Konect Linlithgow March 2020

MARCH 2020

OF WIN A PAIR !

S T E TICK

LOCAL HISTORY:

ON THE BOARDWALK

TORPHICHEN’S

Unsung Hero

PARENTING:

Keep Calm &

PARKRUN

P30 TO OUR MARCH EDITION

S

pring must be nearly here - we have a fantastic competition for tickets

to Gardening Scotland at Ingliston, a sure sign it’s time to be thinking about emerging from hibernation. If you’re looking to get work done in and around

THIS ISSUE

the house and garden, check the pages of this magazine for local companies to help out.

The local history article this month is one I have printed before, but thought it worth re-printing as it’s a little-known story. The local walk takes us out to Blackridge to a boardwalk, and all our usual columns are here. I hope you enjoy the magazine this month. As ever, drop me a line and

Local History: Henry Bell.................................. 8 Competition: Gardening Scotland................. 10 Gardening: Indestructible Houseplants........ 12 Property Matters............................................. 15 Life Coaching................................................. 16 Bridge Column............................................... 24 Vet’s Tip.......................................................... 25 Film Review..................................................... 28 Parenting......................................................... 29 Local Walk: On the Boardwalk...................... 30 Homes: Video Doorbells................................ 34 What’s On....................................................... 35 Puzzles............................................................ 36 Clubs & Classes............................................36

let me know!

COVER IMAGE: Selfie with Mum: Mother’s Day is Sunday 22nd March

Konect is delivered monthly to 7,500 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

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Account Manager

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Saturday 16th May 2020 7pm - 1am Dance the night away with music from the 60's, 70's, 80's up until the present day brought to you by the Elite Show Band.

Elite have ha performed to audiences across the UK. They’re made up of 4 of the most talented and experienced musicians in Scotland that have came together through their passion for music. The price includes a delicious three-course meal and disco.

ÂŁ36.95 per person For more information or to book please call our team on 01506 446699 or email reception@deer-park.co.uk.

For all of our upcoming events visit

deer-park.co.uk/whats_on Golf - Leisure - Dining - Weddings - Events - Ten Pin

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Follow us @deerparkgcc for the latest news and offers

LINLITHGOW | 7

LOCAL HISTORY

Illustration of the Comet by Robert Thurston, 1878

Henry Bell, TORPHICHEN’s Unsung Hero Hardly anybody has heard of him, but Torphichen-born Henry Bell was the first man to successfully apply steam power to shipping so that sea travel, for the first time, was no longer dependent on the whims of the wind. A huge achievement, so why is his name so obscure?

Glasgow to get work in the building trade.

He was born at Torphichen Mill in 1767 He had been working on a building project into a family of engineers and builders. for a customer in Helensburgh, but when As a child he skipped school as often as the customer failed to move in and take he could, especially in the summer when over, Henry and his wife Margaret decided he preferred to be out playing or working to move to Helensburgh and acquire the in the fields. As a result his reading and building. It was a large building which writing was perhaps not up to scratch but Margaret ran as an inn and spa (“The he had a great practical understanding of Baths Inn”) while Henry busied himself with how things worked. On leaving school at his steamship project. Profits from the Inn 15, he tried his hand at various trades in were ploughed into the businesses it, and Henry also of his extended How many noblemen, gentlemen petitioned investors family, including to help him realise as a stone mason, and engineers have puzzled their his dream. Most millwright and brains, and spent their thousands of were dismissive and carpenter. But he pounds, and none of all these, nor he received little didn’t really settle yourself, have been able to bring the support. James at anything long power of steam in navigation to a Watt himself didn’t term - it seems successful issue. believe it was he was distracted James Watt possible, writing to by his interest Bell “How many noblemen, gentlemen and in steam engines, and his conviction engineers have puzzled their brains, and that he could make steam work in ships. spent their thousands of pounds, and none Steam engines were a relatively new of all these, nor yourself, have been able to technology, James Watt having patented bring the power of steam in navigation to a his engine in 1781. Steam was driving successful issue.” the industrial revolution in factories and trains everywhere. But so far nobody had But through determination, finally Henry managed to make it work for ships. was able to commission his first paddle Henry spent a few years in London working for a Scottish engineer, but moved back to 8 | LINLITHGOW

steamer to be built at Port Glasgow.

He named it the PS Comet and its first

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voyage in 1812 was from her home accident investigation revealed several irregularities including that the Comet II berth in Broomielaw to Greenock. The had made an unscheduled stop to take first trip had a few problems, including more passengers on so there wasn’t a the fact that the crew had to get out into complete passenger list; and that Bell had the Clyde and push it off some rocks. But been in the habit of supplementing crew nevertheless the concept of the paddle pay with generous amounts of whisky. steamer was proven, and Bell ran a commercial passenger service, the first Henry lived the last few years of his life ever in Europe, between Helensburgh, in Helensburgh with very little money Greenock and Glasgow for some years. and died aged 62, leaving his widow Competition soon sprang up of course.

Margaret who lived Henry had not patented another 26 years. his design, so others were Henry only gained the free to copy and benefit Bell had been in the recognition he wanted from the years of research habit of supplementing and deserved after his and effort he had put in. death. The engine of crew pay with generous Bell had to upgrade his the first Comet is in the amounts of whisky. ship to compete, and put Science Museum in on new routes including a London, and the engine four day trip from Glasgow to Fort William. of Comet II is at the Riverside Museum in In December 1820 the Comet was wrecked Glasgow. There were significant centenary celebrations in 1912. Today, though, his in bad seas near Oban. Undaunted, Bell name is little known, even right here in commissioned a new ship, the Comet II. West Lothian where he was born.

This came to a tragic end however when it was hit by a larger steamer in 1825 and But Henry Bell was the man who proved, sank in just three minutes, with the loss of against the belief of the greatest scientific brains of his day, that “you can sail a ship 62 lives on board. With this blow Henry without a sail.”

Bell retired from the steam navigation. The This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer.

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

First published in Konect in 2013.

MAIN IMAGE: The Clyde in Glasgow near the home berth of the Comet @KonectMagazines

LINLITHGOW | 9

WIN a pair of tickets to

2020!

Spring is almost here so it’s time to step outdoors and start getting the garden in shape for the warm days ahead.

Everywhere you look new shoots are unfolding that will soon fill the garden with lush leaves, bountiful colour and gorgeous scents.

A good tidy-up is needed so that you can enjoy these at their best. Dead foliage and fallen leaves that have piled up during the winter should be cleared away and early weeds removed before they have a chance to spread.

Flower borders should be filling up now with plants that are reappearing after their winter rest. Once they’ve grown into large clumps, many different kinds of plants including hostas, irises, agapanthuses and sedums can be dug up and divided to fill gaps elsewhere.

If your garden lacks early colour, then pots of spring bulbs will soon give it a lift and if you add primroses in places where the soil stays damp and doesn’t dry out during the summer then these will soon multiply.

If you don’t have room for a veg patch, then raised beds or even large pots filled with multi-purpose compost will provide enough space for tasty crops of easy-to-grow favourites including salads, herbs and peas.

Finding plants that are suited to the soil, aspect and growing conditions in your garden is your best guarantee of success and one of the easiest ways to do that is by visiting Gardening Scotland where as well as gorgeous plants and inspirational show gardens you can find all kinds of experts ready to offer advice.

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Want to know how to tackle a shady corner, find a climber to cover an unsightly fence, choose a tree for a small garden or turn a tired lawn into a wildflower meadow? Then you are guaranteed to find someone at Gardening Scotland who can answer these questions and many more.

But that’s not all, the show is also a fantastic day out, with live music, huge craft pavilion selling one-off artworks and original jewellery, exhibitors selling every kind of home and lifestyle accessory, artisan food and afternoon teas. Find your way to the Secret Gin Garden and sample the cocktails on offer or head with your kids to the Big Back Garden for tree climbing adventures and all kinds of family fun.

Gardening Scotland 2020 will take place from Friday, 29th May until Sunday, 31st May at the Royal Highland Centre Edinburgh.

For tickets and travel information visit www.gardeningscotland.com We have 10 PAIRS of tickets to Gardening Scotland 2020 to give away to Konect readers!

Simply answer the following question:

WHERE WILL GARDENING SCOTLAND 2020 TAKE PLACE? Send your entry to win@konect.scot to arrive no later than 20th March 2020. Please include your full name and postcode. Winners will be drawn at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter.

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LINLITHGOW | 11

Indestructible houseplants As winter draws to a close our houseplants deserve a spring clean and a spruce up!

Have you got any plants that have outstayed their welcome in your home? Should you put them out of their misery and probable slow, miserable death? It might be a kindness to put them on the compost heap or in the Council compost bin and start afresh.

If you believe that you always kill houseplants we would suggest that you are either killing them out of kindness by watering them too much or you aren’t thinking about giving them the right conditions in which to thrive.

We have a helpful leaflet for you called ‘Indestructible House Plants’ and although the plants are all easy to look after it explains which ones need certain light conditions. So

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Cacti need a sunny position with very bright light. The spider plant enjoys a position where it is ‘easy to read all day’ – say on west and east facing sills and up to 1.6m (5ft) from a window.

Indestructible houseplants give them the right place to live and they will thrive

The Peace Lily will cope with a shady position where you can read a paper at midday. We also tell you the minimum temperature that the different plants will enjoy so if you follow these instructions you will be well on your way to having happy houseplants that will keep you happy!

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

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

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Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Gardening/Exteriors pages.

Contact details are on page 3.

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LINLITHGOW | 13

Is Your Letting Agent Accountable?

One of the attractions of property as an investment is that it apparently “looks after itself”.

In an ideal world, the tenant pays the rent, the rent covers the mortgage, and you the landlord need not be especially involved apart from banking the difference.

If only the reality were so simple. Unlike stocks and shares, property usually requires a hands-on approach if it is to deliver a sustainable return on investment.

This includes:

• Establishing a good relationship with your tenants, based on mutual respect.

This enables issues and potential void periods to be anticipated and eliminated well in advance • A working knowledge of property issues including building, maintenance, insurance, legislation, and health and safety • Proper systems and controls in respect of deposit holding and rent handling • Relationships with a number of tried, trusted, reliable and cost-effective tradespeople • Ongoing access to a large database of other pre-screened tenants, again eliminating void periods between tenancies Many letting agents claim to offer a management service, yet some seem to be based on the expectation that they can sit back and hope nothing goes wrong.

When your property is professionally managed, it’s all about accountability. This means regular inspections to check that your tenant is treating your investment with the respect it deserves. During these inspections, an experienced Property 14 | LINLITHGOW

Manager should be able to identify any areas to be investigated in order to avoid or reduce costs later. An example would be a blocked gutter. Normally, you would only hear about this when the tenant calls you to tell you that water is coming in, plaster has come away from the wall and there is mould on the ceiling. Call in the dehumidifier, plasterer, and painter – and you have a large bill and an unhappy tenant.

When you employ the services of a Letting Agent to manage your property, a dedicated Property Manager should be appointed at the outset and be your main point of contact throughout the duration of your relationship with them. They should know and be known by landlord and tenant alike and be responsible for the day-to-day management of each of their assigned properties.

Most landlords derive great value from a professionally managed service so when you’re choosing a letting agent, make sure they are fully accountable and on your side from day one.

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. @KonectMagazines

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LIFE COACHING

2020 - The Last Year You Ever Resolve To Stop Smoking How many times have you decided to quit smoking? If you ask most smokers that question, they’ll probably tell you that they managed to stop many times in the past - for three weeks…three months or even three years.

Many people believe that quitting would work out fine if only they had more willpower. But the problem is that we are constantly focussed on what we don’t want and what we need to resist at all costs. Using willpower to stop smoking means that the ex-smoker is constantly thinking ‘I’m definitely NOT going to smoke today’ So, just for a minute, try not to think about a pink elephant. I’m willing to bet that the first thing that popped into your head was the very thing that you were trying so hard not to imagine. That is exactly what happens when we tell ourselves that there is something we are going to avoid at all costs We first have to think about that object before crossing it out or drawing a curtain over it.

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It really is possible to decide that this ‘National No Smoking Day’ is the last one you’ll see as a smoker. For years you have convinced yourself that cigarettes: • Relieve stress or boredom or soothe uncomfortable feelings • Make social situations easier • Give you something to do with your hands Instead of focussing endlessly on giving up smoking and mourning what we convince ourselves that we’ll lose by letting it go, how would it be if we could simply focus on new, healthy behaviours instead?

The life coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr. Francine is a locally based NLP coach, Hypnotherapist and Reiki practitioner who runs www.orrganise.co.uk She set up the business to support people to find real and practical solutions to the things that hold us all back in life.

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Design | Advice | Manufacture | Installation 22 | LINLITHGOW

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LINLITHGOW | 23

BRIDGE COLUMN

Checkback Stayman Checkback is a refined form of Stayman to be used after a 1NT opener’s rebid. The objective is to find a fit in the majors if that is still possible. A while back my Pentland partner and I decided to add it to our repertoire.

Needless to say, suitable opportunities then dried up like snow in the desert.

However, one evening I spotted what seemed like a perfect chance. In an uncontested auction my partner in third seat opened 1C. I responded 1H having 10 HCP and four cards in both majors. My partner’s rebid was 1NT. I could hardly wait to bid 2C and finally deploy it, but the Alert card didn’t immediately appear. Clearly my partner was worried that I had forgotten about Checkback and was simply supporting his clubs. However, he did, after an agonising pause, twig the truth. He held three of each major and bid, quite rightly, 3H. For a short

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interlude I was delighted and bid 4H. The happiness was cut short when he laid down his hand and I saw we only had the undesirable Moysian (4-3) fit. And went one down when 3NT made fairly easily. My bad. My mental shorthand that Checkback was just Stayman for a 1NT rebid turned out to be inadequate.

Checkback is to find a 5-3 major fit (in Acol) and not 4-4 which was not possible in this case anyway. If partner had four hearts he would have supported hearts immediately and he also couldn’t have four spades because his first bid would then have been spades. Like standard Stayman, Checkback is both a statement and a question. The moral is - Don’t ask the question when the answer is irrelevant. They say you get a new convention wrong three times before you finally master it. One down, two to go.

The Bridge Column is written by John Samson who lives in Currie and is a member of the Pentland Bridge Club

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VET’S TIP

The Cat’s Meow We all like to think our pets can talk to us, and they can! Cats only meow at humans for a good reason – they want to manipulate us.

Adult cats have very clear communication with one another. Cat language is spoken mostly through scent, then through facial expression, complex body language and touch.

Cat make sounds for vocal communication such as caterwauls for mating, chattering upon spotting prey, hissing to ward off an intruder and shrieking when hurt or scared.

However, meowing is not part of natural cat language—it was developed almost exclusively for humans.

The only meowing in cat language is done between a mother cat and her kittens. A kitten’s tiny “mew” is a cute, endearing sound, used to solicit attention and care from their mother.

Once the kittens are grown, the mews to other cats does not continue. A cat’s meow is specifically for communicating just with humans.

So why do cats meow to people? It’s because it works! Your cat is dependent on you and quickly learns that you are clearly not picking up the scent messages left on your belongings or the body language presented to you. Cats quickly learn that ‘meow’ gets results.

Your cat’s meow then develops into a second language to communicate just to you.

Some scientists would go so far as to say that cats have refined their meows specifically to manipulate people. And here at Westport Vets we have to admit — it works!

Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Pet Services pages.

Contacts details are on page 3.

The monthly Vet’s Tip column is contributed by Stuart McMorrow. Stewart is head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 8 Preston Road.

Please call 01506 844 165, or visit their website at www.westportvets.com @KonectMagazines

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LINLITHGOW | 27

FILM REVIEW

“Based on an actual lie.”

Being diagnosed with cancer can mentally destroy both a person and their family. Life is too short to live in fear with the idea that cancer could completely destroy you, but would your life be different if your family withhold your diagnosis? The Farewell explores this very idea, with Awkwafina’s character Billie. Her grandma has been diagnosed with cancer, but due to her family beliefs they won’t tell her. Instead, Billie’s cousin is being rushed into marriage so they have a reason for the whole family to go to China to say their goodbyes.

The Farewell is a personal and impactful film that could have easily made you dislike the family, as to us not telling someone they’re sick is wrong. However the film does an excellent job of making you understand all of the characters’ viewpoints, thanks to great acting. Awkwafina is excellent, and Shuzhen Zhao as the grandma (who is referred to as Nai Nai in the film) is a true standout and is really fantastic. You fall in love with Nai Nai as her character is just so loveable. Writer and Director Lulu Wang did a wonderful job of handling this film; instead of a sad, depressing film we get this film full of heart, love which is truly impactful. As long as you don’t mind subtitles, I honestly believe anyone can enjoy or even love this film. The Farewell is just simply awe inspiring.

The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

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PARENTING

snowy parkru n

Keep calm and parkrun!

This year my New Year’s resolution was to start running. Despite the seemingly non-stop rain and constant juggling of childcare to find time… I’ve managed to keep it up!

It’s a hard slog sometimes but there’s nothing like an hour to myself listening to music that’s not from a Disney movie… even if I have to get a bit sweaty for it.

Somehow I never seem to make it out of the house without a hefty dose of mum guilt. Cue a chorus of Muuuum…where are you going? Why can’t I come? I’m a good runner! Of course I tell them I’m running too far and too fast for them to come with me (one day that might even be true).

But I don’t want to totally stamp out their enthusiasm. Enter… junior parkrun.

Never heard of it? Junior parkruns are weekly, 2km, volunteer-led timed runs for children aged 4-14 years old.

They take place at 9.30am every Sunday in parks across the world.

A junior parkrun officially landed in West Lothian for the first time last year and is still going strong. The run takes places at Xcite Craigswood in Livingston, starting and finishing on the athletics track. @KonectMagazines

um Parkrun M

The first time we took the kids you’d think we’d entered them in the Olympics they were so excited to run around the “proper” track. Although you can’t be afraid to get a bit muddy as the course also heads out around nearby playing fields.

If they’re old enough kids can run the course by themselves. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a family affair.

Some parents watch from the sidelines daydreaming about how to reward themselves for sacrificing their Sunday morning lie-in. Others are fully togged up in Lycra running around the course with their wee ones. Pretty much anything goes as long as everyone is having fun!

The runs are timed but it is not a race and there is a wonderful atmosphere of camaraderie and support. Volunteers line the course shouting words of encouragement and the kids can truly go at their own pace.

They’ll get a hero’s welcome when they get to the finish line no matter how long it takes them. Although if they are a mite competitive they can compare their time against

their friends or try to beat their own record.

If you’ve never tried it – and can drag yourself out of bed - it is a great way to spend a Sunday morning. It gets the kids active and outdoors and is absolutely free which can’t be said of many things my kids do nowadays!

Whether you want to try it once or go every week I highly recommend it. Craigswood junior parkrun takes place every week on Sunday at 9.30am. Find out more and register at www.parkrun.org.uk/ craigswood-juniors P.S. I can’t miss the opportunity for a huge shout out to all the volunteers who keep this event going. If anyone deserves a medal it’s them!!

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.

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WALK

: n r o h Blaw

For the serious walker, a boardwalk might be considered a cop out. However, the main point of a boardwalk is to preserve the land beneath while allowing you to walk in the environment and enjoy it.

The other reason boardwalks are so great is that they are an added incentive to persuade children to go for a walk.

Mine change their shrill cries of ‘Oh no, not a walk’ to ‘Great, let’s go’ when we mention it might be a boardwalk.

and moss that have been vegetating for 8000 years!

The 110 hectare site is owned by Scottish Natural Heritage and they are keen for people to visit this internationally recognised reserve. It is one of the largest and best examples of lowland raised peat bogs in the Lothians and is a Blawhorn Moss, near National Nature Reserve Blackridge, is one such (NNR). Bog habitat is still boardwalk. The wooden under threat nationally pathways now winding almost 94% of the UK’s around this ancient habitat not only preserve the habitat, lowland raised bog habitat has been lost since the end they keep the visitor safe of the 19th century. Large too – if you stray off them areas of these deep peat you might just find yourself deposits were dug out for waist-deep in layers of soil 30 | LINLITHGOW

fuel, drained for farming or planted for forestry.

The bog, which has over eight thousand years of moss growth, is a survivor of a huge area of peat which once covered the entire area of central Scotland.

Flora is many and varied with a carpet of sphagnum moss, heather, cotton grass, crowberry, hair moss and even the insect-eating round leaved sundew – which has been known to eat even dragonflies. That little nugget of information could certainly intrigue a child and keep their interest in the outdoors! @KonectMagazines

CREDIT: Photo by GeoJuice on Flick

r

On the Boardwalk

global warming.

Blawhorn is one of the best examples in central Scotland.

For the budding ornithologist, many different birds visit the moss at different times of year including the red grouse, snipe, curlew, redshank, teal, skylark, hen harrier and short eared owl. Butterflies and dragonflies are also regularly seen at the reserve as are frogs and toads.

With all the talk of bog, you might wonder why it is such a great place for a walk. In the past bogs were simply considered only suitable for cutting the peat or for draining, but that has all changed. A walk across the bog affords a real close encounter with nature as well as some fabulous views.

Bogs also act as a carbon sink, trapping carbon dioxide and helping combat

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Perhaps the best time to visit the bog in terms of wildlife is from April to July but you will always find something of interest at any time of year.

THE NAME Blawhorn is said to come from the days when the local village of Blackridge was a midway coaching station between Edinburgh and Glasgow. Blawhorn was used as a viewing point for watching coaches approaching, when a horn would be blown to signal to the coaching inn down the hill at Blackridge, hence the name ‘Blow Horn’.

This is a short walk – the round trip from car park is about two kilometres with the board walk itself about 700m and a gentle to moderate slope from car park to Reserve entrance.

The path and the boardwalk is accessible to all. If you fancy a longer walk, you can start with Blawhorn and the reserve then links into the local path network.

BLAWHORN MOSS has changed little over the last 8000 years. Thick, black peat slowly formed from the squashed remains of dead plants, especially sphagnum mosses which retain rainwater like a sponge. In places the peat is now deep enough to bury two double decker buses.

As dead plants sink and new shoots grow, the peat is still growing, though only at the rate of a millimetre a year

Blawhorn can be found northwest of the village of Blackridge, four miles west of Armadale. It is around 25 minutes drive from Linlithgow, the car park is clearly signposted and is open 8am to 9pm (summer) and 8am to 6pm (winter).

There are very limited facilities in Blackridge itself, but plenty of cafés in Armadale.

This article was written

by Karen Murray, with supplementary information taken from a leaflet on Blawhorn published by Scottish Natural Heritage.

Strathallan House, Castle Business Park, Stirling FK9 4TZ. Tel: 01786 450362.

www.nature.scot/visit-blawhorn -moss-national-nature-reserve

LINLITHGOW | 31

FEATURE

Starting in Livingston at Howden Park Centre, Classic Clapton, a recreation of Clapton’s stage show and greatest hits, including his work as part of a succession of bands and as a solo artist, takes place on Saturday 21st March, which is sure to be a fun evening for the music fans!

Also on the 21st, in Linlithgow, the Linlithgow Heritage Trust is holding an Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair at Linlithgow Academy.

Open from 9am, you can get your antiques valued with all proceeds from admission going towards the new Linlithgow Museum.

With Spring arriving this month, why not take a visit to one of West Lothian’s country parks? Beecraigs, Almondell & Calderwood and Polkemmet are open daily, with a wide variety of well-marked paths and trails for all the family.

At Polkemmet, head along to the Scottish Owl Centre, one of West Lothian’s Hidden Gems, which is open throughout March from 11.30am.

Looking a little further ahead, with Easter just around the corner Almond Valley are holding their Easter Eggcitement events from 4th April – with a variety of fun trails allround the farm, as well as the opportunity to spot some cute new arrivals!

Make sure you keep an eye out for the release of the latest Visit West Lothian Visitor guide in early April, featuring the fantastic winner of the #MyWestLothian photography competition – the perfect companion for planning great days out across West Lothian!

Follow us on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 32 | LINLITHGOW

Circular Economy Challenge helps prepare local pupils for the jobs that don’t exist yet Around 85% of the jobs that today’s learners will be doing in 2030 haven’t been invented yet, according to a recent report published by the Institute for the Future.

This presents an interesting challenge for educators preparing young people for their future careers.

The Circular Economy Challenge, delivered within four primary schools in West Lothian and hopefully to be rolled out to more schools, focuses on the concept of the Circular Economy, where the economic system aims to eliminate waste and continually re-use resource - a vital topic for the foreseeable future. It is an annual challenge that incorporates teacher-led learning about the circular economy and enterprise; an employer-led workshop; design of a product or service that adheres to the principles of the circular economy and a final showcase event where small teams of pupils pitch their idea to a business panel.

Delivered by Veolia (an industry leader in environmental solutions with several sites in West Lothian) and Young Enterprise Scotland, the Challenge is designed to provide a real-life context for learners.

Veolia’s workshops are fun, engaging and interactive, providing the perfect ‘hook’ for the teachers to get the pupils involved in the challenge.

Making links between pupils’ learning and the world of work is an absolutely @KonectMagazines

crucial component of the Developing the Young Workforce Programme, which engages with employers to develop school-industry partnerships, whereby the employer engages, collaborates with or influences the curriculum.

One primary school teacher commented on this year’s Challenge: “It provided a perfect opportunity for the children to easily link their learning to the wider world.

Across the weeks I observed the children work effectively in teams, discussing and evaluating ideas, compromising, developing confidence, showing determination to succeed and developing resilience. Aiming towards a final where the children had to compete against other schools provided a real goal for them to focus on and kept them fully engaged across all weeks. The children absolutely loved the challenge giving it two thumbs up when I asked if they would be happy to do it again.”

The true testament to the success of partnerships like this is the feedback we

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receive from the pupils themselves. The collective feedback is overwhelmingly positive, but one pupil’s quote really stood out for me. When asked what they learned from participating in the challenge: “I’ve learned that you can’t fly solo”.

It’s fair to say that – no matter what jobs are yet to be invented – this will always remain a valuable skill for life, learning and work.

Developing the Young Workforce West Lothian are looking to expand the Challenge to more primary schools. Primary schools can find out more about the Challenge here: yes.org.uk/programmes.php?sid=42 , where teachers can also register their interest.

This article is contributed by Developing the Young Workforce West Lothian. Developing the Young Workforce want to transform how businesses and education engage in West Lothian. See www.dyw-wl.com

LINLITHGOW | 33

HOMES AND GARDENS

Video Doorbells - should you get one?

We have seen a number of good arrests across Edinburgh recently where video or smart doorbells have assisted police in quickly identifying those responsible for committing housebreaking and other crimes.

Video or smart doorbells use inbuilt cameras and other smart technology to provide the extra security of CCTV - but in a compact and often less expensive package than a full domestic CCTV system. They are installed in place of an existing doorbell and provide an audible ring for you to hear, but will also alert you on your phone or smart device, providing you with video surveillance and means of recording and capturing images.

later. In most occasions this will be legitimate people such as delivery drivers, canvassers, and people you may know coming to visit. However it could capture those at your property who have criminal intent and their images could be all important to the police as part of their investigation.

There are a variety of similar products on the market with most offering the same set of features. We would always encourage you to research crime prevention products carefully and look for products that have ‘Secured by Design’ accreditation or rating.

Good Deterrent : Video doorbells can be a great deterrent, stopping a potential housebreaker before they do any damage to your property. Simply seeing a video doorbell may be enough for a criminal to look elsewhere.

If they do try and break-in, or succeed in forcing entry, the video doorbell could have captured good images of the culprit(s) and be valuable evidence for the police in their efforts to identify and arrest them.

They can be wireless or hard wired and many offer additional features such as being able to speak to delivery drivers and visitors via the inclusion of microphones and speakers.

Some of the advantages are:

You’ll Know Who’s There : You know who is at your door without you having to open it. This keeps you safe from those who you might not want to come into contact with – you don’t even have get close to the door to find out who’s there. You will be armed with all the information you need to decide whether to answer or not.

Speak To Visitors : You are able to speak to visitors without having to open the door. This can be done from inside your home or many miles away from it since the video doorbell system works through your smart device.

Review Footage : If a visitor doesn’t want to be ‘spotted’ and knocks on the door instead, video doorbells still capture images that you can check

Image Quality : Most work extremely well during both day and night, also ensuring the capture of good, high definition images of people approaching your home.

Installing a video doorbell should be considered part of a suite of crime prevention measures for your home. It alone will not prevent entry to your property, but it can be an important tool to identify who was responsible for criminality and also act as a deterrent. For information and guidance on using CCTV at your home please also visit the Information Commissioner’s Office website For more information on home security and how best to protect your home and belongings, please visit the Police Scotland website here or contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on ‘101’ for assistance.

This article was published by Police Scotland in Edinburgh via Neighbour Alert, February 2020. Neighbourhood Alert is a community messaging system solution for police forces, local authorities and Neighbourhood Watch.

34 | LINLITHGOW

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GIVE BLOOD Donations of blood will be welcomed at any one of the four Sessions run by the Blood Transfusion Service which are taking place on Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd March in The Low Port Centre in Blackness Road, Linlithgow as follows: FRIDAY 13TH MARCH Cocktail Party - Fundraiser for Lochside Playgroup!

Masonic Hall, Linlithgow, 7pm – late. Live demo, three cocktails and bar. Tickets £20. See poster on P28 SATURDAY 14TH MARCH Kosmos Ensemble - A dazzling programme of mixed music from Classical, Balkan and East European countries performed by a violin, viola and accordion trio. This lively and entertaining group re-define the relationship between classical and world music. They have gathered accolades from all over the world and have twice been winners of the “Selected Artists” for “Making Music”. This programme will appeal to a wide range of music enthusiasts from folk and jazz to traditional and classical. Each member of the group is an international soloist in their own right, and the ensemble is stunning. 7.30pm Linlithgow Academy Theatre. All are welcome. Tickets (£14, U26 £6, children free) from Linlithgow Arts Guild at www.linlithgowartsguild.co.uk, or from “Far from the Madding Crowd” in Linlithgow High Street. Tickets can also be reserved by text to 07731 614179.

SUNDAY 15TH MARCH Wetland Wildlife Wander - Join a Historic Environment Scotland Ranger on a walk round Linlithgow Loch whilst keeping a look out for the wildlife that calls it home. 1pm – 3pm. Free but booking essential, please contact HES on 0131 652 8150 or email rangers@hes.scot

LINLITHGOW FILM SOCIETY

Linlithgow Academy Theatre, Braehead Rd, 7:30pm Adults £6, Concessions £5, Under 16 £4.

See www.linlithgowfilmsociety.org.uk • Mon 2nd March 2020: WIDOWS • Mon 9th March 2020: GREEN BOOK • Mon 16th March 2020: STAN & OLLIE

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• Sunday 22nd March 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2.00pm – 4.00pm • Monday 23rd March 2.00pm - 4.00pm & 5.30pm – 7.30pm

New donors (i.e. anyone in good health over the age of 17 years) are always needed and they, along with all the existing volunteers, will be welcomed along to the Sessions to ensure that hospital demand for blood and blood products can be met in the coming days ahead.

As every minute, someone in Scotland is receiving a blood transfusion, there continues to be a constant urgent need for more blood donors; so it is very important that those who can give blood do come along. Donors must make sure they have had something to eat and drink before donating!

DAILY FROM SAT 4TH UNTIL MON 20TH APRIL Easter Eggcitement - Throughout the Easter school break, the farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail.

Keep a look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. There will be still further special attractions over the four days of Easter (10th April to 13th April), including our famous plastic duck race along the mill lade. For more info and entry prices please see www.almondvalley.co.uk or call 01506 414957.

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.

EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.

LINLITHGOW | 35

PUZZLES

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

CROSSWORD

LINLITHGOW YOGA CLASSES IN LINLITHGOW New children and adults yoga classes beginning soon at Donaldson’s, Linlithgow.

Children’s yoga 5-8 years and 9-11 years will take place on Friday afternoons. Parent and child yoga classes will take place on a Saturday 10:30-12:30. Absolute beginner Hatha yoga is on a wednesday 6-7pm. Yin yoga is on a Friday 6-7.15pm. Special yoga for children with additional support needs is available.

Please call/txt Lydia on 07926 770920 or email lydia@connectyoga.co.uk for all enquiries or to book a class.

BADMINTON GROUP Mondays 10am-12 noon during term time at Springfield Community Wing. New players always welcome.

Further information from Diana Marchant 01506 848625.

FITSTEPS An energetic, upbeat dance fitness class that mixes the graceful steps of Ballroom and the up-tempo steps of Latin to create fun-filled classes where you don’t even realise you’re getting fit! No partner required. Wednesday 7.30-8.30pm, Linlithgow Rugby Football Club, 34 Mains Rd, Linlithgow EH49 6DB. £5 per class. moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Tel 07737 927463

Solution in the April edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Bewitched (7), 5. Trimmed (5), 8. Loosens (5), 9. Evil (7), 10. Vertical (13), 11. Without trouble (6), 12. Teeth (6), 15. Display (13), 18. Detonate (7), 19. Business transactions (5), 20. Stairs (5), 21. Destroys hearing (7).

DOWN: 1. Crawl (5), 2. Soaks up (7), 3. Sundry items (13), 4. Split (6), 5. Book of facts (13), 6. Guttural noise (5), 7. Arid regions (7), 11. Perpetual (7), 13. Shake briskly (7), 14. To be present at (6), 16. Type of syrup (5), 17. Facial features (5).

SUDOKU

PROBUS CLUB We meet in Linlithgow Rose Club from 10.00am-12.00pm every second Wednesday from September to May. The club is for retired or semi-retired men and women or others who may work shifts or have flexible work hours. We have a varied programme of talks and presentations as well as entertainment, team quizzes and visits to places of interest. To get in touch or to find out about planned events visit our web site at www.bolinprobus.org. Or, feel free to come along as a guest and see if you would like to join.

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.

Solution on Page 38 36 | LINLITHGOW

LINLITHGOW FILM SOCIETY Love seeing films with friends? Then come and join us at Linlithgow Film Society every two weeks between September and March for an interesting and varied programme of films. All performances are shown at Linlithgow Academy Theatre, curtain up 7.30pm.

Annual membership subscriptions are available and Guest Tickets are available for all performances at the door. If you would like more information please see our web site www. linlithgowfilmsociety.org.uk or contact Anton Shelton on 01506 670436 or email antonks2000@gmail.com.

LINLITHGOW LONGCROFT TABLE TENNIS GROUP (LLTTG) The club will restart for the new 2019/20 season on Wednesday 4th September – playing through until the end of June. The LLTTG meets every Wednesday night from 7.30 pm in the Shields Room and from 8.15pm in the Main Hall of the Longcroft Halls, Philip Avenue giving an opportunity to play Table Tennis in a friendly and not too competitive atmosphere.

Finishing time is 9.45pm in both halls. Open to everyone and we have a mixed range of ages and ability. No special kit is required.

Bats can be provided. Annual Membership is £10.00 and charge per night is £3.00 or £2.00 for under 18’s. For further information please contact Allan Scott Tel. 01506 842602 or visit our website www.linlithgowlongcroftttgroup.co.uk GIRLGUIDING Rainbow Unit (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. Brownie Unit (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. Guide Unit (Girls aged 10

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- 14 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. 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.

a chance to meet others in a similar situation.

Meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am-12noon. 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

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.

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.

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.

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. Under-16s 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 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 The Linlithgow String Orchestra for adults (13+) with a minimum standard Grade 5 meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge (2 Market Lane, Linlithgow). 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 & 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 SING-A-LONG 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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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.

LINLITHGOW BRIDGE CLUB Meet every Tues and Thurs in the Burgh Halls at 6.45pm. Play starts at 7pm. New members are always welcome. If you would like more information please contact the club president Alasdair McKechnie on 01506 842293 or email alasdairmckechnie@btinternet.com SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTE (SWI) Scotland’s leading member-based organisation (since 1917) with a vision to welcome every woman in Scotland to join us.

We aim to educate, share, campaign, learn, socialise, build a community, have fun - and eat cake! From life skills and arts and crafts to raising awareness of current affairs affecting women and helping inform government issues, the SWI is proud of its heritage and future vision. There are 12 institutes in West Lothian and we welcome women of all ages. Each institute has its own programme of speakers, craft workshops and monthly competitions, and we hold our annual Show of Work every Spring. For more information please contact wlfedsec@hotmail.com, see the SWI website www.theswi.org.uk or phone 01506 670436.

WEST LOTHIAN DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS For individuals who have a family member or friend who suffers from alcohol or substance misuse. We work together to develop coping strategies and understanding.. Relaxation therapies available the first meetings of month. WLDAS also offers 1-to-1 support if needed. Please contact Stephen Jack on 01506 430225 for more information or request someone to meet you outside before meeting. All welcome, no appointments needed. Groups in Livingston, St. John’s Hospital 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month 7 – 9:30pm; Broxburn Strathbrock Partnership Centre - 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month - 5:30- 7:30pm; Blackburn Partnership Centre - 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month 5:30 – 7:30pm.

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

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

LINLITHGOW | 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

SOLUTIONS

GOLF CLUB APPLIANCE REPAIRS SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY Home Appliance Repair 26 Deer Park Golf and Country Club 7 CROSSWORD BATHROOMS & KITCHENS JOINERY 1st Choice Living 5 Domestic Joinery & Maintenance Dream Kitchen Makeover 39 Services 19 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 2 Geoff Vinter Joinery 23 S and S Home Improvements 20 Loft Boarding Scotland 23 Trust Designs 6 LANDLORD SERVICES CARPET & UPHOLSTERY Turpie & Co 14 CLEANING Weslo Property 26 Aquatec 27 LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES CHARITY Beatson’s Building Supplies 4 The Rock Trust 17 LAWNS COMPUTER/PHONE REPAIRS Green Thumb Lawn Service 7 Sprint Computer Repairs 24 LOCKSMITH CURTAINS & BLINDS CVC Locksmiths and Security 26 Harvey Bruce 27 West Lothian Locksmith Company 27 DRAINAGE SERVICES ACROSS: 1. Post, 3. Shortest, 9. Relaxed, 10. Queue, Water Drainage Services 26 PET SITTING/BOARDING 11. Mathematical, 14. Dew, 16. Irate, 17. Tie, 18. Nevertheless, 21. Treat, 22. Bathing, 23. Meddling, PetStay 25 ELECTRICIAN 24. Asks.

Logan Electrical 4 DOWN: 1. Pyramids, 2. Split, 4. Hod, 5. Requirements, PLASTERING 6. Elegant, 7. Trek, 8. Experimental, 12. Adapt, Nu Walls 27 ESTATE AGENT 13. Messages, 15. Weekend, 19. Exits, 20. Stem, 22. Ban. Alba Property 40 PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Drummond Miller LLP 16 SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON Heating Care Scotland 18 Turpie & Co. 14 KPD Heating & Plumbing 4 PAGE 36 FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES Mech A Tech Home Heating John Gillan Fencing and Services 5 Landscaping 13 McLellan Plumbing & Heating 23 Welding & Fabrication Solutions 22 ROOFING GARAGE DOORS Taylor Roofs 19 Garolla 22 TREE CARE SERVICES GARDEN CENTRE Boardway Trees 13 New Hopetoun Gardens 12 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME GARDEN DESIGN/MAINTENANCE West Lothian Trusted Trader Evergreen Balerno 13 Scheme 18 GARDEN FURNITURE AND VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING BUILDINGS Mackie & Brechin 25 Champfleurie Estate 11 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith

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YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 33

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU IN FEBRUARY EDITION

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO 7,500 READERS IN LINLITHGOW, LINLITHGOW BRIDGE & THE SURROUNDING AREA?

For more information or to be included, please contact us.

Our details are on page 3.

38 | LINLITHGOW

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