Konect Linlithgow February 2019

FEBRUARY 2019

linlithgow

LOCAL COMMUNITY:

FEATURE:

LOCAL CHARITY:

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

The monthly community magazine for the Linlithgow area

THIS ISSUE

TO OUR FEBRUARY EDITION

W

elcome to the first Konect of 2019.

We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things Linlithgow and West Lothian!

It’s a special year for me as it’s the 10th year of publishing Konect, and we’ll be celebrating plenty!Even after 10 years of 11 issues per year, there is something new and fresh to learn every month and it keeps me excited and motivated to work on the editorial every month. I meet a wonderful range of people locally. The Charity of the Month continues to be a really important part of our editorial, and this month we’re featuring Neils’ Hugs Foundation, which is run by a Linlithgow resident – see pages 8-9. And a lovely article by David this month highlights a wonderful project in Linlithgow – 1stStep, see pages 34 – 35, Walking the Talk.

It’s well known that by February most new year’s resolutions have been ditched, especially the ones to do with health and fitness. Our local health and wellbeing contributors have produced special columns this month to help you get back on track.

I hope you enjoy Konect this month, as ever I’m always happy to get feedback in my inbox.

P19 Charity: Neil’s Hugs....................................... 8 Wellbeing feature.........................................12 Gardening: gardens are good for you....17 Sport: Here come the girls.........................19 Property Matters..........................................22 Vet’s Tip.........................................................27 Parenting: Mummy Me Time......................28 What’s On......................................................30 Puzzles..........................................................32 Walking the Talk: 1st Step...........................34 Music Review...............................................36 Clubs & Classes..........................................36

COVER IMAGE: Winter well-being feature starting on p12

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

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

LINLITHGOW | 3

Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573 All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, Decking & Fencing

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Windows & Doors Kitchens Bathrooms Garage Conversions Sun Lounges & Orangeries Conservatories Roofline

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LINLITHGOW | 5

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

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Would you like to advertise your business to over 50,000 homes throughout West Lothian and Edinburgh (West)?

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LINLITHGOW | 7

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

gives a glimpse of the driving force behind it: “I am lucky to be Neil’s Mum. That does not change because he is no longer on earth. He is always safe in my heart. I have founded this charity because I shared his journey, I believe I should do something in his memory to help families in similar circumstances to ours...

“I will speak for someone who can’t speak out,” says Donna Paterson-Harvie. And she is speaking as a mother who has lost her son to suicide, knows an ocean of pain and is now running a charity to support people touched by suicide in West Lothian.

The above comment was in the context of reducing the stigma surrounding suicide.

Something Donna comes across a lot is that for many people who have lost a loved one to suicide, talking about it is made all the more difficult by the stigma surrounding it.

I’m catching up with Donna over coffee at West Lothian College where she can be found most of the time as the students and lecturers, she explains, has been phenomenal in raising awareness of the charity, which is called Neil’s Hugs Foundation in memory of her son. Neil’s Hugs runs a twice- monthly support group here at the college (as well as at other places), and Donna also works with student support services to provide group or one to one support where it is requested. I first heard about Neil’s Hugs from one of the students at the college, Yvonne Beveridge, via the Konect charity distribution scheme. It is Yvonne’s nominated charity for the scheme, and I was keen to find out more.

Donna PatersonHarvie, Neil’s mum 8 | LINLITHGOW

Donna’s story that led her to this point is heartbreaking and inspiring. She wants all the focus to be on the work Neil’s Hugs is doing now, but a short extract from her words on the charity’s website

I brought my son back to life on two occasions, I had to listen to him as he asked me why I had saved him as he did not want to live. I heard how he planned to take his life and was never sure when I left him if it would be the last time I saw him alive. He called me the morning he died and he knew I was working and could not get to him in time to save him.”

That was seven years ago. One can only imagine the journey Donna has been on, but when she emerged it led to her going on a counselling course at West Lothian College, and setting up Neil’s Hugs. She started it in December 2016, and launched officially in September 2017 - on Neil’s birthday.

“I wanted to help others going through what I went through. If I have a roof, a kettle and a biscuit, I can look after someone,” she says.

So Neil’s Hugs is a counselling and support organisation infused with Donna’s deeply caring nature. “You never get over your grief”, says Donna, “but it changes you as a person and you learn to live with it. It changes your priorities. I am a very different person to the one I was before; I’m much less bothered about the housework now and less able to multi-task than I did when I had a career as a casino manager. I live in a house that is perhaps not ideal for us, but it is where I spent most time with Neil, so it’s where I want to be.”

A huge benefit can be gained from talking with others who are going through the same pain, and this applies to people who may be at risk of suicide too. While many suicides are related to mental health issues, it’s not always the case. “Life is a really tough place, and some people are just not as resilient as others,” says Donna. Some people come to the support groups who have not spoken about suicide of a loved one for 30 years or more.

Everyone grieves in their own way, there is @KonectMagazines

no right or wrong. “And it can be a vicious cycle; a proportion of suicides are a result of another one in the close family.

Neil’s Hugs wants to be there for those people too, and suicide prevention is a large part of what we do.” Donna is also a member of a Scottish Government group called the Lived Experience Panel that is looking at priorities for suicide prevention strategy. “As a charity we encourage people to talk, but there needs to be comprehensive government support. We’re working on it in the strategy group.”

Since starting out, Neil’s Hugs has seen a huge demand for the counselling and support services. There is a kind of silent cry in the community, as there is little support available within the health services, with long waiting lists and so on.

Donna’s ultimate dream is that every school, college and university in Scotland will have a peer support group for suicide prevention. It is still early days for the charity, but she has been asked to speak at high schools where there have been recent tragic losses. Students have been deeply engaged with Neil’s Hugs, and when they ask what they can do to help, Donna says, “This charity is your charity, what would you like it to do?”

Neil’s Hugs support groups for people who have lost someone to suicide. See the details below - just turn up, or feel free to contact Donna first.

Open to everyone, general support group: Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month 6.30pm - 8.30pm at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Broxburn Men’s Peer Support Group: 2nd Wednesday of the month 6.30pm - 8.30pm, Strathbrock Parthership Centre, Broxburn For West Lothian College students and staff. 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, 12-2pm, college campus.

Neil’s Hugs is also available for one to one and group counselling, please contact Donna on the details below.

Donna leaves me with a hug. I was deeply moved by this interview. Let me sum her up for you: diamonds are formed through intense pressure.

To find out more about Neil’s Hugs, see contact and social media details below.

Email: neilshugsfoundation@gmail.com Donna’s Mobile: 07446 717501 Website: neilshugsfoundation.com Facebook: /neilshugsfoundation Neil’s Hugs is charity registered in Scotland, number SC047055 This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting with Donna Paterson-Harvie, founder of Neil’s Hugs. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines

Fund raising If you can help raise funds to support the work Neil’s Hugs is doing, please contact them! They benefited hugely from people doing the Kiltwalk in September 2018. World Suicide Prevention day is in September, so why not consider doing the Kiltwalk this September for Neil’s Hugs?

Or consider them for your organisation’s Charity of the Year, sponsorship opportunities or any other fundraising ideas you have: every piece of support is hugely appreciated.

LINLITHGOW | 9

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LINLITHGOW | 11

FEBRUARY HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Weight Loss – It’s a Gut Feeling The gut (digestive tract) extracts energy from our food, produces more than 2 dozen hormones and accounts for most of our immune system. Until recently, the assumption was that the bacteria huddling in your gut pretty much mind their own business.

However, recent research has shown that they are responsible for many things, including controlling your hunger signals, mood, and appetite and deciding which foods you crave.

Poor diet, stress, artificial sweeteners and antibiotics can reduce and/unbalance your gut bacteria and lead to issues such as difficulty in losing weight, skin conditions, bloating, and constipation. By following these suggestions, you’ll help to ensure that your intestinal bacteria are more robust: 1. Eat more fibre – mainly vegetables, some fruit and prebiotic foods such as onions, leeks and garlic 2. Eat a variety of foods – load up on colourful veg 3. Limit red meat to once/twice per week 4. Eat oily fish 5. Cut back on sugar and caffeine 6. Pick probiotic foods – live yoghurt, kefir, sauerkrau.

7. Get into exercise To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise for information on nutriclub classes at Xcite Linlithgow.

Facebook: /nutriclublinlithgow T: 07837 794112 (Louise) W: www.nutriclub.co.uk 12 | LINLITHGOW

THE BEST FITNESS FOR THE BEST YOU The member attrition rates in the average gym are ridiculous. The upsurge in January, the month of “new year, new you”, is followed by a steep drop-off come February, when the good intentions and aspirations have collapsed like an old couch.

There are a million ways to get fit and healthy. But we’re all so set on the quick fix that we forget, to truly be fit and healthy, we need to live fit and healthy.

“The best exercise is the one you will do often” Fitness should be like brushing your teeth, or sleeping; something that is an integral and essential part of your wellbeing that you do almost automatically. Let’s be honest though, exercise takes up significantly more energy and motivational requirement than sleeping, which is why, if we’re going to make fitness a daily part of our lives, the people and the environment you’re training in are almost as important as the exercise itself. Humans are social animals, and that social interaction can make any tough workout feel achievable and enjoyable.

The key to sustainable fitness is not only finding a form of exercise you enjoy doing, but at a place you enjoy being at, with people you enjoy training with. Find a gym or sports team with likeminded people, a great service offering and a strong community feel to match.

This article was contributed by Ross Paterson, Synergy Group Fitness, Scotland’s Gym of the Year 2018 UK’s Functional Gym of the Year 2018.

Website: synergy groupfitness.co.uk Facebook: @synergygroupfitness Instagram: @synergygroupfitness

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FEBRUARY HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Start addressing your energy drains now for a better 2019 Many people want to make positive change, but positivity and plans quickly disintegrate as the old energy drains kick in and you’re unable to make progress.

Here are just some of the energy drains that may be holding you back.

1. Stuff

If you don’t feel completely at peace in your personal space, it’s time to make a change.

Less really is more. If you get rid of stuff, you get more space.

It’s time to have a house overhaul and get rid of anything that no longer serves your new purpose. Keep only the things that have real daily meaning to you.

Struggling to get motivated? Start a clearing circle – a group of people that all want to achieve the same goal, and make arrangements to help each other clear the clutter. Throw in a bottle of wine and some snacks and you’ve turned into a fun opportunity to catch up and discuss what you’re going to do with all this space you’re creating!

2. Financial

Most financial advice focuses on your ‘variable’ costs i.e. get rid of your daily coffee and it will change your life. But real change happens when you address your fixed costs – the monthly ones that keep you stuck in the same cycle. Every pound saved is a pound earned; every pound is earned through the exchange of your ‘life energy.’

Mortgage/rent, car loans, other loans, gas/ electricity, phones, TV etc. The higher your fixed costs, the more life energy you need to exchange to pay for them. Examine what you really need to live the life you want.

Most of our lives is habit, you may need to try living without something to really know if you need it. @KonectMagazines

3. Relationships

There’s a high chance you have relationships that leave you feeling mentally and physically drained. Relationships are difficult to change – you either need to adjust the interactions you have with people, or walk away. It might be that you’ve fallen into unhealthy habits with someone, and they may find it a relief to change too.

The saying ‘be the change you want to see’ is relevant here – if you can see you’re both in unhealthy patterns, be the person willing to speak with love and make changes. If the other person isn’t ready to change, you may need to make a decision on whether that relationship is something you want to continue with.

4. Health

Sickness, anxiety, depression – we can feel trapped if we don’t feel able to make changes. Address your health issues. Ask yourself: am I making myself sick? Is my lifestyle supporting good health? Do I want to get better?

Not all health complaints may be curable, but you can choose how you live with it. If it’s part of your life, you need to adjust to accommodate it.

It may take real commitment, and time to discover what works for you.

The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. See her “LifeHeal” facebook page at www.facebook.com/LifeHealCoaching LINLITHGOW | 13

“DANCING WITH MYSELF” - YOU DON’T NEED TO! If you’re over 60 and spend a lot of time on your own, ironically you’re not alone…

There are half a million older people in the UK going without any social interaction for a week at a time (Research by Age UK, 2018). And in Scotland, an Age UK report in 2015 stated that two in five older people regard the television as their main form of company.

If you feel you could benefit from more socialising the good news is that there are groups in West Lothian to help you meet new people.

Cyrenians “Older People Active Lives” (OPAL) project exists specifically for older people in West Lothian and they offer a range of services. One of those services is running weekly social groups at various locations all over West Lothian for anyone in the community who is over the age of 60 and feels they want to get out.

The groups are all-inclusive. Whether you are fit and able, visually-impaired, hearing-impaired, have limited mobility or are in early diagnosis of dementia, there is a group to suit you. From a cuppa and a blether to activities out and about, there is something for everyone.

You don’t need to be referred by anyone, you can simply turn up and be assured of a warm friendly welcome in a relaxed environment.

The activity groups include music, trips, speakerevents, crafts, movie days, board games, new age curling, quizzes – and anything else that group members want to explore! Tea, coffee and good craic guaranteed. Whilst the groups are facilitated and organised by OPAL, they are self-led in that the members themselves decide what they want to do.

Groups last about two hours and cost £1 per session to help cover costs - you simply pay as you go.

If you would like to find out more, please call 01506 815 815, email opal@cyrenians.scot, or visit us at www.cyrenians.scot - Facebook: @OPALCyrenians

This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after speaking with Pauline Moffat, OPAL Groups Co-ordinator, at the Cyrenians offices in Bathgate.

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

14 | LINLITHGOW

You are welcome to attend any of these groups in West Lothian. Some of the groups are in sheltered housing but are open to non-residents.

“Activity Group” means that there is a range of activities which vary from week to week. All groups are £1 per week, pay as you go, except the singing group* which is £1.50 per week.

BLACKBURN: Blackburn Partnership Centre, Ashgrove, Blackburn, EH54 7LL • Activity Group weekly on Mondays 10am - 12pm CRAIGSHILL: Craigengar Park, Almond Rd, EH54 5NY • Activity Group weekly on Mondays 1.30 - 3.30pm BATHGATE: Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street, EH48 1QW • Activity Group weekly on Tuesdays 2- 4pm Royal Scot Court, 76 Academy Street, EH48 1QR • Nibble n Natter group weekly on Wednesdays 1.30 - 3.30pm MID CALDER: Cunnigar House, Avenue Park West, EH53 0AH • Activity Group weekly Tuesdays 2 - 4pm UPHALL: St Andrew’s Court, 20 Hawthorn Place, EH52 5BX • Activity Group weekly on Wednesdays 10 - 12pm CARMONDEAN: Ability Centre, EH54 8PT • Singing Group fortnightly on Wednesdays 2.30 - 4pm (*Singing for Health in partnership with Ageing Well) FAULDHOUSE: Blackfaulds Court, EH47 9DR • Activity Group weekly Wednesdays 2 4pm ARMADALE: Colinshiel Court, McNeil Crescent, EH48 2NB • Activity & Dominoes Group weekly Thursdays 2 - 4pm LINLITHGOW: Longcroft Hall, Philip Avenue, Linlithgow, EH49 7BH • Nibble & Natter group weekly on Thursdays 2 - 4pm BROXBURN: NEW group starting 14th February 2019. Strathbrock Partnership Ctr, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH • Activity group, weekly on Thursdays 10 - 12pm @KonectMagazines

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LINLITHGOW | 15

Welding and Fabrication Solutions Ltd All of metal work work | gates Allaspects aspects of metal railings | fencing | repairs gates | railings | fencing structural steel work repairs | structural steel work Aluminium / stainless steel

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Design | Advice | Manufacture | Installation 16 | LINLITHGOW

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GARDENING PROJECT

Gardens are good for you!

Although we are told that 50% of us do some gardening every week the rest of us can get great benefits for our well-being from gardens themselves.

In the winter these benefits are generally gained by looking out of the window rather than visiting a garden and one of the most absorbing things to see are our garden birds consuming the food we put out for them.

25 years ago we would only give our garden birds the leftover scraps from the kitchen.

Today as a nation we have become a vital source of food for our feathered friends who are continually having to adapt to their changing habitats. Recent research has shown us that the quality of birdfood we buy can vary enormously and we generally get what we pay

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for. The real test is in the eating - do our birds enthusiastically eat what we give them!

Do try to keep your feeding stations hygienic to stop the build up of potentially killing diseases.

Keep fresh water available for your visitors and maintain the supply of food. Caring for these visitors will put a smile on your face.

SMILE: Gardening has great benefits for our well-being.

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

Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

LINLITHGOW | 17

18 | LINLITHGOW

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SPORTS

Twenty-one, tears flowing, end of a school match. Biggest game of the season, against next door neighbours, Seel Road chockablock full of talent, on pro club books to a man; this was Huyton, hotbed of soccer, like Livingston.

Before teacher training, I’d joined St Augustine’s senior school to get experience. The head, Mr Smart, entrusted first-team soccer to me. We boasted Peter Johnson, (on Bolton’s books), tricky wee Davey Hawley, (tragically fated to be one of the Hillsborough 96), but in truth, we were otherwise a team of tryers.

Every year we were slaughtered, usually double figures. I organised them, roused them, prayed. Then cried with pride. I can still hear Smart’s tone in assembly: “Seel Road 2 St Augustine’s 2?”, voice rising at the end with prank or mistake implied.

So I have a smattering of Martin Eadie’s feelings.

32-year-old Martin has been coaching for 5 or 6 years since older daughter, stylish right back Erika, caught the football bug and infected him.

They typify Murieston United Football Club, proud bearers of the Scottish FA quality mark.

From its 8-pitch Bankton Mains base in Livingston, the Club runs over 20 boys’ teams, 6 for girls plus fun games for under 7s. Martin’s team, playing this season in a competitive 11 a side league for the first time, train for an hour and a half on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Players use other facilities too - for strengthening and conditioning, for example. Martin’s philosophy is competitive - he wants the best from each girl, no less. After flying solo, this season Martin will enjoy the able voluntary assistance of Alan White, Craig Smith and Larry Masterton, each devoting some 10 hours a week to the cause.

The club receives zilch in grants so must raise all funds by its own efforts, like sponsored walks or bag packing. Fees paid by the girls just cover the basics like kits and balls. Your sponsorship or donation gratefully welcomed, dear reader!

Martin believes girls equal to boys in ability and attitude but the football culture amongst girls is infant.

However, Scotland’s participation in the Women’s World Cup, starting 7th of June 2019, could kickstart culture growth. I hope so. Currently, there is a quartet of girls’ teams Murieston, Linlithgow, Broxburn and Blackburn in West Lothian but that could well soon change.

This article was suggested by a grateful Mum, Julie Grieve, whom I hereby quote: “Could you write an article on the wonderful coaches of girls at Murieston. My daughter started last year and today their U13 team won the league for the second successive year. They have given my daughter a feeling of inclusion with regular training and matches something to focus on and a sense of achievement. They do a great job for this community and never miss a training session or match.

It takes a lot of time and skill to develop the girls.

I’d love to see this fantastic club getting the recognition they deserve.”

Bravo Martin and volunteer coaches everywhere.

Facebook: @MuriestonUnitedCFC Twitter: @MUCFC_Ladies Website: scottishfa.co.uk/football-development The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer.

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LINLITHGOW | 19

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Think you’re saving money with a ‘low-cost’ agent?

They could cost you more than you think!

Over the past 2 years, house prices nationwide have enjoyed positive growth - and West Lothian has outperformed the majority of areas in several of the national housing statistics. The county enjoyed a 13.3% increase in house prices over 12 consecutive months during this period, making it the second highest region for growth in Scotland. Rightmove also reported recently that Livingston had the fastest-selling market in the UK last year at just 25 days, as opposed to the UK average of 61 days.

It would be easy therefore to think that, in a sellers’ market where buyer demand outstrips supply, a sale is all but guaranteed and that choosing the right estate agent is less important than it would typically be in a tougher market. In my experience, however, this approach usually turns out to be a false economy as the difference 22 | LINLITHGOW

between a good agent and a mediocre one can be highly significant in terms of the hard cash that you get for your property.

Not all estate agents are the same The difference between the cheapest home selling service on the market and the highest quality service is typically around 0.75% of the property value, which represents a difference of £1,500 in agent fees on a property selling for £200,000.

The ability however, of an experienced agent, who knows the local market, has a dynamic list of real buyers and the marketing knowledge to produce a bespoke sales campaign for each property they handle, could be worth much more to a seller in real money than any perceived savings when the real return (i.e. the price achieved for your property) is measured rather than simply the fee level.

The client story below better illustrates this; it is by no means an isolated case.

‘Low-cost’ can cost you time and money A seller contacted our company recently to invite us to conduct a market appraisal of their property in Livingston. The house was currently on the market with a ‘low-cost’ agent who had charged their full selling fee up-front.

This charging method in itself conflicts with the whole ethos of any type of ‘agency’ work in my view, and, when broken down to what a seller is actually paying for, it can often be no more than a very expensive advertising fee.

The original campaign by the low-cost agent did not go well and the owners informed us that they had very few viewers. Worse still, viewers had not even been properly qualified by way of suitability as buyers for their property. The sellers received no feedback from the agent or even suggestions about how the sales campaign could be sharpened up; the only suggestion the agent had was that the seller should simply reduce the selling price, which would of course cost them even more money!

A fresh approach to get the real financial return on your asset As the photography and marketing material being used was of such poor quality, we instructed our own professional photographers and professional copywriters to produce a new marketing campaign specifically designed to attract a particular buyer profile. We then @KonectMagazines

proactively presented this information to our registered list of qualified and active buyers. Our Property Manager developed interest from a number of interested buyers, which resulted in a closing date being set and a sale being agreed after only 2 weeks of the new campaign. More significantly, by presenting the property to the correct audience and creating a competitive selling environment, the property sold for a figure that was several thousands of pounds above the home report value!

To summarise this case, the owners had already paid almost £1,000 up front to their previous agent (which they didn’t get back) and were being advised to lower their selling price. We advised against this and recommended a bespoke, fully managed sales campaign which was directly marketed and sold to a buyer registered on our database for a price that was higher than the market value. This not only covered the fee charged by the first agent but also covered the fee charged by our company - and still returned a hefty net return on investment of several thousands of pounds for the seller. The price achieved for the seller’s property was higher than the valuation figure on the home report. In life and in property, you only get one chance to make the best first impression! To quote the clients on the low-cost agency in this case, “We only realised we had made the wrong decision after it was too late!”

It’s your equity and your money, so, when choosing the right agent to sell your home, what’s more important to you? Low fees that could well end up costing you more? Or the most money in your pocket and the security of a well-managed sale? I know which one I’d choose!

SELLING PRICE (AGREED OFFER) AGENT FEE NET PROCEEDS OF SALE BENEFIT TO SELLER (£)

In the examples shown below, the additional £1,500 in fees could actually have protected a potential net loss of £20,000 or more!

The Real selling price of a property is the Offer price agreed minus the professional fees and this Real figure can often be overlooked with so many other things to consider when choosing the right selling agent.

£

?

£

EXAMPLE: For a property with a Home Report of £200,000. The following scenarios show the difference in the net figures received for the sale after agents’ fees have been deducted and also the difference a professionally managed campaign can yield in terms of valuation, offer and selling price in relation to Home Report Value.

£190,000

£200,000*

£210,000

0.5%

1.0%

1.25%

£189,050

£198,000

£207,375

-

NB: This table is a guide only and any combination of fees/selling price can apply in each case. * Denotes HR Value

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.over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines

LINLITHGOW | 23

BRIDGE COLUMN

CHANGE PARTNERS On a recent bridge holiday, I encountered someone I’ll call Nigel McNumpty.

Initially I felt some sympathy for Nigel. If single, like me, you generally take pot luck on partners. Nigel, alas, got paired with a lady who made her displeasure very clear very quickly.

She wanted the organisers to pair her with someone up to her exalted standards. Second evening, after a reshuffle, I was lumbered with McNumpty.

I had some half-baked theory that, in bridge, you should exhibit the sang froid of an upper-class English hero combined with the inscrutable expression of a Chinese poker player. This noble intention was quickly tested to breaking point when McNumpty landed me in a 5D contract and proudly laid out his hand showing one miserable small diamond.

After a while I was half-expecting McNumpty to

24 | LINLITHGOW

follow one card with another of the same rank and shout: “Snap!”

I could see the director striding purposefully towards our table, at one point, and thought maybe he was suspending proceedings the way a referee might stop a boxing match to prevent irreversible brain damage. “Too late,” I felt like saying, “That ship has sailed. You might as well switch the machine off.”

At our post-mortem next morning McNumpty offered to provide the cards. To be fair, the packet he’d bought in a nearby gift shop did look superficially like regular cards. But a nagging fear began to plague me.

Was I about the renew my acquaintance with Mrs Bun the Baker’s Wife? No. Worse. He ripped open the box and out slid a bar of soap.

The Bridge Column is contributed by John Samson John is a member of the Pentland and Balerno Bridge Clubs

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Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Home Improvements pages.

Contact details are on page 3.

26 | LINLITHGOW

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VET’S TIP

BUSTER THE DOG

COLD weather The cold wintry weather might be annoying for us but it can present real problems for pets, especially small ones that live outside.

Particularly at night, when it is really cold you should think about bringing in your rabbit, guinea pig, or other small furry friend such as a ferret. Don’t warm them up too much so a colder room, or even a garage (as long as it’s not used for a car) will do.

It’s worth having a think about where your pet’s hutch is situated – if it is getting driving rain or snow at the front, where it is most exposed, your pet will be at risk.

Try to move it out of the prevailing wind, or consider buying a cover.

In the winter extra bedding is always a must. You can also get a blanket and put it over the hutch. But don’t forget, they still need exercise so make sure they can get out into their run but don’t leave them there for too long.

Many people forget that water bottles can easily freeze up – so keep a constant eye on them and maybe wrap them up in a cloth to help keep away Jack Frost.

Even indoor pets need to be helped a little.

This means keeping your hamster or gerbil cage out of drafts, and, again, giving them extra bedding as rooms get cold in midwinter when the heating is off during the night.

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

LINLITHGOW | 27

PARENTING

Artisan Cheesecake

Mummy ‘Me Time’

s Retro Game

One of the great joys of being a parent is all the quality alone time you get. If you are anything like me you are forever taking little breaks to enjoy a cuppa, read a book, watch your favourite TV programme, or pop to the shops just because you can…yeah, me neither!! I can barely remember the last time I finished a cup of tea while it was still hot, or read a book that didn’t have pictures. Our TV is permanently on CBeebies and I haven’t popped anywhere since 2011.

I often wonder, does wanting some ‘me time’ when you are a parent make you selfish?

But when you think about your daily life as a mum – or dad - how often are you putting yourself first and doing what you want to do?

Chances are the answer is not very often.

The closest I usually manage is a trip to Artisan Cheesecakes in Livingston where the kids will happily wile away an afternoon playing retro games like Misfits or Ludo while I treat myself to a very large, wonderfully indulgent slice of cheesecake in a place blissfully free of any kind of soft play.

I feel like I’m always driving past places and reading about things to do right on my doorstep, saying to myself that I’ll do it “one day”.

So my plan this year is to find that “one day” so that I 28 | LINLITHGOW

can do at least one of these things that I keep talking about and never doing. I’d like to…

• Drop in to an adult chocolate-making workshop at Gooey Events • Take on my first Livingston parkrun • Enjoy a lazy pub lunch at the Fork and Field in Mid Calder • Browse the boutiques in Linlithgow and buy something other than pocket money toys • Head to the cinema in Livingston or Bathgate and see a film that isn’t U-rated • Enjoy a spa day with my friends at the Macdonald Houstoun House Hotel in Uphall Face the challenge of an Escape room in Livingston What would be on your list of things you want to finally get around to doing nearby?

I think most parents probably

spend their days doing activities and going to places they know their kids will love.

But that doesn’t mean we don’t all need some time for ourselves once in a while.

I haven’t quite cracked it yet, so do as I say not as I do! I’m sure we could all benefit from squeezing in a little more ‘me time’ (without feeling guilty about it). If you take time to recharge and be off mum duty for a little while, you will probably be a much happier and more relaxed mum when you get back to your kids.

For at least 5 minutes anyway!

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

February

Christmas is now very much a thing of the past, and whilst February may usually be a quieter month on the events calendar, there’s still plenty to see and do right across West Lothian.

Linlithgow Arts Guilds programme of music events will be continuing throughout the month, with Adam Walker coming to Linlithgow Academy on Saturday 9th. Tickets are just £12 for an adult so don’t miss out.

The highly anticipated Mary Queen of Scot’s has also recently been released. Mary was born in Linlithgow Palace in 1542; why not re-visit the story of how she came to power with the new film? The film, featuring Margot Robbie, has already received three awards nominations so is sure to be a hit.

Sticking to the Mary Queen of Scots theme, a recent addition to the Linlithgow High Street, eeek! Escape Rooms, opened last month.

Their first room, the Blunt Axe, has already proven popular. To succeed, you need to travel back in time to change the past to prevent the demise of society caused by Mary’s death. The escape room is not just perfect way to escape the cold weather, but also a fun way to change the course of history.

In Livingston, at Howden Park Centre, Craig Hill’s popular show “C’mon the Lads” will be taking place on the weekend of the 8 to 9th. Hot on the heels of his latest sell-out tour, our very favourite kilted comedian shoots back and scores with a night full of fun. Tickets are available through the Howden Park Centre website.

Our new website has recently launched, making it even easier to find and submit your own events. You can visit this through www.visitwestlothian.co.uk – and why not sign up for our newsletter to be kept up-to-date with all the latest goings on across the area?

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

LINLITHGOW | 29

WHAT’S ON

February RUNS UNTIL SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 2019

Brick City at Blackness Castle: Brick City is a celebration of iconic buildings from cities around the world, carefully recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore and his team. Included in normal castle admission price. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot for information.

SATURDAY 9TH FEBRUARY

Adam Walker, flute and James Baillieu, piano: Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild, Linlithgow Academy 7,30pm. Adam is principal flute with the London Symphony Orchestra. Reineke, Widor, Schumann, Franck. Tickets from Far From the Madding Crowd, online at Linlithgowartsguild. co.uk or text/phone 07731 614179. £12/£6 SUNDAY 10TH FEBRUARY

Winter Wildlife Wander: Join a Historic Environment Ranger on a walk around the loch whilst keeping a look out for the wildlife that calls it home. Linlithgow Peel, 1pm-3pm. Free but booking essential, please Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150 or email rangers@hes.scot

LINLITHGOW FILM SOCIETY Linlithgow Academy Theatre, Braehead Road, 7:30pm. Adults £6, Concessions £5, Under 16 £4. See www.linlithgowfilmsociety.org.uk • Mon 4th February 2019 The Midwife • Mon 18th February 2019 Murder On The Orient Express • Mon 25th February 2019 Finding Your Feet • Mon 4th March 2019 Breathe • Mon 18th March 2019 Death of Stalin

DON’T GET

LEFT BEHIND THIS WINTER...

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FEATURE

Developing the Young Workforce , - a local teacher s perspective Aynsley Bates is Principal Teacher (Acting) at Linlithgow Primary School. Aynsley gave us her perspective on Developing the Young Workforce and the importance of school pupils developing skills for the workplace.

Here at Linlithgow Primary, we are keen for all pupils to not only know what they are learning and why, but also what skills they are developing in the process.

To aid pupils’ understanding of skills development, Linlithgow Primary has a very visual tool – The Skill Sack. The Skill Sack has a list of detachable skills such as cooperation, thinking, problem solving, evaluating and time-management. We briefly stop lessons to ask pupils to identify and remove the skill/s they are using. We repeat this across a wide range of lessons, so that children begin to understand the process of ‘transferable skills’

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and how the same skills are needed within different disciplines.

We have also held a P7 Christmas Market Place for the last three years, allowing pupils to create their own mini-company, complete with a product to make and sell. Many other classes also run enterprising projects throughout the year. We take part in many activities that allow our pupils to understand the world of work, such as The Primary Engineer Leaders Award competition, field trips to The South Queensberry Crossing and events run by the DYW West Lothian Regional Group.

Having spent 13 years in industry prior to teaching, I am very aware of the range of skills needed within the workplace. It is hugely important for schools to highlight and discuss the skills pupils use within their learning in order to prepare them for their future careers, which is why we are further increasing our focus on Developing the Young Workforce.

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

LINLITHGOW | 31

CROSSWORD

Solution in the March edition of Konect

32 | LINLITHGOW

SUDOKU

Sudoku Solution on Page 38.

PUZZLES

ACROSS: 1. Chewing (6), 4. Acquiesced (6), 9. Garbage (7), 10. Religious images (5), 11. Points on a saw (5), 12. Rising (7), 13. Impersonations (11), 18. Evolve, mature (7), 20. First-rate (5), 22. Arm joint (5), 23. To carry out, to perform (7), 24. Robin red-_____ (6), 25. Modifies for purpose (6) DOWN: 1. Explodes, pops (6), 2. Item of furniture (5), 3. Not that or this (7) ,5. Sorrow, sadness (5), 6. Wearing away (7), 7. Blueprint (6), 8. Deep thinker (11), 14. Mobile, transportable (7), 15. Alternatively (7), 16. Word describing an action (6), 17. Crawls, inches (6), 19. Grassy gardens (5), 21. Rotund (5)

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Walking the Talk:

1stStep

My article about Longcroft Table Tennis mentioned the sterling, yet unheralded, work stemming from St. John’s Church.

Time to flesh those bones.

This Church is bucking all the trends with a vibrant congregation (many young faces) grown so large they must hold Sunday services in Linlithgow Academy (coffee first 10.30!) - the church isn’t big enough!

St John’s has forged strong links with 1stStep, a three-year-old, proactive local charity providing a safe, supportive environment for people affected by addictions, in which they develop skills and improve links with the wider community.

“Creating purpose and hope, tackling boredom and stigma, are key in helping people recover and stay recovered,” Maria Throp, Development Manager, tells me movingly.

Under the 1stStep umbrella nestle a clutch of powerful initiatives: 1stStep Bikes: (based at the Linlithgow Recycling Centre; winner of the ‘Community group of the Year’ award 2017): bike refurbishment training for people in recovery, where expanding positive social connections, (vital to avoiding relapse), ranks as important as skills training. Free, pop-up Dr Bike repair and tuition sessions run occasionally from the new Transition Linlithgow base (contact for details).

Mustard Seed: successful outside catering enterprise, providing training opportunities in Food and Hospitality.

34 | LINLITHGOW

Smart self-management and recovery training: a peer support group which uses motivational techniques; 1stStep underpin the weekly meetings.

1stStep Cafe: Longcroft Hall; with the inestimable help of St Ninian’s Church, opens 12-3 Tuesdays; nutritious home cooking at virtually cost price.

1stStep Gardening: grows fruit and veg, especially for the Cafe and Mustard Seed, so can offer training in the green arts.

“1st Step Bikes was originally just a reason to get up and out and use a dormant skill.

But I found the support to rebuild belief in myself, to become responsible, to communicate meaningfully, to be a team player. Now I have employment in a job I love”- Bike Mechanic.

Here, in action, is the philosophy of involvement with the community to foster healthier relations. They walk the talk.

Essentially this approach requires volunteers from the general community could it be you? Is an existing project your bag? Do you have a different skill? Make contact!

Before Christmas, I eventually located their bike sale alongside St John’s Community Cafe, 183 High Street, Linlithgow.

Braving the cold, dank weather, an enthusiastic group were selling, at attractive prices, bikes they had painstakingly restored. Too late for one my size but order placed! @KonectMagazines

The adjacent Cafe magnetised me.

Irresistible, state-of-the-art latte and luscious, home-made cheese scone sabotaged my pre-Christmas self-denial.

(Just call me “Hyphen Man”).

Opened and run by a team of volunteers who believe that faith entails far more than attending a Sunday service, the Café aims to provide a neutral haven where Church and Community can connect. They believe they serve God by providing a warm, welcoming environment for all.

Payment by donation, so no one need feel excluded. All profits go to deserving local causes (make contact if yours could use help).

The bad news? Only opens Fridays, 10am -12pm.

Well, the ambience was indeed onmessage, like slipping into a favourite old cardigan - joy and interaction, not just for Christmas.

May Grafen, eight-year co-leader of the team with Christine Young, says “Volunteers are sensitive and simpatico, good listeners. These are some of the groups we have supported: Burgh Beautiful, (Hanging Baskets on the High Street); Meeting Point Senior Citizens Group; LYPP; Food Bank; 1st Step Community Café.”

A group of committed, friendly, beneficent fellow citizens are reaching out. Who will reach back?

• www.stjohnslinlithgow.org • www.stninianscraigmailen.org.uk • www.facebook.com/1stStepCafe or 07597 392931 • www.scottish-places.info/features/ featurefirst90929.html The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. @KonectMagazines

LINLITHGOW | 35

CLUBS & CLASSES

Smash Hits

Scotland – it’s 2019, do you know where your children are? Not in their rooms listening to pop singles is a fair bet but the hits just keep on streaming to wherever they are.

Although I am, sadly, at least 35 years older than the target audience I had a random skim through the new chartbound releases at time of writing and it seemed a lot healthier than the last time I tried this.

First up Billie Eilish with When I Was Older, from the soundtrack of the film ROMA. All the usual irritations present and correct: fake vinyl click and hiss, unnecessary autotune and overly mannered close mic singing, but the production successfully carries off the European abandoned fairground chill whist allowing the melody to develop. Not a single analogue instrument is to be heard (a common theme) and it occurred to me that if were to you strip this of the vocal track and tell people it was The Residents then you could put up a convincing lie.

Busted are back – don’t look at them, they might go away again and take their drab new single “Radio” with them. It is a sign of desperation when bands go for the song that mentions the medium in the hope this appeals to puffed up DJs. Busted are in their mid to late thirties. It’s over, it’s finished, let go.

Final lucky dip, “Let me Down Slowly” by Alec Benjamin and Ailessa Cara comes up with another arrangement of the mandatory melancholy synth keys and strings (a surprising amount of the charts sounds like nothing more than voice and electric marimba) but the tune is there. Most impressively, this track lasts 2 minutes 49 seconds. That’s proper pop.

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’.

36 | LINLITHGOW

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

LINLITHGOW NEW LINLITHGOW BSL GROUP LISTING Are you a BSL user or have learned British Sign Language and don’t want to lose the skill? This group meets at the West Port Hotel for a BSL chat. Anyone welcome, Deaf and hearing of various levels from interpreters to beginners attend the group for a chat in this wonderful language. We meet every two weeks during term time and occasionally for holiday events.

For dates please check out our facebook by searching “Linlithgow BSL group.” Alternatively you can contact Alice Lane on 078168 29946.

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

The LLTTG meets every Wednesday night from 8.15pm to 9.45pm in the Longcroft Hall, Philip Avenue and gives an opportunity to play Table Tennis in a friendly and not too competitive atmosphere. Open to everyone and we have a mixed range of ages and ability. No special kit is required.

Bats can be provided. Cost is £3.00 per night or £2.00 for under 18’s. For further information please contact Allan Scott on 01506 842602.

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

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

GUIDE UNITS (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights.

For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

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

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

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

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

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CLASSICAL PILATES CLASS – FIRST CLASS FREE! Linlithgow Bowling Club on Thursdays at 10am. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information contact Maria on 07513 116490, e: mariahybszerpilates@gmail.com or check our website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.com NUTRICLUB Nutrition-focussed weight-loss classes in Linlithgow. To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise. Tel: 07837 794112 www.nutriclub.co.uk www.facebook.com/ nutriclublinlithgow.

SANGSCHULE We are a friendly and informal group who meet together to sing and learn new songs from our tutors. Meeting most Wednesdays in term-time in Linlithgow Academy staff room, 7.30-9.30pm All welcome, no experience needed, no need to read music. Under16s must be accompanied. More details from Susan on 01506 843592, and on our website www.angelfire.com/folk/ sangschule/programme LINLITHGOW NIBBLE & NATTER Are you over 60?

Looking to get out and meet some new people? Come and join our weekly get together in Longcroft Hall, Linlithgow, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people.

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

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

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

THE CARING CAFE Low Port Centre, 1 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ. The Caring Cafe is a meeting place where people with dementia and their carers have a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am-12noon (Lunch available after the café in the Lowport Centre cafeteria). For people who are able to attend safely on their own or who are accompanied by someone to support them. Contact Margaret or May from Linlithgow Link on tel: 01506 845137 or e: co-ordinator@linlithgowlink.org.uk LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS Are you and your staff interested in improving speaking in public and leadership skills? Do you know about Toastmasters? Linlithgow Speakers is a local voluntary group that can help develop these skills. We are looking for new members in Linlithgow. Come and visit on Tuesday night (we meet every second Tuesday at 7.30 at the Low Port Centre in Linlithgow. Please contact me for more info: Sheila Fraser 01506 650953 or 07968 233324.

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

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA We meet weekly on Monday 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. We are a friendly group and welcome players aged 16+ with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent. New

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Players from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. 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.

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

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

Caring for those living with memory loss. Light lunch then singing your favourite songs. A warm welcome awaits you, no church connection needed, just turn up on the day.

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

SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Star and Garter (Above the lounge), Station Road. Thursday nights 7pm – 9pm. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device.

Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Contact: Tom Lambert, Linlithgow Computer Club. Call 07418 331656 or just call in.

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

At Physio Led Pilates you can feel assured that exercises will be performed safely, effectively and modified to the appropriate level for you under the expert guidance of an experienced Physiotherapist. For booking and further info please see www.physioledpilates.com FORTH VALLEY ORIENTEERS Come and try orienteering!

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

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

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

LINLITHGOW BRIDGE CLUB Meet every Tues and Thurs in the Burgh Halls, 6.45pm. Play starts at 7p.m. New members are always welcome. If you are looking for a partner or would like more information please contact the club president Gwen MacLeod on 01506 846700 or email gwenmac37@icloud.com

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

LINLITHGOW | 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair

6

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 4 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 5 S and S Home Improvements 20

BOILER SERVICES The Gas Engineer

BUILDING SERVICES S & R Builders

6 4

COMMUNITY FACILITIES Lothian Buses 33

COMPUTER/PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 10

CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce

ELECTRICIAN SL Electrical Task Scotland

ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller LLP Turpie & Co.

FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES Welding & Fabrication Solutions

FURTHER & HIGHER EDUCATION West Lothian College

18 6 7 10 25

16 2

GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 17

GARDEN DESIGN / MAINTENANCE Evergreen Balerno

16

GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate 40 38 | LINLITHGOW

GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith

SOLUTIONS

21

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 11 HEARING AIDS & SERVICES Hear-here

7

JOINERY Create Enhanced Spaces 6 DJMS 26 Geoff Vinter Joinery 4

LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 6 MOBILITY SERVICES Ableworld

15

PHOTOGRAPHER Gretchen Laird Photography 29 PLASTERING Nu Walls

ACROSS: 1. Relate, 4. String, 9. Develop, 10. Issue, 11. Curve, 12. Offices, 13. Distinguish, 18.

Uniform, 20. Tooth, 22. Dried, 23.

Nailing, 24. Rulers, 25. Agency DOWN: 1. Reduce, 2. Lover, 3. Tallest, 5. Thief, 6. Insects, 7. Grease, 8. Appointment, 14. Initial, 15. Untying, 16. Murder, 17. Shaggy, 19. Older, 21.

Onion

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 32

6

PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Dewar Plumbing 7 McLellan Plumbing 26

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 18 VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Mackie & Brechin

27

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 31

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

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

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

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LINLITHGOW | 39