Konect Livingston May 2022

MAY 2022

WHAT'S ON:

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hen there is so much going on that I feel helpless in the face of – war, hunger and the many challenges in day to day living – my interviews with local people for the charity features in Konect uplift me. They help focus on the incredible kindness, care and resourcefulness of people quietly doing their bit right here to make things better, one life at a time. Based at the Port of Grangemouth and looking after a large minority of workers whom we absolutely depend on, mostly without giving them a second thought, the Mission to Seafarers Scotland is one such organisation; see the article on pages 8-9. I also had the pleasure of catching up again with Nightstop, a charity which is helping young people in West Lothian at risk of homelessness. They’re looking for volunteer hosts, so if you have a spare room and may be able to help please see the article on pages 26-27.

The celebrations for Union Canal’s 200th anniversary promise to be a lot of fun this month. There are various points along the canal you can join in - see pages 42-43 for details. Check out the Love to Ride the event in Almondell Country Park too this month.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations. As ever, let me know what you think!

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

THIS ISSUE Charity: Mission to Seafarers Scotland................8 Thought for the Month: Habits...............................12 Hair: DIY Colour Remover.......................................12 Garden Project: To mow or not to mow?...........20 Property Matters: Relative Values........................22 Charity: Nightstop.......................................................26 Puzzles............................................................................36 Money Matters: Saving for retirement.................30 What’s On: Bike Challange.....................................36 Local Environment: Splish splash........................38 Parenting: It’s wheelie good!..................................40 What’s On: Flotilla200................................................42 Film Review: Millennium Actress..........................46

COVER IMAGE: Flotilla200, see pages 42-43.

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Rev Tim Tunley, Port Chaplain at Grangemouth

95% of goods imported into the UK arrive via sea transport. There is a huge but invisible army of essential workers on the ships keeping the global shipping industry going, and as a rule we hardly give them a second thought.

Based at the Port of Grangemouth, Linlithgow resident Rev Tim Tunley is Port Chaplain for a charity dedicated to the welfare of people who work on ships – The Mission to Seafarers Scotland. I visited him at the docks just before he was going aboard a ship, to find out why there is a need for such an organisation and to learn more about it.

“Seafaring is a unique lifestyle which can be isolating and difficult. For young cadets in particular, launched in to an adult world - and an unusual one at that – finding themselves cut off from family and friends by long tours at sea is challenging,” Tim explains. They can go many months at a time with poor or no internet, other communication challenges and conditions which are often less than ideal.

“Our mission is about making life easier for seafarers, to look after their welfare and to simply be a friend, whatever their needs are,” says Tim. Besides emotional support and a listening ear, the mission provides practical help. Tim can find himself in the local Asda with a shopping list for things like Toblerone, crisps or other treats that have been requested; getting takeout pizzas or even, if there is time, taking crew to visit places of interest while the ship is in dock.

During covid, crews have not been able to go ashore so the chaplaincy is the only link with land. “We go on board the ship when it docks, introduce ourselves and hang out with the crew in the mess to see what they need most.” The most frequent request relates to help with communication – getting phone cards 8 | LIVINGSTON

that work here, top-ups and so on. The irony of helping crew members often half his age with their phones and tech isn’t lost on Tim! But they are usually desperate to communicate with home and loved ones, so it sounds simple but supplying phone cards and top-ups at cost means a priceless call can be made.

“We’re providing Ukranian sailors with free phone cards and top ups at the moment. They have no idea what’s going on back home - they can’t even go back home - and are finding it very difficult to communicate with loved ones. Since 14.5% of the world’s seafarers are Ukrainian and Russian, there is a huge number in this situation at the moment.

Another 25% of the world’s seafarers are Filipino, and they are often supporting family members back home financially. “We provide Tagalog literature – whether or not they read it, it doesn’t matter,” says Tim, “it’s the gesture, the fact that someone cares enough to provide something in their own language while they are so far away from home and isolated.”

On one occasion group of young Filipino seafarers asked if Tim could take them to McDonald’s. So after sitting in the Grangemouth McDonald’s chatting for a couple of hours, he couldn’t help asking – “Why here?” Why, the other side of the world with so much to explore, would you want to visit a McDonald’s?

The answer was, “When the McDonald’s in Manila changes the menu, the McDonald’s in Grangemouth changes; it’s the best way of feeling close to home.”

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The origins of the charity are in a mission set up in 1836 by a minister in Bristol, England, who was struck by the loneliness and spiritual needs of seafarers. It developed into a worldwide organisation providing practical and emotional support to seafarers: worldwide day and night, 365 days a year, regardless of nationality, rank or gender. Mission to Seafarers Scotland is part of the worldwide organisation, but independent in that all money raised here is spent here. There are over 90 ports in Scotland, and at Grangemouth Tim boards around 60 ships per month. Alongside him a team of 20 local volunteers help with ship visits and running the Mission to Seafarers Centre – a building at the docks where crews are welcome for free wifi, hot drinks, games rooms and other facilities. All volunteers are accredited by the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB).

“We are the only people on board the ship who are not there for money,” Tim explains. “We have a good relationship with the shipping companies and senior crews, and are grateful for the support of Forth Ports.”

Tim has been Port Chaplain here for 12 years.

He trained as a minister in the Church of England, which presented a challenge when he wanted to move to Scotland, as he could not transfer to a Church of Scotland parish church. So when the opportunity came up in the Episcopalian chaplaincy at the Mission to Seafarers Scotland he jumped at it and clearly still loves the work which is varied, challenging and makes a huge difference to the (mostly young) seafarers they help.

“While the Mission is church-based, it’s a general support service combining counselling and practical help. The only question we ask is, ‘What is it like to be you today?’” he explains.

Seafarers are an invisible army without whom worldwide logistics would grind to a halt. Often overlooked and undervalued, many are at risk of loneliness, mental health issues and fatigue, to name just a few of the challenges they face.

Thanks to Mission to Seafarers Scotland, when they arrive at the Port of Grangemouth they are assured of a warm welcome and an unconditional offer of much-needed help and support.

Can you help?

The Mission to Seafarers Scotland relies almost entirely on donations to keep the service going, and is always grateful for any donations to support their work. If you would like to make a donation, or complete a challenge or fundraiser on behalf of the Mission, please use the JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/missiontoseafarersscotland All donations are much appreciated.

If you are interested in volunteering with the Mission, please contact the Rev Tim Tunley on 07581 625941

For more information please visit www.mtss.scot or on Facebook @MTSS Mission to Seafarers Scotland is a charity registered in Scotland, No. SCO41938 This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after visiting the Rev Tim Tunley at the Mission to Seafarers Scotland, Grangemouth Docks. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines

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How many of you use an exfoliating in your skin? It’s a common thing once or twice a week to shed away dead skin alveolus and leave the skin looking brightened fresh. The benefits of exfoliation for your scalp are similar but far less common.

A good exfoliation of your scalp will encourage hair growth, deep clean your scalp and unclog hair follicles. It’s also the best way to remove dry skin, dead skin cells and remove product build up.

In the salon we love Savines SOLU Scrub shampoo with sea salt. It refreshes the scalp and removes impurities, product residues and polluting particles. It gives texture to the hair and keeps it clean and light for longer. It was also Winner Best Clarifying Treatment 2020, Women’s Health.

The idea with exfoliating your scalp is that it can be done once or twice a week, think of it like a scalp treatment. Soak the hair through then massage a small amount of product at the scalp and the root of the hair for two to three minutes using a firm pressure, this should work all the way around the hairline and then from ear to ear. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all the grittiness, and follow with a moisture treatment throughout the ends to keep you shiny clean hair soft and supple.

Solu sea salt scrub can be bought at wonderland Livingston.

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

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) @KonectMagazines

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We enjoyed walking on short mown paths around and through this wild flower meadow at Burghley House last summer. The paths made it look very cared for and the meadow itself was buzzing with wildlife visitors.

Last May there was a craze for ‘No-Mow’ your lawns. Some folk took advantage of this to ignore the mowing for a month but many were very excited to see what flowers appeared in the long grass, clover, dandelions, daisies and thistles were reported. If you enjoyed the experience you may be developing the idea in your garden this year and creating a small area of meadow to look beautiful and provide pollen and nectar for your wildlife visitors.

We have a new purple piglet project leaflet (‘Meadows & No-Mow’) with more details about creating a meadow in your lawn, but

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Meadow at Burghley if you want a garden that is accessible to gardeners and wildlife that has a tidy regularly mown lawn we also have a collection of plants that can be grown in your borders that are great for gardeners and also for wildlife visitors (‘Plants for gardeners and wildlife’).

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

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Relative Values In any market, the conversation often revolves around the likely future of house prices. Will they go up, will they go down, will they remain stable?

Even the most credible authorities tend to disagree on the direction of property prices and sales volume, so where does that leave the humble consumer? Baffled!

The problem is the source of data that is used to make assumptions about the market is fickle. For example, you could look at the latest Land Registry figures. These record the volumes and prices of sales that completed up to about four months after the sale was arranged. But a lot can happen in four months – an interest rate change and 120 days of media influence can make a vast difference to buyer sentiment!

You could look at the figures supplied by property portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla. These can be a more accurate reflection of the current situation because they interpret the relationship between the changes in the number of properties on the market and average asking prices, and the number of buyers registering within the

previous month. Of course, asking prices are no reflection of sale prices and this applies in a sellers market as much as it applies in a buyers market!

Then there are the figures provided by various niche portals such as ESPC or from National estate agency groups. However, some of these can be biased because that group of companies might only specialise in a specific sector or geography.

Estate agents must be acutely aware of what is happening in the market they serve at any given point in time. They have a huge responsibility to get it right for their clients first time, and they take that responsibility very seriously.

Ultimately, we find that the most reliable indicators lie in the ability to interpret the needs and comments of buyers at a local level. After all, it is today’s buyers who determine the current value of your property!

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.

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Could you be a host?

Could you save a young person from staying in dangerous situations?

West Lothian residents of all ages, backgrounds, location and experience have been involved in Rock Trust’s community hosting program, called Nightstop. Hosts open their homes and hearts to give young people a safe place to stay, offering them a spare room, meals and an empathetic ear for a few nights at a time of crisis in a young person’s life.

Rock Trust, Scotland’s youth homeless charity has been running this life-changing service to young people aged 16 to 25 for the last three years. A safe place to stay for a few nights can prevent a young person from experiencing homelessness.

For young people, it’s a much better, safer and friendlier option than staying in adult bed and breakfast accommodation where they may be at risk of exploitation and abuse and have no access to cooking or washing facilities. They can feel isolated, lonely and abandoned, and their sense of well-being and mental health 26 | LIVINGSTON

may suffer. Alternatively, they may be sofasurfing - staying between friends, families, and acquaintances - where they have very little privacy, there may be little understanding of their needs and safety, and even the intention to exploit them.

While the young person is staying with a host, Rock Trust staff will begin looking for longerterm accommodation or help the young person to return home if that is a safe and suitable option for them.

Rock Trust aims to make young people feel welcome and cared for. Moreen, the Nightstop coordinator, introduces them personally to their host and provides them with toiletries, new pyjamas, a bus pass, essential clothes and a dressing gown.

Moreen said, “For a young person, it can be a strange and scary time going to stay with a stranger, but our hosts know how to make a young person feel at ease and often within minutes you can sense their relief and see their stress begin to ease.” @KonectMagazines

“Our volunteers find hosting an extremely rewarding experience.”

Callum, an 18-year-old university student, found himself sofa-surfing for 6 months after the breakdown of his relationship with his father.

Nightstop placed him with one of our Bathgate hosts for two weeks and helped secure him a room in student accommodation. He is now enjoying student life and looking forward to the future.

Callum said, “I felt so low and worried when I became homeless. I was struggling to manage my life, moving between friends’ houses every few nights and trying to study for my course.

Once I was staying with my Nightstop host, I felt safe and able to think clearly again. I am so grateful to my host family for giving me hope when I had nearly given up.”

David has been a Nightstop Volunteer Host for two years. He lives with his little dog, Hamish, in a two- bedroom home in Livingston. David is self-employed and has a busy life between work, holidays, socialising, and hobbies. He felt he still had the time, a spare bedroom, and the desire to help those less fortunate than himself.

David said, “If you are thinking about becoming a Volunteer Host, I would say absolutely 100%.

It is the most rewarding thing I have ever done”.

Sophie spent 3 weeks with David. She is 16 and studying for her exams at High School.

She left home after years of abuse which was affecting her mental health. Staying with David meant that she was able to attend school every day, have peace to study, see some friends and have a safe space to begin to recover from her ordeal. The best bit according to Sophie was a take-away on a Friday night!

Sophie said:” It was great being able to talk to David when I got home. It helped me feel less stressed about everything. I don’t know if I could have coped on my own”.

David said, “It has been an absolute pleasure having Sophie to stay. We had some lovely chats every day when she came home from school and a few laughs. I am really going to miss her company”.

Could you become a host?

More Nightstop Hosts are needed In West Lothian to provide young people with a caring and welcoming home. Could you provide a spare bedroom, meals, and a listening ear for a few nights or more to a young person in crisis at home and needing a safe place to stay?

Hosts are provided with full training and support from Rock Trust staff and £15 expenses per night. They decide how much or how little they would like to host; it could be for a couple of nights or two weeks at a time. There is no minimum commitment, just what you feel you can provide, when you’re available.

Come to one of our regular online information evenings to find out more about the opportunity and ask any questions, just check on our website for details. Or speak to the Nightstop Coordinator, Moreen Watson, either in person, on Zoom or on the phone.

Contact Moreen Watson at Nightstop West Lothian: Tel.: 0345 222 1425 Email: hello@rocktrust.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheRockTrust Website: www.rocktrust.org/nightstop

The Rock Trust is a charity registered in Scotland, number SCO18708.

This article was contributed by Moreen Watson, Nightstop Coordinator in West Lothian. @KonectMagazines

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MONEY MATTERS

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money in different places or assets rather than saving it all in one place.

Saving for retirement can feel so daunting that many of us would understandably prefer to avoid thinking about it. Here are five steps that will give your retirement savings a solid foundation.

1) Make it a habit - Thinking about the level of savings required for a comfortable retirement can be off-putting. At first, however, it’s the act of saving that really counts, rather than the amount you put away.

The key is to put small amounts into a pension and/or a Cash or Stocks & Shares Individual Savings Account (ISA) and let the magic of compounding go to work.

2) Have a plan - Or at least have a series of objectives that can help motivate you to save by giving you direction, purpose and incentives.

3) Diversify - Diversification refers to putting your

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4) Consider your own situation - If you have an employer, find out what it will contribute to your pension.

5) Take advice - There are many excellent reasons for taking professional financial advice, including the role advisers can play in helping you get into good habits and keep them going.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

A Stocks and Shares ISA will not provide the security of capital associated with a Cash ISA. 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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The choir is delighted to be back and is presenting two concerts in May, their first public performances since the pandemic. The choir as always will be skilfully directed by Eleanor Howat but these concerts will sadly be her swan song as Musical Director, after 25 years with Toccata. She will be greatly missed but we look forward to the future, and are sure we will continue to thrive under the leadership of our new Musical Director Claire Christie.

Please come and share this special occasion with us.

Tuesday 10th May St John Cantius, 34 West Main Street, Broxburn EH52 5RJ. Concert 7.30 – 8.30pm. Tickets £5 at the door.

Sunday 15th May St Michaels Parish Church, Kirkgate, Linlithgow EH49 7AL. Concert 3.00 – 4.00pm.

Entrance by donation.

Bike Month challenge, Almondell & Calderwood Country Park Love to Ride West Lothian run a year-round calendar of events with 4 main seasonal campaigns to support people to cycle.

“We’re inviting everyone to join us so and take part in the Bike Month Challenge and event on 15th May. It’s a light-hearted teams challenge aimed at the everyday cyclist. It doesn’t matter if it’s for fun, fitness or transport - all rides count, and you don’t have to go far or fast. We want everyone to experience the joy of cycling. There are loads of cycling and non-cycling related prizes to tempt people too! Most importantly why not come down and here from some of the fantastic ‘on the ground’ organisations at our face to face event” See below for details and to register.

PUZZLE

Solution in the June edition of Konect

MAY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Stove (4), 3. Confessed (8), 9. Remove (7), 10. Tall structure (5), 11. Current (12), 14. Married woman (3), 16. Smooth surface (5), 17. Perceive (3), 18. Clarifications (12), 21. Fine porcelain (5), 22. Passion (7), 23. Calamity (8), 24. Small room (4).

DOWN: 1. Conquer (8), 2. Devoured (5), 4. Small spot (3), 5. Road junction (12), 6. Defeats (7), 7. Terrible (4), 8. Butterfly larva (12), 12. Simple (5), 13. Private (8), 15. A swinging time? (7), 19. Small fruit (5), 20. Not alkali (4), 22. Female sheep (3).

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LIVINGSTON | 37

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

As I was pushing the definition of local when talking about the Isle of May (I just love puffins!) I’m bringing it as close to home as possible now, right to my back garden!

During lockdown 1.0, when we had that glorious weather I thought it would be good to provide the birds with a water source and my attention was turned to an old frying pan, which had lost its stick. In the interest of being sustainable, and not buying something new I excitedly filled it with water and put it out on the grass.

the house, which might otherwise end up in the bin and you will be rewarded with daily entertainment! Just remember to keep it topped up with clean water (birds have no bathing etiquette) and remove any layers of ice in the winter. Your visiting birds will thank you for it.

Like a moth to a flame, the birds flocked to it (pun very much intended) and they’ve used it for drinking, and having a wee bath ever since. Within the first few weeks, the juvenile starlings descended in their usual mob like fashion and took over. They were having a blast! Furiously splashing around, there was water everywhere. It was incredibly entertaining to watch and ever since, it’s frequently visited by sparrows, blue tits, and magpies who are all grateful for some water on a hot day.

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

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Kate & Clare are currently featured in the Edinburgh Science Festival photography exhibition, “Wild Scotland”.

It’s located on Portobello Promenade and will run until the 5th May 2022. @KonectMagazines

PUZZLE

MAY SUDOKU

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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.

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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

Livingston 07753213626 kumon.co.uk

@KonectMagazines

LIVINGSTON | 41

Seagull Cruises are back! But….

The Ratho based canal charity Seagull Trust Cruises has restarted its trips for people with special needs, but is struggling to provide the pre-Covid level of service. After two years of no sailings on the Union Canal the Trust has lost some crew volunteers.

As Chairman David Mieras explains, the boats are ready and are beginning to welcome back familiar faces.

“As the bookings increase, which we hope they will, we need more volunteers to keep sailing. Ideally we aim to operate seven days a week, two or more times a day. Some crew members moved on and there are now vacancies.”

He is confident that the trips are safe for both crew and clients “Safety measures are already in place. We know many have missed coming out with us, so we want to meet that demand. We also look forward to greeting new organisations, groups or individuals who would benefit.”

The charity relies on donations to cover costs and operates solely using trained volunteers.

“It’s an important social service but it’s also enjoyable - meeting people and learning new skills on our lovely canal.” adds David.

If you’d like to volunteer (training is provided) or can offer a donation then contact David on 0131 445 2022.

If you’d like to book a trip then contact Carole on 07511 055 081.

2022 marks 200 years since the Union Canal was completed. To celebrate, a huge flotilla is planned for the weekend 20th22nd May, and everyone is invited to take part – both on the water and on the banks.

“Flotilla 200” will commence from both ends of the canal, with boats mustering at Lochrin Basin in Edinburgh and at the Falkirk Wheel, before setting out along the canal in each direction. They will converge on the Saturday afternoon at Manse Road Basin in Linlithgow, one of the original stabling and staging posts, where there will be an early evening celebration including BBQ & musical entertainment. There are various muster points along the way, giving everyone an opportunity to get involved in the festival atmosphere on the banks, as well as allowing you to join the flotilla on the water if you wish to at a point closest to you.

EVENTS INCLUDE:

Best Dressed Boat - Decorate your boat to reflect the 200 Theme or events from the last 200 years. There will be numerous prizes/ categories with the awards being presented at The Linlithgow Muster on the evening of 21st May.

Run, walk or cycle - Activity is not only on the water. Why not walk, run or cycle along side the flotilla (either individually or within your group or organisation).

Fancy dress - Have fun celebrating the 200th anniversary with us by dressing up in fancy dress to reflect the 200th Anniversary, or indeed anything else you like.

No boat ~ No problem - Jump on board your stand up paddle board, kayak, or any other form of water transport. The more the merrier.

This article was contributed by Seagull Trust Cruises www.seagulltrust.org.uk 42 | LIVINGSTON

For more information on muster times and locations, and to register your boat, please visit flotilla200.live where you can also download a free booklet with full details of the weekend. @KonectMagazines

Originally built for transport as the industrial development of Scotland took off, the canal is a masterpiece of engineering which had a relatively short life as industrial infrastructure, as railways and roads started to take over in the decades after it was completed. It has been through periods of disuse and neglect, before being revitalised, mainly through volunteer activity, to the wonderful leisure facility that we enjoy today. It’s good to pause and look into the history of the hard labour that went into cutting the earth in the first place - many years before powerful machines could help.

Canal diggers – navigators – or “navvies” as they became known, in central Scotland were Irish immigrants and Highlanders lured by the prospect of steady work.

They worked on canal projects all over Scotland, following the work from project to project. The Union Canal, 31.5 miles long between Edinburgh and Falkirk, was dug in just 4 years between 1818 and 1822.

No accommodation was provided for the workers by the canal proprietors; they had to find lodgings and make do however they could. At either end of the canal in Edinburgh and Falkirk it wasn’t too difficult to find lodgings, but in between there was little or no accommodation to be found, and the families had to accompany the wageearner. A newspaper at the time reported: “Along the banks of the Union Canal certain edifices have been erected which strike the traveller with no little astonishment. These are huts erected

by Irish labourers upon some few vacant spots of ground belonging to the canal proprietors and are pointed out to strangers on the passage boats as great curiosities. Each, of course, is more wretched than than another, and presents a picture of squalid poverty which is new to the people on this side of the Channel.

One of them, with the exception, perhaps, of a few sticks, is composed entirely of rotten straw; its dimensions would not suffice for a pig-stye.” @KonectMagazines

Flotilla200 is organised by Scottish Waterways for All, working in partnership with Scottish Canals and numerous other organisations.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne with information taken from flotilla200.live and scottishcanals.co.uk.

Photos provided by and used with permission of Scottish Waterways for All.

LIVINGSTON | 43

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

WEST CALDER BRIDGE CLUB (WCBC) - WCBC invites you to come along and play the challenging card game of Bridge. All are welcome from beginners to experienced players.

Beginners can sit with more experienced players or have learning sessions.

WCBC meets on Tuesdays 7pm until 10pm. The cost is £2.50.

West Kirk of Calder, West Main Street, West Calder, EH55 8EN. See www. westcalderbridgeclub.org.uk for further information and contact numbers.

LIVINGSTON AND DISTRICT AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY - We are based in the Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, Livingston and are a member of the Radio Society of Great Britain. Meeting every Tuesday 19-00 to 21-00, our club brings together members of all ages in a licensed pursuit which is technical, scientific and promotes local and international friendship through radio.

We provide training for all three levels of amateur operating licences in friendly and relaxed atmosphere Email: cco_edin@ btinternet.com Tel: 07710 441423 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

44 | LIVINGSTON

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... 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.

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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.

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!

More information from Nancy

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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 6.007.00pm and 7.20-8.20pm; 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 6.00-7.00pm. 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.

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 practical support,

LIVINGSTON | 45

SOLUTIONS

APRIL CROSSWORD* O O P S O R W R O N G Y

Satoshi Kon was a truly incredible anime director, from his creative editing style to his unique and influential visuals, his work is timeless. Millennium Actress is a prime example of why he was a truly incredible director.

Following a filmmaker and his cameraman as they decide to interview a former actress for a documentary, during this interview they travel through the actress’s memories and her career.

Nothing about this film’s presentation is stale, from the colours to the transitions everything is mind-blowing. There is one scene transition in particular that shows off the true power of animation as a media. The film tackles a lot of heavy issues, from propaganda films to the horrors of war era Japan to even abuse of film makers’ powers.

*No, it wasn’t an April Fools joke!

A technical error meant that the April crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle board.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 39

It is a very modern film that was somehow made in 2001.

However, its biggest achievement is simply how funny it is, while there are moments that are heart breaking. The film truly never fails to make you laugh. In a day and age where at the biggest showcase of cinema, animation is simply seen as for kids to enjoy and for adults to endure, it’s films like Millennium Actress that prove that this is simply not the case.

Animation is wonderful medium that can tell stories like no other and present it in ways that are simply impossible in live action. I love animation; and Millennium Actress and all of Satoshi Kon’s filmography is more than just kid’s entertainment.

Available to rent from Amazon or Apple, also available on Blu-ray.

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.

46 | LIVINGSTON

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

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something for everyone!

Craigsfarm Traders Fair Craigsfarm Saturday 9th October 10-2pm Traders Fair

www.craigsfarm.org.uk info@craigsfarm.org.uk 01506 894639 Craigsfarm Community Hub Maree Walk, Livingston EH54 5BP

Saturday 9th October 10-2pm Shop local and support local, small businesses at our regular traders market in Livingston. Join us to discover great quality products from all over the West Lothian area. From everyday essentials to luxury gifts, and even some tasty treats, there will be Shop local andsomething support local, small businesses at our for everyone! regular traders market in Livingston. Join us to discover great quality products from all over the www.craigsfarm.org.uk info@craigsfarm.org.uk West Lothian area. From everyday essentials to 01506 894639 luxury gifts, and even some tasty treats, thereHub will be Craigsfarm Community Maree Walk, Livingston EH54 5BP something for everyone! @KonectMagazines

www.craigsfarm.org.uk LIVINGSTON | 47 info@craigsfarm.org.uk