APRIL 2020
LOCAL CHARITY:
LOCAL PEOPLE: PARENTING:
– KEEPING SUPPLIES ROLLING
P17 TO OUR APRIL EDITION
O
ur world has changed.
Let’s look out for each other, adhere strictly to guidance on health and social behaviour and pull through this together. Reading through the columns, most of which were written by contributors before “social distancing” was part of our everyday vocabulary, is a reminder of a normality that already seems distant. Every topic is touched in some way by Covid-19, but there will be a new normal eventually. Our local people column on page 17 is a big Thank You to Waz and Assfa who run the Waz’s convenience shop on Goschen Place in Broxburn, for the wonderful way there are helping people at this time. Most of the local businesses whose adverts brighten the pages of this magazine on a regular basis can’t carry on as usual and livelihoods are in danger. Please support local businesses when you can. Check what they are offering - many are adapting and finding different ways to offer their services. Or just hanging on tight until they can trade again. Please lend your support in whatever way you can. Reciprocally, many businesses are reaching out to help with special services and offers to the most vulnerable in our communities.
THIS ISSUE Charity: The Sunday Dinner Lady................. 8 Gardening: Spring Clean Your Pots...........13 Local People: Thank you, Waz and Assfa...............................................................17 Health & Beauty............................................22 Property Matters............................................24 Puzzles...........................................................26 Interiors: Ready for Spring...........................28 What’s On......................................................30 Parenting: Getting Glasses!.........................32 Film Review....................................................34 Clubs & Classes............................................36 Health: Your Bike and You...........................38
Thanks for reading Konect, stay safe through the storm.
Konect is delivered monthly to 7,500 homes and businesses in Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh. Copies are also left at the library, post offices, convenience stores and other locations.
HELEN-JANE SHEARER
CHARLENE GAFFNEY
E: editor@konect.scot
M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot
Editor
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Account Manager
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Anne Wilson with dinner box
“Sunday dinner was always a tradition in my family,” says Winchburgh resident Anne Wilson, aka the Sunday Dinner Lady. “I love a Sunday roast. It brings the family together, and a plate of fresh hot food has an energy about it that you don’t get in the same way with dried and canned food. Dad and mum cooked, and we were all together to relax and eat, talk and laugh.” So when she heard about a friend who supplements the excellent work that the food banks do in East Lothian by providing fresh ingredients for a weekly Sunday roast, she immediately wanted to do the same for families in West Lothian.
Since delivering the first box of dinner ingredients in January, Anne has been inundated with requests – and very positive feedback from the recipients – and is currently at capacity of providing 20 dinners per Sunday. A box consists of everything you need to make a hearty roast from scratch: one fresh chicken (supermarketwrapped, so cooking instructions are included), potatoes, three different vegetables, yorkshire puddings, gravy granules and a dessert. The size is suitable for the size of the receiving family. The servings are generous, and there are usually enough leftovers for a dinner on Monday night too or to freeze for another day. A vegetarian option is available on request, as are gluten free and dairy free products for families that have these intolerances. “My family and I went through a hard time financially a few years back, and it was only through the support of friends and family that we survived. Gestures like inviting us out for a meal when money was really tight, meant the world to us. I want to be able to give that hope to others 8 | BROXBURN
who are struggling; you can come through this.” In many cases, it’s a temporary period of difficulty, nothing to be embarrassed about, but a time when a helping hand can make all the difference between getting through or getting further behind.
There is so much about this that is good. Fresh food is logistically very hard for food banks to provide so for those relying on them, an injection of vibrant fresh vegetables offers a wonderful energy to start the week. “Many of the families we deliver to mention how much a good Sunday roast means to them, so to be able to offer it to their family, or to be able to invite friends round and share a hearty meal, means a lot.” This gesture of kindness, one meal, can give hope and a lift with benefits that last far beyond the time it takes to digest dinner! While it might sound quite simple – assemble ingredients for a dinner and deliver it – there is a huge amount of work behind the scenes. Anne works full time as a sales team manager at Sky, has a husband and three children; the Sunday Dinners are all done in her “spare” time! She needs to be constantly applying for sources of funding and donations. Currently it is mostly funded by generous individuals donating on the Go Fund Me page as well as some local supermarkets who donate fresh vegetables on a Friday night. Anne collects the donations, purchases the chicken and any other items needed, assembles the boxes, then Saturday is spent delivering. Anne has just been joined by two more volunteers to help out, including Tricia and
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Mo who both work at Almondvale Stadium. Mo is a chef and is providing recipe ideas to include for the leftovers, and Tricia is helping with admin and deliveries. Fauldhouse & Breich Valley Community Development Trust / Timebank members now do the deliveries to Fauldhouse area on a Friday. “My teenagers also help assemble the boxes and come with me to deliver, since they too are fans of a Sunday roast!� she says. DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO WOULD BENEFIT FROM A SUNDAY DINNER BOX? You can directly refer, or self-refer to the Sunday Dinner Lady. Find the facebook page @Sundaydinnerlady and message them to start the process. You do not need to be in receipt of foodbank vouchers to receive a fresh Sunday dinner box.
Ultimately it will most likely be based on referrals from other organisations, but at this stage they are happy to help as many people as they can via direct referrals. CAN YOU HELP? Monetary donations are needed to buy the ingredients and to be able to increase the number of dinners provided each week. Please donate via Go Fund Me: www.gofundme.com/f/westlothian-fresh-sunday-dinners
Can you help assemble boxes or deliver on a Friday or Saturday? Please email wlfreshdinnerboxes@gmail.com or message them via the facebook page www.facebook.com/Sundaydinnerlady For more information visit www.facebook.com/sundaydinnerlady
**Sunday Dinner Lady - West Lothian Fresh Sunday Dinner Boxes is not yet a registered charity but status will be applied for as soon as possible. This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting Anne in Livingston. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines
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Spring clean
pots
As garden plants start to grow again it’s good to cheer up your existing planted pots and it’s a relatively easy job but will reward you with a great show.
Spring Pot Clean
Some pots may be beyond salvage, so empty them onto the compost heap, borders or the council compost bin. Some may have a few happy plants and just need a freshen up (see below) and some extra companions – you could pop in some violas or pansies. Hopefully most of your creations will still be looking fairly good and just need a lick and a polish.
water and air into the pot. Use a handfork or trowel to loosen and remove the top 2” (50mm) of compost and replace it with fresh compost. Add some ‘controlled release’ fertiliser that will feed the plants for several months and they’ll delight you for the next two months before you can put out the tender summer performing plants.
The plants in these pots need air and water as well as food in the existing compost. After a year the surface of the compost will have become compacted, restricting the flow of
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging
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The only man with a reliable supply of toilet roll for miles around is busy, of course, when I call in to find out how he does what the big supermarkets have all failed spectacularly to do. “It’s a team effort,” explains Waz Abbas, of Waz’s convenience store in Broxburn. “Without the team here all working together with my wife Assfa and myself, it wouldn’t happen.”
In the strange new world we have entered, toilet roll and dried goods have become restricted items. But there’s nothing strange about Waz’s common sense approach to making sure everyone in the community gets what they need, to the very best of his ability. “From the very beginning of this crisis, I simply didn’t let people walk out with more than one of any of the restricted items,” he explains. It was a native instinct for equity that he didn’t even need to think about. Along with a mindboggling number of trips to keep topping up supplies, this has meant that Waz’s has been a pretty reliable source for the full range of essentials for the good folk of Broxburn. As if that’s not enough, they have also been out and about delivering to people who can’t get into the shop themselves due to being vulnerable or in self isolation. As Assfa explains, it’s predominantly older members of the community falling into this category, who are less likely to be doing an online shop, so Waz’s phone has been ringing off the hook and they’re flat out to fulfil all orders. Waz and Assfa have been running the shop here in Broxburn for 21 years. @KonectMagazines
Originally from Livingston, Waz moved to Broxburn to open the shop 21 years ago, he and Assfa were married here and they have been running the shop ever since, building up a fantastic rapport with the community and clearly thriving on it. When not running the shop, they are involved in helping Syrian civil war refugees, and have travelled to Lebanon and Greece to help out. Perhaps their experiences and what they have seen there made it second nature when it came to knowing how to handling the coronavirus crisis here. “The community has always supported us, and it’s about helping each other. We’ve got a small team of fantastic guys helping out. I’d like to thank them, and all our customers.” says Waz. A delighted customer, who had just been able to find liquid paracetamol at Waz’s for her child who can’t swallow pills, concurred, “These two are just brilliant.” This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after visiting Waz’s Convenience Store in Broxburn, chatting to Waz and Assfa and purchasing potatoes at a time when no other shops had them. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect and lives in West Lothian with her family. BROXBURN | 17
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LIFE COACHING
THE KEY TO A BRILLIANT BLOW OUT A great blow-dry starts with a good cleansing routine.
Finding a shampoo and conditioner that really works for your hair should be recommended by your stylist. I would always start with two shampoos, focusing on the hairline and the areas where dirt builds up. Conditioner will close the cuticle and keep your hair moisturised, protected and smooth should be worked mid lengths to ends. When your hair is wet it can be more prone to snapping so using a gentle brush or tangle teaser is the best way to work through it. Use a product that offers hold, volume and heat protection when getting ready to blow-dry. I would apply to a paddle brush then work it through the hair root to tip. Try drying your roots first brushing the hair upwards, you can tip your head upside down for this but make sure you are brushing the hair upwards until all the roots are dry with a nozzle on your dryer for more direction. This will give natural volume on any length of hair. Finish using a round brush to control the ends, this gives more tension and will help you achieve your desired look whether bouncy or straight! Finish with a light oil; try to avoid high alcohol products as it will weigh the hair down.
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 22 | BROXBURN
Make Space For SUCCESS There are some really important factors that contribute to success when we decide to make changes of any kind whether that’s getting an exciting new job, eating healthily or using that expensive gym membership. The first step is to be completely honest with ourselves about whether or not we really want things to be different in our lives and if this is indeed our dream and not what we think we should want. No matter how often we tell ourselves that we want a new career or a promotion at work, a different dress size or an expanded friendship circle, saying it out loud and turning on the spot three times like a character in a story isn’t going to make anything happen. To reach those goals we need to make a proper plan and check that everything is in place to support us as we dash headlong into declaring that our lives are going to be completely different from everything that went before. The first step is to believe that we can achieve anything we set our minds to and do what it takes to get where we want to be. Whether that’s taking a course, getting up an hour earlier to walk outside or talking to people who work in the field we want to work in. Of course, we can experience setbacks or disappointments along the way but it’s important to remember that these things happen to us all and they represent excellent opportunities to learn and adapt and build our resilience. “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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BROXBURN | 23
PROPERTY MATTERS
Generating an income from your property . . . or have the in-laws move-in! If asked about properties that generate an income, most people would naturally think ‘buy-to-let’ as this is the most popular and well-known type of property investment in the UK.
We all, quite rightly, think of our home as an investment. However the context is quite different from a property bought purely for this purpose and which generates a passive (or active) income.
The demand for self-catering or serviced holiday accommodation continues to rise and with platforms such as Airbnb becoming more widely used and trusted by consumers, many property owners are utilising space in the family home to capitalise on this growing sector of the market. This could be as a result of children (or parents) moving out (or moving on) and spaces that have the potential to be used as guest accommodation become available. Or, in some cases, purpose built ancillary accommodation that has been added or forms part of the original property and is part of a bigger plan to perhaps operate a ‘lifestyle’ business. Other examples of income generating properties are not always as obvious. Some people want or need their home to accommodate their business requirements too. This could be in the form of a yard or outbuildings for storing vehicles, a field for livestock or, more commonly, separate accommodation to use as business premises. We regularly work with clients who have dedicated space within their property or, more typically, a separate detached building that they use to operate a business from. Depending on size, this can be a simple home office above a garage or space to accommodate several members of staff. These types of properties are not always naturally associated with generating an 24 | BROXBURN
income as they are primarily family homes, however changes in lifestyle, changes in working habits and the demands for a healthy work-life balance can often be catered for with certain types of property.
An even less obvious example of property generating an income comes in the form of multi-generational living. It’s widely accepted that people are living longer, and being able to provide private or selfcontained accommodation within a property for an elderly parent has obvious social benefits as well as financial. Children often now choose to stay at home well into their 20’s,even 30’s, to help save for a deposit for their first property and being able to provide independent living space as a starter home not only affords an opportunity for first time buyers to save, but can also mean the ‘bank of mum and dad’ doesn’t have to fund a deposit or help with rental costs. If you are thinking about a change in lifestyle or about generating an income (or saving) from your property, there are many properties that offer this flexibility and provide opportunities that may not always be obvious. We regularly work with buyers who are specifically looking for these types of properties and advise sellers how best to highlight and promote the unique financial benefits of their properties to this market sector. This selection of properties on the market all generate, or have the potential to generate, some form of income or financial benefit to the owners. @KonectMagazines
Woodbank Crofts, Bridgecastle
House with separate 2 bed cottage
Detached 2 bed cottage and garages
Pardovan Holdings, near Linlithgow
House with detached garage and business space
Triple garage with first floor office or living space
Windyknowe Park, Bathgate
House with self-contained guest annexe
Self-contained guest annexe
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 @KonectMagazines
| Tel: 01506 668448 | Social Media:
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FILM REVIEW
PUZZLES
CROSSWORD
Everyone has seen at least one whodunnit. From the many adventures of Hercule Poirot; to the “Murder, she brings” Jessica Fletcher and to Mr “just one more thing” Columbo; within the genre of whodunnit it’s hard to be innovative and come up with new concepts.
Speaking of Daniel Craig, he is absolutely fantastic as Benoit Blanc and I love his southern accent - it’s a nice homage to Poirot. The rest of the cast is fantastic, Ana de Armes is a true standout as Marta. The film is a visual treat, it’s very well shot and the soundtrack that goes along with the visuals really adds to the tone of the film and is just excellent. The whole mystery is just so well done, they never hide information from the audience so that the mystery is smarter than it actually is. Knives Out is flat out fantastic. Even if you have seen every whodunnit, you haven’t seen one like this. 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. 26 | BROXBURN
Solution in the May edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Not private (6), 4. One belonging to a club (6), 9. Endure (7), 10. Book of maps (5), 11. Surplus (5), 12. Design (7), 13. Discontinued (11), 18. Withdraw (7), 20. Living (5), 22. Concerning (5), 23. Outside light (7), 24. Removing (6), 25. Two wheeled vehicles (6). DOWN: 1. Mailed (6), 2. Destroyed by fire (5), 3. Copy (7), 5. Precise (5), 6. Accept as true (7), 7. Climbing up (6), 8. Frantically (11), 14. Interconnected system (7), 15. Clearly (7), 16. Chicken meat (6), 17. Racket game (6), 19. Consumed (5), 21. Perfect (5).
SUDOKU
Solution in the May edition of Konect
Knives Out feels like a breath of fresh air and is one of the best films of last year. Writer director Rian Johnson is well known for trying to subvert people’s expectations and this mindset really adds to what easily could have been an unoriginal and predictable film. Instead, you are on the edge of your seat as you try to figure how all the pieces fit together or how Daniel Craig explains it with a doughnut hole analogy.
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BROXBURN | 27
INTERIORS
Get your home ready
for
Warmer days, new blooming buds, and vocal birds. Nature is dropping plenty of clues that spring is well on the way.
While you’re getting started on your springcleaning duties and the wardrobe overhaul, now’s also the perfect time to pay your interior some attention and freshen it up ready for the warmer months. Here’s 6 ways to bid farewell to winter and liven up your living room in time for spring. Remove the layers - Now’s the ideal time to remove those thick, woollen throws you’ve had on hand for the chilly winter nights. Wash or dry-clean these extra layer and pack them away for when winter rolls around again. If you enjoy snuggling under a blanket of an evening, consider a lighter linen throw with a touch of colour or pattern that ties into your spring look. Refresh your furnishings - In winter, our interiors tend to be shut up more with the heating on and limited amount of fresh air as we bunker down. Now that we can open up the house more regularly to allow the spring breeze to enter, it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your furnishings too. Both leather and fabric upholstery can benefit from a regular clean. You’ll notice the material appears more vibrant, it will smell fresher, and you can get rid of any unsightly stains. Swap out heavy rugs - The feeling of a thick woollen rug underfoot in winter is sublime, but with warmer days on the way you could consider livening up your living room with a lighter rug or nothing at all. This gives you an opportunity to have your rugs professionally cleaned as well as shop for a new look! 28 | BROXBURN
Add a touch of green The indoor plant trend looks like it’s here to stay and with good reason. Indoor plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your living room and freshen up the space. Dress your living room with a few pots or accessorise with large leafy branches in a generous vase. Accessorise with seasonal items - Accessories are the most cost-effective way to style your interiors seasonally. Change up your colour scheme with some spring cushions. Invest in a collection of beautiful vases for your spring blooms. Change up your artwork or replace lamp shades from dark and moody to bright and fresh. Before you mix in your new season’s accessories, remember to declutter and store away or donate those you haven’t used. Freshen up your playlist - To get you in the styling mood, freshen up your playlist with some spring tunes on Alexa. Music is a great way to reinforce the feeling you’re trying to create in your interiors. It also has a profound effect on your own attitude, giving you a little extra spring in your step this Springtime. This feature was contributed by Derek Lamb. Derek runs Harvey Bruce Interiors, showroom in Uphall at G4 Williamson’s Garden Centre Mains Holdings, Uphall EH52 6PA. Free Parking, wheelchair/buggy friendly. Also online shop at www.harveybruce.co.uk @KonectMagazines
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WHAT’S ON BROXBURN APRIL 2020 Spring is getting off the ground in West Lothian, but at time of going to print it’s uncertain what events and venues will be open this month. So instead of a list of published events, we invited a local business on the front line of to give us their perspective: We are a small local business in West Lothian and our team of seven are struggling. Covid-19 is impacting us greatly, we are fighting to survive this storm. But bookings are low, we don’t know what will happen next. Talking to other business owners everyone is in the same boat. Your local businesses are struggling. Everyone is fighting to survive. Many are utilising the internet so they can provide a service to you within your home. But like us, there are many businesses this won’t work for. Whilst this is hard for businesses, it is also hard on parents. But, getting outdoors is shown to improve mental health for all. Early evidence suggests the virus doesn’t live long in the woods. Forgo the parks and play in the woods instead. Create art, build dens and explore. Don’t go in groups, take your own children only. Whilst we understand why people are scared to go out, we implore you, research and read, be critical, be informed, evaluate the risk to yourself and your family. If you feel it is appropriate, get out and support small businesses. They may not be there in the weeks and months to come if you do not. Contributed by Carol Murdoch (Love Outdoor Learning - www.loveoutdoorlearning.com) As April arrives, a variety of fun family events that had been scheduled to take place across West Lothian this month have had to be cancelled or postponed. As always, we advise you to check out the Visit West Lothian website or the individual attraction for the latest details and to find out about any cancellations before making a special journey. Follow VWL on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian: facebook.com/VisitWestLothian twitter.com/SeeWestLothian instagram.com/VisitWestLothian
Check what local businesses are offering in terms of online learning and activities for children while schools are closed. Many local businesses and individuals have sprung into action to provide help and support in alternative ways. Check out Facebook @LockdownLearning which is run by a West Lothian teacher / tutor. 30 | BROXBURN
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PARENTING
Getting glasses! When my littlest came home from nursery after a preschool eye check with a letter saying we should take her to an optician…to say I was surprised would be an understatement. She could see just fine. She was getting on great at preschool. I would have known if she needed glasses… wouldn’t I?
But I also knew if she did need glasses this was going to be a big milestone for her. And our first step was taking her to the right place. Somewhere that would make the experience positive and where I felt I could trust what they were doing. So after a glowing recommendation we took her to Clearvue Opticians in Currie. We talked about everything that might happen before we went, and watched an episode of Topsy and Tim where Tim gets glasses. We arrived in plenty of time so that she could check the place out and she had good fun spotting Harry Potter-style glasses. But despite our best efforts when she sat down in an unfamiliar room full of crazy looking instruments she took one look at me and said “Mummy, I’m a bit scared”.
My heart was in a puddle on the floor. I wanted to scoop her up and do my mummy thing. The only thing that allowed me to stand on the sidelines was seeing that she was in 32 | BROXBURN
such good hands; the optometrist Jonathan was absolutely amazing with her. I’d been sold on the place after reading he had a special qualification in Paediatric Eye Care but nothing can tell you what a person will really be like. He was so calm and talked to her (and us) about everything he was doing…and answered all of our endless questions. By the time all was said and done she was so happy with herself. Now if it were me facing the prospect of getting glasses I’d be thinking of it as a fun opportunity in accessorizing. I wasn’t so sure that’s how she’d see it. I was worried about her being vulnerable to teasing, about them being uncomfortable or her not wanting to wear them. She’s only 4 but…fourmones are a real thing! In the end I think if it had turned out she didn’t need glasses she would have been disappointed.
We headed out to The Centre, Livingston to get her kitted out and she now has her very own glasses case and cleaning cloth. And it’s amazing how many “glasses buddies” she has found in the family and at preschool to make her feel like she is part of a special club. As it turns out the biggest problem has been perfecting the art of wearing glasses and an Alice band at the same time! I’ve never had glasses so this has been a learning curve - for both of us! I’m so glad we did a bit of research into local opticians and took her to just the right place to start her on this journey. 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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COMMUNITY
Broxburn United Sports Club: 10 th Birthday Broxburn United Sports Club plays a massive role in the local community. The club turns 10 this summer and has a lot to celebrate.
“Today we are facing challenging times as a club and community. As a charitable organisation we support and provide many services to the community, including football lets, indoor lets, boxing, disability sport, health and well-being services, outreach work, work experience, after school clubs and our Alive & Kickin group. These services have ceased to operate until further notice due to covid-19, but staff will continue to work as hard as they can, in preparation for us opening back up. We will continue to be active on social media, sharing our news with you all. Please like us on facebook, then like and share our work to promote BUSC - your community club.�
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CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... BROXBURN 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. Strathbrock P’ship Community Centre (entrance B) Broxburn, 2nd & 4th Tuesday 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 info or request someone to meet you outside before meeting. All welcome, no appointments needed. Groups also in Livingston and Blackburn. BROXBURN GENTLE WALKS Meeeting at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Broxburn, Every Wednesday at 10.00am. To find out more contact Scott Lundrigan on 07493 895554. THE MEMORY CAFÉ Strathbrock Centre, Community Wing, Entrance B on the fourth Tuesday of each month 10:00-11:30. Come for the whole time or just drop in for a cuppa. For everyone with Dementia and their carers. Contact Allison on 07765 243362 or the Alzheimer Scotland office on 01506 533108 for more information. ACOUSTIC MUSIC/SONGWRITING SESSIONS Informal sessions aimed at encouraging musicians (adults) of all levels and abilities to share their ideas, techniques and songs with others in informal friendly environment. The sessions are held on the first and third Thursdays of the month from 7.30-9.30 pm, £2 per session, in Strathbrock Community Centre, Entrance B, Room GP3. For further information please contact Annie at 01506 853593 or check out our Facebook page Acoustic Music/Song Writing Session Broxburn”. ACTIVITY GROUP - NEW GROUP Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Join our new activity group, a mix of quizzes, games, tea and chat. Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Weekly on Thursdays 10am-12pm. For more information contact Cyrenians OPAL (Older People Active Lives) on 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot DE-STRESS, GET FIT AND LEARN HOW TO RELAX WITH YOGA Mondays - Adult Yoga Classes, all levels welcome. Broxburn United
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Football Club, Greendykes Road, EH52 5 BP. Claire Chant 9.30am -11am, drop in £7, Tel: 07766 602629. Maxine Burke 7pm-8pm, drop in £6, Tel: 01506 843091. SCOUTING Come and join in the scouting adventure at our local Beaver, Cub or Scout groups. Meeting once a week at Broxburn Scout hut on Station Road to play games, plan camping trips and earn badges. • Beavers (Age 6-8) Tue night 6pm • Cubs (Age 8-10.5) Tue night 7.15pm • Scouts (Age 10.5-14) Fri night 7.30pm Groups are open to all, come along for a free trial!! Email enquiries to jo.cook1403@gmail.com GIRL GUIDING Rainbow Unit (girls aged 5-7) takes place on Thurs nights and Brownie Unit (girls aged 7-10) on Mon and Wed nights. For more information please visit www. girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com BROXBURN WOODCRAFT CLUB A members Club located within the community wing of the Strathbrock Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. We have a fully equipped workshop supporting all aspects of woodworking including woodturning, pyrography, scrollsawing, the making of toys, furniture, musical instruments, walking sticks and more. For further information use the Contact Us facility on the website: www.broxburnwoodcraftclub.org. Our hours are Mon & Tues 9am-9pm, Wed & Fri 9am-12 noon and 6pm -9pm, Thurs 9am-3pm and 6:00pm-9pm. LIVINGSTON HIGHLAND SOCIETY Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189 W Main St, Broxburn. Monthly ceilidhs on a Saturday evening between October and April. Each month we have a different band and guest artist. New members welcome, contact John Sneddon on 01501 770911 for dates and more details. LADIES ONLY OUTDOOR FITNESS SESSIONS Albyn Park, Greendykes Road. Mondays 7-8pm, with Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) and Burn-It. Doesn’t matter your size or level of fitness. BUSC and Burn-It aim to create a fun fitness session based outside to enable ladies to meet their goals. For more info contact Leigh Lauder on 01506 858057 or email l.lauder@busc.org.uk ALIVE & KICKIN Albyn Park, Greendykes Road. A programme for older members of the community to remain active. Run by Broxburn United Sports Club and includes: WALKING FOOTBALL Tues 10.30am to 12pm, £3 per session with tea/ coffee after.
WALKING CLUB on Thurs 10am. Community walk starting and ending at Albyn Park. Free, everyone welcome. Invigor8 MULTI SPORTS Thurs 2-3.30pm £2 per session. Try new sports and learn new skills. Each session is 1 hour of the new sport plus an inspirational/ informative chat for 30mins. For more info contact Leigh Lauder at Albyn Park 01506 858057 or email l.lauder@ busc.org.uk BROXBURN SWIMMING CLUB We cater for swimmers from age 3 upwards and cover all levels of swimming from our Learn to Swim programme up to our top competitive squad. LEARN TO SWIM: Thurs night (6:00-7:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool. SQUAD SWIMMING: Mon & Tues (7:30-9:00), Thurs (7:00-9:00) and Fri (6:00-8:00)- Broxburn Swimming Pool. For further information please contact: broxburn_asc@hotmail.com CHURCH STREET BABY & TODDLER GROUP 2 Church Street, Broxburn EH52 5EL. Every Thursday from 09.15-11.00 and is based in the Church Hall behind Broxburn Parish Church. Suitable for children from birth to 3 years. Each session costs £2 per and includes a healthy snack for the children and a cuppa & biscuit for the grown-ups. Visit our Facebook page for more information www.facebook.com/ BroxburnChurchStreetBabyandToddler CRAFT CUPPA We are a small group of crafters who meet on Saturday afternoons 1-3 pm at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Community Wing, entrance B. We meet to share expertise, have a natter and a cuppa. We would welcome anyone who wants to come along. For more info please email craftycuppaclub@mail.com or just come along!
The BUSY Project
• Pizza Wednesday: lunch club, Broxburn Academy. Pizza, music and games. S1-S6, Base 6 opposite guidance. FREE! • Engage Youth Club: P7-S6 Wednesday 6-8pm @ The Open Door. Games, food, prayer & Bible study. FREE! • Drop In: Thursday lunch group, Broxburn Academy. Discuss Faith and God, milkshakes & games. S1-S6, M13. FREE! • Youth Café: P7-S6 Friday 1-3pm @ Uphall South Church Hall. Games, trips & Cooking etc. 50p Check out our website – www.thebusyproject.org.uk or email@thebusyproject.org.uk
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WEST LOTHIAN IWAMA RYU AIKIDO CLUB Broxburn Black Belt Academy, EH52 5BB, Broxburn. Dedicated to the traditional study and practice of Aikido through ken, jo and taijutsu. The club meets at Broxburn BlackBelt Academy Thursdays 8pm to 9:30pm. Come along and give it a try. For information please call 07784 006851 wliwamaryu@gmail.com BROXBURN GYMNASTICS CLUB Broxburn Academy’s Dance Studio, Broxburn. Fun filled gymnastics class for children in P1-P7. Hourly classes on Saturday mornings 10am (Beginner), 11am (Intermediate), Advanced 12pm. First week is a free no obligation trial. For more information please contact Gemma on 07775 900624 or broxburngymnasticsclub@yahoo.co.uk w: www.broxburngymnastics.com BROXBURN SCOTTISH WOMEN’S INSTITUTE We meet in Broxburn Community Centre at 7pm on the 2nd Monday of each month from September to May. For more information please contact wlfedsec@hotmail.com, see the SWI website www.theswi.org.uk or phone 01506 670436.
UPHALL SLIMMING WORLD South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30. Please call Lisa on 07736 316400. BINNY GOLF CLUB Oatridge Golf Course, Ecclesmachan. 9 hole course in a stunning mature parkland location. Club house with changing facilities, coffee / soft drinks & snacks. Active programme of events & medal competitions throughout the year. REGAL YOUTH DRAMA Uphall Community Centre, Tuesdays 7pm – 9pm. Starting 23rd Oct 2018. For more information contact admin@ regalyouthcompany.com. SLIMMING WORLD South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30. Please call Lisa on 07736 316400. WEST LOTHIAN BAKING CLUB We meet every 6th Monday 7.30 – 9.30pm at Uphall Community Centre to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £3 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@ yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook. RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5-7 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7-10 years old) take place on Wednesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10-14 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www. girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
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ST ANDREW’S COURT ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in St Andrew’s Court, Uphall, weekly Wednesdays (10am-12midday). 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 or email opal@cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot.
UPHALL PLAYGROUP Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN. For children aged 24 months and over. Open Monday to Friday 9:15 - 11:30am during term time. Choose 1, 2, 3 or 4 sessions per week. Each session costs £5 and includes a healthy snack. See www.uphallplaygroup.co.uk or tel 01506 854451 for further information.
WEST LOTHIAN U3A (University of the 3rd Age) A group of retired people who like to keep their minds active by learning in an informal environment. We meet in Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall on the third Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m., when we have speakers on a variety of topics. U3A also has a number of interest Groups who also meet once a month, including Art Appreciation, Singing for Pleasure, History, Walking and Cinema. New members are always welcome – please contact the Membership Secretary Helen on 01506 655976. You will find a list of speakers and a full list of Groups on our website u3asites.org.uk/westlothian
WINCHBURGH HULLABALOO Music classes for babies and toddlers with their carers. At Hullabaloo the focus is on having lots of fun with colourful props, toys and musical instruments. Through favourite songs and rhymes, children will develop early musical skills including a sense of beat, rhythm and pitch. Wednesdays 11.00am (term time) Winchburgh Community Centre. E: info@mcmillanyoungmusicians.co.uk W: www.mcmillanyoungmusicians.co.uk/ hullabaloo.
WINCHBURGH MORNING ART GROUP We meet in the Winchburgh Community Centre every Thursday (9.30 - 11.30) and we have regular tutors. If interested, please contact the Secretary on 07980 321989 or 01506 859422. BOUNCE BACK TO NETBALL (WINCHBURGH WARRIORS) Bounce Back to Netball is a Netball Scotland initiative to get women 18+ back into sport. Netball is great fun, fantastic exercise and a fab way to meet new people! Suitable for all levels of fitness/ ability, even complete beginners! Join our friendly group of ladies at either of our weekly sessions which are held at Winchburgh Primary School. Mondays 7.30-9pm (£4) and Fridays 7-8pm (£3) Sessions are drop in with no commitment to attend every week and your first night is free. Find us on Facebook or email us at winchburghwarriors@gmail.com for further info.
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.
DECHMONT GUIDE UNIT (girls aged 10-14 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.
DECHMONT 50+ ARTS GROUP This group of enthusiastic amateur painters meet every Wednesday from 13.30 - 16.00 in Dechmont Memorial Hall to practice their art and socialise. There are a few membership places available and new members would be more than welcome irrespective of their painting skills. For more details email dechmontartgroup@gmail.com or visit their website at dechmontartgroup.wix. com/home.
OTHER AREAS GENTLE YOGA Dechmont Memorial Hall, Monday night 6.30-7.45pm at Dechmont Memorial Hall. Contact Claire Chant 07766 602629.
CHOOSE YOU – YOGA STUDIO AND WELLNESS HUB Wide range of classes at our permanent wellness studio in Carmondean. Yoga classes include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Seasonal & Vinyasa flow. As well as yoga for kids and teens. We also offer Tai- Chi. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page www.facebook. com/chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824195 or email info@chooseyouyoga. ECCLESMACHAN SWRI Meets in Ecclesmachan Village Hall on the 1st Thursday of every month from August (except January and July). Meetings starts at 7.15 pm and last until about 9.30 pm. Anyone interested in coming along would be made very welcome as we are always pleased to meet interested parties as visitors or perhaps as potential new members. To come as a visitor costs £6 or to join as a full member costs £25 for the year. Tea and Raffle each month cost £4. 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
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HEALTH
Your Bike and You “I want to ride my bicycle; I want to ride my bike” sang Freddie Mercury of the rock group Queen back in 1978. He’s not alone as each year we in Britain cycle about 5 billion kilometres. To prevent injury, it is important to ensure that your bike is the best fit for you so what should you look for? Frame size - When you straddle the bicycle frame with your feet flat on the ground you should be able to comfortably clear the crossbar or “top tube” of a gent’s bike. Ladies who want a bike with the traditional “stepthrough” frame can get a good indication of suitable frame size by trying a gent’s bike first. Once you have an appropriate frame size, think about the 3 points of contact the human body has with the bike – hands, feet and backside. Our body weight is spread over these relatively small points so correct positioning will improve comfort when cycling. Saddle Height - Your saddle should be high enough that your knee is almost, but not completely, straight at the bottom of each pedal stroke. Riding with a “soft” knee like this ensures that the knee is not repeatedly overextended with each revolution of the pedals as this would stress the ilio-tibial band, stress the hamstring tendons and increase loading on the patellofemoral joint all resulting in knee pain. Riding with a saddle which is too low will inhibit leg power making you an inefficient cyclist and will also stress the quadriceps tendon again giving knee pain. Your saddle is too low if you can get both feet flat on the ground while sitting on the saddle. Saddle size - Saddles come is 3 standard widths and it is well worth ensuring that you have the best fit for your anatomy as determined by the width of your ischial tuberosities or “sit bones”. 38 | BROXBURN
Handlebars - Handlebar height depends on personal preference but remember that lower bars require more body flexibility and promote a more aerodynamic riding style whereas higher bars reduce spinal flexion and therefore reduce neck, back and wrist strain. Handlebars should be the same width as your shoulders. If wider, then arms and chest create a large area for wind resistance to slow down speed of travel but if arms are too close together it becomes harder to breathe properly. Pedals - Toe clips keep the ball of the foot over the pedal axle for an efficient cycling technique. The position of the toe clips is important. If rotated towards the bike there will be extra rotation of the shin bone resulting in knee pain, particularly around the knee cap. If the toe clips are rotated away from the bike frame this causes external rotation of the shin giving pain on the inside of the knee. Get on Your Bike! - An ill-fitting bike can be the cause of knee, back, neck, shoulder, and wrist pain. Time spent ensuring the anatomy of your bike is a best fit for your own anatomy will help you stay on your bike to get fit, have fun and avoid unnecessary pain. We all want that! The health column is contributed by McNaughton Physiogrange, Edinburgh www.physiogrange.co.uk @KonectMagazines
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