FEBRUARY 2024
CHARITY: CHARITY:
PROPERTY MATTERS:
The community magazine for Livingston
P8
W
elcome to the February issue of Konect, the first one for this year.
We’re delighted to kick off this year’s Charity of the Month feature with Bipolar Scotland, who offer a wonderful peer support group in Bathgate. In the article on pages 8-9, we hear from West Lothian resident Stef who describes the charity as a “lifeline.” Equally vital in a different way is the work of the Rock Trust, who run their Nightstop service in West Lothian, providing emergency accommodation for young people at risk of homelessness. They are looking for local residents who have a spare room and may be able to host a young person for a few nights. There is an information afternoon on 24th February at Crofthead Community Centre, see pages 18-19. Many of the local businesses advertising in this magazine have special offers and discounts for Konect readers, to help out with everything from home and garden improvements to eating out. Look out for the special offers and mention Konect when you contact them. Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.
All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638
Charity: Bipolar Scotland............................. 8 Living Well: Getting home safely from hospital..........................................................12 Thought for the Month: Space..................14 Charity: Do you have a spare room?.......15 Property Matters: Pro-active Marketing...22 Garden Project: Snowdrops......................29 Recipe: Wok star!..........................................33 Puzzles..........................................................34 Film Review: Mean Girls (2024)................35 Clubs & Classes.................................... 36-38 Puzzle Solutions...........................................38
COVER IMAGE: Snowdrops: Heralding the approach of spring. See P29.
Konect is delivered to 20,000 homes in selected areas of Livingston and Uphall, alternating between two areas of 10,000 homes per month. It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe LIVINGSTON | 3
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Stef attends mon thly support grou ps
An estimated 150,000 people in Scotland are living with bipolar disorder, one of the most severe and enduring mental illnesses. There’s so much stigma around this condition, partly because it can be dangerous and destabilising. People with bipolar experience recurrent episodes of manic highs and depressive lows, and some people may also experience psychosis during these periods. These extreme changes in mood can impact every facet of a person’s life and have a detrimental impact on their relationships, career and physical health. In Scotland right now, it takes an average of 9.8 years to get a correct diagnosis of bipolar and this delay can be life-threatening: people with bipolar are twenty times more at risk of suicide than the general population. That’s why Bipolar Scotland is such a necessary, vital charity. Advocating for and supporting people living with bipolar in Scotland, the organisation works within communities all over the country running support groups, and offering selfmanagement training and one-on-one peer support from trained workers who also live with bipolar themselves. The charity is underpinned by a knowledge and belief that people with bipolar can live fulfilling, happy lives – can even be exceptional in their fields. What helps them achieve this is the right support, and often that support is best coming from someone who really gets it. Peer support, 8 | LIVINGSTON
happening alongside the correct medical care, has been proven to be one of the best ways to treat the condition.
“Bipolar Scotland has been a lifeline,” says Stef Walczynski, who has been attending the West Lothian peer support group, which is based out of the Bathgate Partnership Centre, since just before his final diagnosis in 2015. Like the majority of people with the disorder, Stef’s diagnosis of bipolar took a long time he first presented to his GP with an addiction to painkillers in 2008 and was diagnosed with depression. However, he believes his symptoms had been showing for a lot longer. ‘I was always the last man standing, always wanted to keep the party going when I was younger. [However] every year I would have a real point of dark depression where I would go to my family and say I don’t see the point in going on.. Back then we didn’t talk about mental health. We didn’t know about neurodivergancy; we didn’t have the language. Things are better now.’ After being handed a laminated card with the Bipolar Scotland group dates on it by the facilitator of a Distress Tolerance class who thought he would benefit, Stef has been attending the monthly support group in Bathgate for eight years – “I’ve maybe
only ever missed one or two meetings” – accompanied by his mum. “She wouldn’t call herself a carer, just a supporter. She comes along and she learns, from the group, too.” In fact, it was a few words from a visiting psychiatrist speaking at the group that really helped Stef realise the truth of his bipolar disorder. “He said that doctors should be asking people who have depressive symptoms,whether they’ve also had moments of elation, hypomanic or manic states. That was never asked of me at the time.” The two-hour sessions are run by a trained facilitator and are open, welcoming spaces. “There’s a sense of community, a sense of camaraderie. Everybody’s different, everybody’s got different experiences, but nobody’s judging you. It’s a safe environment. The ability to be in the presence of other people that may understand you, to have the ability to get things off your chest, you know? It’s important.” Stef has also benefited from Bipolar Scotland’s one-to-one peer support, and their selfmanagement training courses, all of which are delivered by people who also live with bipolar. “I found it difficult when I was in a depression cycle, but because it was peer support I was working with someone who also had bipolar, so they were very understanding.” How would he characterise the support he’s received from Bipolar Scotland, in a few words? He pauses. “Insightful, meaningful, respect, understanding, caring, supportive, and enjoyable.” For more information on the support offered by Bipolar Scotland, or to donate to help their work please visit www.bipolarscotland.org.uk. The West Lothian support group meets between 7.00pm - 9.00pm on the second Thursday of every month, in Bathgate Community Centre, Lindsay House, South Bridge Street, Bathgate, West Lothian, EH48 1TS. Their next meeting dates are Thursday 8th February,14th March and 11th April. This article was contributed by Bipolar Scotland. Charity registered in Scotland number SC021705 LIVINGSTON | 9
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LIVING WELL
As we get older, a hospital stay can be all too common. It’s a great sense of relief being discharged. It’s important to have a sound discharge plan to ensure a safe return home to prevent any further hospital admissions.
• Short-term needs: the discharge team should work with family or friends to ensure the patient doesn’t go home to an empty fridge or without the relevant medication. • Care assessment: The discharge team may assess for care at home if they believe a little extra help might be needed with day-to-day tasks. • Onward referrals: the further support considered should include referrals to any other relevant services. • Transport home: it’s the hospital’s responsibility to organise transport home if family can’t do so.
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• Equipment aids: if given equipment to aid with recovery, it’s important that both the patient and their carer are confident using it. • Supplies: regular access might be needed to products that were rarely or never required before, e.g. incontinence products. Discharge plans should include this. Discharging patients is a win-win: hospitals can get access to beds taken up unnecessarily by medically fit patients, while people can get back to the home they love.
If the hospital is struggling to access the required state funded care, it’s important to know what you might be eligible for funding provided by the council to meet social care needs. This can be put towards alternative community care that is available, which could help speed up the discharge process. The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info. westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian
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I love this quote and come back to it often; for me it is such a good reminder of something so important in my life:
“We all need space. Unless we have it, we cannot reach that sense of quiet in which whispers of better things come to us gently.” Octavia Hill, 1883, Co-founder of the National Trust. When you read this what does it mean to you? It will bring up different things in different people. Octavia would have been referring to the healing power of being in nature and the importance of taking time in the fresh air, by the trees or by the sea or river, being with nature all around us.
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For me this is about finding space in my busy life to slow down, to step out of doing mode constantly and to pause. It is also about finding space in the mind that is often busy with thoughts, thinking, images, stories of the future and memories of the past. When I stop to practice mindfulness I create small spaces in between the thoughts where I have moments of being totally present which feels incredibly calming. I can also find this in nature. Movement practice such as yoga helps to open up space in my stiff and tight body. So what does this mean to you? Do you have enough space in your life in what ever form is meaningful to you? Perhaps take a little time to ponder on this question and honour what you need. 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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Despite our increased knowledge of dementia in recent years, many feel in the dark about what to expect following a diagnosis, and what’s more, many still feel uncomfortable, or even embarrassed, talking about the lesser-known symptoms. Let’s get talking ‘The Big Dementia Conversation’ is all about encouraging people to talk about some of the most difficult topics associated with dementia. Our online advice hub takes a closer look at some of the less-talkedabout symptoms of dementia, with expert advice from our dementia specialists on how to navigate them.
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PROPERTY MATTERS
How pro-active marketing can put your property in front of the most likely buyers It’s easy for Estate Agents to overlook the fact that the majority of the population are not actively searching online property portals (such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and so on) and often only hear of certain properties being for sale (or sold) through word of mouth, when it’s too late to take action. A multi-channel approach to marketing a property is essential for matching the right purchasers with the right properties. Whilst property portals and social media promotions are a prerequisite, regular digital and printed newsletters and magazines sent out to a highly qualified subscriber list offer huge value in terms of additional marketing channels. A good quality newsletter puts clients’ properties in front of a very tailored and qualified audience in a way that not even the social media channels can. It does this through presenting not only properties for sale, but by encompassing a range of content that is interesting and relevant to readers so that they engage with it - whether they are actively looking for a property or not. Our company newsletter “Coffee Talk” has been running for almost 15 years and has more than 12,000 subscribers. Besides 22 | LIVINGSTON
showcasing properties for sale, it contains local news and information curated to be engaging for the audience. The readers we have attracted over this period, and through the content we publish, are specifically tailored to be a good match for our clients. “Coffee Talk” covers unique and exclusive properties, new build developments, land and building plots, market updates and insights. It includes access to off-market private properties that are not available on the open market and are visible to our subscribers and registered clients only. We have recently introduced a new online newsletter to the range titled “Coffee Talk – Extra Shot” which is produced monthly and showcases a selection of the most current properties available on the market. ‘Extra shot’ is interactive and links directly to the listing on our website, social media platforms and directly to the Property Manager for any particular property. In addition to this, our printed magazine ‘In-house’ is produced every 8 weeks and includes ‘hints & tips’ for buyers
and sellers, home features and lifestyle articles as well as showcasing our clients properties. As a commitment to our clients, we deliver copies of In-house magazine to carefully selected homes in their area plus sellers who have a property on the market to ensure that their property is exposed to people who are most likely to have an interest in it. In-house magazine also comes in a digital ‘page-turner’ format online and printed copies are available from our office and various outlets locally. Every one of our clients’ properties is featured in all of our digital and printed newsletters and magazines. The benefits to our clients of this suite of publications are measurable and tangible. Not only does it put their property in front of the most highly qualified audience in the local area, it also presents opportunities for any of the 12,000 subscribers to see a property that might be of interest to a friend, relative or colleague and easily forward an online copy to them. The nature of these publications also allows instant and direct feedback to our property managers,
showing them which featured properties or articles were most popular. This valuable market intelligence means we can adjust a campaign if, for example, the initial marketing images are not connecting with the audience in the same way that others might be. Properties featured in previous editions have resulted in successful sales to people who were not actively in the market looking for a house move. A unique or particular property may catch the attention of someone (they may have coveted or have some history with the property) which in turn results in them enquiring, viewing and purchasing simply due to the fact the property was put in front of them via a newsletter or magazine. If you’re a buyer or seller, or if you have an interest in the property market, take a look at the recent editions of our newsletters and magazines via the QR codes above. To receive our monthly online newsletter, please email ‘SUBSCRIBE’ to info@turpies.com. Add the word ‘INHOUSE’ if you would like a printed or digital copy of our company magazine too.
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. LIVINGSTON | 23
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FEBRUARY MARKS THE SNOWDROP FESTIVAL! This month there is nothing to beat a garden visit to admire displays of snowdrops on a crisp, sunny day. Let’s hope we get plenty of these days like the afternoon we visited House of the Binns last year to admire this carpet of blooms.
The appearance of these delightful wee flowers heralds the approach of Spring, cheering us in the same way as the longer days do. They are naturalised in Britain now having been introduced many hundreds of years ago. They start flowering in the far west of Scotland and flowering later as you move to the east so check the websites below for snowdrop garden opening times near you. There are many stories about snowdrops and we were reminded on the website of FloraQueen.com of this charming German
folklore. At the beginning of time Snow searched for a colour to borrow. When Snow asked and pleaded for one of the colours of the flowers, the flowers turned away denying Snow a colour as they felt Snow was too cold and unpleasant. The snowdrop felt sorry for Snow and offered its colour. Snow accepted the gift and became white from that point. To show its gratitude Snow allowed snowdrops to bloom at the end of winter with Snow’s protection against ice and snow. Scotland’s Gardens Scheme – scotlandsgardens.org
Discover Scottish Gardens – discoverscottishgardens.org The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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FOOD & DRINK
Who better than award-winning TV chef and cookery book author Ching-He Huang to help you celebrate Chinese New Year – which this year falls on 10 February, starting a Year of the Dragon – with one of her favourite dishes for feasting?
Ingredients:
• 1 tbsp rapeseed oil • 1 clove garlic, crushed and finely chopped • 1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped • ¼ red onion, sliced • 100g mini chicken fillets, sliced into strips • 1 tbsp Shaohsing rice wine or dry sherry • 2-3 raw or cooked tiger prawns, shelled and deveined, sliced in half down the middle • 30g bacon lardons, finely diced • 1 tsp dark soy sauce • 6 canned water chestnuts or 10 canned bamboo shoots, drained • 1 small handful of beansprouts • 1 tbsp oyster sauce • ¼ tsp chilli bean sauce • 1 tbsp low-sodium light soy sauce • 2 spring onions, trimmed and sliced on the diagonal To serve • Cooked rice
Serves 1
Preparation time 10 minutes Cooking time 6-7 minutes
Method:
1. Heat a wok over a high heat until smoking. Add the rapeseed oil and give it a swirl. Add the garlic, chilli and red onion and stir-fry for 5 seconds. Add the chicken strips and let them settle for 5 seconds, then cook, stirring, for 10 seconds. 2. Add the Shaohsing rice wine or sherry, and then add the prawns and bacon. Toss for a further 5 seconds. Season with the dark soy sauce and stir to coat all the ingredients. 3. Add the water chestnuts or bamboo shoots plus the beansprouts. Season with oyster sauce, chilli bean sauce and light soy sauce. Toss and mix well until well combined and the chicken is completely cooked through. 4. Sprinkle over the spring onions. Serve with cooked rice of your choice.
Vegan Option Use smoked tofu instead of the chicken, prawns and bacon, and add sliced shiitake mushrooms.
Recipe extracted from Wok For Less by Ching-He Huang, published by Kyle Books, £25, with photography by Jamie Cho. 32 | LIVINGSTON
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^^^ Sudoku solution on page 38
FEBRUARY SUDOKU
FEBRUARY CROSSWORD
^^^ Solution in the March edition of Konect
ACROSS: 1. Maybe (7), 5. Bike (5), 8. Cleaning liquid (7), 9. Precise (5), 10. Additional (5), 11. Cooking area (7), 12. Truthful (6), 14. Moves smoothly (6), 17. Dried grapes (7), 19. Aristocratic (5), 22. A small fruit (5), 23. Graceful (7), 24. Countryside (5), 25. Large jug (7). DOWN: 1. Ski run (5), 2. Cook in a hot oven (5), 3. Becomes visible (7), 4. Scares (6), 5. Trunk (5), 6. Collided (7), 7. Makes larger (7), 12. Marina (7), 13. Louder (7), 15. Tolerant (7), 16. Not awake (6), 18. Perfect (5), 20. Overbearing (5), 21. Go into (5).
HALF-PAGE Hz ADD SOLUTION DETAILS 34 | LIVINGSTON
Based on the stage musical, which is based on the film of the same name. Mean Girls is a massive film. Similar to other films like Heathers, it got the musical theatre treatment. Mean Girls’ plot has not changed from the original and neither has its overall message. This, to be honest, isn’t a huge issue if we ignore the fact that the original was released in 2004 - some 20 years ago - and while what it says still has meaning in 2024, I also feel that there is so much more that could and should have been said. We live in a day and age where social media affects people on a physical and mental level, and while social media is present in the film, It rarely plays a part in
the story and there is no commentary on the negative impact it has on women. But what doesn’t help the film is the dialogue. It feels like it was written by adults who have no idea how teenagers of today speak, act, or look. Maybe I’m jaded but no teenager is making Cloverfield references. Unlike Heathers the musical, Mean Girls has no music number that I truly remember or love. While it was catchy in the moment, nothing had me like Dead Girl Walking in Heathers where I have it pumping loudly through my speaker. The film honestly does not justify its existence and if you want to experience the story just watch the 2004 original instead. Mean Girls is in cinemas from January 17 th 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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SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... MURIESTON ART GROUP We’re a small friendly club meeting Mondays 10.00 - 12.30 (term time only) at Murieston Village Hall (behind Livingston South station, with large free car park). Qualified tutor @ approx £6 per week plus a current annual fee of £20. Lots of paper, paint and brushes available to those with no supplies. Tea/ coffee/biscuits provided. Email Janet.dicksondickson@bt.internet. com or just turn up for a trial session for a small charge. Beginners and experienced artists all welcome. VISUALLY IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP WEST LOTHIAN - Come along and meet up with like-minded people who all have a visual impairment for support and a chat. Make new friends. Everyone is very welcome. Refreshments are available. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month 10.30am – 12pm (midday) in the Ability centre, Livingston North Partnership Centre, Carmondean Centre Road, Livingston EH54 8PT. For further information please contact: June - 07903540545 or Gwyneth - 07762152727. LIVINGSTON CAMERA CLUB *NEW SEASON MEMBERSHIP* - If you are interested in improving your photography in a friendly atmosphere, we are always keen to welcome new members. We can help you with advice, encouragement, examples, and inspiration. Our activities include regular presentations by guest speakers and members, internal and external competitions (both digital and print), and workshops and outings.Please visit www.livingstoncameraclub.org.uk for more detail on how to join us for the upcoming season. ROTARY CLUB OF LIVINGSTON - The Rotary Club of Livingston has been supporting care/ community organisations in the Livingston area but it would be wonderful to be joined by new members who could bring different outlooks and experiences to the work we do. We meet at 8pm on a Wednesday evening via Zoom using Subtitling/Closed Captions to facilitate members/visitors who have a hearing impairment. You
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are welcome to join us. Facebook: Rotary Club of Livingston. Visit livingston.rotary1020.org or contact secretary@livingston.rotary1020.org LIVINGSTON SPORTING MEMORIES CLUB - If you had a keen interest in sports as a youngster and still have a passion for chatting about sport, then Livingston Sporting Memories Club will be right up your street. We meet every Monday at Livingston Cricket Club, 10.30am12noon to chat about our shared love for sport and enjoy a cuppa and cake. Come along and join us, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Contact Isobel (07584 290726), Jenny (07909 645084). WEST LOTHIAN TREFOIL GUILD - 18+ Ladies group. Ecclesmachan Village Hall 1st Tuesday of month Feb - Jun & Sept - Nov plus other adhoc meetings. For information please contact trefoilguild@girlguiding.co.uk or 02078346242. WEST LOTHIAN NETTERS Recreational netball club for adults 18+. A welcoming inclusive group, no prior experience or knowledge of netball required. Wednesdays 7.158.45pm in the Sports Hall at West Lothian College. Cost £4.50. Also Junior club (age 11-16) Wednesdays 7-8pm at Inveralmond Community High School. Cost £2.50. Prebooking essential at bookwhen.com/ westlothiannetters For more information, visit or send us a message at facebook.com/WestLothian-Netters-902394399845386 LIVINGSTON COMMUNITY SHED - Join us at the Barn Cafe at Carmondean Community Centre, Netherdechmont Farm, Fells Rigg, Carmondean, Livingston EH54 8AX on a Friday morning from around 11:00am to 1:00pm for coffee, bacon rolls and a chat plus hear about our active projects for community gardens, photography, woodwork and excursions. We are also evaluating other crafts and activities. Membership is free and all are welcome. Please contact: livingstoncommunityshed@gmail.com LIVINGSTON PROBUS CLUB - A local group for retired and semi-retired men who regularly meet to enjoy interesting guest speakers and make new friends in a comfortable
environment. We also join together for lunches, social nights, and occasional outings. We meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 10am–noon, Sept to May, in Deer Park Golf & Country Club and very warmly welcome new members. Interested? Contact Bill Nimmo, Probus Secretary, on 01506 853617. LIVINGSTON LADIES PROBUS CLUB - We meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at St Andrews Church Deans from 10.00am. You’ll find a varied programme of speakers, tea, coffee and good company. For more details contact Karen Stewart on Duncoillie@sky.com 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 E: cco_edin@ btinternet.com T: 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: Tue 6.30pm-7.30pm (ages 6-8) CUBS: Thu 6.30pm-8.00pm (ages 8-10)
SCOUTS: Thu 7.00pm-9.00pm (ages 10-14) 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 website 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...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. 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 T: 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 7.009.00pm 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.muriestoncg.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 - Looking for new members. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm - 9.00pm. 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 - Thurs 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. Includes messy play. A snack is provided. For information contact Facebook “Parent and Toddler Livingston Station Deans” or Stace Mclauchlan on 07760 853310. WEST LOTHIAN U3A - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi-retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and nongiven. 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
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Centre from 10.00 - 12.00am every Tuesday. Contact Chris Cosgrove for information on 07778 704860. LIVINGSTON SUBBUTEO CLUB TO the DECEMBER -SOLUTION Intending to restart Livingston CROSSWORD 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 fun1.for everybody! More ACROSS: Easy, 3. Phantoms, 9. Execute, information from Nancy14. Burgoyne 10. Visor, 11. Contemporary, Ski, on 01506 419904 or email 16. Match, 17. Ear, 18. Overwhelming, burgoynenancy49@gmail.com 21. Pulse, 22. Easiest, 23. Treasure, 24. Plan. DOWN: 1. Exercise, 2. Stern, STUDIO 4. Hoe, 5. CHOOSE YOU YOGA Nevertheless, 6. Observe, Sure, & WELLNESS HUB 7. - Dedicated 8. Supermarkets, Pitch, 13.Frighten, yoga studio in 12. Carmondean, 15. Involve, 19.Build Ideal,strength, 20. Spot, 22. Err. Livingston. flexibility and resilience, and support mental SOLUTION TO SUDOKU health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar ON PAGE XXyoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Ante-natal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.4511.00am Friday. 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. All our carers groups are offered blended – both Disclaimer: Theface publisher cannot in person and to face, as accept are responsibility for loss weekly or damage caused our social groups: Coffee by error in the printing of an advertisement. Morning; monthly Mental Health We do not endorse any advertisers in Support Group, Evening Support this publication. All material is accepted Group & Bereaved Carer Support for publication on the understanding it is Group as well as groups for Young copyright free. No part of this publication Carers and Youngwithout Adult Carers. may be reproduced prior consent of Regular Social Groups for Adults the publisher. with disabilities. Power of Attorney Publisher: Publications Ltd. Clinic (faceLothian to face) & Benefits Geddes (phone House, Kirkton Livingston, Advice or faceNorth, to face). For West Lothian EH54 6GU. information: T.: 01506 Design: 448000 Magazine E: office@carers-westlothian.com Alan Stewart Design W: www.carers-westlothian.com T: 07729 911858
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GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts.coordinator@gmail. com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information. MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510.
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SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 1. Easy, 3. Phantoms, 9. Execute, 10. Visor, 11. Contemporary, 14. Ski, 16. Match, 17. Ear, 18. Overwhelming, 21. Pulse, 22. Easiest, 23. Treasure, 24. Plan. DOWN: 1. Exercise, 2. Stern, 4. Hoe, 5. Nevertheless, 6. Observe, 7. Sure, 8. Supermarkets, 12. Pitch, 13.Frighten, 15. Involve, 19. Ideal, 20. Spot, 22. Err.
SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 34
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 Design T: 07729 911858