december already! Here at Konect we’ve clocked up another year of discovering and celebrating with each issue the endless energy, kindness and creativity in the local area, and there is no better time than the festive season to reflect on it.
There is always more to be done, and Livingston charity Braid Health and Wellbeing pride themselves on going above and beyond for the elderly, isolated and vulnerable members of our community. They have capacity within their service at present, so if you know anyone who may need their excellent services, please get in touch with them – see the feature on pages 8-9.
We may take Almondell and Calderwood Country Park for granted - I’m sure most of us will have walked there countless timesbut in this months walk feature, we have the benefit of an observant and knowledgeable guide, our walk contributor William Weir, who shares a meander through the park with us. I hope you enjoy it and get a different perspective on this wonderful area.
Dogs Trust West Calder are looking for foster carers to provide a loving home for dogs which are on their way to their forever home. It’s a hugely rewarding activity not only in terms of the meaningful connection with the dogs you care for, but the broader social community at the Dogs Trust. See page 16 for details.
Wishing all our readers, advertisers and local organisations featured in Konect a wonderful and peaceful festive season.
‘TIS THE SEASON: Wishing all our readers a wonderful and peaceful festive season
Home Instead West Lothian have launched their festive campaign ‘Be A Santa To A Senior’ for the fifth year running.
Every year at Christmas, Home Instead West Lothian work in partnership with various community groups and charities to identify isolated older people across our local area who may not otherwise receive a present over the festive season.
With demand growing each year, we are once again asking for help from members of the public to support the campaign by purchasing a gift for isolated elderly people across West Lothian.
Gifts can be dropped off at one of the collection points below, or ordered online via their Amazon wishlist which can be found via their website here: www.homeinstead.co.uk/westlothian/blog/be-a-santa-2024
DROP OFF POINTS:
• Home Instead West Lothian Unit 9 Grampian Court, Beveridge Square, Livingston, EH54 6QF
• Klondyke Garden Centre, Campus Roundabout, Livingston, EH54 7AW
• Forestbank Community Centre, Ladywell East Road, Livingston, EH54 6DX
• J&R Veitch, Almondell Garden Centre, Raw Farm, East Calder, EH53 0ET
• Mill Garden Centre, Mill Road, Armadale, EH48 3AP
This article was contributed by Home Instead West Lothian who run the Be a Santa to a Senior festive campaign.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with isolation, neurological or age-related conditions, there may be a Braid Health & Wellbeing service that can help.
Braid Health & Wellbeing is the largest Day Care centre in West Lothian. We have a long and positive history of offering targeted and specialist day and wellbeing support to the older and more vulnerable communities throughout our catchment area.
TACKLING LONELINESS - Braid Health and Wellbeing provides a digital and physical space for everyone in need of support as they transition through life’s stages. We are a vibrant and forward-thinking charitable organisation, positively enhancing the ageing process for elderly, isolated and vulnerable individuals. It is our goal to offer the very best health and wellbeing support for those living within West Lothian
DAY SERVICE - We are proud of our ethos that our clients are the heart of who we are. We strive to ensure that each client who attends is treated with a person-centred approach and that their needs are central to the care they receive.
With changing times and the needs of people we strongly believe that no person should be excluded from being able to be part of our amazing community, and are pleased to announce that we have now designed our service so that we can tailor support for anyone who requires it to be adapted to meet their needs. This service is over and above that of our standard day service. We can provide 1 to 1 support, 2 to 1 support and other services to meets the needs of our clients. These services may incur an additional fee. We support clients over 50 with complex needs, such as Dementia, Parkinsons and other age-related illnesses
We have spaces for both local council referred clients (option 2 and 3) and self-referred private clients. For those
referred by their social worker who are eligible for a council place, the cost of the service will be means assessed by social work. For private clients, there is an option for both a full day or a half day. Please contact us to self refer to the service
OUR VISION - At Braid Health and Wellbeing, we see an ageing population as an opportunity, rather than a challenge and one which is vital for the progression of society. We are working hard towards delivering radically different approaches to providing our care and support for those experiencing conditions of ageing. Our aim is to develop a wide variety of mental and physical wellbeing services which are accessible to all. So whether your passion is singing, dance, films, being active, mindfulness, knitting, building things or just chatting away to like-minded folk… we’ve got something for you.
SENSORY/SPECIALIST ROOMS - We have created two wonderful sensory rooms within our centre which are available to hire. These rooms provide a calming and nurturing experience. They are aimed at supporting people with dementia and younger adults who have disabilities or learning difficulties. We also rent them out for anyone running relaxation or wellbeing services
ROOM HIRE - We have a range of rooms which can be hired out for events and activities, alongside a large, fully-equipped kitchen. Our biggest space, which is linked to the kitchen via a hatch, can hold up to 60 people for dining. We also have a variety of smaller rooms perfect for a board meeting or interviews. If you would like to tour the space, please email us.
For more information on any of our services or to enquire about room hire, please contact us on 01506 430615 or email contact@braidhealth.scot
Braid Health and Wellbeing is a charity registered in Scotland, number: SC012574
and activities aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing
Services
Sensory Room - available for hire
Large fully-equipped kitchen
It’s easy to assume we are savvy when it comes to fraud and scams, and expect that we’ll never be caught out and can spot a scam a mile off.
Sadly, scammers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, employing new tactics and methods to gain our trust. Our older loved ones are particularly at risk, as scammers can seek them out. Unfamiliarity with the online world can play a part too. If families club together and talk older loved ones through what to look out for, they can protect them from becoming victim.
HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD AND SCAMS?
Avoid Disclosing Security Details - Never share personal information like passwords or bank details over the phone or online.
Check Authenticity - Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages; verify the sender’s identity before responding.
Contact Organisations Directly - Use official contact information to confirm any suspicious communications. Use another phone if possible in case they have tapped into and have control over your phone.
Challenge Unexpected Requests - Trust your instincts — if something seems off, verify before acting.
Report Scams - Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or organisations like Action Fraud to help protect others by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk
Sadly, many scams go unreported due to the victim’s fear of embarrassment. But by being open and honest about scams with your older loved ones, they will feel more compelled to check with you if they ever have any suspicions.
The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian
ACROSS: 1. Snake-like fish (4), 3. Board game (8), 9. Get in touch (7), 10. Better (5), 11. Accomplishments (12), 14. Jewel (3), 16. Tracks (5), 17. Change colour (3), 18. Clarifications (12), 21. Punctuation mark (5), 22. Displaying (7), 23. Home-help (8), 24. Finishes (4). DOWN: 1. Swap (8), 2. Midday meal (5), 4. Slap (3), 5. Dialogue (12), 6. Enthusiastic (7), 7. Certain (4), 8. Animals with many legs (12), 12. Consumed (5), 13. Texts (8), 15. Largest amount (7), 19. Vegetable (5), 20. Cooled (4), 22. Winter sport (3).
Can you help us provide a temporary home for our dogs?
At Dogs Trust West Calder, we’re immensely proud of our thriving Home from Home programme—the most successful across all 21 Dogs Trust centres in the UK! Our foster carer scheme has achieved remarkable success, with an impressive 56% of our rehoming placements happening through dedicated foster families. The Home from Home programme offers dogs a loving and familiar environment, providing a comfortable alternative to kennels and setting them on the right path toward their forever homes.
We’re searching for compassionate individuals who live within a one-hour drive of the West Calder/Edinburgh area, who have their own car, and who are ready to regularly visit our centre. Whether you’re a seasoned dog lover or brand new to pet care, we welcome all experience levels! As a foster carer, you’ll be an integral part of our team, helping to shape a brighter future for our dogs. Fostering with us is flexible and rewarding—you’ll have a say in when and how long you’d like to foster, and if you need a break or are away on holiday, that’s absolutely fine.
Dogs Trust covers all costs, including supplies and medical care, so your primary focus can be on creating a nurturing environment for the dog in your care. We particularly encourage those who work from home, are retired, or who spend lots of time at home to apply, especially if you have a secure garden where a dog can
enjoy outdoor time. With the support of our dedicated Home from Home Coordinators, you’ll have guidance every step of the way—from choosing a dog that suits your lifestyle to preparing for their eventual adoption.
Fostering is a chance to create a meaningful connection and make a tangible difference, all while gaining unforgettable experiences. You’ll have the opportunity to care for dogs of all ages, from playful puppies to gentle seniors, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
And the journey doesn’t stop with fostering— our foster carers become part of a vibrant community, celebrating milestones together through events like our summer BBQs and festive Christmas lunches. These gatherings offer our carers a chance to share experiences, support each other, and strengthen bonds within our fostering family.
If you’re ready to be part of a program that’s transforming lives and contributing to one of the UK’s most successful rehoming centres, consider joining our Home from Home team. For more details, reach out to our team today on hfhwestcalder@dogstrust.org.uk
This article was contributed by Dogs Trust West Calder, (Edinburgh), Bentyhead, West Calder, EH55 8LE. Registered Charity SC053144. dogstrust.org.uk
Did you know that in the 17th century, wine from the Champagne region came with a peculiar warning: "Drink before spring!"
Back then, Champagne was nothing like the sparkling, refined drink we enjoy today. Instead, it was a still, weak red wine prone to an unexpected hazard—it often exploded as temperatures rose!
In the winter, when temperatures dropped, winemakers assumed the still Champagne was ready, that fermentation had finished, and the wine was shipped to be consumed in the UK. However, as the seasons changed and temperatures began to rise, the dormant yeast within the wine would reactivate. This second fermentation created a little more alcohol and carbon dioxide. The pressure within the fragile glass bottle would build until it was released, either through consumption or explosion!
While winemakers in Champagne worked to resolve this issue (bottles shouldn't spontaneously explode, after all), their volatile wine found surprising fans. French royalty delighted in the bubbly, unpredictable drink and demanded more. It was English scientist Christopher Merret who first properly investigated secondary fermentation and Dom Pérignon, the French monk is credited with inventing Champagne. Dom Pérignon was originally tasked with solving the exploding bottle problem!
Over the years, winemakers have unlocked the science of secondary fermentation, giving birth to the iconic sparkling wine we know today. Modern Champagne is bottled in thick glass to withstand the pressure, with its signature mushroom-shaped cork held firmly in place by a wire cage. The foil-wrapped neck often bears the word "Champagne" proudly stamped, a mark of its celebrated legacy.
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
Christmas is coming - OH YES IT IS!
Time certainly flies and we feel that most keenly when Christmas is approaching. For many of us, it just seems like five minutes since we put away all those decorations and squared our shoulders for a bright shiny new year and yet, here we are again. Glitter and shine are everywhere we look and we are encouraged to spend, spend, spend.
Most people react to the very mention of the festive season in one of two ways. They are either happy and excited or they start stressing out and begin the process of taking all the joy out of the season for themselves and everyone else they come into contact with.
However we feel about Christmas, it’s important to remember that we always have choices and the power to make the festive season exactly right for ourselves. This could be the year that we all decide to celebrate exactly as we want to, we can take things easy and enjoy all those small moments. Special things like taking down and unwrapping those familiar decorations with all the memories they evoke, dress up or don’t dress up, spend time with our very favourite people or close the door and just be with ourselves. Cook from scratch or buy ready made food to pop into the microwave and choose a meal that is made up of things we actually like to eat.
Let’s all decide to enjoy our own individual version of the perfect Christmas whether we sparkle with our family and friends or just sparkle by ourselves.
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
Devils on Horseback
Dried fruit is good for you; it’s a pleasure to eat and the fibre it adds to the diet is important. The slow release of the minerals and vitamins all dried fruits contain help foster good heart, gut, brain and muscle health.
December is a good time of year to celebrate and use these foods. The new harvest is in its best condition and Christmas is a time for treats and celebration. Dried fruit is at the heart of many special dishes just now, not the least of which are Christmas Cake, mince-meat and Christmas Pudding. The story of mince-meat is connected to the Crusaders and shows how food can be changed and adapted over 700 years from a mixture of meat and spices to the sweet filling for today’s Christmas pie. Almost all dried fruits can be eaten as a snack and are marketed for this, attractively packaged in small quantities at a high price per kg. It is more economical to buy larger packs and create your own favourite mixture, which you can store in a large screw-top jar.
Dried fruit also enhances and enriches savoury cooking. Many seasonal recipes include dried fruit such as dried apples or apricots in stuffing and sultanas in kedgeree.
Dried Fruit salad:
Muscatels, figs and dates are good to nibble at the end of a meal. Re-hydrated dried fruit salad folded into whipped double cream mixed 50/50 with Greek style yoghurt served with meringues make a special winter pudding. Soaking the fruit in tea, before you poach it, gives a particularly nice flavour, but do remember to take the teabag out.
Devils on Horseback:
For a Christmas treat either with drinks before the meal or in the old traditional way as a savoury at the end of a formal meal try Devils on Horseback. They are not difficult to make and freeze well, so can be made well before you need them. You will have sticky fingers but it is worth it.
Ingredients:
• 24 large stone-free prunes
• Branston Pickle, or your own chutney if it has bits.
• 12 rashers streaky bacon smoked or not as you prefer.
• Cocktail sticks
Method:
Stuff the cavity left by the plumb stone with the lumpy bits of Branston Pickle. That is the sticky part! Stretch the bacon by smoothing it out with the back of a knife. Cut each rasher in half and the roll each prune in a half slice. Secure with a wooden cocktail stick. Freeze to store.
To cook from frozen, space the devils out on a baking sheet covered in non-stick paper and bake in a hot, 180/200OC oven for about 10/15 minutes. Serve cooling from the oven. Take care; the sugar in the Branston will keep very hot.
This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton.
A NIGHT VIEW FROM WINDOW
With long nights and short days we like to light up some of the views in the evenings from our windows, and Henry the cat enjoys looking out from the warmth of the house!
We do have some artworks in the garden that we can see from inside but for the festive season the patio is our main focus. We always decorate the table, usually with a wreath made from clippings from garden plants and laid flat, perhaps with a pot of winter flowering heather or a Christmas Rose as well as a lantern with a candle burning in it.
Lesley usually has some Christmas lights trained on the pergola or through a shrub, she says that ladies can do lights as well as men, after all it’s just like plugging the iron in! LED lights are low voltage and so long as you plug them into the mains in the dry (use
a waterproof box for this) they are very safe and use very little electricity in the garden. Most sets include an automatic timer that has them on for 6 or 8 hours and then off for 18 or 16 hours.
There are lots of battery-powered lights available that will do the same job and the batteries last for a long time. They have similar functions as the mains operated sets. Here our patio is also lit up by an LED security light fixed above the patio door on the house wall.
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
I might upset a few people with this but the bird in this shot is called a fieldfare and they’re part of the thrush family.
They migrate here from Northern Europe and it’s not uncommon to find them with flocks of redwing or waxwings as they roam the skies on the hunt for berries. One of my favourite places to see them is on the sea buckthorn down at Aberlady. Now is when I might cause controversy when I say that’s as exciting at it gets. There are no cool anecdotes about them, they’re just lovelylooking birds who we only get to see during the winter.
Instead, let’s look at this from a photography angle. What do you think the background of this image might be? It was in a very urban environment and it may surprise you to know it was in fact someone’s house. I wasn’t looking in their window or anything, that’d be a bit weird. Whilst it’s always nice to have a bit of blue sky, it’s quite a boring backdrop for images so if you’re out photographing something, even taking a couple of steps in the opposite direction could completely
change up your background and make it far more appealing. It can also help get rid of some annoying grass or other distraction, as long as you aren’t disturbing the species.
The fieldfare should be back imminently, if not already (I haven’t seen any) looking to spend their winter in Scotland.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
Rachel Reeves has delivered her first Budget as Chancellor, and the first Labour Budget in 14 years.
Alongside the headline changes to minimum wage, fuel duty and increased spending for public services there were several changes that may affect you.
Income Tax and National Insurance: Employers face the biggest tax increase, with NI contributions increasing to 15%, alongside a drop in the threshold at which employers start to pay NI from £9,100 to £5,000.
CAPITAL GAINS TAX: Capital Gains Tax (CGT) has been increased with immediate effect to 18% for basic rate tax payers and 24% for higher and additional rate tax payers. CGT on residential property remains unchanged.
INHERITANCE TAX: The first £1m of combined Business and Agricultural assets will be IHT free with values in excess of this only benefitting from 50% relief. Alongside increases to the Business Asset Disposal Relief on disposals to 14% in April 2025 and again to 18% the following year, many business, farmers and landowners may find themselves subject to IHT.
PENSIONS: Pension death benefits will be included in inheritance tax calculations and charges, proposed from April 2027. This will not impact those receiving an income from a defined benefit pension scheme, or those that receive ongoing annuity payments following the death of the original annuitant. It will, however, generally impact all other pension death benefits, including death in service payments from pension schemes.
The scheme will pay the charge before allocating or paying the residual and the usual exemptions if left to a spouse will apply.
Pension Transfer to EEA are now subject to a 25% tax for those remaining as UK residents
Non-Dom status will be abolished from 6 th April 2025.
This has not been an easy Budget for those who are attempting to save and invest for their future. Given the changes, many people will be trying to understand what it means for them and how it might change their own personal financial plan. Speaking to a financial adviser will help to clarify what these changes mean for you; please do contact me if you would like to discuss your own situation.
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 levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.
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.
A busy morning, a busy week, a busy season. My mind turns over the issues of the day as I lock my bike to a post by the Mid Calder car park. Yet, such thoughts quickly vapourise as I step into the morning sun’s intense rays. I shield my eyes from the glare, searing low over the horizon from a cloudless pale blue winter sky.
I set off, crossing the footbridge over the Linhouse Water, just as it meets the River Almond; it’s the first of many crossings I will make this morning. A woodpigeon is feasting on hawthorn berries by the railing. The path climbs the far bank, bearing left, past trees adorned with holly and ivy, whose fruits will also provide important sustenance for many birds over winter, the ivy packing more energy for its weight than a Mars bar.
The white noise rush of water over a weir fills the air; a heron stands with elegant poise at its base, while two crows indulge in an aerial scuffle above.
I walk on. The gush of the weir recedes, and the waters calm to a laminar, tranquil
flow. Reflected in the water’s gently rippled surface are the forms of a great variety of trees. These act like monuments to Henry Erskine, founder of the Almondell Estate over two-hundred years ago, who laid out some of these original walks and had a fondness for woodland gardens. There are sycamores, willow, limes and beech. There are non-native conifers, including sequoiadendron, growing to great heights on the far bank. There are larches too, dressed in gold, needles ready to fall and be replaced with starbursts of green come spring.
I watch as a squirrel deftly retrieves a larch cone from a branch overhanging the water. As it ascends with its bounty, it is joined by another in the branches above. They dislodge golden needles which begin to fall like snow around me and on the rocks below.
I cross the river by another footbridge, following the signs for Cycle Route 75 and the Shale Trail. This takes me along by the canal feeder channel which is drawn from the river at this point and runs alongside it. Soon, I pass under one of the nine mighty arches of the Camps Viaduct. A narrow, peaked-roof wooden shelter has been built under the arch to protect pedestrians - it looks like it has been lifted straight out of Hobbiton. A little farther on, I come upon a majestic old beech tree by the path, giant roots running like quicksilver through the deep carpet of fallen leaves lying below its immense form. It is surrounded by young beech saplings – its children and grandchildren.
I pass, but do not cross, the Almondell Bridge and descend towards the water’s edge to take in the view of this impressive structure, which crouches protectively over the watercourse –elegant, yet emanating strength and solidity. Down by the rocky banks, the air is thick
with a mossy dampness which transports me instantaneously back to childhood days messing about by the river.
Keeping to the lower (blue signposted) path from here allows a better view of the most diminutive of today’s bridges, the pretty Dell Bridge, with its babbling burn beneath. Continuing on this path, I eventually emerge into what was originally the estate’s walled garden. Two stone walls remain, along which a variety of young fruit trees have recently been planted by the Friends of Almondell and Calderwood Country Park, in a nod to the history of what was once a productive market garden.
Emerging at the eastern side of the garden, I join the tarmac road which heads out of the park towards Broxburn. However, after a short way, I turn left at a signpost, heading uphill on a grassy path. I turn left again at the top of the rise to track back along the side of the valley. Here, the vegetation consists of hazel, gorse and smaller trees, interspersed with dark stems of decaying thistle and dock. I gaze over the valley’s treetops to East Calder beyond. The sounds of construction – which curiously I could not hear in the valley below – now drift across from the far side. I continue until the path leads me down a few steps and switchbacks to rejoin the main route.
This time I cross the Almondell Bridge, turning right on reaching the far side to cut across the grassy plain bounded by the river’s meander, walking adjacent to the Route 75 cycleway. I then come upon perhaps the most curious bridge of the day. This one carries the canal feeder over the river, covered over with a metal plate walkway for pedestrians. Pausing partway across, I enjoy the view of the river and viaduct. Curious rock formations rise from the riverbed; vertical rock strata coated in bright green moss – like the bony armour of some gigantic, submerged lizard. These are from the Burdie-House limestone layer, part of the West Lothian Oil Shales group.
Once across, I retrace my steps from the outward leg back to the car park at Mid Calder. As I do so, I recall my feelings as I set off, noting how my walk has quietened thoughts of our busy human world and its attendant worries, this beautiful park acting like a protective crucible from the clamour. A couple of hours in nature may just be the perfect antidote to the season’s stresses – where better to spend it than amidst the joys of lovely Almondell?
With grateful thanks to the Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park.
This article was contributed by William Weir. William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.
CREDIT: All image by William Weir
FRIDAY 6TH DECEMBER
A Night of Festive Favourites - Bathgate Concert Orchestra’s annual Christmas Concert. Conductor Steven Meikle. Ladywell Baptist Church, Livingston, EH54 6DR. 7.30pm. Entry by donation. bathgateconcertorchestra.org.uk
SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER
Mid Calder Torchlight Procession - Carol service in the Kirk of Calder at 6.00pm, the procession leaves from the church at 6.30pm and parades to the Christmas Tree where lights will be swithed on around 7.15pm. Santa’s Grotto at the Institute Hall.
SATURDAY 7TH DECEMBER
Friends of Almondell Country Park Volunteering session - The Friends of Almondell's monthly practical project meeting. Volunteer group helping to conserve and maintain the 220 acre Almondell & Calderwood Country Park including the Oakbank extension. We meet on the first Saturday of the month from 10.00am until 12noon and always welcome new volunteers. Please get in touch by contacting the Ranger Service on 01506 882254, or email almondell&calderwood@westlothian.gov.uk to find out more about getting involved. Facebook: Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park. Please book a space (free of charge) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/westlothian-council-ranger-service-60064115123 Email: rangerservice@westlothian.gov.uk
SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER
A Christmas Celebration - with Tocatta Ladies Choir. Uphall South Parish Church, 7.30pm. Tickets £10 on the door. www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk
DAILY UNTIL MONDAY 30TH DECEMBER
Christmas During the Day - Discover the joys of Christmas at Almond Valley where every day is filled with festive cheer and unforgettable fun! A range of magical activities for the whole family to enjoy, including: Santa's Postbox, Wish Tree, Photo Opportunities, Tractor Rides, Animal Encounters, Carnival Games in the Orchard Barn, Christmas Themed Menu in our cafe, and so much more. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. www.almondvalley.co.uk/whats-on/ christmas-events
UNTIL 31ST DECEMBER
Panto: Peter Pan - Reconnect Theatres present “Peter Pan” at Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Tickets from £18 via www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk
Where to see Santa
He’s a busy man and most places require advance bookings! If you have not yet booked, check these local venues for availability!
Deer Park: Meet Santa in his magical grotto, gift included, £8.99 per child. Weekends 7th/8th Dec and 14th/15th Dec, various times through the day, see advert on this page. Please book by calling Deer Park on 01506 446699
Almond Valley Heritage Centre: Meet Santa in his cosy cottage. Fri to Sun through December, £10 per child. 4 minutes with Santa plus a gift. Also midweek Santa for tots and toddlers, and ASN Friendly Santa Visits on selected dates. Details on online booking for all Santa visits at www.almondvalley.co.uk/whatson/christmas-events
Dobbies Livingston: Magical journey to meet Santa in his grotto. Daily to 24th December, £12.99 per child, includes a gift. Information and booking at events.dobbies.com
Five Sisters Zoo, West Calder: Santa meet and greet experience in our festive grotto. 5 minute Santa experience plus a gift. £15.00 per child. (You can visit the grotto without visiting the zoo/soft play, or add it to your zoo/illuminations booking). Information and online booking at fivesisterszoo.co.uk/zooilluminations-2024
The Centre, Livingston: Santa’s Grotto is nestled at the heart of the giant Christmas Tree near Waterstones. Daily until 24th Dec, includes a gift from Santa. From £6 per child, plus £1.50 online booking fee. Information and booking at www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/Livingston Conifox Adventure Park, Kirkliston: Full Xmas experience including Elf school, toy workshop, reindeer flying school, cookie decorating with Mrs Claus, Magic Forest journey and meet Santa himself in his living room, includes a gift. £22.70 per child, information and booking at conifox.co.uk
The Bridge Inn, Linlithgow: Experience the enchantment of Santa’s Grotto and enjoy a gift from Danta. 23rd December 6-8pm, £15 per child, book by calling 01506 539888.
House of the Binns, Queensferry: Santa Claus and his elves are visiting the House of the Binns this festive season! Santa will meet you in the Blue Room of the House which will be magically decorated by Santa's elves. Gift and seasonal certificate included. £16 per child. Saturdays and Sundays from 7th to 22nd, December, various times, information and booking via eventbrite
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
DECEMBER SUDOKU
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 13. See page 33 for solutions.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
MID CALDER COMMUNITY
HUB - Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm. Institute Hall (Community Centre) Mid Calder. We have free teas and coffee along with cake and biscuits together with a warm welcome and friendly chat. Open to all. We look forward to seeing you soon. Any questions just pop in to see us.
MID CALDER WOMEN’S
GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s Group would like to welcome new members. We are a group aged 60+ who meet each Monday at the Institute Hall, Mid Calder, from 12.45pm until 3pm. Cost per week is £3/member. We organise various activities including, games, quizzes, bingo, well being exercises and regular talks from external speakers and entertainers. We also arrange coach trips to places of interest. Interested? Please contact Jackie on 01506 883205.
EAST CALDER PENSIONERS
CLUB - Held in The Dave King Partnership Centre, Main Street, East Calder on the last Thursday of every month from 1.00pm to 3.00pm (September-April). New members welcome. Contact Carole on 07821 699332 for further details.
MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am11.30 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 - Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am 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 CHOIR - Singergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian. MONDAYS: 7.009.00pm, 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. No need to book, just turn up and you’ll be made very welcome.
WEST LOTHIAN LITTER
PICKERS - We’re a group of over 3000 West Lothian residents, so if you want to help clean up your community, like we do, come join the group on Facebook “West Lothian Litter Pickers(Act Local Think Global)”. We organise group litter picks or put you in touch with a buddy in your area to get you started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.
EAST CALDER
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 (SeptemberMay) Please contact Gillian on 07415309886 for further details.
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 and at Geddes House, Livingston, EH54 6GU on Thursdays 9.30. 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,
SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
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 & 7.308.45pm Monday.
yoga Flow 7.00-8.00pm
Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm
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.
- 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
- 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
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.
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 £24. 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
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
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.
NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.
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.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
IVF is a true scientific breakthrough of the modern age. It has given millions of women the opportunity to have children that once would not have been an option.
As stated in the film Joy, having a child is a choice but for thousands, it is not. So why is it wrong for science to give options to many more women? Years ago, this film would have been a showcase of the power of science and a happy story of the advancement of reproductive care. However, in 2024 it is a stark reminder of a past that is echoing to this very day. Joy has a pro-choice message. Even though the choice is around having a child or not. It is easy to see the parallels between the challenges faced by the development of IVF to what is currently happening with abortion. We see many scenes of the doctors explaining that is IVF just like false teeth; it’s not a sin and that IVF would destigmatise the idea that women who cannot have children are lesser than those who can. What was achieved by Jean Purdy, Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe was nothing short of a marvel and this film perfectly and thrilling showcases that.
With wonderful performances by Thomasin Mckenzie, James Norton and Bill Nighy, Joy is nothing short of a great film. While tackling a very real issue it’s also very easy to watch and flies at a brisk pace. A worthy watch.
Available to watch on NETFLIX
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.
MUSIC 4U is a group for people with dementia and their carers. It meets in Livingston United Parish Church, Fells Rigg, Carmondean, Livingston on the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2.00pm – 3.30pm.
The group is organised by volunteers with a speciality in dementia care and music therapy. There is no cost for attendance and it is open to all throughout West Lothian.
It is a well known fact that music can have many benefits to a person with dementia including emotional well-being, reducing anxiety & depression as well as being a source of enjoyment and entertainment. Music also helps maintain speech & language and can for many, improve their memory.
With all of this in mind, MUSIC 4U delivers all types of musical activity including singing, exercise, quizzes, dancing and reminiscence. A short afternoon tea at the beginning ensures a domestic styled atmosphere.
Anyone interested in bringing someone with dementia along to our group should contact Nancy on 01506 419904 or burgoynenancy49@gmail.com for more information. We aim to keep our numbers below 25 to allow a relaxed family experience so there may be a waiting period before acceptance.
