MARCH 2020
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LOCAL SPORT:
G O L F I N G
PARENTING:
LOCAL HISTORY:
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he distinctive background to all of our lives here in the Broxburn/Winchburgh area, the unmistakeable bing, features on the front cover photo provided by Binny Golf Club this month, who are celebrating their rescue of Oatridge Golf Course from closure. See the article on page 9 for details. I decided to delve into the origin behind the road name Alderstone, one of Livingston’s main through roads, for the local history article this month; I use the road regularly and just wondered about it. I hope you enjoy the article on pages 18-19. Our Charity of the Month is the Craigshill Good Neighbour Network. My favourite part of producing this magazine every month is the always-uplifting experience of interviewing the people who work and volunteer for the huge variety of local charities that we feature. Craigshill Good Neighbour Network is a wonderful social club who are looking to welcome new members from all over West Lothian and beyond, see the feature on page 30. With a fantastic competition thanks to Gardening Scotland – a sure sign that spring must be nearly here! - and all our usual columns, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month. As ever, drop me a line and let me know!
THIS ISSUE Local Sport: Carry on Golfing........................ 9 Competition: Gardening Scotland..............15 Health & Beauty............................................16 Local History: The Barony of Alderstone....18 Property Matters............................................22 Gardening: Indestructible House Plants....25 Puzzles...........................................................26 Interiors: Video Doorbells.............................29 Charity: Craigshill Good Neighbour Network..........................................................30 Parenting: Keep Calm and Parkrun............32 Film Review....................................................34 Clubs & Classes ...........................................36 What’s On......................................................38
COVER IMAGE: Saving Oatridge Golf Course from closure. See our feature on P9.
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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Saturday 16th May 2020 7pm - 1am Dance the night away with music from the 60's, 70's, 80's up until the present day brought to you by the Elite Show Band. Elite have ha performed to audiences across the UK. They’re made up of 4 of the most talented and experienced musicians in Scotland that have came together through their passion for music. The price includes a delicious three-course meal and disco.
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G O L F I N G The members of Binny Golf Club have saved Oatridge Golf Course from closure.
Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) who own and run the facility in Ecclesmachan had intimated that they would no longer operate the course beyond 31st March 2020. Binny Golf Club put forward a business plan to continue the club, that has been accepted. The course set in stunning mature parkland, adjacent to Binny House, was opened by former Ryder Cup captain Bernard Gallacher in 2000. It has been described as one of the best 9 hole courses in Scotland. The practice area includes a chipping range & putting green. The clubhouse provides changing facilities, lounge area, Wi-Fi & reception. Binny Golf Club was established two years after the course opened to promote golf, encourage friendship, increase healthy exercise & run competitions. The club plans to grow the upward trend on membership & continue with course improvements which will enhance the local environment. Binny is the home of reigning Linlithgowshire Senior League champions. Competitive rates have been set at: SEASON TICKETS • Senior £245 • Adult £295
COMPETITION MEMBERSHIP • Senior £295 • Adult £345 • Junior £10
*Pay & play rate available for non members. For further information, or to book a free inspection round, call the Starter on 01506 859636 or visit: www.binnygolfclub.co.uk @KonectMagazines
View from the 6th green
Putting green
The Oatridge Campus of SRUC offers a range of courses which include agriculture, animal care, countryside management, equine studies, horticulture & landscaping to around 500 students. They will now concentrate on their core values. This article was contributed by Binny Golf Club BROXBURN | 9
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WIN a pair of tickets to
2020!
Spring is almost here so it’s time to step outdoors and start getting the garden in shape for the warm days ahead.
Everywhere you look new shoots are unfolding that will soon fill the garden with lush leaves, bountiful colour and gorgeous scents. A good tidy-up is needed so that you can enjoy these at their best. Dead foliage and fallen leaves that have piled up during the winter should be cleared away and early weeds removed before they have a chance to spread.
Flower borders should be filling up now with plants that are reappearing after their winter rest. Once they’ve grown into large clumps, many different kinds of plants including hostas, irises, agapanthuses and sedums can be dug up and divided to fill gaps elsewhere. If your garden lacks early colour, then pots of spring bulbs will soon give it a lift and if you add primroses in places where the soil stays damp and doesn’t dry out during the summer then these will soon multiply. If you don’t have room for a veg patch, then raised beds or even large pots filled with multi-purpose compost will provide enough space for tasty crops of easy-to-grow favourites including salads, herbs and peas. Finding plants that are suited to the soil, aspect and growing conditions in your garden is your best guarantee of success and one of the easiest ways to do that is by visiting Gardening Scotland where as well as gorgeous plants and inspirational show gardens you can find all kinds of experts ready to offer advice.
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Want to know how to tackle a shady corner, find a climber to cover an unsightly fence, choose a tree for a small garden or turn a tired lawn into a wildflower meadow? Then you are guaranteed to find someone at Gardening Scotland who can answer these questions and many more. But that’s not all, the show is also a fantastic day out, with live music, huge craft pavilion selling one-off artworks and original jewellery, exhibitors selling every kind of home and lifestyle accessory, artisan food and afternoon teas. Find your way to the Secret Gin Garden and sample the cocktails on offer or head with your kids to the Big Back Garden for tree climbing adventures and all kinds of family fun. Gardening Scotland 2020 will take place from Friday, 29th May until Sunday, 31st May at the Royal Highland Centre Edinburgh. For tickets and travel information visit www.gardeningscotland.com We have 10 PAIRS of tickets to Gardening Scotland 2020 to give away to Konect readers! Simply answer the following question:
WHERE WILL GARDENING SCOTLAND 2020 TAKE PLACE? Send your entry to win@konect.scot to arrive no later than 20th March 2020. Please include your full name and postcode. Winners will be drawn at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter.
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LIFE COACHING
2020 - The Last Year You Ever Resolve To Stop Smoking
My clientele is made up of a lot of different types of people from very different backgrounds. I was recently asked if it was OK for my client to do some work whilst in the salon, she was really embarrassed and apologetic. Obviously, I said it was fine and I would never have thought of it as rude!
I’ve realised recently that naturally I do change my manner a bit to be what I need to be for the person in my care at that time. I have some clients who want to laugh and tell me their stories, and some who talk to me about the stresses in life. I have clients who very much want every piece of advice and information regarding their hair. I have some who want the peace of just sitting in comfortable silence for an hour or so. I suppose the thing for me is that all of this is OK; as hairdressers we tend to follow your lead. We are OK if you need to be on your phone the whole appointment as that is what life is demanding of you right now. It’s not rude, it is you making the most of your time. It’s OK to share your problems, we are good listeners. It’s also OK to just be silent. Sometimes our moments of peace come few and far between. So use that salon time for advice, or problems or peace. It’s your time! Enjoy it in your own way.
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 16 | BROXBURN
How many times have you decided to quit smoking? If you ask most smokers that question, they’ll probably tell you that they managed to stop many times in the past - for three weeks…three months or even three years. Many people believe that quitting would work out fine if only they had more willpower. But the problem is that we are constantly focussed on what we don’t want and what we need to resist at all costs. Using willpower to stop smoking means that the ex-smoker is constantly thinking ‘I’m definitely NOT going to smoke today’ So, just for a minute, try not to think about a pink elephant. I’m willing to bet that the first thing that popped into your head was the very thing that you were trying so hard not to imagine. That is exactly what happens when we tell ourselves that there is something we are going to avoid at all costs We first have to think about that object before crossing it out or drawing a curtain over it. It really is possible to decide that this ‘National No Smoking Day’ is the last one you’ll see as a smoker. For years you have convinced yourself that cigarettes: • Relieve stress or boredom or soothe uncomfortable feelings • Make social situations easier • Give you something to do with your hands Instead of focussing endlessly on giving up smoking and mourning what we convince ourselves that we’ll lose by letting it go, how would it be if we could simply focus on new, healthy behaviours instead? The life coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr. Francine is a locally based NLP coach, Hypnotherapist and Reiki practitioner who runs www.orrganise.co.uk She set up the business to support people to find real and practical solutions to the things that hold us all back in life.
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LOCAL HISTORY
Sketch of Alderstone House, from The History and Antiquities of the Parish of Mid Calder, by Hardy Bertram M’Call. Published 1894.
ALDERSTONE: Plague-watching duties, muster and civil war
A time-travelling resident of the Livingston area from the 15th century would recognise almost nothing if they visited today; it would be a disorientating experience. (There are some who visit from Edinburgh today who would argue the same!) On spotting Alderstone Road however they would was required, along with other vassels of the know they were in the right place. Alderstone Baron of Calder (James Sandilands) to present Road cuts through Livingston north to south, from himself at a wappinschaw held on the 4th August the roundabout on Houston Road at Deans, past I586. A wappinschaw was a “weapon-showing” the College and into Murieston. The name is - a compulsory muster of men presenting deeply rooted in the history of the area. themselves for an exhibition of arms. After the establishment of Protestantism, the government Originally an estate within the ancient Barony of was still jumpy about potential attack from Calder Comitis, Alderstone developed into one “papists” and barons were required by law to of the largest estates in the area and eventually see that every vassal was armed according to became a free barony in its own right. his rank. Peter Kinloch had to present “a horse, a Our time-travelling guest would find the lairds’ jak-speir and steil bonat, plait slewis, sword and seat, Alderstone House, tucked behind pistolet.” Klondykes in the remains of its mature parkland, Peter’s son Patrick, an advocate, inherited the about halfway between Dedridge and Livingston Village. It was renovated estate. He married in 2010 as a commercial the next year, then his premises. Here are some brother died in 1625 Scotland’s measures to control glimpses we have into and Patrick inherited his epidemics were generally well in what was the Barony of brother’s rental income advance of England’s, although Alderstone. from Howatston and still shrouded in superstition Gavieside that their father The estate boundaries and misunderstanding. had left him. Perhaps broadly encompassed the extra cash was the the tract of land from deciding factor in his Livingston Village out 1626 conversion of the old tower into Alderstone to the south west, taking in Crofthead Farm, House, a more palatial residence. A doo’cote Howatston, Over and Nether Alderston, was built around the same time and is also still in Brucefield and Gavieside, where Five Sisters Zoo is. Acquired by the Kinloch family in the mid the grounds. 1500s, it was in their hands for a few generations, Patrick and Agnes’s eldest son James was and the laird’s seat at Alderstone House was laird of Alderstone when an outbreak of plague originally a simple rectangular tower, probably hit Scotland from 1644 – 1649. Along with the build by the first Kinloch laird, Henry. lairds of Linhouse and Charlesfield, James was Henry’s son Peter was described in his will, on his on plague-watching duty at Kirk of Calder on death in 1621, “Mr Peter Kinloch of Alderstoun, Sundays and preaching days; they made sure writer and indweller in Edinburgh,” so he possibly that “no strangers nor persons suspected lived mostly in Edinburgh, at least latterly. Peter of the pestilence came within the church.” 18 | BROXBURN
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Alderstone House (Today) Scotland’s measures to control epidemics were generally well in advance of England’s, although still shrouded in superstition and misunderstanding. It didn’t help that a different kind of plague – a civil war – was going on at the time; there is evidence that the plague spread along roads often linked to military operations through rural districts. The civil war had started over an argument about a prayer book, and pitched Scottish Royalists supporters of Charles I and his religious policies (under James Graham, 1st Marquis of Montrose) against the Covenanters, who were allied with the English Parliament. On 13th July 1645 all men within the Mid Calder parish above the age of twelve years were ordered to present themselves on Alderstoun Muire (this must have been a moor in the Livingston area) on the following Wednesday. The republican minister of the Kirk of Calder, Hew Kennedie, wanted to do a little recruiting for the Covenanters in the civil war. James must have fallen under suspicion of having Royalist sympathies. He was interrogated by the parish minister the following year regarding his links with Montrose, along with James Sandilands and others. They all declared they had never had anything to do with the Marquis of Montrose. They denied being Royalists - as you would when, the way things are going, the king is shortly to lose his head. James appears to have had financial issues and was at risk of losing Alderstone. There are several Letters of Inhibition against him, one in 1657 “under the signet of Oliver Cromwell.” In the turbulent political times where winners, losers and allegiances swapped frequently, perhaps he was targetted due to his suspected royalist views. (Mid Calder’s minister Hew Kennedie ended up @KonectMagazines
Patrick and Agnes’ doo’cote losing his job in Mid Calder in 1660 due to his covenanting views; such was the changing wind of political fortune). In any case, Alderstone changed hands several times and in 1692 was purchased by a Mr John Mitchell, a writer from Edinburgh. He set about getting a charter from King William to create “the Barony of Aldingstoun,” a free barony. The Charter mentions the “tenants, tenandries and service of free tenants,” as well as “with mills, multures, hawkings, buntings, and fishings,” and more ominously the “infangthief, outfangthief, pitt, stocks, and gallows” over which the new baron had jurisdiction. This charter is dated in Edinburgh, 14th February 1696. John subsequently expanded it westwards, adding Wester Dressilrig (Westfield), Cairns Easter and Wester, Baadpark, Wester Colzium, all of which “by Crown charter disjoined from the barony of Calder and all other baronies to which they were previously annexed, and united to the barony of Alderston.” He built a mill at Adambrae, “the miln of Alderstoun,” to which the vassals and their tenants had to send their grain. Over the next 300 years Alderston House itself was extended and remodeled by different owners and the barony gradually split up. By 1894 an author of parish history referring to Adambrae Mill wrote: “the baronial jurisdiction thus erected has been gradually alienated and abandoned; it is long since the sound of the grinding was hushed in Alderstoun; and of any special powers or dignities which the lands once possessed the sole remaining privilege consists in that undeniable charter of respectability - the right to keep a dove-cot.” This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Shearer. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect and lives in West Lothian with her family. BROXBURN | 19
Is Your Letting Agent Accountable? One of the attractions of property as an investment is that it apparently “looks after itself”. In an ideal world, the tenant pays the rent, the rent covers the mortgage, and you the landlord need not be especially involved apart from banking the difference.
If only the reality were so simple. Unlike stocks and shares, property usually requires a hands-on approach if it is to deliver a sustainable return on investment. This includes:
• Establishing a good relationship with your tenants, based on mutual respect. This enables issues and potential void periods to be anticipated and eliminated well in advance • A working knowledge of property issues including building, maintenance, insurance, legislation, and health and safety • Proper systems and controls in respect of deposit holding and rent handling • Relationships with a number of tried, trusted, reliable and cost-effective tradespeople • Ongoing access to a large database of other pre-screened tenants, again eliminating void periods between tenancies Many letting agents claim to offer a management service, yet some seem to be based on the expectation that they can sit back and hope nothing goes wrong. When your property is professionally managed, it’s all about accountability. This means regular inspections to check that your tenant is treating your investment with the respect it deserves. During these inspections, an experienced Property 22 | BROXBURN
Manager should be able to identify any areas to be investigated in order to avoid or reduce costs later. An example would be a blocked gutter. Normally, you would only hear about this when the tenant calls you to tell you that water is coming in, plaster has come away from the wall and there is mould on the ceiling. Call in the dehumidifier, plasterer, and painter – and you have a large bill and an unhappy tenant.
When you employ the services of a Letting Agent to manage your property, a dedicated Property Manager should be appointed at the outset and be your main point of contact throughout the duration of your relationship with them. They should know and be known by landlord and tenant alike and be responsible for the day-to-day management of each of their assigned properties. Most landlords derive great value from a professionally managed service so when you’re choosing a letting agent, make sure they are fully accountable and on your side from day one. 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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Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Gardening/Exteriors pages. Contact details are on page 3.
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Indestructible houseplants As winter draws to a close our houseplants deserve a spring clean and a spruce up! Have you got any plants that have outstayed their welcome in your home? Should you put them out of their misery and probable slow, miserable death? It might be a kindness to put them on the compost heap or in the Council compost bin and start afresh.
If you believe that you always kill houseplants we would suggest that you are either killing them out of kindness by watering them too much or you aren’t thinking about giving them the right conditions in which to thrive. We have a helpful leaflet for you called ‘Indestructible House Plants’ and although the plants are all easy to look after it explains which ones need certain light conditions. So
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Cacti need a sunny position with very bright light. The spider plant enjoys a position where it is ‘easy to read all day’ – say on west and east facing sills and up to 1.6m (5ft) from a window.
Indestructible houseplants give them the right place to live and they will thrive
The Peace Lily will cope with a shady position where you can read a paper at midday. We also tell you the minimum temperature that the different plants will enjoy so if you follow these instructions you will be well on your way to having happy houseplants that will keep you happy! The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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PUZZLES
Mackie
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Solution in the April edition of Konect ACROSS: 1. Bewitched (7), 5. Trimmed (5), 8. Loosens (5), 9. Evil (7), 10. Vertical (13), 11. Without trouble (6), 12. Teeth (6), 15. Display (13), 18. Detonate (7), 19. Business transactions (5), 20. Stairs (5), 21. Destroys hearing (7). DOWN: 1. Crawl (5), 2. Soaks up (7), 3. Sundry items (13), 4. Split (6), 5. Book of facts (13), 6. Guttural noise (5), 7. Arid regions (7), 11. Perpetual (7), 13. Shake briskly (7), 14. To be present at (6), 16. Type of syrup (5), 17. Facial features (5).
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Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.
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HOMES AND GARDENS
Video Doorbells - should you get one? We have seen a number of good arrests across Edinburgh recently where video or smart doorbells have assisted police in quickly identifying those responsible for committing housebreaking and other crimes.
Video or smart doorbells use inbuilt cameras and other smart technology to provide the extra security of CCTV - but in a compact and often less expensive package than a full domestic CCTV system. They are installed in place of an existing doorbell and provide an audible ring for you to hear, but will also alert you on your phone or smart device, providing you with video surveillance and means of recording and capturing images.
later. In most occasions this will be legitimate people such as delivery drivers, canvassers, and people you may know coming to visit. However it could capture those at your property who have criminal intent and their images could be all important to the police as part of their investigation.
There are a variety of similar products on the market with most offering the same set of features. We would always encourage you to research crime prevention products carefully and look for products that have ‘Secured by Design’ accreditation or rating.
Good Deterrent : Video doorbells can be a great deterrent, stopping a potential housebreaker before they do any damage to your property. Simply seeing a video doorbell may be enough for a criminal to look elsewhere. If they do try and break-in, or succeed in forcing entry, the video doorbell could have captured good images of the culprit(s) and be valuable evidence for the police in their efforts to identify and arrest them.
They can be wireless or hard wired and many offer additional features such as being able to speak to delivery drivers and visitors via the inclusion of microphones and speakers.
Some of the advantages are:
You’ll Know Who’s There : You know who is at your door without you having to open it. This keeps you safe from those who you might not want to come into contact with – you don’t even have get close to the door to find out who’s there. You will be armed with all the information you need to decide whether to answer or not.
Speak To Visitors : You are able to speak to visitors without having to open the door. This can be done from inside your home or many miles away from it since the video doorbell system works through your smart device.
Review Footage : If a visitor doesn’t want to be ‘spotted’ and knocks on the door instead, video doorbells still capture images that you can check
Image Quality : Most work extremely well during both day and night, also ensuring the capture of good, high definition images of people approaching your home.
Installing a video doorbell should be considered part of a suite of crime prevention measures for your home. It alone will not prevent entry to your property, but it can be an important tool to identify who was responsible for criminality and also act as a deterrent. For information and guidance on using CCTV at your home please also visit the Information Commissioner’s Office website For more information on home security and how best to protect your home and belongings, please visit the Police Scotland website here or contact your local Crime Prevention Officer on ‘101’ for assistance.
This article was published by Police Scotland in Edinburgh via Neighbour Alert, February 2020. Neighbourhood Alert is a community messaging system solution for police forces, local authorities and Neighbourhood Watch. @KonectMagazines
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Operating from a base in Craigshill, but open to people from all around West Lothian and beyond (“we wouldn’t be good neighbours if we turned anyone away”) the Craigshill Good Neighbour Network is a social club for all. A local charity that has been running for an incredible 36 years, it exists to reduce social isolation and is described as a lifeline by many of its members. A busy programme of clubs for all interests is supplemented by monthly special events, celebrations and trips, and there is capacity for more people of all ages to join in.
“We don’t want anyone to be sitting around at home feeling isolated,” explains Activities Co-ordinator Susan. “There is something for everyone here, always a warm welcome.” Friendships have been formed, new skills learned, boredom staved off and a host of other benefits that members attribute to Craigshill Good Neighbour Network. The spacious and buzzing centre premises exudes a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. The day I was there to gather information for this feature, there were volunteers getting ready to make some baby gift baskets, people arriving for a cuppa before their singing club, and the keyboard player setting up. “This room is sometimes a dance floor, sometimes a cafe, sometimes a games room” says Susan, “whatever we need it to be. Volunteers set up and decorate depending on what we’ve got going on.” The activity groups hosted at the neighbourhood centre in Craigshill include various craft, knitting and sewing clubs, carpet bowls, singing, exercise, games, a book club and a Men’s Group on a Friday which 30 | BROXBURN
Carpet Bowls
includes games, lunch and a quiz. The Lunch Club, weekly on a Tuesday, is a three course lunch with different activities or entertainment, and has on average 30 people in attendance. Local school children visit to celebrate special days, including St Patrick’s, St Andrew’s and Burns. Community events such as Craigshill Remembers, Family Games Day, Fayres, Daytime Discos, Ladies Evenings and tea parties all bring the wider community together. Over the summer, the club organises day trips out and about. Friendly Forces, a group for veterans who live in the West Lothian area, also meet at CGNN and welcome other veterans to join them. The whole programme is run by a small number of staff funded by the charity’s financial supporters, and, crucially, an army of local volunteers. More volunteers are always welcome, and they get as much out it as members do! One volunteer says: “I absolutely love coming to CGNN and feel it’s my safe space,” and another: “It’s really helped me feel a sense of purpose again and my confidence is growing more and more every day.” The cost to attend is just £2.00 for most of the clubs, and £5.50 for the Lunch Club, which includes a three-course meal. Prices are kept low in order to be accessible for as many as possible - and friendly banter is included for free in all activities! There is also a community shop within the centre, open from 10am to 2pm Monday to @KonectMagazines
With Easter coming up, why not order a custom-made Easter Gift Basket? Priced from £10 for a basket or £12 for a chocolate bouquet. Thursday. It is stocked with a range of gift items, many of which are craft creations made by volunteers, as well as donations from within the community so you can buy beautiful gifts at very competitive prices and the proceeds go to supporting CGNN; win-win.
All Smiles: Jim & Jean Men’s group having lunch at Conifox
If you or someone you know is sitting around at home feeling at a loose end and a bit isolated, come along to the CGNN centre and join in one of their many weekly clubs. The first class for all clubs (except the Lunch Club) is free. If you want to try an activity you can just turn up, or contact CGNN for a visit first to come and see what they are all about. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit: 2 Almondbank (the old library building) The Mall, Livingston, EH54 5EJ Facebook: @craigshillgoodneighbournetwork Twitter: @craigshillgnn www.craigshillgoodneighbournetwork.co.uk Tel.: 01506 442093 Manager: janecgnn@gmail.com Activities Co-ordinator: susancgnn@gmail.com VolunteerCo-ordinator:paulinecgnn@gmail.com
Sybil with her knitted clown
This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer after visiting Craighsill Good Neighbour Network in Livingston. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines
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PARENTING
snowy parkru n
Keep calm and parkrun!
This year my New Year’s resolution was to start running. Despite the seemingly non-stop rain and constant juggling of childcare to find time… I’ve managed to keep it up!
It’s a hard slog sometimes but there’s nothing like an hour to myself listening to music that’s not from a Disney movie… even if I have to get a bit sweaty for it. Somehow I never seem to make it out of the house without a hefty dose of mum guilt. Cue a chorus of Muuuum…where are you going? Why can’t I come? I’m a good runner! Of course I tell them I’m running too far and too fast for them to come with me (one day that might even be true).
But I don’t want to totally stamp out their enthusiasm. Enter… junior parkrun. Never heard of it? Junior parkruns are weekly, 2km, volunteer-led timed runs for children aged 4-14 years old. They take place at 9.30am every Sunday in parks across the world. A junior parkrun officially landed in West Lothian for the first time last year and is still going strong. The run takes places at Xcite Craigswood in Livingston, starting and finishing on the athletics track. 32 | BROXBURN
um Parkrun M
The first time we took the kids you’d think we’d entered them in the Olympics they were so excited to run around the “proper” track. Although you can’t be afraid to get a bit muddy as the course also heads out around nearby playing fields. If they’re old enough kids can run the course by themselves. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a family affair. Some parents watch from the sidelines daydreaming about how to reward themselves for sacrificing their Sunday morning lie-in. Others are fully togged up in Lycra running around the course with their wee ones. Pretty much anything goes as long as everyone is having fun!
The runs are timed but it is not a race and there is a wonderful atmosphere of camaraderie and support. Volunteers line the course shouting words of encouragement and the kids can truly go at their own pace. They’ll get a hero’s welcome when they get to the finish line no matter how long it takes them. Although if they are a mite competitive they can compare their time against
their friends or try to beat their own record. If you’ve never tried it – and can drag yourself out of bed - it is a great way to spend a Sunday morning. It gets the kids active and outdoors and is absolutely free which can’t be said of many things my kids do nowadays! Whether you want to try it once or go every week I highly recommend it. Craigswood junior parkrun takes place every week on Sunday at 9.30am. Find out more and register at www.parkrun.org.uk/ craigswood-juniors P.S. I can’t miss the opportunity for a huge shout out to all the volunteers who keep this event going. If anyone deserves a medal it’s them!! 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
Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Families/Education pages. Contacts details are on page 3.
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
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FILM REVIEW
“Based on an actual lie.” Being diagnosed with cancer can mentally destroy both a person and their family. Life is too short to live in fear with the idea that cancer could completely destroy you, but would your life be different if your family withhold your diagnosis? The Farewell explores this very idea, with Awkwafina’s character Billie. Her grandma has been diagnosed with cancer, but due to her family beliefs they won’t tell her. Instead, Billie’s cousin is being rushed into marriage so they have a reason for the whole family to go to China to say their goodbyes. The Farewell is a personal and impactful film that could have easily made you dislike the family, as to us not telling someone they’re sick is wrong. However the film does an excellent job of making you understand all of the characters’ viewpoints, thanks to great acting. Awkwafina is excellent, and Shuzhen Zhao as the grandma (who is referred to as Nai Nai in the film) is a true standout and is really fantastic. You fall in love with Nai Nai as her character is just so loveable. Writer and Director Lulu Wang did a wonderful job of handling this film; instead of a sad, depressing film we get this film full of heart, love which is truly impactful. As long as you don’t mind subtitles, I honestly believe anyone can enjoy or even love this film. The Farewell is just simply awe inspiring. 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. 34 | BROXBURN
FEATURE
CircularEconomyChallenge helps prepare local pupils for the jobs that don’t exist yet Around 85% of the jobs that today’s learners will be doing in 2030 haven’t been invented yet, according to a recent report published by the Institute for the Future. This presents an interesting challenge for educators preparing young people for their future careers.
The Circular Economy Challenge, delivered within four primary schools in West Lothian and hopefully to be rolled out to more schools, focuses on the concept of the Circular Economy, where the economic system aims to eliminate waste and continually re-use resource - a vital topic for the foreseeable future. It is an annual challenge that incorporates teacher-led learning about the circular economy and enterprise; an employer-led workshop; design of a product or service that adheres to the principles of the circular economy and a final showcase event where small teams of pupils pitch their idea to a business panel. Delivered by Veolia (an industry leader in environmental solutions with several sites in West Lothian) and Young Enterprise Scotland, the Challenge is designed to provide a real-life context for learners. Veolia’s workshops are fun, engaging and interactive, providing the perfect ‘hook’ for the teachers to get the pupils involved in the challenge. Making links between pupils’ learning and the world of work is an absolutely @KonectMagazines
crucial component of the Developing the Young Workforce Programme, which engages with employers to develop school-industry partnerships, whereby the employer engages, collaborates with or influences the curriculum. One primary school teacher commented on this year’s Challenge: “It provided a perfect opportunity for the children to easily link their learning to the wider world. Across the weeks I observed the children work effectively in teams, discussing and evaluating ideas, compromising, developing confidence, showing determination to succeed and developing resilience. Aiming towards a final where the children had to compete against other schools provided a real goal for them to focus on and kept them fully engaged across all weeks. The children absolutely loved the challenge giving it two thumbs up when I asked if they would be happy to do it again.” The true testament to the success of partnerships like this is the feedback we
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receive from the pupils themselves. The collective feedback is overwhelmingly positive, but one pupil’s quote really stood out for me. When asked what they learned from participating in the challenge: “I’ve learned that you can’t fly solo”. It’s fair to say that – no matter what jobs are yet to be invented – this will always remain a valuable skill for life, learning and work. Developing the Young Workforce West Lothian are looking to expand the Challenge to more primary schools. Primary schools can find out more about the Challenge here: yes.org.uk/programmes.php?sid=42 , where teachers can also register their interest. This article is contributed by Developing the Young Workforce West Lothian. Developing the Young Workforce want to transform how businesses and education engage in West Lothian. See www.dyw-wl.com
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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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Polkemmet are open daily, with a wide variety of well-marked paths and trails for all the family. At Polkemmet, head along to the Scottish Owl Centre, one of West Lothian’s Hidden Gems, which is open throughout March from 11.30am.
Starting in Livingston at Howden Park Centre, Classic Clapton, a recreation of Clapton’s stage show and greatest hits, including his work as part of a succession of bands and as a solo artist, takes place on Saturday 21st March, which is sure to be a fun evening for the music fans!
Also on the 21st, in Linlithgow, the Linlithgow Heritage Trust is holding an Antiques, Vintage & Collectors Fair at Linlithgow Academy. Open from 9am, you can get your antiques valued with all proceeds from admission going towards the new Linlithgow Museum. With Spring arriving this month, why not take a visit to one of West Lothian’s country parks? Beecraigs, Almondell & Calderwood and
Looking a little further ahead, with Easter just around the corner Almond Valley are holding their Easter Eggcitement events from 4th April – with a variety of fun trails all-round the farm, as well as the opportunity to spot some cute new arrivals! Make sure you keep an eye out for the release of the latest Visit West Lothian Visitor guide in early April, featuring the fantastic winner of the #MyWestLothian photography competition – the perfect companion for planning great days out across West Lothian! Follow us on social media to keep up to date with all the latest from across West Lothian www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian
SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD
SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY SUDOKU
SOLUTION TO THE MARCH SUDOKU ON P26
ACROSS: 1. Post, 3. Shortest, 9. Relaxed, 10. Queue, 11. Mathematical, 14. Dew, 16. Irate, 17. Tie, 18. Nevertheless, 21. Treat, 22. Bathing, 23. Meddling, 24. Asks. DOWN: 1. Pyramids, 2. Split, 4. Hod, 5. Requirements, 6. Elegant, 7. Trek, 8. Experimental, 12. Adapt, 13. Messages, 15. Weekend, 19. Exits, 20. Stem, 22. Ban.
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Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.
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