Konect Linlithgow March 2017

MARCH 2017

linlithgow

DianeClaytonChisholm:PassionateaboutCycling local RiverLife: Almond & Avon Plus businesses, Your Wedding - Your Way community information & more!

SAY HELLO TO SPRING S& OFFER ERS H C VO U cal from lo ses s e in s bu

The community magazine for the Linlithgow area

WL2

FEATURE

MES S AG E FR O M THE ED ITO R

T

he Rivers Avon and Almond are a vital part of the environment in this area and I’m sure a lot of readers will be familiar with walking, angling or other activities on both rivers. The River Forth Fisheries Trust is investing heavily in them, and some of their tributaries, with an exciting programme of projects planned for the next few years. There will be lots of opportunities for locals to be involved. I interviewed a West Lothian resident who works for the Trust to find out what’s in the pipeline, see the feature on pages 8-9.

In other special features, we take a look at planning a wedding in West Lothian – be free to do it your way is the main message! - as well as a spring cleaning guide.

Our charity of the month is Kids for Clothes – I know a lot of local people are involved in this fantastic charity.

All our regular columns are here, including the Local People interviewee whose picture graces our cover this month. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses.

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

Cover Image: Diane Clayton Chrisholm of Linlithgow in action, see article on page 10

CONTENTS RiverLife:Almond and Avon Local People Charity - Kids Love Clothes Vet’s Tip Puzzles What’s On Useful Information Clubs & Classes

08 10 38 40 44 44 44 45

WEST LOTHIAN VIEW

Weddings Special Parenting in West Lothian Property Matters Home Improvements Visit West Lothian

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

WL2 WL7 WL10 WL14 WL22 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

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 3

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COMMUNITY

RiverLife: Almond & Avon is the Trust’s team focusing on our local rivers, and we’ll need local communities involved over the next few years One of the biggest river restoration programmes in Scotland is planned for the Almond and Avon Rivers over the next four years.

I met with Jamie Ormiston, Community Engagement Officer from Livingston who works for the River Forth Fisheries Trust, to learn about their plans. “The Trust carries out vital environmental protection and improvement work on rivers in the whole of the Forth catchment,” he explains. “RiverLife: Almond & Avon is the Trust’s team focusing on our local rivers, and we’ll need local communities involved over the next few years.”

The first major project is the rehabilitation the Almond’s fish migration route, to make it possible for salmon and sea trout from the North Sea to migrate up the river to spawn after their sojourn in the ocean. The industrial heritage of HERON: Waiting patiently at Mid Calder weir

the Almond left barriers in the form of weirs which prevent fish from successfully navigating to spawning grounds. This upstream migration is essential for the survival of fish populations and to the overall health of the river’s ecosystem. A lot of work has been done on the Almond over the years by various organisations to address industrial pollution, and wildlife is gradually returning. If you’re lucky you can even spot otters in Murieston Water, one of the tributaries. The Almond Barriers Project builds on this work and will have a major impact on the ongoing health of the river.

In migration season (May to October) you can observe fish jumping weirs but their success rate isn’t as high as it should be - they’ve been filmed at Mid Calder Weir continually hitting the rocks and getting exhausted. The cumulative impact of all the weirs on the River Almond means that very few fish are making it to the upstream sections and tributaries of the river. Fish passes were constructed on some of the weirs a long time ago but are not working well.

The first barrier fish encounter is the Fair-a-Far Weir at Cramond, where the Almond flows into the Forth. Construction of a new fish passage there commences shortly, along with repair work on the weir. Work is needed on six other weirs: at Mid Calder; Kirkton

8 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

Weir at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - where a viewing area will be built as one of the attractions at the heritage centre; Howden Bridge Weir in Livingston, the Rugby Club Weir in Livingston; and Dowies weir. Proposals for most of these are in early stages and there will be consultations with local communities. For each of the different sites the best option for easing fish passage has been identified. It could be a fish pass (in principle like a disabled ramp for fish to get over the weir), a rock ramp (rocks are used to build a ramp of pools and riffles up to the weir so fish can pass over it) or a channel for the fish which goes around the weir.

The Trust works with local angling clubs to collect river data. “Anglers are our eyes on the river,” says Jamie, “and are very helpful with submitting their observations to us.” They have been asked to submit sightings of redds (salmon nurseries) as well as collecting salmon scale samples. Scale samples allow the biologists at the Trust to track the migrating salmon and see if they are returning to the same river to spawn or if they are straying into other rivers.

Work on the River Avon, being in more agricultural areas, has a different focus and includes addressing bank erosion and the spraying of invasive species like giant hogweed.

Once the fish move in you’ll see kingfishers and dragon flies. It will be good to see such wildlife in the middle of Bathgate.

There are many other projects in the pipeline, including cleaning up the Killandean at Kirkton Campus in Livingston and the eventual creation of a park there with benches and artwork; and the Boghead Burn which runs through Bathgate is earmarked for work to encourage fish to move into it. They will be working on the stretch of Bogburn between Whitburn Road and Glasgow Road. “Once the fish move in you’ll see kingfishers and dragon flies. It will be good to see such wildlife in the middle of Bathgate,” says Jamie.

GETTING INVOLVED Volunteers are needed for all projects.

To get involved Head to the RiverLife website and there’s a sign up link at the bottom of the page. www.fishforth.co.uk/rfft/riverlife/

A Small Grants Scheme exists for local groups or individuals to carry out projects to do with the river. It could be anything from practical environmental works on “your patch” of the Almond or Avon or one of their tributaries, to arts or theatre projects. Grants from £250 – £5000 are available.

TROUT: Spectacular migration at Mid Calder weir

To make an application, please visit: www.fishforth.co.uk/rfft/riverlife/small-grants-scheme/ First applications close 31st March 2017.

River Forth Fisheries Trust is a charity registered in Scotland (SC040311) Visit www.fishforth.co.uk for more information and follow RiverLife: Almond & Avon on facebook.

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

Photo Credit: All images supplied by River Forth Fisheries Trust

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 9

BACKGROUND IMAGE: Almondell Country Park

BUMBLE BEE: A beautiful example of “RiverLife”

LOCAL PEOPLE

Diane olm ClaytonChish I got my first BMX as a child and it really all started there

Passionate about the many benefits that cycling brings, Diane Clayton Chisholm is both a youth coach for the West Lothian Clarion Cycle Club, and the current Scottish Mountain Biking Cross Country Champion (for her age category!).

The aim of the Linlithgow Community Development Trust project is to build Scotland’s first ever closed road cycle circuit; 1km of quality track for everyone in Linlithgow (and central Scotland) to enjoy and an opportunity to access a safe, traffic-free cycling environment. “It will also help us to try to expand the club and give more youth riders the opportunity to get involved.”

Like many people, Diane’s love for cycling started as a child.

“I got my first BMX as a child and it really all started there.

But when I got a bit older it wasn’t quite as acceptable for a teenage girl to be riding a BMX so I bought a mountain bike instead.

“60 out of 200 members of Clarion are female which is really great, but we’d still like to see more women in the sport!” exclaims Diane. A lot of women are quite selfconscious about racing, so I offer coaching sessions to the adult club members too.”

I’m really lucky; my husband also shares my love of mountain biking. It’s something that we can do as a family, with our two boys, but equally we take it in turns to go out separately as well. I really appreciate that, because it’s something I enjoyed before I had kids, and my husband’s supported me to continue to do that.”

“The things I love most about Linlithgow are the community we have and being able to just walk or cycle everywhere.

We have cycling options too; if I want to go mountain biking for fun, Beecraigs is great. I can ride my road bike on the quiet roads, but I can also use my cyclo-cross bike to go along the Glasgow-Edinburgh canal route or national cycle route 76 through Hopetoun and Bo’ness.”

As well as mountain biking, Diane is a coach for the West Lothian Clarion Cycle Club. “There are currently 200 adults and 80 youths in the club, with another 100 youths on the waiting list. We provide skills coaching to kids from 6-18 in mountain biking (at Beecraigs), road riding and cyclo-cross (at Linlithgow Leisure Centre). As under 16’s can’t be coached or race on open roads, it’s important that they have a safe, traffic-free environment to be coached in and to race in. So we have permission to use the car park at Oracle in Linlithgow, which is great, but not quite big enough. That’s one of the reasons we’re supporting the town’s Kettilstoun project.”

10 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

In between cycling, coaching and family life, Diane is currently studying for a Masters and works in Learning and Development for the NHS. “I’m enthusiastic about getting people more active; now more than ever we have opportunities for being healthy, and on our doorstep here in Linlithgow.”

The local people column is contributed by Louise Taylor.

Louise lives in Linlithgow and as well as writing, she likes running and researching family history.

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n a i h t o West L

VIEW

his section of Konect celebrates all things West Lothian! With new developments and the population ever-growing here, it’s an exciting time for all of us, as services and facilities spring up to accommodate.

If you have information or services you would like to share with 40,500 households in West Lothian every month, please get in touch with us. We can help spread your message if you are a business, charity, social enterprise, running an event or have an inspirational story to share. See page 3 for our contact details.

Look inside this section for:

YOUR WEDDING - YOUR WAY Konect takes a look at the traditional and the unique SAY HELLO TO SPRING Your spring cleaning checklist, and all the local businesses who can help you with it PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN Our regular column on surviving parenthood in West Lothian PROPERTY MATTERS If you’re buying, selling or letting in West Lothian, keep up to date via Turpie & Co’s Konect topical column EMERGING FROM HIBERNATION Visit West Lothian’s regular column has suggestions for what to do locally

As part of our focus on weddings in this issue we’d like to congratulate the local businesses who were finalists and winners in the Scottish Confetti Wedding Awards this year. It illustrates the growing expertise that West Lothian has to offer in the weddings arena.

Razzmatazz Occasions (Bathgate) were winners in the Venue Accessory Supplier Category, and Pretty White Weddings and Events (Bathgate) were runners up in the same category. Food Creations (at venues all over West Lothian and beyond) were finalists in the Catering Category, and Truly Scrumptious Designer Cakes (Linlithgow) were finalists in the Cake Designer Category. At time of going to print Truly Scrumptious are also finalists in the Scottish Wedding Awards 2017. Well done to all involved!

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN | WL1

2017/18 WEDDING PACKAGES All prices for 75 day guests / 150 evening guests

WINTER WEDDING January, February & March 2018

£3795

WEDDING PACKAGE 2017 £4595 | 2018 £4795 ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE 2017 £7795 | 2018 £7995 All prices inclusive of V.A.T.

UPCOMING EVENTS MOTHER’S DAY Sunday 26th March Mothers Day lunch being served from 12 - 9.30pm

Adults :: £16.95 Kids :: £10.00 includes a glass of Sparkling for Mum

WL2 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

GREASE VS DIRTY DANCING TRIBUTE

20th May :: Tickets £35 includes a 3 Course meal £120 per couple including overnight stay

IMAGES COURTESY OF ‘ITS PHOTOGRAPHIC’, LIVINGSTON

SPECIAL FEATURE

KONECT TAKES A LOOK AT THE TRADITIONAL AND THE UNIQUE

You’ve just got engaged; congratulations to you both. Now you’ve a wedding to plan! It’s your wedding so no doubt you have a clear picture of what it should be like. But, if you’re still undecided, here are some ideas from Konect to give you the inspiration for your big day.

THE PERFECT VENUE

You don’t need a limo when you’re marrying the Harburn Golf Club Captain

t quil spo ’ tran t s o An ‘alm ondvale Stadium ind Alm beh

Are you the traditional type, or looking for something a little…different? Traditional hotel weddings are still very popular for good reason, as they normally provide a choice of ready-made packages. Choose a hotel with a good reputation for weddings and which is experienced in catering for the numbers you’re looking for. Many hotels have dedicated events co-ordinators who can help get things just right. Always ask for a detailed list of what’s included in the price, so you can set aside money from your budget, well in advance, for other essentials. Some hotels, like the Hilcroft in Whitburn post their wedding packages on their website so you can download them.

Other venues in West Lothian such as Kirknewton Stables provide a blank canvas for you to create a bespoke wedding from scratch - it has been known to have clay-pigeon shooting, among its wedding day activities to keep gusts entertained.

There’s also a place for small venues like bowling clubs or rugby clubs, that rely on functions to keep themselves ticking over – or historic listed buildings like Bo’ness Town Hall - a real part of the local community.

The bride wore white…and red DM’s…and rode a horse!

BESPOKE WEDDINGS FOR A TRULY UNIQUE EVENT For couples who want to put a unique stamp on their big day...enter the wedding planners, whose task it is to bring often very unusual visions to life. Simon Preece, KONECT WEST LOTHIAN | WL3

WEDDING FAYRE

SUNDAY 12TH MARCH 2017 ● 12PM TO 4PM

For the latest trends, wedding cakes, photographers, accessories, grooms wear and that all important dress – the Dalmahoy Wedding Fayre is the place to be!

For more information please call Emma our dedicated Wedding Co-ordinator on

0131 335 8066

or email conferenceandevents@dalmahoyhotelandcountryclub.co.uk

Kirknewton ● Edinburgh ● EH27 8EB ● www.dalmahoyhotelandcountryclub.co.uk

WL4 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

owner of Livingston-based Food Creations has masterminded, among other requests, a super-hero themed wedding. He said, “The most important thing is to create your day based around what’s special to you and not to worry about what anyone else thinks. That way it’s not only personal but memorable for everyone attending.” Memorable indeed. In fact, one of the most memorable events for Simon was organising a Nigerian wedding. “The chillies we were asked to cook with were so hot, our chefs had to wear gloves and masks when preparing them.”

DO’S AND DON’TS OF PLANNING YOUR PERFECT WEDDING “Don’t ask family and friends to deal with the reallyimportant tasks” says Simon Preece. Wise words indeed. Auntie Jean might be a dab-hand at whipping up the lightest scones, but a wedding cake is an entirely different proposition. No bride wants to end up with a soggy bottom on her wedding day, so it’s worth investing in a professional service. And, with the number of high-quality independent bakers rising faster than Mary Berry’s soufflés, there are plenty to choose from.

Do take out wedding insurance. There’s the recent story of the bride who handed her 150-year old wedding dress - a hand-made, family heirloom - into a drycleaner which went bankrupt. The story went viral on social media and was eventually picked up by the BBC. It had a happy outcome as the bride and her dress were eventually reunited but it does illustrate the need to take precautions.

“Don’t dismiss a venue because there’s nowhere picturesque to take wedding photos” is the advice from professional photographer, Peter Lawson of Its Photographic. Some venues have naturally beautiful surroundings such as Dalmahoy Hotel and Country Club and Kirknewton Stables but what about others? “There are some great wedding venues in West Lothian,” said Peter. “But it sometimes takes a creative eye and a bit of imagination to pick out a romantic spot for that perfect shot.“ Take the Almondvale Suite at Livingston FC as an example. How do you find somewhere other than the pitch to find a bit of grass? “I took the wedding party for a short stroll behind the stadium to the River Almond” said Peter. “The surroundings were beautiful. I’ve now taken wedding pictures there for quite a few couples.”

“Unforgettable” Breathtaking venues, incredible food, and an attention to detail, all add up to making your wedding day the most memorable and special occasion you could wish for.

Let Simon Preece Food Creations

Scottish Wedding Awards Finalist 2017 help make it your perfect day!

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

@Food_Creations

Wedding and Event Florist T: 01506 200206 M: 07816 673 204 E: vicky@vickysflowers.com

www.vickysflowers.com

So, what’s the most unusual wedding picture Peter has taken? “It has to be the one of the bride on the Clydesdale horse wearing a beautiful white dress…and red Doc Martens! Every picture I take is special but that one is definitely unique.”

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN | WL5

River Kids is a registered Scottish Charity Scottish Charity Number SC 037312

Toy Sale Massive Toy Clearance & Baby Item Sale at The Old Scotmid in Broxburn on 31st March and the 1st April.

10am – 4pm

We have had a donation of excess stock and we need to make space for the items we can use.

Baby Baths, Moses Baskets, Cots, Car Seats and much more will all be available at knock down prices.

Toys starting at £1 each.

Bikes starting at £10 each

Come along & grab a bargain.

Call

0300 123 1070

Or email us at

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You can donate by going to :

www.justgiving.com/riverkids/donate

and you can set up either a single or a monthly donation.

Please go to www.riverkids.org.uk for more details on our appeals.

WL6 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

earn one’s 2000m circular endurance swimming badge while being appropriately accessorised for the pool Let me relate to you a story, which I have genuinely never told anyone…

When I was around 12 years old, I was picked to be a member of the Glasgow Schools swimming team.

The very first gala I ever attended as a competitor was such a big deal that I was sick in the morning before leaving the house, and I was physically shaking as I took my place at the side of the pool to start.

At that time, I had recently been diagnosed as short-sighted and had just got my first pair of glasses, a big pink plastic monstrosity of a pair that gave me more than a passing resemblance to an owl. So unused to wearing them was I that when I took my dive stance ready to start my first ever big race, I was still wearing them.

and I withdrew from the team. It’s for this reason that although I’ve always wanted my kids to learn to swim, I want it to be one-on-one with me so that the chance of something unexpected happening that might put them off the water is minimised.

With our local swimming pool, Livingston Xcite, there are rules about who can go swimming together – as an adult you can’t go with any more than one child under 4. Given that Channa and I are rarely available at the same time, swimming trips are a precious treat but 2 Saturdays ago the stars aligned and we dug out our swimmies.

We used the family changing room and it did occur to us why the lock mechanism isn’t placed just a little bit higher – most of my time in there was

ON YOUR MARKS… GO! Well, I dived in wearing the glasses and immediately realised something was wrong – but my training and the sheer desire not to let my team down (plus my need for the race to be over before my glasses fell off) drove me to swim harder than I ever had before, and I subsequently won the race.

Even though I won, the embarrassment and the ribbing I took from my team (however good-naturedly) put me off swimming for a good while after

spent trying to prevent Quinn from flinging the door open and exposing us to the world. There was also the uncomfortable period of several minutes where Penny was determined to take her swimming costume off so that she could see the cartoon characters printed on her swim nappy – “LOOK! A FISH!” The pool was quite quiet, and the most popular section as far as the kids were concerned was the river rapids… we must have gone round upwards of 30 times to the point where I felt like I had actually taken part in a bizarre circular endurance event.

But at least with the advent of contact lenses I avoided a spectacles-based embarrassment!

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www.woodfordtimber.com

Williamson’s Garden Centre Houston Mains Uphall EH52 6PA tel: 01506 811885

WL8 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

GARDENING PROJECT

CREATE INSTANT HEIGHT AND COLOUR IN YOUR GARDEN Training climbing plants up an obelisk or a heavy wooden post brings drama and a spectacle to your borders. This climbing rose Maigold is twisted around a 7ft heavy wooden post and will give you a strong and permanent focal point in your garden. Pop in a late flowering Clematis viticella variety as well to extend your display into late summer.

This is a good time to create such a feature in your garden, before you have to spend your time weeding and cutting the grass!

You could use sweet peas for an instant display this summer – the climbing rose will take a year or two to make it’s full impact.

Choose a support that suits the style of your garden – obelisks can be simple or more ornamental, a post is the simplest support. Choose a climbing plant that will not swamp your support and will produce the colour of flowers you love – overall height of 8ft is perfect – a shrub rose treated as a climber makes a great choice as would a fragrant Honeysuckle and then you gently twist the three strongest stems around the support and tie them to it.

Shrub Rose Pillar

The gardening project is contributed

by New Hopetoun Gardens. www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk Pick up more of their weekend garden projects from the garden centre.

TRY A PURPLE PIGLET PROJECT FOR THE WEEKEND! Pick up one of our recipe cards for a fun weekend project for your garden.…

Growing Tatties in a Tub, Creating a Miniature Garden, Growing a Climbing Rose up a Post…loads to choose from!

New Hopetoun Gardens by Winchburgh, West Lothian, EH52 6QZ t 01506 834433 www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk

KONECT WEST LOTHIAN | WL9

PROPERTY MATTERS

The most reliable indicators lie in the ability to interpret the needs and comments of buyers at a local level

In any market, the conversation often revolves around the likely future of house prices. Will they go up, will they go down, will they remain stable?

course, asking prices are no reflection of sale prices and this applies in a sellers market as much as it applies in a buyers market!

Even the most credible authorities tend to disagree on the direction of property prices and sales volume, so where does that leave the humble consumer? Baffled!

Then there are the figures provided by various niche portals such as ESPC or from National estate agency groups.

However, some of these can be biased because that group of companies might only specialise in a specific sector or geography.

The problem is the source of data that is used to make assumptions about the market is fickle. For example, you could look at the latest Land Registry figures. These record the volumes and prices of sales that completed up to about four months after the sale was arranged. But a lot can happen in four months – an interest rate change and 120 days of media influence can make a vast difference to buyer sentiment!

Estate agents must be acutely aware of what is happening in the market they serve at any given point in time. They have a huge responsibility to get it right for their clients first time, and they take that responsibility very seriously. Ultimately, we find that the most reliable indicators lie in the ability to interpret the needs and comments of buyers at a local level.

After all, it is today’s buyers who determine the current value of your property!

You could look at the figures supplied by property portals such as Rightmove. These can be a more accurate reflection of the current situation because they interpret the relationship between the changes in the number of properties on the market and average asking prices, and the number of buyers registering within the previous month. Of

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.

WL10 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

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Attack the bathroom with gusto

HOME IMPROVEMENT

SAY GOODBYE TO WINTER AND HELLO TO SPRING

As well as all the usual spring-cleaning jobs like cleaning your cupboards and changing the bedding – which, let’s face it, should be done on a regular basis anyway - it’s time to get stuck into those jobs that couldn’t be done during the winter. Tackle them now and you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the summer knowing that your home will be in tip-top condition.

Let’s start with the outside.

1. CLEAR THE WINTER DEBRIS

Clean your extractor hood and replace any charcoal filters

Check your gutters and clean out any dead leaves.

This is a job that should also be done after autumn as dead leaves can cause blockages meaning water can get trapped, freeze and crack your pipes. If you spot a cracked pipe or gutter, it’s best to get it replaced now otherwise rainwater running down your walls could lead to corrosion and dampness. Replace any roof tiles while you’re at it.

2. RE-POINTING THE EXTERIOR

Rake the lawn to remove dead growth and winter debris

Re-pointing – that is, filling in the gaps between your stone or brickwork – is a bit like watching paint dry (pardon the pun). It’s not the most exciting of tasks but needs to be done to ensure the fabric of your property stays waterproof yet breathable which allows condensation to escape. It’s best to choose a lime-based mortar for the task. You may need to hire a scaffolding tower from a local DIY company to allow you to safely get to those hard-to-reach places. If you’re not confident in re-pointing yourself, employ a reputable builder to do it for you.

CONTINUED ON PAGE WL16

WL14 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

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3. PAINTING YOUR WINDOWS AND PATIO DOORS Spring is the time to throw open your windows to let the fresh air in and give your window a fresh lick of paint. If they need replaced there’s no time like the present. Look for windows with a low U value which means they’re thermally efficient and will keep your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

The same applies to patio doors. Spring and summer is the best time to get them replaced and they needn’t be as expensive as you may think. Bi-folding doors have become popular in recent years as they open out fully to let in more light and air. If you prefer sliding patio doors, there are new models on the market which have thin yet strong frames so they can hold larger panes of glass.

More glass and less frames mean more panoramic views of your garden.

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5. PREPARING THE GARDEN

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Rake the lawn to remove dead growth and winter debris.

Check your soil for decent drainage and buy a test kit to determine the pH of the soil. If it’s below 6.2 add some lime a couple of weeks before planting. Repair any broken trellises and fencing.

6. SPRING CLEANING INDOORS Starting with the kitchen, degrease the shelves and the tops of cupboards. Clean your extractor hood and replace any charcoal filters. Defrost the freezer and throw out those leftovers from six months. Replace any faulty appliances.

Clean your rugs to get rid of any mites which can cause allergies – especially in the bedroom. Shampoo or replace your carpets and any damaged wooden or laminate flooring.

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Next, attack the bathroom with gusto. Replace any broken tiles and re-seal around bath and shower tray and re-grout between tiles to prevent damp and mould growth.

Finally, put your feet up and admire your handy work – you’re ready to enjoy the summer.

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KONECT WEST LOTHIAN | WL19

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WL20 | KONECT WEST LOTHIAN

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VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

EMERGING FROM HIBERNATION IN WEST LOTHIAN! Spring is most definitely on the way. With a (slight) change in the weather, it is time to start looking out for the daffodils, little lambs and of course lots of fun activities for all the family in West Lothian!

With 2017 being the VisitScotland Year of History, Heritage & Archaeology, and spring beginning to blossom, it’s the perfect time to start exploring West Lothian’s historic past. Why not take a trip to the iconic Linlithgow Palace, birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots or Scotland’s finest stately home – Hopetoun House, both of which were featured in the highly acclaimed TV series ‘Outlander’. Or enjoy a visit to Almond Valley Heritage Centre, where you can learn about West Lothian’s shale mining industry whilst revelling in a whole heap of fun activities for all the family.

Perhaps you’d like to try something a little bit different in West Lothian this spring. If you are up for a challenge take a visit to Escape - the new, fun, challenging live exit game in the centre of Livingston. Your team must solve

many puzzles, riddles, brain teasers and identify clues, using only your powers of observation and problem solving, do you have what it takes to escape?

Look out for our new West Lothian Visitor Guide 2017/18, which will be appearing in schoolbags & leaflet racks soon!

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

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WINTER SPECIAL

Aberdein Considine is offering a special gift to people thinking of selling their home this winter – a free Home Report worth hundreds of pounds.

Between now and March, anyone putting their property on the market through our estate agency branches in Edinburgh, Glasgow Shawlands, Glasgow West End, Newton Mearns, Perth, Stirling and West Lothian will have their Home Report cost covered in full.

This saves you nearly £450 on the typical property listed with a value of £150,000. The saving is far greater on more expensive properties and could take nearly £1,000 off the cost of selling at £500,000.

Also, we don’t charge any upfront fees – meaning you won't have to pay a penny until your property is sold.

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At Aberdein Considine, we have been selling homes across Scotland since 1981. As a seller, we can offer you the support of some of Scotland’s most experienced property professionals. Their experience, together with our unique marketing approach, will help you reach more buyers and secure the best possible price for your property.

Here’s how:

n We’re big online and on the ground – between our own website and social media, our properties reach almost two million people every month. We also offer national coverage for your home on the high street thanks to our network of 18 offices around Scotland. n Unlike traditional estate agents and online agents, we can list your properties on major property portals and solicitor property centres such as the ESPC, GSPC and PSPC. n We have a bank of more than 2,000 people looking to move home. These applicants will be matched to your property if it meets their criteria. n We can offer national press advertising packages in Scotland’s best-selling quality newspapers.

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KONECT LINLITHGOW | 37

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

We think of the essentials of life as basic food, clothing, shelter. But beyond mere survival there are intangibles that are absolutely essential for a healthy life – dignity, self-respect, confidence. For local charity Kids Love Clothes, these intangibles are just as important as the “basics” they provide...

As the name suggests, Kids Love Clothes provides for children in the Lothians and Edinburgh whose families are struggling to clothe them. “But we do not just shove some second-hand clothes in a bag!” says charity founder Fiona Shapcott. I met Fi along with volunteer Julie Diver at their storage unit in Ratho. As we chat it’s clear that this is absolutely about respecting the people who will be receiving the clothes. Donations of quality second-hand or new clothes are quality-checked, ironed and folded, wrapped in tissue paper and beautifully presented in a Kids Love Clothes bag. Only clothes in excellent condition are passed on.

“Over the years, we’ve realised that our service has a much higher impact than just clothing the children,” explains Fi. One story illustrates the point beautifully - the mother who, once she had the Kids Love Clothes outfits, had the confidence to start taking her son to toddler group. She had been too ashamed of not having any clothes for him previously. “So there is a huge value multiplier of the effect – the mother gained some confidence and dignity; the child had the opportunity to socialise...the repercussions are massive.” The bags, so beautifully presented, give dignity and freedom as well as “just” clothes. They are delivered to the recipients’ home, like a lovely gift from friends.

The storage unit at Ratho is full of clothes, but they always need more to meet demand. “Look at this gorgeous party dress,” says Julie. “We include party clothes and dress-ups when possible too, clothes that make it possible for kids to socialise without stigma and to be pleased with the way they look.” Referrals are via Social Workers or Health Visitors, and demand has soared in the past year. 882 children were clothed in the Lothians in 2016 – an 88% increase on the 38 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

previous year. Kids Love Clothes is entirely volunteerrun, with volunteers from West Lothian and Edinburgh collecting, sorting, ironing, delivering and creating a great volunteer camaraderie; while I was there for this article the owner of the storage facility turned up with a freshlybaked cake for the volunteers! There is clearly a fantastic atmosphere. “We know we’re making a huge difference to people’s lives. It’s hard work, but there’s a massive need right here in our own local communities.” The Kids Love Clothes ironing ladies of Kirknewton get a special mention for riding to the rescue regularly with big piles of ironing!

The stories of the families who receive the clothes are many and varied: victims of domestic violence who have fled with their kids with just the clothes on their backs; loss of job and/ or benefits which throw a family temporarily into hardship; refugees and immigrants. For some situations a large holdall for the clothes is provided too for families who are likely to need to move on from one temporary accommodation to another.

A Kids Love Clothes bag contains a wardrobe’s worth of seasonally appropriate clothes. A few toys and books are usually included with each bag. Items that are not quite good enough for the gift bags are passed on to other organisations; nothing is wasted.

Clothing for a child in need seems like an obvious service, but there are no other charities doing this. The Edinburgh Clothing Store does great work although it operates more like a food bank rather than the “beautifully packaged gift from friends” model that Kids Love Clothes strives to achieve.

Collection of donations from Potter Around, Kirknewton I had my wee girl in January. At first it was a great experience and I had lots of clothes as gifts from family and friends. As time went on my maternity pay stopped and I was struggling to buy clothes, but I received a lovely bag of clothes from Kids Love Clothes – they were like new, freshly ironed and smelling like they had just come off the line!

My wee girl looks like a princess.

Parent Donations of clothes are always needed! Kids grow so fast that they often grow out of their clothes before they wear them out! Please wash and save any good condition second hand clothes for ages newborn to 10 years. New clothes are welcome too. There are various drop-off points around the Lothians, please contact us for details.

Gift Bags for Newborn Twins

Organise collections: if you can organise clothing collections at your work, school, fitness classes or social clubs we’d love to hear from you!

Volunteers – we need people to join our team for sorting, checking and ironing clothes. Become part of the Kids Love Clothes community!

Fundraising – we also need good old-fashioned fundraising to cover our overheads such as the storage facility rent and keeping the van on the road.

More Information To get in touch, or to find out more information about our drop-off locations, please visit:

Julie & Archie Collecting donations at Beavers

www.kidsloveclothes.co.uk www.facebook.com/KidsLoveClothes Contributor: Helen-Jane Shearer interviewed the founder and local volunteers of Kids Love Clothes for this feature.

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

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 39

VET’S TIP

CHOOSING A PET The arrival of a new member of the family is an exciting time especially if, unlike a new brother or sister, you get to choose what he or she will look like! But choosing a pet brings its own set of responsibilities.

A dog can be an ideal companion for some, but they are a long-term commitment, living between nine and 15 years.

You’ll be paying for food, vets bills and other expenses over that lifetime – as much as £30,000. Dogs also shouldn’t be left for long periods alone and they need lots of space in and out of the house - and daily walks, whatever the weather.

Even a fish can live for up to 40 years and one goldfish can cost £2000 over its lifetime!

The key to happy pet ownership is to do your research about what your pet needs in terms of time, space and care before you take the plunge.

Cats can be left for longer periods but they still need space to exercise and their litter trays need regular clean-outs.

They are just as much as a long-term commitment, living up to 15+ years, and can cost £17,000 over their lifetime.

Small pets also need plenty of space for a cage and some are a long-term commitment – chinchillas can live 22 years.

Some are nocturnal, so not best for playing with during the day – or in a bedroom at night.

CATS PROTECTION WEST LOTHIAN

FEATURED CAT | BILBO Bilbo is a friendly, confident cat. A very people-orientated lap cat who loves head scratches and strokes, he needs to be the only cat in his new home but might be ok with the right dog(s). He will also take himself off for a quiet snooze to give you some peace and quiet. He likes to sleep with or on you in bed. Bilbo is not a very active cat, although enjoys a quiet play, and will break into a trot to say hello or if there are treats on offer.

Unfortunately, Bill has moderate heart failure and an overactive thyroid gland; these are controlled on tablets, which he eats mixed in with his food (eventually). Although currently a normal active cat, his life span will probably be limited by these conditions. He has been in a cattery for a few months, so really deserves a lovely new family.

Call 01506 298107 or “Contact Us” at www.cats.org.uk/west-lothian 40 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

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

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

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or pop into the surgery

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BUSTER THE DOG

USEFUL INFORMATION

WHAT’S ON | GEMS OF THE BAROQUE The Antonine Ensemble from Linlithgow is holding a candle-lit concert to raise money for Mary’s Meals. St Michael’s RC Church, Linlithgow at 7.30pm Friday 17th March 2017.

“Gems of the Baroque” includes pieces

by Corelli, Purcell, Telemann, Handel, Santiago de Murcia, and Biber. The musicians are local players and guests of the Antonine Ensemble directed

by Alison Hastie, viola player in The Orchestra of Scottish Opera, member of Music cooperative Scotland, and assistant organist in the parish. The musicians shall perform trio sonatas, duos and solo items, in the candle-lit meditative stillness of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Admission is free, but donations are invited towards Mary’s Meals.

Mary’s Meals sets up and runs school feeding programmes in communities where hunger and poverty prevent children from gaining an education.

The charity currently provides a meal every school day for 1,187,104 children in 12 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean.

The aim is to address the immediate needs of a hungry child by giving them something to eat, and to enable them to receive the education that can offer an escape from poverty. The charity’s average global cost to feed a child for a whole school year is just £12.20.

Mary’s Meals fundraiser, Alison Hastie, said: “It is a great privilege to perform beautiful music in these hallowed surroundings, and to know that money is being raised for a most worthy cause:

feeding a hungry child, and enabling access to school education.

School + Food = Hope!”

For further information on Mary’s Meals, please visit: www.marysmeals.org.uk or follow the charity on @marysmeals and www.facebook.com/marysmeals

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 41

FOOD & DRINK

s d a e r B t s a F

Butchery Butchery Delicatessen Butchery Delicatessen Bakery Delicatessen Bakery Grocery and Gifts Bakery Grocery and Gifts All locally sourced Grocery and Gifts All locally sourced quality produce All locally sourced quality produce quality produce

“Letters of Note” compiled by Shaun Usher gave me the start for this month’s notes. The first letter in this fascinating collection - ranging from Crick’s letter explaining DNA to his schoolboy son to Elvis Presley to President Nixon - is from Queen Elizabeth II to Eisenhower sending him “her” recipe for drop scones.

We have a long tradition of making scones, flatbread, griddle cakes, farls, potato cakes and bannocks. The hissing as they cook gives the descriptive name of Northumberland’s contribution to the tradition, Singin’ Hinny. The fall-back for country people who grew their own grains and had to be sparing with their use of fuel, scones or oatcakes could be cooked on a griddle on the fire. They get the best from local low protein wheat, barley, oat or rye flours and don’t need yeast, kneading or long baking. They are nutritious, quick and easy to produce and make a meal with soup or stew. Scotland is justly proud of its contribution to the tradition, exporting oat cakes all over the world.

Scones are very widely claimed as local food all over Britain. But the fame of farmer’s wife Mrs MacNab of Ballater has lasted since the 19th century. Even Queen Victoria and her guests made a path to her door for scones of “perfect lightness”. Speed and lightness in handling are the secret.

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

42 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

DROP SCONES

MASTER SCONE MIX From “Great British Bakes” by Mary Anne Boermans.

Doubled or tripled her standard dry scone mix can be frozen in bulk and used for small batches of fresh scones.

• • • • • •

225g plain flour 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 60g butter 30g sugar Milk, sour if you like

METHOD Sift the dry ingredients and add the butter; blitz in a food processor or rub to fine bread crumbs by hand. Tip into a large bowl and using a round-ended knife mix in the milk to a soft dough.

Turn out onto a floured surface and make into a round. Cut into 6 wedges. Brush with milk and bake 12 minutes or so, till coloured on top.

SWEET VARIATIONS • Orange and sultana: add 40g fruit and 15g candied peel • Lemon and Blueberry: 40g fresh blueberries+ 15g candied lemon peel • Date and walnut; 40g chopped dates + 15g chopped walnuts • Date and lemon: 40g dates + 15g candied lemon • Orange and cranberry: 40g dried or fresh cranberries + 15g candied orange • Ginger and lemon: 40g chopped crystallised ginger + 15g candied lemon • Apple and cinnamon: 50g chopped eating apple + 1 teaspoon dried cinnamon SAVOURY VARIATIONS Leave out the sugar. Add 40 or 50g of the main flavour, and 15-20g of the second.

Cheese and herb (1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley, chive or fennel); Breakfast: chopped cooked sausage + red Leicester; Chorizo and Pesto; Cheese and Spring onion; Cheese and Apple; Bacon and Cheese; Peanut butter: crunchy peanut butter.

The monthly recipe 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.

THE QUEEN’S DROP SCONES • • • • • • •

4 teacups plain flour 4 tablespoons sugar 2 teacups milk 2 eggs 3 teaspoons cream of tartar 2 teaspoons bi-carb 50g butter, melted

METHOD Sift dry goods together. Beat eggs, sugar and about half the milk together. Add the liquid little by little to the flour. Use a bit more if the mixture seems very stiff. Fold in the melted butter.

Enough for 16! I halved the quantities and we had lots for seven, hungry, after a winter walk.

The Queen omitted how to cook the scones in her letter. But heat a heavy bottomed frying pan.

Butter or lightly oil the surface - it should smoke slightly. Drop tablespoonful of batter on to the pan and cook till bubbles show. With a palate knife, turn the pancakes and cook the other side. It might take a couple of times to get the temperature correct but don’t worry, the batter is very forgiving and traditional amounts of jam and butter will make a tea time feast.

Mrs macnabs scones • • • • • •

450g plain white flour 1 teaspoon salt 2 scant teaspoons cream of tartar 50g butter 1 egg, well beaten 300ml butter milk or sour milk ; use ½ teaspoon of lemon juice to “sour” fresh milk

METHOD Heat the oven to 220oC. Sift the dry ingredients twice. Rub in the butter (use food processor or hand blender). Stir in the egg then the milk. Stir till dough collects in one lump. Turn onto a floured surface and knead lightly and quickly till smooth.

Tear off small pieces and form into round shape.

DO NOT roll out. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes till just coloured. Split and eat with butter and jam - or whatever you prefer.

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 43

USEFUL INFORMATION

WHAT’S ON | LINLITHGOW Friday 15th March

A Ladies Afternoon of Entertainment in aid of Bosom Buds of Scotland. 1-10pm at Richmond Park Bo’ness £20 per ticket includes fizz and afternoon tea. Call 01506 671800 for tickets or more information. www.bosombudsofscotland.co.uk

Annet House Museum (Linlithgow) Presents

Antique, Vintage & Collector Fair Queen Margaret Hall Blackness Road, Linlithgow EH49 7JA

Friday 17th March

Gems of the Baroque A concert by the Antonine Ensemble and Friends St Michael’s Catholic Church, Blackness Road. See page 41 for details Saturday 18th March

Antique, Vintage and Collector Fair Queen Margaret Hall, Blackness Road, Linlithgow 9am – 4pm. An auctioneer from Ramsay Cornish (Edinburgh) will be onsite for valuations from 10am – 2pm. Event presented by Annet House Museum.

18th March 2017 9.00am - 4.00pm

Entry £1

An Auctioneer from Ramsay Cornish (Edinburgh) will be onsite for valuations from 10.00am - 2.00pm

LIBRARY INFORMATION

Saturday 18th March

Linlithgow Library

Venice meets Buenos Aires: Concert for Classical Guitars and Strings Linlithgow Academy Theatre. With international guitarists The Katona Twins and the Carducci String Quartet. Music by Vivaldi and Piazolla. Tickets £12, students £5, school pupils free. Tickets online at www.

LinlithgowArtsGuild.co.uk, phone 01506 777666 or at “Far from the Madding Crowd”, Linlithgow High Street.

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.

Saturday 18th March

STORYTIME: Stories and art activities for children 3-4 years during term time - every Monday and Friday 10.30am.

West Lothian Highland Society Monthly Ceilidh Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, 7.30-11.00pm. Band will be W.McFarlane’s Band. Piper -Alvis Kerr with Junior Pipe Band.

Members - £6.00, Non-Members - £7.00.

Saturday 25th March

LINLITHGOW BOOK GROUP: Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6pm to discuss their chosen novel.

Linlithgow String Orchestra Spring Concert St Ninian’s Craigmailen Church, Linlithgow. 7.30pm. See advert on page 37 for details

BOOKBUG SESSIONS: Stories, songs & rhymes suitable for all under 3’s and their grown-ups.

Saturday 25th March

Council Information Service (located within the library) is open 9-2.30 Monday to Friday

Linlithgow Farmers Market The Cross, High Street, Linlithgow.

Sunday 26th March

Willow Weaving – Come and Try Have a go at willow weaving with Hopetoun House Ranger Service. Use natural materials and pick up the basic skills of this traditional craft.

Bring lunch. All materials will be provided. BOOKING ESSENTAIL. LIMITED PLACES, call 0131 319 3956.

Hopetoun House, EH30 9SL South Queensferry 44 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

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 TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE, PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

2nd West Lothian Scouts

Badminton Club

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.

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

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.

Linlithgow and 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.

Seedlings – Tots and Toddlers church St Michael’s Church Hall, Thursday’s 10-11am. Bring your 0-5 year old children or grandchildren for craft activities and singing. Coffee, cake, new friends. Just come along on the morning.

Scottish Seniors Computer Club Star and Garter (The Bistro Café), Station Road. Wednesday 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: Dougie Baird, Linlithgow Computer Club. Call 07929 120129 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 information please see www.physioledpilates.com NEW Monthly Mindfulness Meditation & Qigong Class Starting Sunday 12th March 1:15-3:45 at The Old Pavilion at Linlithgow Cricket Ground. FREE class for cancer patients (past and present) and their families / carers and friends - no expereince required. Email: Trish@bosombudsofscotland for more information All details are on our website: www. bosombudsofscotland.org

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 45

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

BATHROOMS Bathgate Bathroom Studio

WL19

BUILDING SURVEYOR David Hastings

WL18

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING C and W Cleaning Services WL15 James Burnett WL15 CATERING Food Creations

WL5

CLEANING SERVICES Dusters Cleaning Services Multi-Level Contracts

WL16 WL15

COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers

WL20

DANCE CLASSES Nu Moves Dance Studio

2

DOORS uPVC Door Shop

6

ELECTRICIAN Clan Electrical MC & Co. Electrical

4 WL18

ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine WL23 Remax WL13 Turpie & Co. WL11 EYE CARE Hendry Optomotrist

5

FENCING/GATES Welding & Fabrication Solutions Ltd

4

FLORIST Vicky’s Flowers

WL5

FOOD & GROCERIES Hopetoun Farm Shop

4

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING Keith Rontree New Hopetoun Gardens WL Landscaping

4 42 WL16

GARDEN BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate Ltd Woodford Timber

11 WL8

HANDMADE GIFTS Ligneum Designs

(Back Cover) 48

HEALTH & FITNESS Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club

WL4

HEATING SERVICES Capital Heating Dewar Plumbing Morland & Martin

WL18 WL5 12

HOMES FOR SALE CALA Homes

46 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

7

HOTEL SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY Hilcroft WL2 CROSSWORD Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club WL4 JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces Ltd Geoff Vinter Joinery

WL24 6

KITCHENS Ekco WL17 S and S 47 LOCKSMITH West Lothian Locksmith Company WL24 MOBILITY Ableworld WL12 Med Ecosse WL21 MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Hire Scotland Motorhome Escapes

WL14 WL22

OVEN CLEANING SERVICES The Clean Team

WL16

PAINTER/DECORATOR David J Lane Nu Walls

4 WL16

PLUMBING SERVICES Dewar Plumbing D-Mac Services Scotland Morland & Martin

WL5 WL18 12

REMOVALS Linlithgow Removals Man With Van Ltd

6 WL15

TIMBER PRODUCTS Woodford Timber

WL8

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader

WL15

VET Mackie and Brechin West Port Veterinary Clinic

ACROSS: 1 Attach, 4 Asking, 9 Shorten, 10 Untie, 11 Extra, 12 Extends, 13 Intertwined, 18 Needing, 20 Outer, 22 Helps, 23 Thirsty, 24 Rushed, 25 Ceased DOWN: 1 Answer, 2 Trout, 3 Cottage, 5 Stunt, 6 Intense, 7 Grease, 8 Investigate, 14 Needles, 15 Idolise, 16 Anchor, 17 Frayed, 19 Issue, 21 Tests

41 40

WEDDING VENUE Hilcroft WL2 Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club WL4 WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES Andrew James Windows & Conservatories WL19 Greenburn Glass WL24 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. Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

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KONECT LINLITHGOW | 47

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