu at Kyloe We were invited to preview the Christmas menu at Kyloe last month.

Having just won ‘Best Sunday Dinner in Scotland’, their Christmas Menu did not disappoint. If you order the ‘Mini Beef Wellington’ make sure you have a good appetite, it’s anything but mini.

With food this good; £28 for lunch and £38 for dinner represents great value.

1-3 Rutland St, Edinburgh EH1 2AE. 4. B adger & Co Badger & Co is a nice addition to the Edinburgh restaurant scene. Taking up residence in the former home of Kenneth Grahame, the author of Wind in the Willows, it’s one of the nicest examples of a themed restaurant we’ve seen. A beautifully seasonal and British menu will appeal to those that like good hearty fayre. We recommend the game pie. 32 Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3HT. 5. N anyang Malaysian We’ve only managed lunch at Nanyang so far but after tasting how good even their classic dishes were, we can’t wait to go back and try some of the more adventurous Malay cuisine. http:// www.nanyangrestaurant.com

2 The monthly Foodpicks column is contributed by local blogger Erica Douglas of www.foodinburgh.com.

Erica provides us with inspiration on where to eat and drink next in and around Edinburgh and West Lothian.

Join the Foodinburgh Supper Clb for a monthly digest and offers for some of their favourite monthly choices.

KONECT LINLITHGOW 39

LOCAL WALK

This town is coming like a ghost town…

I

like to find destinations for walking with the general proviso that they are not too far from home and may even be incorporated into whatever else I am doing in my day.

As part of my job I am very often heading along the A89 past Dechmont and I always notice the old Bangour Village Hospital and see several cars parked in the small car park in front of the entrance. After several drive-bys I came to the conclusion that it must be a dog walker’s destination.

a ghost town as it was designed on the colony system, creating a wholly self contained village with its own farm, bakery, workshops, recreational hall, church, water supply, drainage and even its own railway. There is something a bit eerie about walking through a completely abandoned and deserted village. This design idea was taken from the Alt Scherbitz Asylum in Germany, the premise being the patients would be living in a community not just a hospital – fitting then that when it closed it was because of the concept of care in the community being the best way to care for psychiatric patients.

The hospital was So one day when passing “Unless you believe the place requisitioned by the with some time to spare government War Office is haunted, which many do, it I thought I’d check it out. during both wars when it is the perfect place for a mid I parked my car with the became The Edinburgh afternoon stroll, albeit a bit of others and headed past War Hospital and The an alternative stroll” the entrance gateway Scottish Emergency expecting some sort of Medical Hospital, reverting security personnel to back to a psychiatric hospital between and after come and stop me at any moment. No-one did the wars. It was also the local maternity hospital although I did feel a little under dressed without a for a while – maybe some of you were born there? pooch in tow.

It transpires that unless you believe the place is haunted, which many do, it is the perfect place for a mid afternoon stroll, albeit a bit of an alternative stroll.

Built as the Edinburgh district asylum and opened in 1906, today it is a little like walking through KONECT LINLITHGOW 40

The site extends to some 220 acres and many of the buildings are listed. The ‘villas’ were set within landscaped grounds, and built in a 17th century Scottish Renaissance style, so they are really rather attractive to look at. It is tempting to peek inside them but they are of course boarded up now – too many vandals having attacked them in the past. As you wander this ghost town and its grounds you will come across the Edwardian Baroque hall and a Romanesque style church, designed by HO Tarbolton and built between 1924 and 1930. They are buildings worth a look at in their own right if you are even a little interested in architecture.

The site has only been completely abandoned since 2004 and since then it has been identified by successive local plans as a redevelopment opportunity largely focussed on the residential

conversion of the existing buildings. I guess that is what will eventually happen and perhaps it is only right and proper but part of me thinks what a shame to lose this interesting and historic unusual walking location.

A year after it closed, it was the main filming location for ‘The Jacket’ starring Keira Knightley and Adrien Brody and produced by George Clooney. Shame I missed him! However there have been no more films, just a location for police riot training.

You can walk around the old hospital in any direction and wander at will but there is a real feeling that you should follow the village route – you enter the site and walk a path with houses either side. Straight ahead is what was the shop and café and the urge is to stop for refreshment.

If you go left there is a long walk round several wards or villas and to the right it is similar walk but in a circuit, bringing you back to the start.

Then of course there are the green areas and all the paths and winding lanes; so many that you could never hope to fully explore the place. It is

really quite magical with the overgrown bowling green now sprouting a myriad wild flowers and lampposts covered in moss, the original road lost to the greenery. What’s more, despite being set just off a busy main road and pretty close to the M8, when you are in the middle of this strange place, it is eerily silent.

Perhaps I have been slow to realise that Bangour had all this walking potential, but I am happy to have found somewhere that encompasses several things – a place to stop and walk when I am and about for work; a really intriguing site with history and architecture and of course somewhere with a choice of walking routes all there for the exploring. Who said you needed a dog to go for a brisk and energising walk?

The walk feature is contributed by Karen Murray.

Karen lives is West Lothian and is passionate about walking in the great outdoors having been brought up to love walking by her father (still hillwalking in his 80s)

KONECT LINLITHGOW 41

VET’S TIP

I

f you’re a pet-owner, you’re probably already aware that this time of year, with the bangs and flashes of Bonfire Night, isn’t a favourite one with animals.

It’s estimated around half of the country’s population of dogs feel stressed by fireworks.

But even if your dog doesn’t appear to be upset, that doesn’t mean they are happy so don’t take them to a display. Lots of yawning or panting might be a sign other than whimpering that they are frightened.

under furniture, walk them before any displays start and shut curtains to block out flashes and muffle noise. Keep them on a lead if they need to go out in the garden – don’t assume your garden is escapeproof. And make sure they are IDed, ideally microchipped, in case they are spooked by a sudden noise and manage to get free.

Keep them indoors and give them a safe “den”, perhaps

Similarly with cats, keep them inside and block up any cat flap.

Buster the Dog

They’ll also benefit from a safe place to hide. And don’t forget smaller pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice, ferrets and birds. If they are outside, bring them in if possible or if not turn the hutch to face a wall or fence to muffle noise and block out flashes.

Give them extra bedding to burrow into and consider covering their cage with an old blanket (leaving ventilation) to further muffle bangs.

The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 8 Preston Road, 01506 844 165, www.westportvets.com

Keep your Friends o pet in tip heWaltehscatrepoprlatfn top shape from just £7 per month To find out more call us on

01506 844 165

or pop into the surgery

8 Preston Rd, Linlithgow EH49 7AU KONECT LINLITHGOW 42

Caring for those living with memory loss

Sunshine sing-along • SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH 12 - 1.30pm • KIRK HALL ST MICHAEL'S PARISH CHURCH. St Michael's Parish Church Linlithgow is a Scottish Charity Reg No SC016 185

THIS WINTER, DON’T GET LEFT BEHIND

Come and join us for a light lunch and then an hour of singing your favourite songs.

A warm welcome awaits you.

No church connection needed.

Just turn up on the day.

Disabled parking in the Vennel Car Park adjacent to Kirk Hall.

We hope you come along!

We’ve got some special offers for advertising in 2017

Call now for details Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

konect

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

www.facebook.com/KonectMagazines KONECT LINLITHGOW 43

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the December edition of konect

Across 7 Factual books (13) 8 Announced (8) 9 Concerts (4) 10 Large church (7) 12 Main artery in the body (5) 14 Small dog (5) 16 Removal of data (7) 19 Unsuccessful (4) 20 Clapping (8) 22 Protest march (13) Down 1 Leg joint (4) 2 Rides a bike (6) 3 Frightened (7) 4 Used for digging (5) 6 Female child (8) 11 Remote (8) 13 Get ready (7) 15 Eight pints (6) 17 Begins (6) 18 Artificial (5) 21 Work hard (4)

SUDOKU

Sudoku solution on page 46

KONECT LINLITHGOW 44

WHAT’S ON & USEFUL INFORMATION Wednesday November 9th French Wine Tasting Class Linlithgow Burgh Halls, 7pm to 9pm. Relaxed and informative and for people with any level of wine knowledge. Tickets £24 per person, includes 8 French wines, a selection of cheese, a fully tutored tasting and an introduction to the famous regions of France. More details and secure booking at www.classofwine.co.uk Saturday 19th November Winter Concert by Linlithgow String Orchestra. At St. Ninan’s church, Linlithgow 7.30pm. Tickets £6 see page 10 for details.

Saturday 19th November Rotary Scotch Hop Queen Margaret Hall, Blackness Road, Linlithgow, 7.30pm. See page 37 for details Saturday 26th November Linlithgow Advent Fair and Farmer’s Market 10am - 4pm, Craft fair in St. Peter’s Church on the High Street. Farmers market at The Vennel from 10am until 2pm. 10.30am – 3pm - annual street fair and the craft fair in the Burgh Halls.

Children’s entertainment & Santa Claus at the Cross throughout the day. Torchlight procession from Lowport Primary School departing 5pm, get there for 4.30pm for the distribution of the torches. The Cross in front of the Burgh Halls, where carol singing at The Cross and switching on of the Christmas tree lights at 6pm Saturday 3rd December Celebrate Christmas Concert Glasgow Phoenix Choir, fundraiser at St Michael’s Parish Church Linlithgow, organised by Rotary Club of Linlithgow and Bo’ness. See page 12 for details.

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

library information Linlithgow Library The Vennel, High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7EH Tel: 01506 775490 Email: linlithgow.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening hours: Mon & Fri: 9.00am - 5.00pm. Tue & Thur: 9.00am - 7.00pm. Wed: 9.00am - 3.00pm.

Sat: 9.00am - 1.00pm.

Storytime: Stories and art activities for children 3-4 years during term time - every Monday and Friday 10.30am. Linlithgow Book Group meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6pm to discuss their chosen novel. Bookbug sessions: Stories, songs & rhymes suitable for all under 3’s and their grown-ups.

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

2nd West Lothian Scouts The Scout Hall, 6 Dog Well Wynd, Linlithgow. Beavers (age 6-8) meet Wednesdays; Cubs (age 8 - 10.5) meet Mondays; Two Scouts troops (age 10.5 -14) meet Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact Group Scout Leader Nick Moody at scouts2wl@hotmail.co.uk.

Substantial waiting lists for all sections - new adult volunteers always welcome.

The Caring Cafe Low Port Centre, 1 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ. The Caring Cafe is a meeting place where people with dementia and their carers have a chance to meet others in a similar situation.

Meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am 12noon (Lunch available after the café in the Lowport Centre cafeteria). For people who are able to attend safely on their own or who are accompanied by someone to support them. Contact Margaret or May from Linlithgow Link on 01506 845137 or email Co-ordinator@linlithgowlink.org.uk Linlithgow Bridge Playgroup Chalmers Hall, Main Street, Linlithgow Bridge. Tue-Thu: 9:15 am 11:45 am during term time. No minimum number of sessions. £7 per session. For more information contact lbplaygroup@gmail. com Linlithgow Speakers Are you and your staff interested in improving speaking in public and leadership skills? Do you know about Toastmasters?

Linlithgow Speakers is a local voluntary group that can help develop these skills. We are looking for new members in Linlithgow. Come and visit on Tuesday night (we meet every second Tuesday at 7.30 at the Low Port Centre in Linlithgow.

Please contact me for more information: Sheila Fraser 01506 650953 or 07968 233324.

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

Linlithgow String Orchestra The Linlithgow String Orchestra for adults (18+) with a minimum standard Grade 5 meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm at St Peter’s Episcopal Church, High Street Linlithgow (£3 per week). New players from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Please contact us in advance on: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com or search for us on Facebook.

Badminton Club Small, friendly club meets Wednesday evenings at Lowport Centre, 7-9pm. We are looking for new members who have played before. Adults only please.

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

Sunshine Singalong - NEW! Kirk Hall, St Michael’s Parish Church, second Thursday every month 12 – 1.30pm. Caring for those living with memory loss.

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

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

KONECT LINLITHGOW 45

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Attractions/Days Out Paradise Island Golf WL18 Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio WL16 S and S 2 Builder DB General Builders 4 Building Surveyor David Hastings WL14 Butcher Hopetoun Farm Shop WL23 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services WL8 Catering Food Creations WL22 Children’s Activities/ Entertainment Jump Station WL18 Paradise Island Golf WL18 Church Kings Church WL6 Cleaning Services Multi Level Contracts Ltd WL14 Computer Services Sprint Computers WL7 Conservatories Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL15 Greenburn Glass WL5 Cycle Shop & Repairs Elevation Cycles 5 Decorating Graham & Brown WL9 Doors UPVC Doors WL14 Electrician Simply Electrical WL14 Estate Agent Knight Bain Estate Agents 11 Remax 48 Turpie WL11

Fencing/Gates Welding & Fabrication Solutions Ltd 6 Fishmonger Oyster Oyster WL20 Food & Groceries Hopetoun Farm Shop WL23 Garden & Landscaping Beatsons WL15 Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care 4 Woodford Timber WL18 Garden Buildings Champfleurie Estate Ltd 7 Golf Club Deer Park Golf & Country Club WL22 Heating Services D Mac Services Scotland WL3 Dewar Plumbing WL2 Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) AK Stretch Limousines WL7 Joiner Create Enhanced Spaces Ltd WL4 Geoff Vinter Joinery 4 Kitchens Create Enhanced Spaces Ltd WL4 S and S 2 LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION The Leaflet Lady 47 Locksmith Saltire Lock & Security WL17 West Lothian Locksmith Company WL16 Mobility Med Ecosse WL24 Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland WL7 Office Admin Services Admin @ Work 4 Painter/Decorator Nu Walls WL9

Solution to October Crossword

Solution to Sudoku Page 44

Phone Repairs / Accessories Fone Republic 5 Plastering Nu Walls WL9 Top 2 Bottom Plastering WL8 Plumbing Services Capital Heating WL4 D Mac Services Scotland Property Maintenance Inside and Outside Property & Garden Care 4 Removals Linlithgow Removals 5 Restaurant Deer Park Golf & Country Club WL22 Security Services Maplin WL17 Saltire Lock & Security WL17 West Lothian Locksmith Company WL16 Soft Furnishings Knight Shades Blinds 8 Stone Masonry Architectural Conservation 5 Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader WL5 Vet Mackie and Brechin 4 West Port Veterinary Clinic 42 Wallpaper Graham & Brown WL9 Windows Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL15 Greenburn Glass WL5

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.

Across: 1 Rafters, 5 Extra, 8 Textile, 9 Verbs, 10 Ridge, 11 Despair, 12 Twenty, 14 Abroad, 17 Nervous, 19 Rises, 22 Ideal, 23 Failure, 24 Noted, 25 Lighter.

KONECT LINLITHGOW 46

Down: 1 Rotor, 2 Fixed, 3 Evident, 4 Steady, 5 Elves, 6 Tornado, 7 Assured, 12 Tension, 13 Earnest, 15 Burning, 16 Useful, 18 Oiled, 20 Squat, 21 Spear.

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

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