Konect Livingston September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

COMMUNITY:

SCIENCE COLUMN:

PLUS: PROPERTY MATTERS, Garden Project, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside!

The community magazine for Livingston

TO OUR SEPTEMBER EDITION

THIS ISSUE

S

eptember is the annual national Doors Open Days, a chance to see inside some buildings that are not normally open to the public, and some public ones which put on special tours for the Doors Open Days. West Lothian’s Doors Open is coordinated by the Linlithgow Civic Trust and there are buildings of different styles open, take a look at their article on pages 42 – 43.

September is a time of getting back into routine after the holidays, especially if you have children at school or college. It’s a good time to look at joining in new social or sports activities, and as ever the Clubs and Classes pages at the back of Konect are packed with lists of local clubs, with quite a few new ones listed this month. Also the West Lothian 50+ Network is a lively social group welcoming new members, see their article on page 9.

It’s also a good time to get some home improvements booked in of you’re wanting work done before the weather gets wintery.

Please support local businesses and check the traders in these pages for quotes All our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

P9 Community: West Lothian 50+ network....... 9 Property Matters............................................14 Health & Beauty............................................22 Thought for the Month..................................24 Interiors: Window Shutters...........................33 Music Review................................................34 Local Lab.......................................................36 Gardening: Summer glut..............................39 Vet’s Tip..........................................................41 Puzzles...........................................................42 Doors Open Days.........................................42 Parenting: Crazy about Canals...................47 What’s On......................................................48 Clubs & Classes............................................49

COVER IMAGE: Interiors: See our feature on P33 for more about the benefits of Window Shutters

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

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

@KonectMagazines

Account Manager

LIVINGSTON | 3

4 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 5

As Scotland’s leading aquatics retailer we offer everything for the fishkeeper, like our huge range of fish, aquariums, ponds and accessories for beginners and experts.

Fishkeeper Livingston Dobbies Garden Centre EH52 6PA T: 01506 811 043

6 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 7

z Deep Carpet/Rug Cleaning z Curtain Cleaning z Upholstery Cleaning

z Mattress Cleaning

z Stain Removal

z Dust Mite Elimination

z Odour Removal

z Fabric Protector

z Stone Floor Restoration

z Pet Accidents

Contact Bill Weir for more information:

T: 0800 695 7575 (freephone) T: 01506 536990 E: bill.weir@aquateccg.co.uk

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

0772 965 1692

info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook

8 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

ST LOT WE

TWORK NE

AN 50+ HI

BEST MEDICINE FOR THE OVER 50s There’s a new trend in “social prescribing” - referring patients to social activities to improve wellbeing and reduce demand on health services.

It’s particularly pertinent to older people, where social isolation – loneliness - has been linked to very adverse health effects.

The West Lothian 50+ Network has known this for the last 25 years and continues to address the problem with their prescription for activity, companionship and fun.

The 400 strong membership organisation for West Lothian residents aged over 50 celebrates its silver anniversary this year. Some of its founders are still going strong, passing on the baton to younger members who are introducing new ideas whilst maintaining the principle of “making things happen for ourselves.”

Over 35 interest groups are on offer - from walking, bowls, board games, music and crafts - all run by volunteer members who want to share their knowledge or passion. A “men only” group recognises that older men have particular difficulty in creating changes in their lifestyle.

The Network helps to give a sense of purpose, often called into question after retirement, bereavement or when families spread their wings. Through activities which keep mind and body active, there’s the chance to meet a new network of friends and companions. Members have called the organisation a “life saver”, especially after the loss of a partner, a close friend, or as a newcomer to the area.

Some activities are purely social – bingo night, beetle drive, cheese and wine evening, car treasure hunt – with lots to look forward to in the coming months including a race night, craft fair, St Andrew’s dinner and Christmas parties.

The chance to go on holiday with a group of friends is very attractive, especially for those who find themselves alone in later life, and the @KonectMagazines

Group outing to Rosslyn organisation of group holidays has always been an important part of the Network’s offering, which has seen members venture far and A day at the races wide over the years.

A new activity this year has been the monthly coach trip on the last Sunday of each month.

Come rain or shine, members have enjoyed days out in Dundee, St Andrews, Loch Lomond, Callander, Melrose, Alnwick and more. “Better than staying indoors in front of the telly” can frequently be heard.

There’s an over-riding determination to enjoy oneself and enjoy good company that permeates most of the West Lothian 50+ Network’s activities. It might be explained by the organisation’s motto: “Make the rest of your life the best of your life”. Members seem determined to do just that.

If you would like to find out more about the West Lothian 50+ Network and how to join in the fun there’s lots of information online, or you can call or visit our Bathgate based office..

This article was contributed by the West Lothian 50+ Network.

Website: www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk Facebook: @westlothian50plusnetwork Email: wlothian50plus@btconnect.com Tel: (01506) 635510 Address: 48G Linbar House, North Bridge Street, Bathgate Scottish Charity No. SC024257 Info.:

LIVINGSTON | 9

10 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 11

We are a small family run business established in 1996 who specialise in installation, maintenance, service and repair of domestic gas appliances.

Maintenance Contracts Central Heating Installation Boiler Upgrades Boiler Service & Repairs Fire Service & Repairs Cooker Installation Landlord Gas Safety Certif icates Radiator Replacements and System Flushing

Unit 12 Turnbull Way, Livingston, EH54 8RB Tel: 01506 432444 Web: www.gasglowlimited.co.uk Email: info@gasglowlimited.co.uk * Offer valid until 30th September 2019

Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging

DONALD DOES IT ALL

making a house into a home ■ SLABBING & DECKING ■ PAINTING DECORATING ■ JOINERY WORK ■ AIMS TAPING & PARTITIONINGS DONALD STONE 01506 651212 or 07720 123216 no job too small ■ free quotations and creative advice

12 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

A ‘Must do’ if you plan to sell your home in the next 6 months!

Gain a real marketing advantage We’ve all heard about a house having kerb appeal. You know…that attractive, wellmaintained look that draws in potential buyers. But did you know that the seasons can play a vital role in your marketing too?

The marketing of your property needs to take account of this and show your home to its best marketing advantage.

Market your home all-year round Images are a major factor in conveying the appeal of a property. Your property may be a home to you, but it has to be packaged like a product if it is to be marketed and sold effectively. Your estate agent will advise you on all these matters, and a good estate should always be trying to ‘get ahead of the game’ – that includes getting the right images together at the right time so that your marketing can happen when you want it to happen and to best effect at any time of year.

Plan ahead and get ahead There are many things in life that you can’t control, but you can control when you get your pictures taken. A little bit of forward planning goes a long way, and getting pictures taken during the summer months is a great way to take charge of your house sale and put yourself in the best position to sell at the best price. Like kerb appeal, good pictures draw people in – and the right ones really set the tone.

At Turpie & Co, we use advanced photo editing software and techniques to ensure our clients’ properties look great in any weather at any time of the year and always 14 | LIVINGSTON

retake new external photographs in the best weather as there is no substitute for natural light. However, long summer days with warm light conditions really do provide the optimum conditions to show your property in its best light.

Get an all-year ‘summer advantage’ At this time of year, a service we offer to our prospective clients who are thinking of selling over the next six months is to take pictures of the exterior of their home before the verdant grass and the flowers fade, and the leaves fall from the trees.

If you are listing your home for sale over the winter months, it’s really important to give buyers a true and vibrant impression of what your home looks at its best when seen from the outside. The exterior picture is after all the first one any buyer will see of your home when browsing online, so it has to be an arresting one that makes them want to click through to further details and book an appointment to view.

Get a ‘summer advantage’ all year round and a clear jump on any competing homes that decide to list during the winter months by making sure your house looks its best with the best possible pictures taken now.

Time really can be on your side if you use it correctly.

The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines

Show your home in its ‘best light’

If you are thinking about selling your home before next spring, contact us to book your external photography now. *No contract or payment required until you are ready to sell.

West Lothian’s Premier Estate Agents www.turpies.com • telephone: 01506 668448

ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Local, reliable, professional paving - patios - driveways monoblocking - fencing

Call Ryan 07723 587389 or email ryantosney@live.co.uk

D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Patios • Removals • Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more....

Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com 16 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 17

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

Contact details are on page 3.

18 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 19

20 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

We specialise in household alterations and repairs. To discuss your construction project, please call Colin on: or email:

Extensions | Bathrooms | Kitchens Alterations | Structual Work Maintenance & Repairs | Landscaping Driveways | All Trades

ESTABLISHED 1985

FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING REQUIREMENTS: Interior and Exterior Paperhanging Coving Plastering Free estimates

Tel: 07585 509 811 Email: manicstpainters@hotmail.com 71 Marjoribanks St, Bathgate, EH48 1AL

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 21

THE ‘PLEX’S’ A favourite to the Kardasians and the Hollywood crew, you may have heard of the innovation Wellaplex, or variations olaplex, fibre plex - known in the industry as ‘the plexs’

The focus of these products is to protect and rebuild the inner bonds. Used as a professional service and mixed with your colour in the salon, a plex treatment will probably add 15 minutes on to your appointment and cost around £20, the ‘at home’ treatment tends to be a little more pricey but with more applications in the bottle.

Ideal for previously damaged hair effected by excess colouring, lightening or excessive heat styling, by multiplying and rebuilding the hair’s bonds, it eliminates breakage whilst making colour last much longer. This results in healthy hair that is revitalised with a new lease of life.

It’s pricey, is it worth it? If your hair is bleached or damaged in any way then yes, this is one of the best products for retaining the bonds and minimising breakage during colouring and for maintaining at home. As a colourist I wouldn’t work without it, it allows me to do so much more with colour with the assurance of minimal damage and knowing my client’s colour is going to look better for longer.

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 22 | LIVINGSTON

Are you in a depressive cycle?

It is believed that depression has its roots in childhood experiences, especially those relating to loss. These experiences sensitise the individual making it difficult for them to cope with future pain and loss. A person in a depressive cycle can easily misconstrue experiences as negative and always expect the worst.

Life events such as the breakdown of a relationship, a redundancy, or a significant failure can trigger a depressive episode as the individual finds that old feelings of loss resurface. Once a loss has been experienced, the individual sees no value in setting future goals or engaging in constructive activities; life feels meaningless.

A lack of positive action forces the individual into a downward spiral where they begin to feel completely worthless. Negative thinking results in negative feelings, which ends up in negative and self destructive behaviours.

The aim of cognitive behavioural therapy is to break this cycle. Your coach can help you question your perception of reality, which may be framed in the negative. This can help to release feelings of worthlessness, and then small goals can be set to help you raise your self confidence and self esteem.

If you suffer from the following, you may be depressed.

1. A general feeling of sadness 2. Inability to feel anything at all – you’re neither up nor down. Nothing excites you, you just feel flat 3. No sense of pleasure anymore, even in activities and events you used to enjoy 4. Loss of your sense of humour 5. You feel apathetic about life 6. You have feelings of wanting to escape from people, or even life itself 7. Everything feels pointless or meaningless The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. See her “LifeHeal” facebook page at facebook.com/LifeHealCoaching

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 23

The i m po r tanc e o f GOOD COMMUNICATION The subject of good communication seems to be really alive for me right now and on reflec-tion has been for a few months! !

How we communicate, what we communicate and when we communicate is vital in everyday in-teractions. When it isn’t done well inevitably issues will arise with the potential to really leave us feeling unsettled, left wondering and consequently the mind will find ways to create an ending, or many different endings! I have found this happening recently; my mind lost in distraction with end-less possibilities, none positive. It doesn’t take long for anxiety to arise, sleepless nights to begin. If information had been given regularly instead of being left for

weeks to wonder, this might not have been the case. Different snippets of information here and there, personal comments but no hard and fast real facts from the right person, left me feeling this vulnerable.

Mindfulness and yoga practice were the only solutions to my increasing stress. Stress is held in the body and yoga has absolutely helped me to release it. Mindfulness meditation has helped me get perspective on the situation and be non reactive and fully responsive. I have actively sought out communication with varying people to gather information and calmly but firmly presented my case. In amongst all if this I have actively worked with balance of seeing the good in my day and the pleasant events happening in my world, it is so easy to lose sight of these small but wonderful things. Communicate well and life is so much easier.

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

Located Located inside inside the the Tan Tan Stand Stand 27 West Main Street, 27 West Main Street, Uphall, Uphall, Broxburn Broxburn Located Located inside inside the the Tan Tan Stand Stand For bookings call 01506 243955 For bookings 01506 243955 27 Main Street, Uphall, Broxburn 27 West West Main call Street, Uphall, Broxburn For bookings call 01506 243955

For bookings call 01506 243955 “We“We specialise in providing unique and and exceptional service to our specialise in providing unique exceptional service to clients our clients range which of cutting-edge a cosmetic which arange derm of cutting-edge cosmetic atology derm services.

Our goal is to atology services. Our goal is to help you maximise your skin’s full potential at any age. help you maximise your skin’s full you potential any age.We want make you “We“We specialise inWe providing andat exceptional service to our to unique make feel better about yoursel f,toand as result trans form your specialise inwant providing unique and exceptional service toaclients our clients range which of cutting-edge a life”. cosmetic feel better about yoursel f, and as cosmetic a result trans form your life”. Our which arange of cutting-edge atology derm services. goal is to dermatology services. Our goal is to help you maximise your skin’s full potential at any age. help you maximise full you potential at any age.We wantyoursel make We your wantskin’s to make feel better about f,toand as ayou result trans form your life”.

Thebetter Clinic provides State the feel about yoursel f, and as a resultof trans form art your Treatments! life”.

The Clinic provides State of the art Treatments!

Ellipse hair art removal is a fast and safe The forClinic provides State of the Treatments!

The Clinic atments provides State of the art Treatments! safe, painless tre all

safe,types, painless tre atments for all skin providing the following proven long term hair removal. In Ellipse hair removal is a fast and safe skin types, the following immedi ate andproviding long term results addition the Ellipse system can be safe, painless tre atmentsfor all Clinically proven, safe, for thepainless face, necktre and body: used to tre at: ate immedi and long term results safe, atments for all skin types, providing the following proven long term hair removal. In gentle and for neckterm andresults body: skinthe types, the foll owing immedi ateface, andproviding long addition the Ellipse system can be § Non-Surgical Body Contouring § Facial Thread Veins § Acne andtreatment Rosacea for: Clinically proven, safe, for the face, neck and body: used to tre a t: ate immedi and long term results § Cellulite Reduction § Skin Pigment §§ Cellulite Non-Surgical Body Contouring Reduction § §Wrinkle Reduction ation such as Br own gentle Spots,and the face, neck and Circumferential body: Sun Damage and High Colour Permanent Hair reduction -frees you Circumferential Reduction § Skin TighteningReduction § Skin§ Tightening §§§forNon-Surgical Wrinkle Reduction for: Body Contouring Facial Thread Veins § Acne andtreatment Rosacea

from the nuisance of daily and weekly

§ Cellulite Reduction § Skin Pigment §§ Cellulite Non-Surgical Body Contouring shaving and tweezing for good!

Reduction § §Wrinkle Reduction ationIPL such Br own Spots, fullas face £60 Skin Clinic provides: § Tightening Microdermabrasion and Micro Needling Dermalogica Facials The Skin Clinic alsoalso provides: Microdermabrasion § Massages §rollers Dermalogica Facials § IPL§ Hair Removal Treatment Sun Damage and High Colour Permanent Hair reduction -frees you Circumferential Reduction § § Skin Circumferential Reduction §§ Derma Skin Tightening §§ The Wrinkle Reduction Skin Rejuvenation - treats pigmentation from the nuisance of daily and weekly from excessive sun exposure, age shaving and tweezing for good!

spots and high colour ** also SPECIAL OFFER: 20%ofOFF a voucher code –Needling SPOKCO01 ** ** OFFER: £25.00 per§session.

Saving £70! ** 4Dermalogica sessions of Facials Venus freeze -Dermalogica get 1 session free! ** The Clinic provides: § Microdermabrasion §Purchase Derma and Micro Facials TheSPECIAL SkinSkin Clinic also provides: Microdermabrasion § with Massages §rollers § IPL§ Hair Removal Treatment

** SPECIAL OFFER: GEL POLISH Only £15.00 **

Skin Rejuvenation - treats pigmentation Facial Thread Veins - don’t just cover

24 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 25

26 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 27

30 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

Is your roof prepared for winter? Book your free roof survey today !

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 31

32 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

INTERIORS

Window shutters are an often-overlooked form of window furnishing.

Most people turn to curtains or blinds to dress their windows, but shutters can offer an attractive and quirky alternative, and they have many practical benefits, too.

Sound and Thermal Insulation - While shutters are closed, the wooden panels offer good sound insulation, and some heat insulation, too. This works both ways – in the summer, it’s possible to open the windows while keeping the panels shut, allowing air to flow while keeping the heat from the sun out.

You can achieve similar results with thick, heavy curtains if you want a more traditional look for your living room. Shutters make a good choice for a kitchen or bathroom, however, where thicker fabrics aren’t ideal. That leads us to…

Low Maintenance Requirements - Blinds and curtains can attract dust, and keeping the fabrics clean can be difficult. Plantation shutters are a good choice for people with allergies, because they are easy to keep clean. Simply wipe them down with a damp cloth from time to time and you won’t have any issues with dust build-up.

When you need a fresh look, simply re-paint the shutter in a different colour!

Added Privacy - When you close a set of shutters they cover the whole window. When you adjust the louvres you can let light in, without making it easy for people to see inside your home, in a similar way to how you can let a little light in by adjusting venetian blinds.

Curtains, on the other hand, are either open or closed, so unless you have net curtains behind them to filter the light, you lose all privacy when you open them.

They look fabulous - Interior shutters are a nice added-extra that could make your home more @KonectMagazines

appealing to prospective buyers. They are a more ‘semi-permanent’ fixture than curtains or blinds, however, and this could backfire if the prospective buyer doesn’t like them. That said, it’s relatively easy to remove a set of shutters and replace them with blinds or curtains if that’s what the buyer prefers, and you can remind them of this.

UV Protection - Shutters with louvres can be angled to control how much light gets into the room – in much the same way that blinds can be angled. When you want to let light flood into the room, the panels can be fully opened. Adjusting the louvres can direct light away from furniture and flooring, prolonging the life of the furniture and preventing patterns from fading.

Many shutters are finished with a UV-protective layer, which will protect the paint or wood stain finish, and stop the panels from warping.

Shutters are timeless, and are a stylish and eye-catching window treatment. They may not suit every room, but there is a certain appeal to having them on the ground floor – especially for kitchens, and “the den”. If you like the soft and elegant look of curtains, don’t forget that you can use tie backs as a trim around your shutters, to enjoy the best of both worlds.

This article and illustrations were contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors. www.harveybruce.co.uk Williamson’s Garden Centre, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6PA LIVINGSTON | 33

MUSIC REVIEW

Face the Future

Not for local favourites, Snakeskin Shoe Review, the perennial curse of the ‘difficult second album’.

Their sophomore offering, Futurists, gives us more of what we loved about its predecessor; the quirky lyrics, sublime harmonies and accomplished solos – but this time with added refinement in terms of both musicality and production values. To be fair though it’s been over two years since their debut, Criticism – hence, Futurists easily sidesteps any charge of being rushed.

SSR aren’t a band to whom a particular genre can easily be pinned. They’re equally at home rocking out on numbers like songwriter James Kerr’s autobiographical 1979 or Modesty Sometimes -which taps into All Mod Cons era Jam - or easing it back on their more restrained, more melodic pieces.

She’s Gone (not to be confused with the Hall & Oates classic of the same name) is a dulcet ode to lost love which showcases

34 | LIVINGSTON

co-writer Stevie Dunn’s plaintive vocals. The pick of the album’s more subdued songs though is undoubtedly Distance, a sombre but delightful ballad on which singers Louise Ware and Gemma Pepper are given free rein on lead vocals. The poppy You Bring Me Changes then revitalises the roster and gives session sax man, Darrell Morrow a chance to show off his stylish chops.

When Will We Be Married (not to be confused with the Waterboys’ classic of the same name) rounds the album off fittingly. Where else on the album could it go, ending appropriately as it does on the lyric “… it’s finished now”?

Futurists is available now on the usual steaming services or, if you’d prefer an actual CD that you can hold, from the band’s website and Facebook page.

This month’s Music Review is a guest column written by Jeff Yates to promote the new album, ‘Futurists’, by Snakeskin Shoe Review.

@KonectMagazines

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

For all Installations repairs and services

We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding Call Jim now for your free quote

07581 829297

Unit 47b, West End, West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8EJ

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 35

CREDIT: Sebastia n Hennige

LOCAL LAB

CREDIT: Nick Kamenos

Is there still hope for our endangered coral reefs?

Our coral reefs are under threat. Around the world, the long-term survival of reefs is in question because of the environmental stress that climate change is placing on them.

Dr Heidi Burdett is a Research Fellow based in the Lyell Centre* where she and her team are investigating the physiology of ‘resilient reefs’.

Why are coral reefs so important?: Coral reefs comprise less than 0.25% of the marine environment, yet are home to around 25% of all the fish in the ocean.

Tropical coral reefs are probably the most biodiverse ecosystems in the oceans, and support fishing industries and tourism to the value of US$36 billion a year.

What’s causing them to become endangered?: When corals are exposed to an environmental stress such as a sharp increase in temperature, the relationship corals have with the various species of microalgae that live inside their tissues can break down. These algae are expelled, leaving the coral devoid of colour and, more importantly, its food source. This is known as coral bleaching. If they don’t regain their algae quickly enough, essentially the corals starve to death.

Does your research give us hope for the future?: Yes, some corals appear to be more resilient to stress than others.

Understanding how these corals are different may hold the key to better predicting how reefs will fare in the future, and perhaps even finding ways to help protect them. Corals have a long 36 | LIVINGSTON

evolutionary history, and even in today’s rapidly changing climate some display a remarkable resilience to environmental stressors such as warming events. This should give us hope for their continued survival.

How do we protect the future of our coral reefs?: The greater the warming, the smaller the window of resilience. This means for the long-term survival of coral reefs, we still need to take more action to deal with climate change and limiting the extent of global warming over the next 50 to 100 years.

The Local Lab column is contributed by Heriot-Watt University to engage the public in a range of their research projects. You can find out more about Heidi’s work and meet her colleagues during this year’s Doors Open Day festival, when the Lyell Centre welcomes visitors for a day of tours, talks and hands on activities for all ages. *The Lyell Centre is a collaboration between British Geological Survey (BGS) and Heriot-Watt University.

@KonectMagazines

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

Our contact details are on page 3.

Fusebox Upgrades Lighting Sockets Showers Fault Finding Repairs Testing and Inspection

07841 331 888 email: electric_al@ymail.com facebook: electric_al

17th Edition qualified, ECS/CSCS Registered

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 37

38 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

Coping with a summer glut in the garden

Remove from heat, add 250g Philadelphia light cheese, 1 tsp chopped chives, 1 tsp chopped parsley, black pepper & lemon juice to season. Blend in food processor until smooth. Serve hot or chilled with garnish of chopped parsley and chives.

We often have a glut of some crop or other in the garden at this time of the year, whether it is courgettes, tomatoes, apples or grapes.

This summer it is all four, and our new Purple Piglet Project has a recipe for each of these crops: Cream of Courgette Soup, Bruschetta, Apple and Parsnip salad & Grape Chutney with no added sugar.

CREAM OF COURGETTE SOUP

You can never keep up with the production of courgettes and this soup is a lovely different way to eat them – Dougal likes it chilled.

Gently fry a chopped garlic clove in rapeseed oil till soft add 1kg chopped courgettes, more oil and a crumbled stock cube and cook for 5 minutes. Add water to cover courgettes, bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes.

@KonectMagazines

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

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

LIVINGSTON | 39

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

Contacts details are on page 3.

40 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

FORGET THE MEERKAT...

COMPARE THE SMALL PETS! Not all small furry pets are the same, so what makes the ideal companion for you or your children? It very much depends on the individual family. It’s wise to do some research before embarking upon small furry ownership so let’s look at hamsters: The Hamster Lifespan: 2-3 years Equipment and care requirement: Moderate Fascinating fact: The dwarf breeds of hamster can be as small as 2 inches long Pros: Often the first pet a child is given due to the relative ease of care required, compared to other small furry pets. They do however have specific needs which

must be met to keep them healthy and happy. They are usually kept indoors without creating too much of an odour, provided their cage is cleaned regularly.

Larger breeds such as the Syrian can be handled carefully by adults and respectful children and often enjoy interaction and attention from people.

Things to consider: Of course personalities vary and some will have a little nip from time to time especially if fingers smell of food. They are nocturnal, becoming active at night (so get that squeaky hamster wheel sorted!) and don’t always appreciate being awoken for handling during the day.

Smaller breeds such as the Russian dwarf can be very skittish and therefore tricky for children to handle. There are some that are so small it is not recommended that they are handled at all. Ask your vet for advice and recommendations.

The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Michael McCallum BVM&S, MRCVS, GP Cert(Ophthal), Vet Surgeon and Director, The Lamond Vet Clinic

LAMOND Veterinary CLINIC YOUR PETS ARE OUR PRIORITY

ASK ABOUT THE LAMOND HEALTH CARE PLAN, GIVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO BUDGET MONTHLY AND SAVE MONEY ON YOUR PETS’ PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE The Lamond Veterinary Clinic Limited Bankton Square, Murieston, Livingston EH54 9EY Telephone: 01506 461 462 E: info@lamondvet.co.uk

www.lamondvet.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 41

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

WEST LOTHIAN

DOORS OPEN DAYS: HAVE A LOOK INSIDE THE COUNTY’S BUILDINGS!

The weekend of 14th / 15th September 2019 will see the annual Doors Open Days event taking place throughout West Lothian.

Doors Open Days forms part of Scotland’s contribution to European Heritage Days, which sees over 25 million people from 50 countries take part annually, uniting our communities in a unique celebration of heritage in our own special ways.

Solution in the October edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Hairy and unkempt (6), 4. Detector (6) 9. Make comprehensible (7), 10. Vagabond (5), 11.Feargreatly(5),12.Empowered(7),13.Sections(11), 18. Replicating (7), 20. Ransack (5), 22. Presses (5), 23. Where plays are performed (7), 24. Required (6), 25. Remained (6).

DOWN: 1. Firm (6), 2. Round fleshy fruit (5), 3. Your parent’s mother (7), 5. Surplus (5), 6. Type of onion (7), 7. Fast running waterways (6), 8. Make inquiries (11), 4. Detonate (7), 15 Sincere (7), 16. Activity (6), 17. Rely upon (6), 19. Publication (5), 21. Not lean (5)

SUDOKU

Doors Open Days is now Scotland’s largest free cultural festival. It celebrates the built environment and gives free access to around 1,000 venues across the country throughout the month of September, every year.

Doors Open Days is coordinated nationally by the Scottish Civic Trust with annual support from Historic Environment Scotland and others. Local area programmes are co-ordinated by a network of local authorities, heritage consultancies, civic societies and heritage groups who are in turn supported by a large number of volunteers, businesses, community organisations and building owners.

Solution on Page 53

Linlithgow Civic Trust has organised West Lothian’s Doors Open Days since 2011 and are proud to be doing so once more in 2019.

We have a varied programme again this year.

42 | LIVINGSTON

There are a few of the regular participants this year including the Crossview Studios and the Canal Centre in Linlithgow, Duntarvie Castle near Winchburgh and a number of ecclesiastical properties in and around Linlithgow including St Michael’s Parish Church, Abercorn Parish Church and Kingscavil Church. @KonectMagazines

Blackburn House in Bathgate makes a welcome return, as do Strathbrock St Machan’s and Strathbrock St Nicholas’ Churches in Uphall. Donaldson’s in Linlithgow also returns to the programme.

St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow

There is also the new Linlithgow Museum, opened in Easter 2019 having moved from Annet House to the new Tam Dalyell House St Michael’s (aka Linlithgow Partnership Centre) a short Interior distance along the High Street. The dramatic 1960s Boghall Parish Church in Bathgate and the more traditional Category A Listed Kirk of Calder in Mid Calder are also back in the programme this year.

Copies of the programme for West Lothian have been distributed in a number of venues throughout West Lothian. Pick one up and hopefully it will inspire you to take part. The programme can also be downloaded from the Linlithgow Civic Trust Doors Open Days website at lbt.scot/civic-trust.

Please note that this year the Doors Open Days event in West Lothian coincides, as it often does, with the Linlithgow Folk Festival event.

The overlap has been mutually advantageous – well exemplified on sunny afternoons when building visitors have mingled with the audiences at the various music sessions.

Coincidentally, the Doors Open Days event is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and Linlithgow Folk Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Now if that is not an excuse for a cultural celebration I don’t know what is!

For more details of what is happening with Doors Open Days in West Lothian and across the country as whole, check out the official event website at www.doorsopendays.org.uk.

This article was contributed by Allan M Robertson, Linlithgow Civic Trust and West Lothian Doors Open Day Co-ordinator. For more details about the activities of the Scottish Civic Trust visit www.scottishcivictrust.org.uk/.

For more details on the activities of Linlithgow Civic Trust visit lbt.scot/civic-trust.

St Michael’s West Doors Linlithgow Museum

Donaldson’s Exterior

Duntarvie Castle

Blackburn House

Donaldson’s Interior

Kirk of Calder

Linlithgow Civic Trust is part of Linlithgow Burgh Trust. Linlithgow Burgh Trust is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (Scottish Charity No. SC047211). @KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 43

BUSTER THE DOG

September On the weekend of the 14th and 15th Doors Open Days return to West Lothian for 2019. Offering free access to a variety of different sites, Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free festival that celebrates heritage and the built environment. You’ll find listings of venues taking part on our website.

That same weekend, in Broxburn the Bridge 19:40 Canal Society are holding a Narrowboat Cruise to the Almond Aqueduct. Tickets always sell fast so make sure you book in advance to confirm your chance to visit.

The 28th also marks the first show of Linlithgow Art Guilds 50th anniversary season. The Concert for Clarinet and Piano, featuring Jean Johnson and Steven Osborne, takes place at Linlithgow Academy Theatre from 19.30.

Tickets are available online, as well as at a variety of shops in Linlithgow.

If you’re looking for a challenge, don’t forget the John Muir way has recently launched their new “Passport” scheme.

The route, split into a variety of sections, goes all the way from Dunbar in the East to Helensburgh in the West - with the route passing through West Lothian near Linlithgow. You can complete the route in parts as you wish, with passports available to purchase at Linlithgow Museum. Within West Lothian, you can get your passport stamped at Burgh Halls, Linlithgow Museum & Linlithgow Palace.

There’s always plenty more going on across West Lothian, so why not check out our collection of great day out ideas on our website – the perfect inspiration for whatever the Scottish weather throws at us! www.visitwestlothian.co.uk Follow us on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 44 | LIVINGSTON

@KonectMagazines

FEATURE

FOUNDATION APPRENTICESHIPS. early access to future talent The expansion of the apprenticeship family to include Foundation Apprenticeships not only provides school pupils with an exciting new work-based learning opportunity, it also gives employers a chance to attract highly motivated young people who are equipped with recent, relevant work experience.

Foundation Apprenticeships support the Scottish Government’s Youth Employment Strategy Developing the Young Workforce - and form part of a wider focus on improving school-employer connections and broadening the career pathways available to young people.

For pupils in S5/S6, Foundation Apprenticeships can be selected as a subject choice alongside Highers and Nationals. This fantastic qualification allows pupils to gain work experience while still at school; it also opens up a wide range of future progression routes including further study or a Modern Apprenticeship.

@KonectMagazines

Foundation Apprenticeships have been developed for twelve of Scotland’s growth industries including Software Development and Engineering, meeting real skills demands from employers to fit with economic need.

Learners develop an understanding of the workplace responsibilities and duties placed on employers and employees. Employers are able to identify potential early on, thus creating a talent pipeline for future recruitment opportunities.

Involvement in Foundation Apprenticeships is cost-free, yet there is plenty of added value for employers. Providing staff to mentor pupils is an excellent professional development opportunity, developing existing staff’s coaching, communication and leadership skills.

For employers, getting involved in Foundation Apprenticeships is a winning formula.

To find out more about Foundation Apprenticeships, visit www.dyw-wl.com This article was contributed by DYW West Lothian. DYW aims to connect employers with schools and colleges and prepare young people for the world of work.

LIVINGSTON | 45

ANY CHILD CAN ACHIEVE BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

1 - 30 SEPTEMBER

Find out how Kumon maths and English study can help your child to achieve beyond expectations. Book now!

Livingston Study Centre 07753 213626 Ability development for any child at any age Terms and conditions apply. Fees vary. Participating study centres only.

Please refer to your local study centre. Subject to availability.

46 | LIVINGSTON

kumon.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

PARENTING

Crazy about Canals

Ahoy there!

rd!

When you’ve lived somewhere for a while All aboa it’s easy to feel like you know a place.

Especially as a parent. Knowing all the good places to take your kids is a must!

But I’m always surprised how many people forget about the Union Canal in West Lothian. There are lots of things to do with kids beyond just enjoying a family walk along the towpaths (although there is a lot to be said for that as well).

To really experience the canal in all its glory taking kids out on a boat trip is a must. Linlithgow Union Canal Society run town boat trips and longer Aqueduct Cruises from Linlithgow every Saturday and Sunday until the end of September. Kids can check out the only canal museum in Scotland and the tearoom at Linlithgow Canal Centre is open at weekends as well for an extra treat.

Or you can enjoy a canal boat trip from Port Buchan in Broxburn. On the first Sunday of the month Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society do short trips on their boat Bluebell or you can head out on a round trip cruise over @KonectMagazines

Lin’s Mill Aqueduct on some Saturdays.

appreciate that…they at least get a shot of being Captain!

A canal boat really is a boat trip like no other. My two love watching the world go by and spotting wildlife along the way. You don’t usually have to book the shorter boat trips either. You can just be spontaneous and turn up when the mood takes you or when you are at a loss for what to do with the kids at the weekend.

For something a bit different I’d also recommend checking out Narrowboat Farm on the banks of the canal just east of Linlithgow.

It is something still relatively new and completely quirky and different. You can enjoy fresh pickings from their honesty box Veg Shack; ask about their Friday afternoon Farm Club for kids and families. And keep an eye out for news of their spooky Pumpkin Picking canal cruises come October too.

They are sure to book up early!

All these trips and services are run solely by volunteers and purely for the love of it. So everyone involved is really passionate…and in my experience great with the kids. They really want to encourage use of the canals so it is a great cause to support and teach children about.

Every time we’ve done it my girls have managed to get their hands on the tiller as well. So it’s a great way to support the community and if they are too young to really

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

LIVINGSTON | 47

church hall from 11am until 4pm, as well as home-made jams and crafts available. The historic church and museum will also be open to visitors during this time, all welcome.

SATURDAY 5TH OCTOBER Foam Dart Thunder! Nerf event Battle it out inside one of the stands at the home of Falkirk FC, Falkirk Stadium! There will be team and individual games across multi levels! This event is recommended for everyone aged 8 and over – parent’s discretion applies though – absolutely no children under the age of 6. Anyone under 8 must have a paying adult playing with them. Mums and Dads are encouraged to join in! Information and tickets www. foamdartthunder.com SATURDAY 14TH SEPTEMBER Antique, Vintage and Collectors Fair Linlithgow Academy, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, EH49 6EH. 9:00am – 4:00pm, admission £1.00. In aid of Linlithgow Heritage Trust for the Linlithgow Museum.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT COURSES Day or evening courses in Livingston for people living with loss. Organised by Livingston United Parish Church, Co-op Funeral Care and the Bridge Community Project. Commencing 5th September and 17th October (See p37 for details).

SATURDAY 14TH & SUNDAY 15TH SEPTEMBER West Lothian Doors Open Days See inside the county’s buildings! Lots of West Lothian’s buildings open to the public, including in and around Bathgate: Boghall Parish Church, Blackburn House, St Columba’s and more. See pages 15-16 for information. On Sunday 15th Abercorn Church is offering homebaking, tea and coffee in the

48 | LIVINGSTON

DAILY FROM 5TH TO 31ST OCTOBER Spooky Happenings at Almond Valley Heritage Centre As the nights get darker, mysterious creatures emerge from the dark corners of the old farm. Grab your trail sheet and look out for the clues on your spooky quest. Find your way through a world of magic and shadows with mysteries to solve, games to play, and some scary surprises around every corner. Get creative in the craft area where you can make spooky masks and manufacture monsters. All of this silly scary fun can be enjoyed any day from the 5th of October until Halloween during usual opening hours (10:00-17:00) with no need to book in advance. See www.almondvalley.co.uk

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.

@KonectMagazines

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 Tue - Thu 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 visit 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 RAMBLERS GROUP An enthusiastic group of walkers who enjoy a varied programme of mountain, coastal and woodland walks to suit different abilities. We welcome new members. Walks are on most Sundays, second Thursdays and one Saturday a month. Thursday walks are 5-8 miles with minimal ascent, meet at Livingston Football Club carpark 10am. Saturday walks are more challenging with Munros and Corbetts, starting 7 or 8am from

@KonectMagazines

Livingston North railway station. Sunday walks are more varied, around 10-12 miles with some mountain, coastal or woodland, meet at Livingston North railway station at 8 or 9am. Please check us out on Facebook or contact Hilda on 01506 882399 for more details.

ALMONDVALE SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Waterstones Bookshop Cafe (upstairs), Almondvale Centre, Livingston.

For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/ tablet or smartphone device. Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Tuesday mornings 10am - 12 noon. Contact: Chris Cosgrove. Livingston Computer Club. Call 01506 656153 or just call in.

NEW THE ROTARY CLUB OF LIVINGSTON The Rotary Club of Livingston has a particular commitment to supporting and promoting youth activities, working with the primary and secondary schools of our area. We also support numerous local and national charitable causes and most recently we have supported Diabetes West Lothian, Edinburgh Headway Group, Marie Curie, Macmillan Cancer Support, Pinewood School West Lothian, Signpost, Friends of Chernobyl’s Children West Lothian, Riding for the Disabled West Lothian, The Rosebery Centre, Young Carers West Lothian and Motor Neuron Disease. If you are interested in what The Rotary Club of Livingston is doing then please come and join us. We meet on a Wednesday evening at the Mercure Livingston Hotel, 1845 for 1900 hours. For info please contact Club Secretary, Davidson McQuarrie davidson. mcquarie@blueyonder.co.uk

BELLSQUARRY SPIRITUAL & PSYCHIC AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT GROUP Bellsquarry Village Hall. Every second Thursday 7:15pm - 8:45pm Please call or email Tracey 07754 499344 ghost.scotland@outlook.com for more info.

BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Wednesday night. For more information visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can you can email us on us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

LIVINGSTON KARATE CLUB Classes every Tuesday at Craigswood Sports Centre. 18.00 – 19.00 Dragon Ninjas Class: suitable for 5 – 7 year olds; 19.00 – 20.30 class suitable for adults and children from 8 years. Your first class is free, thereafter there is a special rate of £35 which includes two months of classes and a karate suit. Membership includes free entry to Westerinch Karate Club. Register your interest via our website www.livingstonkarateclub.co.uk

CRAIGSHILL NEW MOVE IT Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Craigshill, Livingston, EH54 5BP. Tues 1.30-2.30pm FAB- For All Bodies. A light intensity, dance fitness class with sway and swing roots. Get fit at your own pace while learning dancing styles from across the ages such as; Bossa Nova, Flamenco, Argentinian Tango, Disco, Jazz, Foxtrot and more. Easy to follow, fun routines suitable ‘For All Bodies’ £5 per class. e: moveitdanceandfitness@gmail. com Tel 07737 927463 NEW GENERATION DANCE Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Livingston, EH54 5BP. Thurs 11.30 – 12.30: This is a community dance class for age 60+ and is an accessible group for all abilities.

Thurs 12.45 – 1.45: Vintage -Intermediate dance class. For those age 60+ that are ready to take their dance to the next level.

ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60?

Looking to get out and meet new people?

Come and join in our activity group in Craigengar Park, Craigshill - a mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot

NEW TOWN ROLLER DERBY Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page (/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 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.

LIVINGSTON | 49

CRAIGSHILL ...cont.

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 7.308.30 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 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.

CRAIGSHILL DANCE CLASS Riverside Wing, Craigsfarm. Wednesdays 5.306.30pm. Fridays 2.00– 3.00pm. 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.

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 WEST LOTHIAN ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill. A variety of classes including open play sessions for 18 months-5 years Mon, Wed & Fri, structured Pre School classes on selected days for boys and girls. Learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility. Classes led by fully qualified coaches with morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months-3 years and 3-5 years with direct progression to our recreational pathway at age 5 without waiting list. Recreational programme for school age children, a competitive section, and we host adult circuit classes, adult gymnastics classes & parties are also available. Please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail.com

DEANS LIVINGSTON STATION PARENT AND TODDLERS Group meets on Tues & Thurs 10am-11.30am during school term time at Livingston Station Community Centre, Deans. Cost 50p for children under 18months, £1.50 for 18months upwards.

Price includes a snack.

50 | LIVINGSTON

CHOOSE YOU – YOGA STUDIO AND WELLNESS HUB Wide range of classes at our permanent wellness studio in Carmondean. Yoga classes include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Seasonal, Bihar, Hatha/ Vinyasa and Core Strength as well as yoga for kids, teens and men. We also offer TaiChi. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page -www.facebook.com/ chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824 195 or email info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk for more information.

SANDS LOTHIANS (STILLBIRTH & NEONATAL DEATH SOCIETY) Support group meets 2nd Monday of every month at 7-9pm.

Pregnancy support group – as and when required. Mother and toddler group- for women who have other children but want to continue to chat and meet others who understand. For further information see www.sands-lothians.org.uk. Unit 3, Carmondean Business Units, Carmondean Centre South Road, Livingston, EH54 8PT CRAFT ‘N’ STITCH CLUB Livingston Station Community Centre, Wed 1.30pm - 3.30pm. We do a variety of stitching and craft work and are looking for new members and new ideas, if you are interested in coming along to see us or joining us contact Grace on 01506 415719.

RAMPAGING ROOKS JUNIOR CHESS CLUB Deans Community High School - Meets every Wednesday from 5:30-7:00. For further information contact rampagingrooks@gmail.com or just turn up during the session. Cost is £2 per session.

SINGING FOR HEALTH Come and join our fortnightly singing group at the Ability Centre in Carmondean. No singing skills required!

We enjoy doing our versions of classic songs together and have a great time while doing it. Cost is £1.20 per session – all welcome! Group run by Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives), 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot

YOGA Carmondean Community Centre, Mondays 6.30 – 7.45 and Tuesdays 6.30 – 7.30. Please contact Tina on 07834 970409 or email tina@yogamed.co.uk.

See www.yogamed.co.uk 13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS Livingston Station Centre Deans on Tuesday nights for Beavers 6.30pm till 7.30pm and Thursday nights 6.30pm till 9.00pm for Cubs/Scouts.

If you or someone you know would be interested in coming on board as a leader, adult helper or executive member please get in touch. Steven Graham G.S.L stevengraham162@gmail.com 07786638442.

YOGA FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH CONDITIONS Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road. Wednesdays 1:00 - 2:15pm.

Contact Bijam on 07966 573 804 or email: info@yogawithbijam.co.uk

LIVINGSTON STATION PLAYGROUP Livingston Station Community Centre.

Spaces available for 2-5 year olds. Monday – Friday mornings 9.10 – 11.30. £5 per session and £1 per week for a healthy snack. Please contact us on 07525 156407 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on Facebook for more information.

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

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 monthly meetings for support, information and activities. Membership and meetings free.

Meet at the Ability Centre, Carmondean, EH54 8PT on the second Tuesday of each month, 7-8.30pm. For more information please contact Martin Donnelly, Treasurer on 07703 383431.

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 Sue Campbell on 01506 413447, or Eileen Griffiths on 01506 239576.

KIDDIES CORNER Carmondean Community Centre. For pre-school children. Kiddies Korner runs on a Tuesday and a Thursday from 9am-12.00. Parents, guardians and Childminders are all welcome.

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AND YOGA CLASSES Carmondean Comunity Centre. FREE courses and weekly dropin’s for cancer patients. Email: Tina@yogamed.co.uk for more information 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.

UKULELE CLUB Deans Community High School. Every Tuesday from 7pm, except during July and August. All are welcome, no standard required, absolute beginners to experienced. It’s for anyone who wants to play the Uke and have fun. If interested please just turn up £2 to cover room hire.

2ND LIVINGSTON GIRLS’ BRIGADE COMPANY Meets Tuesdays in St Andrew’s Church Hall 4A Main Street, Deans. Explorers (P1-3) 6.30-7.45.

Juniors (P4-7) 6.30-8.00. Brigaders (S1-6) 6.30-8.00. For further information email lazylaura@sky.com, phone Laura Brooks on 01506 418272 or find us on facebook.

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

@KonectMagazines

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

GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

DEDRIDGE NEW TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION Free introductory talks at Crofthead Community Centre. Templar Rise, Dedridge, Livingston. EH54 6DG at 7pm on: Wed 11th Sept, Thurs 10th Oct, Wed 16th Oct, Thurs14th Nov, Wed 20th Nov, Thurs 28th Nov, Wed 4th Dec. Book your place at - www.uk.tm. org/central-scotland. For more info contact is on - 07856 949 200 or email centralscotland@tm.org

LIVINGSTON SPEAKERS TOASTMASTERS CLUB A fun & friendly way to improve your Communication and Leadership skills. Our meetings are always entertaining and educational.

We meet at Crofthead Farm Community Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG on alternate Thursdays from 6.45pm to 9.00pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more. For more info see www. livingstonspeakers.org.uk, or find us on facebook @LivingstonSpeakers

KINGS CHURCH WEST LOTHIAN A family friendly church meeting every Sunday at 3pm. Our meetings are a mix of modern worship, teaching from the bible and fun activities for kids. We hold other events like Alpha, bingo nights and a Summer Funday. Check out www.kingschurchwl.org or contact connect@kingschurchwl.org for more info.

DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK A local voluntary organisation offering Mother/Toddler Group, Lunch & Social Groups, Craft Classes, Gentle Exercise and volunteering opportunities.

Based in Lanthorn Community Complex. Tel: 01506 416137

SPACE ACADEMY CHILDREN’S CLUB Monthly club for primary aged children held on the last Friday of each month from 1.303.30pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre.

Games, stories, songs, science, crafts, cooking and more – free of 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 (P1-P7) 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 website:dedridgespiritualstchurch.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

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 – /livingstoncameraclub Twitter – @LiviCamClub CAFÉ CONNECT Friendly community café with homebaking and refreshments.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:3012. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise.

Contact 01506 415837.

MEMORIES CAFÉ For those suffering with dementia, and their carers. First Wednesday of the month except Jan and July, 2pm – 3.30pm. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6QR. For further information please contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533108 .

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’.

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.

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS CROFTHEAD Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, EH54 6DG. £7.50 per session. Manager: Alexis, contact 07591 734489.

WEST LOTHIAN DEPRESSION SUPPORT 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 7.00 - 9.00pm within Crofthead Farm, Dedridge, EH54 6DG.

DEDRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP Wednesdays 9.15am – 11.15am: Baby and Toddler group (children 0-5 years old)Fridays 10-11am: Little Fishes. (Children 0-5 years old) 50p per child. Crafts and snacks.

01506 415837 Facebook: Dedridge Baptist Church 0-5 groups.

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 www.LADARS.org.uk 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) 6.30pm till 7.45pm.

Juniors (P4-7) 6.30pm till 8.00pm.

Brigaders (S1+) 6.30pm till 8.00pm.

For further information please email admin@5livingston.co.uk or telephone Mairi Dalgleish on 01506 440303

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 6:30-8:15pm. 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

BABY & TODDLER ACTIVIES Kidzeco Livingston, 3a The Centre, Almondvale South, Livingston, EH54 6NB. Monthly sling meets (Baby Wearing West Lothian).

Please contact Kidzeco Livingston on 01506 238283 for more information. Large family area with feeding/changing area and play area for children too!

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.

LIVINGSTON | 51

HOWDEN LIVINGSTON ART ASSOCIATION Tuition and workshops in and pottery at Howden Park Centre Tues 10am-12 and 7-9pm; Thursday 10am-12.

Painting at Midcalder Institute Hall, Tues 10am-12 & 7-9; Wed 10am-12; Thurs 10-12 & 7-9pm; Friday untutored open session 10am-12. Free Taster sessions and visitors welcome. Annual subscription £45 [discounts after 1st Jan] and small weekly tuition fee to Tutors.

Contact us at liviartassoc@msn.com, See us at www.livingston-art-assoc.org.uk and Find us on facebook.

HOWDEN PARENT & TODDLERS Every Friday morning (during term time) from 9.30 till 11.30am in the Salvation Army Hall, Kingsport Avenue, Howden. £2 per Parent/ child. Contact Fiona Mitchell on 07747 850695 or email feesngravy@gmail.com for more details.

MEMORIA CAFÉ FOR PEOPLE WITH EARLY TO MODERATE DEMENTIA Braid House, Labrador Avenue, EH54 6BU. From 2pm to 4pm 3rd Tuesday of every month. Contact Maurice on 07864 502899.

GOSH - GROUP OSTOMY SELF HELP Led by volunteers, we are there to help, advise, encourage and 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.

ST MUNGO’S LIVINGSTON Come be part of our vibrant church community which meets every Sunday at 10.30am, St Margaret’s Academy. www.stmungos.org 29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP Community Wing at Toronto Primary. Cubs Mon 6:30 - 8pm, Beavers Wed 6:30 7:30pm, Scouts 7:45 – 9:30pm, Fri 7 -9pm.

Call David 07876 776012.

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 01506 333005 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 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: www.livi20milers.blogspot.co.uk/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/LMilers

52 | LIVINGSTON

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: 1.002.00pm - “Baby Peet” - stories and singing, baby/toddler drop in 1.00-3.30pm. For more info tel 01506 444970.

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 For those suffering with dementia, and their carers. Newyearfield Farm Community Centre Hawk Brae, Livingston, EH54 6AB. Third Thursday of the month 2.15pm-3.30pm. For further information please contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533108 WEST LOTHIAN BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Meets on the Second Tuesday of the month in Oscar’s Ladywell from 7pm-9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 07855 238078.

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

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

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

LADYWELL

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE

RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow unit for girls aged 5-7, Tuesday nights. For more information see wwwgirlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE PLAYGROUP Based in Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village. We are now part of Community Playgroups and are based in the large and bright community room of the primary school, with our own secure outdoor area. We run Monday to Friday 9.15am to 11.30am, offering early education through fun and play, with a wide range of resources, to children aged from 2 years. The cost is £7 per session and includes a varied and healthy snack every day. Pop in for a visit with your child, or please phone Cheryl or Lesley on 01506 417343 for more information.

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

RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

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

GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

KNIGHTSRIDGE 12TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP Knightsridge Primary School, Girls and Boys. Beavers (6-8) Tue 6:15 – 7pm. Cubs (8-10) Tue 7:15 – 8:45pm. Scouts (10-14) Mon 6:30 – 8:30. Contact Neil 07986 538582; www.12thwestlothianscouts.org.uk 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.

CELEBRATE RECOVERY Forrestbank Community Centre, Forrestbank, EH54 6DX. Thursdays 1.30pm to 3.00pm. If you’re struggling with addiction issues come along or tel. Brian 07534 335528 Email brianwilsonferguson@outlook.com

WEST LOTHIAN DIABETES UK GROUP Inveralmond Community High School, Ladywell, EH54 6HW. Meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm.

See www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org 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.

@KonectMagazines

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

GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com.

MURIESTON LIVINGSTON ROUND TABLE Livingston Cricket Club, Murieston, EH54 9HB. The BEST young men’s club in the world: have fun, help your community and develop new skills. If you’re a man aged 18 - 45, why not come along to a couple of events and see what we’re all about?

Business meetings 1st Thurs of the month; social event 3rd Thurs of the month. For more info please email membership@ livingstonroundtable.co.uk or text Join and your postcode to 60066.

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

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

GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday & Tuesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

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

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.

LIVINGSTON CRICKET CLUB Cricket fixtures & busy social calendar.

See www.livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel: 07799 025795 LIVINGSTON BRIDGE CLUB 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.

MURIESTON PARENT AND TODDLER Thursday 9.30am till 11am. Murieston Village Hall. £1.50 per morning.

@KonectMagazines

CHURCHES NEW DEDRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH An evangelical church situated in Quentin Rise, Dedridge and meets at 11.00am on Sundays and 7.30pm on Thursdays for prayer. We’re a friendly and outwardlooking group of Christians who have the needs of our local community close to our hearts. Our aim is to worship God together, to encourage and support each other as we seek to live for Him in our everyday lives, and to share with those around us the good news of God’s love and the dynamic life and hope which is to be found in Jesus Christ. Visitors are always welcome to our Sunday service - just come as you are!

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD

NEW CROSSPOINT COMMUNITY CHURCH Knightsridge. Family service on Sundays @ 1pm followed by our social bite Cafe. All Welcome! More details on events and meeting times at crosspointcommunitychurch.co.uk

OASIS CHRISTIAN CENTRE Come and join us at Oasis Christian Centre, Fells Rigg, Carmondean for lively family worship with teaching from the Bible at 10.30am.

We celebrate the Lord’s Supper every second week. For further details please visit our website at oasischristiancentrelivingston.org.uk.

OTHER AREAS NEW ECCLESMACHAN SWRI Meets in Ecclesmachan Village Hall on the 1st Thursday of every month from August (except January and July). Meetings starts at 7.15 pm and last until about 9.30 pm. Anyone interested in coming along would be made very welcome as we are always pleased to meet interested parties as visitors or perhaps as potential new members. To come as a visitor costs £6 or to join as a full member costs £25 for the year. Tea and Raffle each month cost £4.

ACROSS: 1. Crop, 3. Opponent, 9. Mistake, 10. Chess, 11. Enthusiastic, 13. Casual, 15. Morsel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Lunar, 21. Silence, 22. Speeding, 23. Orbs.

DOWN: 1. Commerce, 2. Onset, 4. Poetic, 5. Occasionally, 6. Eyelids, 7. Toss, 8. Manufactured, 12. Clusters, 14. Science, 16. Loosen, 18. Inner, 19. Plus.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 42

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

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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

LIVINGSTON | 53

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ELECTRICIAN ACCOUNTANCY & Bennett & Heath Electrical BOOKKEEPING Services 13 AKT Bookkeeping 27 Electric Al 18 Mountain Enterprises Riddell Electrical Services 30 Tax Consultancy 27 ENTERTAINMENT & APPLIANCE REPAIRS ATTRACTIONS Home Appliance Repair 8 Eeek Escape Rooms 44 ARCHITECT ESTATE AGENT LanArc 11 Drummond Miller 26 Plan-It 21 Turpie & Co 15 BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 GARAGE DOORS Garolla 34 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 32 Max’s Garage Doors 35 Bespoke kitchen, bedroom and bathroom manufacturers 7 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 39 Paragon Bathroom Solutions 2 S and S Home GARDEN DESIGN / Improvements 20 MAINTENANCE All Year Round Landscapes 16 BEAUTICIAN D Greaves Landscape Allure Skin Clinic 24 Gardeners 16 Browhau5 Microblading 27 Evergreen Balerno 19 BOILER SERVICES Now Thats Handy 5 Gasglow 12 GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDER BUILDINGS Build-It 21 Champfleurie Estate 17 CAR SERVICING, MOT & REPAIR GLAZING REPAIRS JWG Car Care 35 CR Smith 29 Premier Garage Services 35 GOLF CLUB CARPET & UPHOLSTERY Baberton Golf Club 38 CLEANING Aquatec 8 HAIR SALON Back II Black 25 Cleaning Doctor 37 HANDYMAN CHILDREN’S NURSERY Donald Does It All 12 Angela Elizabeth Nursery 46 Now Thats Handy 5 COMMUNITY FACILITIES IRONING / LAUNDRY SERVICES Cyrenians 8 Jax Ironing 8 COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES JOINERY Choose You - Yoga studio and DJMS - Domestic Joinery & wellness hub 26 Maintenance Services 30 Transcendental Meditation 4 Geoff Vinter Joinery 13 Now Thats Handy 5 COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS Be One IT 5 KILTMAKER Sprint Computer Repairs 10 The Kilt Studio 10 CURTAINS & BLINDS LANDLORD SERVICES Harvey Bruce 32 Weslo Property Management 4 DENTIST LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Bankton Dental Practice 28 Beatson’s Building Supplies 19 Livingston Dental Care 27 LOCKSMITH No 9 Practice 25 CVC Locksmiths DOG WALKER and Security 35 K9 Friends 40 West Lothian Locksmith 13 DOORS / WINDOWS MARKETING / LEAFLETING The Leaflet Lady 56 CHS Windows 6

54 | LIVINGSTON

PAINTING & DECORATING Braekirk Decorators 12 Manic Street Painters 21 Now Thats Handy 5 TML Decor 13 PEST CONTROL Frontline Pest Control 16 PET SITTING / BOARDING PetStay 40 PET SUPPLIES Fishkeeper Scotland 6 PLASTERING Nu Walls 30 PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Almondvale Plumbing And Heating Services 30 BJ Fleming Plumbing Services 12 EPH Scotland 12 Mech A Tech Home Heating Services 11 McLellan Plumbing & Heating 6 Plumb-It 21 ROOFING G Hughes Roofing Services 18 Taylor Roofs 31 SOLICITORS & LEGAL Purdie MacLean Solicitors 38 TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE County Cars 55 TREE CARE SERVICES Arbscape Tree Surgery 16 Trees4Scotland 18 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 31 TUITION Kumon Livingston 46 VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Lamond Veterinary Clinic 41 Riverside Veterinary Practice 40 WEDDING PACKAGES The Hilcroft Hotel 23 WINDOW & GUTTER CLEANING Algae Clean Scotland 11 CS Window and Gutter Cleaning 16 YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 45

@KonectMagazines