ur W i s h i n ge r sa lal ov e r y read
and a
! r a e Y w e N y Happ
LOCAL HISTORY: PARENTING:
FEATURE:
PLUS: GARDEN PROJECT, PROPERTY MATTERS, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside! The monthly community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn & Winchburgh
TO OUR DECEMBER EDITION
THIS ISSUE
I
t’s been our 10th year of producing Konect, and I can honestly say every month is a still new discovery, with constant change in the area and the endless energy and creativity of groups and individuals always pushing forward. Some of the topics we’ve covered this year include Riding for the Disabled; a Livingston coffee roastery; a programme for providing emergency accommodation in family homes for homeless young people; new concept play cafe for tots; tackling loneliness amongst old people by running Sunday tea parties; suicide prevention and bereavement counselling; an organic farm supplying food banks with fresh produce; research into cancer diagnostics; bringing old and young together in the community; a cafe for dogs; flying model planes; the local environment…. and much, much more, all hugely diverse topics but the common thread is that it’s happening here! There is always far more to write about than I ever have time or space to do, but I hope you enjoy the features that do make it into the magazine. As ever, feedback is very welcome. We don’t produce a January magazine, so we’ll be back with a February magazine. Thank you for reading Konect this year, and we wish all readers, local business and organisations a very happy holiday season and a peaceful new year.
P34 Feature: Rock Ramp at Howden Weir.......... 8 Gardening: Succulent Houseplants...........13 Charity: Older People Active Lives.............14 Health & Beauty............................................16 Property Matters............................................22 Film Review....................................................26 Parenting: The Xmas To Do List..................32 Puzzles...........................................................33 Local History: Our Very Own X-Files...........34 What’s On......................................................35 Clubs & Classes............................................36
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
@KonectMagazines
Account Manager
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Howden Weir:
The UK's Largest Rock Ramp
It looks like a natural rock fall in the river, but is actually a sophisticated piece of engineering work. In the River Almond at Howden Bridge, existing islands across the face of the weir Livingston, the historic Howden Weir has to form a waterfall-like structure made up of pools, runs and easy leaps. Over been sensitively transformed into an 85 metre long rock ramp - the largest in the UK. 9000 tonnes of rock was used, much of it recycled from other developments in A rock ramp is a series of pools and riffles West Lothian. The rocks are embedded created by strategically arranging rocks in concrete to stop them being swept in the weir to allow fish to pass over and away in bad weather when the river’s flow migrate upstream. is rough, and two passages have been With the cooperation of several designed so that there is always water in organisations - including a local family of them, even during times of low rainfall. One otters who have a vested interest in the of the passages has a faster flow than the return of the fish and a healthy river - the other, so different fish species can choose work was completed over summer 2019. whether they like the fast or the slower It will allow the iconic Atlantic salmon and flow to climb the ramp. Pools at intervals sea trout from the North Sea to migrate up provide a space for fish to rest and hide the Almond to spawn after their sojourn in under the rocks from predators. A huge the ocean. Along with other species they amount of work went into preserving the will re-colonise and rejuvenate the river existing islands with the trees and shrubs eco-system, bringing other wildlife such as established on them, as well as keeping invertebrates, otters and kingfishers. track of the wildlife on the banks of the river Howden Weir was originally built to power a during the construction work; one family of otters in particular remained totally involved water wheel for a grain mill, and then later on site, playing in the rocks each evening the New Calder Paper Mill which produced brown wrapping paper here from the 1800s. after the workers finished. But for the past 200 years it has been a The River Almond used to have the dubious barrier to fish attempting to migrate. distinction of being the most polluted river in Scotland, thanks to the industrial The new rock ramp was built between 8 | BROXBURN
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past of the area through which it flows. A lot of cleaning up has been done over the years and wildlife is gradually returning. In migration season (May to October) you can observe fish jumping weirs but their success rate isn’t as high as it should be - they’ve been filmed at Mid Calder Weir continually hitting the rocks and getting exhausted. The cumulative impact of all the weirs on the River Almond means that very few fish are making it to the upstream sections and tributaries. Fish passes were constructed on some of the weirs a long time ago but are not working well. So the Howden Weir Rock Ramp is just one of a series of projects being undertaken by RiverLife: Almond & Avon, to continue to improve the health of the rivers. The first barrier fish encounter is the Faira-Far Weir at Cramond, where the Almond flows into the Forth. Work is also planned for the weirs at Mid Calder; Kirkton Weir at Almond Valley Heritage Centre, the Rugby Club Weir in Livingston; and Dowies Weir. For each of the different sites the best option for easing fish passage has been identified.
The Forth is an iconic landmark for Scotland; the Estuary and Firth, along with its tributaries, have driven industry over the centuries. The Forth catchment spans a vast area covering over 3000km² and is home to roughly 25% of Scotland’s population together with a wide range of wildlife. From Dunbar and Fife Ness in the East to Balquhidder in the West, to Kinross in the North and the Pentlands in the South, the Forth catchment is vast and includes all rivers which flow into the Firth of Forth and Forth Estuary.
RiverLife: Almond & Avon Project is an ambitious programme of works. It is a partnership project between the Forth Rivers Trust, West Lothian Council & City of Edinburgh Council, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, SEPA Water Environment Fund, The Scottish Government, West Lothian & City of Edinburgh Councils.
The projects not only benefit wildlife but also the communities connected to them. A large part of RiverLife’s remit is community engagement. Tree planting, river bank restoration and riverside furniture repair work has been delivered, as well as activities such as guided walks, invasive species identification and documentation, and the popular primary school education programme Fish in the Classroom. If you would like to get involved in river conservation and restoration, there is always something going on for volunteers and RiverLife would be delighted to hear from you. Please visit RiverLife:Almond & Avon at www.river-life.org.uk, follow on twitter at @myRiverLife and on facebook through the Forth Rivers Trust page. This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines
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Succulent houseplants are hot! As we come into our homes from the garden at this time of year there is a great opportunity to ‘garden’ with houseplants.
Succulent plants, which include cacti, are adapted to desert conditions, very hot and very cold but always bright light. Their amazingly varied architectural shapes have made them the stars of the houseplant world at the moment, especially favoured by the Millennials who are now getting into gardening. Arranging a group of them in a large bowl is very creative and makes a dramatic display in our homes. It is important to restrict your choice of plants to succulents that enjoy the same conditions. A layer of gravel at the bottom of your waterproof
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bowl will allow excess water to be kept in reserve and not drown the roots. Use a special compost for cacti and succulents, remove the pots from your plants and plant into the compost. You can use a thin layer of gravel on the surface to make your display more attractive. We showed these bowls at Gardening Scotland in 2017 and they have lived on the windowsill in our conservatory since then. We keep the compost fairly dry and give a weak feed from March to August. The display remains dramatic and bold! The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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The festive season is upon us once more and for most of us this is a happy time when we are out shopping for our nearest and dearest, stocking up on the food for the Christmas dinner and catching up with work colleagues, family and friends.
Joyful Christmas music is playing, there are decorations and beautiful lights all around and the numerous adverts on the TV tell us “holidays are coming” and that this “it’s the most wonderful time of the year”.
Unfortunately for many this is not the case and this time of year can be the most difficult, reminding us of a time when we had family and friends who sat around the table eating together, laughing, joking, pulling Christmas crackers, telling silly jokes and wearing party hats. Last year Age Scotland reported 230,000 older people in the UK would spend at least one day over the Christmas period alone. More astonishing than this was that 530,000 over 65’s were not looking forward to the season sighting it as “just another day”. Many of these people have lost loved ones, for some their families have moved away and others are isolated purely due to poor health and mobility. 14 | BROXBURN
Trying to re-connect with people in your community can seem daunting in your 30’s or 40’s but at 70 or 80 years old in this digital age meeting new people and making friends can seem impossible. Self-confidence can be low and often we hear questions like: Who makes friends at our age? Where can I go to socialise or meet people? How would I get there? At Older People, Active Lives our volunteers work alongside people age 60+ in West Lothian to build up their confidence, enabling them to socialise, get out more, try new things, re-connect with their community and generally enjoy life. The service provides weekly/ fortnightly one to one support either face to face or via the telephone, dependent on the needs of the individual. Whether it is getting out for a walk, using public transport, joining the local library, getting along to a local group or simply just some light conversation we can help.
In addition to the one-toone support we also have 13 community groups and anyone over the age of 60 is welcome. Activities vary from entertainers, speakers, afternoon teas, games, quizzes and much more.
“You’re never too old to have some fun” If you would like to find out more about the OPAL Service and how it may be able to help you or someone you know or if you would like to enquire about volunteering then drop in to our office at 27 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PG, call 01506 815 815 or email us at opal@cyrenians.scot
This article was contributed by the Cyrenians OPAL service, 27 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PG. Cyrenians is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), registered charity SC011052. @KonectMagazines
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LIFE COACHING
YOU, BUT A LITTLE BIT EXTRA …
It’s always hard to come up with ideas to elevate your everyday hair for the party season. My trouble is I always worry it looks too ‘done’ and i end up feeling a bit self conscious. I like a style that I feel comfortable wearing, nothing too high maintenance, but I still want it to look like it’s actually done…you know?
I’ve figured over the years what works for me and my clients in terms of ticking these boxes, effortless style yet maximum appeal. My top advice is wear your hair in way that makes you feel good, and feel like yourself, then elevate it to the next level. It may be that you tie a length of leather around your ponytail and add some curls, or an embellished headband to some wavy locks. Check out asos.com for some gold slides which are ideal for dressing up a little bob, maybe if you wear it messy you could make it more sleek? Ballerina buns work with almost very outfit, maybe tie a velvet ribbon in a bow to compliment. I also think it’s super important to feel comfortable in what your wear and how you wear it so don’t over do it, don’t over think it, just do what you do and then add some! Simple!
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 16 | BROXBURN
Sparkle and SHINE... All the glossy magazine covers at this time of year show images of people in sparkly clothes going to some imaginary Christmas party. I don’t know about you but I don’t have a life full of opportunities to dress up in party clothes.
This year I have decided that I am going to wear something sparkly every day in December to brighten up these dark winter days. I love glitz and sparkle, but when I started to hunt through cupboards and drawers to see what I had stashed away over the years, even I was surprised at how much glitter was in there. Lovely shiny things that it never occurred to me to wear and I shudder to think how much I have spent over the years buying outfits for a life that’s simply not mine. I’m sure I’m not alone in this habit of ‘saving things for good’ and this simple exercise has reminded me that the only day we are guaranteed is the one we are living today so why not make the best of every one of them? The act of choosing something sparkly to wear in the morning has given me a little moment of mindfulness every day, a moment to shift my focus onto the day ahead instead of my usual habit of dashing about in the morning, grabbing a cup of coffee and rushing out of the door. “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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ways to snack and slim As evenings draw in, do you sometimes feel that your healthy eating habits go out of the window? Here is how to enjoy your favourite treats over the festive season – and still fit into your party wear. Value for money, quality dance products including shoes, patterns, swords, music, accessories, books & gifts All you need for Highland at the lowest prices We are based in East Calder so email to arrange collection and avoid postal costs! Contact us at staff@highlanddanceshop.com Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com
Dial-A-Bus from Dechmont
The Dial-A-Bus service provides a personal door-through-door shopping service from Dechmont on a Wednesday afternoon and a Thursday morning. The service is designed for older people and people of all ages with limited mobility. The bus will pick you up at your home and will set you down at the The Centre, Livingston or ASDA or Morrisons. You will have between 1 and 2 hours to do your shopping, meet friends or have a coffee and then the service returns you to take you home. The driver will take your shopping into your home if required. FIRST TRIP FREE
For more information please telephone 01506 633953 9am- 4.30pm or follow us @handicabs.org.uk 18 | BROXBURN
1. Fill up your fridge - Keep your fridge stocked with healthy snacks, such as carrot sticks, sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes and lean meat. Make sure you always have a healthy option when the urge to nibble strikes. 2. Dive into Dips - Make your own dips when you have friends and neighbours round for nibbles. Use low fat cheese and yogurt to make your own low fat dips and humous. 3. Keep tabs on your tipple - If you have a tendency to ‘over-pour’ the wine at home, you can buy a pub-style marked glass to help keep your measures on track. 4. Trust your treat tin - When the kids are home from school, its all too easy to find yourself reaching for snacks whenever they have theirs. Have your own personal stash of low fat snacks, portioned out ready for whenever you want them. 5. Freshen up your fruit bowl - A wellstocked fruit bowl means you’ll always have a healthy snack on hand. 6. Choose your choccy - If you find it hard to get through the evening without a chocolate fix, opt for something you’ll enjoy taking your time over. Like a low sugar hot chocolate, lovely on a cold winters evening. This article was contributed by Slimming World in West Lothian. @KonectMagazines
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PROPERTY MATTERS
The power of
possibilities
In today’s busy world, we all consume and share information in diverse ways that are quite different from even 10 or 15 years ago. However, despite the outward appearance of everything being digital and instantaneous, our use of information is much more subtle and varied.
Understanding communications is vital - Nowhere is this clearer than in the world of estate agency and buying and selling houses. If you are selling a house, you need an estate agent that understands the power of communication and the ways of reaching and engaging people. Great websites and online listings are part and parcel of this, as well as social media channels generally, but the printed word and print images are still vitally important. People have widely varying habits in terms of reading and seeking out information, and they frequently switch between media in their quest for information and ideas.
Gaining further reach - Printed media serves a really vital purpose in terms of reach and impact. Having a property featured in a National (or local) property supplement can put your home in front of people who are perhaps not even thinking about moving at the time, or who are just beginning to think about a move, as well as those who are actively looking. The fact is, we all have an interest in property, and we all want to compare what we currently have with what else is on the market – even if it’s just a quick reality check about the value and desirability of our own home. Using a blend of media - The real value in printed features though lies in the fact that they present people with other possibilities. These are different from what a prospective buyer might find searching online, and they might very well be in an area that they may not previously have considered or even known about. Suddenly, a property starts to generate enquiries from much farther afield, from a 22 | BROXBURN
bigger potential market and from people who were previously not engaged in a search. It’s a bit like looking in a newspaper supplement having previously carried out an online search for a holiday – and realising that there are other destinations you had not even considered before. You may of course very well then go online to research things further, but the idea has been planted by the publication.
We have recently sold three very interesting properties using exactly this combination of media, all of which included editorial features in The Scotsman’s property pages. These features depend on the connections that an estate agency has with journalists and their ability to identify and present properties to them that will resonate with their readerships. In the case of all three of the featured homes, we had interest from across the country and even comments back from people with family connections to each property, remembering and asking about features in each of them. The enquiries themselves were from people who had simply seen something different and in an area that had not been on their radar. In the age of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, print media is still alive and well: it is a real driver behind on- and off-line consumer behaviour and it has the power to reach even more places and people. This is surely good news for sellers and buyers of property alike. 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. @KonectMagazines
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PUZZLES
BUSTER THE DOG
CROSSWORD
Solution in the February edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. South American animal (6), 4. Clans (6), 9. Whirlwind (7), 10. Male duck (5), 11. Casseroles (5), 12. Surprised (7), 13. Source of power (11), 18. Cars, buses etc. (7), 20. Dangerous (5), 22. Tacks (5), 23. Graceful (7), 24. Eighth month (6), 25. Flow (6) DOWN: 1. Painter (6), 2. American handbag (5), 3. Masterpiece (7), 5. Wireless (5), 6. Woollen cover (7), 7. Fast (6), 8 Assembled (11), 14. Departing (7), 15. Right (7), 16. Lines of a verse (6), 17. Method (6), 19. Clenched hands (5), 21. Frighten (5).
Solution in the February edition of Konect
SUDOKU
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Mackie
Veterinary Surgeons Ltd
Established
1 9 3 0
Brechin
“All creatures great and small, we care for them all� Our caring, experienced and dedicated veterinary team is committed to providing the best possible care for your pet, horse or farm animal in the Linlithgow, Edinburgh, Lothian and Central regions. Our practice is modern, well-equipped and progressive, with a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare and advice.
Linlithgow Branch Surgery, 256 High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7ES Tel: 0131 333 3203 reception@mackieandbrechin.co.uk www.mackieandbrechin.co.uk
24 HOUR ON-SITE EMERGENCY SERVICE At our Kirkliston Surgery, 29 Main St, Kirkliston, EH29 9AE Tel: 0131 333 3203
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Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats
Established in May 2006, we provide first-class holiday accommodation for up to 35 feline guests. Single and double cabins, as well as large cabins for families, each comprises an upper sleeping area (heated in winter) with an exercise run below.
Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Pet Services pages. Contact details are on page 3.
A collection and drop-off service is available Fully licensed and insured
Proprietors: Pam and Bill Clark Phone: 0131 333 1636 Email: mail@claylandscottagecattery.co.uk Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.
www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk
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We repair Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Ovens, Dishwashers and Washer Dryers
0772 965 1692
info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook
ESTABLISHED 1985
FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING REQUIREMENTS: Interior and Exterior Paperhanging Coving Plastering Free estimates
Tel: 07585 509 811 Email: manicstpainters@hotmail.com 71 Marjoribanks St, Bathgate, EH48 1AL
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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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available for all adventure activities and softplay visit aerialadventures.co.uk for more information
*bespoke gift vouchers must be for a minimum of ÂŁ20
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PARENTING
The Christmas
“To Do” List
I have a tendency to go overboard at Christmas. As if it isn’t enough keeping track of all the Nativity performances, Christmas parties and school trips, I can’t get enough of Christmas events. Festive light nights, trips to see Santa, maybe squeezing in a Christmas show. Christmas is a serious business.
Then of course there’s all the jobs that go along with this time of year. Decorating the Christmas tree, buying presents, wrapping presents, sending Christmas cards; there’s certain things everyone does at Christmas. Those classic Christmassy jobs it wouldn’t be Christmas without…even if you gripe and moan about them every year.
And then…there’s the totally random tasks you find on your “to do” list at Christmas once you become a parent. Jobs you never even realised would become an essential part of life.
“To Do”
• Stock up on batteries – especially the weird ones – for those unexpected presents from random relatives for which batteries are not included • Hunt around for a class list so that your child can send Christmas cards without accidentally leaving anyone out • Creep around in the dead of night getting rid of unwanted Happy Meal toys and forgotten party 32 | BROXBURN
bag fillers to make way for all the new stuff they are undoubtedly gonna get at Christmas
• Leave notes to yourself around the house to make sure you don’t forget to send your child in with their costume for the Nativity • Try to find a present for the teacher that isn’t just another ‘favourite teacher’ mug • Run around at all hours of the night – or worse in the early morning - trying to come up with something clever for the Elf on the Shelf to do when you’ve run out of ideas or forgotten to move it Yup. Parenting is a hoot isn’t it? And no matter how organised you are – or think you are – there’s always something you’ve forgotten. I have to say at this time of year I am always especially glad to live where we do. Because no matter what I’ve forgotten I know I can get it somewhere nearby. I often wonder how parents cope when they live out in the sticks and can’t just nip to The Centre to pick up a last minute present or head
out to a retail park to hunt for batteries no-ones heard of.
When all’s said and done and all these jobs are seemingly under control there’s always some Christmassy fun to be had near home as well. From seeing Santa at his Magical Farmyard Cottage or on a boat trip on the Union Canal to the pantomime at Howden Park Centre. This year there’s even more fun to be had after-dark as well. We love the Five Sisters Zoo Illuminations but with the new Beecraigs Festive Forest event and the Winter Realm of the Paraffin Pixies to look forward to as well we are simply spoilt for choice. Merry Christmas everyone. Here’s hoping you can get all your jobs done in plenty of time to have a little fun as well! 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
FILM REVIEW
With December now upon us, Christmas is one everyone’s minds. Whether you’re looking to take the kids to meet Santa, or just wanting to get away from it all, there’s something for everyone in West Lothian.
At Almond Valley, check out the Winter Realm of the Paraffin Pixies at their lively night trail featuring light displays, projections and winter activities that will spark the imagination. The event takes place on evenings from Friday 6th December, and tickets must be booked in advance. During the day, also at Almond Valley, you’ll be able to meet Santa is his Magical Farmyard Cottage. By now, Five Sisters Zoo illuminations are also now well underway. It’s an unforgettable opportunity to see the Zoo in a whole new light, as well as the opportunity to meet some special guests! Keeping with the Christmas theme, the first year of Beecraigs Festive Forest gets underway from the Thursday 5th December, with a stunning 1.5km illuminated trail, Santa’s Grotto and much more. For the more traditional, the third annual Christmas Craft Fair & Fun Day will be held at Inveralmond Community High School on Saturday 7th December, with over 40 local craft suppliers providing a range of gifts just in time for Christmas! If you’re looking to meet the big man himself, don’t forget to check out our website where you’ll be able to find our annual “Santa Map” – detailing where he’ll be across West Lothian before the big day, there’s sure to be somewhere near you! You can keep up to date with all that’s going on across West Lothian through our website, or follow us on Facebook/Twitter/ Instagram! www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian @KonectMagazines
Doctor Sleep is a sequel that shouldn’t have worked but does.
It not only had to be a sequel to The Shining novel but also to the film; the fact this is even connected to Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining is a miracle, as Stephen King hates Kubrick’s film. I’m happy to say that Doctor Sleep is an incredible film that pays homage to Kubrick’s creation while standing on its own two feet, and is a shining example of how to make an effective horror film. The acting is outstanding by everyone with not a single weak performance. Ewan McGregor is great as Dan Torrance, but for me the standout performance was Rebecca Ferguson as Rose The Hat. She is truly fantastic portraying a creepy and menacing villain who is a true threat throughout the entire film. The film is well-paced, and considering the running time of 2 hours 31 minutes it is never boring. It does take its time to tell its story though. The cinematography is great, never stale visually and the way its shot deliberately makes you feel uneasy. Doctor Sleep is a scary horror film without using clichés like cheap jump scares and music cues to tell the audience when they should be scared. The only issue I have with this film is when it stops homaging The Shining and moves onto full blown recreation it feels forced and unnecessary and in my opinion holds the film back from being a true masterpiece. 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. BROXBURN | 33
‘THE LIVINGST ON INCIDENT ’ - NOVEMBE R 1979
Rounding a corner of a woodland path on Dechmont Law, a forester going about his job in November 1979 entered a clearing and came upon a large dome-shaped metallic object. So begins the tale of one of the most significant UFO (Unidentified Flying Object) incidents in Europe. Known as “The Livingston Incident” in paranormal research circles, on police files it remains an unsolved case of “an attack by person or persons unknown.” Robert Taylor, employee of the Livingston Development Corporation, was on a routine inspection of the Dechmont Law hillside one November morning, accompanied by his Irish red setter, to check fences to ensure that sheep and cattle didn’t stray into the wood. Noone witnessed what happened until he turned up at his home in Deans on foot later that morning in a state of shock and barely able to speak. He had reversed his truck into a ditch, his trousers were ripped and his dog was very agitated. He stammered to his incredulous wife, “I have been attacked by a spaceship.” Robert’s story. which he maintained throughout his life, was that as he came upon this large dome-shaped object in the clearing, two round objects dropped from it to the ground and started rolling towards him, making sucking and popping noises. His dog was barking madly and there was an overwhelming burning smell. As they got near to him projections came out of them towards his hips, grabbed him and pulled him forcibly towards the larger object. At this point he lost consciousness. When he came to, the object has gone leaving nothing but imprints in the ground and Robert in a state of shock. He managed to stumble
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back to his truck but reversed it into a ditch, such was his disorientation. He staggered home to Deans on foot. Robert’s assertion that he had been attacked by a spaceship and his description of the event led to the involvement of Strange Phenomena Investigations (SPI), a research society headed by Malcolm Robinson. I spoke to Malcolm who was on site the following day to photograph the imprints on the ground and to interview the police and LDC personnel involved. The police forensic analysis of the ripped trousers concluded that they had not been torn by any forest debris (i.e. not by branches or sharp plants of any sort) nor by barbed wire. There was no explanation for the marks in the ground, and after thorough investigation by the police and forensic experts, the case remains unsolved. Robert’s boss and colleagues described him as a steady sane person not given to telling stories and with no interest in the paranormal. I asked Malcolm how he went about investigating such cases. “You have to rule out the obvious explanations. I always ask people if they are on any medication. They maybe after notoriety. There are lots of possible explanations so you have to be very careful.” He became fascinated by the paranormal when he set out as a young man to disprove the existence of ghosts. After some personal experiences and listening to the experiences of many
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‘THE A70 INCIDENT’
other people he gradually began to change his mind. He set up Strange Phenomena Investigations in November 1979, and says that the vast majority of reports of strange happenings can be explained. But he believes that there are enough unexplainable incidents to convince him that, he says, “there is evidence to suggest that humans have been visited by beings from elsewhere - not necessarily extraterrestrial but from a different dimension.” Malcolm has been involved in investigating another UFO incident in this area – the A70 incident. The stretch of the A70 from Balerno to Lanark, the “Lang Whang” is a quiet route between the heather-covered hills and has a bleak and remote aspect. It is the location of an unexplained incident in 1992. Two men from Edinburgh, Garry Woods and Colin Wright, were driving along the A70 headed for Tarbrax one evening. As they turned one of the sharp corners just past Harperrig Reservoir, they were faced with what they described as a two-tiered black disc hovering motionless above the road. Shocked, they decided nevertheless to just drive under it and keep going. As they passed under the object it emitted a curtain of mist which, as it reached the car, enveloped them in total blackness. Moments later they regained sight and the car was shuddering. Somewhat shaken they continued their drive to Tarbrax. But, on arriving at their friend’s house they discovered that it was an hour later than they had thought; the journey which normally took thirty to forty minutes had taken an hour and a half, and they couldn’t account for the missing time. Neither Garry nor Colin had any interest whatsoever in the paranormal and, totally nonplussed, they didn’t report the incident to anyone besides friends. But they became increasingly troubled by nightmares and, in Garry’s case, severe headaches. Both men found scars on their bodies that weren’t there before. They eventually contacted Malcolm Robinson at Strange Phenomena Investigations, who encouraged them to undergo hypnotic
regression therapy to try to discover what had happened that evening during the lost hour. Although sceptical they were desperate for their own sanity and agreed to the hypnotherapy. They have no recollection of what happened, but in a series of hypnotherapy sessions they describe their experiences. They were apparently taken into the craft and underwent various experiments at the hands of small grey creatures, some of them painful. The “A70 Incident” is still a subject of fascination and since as far as anyone involved can tell Garry and Colin did not fabricate the whole story, there experience remains unexplained. How would you react if one of your good friends or colleagues announced they had been attacked by aliens? “I have no problem with sceptics,” says Malcolm. “I think you have to have had a personal experience of the paranormal, or be very close to someone who has, before you will start to accept it as an explanation for events that are otherwise inexplicable.” This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer, with thanks to Malcolm Robinson of Strange Phenomena Investigations for his input. Strange Phenomena Investigations celebrated their 40th anniversary last month, it was founded in November 1979. See www.fsr.org.uk/spi/ First published in Konect 2012, republished 2019 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of ‘The Livingston Incident’. BROXBURN | 35
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 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.
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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 BurnIt. 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 (6:007:00) - 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! 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
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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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. Annual memberships Adults £320, Seniors £270, 18-20 £100, 15-17 £20, under 15 £10. Includes golf Insurance, Linlithgowshire Golf Discount, 50% Discount for guests & unlimited golf @ Elmwood, Cupar. Full details available from The Starter 01506 859636, 7 days. Pay & Play rate available for non members. 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/getinvolved 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/getinvolved 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/getinvolved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com.
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,
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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, Bihar, Hatha/Vinyasa and Core Strength as well as yoga for kids, teens and men. We also offer Tai-Chi. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page - www.facebook.com/chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824 195 or email info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk for more information.
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
BROXBURN | 37
LOCAL LAB
Ultrasound breakthrough can pinpoint cancer with precision A team of scientists, led by Dr Vassilis Sboros, have unveiled a new cancer diagnostic technique using super-resolution ultrasound methods. The largest revolution in ultrasound technology in over 60 years is expected to lead to earlier cancer diagnoses and allow medical staff to target treatments more effectively. What is ultrasound and how is it used currently? An ultrasound scan, sometimes called a sonogram, is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of part of the inside of the body. It is used in cancer diagnosis mainly due to its costeffectiveness and unique real-time capability. However, due to many factors affecting current ultrasound scans, more expensive Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) are often used for diagnosis and treatment. Which of these factors does your research addresses? One drawback of existing superresolution ultrasound imaging is that the person being scanned has to stay completely still for an unrealistic length of time during the procedure. Our new technique makes the imaging achievable in just a few minutes. Because it uses existing ultrasound machines, hospitals won’t need to invest in new equipment. What does your technique do differently? Our team demonstrated for the first time that prostate cancer can be detected by mapping the blood vessels that surround the cancerous tissue. This shows a different pattern to that of normal tissue. Biopsies are currently performed as a separate
procedure to MRI or CT imaging, which is more expensive for the hospital and can be both disruptive and distressing for the patient. On the other hand, ultrasound imaging can be done at the same time as biopsies, and is often used to guide biopsy needles, but with limited success. Our new technique will aid, in the first instance, the biopsy procedure and, if proven successful, could replace biopsy altogether. When and where will it start being used by clinicians? Prostate patients at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh will be the first to benefit. From December this year, we will work to establish the application of our method in a clinical trial. What are your future research plans? We hope that further research will help establish this method in diagnostic procedures. It should also be possible to help assess the effectiveness of cancer treatment more promptly. At present, this isn’t done until three months after the start of treatment, too late for some patients when the treatment is not working. We also aim to expand the remit of our method to early screening the population for a number of patients. Finally, the method may be applied to a number of other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, liver disease, transplant rejection and others. You can find out more about this research on the Heriot-Watt University website www.hw.ac.uk/news The Local Lab column is contributed by Heriot-Watt University to engage the public in a range of their research projects.
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