KonectCaldersJuly13 by Konect Magazines

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rs & Offe ers h vouc local from ses s busine

July 2013

directory

Local History West Calder artist John Kane Feature Livingston Skate Park Technology High tech holidays

WIN

Gym membership and soft play party at the Pitstop, Addiewell Two course meal for two at The Grapes Bakery, East Calder Tickets to see Dean Park at the Howden Park Centre, Livingston plus local businesses, community information and more!

The Calders, Kirknewton & Pumpherston

Grant’s

Selection of lift and tilt chairs on display. VAT exemption scheme available, please ask for details.

of Bathgate Ltd City centre selection at out of town prices Personal friendly service Great deals on sofas, furniture, beds & floor coverings Large showroom Free delivery

GRANT’S OF BATHGATE 74 North Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 4PP

Tel : 01506 633286 www.grantsofbathgate.co.uk 2

INTEREST FREE CREDIT AVAILABLE Terms & conditions apply

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Editor’s Message Welcome to the July issue of the Konect Directory. I strolled into the Livingston skate park recently intending to take some photos for our Livingston magazine, met some of the local skaters and stunt cyclists there and ended up writing a short article about it. It’s a fantastic local facility, see page 30. With the summer holidays in mind, if you’re lucky enough to be going away we’ve got a column on travel gadgets. And our regular family history columnist, Maureen McIntyre, has been finding out about a famous American artist who was born and bought up in West Calder, see her article on pages 8-9. There are a few competitions this month, with prizes on offer from the Pitstop in Addiewell (gym membership and/or soft play party), the Grapes Bakery in East Calder (a two course evening meal for two) and the Howden Park Centre is offering tickets again. Congratulations to Mrs C Jones of Mid Calder and Martin Leadbetter of Pumpherston who were winners in last month’s competitions. Thanks for reading the Konect Directory, have a great summer!

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk 07854 492638

Contents Local History West Calder artist John Kane 8 Gadgets Feature 18 Skate Park Feature 30 Pets 33 Recipe & Food Notes 46

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Competitions & puzzles Prize crossword Community What’s on Useful information Clubs & Classes Index of Advertisers

42 48 48 50 54

The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston. Copies are also left at the libraries, sports centre, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Advertising enquiries: Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print

Front cover photograph by Jenny Thomson: Livingston skate park

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Visit Our Exclusive New Showroom

Kitchens Bathrooms Conservatories Blinds & Shutters Windows & Doors Sun Lounges & Orangeries

FREEPHONE 0800 247 1187 6-10 Glasgow Road Bathgate EH48 2AA

www.1stchoiceliving.co.uk sales@1stchoiceglazing.com

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Natural energy Principal: Ms K. Sara J.Wood

BA (HONS), RAD RTS, Licentiate of the Royal Academy of Dance

Lessons for age 2 years and above New Adult Ballet Class!

Superfoods and a natural diet will increase your energy levels & wellbeing, so you look and feel better... faster!

Studio Locations:

Edinburgh College - Sighthill Campus Ratho Community Centre

07723 589 280 info@edinburgh-ballet.co.uk www.edinburgh-ballet.co.uk

Shop online at

www.realfoods.co.uk 37 Broughton St, Edinburgh EH1 3JU 8 Brougham St, Edinburgh EH3 9JH

Fresh • local • seasonal • value

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To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Feature

John Kane, local beginnings

the headmaster of the school and how he used to catch him drawing instead of writing. If he was caught he would have to hold out his hand for the five or six slaps of the cane! A search of the West Calder census reveals that the headmaster was a Canadian called David Walker. John mentions that the children called him “Wingie” as he only had one arm!

One of America’s most famous 20th century artists was born in West Calder and spent the first 19 years of his life in Scotland. John Kane was born on the 19th August 1860 in West Calder and died in America in 1934 and his autobiography, which was dictated to a newspaper reported 2 years before he died, gives us an amazing insight into his life. John emigrated to America around 1879 after a turbulent childhood and became one of the most sought after “Naïve” artists in America, with his work being exhibited at Harvard and the American museum of Modern Art. As a child in West Calder he enjoyed drawing and much of his inspiration came from his childhood memories of Scotland. “Naïve” art is a recognised genre in the art world and the words “childlike” and “simplicity” are often used when describing the style. John’s parents, Thomas Kane and Barbara Coyne came to Scotland from Glanlusk in County Galway, Ireland, and were married in Edinburgh in 1855. On the marriage certificate their address is given as Mid Calder. Many people arriving in Scotland around that time came to work in the mines and John comments in his book that his father heard of West Calder as a place of many mines and plenty of work. Ironically though Thomas never worked in the mines - he made a living as a labourer. The couple’s first son was born on 29th August 1856 at West Muireston, Mid Calder and by the time their first daughter arrived in 1858 the family had settled in West Calder, which is where John was born and spent his childhood. John enjoyed school and thrived on knowledge. He talks, in his book, about 8

By Maureen McIntyre

Life was hard for the Kane family and Thomas had six mouths to feed. Almost a year before he died Thomas applied to the Parish of West Calder for Poor Relief. His address was given as Couper’s Close and Thomas at the age of 40 is classed as “Wholly Disabled” and the family as “Partially Destitute” the description of Thomas’s disablement is given as “Cold”. In his autobiography James mentions that his father was digging drains in the new Catholic Cemetery in West Calder when he took the cold that eventually led to his death. He must have worked regularly below the surface of the wet earth. John was only nine when his father died and Barbara was left a widow with six children. After his father died John decided to leave school and find work to help support his mother and siblings and although he was three years younger than the legal age for working he managed to secure a post in the local shale mine. The work was called “lying bens” and involved him pushing and pulling the carts of shale, but this was not enough for this determined and strongwilled young boy. He started attending night school and kept up his drawing. As time went by John served out his time at “lying bens” and was moved on to driving Shetland ponies at the mine. His first pony was called Marge and even as a grown man he remembered many details of the time spent with his ponies.

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As John grew stronger and bigger the lure of the money that could be earned as a miner drew him underground. A typical working day underground would be twelve hours long and his first pay was one shilling and three pence an hour. Before John left Scotland in 1879 he was earning 45 shillings a week in the mines and he comments that this was considerable more than he earned when he first arrived in America. Although the family were poor and at times destitute, John loved his life in Scotland and talks about visiting The Trossachs, Balmoral Castle and Stirling Castle all visited on ‘strike’ days. He describes the country around West Calder, despite the mines, as very beautiful with all the hillsides abloom with heather. When reading his autobiography you cannot help but feel that John did not want to leave Scotland, but again he was thinking about his family and he left for America with a heavy heart at the age of 19. He never returned to Scotland and his life in America was filled with much joy and sadness. He had numerous jobs before his talents as an artist were discovered – his first was a ‘gandy dancer’ – tramping down the rocks between the rails of the new railroads being constructed in Pittsburgh. He tried his hand at many kinds of labouring and house painting, helping in the construction of factories, railways and bridges. At the age of 31 John was involved in an accident with a train which

resulted in him loosing his lower leg, just below his knee. John adapted well to wearing an artificial limb and many people did even know that he had only one leg, even the recruiting officer when John tried to sign up at outbreak of WW1, never realised but told him he was too old to enlist! John painted all his life but it was not until the 1920’s that he made any kind of income from his works of art. It took many years from when ‘Wingie’ would cane him for drawing instead of writing to his work being exhibited, but this self taught artist who could not afford to enrol in art college has left his mark in both the art world and the history of West Lothian. Reference: John Kane Painter, Compiled by Leon Anthony Arkus Published by The University of Pittsburgh Press 1938

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A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

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n o i t a n i t s De

Pitstop Softplay - £1.90 New Party Options - from £25 New Pitstop Café open 7 days sit in, takeaway, kids menu & party food available

Opening hours Mon - Fri 9am til 8pm Sat 10am til 4pm Sun 10am til 2pm Tel: 01501 763 354 Email: infopitstop1@gmail.com Main Street, Addiewell EH55 8HN 12

Registered Scottish Charity SC013063

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The Pitstop is open daily, all year round in the Main Steet of Addiewell, EH55 8HN. There is ample parking, free entry and child friendly facilities. Perfect for any age we offer low cost softplay, kids parties, new Hedgerow Café with free wifi, pay as you go gym and sauna, meeting rooms and function suite for up to 140 people. We welcome you and group visits.

Give us a call on 01501 763354 or email infopitstop1@gmail.com Why not pay us a visit during the summer months and take advantage of the offers below.....

8 and under

softplay

only £1.90

softplay paRties FROM £25

FOr uP TO 25 KIdS

Gym & sauna only £15 a month function Room foR weddinGs, biRthdays, celebRations & events

2 foR 1

pitstop softplay Voucher Valid to 31st august

£5 off

softplay paRty oR disco paRty when you order party food for a minimum of 10 guests. Valid til 31st august 2013 on all party bookings made to June 2014

fRee Gym membeRship first month free when you sign up Via standing order. Valid til 31st august 2013.

£5 off

youR event bookinG

when you order food for 50+ guests. Valid til 31st august on all party bookings made to June 2014.

Registered Scottish Charity SC013063

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Thought for the Month

If you feel bored with your life and are lacking enthusiasm within yourself for anything, start right now and take massive action. Although everything starts with your thoughts, you cannot change your circumstances without action. One of the main causes for inaction in our lives are the belief systems we hold to be true about ourselves! ‘I’m not smart enough’, ‘I’m not good enough’, I’m not...’ fill in the blanks. But I think one that a lot of women over the age of 30 buy into is ‘I’m too old to…’! You are never too old to change. You are never too old to start something new, to find new love, to lose weight, get fit, be happy…

I’m Too Old! By Jackie Whigham

You are never too old - and if you think you are, know that this is just your mind working against you! Don’t grow old before your time. Don’t sit around thinking about what you’d love to do... just do it! You stay interested in your life by participating in it - and to participate you have to get into action! You can sit around plenty when you’re in your late 90’s or older! What can you do today to make you feel proud! Have a great day! Jackie is a Transformational Life Coach for women - Contact: www.jackiewhigham.com info@jackiewhigham.com mob:07845239490

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Summer feet! For an appointment call

01506 466 006 Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 4 Bankton Square Murieston Livingston EH54 9EY

Jane & Friends

Pain-free dentistry ...

Hairdressers

109 Main Street, East Calder

... in an atmosphere of care and trust at No 9 Dental Practice

9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB 01506 857717

Shortlisted for

If you would like to know more please contact us

01506 880704

Up-doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for special occasions Open: Tue/Wed/Fri - 9am - 5pm Thur - 11am - 7pm Sat - 9am - 3pm Closed: Sunday & Monday

OAP specials: All day Tues/Wed Thur 11am - 4pm

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

FAMILY DENTAL PRACTICE IN BALERNO NEW PRIVATE & NHS PATIENTS WELCOME NERVOUS & ANXIOUS PATIENTS WELCOME CARING & FRIENDLY STAFF AFFORDABLE INSURGERY DENTAL IMPLANTS, VENEERS, PORCELAIN, CROWNS, TEETH WHITENING, HYGIENIST SERVICES PRIVATE PAYMENT PLANS LATE NIGHT & SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

TEL: 0131 449 5545

www.balernodentalcare.co.uk 16

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TJ’S BARBERS

Spire physiotherapy services at

Spire Livington Clinic

159 MAIN STREET EAST CALDER NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY GENTS £6.50 SENIORS £3.50 £5.50 BOYS

Tues - Fri 9am-5pm Sat 8am-3pm

Don’t just put up with painful feet...

Foot Clinic

Elizabeth Storrie, Foot Care Professional 124 Main St, East Calder, EH53 0HD

Professional treatment for: • corns • ingrown nails • hard skin • hard-to-cut nails Call 01506 883379 for an appointment Available Mondays & Tuesdays : early, daytime and evening appointments

• whether you’re insured or not, we are open to everyone • special treatments from expert chartered physiotherapists • sports injuries, spinal pain, joint pain, post-operative rehabilitation, muscle and tendon injuries, women’s health • wide range of appointment times available

Exclusive offer – 25% off all treatment*

Quote ‘Konect Offer’ when booking initial assessment To book an appointment, or to speak to one of our experienced physiotherapists, call or email us on

01506 448181

or email edliving2@spirehealthcare.com www.spireedinburgh.com

*Discount is valid for appointments booked before 30 June 2013

Visit our friendly new clinic for all your foot care needs. We offer a wide range of treatments including:

Routine Footcare Problem & Ingrown Nails Corns, Callous & Verrucae Nail Surgery Biomechanical Assessments Insoles & Orthotics Footwear Advice To book an appointment please call Jackie on:

01506 884321 info@barefootchiropody.co.uk

www.barefootchiropody.co.uk 17 MAIN StReet, MId CAldeR, eH53 0AW

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Technology

High tech holidays

Some of the most useful travel gadgets are the simplest. The TanSafe is a great example: it looks like a standard bottle of sun cream, but it's a secret safe that's big enough for your cash, cards, keys and even your mobile phone (but not a phone case). It's even watertight, so it can protect your phone from the odd splash. At £7.99 it's cheap too. Some of our favourite technology solves problems we thought were with us forever - such as creased shirts. For £34.99, the Shirt Shuttle MK2 is a hanger that you wrap your freshly ironed shirt or blouse around, folding it and clipping it shut to protect your shirt from creasing. How attractive it is depends on how much you hate ironing: a travel iron will set you back around £10, while a portable garment steamer such as Rowenta's DR5050 promises to unwrinkle anything for £30.

If you're travelling with children, there's no shortage of technology that can keep them amused on even the longest trip. Apple's iPad Mini is ideal, providing all the fun of an iPad without the weight or price, but it's still quite expensive at £269; an iPod touch does much the same thing in a smaller case for half the price, or a quarter of the price if you're buying used. If you prefer Android tablets Google's Nexus is a good buy at £159.

Have a very happy holiday with some high-tech help All of these devices can run apps, and you can copy video from your computer or buy or rent videos from wherever you can find an internet connection. We'd advise against 3G devices that connect to the mobile phone network: there are often very high charges for data roaming. The problem with many travel-related gadgets is that they can be very large and very heavy. For example, a wireless speaker such as the Supertooth Disco weighs a massive 1.1kg, and it's a hefty size too. When it comes to travel speakers, small can be beautiful: the £18 X-Mini II Capsule speaker weighs just 82g but it punches way above its weight. It doesn't sound as good as a top-end speaker system but it's a vast improvement on any smartphone's speakers. If size really does matter, you can even cut the size of your plugs - but beware, because it can be pricey. The Mu Folding Plug is a 3-pin plug with a USB socket on the other side, and it folds down to a titchy 1.4cm - but at around £25 for one, it's considerably more expensive than standard plugs. Now that we're travelling with lots of gadgets, powering and/or recharging them can be a problem: it's not unusual to have a camera, an e-reader, a smartphone and a music player competing for the same plug socket as the TV or hairdryer. Rather than packing multiple chargers or 4-way extension leads, it might be a better idea to invest in a 4-port worldwide travel charger, which comes with 4 USB ports in the top and a collection of interchangeable plugs that work almost anywhere in the world, all for around £10. Such chargers aren't powerful enough for iPads, which draw massive amounts of power, but they're fine for smartphones, cameras and other popular bits of kit.

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BABERTON GOLF CLUB SPECIAL 2013 LIMITED OFFERS ON MEMBERSHIPS See the fantastic new clubhouse and course improvements!

Full Memberships—CONTACT US FOR SPECIAL LIMITED OFFER WITH ENTRY FEE REDUCED BY 50% FOR FIRST 50 APPLICANTS 6 Day Membership. Play Sun—Fri, NO ENTRY FEE Midweek Membership. Play Mon—Fri, NO ENTRY FEE Young Adult (Age 18—30) Membership. NO ENTRY FEE Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge! Number of places are limited so to book your discounted trial round (£10) and for further details phone Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon—Fri Pro shop on 0131 453 3555 Sat—Sun email: manager@baberton.co.uk website: www.babertongolfclub.com

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Jewellery Workshop 144 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0HD

All jewellery & watch repairs

batteries, straps, restringing, stone replacement...

Jewellery designed & made to your specification - every piece unique

Gold and silver jewellery for sale Engraving

01506 880590 jewelleryworkshop@wtnet.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm

Tailoring ~ Alterations ~ Dry Cleaning

21 Almondvale Centre, Livngston, EH54 6NB ial ÂŁ10 wedding dress alterations & dry cleaning with this advert Spec

r OFF

offe

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KCDT News

Kirknewton Community Development Trust awarded £266,120 by Big Lottery

Kirknewton’s Resource Centre project has been awarded a Big Lottery Fund grant of £266,120 in the Big Lottery Fund Scotland’s latest package of funding. Announcing the funding, Big Lottery Fund Scotland Director Jackie Killeen, said, “The Big Lottery Fund supports projects across Scotland that aim to improve the quality of life for individuals most in need and their families. We are delighted to be funding all today’s projects which are helping make a big difference to people’s lives.” The Kirknewton ‘Investing in Communities’ grant of £266,120 will support the work planned in the Resource Centre currently being built in the Main Street of Kirknewton. The funds will pay for capital equipment for the building, running costs for three years and create local employment, including a finance and administration officer and a volunteer and youth co-ordinator who will support current and new groups in the community. The Resource Centre incorporates and demonstrates renewable technology and will be an example of a low carbon building. For example there will be solar panels on the roof that will help heat the building. The build should be complete in late August – we hope to be able to fully use the building before the end of the year. This new community facility will allow activity based groups to utilise the Village Hall more, taking meetings out of that space and into a more suitable facility. It will provide a central location for local businesses, volunteers, groups and young people to base themselves, share ideas, learn from each other and work together on developing ideas, projects and activity for the village. It will be used as a community training space, provide information about our community,

exhibitions, support services, finance and job advice, business advice, energy advice and volunteering opportunities. It will also be a hub for local people to meet and relax over a coffee and chat. The Kirknewton Community Development Trust (KCDT) is run by eight volunteer Directors from the local community. Stewart McKenna, Chair of KCDT, said, “We are pleased that BIG have re-affirmed their confidence in the community of Kirknewton and the work of KCDT in making our village and its environs a better place to live, work and play. Kirknewton really is becoming a vibrant community and BIG, through their assistance, are really helping to catalyse this change. The Directors would also like to thank Tony Foster who, over the last nine months, put together this successful bid on our and the community’s behalf.” Duncan McCool, an active community volunteer and lead on the Multipath/ Cycle/walking route project, said, “It’ll be great to have our own hub to work from, to get enhanced support for volunteers to help us move projects forward. The Development Trust has been a great help for our project and it’s fantastic we can now rely on their continued support through this grant from the lottery. Quite simply without the KCDT’s assistance and continued support this project would have a remained an idea around the dinner table and not something that will become a reality for the whole community to benefit from.” Tony Foster, KCDT Development Officer said, “This successful lottery application would not have happened without the support of the local community and volunteers. We are delighted by this

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fantastic news for our community. The 2300 strong Kirknewton community asked for more centrally located facilities in the village during our original lottery funded consultation. Thanks to Leader it’s great we’ve been able to accomplish one of the objectives in our Kirknewton Development Plan and build a zero energy space that allows us to meet demand and now, thanks to the lottery, we will be able to support activity using the building as a hub.” The Trust would like to thank everyone for their patience and support during a long planning process which involved over £7,500 worth of volunteer hours! We’d particularly like to thank everyone who has arranged or participated in activities during the I Love Kirknewton Fundraising Campaign. The recent BIG WALK raised

£1800 and the Kirknewton Golf Day and Concert raised £300 each (thanks Michael and Julie for that!) Thanks to your efforts we have been able to donate £2000 to youth groups in the community and contributed £1000 so far to the extra £20,000+ costs we incurred for the roof during the planning application process. We are now looking for volunteers to cover the hours of opening, welcome guests, provide information etc. If you are interested in volunteering even a couple of hours a week or more please let us know at infokirknewton@gmail.com. This is your building – we hope it will be a welcome asset to the community over the coming years.

LOCAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Kirknewton Community Development Trust The vision of the Kirknewton Community Development Trust is to provide a sustainable and improved quality of life for everyone that lives and works in the area. Our mission is to engage everyone who lives and works in the village and be an inclusive and vibrant community that invests in our future. To support this aim we are looking to recruit three posts. Funded by the Big Lottery Scotland Investing In Communities these roles are three year fixed contracts. Flexible working hours essential as these posts require some evening work.

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER circa £30,000/yr

To work with the Chair to ensure that the Board of Trustees formulate and regularly review the organisation’s mission and strategic plan; ensure it is able to monitor annual plans and targets.

PART TIME FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION OFFICER circa £8,000/yr (21 hours/week)

To ensure that there is adequate administrative support for the organisation community groups. Support all financial systems for the organisation, new Resource Centre and community groups who require financial help.

PART TIME VOLUNTEER & YOUTH CO-ORDINATOR circa £10,000/yr (21 hours/week)

Co-ordinating, supporting and encouraging all volunteering activity in Kirknewton and ensuring communications with all relevant stakeholders, particular focusing on youth groups For further information about the community go to www.kirknewton.org For further particulars about roles and an application form e mail infokirknewton@gmail.com Closing date for applications Friday 19 July 2013 Registered Scottish Charity SC037895

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Ian Merriman Ltd BE FO RE

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All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, Decking & Fencing

Rejuvinate your old kitchen units and furniture. Have them hand painted in a colour of your choice. Ian Merriman Ltd 0131 478 7339

ian@kitchenspainted.com

www.kitchenspainted.com

73 Riccarton Mains Road, Currie, EH14 5ND

John Nothard

Property Repair Service • Electrical solutions • Landlord and home sellers electrical Test Certificates • Annual electrical testing and certification • Portable appliance testing

Mobile 07977 685656 email: propertyselec@aol.com

Domestic, commercial and agricultural Free estimates • Professional and reliable service

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Green Fingers Gardening in July By Anne Pinkerton

Most gardening notes for July lists ways to conserve water, hoe in weeds, mulch and other ways to prevent moisture loss or early bolting of salad crops. Also keep plants free of bugs and disease - be alert to early signs of blight and molds. Strawberries and potatoes are the two crops most easily devastated. Check www. potato.org.uk/bilght and www.blightwatch.co.uk. Flower Garden Dead-head roses, tie in new shoots of climbing roses, train them horizontal to encourage more flowers. Keep cutting sweetpeas and chop lupins and crainsbill geraniums to encourage another flowering. Start planting autumn flowering bulbs, such as nerines and colchicums (autumn crocus). Fruit Garden Think about the shape of stoned fruit trees, prune and tie in after picking the fruit. Cut down raspberry canes that have been harvested. Peg down and root strawberry runners for rejuvenation of the strawberry bed in the autumn. Harvest Regular picking of beans, peas and courgettes will keep the vegetables good to eat and encourage other pods to develop. This is the start of rewards from all the year`s work. Salads, potatoes and legumes will all be flourishing. Sow Spring cabbage,turnips, chicory and fennel. Also sow succession salad crops and strawberry seed if you want a special variety. Collect seeds, put them in paper envelopes, name and date them. Lawn Feed if the grass is under stress. Cut regularly; little and often with grass box off is best if it’s dry. This allows the short cuttings to become a mulch. Relax, enjoy your work, dream and plan. Take photos of the garden at its best and use them later to help correct things that were not exactly as you wished. 26

D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Removals Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more.... Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com

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To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

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Bathroom Studio Bathgate Quality, Choice and Service at an Affordable Price

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OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm | Saturday 10am – 3pm | Wednesday 10am - 1pm ( Or by appointment ) To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Feature

“Skating is my life and livelihood, in fact I pretty much owe my life to skating.” Meet Benson, Livingstonbased skater whom I met at Livingston skate park recently. Benson and fellowskater Luke spent some time telling me about skating, the Livingston skate park and why it matters so much. The Livingston skate park is a unique and, in skating circles, world famous facility. The original part was built in the 1980s and is well known worldwide for its great design. It’s home to various groups of skaters and bikers, host to events and competitions, and is definitely second home to Benson. “I come here almost every day, and have done for the past 15 years” he tells me. “If I didn’t have skating, if I hadn’t had it when I was growing up, I’d have been on the streets getting into all kind of trouble. But instead I spent all my time here.” When something plays such an important part in your life, you care about the details. Which explains why Benson, Luke and others are deeply disappointed with the results of the recent extension to the park. “We were unbelievably excited when we heard that the park was to be extended. We were shown an artist’s sketch of what ramps would be going in, and it looked good, although there were no details of height, dimensions or gradients shown. We didn’t see the detailed plans.” And, as I learnt from chatting to them, the height, dimensions and gradient are the essential elements. They are happy enough with the design, although there are one of two potential safety issues, but they are just gutted with the quality of the finished concrete. Climbing a steep ramp depends on a smooth gradient and on keeping your speed up so that your wheels stay on the surface. But a bump in the concrete across the new tunnel

Livingston Skate Park By Helen-Jane Shearer

Benson and Luke

ramp means that you are thrown off part way up – it’s very difficult for skaters to safely get to the top. Ridges and bumps elsewhere in concrete work are cause for concern and are stopping the skaters from being able to use it to what should be its full potential. “You wouldn’t dream of building a play park for little kids that had safety concerns or shoddy workmanship. So why a skate park?” says Luke. “I’ve done concrete work in the past and would have been laughed off the site if I left a piece of work as shoddy as this.” he adds. Their view is that if you’re getting some building work done at your home, say an extension or a new kitchen, and spending good money on it, you wouldn’t be happy if the workmanship isn’t up to scratch. “And that’s exactly how we feel about this place.” It’s not just about the hoodies and baseball caps. It’s about physics, performance, achievement, pride and attention to detail. These guys are passionate about their sport, skilled experts in their field. They care about the Livingston skate park, take ownership of it in a really healthy way and deserve the best. Here’s hoping that West Lothian Council can make sure they get the very best, and that the problems the new park has will be fixed so that Livingston skaters and bikers can once again take pride in their park.

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The

Clean

Konect advert

Team

Covering Clackmannanshire, Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothian's and Perth & Kinross

Professional Oven cleaning service: ovens, ranges, hob, BBQ, microwaves or extractor unit. Gives us a call for a free no obligation quote.

New Name, same great service! Alba Oven Cleaning is now part of The Clean Team

Telephone 01506 410530, www.thecleanteam-scotland.co.uk

Turning your house into a home... We supply and fit the following ranges: • vertical • roller • wooded • pleated • apex • roman • panel • venetian • Vision • Shutters • conservatory • Perfect Fit • Intu Blinds • printed blinds • PVC Plus a wide range of made-to-measure curtains, tiebacks and poles.

£30 OFF

any blind order over £150 with this advert. Valid at point of purchase

£50 OFF

any curtain order over £300

www.stylerite-blinds.co.uk Unit 10, Abbotsford Rise, Dedridge, Livingston, EH54 6QD Tel: 01506 461721 (lines open 9am –10pm) Showroom open 9am–5pm Mon–Fri, 11am–4pm Sat

with this advert. Valid at point of purchase

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

EPH

G BEATSON ELECTRICAL Currie

SCOTLAND LTD

Free Estimates

10% OAP discount

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

QUOTE KONECT

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT 01506 882 643

contact@ephltd.co.uk www.ephscotlandltd.co.uk 23 Bank Street Mid Calder EH53 0AS

Tel: 0131 466 0214 Mob: 07732 866 983 Email: gbeatsonelectrical@hotmail .co.uk

LANE DECOR Painting & Decorating - Graining & Marbling - Wallpaper specialist - Faux Effects - Spray Application - Interior & Exterior - Trompe L’Oeil & Murals

www.grainingmarbling.com lanedecor.blogspot.com PROFESSIONAL & AFFORDABLE OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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01506 884 949

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Alanna Bertram Dog Groomer Keep your best friend healthy and happy! Shuttlehall West Calder EH55 8QZ

07789 755101

Letter from Daisy

“Woofs the word, if you haven’t heard! I was left with Claire and my canine host Barney whilst my owner took a holiday abroad. Wonderful long walks and first class accommodation. I can’t wait for my next sleep over. Be barking mad to miss such a treat.”

ponyta43@hotmail.com

Claylands Cottage Cattery ...for contented cats

Established in May 2006, we provide first-class holiday accommodation for up to 35 feline guests. Single and double cabins, as well as large cabins for families, each comprises an upper sleeping area (heated in winter) with an exercise run below. A collection and drop-off service is available Fully licensed and insured

Proprietors: Pam and Bill Clark Phone: 0131 333 1636 Email: mail@claylandscottagecattery.co.uk Off Claylands Road, Newbridge, EH28 8LZ Conveniently situated near the airport.

www.claylandscottagecattery.co.uk To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

D.B. General Builders ■ Fencing ■ Driveways ■ Decking ■ Landscaping ■ Monoblocking ■ Groundworks ■ Home renovations ■ Property maintenance

Call David on

07747 062426

WEST CALDER METALS BURNGRANGE FARM WEST CALDER Buyers of all scrap metal, also cable purchased Top prices paid for catalytic converters

Collection service available

Local ■ Established ■ Reliable www.dbgeneralbuilders.co.uk david_bathgate@sky.com

Braekirk Decorator’s

First class decorator

64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton, EH27 8BL

Interior and Exterior work Wallpaper hanging

Call Willie Jamieson 07779 186298 maryjamieson64@googlemail.com

Contact

GEORGE HIRST Telephone 01506 872 688 or mobile 0776 327 6501

Nu - Walls Qualified in all aspects of painting, decorating & plastering ■ internal plastering ■ external/internal painting & decorating ■ ceiling / wall replacement ■ coving All estimates free, insurance quotes welcome Established 1985 3 Turner Street, Bathgate, EH48 4AR Tel 01506 634056 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk

YourÊLocalÊWestÊLothianÊLocksmithÊ Ê  UPVC Patio Door Repairs  Lock Changes/Upgrades  British Standard 5 Lever Insurance Approved Locks Fitted  24 Hr Emergency Lockout Service  Window Locks Supplied & Fitted

01506 238048 Or Call Tom On

07542781131 For All Your Security Needs www.caledonianlocksmiths.co.ukÊ

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Plan-It

Red Hot

WINDOWS Unit 1, Mosshall Ind Estate Blackburn, EH47 7LY

01506 630036

Chartered Building Surveyors Loca family l -ru busine n ss

redhotwindows@btconnect.com

Plan-It provide architectural services to home owners & businesses throughout Edinburgh and West Lothian. We are happy to help in the following areas:

Architectural Services Planning Permission Building Warrants Project Management Licence Applications We specialise in extensions and alterations Window repairs â&#x2013; Supply and fit windows and doors â&#x2013; Trade welcome Major credit cards accepted See website and facebook page for photos of our work www.facebook.com/redhotwindows www.redhotwindows.co.uk

For a complimentary consultation please contact Bruce on

01506 884216 www.plan-it-design.co.uk

B EDWARDS TILING SPECIALIST LOCAL WALL AND FLOOR TILER

All aspects of tiling undertaken including Kitchens, Bathrooms & Conservatories Using ceramics, porcelain, natural stone & mosaics Professional & friendly service

For a free estimate call Barry Mobile: 07944 176663 Home: 01506 432159 To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

£20 off

LLY REPA* GU IRS AR AN TEE

Quality, mobile car paintwork repairs at a fraction of body shop costs ✓Kerbed alloys ✓Bumper scuffs

✓Paintwork scratches

✓Minor dents ChipsAway Available: Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Franchisee Name now to arrange for Call ChipsAway F & N Georgeson now to arrange

your free estimate

01506 871 01234 456 891 789 or 0800 028 7878

S TE IR AN A P R RE UA G LY

or visit www.chipsaway.co.uk

* £20 discount only applicable to bookings over £100 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer only available through ChipsAway Franchisee Name until 31st January 2011. Please produce advert at time of estimate.

KIRKNEWTON GARAGE 1 - 3 Main Street

RECOVERY ANYWHERE IN WEST LOTHIAN ONLY £40

M.O.T s £35.00

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

•CARS & VANS •SERVICING TOP PRICES •EXHAUSTS PAID FOR M.O.T. FAILURES •WELDING SCRAP CARS WANTED - FREE UPLIFT

ESTABLISHED 1950 36

FULL ENGINE SERVICE FROM BARRY’S TYRES

£65

PRICE INCLUDES FITTING 175x70x13........£21 165x70x14........£23 205x65x15........£30 195x60x15........£30 215x60x15........£35 205x50x16........£40 215x40x17........£49 225x40x18........£60 225x35x18........£70 175x14x8PLY......£33

TYRES FITTED FROM £10

Tel: 01506 885566

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To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

COLIN NIXON MOT SALES & SERVICE CENTRE NOW OPEN - BODY REPAIRS

AND SPRAY PAINTING FACILITIES

Our choice of vehicles, selected by Colin Nixon, come complete with a Pre-Sales Service and 12 Month Warranty on some of our vehicles.

ESTABLISHED OVER 25 YEARS Telephone: 01506 882 185 Email: info@colinnixonautosafe.co.uk Web: colinnixonautosafe.co.uk 38

Edinburgh Road East Calder EH53 0ET

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To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Established since 1992

No job too big or too small Free estimates

Joinery | Painting | Tiling | Sash Window Repairs etc

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;No job too smallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;...we will even change a light bulb. Kris Keegan Proprietor

Kris Keegan

Proprietor 9 Rosehill Place t. 07988 682 609

t. 07988 682 609e. info@westlothianhandyman.co.uk Eliburn, Livingston

e. info@westlothianhandyman.co.uk EH54 7DW w. www.westlothianhandyman.co.uk w.www.westlothianhandyman.co.uk

All aspects of joinery : Kitchens, bathrooms, doors, double glazing, extensions, conservatories, garage conversions, flooring, fencings etc

Tel: 01506 464510 Mobile: 07989 421535

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Competition

Win 3 months gym membership and/or softplay party at The Pitstop

The child friendly Pitstop has a café, softplay, gym, sauna, meeting rooms and function suite for up to 140 people. It can be found on Main Street, Addiewell. To win a free softplay party and/or gym membership please answer the simple question below (hint: see our advert on pages 12-13).

Please include your name, address, telephone number and email. If you do not want to receive further information from the Pitstop about future offers please add “Opt out” after your answers.

Send your entries to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk with “Pitstop competition” in the message subject. Good luck! Question to win a softplay party worth £25 How much does it cost for the Pitstop softplay? a) £1.90 b) £3.50 c) £4.95 Question to win 3 months gym membership worth £45 How much does the gym cost per month at the Pitstop? d) £50 e) £35 f) £15

See advert on page 12-13

Closing date for entries 31st July 2013 Terms & conditions Winners will be notified by end of August 2013 Softplay prize is for a £25 1 hr softplay party for up to 25 kids, 8 and under, or £25 off a £45 party (with food option), whichever you prefer. If you book a softplay party after August 2013 and win you will get the softplay party for free or reduction off the £45 party. Softplay party not in conjunction with any other offer and the editor's decision is final. The gym & sauna prize is provided if you sign up by standing order with your first three months free (or four with a voucher). You can cancel your standing order at any time. No cash equivalent.

LOCAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Loganlea Miners Welfare Charitable Society and Pitstop Loganlea Miners Welfare Charitable Society aim to create sustainable jobs in the Addiewell Community by developing third sector activity, where social and environmental impact can happen alongside job creation and business development. We hope to build the employability of long term unemployed people to secure mainstream jobs and to undertake formal training and learning. We also wish to impact on early years development supporting young people and vulnerable families. To support this aim we are looking to recruit two posts. Funded by the People and Communities Fund these roles are two year fixed contracts.

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER circa £25,000

To develop support and learning programmes, creating partnerships and supporting participants.

PART TIME FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION OFFICER circa £9,000/yr (21 hours/week)

To lead on finance, communications and co-ordination of programme activity for the project. For further information about the organisation go to www.loganleamw.org.uk For further particulars about the roles and an application form e mail infopitstop1@gmail.com Closing date for applications Friday 19 July 2013 Registered Scottish Charity SC013063

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Win Two course meal for two (excludes drinks) at The Grapes Bakery, East Calder

Competition

See advert on page 4

Across

1. 5. 8. 9. 10. 12. 13. 15. 17. 19. 20. 22. 23.

French castle (7) Competed (5) Very alike (9) Poem (3) Consumed (5) Reflects (7) Friendships (13) Immediate (7) In front (5) A pronoun (3) Emergency vehicle (9) Concede (5) Captivate (7)

Down

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Illegal act (5) Beer (3) Died out (7) Embarrassed (13) Person in power (5) Large reptile (9) Frocks (7)

11. Magnifies distant objects (9) 13. Form of travel (7) 14. Bright red (7)

16. Prize (5) 18. Reside (5) 21. And not (3)

Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 15th July 2013.

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 53

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Thomas Grieve & Son Funeral Directors 24 HOUR SERVICE

33 Greendykes Road, Broxburn 50 Main Street, West Calder 4 East Main Street, Blackburn

Tel: 01506 856 580 Tel: 01506 873 558 Tel: 01506 655 203

Monumental Sculptors

26 years experience

Large Showroom at Broxburn

All aspects of joinery, from fitting a lock to fitting a kitchen

The Shop for All Your Floral Needs...

● Rejuvenate your kitchen with new worktops and doors ● Real wood and laminate floors supplied and fitted ● Bespoke fitted wardrobes and units ● Decking and sheds built to your specification

Tel: 01506 491399 Mobile: 07879 462298 Free quotes available on request

PROFESSIONAL HIGH QUALITY HIGHLAND DANCE WEAR

Value for money, quality dance products including

shoes ~ patterns ~ swords ~ music accessories ~ books ~ gifts

All you need for Highland at the lowest prices.... We are based in East Calder, so email and arrange collection to avoid postal costs! Please contact us at

staff@highlanddanceshop.com

Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com

by Ba

S e n so r

Rich and varied experiences to help your baby develop in every way

Come and

join us

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Stefan Walczynski 07957 808 366 billthrill@utilitywarehouse.org.uk www.utilitywarehouse.org.uk/billthrill

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To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Recipe & Food Notes

Salt is the exception in food seasonings in that it's a mineral; all other herbs and spices are derived from plants.

Sodium chloride - NaCl - occurs naturally in huge under-ground deposits where it is mined, or extracted from seawater by evaporation. Salt is essential to all animal life but excess in the diet is harmful. There is evidence to show that man has traded salt since the Neolithic era - some of the first over-land trade routes were salt roads. Salt has been used as a display of wealth and importance since ancient classical Greek times. In medieval Europe the placing of the salt and your position relative to it at the table indicated how important you were thought to be. The most elaborate and beautiful salt pot may be the one made by Benvenuto Cellini in 1543 for Francis 1 of France. Salt cellars have been made from gold, silver, crystal, fine porcelain, turned woods and are collected and used still. Some people put a few grains of rice in the pot to help keep salt dry and easy to shake. Cellini salt pot

The salt most commonly consumed at home is rock salt, much of it mined in Cheshire. It's washed and processed with some additives to ensure it flows easily, and has iodine added to prevent goitre, or Derbyshire neck - so named because this

Salt

By Anne Pinkerton

disease was often found in people who lived away from the sea. Sel de Mere, Maldon Salt and pink salt from the Himalayas are all on offer in the shops. All these salts have their special properties and do taste different but their food value is the same as other salt. They look lovely and people enjoy milling their salt or displaying crystal salt in fine salt-cellars on the table. Before refrigeration and frozen food a huge amount of salt was needed for storage and preservation of meat and fish. Without its skilled use people would have had a very restricted winter diet. Salt and brine conserved pork and other meats and without it we would not have corned beef, bacon, kippers or ham. Olives are too bitter to eat unless soaked in brine for about five weeks, and anchovies could not have become enjoyed world wide and enhance foods as varied as pizza or Gentleman's Relish. It would not have been possible for town dwellers to enjoy cheap butter from New Zealand or Ireland without the preserving qualities of salt. Think how dull baking would be if we had been restricted to lard and dripping, remembering we were not traditionally users of oils until the 1960's. It has been suggested that the fine quality of Scottish cured fish is directly related to the purity of Scottish salt made from unpolluted sea water. There is a growing interest in curing and smoking meat and fish at home and kits are available giving instructions and recipes. Try it. The results will be interesting and fine to eat; practice improves the quality. I have eaten delicious home-cured smoked mackerel made by the man who caught the fish. All the equipment he used was a plastic bucket for the salting and a metal biscuit tin as the smoker. He had been doing it for years. Gravaladlax is salmon preserved with salt and sugar, so are most pickles. I gave a receipt for piccalilli before, but to encourage more home preserving do try:

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Pickled red cabbage 1 large red cabbage, cut in half, the core removed and very finely sliced salt teaspoon cayenne pepper cold vinegar either good brewed malt or cider vinegar Method Put the shredded cabbage in a bowl and cover lightly with salt. Leave over night. Next day give it a mix and then drain off all the liquid. Pack into clean glass jars, putting a little cayenne pepper in each and then pouring over cold vinegar to cover the cabbage. Tie down a plastic cover or put 2 layers of cling-wrap over the top before tightening the lid (vinegar will eat the metal otherwise). This needs 2 weeks at least before ready to eat. Good with cold meats and ham.

Method If you can't buy blanched almonds, start by blanching and skinning the almonds. Salt drying on rock Put the nuts in boiling water for about 3 minutes. Pour the water away and then just squeeze each nut between your index finger and thumb. The creamy white nut jumps free of its skin. Aim them into a bowl. It's a pleasant enough job but if you feel there is more in life than doing this the end result is less elegant but still good. Very lightly butter or oil with olive oil a shallow metal dish. Nothing else will do (Elizabeth David is very rude about other oils especially corn oil)! Shake the almonds in this and place in the centre of a cool oven, gas mark 2 / 110oC. Bake for about 45 minutes till they are the palest biscuit colour. Over cooking will make the oil taste â&#x20AC;&#x153;offâ&#x20AC;? Have ready kitchen paper scattered with salt and a suspicion of cayenne pepper. Coat the warm nuts in the salt by gathering the paper and shaking. Leave to cool and serve eat within 12 hours. This is usually not a problem!

Pickled red cabbage

Almost everybody enjoys salty snacks. Salt and vinegar or plain salted crisps are the top sellers in Britain, closely followed by salted nuts, mostly peanuts. The best drinks nibble nuts must be salted almonds. This recipe from Elizabeth David is a little more work than some but it is the best: Salted Almonds Blanched white whole almonds. small amount of butter salt small quantity cayenne pepper to taste

Flavoured salts are good stand-bys and some are very traditional, for example celery salt offered with quail's eggs and an essential ingredient, some say, in a Bloody Mary. There are other salt mixes recommended as personal favourite additions to stews, egg dishes, bread or soups. These range from a mixture of herbs, ground cloves, ginger and cinnamon to Vanilla Salt, Rose Salt and Pepper Salt. Some are more for decorative effect and the Rose Salt is said to be a room freshener as it absorbs cooking smells. Look in Tessa Kirosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; book Limoncello and Linen Water. It must be the prettiest cook book around.

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

What’s On & Useful Info

July 2013

Saturday 6th July Quiz night at Oakbank Bowling Club Everyone welcome Wednesday 10th July Creepy Crawlie Creatures Searching for bugs and beasties in the most hidden and secret corners of Almondell. Suitable for: families. Meet: Visitor Centre, Almondell & Calderwood Country Park Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £2.28 Saturday 13th July Ladies Day at Oakbank Bowling Club From 2pm. Stevie Desmond and Gary Greg performing, £10 ticket plus buffet. Sunday 21st July Art in the Park Love Parks Week. Arts and crafts using natural bits and pieces from the park. Suitable for: 5-12 year olds. Meet: Visitor Centre, Almondell & Calderwood Country Park Time: 2pm – 3.30pm, cost: £2.28 Sunday 28th July Jack & Jill Market Quality nearly-new baby and children’s market. Forty stalls bursting with quality nearly new baby and kids bargains! West Lothian College 10:30am – 1:30pm

East Calder Medical Practice 147 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EW 01506 882882 St John’s Hospital 01506 523000

Last Post Times Kirknewton Post Office Last collection time has been changed to 16.45 Mon – Fri. then a few minutes later from the box near the level crossing. Sat 11.15am East Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.20pm Sat 11.15am Mid Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.35am Pumpherston Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.00am

Holiday Club - Adventure Cruise Kirknewton and East Calder Church is holding its annual holiday club in East Calder Church Hall Monday 5th August - Friday 9th August. Through stories from Luke’s Gospel, the children will discover how Jesus can affect their lives. Every morning 10.00am-12.30pm. All Primary aged children are welcome to attend this fun-filled freeof-charge week but must be registered by an adult on their first day of attendance. Look forward to seeing you there. Further details can be obtained by phoning Andrew Coutts on 885800 or see www.knec4jesus.org.uk.

Collection from box at Livingston Delivery Office, Fairbairn Road, at 6.30pm To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638

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Competition

The Konect Directory has teamed up with Howden Park Centre to offer readers the chance to win tickets to music and theatre events. This month, you could win tickets for 2 to see Dean Park Comedian, singer, pantomime dame, radio DJ - there is a distinct possibility that Dean Park is the hardest working man in showbiz. Enjoy a fun night full of jokes, stories and music as Dean performs favourites from his recent albums, including material from

East Calder Library

Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EJ 01506 883633 email: eastcalder.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri: 9.00am - 5.30pm Tues & Thurs: 9.00am - 8.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm Summer reading challenge Monster Hunt all through the summer. Nelson Mandela Commencing Wednesday 17th July and every Wednesday until 14th August: a fascinating presentation on the life of this interesting and charismatic man. Everyone welcome, 10.30am - 11.15am 22nd July at 10.30am - Monster Munchies 7th August at 2.30pm - Freaky Fables and Terrible Tales The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www.westlothian.gov.uk

Win Two tickets to see Dean Park in concert at Howden Park Centre the era of the Big Bands to The Commitments, Motown and Sinatra. Performing now for over three decades, Dean Park has firmly established himself as one Scotland’s top entertainers. Saturday 31 August, 7.30pm. Tickets: £16 or £14.50 concession Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Box Office: 01506 777666 www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk Quiz Question For your chance to win tickets for 2 to see Dean Park in concert at Howden Park on 31st August, pick the correct answer below and email your response to: editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Include Howden Park Competition in the message subject. Closing date for entries 15th July 2013. Frank Sinatra had a hit record in 1964 titled ‘Fly me to the… a) stars b) San Jose c) moon

Mobile library timetable Alternate Tuesdays in Kirknewton: Linburn Centre 10.00 – 12.00 Kirknewton Primary 13.15 – 14.15 Kaimes Crescent 14.20 – 14.45 Sawmill 14.55 – 15.15 Roosevelt Road 15.20 – 15.30 Brae Kirk Avenue 15.30 – 15.45 Roadman’s Way 15.55 – 16.15 Alternate Wednesdays in Mid Calder: Almondside 13.30 – 14.30 Spottiswoode Gdns 14.40 – 16.20 Police Station 16.30 – 17.30 Alternate Thursdays in Kirknewton: Kirknewton Primary 09.30 – 11.30

Pumpherston Library

Drumshoreland Road, Pumpherston, EH53 0LF. 01506 280996 email: pumpherston.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon 14.00 - 17.00 Wed 14.30 - 16.30 Thurs 14.00 - 18.00

To advertise call Jenny on 07824 469266 or Charlene on 07772 941899

Clubs & Classes Firefly Arts Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk for more information on our current programme. Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE. www.firefly-arts.co.uk email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk

EAST CALDER Dementia Cafe East Calder Church Hall, Manse Court Last Thursday of the month, 10am – 12pm. A meeting place for people with dementia and their carers of all ages. Drop in and join us for information, support and social activities. Supported by Alzheimer Scotland and East Calder Church For more information please phone 01506 533 116. East Calder Jog Scotland Group Meet every Tuesday at East Calder Health centre car park at 7pm. All abilities welcome, a social way to get fit, make friends and enjoy local countryside. Contact Dawn on 01506 883330 or 07806 772935 for more details. East Calder Bowling Club Bingo every Sun and Wed 8pm– 9.30pm. Junior coaching (10 to 16 years old) every Fri 2pm – 4pm. We can also coach adults, free, so come along and give it a try. Hats every Mon 6-30pm. See club website at www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com, members can find details here of competitions, play by dates, club news. East Calder Colts FC East Calder Park. We are currently recruiting for an under 10’s team born 2002. Information required regarding any of our teams please visit our website www.eastcaldercolts.co.uk or contact Head Coach Rab McCulloch on 07920 482216. Let’s put the fun back into football. All welcome. Bingo Pigeon Club, East Calder Sun 8.00 - 10.00 All welcome East Calder Old Folks Club East Calder Community Centre Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Pensioners and non-pensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Secretary)

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... East Calder Ladies’ Circle East Calder Community Centre Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Secretary: Mrs E Bennett, 73 Mansefield, East Calder, West Lothian EH53 0JE. Young Mums East Calder Community Centre Mon 11.00am – 12.30pm. Free. Contact health visitor via health centre for further details 01506 880582 Yoga for Everyone East Calder Community Centre Wed 7.00pm – 8.30pm For further info contact Ruth Plevin: 01506204338 or ruth@sukha.co.uk Boys Brigade East Calder Church Hall Anchors (age 5 - 8) Fridays 6.30 - 7.30pm Juniors (age 8 - 11) Fridays 6.45 - 8.15pm. Company Section (age 11-18) Fridays 7.30 - 9.45pm Calll Jean Gilchrist 01506 880367 East Calder Playgroup Now located in East Calder Community Centre. Mon-Fri 9:15am-11:15am from 2 years For the best introduction to your child’s education - lots of fun to be had! £4.50 per session. Contact Carol on 07748 053340 Rainbows, Brownies and Guides East Calder Primary School Rainbows Wed 6.15 – 7.15pm Brownies Tues 6.30 – 8pm & Wed 6.30 – 8pm Guides Mon 7 – 8.50pm & Wed 7.30 – 9pm Contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 East Calder Youth Club East Calder Community Centre Fri 6.15pm - 8.45pm. Ages 10 to 14 yrs. Cooking, football, baseball and other outdoor sports, pool, video games, board games and arts/crafts. Contact Gary Sneddon 01506 774473 East Calder Scout Group Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace Beavers Mon 6.15 - 7.15pm (boys 6 - 8 yrs) Cubs Mon 7.30 - 9.00pm (boys 8 - 10 yrs) Scouts Tues 7.15 - 9.00pm (boys 10 - 14 yrs) Contact Jack Galloway on 077907 93889 eastcalderscouts.org.uk Needlecraft Club East Calder Community Centre Thur 7.00pm - 9.00pm Contact Sheila (Secretary) on 0131 333 2217

Toddler Clinic East Calder Health Centre 1st Tues of every month. Drop in for advice and support 1.30pm – 3.30pm Breast Feeding Support Group East Calder Community Centre Wed 11.30am – 12.30pm except during school holidays. Free. Contact Health Visitor via Health Centre for further details 01506 880582

KIRKNEWTON Kirknewton Starlets Kirknewton Primary School Babies class up to age 8 Thurs 5.30pm - 6.30pm. Junior/senior class Thurs 6.15 - 8.00pm. For info contact Trisha t.ewing@btinternet.com Kirknewton Rainbows Kirknewton Village Hall Wed 5.00pm - 6.00pm For girls aged 5-7. Please contact Gill Greaves for more information on 01506 883261 Toddler Group Kirknewton Church Hall Parents/carers with tots aged 0-3 yrs, fridndly group with play, stories and craft for the children and meet up/chat for parents. Thur 9.30 - 11.30am Kosy Kaff Kirknewton Village Hall Fridays 4pm – 5pm term time. Free home baking, hot chocolate, games and activities for primary school aged children. See www.knec4jesus.org.uk for more information. Douglas Pilates Classes Designed to help achieve health and fitness goals through expertly designed exercises. Because classes are limited a maximum of 12 people, you will get plenty of personal attention. To contact Susan Douglas and for classes information visit http://www.douglaspilates.co.uk/ Hatton Sports Club Tennis and squash. Burnwynd, Kirknewton Social and competitive play. LTA-qualified tennis coaches. Contact Carol Blamire 01506 880208 KASPARS Afterschool Club Kirknewton Church Hall. Afterschool care Mon - Thu 3.15 - 6.00, Fri 12.30 - 6.00. Breakfast Club Mon - Fri 8.00 - start of school. Call 07871 791000

Potter Around Studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD Clubs including oil painting for both children and adults, jewellery workshops, fused glass, candle making, knitting, scrapbooking, kids craft club, Warhammer club. Craft shop, beads, children’s parties, baby prints and more. Plus drop in any time for pottery painting. For all class times, bookings and more information call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk Kirknewton Play Group Kirknewton Village Hall Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9am – 11.15am. Ages 2- 4 ½ years. £5.00 per session. Call in and see us during session times Kirknewton Women’s Rural Institute Come and join us for a friendly evening of craft, demonstrations and fun. 2nd Thursday of each month, 7.15pm in Kirknewton Church Hall Kirknewton Stompers Walking group, meeting at Kirknewton Park entrance on Park Terrace every Wed 7.30pm. Join the group on the community facebook page where people post details of the walk, or any other time they are walking Kirknewton Runners Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday 19.30 Kirknewton Pensioners Club Kirknewton Village Hall 1st Wednesday of Month 1.00pm - 3.30pm and 3rd Thursday of Month 7.00pm - 9.00pm Everyone aged 60 years and over welcome

MID CALDER Mini Music Makers Glenalmond Hall, Main Street, Mid Calder, EH53 0AN Weekly interactive music classes on Thursday mornings in Mid Calder. Singing games and rhymes are used bring these interactive music education classes for pre-school children and their parents/carers to life. Booking enquires: claire.ashwood@nycos.co.uk, 0141 287 2943. Find out more: www.nycos.co.uk/mini-music-makers Mid Calder Mother and Baby Group Institute Hall Tuesdays 10.00 Please call Vicky Ramsay for details on 07515 495101

Clubs & Classes Myra Mackie School of Dance Classes in Livingston, Uphall Station, Mid Calder and Broxburn Please see our website for full timetable and venues. Children from 2 years to adult. www.myramackieschoolofdance.co.uk incorporating our competitive cheer division the Scottish Starlets. Mid Calder School of Dance Mid Calder Institute Hall Highland, Disco Tues 6.00pm - 7.00pm & Fri 6.00pm - 9.00pm. Various ages Contact Heather 01501733054 Yoga Classes Masonic Hall Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.00pm Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115 www.wholebodybalance.co.uk The Willows Playgroup School Lane Mid Calder. Children from 2 - 5 years (nappy changing facilities).Mon - Thurs 9 - 11 am. £5 per session (snack provided). Further information available from Karen on 01506 882832 Folk Club Meets every third Tuesday of the month at the “Tap Shop” The Midcalder Inn, Mid Calder at 8pm Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Rainbows Wed night Brownies Tues night, Guides Mon and Wed nights. Contact Katrina Wallace on 01506 883816 Mid Calder Baby & Toddler Group Institute Hall. Tuesdays 9am - 11am. £1.00 per parent/ carer. New parents/carers, toddlers and babies welcome. For further information please email christiealldridge@hotmail.com Mid Calder Camera Club Institute Hall, Market Street Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www.mccc.org.uk or call Fred Roe at 01506 202190 or Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616. Mid Calder Colts FC Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-calder-colts.org Contact Carole 883934 contact@mid-calder-colts.org Calder Bells Glenalmond Hall, Mid Calder Rehersals Mondays 7.30pm New members welcome

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... Oakbank Bowling Club Oakbank are having a Ladies Day/Night on October 27th – tickets are £10 (on sale now) – Comedian,Singer and Disco plus food. All welcome 2pm – late. Contact Mrs J McElhinney, Secretary, Oakbank Bowling Club. Choral Highlights Ladies’ Choir Kirk of Calder Rehearse Sun 11.45-12.45pm & Wed 7.30 -8.45pm Repertoire includes songs from Musical shows, Scottish songs, Religious and Pop music. Perform 2 concerts a year, one in May/ June and a Christmas concert in early December. All concert venues considered. New members very welcome, come and join us! Contact: John Rankine, Musical Director LLCM (TD) on 01506 880029 www.kirkofcalder.com (Church Organisations) Welcome Cafe Glenalmond Hall Every Tuesday 10am-12noon. This is a Fair Trade Cafe all proceeds of which to the Vine Trust in Peru. Do come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and some home baking with friends.

POLBETH Polbeth W.R.I. 1st Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Come along for an interesting programme of talks and demonstrations. New members always welcome. Further information on 01506 435708.

PUMPHERSTON Parent, Baby and Toddler Group Meets in Uphall Station Institute Hall every Thursday during term time, 12:15 - 2pm. A warm welcome to new members from the surrounding areas. The Look Group Outdoors activities in Almondell and Calderwood Country Park for ages 8-12, meeting at Visitor Centre 10.30 - 12.00 Saturdays - not every Saturday, check programme with the Rangers on 01506 882254 Pumpherston United FC Four groups, including a soccer school for 5-12 yrs (Thur 6.00pm - 7.30pm); 1998 age group (Tuesdays); 1997 age group (Mon and Wed) and 1995 age group (Mon and Wed). Training at Pumpherston Recreation Park. For more information , please email feedback@pumpherston-united.co.uk

18th West Lothian Scout Group West Kirk Hall, West Calder Beavers Mon 6-7pm, Cubs Wed 6.16-7.30pm, Scouts Thurs 6.30-8pm. Girls and boys 10.5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 14 years. Contact Jean Walkinshaw 01506 873638.

CHURCHES Polbeth Harwood Church Service 11:15 am every Sunday West Kirk of Calder Service 9:45 am every Sunday. Interim moderator : Rev Dr AJ Groenewald 8 Manse Court, East Calder, EH53 0HF. Tel 01506 884585 Church of Scotland Kirknewton Services 9:45 in the Kirknewton Kirk, Station Rd. East Calder Services 11:15 in the East Calder church, Main St Sunday School and creche available Rev Dr AJ Groenewald 8 Manse Court East Calder EH53 0HF. 01506 884585 or 075 888 458 14. groenstes@yahoo.com website www.knec4jesus.org.uk Mid Calder services 10.30 every Sunday in the Kirk of Calder, Main St, Mid Calder. Sunday School and crĂ¨che available. Pumpherston services - The Kirk of Calder also holds fortnightly services on Wednesday mornings at 10:15 at the Pumpherston Institute Hall. The website www.kirkofcalder.com has full details of current activities/services.

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