Konect Livingston April 2022

APRIL 2022

LOCAL CHARITY:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

£35 GIFT VOUCHER FOR THE CENTRE

PLUS: HEALTH & beauty, Puzzles, and MUCH morE inside!

P22

O

ur charity this month is Braid Health and Wellbeing. They are based in Livingston and serve people all over West Lothian and beyond, providing vital quality-of-life services for isolated, vulnerable or older people in the community. It’s all about enhancing lives with social connections and meaningful, enjoyable activities. Check the article on pages 8-9 and get in touch with them if you know someone who could benefit.

In the spirit of having fun, we’re running an Easter Egg Hunt in this magazine, and the prize is a Gift Card to spend in The Centre, Livingston, to the value of £35! Hunt the 5 Easter Eggs hidden within this magazine, then head to our website www.konect.scot or scan the QR code on the cover to enter the draw. Full information and Ts & Cs are on our website.

Oh, and for another smile –just look at the photo of the puffins in the Local Environment column.

Wishing all readers and customers a lovely Easter. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

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

THIS ISSUE Charity: Braid Health & Wellbeing..........................8 Hair: DIY Colour Remover.......................................12 Living Well: The Care Conversation....................13 Community: Eco-Ableism........................................14 Property Matters: Quick Response Property Marketing.......................................................................22 Puzzles...................................................................30 / 43 Money Matters: Investing in turbulent times.....31 Local Lab: Energy Bills.............................................33 Local Environment: Roll up, roll up!.....................38 Parenting: It’s wheelie good!..................................40 Recipe: Rhubarb & Ginger Mousse...................42 Thought for the Month: Habits...............................43 Film Review: Spiritwalker.........................................46

COVER IMAGE: Easter Sunday, 17th April 2022

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Sensory Room - available for hire

If you or anyone you know is struggling with isolation, neurological or age-related conditions, there may be a Braid Health & Wellbeing service that can help.

Braid Health & Wellbeing has been providing support to enhance the quality of life for elderly, isolated or vulnerable individuals in the community for over 40 years. They are a lifeline and a highly valued resource for the many people who come through their doors, with services and activities aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing. They provide opportunities for socialising, learning new skills and promoting independence.

Based in Livingston, Braid Health & Wellbeing support people all over West Lothian, and with digital access to some services, from further afield too. The goal for 2022 is to develop different ways for people to access help with a variety of support options.

DAY SERVICE - The Day Service is specialist care and an opportunity for the over 55s to make friends, socialise and receive wellbeing support through individual care and support plans.

Run from the day care centre in Livingston, there are various stimulating activities including bingo, reminiscence workshops, light exercise, quizzes, brain games, arts and crafts, Magic Table, cooking classes and even a top-class train set for any railway enthusiasts! Staff will support you to identify personal needs and interests to match the activities available. There is a resident artist based within the centre, and frequent visits from entertainers.

Funded places are available for those eligible for a West Lothian Council Day Service referral.

Either social work or your GP can make the 8 | LIVINGSTON

referral. For those who do not meet the criteria for council support, you can attend as a private client. You, a family member, your social worker or a healthcare professional can contact Braid Health directly to arrange a start date.

LIFE SKILLS WORKSHOPS - Life skills are vital for helping people maintain their independence, promote mobility, balance and coordination and reduce deconditioning; any activity that is meaningful, useful or rewarding to an individual can be considered a life skill.

Braid Health runs Life Skills Workshops for individuals living with dementia or neurological conditions, mental health conditions or learning difficulties, and for individuals in the ageing process. They cover skills such as cooking, cleaning and everyday living skills. With assistance from an occupational therapist, Braid Health Life Skills Workshops help people to reach specific goals to maintain, improve or learn new life skills, whether this is cooking a meal, making the bed or safely using the shower or bath.

Life Skills Workshops are held at the Braid Health & Wellbeing Centre in Livingston and are free for over 60s.

TEA AND CHAT GROUPS - Tea & Chat is for anyone in the community to come together and socialise, meet new people, enjoy some free tea and biscuits, and have a chat with others. Free of charge, and held at Braid Health & Wellbeing on the last Monday of the month at 2.00pm. @KonectMagazines

CARERS’ SUPPORT GROUP

Tea & Chat

ROOMS FOR HIRE, INCLUDING SENSORY ROOMS - We now have several rooms available for hire including a dark and light Sensory Room, along with a Reminiscence and Life Skills room. There are also 3 meeting rooms available which can accommodate up to 50 people.

All rooms are available 7 days a week 8.30am - 10.00pm For more information on any Braid Health & Wellbeing service, or to enquire about room hire, please contact Sophie at: sophieq@braidhealth.scot

Services and activities aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing Developing access to a variety of support options

Braid Health & Wellbeing, Labrador Avenue, Livingston, EH54 6BU.

www.braidhealth.scot @BraidHealthandWellbeing

Braid Health and Wellbeing is a charity registered in Scotland, number: SC012574 @KonectMagazines

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LIVINGSTON | 11

• Flexible Advertising • Advertisement Design • Access over 45,000 readers in West Lothian & SW Edinburgh

After a year of experimenting with hair dyes, one of the buying trends we’ve seen is DIY hair colour remover with a staggering 234.4% growth in sales.

So what we can gather from that is during last year’s lockdowns there was a real need for that feeling of change that you would normally get from a hairdresser with professional advice and approach. With the growth of home colour remover on the market there are now plenty over-thecounter options to remedy that dark dye, with more and more appearing everyday.

How does it work? A good colour remover should never shift your natural base, it should work to remove the top coat of a dark or brightly coloured dye and that is it. If it’s something you’re considering then this is the ideal scenario.

The cons? A lot of what is on the market currently is essentially bleach and can be damaging and lead to uneven and very warm undertones in the hair. This can be difficult to fix due to condition, without making the hair very dark again or embracing much warmer/copper tones.

The bottom line… colour doesn’t remove colour. If you want to be lighter your best bet is to book for a consultation with a professional, keep your hair in the best condition possible; and if you’re not 100% sure about going dark then don’t do it!

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston.www.wonderlandlivingston.com 12 | LIVINGSTON

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LIVING WELL

Home Instead’s research found that despite a third of adults saying they were concerned about their parents’ physical health, 81% were reluctant to speak to them about care.

Graham Stevenson, owner of Home Instead Livingston is encouraging anyone with an elderly family member to have the care conversation. He says: “Too many people put off the care conversation with older loved ones, whether that’s because it’s an uncomfortable subject or because we think it’s not urgent. It’s best to broach the subject early on, even when it isn’t necessarily needed. That means that if you later require care, you’ve already established what kind of support you want and all you need to do is put the wheels in motion.

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“We are a team that supports families as they explore the care options available. We know that it’s a big step, so we work with you to develop the best care plan and make your transition into care as easy as possible.”

Home Instead provides care services to ageing adults across West Lothian, enabling them to live safely and comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. Services include companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, personal care, and medication reminders.

Home Instead is looking for Care Professionals to join the team, seeking caring individuals who can make a difference to the lives of local older people. Full training is provided, and Home Instead is with new recruits every step of the way as they settle into their role.

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

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Eco-Ableism Greener, more sustainable lifestyles are a topic of conversation across our communities, from schools to community groups, to businesses and policymakers. But what about people with disabilities?

The different needs and lifestyle adaptations of those with disabilities are often not considered when it comes to changing government policies to reduce carbon emissions and improve the planet.

Researchers at Heriot-Watt University are working on a new project, Eco-Ableism, in collaboration with West Lothian Council’s Libraries Service and The Ability Centre in Carmondean, to address just this.

The ‘Eco-Ableism’ project aims to identify the challenges and barriers that people with disabilities in West Lothian face in trying to adopt greener, more sustainable, lifestyles.

The research project will engage with local groups and individuals to identify the potential discrimination they face, as efforts are made to enact new eco-friendly policies at local and national levels.

Professor Kate Sang, from the School of Social Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, is co-leading the project and aims to work within communities, with people’s voices and personal experiences at its heart. Kate has vast experience in working with underrepresented communities, researching disability, gender and gynaecological health at work.

individuals to have a voice when developing environmental aspirations, enabling sustainable lifestyle choices to be as equitable as possible.

The project seeks to identify practical support mechanisms that can be rolled out across the community in West Lothian and beyond.

Do you have a disability of a long-term health condition and would like to get involved?

Would you be interested in finding out more?

We’d love to hear from you!

Get in touch: eco-ableism@hw.ac.uk This article was contributed by Heriot-Watt Engage

The project team will work with groups to identify the difficulties disabled people face in their daily life choices, exploring how this impacts upon their ability to engage with policy and process changes as councils and other government organisations seek to align with post-COP26 agendas. The team will examine how to empower 14 | LIVINGSTON

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Quick Response Property Marketing Whilst not new, QR codes have become increasingly familiar in our lives over the past couple of years, mostly thanks to Test & Protect check ins, covid testing and so on.

This has created an opportunity for us to re-introduce QR codes to benefit home buyers even more now by linking directly to every individual property listing.

ABOVE: Brochure and Window Card examples 22 | LIVINGSTON

We first introduced QR codes on our brochures, window cards and property adverts 10 years ago, when very few people had heard of them or were familiar with how to use them. (We were the first estate agents to do so and believe we are still the only agents using them).

Each property we offer for H ER E AN sale has a unique QR C S code. By placing this on all sales materials property adverts, newspaper columns or magazine editorials, property brochure, window cards - potential buyers have a quick and easy way of viewing all the property details such as photos, videos and floor plans instantly. This saves time having to search on the Agent’s website or property portals such as Rightmove (or even remembering to search for it later).

This in turn often leads to an enquiry being sent directly to us with a viewing @KonectMagazines

request, simply by giving the buyer easy access to all of the information on the spot.

QR codes are a great example of how new marketing technology not only sits well alongside traditional products but improves them with a new level of customer experience.

relying on browsers to try and find the property online via their smartphone or at a later time via another device. By displaying the QR code on the window card, the potential buyer can instantly access all the property details and make an enquiry directly.

QR TO SHOWCASE ONLINE AND INTERACTIVE DETAILS

SC

We regularly hear of agents advising sellers that there is no requirement for a printed property brochure or a high street office. This advice is generally offered in order to cut costs or from an online or ‘out of town’ agent with no visible high street presence. However the examples below demonstrate why both of these traditional marketing channels are important, and how modern technology works alongside them to enhance the user experience and campaign effectiveness.

QR TO GRAB IMPULSE INTEREST Highly visible window displays on a busy street attracts passers by to stop and look at the properties being advertised in the window. They may not be looking for a property or thinking about selling, or they may have a particular or specific location in mind when searching online.

Seeing a property in the window often sparks interest, and can trigger an instant response via a QR code - rather than

A

ER E NH

Similarly, when someone has viewed a property with one of our agents, they are always given a printed brochure.

This acts as a constant visual reminder of the house they have viewed. It can often be several days before a buyer decides to take further action, often after seeing the brochure again perhaps on their coffee table or breakfast bar.

A unique QR code printed on the brochure allows the buyer to access the online property details instantly without having to search multiple websites to find it again.

Ultimately, it makes it easier for buyers to view your property. This is particularly effective when accessing property videos, virtual tours, drone imagery, animated walkthroughs and the other innovative tools we use to showcase properties.

That’s why it’s called Quick Response and it’s just one of the many ways we aim to make house buying and selling as simple and pleasurable as possible.

Use your smartphone camera to scan QR codes

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

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PUZZLE

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APRIL CROSSWORD

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MONEY MATTERS

When geopolitical tensions are high, it’s hard to ignore the fact that our world is a volatile place. The images, videos and sounds of war can affect us deeply, no matter how far removed we are from it physically.

At such times, the movements of financial markets may seem trivial, nevertheless it is understandable that investors will be searching for answers and solutions. There is no clear precedent for predicting the impact of war on markets. There are many examples from history where the impact has been localised or short lived, and, over the long-term, markets are resilient.

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Markets often fall during times of conflict and uncertainty, but data shows that they have bounced back significantly. Stock market falls of more than 10% happen in more years than they don’t. Despite short-term fluctuations caused by events, including conflict, history shows that investing in assets such as equities has proved the best way to grow capital and protect it from inflation over the long-term.

Past performance is not a guide to the future and may not be repeated. The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the fund selected.

The Money Matters column is contributed by Lucy Logan. Lucy lives in Calderwood and is Principal of Calderwood Financial, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.

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LOCAL LAB

With energy prices in the news nearly every day, many of us are keeping an eye on how much energy we’re using.

Since October we’ve seen energy companies going bust whilst energy bills rise. This resulted from several factors around the world. Colder weather and coming out of lockdown led to increased demand for energy, particularly gas. At the same time, outages at nuclear power stations and lower levels of wind meant that less energy was being produced. This led to the wholesale price of energy to increase, which we have seen reflected in our bills.

As part of the UK’s sanctions against Russia, imports of Russian oil and oil products are being phased out by 2023 and there are discussions of banning imports of natural gas, used by UK households to heat our homes. These sanctions, alongside economic uncertainty, all mean that energy bills are continuing to rise.

What is the impact of our energy use?

In 2020, households in Scotland paid an average of over £1000 on their electricity and gas each year. For nearly a quarter of Scottish households, this means they spend more than 10% of their income on their energy bills and are in fuel poverty; and the typical annual UK energy bill is predicted to reach £2000.

Our energy use also has an impact on the environment, being responsible for over 75% of human-caused greenhouse gases globally, around a third of which comes from the energy we use in our homes. With over 97% of energy in Scotland being produced by renewable sources, it’s one of the leading countries in renewable energy production, but many households still use wood or coal burning stoves for heating with an estimated 80,000 tonnes of coal used each year. @KonectMagazines

I heard a lot about COP26 and ‘Net Zero’ last year, what does it mean for energy use?

COP26 in Glasgow brought together thousands of people including world leaders, company representatives, scientists and activists, to discuss climate change and our response to it.

One key topic was net zero emissions, which means not emitting more greenhouse gases than we remove from the environment. Over 130 countries have pledged or are discussing targets to reach Net Zero with many setting a target to meet this by 2050; the Scottish government is committing to meet it by 2045.

This means moving away from heating with fossil fuels and making sure our houses are energy efficient. Some steps to achieve this are already planned such as government-set energy efficiency targets and a ban on the sale of new gas boilers from 2030.

Interested in taking part in research?

If this has caught your interest, I am currently in the early stages of a study looking at how people are using energy in their homes. This study consists of completing 5 online surveys recording your energy use and views towards over a period of 8 months and anyone aged over 18 who pays their own energy bills can take part. If you would like to take part or want more information, you can get in contact by emailing energyresearchqueries@gmail.com This article was contributed

by Sophie Watson. Sophie is studying for a PhD at Heriot-Watt University as part of an interdisciplinary team of researchers from Psychology and Economics. Bringing together the two fields, her research aims to explain how households use and view energy.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

The circus is coming to town! Did you know that “circus” is the collective name for a group of puffins? They are after all called the clowns of the sea (amongst many other things) so it’s only fitting.

I’ve been looking forward to writing this for many reasons but the main one is that it signifies that puffins will be back on our shores for the first time since last August.

They’ve not touched land since they left, instead spending the whole winter in the Atlantic Ocean and return to coastlines up and down the U.K. for the breeding season.

I know what you’re thinking, there’s no puffins in West Lothian or Edinburgh you silly billy! Well, you are technically correct but you can get a short boat trip out to see some of our puffin colonies from South Queensferry, North Berwick, or take a jaunt over the bridge to Anstruther and get some award winning fish and chips whilst you’re there. There’s a small population on Craigleith Island but the highest numbers are on the Isle of May, which is a wonderful place to visit and you’ll also find other 38 | LIVINGSTON

seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots, and kittiwakes.

A word of warning though, if you go in artic tern breeding season make sure to pack a hat or stand beside someone tall as you run the gauntlet through the nesting colony.

I’m spending a week with the circus in July and maybe I’ll see you there.

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

Tel 01506 437096

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LIVINGSTON | 39

PARENTING

Weeeeee!

It’s Wheelie G D!

n!

Family fu

So with spring finally in the air we decided it was time to get the kids bikes out of hibernation.

My eldest has been dying to get back on her bike for ages and she’s not been shy about asking (nagging) us to take her out. My youngest on the other hand is still at that awkward stage where she can ride her bike like a pro… as long as it’s flat, but throw in a hill and suddenly it’s far too much like hard work. So she’s picky about where she wants to ride.

We love going cycling as a family. It’s a great way to explore and the kids always feel like we are going on an adventure. But I’ll be honest we don’t do it in all weathers so during the winter we don’t get out much and it can be hard to get back in the habit of it after a few months off.

It seems like every weekend we’ve been free it’s been teeming with rain but we finally got a break and decided to head out and do something a bit different to hopefully appeal to both of them and get them back in the swing of things.

40 | LIVINGSTON

We headed to the new pump track that is now open at Balbardie Park in Bathgate. It’s not far from Xcite Bathgate for anyone who doesn’t know the area and it was just opened this year, which is how I heard about it. I didn’t even know what a pump track was so if it is a mystery to you too I can tell you what Google told me. A pump track is basically designed to be ridden without needing to pedal, so you just use your bodyweight to ‘pump’ yourself round the track. It sounds weird but it makes sense once you see the kids in action.

When we were there we saw kids doing it with bikes, balance bikes, scooters, and skateboards. I was amazed at the speed some of them were able to go round. It was a great place for the kids to build skills and confidence, especially after the winter when they’ve not been on their bikes as much.

My youngest will be much

happier heading back to the off-road trails at Beecraigs having had a go at this.

It was lovely as well seeing kids of all ages and stages giving it a go, and doing their own thing depending on what they were capable of. I even spotted an adult or two!

The new track is apparently the longest pump track in West Lothian and is the area’s first floodlit track as well so will be great in the winter too.

But summer is on the way first, and here’s to getting plenty of time on two wheels!

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. @KonectMagazines

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LIVINGSTON | 41

RECIPE

An easy, light dessert option

Rhubarb & Ginger Mousse A delicious combination of young rhubarb scented with coconut milk and stem ginger. Similar to a mousse, this can be made several days in advance making it an easy, light dessert option.

For a lower-sugar option swap the sugar for xylitol.

Ingredients:

• 400g young rhubarb, chopped • 150g caster sugar • 1 chunk of stem ginger, from a jar • 1 tbsp ginger syrup, from the jar • 4 small gelatine leaves • 200ml canned coconut milk • 2 egg whites

Serves 4

Method:

1. Place the rhubarb in a large pan with the sugar and 2 tbsp water. Cook gently for 10 minutes until the rhubarb is soft.

Allow to cool. Puree with the ginger and ginger syrup.

2. Soak the gelatine leaves in cold water for 10 minutes to soften.

3. Place the rhubarb puree in a pan and slowly heat with the coconut milk. Drain the gelatine leaves and add to the pan.

Simmer gently until dissolved.

4. Whisk the egg whites until stiff then fold into the rhubarb mixture.

5. Spoon into glasses or bowls and leave to set in the fridge for 3-4 hours.

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PUZZLE

APRIL SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 30. See page 46 for solutions.

What are you letting into your world that is wholesome or unwholesome?

When we examine our lives and minds, we might be surprised at the balance or not of the two!

When we consider habits, the small decisions we perform every day, do they make us happy or unhappy? What you repeatedly do shapes who you are or how you feel in any given moment.

What is your first habit of the day? What TV do you watch? How often do you watch the news? What conversations do you have? I’ve made a change recently to purposefully not pick up my phone to check emails or social media for the first hour of the day! This had become a strong habit and often consumed a fair amount of time and I’m not sure was wholesome. From this week I’ve made a conscious effort to stop when I notice my hand moving in that direction instead doing something more productive and nourishing for my mind.

What you let in determines how you feel.

For example if you find that when on social media you begin to start comparing your life to someone else’s, one thing is for sure, it won’t make you feel good. As the Dalai Lama says “comparison is the death of joy!”

So take time to examine your routines and habits and perhaps consider one thing that can be changed that allows your life to become more wholesome and nourishing and be beneficial to you and others.

Tina Gilbert lives in Livingston and teaches* yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk (*Tue classes in person - Thu classes online)

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LIVINGSTON | 43

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

13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP - Livingston Station Community Centre, Deans. We’re looking for more youth and adult members, and would like to hear from parents/guardians who would like to get involved as a sectional assistant or leader.

Beavers: Tues 6.30pm -7.30pm ages 6-8 years Cubs: Thurs 6.30pm - 8.00pm ages 8-10 years Scouts: Thurs 7.00pm till 9.00 pm ages 10-14 years If you are interested please contact Steven Graham on 07786 638442 or stevengraham162@gmail.com WEST LOTHIAN PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP The West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group can provide help and information and the opportunity to talk to men with recent treatment experience to give 'man to man' background to help them make a choice of the treatment they may be offered. Please contact for more information Duncan Wallace on 01506 632309 or Gordon Stuart on 01506 651388 or check our web site www.elprostatecancersupport.co.uk LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS GROUP - Walk with us every week on Thursdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Variety of walks to suit all abilities from challenging to gentle. All are welcome. For full walk details see: Ramblers webpage. www.ramblers.org.uk/scotland and on Facebook: www.facebook. com/livingstonramblers. Contact us: info@livingstonramblers.org. uk or via Facebook messenger on Livingston Ramblers Group.

FUN LITTLE EDUCATION Playgroup available for children from 2 years old. Beech House Quarrywood Court, Livingston, EH54 6AX. Monday to Friday 9.30 - 14.30. For information contact Paulina on 07729 969989 or funlittleeducation@gmail.com. All welcome.

LIVINGSTON SPEAKERS - If you've ever felt scared about public speaking, get anxious when giving presentations or avoid speaking up at meetings....then Livingston Speakers can help. We offer a safe, supportive environment where you can practice and get valuable feedback from the other members...

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and it doesn't matter if you make a mistake or freeze on the spot. We meet at Crofthead Farm Community Centre or online on Zoom please contact helen.toastmaster@gmail. com or call 07733 100595 for more information.

LIVINGSTON UKELELE CLUB - Meet every Tuesday 7.00pm - 9.00pm in the Carmondean community Centre "West Barn".

From beginners to experienced players all are welcome. We charge £2 per evening to cover the cost of the hall. Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK - Monday Coffee Morning 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1.00 Tuesday ladies Lunch club 12.30 to 2.30 two course Lunch, Tea, Coffee then 1 Hour of Arts and Crafts / Games Cost £4.50 Friday Coffee Morning, 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1.00 Contact No. 01506 416137, venue Crofthead farm, Dedridge, Livingston.

ART CLUB AT DEANS - Every Tuesday, 7.00-9.00pm, Deans Community centre (opp the Co-op).

Come and join our friendly bunch.

Bring your own projects or learn new skills. We give guidance/ tuition in drawing, acrylics and watercolours plus specialist techniques like silk painting. Check out our gallery in the centre or visit our FB page 'Deans Community Art Club'. Contact Jim Tripney 07748 517452.

29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP - We are looking for new members. Beavers 6-8 years Thursday 6.30-7.30pm, Cubs 8-10 years Monday 6.30-8.00pm, Scouts 10-14 years Wednesday 7.00-9.00pm all at Toronto Primary School Community Hall. For more information please contact Group Scout Leader David Nicol on 07876 776012 or david29wl@gmail.com MURIESTON COMMUNITY GARDEN - Become a volunteer for a new community garden next to Livingston South Railway Station. Help transform rough ground into a beautiful, tranquil garden for all to enjoy. See details at www.murieston-cg.org.uk, follow Facebook page "Murieston Community Garden", or join

private Facebook group "Murieston Community Garden Volunteers".

Details will also be posted on the noticeboard at Livingston South Station. Help needed for building, gardening and administration. All welcome, no gardening experience required.

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS Available for children from 2 years old.

Daily session cost £9.00 per session, eligible 2 funding accepted. Locations: • Crofthead Community Centre, Dedridge - Sessions available Mon to Fri 9.15am- 11.30am E: crofthead@communityplaygroups.org T: 07904 623123 • Uphall Community Centre Sessions available Mon to Fri 9.15am- 11.30am E: uphall@communityplaygroups.org T: 07939 252519 • West Calder Community Centre - Sessions available Mon to Thurs 9.15am - 11.30am E:westcalder@communityplaygroups.org T: 07985 645869 WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship.

Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested?

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

SONGWRITING GROUP - Broxburn, Strathbrock Community Centre, Entrance B, Room GP3.

1st Thursday of the month. As of January 2022 we are going to go back to the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. These are informal evenings aimed at encouraging musicians and songwriters (adults) of all levels and abilities who would like to share their idea, techniques and songs with others in an informal, friendly environment. For further information, please contact Annie on 07824 667889.

TABLE TENNIS CLUB - Thursday night 7.00pm - 9.00pm at Livingston Village Primary School. For more information contact Graeme 07368 921472.

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CROCHET CLUB WORKSHOPS - 6.00pm – 9.00pm. 3rd Monday of the month Gooey Events Livingston Village.

If you'd like to learn a new craft, or build your crochet abilities this is the club for you! Learn a new crochet project each month, from baskets, to granny squares.

Beginners encouraged! No commitment, Just book your space each month by contacting Leigh at 07715251123 / thecolourdasher@ gmail.com (£32 - materials and tuition provided) Follow @thecolourdasher on Facebook to see the list of workshops.

LIVINGSTON STATION PARENT AND TODDLERS GROUP - All parents/carers and toddlers are welcome to attend. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning during school term from 10am to 11.30am, Deans Community Hall.

Cost is £1.50. A snack is provided.

For more information contact Pat Campbell on 01506 410478 or 07730 537796.

WEST LOTHIAN U3A - u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi-retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting and keep active.

We've been meeting on Zoom for the past 18 months but many of our groups are starting to meet again.

For more information see: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274 SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB - Do you need some help with your laptop, tablet or smart phone?

We can provide friendly practical advice on using and getting the most from the technology. Come along as often Waterstone's Cafe in The Centre from 10.00 - 12.00am every Tuesday. Contact Chris Cosgrove for information on 07778 704860.

LIVINGSTON SUBBUTEO CLUB - Intending to restart the Livingston Subbuteo Club and looking for ex members or new starts who might be interested. Contact Malc on 07815 699186 - maddandad94@gmail.com MUSIC 4 U - Musical activities, fellowship and fun for people with dementia and their carers throughout West Lothian. We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month in Carmondean Community Complex (parish church section) from 2 - 3.30 pm. It begins with afternoon tea then musical activities delivered by people with dementia expertise and musical ability, all volunteers. There's no cost. Great fun for everybody!

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More information from Nancy Burgoyne on 01506 419904 or email burgoynenancy49@gmail.com CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Missing singing? We're back, following Covid restrictions that apply, but still having fun! Why not come along and join us? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of material from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. To find out more or join us, please contact John Rankine on 01506 880029. We'd love to welcome singers from across West Lothian.

CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston.

Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar Yoga - Mon 7.30-8.45pm; Vinyasa/ Yin - Tues 6.00-7.00pm and 7.208.20pm; Seasonal Yoga (gentle) - Wed 5.30 – 6.30pm; Yoga in Polish Wed 9.30-10.30am, Tai-Chi - Thurs 9.30-10.45am; Iyengar Yoga - Thurs 7.30-8.45pm; Yoga in Polish Fri 6.007.00pm. Carmondean, Livingston.

E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk T: 07810 824 195 W: www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. Services currently via Zoom/ phone: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities.

Virtual Power of Attorney Clinic & Benefits Advice and Counselling.

For information: T.: 01506 448000 E: office@carers-westlothian.com W: www.carers-westlothian.com GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all.

Contact generationarts.coordinator@ gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn.

Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £10. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

MACMILLAN INFORMATION & SUPPORT SERVICE Our hubs are open and we’re here to help. To make an appointment call 01506 283053.

Tuesday Strathbrock Partnership Centre - Appointments 10.00am and 11.15am.

Wednesday Bathgate Partnership Centre - Appointments 10.00am, 11.15am, 1.30pm and 2.45pm.

Thursday Livingston North Partnership Centre - Appointments 10.00am and 11.15am.

WE CAN HELP YOU WITH: Benefits advice, Emotional support, Cancer information, Grants, Blue badges, Treatment travel costs and much more.

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

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and

LIVINGSTON | 45

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

What happens when you mix the iconic Quantum Leap with John Wick?

You get Spiritwalker Spiritwalker,, a truly special South Korean action thriller. Waking up with no memory and learning that every 12 hours he switches bodies, our main character has one mission - uncover the truth and find out who he is!

Spiritwalker simply grabbed me with its opening scene.

You are dropped into this situation just like the main character. You have no idea what is happening and the way the film pulls back its layers to reveal the truth is expertly done. What stands out in this film is that it’s a masterclass in editing; while it’s a very serious film there are moments of levity that expertly uses cuts to make you burst out into laughter.

While I wished there was more action, the action we get is nothing short of incredible and expertly done.

The final action scene alone will go down as one of the best action scenes of the year and contains fantastic choreography and is amazingly shot. All the performances are great but Yoon Kye-Sang as the lead is a true stand-out. He is amazing and brings his character to life. Spiritwalker is truly special film. It’s a film I can’t wait to watch again, and it’s a film I want to share with everyone. It’s another prime example of why I love Asian cinema and how some of the most exciting and original films come from Asia.

Spiritwalker is available on digital platforms from 31st March 2022.

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

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ACROSS: 1. Cash, 3. Chess set, 9. Upbraid, 10. Email, 11. Spring greens, 14. Let, 16. Bongo, 17. Hip, 18. Rollerskater, 21. Riots, 22. Bayonet, 23. Pedestal, 24. Golf.

DOWN: 1. Counsels, 2. Sober, 4. Hid, 5. Skeleton keys, 6. Staunch, 7. Tale, 8. Cannibalises, 12. Goner, 13. Aperitif, 15. Twofold, 19. Tango, 20. Grip, 22. Boa.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 43

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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: Alan Stewart t/a Universal Appeal M: 07729 911858 E: alan@universal-appeal.com

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