We often think of this season as an ending - the end of summer - but I was arrested by the line in the Local Environment column this month, about how autumn is “an exciting time of year” for nature. It brings its own opportunities. Personally I love the vibrant colours, which we celebrate on the cover of this issue.
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a distillery tasting tour for two! Specialising in quirky tours of their whisky and rum distillery, which is based in the oldest building in the historic village, the tour includes tasting of at least 5 of their products. Don't miss the chance to win, see page 16!
Local charity MOOD is featured on page 9, a small charity making a big impact on people experiencing low mental well-being. Based in Stoneyburn, and serving people from all over West Lothian, it is a bit of a hidden gem. We are also highlighting Astro Gymnastics this month, a fantastic and long -established club in Livingston. For more clubs and things to do to keep active and social on the shorter days, check the Clubs & Classes pages; the wealth of opportunities locally never ceases to amaze me.
I hope you find the magazine useful this month. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.
MOOD is a local charity supporting people aged 18 years and over with their mental health and wellbeing.
Based in Stoneyburn and serving people from all over West Lothian, we offer a safe space and a range of activities to help adults who suffer from a low mental wellbeing, mental health illness or isolation.
Our activities and wellbeing courses aim to provide people with skills and knowledge for them to reinvest in their mental wellbeing journey.
We are open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10.30am – 2.30pm. We’re a welcoming, friendly group and people are welcome to just come during opening hours to sit and chat and have a cuppa. We also have groups that run on these days, including knitting, crocheting, jewellery making, arts and crafts, and more. There are also a series of short courses you can book on to cover a range of topics and coping mechanisms.
If you have any suggestions for MOOD to be open on other days/times, please do get in touch and we can discuss options
We have recently opened a new "shed your worries" hut! This is a wee workshop where people can upcycle/recycle projects or again just be present and enjoy some company.
We are always looking for people to come and share their talents, so please get in touch if you have some time to spare and a skill to share.
We are also looking for volunteers to teach new skills and new board members to make our Board as diverse and skilled as possible, so if anyone is interested please contact us on the details below.
MOOD is on easyfundraising, so if you would like to support us, you can sign up to easyfundraising.org.uk and choose MOOD, and it won’t cost you any more than your usual shopping!
“Mood has gave me routine and structure back into my life. I no longer feel isolated or lonely . For the first time in my life…..I have purpose. I am part of something amazing and its very rewarding”
“It’s not just me now. I realise that I’m not alone”
“I never get bored or fidgety at MOOD, time passes so quickly”
“John has come on leaps and bounds, he doesn’t have as many wobbles now” (wife of user)
“I choose to laugh now rather than getting angry and feeling inadequate”
“Never thought I would fit in on civvi street. Mood has proved me wrong, I feel accepted and am able to talk things out instead of feelings festering”
“This course helped me start to take control of my life and I feel like I’m back on the road to recovery. I’ve started to build a daily routine, which has improved my mood and my wellbeing. Ive also learnt to be kinder to myself and recognise when I’ve done something good for myself”
This article was contributed by MOOD SCIO. MOOD is a charity registered in Scotland, charity number SC048845
Have you ever been in the cinema and found loud adverts or incessant noises irritating or felt any suspense at all hard to deal with? Maybe being with certain people can unsettle you and you would rather avoid contact with them at all costs while the company of certain others can be something you crave.
How many of us have heard the words ‘ you are too sensitive’ throughout our lives, whether that’s from family or friends? It can feel like a judgement or a weakness and there can be an underlying sense that we should toughen up and get on with life and, above all, stop taking things personally. Against a backdrop of teasing and being urged to stop overreacting, it can be hard to acknowledge that we are sensitive beings because we feel that it’s something we should try to change.
The truth is that sensitivity is a superpower not a negative trait that needs to be squashed. Sensitive people tend to be Socially aware and excel at spotting small things such as changes in other people’s moods and reactions and are more aware of what’s going on around them than most people because they read a room really well, they respond more to rejection, loss and heartbreak but also to beauty, creativity and joy.
The cherry on the cake is that sensitive people tend to be empathetic and sensitive to other people’s needs and moods and are the best people to go to when there’s something to share or when support would be welcome.
The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk
Research conducted by Home Instead has found that, despite over a third of adults saying they were concerned about their parents’ physical health, 81% were reluctant to speak to them about care.
Nobody wants to have the conversation. The one where you talk with your elderly loved one(s) about their growing need for support in their home. However, the time may come when it is necessary, and you have to work out how to talk about care.
Here are some simple tips to help begin the conversation:
TIMING AND LOCATION: Choose a time when you are both relaxed and in a comfortable environment. It may require having a number of chats over time to establish how your loved one is feeling.
PLAN WHAT YOU WANT TO SAY: Knowing what you need to discuss beforehand can make sure that you have a focus to the conversation and any relevant information to hand.
LISTEN: It’s important that you take time to really hear your loved one, be patient with them and encourage them, making clear you have their best interests at heart.
HOW TO TALK ABOUT IT: Make clear in the conversation that care is about prolonging your loved one’s independence and helping them to stay at home for longer, doing what they enjoy, continuing to live their life their way but with some help to make things easier.
For more advice and support, speak with your local Home Instead office who are on hand to help you through if you have any uncertainties about having any difficult but essential conversations.
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
OCTOBER CROSSWORD
^^^ Solution in the November edition of Konect
ACROSS: 1. Main roof beams (7), 5. More (5), 8. Fabric or cloth (7), 9. Doing words (5), 10. Long, narrow hilltop (5), 11. Anguish (7), 12. One score (6), 14. Out of the country (6), 17. Timid (7), 19. Goes up (5), 22. Perfect (5), 23. Unsuccessful (7), 24. Distinguished (5), 25. Brighter (7).
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a Tasting Tour for Two!
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a Tasting Tour for Two!
The tour comprises the full 90-minute guided tour of Blackness Bay Distillery, taking in the history of Blackness and craft distilling of whisky and rum in Scotland through the ages to the present day, whilst sampling five or more of the products produced by hand on the premises.
The tour comprises the full 90-minute guided tour of Blackness Bay Distillery, taking in the history of Blackness and craft distilling of whisky and rum in Scotland through the ages to the present day, whilst sampling five or more of the products produced by hand on the premises.
The timeless method of the traditional Scottish twin copper pot still making of
The timeless method of the traditional Scottish twin copper pot still making of
whisky directly from malted barley is explained in detail with anecdotes of its perils and pleasures. The tour finishes with a toast to Mary Queen of Scots and her long connection to Blackness on Sea.
whisky directly from malted barley is explained in detail with anecdotes of its perils and pleasures. The tour finishes with a toast to Mary Queen of Scots and her long connection to Blackness on Sea.
Winners every week through October! We are drawing a winning entry every week in October so there are four chances to win!
Winners every week through October! We are drawing a winning entry every week in October so there are four chances to win!
For the chance to win, simply answer the following question:
For the chance to win, simply answer the following question:
WHAT TYPE OF SPIRIT DOES BLACKNESS BAY DISTILLERY PRODUCE?
WHAT TYPE OF SPIRIT DOES BLACKNESS BAY DISTILLERY PRODUCE?
A) Rum B) Whisky C) Both Whisky & Rum
A) Rum B) Whisky C) Both Whisky & Rum
Closing date for entries Thu 31st October 2024
Closing date for entries Thu 31st October 2024
Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code to enter your answer. Winners will receive a tour voucher from Blackness Bay Distillery which must be used within four weeks of receipt. Full T&Cs are on our website.
Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code to enter your answer. Winners will receive a tour voucher from Blackness Bay Distillery which must be used within four weeks of receipt. Full T&Cs are on our website.
The first thing that hits you is the pine infused air. Both refreshing and energising, it also carries a bite of cold, signalling the onrush of autumn. As if to confirm this, distant calls draw my eyes skyward, and I see my season’s first skein of geese heading south.
My walk today is in Selm Muir Wood, a tract of forest managed by Forestry and Land Scotland lying midway between the Lanark Road and the A71, yet easily overlooked.
Turn off the A71 towards Kirknewton on Station Road, and after 0.3 miles turn right onto Leyden Road. Then, after a further 1.3 miles, pull in at the forestry gate where a wooden sign states: ‘To Little Vantage and Thieves Road’.
I set off down the long, straight forestry track towards the heart of the wood. The twitter of small birds is all around. In an area cleared of trees to my right, a small group of grey wagtails bob through the air between occasional pools, foraging for insects. To my left, a flock of goldfinches scatter, disturbed from feasting upon thistle seeds. Along the right-hand side of the path runs a long, clipped beech hedge, oddly horticultural for the setting. Glancing southwards, fields slope up to the flanks of the elongated ridge of Corston Hill and cows lie, chewing the cud in leisurely fashion. As I walk, I enjoy the early autumn colours of the hedgerow. Ginger common carder bees visit late thistle blooms of purple, whilst boughs of rowan above hang heavy with berries of deepest crimson.
Soon, I arrive at the main body of the wood and a fork in the gravel road. Bearing right, I follow the road until it comes to an abrupt end. Here, it’s possible to turn left off the gravel onto a narrow track which threads
between the plantation conifers and a line of closely spaced beeches. The beeches are planted hedge-fashion, but each is now a small to medium sized tree thrusting slender branches upward towards the light. Their twisting, moss-coated trunks exude the mystique of a Midsummer Night’s Dream forest, and contrast with the bare, red-brown stanchions of pine to my left.
The path bends left and then right again, emerging to run alongside the main forest road. Here, purple heather blooms by the path, mixed with rowan and birch saplings, and with a backdrop of Scots Pine on the far side of the road. I cross another gravel track and continue alongside more beeches, slightly taller and more spaced here. I pass an area of younger conifers to my left and am kept on my toes by vaulting a few fallen trunks and hopping ditches. I come upon a little glade of young oaks, emerald leaves not yet rust-tinged by autumn, bearing nascent acorns. Shortly after, the path bends left and left again, signifying that I have rounded the western edge of my circuit.
I am now on a narrow track alongside the tumbledown stone wall separating wood and field, with Corston Hill to my right. A lonely raven croaks from a nearby pylon. I enter a stance of Scots Pine, weaving my way between the trunks, and soon I reach an area of cleared forest, scattered with the debris of felled trees. I hear a rasping shriek above my head – a jay! I watch as it curves through the air from the top of one pine to the next, its plumage a gorgeous mix of contrast and colour, from the white and black of rump and tail to rosy back and blue wing flashes. As I reach the far side of the clearing, a buzzard glides across at tree height, heading in the other direction. It is watched by a woodpigeon perched on a bare, isolated birch, pretending not to be there.
The final section of the walk is between pines across sun-dappled forest floor, upon which a variety of fungi are scattered. Upon the path I find delightful, delicate amber fronds of yellow staghorn. In some places, where larger pines have fallen, small dark pools have formed in the pits left by their upended root masses. In one of these, a large black beetle is thrashing around in the process of drowning. I proffer
GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!
him a branch onto which to crawl, and, after some encouragement, he jumps aboard to be whisked back to terra firma. Without so much as a beetle-y ‘thanks’ he scuttles away, disappearing off into the undergrowth. I rejoin the main track by the clipped beech hedge near where I left it and, from there, it’s a pleasant march back to the car, in the gradually increasing warmth of the morning sun.
Time for me to beetle off now too – until next time…
Walk time approximately 1 hour, over a mixture of gravelled forestry road and narrow tracks, uneven and muddy in places.
This article was contributed by William Weir. William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.
CREDIT: All image by William Weir
Vegetable crops have been slow but came eventually.
ROCKET SOUP
Did you find that the cold spring and dull summer delayed the arrival of crops like sweet peas, courgettes and tomatoes? Our courgettes are really producing lovely crops now and the sweet peas are still flowering in the middle of September while the tomatoes are ripening well. The garlic crop was very small as it didn’t seem to like the cold, wet, spring weather. Lesley picked a huge crop of rocket recently and using potatoes, onions and garlic from the garden made this rocket soup that is lovely eaten warm, and also cool if the sun is out!
Place a roughly chopped onion and 4 roughly chopped garlic cloves into a saucepan with 1 tbsp of rapeseed oil and cook for ten minutes on a medium to low heat. Add 250g of unpeeled chopped potatoes, 100ml white wine and 500ml chicken stock. Cook until the potatoes are soft, then add 100g of rocket leaves stripped from the stems and mix them into the soup. Add black pepper and lemon juice to season. Puree it in a food processor and its ready. If you eat it cold you may have to add a little liquid if it seems too thick.
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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October is linked in my mind with the famous Oktober Bier Fest in Munich.
I assumed it was a traditional celebration of a new brew after the year’s grain harvest. However I am quite wrong! The Oktoberfest was created to celebrate the marriage of King Ludwig of Bavaria to a Princess Therese in 1810. Since then it has changed from a royal event with horse races into an agricultural and country show and has now morphed in to a fun fair, music, food and beer celebration drawing visitors from all over the world. Beer is at the heart of the festival, starting with a grand procession of carts and horses bringing barrels of the six Reinheitsgebot beers which are tapped by the Mayor of Munich to the sound of gun salutes. Then follows 16 days of fun and drinking.
Beer is good in cooking too! In Britain it has long been part of stews, meat pies and bread making. Stout and oysters are a traditional combination and Welsh Rarebit requires beer as the base for the melting cheese. Beer batter (225g plain white flour, 285ml light beer, 3 teaspoons of baking powder) for fish or chicken gives a special crisp finish to these meats when deep fried. Irish Guinness makes the most luscious chocolate cake.
This recipe is from “Cooking with Beer” by Mark Dredge, which contains more than 150 recipes.
This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Originally published in Konect October 2016
Spicy Sausage Casserole:
• 500g Chirizo Sausage or any other hard paprika flavoured sausage, thick sliced
• 1 small can continental lager or bitter beer
• 2 large onions chopped
• 2 yellow peppers de-seeded and sliced
• 1 can chopped tomatoes
• 1 can cannellini beans
• Small amount of plain flour
• Pepper, paprika, salt • Oil for frying
Method:
Heat a little oil in a heat proof casserole and fry the onions till just browning. Drain and fry the peppers till they colour a little too. Use the flour to take up the oil left from the vegetables and then make a sauce with the beer. Add all the other ingredients to the pan and bring back to a gentle bubble. Taste and season. Cover with a well-fitting lid and cook, either in the oven or on top of the cooker, slowly for 40 minutes. Serve with plain boiled potatoes or ribbon noodles and a green salad. You can make other stews in this way from any meat you enjoy with vegetables to extend a small quantity of protein. The beer gives a rounded flavour and if used as a marinade on the meat for 2 hours or so before cooking, helps to tenderise it. Beef and venison are lovely with Guinness and lighter meats such as pork or chicken with lagers. Some of the fruit flavoured Belgian beers add even more interest to the final dish.
I feel like I’m mourning the summer that never was. There were a few days here and there but otherwise, it’d been a bit of a damp squib.
For nature though, it is reaching the exciting time of year when our winter migrants return to the UK. I’ve read multiple social media reports over the last few days with excited birders reporting skeins of pink footed geese overheard. Other than the leaves starting to turn, seeing their V formation in the sky is a true sign autumn is on the way (did it ever really leave?)
One of the arrivals I look forward to the most is the Short Eared Owl. They turn up on the East coast, which makes sense given it’s the first place they can make land after migrating from their summer holiday to Scandinavia. This was taken at Aberlady Nature Reserve last year, with the skyline of Edinburgh in the background.
Thankfully, they’re daytime hunters making them easier to see. It’s lovely to watch them quartering low across the grass, making a sudden turn when they hear something scurrying underneath them. Their mottled
brown plumage helps them blend in perfectly with their chosen habitat. They have an impressive wing span but earlier this year, I was watching one hunkered down in the rain on Orkney and they’re remarkably small when you see them like that.
Despite the name, they don’t actually have ears but little feather tufts on top of their head.
Ths 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
Connect with us by scanning the QR code, visiting bgateway.com/westlothian, or emailing westlothian@bgateway.com
THRIFT SHOP
Mon 14th - Fri 18th October 10am - 3pm Sat 19th October 10am - 12noon
Acrobatic Gymnastics combines the skill of a gymnast, artistry of a dancer, and the courage and excitement of an acrobat!
It is a dynamic visual discipline popular with spectators, with routines choreographed to music and including partnership work. Gymnasts work closely together, building up trust and responsibility for each other and developing skills in balance and dynamic elements, as well as floor skills, tumble, flexibility and body conditioning. Our classes provide an introduction to general and acrobatic gymnastics.
Gymnasts work in small groups by age and ability with highly qualified experienced coaches.
At Astro Gymnastics in Livingston we offer classes for all age groups. Our schedule can be found on Class for Kids and booked at astro-gymnastics-club.classforkids.io/ venue/1/astro-gymnastics-club
Astro Gymnastics West Lothian is located at: 5 Hutton Square, Brucefield Industrial Estate, Livingston, EH54 9DJ or general enquiries and bookings please contact us via:
E: info@astrogymnastics.co.uk
T: 01506 374044
W: astrogymnastics.co.uk
@astrogymnastics
SAT 5TH TO THU 31ST OCTOBER
SPOOKtober at Almond Valley - A screamtastic programme of fearful happenings for all the family at Almond Valley Heritage Centre, running throughout the half term break. Have you got what it takes to navigate the treacherous trail of Lost Spells, Mischief and Mayhem to uncover the lost spells of Almond Valley? Conquer your fears and discover the inner witch or wizard within. Burn off some energy at our all new indoor Crazy Bales Maze. Attend the Dark Arts Craft School, including mask making, Spellbound Stories, wand design for beginners, broomstick making (limited spaces – additional charge). And so much more…
Included in usual admission. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR
SATURDAY 6TH OCTOBER
Friends of Polkemmet Country Park Volunteering session - POND WORK - Amphibian breeding season is over and invertebrates are less active, allowing us to safely manage the vegetation around and in the pond before many of these plants grow too tall and thick. There will be opportunities for those that are brave enough, to don some waders and get into to the water to remove reeds, as well as any litter that has found its way into the pond. All tools and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger. Bring gloves if you can, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Please bring any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary and new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run 10.00am – 12noon. Meet outside the Ranger Office, next to the archway at the Visitor Centre. Facebook: "Friends of Polkemmet"
SUNDAY 13TH OCTOBER
Bird Identification Workshop - Almond Park, Livingston, with Almond Valley Nature Action. Short session offering a chance to develop and enhance bird identification skills. Suitable for beginners, the aim is to upskill participants in identifying common species of birds found in our gardens, parks and woodlands, and encourage participants to make their observations count by contributing records to national databases such as iRecord. The session will be relaxed and informal with discussion and questions encouraged. Under 18s should be accompanied by an adult. If you
have a pair of binoculars, please bring them; a few spare pairs will be available to borrow. Bird identification guides will also be provided. Free but spaces are limited and booking essential, via Eventbrite: almondvalleynatureaction.blog
THRIFT SHOP at Bathgate Parish Church - Clothes, Bric-A-Brac, toys, books and much more. Tea, coffee, fresh scones and pancakes available.
• Mon 14th to Fri 18th October 10.00am - 3.00pm
• Sat 19th October 10.00am - 12 noon
Gideon Street, Bathgate.
THURSDAY 17TH OCTOBER
West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - Provides help and support for men recently diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. Next meeting, which includes guest speakers, is at 7.00pm on Thursday 17th October at Crofthead Community Centre, Livingston, EH54 6DG. All welcome.
SATURDAY 19TH OCTOBER
North Barn Quilters ExhibitionExhibition of Members’ work, there will be sales table, tombola, Chinese raffle, demonstrations, charity quilt raffle. 10.00am – 4.00pm. Entrance fee (including tea & cake) £3.00 Children free. Cash only please. Carmondean Community Centre, Nether Dechmont Farm, Fells Rigg, Livingston, EH54 8AX
SATURDAY 26TH OCTOBER
Strings and Brass - Linlithgow String Orchestra and Bathgate Band present a programme of concert favourites. St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow, 7.00pm. Tickets on the door or via www.linlithgowstringorchestra. co.uk £10 / £8 / £2
EVERY SATURDAY
Bathgate Market & Car Boot SaleBathgate Outdoor Market 9am to 2pm. Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains. 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.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
1271 (BATHGATE) RAF AIR
CADETS - The RAF Air Cadets is a uniformed youth organisation for young people aged between 12 (In S2) - 20. We offer lots of opportunities including flying, gliding, shooting, adventure training, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Leadership and much much more. We are based in Bathgate and parade on a Tuesday and Thursday evening... Interested? Get in touch! Email: oc.1271@rafac.mod.gov. uk - Tel.: 01506 630784
POETS O WEST LOTHIANNae need fir academic skill / Jist let yer thochts byle up an spill / In inky screivins frae yer QUILL / And sip from that Parnassian rill!...poetry in Scots, English, Mesolithic, Martian...Ice Age or Space Age...we are a cheery wee non-judgemental group meeting in Bathgate Partnership/Jim Walker Centre, first Monday of the month, except holidays. Share yer stuff, hae a blether and a laugh. Text Davie at 07591 681791
ROUGHLY SPEAKING
COMEDY - Hosted by Midnight Breakfast Club in Bathgate, Roughly Speaking Comedy is an open mic for comedians and aspiring comedians alike. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, you can sign up either online or on the night. Free entry. See Facebook “Roughly Speaking Comedy” for confirmed dates or email roughlyspeakingopenmic@gmail.com
LIVINGSTON & WEST
LOTHIAN HOCKEY CLUB - Livingston & West Lothian Hockey Club are a friendly, sociable and competitive hockey club based at Deans Community High School in Livingston. The Club has one Men’s team, two Ladies teams and a large Juniors section. The Club is always on the look out for new members.
If you feel you’d like to try hockey then please feel free to contact
us through our social media channels (website www.livingstonhockeyclub.uk, Facebook or email livingstonandwlhockey@gmail.com
BIPOLAR SCOTLAND
SUPPORT GROUP - Bipolar Scotland invites patients, family, friends, partners and carers of those with a Bipolar diagnosis within West Lothian to come along to our monthly group meeting. Held every second Thursday of the month at Bathgate Partnership Centre (21-55 South Bridge St, Bathgate EH48 1TL), Rooms 8 & 9, 7.00pm-9.00pm. More information on Bipolar Scotland’s services available at www.bipolarscotland. org.uk or 0141 560 2050
BATHGATE BELLES SWI - We meet on the last Wednesday of each month from 7-9pm in The Royal British Legion, 50 North Bridge Street, Bathgate. Our aim is to empower women through friendship, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of community. We offer lifelong learning opportunities by having talks, trips out and demonstrations and promote well-being by having lots of fun. For more information email at bathgatebelles@outlook.com or just come along.
BROXBURN PRE-SCHOOL
PLAYGROUP - For children 2 to 5 years old. We provide a safe, caring, learning environment where children can realise their full potential in a fun manner while taking their first steps towards independence. Fully registered and insured Scottish Charity, with all necessary safeguarding credentials. Children who have attended our playgroup in the past have been reported as having had a smooth transition to mainstream nursery and school. broxburnpreschoolplaygroup.co.uk
shepherds) Join in the adventure and gain life skills. If you are an adult or a young person and want to gain life skills come and join us. Monday:- Beavers (6-8years) 6:15-7:15pm; Cubs (8-10years) 7:30-8:45pm. Friday:- Scouts (1014 years) 7:00-9:00pm; Explorers (14-18years) 7:30-9:30pm. Everyone welcome. Contact: info@17thbroxburnscoutgroup. co.uk or 07785 525 466.
BROXBURN GENERAL YOGA CLASS - Sunday morning 9:30 -10:30 - not as bad as it sounds! Class held in the lovely studio at Broxburn United Sports Club, Albyn Place. £5 per session, all welcome. E: iyogawithc@gmail. com T: 07749 524 249
WINCHBURGH ART CLASS - Winchburgh Community Hall, every Thursday 9.30am –11.30am. All levels welcome. We have tutors regularly. All mediums used. Contact Secretary 07980 321989
LOTHIAN PHOENIX WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL CLUB - Meet on Thursday nights at Armadale Academy. All abilities are welcome, and no experience is necessary. We have spare sports chairs available to use. Adult’s session is 7.00 - 9.00pm in the large sports hall, juniors’ session is 7.00 - 9.00pm in the small hall. Come along and try something new! Contact Karen Redmondwalkerredmond@aol.com or call 07982195006 to find out more or come along to one of our sessions.
WEST LOTHIAN LITTER PICKERS - We’re a group of over 3000 West Lothian residents, so if you want to help clean up your community, like we do, come join the group on Facebook “West Lothian Litter Pickers(Act Local Think Global)”. We organise group litter picks or put you in touch with a buddy in your area to get you started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.
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 non given. For more information s§ee: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian Facebook: ‘West Lothian u3a’ E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274
COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS
- For children age 2-5 years. Armadale, Bathgate, Crofthead Farm, Fauldhouse, Uphall and West Calder. Morning sessions 9.15-11.30am, £10.00 per session. Full Day sessions 9.15am-2.00pm, £22.00 per session. Funded Places available.
W: www.communityplaygroups.org T: 07904 623176
BATHGATE AND DISTRICT
PROBUS CLUB - Retired? Fed up with lockdown and covid restrictions? Come and enjoy weekly meetings with interesting speakers on a wide range of topics, together with exciting visits in the summer months. Join us for informal chats, with refreshments beforehand, every Tuesday from 10.00am to 12.00pm in St John’s Church hall, Mid Street, Bathgate. For further information, contact Sandy McAlpin (Secretary) on (01506) 630152.
LITTLE MONSTERS UNDER 5 GROUP A new look Little Monsters at Boghall Drop-in Centre. Children 0 – 5 with their parent/carer, Tues, Wed & Thurs. Coffee, tea & refreshments 9.009.30am, followed by FREE Drop-in Sessions. 9.30-10.30am or 11am-12noon. Afternoon (FREE) 12.30-13.15 Storytime/arts/music classes. Email: arlene@bdic.org. uk Or call the drop in centre on 01506 283201 to register
SONGWRITING GROUPLooking for new members. We meet on the 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm9.00pm. 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
WHITBURN AND DISTRICT
PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semiretired 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.
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 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Antenatal 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 6.007.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am 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 in person and face to face, as are our social groups: 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. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face).
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.
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 Centrecall 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: westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.
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 WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.
I am going to get straight to the point. Dreamwork’s The Wild Robot is their magnum opus. It is a breathtakingly gorgeous film in every aspect from animation to story.
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.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX
The Wild Robot follows Rozim 7134, a robot designed to help a family with their day-to-day tasks. Rozim wakes up in the wilderness due to an incident that occurred at sea. Not designed to be part of this environment, it does its best to try and go back to the factory. Untill one day, it accidentally becomes the mother of a gosling. Along with a fox called Fink, Rozim must complete three tasks with the gosling. Get him to eat, get him to swim and most importantly get him to fly before migration.
The Wild Robot is the story of becoming a mother. Just like a house robot lost in the woods, there are no rules or books to know how to be a mother; you must learn and adapt. It is also a film about non-traditional families, showcasing that families come in all shapes, sizes and parings. Rozim being a robot doesn’t mean she can’t be the goose’s mother even if society tells her otherwise. It is a story that had me bursting into tears throughout due to its core themes. With animation that feels like a painting with its vivid and breathtaking colours, it is a visual treat to the eyes and unlike anything I’ve seen before.
The Wild Robot is a masterpiece.
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.
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.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
