KonectBathgateNov13 by Konect Magazines

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November 2013

bathgate WIN

Winter Service and Winter Survival Pack at Wood's Garage

rs & Offe ers h vouc local m o r f sses busine

FEATURE OMG it's Christmas! Christmas shopping and entertainment in Bathgate Technology The Heat is On

FREE

beauty treatment at Facelook Beauty for all Konect readers!

Local walk This town is coming like a ghost town A walk around Bangour plus local businesses, community information and more!

The new community magazine for Bathgate

Looking for a new home? For one of the widest choice of Mortgages and No Brokers Fee Contact us now for a free no obligation appointment AUTHORISED AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

08450 230 230

acandco.com

ask@acandco.com

Dyce

Ellon

Inverurie

Peterhead

Stonehaven

Westhill

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To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Editor’s Message At Konect we're all about encouraging people to shop locally and use local trades people, so we are delighted this issue to have a feature on Christmas shopping that highlights local businesses – it was great to discover whilst preparing this feature that you really can get all you need for the festive season right here in and around Bathgate! In addition, turn to page 40 for information on a “shop locally” event in Bathgate on 23rd November. Check the ever-expanding Clubs and Classes page at the back of the magazine for details of social, sport and support groups in Bathgate, and if you are involved in a club or activity locally that is not included, please do drop us a line and we will add it in for next month. Congratulations to Sheena Mackenzie who won the crossword competition in last month's magazine. This issue, Wood's Garage of West Calder are offering a free winter service and a free winter survival pack for your car – essential if the forecasts of a harsh winter are to be believed, so turn to the crossword on page 42 for your chance to win. Thanks for reading Konect, we hope you find it useful.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638

www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Contents Features OMG it's Christmas! Why you should shop locally Regulars Technology Local Walk

8 40 32 36

Competitions and Puzzles Crossword Competition Sudoku Community Clubs & Classes What's on Useful Information Index of Advertisers

42 42 47 48 48 50

The Konect Directory is delivered to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen. Copies are also left at the library, post offices, convenience stores and other locations around Bathgate.

Advertising enquiries: Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print

Front cover photograph: Autumn trees, Bathgate

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Huge selection of top quality fireworks at a great price... Established 10 years Whatever you buy

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Dean Gemmell - Kevan McKeown CARPET FITTING SERVICE

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The Beauty Spot is delighted to introduce the new CACI ultimate machine. Treatments include: microdermabrasion, non surgical face lifts, active acne, wrinkle revolution and much more...

20% off all CACI treatments on presentation of this advert We also specialise in Calgel, Shellac, Laurens Way, HD Eyebrows, semi permanent lash extensions, hair ups, blowdrys, makeup and much more... The Beauty Spot 1 Cousland Terrace/1a Redhouse Road Seafield

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Feature

OMG It's Christmas! Bring in Santa's Little Helpers... By James Thomson

You'll remember that moment; OMG it's Christmas and your 'to do' list remains an almost insurmountable challenge. Here are some practical contacts, dates and ideas from Santa's Little Helpers that are working hard all around West Lothian to help get things ready for the day. Christmas trees are available from 1st December from Sterling Hydroponics with two no-needle drop varieties and the traditional Norway Spruce and can be viewed at their premises at Waverley Industrial Estate, Bathgate. You might want to consider buying a 'Caring Christmas Tree' (www.caringchristmastrees.com or 0845 111 8733) as with each tree a contribution goes to provide extra support for homeless people in the Lothian's over Christmas via The Bethany Christian Trust. Trees must be pre-ordered

by 6th December and are then chosen and collected from James Young High School near the main Livingston retail centre. Bethany operate this Christmas charity tree initiative across most of Scotland. Next stop; decorations for the tree and all those other places. Why not send your children or grandchildren on a gift or decoration course, or even a cup cake decoration session while you head off to the shops. The Larder Cook School are running Christmas Cup Cake Fun classes for children aged 5 and over on Saturdays (morning or afternoons) in the run up to Christmas. They are held at the Inveralmond High School, Ladywell, Livingston on the 14th and 21st December www.thelarder.org or 01506 437065. They also offer Gift Vouchers and have a new cook school opening for Easter 2014.

Open Mon - Sun: 9am - 4pm Evenings also available during December for Xmas bookings. Christmas 2013 £14.95 for two course £16.95 for three course Sample Menu Sweet potato & cheddar cheese pancakes  Scotch Beef & Vegetable casserole  Christmas Pudding with rum custard whipped cream.

10 Engine Lane, Bathgate, EH48 1PN Contact us on: 01506 656 321

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Keltra Crafts at 54 North Bridge, Bathgate have childrens crafting classes to make Christmas decorations and bunting. They also stock handmade crafts including Christmas table runners The Kidzeco shops (11 King Street Bathgate and a new shop at Unit 3 Livingston Centre; www.kidzeco.net) have recycled children's goods and handmade gifts. They are an award winning local social enterprise set up to benefit families in West Lothian. For Christmas, alongside craft classes and a Santa's Grotto, they will have special treats for children, and fairies and elves running the shops. Their Christmas Post Box provides a magical reply (in the post) for every child that sends a letter to Santa. And finally, just before you think Santa is tempted to take a back seat, it's all aboard on the Union Canal for the famous Santa Cruises run by the Bridge Inn at Ratho (www.bridgeinn.com

0131 333 1320). Join them at the Elves Workshop before sailing to Santa's Magical Island Grotto. Weekends of 7th/8th & 14th/15th and 20th to 24th December with 5 cruises a day from 11.30 till 4.30 or 6pm. For adults there are Christmas Party Barge cruises, Christmas Lunch cruises or you can group book for your own Christmas party afloat. Lyn from Chocolate Posies creates Christmas chocolate bouquets, Christmas dinner favours, centrepieces and chocolate Christmas trees, all of which can be tailor made and posted as gifts worldwide. Find out more at www.chocolatebouquets.org, call her on 07990 812511 or see her on 30th November at the annual Linlithgow Advent Fair. The Kilt Studio in Bathgate have a range of different gift ideas – a range of Scottish gifts for friends/ family overseas perhaps, as well as highlandwear and accessories. p10

Christmas Party Nights Sample Menu

Christmas Day Lunch Sample Menu

Hogmanay Ball Sample Menu

£40 per person (over 18s only) Lady Gaga/Tina Turner tributes, Neil Diamond tributes, Abba Mania tributes.

Adults £47.50 per person Children (2-12) £17.50 per person

£65 per person, with live band “Fireworx”

Call the Cairn Hotel for dates and details.

~ Smoked salmon & boursin roulade

~ Carrot & orange soup ~ Traditional turkey with all the trimmings

Game & herb terrine ~ Traditional turkey & trimmings

Baked Bailey’s cheesecake

Brandy and redcurrant brulee

Baked salmon supreme ~ Warmed Christmas pudding

Roast root vegetable risotto ~ Traditional Christmas pudding

~ Traditional Peppered Scotch broth Chicken & parseman terrine ~ Haggis, neeps and tatties with whiskey sauce ~ Beef Wellington Roast barbarie duck ~ A trio of desserts

The Cairn Hotel, Blackburn Road, Bathgate, EH48 2EL Tel: 01506 633 366 | www.cairnhotelbathgate.co.uk To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Feature (continued)

p9ď&#x201A;&#x2020; Alongside excellent locally-sourced

Christmas meat, the renowned Bathgate butcher and delicatessen David Stein (27 North Bridge, www.facebook.com/ davidsteinbutcher or 01506 652696) stocks alternative Christmas gift items, a huge array of malt whiskies and specialist spirits and will deliver on Fridays, or make special deliveries by request. Order or reserve before 16th December for any unusual or Christmas items. Few children's presents surpass a new bike for Christmas. Jonathan McBain's West Calder bike shop has a literally massive selection of kids bikes, kids helmets and kid's bicycle clothing this Christmas. Established 18 years ago Pedal Power moved to larger premises 2 years ago and it's mantra is selling you a bike which has top quality components and is therefore safe and reliable. To get knowledgeable advice for both the

novice and enthusiast cyclist visit www.pedalpower.org.uk, telephone 01506 873123 or call in at what they describe as Scotland's biggest concept bike store, spread over 3 floors at 13 Main Street West Calder. Jonathan's qualified bike mechanics will correctly size your bike and take care when they assemble it; for the enthusiasts, his instore team include current Scottish Road Race Champion Gary Hand. Now I am not suggesting that Scotland's cycle champion should be dressed up for you in an Elf costume as one of Santa's little helpers, and I doubt even Pedal Power stock lycra elf or Santa gear. More's the pity as the wind drag benefits when the sleigh flies down from the North Pole would make so much sense and all those Christmas chores could be p14ď&#x201A;&#x2020; done in an even faster flash.

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Feature - Local Christmas fun, music & theatre entertainment (continued)

p10ď&#x201A;&#x2020; Elvis Presley meets West Lothian? Yes, as from its release date of 25th November, our local singing star Susan Boyle releases her 'Home for Christmas' album, her 5th. Susan will be the first British artist to have a posthumous duet, featured on this album, with the King himself. Between 30th November to 8th December Dick Whittington and his Cat by The New Town Entertainers at the Howden Park Centre, Livingston, www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk or 01506 777666. Cheer on Dick along his journey as he takes on the evil King Rat, discovers fairies and falls for the beautiful Alice. A fun filled pantomime for all the family. 4th to 8th December at The Regal, Bathgate. www.bathgateregal.org or 01506 630085. Sleeping Beauty pantomime performed by West Lothian's Millennium Stage School. The school, based in Livingston, is exclusively for children from 5 to 18 and recently performed at Her Majestyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Theatre in London. Saturday 7th December is Bathgate's traditional Santa's Parade which leaves from Torphichen

Street at 12.30. There's Santa's Grotto at The Precinct and then at 4.15 the torchlight procession followed by the carol service at 4.45. 13th to 24th December, Sleeping Beauty Pantomime with the NLP Theatre at Howden Park Centre, Livingston, www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk or 01506 777666. Join Prince Charming, Chester the Jester and Fairy Coolness as they try to outsmart the Wicked Fairy of the West. Between 11th and 24th Aladdin Pantomime at the Regal Theatre (www.bathgateregal.org or 01506 630085) with the NLP Theatre described as Sing-a-long songs with Slapstick Mystery and Magic. 30th December until 4th January, The Singing Kettle perform Christmas Wishing Well at Howden Park Centre, Livingston, www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk or 01506 777666. Christmas Wishing Well is enthralling for both young and old and is the perfect treat to keep everyone in the festive spirit.

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01506 633133

2 South Br idg e S t reet , B at h gat e, Wes t Lot hi a n E H 4 8 1 T W

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Fairway Hotel Restaurant - Bistro-style restaurant for coffee, lunches and dinners. Bar - warm atmosphere, large open fire, selection of international beers and lagers Function Room with own bar, for up to 120 people Accomodation - all ensuite rooms.

Christmas Fayre menu Available 1st - 31st December 12noon - 9pm Three course seasonal menu, ÂŁ22.50 per person Christmas Dinner and Disco Fridays and Saturdays in December, first sitting 7pm, disco 9pm - midnight. ÂŁ32.95 per person. (Book and pay by 30th November)

Fairway Hotel 2 edinburgh road, Bathgate, eH48 1Ba

For BooKiNGS & More iNFo PleaSe CoNtaCt - 01506 652835 Fairway1@FairwayHotel.BiZ

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To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

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To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

TORPHICHEN INN ~ Come for a warm welcome & excellent service ~

Fresh food ~ lunches, coffees, dinners

Regular live entertainment - call us or check website for details

Every Fri & Sat in Dec: Thu: 5:00pm-8:30pm £25 Full Xmas dinner + entertainment downstairsFri - Sat: 12:00pm-12:00am Sun: 12:30pm-11:00pm £12.50 Hot Buffet + entertainment upstairs 01506 652826 Fri 6th Dec: 7 The Square, Party night disco Torphichen, EH48 4LY Sat 7th Dec: www.thetorphicheninn.co.uk Robbie & Buble

We also do outside catering

Sit in or Takeaway Homemade Soup & Home Baking daily Fresh food made to order Now selling “Armadale Telephone Orders Cheesecake Experience” Welcome 54 Hopetoun St Bathgate EH48 4EU Tel 01506 813911

Open:

Mon to Sat 9am-3pm Closed Sunday

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To be included in the Konect Directory, or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

www.zenvapour.co.uk

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Unit B 48 North Bridge Street Bathgate In the entrance lane to the Legion

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FOR ALL YOUR MOBILITY NEEDS Whether you need help to get around the house or out and about, our experienced team can help with all your mobility needs. Family owned and operated since 1994

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0131 440 4225 Showroom Opening Times Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Unit 13-16, 32 Dryden Road, Bilston Glen Industrial Estate, Loanhead, Edinburgh, EH20 9LZ www.med-ecosse.co.uk medeco67@aol.com

Accredited Motability Dealer

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DOLLED UP 14C Glasgow Road, Bathgate, EH48 2AB Tel: 01506 253075 BaBy Doll Package £35 Glam Hairstyling (Curls / Big Hair / Hair Up) Make up application Strip Lashes Dolly BirD Package £45 Glam Hairstyling (Curls / Big Hair / Hair Up) Make up application Strip Lashes Full Body Spray Tan or Gel Polish Nails DolleD UP Package £55 Glam Hairstyling (Curls / Big Hair / Hair Up) Make up application Strip Lashes Full Body Spray Tan Gel Polish Nails Hair Packages Unlimited blow drys for 1 month (curls included) £50 Unlimited Hair up's for 1 month £60

Taking Bookings now for Xmas Xmas voUcHers availaBle new Xmas cracker Packages coming soon

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DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T WISH FOR IT WORK FOR IT!

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www.westlothianleisure.com www.facebook.com/xcitewestlothianleisure T: 01506 237910 To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

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To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Technology The heat is on

Halogen heater from www.SoundlightUK.com

Every year, heating our homes becomes ever more expensive, and as a result we do all kinds of things to cut our bills: we make sure our homes are properly insulated, turn the thermostat down a notch and do our best to save energy. But no matter what kind of heating system you have, there's a very good chance you're heating your entire home rather than the room you're using. Wouldn't it be great if you could heat just the bit you're in - and do it quickly so you don't have to sit shivering? That's the thinking behind Dyson's fan heaters, which use the firm's "air multiplier" technology to send a steady stream of hot air without the buffeting you get from normal fan heaters. They aren't cheap expect to pay £249 for a heater, or £349 for one that can cool air in the summer - but they're safe, effective and extremely efficient. If you'd rather not spend quite so much on a heater, halogen heaters are worth considering: instead of heating the air, they heat whatever you point them at and they do so instantly, which is a real boon if you've just come home from a typically cold November day. Prices start at around £15 for a basic model, and you can also buy models designed for heating outside areas. For larger rooms, it's worth looking for heaters that can rotate: that enables them to heat a wider area than immobile heaters can reach. Make sure they have anti-tilt shut-offs too, so that they automatically switch themselves off if they're accidentally toppled. The cheapest heaters around are fan heaters, which as the name suggests use a fan to blow air over a heating element. According to the Energy Saving Trust they

Cool gadgets to keep you warm this winter By Gary Marshall

aren't less efficient than other kinds of heating, but the less powerful the fan the longer it'll take them to heat a room: we wouldn't recommend trying to heat a high-ceilinged room with an £8 fan heater from the local supermarket. If you spend a lot of time using a computer you'll know that your fingers are often the first things to feel the cold. Technology has the answer to that too: V8 Tools' heated computer keyboard is exactly what it sounds like, although for the time being you'll need to import one from the US. Avoid USB-powered heating devices: products such as USB-powered Monkey Hand Warmers are novelty gifts, not practical products. If you often suffer from frozen feet there's a gadget for that too: the AccuLux foot warming mat, a flexible heating mat that's designed to make your tootsies toasty. Expect to pay £39.99. Humans aren't the only creatures to benefit from heating pads: they’re available for pets too. A quick search on eBay uncovers all kinds of electric pad heaters for dog and cat beds, with prices as low as £19.99. If you'd rather not leave anything electrical near your pets, microwaveable heat pads do much the same job for slightly less money. While you're microwaving things for your pets, why not warm up some pads for yourself? You can try a pair of microwaveable slippers, a microwaveable hand warmer or a microwaveable neck wrap, and if you're suffering from sports injuries or arthritis you might find they help ease your symptoms too. Alternatively you might like to try the Heat In A Click Muscle Warm Pad, which quickly heats up to 54 degrees celsius and last for 20 minutes to two hours depending on the size of pad you buy.

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Local walk

This town is coming like a ghost town…

village. This design idea was taken from the Alt Scherbitz Asylum in Germany, the premise being the patients would be living in a community not just a hospital – fitting then that when it closed it was because of the concept of care in the community being the best way to care for psychiatric patients.

As many of you will know I like to find destinations for walking with the general proviso that they are not too far from home and may even be incorporated into whatever else I am doing in my day. Now as part of my job I am very often heading along the A89 past Dechmont and I always notice the old Bangour Village Hospital and see several cars parked in the small car park in front of the entrance. After several drive-bys I came to the conclusion that it must be a dog walker’s destination. So one day when passing with some time to spare I thought I’d check it out. I parked my car with the others and headed past the entrance gateway expecting some sort of security personnel to come and stop me at any moment. Noone did although I did feel a little under dressed without a pooch in tow. It transpires that unless you believe the place is haunted, which many do, it is the perfect place for a mid afternoon stroll, albeit a bit of an alternative stroll. Built as the Edinburgh district asylum and opened in 1906, today it is a little like walking through a ghost town as it was designed on the colony system, creating a wholly self contained village with its own farm, bakery, workshops, recreational hall, church, water supply, drainage and even its own railway. There is something a bit eerie about walking through a completely abandoned and deserted

By Karen Murray

The hospital was requisitioned by the government War Office during both wars when it became The Edinburgh War Hospital and The Scottish Emergency Medical Hospital, reverting back to a psychiatric hospital between and after the wars. It was also the local maternity hospital for a while – maybe some of you were born there? The site extends to some 220 acres and many of the buildings are listed. The ‘villas’ were set within landscaped grounds, and built in a 17th century Scottish Renaissance style, so they are really rather attractive to look at. It is tempting to peek inside them but they are of course boarded up now – too many vandals having attacked them in the past. As you wander this ghost town and its grounds you will come across the Edwardian Baroque hall and a Romanesque style church, designed by HO Tarbolton and built between 1924 and 1930. They are buildings worth a look at in their own right if you are even p38 a little interested in architecture.

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Local Walk (continued)

p36 The site has only been completely

abandoned since 2004 and since then it has been identified by successive local plans as a redevelopment opportunity largely focussed on the residential conversion of the existing buildings. I guess that is what will eventually happen and perhaps it is only right and proper but part of me thinks what a shame to lose this interesting and historic unusual walking location, particularly as I have only recently discovered it. I mean to make the most of this place for afternoon walks, despite not owning a dog. Who said you needed a dog to go for a brisk and energising walk? I will definitely be going back to explore further while I can. Maybe the site will become a film set – a year after it closed, it was the main filming location for ‘The Jacket’ starring Keira Knightley and Adrien Brody and produced by George Clooney. Shame I missed him! However there have been no more films, just a location for police riot training. You can walk around the old hospital in any direction and wander at will but there is a real feeling that you should follow the village route – you enter the site and walk a path with houses either side. Straight ahead is what was the shop and café and the urge is to stop for refreshment. If you go left there is a long walk round several wards or villas and to the right it is similar walk but in a circuit, bringing you back to the start.

Then of course there are the green areas and all the paths and winding lanes; so many that you could never hope to fully explore the place. It is really quite magical with the overgrown bowling green now sprouting a myriad wild flowers and lampposts covered in moss, the original road lost to the greenery. What’s more, despite being set just off a busy main road and pretty close to the M8, when you are in the middle of this strange place, it is eerily silent. Perhaps I have been slow to realise that Bangour had all this walking potential, but I am happy to have found somewhere that encompasses several things – a place to stop and walk when I am and about for work; a really intriguing site with history and architecture and of course somewhere with a choice of walking routes all there for the exploring.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be left out this winter....

Come in & join the local businesses in

Konect

Call Charlene on 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk or Jenny on 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk www.konectdirectory.co.uk

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Feature

Why You Should “Shop Local” in Bathgate

On Saturday 23rd November Enterprising Bathgate will be promoting their “Shop Local” campaign in the town centre. Radio Grapevine will be hosting the event as local businesses promote the benefits of shopping on your local high street. Enterprising Bathgate have produced a quality “bag for life” which will be given away for free to shoppers on the day.

Here are some of the many reasons to support shops and services in your local town: • Shopping locally retains our communities • Shopping locally retains our distinctiveness • Local shops value you more • Shopping locally creates jobs • Local independent shops invest more in our communities • Local shops are for everyone • People are often surprised by the range of product and services available This campaign is part of a wider initiative from Enterprising Bathgate which identifies the changing nature of traditional town centres. Town centres need to adapt to meet the current needs of the local community. Bathgate’s strength lies in its mix of national multiples with a large number of specialist independent retailers offering excellent customer service and quality.

At the same time town centres should be seen as the place where people meet to socialise, to access health services (e.g. dentists, opticians), use public services such as library and advice shop, and use the wide range of other services on offer such as hairdressers, beauty salons, fitness studios and so much more. The Christmas street lights will also be operational on 23rd November. The traditional Santa’s Parade, Santa’s Grotto, Torchlight Procession and switch on of the Christmas tree lights at The Steelyard will take place on Saturday 7th December. Full detail will be advertised in next month’s Konect.

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Win free Winter Safety Check (worth ÂŁ25)

Competition

and free Winter Survival Pack (worth ÂŁ20) from Wood's Garage, West Calder

See advert opposite

Across

1. 5. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 14. 17. 19. 22. 23. 24. 25.

Nearest (7) Inexpensive (5) Type of cattle (7) A slight fever (5) Sweet, thick liquid (5) Flat area of high land (7) Form of dance (6) In good condition (6) Family member (7) Trimmed (5) Enclosed within (5) Non-professional (7) Dizzy (5) Painters (7)

Down

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 12.

3D squares (5) To give or volunteer (5) Prototype (7) Soldiers (6) Bedtime drink (5) Obvious (7) Contaminate (7) Imploring (7)

16 17

13. Highly intelligent (7) 15. Graceful (7) 16. Type of fruit (6)

18. Unclean (5) 20. Conjecture (5) 21. Risks (5)

Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 15th November 2013.

Sudoku

i can't wait to tell 'em at the club house how you scored a bunny on the 4th

Sudoku solution on page 50

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LOTHIAN

WEST LOTHIAN

Pool & Spa Services By DFM Design

Williamsons Garden Centre Uphall, Broxburn EH52 6PA 01506 811170 www.dfmdesign.co.uk

Established family firm with retail showroom. Celebrating 10 years of excellence in the supply of hot tubs, swim spas and chemicals plus the building of swimming pools and enclosures.

LOTHIAN

Pool & Spa Services By DFM Design Williamsons Garden Centre Uphall, Broxburn EH52 6PA 01506 811170 www.dfmdesign.co.uk

Established family firm with retail showroom. Celebrating 10 years of excellence in the supply of hot tubs, swim spas and chemicals plus the building of swimming pools and enclosures.

Established f showroom. Ce excellence in the sup spas and chemical swimming p

Nu - Walls Qualified in all aspects of painting, decorating & plastering ■ internal plastering ■ external/internal painting & decorating ■ ceiling / wall replacement ■ coving All estimates free, insurance quotes welcome Established 1985 3 Turner Street, Bathgate, EH48 4AR Tel 01506 634056 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Bathroom Studio Bathgate Quality, Choice and Service at an Affordable Price

COMPRISING: Quality Bathroom Suite

A Complete Bathroom Refurbishment

£3,950 Including VAT

Mira 9.5Kw Electric Shower 16 Sq. Metres Ceramic Wall Tiles 3 Sq. Metres Ceramic Floor Tiles Overbath Screen

All supplied and fitted by our expert installation team

West Lothian’s Most Experienced Bathroom Specialists To arrange a free quotation call in to our newly extended showroom at

10 Hopetoun Street, BATHGATE, EH48 4EU or T:

01506 632913

E: quotes@bathgatebathrooms.com

www.bathgatebathrooms.com

OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm | Saturday 10am – 3pm | Wednesday 10am - 1pm ( Or by appointment )

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D.B. General Builders ■ Fencing ■ Driveways ■ Decking ■ Landscaping ■ Monoblocking ■ Groundworks ■ Home renovations ■ Property maintenance

Call David on

07747 062426

Local ■ Established ■ Reliable www.dbgeneralbuilders.co.uk david_bathgate@sky.com

Livingston Practice: Howden South Lodge, Howden South Livingston, EH54 6AD | Tel: 01506 437096 Surgery Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pm & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm & 2pm - 4pm Livingston Practice: Bathgate Practice: Howden South Lodge, Howden 64 Mid Street, Bathgate, EH48 South 1QD Livingston, EH54 6AD |634176 Tel: 01506 437096 Tel: 01506 Surgery Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pm & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm 2pm - 4pm Saturday: 9am - &12pm Livingston Practice: Bathgate Practice: Email: info@rsvets.co.uk Howden South www.rsvets.co.uk Lodge, Howden 64 Mid Street, Bathgate, EH48 South 1QD Website: Livingston, EH54 6AD Tel: 01506 437096 Tel: 01506 Find us on|634176 Facebook Surgery Hours: 24 Hour EmErgEncy Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pmSErvicE & 3pm - 6pm Saturday: 9am - 12pm 2pm - 4pm Saturday: 9am - &12pm

01501 741488 rivErSiDE viP 07714 586202 HEALTH PLAn

6c/2 Manse Road Whitburn, EH47 0QA

Budget monthly - the easy way to pay for looking after your pets healthh!

rivErSiDE viP Licensed veterinary medicines HEALTH PLAn Two free health checks a year for your pet

Budget monthly - the easy way to pay for looking afterworm your pets healthh! Flea and protection

- all year round

rivErSiDE viP Licensed veterinary medicines Convenient monthly payments Directchecks Debit HEALTH PLAn Two freebyhealth a year for your pet

Discounts on- additional services Budget monthly the easy way to pay for looking afterworm your pets healthh! Flea and protection Discounts-on all long year term roundmedication LicensedAccidental veterinaryInjury medicines Optional Cover Convenient monthly payments by Direct Debit Two free health checks a year Extended Payment Scheme for your pet Discounts on additional services

Flea and worm protection Discounts on long term medication Bathgate Practice: Email: info@rsvets.co.uk - all year round 64 Mid Street, Bathgate, EH48 1QD Website: www.rsvets.co.uk Optional Accidental Injury Cover Tel: 01506 Find us on634176 Facebook Convenient monthly payments Surgery Hours: by Direct Debit Extended Payment Scheme 24 Hour EmErgEncy Monday to Friday: 9am - 12pmSErvicE & 3pm - 6pm Discounts on additional services Saturday: 9am - 12pm To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266 Discounts on long term medication Email: info@rsvets.co.uk

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Clubs & Classes BATHGATE Simpson Art Club We meet every Tuesday 7pm- 9pm in the community wing of the Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. All over 18, including beginners are welcome. Regular demonstrations and teaching from professional artists, work in all mediums. We also have regular exhibitions in Polkemmet Cafe and the Regal Theatre in Bathgate. Further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com. Contact 07762 933138. Keltra Crafts 54 North Bridge Street, Bathgate. Quilting, patchwork, sewing and knitting classes for all ages - (mon - sat 10-12 & 1-3) contact Kelly 07557 109299 or Tracy 07795 188747 for availability & more info. Yoga Class for people living with long term conditions. Bathgate Community Centre, 5 – 6.30pm on Wednesdays. The 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! Starts back on the 13th November. Zumba with Lindsay Simpsons Primary School Bathgate, Tuesday 7.15 to 8.15pm Strathbrock Parish Church Hall Uphall, Wednesday 7 to 8pm East Calder Church Hall Monday 7 to 8pm Facebook Zumba with Lindsay. 07834183084 Parent and Toddler's St Johns Church, Mid Street Fridays during term time, 9.30 to 11.30 am. From Birth to Pre-schoolers. For further information, contact Irene on 01506 654579 The Stone Ring 40 King Street, Bathgate Beginners Self awareness & Development Mon 7pm - 9.30 pm (approx) - £6.50 Self Awareness & Development Tues 7pm - 9.30pm (appox) £6.50 Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month 7pm - 9.30 (approx) £5 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 Alison Weddell (Captain) on tel 07710 619264 or email alison.weddell@gmail.com for further details West Lothian 50 Plus Network New members always welcome for educational, social, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... Action for Happiness Action for Happiness helps people learn practical ways to increase their own well-being and help others be happier. At our local action group we explore different topics every month that will help you to feel happier and more positive. It's fun, friendly and very practical. We meet at the Regal Community Theatre in Bathgate on the first Tuesday of every month and at the Howden Park Centre on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 7.00 pm. For more details contact Carol on 07800 772607 or Ally on 07801350435. Bathgate Playgroup Bathgate Partnership Centre Mon – Fri 9am-11.30am and afternoon sessions Mon & Wed 12.30pm-3.30pm. Baby and Toddler activities Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate Classes include Kidz Play (soft play), Baby Times (songs and rhymes for 0-1 year olds) Kidz Tales (storytelling) Sunshine Kidz, (play, toys, crafts); various dance classes incl cheerleading, street and hip hop, Baby Discovery (explore textures and sounds) Toddler Times and Eco Kidz. Please call Kidzeco for class times and availability on 01506 815534. Newland Concert Brass Friendly band based in Bathgate. We welcome brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities. Training Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.50pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre Senior Band Mondays 8.00 – 9.30pm in the band hall on Belvedere Road. For more information see the website at www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk MOMS (Mums Offering Mums Support) Kidzeco, 11 King St, Bathgate Mon 1pm – 3pm. Group for new and expectant mums to meet other mums, share ideas and experiences and generally have a chat and a cuppa! £1 includes hot drink. Call Kidzeco for more info 01506 815534. 31st West Lothian Scouts Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street Thursdays 7pm – 9pm

OTHER AREAS West Lothian Breast Cancer Support Group Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel 01506 655739

To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details www.konectdirectory.co.uk

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

What’s On & Useful Info Thursday 14th November Kidzeco Christmas Fayre Kidzeco, 11 King Street, Bathgate 6 to 9pm, lots of stalls, nibbles and drinks. Saturday 16th November Hibernation Box Making at Polkemmet Country Park The Park’s hedgehogs are all fed and happy but need somewhere to sleep over the winter. Why don’t we make them a cosy hibernation box to put outside? Suitable for: 5-11 year olds. Meet: Visitor Centre, Polkemmet Country Park. Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £4.65 per box Sunday 17th November Keltra Crafts Christmas craft class 12pm – 4pm. 54 North Bridge Street, Bathgate. Come join us for an afternoon of making Christmas tree decorations, fabric Christmas stockings and bunting. £40 per person (not including materials) tea, coffee and Christmas nibbles provided. Call 01506 650852. Stone Ring 9th & 10th November (10am - 5pm) - David Tyrrell -Spiritual Awareness Course 23rd & 24th November (10am - 4pm) - World leading crystal healer Philip Permutt - Level 1 Crystal healing course 30th November (10am - 4pm) - Most Haunted Chris Conway's - learn mediumship Please contact the Stone Ring on 07727 178701 for details. Saturday 23rd November Shop Local event in Bathgate See page 40 Sunday 24th November Jack & Jill Market Quality nearly-new baby and children's market. Forty stalls bursting with quality nearly new baby and kids bargains! West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston 10:30am – 1:00pm

November 2013 Saturday 30th November Tree Planting Tree planting is a great way to help our planet and make our wildlife happy. They also look beautiful, and should outgrow us all. Help us to plant young saplings in a grassy area for the future. All tools and trees provided. Wellies and old clothes are a must! Suitable for: All. Meet: Visitor Centre, Polkemmet Country Park. Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £4 per person Sunday 1st December Santa Fun Run West Lothian Run's Fourth Annual Santa Run will take place on Sunday 1st December (weather permitting) this year from Livingston Football Stadium. Toilet facilities will be available from OneLife Leisure. Registration opens at 11.00am with the run starting at appx 12.00pm.There will be a new 5k run this year also. This route is open to all the family and is wheelchair accessible. We hope you can all join us on this day and get into the festive spirit by wearing santa suits. Don't forget the change of venue...just over the bridge from the Civic Centre. For more information and for online registration please visit http://www.westlothianrun.co.uk West Lothian Run is a registered charity started in 2009 providing affordable fun run events for all the family throughout the year. Raise money for your own charities if you like. Currently providing 3 events per year (Easter Run - held at Beecraigs country park, Half Marathon and 2k,7k at Meadow Park Bathgate in August, Santa Fun Run at the Civic Centre Livingston first Sunday in December).

See also Xmas Feature pages for more seasonal events and activities

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

Saturday 7th December Santa’s Parade, Santa’s Grotto, Torchlight Procession and switch on of the Christmas tree lights at The Steelyard. Saturday 7th December Crafty Christmas at Polkemmet Country Park Come and make some homemade craft items for Christmas. Our cosy craft room awaits your crafty skills! Materials provided. Suitable for: All. Meet: Visitor Centre, Polkemmet Country Park. Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £4.15 per person 8th and 15th December Brunch with Santa at the Cairn Hotel Blackburn Road, Bathgate. Kids will receive a present from Santa and be entertained by Alexander the Great magician. Adults £10.95, Children £6.95. 11.30am – 1.30pm Bathgate Regal Community Theatre The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events. A unique venue for your performance, celebration, conference or event, and spaces for classes and workshops. See website at www.bathgateregal.org for complete up to date listing.

Bathgate Library information Simpson Library Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge Street, EH48 1TS Tel 01506 282910 bathgate.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening hours: Mon – Fri 8.30am – 8.00pm Sat: 9.00am – 5.00pm Bookbugs Bookbug West Lothian delivers free story, song and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children in local libraries, working in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust. Bookbug Bathgate is the first Friday of each month, 10.30am – 11.00am in the Simpson Library. The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www.westlothian.gov.uk

Last Post Times Bathgate Post Office 76 North Bridge Street, EH48 4PN. Opening times Mon 8.00 – 17.30 Tues 9.30 – 17.30 Wed - Sat 9.00 – 17.30 Last collection times Mon – Fri 17.30, Saturday 12 noon – at the Post Office Last collection for special deliveries Mon – Fri 17.00, Sat 11.45. Boghall Post Office 11 Elizabeth Drive, Bathgate, EH48 1SH tel 01506 652657 Opening times Mon – Fri 9.00 – 17.30, Sat 9.00 – 12.30 Last collection times Mon – Fri 5pm, Sat 12 noon – at the post office.

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

Index of Advertisers 16 41 44 22 30 6 10 45 13 20 15 25 25 31 31 34 5 46 18 24 28, 29 11 45 26 2 5 22 23

Florist Becky's Flowers Framing Scotframes Funeral Directors Brownings Funeral Directors Furniture Grant's of Bathgate Garage Services Woods Garage Gifts The Kilt Studio Golf Club Ratho Park Golf Club Hairdressers Eva Morrison Facelook Beauty Krop & Co Heating Services Mech A Tech Home Improvements S & S Hotel The Fairway Hotel Hydroponics Sterling Hydroponics Joiner DJMS Fisher's Joinery Kilt Makers The Kilt Studio Laundry Tip Top Laundry Services Locksmith Bathgate Locksmith Minibus Hire W.S. Hamilton Minibus Hire Mobility Med-Ecosse Painter/Decorator Nu Walls Pet Services icare Pet Crematorium Plasterer Nu Walls Plumbing Services B J Fleming Plumbing Services Pool & Spa Pool and Spa Services

Solution October 13 crossword

6 24 41 35 37 14 37 3 30 6 33 7 16 8 39 24 14 6 34 25 21 43 41 43 43

Public House Torphichen Inn Restaurant Ballencrieff - Smith & Jones Bridge Inn Ratho Cairn Hotel Kaim Park The Cottage The Fairway Hotel Security Services A.F.A Fire and Security Soft Furnishings Style Rite Takeaway Baguette Express Lanna's Tea Room Nineteen Twelve Taxi Bluebird Radio Cars Tiler Livingston Tiles Vapour Zen Vapour Venue Cairn Hotel Glenmavis Tavern Veterinary Riverside Veterinary Practice Waste Disposal Clear Site Solutions Windows 1st Choice Glazing DC Double Glazing Xmas Trees Sterling Hydroponics

20 17 19 9 12 8 16 27 34 51 20 15 52 39 20 9 20 45 5 33 37 8

Solution to Sudoku

Accessories Stick & Cane Shop Aerials Aerial Man Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio Beauty Dolled Up Facelook Beauty The Beauty Spot The Toning & Beauty Clinic Building Services David Bathgate Butchers David Stein Butchers Cafe Lanna's Tea Room Nineteen Twelve Car Repairs Car Medic Chips Away Finishing Touch Car Sales Woods Garage Carpet Cleaning Hydro Kleen Carpet Fitter Dean Gemmell Carpet Fitting Charity Action Group Children's Activities Bridge Inn Ratho Cleaning Services Cleaning Doctor Community Facilities Bathgate Partnership Centre Cycle Shop/Repair Pedal Power Dog Grooming Baileys Dog Salon Electrical A.F.A Electrical Estate Agent Aberdein Considine Fireworks Fireworks Factory Whitburn Fitness Curves Bathgate Xcite

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

P no izz w aB op a en r

5 George Place, Bathgate, EH48 1PA

07594 031 420

Open: Mon/Tues/Wed 8am to 6pm, Thurs/Fri 8am to 8pm, Sat 9am to 4pm

Call for collection or delivery

We deliver to Bathgate, Blackburn, Armadale and Whitburn - from £1.50

New offer Breakfast Deal

any hot roll with tea / coffee

£1.40

Pizza ● 7” £3.50 meal deal (incl can of juice & bag of crisps)

● 10” £4.50 ● 12” £6.50

(buy 2 & get 2 cans of juice FREE)

● 16” £9.50 FREE f can o th i w juice izza p y r eve ght Available up bou to 12 noon *single filling roll regular drink

with this advert only

To advertise call Charlene on 07772 941899 or Jenny on 07824 469266

with this advert only 51