Konect Livingston November 2015

NOVEMBER 2015

livingston

FEATUREs Do Something! - Fundraising, fun and challenging Livi People - helping people get on top of their finances

s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Livingston

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RECIPE

M ess ag e fro m t h e e dito r The theme in this month’s magazine is “Do Something.”

It’s the season for autumn fayres and Christmas fayres, shopping nights and a host of other fundraising events, and we’ve been looking into some of the activities locally that people get involved in for charity and for fun, particularly with the season of giving rapidly approaching…

The air is getting crisper but that doesn’t mean staying indoors – check the What’s On pages for both outdoor and indoor activities this month.

In our new “Livi People” column, which we hope will be a regular column next year, we spoke to a local person who founded and runs a money advice charity – especially pertinent this time of the year when it is easy to get into financial difficulties or overspend at Christmas.

All our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading Konect and for supporting local businesses.

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

FEATUREs Do Something Coffee Cup Cafe – Pay It Forward

08 18

REGULARS Thought for the Month Stone of the Month Livi People Proper ty Matter s Recipe

19 24 34 44 46

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword Sudoku Kid’s Puzzles

48 48 52

COMMUNITY What’s on Useful Information Clubs & Classes

54 54 58

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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

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

Front cover: enjoy fireworks displays locally, see page 54 for listing

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The Konect Directory is delivered to 20,000 homes throughout Livingston, alternating between two areas of /KonectDirectory 10,000 homes each. Extra copies are also left at libraries, community centres, convenience stores, post offices and other locations throughout Livingston. @KonectDirectory

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Are you ready for the challenge?

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FEATURE

“Do Something” Fundraising, fun and challenging.

From running dressed as Santa to cycling from Land’s End to John o’ Groats: taking on a personal challenge whilst raising money for charity is a hugely popular way of achieving several goals.

New running groups launched this autumn mean that kids can train for free, with adult sessions costing only £2 per time - an inexpensive way for the whole family to get fit and have fun! Adult sessions are for runners of all abilities with veteran runner Des Clark tailoring sessions to suit. West Lothian Run has a family ethos and also provides dedicated sessions for children with autism. See the Clubs and Classes listings at the back of this magazine for details of the groups.

Raise money for worthy causes - local or otherwise close to your heart; give yourself a challenge – getting fit, getting out and meeting people, planning an event, bringing some healthy disruption into your everyday routine...whatever your motivations, there are many options. We checked in with some organisations locally for some ideas in the run-up to Christmas and some to work on for next year...

Dance – or go see a charity dance show!

Run for your life, or for someone else’s...

West Lothian Run is a Bathgate-based charity which organises several runs throughout the year - as well as regular running groups for adults and children. They provide affordable running events so that everyone can enjoy the sport in a cost-effective way. The next event is the 2k or 5k Santa Run on 6th December in Livingston. Lindsay Colman, Director of West Lothian Run, said: “Running can be an expensive sport, with entry fees to events being unaffordable for some. Our aim is to host organised events that are affordable as well as fun and familyfocused. We hope to see a record number kids and adults at the Santa Run this year!” Many people enter West Lothian Run events to raise sponsorship money for charity. The West Lothian Fabb Club raised over £1000 at last year’s Santa Run and have signed up again this year to do more fundraising!

Sign up at westlothianrun.org.uk.

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West Lothian resident Cathy Bird set up the nonprofit adult dance group Celtic Stepz this year to encourage adults back into dance and at the same time raise funds for good causes. They do choreographed Highland routines with a flavour of Irish. Their first show will be in Howden Park Theatre, Livingston, on 20th November. The “Spirit of the Celts” show tells the story of the Highland Clearances through music, song and dance. All profits are for Jak’s Den and Teenage Cancer Trust.

Tickets £12/£10, available from Howden Park Box Office on 01506 777 666 or boxoffice@westlothian. gov.uk. Cathy says, “Were taking the show to the Edinburgh Fr inge next year and will continue to raise money for different char ities. The ladies are aged between 15 and 40 something, and are giving up lots of their time to do this for a very worthwhile cause.

Anyone interested in joining the group can email me at cathybird.gb@gmail.com” They practice in Kirknewton Village Hall.

In it together ...

West Lothian company Fitwise, in Blackburn House, Seafield, actively encourages its employees to participate in fundraising. They explained their company fundraising policy and some of the events KONECT

their employees are involved in: “Fitwise is proud to be a part of West Lothian and will continue to give back to the community they call home. From the inspiring quote, ‘we make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give’.” The company has worked closely with Alzheimer Scotland in recent years, and two sponsored Memory Walks and a Christmas raffle allowed them to raise over £750 for the purchase of essential materials.

Members of the Fitwise team visited the Livingston Dementia Café earlier this year to present the items and to see some of the work the cafés do. Fitwise Events Administrator, Maryann Robinson, says, “I have participated in the Race for Life and Alzheimer Scotland Walks these last two years. After losing my father to cancer in 2012 then my mum to dementia in 2014 I wanted to join and support other people who had experienced the same loss, to support and be supported. The spir it and

enthusiasm of hundreds of strangers all coming together in memory of their lost ones, and to help raise money to support those still suffer ing - patients, family and fr iends alike, is overwhelming at times. Very, very emotional. For anyone

else suffering a loss or wanting to support others, it’s a wonderful and rewarding opportunity and it only takes a few hours of your time. A few hours some others may not have. Come out and join us next year, would be great to have you join us.”

Pedal for Scotland (pedalforscotland.org) and Cancer Research UK Race for Life (www. cancerresearchuk.org) have been yearly activities for Fitwise and staff members have found these days emotional and inspiring, hearing and reading everyone’s own personal stories of how cancer has affected them is very powerful and underlines the importance of these types of events in fundraising to help find a cure for cancer. The company’s chairman John Matthews undertook his own fundraising effort a couple of years ago by taking things to the next level: he cycled from Land’s End to John o’ Groats (892.9 miles) a couple of years ago, successfully raising £13,700 to help fund treatment for his friend Nick who was sadly struck down with cerebral malaria whilst working as an ophthalmic surgeon in Malawi.

It all adds up...

It doesn’t all have to be impressive feats of physical achievement. You can “do something” by supporting events that charities have arranged locally whilst ticking a few things off your to-do list such as getting some Christmas shopping done. We checked in with one local charity which has been very busy with events this year. Team Jak is the charity raising money for support facilities for young cancer patients and their families -a vision outlined

by West Lothian teenager Jak Trueman who sadly passed away this year. Team Jak is an example of the power of many separate fundraising efforts to all add up to a big difference - in the eight

West Lothian Run Santa Fun Run 2014.

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months since Jak passed away, they have raised almost £124,000 thanks to events organised by the charity and the many fundraising efforts of local people taking on all manner of challenges. Jak’s mum and charity Chief Executive Allison Barr explains, “At the end of September we had our huge birthday event for Jak’s 16th which raised nearly £7000 between our activities at the Centre, Livingston and our bowling party at Deer Park. We had merchandise, tombola, gold raffle, friendship bracelets, facepainting, buckets, Stevie the Clown from the Sick Kids, and a yellow Lamborghini from Performance Portfolio that Jak drove.”

They have dates arranged in November in Livingston for tombola and merchandise; look out for them on 7th-8th November at The Centre; 21st-22nd November at Morrisons and 28th29th November at The Centre. They will be doing Christmas wrapping every Thursday and Friday in December. Looking ahead to next year, Jak’s Ball will be held in Edinburgh on 13th February and they are looking for people to buy tables, give auction prizes or sponsor a drink round.

Of course, it is November which means Movember, the time you can get sponsorship for actually not doing something – just letting your fabulous moustache grow…

Many of West Lothian’s visitor attractions are charities – have fun and help them out!

Enjoy a wonderful day of adventure and play at Almond Valley, West Lothian’s most popular paid admission attraction or visit Hopetoun House, Scotland’s finest stately home and a place of outstanding natural beauty which has been home to the Hope family since 1699. A recent addition to the area is the Larder West Lothian’s first bespoke cook school which offers a variety of cooking classes for children and adults including Italian, Greek and Mexican cook and dine nights - their professional chef will show participants how to cook the perfect three course meal.

Believe it or not, all of these are local registered charities that not only offer a great day out but would welcome your donations or volunteer support to help them deliver their charitable purposes, include preserving West Lothian’s heritage and promoting learning.

Other local tourism-related charities include Annet House, Linlithgow Union Canal Society, The Regal Community Theatre in Bathgate and The Five Sisters Zoo Rescue and Conservation, to name a few. It’s only through donations and the work of volunteers that many of these organisations are able to open their doors and offer reduced or no entrance fees and to host the huge variety of discounted and free events that take place in West Lothian throughout the year.

If you would like to offer help to any of these organisations, contact Visit West Lothian on 01506 283 090. email: visitwestlothian@westlothian.gov.uk. www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook.com/VisitWestLothian Twitter.com/teamwestlothian

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Community The Coffee Cup Cafe, Livingston:

Pa y i n g it Fo rwa rd

As the days get colder a hot drink, soup or hot roll on a cold day can make all the difference between a good day and a bad day!

But for some people who are struggling to feed themselves or their families it could make an even bigger difference.

So the Coffee Cup Cafe in Carmondean Centre, Livingston, has launched a social initiative to help disadvantaged people in the area with a “Pay It Forward” scheme. The concept of Pay It Forward describes the ripple effect of acts of kindness, the principle being that if you’ve benefited from a good deed you “pay” it back to someone else in need, not to the original giver, thereby spreading the benefit more widely. At the Coffee Cup Cafe, customers pick something from the menu and pay for it but instead of consuming it themselves it’s recorded as a donation to be given to someone less fortunate. The cafe has an arrangement with West Lothian social work department, the charity Children 1st and local homeless charities. Each of these organisations identify local people who are struggling to feed themselves, and, similarly to the way foodbanks operate, they issue vouchers. The

Colourful sticky notes behind the counter at the Coffee Cup Cafe record the different hot drinks and snacks that have been bought by customers for the benefit of other local people

vouchers can be redeemed at the Coffee Cup Cafe for freshly prepared hot food.

The scheme was set up by cafe owner Val along with one of her customers Stacey Cuz, and since the launch in mid-September Val’s customers have risen magnificently to the idea, as testified by the board of sticky notes behind the counter which record the hot drinks and snacks that have already been paid for and are ready to be handed out. While it’s sad that as a society we’ve had to go back to foodbanks and other food handouts just for people to survive, that’s where we are at the moment and schemes like this can be a life-saver.

So pop into the Coffee Cup Cafe and when you order your hot drink or snack, add another to the order.

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p Ca fe r un s a Th e Co ffe e Cu of fo r th e be ne fit m on th ly r af fle l. ita Ki ds ho sp Ed in bu r gh Si ck af fle pr ize s ar e D on at io ns of r be r . Fo r th e D ec em alw ay s we lco m e fo r g in ok lo r tic ul ar ly dr aw th ey ar e pa . er d be wi ne s, sp ir its an 18

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We all have both of these, but which one do you feed each day? Humans have many characteristics, for instance, our ability to love, empathise and reason, to be kind and compassionate. But there is also the side of us that judges, criticises, experiences resentment or even envy! Do you find yourself happy for other people’s successes and joys or criticising and talking them down? Do you ever stop to notice which way you sway?

Two wolves in the heart

by Tina Gilbert

There is an ancient story about a Native American elder who was asked how she became so wise, so happy and so respected.

She answered: “In my heart there are two wolves: a wolf of love and a wolf of hate. It all depends on which one I feed each day.”

If we notice what our tendency is to sway towards, without judging our patterns, we have the ability to grow a new way of being if we choose to. One of the ancient yoga saints, Patanjali, writes: “By cultivating attitudes of friendliness towards the happy, compassion for the unhappy, delight in the virtuous and disregard to the wicked, the mind stuff retains its undisturbed calmness.” Yet when we are stuck in the patterns we have grown over time, generally of negativity, it becomes hard to change.

The wolf of love and the wolf of hate is alive in all of us. Evolution and experience both shape us and our patterning but can you watch which one you feed each day.

Tina lives in Livingston and teaches yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk

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Stone of the month - Jade for November

by The Stone Ring

Jade is known as the dream stone and as the stone of fidelity. It brings realization to the potential and devotion of ones purpose.

It also assists in improving the memory of dreams and helps in dream solving. Jade was very often used in helping to release suppressed emotions via the dream process. For this activity a piece of Jade is placed under the pillow prior to sleep. Jade was revered in the Myan culture as the Sovereign of Harmony helping to facilitate peace within the physical, emotional and intellectual structures. Jade is also said to bring accord to the environment and to transmute negativity and to instil resourcefulness. It is claimed that Jade was used in the Breast Plate of the High Priest of this culture.

The Stone Ring Complementary Therapies Crystals and Crystal Jewellery Angel Cards Development classes and work shops - contact the shop to see what’s on

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Tai Chi - Fridays 6.30 - 8.30pm £25 per month Qi Gong Therapy with Stuart every Friday, £35 KONECT

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FEATURE

Jen Crook Scotland – the warm-up for Antarctica

West Lothian resident Jen Crook is training to be the first woman to do a solo unsupported walk to the South Pole and back from the edge of Antarctica.

A keen sportswoman, she kicks off her training this winter with a two-month hike from the south to the north of Scotland during the harshest time of the year, taking in a few mountains along the way...

“Conditions in the mountains in Scotland in winter can be pretty harsh,” explains Jen. “A snow-covered mountain range is not to be tackled without the right experience and equipment.” She’s no stranger to mountains though. She became hooked on them when she came to Scotland to study theoretical physics at St Andrews, joined the RAF Reserves, becoming involved in Search and Rescue. She fell in love with Scotland’s wide open spaces, the mountains and the lack of populations pressure.

And how did she end up in Kirknewton? “After St Andrews I did a post-graduate degree in photography and film at Edinburgh University and set up a photography and film business.

Wedding photography is my bread-and-butter income, and I get various interesting film assignments and climbing photography work.

I was in the States earlier this year filming Sarah Outen [a woman who rowed, kayaked and cycled around the globe] as she set out to row across the Atlantic. I needed to find new accommodation near Edinburgh for when I returned, so I searched on the internet for places to rent within five miles of Ratho Climbing Centre!”

Branding it her “Scottish Adventure - the Winter Slog,” Jen is using this trip, (the first of several including one to Iceland next year), to practice trip planning, sponsorship and fund raising.

She’ll be accompanied for the two month hike

Jen Crook by her Labrador, Haggis. “As I get more and more into the planning of this I realise that it has pretty much become my job now. The wedding photography business goes quiet over winter so this is a good time to do my first long hike.”

Haggis was a rehomed dog who, when she came to Jen, was obese and unfit. But after two and a half years of living with Jen, who spends as much time as possible climbing and hiking, Haggis is now very fit and healthy and loves the hills.

Charity fund raising is a major part of the expedition and Jen takes it very seriously. “As a small child I was motivated to raise money for charities, making things and selling them.

During my teenage years though I think I was too busy rebelling against everything and everybody!

But when I started looking at charities to support for this trip I surprised myself by how much I really, really care. If I have the opportunity to raise a lot of money for charity then there’s no question, I’m doing it.” She spent a long time deciding which to support for this trip, trawling the Charities Register. The two which resonated with her were International Animal Rescue and Soi Dog Foundation. “It seems fitting, especially since Haggis is coming with me on this trip, to pick animal charities this time.” She has secured sponsorship from Ruffwear for Haggis’ gear, and

from Lowe Alpine and Rab outdoor clothing for herself.

If Jen ultimately succeeds in her Antarctic expedition (planned for 2017/18) she will be only the fourth person ever to have done it unsupported, and the other three were men. Is it the challenge of being the first woman to do it that motivates her? “Yes there is definitely an element of that – being the first. The excitement of thinking ‘is this even possible?’ if no other woman has ever done it. The thought of walking on terrain that no other human has ever walked on.”

Did she grow up on stories polar explorers?

“No, but I read ‘Race to the Pole’ and that set me thinking. So I was more inspired by Ben Fogle than by Scott or Shackleton!”

She also read about Cas and Jonesy, two Australians who were the first to do the trip unsupported from outside help in 2012. “I realised that I was so focussed on my film business, and concentrating on how it was going to develop in the future in a career in film, that I was loosing the spark that had set me on that course in the first place. I was living in the future instead of the present. I’d been wondering about tackling Antarctica for several years and after reading about Cas and Jonesy I just decided to commit to it and go for it.” The charities that Jen picks for the Antarctica trip will probably be peoplerelated – drugs/alchohol issues, or anything else that stops people from achieving their goals in life.

In the meantime, the Winter Slog through Scotland is kicking off mid January and Jen is busy preparing. She would love for people to join her and Haggis for parts of it to increase awareness of the trip, have fun out in the hills and increase the money raised.

Follow her on Twitter twitter.com/JenCrookFilms Read more about her Scottish Adventure here: http://jencrook.com/scottish-adventure---thewinter-slog.php Donate here: http://paypal.me/JenCrook https://www.justgiving.com/Jen-Crook/ https://www.razoo.com/story/Scottishadventure k

Haggis in some of her Ruffwear hiking gear.

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Livi People

by Suzanne Green

Helping people get on top of their finances

Alan Davidson is founder and now Project Director of The Bridge, a charity that offers free money advice for those living in West Lothian.

He and his wife Gillian live in Dedridge with their children, Joshua (9), Andrew (7) and Ben (5), and their dog, Jura.

Alan says establishing The Bridge has been a journey of faith. He did Environmental Planning at university before working for a Housing Association in Edinburgh for nine years in community

r money Managing you time at Christmas

what dable list of Make an affor y and stick to it.

• bu you want to and ne bargains li on r fo Look • . nd ou shop ar se items line, purcha If buying on me and save on • ti at the same postage. nted e kids’ unwa Clear out th them locally or • ll toys and se online. ok for to borrow, lo n pay If you need • u ca yo re su en t 0% deals, bu me. it back in ti buy ways need to You don’t al be • n ca s od go d new; pre-love and are much y it al qu t grea cheaper.

Starting in • d January, coul 0 £5 you put away

a month (or nt) another amou for next Christmas?

Dedridge resident Alan Davidson, Founder of The Bridge development, including youth work, computer training and employability. His involvement in these and other support services provided a wealth of experience that helped him set up the new charity in late 2014.

The Bridge is affiliated with national award-winning charity Community Money Advice Scotland, who have trained the nine volunteers who staff the new centre. “I started working with Community Money Advice in 2011,” says Alan. “They support local churches and community groups in establishing free face-to-face debt advice. Across the UK they have 160 centres – about 90 per cent of them are in churches.” In the past four years Alan has helped establish five of these centres across Scotland. He launched The Bridge in October 2014, and it was fully up and running by January 2015.

The aim of the money advice service is to give people hope that their circumstances can be different. Volunteers provide practical support in dealing with financial stress and seek to bring about positive and lasting change.

“Currently we are seeing 37 individuals, from a range of backgrounds,” says Alan. “People come every week or every other week. It’s important to us to show compassion, and we are non-judgemental and respectful. None of our clients’ details or circumstances are shared with anyone outside the service without their permission.

“Our goal is to provide practical and relational support, and we aim to go the extra mile. A client KONECT

will see the same person every time – so trust can be built up and they don’t have to keep telling their story.”

The Bridge offers more than advice. For example, sometimes volunteers help clients in practical ways, such as with their shopping or going with them to appointments. This is important because many people who are in debt suffer from anxiety.

And they may need a friend if their circumstances have made them feel isolated. Sometimes the only person who knows about their situation, the only one they feel they can talk to about it, is a member of The Bridge team. Among others, that team includes Martin, who recently retired from the bank, and Stephen and Kirsteen, a couple Alan met by chance who were keen to get involved.

“Filling gaps” is what The Bridge is about. Money advice is the primary focus. But Alan plans to offer counselling one day too. “We are currently looking into the possibility of offering counselling with the support of West Lothian College,” he comments.

“We want to be a ‘bridge’ between the council and the community and a ‘bridge’ between the church and the community. Our desire is that our clients will feel welcome, wanted and worthy.

“We help people to create a budget, and seek to make things manageable again, giving them back the reins bit by bit so that once again they are in control of their finances. Usually people know how to budget, but life circumstances hit them – things such as health issues, relationship breakdown, unemployment or death in the family – and they get into trouble.”

Alan hopes The Bridge will eventually be based in rural West Lothian. “In the right venue we could offer counselling, and bereavement care, as well as gardening and art therapy,” he says. “A place where clients could find rest and restoration. Sometimes people need a break from their circumstances.”

To learn more, to enquire about volunteering or to book an appointment, ring 01506 238 980 or email: money@bridgecommunityproject.org.uk

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41

Interiors feature

Local designers win top UK kitchen and bathroom awards 2015

EKCO, the Edinburgh Kitchen Company, beat off stiff competition from across the UK to win three top awards at the KBSA - Kitchen Bedroom and Bathroom Specialists Association, 2015 awards in September, in Stratford–upon-Avon.

EKCO designer Hollie Kerr scooped the prize for Bathroom Designer of the Year while previous winner of the same award, colleague Emma Campbell, took the top slot for Kitchen Designer of the Year. Emma, currently on maternity leave following the recent birth of her daughter Sophie, also made it a double by winning Young Designer of the Year, and not for the first time having won it previously in 2013.

EKCO Managing Director, Stewart Bruce said, “My wife and Co-Director, Heather, and I have been running a successful business now for over 15 years but we continually strive to be better so it’s always a special moment when our company’s hard

work is recognised by our peers in the industry.

We’re both really proud of Hollie and Emma’s achievements and the passion, enthusiasm and creativity all our designers display when answering client briefs.’

Stewart believes his designers’ success is down to a number of factors. “‘What a client wants and what they need are sometimes two different things.

Emma and Hollie’s strengths lie in looking beyond the brief and developing a working relationship with clients which is built on trust. This allows them to be brave enough to challenge current thoughts and ideas so we can come up with the design that the client will not only love but is also going to work best for them, most of the time within a very tight budget.”

EKCO was launched in 1999 to design, supply and fit quality kitchens throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians. The company has since expanded with the design, supply and fit of bathrooms, Britishbuilt bifold doors and also lifestyle home extensions and sunrooms. They have a showroom in Abbeyhill Edinburgh and another in Uphall, Livingston. www.ekco.co.uk

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property matters

“Autumn’s All Go!”

by Craig Turpie

With the summer now firmly behind us, the market is active once again, and we actually find that there is a current imbalance of more buyers in the market than stock, but predict that there will be a run of properties coming onto the market in the run up to Christmas.

Those who enter the market ahead of this rush are likely to be the winners, as they will be competing with older stock.

or different viewing audience specifically relevant to your property. This is achieved by constantly monitoring buyer activity, tracking web statistics, gathering market intelligence and freshening images to ensure that all properties appear current to new buyers. This diligence, knowledge and understanding of the market can often mean only a subtle change to the marketing strategy of a property is required but typically increases viewing activity, often catching the attention of buyers who had previously overlooked it.

Property which is new to market is highly prized and any agent will tell you that a property is likely to receive the most attention within the first four to six weeks of marketing. That’s when buyers are excited about new properties, often leading to the highest selling price as buyers compete for fresh stock. Properties which have been on the market for longer periods become more reliant on new buyers entering the market but also on their agent being proactive in identifying ways to reach a new

We would be happy to create a bespoke Marketing Plan that really works for you – without obligation – quickly, efficiently and with great care and courtesy for local homeowners over the coming weeks.

So if a move is on the cards, we urge you to consider bringing it forward if at all possible. You can always extend your completion date if need be. But the key in this market is to secure a buyer sooner rather than later.

So why not call us today, and discover a refreshingly different estate agency? You might just be putting your Christmas tree up in a different house this year!

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If you are thinking of selling, please contact us for a FREE valuation and market appraisal Telephone: 01506 668448 www.turpies.com

Recipe & Food Notes

by Anne Pinkerton

Cookery Myth Busters 3 Be jammy

Equipment Heavy bottomed pan. (If enamel it must not be chipped because the acid from fruit will react with it and taint the jam) Measuring jug A couple of small plates put in the fridge before you start.

Long handled wooden spoon Glass jars, warmed in the oven at 80C. You can re-use jars of any shape you like. My children think me really sad; I even have favourite old pots from long lost products such as Sunny Spread and the moulded jars from Rose’s lime marmalade!

Jam covers. I prefer cellophane (these come from Lakeland but also many other shops).

For jelly: A boiled clean cotton cloth.

Method Simple jam is made from fruit weight for weight with sugar e.g. 1lb fruit to 1lb sugar.

Some fruit is easier to set than others because they all have different amounts of pectin, the setting agent. This can be corrected by using lemon juice, so if you see a recipe specifying it don’t cut it out.

Jelly is made by cooking fruit gently till the juices run and then dripping it over-night through a cloth and collecting and measuring the liquid. Then you need 1 lb sugar to 1 pint of liquid.

I love making jam, it appeals to the squirrel in me!

There is nothing to be worried about when tackling making jam - you don’t need special equipment despite the marketing of shops. Nor does it have to be done in one go, leaving jars and jars to be stashed away to last till next year. All you need is a little time.

You must have all the equipment and the jars scrupulously clean. You must measure liquids and fruit properly … and you must enjoy the whole process!

rt. You can Late autumn is a good timee toof sta t you make wha som perhaps think of giving uch as. stm hri C as presents to friends at ght in theM p. sho bou ff more personal than stu

Sugar Any modern white sugar makes good jam. Brown sugar will change the taste and may create scum.

Caster sugar will drop to the bottom of the pan and perhaps burn if you don’t mix it enough. Preserving sugar is good but not always available and is expensive.

It’s best to warm your sugar in the oven with the jars. This keeps the fruit at right temperature and keeps the boiling time to a minimum, giving the best coloured jam.

Fruit Most fruits and some vegetables (marrow) will make jam but some are more worthwhile than others. Fruit should be just ripe and in good condition. Dried fruit such as apricot makes delicious conserve, and rhubarb and ginger is traditional. Frozen fruit, your own or brought in, is convenient if you fancy raspberry jam in January.

Or you can look out for it in the supermarket.

Strawberry is the favourite but is the most difficult to get a good set.

Apple makes the best jelly along with red current and is the basis of herb jellies such as mint jelly to eat with lamb.

Frozen Mixed Berry Jam 1 bag frozen mixed berries, and its weight in sugar.

Method:

Leave to go cold. Label, perhaps using coloured pens or paper labels.

You can also use metal lids but they need to have been scalded in boiling water.

Let the fruit defrost in the pan you intend to cook in, perhaps over night.

Put a couple of plates in the fridge.

Warm the sugar and the clean jars.

Bring the fruit gently to the boil. Add the warmed sugar and mix together till the sugar dissolves.

Re-boil and continue on a high heat for about 8-10 minutes. Keep mixing the sides to the middle.

Draw off the heat and test for setting by dribbling a little “jam” on a cold plate. If, after a minute , the edge of the sample puckers up and keeps its shape it is setting. This may need two or three tests.

The cold plate speeds the process.

When you have a set take off the heat.

Fill the warm jars with a jug, taking care to avoid spills; the jam is hot and could burn you.

Boiling jam

Cover with cellophane and secure with rubber band.

Xmas 2015

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PUZZLES

CROSSWORD Solution in the December edition of konect

Across 1 Brass instrument (7) 5 Two wheeled transport (5) 8 More fortunate (7) 9 Room under the eaves (5) 10 Not sour (5) 11 Adore, revere (7) 12 Come to an end (6) 14 Irritates, annoys (6) 17 Used for cigarettes (7) 19 Seashell (5) 22 Regulations (5) 23 Holiday home (7) 24 Found in the spine (5) 25 Ruin (7) Down 1 Informs (5) 2 Male relative (5) 3 Artist (7) 4 Flung (6) 5 Seat (5) 6 Fasteners (7) 7 Gets away (7) 12 Went into (7) 13 Small stones (7) 15 Accompanies (7) 16 Compelled (6) 18 Supports for broken bones (5) 20 Not ever (5) 21 Useful (5)

SUDOKU Sudoku solution on page 61

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WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information

and dance. A fundraising event, all proceeds for Team Jak teamjak.co.uk and Teenage Cancer Trust. Tickets £12/£10, available from Howden Park Box Office on 01506 777 666 or boxoffice@westlothian.gov.uk.

Saturday 12th December

Wednesday 28th October Generation Dance - workshops 10.30am - 3.30pm, £8 includes lunch, at Howden Park Centre, Livingston. A fun and friendly day of creative dance workshops and performances for older dancers, brought to you by Generation Arts and including Dance House Glasgow, Dance Base and tutors from Scottish Ballet. Choose two from three workshops (seated options available) and in the afternoon watch a performance triple-bill featuring some of Scotland’s leading older dance groups, Regenerate, 24 Carat and Still Dancing.

This day is for dancers of all abilities aged fifty plus. Come as you are but wear comfy clothing and be prepared to get your groove on! Part of Luminate, Scotland’s creative ageing festival. Tickets from Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE. www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk. Box Office 01506 777666. www.generationarts.co.uk

Fireworks events November 2015 Deer Park Golf Course Road, Livingston, Golf Course Road, Livingston, EH54 8AB. Thursday 5th November 7.30pm. £5/£15 for family (admits 4) Callendar House Callendar Park, Falkirk, FK1 1YR. Thursday 5th November 6.30pm. Live music will be provided by Dionne Hickey and The Tonkerers. Free entry.

Livingston Cricket Club Turpie & Co Sports Ground, Murieston Valley.

Saturday 7th November 7.30pm. Free entry, donation buckets.

Linlithgow Rugby Club Mains Park, Mains Road, Linlithgow. Saturday 7th November 7.30pm. Entry £5 or £15 for family (admits 5).

Hopetoun House Queensferry, EH30 9SL. Saturday 7th November Gates open from 4pm, preshow entertainment, fireworks display approx 6.30pm. Adults £13, Children £6.50 (aged 4 – 15).

Saturday 14th November West Lothian Highland Society monthly ceilidh Monthly ceilidh in Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn. Doors open at 6.45pm for a start time of 7.30pm. Music by Ian Cruickshank Trio. Tickets £5.

Christmas Crafts at Polkemmet Come and make some homemade craft items for Christmas. Our cosy craft room awaits your crafty skills!

Materials provided. Suitable for families. Meet outside the Rangers Office, Polkemmet Country Park. Time: 2pm-3.30pm. Cost: £3.55 per item. For more information and booking please contact the Rangers on 01501 743905 email: polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk

West Lothian Foodbank Christmas Shopping List.

Please buy an item from this list for the West Lothian Foodbank: * Christmas Pudding * Christmas Cake * Box of Biscuits * Stuffing mix * Large Bar Chocolate * Snacks & Nibbles * Christmas Crackers * Nuts Please could you check the date is after Jan 2016. We are also running low on toiletries (shampoo, shower gel, razors).

Donation points in Livingston area are: Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6QR. Opening times: Mon, Wed & Fri 12:30 to 2:30pm Livingston Old Parish Church of Scotland, St Andrew’s, 4A Main Street, Deans, EH54 8BE. Opening Times: Tuesday 12:30 to 2:30pm Main Foodbank Warehouse, Knightsridge East Industrial Estate, Knightsridge East Road, EH54 8RA westlothian.foodbank.org.uk

Howden Park Centre has a busy programme of events including live music, dance, theatre, workshops and exhibitions. See their website at www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk for complete up to date listing or contact the box office: 01506 777666 Collection organised by “West Lothian’s Needy” Sunday 22nd November at Inveralmond Community High School (Livingston) car park between 11.30am and 3.30pm. Donations required of toys, selection boxes, advent calendars, gifts for 16 to 21 year olds, non perishable foods, Christmas decorations and trees you are finished with and household goods that would suit homeless people setting up a new home. Remember our motto, “Nobody ever became poor from giving.”

Friday 20th November Spirit of the Celts A show by local dance group Celtic Steps which tells the story of the Highland Clearances through music, song

54

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

KONECT

library information

Lanthorn Library

Livingston Library opening hours are changing from 29/6/15. See new hours for each library below.

Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6NY T: 01506 777700. E: lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Mon 10am-3pm. Tues & Fri 11am5pm. Wed 11am-4pm. Thurs 10am - 7pm. Sat 9am - 1pm.

BOOKBUG: Friday 17th November at 11.00am Fun Rhymes and stories for all under 3’s and their favourite adult.

BOOKBASHER’S BOOK GROUP: Thursday 19th November 6.00pm. Book group suitable for 8 – 11 year olds, new Members welcome.

BOOK GROUP: Thursday 26th November at 5.45pm.

Informal book group for all book lovers.

BOOKBUG STORYTIME: Friday 27th November at 2.30pm. Suitable for children 3 – 5 years old Scottish themed activities available in the Library Monday 23rd until Saturday 28th November Volunteer IT Buddies are available in Lanthorn Library to help you use computers and access online services Thursdays 1pm – 3pm. Please contact the Library for more information and help.

The Lanthorn Library, continues to be an important part of the Community, we look forward to welcoming our customers, old and new, making use of this valued service in the years ahead.

Almondbank Library Shiel House, Shiel Walk, Craigshill, EH54 5EH T: 01506 283133.

E: almondbank.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 9am - 6pm Thurs 9am - 7pm. Sat 9am -1pm Graphic Novel group: 4:30 - 6:00pm 15th, 29th.

12th, 26th Nov. New members welcome.

Adult Book Group: 5:30 - 6:30pm 29th Oct, 26th Nov. New members welcome.

Book Bug sessions: 20th Oct. 3rd, 17th Nov and 1st Dec. Come along and join in with stories songs and rhymes for parents and preschool children.

Carmondean Library Carmondean Connected: Carmondean Centre, EH54 8PT T: 01506 777602.

E: carmondean.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Mon & Fri 9am - 5pm. Tues & Thus 10am - 7pm. Fri 10am - 5pm. Sat 9am - 1pm.

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J oin us this Christmas at Almond Valley Baptist Church

Meeting at Newyearfield Farm Comm. Centre Sundays @11a.m.

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Saturday 28 November from 10am-1pm.

You can enjoy Santa’s Grotto, The Secret Room, cafe, home baking, games, raffle and lots more!

See you at Peel Primary School on Saturday 28th November!!!

Advert designed by Euan, aged 10 KONECT

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clubs & classes

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

Jog Scotland Jog Scotland groups around Livingston aim to get people outdoors and get fit whilst meeting new friends. There are groups suitable for beginners to advanced at different locations and times around Livingston. Check out jogscotland.org.uk.

MS Society afternoon meetings Group meeting in the afternoons once per month at Dobbies, for those who can’t make the evening meeting. Support group to help people with MS, emotional, financial difficulties and to signpost them to legal and other help. Call Alison Ritchie on 01506 201439 or email viadoc@hotmail.co.uk for more details and the date of this month’s meeting.

Lothian Running Club We welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too).

Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6. Training sessions in and around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park. For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub.co.uk.

West Lothian Clarion Cycling club - Our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www. westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion. co.uk

West Lothian 50 Plus Network New members always welcome for social, educational, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc.

See www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

The Livingston Players Amateur theatre company always pleased to welcome new members with or without experience. For more information please contact Carol, Membership Secretary, on 01506 881398 or see www. livingstonplayers.co.uk

Livingston FC League players and juniors, social and corporate events.

Almondvale Stadium telephone 01506 417000 or see www.livingstonfc.co.uk

Livingston Speakers Toastmasters Club A fun & friendly way to improve your Communication & Leadership skills. Our meetings are always entertaining and educational.

We meet at West Lothian College, Livingston. Alternate Thursdays 7:15pm to 9:30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more. For more info see -www.livingstonspeakers.org.uk http:// www.facebook.com/LivingstonSpeakers

Livingston Ramblers Group We are a non profit walking group with members from around Livingston including Bathgate, Armadale, East, West and Mid Calder, Kirknewton, Blackburn, Uphall and Broxburn. We have 3 walking groups. Thursdays, once a fortnignt offering walks of 5 – 8 miles, starting at 10.00 am. Saturday Challenge walks starting at 7.00 or 7.30 am, walks include Corbetts and Munros. Sunday Venture walks start at 8.00am and offer a variety of walks of 7-13 miles, from coast to hills. You are welcome to try any of our walks. Contact 01506 880980 for further information.

CRAIGSHILL New Town Roller Girls Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/NewTownRollerGirls or email newtownrollergirls@hotmail.co.uk. Please contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you.

West Lothian Rhythmic Gymnastics Club Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, EH54 5LU. Rhythmic is gymnastics

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with rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. We welcome all girls from 5 -18 year old, from beginners to Elite level. For more information contact Liz McNeill – 01506 434789 or 07710 472213.

Craigshill Good Neighbour Network Practical help, social and volunteering opportunities to socially isolated people of all ages in Craigshill and South Howden.

Lunch club, Tuesday social club, optional transport to and from clubs, outings and befriending. Almondbank Centre. Tel 01506 435851.

Lodge Almondale Social Club Our Social Club convenor cordially invites all members, associate members and their guests to visit our social club. The Social Club is open every evening and Saturday afternoon (except Sunday and meeting nights) with Live Music, Dancing and Bingo every Saturday evening and Bingo every Wednesday evening. Non members welcome. Masonic Hall, Craigshill Rd East, Livingston EH54 5DT Tel: 01506 439418.

Trampoline Classes for children Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill 6 years + . Please call 01506 412314 for more info.

Craigshill Thistle u15’s Training Tues 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm at Craigsfarm in Craigshill 3g pitch.

Friday at Craigswood sports centre playing fields 6.30pm - 8.00pm weather permitting (if weather is bad Friday’s training is held at Craigsfarm 7.30 - 8.30 pm). For further details contact Mark on 07951 528398.

Parents Together West Lothian Support group for families with child on the Autism Spectrum.

Meet up once a month for a chat and a coffee, regular guest speakers. First Thursday of each month (during school term). For more information contact parentstogetherwestlothian@live.com

New Town Entertainers Rehearse at Craigsfarm on Mon and Wed from 7pm for annual pantomime production. Open to anyone over 14 yrs. Membership is £10 adults and £5 under 18s. For more information please contact Jan Dignon on 01506 431803.

Daisy Drop In Almondbank Centre, Craigshill Information centre for parents/carers of pre-school children. Drop in, play and have fun! Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 12 noon, Mon & Thurs afternoons 1.30pm - 3.00pm.

Daisy Drop In Playgroup Letham Community Wing, Craigshill: Playgroup for 2 - 5’s.

Take eligible 2’s. Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.15am - 11.30am, Tues, Wed & Thurs afternoons 12.30pm - 2.45pm. Tel: 01506 238998 or email: daisydropin@hotmail.co.uk for more info.

Craigshill Dance Class – NEW! Fridays 2 – 3pm. Starts November 6th. Join Craigshill’s new intergenerational dance class for people over 60 and their families.

There will be traditional and modern dances, no partners are required and everyone is welcome from 0 – 100. Classes will run every week except during school holidays, at The Craigshill Thistle Pavilion, Maree Walk. Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality, so everyone can take part.

Every child must have a participating adult. £1 Individuals / £3 Family of 3 or more, payable each week. Can’t come but want to know more?

Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239 or Jane on 07473 102 669. www. generationarts.co.uk

DEANS 13th West Lothian Scouts Deans Community Hall Beavers: 6 - 8 years. Tues 6.30 - 7.30pm Cubs: 8 - 10 years. Thurs 6.30 - 8.00pm Scouts: 10 -14 years. Thurs 7.00 – 9.00. We are also looking for new leaders or helpers to help out on the nights. All are welcome. Please contact Steven Graham steven_graham1@gmx.co.uk or by phone 07786638442 or 1506 630360 after 6.30pm.

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Yoga for people with health conditions Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road. Wednesdays 1.15-2.30pm.

Call Joanna on 07436 102726 for more information.

Livingston Station Playgroup Livingston Station Community Centre. Spaces available for 2 – 5 yr olds. Mon-Thurs 9.30-11.50am, Fri 9.15-11.30am. £4 per day plus £1 per wk for healthy snack. Contact us on 07954 044260 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on facebook for more info.

Deans Community High School Playgroup Care and education for children from 2 years 6 months. Dean Community High School, Eastwood Park, Livingston. Mon-Fri 9.10am – 11.10 am term time. £20/week, or flexible days at £4/session (min of 3 per week). For more information please phone Claire or Lesley on 01506 282155 and ask for playgroup between 8.45am and 12.15pm, or pop in any time for a visit.

Yoga Carmondean Community Centre. Tuesdays 6:30-7:30. Please contact Tina on 07834 970 409 or email tina@yogamed.co.uk. See www. yogamed.co.uk

Livingston Fiddlers A group of amateur musicians who meet for regular practise sessions in Deans and play for local events. New members always welcome. Must be able to read music and not suitable for complete beginners. Fiddle/accordion or any other instrument considered.

Venue - St Andrews Church Hall, Deans, Livingston. Time: most Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm. Contact secretary: eric@livingstonfiddlers. co.uk. Tel 01506 654 189. www.livingstonfiddlers.co.uk

Pilates for people with health conditions Livingston Station Community Centre. Fridays 10.30-11.30am. Call Joanna on 07436 102726 for more information.

Diabetes UK West Lothian Voluntary Group Regular group meetings are held on 1st Wednesday of each month (not January) at 7-9pm at Inveralmond Community High School, Willowbank, Ladywell Livingston. For more info contact may@ dukwl.info or by phone 01506 834 877 Mob: 07708 919 064. www. west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org. We also have Facebook and Twitter pages.

Lothians MS Support Group Open to anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis, family & friends.

Informal fortnightly meetings for support, information and activities. Membership and meetings free. For more info and for dates of this month’s fortnightly meetings, contact Val on valsteward1msgroup@yahoo.co.uk or call 01506 201107. Fortnightly meetings are at the Ability Centre, Livingston, EH54 8PT on a Tueday 7pm–8.30pm.

Deans Art Club New Deans Community Building. Tuesdays 7 – 9pm. Beginners welcome. We are a friendly class, £2 per adult per week, paints provided. For more information please call Jim Tripney on 01506 418838.

Kiddies Corner Carmondean Community Centre. For Preschool Children.

Tues 9.00am – 12 noon. Child minders available Mon & Wed 9.00am – 12 noon. For more info tel 01506 439568.

West Lothian Breast Cancer Support Group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm-9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 01506 655739.

Livingston United Parish Church Meets on Sundays at Nether Dechmont Community Centre, Fells Rigg. 8.45 – Eucharist. 9.30 – All-age Worship. 10.00 – Children’s Group, Discussion Group and Coffee Bar. 11.00 – Traditional Service.

Transport can be provided – call 07806 628506 to arrange. Also meets on Thursdays at Lanthorn Community Centre, Dedridge, at 10.15am for Holy Communion. www.lupc.org.uk.

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charge. Visit facebook.com/lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information.

JYHS Badminton Club At James Young High School on Saturdays. Open to school children in the Livingston area of any age or ability. Primary School age (P1P7) 9am - l0am. High School age (S1-S6) l0am - 11am Contact: Ann (01506 438717) or Joyce (01506 462430)

Dedridge Spiritualist Church Crofthead Community Centre, Templer Rise. Wednesdays 7.30pm.

We are one of the oldest running spiritualist church in Livingston. We have been serving the community since 1985. We have a different medium every week. No admission fee. Find us on Facebook and web site:dedridgespiritualstchurch.co.uk

Livingston Camera Club Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge. We meet every Monday evening at 7:15pm - 9:30pm. All welcome. Annual subscription £25, weekly attendance £2.50 (concessions available). Annual programme of visiting speakers, members digital, print & AV evenings, internal & external competitions, tutorials and outings. The central aim of the club is to encourage individual members to share ideas, knowledge and experience, and develop their photographic skills. www. livingstoncameraclub.org.uk. Email – contact@livingstoncameraclub. org.uk Facebook – www.facebook.com/livingstoncameraclub twitter – www.twitter.com/LiviCamClub

Café Connect Friendly community café with homebaking and refreshments Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30-12. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 415837

The Lanthorn Toddlers Group – Music Makers Meets on Mondays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. From 9:45 to 10:45 - £1 per session

The Lanthorn Toddlers Group – Parent & Toddlers Meets on Fridays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge From 10:00am to 12 noon. Snack provided - £1 per session. Contact Susanne Brunton at lanthorntoddlers@gmail.com Or find us on Facebook Lanthorn Toddler Group.

Cafe Connect Extra For those suffering with dementia and their carers. 1st Wednesday of the month 2pm-3:30pm. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837

Lunch Club 12:30pm every Thursday for any over 60s. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 41583.

Bump and Baby Group Dedridge Baptist Church. For precrawling babies and their carers - Mondays 9:30-11. Come and have a cuppa and a natter with other new and expecting parents while your little one enjoys themselves.

Penumbra Unit 20 Grampian Court, Beverige Square, Dedridge. Every fortnight from 14 March 2012. For anyone experiencing mental health problems : the group can help people who need information on illnesses, understanding from others in similar situations or even just a chat to get out of the house. For more information contact: cinderbelle@hotmail.co.uk or 07854 316139.

Crofthead Hickory House Playgroup Crofthead Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG. For children 2-3 years. Mon-Fri 9.15-11.15am term time. £4.50/day includes healthy snack. For more info call 01506 467650, email crofheadhickoryhouse@gmail.com or visit www. croftheadhickoryhouse.co.uk

West Lothian Self-Help Group A free self-help group for adults living with depression, low mood and anxiety or those who support others. We meet the first Wednesday of every month at 6.30 -8.30 within Crofthead Farm, Dedridge, EH54 6DG.

Space Academy Children’s Club

Parent and Toddler Group

Monthly club for primary aged children held on the last Friday of each month from 1.30-3.30pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre.

Games, stories, songs, science, crafts, cooking and more – free of

Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Tues: 12.30 – 2.30pm & Wed: 9.15 – 11.15am. £1.00 0 – 5 years old. Tel 01506 203683 Craft, snack (lunch on Tuesdays), sports, outings & visitors

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clubs & classes Livingston & District Amateur Radio Society (LaDARS) Full amateur radio station at the club operating on the High Frequency and VHF bands. Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, Tuesdays 7-9 pm. Training can be provided to achieve all levels of the amateur license by fully accredited assessors and trainers. Happy to assist with your radio and electronics projects or just to get you started with amateur radio as a hobby. Come along and speak to the world. See our website uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/ms0liv/ or just come along on any Tuesday.

Brighter Days Support group for families living with ADHD and assosciated disorders. The group meets once a fortnight on a Thursday at Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge 7 – 9pm. For more info see www.brighter-days.com or email brighter_days@rocketmail.com.

Kids club coming soon - every Saturday weekly for children. Activities available will include arts, crafts and music.

1st Livingston Girls Brigade Company The Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge.

Meet on Wednesday evenings. Explorers (P1-3) 6.15pm till 7.15pm.

Juniors (P4-7) 7.15pm till 8.30pm. Brigaders (S1+) 7.15pm till 8.45pm. For further information email 1stlivingstongb@gmail.com or phone Holly Morrison on 01506 420225.

5th Livingston Boys’ Brigade Thursdays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Anchor Section P1-P3 meet 6:30 to 7:45pm. Junior Section P4-P6 from 6:30-8:00pm. Company Section P7 to 18 years from 7:30 to 9:45pm. For further information contact Stuart Dalgleish 01506 440303 or email admin@5livingston.co.uk.

Livingston South Community Church With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates.

Lanthorn Readers Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Informal and relaxed reading group.

Free. Group meets monthly and is an ideal way to have some fun and lively discussion over tea/coffee & biscuits. New members always welcome. Please contact 01506 777700 or lanthorn.lib@westlothian. gov.uk

Lanthorn Book Bashers Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Are you aged between 8 – 11 years old?

Come and join the Library Book Bashers. We meet once a month on a Thursday at 6.15pm to discuss our favourite books. New members welcome. Please call 01506 777700 for information.

ELIBURN 14th West Lothian Scout Troop Peel Primary School. Girls and boys.

Beavers (6-8yrs) Mon 6.15-7.15pm, Scouts (10-14yrs) Mon 7.30-9pm, Cubs (8-10yrs). Thurs 6.30-8pm £20/£25 per session, 3 sessions per year. Contact Mary Tel 01506 416620.

Sunshine Break, SPPA (Scottish Pre-School Play Association) Group Eliburn Community Centre, Peel Primary School Toddlers, Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9.00 – 11.00am After school club for Primary 1-7, Mon – Thur 3.15 – 6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00pm, during school holidays 8.30am – 5.30pm.

Tel 01506 415492.

Church of Christ Garden Place, Eliburn, EH54 6RA, Livingston Service Times: Sunday Bible Study and Sunday School - 10.00 am.; Worship Service - 11.15 am; Tuesday Bible Study - 7.30 pm.

HOWDEN GOSH - Group Ostomy Self Help

discuss problems which may arise in the management of members’ Stoma, from time to time. Members can exchange views on how they manage their Stoma, and beginners can pick up tips on the best way other Ostomists have found to solve problems. Remember, you are not alone. We meet in St. Johns Hospital at 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of each month in OPD4. All Ostomists and their partner/ friend are invited. For more info contact Alistair on 01506-822695.

29th West Lothian Scout Group Community Wing, Toronto Primary Schoo. Cubs Mon 6.30-8.00pm, Beavers Wed 6.30-7.30pm, Scouts Wed 7.30-9.00pm Tel 01506 441852

14th Livingston Rainbows Community Wing of Toronto Primary School. Tuesdays 6.30 - 7.45 pm. Girls 5 years old and attending school. Tel: Rainbow Guide Leader on 07532 182197

Braid House Day Centre Labrador Avenue, Howden. Social activities for older members of the community. Bowling, art, music. Drop-in service for people who can make their own way to Braid House and can have lunch and join in a range of activities. Cost £5. For more info contact 01506 430615 or see www.braidhouse.co.uk

Livingston Art Association Howden Park Centre. Day and evening classes in painting and pottery for all levels. For more details call 01506 440449 email liviartassoc@msn.com or see www.livingston-art-assoc.org.uk.

14th Livingston Guides Community Wing, Toronto Primary School.Tues 7.30 – 9.00pm, All girls aged 10 years upwards, £17 per term. Tel 01506 418285.

Firefly Arts Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts. co.uk for more information on our current programme. Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE www.firefly-arts. co.uk email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk

Livingston 20 Milers Cycle Rides Monthly free guided ride organised by volunteers from West Lothian Sustrans Group.

20 milers are at the easy to moderate level, suitable for occasional and less experienced cyclists to encourage cycling for leisure and commuting. We favour easy paths and gentle gradients where possible, and aim to avoid heavy traffic. We will wait on stragglers, help with punctures. The rides are not suitable for unaccompanied children. We meet monthly at Howden Park Centre, details on our web or Twitter page. Email: livi20milers@outlook.com Web: http:// livi20milers.blogspot.co.uk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/LMilers

KNIGHTSRIDGE Messy Church Monthly time of craft, celebration and food for all the family held on the first Sunday of each month from 4-6pm at Mosswood Community Centre. Free of charge, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit facebook.com/lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information.

Baby/Toddler Stories and Singing Sessions Knightsridge Early Years Centre, Cameron Way. Mon, Tues, Thur: 09.15 – 11.15am or 12.45 – 2.45pm – “In Betweenies” Wed: 1.00 – 2.00pm – “Baby Peet” - stories and singing, baby/toddler drop in 1.00 – 3.30pm. For more info tel 01506 444970

LADYWELL West Lothian Diabetes UK Group Inveralmond Community High School, Ladywell, EH54 6HW Meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm. See http://www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org

Rosebery Centre for Dementia Care Day care for people with all types of dementia. Stimulating activities, counselling and training and support groups for carers.

Volunteers always required. Tel: Nancy on 497046. Email: info@ roseberycentre.org.uk. Website: www.roseberycentre.org.uk

Led by volunteers, we are there to help, advise, encourage and

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Almond Valley Baptist Church A Church for you and your Family! Sunday School and Worship services starting at 11am. Meeting at the Newyearfield Farm Community Centre on Hawkbrae in Livingston. Contact phone number 07570 790862 or email at avbc@btinternet.com

Kids Club Forrestbank Community Centre. A varied programme of educational games, art & drawing, children 5-9yrs. Mon 6.00 - 7.45pm £1 per week – term time only. Tel 01506 430035

Ladywell Neighbourhood Network 28 Heatherbank, Ladywell. Community services in Ladywell, a range of social groups including craft, lunch club, fitness. Befriending service and much more. For more information call 01506 437746 or see www.ladywellnn.org.uk

Ladywell Star Community Football Club Inveralmond Community High School. A range of teams and fixtures.

See www.ladywellstarcfc.co.uk

SPPA (Scottish Pre-School Play Association) Group Newyearfield Farm. Toddlers Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 09.30 – 11.30am.

Tel 01506 462458

Memory Cafe Newyearfield Farm Community Centre, Hawk Brae, EH54 6AB. For those suffering with dementia and their carers. Runs the first Thursday of every month 2pm to 3.30pm.

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE Livingston Village Playgroup Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village. For children 2yrs 3 months to 5 years. 9.30 - 11.30am Mon - Fri, £4/session including snack. Child can attend between 2 & 5 sessions a week. For more information please contact the placement secretary 01506 417343.

Livingston Village Parent and Toddler Group Livingston Village Primary School, Community Room 2.

Mondays & Wednesdays 9-11am. For babies and children aged 0-5 years accompanied by an adult. £1 per family. Term-time only.

For more information email livitoddlers@yahoo.co.uk or visit www. facebook.com/livitoddlers

The Wooly Quilters Craft Group

Meets every Wednesday from the first Wednesday in September until the last Wednesday in March at Bankton Mains Bowling Club, 6.45 for 7.00 pm start. Contact Dorothy Doak 01506 437977 for more information.

OTHER AREAS Livingston Highland Society Monthly ceilidhs on a Saturday between October and April. Each month we have a different band and guest artist. New venue Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn (previously at Lanthorn Complex). £5 each, new members welcome, contact John Sneddon 01501 770911 for dates and more details.

The Tree Club Office at 19c South Bridge Street, Bathgate. West Lothian’s only afterschool club for children and teenagers with additional support needs. Stimulating and creative activities with high staff to child ratio.

See www.thetreeclub.org.uk

The Stone Ring 40 King Street, Bathgate. Beginners Self awareness & Development.

Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) £6.50. Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month.

7-9.30pm (approx) £5. Thai Chi Fridays - 6.30-8.30pm (approx) £25 per month.

West Lothian Baking Club We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £2 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

West Lothian Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Classes in South Church Hall, Uphall Starting on Thurs 17th Sept 7.30 to 9.30pm. 10 weeks through to the 19th Nov, then starting the 7th January through to 10th Mar 2016. £3 per week. Teacher Mrs Margaret McGregor. Dancing for fun & fitness, any new beginners very welcome. For more info contact Sandra Cheyne, tel 01506 430600 email sdcheyne77@yahoo.com.

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

Solution to October Crossword Across: 1 Straws, 4 Heated, 9 Neutral, 10 Tired, 11 Teeth, 12 Unaware, 13 Competition, 18 Grandma, 20 Awful, 22 Organ, 23 Extract, 24 Easier, 25 Breezy. Down: 1 Sanity, 2 Route, 3 Worship, 5 Extra, 6 Tornado, 7 Dodged, 8 Illustrated, 14 Oranges, 15 Tractor, 16 Ignore, 17 Glitzy, 19 Dunce, 21 Flare.

Room 24 Livingston Business Centre, Kirkton South Road, Livingston. This self help group is the ideal place for help and craft chat with a cuppa while you sew or knit! Variety of crafts from patchwork & quilting to knitting & spinning. We meet Wednesday evenings 7pm - 9pm. For more information email: woolyquilters@ gmail.com or find us on facebook

MURIESTON Bankton Mains Bowling Club Free Coaching Lessons for both Adult and Junior bowlers. Junior Coaching is on every Tuesday 5pm till 6pm and Sunday 11am till 12am for children aged 8 till 16 years old. Memberships available now for Full, Family, Social, and Junior members. Special deal for Family Membership. Hire of the function hall available. For more info go our website at www.banktonmains.co.uk or phone 01506 460233.

Livingston South Community Church

Solution to Sudoku Page 48

With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates.

Livingston Cricket Club Cricket fixtures as well as a busy social calendar. See http:// livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel 07799 025795

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Bookkeeping

40

Bathrooms 1st Choice Living Anderson Home Improvements Bathgate Bathroom Studio Duffy Mclean Ekco

50 36 51 13 43

Beauty Allure Skin Clinic Beauty @ No. 20A Forever Living

18 25 7

Builder Almond Building Company Kirkton Builders Madison Garrad

50 17 16

Building Surveyor David Hastings

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Cafe/Tearoom Coffee Cup Cafe Little Whispers Sanctuary Wurst Cafe

18 7 4

Dressmaking/Alterations Perfect Fit Alterations

7

Electrician D B Electrics Optical Lighting Riddell Electrical Simply Electrical

50 12 36 17

Estate Agent Turpie & Co

45

Photographer Kelly Ryan Photography

7

Plastering Alexander Aitken Plastering Nu Walls

16 36

Plumbing Services Almondvale Plumbing & Heating Services EPH Livingston Plumbing Co

17 30 36

First Aid Training Forde Training Centre

6

Fitness - Personal Training JD Fitness

Property Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance

14

7

Restaurant Karma

33

Soft Furnishings Style Rite Blinds

12

Storage Unit Storedge

11

Florist Williamsons Furniture & Furnishings Button fix

19 4

Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd

50

Garden & Landscaping All Year Round Landscapes D Greaves

Takeaway Karma

33

14 14

Tattoo Removal Tatta Ltd

19

38

Taxi & Private Hire Lothian Radio Cars

64

Telecoms Services John McGraw

16

Theatre/Entertainment Livingston New Town Entertainers The Livingston Players

53 15

Tiling Service With A Tile Stewart Wilson Tiler

50 17 17

Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh Car Medic Chips Away JWG Car Care

31 30 29 30

Car Service & Repair M & S Auto Solutions Pumpherston Autocentre

29 31

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Aquatec Cleaning Doctor Hydro-Kleen

11 13 39 47

Home Help SCRT

22

Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader

35

Homes for Sale CALA Homes

37

Joiner Geoff Vinter Joinery

Tuition Stewart Wilson Saxaphone Tuition

51

Kitchens Anderson Home Improvements Duffy Mclean Ekco S & S Home Improvements

Vet Riverside Veterinary Practice

41

36 13 43 32

Windows 1st Choice Living Red Hot Windows

50 16

Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady

28

Lighting Optical Lighting

12

Locksmith West Lothian Locksmith

39

Mobility Ableworld Med-Ecosse

23 49 51 16 36 39

Catering Food Creations Charity British Heart Foundation Children’s Activities / Entertainment Daisy Drop In

2

Chiropody/Podiatry Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry

21

Chiropractor West Lothian Chiropractic

25

Church Almond Valley Church

5

Golf Club Baberton Golf Club Hairdresser Back II Black Mr Fella & Me. Bella Sassoon

4 7

Health & Safety Training Forde Training Centre

6

Hire (Car/Van/Minibus) Pixo Van Hire

6

Cleaning Services C and W Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd Donald Does It All Strata Cleaning Limited

11 11 51 14

Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance Little Whispers Sanctuary The Stone Ring

25 7 24

Computer Services Be One IT Sprint Computers

6 28

Painter/Decorator Braekirk Decorators JD Decorators Nu Walls TML Decor

Craft Shop & Classes Livingston Craft Association

56

Paving W Tarmacadam

50

Pet Services Animal Magic Coxydene K9 Friends Dog Walking Morven’s Dog Grooming

41 40 41 40

Dentist Bankton Dental Practice No 9 Dental

62

56

6

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher.

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

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