FEBRUARY 2020
CHARITY:
LOCAL HISTORY:
HOW DYNAMITE CAME TO
HEALTH:
SCOTLAND
P36 TO OUR FEBRUARY EDITION
W
elcome to the first Konect of 2020. We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things Bathgate and West Lothian! I had the pleasure of attending a music and dance session recently run by MUSAC – Musically Active Dudes – who feature as our Charity of the Month in this issue. Set up by a Livingston resident who wanted a meaningful activity for her son to do, it offers a range of clubs for people in West Lothian with severe to complex additional support needs and is a wonderful local resource; see our article on page 38 and do get in touch with them if you know anyone who would enjoy attending. I stumbled across the fact that Alfred Nobel, of Nobel Prize fame, had been much more closely connected with this area than simply his name associated with the factories that used to be in Linlithgow and Falkirk. So I enjoyed looking into the history of Nobel explosives in Scotland and I hope you enjoy the local history article this month. All our usual columns are here. Thank you for reading Konect and for supporting local businesses, charities and organisations.
THIS ISSUE Local History: How dynamite came to Scotland........................................................ 8 Health: Focus on Yoga.................................16 Health & Beauty............................................18 Property Matters............................................20 Gardening: Kitchen Seeds & Leaves.........29 Parenting: A Mini Adventure........................36 Charity: MUSAC............................................38 Film Review....................................................40 What’s On......................................................42 Clubs & Classes............................................44
COVER IMAGE: Focus on Yoga: See P16
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Alfred Bernhard Nobel (1833 ~ 1896)
LOCAL HISTORY
The Nobel Prizes are announced annually; world-famous coveted prizes for those who confer “the greatest benefit on mankind” in sciences, literature, economics and peace. They are named after Alfred Nobel, the Swedish chemist who, horrified that his armaments and explosives empire would earn him the epitaph “Merchant of Death,” left his fortune for the furtherance of world peace and progress. many looking for a safe way of using it. The route was punctuated by explosions and tragedy; a nitroglycerine explosion at his Alfred Nobel himself lived for a period of family’s armaments factory in Sweden in time at Hawthorn Cottage in Laurieston, 1864 killed his own brother and four others. near Falkirk. His story meets that of a Undaunted, Alfred pressed on and a year former Falkirk High School pupil, George later with German business partners he McRoberts, a local chemist and explosives built a factory at an isolated location near expert who founded a chemical factory Hamburg. This business (Alfred Nobel at Westquarter, Falkirk, and who was & Company) exported a liquid blend of instrumental in helping Nobel establish nitroglycerin and in Scotland the gunpowder called world’s first and “Blasting Oil,” but it Initially marketed as Nobel’s Blasting largest factory for was still extremely his revolutionary Powder, he changed the name to unstable; the factory new explosive – dynamite, from the Greek dýnamis buildings were dynamite. “power.” He patented it, and was on destroyed twice in the road to massive fortune Born in Sweden in explosions. 1833, Nobel was But Alfred was a prolific inventor. tenacious and, carrying out experiments on Dynamite, his most famous invention, a raft anchored on the River Elbe , by 1866 revolutionised the construction of tunnels, he found a way of stabilising nitroglycerine canals, railways and roads as well as the by absorbing it into a siliceous clay which mining industry. Previously, black powder could be shaped into lengths and handled (gunpowder) had been used for mining and fairly safely. This, together with a safety quarrying, but industrialists were looking fuse and detonator (that he also invented), for a high explosive. One discovered by was dynamite. Initially marketed as Nobel’s an Italian chemist in 1847 – nitroglycerine Blasting Powder, he changed the name - was powerful but highly unstable and to dynamite, from the Greek dýnamis dangerous, and Alfred Nobel was one of But what does this Swedish and indeed global story have to do with this area?
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-”power.” He patented it, and was on the road to massive fortune.
Nobel’s cottage in Laurieston Swing Bridge at the Reddingmuir Westquarter factory (1930)
McRoberts became Nobel’s chief chemist and factory manager at Ardeer in 1874. He relocated from Laurieston to Ardeer, selling his home “Hawthorn Cottage” at 1 Polmont Road, Laurieston, to Alfred Nobel. Hawthorn Cottage is still a private residence and is the only building remaining in Scotland that is directly associated with Nobel. By 1876 Nobel decided to manufacture his detonators in Scotland too instead of importing them, and he chose the Westquarter factory to make them, using mercury fulminate brought in from abroad. A couple of years later he decided to also make the fulminate on site here, and a purpose-built factory was added to the Westquarter site, about half a kilometre south at Reddingmuirhead on the other side of the Union Canal. There was a swing bridge across the canal linking the two factories.
The swing bridge today
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CREDIT: Historic Environment Scotland
Dynamite rapidly gained wide-scale use in several countries, but in the UK it took Nobel two years of persistence to gain some relaxation of regulations governing explosives. The Explosives Act of 1869 prohibited the manufacture, transport or sale of nitroglycerine or any product containing it in the UK. Although not able to set up in England, he turned to Scotland where he gained the backing of some Scottish entrepreneurs including one George McRoberts. McRoberts had just founded the Westquarter Chemical Company in 1871, manufacturing sulphuric acid. He and a co-investor raised the substantial investment required for Nobel to build a dynamite factory in Scotland, and the British Dynamite Company was formed. Nobel also bought a half share of McRoberts’ Westquarter Chemical Company, since the sulphuric acid was a key ingredient for dynamite manufacture, and the two men were close business partners. Ardeer in Ayrshire was chosen as a sufficiently remote site for the factory, the first charge was produced there in January 1873 by Alfred Nobel himself; and the British Dynamite Company started taking orders.
A new factory was opened at Linlithgow in 1902. It was named the Regent Factory in a nod to Linlithgow’s link with the Regent of Scotland James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray, who was assassinated in Linlithgow in 1570. His death was the first recorded assassination by a firearm, so it seems fitting that this name was chosen for an explosives factory. (A plaque on the wall of the Courthouse Residence on the High Street commemorates the assassination). The Nobel factory was located at the end of High Street where Tesco and the Regent Square flats are today. It manufactured safety fuses for the mining industry, mining explosives and detonators. At the onset of war in 1914 Nobel’s in Linlithgow successfully tendered for the War Office contract to provide guns, shells, small arms and ammunitions. Ironically given Alfred’s will, the Regent factory flourished and expanded as the war continued. Work also continued at Ardeer and Westquarter in the production and development of explosives and detonators throughout and after the two world wars. At its peak during World War II, the Westquarter works employed 1,700 people, predominantly women, producing detonators. Nothing remains today of the armaments factories at Westquarter or Linlithgow, although walking the sites for this article I found the old swing bridge in the canal at Reddingmuirhead. There are very few references to the industry, even in street names. Nobel didn’t want his legacy to be about armaments and explosives though, so perhaps just as well the name is fading here, and his famous prizes take centre stage. This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect Magazines. 10 | BATHGATE
Merchant of Death In 1888, Nobel was shocked to read his own obituary in a newspaper. Entitled “The Merchant of Death is Dead,” it was a case of mistaken identity as it was Alfred’s brother Ludvig who had died. However it made Alfred think about how he would be remembered, and he eventually changed his will, specifying that his fortune be used to create prizes for those who confer the “greatest benefit on mankind” in physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature and peace. The peace element is awarded to the person who has “done the most to bring about the brotherhood of nations, the abolition or reduction of standing armies as well as for the formation or popularisation of peace congresses.” Alfred Nobel died in December 1896 in his villa in San Remo, Italy, from a cerebral haemorrhage.
A spoonful of high explosive - for your heart Nitroglycerin is used to treat angina and high blood pressure, amongst other things, and is a World Health Association Essential Medicine. Don’t try this at home, but diluting it makes it non-explosive . . . Alfred Nobel was bothered with poor health throughout his life, and when first prescribed nitroglycerin in 1890 he refused it. A couple of months before his death in 1896 however, he wrote: “My heart trouble will keep me here in Paris for another few days at least, until my doctors are in complete agreement about my immediate treatment. Isn’t it the irony of fate that I have been prescribed N/G 1 [nitroglycerin] to be taken internally! They call it Trinitrin, so as not to scare the chemist and the public.”
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The Nobel Prize medal
and Nobel in Italy in December. The worldwide Nobel business empire at the time consisted of more than 90 factories manufacturing explosives and ammunition.
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-The experience of a yoga teacher
The physical benefits of yoga are limitless. The right teacher and an appropriate class can ensure significant improvement in strength, flexibility, breathing capacity and also a holistic view of the body and health. It can be part of a fitness plan or can be a core part of a spiritual lifestyle and journey. It can bring a school of philosophical thought into your awareness and provide moral/ ethical guidelines by which to benchmark daily experiences. How far a practitioner takes this is completely up to them. A regular yoga practice as part of a rehabilitation programme after illness or injury almost always ensures physically and mental improvements, when facilitated by an instructor who embodies yoga as a way of life, rather than only a physical activity. After several classes you may just realise that your yoga night is the best night’s sleep you get in the week. That you stand a bit taller after class, breathe a bit fuller and that your mind is surprisingly clear on the drive home. Yoga night may also inadvertently become the evening that you choose not to indulge in your usual glass of wine or sugary snacks. Yoga teaches us to take control of our own bodies; to be intentional and resilient and to be sensitive to ourselves during different life stages. Our practice can be adapted restoratively, energetically and mindfully depending on what is needed at that time. The focus on breath teaches students simple techniques to expand the chest, clear the respiratory system and balance both sides of the brain (helpful if you find it difficult to slow down). 16 | BATHGATE
And now we come to relaxation/meditation/ mindfulness. All these terms sound wonderful but can mean nothing if we are not in the correct frame of mind. Yoga provides an opportunity for mindfulness, and a good instructor will guide you through the different stages of relaxation. A legitimate opportunity is provided for your mind to process everything it hasn’t yet processed, to completely surrender the body physically and to ‘tune out’ from the constant over-stimulation we are subject to. When I found myself sampling vastly contrasting yoga classes, after the departure of my inspiring first teacher, I quickly became disillusioned and frustrated at the diversity of teaching methods and the required level of physical exertion. It quickly became apparent that a teacher’s knowledge of yoga wasn’t enough; it was their ability to translate that knowledge, with relevance, that was important. An individual’s initial attraction to yoga may be fitness or relaxation but it’s the teacher’s ability to communicate their knowledge persuasively and sensitively that makes an individual return to the mat. Whether or not you choose yoga, the most important thing is that you Choose You!
This article was contributed by Eva Paterson, Owner of Choose YOU – yoga studio and wellness hub. @KonectMagazines
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LIFE COACHING
Everything is POSSIBLE...
THE TRUTH ABOUT For those who avoid oils or moisturising products for the fear of having greasy heavy hair, I thought I’d take the fear out and dispel some myths!
Firstly your scalp needs oil; we produce it naturally and it helps to protect your scalp. If possible don’t wash your hair every day give oil the chance to produce rather than stripping it out. Dry shampoo is a great way to stretch out the time between washing. Dry scalps can be treated with an oil massage, try warming coconut oil and massaging in to scalp. Make sure to shampoo this one out! Fine hair doesn’t need conditioner ... UNTRUE!! Finer hair needs conditioner to help close the cuticle which keeps the hair strong. It needs moisture just as much, it helps build elasticity within the hair which helps it stretch and keeps it supple, which in turn will stop it from becoming brittle and breaking. So don’t be afraid to put oil on your scalp, skip a shampoo and go get regular withmoisturising treatments regardless of your hair texture!
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 18 | BATHGATE
‘You must do the things you think you cannot do’, so said Eleanor Roosevelt and that sentiment is just as true today as it was back in the late 1930s and early 1940s when she was America’s First Lady. Many of us spend a lot of precious time avoiding doing anything new or different and going out of our way to avoid any activity we regard as being even remotely challenging. The fear of looking foolish or worse prevents us from trying out new things as we scuttle back to that same old comfort zone.
There can be many reasons why we’re afraid to put our heads above the proverbial parapet. Maybe someone made a casual comment or criticism about our first attempts at swimming or cycling or reading in public when we were very young, and this was taken to heart and carried long after the person who said it had completely forgotten all about it. Maybe our first attempt at driving a car resulted in a series of embarrassing stalls all along a crowded high street and we decided that driving was obviously not for us. Dwelling on what we consider to be embarrassing incidents from our past can really affect our confidence and get in the way of trying new things. The good news is that no matter how long we have held a negative belief about ourselves and however much it has undermined us, it’s never too late to change our thinking and begin to live the life we want to live. “The life coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr. Francine is an NLP coach, hypnotherapist and reiki practitioner, based within Linlithgow Chiropractic. She supports people to find real and practical solutions to the things that hold us back in life. See orrganise.co.uk ”
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PROPERTY MATTERS
“You don’t need to wait until Spring!” As we find ourselves in the middle of the dark winter months, there is usually the feeling that it would probably be best to wait until the spring before putting your property on the market. After all, spring is traditionally associated with a time of change and this has always had a bearing on the property market. Serious buyers, however, do not give up over the Winter and can even become frustrated by lack of choice as the volume of available properties drops considerably at this time of year. You can take advantage of this temporary imbalance of supply and demand by being one of the properties that is new on the market! New properties attract strong interest at any time of the year however when the choice is more scarce, buyers who need to secure an onward purchase are more open to
compromise on their desired search criteria and often more likely to pay a premium than they might be at a time when the choice is greater. Properties with gardens do tend to photograph better in the spring and summer months however with the aid of market-leading software, agents are able to present properties to the market with a blue sky, green grass and the sun shining as shown in our examples. BEFORE
AFTER (Enhanced)
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Total visits to Rightmove per month
Many sellers will inevitably wait until the spring before putting their property on the market however, contrary to the mistaken belief that nobody will be looking at this time of year, the current backlog of frustrated buyers are already looking today as the Rightmove graph of web traffic from January to July last year shows.
If you are contemplating a sale next year, I suggest you take advantage of the situation, be strategic, and position your property for an early sale at a time when demand is currently outstripping supply. 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. Website: www.turpies.com
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Ayrton Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve the West Lothian Community with the highest quality veterinary care. Ayrton Ayrton Ayrton Veterinary Veterinary Veterinary Hospital Hospital Hospital isisisproud proud proud toto toserve serve serve the the theWest West West Lothian Lothian Lothian
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T: 01501 01501 744736 T: 744736 Burnhouse Industrial Estate, Whitburn, OLQ Burnhouse Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West WestLothian, Lothian,EH47 EH47 OLQ T: T: T:01501 01501 01501744736 744736 744736
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Kitchen Seeds & Leaves Whatever the weather… you can sprout seeds and baby salad leaves indoors all year round!
As kids we grew mustard and cress on kitchen towel on an indoor windowsill, snipping off enough of the baby leaves we would need to go in our egg sandwiches. Today there are so many different leaves and seeds we can grow in different colours and with distinct flavours. The Kitchen Seed Sprouter is a very convenient bit of kit for indoor salad production that you can use all year round. Sprouting Seeds like Mung Beans, Alfalfa and Sunflower are great in the lower trays and are ready in 4 – 6 days. Seeds of
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Beetroot, radish, Fenugreek and other salad leaves are allowed to grow into microgreens and can be Seed cut when they Sprouter are about 5cm (2”) tall, just using what you need for that day. They’ll take two to three weeks to be ready for cutting. What flavours will you be trying? The sweetness of beetroot, the spicy flavour of radish or perhaps the aromatic smokiness of fenugreek? The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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PARENTING
A mini Hole in one! adventure for a rainy day... Is it just me or does it feel like it’s been raining non-stop since Christmas?
By this point in the winter my kids are practically climbing the walls. The novelty of their Christmas gifts has well and truly worn off and we’ve exhausted all the crafty stuff in the house. Yet still there is no hint of spring in the air. So the way I see it there’s two options. Option 1 stick the kids in their waterproofs and wellies and dance in the rain. Embrace the weather for what it is. Go to the park, head out for a walk…after all there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing! There are some lovely scenic spots to explore around West Lothian. Bonus being that this, of course, is totally free. And if you’re still feeling the pinch after Christmas that’s a big plus.
Option 2 make the most of some indoor fun. I like a giggle-inducing muddy puddle as much as the next mum but there’s only so much a girl can take of being soggy. My girls love a trip to Paradise Island Adventure Golf in Livingston when the weather is 36 | BATHGATE
leaving us in a bit of a funk.
rk! Golf Sha
The first time we took them we thought it might just be a waste of time because they wouldn’t be able to really do it. And we were right; they were pretty rubbish all things considered. At getting the ball in the hole anyway. But their serous lack of skills and alarmingly poor grasp of how the game should ACTUALLY be played didn’t take the shine off. I knew we were on to a winner when they each got to choose their own coloured ball before we even went inside. One pink ball, one purple ball, everybody’s happy. And I’m sure any seasoned parent will agree…big tick for mini golf so far. Once we got inside they were totally captivated by the themed courses (the lost lagoon is their favourite owing to the magic pearl half way around). They love a bit of make-believe so before long the coloured golf balls became precious gems and we were explorers on a grand adventure.
We had to let a fair few “serious” golfers overtake us on our quest but they couldn’t get enough of it. It was like Indiana Jones meets Jumanji with a bit of Ryder Cup action thrown in for good measure. We’ve been back quite a few times since that first trip and I’m happy to say that the balls are getting picked up less often and going in the holes more often. On our last trip it was even worthwhile keeping score. Nothing beats the winter blues quite like a bit of friendly competition. We’ve found this activity keeps little kids and big kids alike entertained. And they do kids parties too so it’s always a good one to keep in the back pocket for a rainy day! 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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MUSICALLY ACTIVE DUDES
A class with an energetic dance vibe and great music, from a DJ who regularly spins the discs at Boteco do Brasil in Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as Mango in Glasgow. This is just one of the great quality classes available via Musically Active Dudes (MUSAC), a dance, music and movement charity set up in 2008 by Livingston resident Ruth, who wanted a meaningful activity for her son to do. He still attends, 11 years later, and the group now offers a range of movement and music classes for people of all ages who have severe to complex additional support needs. “Our attendees range from young adults who come here when they graduate from their school environment, as well as older adults. The groups are also suitable for those in the early stages of dementia,” explains Sophie, who is on the committee of volunteers and whose brother has been enjoying MUSAC classes for eight years.
91% of support workers feel that MUSAC has made a difference to lth their client’s physical or mental hea 38 | BATHGATE
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“MUSAC improved her social well-being, and interaction skills.”
I attended the Brazilian dance class at Crofthead Community Centre in Dedridge one December morning, to get an idea of what the group offers. It’s busy and energetic with a great buzz. Each person attends with their support worker. The class is run by Beats of Brazil, which is one of the three professional companies who provide four different classes for MUSAC. After a few sets of toe-tapping tunes, I got to find out a bit about the group and what drives it. West Calder resident John Dirkie’s love of all things Brazilian led to him starting dance workshops a number of years ago; one thing led to another and now, along with his (Brazilian) wife, they run a programme of classes for special needs schools in North Lanarkshire, as well as the Livingston classes for MUSAC and a range of other classes and performances throughout Scotland. The two MUSAC classes are Samba dancing on a Monday and Brazilian-inspired percussion on a Thursday. “It’s so good to see people getting out to the classes, being active and social,” says John, who is also on the committee of MUSAC. “They always leave with a smile on their face. There are almost certainly people within West Lothian who are looking for meaningful activities to get out of the house, and who could benefit from the classes, but they don’t know about MUSAC yet. We’d love to welcome them!” Besides the Beats of Brasil classes, MUSAC offers dance and movement via IndepenDance, a Glasgow-based company which provides classes for both disabled and nondisabled. Participants use their imaginations to inspire and create routines and to develop rhythm and movement. Singing and vocalisation classes are also offered via Hear @KonectMagazines
My Music, allowing participants to express themselves and their thoughts and feelings through singing. All of the tutors are experienced not only in their area of music and dance, but also in working with the disabled community, so you can expect a very high-quality experience offered at each class. Participants are supported to retain, relearn and develop skills, improve fitness, physical and mental health, as well as socialisation. It also offers support workers the chance to meet each other and further their professional development. There is nothing else like it in West Lothian. “It definitely beats sitting around at home. There are spaces in all the classes, and new members will be warmly welcomed.” “Everyone always gives it 110%”
For more information please contact MUSAC on, Email: musicallyactivedudesw@gmail.com Facebook: @musicallyactivedudes Call: Ruth on 07890 522864 or, Mary on 07876 073710. There is a small contribution of £7 per session with membership (membership is £5 per year) paid in blocks of 6 weeks. (£8 for drop-in without membership). Come and try first class for £6. MUSAC is a charity registered in Scotland SC040674. This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer based on information provided by MUSAC and visiting one of their classes in Livingston. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect and lives in West Lothian with her family. BATHGATE | 39
FILM REVIEW
The film’s original concept was to take place on Air Force One. I wish this idea had stuck, rather than the setting used. Angel has Fallen is a film of missed opportunities, trying to be an action film with a personal story interweaving real world fears and politics, to varying degrees of success. Gerald Butler’s character Mike Banning is pretty decent. He deals with lots of inner demons but being the President’s bodyguard, he has to portray the tough guy. I feel the concept could have been interesting, exploring his struggles with events and the decisions he makes, but his issues are ignored until its relevant to the plot. He never struggles in combat, knowing exactly what do. Morgan Freeman’s character is ok but is under-utilised and the rest of the cast are average. The film is predictable. It’s a slog getting from one plot point to another. There is one unique and creative action set piece - the drone strike. However, it was inconsistent, extremely fake-looking although the explosions were awesome. Being honest, the film’s biggest flaw is the use of extremely distracting CGI. In 2019 action films rose to an all-time high, proving that well-choreographed, wide action shots and well-edited visible action which is not hard or confusing to follow, avoiding lots of CGI and with everyone involved putting in 100% - all produces some of the best action films. This film lacks the innovation of the other largescale action films which disappoints.
CLEANING & MAINTENANCE • Rhone Cleaning & Repairs (cast iron or plastic) • Roof Repairs (tiles or slates) • Moss Removal • Pressure Washing
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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. 40 | BATHGATE
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West Lothian History and Amenity Society Talks • WEDNESDAY 19TH FEBRUARY Pilgrimage in late medieval Scotland (c.1200-1560) Speaker: David Santiuste, Edinburgh University tutor. Acredale House, Mid Street, Bathgate, 7.30pm • WEDNESDAY 18TH MARCH Bridgescapes: Scotland’s bridge-building heritage Speaker: Bruce Keith, writer and retired chartered surveyor. Glenalmond Hall, Main Street, Mid Calder, EH53 0AN, 7.30pm • WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL Approaching Henrietta Liston: the travel diaries of a diplomat’s wife - Speaker: Dora Petherbridge, curator of US and Commonwealth Collections, NLS. Philpstoun Village Hall, Main Street, Philpstoun, 7.30pm • WEDNESDAY 20TH MAY West Lothian Life, then and now: a journey through the archives of Historic Environment Scotland Speaker: Neil Fraser, Historic Environment Scotland Chalmers Hall, Linlithgow Bridge, 7.30pm For more information, see @WLHAS on Facebook, or contact sybil.cavanagh@hotmail.co.uk, or come along to any meeting
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SATURDAY 8TH TO TUESDAY 18TH FEBRUARY First Tingles of Spring - It might be chilly outside, but if you look carefully there are all sorts of signs that spring is on its way. At Almond Valley Heritage Centre, after braving the spring spotter’s trail, have fun in the warmth of the museum, planting seeds, building nests, and joining in other crafts to prepare for the year to come. For more info and entry prices please see www.almondvalley.co.uk or call 01506 414957. BENNIE MUSEUM 9/11 Mansefield Street, Bathgate EH48 4HU - The museum opened in 1989 as a museum of Bathgate’s history and life. It is run by volunteers and is under the management of a Charitable Trust. Entry to the museum is free, but we accept donations. There are permanent exhibitions as well as a changing programme of specialist exhibitions. Opening Hours: Main Museum has disabled access and is open six days a week. OPENING HOURS: (2nd Oct - 31st Mar) 11:00am to 3:30pm WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
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CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... BATHGATE Whilst February may usually be a quieter month on the events calendar, there’s still plenty to see and do right across West Lothian.
Starting in Linlithgow, the Linlithgow Arts Guild celebrates their 50th anniversary with an Orchestral Concert By Scottish Sinfonia. The orchestra is a highly successful mixture of professional players and amateurs, with an age range of 17 to 70, all united in one common aim: to make music of the highest standard of which they are capable. Tickets are available online for the show which takes place on Saturday 8th from 18.30. If you’d prefer to get out and about, why not head over to Hopetoun House for Snowdrop Sunday on the 16th where you can explore the natural snowdrop display in the Hopetoun hundred acres. Afterwards, warm up on the Stables Kitchen with a hot drink or bite to eat. Guided walks are available too from 10.30 and 14.00. The events calendar at Howden Park Centre is in full flow, with the monthly acoustic open night taking place on the 24th February. Join the performers or simply sit back and listen to a range of great local music – you never know who you might hear! If comedy is more your thing, Jim Davidson’s “Last Man Standing” takes place on the 21st – tickets are available online through the Howden Park Centre website. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian @KonectMagazines
BATHGATE SKI CLUB Come along on any Friday evening in Jan/Feb/Mar, 7.30-9pm, to chat about all things skiing-related. We meeting in the Bowling Pavilion, Kirkton Park, Bathgate. All welcome - tea and biscuits provided! Any changes to arrangements will be posted on our Facebook page. Visit our website www.bathgateskiclub.net. WEST LOTHIAN FENCING CLUB runs on Friday nights in Bathgate Academy at 7pm, Tuesday nights in St Kentigern’s, Blackburn at 7pm. Both classes suit beginners, people who have fenced before, adults and juniors (aged 8+). First two classes free, all kit is provided. Email coach@fencing-club.co.uk for more details. Beginners and families very welcome. Come and have a fun night learning a new sport which is suitable for all. KIDS FRIDAY CLUB Calling all P1-P7 children! Looking for some fun? Come & join us every Friday (during term time) from 2pm -3.30pm for a wide range of activities including face /nail painting, arts and crafts, games, baking, snooker and lots more. £1.50 donation per week. Bathgate High Church, Gideon Street, Bathgate. Email; info@bathgatehigh.com. COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS BATHGATE Bathgate Partnership Centre, 21 South Bridge Street, EH48 1TL. Manager Liz. Contact: 07591735823. Open Monday to Friday 9:15am to 11:30am, Mon & Wed 12:30 to 2:15pm. £7.50 per session. BATHGATE FAIRTRADE GROUP Bathgate Fairtrade is a small group and welcomes more members locally to promote fairtrade in Bathgate and West Lothian, providing information about fairtrade and opportunities to buy fairly traded food and other items with stalls in various locations. If you are interested or want to know more please contact the secretary Gillian Reid on 01506 653366 or Email: mrs_g@btinternet.com RAINBOWS, BROWNIES & GUIDES Rainbow units - (girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday and Wednesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. Brownie units - (girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. Guide units - (girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. BATHGATE & DISTRICT FLOWER CLUB We are a friendly group who meet third Monday of each month, Sept to June (except Dec), 7.15pm in the United Reform Church Hall, Majoriebanks Street, Bathgate. We have a Floral Art demonstrator at each meeting who designs around 5 arrangements which are given as raffle prizes. Contact Nan Tait, Chairman, tel: 01506 676965.
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BATHGATE ...cont. GENERATION ARTS – CHOIR or DANCE Generation Choir Silver Tones meet Mon 1.15pm - 2.15pm in the Royal British Legion, Bathgate. All age 50+ welcome - no experience required and no auditions. Generation Dance meet Fri 10.30am - 11.30am at St Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate. All age 60+ welcome regardless of mobility, independence and experience. BATHGATE HISTORY GROUP A friendly group who meet on Wednesdays at 2.00pm in St John’s Church Hall, Mid Street, Bathgate. We have interesting speakers on various topics with tea and coffee served. A warm welcome awaits old and new members. We meet from the first Wednesday in September through to the following April. For further information contact Christine on 01506 656499.
SIMPLY PLAY Provides flexible after school care and holiday programmes for children aged 5-14. Our clubs are based in Simpsons Primary School Community Wing, Balbardie Primary School, and Bathgate Partnership Centre. We offer a range of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked with no fee for `holding` an unused space. For more information visit www.simplyplay. org or call 01506 856444.
31ST WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS Please email 31stwlcscouts@gmail.com for more information or to register your child’s interest in Beavers, Cubs or Scouts: BEAVER SCOUTS: Mon nights at the Scout Hall Marjoriebank Street 7:00pm - 8:15pm. Boys and Girls from 6 to 8 years of age. CUB SCOUTS: Wed nigts at the Scout Hall, Marjoriesbank Street 7:00pm 8:30pm. Boys and Girls from 8 to 10 1/2 years of age. SCOUTS: Thurs nights at the Scout Hall Marjoriebank Street 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Boys and Girls from 10 1/2 to 14 1/2 years of age. BATHGATE CONCERT ORCHESTRA We are a friendly, enthusiastic group of musicians and are always happy to welcome new players of whatever level. We rehearse on Friday evenings during school term time from 7:30pm-9:30pm at Unit 6, Interchange Business Park, Houston Road, Livingston, EH54 5DW. Anyone interested in coming along to join us should contact the Secretary Joan Proven at Joan_Proven@hotmail. com Tel: 0131 331 3187. See www.batchgateconcertorchestra.org.uk. You can also find us on facebook.
WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK New members always welcome for educational, social, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 39 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Tue Fri 10am - 2pm. YOGA CLASS For people living with long term conditions. Bathgate Community Centre, 5–6.30pm on Wednesdays. Class is run by KICC Active Lothian, a partnership with MS Therapy Centre Lothian. £5.50 per class or £20 for four weeks. First class is free! Call Joanna on 07436 102726 to book.
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BABY AND TODDLER ACTIVITIES Kidzeco, 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Range of baby and children’s activities including Hartbeeps, Yoga Babiez, Baby Sensory, Iyengar Yoga Warriors and Kids Iyengar Yoga Warriors. Please see our events page on facebook www.facebook.com/ kidzeco for class times and prices, or call Kidzeco Bathgate on 01506 815534 2ND BATHGATE GIRLS’ BRIGADE Meets on Wednesday evenings in St John’s Church Halls, Mid Street. Explorers P1-3 Girls: 6.15pm - 7.30pm. Juniors P4-7 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Brigaders S1-S6 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Please contact Elan Simpson on 07741 009079 or email elansimpson@aol.com for further details.” NEWLAND CONCERT BRASS Friendly band based in Bathgate. We welcome brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities. Training Band Mondays 6 – 7pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Senior Band Mondays 7.45 – 9.30pm in the band hall on Belvedere Rd. For more information see the website at www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk
REGAL MUSIC CLUB The Regal Theatre, Bathgate. For anyone who loves music. We meet fortnightly on Wednesdays. 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Come along to chat, discuss, meet new people, eat biscuits. You don’t need to play or sing but if you do there is always a chance to perform. Check out the facebook page or just drop in. £2.00 including refreshments. BATHGATE READING GROUP Simpson Library, Bathgate. Meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 6.00pm, all adults are welcome.
BATHGATE MEMORY CAFE A meeting place and caring supportive group for people with dementia and their carers. The Memory Cafe runs the first Monday of every month between 2.00pm and 3.30pm at Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street, Bathgate (Sheltered Housing Complex). For further information contact Alzheimer Scotland on 01506 533 108 or just turn up and be assured of a warm welcome. WEST LOTHIAN TABLE TENNIS CLUB West Lothian Table Tennis are a friendly club who are always happy to welcome new people who have played in the past or would like to pick up the sport for the first time. Whether you are seven years old or 70...Everyone is welcome! Meet at Bathgate Academy. For further information contact: David Stephen, Club Secretary david. stephen2@sky.com or 07979 095772. See www.wlttc.co.uk.
WEST LOTHIAN RUN Little Runners – free kids running classes, Sundays at Boghall Community Wing 11am – 12pm. See www.westlothianrun.org.uk for details and to register. ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Ex-service male/female organisation. The Club offers comradeship, social activities, e.g. golf, fishing and bowling events. Bingo, cabaret and dancing. Our function hall is available for hire by members, families and friends. Friday night bingo 8.00 pm; Karaoke Saturday night in the Lounge. Watch notice Board for special events.
BATHGATE BRIDGE CLUB Meets every Thursday from first Thursday in October until the last Thursday in May at Rosemount Court, Mid Street Bathgate EH48 1QW. 6.45 for 7.00pm start. All Welcome. Contact Georgette Nicol 01506 203498 for more information. THE REGAL YOUTH COMPANY Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate. Music workshops for 13-25 year olds - Monday evenings 7pm to 9pm, £2. Drama workshops for 13-25 year olds Wednesday evenings 7pm to 9pm £2. For info see www.rycbathgate.com or contact us via facebook.
THE TREE CLUB Office at 19c South Bridge Street, Bathgate. West Lothian’s only afterschool club for children and teenagers with additional support needs. Stimulating and creative activities with high staff to child ratio. See www. thetreeclub.org.uk KIRKTON PARK TENNIS CLUB Interested in improving your tennis game? Check out our club info at KirktonParkTennisClub.co.uk We offer a free trial social session! Hope to see you on the courts soon. Learn, Play, Enjoy!
SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB The Ballencrief, Hopetoun Street, Bathgate. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device. Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Thursday mornings 10am - 12 noon. Contact : Chris Cosgrove. Bathgate Computer Club. Call 01506 656153 or just call in. WEST LOTHIAN SUB AQUA CLUB Come along and join us on a Tuesday evening at Xcite Bathgate swimming pool. Not sure if scuba-diving is for you? No problem, we can offer you a taster ‘Try Dive’ to let you experience the freedom of diving. Training is carried out at your pace and our instructors are fully qualified and experienced divers so you will be in safe hands. As a not-for-profit organisation you will be surprised how little our training costs. To find out more, visit our website www.westlothianscuba. co.uk or come along to Xcite Bathgate at 8pm on a Tuesday for a chat by the pool. NIBBLE N NATTER Fortnightly get together in Royal Scot Court, Bathgate, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people. Have a chat and a choice of biscuits and cakes with a cup of tea. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you! Cost is just £1 and all are welcome. Group run by Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives), 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in Rosemount Gardens, Bathgate - a mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot PILATES St. Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate. Monday evenings 6pm for intermediate/advanced levels and 7pm for beginner/intermediate levels. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information, contact Maria on 07513 116490 or mariahybszerpilates@ gmail.com or check out website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.com
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WESTER INCH
TORPHICHEN
NEW FUTSAL FOR CHILDREN Fast moving, technical indoor sport which is a crucial development tool for young foot-ballers - it’s how the Brazilians and Spanish learn to play! Friday nights 18:30 at Simpson Primary School. £2 per session. Children aged 6 to 10 all welcome. Registration and any questions by email to ehfutsal@gmail.com by Friday 28th February. WESTER INCH KARATE CLUB A community based club with classes every Wed at Simpson Primary School. 18.00 – 19.00 Dragon Ninjas Class: suitable for 5 – 7 year olds; 19.00 – 20.30 The class is suitable for adults and children from 8 years. The first class is free, thereafter there is a special rate of £35 which includes two months of classes and a karate suit. Membership includes free entry to Livingston Karate Club. Register your interest via our website www.westerinchkarateclub.co.uk
BROWNIE UNIT (girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
WESTER INCH PARENT & TODDLER GROUP Thursday mornings 9am - 11am. £1 per adult and 50p per child. For more information contact us via our facebook page Wester Inch Parent and Toddler Group or email on westerinchtoddlers@hotmail.com SIMPSON ART CLUB Meet every Tues 7pm-9pm in the Community Wing of Simpson Primary School, Leyland Road, Westerinch, Bathgate, EH48 2SG. All over 18yrs, including beginners, are welcome. We have professional artists giving demonstrations mid month, and a tutor teaching at end of month, both teaching new techniques, and giving us time to try. We work in all mediums, first month free, and fees are £80 twice yearly. For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com or contact 07762 933138. CENTREPOINT CHURCH Simpson Primary School. Sunday Worship Gathering, Weekly 10:30am. Contact: Tom Jackson m: 07540391081 e: tom. jackson@centrepointchurch.org
WEST INCH NETBALL Meet on a Tuesday night at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. Arrive anytime after 7 pm, games played between 7.30 and 8.30 pm. £3 per person, per week. All are welcome.
DOTEKI KARATE CLUB Meet Mon night at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate, 4 – 8 year olds 6.30 – 7.30pm and 8 years to adults 7.30 – 8.30pm and also at Southdale Primart School, Armadale on a Wed evening, same times. No previous experience necessary. Wear a t-shirt, jogging bottoms and bring a bottle of water. For more information visit their Facebook page: Doteki Karate Club; email dotekikarate@gmail.com or phone: 07917 351794 . FOOTBALL STAR ACADEMY Meet on a Saturday and Sunday morning at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate for boys and girls aged 5 and 8 years. Saturday’s Soccer School is between 11 am and 12 noon, Sunday’s Soccer School is 10.30 – 11.30 am. For more information visit their Facebook page: @footballstaracademy1; email footballstaracademy@outlook.com or phone: 07903877987.
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OTHER AREAS WEST LOTHIAN DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES FAMILY SUPPORT GROUPS For individuals who have a family member or friend who suffers from alcohol or substance misuse. We work together to develop coping strategies and understanding. Blackburn Ptnership Centre, Blackburn - 2nd & 4th Thurs of the month 5:30 – 7:30pm. Relaxation therapies available the first meetings of month. WLDAS also offers 1-to-1 support if needed. Please contact Stephen Jack on 01506 430225 for more information or request someone to meet you outside before meeting. All welcome, no appointments needed. Groups also in Livingston and Broxburn. SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTE (SWI) Scotland’s leading memberbased organisation (since 1917) with a vision to welcome every woman in Scotland to join us. We aim to educate, share, campaign, learn, socialise, build a community, have fun - and eat cake! From life skills and arts and crafts to raising awareness of current affairs affecting women and helping inform government issues, the SWI is proud of its heritage and future vision. There are 12 institutes in West Lothian and we welcome women of all ages. Each institute has its own programme of speakers, craft workshops and monthly competitions, and we hold our annual Show of Work every Spring. For more information please contact wlfedsec@ hotmail.com, see the SWI website www.theswi.org.uk or phone 01506 670436. FITSTEPS An energetic, upbeat dance fitness class that mixes the graceful steps of Ballroom and the up-tempo steps of Latin to create fun-filled classes where you don’t even realise you’re getting fit! No partner required. Wednesday 7.30-8.30pm, Linlithgow Rugby Football Club, 34 Mains Rd, Linlithgow EH49 6DB. £5 per class. moveitdanceandfitness@gmail.com Tel 07737 927463 ARMADALE BARRACUDAS SWIMMING CLUB For all children aged 4-16, all ability levels. We are a non-profit making group in Armadale run by a committee of volunteers. Please contact abasctrialists@gmail. com to arrange a free trial.. LOTHIAN PHOENIX WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CLUB Meet on Thur nights at Armadale Academy. Come along and try something new! No experience necessary, we have spare sports wheelchairs available to use. Adults 7-9pm, Kids 7-8pm (they are welcome to stay until 9pm if you wish.) All abilities are welcome. Contact Conor Smart - 07585 925810 to find out more or come along to one of our sessions.
WOOLY QUILTERS This self help group is the ideal place for help and craft chat with a cuppa while you sew or knit. We do a variety of crafts from patchwork & quilting to knitting & spinning, or to get you started try making our beginners quilt! Meet on a Wed 7pm- 9pm at Seafield Bowling Club, Old Rows, Seafield Rows, EH47 7AP. For more information: email: woolyquilters@gmail.com or find us on facebook. SING WEST LOTHIAN Armadale Community Centre, Thurs 6pm 8pm. Free, and no audition and no requirement to read music. For information email westlothianchoir@ outlook.com or find us on Facebook COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS ARMADALE Armadale Community Centre, 7 North Street Armadale, EH48 3QB. Manager Arlene. Contact : 07592816761. Open Tuesday to Friday 9;15am to 11;30am £7.50 per session. CHOOSE YOU – YOGA STUDIO AND WELLNESS HUB Wide range of classes at our permanent wellness studio in Carmondean. Yoga classes include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Seasonal, Bihar, Hatha/Vinyasa and Core Strength as well as yoga for kids, teens and men. We also offer Tai-Chi. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824 195 or email info@chooseyouyoga. co.uk for more information.
TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.KONECT.SCOT
Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com
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