Konect Linlithgow March 2023

MARCH 2023

CHARITY:

CHARITY:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

Make your move with Moving Solutions Find your Moving Solution. Now is the perfect time to ask us absolutely anything, and discover all the flexible ways we can help you find your perfect home. To get the answers you have been looking for just ask Cala.

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CALA.CO.UK/WESTLOTHIAN Prices are accurate at the time of going to print. Images shown are taken from the Oakbank Showhome and feature fittings, décor, flooring and soft furnishings which are not included as standard in our homes. Images are used to suggest possible finishes that can be achieved in your home at an additional cost. Please consult a Cala representative for further details. Photography has been enhanced in post production. Telephone calls within the British Isles will be charged at local rate. Telephone calls may divert to a mobile service in which case call charges may vary. Calls may be recorded for training purposes.

O

ur charity feature this month is Sight Scotland Veterans, who have a fantastic purpose-built centre in West Lothian, dedicated to helping veterans with sight loss. They are holding two open days at the beginning of March, to which the community is warmly invited to learn more about the activities they offer.

The charity is also currently recruiting for some roles at the centre; see pages 8-9.

Despite the challenges faced on all sides at the moment, spring feels like a time of optimism - the unfailing return of buds and flowers often brings an energy to get things done. You’ll find in the pages of Konect all the local businesses you need to help with whatever project you have on, whether you’re looking to tackle some spring cleaning or home improvement projects, or emerging from hibernation yourself and looking to get healthier.

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month, thank you for reading Konect and supporting local businesses.

P31 Local Charity: Sight Scotland Veterans..... 8 Living Well: Care Professionals................14 Scotblood: Scotland needs you to give blood.................................................16 Property Matters: The bank of Mum & Dad...................................................20 Puzzles..........................................................22 Garden Project: Recovering from winter..............................................................27 Local environment: A Viking Invasion......30 Vet’s Tip: Booking holidays.......................31 What’s On......................................................32 Life coaching: Write it down......................32 Film Review: Missing...................................34

COVER IMAGE: Supporting veterans with sight loss. See our charity feature on p8-9.

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638 @KonectMagazines

Konect is delivered monthly to 7,500 homes throughout Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe LINLITHGOW | 3

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

T: 01506 827110 M: 07778 339980 E: wafsltd@btconnect.com www.weldfabsolutions.com Unit 13 Links Court, Bo’ness, EH51 9UD

Design | Advice | Manufacture | Installation

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Share the space, slow the pace

Our canal towpaths are for everyone to enjoy.

Please pass people slowly and carefully.

Give them space and let them know you are there.

#canalcareful

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scottishcanals.co.uk

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Sight Scotland Veterans: Supporting veterans with sight loss to explore new interests & reconnect with passions Sight Scotland Veterans supports veterans living with significant sight loss, equipping them to rediscover and maintain their independence and to improve their quality of life.

The Linburn Centre in West Lothian provides a safe and welcoming space to re-engage in the local community, rebuild confidence and regain or maintain their independence. It is an activity hub and a warm, welcoming place that brings veterans together.

With a variety of activities and outings and set in beautiful grounds, the Centre offers the means and support to adapt to life with sight loss and try new things. Many veterans who attend the Centre say the things they do there and the connections they’ve made have transformed their lives.

Every day the Centre is abuzz with people making new connections, sharing stories and bonding over activities. Our friendly team have a range of skills and experience and can each bring their own specialisms to the table.

Nestled on a beautiful rural estate with fully accessible garden areas adapted for people with sight loss, the building itself is modern and fully accessible.

A HUGE RANGE OF ACTIVITIES AND OUTINGS - Jacqui Salter, Deputy Centre Manager at the Linburn Centre, comments: “Each day our expert teams coordinate activities 8 | LINLITHGOW

for veterans to explore interests, reconnect with their passions, develop new skills and meet new friends in a safe, welcoming environment. You’ll always find someone happy to chat with and meet others going through similar experiences with sight loss.

“Our team is at the heart of everything that goes on at the Centre, whether they are supporting veterans to take part in archery or acoustic shooting, using the gym, making a bird table or bench in woodwork, arts and crafts, the list is really endless. We currently have some exciting job opportunities across at Sight Scotland Veterans. The Linburn Centre is recruiting for a Senior Centre Officer, an Activity Worker and a Driver. All of our roles not only offer a great opportunity to make a big difference to veterans’ lives, but also a chance to work in a fun, friendly and welcoming environment.”

The activities offered at the Linburn Centre include: • Archery/Acoustic • Woodwork shooting • Arts and crafts • Outdoor bowling • Skills kitchen green • IT skills • Sports hall and • Gardens and greenhouse gymnasium @KonectMagazines

Derek reconnects with his computer passion at Linburn Derek, 58, has glaucoma and is supported by Sight Scotland Veterans.

A keen gamer and computer whizz, Sight Scotland Veterans has introduced Derek to large button keyboards and technology to enable him to continue his hobby. A regular in the Linburn Centre’s IT suite, he’s even been exploring virtual reality worlds with the centre’s VR kit.

Derek, who served 15 years with the Royal Scots, said: “Before I started attending the centre I didn’t know about these assistive technologies and the range of equipment that was there to help people with sight loss access computers.

“Computing had already been a hobby of mine, but my sight loss had very much been making it more difficult to do. It’s due to the centre that I have a large monitor now which really helps. The support of the centre’s IT instructor, Brian Wilson, has also been invaluable.

“I’m a big gamer, and with a large button keyboard I can keep on doing it. I was one of the first veterans to try the VR kit.

It’s fantastic, it’s so realistic. It’s brilliant that we have the opportunity to try out activities like this at the centre and the staff are so good and supportive.”

The Linburn Centre is open to anyone who is a member of Sight Scotland Veterans. Joining Sight Scotland Veterans is free and membership is open to anyone living with sight loss who has served in the Armed Forces, including National Service. The Centre teams are dedicated to ensuring that veterans receive the support that they need. Along with the activities mentioned, they facilitate drop-in sessions from other Sight Scotland Veterans teams. For example, our rehabilitation team can provide support on how to adapt to life with sight loss, or our Financial Well-being Lead can provide information on what financial support may be available to veterans. The Centre team also work closely with our teams @KonectMagazines

Open Days at the Linburn Centre Sight Scotland Veterans is inviting veterans impacted by sight loss and members of the public to come along and experience what the centre has to offer.

Wednesday 1st March 2.30pm-6.30pm and Saturday 4th March, 2.30pm-6.30pm.

The Open Day will be packed full of information, activities, and workshops, aimed to show everyone what Sight Scotland Veterans has to offer.

• What the Linburn Centre has to offer • Our activities – including archery, shooting, bowls, gym • Workshops - arts and crafts, woodwork, virtual reality • Learn more about Sight Scotland Veterans and what we do all over Scotland • SSV services – including rehabilitation and mobility, independent living and our information line teams • Recruitment – would you be interested in working for Sight Scotland Veterans?

For more information on our Open Days please visit sightscotland.org.uk/ veterans or call 0800 035 6409. working in veterans local communities who provide support in the home and in veterans local areas.

Many veterans who attend the Linburn Centre on a regular basis live in Edinburgh, Midlothian, West Lothian, and other surrounding commutable areas.

This article was contributed by Sight Scotland Veterans, charity number SC047192. The West Lothian Centre is The Linburn Centre, Louis Braille Avenue, Wilkieston EH27 8EJ. LINLITHGOW | 9

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Be who you’ve always been... one of the lads At Care UK being one of the lads doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home.

If you’re considering care call 0333 060 5547.

Trusted to care.

Cairdean House, Colinton Lauder Lodge, Portobello Murrayside, Corstorphine careuk.com/edinburgh

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LIVING WELL

Working in care is a truly important role, and one that more and more people are turning to. But what does it actually involve?

Carers, whether working in a residential facility or within people’s homes, provide companionship and company. This support is vital, with over half a million older people saying they go at least 5-6 days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone, and two fifths of all older people saying the television is their main source of company.

Providing companionship can mean anything from sitting down for a chat with a cup of tea, completing a jigsaw or an activity, or even going for a day trip to somewhere new.

Companionship is at the base of care, and building strong relationships with clients is the key to keeping them feeling happy and comfortable – whatever their needs.

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Carers of course carry out other roles including personal care, helping clients dress and shower, as well as sometimes providing medical assistance. They may also help a client around their home, carrying out cleaning or shopping tasks, providing allround support to older and vulnerable people.

Working in care presents real progression opportunities, offering various career pathways. Carers can progress to supervisor and management positions, while helping older and vulnerable people across their local community.

Whatever your personality, background or interests, you can bring it to a role as a Care Professional. All you need is the desire to make a difference.

Search: #YouCanCare to find out more.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead Livingston. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046 or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston

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O- can be given to almost anyone and is known as the ‘universal’ blood group; making it extremely valuable in emergency situations.

Every single blood donor can save or improve lives. At our Livingston Blood Donor Centre, we’re looking for new donors, and asking people to return and donate if they have not given for a while.

Your gift of a blood donation could be needed at a hospital anywhere in Scotland, to support major surgery, accident victims and childbirth emergencies. They are also needed when illnesses such as arthritis or cancer cause anaemia, for premature babies and to treat patients who are bleeding for other reasons.

There are 8 blood types, and some are more common than others. O+, A+ and O- are the most common blood groups, making up nearly 80% of the population. That’s why these blood groups are always in high demand.

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More than two million people in Scotland have blood group O+, which makes it the most common blood group in the country.

We aim to keep six days’ blood in stock to meet the needs of patients in Scotland. And with blood having a shelf life of just 35 days, we need hundreds of donors every day to come and give blood.

Two easy ways to book! Online at www.scotblood.co.uk Or, you can call us on 0345 90 90 999 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).

Our friendly team are here to help and can answer any questions you may have.

Find us at The Centre Livingston, situated next to Holland & Barrett, just along from Wilko.

Open 7 days. A warm welcome awaits you.

0345 90 90 999 | scotblood.co.uk

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PROPERTY MATTERS

In 2021, the bank of Mum and Dad helped 49% of first time buyers to get on the property ladder. This help is often in the form of a ‘gifted deposit’. But what actually is a gifted deposit?

Many first time buyers can afford the monthly repayments on a mortgage but don’t have the lump sum for a cash deposit. That’s why many people are turning to their parents for help: enter the bank of Mum and Dad. To give their kids a helping hand, parents or family members who can afford to do so, may choose to pay all or part of the deposit on behalf of their children. This can reduce the monthly repayments on the mortgage too, as it’ll give access to more mortgage deals and better interest rates.

WHAT IS A GIFTED DEPOSIT? - A gifted deposit is a sum of money that’s been strictly given to you from a family member to go towards or pay for the whole of your deposit.

As the money is gifted, you won’t have to pay it back unless specifically stated otherwise. Both the buyer and the family member will have to sign a ‘gifted deposit letter’ or a ‘deed of gift’ to confirm that the money does not need to be repaid and that they will hold no legal charge over the property.

The gift can be for any amount. The only drawback is a potential inheritance tax; if the person who gifted you the money passes away within seven years, you will have to pay inheritance tax on the amount given to you.

If you have to pay it back then most lenders will consider it like any other outstanding debt. This means you’ll have less spare money to meet your monthly payments, which can affect your mortgage affordability. However, this will all be taken into consideration at the time of applying for your mortgage.

Overall, gifted deposits can take a huge weight off your shoulders and give you the chance you need to finally buy a house!

If you’ve accepted a gifted deposit, or you’re the one considering gifting money, feel free to get in touch with our team and we can answer any questions you might have about this process.

Alternatives to gifting money - If you want to help your

loved one buy a house but you don’t have the spare cash, you could be a mortgage guarantor. As a mortgage guarantor, if your loved one can’t pay their mortgage for whatever reason, you’ll step in and pay it for them. You can do this by either offsetting your property, or a savings account, against their mortgage.

WILL A GIFTED DEPOSIT AFFECT MY MORTGAGE? - In most cases, no, but it may do if the money needs to be repaid, or if the person gifting the money is not a direct family member.

This Property Matters column has been contributed by Turpie & Co in conjunction with their partners at Mortgage Advice Bureau. Contact them on 01506 300601 (Mortgage Advice Bureau) or email info@turpies.com 20 | LINLITHGOW

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PUZZLES

MARCH CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the April edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Unkempt (6), 4. Bogs (6), 9. Get better (7), 10. Command (5),11. Not dirty (5), 12. Rational (7), 13. Honourable (11), 18. Consistent (7), 20. Hoard (5), 22. Blockade (5), 23. Impartial (7), 24. Tasks (6), 25. Remained (6).

DOWN: 1. Swap (6), 2. Type of fruit (5), 3. Adult (5-2), 5. Incorrect (5), 6. Relating to healing (7), 7. Saunter (6), 8. Substitute (11),14. Apparent (7), 15. Reckon (7), 16. Cared for (6), 17. Shouted (6), 19. Overweight (5), 21. Transport (5).

^^^ Sudoku solution on page 34

MARCH SUDOKU

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HOW HAVE YOUR GARDEN PLANTS FARED THIS COLD WINTER? We’ve suffered two long spells of very cold weather this winter, longer and colder than for many years. The frost went deep into the soil and has affected the roots of some normally hardy plants.

You may only see the damage appearing as the plants try to grow this month or even into April. Our advice would be to hold on and wait until the middle of April in case they will grow from the roots again.

Several years ago, after sustained low temperatures, the New Zealand Flaxes (Phormium) were killed all over East Scotland.

Gardeners were split into two camps: those that were relieved to get some of their garden back as the Phormiums had grown to big; those that loved these architectural plants making

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Phormium great statements in their gardens who sought immediate replacements! History will surely repeat itself this spring!

They are still a very fashionable family of evergreen perennials with various sizes and different colours from which to choose. They are even politically correct – the slightly smaller growing variety Phormium Maori Queen was renamed Phormium Rainbow Queen! Check the height and spread of your chosen variety and plant it in a sunny position from April onwards.

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

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

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

West Edinburgh has been host to an invasion of avian Scandanavian visitors over the last couple of months.

In December the rowan trees lining the streets of Balgreen were alive with redwing, fieldfare, and the wonderful waxwing.

Throughout January, Sighthill has been the location of choice. These birds really do turn up in the most random and surprisingly urban places. Normally I’d prefer to be somewhere quiet to do a bit of bird watching but they have other ideas.

If you caught BBC Winterwatch last month you may have seen them featured as they raided the remaining berries on Calder Road. Who would’ve thought that the prime location for watching waxwings would’ve been the top deck of a bus.

It’s been great to see them calling Edinburgh home for so long this winter. Just look at that cool wee crest adorning their head and the brightly coloured waxy tips on their wings, which give them their name.

What more can you ask for to brighten a dull day in January?

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I hope you managed to see them, they tend to turn up in busy spots and it’s brilliant to see so many people engage with nature on their doorstep as they wonder why people are staring up in to the trees so intently.

To the waxwing: we wish you a safe journey back home for the summer and can’t wait to see you again soon. Thanks for bringing us so much joy!

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Follow them on Facebook: @ScottishSistersPhotography @KonectMagazines

Spring is in the air and with it the thought of summer holidays! If you are looking to book a break with your pet, there are a few things it’s worth bearing in mind.

Plenty of places offer pet friendly accommodation, from campsites to selfcatering and hotels, including specialist firms, but remember places get booked up well ahead, particularly during high season like school holidays. Check how many pets are permitted if you have more than one or are going with other owners.

Be mindful that a lot of accommodation and hotels will not permit any animals to be left unsupervised/alone in the property so when you are all going out, so is your pet – check ahead that any attractions, restaurants etc you are planning to go to are also pet friendly. There may also not be pet access to all property areas or restaurants. Check for enclosed gardens, whether the property is near a main road and if it is close to busy or noisy areas such as a pub.

You’ll most likely be out for walks so do check for livestock and potential hazards such as green algae in open bodies of water. Some beaches may limit access for dogs, or have warnings.

Remember to ensure microchip details and ID items are up to date, that ID tags are legible and find out where the local veterinary clinic and out of hours emergency vet is where you are staying.

Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com @KonectMagazines

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LIFE COACHING

WRITE IT DOWN ...release those feelings

A SATURDAY 18TH MARCH The Baroque Violin - Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. Violinist Rachel Podger, described by The Times as “the unsurpassed British glory of the baroque violin”, has established herself as a leading interpreter of the Baroque and Classical music periods. The Linlithgow recital will include Vilsmayr, Walsh, Bach, Matteis, Kelly, Roman and Westhoff, along with some traditional celtic tunes. Linlithgow Primary School 7.30pm. Tickets £15, U26 £6 or included in Season Ticket 2022-23. Children free. Book via linlithgowartsguild.co.uk UNTIL SUNDAY 9TH APRIL Comic Art Exhibition - FREE ENTRY at Howden Park Centre, Livingston. The history of West Lothian and Comic Art today. With a ComicCon on Saturday 11th March 10.00am – 5.00pm.

SATURDAY 1ST - SUNDAY 16TH APRIL Easter Eggcitement - Celebrate the wonders of springtime. Search for hidden eggs, crack the clues on the cheery chick trail, and get creative with colours and crafts.

Meet the new arrivals on the farm and, over the Easter week-end, (7th - 10th), cheer on our famous plastic duck race. For more info and entry prices please see 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. 32 | LINLITHGOW

There are so many effective ways of dealing with those bumps in the road we all come across in our day to day lives.

From finding a quiet space to walk in nature to having a warm, scented bath, there are many tried and tested methods to help us take control of stress and bring us calm.

Some people like to meditate or practice daily yoga and we all know how beneficial a restful night’s sleep can be. While those techniques are all effective ways of relaxing, there is another simple method which doesn’t cost much and has been a favourite way of dealing with overwhelming emotions for many years – simply putting our thoughts down on paper.

Journaling our thoughts and feelings supports us to control symptoms and improve our mood. It helps us to prioritise problems, fears and concerns and helps us to recognise triggers and learn ways to better control our responses.

Some people adopt the habit of morning pages which involves keeping a notebook by the bed and writing down the thoughts that are whirring round our heads when we wake up, while others prefer to sit down at night and process the day. There is no right or wrong way to journal and each of us will identify what fits best into our lives.

However we decide to do it, the act of writing down those thoughts and feelings and that new habit of journaling has the potential to bring peace and calm to our everyday lives.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk @KonectMagazines

WINCHBURGH ART CLUB We meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall.

Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk WEST LOTHIAN EAGLES – AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL - Come along and try Australian Rules football! We are recruiting for the 2022 season for both our men’s and women’s teams. If you’re looking for a new sport, new friends and looking to get fitter then get in touch today!

No experience is required and our team of coaches are on hand to teach you all there is to know! We train at Linlithgow Academy every Thursday 7.00pm-9.00pm, see you there! Find us on social media.

W: linktr.ee/WestLothianEagles E: westlothianeagles@gmail.com TABLE TENNIS - LINLITHGOW - Wednesdays - Longcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm - 9.45pm. Annual Membership £10.00, £3.00/night [Under 18’s £2.00] Play Table Tennis in a friendly atmosphere.

The Club has “Active Assured” status (West Lothian Council Accreditation scheme) and is affiliated to Table Tennis Scotland.

For those of a more competitive nature there is the opportunity to represent our team in the Stirlingshire & Midland Counties League. Contact Allan Scott T: 07485 001819 E: linlithgowlttg@gmail.com W: linlithgowtabletennis.co.uk WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semiretired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned.

Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

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WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time?

Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given.

For more information see; W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook. com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274.

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm (termtime) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. Players aged 13+ with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent (no audition) from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us via email: linlithgowstringorchestra@ gmail.com through our website: linlithgowstringorchestra.co.uk or search for us on Facebook.

LOCHSIDE PLAYGROUP Parent-run playgroup located in Linlithgow provides 2.5hrs registered childcare during West Lothian School term-time for children aged 2yrs 3mths to 5 years, 9.15-11.45am Monday-Thursday.

A great setting for children to begin their journey into nursery/school, ensuring a stimulating and caring environment (with healthy snacks).

Council-funded places for 2-yearolds available to eligible families.

Contact us for more information/ to add a child to the waiting list, email: lochsideplaygroup@yahoo. com, through our website www. lochsideplaygroup.org or on Facebook.

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. Services currently via Zoom/ phone: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities.

Virtual Power of Attorney Clinic & Benefits Advice and Counselling.

For information: Tel.: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs.

Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available.

Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others.

Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way.

Annual joining fee £20. Follow our Facebook page, visit www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

To include your Club or Class, please email details, up to 75 words, to editor@konect.scot Not-for-profit groups are FREE. There is a small charge for businesses. See konect.scot for information.

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SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

A spiritual sequel to a personal favourite film of mine, Searching. Missing follows June, a young woman who must find her mom, who went missing whilst on vaccination with her boyfriend.

In the genre of cinema called ‘screenlife’ - which simply means all the storytelling is told via computer, tablet, or smartphone screens – Missing, like Searching, nails this concept.

The film makers have a clear understanding of how computers and the internet works. The way they use Google, Instagram, even Siri feels authentic and accurate to how people use those systems. The presentation and editing are utterly flawless and allows the film to fly by.

ACROSS: 7. Vacant, 8. Operas, 9. Taxi, 10. Contrary, 11. Lighter, 13. Groat, 15. Often, 17. Parsley, 20. Freezing, 21. Rest, 23. Battle, 24. Impede.

DOWN: 1. Mama, 2. Vanish, 3. Stacked, 4. Joins, 5.

Nearer, 6. Carriage, 12. Informal, 14. Bargain, 16. Elects, 18. Scrape, 19. Fixes, 22. Soda.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 22

Missing is at its core a thriller however, and while I feel one plot line feels pointless and unbelievable, the rest of the story is great. There are some fun and engaging twists, characters you love seeing and even the set up and payoffs are truly amazing.

I feel that Storm Reid as June is truly solid. While there were some moments when her acting felt a little cheesy, in my opinion this was more an issue with the direction than with Storm. Another huge positive is the soundtrack - the score adds tension and helps propel the film from scene to scene in great ways.

While I do think Searching is the better film, Missing is a great thriller that is worthy of your time. It won’t blow you away, but a good thriller is something I can’t get bored of.

In Cinemas from the 24th February.

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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