Konect Calders July 2023

PROPERTY MATTERS: LOCAL WALK: LOCAL HISTORY:

We go over the bridge at Mid Calder, just by the turning for Pumpherston, frequently without giving it a second thought. That bridge has been there since 1795! It has carried all manner of vehicles into and out of Mid Calder, as this was the main road between Edinburgh and Glasgow, served by the coaching inn (now the Fork and Field) right here. Local resident Ross Wyllie has been doing some research on the bridge, and shares his article with us in this issue; see pages 8-9.

There is plenty going on locally this summer for all the family; various holiday clubs for the kids, and also events such as Art in the Garden at New Hopetoun Gardens (always worth a visit, see their advert on p24). See the What’s On page for more ideas.

Whether you’re staying home or going away for the holidays, I hope you have a lovely summer. Thank you for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

EAST BRIDGE, LINHOUSE WATER

This bridge, which takes the B7015 over the Linhouse Water between East and Mid Calder, was commissioned by Calder District Turnpike Road Trustees on 28th June 1794, for the contract price of £1150 Sterling.

The successful design and tender to build the bridge and a new west approach avenue was submitted by architect and builder, George Burn (1759-1823), from Haddington. It was to be completed by Martinmas Day (11th November) 1795. However in the beginning, there were objections raised as to the source of the stone being quarried and also the planned route from the east. The bridge was finally in full use by April 1796.

The bridge, which stands half in the Parish

of Kirknewton and half in the Parish of Mid-Calder, was built out of necessity, after a final survey in May 1794 for the District Road Trustees, of the previous bridge, which had stood only a few yards downstream. The foundations of the abutments to the old bridge were found to be in such a perilous state by then and in imminent risk of collapsing in the highly anticipated event of the river flooding.

The stone material for building the bridge was quarried primarily from

along the steep north embankment or “braes” of Murieston Water, just to the south in Calder Wood. Contentiously the quarry and access route to it using horse-drawn carts lay within an enclosure of recently planted young and thriving trees, including oak. But the “Highway Act, 1751” granted Road Trustees certain liberties to access and take away material for the construction of Highway Roads from quarries, riverbeds and other such nearby lands, with the exception, for example, being not from orchards, parks, gardens, or avenue to a house.

The new bridge now provided an improved transport link on the Edinburgh to Glasgow “Great High Road”, ensuring continuing communications already established, whereby scheduled horse-drawn carriage services operated daily between Edinburgh (via Mid-Calder) and Glasgow. Scheduled carriage services also operated on this route between Edinburgh via Mid-Calder travelling on alternate days to Lanark, Hamilton and Ayr.

Edinburghshire County General Committee was responsible for setting the levies that could be charged throughout the County by the nine District Road Trustees operating Turnpike Road Toll Barriers. These levies varied, depending on what was being transported and the length of each section of Turnpike Road travelled. Each District Road Trustees’ Committee were accountable to and had to submit detailed financial accounts of income from Tolls and maintenance operating costs of the Turnpike Roads, to the overseeing County General Committee.

Walking across the bridge footpath, midway and near to the base of the parapet can be seen an Ordnance Survey benchmark. Cut sometime between 1844 and 1852, by the O.S. The details of the “cut-mark” were last verified in 1964 as being:

ID# 234844

Type CUT MARK

Description BR PARA S SIDE RD 18.5M NE OF SE END OF BRIDGE

Grid Reference NT0768067600

Lat/Long 55.892648,-3.477752

Height (ODN)

99.3862m = (326.0702ft), above sea level. Above Ground 0.2m

often changed over the years, as are noted in differing historical documents of the

No one likes going into hospital and sometimes the idea of staying away from home can be overwhelming, but there are some instances when hospitalisation is sadly unavoidable. So how can the number of hospitalisations be reduced?

• Keeping active: The benefits of being active physically and mentally are well known but for older people, options can often seem limited. Doing things such as crafts, drawing and puzzles keep the mind active, whilst gentle gardening or regular 10-minute walks can help maintain muscle strength.

• Regular hydration: Drinking regularly is key to avoiding health issues such as dehydration or infections and can also improve mood. It is recommended to drink 1.5L of fluid per day even if you don’t ‘feel’ thirsty.

• Good nutrition: Despite appetites decreasing over time, the nutritional benefits of maintaining a healthy and balanced diet are just as important. Meals which add extra vitamins and minerals to diets, such as Vitamin D and calcium can help combat conditions such as osteoporosis.

• A reliable and long-term GP: It is important to have a reliable and consistent GP, as with age medication will likely become more important. Family members or Care Professionals can help to notice ‘red flags’ such as unused medication, and small changes in chronic illnesses.

• Companionship: Getting involved with local groups and organisations or having someone else visit can complement family involvement by providing extra companionship to combat loneliness and isolation, which has been proven to improve general wellbeing and reduce the risk of hospitalisation.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead Livingston. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046 or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston

Most of us know exactly how it feels when we think our lives are so full of chores and work that we struggle to carve out any kind of time for our loved ones or ourselves.

If someone dares to suggest that we relax for even ten minutes, we respond as if we’ve been asked to run around the block! ‘No time…too busy! ‘

But, what if we are burying ourselves in all those tasks because being constantly on the go means that we don’t have time to stop and think? Without realising it, we find ourselves using all that activity as a way to avoid focusing inwards and just sitting still.

This can be a long standing habit, but once we know that’s what we are doing there are a couple of things that we can choose to do instead.

Firstly, we can tune into ourselves and to our mood regularly, by asking, ‘how do I feel today?’ ‘what do I need?’ and then act on the answers. This will seem odd initially because most of us are so out of tune with our subconscious that this simple step can feel really hard to do and quite uncomfortable, but, as the saying goes, ‘practice makes perfect.’ We can decide today to be kinder to ourselves and only do what we know we will enjoy and begin a new habit of putting ourselves first.

Just imagine how much time we will free up if we just stop dashing about to please others and really focus on what is important to us?

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

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

or email:

Extensions | Bathrooms | Kitchens

Alterations | Structual Work

Maintenance & Repairs | Landscaping Driveways | All Trades

Saving for retirement can feel so daunting that many of us would understandably prefer to avoid thinking about it. Here are five steps that will give your retirement savings a solid foundation.

1) Make it a habit - Thinking about the level of savings required for a comfortable retirement can be off-putting. At first, however, it’s the act of saving that really counts, rather than the amount you put away.

The key is to put small amounts into a pension and/or a Cash or Stocks & Shares Individual Savings Account (ISA) and let the magic of compounding go to work.

2) Have a plan - Or at least have a series of objectives that can help motivate you to save by giving you direction, purpose and incentives.

3) Diversify - Diversification refers to putting your money in different places or assets rather than saving it all in one place.

4) Consider your own situation - If you have an employer, find out what it will contribute to your pension.

5) Take advice - There are many excellent reasons for taking professional financial advice, including the role advisers can play in helping you get into good habits and keep them going.

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. A Stocks and Shares ISA will not provide the security of capital associated with a Cash ISA.

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.

“Should I Sell During the Summer Holidays?”

Some sellers feel that if they have “missed” the spring market, they should wait until September before selling their property; but there are solid reasons for marketing your home during the summer.

Firstly, your house is likely to look its very best. The bright days and long evenings mean that your accommodation will look light and airy, and any views from the house will be accentuated. Your garden will be in full bloom and adds real value to the purchaser’s perception of your home - they won’t just be looking at rooms! If it is a family house, children’s slide/swings etc. can only make the house feel more like a home - a real hot button for the family buyer.

Longer evenings also mean that the opportunity for positive viewings is extended, as partners can view together.

Serious buyers do not let holidays, sports, etc. get in their way and are sometimes frustrated by the reduction in choice, as other sellers delay

bringing their property to market or sometimes withdraw their homes over the summer holidays. Those with children may be under some pressure to secure a property before the new school year and, as a result, could be prepared to pay a higher price in return for a swift purchase.

September is also a popular time for those moving jobs. They will certainly be hoping to move in towards the end of the summer so they can get the move out of the way before putting all their energies into their new position.

So, if you are considering the possibility of selling, why not help supply buyer demand for quality properties this summer. It could pay you handsomely.

The bright days and long evenings mean that your accommodation will look light and airy, and any views from the house will be accentuated

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.

OUT AND ABOUT THIS SUMMER

With the Spring pressure in your garden passed you deserve some fun time out of the garden, although not for too long as your plants may be desperate for water if the May drought continues into the summer!

Lesley is enjoying the magnificence of the gardens at Attadale in Argyll. The rockface and the sculptural branches here are as sculptural as the carved bench she is sitting on. We always get inspiration from visiting other gardens, whether from individual plants we haven’t seen before, the layout and setting of the garden or perhaps some clever design tricks.

Exploring and walking around a garden is the perfect place for chatting. Mind you, if your companion isn’t into gardening as much as you, the conversation won’t be

about gardening, but equally entertaining! We have had some of our best ideas for the business or our own garden when visiting gardens… even for our next holiday.

For inspiration of where to go next visit two inspiring websites:

www.scotlandsgardens.org

(The Yellow Book people)

www.discoverscottishgardens.org

(Pick up the Scottish Gardens Map 2023 at the garden centre)

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

Prawn and Mango Salad

Zesty flavours combine in this Asianinspired salad. While delicious with prawns, it’s equally luscious made with shredded roast chicken.

Ingredients:

• 100g folded rice noodles

• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

• 150g raw king prawns, deveined

• 50g mangetout, trimmed and thinly sliced

• 4 spring onions, trimmed and sliced on the slant

• •75g cherry tomatoes, quartered

• 3 tbsp Mary Berry’s Mango, Lime & Chilli Dressing

• 1 tsp light soy sauce

• Freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tbsp roughly chopped coriander

Serves 2

Preparation time 10 minutes

Cooking time 10 minutes

Method:

1. Cook the noodles according to pack instructions and run under cold water to cool.

2. Meanwhile, heat 1 tsp sesame oil and fry the prawns for 3-4 minutes until pink and cooked through. Place in a large bowl with the prepared mangetout, spring onions and cherry tomatoes.

3. Mix together the mango dressing, remaining 1 tsp sesame oil and soy sauce, season with freshly ground black pepper and toss into the prawns with the noodles and coriander.

For more recipe inspiration, visit: www.maryberryfoods.co.uk.

60mm Vertical [RIGHT]

A gin and tonic, finished with the perfect garnish, served in a chilled glass with a flourish and clink of ice. The use of botanicals and premium tonic enhance the theatre, flavour, enjoyment and price of your G&T.

The possible headache the next day is annoying, but would a non-alcoholic ‘gin’ and tonic taste as nice? Why is a nonalcoholic gin almost the same price as the alcoholic version? And if it’s not alcoholic, is it expensive cordial?

The no and low-alcohol (NoLo) drinks market is growing rapidly as consumers become ‘sober-curious’ and conscious of the effect alcohol has on their lifestyle. However, while growing, it is still very small developing market, equalling small production and premium price tags.

NoLo spirits are made in couple of ways. A ‘non-alcoholic spirit’ will usually contain less than 0.5abv. This means they’re made using a neutral grain spirit with botanicals being added to a still. The liquid goes through multiple rounds of distillation, removing all the alcohol from the liquid.

‘Alcohol free’ products don’t use any base spirit at all. The flavours are extracted through maceration, a process where botanicals are left to ‘soak’ in a liquid until they develop a flavour not dissimilar to real gin. There are new products available to try. I recommend Tuscan Tree if you like Aperol style drinks. Drink it on the rocks or topped up with tonic, then garnish with an orange slice.

My favourite non alcholic spirit is Pentire, a Cornish spirit flavoured with botanicals from the Pentire Coast. Enjoy with ice and tonic. Cheers!

^^^ Solution in the August edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Automatons (6), 4. Racket sport (6), 9. Female grandparent (7), 10. Two times (5), 11. Recorded sound (5), 12. Defrosting (7), 13. Not needed (11), 18. Spun by spiders (7), 20. Afterwards (5), 22. Monarch (5), 23. Copy (7), 24. Long for (6), 25. Concurred (6).

DOWN: 1. Disorganised (6), 2. Insipid (5), 3. Immature frog (7), 5. Additional (5), 6. Louder (7), 7. Toboggan (6), 8. Alliance (11), 14. Takes small bites (7), 15. Working out (7), 16. Frightened (6), 17. Buddy (6), 19. Mistake (5), 21. Torment (5).

JULY SUDOKU

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

ADD SOLUTION DETAILS

SAT 1ST JULY TO MON 15TH AUGUST

Summer Adventures at Almond ValleySomething special is happening on every day of the school holidays, with a programme of drop-in activies, crafts and discoveries that all can join in and enjoy. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. Tel: 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk

SAT 1ST JULY

Keep our Park Beautiful - There’s always lots of jobs to do in the country park. If you'd like to join the Friends of Almondell and help to keep our park beautiful, why not come along to our next Saturday session - on the first Saturday of every month? Meet at the Visitor Centre in Almondell Country Park at 10am until 12pm. See Facebook page @friendsofalmondell

MON 3RD JULY TO FRI 11TH AUGUST

Kids Summer Workshops at Potter Around - Potters Wheel, hand building with clay, ceramic painting, art on canvas, watercolours and more! Mon to Fri 10:30-12 throughout the holidays, prices £15 per session/Potters Wheel £20 per session. For ages 6+. Studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. For details and booking please contact Potter Around on 01506 238961 or email chat @ potteraround.co.uk

UNION CANAL CRUISES

Linlithgow Union Canal Centre is open on weekend afternoons until 24th September and weekday afternoons from 3rd July to 11th August. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our tearoom and museum at the canal basin, open 1:30-4:30pm, where we offer regular short boat trips.

• Weekends only: Avon Aqueduct cruise, 2.5 hours, starting 2:00pm.

• 9th July and 13th August: Afternoon Tea cruise, 2.5 hours

• 30th July and 27th August: Boat trips to the Falkirk Wheel

For booking and information lease visit: bookings.lucs.org.uk

SUNDAYS 6TH AUGUST, 17TH SEPTEMBER

Open Days at Almondell Model Engineering Centre - All welcome. Free admission and parking. Extended train route, train rides £5 first ride, £2 subsequent rides. Driver Experience £8. Picnic Areas. Refreshments and toilets. Open 10:30am-4:00pm.

Edinburgh Society of Model Engineers, The Almondell Model Engineering Centre

Drumshoreland Muir, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF

CURRIE HORTICULTURAL SHOW

Our Annual Show is this year on Saturday 26th August in the Concourse of Balerno CHS. There are competitions for young people in many classes and these can be found on our website www.currieshow.weebly.com Of course there also many ways that parents can support the Show as we also have classes for plants, flowers, vegetables, floral art, baking, preserves and handcrafts which make a lovely display to be viewed when the Show opens to the public from 1:30 till 4:00pm.

If you are in a group we also have a composite class which you could investigate. Entries must be on the Show Bench by 10:00am for the judging to take place. There are many photos on the website to let you see what the hall looks like on Show Day. Schedules should be available (these constitute membership of the Society) through the email currieshow@gmail.com or from committee members. We do look forward to seeing you. And especially the lovely Geraniums that were given to all P6 pupils in April to be grown on for the Show.

Sheila Mason, Show Secretary

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.

What does it mean to be true to yourself?

Across the Spider-Verse, the sequel to Into the Spider-Verse, tries to answer that question through its main characters and it also does so much more. Upon its release, Into the Spider-Verse became the best Spider-Man film ever made. Now in 2023, Across the SpiderVerse not only matched the earlier film but surpassed this to take the title. It’s simply a stunning work of art that captures the feeling and style of comic books like no other film. It is filled with detail, colours and sheer beauty that I haven’t seen in years. It’s a feast for the eyes and while at times it can be a bit much the animation truly makes this simply a must-watch film. But then you have the story: part-personal drama about lying to yourself and others and not being true to who you are, and “part-toxic dude bro”who doesn’t like it when you change the source material. It’s a film that expands on what was established in Into the Spider-Verse to continue the story of Miles Morales in ways that I don’t want to spoil. This film is the pinnacle of Spider-Man films. It’s nothing short of comic book art brought to life on the big screen, with the odd live action reference. I really do hope that everyone goes and watches this film on the biggest screen possible.

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.

The Pentlands offer such a variety of trails that you can take a different route every time you head out. And even if you take the same route, the weather and the seasons change so the experience of your walk changes.

This one starts at Harlaw Visitor Centre near Balerno, and takes in Black Springs with the option of extending the walk along Black Hill and onto Green Cleugh.

Take Harlaw Road out of Balerno and follow the signs to Harlaw Reservoir, where you can park in the car park. A short walk takes you to the Harlaw Visitor Centre. Take the path that goes straight ahead towards the hills, and you will walk through a narrow strip of woodland with Harlaw Reservoir on your right hand side. At the end of the reservoir, instead of continuing around the reservoir for what is a circular woodland walk, climb instead over the steps that are built into the stone wall here. Black Springs is signed on the signpost here. Once over the steps, go straight on (instead of left towards Flotterstone).

The ground along this route is a little less even but well-marked nonetheless. You head straight over the hill and through a small wooded area until you reach another stretch of water – the Black Springs. This is a designated wildlife refuge covering

5.59 hectares of open water, marshy grassland and reed bed. This latter is the second largest reed bed in the Lothians (the largest being Duddingston Loch).

As you face Black Springs, you then turn to the right and walk along the water’s edge. You soon come to a causeway separating Black Springs and Threipmuir Reservoir beyond. Here, you can go straight on along the side of Threipmuir Reservoir. Follow the water’s edge until it once more joins the Harlaw Woodland Walk around Harlaw Reservoir. Here, you can take either side of the reservoir to return to the visitor centre.

For a longer and more challenging walk, cross the causeway at the end of Black Springs. The small stone building you see here is a cistern built to collect the water from the nearby springs. Now on the southern shore of Threipmuir reservoir, follow the path to the right of the cistern, climbing uphill next to the drystone wall. The path takes you onto Black Hill, so named because of the dark heather that covers it. The path skirts along the north side of the hill, rather than going over it, and you have enough height to enjoy some lovely views. The path is somewhat rocky and uneven in places.

When you reach a fork in the path, bear right in order to descend into the valley of Green Cleugh. You can see the valley

ahead of you for some distance as you walk along Black Hill. Pass through the gate on your right, and follow the path through the valley. It leads to a tree-lined lane that takes you down to Threipmuir Car park. Continue straight ahead and skirt Threipmuir Reservoir to arrive back at Harlaw Visitor Centre.

The longer walk takes around 2.5 hours and offers a variety of terrains.

This article was written by Helen-Jane, Konect editor.

SOLUTION TO JUNE CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Airy, 3 Umbrella, 9. Dragged, 10. Fight, 11. Combinations, 13. Tissue, 15. Weasel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Inner, 21. Diocese, 22. Swelling, 23. Ales.

DOWN: 1. Audacity, 2. Realm, 4. Midday, 5. Refrigerator, 6. Legends, 7. Anti, 8. Agricultural, 12. Glistens, 14. Science, 16. Cordon, 18. Ideal, 19. Aids.

SOLUTION TO JUNE 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 29

- 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. Airy, 3 Umbrella, 9. Dragged, 10. Fight, 11. Combinations, 13. Tissue, 15. Weasel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Inner, 21. Diocese, 22. Swelling, 23. Ales.

DOWN: 1. Audacity, 2. Realm, 4. Midday, 5. Refrigerator, 6. Legends, 7. Anti, 8. Agricultural, 12. Glistens, 14. Science, 16. Cordon, 18. Ideal, 19. Aids.

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.