Konect Calders August 2023

COMMUNITY:

PROPERTY MATTERS:

With summer in full swing, maybe you’ve been lucky enough to pick fresh strawberries, from your own planter or from a pick your own farm - always a lovely summer holiday activity with the kids. This month I met a local woman who took pick your own to a whole new level, living only off foraged wild food for an entire year. She has written a book about the experience, see the feature on pages 8-9, which also highlights local charity Beechbrae where you can learn about foraging and other ways of connecting with nature for improving mental health.

Francine’s Life Coaching column is particularly relevant this month, as teens head back to school and all the associated pressures later in August. And as schools go back later in August, remember there are also adult learning opportunities locally and it’s never too late to pick up new skills. West Lothian Council run a range of free part time courses, see their advert on page 13.

I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

This is the question that Mo Wilde, West Lothian forager, research herbalist and author, recently asked herself. Then set about doing exactly that, for a full 12 months.

Incredibly, Mo found all her food for a year primarily in West Lothian, sometimes going further afield but all within the central belt of Scotland. She ate only wild food and did not spend a single penny on food for 12 months.

In her recently published, award-winning book “The Wilderness Cure,” Mo recounts the experience, as well as sharing her wealth of knowledge of plants, the seasons and how to live in true harmony with nature for mental and physical well-being. She traces the history of foraging, and much more. For us it’s particularly special and relevant as it’s set right here in central Scotland.

Whilst Mo has an advantage over most of us in terms of her expert knowledge of plants that allowed her to manage entirely on wild food,

an element of foraging is certainly available to all of us. As she says, “Whether we just pick a handful of hairy bittercress to add to a city park salad, or a bonanza banquet of autumnal wild mushrooms, it is one of the last wild acts of defiance against the concrete world.” It’s a way to reconnect with nature and enjoy Earth’s bounty. Besides the physical health boost of nutrient-rich wild food, the activity itself of getting outdoors and collecting food has immeasurable mental health benefits. And it’s as much about the community and sharing of knowledge with each other as about the food itself. Connection with nature, a curiosity about the environment and a desire to be nurtured and fed seasonally by our immediate environment are values and knowledge that have been lost to a large degree, in particular over the course of the last century. There is a whole community of people locally dedicated to rediscovering and sharing this knowledge, from the Pentlands to the Bathgate Hills and beyond.

One such organisation is Beechbrae, located in Blackridge. just of the M8 between Edinburgh and Glasgow. With a 35 acre woodland, footpaths winding through the wood, wild ponds, a garden, an orchard and outdoor kitchen, Beechbrae exists to help connect people with nature as a way of addressing a variety of challenges. Beechbrae’s core values are:

Curiosity - being open to exploring, learning and fostering curiosity about the natural world, each other and ourselves as a means of strengthening our collective agency.

Is it possible to live entirely off foraged food?

Connection - recognising relationship and connection – within ourselves, with everyone who comes to or is part of Beechbrae, and with the land. Nurture - nurturing those who engage with Beechbrae and the land itself. We engage in a trauma-informed way to seek health, wellbeing and wholeness.

Beechbrae is open to the public, and along with a programme of events they offer woodland well-being sessions that focus on improving mental and physical health and raising awareness of important environmental issues and sustainability. They also regularly run a 12 week outdoor programme called Branching Out, developed by Scottish Forestry to support mental health. Branching Out at Beechbrae involves activities such as fire cooking, self inquiry, balm making, foraging, mindful walks, plant and tree identification, folklore and much more.

If you are interested in Woodland Wellbeing sessions, participating in a Branching Out course, hiring the woodland centre for an event, or any other information, please contact Beechbrae:

E: hello@beechbrae.com.

W: beechbrae.com

A: Beechbrae Wood Heights Rd, Blackridge EH48 3SW.

UPCOMING EVENT AT BEECHBRAE:

Sunday 3rd September

Why Rewilding is important – A talk by Nick Benge of Watergems

Nick Benge is an ecologist who began a rewilding project in two fields in North Devon in 2020. This talk covers what they did and the astounding impact in just 3 years. “Built it and they will come” 3.00-5.00pm. Tickets: free. Book at beechbrae.com/events

HERBAL MEDICINE, NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS, HEALTH FOOD AND ZERO WASTE REFILLS

“The Wilderness Cure” is available for purchase at Napiers Bathgate, as well as online bookstores. Call in to Napiers, on George Street, Bathgate, for local produce, organic fruit and veg, wholefoods, natural skincare and a range of green living products. Get over-the-counter advice, come to talks and events or just stop for a blether. More than a shop, it is a community health hub based on herbal remedies, natural skincare, wholefoods and green living.

Established in Edinburgh in 1860, Napiers is Scotland’s oldest herbal medicine outlet. Mo Wilde ran Napiers from 2007 to 2021 and still consults from the Bathgate store, which is an independent locally owned community interest company licensed to operate under the Napiers brand. They aim to provide affordable natural health care for all, stocking natural and organic supplements, health food and a growing range of zero waste products in their refilley. There is a herbal clinic and dispensary onsite. It’s a very friendly, welcoming community in the store - a traditional shopping experience where all the employees are local and regular customers are greeted by name.

Napiers Bathgate, 62 Geroge Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PD. Open Tues to Sat 9.30am – 5.00pm. bathgateherbals.co.uk Tel: 01506 353786

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after attending Mo Wilde’s Wilderness Cure event at Napiers Bathgate and speaking with Beechbrae staff.

See also monicawilde.com for more on “wild food, wild medicine, wild living and the old ways of doing and being.”

AUGUST CROSSWORD

September edition of Konect

the

Solution in

ACROSS: 1. Make a choice (6), 4. Railings (6), 9. Enlarged (7), 10. Headgear (5), 11. Home planet (5), 12. Citrus fruits (7), 13. Rural area (11), 18. Leaving (7), 20. Answer (5), 22. Devoured (5), 23. Closest (7), 24. Withstand (6), 25. Narrow river (6).

DOWN: 1. Remove doubt (6), 2. Singing group (5), 3. Sea mammal (7), ,5. Surplus (5), 6. Altered (7), 7. Scarce (6), 8. Supporting (11), 14. Not included (7), 15. Butler or maid (7), 16. Remove (6), 17. Scheme (6), 19. Not outer (5), 21. Portion (5).

Dementia

advice from experts

Solution in the September edition of Konect

1. Make a choice (6), 4. Railings (6), 9. Enlarged (7), 13. Rural area (11), 18. Leaving (7), 20. Answer (5), 22. Devoured (5), 1. Remove doubt (6), 2. Singing group (5), 3. Sea mammal (7), ,5. Surplus (5), 6. Altered (7), 7. Scarce (6), 8. Supporting (11),

AUGUST CROSSWORD Solution in

ACROSS: 1. Make a choice (6), 4. Railings (6), 9. Enlarged (7), 10. Headgear (5), 11. Home planet (5), 12. Citrus fruits (7), 13. Rural area (11), 18. Leaving (7), 20. Answer (5), 22. Devoured (5), 23. Closest (7), 24. Withstand (6), 25. Narrow river (6).

the September edition of Konect

DOWN: 1. Remove doubt (6), 2. Singing group (5), 3. Sea mammal (7), ,5. Surplus (5), 6. Altered (7), 7. Scarce (6), 8. Supporting (11), 14. Not included (7), 15. Butler or maid (7), 16. Remove (6), 17. Scheme (6), 19. Not outer (5), 21. Portion (5).

AUGUST CROSSWORD

One step at a time

A video guide to navigating dementia

Our new video guide offers expert advice to help you navigate dementia, from initial diagnosis, to living well with the condition and self-care tips for carers.

Download the guide at careuk.com/one-step-at-a-time

Trusted to care

Cairdean House, Colinton

Lauder Lodge, Portobello

Murrayside, Corstophine careuk.com/edinburgh

Solution in the September edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Make a choice (6), 4. Railings (6), 9. Enlarged (7), 10. Headgear (5), 11. Home planet (5), 12. Citrus fruits (7), 13. Rural area (11), 18. Leaving (7), 20. Answer (5), 22. Devoured (5), 23. Closest (7), 24. Withstand (6), 25. Narrow river (6). DOWN: 1. Remove doubt (6), 2. Singing group (5), 3. Sea mammal (7), ,5. Surplus (5), 6. Altered (7), 7. Scarce (6), 8. Supporting (11), 14. Not included (7), 15. Butler or maid (7), 16. Remove (6), 17. Scheme (6), 19. Not outer (5), 21. Portion (5).

The BEST DAYS of your life

We live in a world that seems to prize youth above everything else. Everywhere we look, magazines and beauty products are sold on the basis that maybe, just maybe, there is a magic potion out there that can keep us all in our prime.

This is exaggerated even more at this time of year with all the emphasis on sunshine and summer frolics and our televisions seem to be devoted to dating shows and island romance. How often do any of us stop and think about the pressures our young people face, especially in these times when a casual scroll down social media reveals a world of glamour and unattainable perfection?

In reality, the teenage years are a transitional time with physical, emotional, social and personality changes that can feel scary at

a time when the focus is less on the familiar support of family and more on spending time with friends and peers.

Young people often forget how strong they are and all the challenges they have faced and overcome in the past. In the midst of what can feel like turbulent times we can work with them to help shift their focus onto what the future holds and remind them that we are there for them and happy to play a supporting rather than a central role in their lives.

Crucially, we can also remind them that all the fun and frolics they see on social media is never the whole story. As someone wise once said, we should never judge our insides by other people’s outsides.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk

I’m selecting wines for an Autumn wedding! A lovely American couple are marrying in Scotland in October. Their menu features local, seasonal produce and I am selecting wine to pair - one of my favourite things to do!

“East Neuk Fife lobster, monkfish and langoustine served with a dill sage butter sauce, roasted potatoes and fennel”

The showstopping main course needs partnered with something equally special! Lobster and monkfish are firm meats, the butter sauce is rich and the fennel and dill are delicate, essential herbs. I will select a white wine for this dish, one with acidity to keep the palate fresh but not dominate the flavour or texture of the meat. This rules out New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc as it can dominate the palate and overwhelm the delicate flavour of the herbs. The wine must be interesting, delicious and well-structured. I am drawn to a Pinot Gris from Alsace. This wine is slightly off dry, with notes of dried apricot and have acidity and body.

“Autumn berries with tonak bean bavoir and a chocolate and praline tart with mascarpone cream.”

My favourite course though is dessert! Here I have opted for Scottish elderberry elixir, ‘Aelder’, by Buck and Birch, based in Trannent. Aelder is a special, handcrafted liqueur made is small batches using wild elderberries foraged from Scotland’s hedgerow. The liqueur is flavoured with spices and local botanicals. Whisky is added to the blend resulting in a rich, smooth and very special drink with a beautifully warming finish.

The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com

We specialise in household alterations and repairs. To discuss your construction project, please call Colin on:

email:

Low Brae, Torphichen EH48 4LU

Asking Price: Offers Over £275,000

Exuding an abundance of charm and character, 6 Low Brae is a period cottage located on a quiet lane in a desirable conservation village, in the very heart of Scotland.

The Bath House, Gowanbank Estate

FK1 2JY Asking Price: Offers Over £325,000

A stunning detached two-bedroom converted farm building with picturesque gardens, quietly situated in a rural setting of outstanding natural beauty close to the small West Lothian village of Avonbridge.

Abercorn, Edinburgh Road, Bathgate

EH48 1EP Asking Price: Offers Over £425,000

Nestled behind evergreen hedges on a corner plot in one of Bathgate’s most sought-after streets, “Abercorn” is truly a hidden gem. A characterful period home with large rooms and beautiful gardens, it exudes a relaxed country vibe within the heart of the town.

Cardan Cottage, Fauldhouse EH47 9AY

Asking Price: Offers Over £325,000

A spacious stone cottage located at the end of a nothrough lane, 60 Bridge Street is a delightful home offering flexible family accommodation. Generoussized rooms and a large private garden with open land to the rear, are all beautifully presented.

The Cart House, Torphichen EH48 4PG

Asking Price: Offers Over £525,000

A stunning stone built four-bedroom farm steading, beautifully renovated and nestled on the edge of the tranquil and scenic conservation village of Torphichen

The Curio House, Torphichen EH48 4LY Asking Price: Price on Application

Set in a charming building in the heart of Torphichen this exclusive three-bedroom upper villa boasts a breath-taking façade, magnificent architecture and instant kerb appeal.

The Shambles, Murieston EH54 9AN Asking Price: Price on Application

A beautifully renovated five-bedroom cottage nestled in a semi-rural environment in the heart of Scotland. It’s rare to find a home of this size with all the charm and character of a historic property, with large private garden, yet in close proximity to the amenities of the thriving town of Livingston.

Please contact our sales team for further information or to arrange a viewing – info@turpies.com

Reviewing your pension provision helps ensure that you are on track to meet your retirement goals. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of reviewing your pension provision: Firstly, times change, and so do your circumstances. Regularly reviewing your pension provision will take into account any changes in your personal and financial situation and ensures that your investment strategy aligns with your risk tolerance and retirement goals. Working with a financial advisor will help you to make adjustments to your investment portfolio, so it matches your changing needs. Furthermore, pension regulations and legislation can change over time. Governments often introduce new policies that affect retirement plans. Staying up-to-date with these

developments enables you to make informed decisions about your pension provision and take advantage of any opportunities that arise. Lastly, reviewing your pension provision provides peace of mind. Retirement planning can be complex, and it’s easy to overlook crucial elements. By regularly meeting with a financial advisor you can identify any gaps or areas that need improvement.

A pension review is a crucial step towards securing your financial future and enjoying a comfortable retirement.

The value of an Investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount Invested.

The Money Matters column is contributed by Lucy Logan. Lucy lives in Calderwood and is the Principal of Calderwood Financial, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management.

Using vertical space

Many homes, particularly modern houses, have small gardens, so growing plants up walls and fences can give you wonderful colour.

Here are some suggestions:

Clematis are suitable for a wide range of planting places, with many preferring a sunny aspect and others happier on a north-facing fence. Passion flower, Passiflora, and the star jasmine, Trachelospermum, all love sunshine and warmth.

Honeysuckle is a great climber for a partially shaded site. It provides wildlife habitats, scented nectar-rich flowers and berries for birds too.

On your shadier fences you might consider foliage plants that are self-clinging, such as ivy and Parthenocissus. Boston ivy and Virginia creeper produce spectacular autumn colour, but you need to be prepared to prune them regularly and vigorously.

The climbing hydrangea petiolaris is a great choice for a shady wall, although likely to grow very large once it has established, so be prepared to prune hard once it has reached the top of the fence.

This article was written by Caroline Knight

Clematis

AUGUST SUDOKU

page 12. See page 33 for solutions.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

AUGUST SUDOKU

AUGUST SUDOKU

Cinemas are in a weird place. The time films are in cinema before they are on streaming or rental platforms is the smallest it has ever been and it has in ways ruined what it means to go to the cinema. But even in a sea of hopelessness, there is a beacon of light here to save cinema. That beacon of light is Tom Cruise. Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1 is in cinemas. It is a cinematic experience like no other - thrilling, gripping, tense, surprisingly funny, beautiful, and awe-inspiring.

Dead Reckoning at its core is a spy film, about what the future of operations, spies and warfare could be. It’s the closest the films have been to being a spy film since the original. The way the film is even shot has this De Palma style to it that feels refreshing. Esai Morales as Gabriel is the strongest film the franchise has had. He is intense, scary, and weirdly calm.

The rest of the cast is still incredible. Tom Cruise just lives and breathes Ethan Hunt and Simon Pegg and Ving Rhames are great as their respective characters. The newcomers are also solid. The action is stunning, from practical car crashes to punch outs shot with great coverage to the famous bike stunt. Every action scene feels like you are watching a blockbuster action film.

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part 1 is a cinematic masterpiece. It is simply an action blockbuster like no other.

In Cinemas Now!

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.

Despite being the world’s most distributed species of owl, they can be quite hard to see in Scot-land because it’s a bit chilly up here and they’re not fans of the cold. Whilst researching them for this article, I discovered Scotland has the most northerly breeding barn owls in the Northern Hemisphere!

They’re nocturnal birds so daytime sightings are rarer than the warmer climates down South. If you’re wondering how to tell nocturnal owls from diurnal ones (those active during the day) The tell tale sign is the the black eyes of the barn owl & tawnies. You’ll see orange/yellow pupils of the little, short, and long eared owls, who can all be seen hunting during the day time.

Barn owls are incredible hunters and their heart shaped face helps collect sound as they quarter above the fields listening for voles and mice. Their feathers are designed

to dampen sound, which gives them the ability to fly silently however they’re very absorbent and generally don’t like to fly in the rain, another reason which why they’re not easy to see up here. Incredibly, they can also hear a mouse’s heartbeat in a 30ft sq. room, yet my husband can’t hear me ask him to do the dishes in the same house.

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Follow them on Facebook: @ScottishSistersPhotography

I try not to species chase but when a friend found active barn owls, I couldn’t resist a trip across the border to Lanark to watch these beautiful birds.

Rescue greyhound Kaas’ was almost killed at 2 years old

We want to introduce you to the gorgeous Kaas.

Kaas’ life was saved by a vet and independent rehoming charity 5 years ago, when her trainer took her to the vet to be put down at 2 years old, despite her jaw injury being completely treatable. Her trainer claimed her kennel mate attacked her, however a specialist vet concluded that Kaas’ injury couldn’t have been caused by a dog, but rather by a direct blow to her jaw. With just 10 minutes before closing, the vet phoned an independent rescue charity who agreed to take Kaas into their care for treatment and rehoming. They saved her life. By just 2 years old, Kaas had already raced at tracks across the UK. Then, Kaas’ trainer was disqualified for doping as Kaas and her kennel mate were both discovered with drugs in their system. While a committee concluded that Kaas’ drugging was not deliberate, it was deemed the drugging of her kennel mate had to be.

During the case, her trainer said that Kaas wouldn’t race again and that she had been rehomed. If it was up to him, Kaas wouldn’t have raced again, however not because she had been rehomed, but because she would be dead.

Had the vet not called the independent rehoming charity, Kaas would not be here today.

Since her rescue from racing, Kaas’ life is very different with her loving family. Kaas is a happy, healthy girl that rocks her signature ‘squinty mouth’!

Kaas’ loves to nap, in fact, her mum says she’s the laziest greyhound you’ll ever meet. When Kaas is not napping, she’s hanging out with one of her best friends, frontman of Biffy Clyro, Simon Neil!

Kaas is one of the ‘lucky’ ones. Many dogs haven’t been and won’t be so lucky. Between 2018-2022, 2,718 greyhounds died and there was a total of 22,284 injuries across the UK. That doesn’t even include the unregulated tracks that have no obligation to record figures, such as the last remaining track in Scotland- the unlicensed Thornton Stadium in Fife.

Please help Kaas’ friends and sign the Unbound the Greyhound coalition’s open letter to the Scottish Government calling for an end to greyhound racing in Scotland. An end is within a paw’s reach!

Search:

bit.ly/unboundthegreyhound or scan the QR code to add your name in support of the Unbound the Greyhound campaign.

This article was contributed by the animal charity www.onekind.org

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Robots, 4. Tennis, 9. Grandma, 10. Twice, 11. Audio, 12. Thawing, 13. Unnecessary, 18. Cobwebs, 20. Later, 22. Ruler, 23. Imitate, 24. Desire, 25. Agreed.

DOWN: 1. Ragtag, 2. Bland, 3. Tadpole, 5. Extra, 6. Noisier, 7. Sledge, 8. Partnership, 14 Nibbles, 15. Solving, 16. Scared, 17. Friend, 19. Error, 21. Tease.

SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...

SOUND THERAPY, MEDITATION AND YOGA

- Monthly sound baths and candlelit Yin yoga classes to calm and relax body and mind. Workshops, 1:1 therapies and retreats throughout the year. Classes in Kirknewton Village Hall www.ocean-flow.co.uk

MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 26

- 11.30 am in The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We have a huge toy selection, offer arts and crafts and supply a small snack. Adults can have a hot drink and a chat whilst the children play happily. Session costs are £1 for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. Follow us on Facebook or email: midcalderbabygroup@gmail. com for further details

EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP

ACROSS: 1. Robots, 4. Tennis, 9. Grandma, 10. Twice, 11. Audio, 12. Thawing, 13. Unnecessary, 18. Cobwebs, 20. Later, 22. Ruler, 23. Imitate, 24. Desire, 25. Agreed.

DOWN: 1. Ragtag, 2. Bland, 3. Tadpole, 5. Extra, 6. Noisier, 7. Sledge, 8. Partnership, 14 Nibbles, 15. Solving, 16. Scared, 17. Friend, 19. Error, 21. Tease.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

on your mat with real yoga every session or book 5 sessions for £25. All Covid-safe measures are in place. Bring your own mat and any other yoga equipment you need. Please confirm booking by pre-paying for your class. any further information, please contact me on 07767 777044. Everyone welcome.

WEST LOTHIAN LITTER help clean up your community,

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.

Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design

M: 07729 911858

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

- Mon-Fri 9-11am for 2-3 year olds @ The Dave King Partnership Centre. Lots of fun activities while learning through play. Stories, songs, craft, small world, sand, water, outdoor fun & lots more. For more information call /text 07748053340 or pop in and see us.

SINGERGIE CHOIRSingergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian.

MONDAYS: 7.00-9.00pm, The Village, Oakbank Road, East Calder. FRIDAYS: 10.00am –12noon, East Calder Bowling Club. No auditions, no fees, no stress. Good songs, easy harmonies, friendship and fun. And you get a cuppa thrown in too. Won’t cost you a penny.

started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.

EAST CALDER

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU.

Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design

M: 07729 911858

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

NEEDLECRAFT CLUB - We are back….We meet every Thursday evening from 6.30pm - 9pm at the Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. All crafts are catered for whether you are a beginner or experienced in your favourite craft, we want to welcome you to our group. Why not give us a try? Call 01506 882699 for more information.

EAST CALDER OVER 50s CLUB - Held in The Dave King Community Centre, Main Street, East Calder every Wednesday from 1.30-3.30pm (September-May) Please contact Gillian on 07415309886 for further details.

LADIES CIRCLE - Dave King Community Centre, Main Street, East Calder. Second Thursday of every month at 1.30pm-3.30pm.

POTTER AROUND AT POTTER AROUND - Potter Around is a local pottery and ceramic painting studio based in Kirknewton. We offer taster sessions on the potter’s wheel for ages 5+. We also do clay imprints – a great memento to keep forever and we have a huge range of pre-made ceramics which are great for handprints, but also for people of all ages to paint. Our shop sells gorgeous handmade gifts including pottery and jewellery. Check our website for details: www.potteraround.co.uk

EAST CALDER SCOUT

GROUP - Providing fun and exciting scouting programmes for children in the local area, from age 6 upwards. We meet on a Monday or Tuesday, depending on the child’s age. Adults interested in becoming leaders will be made very welcome. We also hire the scout hall for one off occasions or for other groups to use, to benefit the local community. Find out more at our website: www.eastcalderscouts.uk

SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder.

Tuesdays: 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm, Wednesdays: 9.30 & 11.30am. New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781

CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS

LADIES' CHOIR - Would you like to join in with some fun at our friendly community choir? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30

pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of materials from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. We’d love to welcome singers from across West Lothian. To find out more or to join us please contact John Rankine at john.rankine@ lineone.net

CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/ illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm

Monday. Ante-natal yoga 5.456.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.008.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.457.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.4511.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston.

T: 07810 824 195

E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk

W: chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN

- Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended –both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face).

For information: T: 01506 448000,

E:office@carers-westlothian.com

W: www.carers-westlothian.com

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art

demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT

- A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centrecall to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk

WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £20. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510

To include your Club or Class, please email details, up to 75 words, to EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT

Not-for-profit groups are FREE. There is a small charge for businesses. See WWW.KONECT.SCOT for information.