Konect Livingston April 16 by Konect Magazines

APRIL 2016

livingston

FEATUREs

Trusted Trader scheme New column! - Parenting in West Lothian Nicola Welsh - â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are no rules for grievingâ&#x20AC;? Local History - Huly Hill and the Newbridge Chariot s& Offer ers h c u o v cal from lo ses s e busin

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The community magazine for Livingston

FEATURE

M e ss ag e f ro m th e e d ito r

pring is in the air as I write this message, and many people will be starting to think about those home and garden improvement projects that need to be done this year. Picking a company to carry out home improvements can be tricky – of course checking through the pages of Konect is a great way to find local people! A couple of years ago West Lothian Council launched their own “Trusted Trader” scheme to help people find reputable local companies, you can read about the scheme on pages 28-31. On a sober note this month, we’re running a feature on a West Lothian mum who has suffered loss of her baby and is now keen to get conversation going in society about still-births and neo-natal bereavement. She runs support services in Livingston, see pages 8 – 9. Check out our new column this month on parenting in West Lothian by a local mum - we’re looking forward to reading her adventures as she navigates life in West Lothian from the point of view of a young family. And all our usual columns are here – a bit of local history, interiors, property matters, recipe, technology … and now five full pages in our popular Clubs and Classes section. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses.

FEATUREs Inter view with Nicola Welsh Huly Hill & the Newbridge Chariot. Spotlight on Tr usted Tr ader Scheme Spotlight on Saltire Lock & Secur ity

08 16 28 38

REGULARS Technology Thought for the Month Parenting in West Lothian Visit West Lothian Proper ty Matter s Inter ior s Recipe

12 18 20 40 45 50 52

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku

COMMUNITY What’s on & Useful Information Clubs & Classes

56 57

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Advertising Enquiries JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk Advert booking deadline: 10th of the month prior to print. Artwork/copy deadline: 13th of the month prior to print.

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

The Konect Directory is delivered to 20,000 homes throughout Livingston, alternating between two areas of 10,000 homes each. Extra copies are also left at libraries, community centres, convenience stores, post offices and other locations throughout Livingston.

Front cover: Look out for spring family activities.

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LOCAL people

“There are no rules for grieving”

“I want to break the taboo around discussing stillbirth and neonatal death, and make it normal to talk about it,” says Nicola Welsh. I’m chatting to Nicola in her kitchen at home in Threemiletown, surrounded by all the usual family trappings - photos of her boys, birthday balloons, toys and the family dog. But Nicola carries the invisible scars of neonatal bereavement, and she is dedicated to helping other families who have suffered in the same way. Setting out initially to create a support group for her local Linlithgow community, it snowballed and she now finds herself Chief Executive of SANDS Lothians (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society), a charity providing support and services for bereaved families across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Nicola and her husband Gary discovered during her second pregnancy that their baby had a serious condition called exomphalos. Theo was born and battled through three weeks and four operations. For three weeks they believed he would pull through. But when he passed away, they were left not only obviously bereft but with no support to help them deal with it. “The hospital [Sick Kids in Edinburgh] was phenomenal in what they did to help Theo,” recalls Nicola, “but once you’ve lost your baby, there is no counselling

Album, candle and memories gift bag provided by SANDS Lothians

or obvious supports available via the NHS*. We were left totally alone.” While her peers were going to new mums and babies groups, Nicola was alone with her toddler and what she describes as feelings of “intense, scary and overwhelming grief” and was desperate for professional help. The community midwife had visited for post natal care, and she was lucky to have some good friends, but Nicola was desperate to meet someone who had had the same experience. “Meeting other bereaved parents helps to validate your feelings,” she says. “It’s particularly difficult for parents of stillborn babies as there are no photographs or memories to draw on.” It was nine months until Nicola met someone else who had lost a baby, and she finally started to find some validation of her feelings. “You never heal completely,” she says. “That particular train has gone, and it leaves you standing on the platform waiting for the next train which is one of deep sadness. But you can shape where you want it to go by talking about it.” After the birth of her third boy, Oscar, Nicola set about in earnest to create a support group for the Linlithgow area. She found out about SANDS Lothians (separate from the UK-wide SANDS charity) which was in existence, but no-one had told Nicola about it and there was no local group. It’s been hard work, but today SANDS Lothians is a stand-alone charity employing five people, including two counsellors, and a team of volunteers. Nicola is the Chief Executive. It has a premises at Craigsfarm community centre in Craigshill**, where they have a counselling room and a befriending room, and a family support group meets every month. They provide photo albums for parents to record their brief time with their baby. They can help talk through funeral arrangements with parents. And they work constantly to raise the profile of the charity so that midwives and doctors know to refer people to them. What advice does Nicola offer for society? “If you know someone who has had a stillborn baby or lost a newborn, don’t be afraid to talk about their

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baby. Always acknowledge the baby, name them and remember them. When you talk to a bereaved parent they may get upset ...but that’s because you were brave enough to let them know that you remember. I’ve been fortunate in having good friends who still drop me a wee card or a text on Theo’s birthday every year.” She recognises that in our society people find it difficult to talk about babies who have passed away, but believes this needs to change. “I found a fantastic quote the other day: ‘When you say my child’s name you are not reminding me that they died. I know they died. What you are reminding me is that they lived, and that is the greatest gift.’” SANDS Lothians also runs a pregnancy support group for women who become pregnant again after losing a baby. “Another pregnancy is never the same – you never recapture the joyful, hopeful experience. Many women suffer anxiety and need a lot of support such as extra scans and appointments and speaking to other women who have the same anxiety.” And what about the dads? “It’s harder to get them to talk,” says Nicola. “The whole bereavement process impacts them enormously of course, and

relationships can suffer too. Couples do come to the counselling together, but the on-going groups are predominantly mums. We’re looking at starting a group just for dads.” A bereavement committee now operates at St John’s Hospital in Livingston which Nicola was instrumental in setting up. It has a dedicated family support room on site with bedding, TV, toiletries and everything a family needs as they are going through the most traumatic time. When I visited Nicola at the end of January the family had just had Theo’s 7th birthday. I was affected by the very deep impact that his brief life still has on the family. Nicola is always happy to talk about him and passionate about helping others on this journey. It was a pleasure to learn their story and if this article reaches just one family who need help it will have been well worth it. *There is an NHS counselling service but there is a very long waiting list. ** May be moving premises later this year, please check with them before attending.

For more information on the support groups or to get in touch, please contact: info@sands-lothians.org.uk or call 0131 622 6263 website http://sands-lothians.org.uk For more of Theo’s story see http://babywelshupdate.blogspot.co.uk/

SANDS Lothians has to fundraise constantly to ensure that the professional counsellors are available, that they keep the premises and keep the groups running. They rely on individuals, local businesses and organisations. Their ver y first donor was the Linlithgow Round Table who donated generously to get them started. If you can help, they will be delighted to hear from you!

Nicola Welsh

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TECHNOLOGY

Gadgets for the indoor gardener You don’t need to get dirty to grow great things

Spring has spring and it’s gardening season. But not everybody has a garden or access to decent growing space - and even if you do have the space, the recent stormy weather has been enough to keep all but the most determined gardener indoors.

NASA-inspired combination of hydroponics and electronics to ensure that your plants get the right combination of water, oxygen and nutrients without you doing anything. It includes a LED lamp for maximum germination, and because it’s LED the running costs are microscopic. The creators suggest growing petunias, tomatoes, chillies, basil or thyme but it should be able to handle anything that isn’t too large.

Don’t despair, though: there are plenty of gadgets that enable you to grow great things indoors or when you have limited space for green things. There are even tools to design gardens that don’t exist.

If you’ve got green fingered children, the Chuppon self-watering animal planter (£9.99) should delight them: it’s a ceramic animal with a herb basket on its back and a straw that sips from any glass or mug. There are four animals and four herbs to choose from, although of course you can put your own herbs in instead.

If you’re also a keen cook, you’ll like the Indoor Allotment (£24.99, currently on pre-order at Firebox.com): it’s a miniature herb garden complete with picket fence and storage shed. It includes basil, coriander and oregano along with everything you need to get your herbs growing - and it’s small enough to fit in the corner of a windowsill. If you fancy something a little bit more ambitious, IKEA’s Socker miniature greenhouse is just £12 with an assembled size of 45cm wide, 22cm deep and 35cm high, which is more than enough for all kinds of plants. You can also keep the roof vents partly open to improve air circulation for plants that don’t like it too hot. While you’re in IKEA, it’s worth checking out their self-watering plant pots too. The Sötcitron and PS Fejö pots (from £6 to £16) are designed for those of us who don’t always remember to water our plants, and do a superb job for very little money. Fancy something a little more high-tech? The Click and Grow (€59.95 from clickandgrow.com) describes itself as a “smart garden” and uses a 12

Even the smartphone has made its presence felt in the world of gardening, and there are lots of apps and devices for indoor and outdoor gardening. One of the cleverest devices is the Parrot Flower Power, a wireless device that sits in your plant pot and monitors the plant’s health, sending alerts to your phone. It’s available for Apple and Android phones, measures sunlight, temperature, fertiliser and moisture, and it currently costs £42. That’s probably a bit steep if you’re growing cress, but if you’ve got something exotic or temperamental it could be a very wise investment indeed. There’s another type of digital gardening you can do, and that’s to create a virtual one in your computer - something you can do just for fun, or to plan what you’ll do to a real garden space. There are many garden planning apps to choose from, including My Garden (free from www.gardena.com/ uk) and Marshalls Garden Visualiser (free from www.marshalls.co.uk). Happy gardening!

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Local History

Huly Hill & the Newbridge Chariot by Helen-Jane Shearer

Have you ever sat in the traffic by the BP garage at the bottom of Cliftonhall Road in Newbridge waiting to get onto the roundabout, and wondered what that strange little hill is, surrounded by the low stone wall? It’s one of several tantalising clues that this area was a very important focal point for thousands of years. The wee hill ahead of you as you wait at the T junction is a bronze age burial mound (tumulus) dating from around 2500BC. Three standing stones surround it within the fenced area, and there is a fourth stone the other side of the motorway. The area beside Edinburgh Airport runway, the end of which is just half a mile from our tumulus, was a burial ground where cists dating from the around the fifth century AD

have been found, along with another standing stone, the Cat Stane, which has been there for thousands of years. We don’t know which of these various monuments are related to each other, if any. The stones around our tumulus may have been part of complete stone circles; it has never been subject to detailed modern archaeological study, although was opened in 1830 when a spearhead or dagger, animal charcoal and small fragments of bones were found. When I visited on a rare sunny day last month, I found that within the grassy circle the din of the roads is muted; the hustle and bustle of the interchange, the industrial estate with its heavy commercial traffic, the garage ... all seem to fade. Viewed from the footbridge over the motorway, it sits broodingly mysterious in the incongruous modern landscape, its three stones standing eloquently silent sentry as they have for countless years.

A replica of the Newbridge Chariot will be the centrepiece of a new exhibition, “Celts,” which opened at the National Museum of Scotland on 10th March. The iron tyres for the replica, which was made in 2001, were forged by local blacksmith Pete Hill of Ratho Byers Forge. Pete recalls, “We did some of the work in exactly the same manner as the original craftsman would have, with the forge anvil and hammer. The shaping into the ring was done using a modern roller and the tyres were joined using modern techniques to ensure accuracy of size. The most interesting aspect for me was the privilege of touching and inspecting ironwork of such an age, made by someone much like me, working in more or less the same manner centuries later. While some of the equipment has changed, the processes of thinning, stretching, punching and joining iron - or nowadays steel - have remained unchanged since the dawn of the iron age. If you could transport a smith through time either back or forward, they would recognise the work and tools and would no doubt share an immediate connection with the craftsman of the time.”

Visit the exhibition and see the Newbridge Chariot at the National Museum of Scotland from 10th March to 25th September. See www.nms.ac.uk for further information.

Huly Hill from Clinftonhall Road

The fact that Huly Hill survived for millennia suggests it was very important. Which may be why this spot was chosen some two thousand years later for a very important burial – a Celtic chariot. When the Edinburgh Exchange estate was being built at Newbridge in 2001, remains of a chariot were found under what is now the commercial unit just before the turning for … Chariot Drive. It had been buried intact, most likely as part of a human burial (although no trace of a body remained), in the fifth or early fourth century BC. To find out more I contacted Dr Fraser Hunter, Principal Curator of Iron Age and Roman Collections at the National Museum of Scotland. “Owning a chariot at all at that time was like owning a Ferrari - especially this one, which was built for speed” he says. The two-wheeled chariot was designed to be pulled by two horses (although as he points out, Iron Age horses would look like ponies to our eyes). So this was the burial of someone undoubtedly wealthy and possibly of special social status. Detailed study of the remains revealed a utility vehicle that had worked hard, showing wear and tear and replacement parts. The wheels are not a matching set, being of slightly different diameter, rim form and fastenings, so one of them may have been a replacement. The iron tyres were well worn; some of the fixings where the harness attached to the yoke look like replacement parts. But particularly intriguing is that the Newbridge chariot burial has more in common with continental burial rites than British ones. Chariot burials have been found in Yorkshire where the chariots were dismantled before being buried. The Scottish one however was intact, in common KONECT

with chariot burials on continental Europe. It was buried up to its axle with slots cut in the ground for the wheels, before being covered with earth. Dr Hunter says, “This chariot is unique in Scotland and extremely rare in Britain. The best parallels are in France and Belgium, showing the wideranging contacts at the time.” So Scotland was not cut-off on the fringes of Europe, but had links with the continent even then – as a few other features of this chariot show. The horses’ bridle bits (undecorated two-link snaffle bits) are unusual for Iron Age Britain but common in France and Belgium. The chariot itself however was of British manufacture, so this wasn’t a visitor from the continent. As Dr Hunter explains, “Vehicles need suspension if they are to move at any speed. On the continent, this was achieved by various metal fittings which suspended the body of the chariot and allowed it to “float” and absorb the shock. In Britain, no such metal fittings are found. Instead, organic components were used – either a rawhide floor which absorbs the bounce, or by hanging the chariot body off leather straps.” Similarly, there were no nails to hold the tyres to the wheels, which indicate British make as continental chariots of the period used nails. So our Newbridge burial could have been someone who spent time on the continent. We don’t know why people buried chariots - it’s easy to speculate but difficult to establish facts. But we do know that Newbridge was a special site for a significant person. It’s also an ancient crossing point of the River Almond (which we whizz over on the A89 next to the luxury car village, barely noticing it’s there).

Photo: Replica of the Newbridge Chariot ©NATIONAL MUSEUMS SCOTLAND

k 17

the arising and passing of thoughts and this led him on a spiritual path of inner discovery and surrender to what arose in his life.

Surrendering by Tina Gilbert

I have just finished reading one of the most inspiring books I have read in a long time, “The Surrender Experiment” by Michael Springer. As a Yoga and Mindfulness teacher, being present enables me to see the dialogue arising in my mind and not being governed by this. Michael in his 20’s discovered his ability to observe / witness

As you witness thoughts telling you what you like, dislike, want, prefer etc. you notice that they guide your decisions and actions. What if it were possible to open to more of the flow of life and observe the commentary, let it go and open more to the flow of what comes into your world. This means stepping out of your comfort zone, perhaps encountering vulnerability and not living by rigid rules and controls governed by the mind thoughts. Michael discovered a whole different existence which led him to a life full of richness he could never have imagined. As a result of reading the book I am now opening more to allow life to live through me and not close as a result of what the mind preferences tell me. I was asked this week to teach at the OM Glasgow Yoga Show and everything in me said no - and then I heard a voice in my head say, surrender experiment, so I said yes! Who knows what it will bring. Tina lives in Livingston and teaches yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk

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Parents in West Lothian

HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWEN UGLY TUBERS DESPITE TH IDS ABSENCE OF PERIODIC AIR-RA When was the last time you bought an amusingly shaped carrot? A potato whose knobbles and lumps bordered on the risqué? If you shop at supermarket, probably not recently – you’re unlikely to encounter a radish roughly shaped like ‘The Thinker’ in such a regulated environment. That is, until now. I recently bought a ‘Wonky Veg’ box from Asda. They’ve been created in answer to uproar about recently publicised supermarket food waste, and they aim to sell less-than-perfect legumes in a box for a knock-down price. Verdict: a) they weren’t that ‘wonky’ and b) they tasted perfect. But wait - why buy someone else’s wonky veg when it is perfectly possible to grow your own aesthetically unappealing (yet delicious) food in your own garden? In recent years we have tried our hand at growing various fruits and vegetables, with the emphasis on things that can be picked and eaten with little prep in between – strawberries, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers etc. I want it to be obvious to my kids that food doesn’t form magically inside hermetically sealed plastic packaging, but it grew little by little, using the sun and the soil, until it was ready to eat. Last year, Quinton’s participation in the gardening tasks was limited to looking cute in wellies

The War time Garden at Almond Valley Heritage Centre

Our column is West Lothia t: Nicola Jengaenga li ves in n with Quin months an d her hubby n 2, Penny 10 Channa, 33 . Nicola & Ch anna both w ork, jugglin schedules w ith g their two tin the ever-evolving dem hectic y overlords, ands of in some tim and also sq ueezing e for each ot her! In this new bl the adventu og for Konect she chro nicles res (and m isad Mummy an d Daddy wh ventures) of a the happy ti o aim to wri m ng all babies in w es they can from life w onderful W est Lothian ith their ! and wielding a watering can in a less than safe manner. These sacred duties will now be performed by his wee sister Penelope and this year, my horticultural hopes for Quinton are high. To get ideas and show him what might be possible – on a somewhat smaller scale – we took a trip to the Almond Valley Heritage Centre. At Almond Valley Heritage Centre there is loads for wee ones to do – outdoor trampolines, a huge covered sandpit, farm animals, tractor rides, train rides, soft play and more. However there is also lots of interest for older kids and adults; our main purpose – which we strayed from only long enough for a go on the cow-shaped bouncy castle – was to visit the Wartime Garden. The Wartime Garden is a step back in time to when veg came in all shapes and sizes, and when ordinary people were urged to remember that ‘Food is ammunition – don’t waste it!’. It was fun to explain to Quinn (and a snoozing Penny) that the way to get potatoes is to put an old potato in the ground then just wait. I could hear his little brain whirring with wonder at this ‘new-for-old’ potato phenomenon and forming plans to multiply other items – sweets, toys, playmates – by lugging them out the back door and covering them with mud. So home we went and donned our wellies to weed and top up the raised beds and barrel planters in preparation for planting in the coming weeks – a muddy and sweaty job made slightly more bearable for seeing Quinn’s proud and satisfied face after having dug all of the soil out of a planter I’d just filled. Dig for victory k indeed. KONECT

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Formally Mark Wallace Motors at entrance to Industrial Estate

Further details on all our stores can be found on: www.ableworld.co.uk Ableworld are the main mobility retailer in the area approved as a Community Equipment Dispenser NHS Vouchers Welcome *VAT exempt - ask in store for details. MRP - Manufacturer’s Recommended Price Previous Price - Sold for 28 days in the last 6 months at our Nantwich store Ableworld are an Appointed Representative of Fish Insurance, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

KONECT

01506 411157

KONECT

7 West Main Street | Uphall | EH52 5DN

01506.857.927

19 Station Road | Kirkliston | EH29 9BB

0131.333.1510

10% off all facials & services with this advert 1 per person

www.MrFellaandMeBella.co.uk KONECT

To suit all Ladies, Gents and Children Wedding Packages ยง Curls ยง Hair Ups Appointments not always necessary Gift Vouchers are available

BEAUTY ROOM coming soon STYLISTS: Lynn McDonald (Black) Natasha Conway

Tel: 01506 491 533

6b Jackson Place, Eliburn, Livingston, EH54 6RH

Livingston look out for Youyen Thai Massage & Therapies A brand new professional Thai Massage experience

With over 20 years experience, please call: 01506 441022 or text 07432 474 485 For more info: www.youyenthaimassage.uk

KONECT

SPOTLIGHT ON...

West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme It’s all about word of mouth We all know someone who has suffered a disaster of a home improvements project as a result of using unqualified tradespeople. Or heard a horror-story of a tradesperson who has done a shoddy job then disappeared without a trace. The Trusted Trader Scheme was launched by West Lothian Council in 2013 to tackle these types of problems and to help consumers choose a trader with confidence. In reality it’s almost impossible to eliminate all risk of something going wrong but there are some basic criteria you can check before employing a business. Looking at established local companies is usually a good start. Membership of trade bodies is also a good thing to look out for as it generally means the company has been

subject to some kind of training and standards certification. Then there is the all-important word of mouth recommendation which many people rely on. But you don’t necessarily know anyone who has used a trader they can recommend, and that’s where the West Lothian Trusted Trader scheme comes in. The central element of the Trusted Trader scheme is customer testimonials. To become a Trusted Trader a business needs to collect at least five recommendations from customers who were happy with the work they did. These recommendations are proof that the trader is a genuine business who has done satisfactory work for other local people. And once they are a member of the scheme, customers can submit feedback about them to the Trusted Trader scheme at any point – and both the positive and the negative comments are published. The reviews are checked and uploaded to the Trusted Trader website by the West Lothian Council staff who administer the scheme. This reduces the risk of activity that some review systems suffer from - where competitors write bad reviews, or where businesses get their friends and family to all write glowing fake reviews.

Continued on page 30

KONECT

01506 650 397 07450 876 999

info@sashomeimprovements.co.uk

www.sandskitchenreface.co.uk

FIXED PRICE INCLUDING VAT AND FITTING

THE FIXED PRICE KITCHEN WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: • 10 units, any combination • Stainless Steel - Single Oven • Hood • Hob • Sink & Taps • 2 x 3m laminate worktops 38mm thick • Two lengths of cornice, plinth and pelmet • Vast range of doors with 6 yr guarantee • Professionally designed and installed • Can also provide tiling and flooring (not included in price) ALSO AVAILABLE

BEFORE

AFTER REFACE

Check Customer reviews on Trusted Trader

• Kitchen Refacing • Bathrooms - supplied and fitted • Save up to 40% on price of new kitchen

FOR LESS STRESS, CHOOSE S&S! KONECT

It’s in the interest of the trader to encourage their customers to submit feedback so they have up to date feedback for other customers.

For local businesses

Testimonial

If you are interested in becoming Trusted Trader and supporting the scheme, please contact the West Lothian Trusted Trader team on 01506 280000 or email tradingstandards@westlothian.gov.uk for more information and to request an application pack. Being a Trusted Trader helps give consumers confidence in you as a reputable business. There is an annual fee of £100 for non-vat registered companies and £200 for vatregistered companies. Your company details and reviews are maintained and published on the West Lothian Council Trusted Trader web pages. West Lothian Trading Standards will advise you on consumer protection legislation upon request, and publicise the scheme. M. McLaughlan of Armalock Locksmiths is a member. He says, “The customers I get have all been to the Trusted Trader Scheme web site and read my customers’ reviews which I have no input on so it is totally honest and all above board: what the individual reads is what my customers have written. I cannot fault this scheme and I certainly think more small businesses in West Lothian should embrace the opportunity to join the Trusted Trader Scheme.”

“1st Choice Living is extremely proud to have been the 1st company to have been accepted onto the West Lothian Trusted Traders scheme. It is a great forum which allows prospective buyers to make an informed choice based on actual feedback from previous customers regarding their completed projects.” Besides collecting customer testimonials, to join the scheme businesses submit an application form with various details about their business, such as qualifications, membership of trade associations, any relevant licences. All details are checked. It’s not essential to be a member of a trade association or to have any particular accreditations to be a Trusted Trader – but a business can’t fraudulently claim to have certifications they don’t have. They sign up to a code of practice agreeing to certain trading standards, including a commitment to honest and fair trading, providing customers with clear information regarding the contract and any warranties, honest advertising, and so on. Although predominantly aimed at trades, businesses from other sectors can join the scheme, in particular the automotive industry, legal services, counselling, cleaning and childcare. Sometimes, despite everyone’s best efforts things can go wrong. But by picking a reputable company you’re improving that chances that even if something does go wrong, they will do their best to rectify it in a professional manner. Look out for the Trusted Trader logo which will start appearing on adverts in Konect as local businesses join the scheme. You can search for a Trusted Trader on the West Lothian council website at www.westlothian.gov.uk/ trustedtrader. You can submit feedback on Trusted Traders either by a form they give you on completion of the work, or via an online form accessible from the same website. 30

KONECT

Your one-stop home improvement complex

6-10 Glasgow Road, Bathgate, EH28 2AA sales@1stchoiceliving.co.uk www.1stchoiceliving.co.uk

T: 01506 797986 M: 07739 962 262 W: www.cmiplumbing.com

SPECIAL 20% REDUCTION OFFER ON MEMBERSHIP FOR A LIMITED PERIOD New members who join before the 1st of May will be eligible for a 20% reduction on their membership fee over the next 12 months. Numbers will be restricted so this is on a first come first served basis. Details are available by phoning Keith Nicholson, Club Manager on: 0131 453 4911 or e-mail manager@baberton.co.uk

TRIAL ROUNDS FOR PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS AT ÂŁ10.00 Club: 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri Pro shop: 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun KONECT

Email: manager@baberton.co.uk Website: www.babertongc.com 31

2017/18 WEDDING PACKAGES All prices for 75 day guests / 150 evening guests Some 2016 dates available. p.o.a

WINTER WEDDING January, February & March

2017

£3595 |

2018

£3795

WEDDING PACKAGE 2017 £4595 | 2018 £4795 ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE 2017 £7795 | 2018 £7995 All prices inclusive of V.A.T.

Special prices for selected weekends in 2016

KONECT

GET 3 CARPETS THOROUGHLY DEEP CLEANED FOR THE PRICE OF 2 All work is 100% guarante ed for yo satisfac ur tion

FREE no tion obliga s quote

• Specialist Carpet Cleaning • Rugs - collected, cleaned and returned • Upholstery & Leather Cleaning • Stain Protection • Stone Floor Cleaning

Tel: 08000 463 422 Mob: 07789 007 072 www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk Email: info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk

Currently recruiting new cleaners Prices start from £9.50 One Off Clean £12.00

Dusters is a Domestic and Commercial Cleaning Company. For a quote today, please contact:

t: 07944 852 805 or visit us at: www.dustersonline.com

David Hastings Building Surveyor BSc Hons., M.C.I.O.B., R.Maps., AMiAS

t: 07803 289714 e: wmachastings@gmail.com Thinking of having your house/office altered or extended or garage/loft converted? Call for free consultation. · · · · ·

We offer professional expertise in: Health & Safety to comply with CDM Regs April 2015 Preparation of Specification & Drawings Submission for Planning & Building Warrant Approvals Site & Financial Control Energy & Sustainability Issues

KONECT

WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN ON PRICE

KONECT

RICCARTON GARDEN CENTRE

Riccarton Mains Road (nr Heriot-Watt) T: 0131 449 4404

APRIL PROMOTIONS AMAZING DEALS:

4 bags multi-purpose compost only £10 (holds 50ltr)

Bedding Packs 4 packs for £10

4 x bales of mini bark

only £20

(holds 100ltr each)

Herbaceous & Shrubs 3 for £10

Osteospermum 4 for £10 Riccarton garden centre and coffee shop

Coffee Shop ● Open 7 days ● Car park

Contact us on: Tel: 07810 835 974 E: info@aalandscapesandgardens.co.uk www.AALandscapesandGardens.co.uk Do you want a professionally maintained garden at a predictable cost? Our unique system means you can create a fixed price package that suits your garden. Are you looking to develop your outside space? Our dedicated landscaping team can provide everything you need. Our work is designed and built to last, and is covered by a 10-year guarantee.

20% OFF labour costs for landscaping projects arranged from January 1st - April 1st 2016 10% OFF

your first year of garden maintenance for customers signing up before April 1st 2016

KONECT

M.O.T.’s

Clutches

Exhausts

Diagnostics

Tyres

Servicing

10% OFF Labour Costs 10% OFF All Services FREE Car & Tyre Health Check available only when you quote ‘Konect’

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding 07581 829297

e: autofitnesslimited@gmail.com

KONECT

BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

Call Jim now for your free quote

01506 442214 Unit 12 Napier Square, Houstoun Ind Est, Livingston, EH54 5DG

We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches

Find us on Facebook

Unit 47b, West End, West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8EJ 37

SPOTLIGHT ON...

Originally from Edinburgh, Jay Drummond of Saltire Lock and Security has been in West Lothian for thirteen years, where he lives with his wife and four children. He set the business up just over a year ago and is very enthusiastic about his work: “Every day is a new challenge and something different. I love it.” Whilst locksmithing refers to making keys, installing and fixing locks, the flip side is, of course, lock breaking. Jay describes the police checks he had to go through before he could set up in business. “It was a very thorough criminal records check, much more rigorous than the usual disclosure process.” Which is no surprise, in the city of Deacon Brodie... So how did he get into locksmithing? “My fatherin-law showed me an article on it knowing that I was looking for something different to do. I had always been good at those metal puzzles where you have to separate the shapes and it turned out that locksmithing was perfect for me.” He learned the trade under the guidance of a very experienced locksmith locally, and by completing a Master Locksmithing course (he is a member of the Master Locksmith Association).

other keyless products, which are popular with his commercial clients. But for household use, “a key is simply more practical than some of the new technology options.” The keyed lock is, it seems, a piece of technology that has stood the test of a long time, and lock-breaking is not easy despite how it looks sometimes in movies “because working away at a lock for twenty minutes wouldn’t make very exciting viewing!” explains Jay. “I’ve seen Ray Donovan [Amercian TV series about a “fixer” for Holywood’s elite] break a yale lock in a couple of minutes. In reality it would take more like twenty.” To break into your home burglars will try any other method rather than breaking a lock, so a good lock is an effective barrier. Speaking of burglars ... when on any job, as part of his service Jay offers to look at other locks on your home and do a security review. “Not many people realise that for your home insurance with any British insurer to be valid, you have to have British Standard or Kitemark lock on all external doors to comply with insurance regulations. So I always advise customers of this, and it’s up to them if they want us to upgrade their locks.” Saltire Lock and Security do key-cutting on-site, and can install window locks and safes. Jay has experience of safe-breaking: “Without giving too much away...if you know where to drill in and what to do you can open them.” There is no call-out charge. Jay is keen to provide a good value service and relishes the challenges this work throws at him. So for any key and lock related problems, call Saltire Lock and Security who will be delighted to help out.

Jay’s work involves primarily being called out in emergency situations when someone has been locked out of their house or office, and new lock installations for domestic and commercial customers. “I’m called out when someone is in trouble – occasionally at awkward hours of the night. Being locked out or losing your keys is never funny, and it’s very satisfying to be able to solve the customer’s problem and quickly get them safely into their home.” Jay is undertaking a Paxton course this month to update his knowledge of magnetic locks and

KONECT

Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging

DONALD DOES IT ALL NO CALLOUT CHARGE FREE QUOTATIONS UPVC SPECIALIST

making a house into a home ■ SLABBING & DECKING ■ PAINTING DECORATING ■ JOINERY WORK ■ AIMS TAPING & PARTITIONINGS DONALD STONE 01506 651212 or 07720 123216 no job too small ■ free quotations and creative advice

Simply Electrical

For all jobs, big or small just SIMPLY call!

Darren Wemyss

Electrician P.A.T. Testing e: simplyelectrical@contractor.net

t: 07563 548348

Look on facebook page for deals of the week! www.facebook.com/SimplyElectricalElectrician

All electrical services Fusebox Upgrades Lighting Sockets Showers Fault Finding Repairs Testing and Inspection

07841 331 888 email: electric_al@ymail.com facebook: electric_al

17th Edition qualified, ECS/CSCS Registered

KONECT

Make sure ‘your’ nice ‘clean’ bins are returned to you every time! Don’t end up with someone else’s dirty messy bin - especially your food waste bin! Identify all ‘your’ bins with our easy to apply, peel and stick vinyl numbers! They’re big, bright and easy to see, and unlike most paints, they will not rub or wash off with the rain!

ial Spec er! f Of

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

Spring into to Action in West Lothian West Lothian’s spring season is now in full swing and with the celebrations of Easter reaching an end; it’s time to start thinking about getting outdoors this month. With fun attractions and scenic landscapes, located at a number of fantastic sites across West Lothian, it’s time to spring into action this season.

while Beecraigs Country Park can provide fantastic cycling paths for the perfect outdoor adventure.

Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness or simply want to explore the outdoors, there is plenty to do when looking to explore the beautiful landscape. West Lothian is home to some fantastic scenic walking paths, parks and cycling routes for all ages to enjoy. Polkemmet Country Park and the beautiful loch at Linlithgow Palace are the perfect locations for a quiet stroll accompanied by spectacular views

We have now launched our brand new Visitor Guide for 2016. So pick up a copy in our leaflet stands located at a number of locations across West Lothian, or check out our website for our new online version!

KONECT

West Lothian has so much on offer for all those looking to have some fun adventures this spring. So explore the outdoors and enjoy these amazing attractions and let’s ‘Get Active’ this spring!

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit www.visitwestlothian.co.uk facebook. com/VisitWestLothian / Twitter.com: @ teamwestlothian. 40

Buster the Dog

op Shop’for the discerning dog!

B7015) Westwood, near West Calder, EH558PP

Book now on: 07870 450478

Groomer with over 16yrs experience Dog and cat grooming Hand stripping Pet clips all breeds Open Weekends

www.morvensdoggrooming.com

KONECT

Improving homes all over

Please call Michael on

07711 240999 / 01506 411334

Local family-ru n busines s

mj-anderson@hotmail.co.uk

UPVC Windows & doors | Roofline | Roofs | Flooring | Kitchens & Bathrooms Registered installer of Rehau Windows & Doors All trades specialist

HUGE SALE on Roofline & UPVC Windows & Doors

Book now to avoid disappointment Find us on Facebook

for all our pictures

LIVINGSTON LOCKSMITH 24hr Lock & Security

LIVINGSTON LOCKSMITHS PROVIDE 24HR LOCK & SECURITY ● LOCKED OUT? WE GAIN ENTRY ● UPVC DOUBLE GLAZING DOOR LOCK REPAIRS ● ALL MAKES OF LOCKS FITTED, CHANGED OR UPGRADED ● ELECTRONIC SECURITY DOOR ENTRY ● SYSTEMS AND ALARMS FITTED ● LOCAL FAMILY RUN BUSINESS FRIENDLY & RELIABLE

www.livingstonlocksmiths.co.uk Call us on 01506 238048 or 07542 781131 42

KONECT

EPH

SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573

QUOTE KONECT

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT

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

01506 882 643

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

LB250

123871

A Complete Bathroom Refurbishment From

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

ASK FOR DETAILS OF OUR PACKAGE DEALS

£3,950 Including VAT

All supplied and fitted by our expert installation team

West Lothian’s Most Experienced Bathroom Specialists To arrange a free quotation call in to our newly extended showroom

10 Hopetoun Street, BATHGATE, EH48 4EU

01506 632913

or T: E: quotes@bathgatebathrooms.com

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.bathgatebathrooms.com

OPEN: Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm | Wednesday 10am - 1pm | Saturday 10am – 3pm (Or by appointment) KONECT

Premier Letting by Turpie & Co

• 100% accompanied viewings • Professional photographs • Floor plans • Landlord online login • Online maintenance reporting • Professional Lettings team • Prominent Offices with Multimedia Window Display

Premier Letting

• Dedicated Property Manager • 8 week property check-up, quarterly inspections thereafter • Reputable tradesmen/transparent prices

01506 668448 turpies.com

ProPerty Matters

“Manage Your Investment” BY CraIg TurpIe Some landlords, especially those who are new to the experience, understandably wish to use a letting agent simply as a route to market in order to find a tenant. However, whilst a return on investment is one thing, sleeping well at night is quite another! A managed service is not just about chasing late rent, resolving disputes and inventory control.

had a “problem landlord” in the past so they tend to stay longer.

When your property is professionally managed, it’s all about accountability. This means regular inspections to check that your tenant is treating your investment with the respect it deserves. During these inspections, well-trained staff are able to identify any areas that should be investigated in order to avoid or reduce costs later. An example would be a blocked gutter. Normally, you would only hear about this when the tenant calls you to tell you that water is coming in, plaster has come away from the wall and there is mould on the ceiling. Call in the dehumidifier, plasterer, and painter – and you have a large bill and an unhappy tenant.

One of the most important considerations is that as property managers, we get to know our clients’ tenants, and have a good understanding of their plans, often pre-empting a premature departure, so we can prepare and let the property in time to avoid it being empty – even for a day!

Many tenants also prefer to rent a property that is managed through a letting agent, possibly because they have

Additionally, no matter how compliant a tenant may seem at the outset, the last thing a landlord needs is someone phoning him/her at all hours with the same minor issue over a draft, dripping tap, clanking pipes, noisy neighbours, etc. All of these are part of a day’s work for a dedicated managing agent!

Most of our landlords derive great value from our managed service and we invite you to experience the difference yourself!

Nu - Walls

Qualified in all aspects of painting, ensandbathrooms.com 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, 01506 799840 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk

Gas Central Heating Boiler Changes and Full Systems

Wave. Smart heating and hot water control on the go. The Wave is a smart, internetconnected programmable control for central heating and hot water which can be operated using a smart phone or tablet.

Mobile: 07730 637 771 For all interior, exterior Email: gary.trudecor@gmail.com painting and decorating jobs For all interior, exterior decorating Call Gary on painting 07730and637 771jobs, please call Gary on 07730 637 771 Email: gary.trudecor@gmail.com

ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Regular Garden Maintenance and Landscaping Grass cutting, turfing, paving, patios, driveways, mono blocking & fencing

Local, reliable, professional

Call Ryan: 07723 587389 or Email: ryantosney@live.co.uk 46

KONECT

See these two gardens and many more on our website

GREENHART LANDSCAPING PROVIDE TOP QUALITY LANDSCAPING FOR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES IN THE LOTHIANS ** Driveways Spring Offers ** Garden Design • Driveways • Cobbles Stone Masonry • Drainage • Ground Works Spring Garden Tidies • Water Features Soft Landscaping • Planting • Patios Pointing • Maintenance • Turfing Fencing • Foundations • Plus FREE Advice

Driveway Cleaning by Greenhart

from

£89.00

01506 463632 (Livingston) 07789 111160 (Edinburgh) m: 07789 111160 e: george@greenhartlandscaping.co.uk visit us at: www.greenhartlandscaping.co.uk

D.GREAVES www.jgmlandscapes.co.uk

LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

Driveways • Pathways • Patios Wide range of colours & styles to suit any design - please view our brochure or find out more on our website. No deposits to pay - payment upon 100% satisfaction of completed work. FREE design & consultation FREE no obligation quotations

BEFORE

AFTER

10 Lochside Place, Edinburgh Park, EH12 9RG

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

WORKING FOR YOUR COMMUNITY

KONECT

SPOTLIGHT ON...

Making the move with the Miller Homes We all aspire of living in a beautiful, luxury home and at Miller Homes we offer a fantastic selection. With some homes available through Help to Buy (Scotland) it makes the dream of owning a new home a reality. Across the region, Glen Almond in Kirkliston and Liberty Park in Bathgate are all open for business and definitely worth a visit. With prices starting from £164,900 through Help to Buy (Scotland) there is no better time to get a foot in the market, or to trade up in a new Miller Home, safe in the knowledge that you are buying into a thriving region. Neil Gaffney, Scotland Area Sales and Marketing Director at Miller Homes, said: “As a quality builder with five-stars for customer care across the developments in the region, all our properties are built to the highest standards and deliver excellent energy efficiency for new buyers. “With Help to Buy (Scotland) available on some of the homes, it is making it easier than ever to make the move.” At the award-winning Liberty Park in Bathgate, conveniently situated in a major new residential neighbourhood within a few minutes’ walk of the town centre, there is a wide selection of luxurious three and four bedroom homes. A central location with close access to the M8 makes this an ideal position for buyers commuting to Glasgow, Edinburgh or Stirling. When completed, Glen Almond in Kirkliston, on the border with West Lothian, will offer an eclectic mix of two, three, four and five bedroom mews-terrace, semi and detached homes in this central location. Current availability includes the Deanston, a three bed semi-detached through to a five bedroom detached Ardmore at £299,995.

Coming soon is Miller Homes’ exciting Kinglass Fields development in Bo’ness. Boasting a beautiful mix of one hundred and sixty seven homes, ranging from two to five bedrooms, there will be a range of 15 house styles offering something for everyone including the popular Kennaway, Chichester, Douglas, Hughes and Jura house types. Bo’ness is well served with public transport and road links and as a result it is a popular commuter town, with many of its residents travelling to work in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Falkirk. Kinglass Fields will be marketed from Miller Homes’ Glendevon Gate development in Winchburgh. Neil Gaffney added, “Each of the developments appeal to a variety of buyers due to their sought after locations and variety of houses. Whether it’s young couples looking for their first home, to families in need of more space or couples looking to downsize, there is a home for everyone.” Visit www.millerhomes.co.uk for more details.

KONECT

FORTH PLUMBING & HEATING 24 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBERS

Telephone Engineer New sockets fitted for phone, internet or sky TV Repair to internal phone and broadband faults Removal of unsightly old wiring and sockets

I can supply and install Easy to use big button voice amplified hearing aid compatable phones with hands free calling. Loud audio phone ringers with flashing indicators

Free estimates â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no call out charge Contact John McGraw Tel:

0131 555 1314 0777 192 7796

Mobile: Email: jmcgraw@quikmail.co.uk www.jmcgrawengineering.co.uk KONECT

Interiors feature

Creating the Perfect Bathroom or Wet Room by ecko

When you think of your favourite room in your home, chances are the bathroom isn’t the first one that springs to mind. Many people will focus their attention on their living room or bedroom when trying to create a relaxing setting, however creating the perfect bathroom or wetroom can give you a place of sanctuary in your home – somewhere you can escape from the rest of the family for an hour or so. These ideas from Ekco will have your bathroom rivalling a luxury hotel bathroom or spa in no time. Showpiece shower: The perfect bathroom must have the perfect shower. While a shower can be quick and convenient, modern shower systems have progressed considerably from simply having an on/off switch and temperature control. The Dornbrach Sensory Sky range for example, is designed to stimulate the senses with a massage jet and the ability to create fog and mist. Add to this a soothing rainbow effect and relaxing fragrances, you have a shower experience to rival any top spa. Beautiful baths: Whilst you may choose the quickness of a shower before work, having a bath in the evening is the perfect way to destress after a long day at the office. Much like showers, bath design has progressed hugely in the last few years giving you a choice from

standard baths to more extravagant and luxuriant models guaranteed to transform your soak in the tub. Whirlpool baths not only help relax you thoroughly, the massage jets offer many health benefits such as increasing circulation and reducing stress levels. Sleek sinks: Modern sinks come in various designs from scalloped shells to large granite bowls and can be as much a focal point as your bath. Always make sure you get a sink large enough to cope with your needs especially if you decide to cut back on your daily shower or bath to save household water and energy. Underfloor heating: The Romans had the right idea. There’s nothing worse than a cold floor as you stumble into the bathroom in mid-winter. Whilst underfloor heating can’t take all the pain of early mornings away, it will ensure your feet are kept warm as you try to wake yourself up for the day ahead. Inconspicuously placed under your bathroom floor tiles, it actually helps heat up your entire bathroom or wet room. You can save between 15-40% on your heating bill as you can use your underfloor heating as the main source of heat in your bathroom and it can be particularly beneficial to those with allergies as it reduces moisture, therefore limiting dust mites. You can rest in the knowledge that underfloor heating benefits both you and the environment as it can reduce your carbon dioxide emissions. You certainly won’t regret it on those cold Scottish mornings..

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home. And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN MAKE YOUR IDEAS COME TO LIFE CALL OUR DESIGN TEAM ON

01506 857 007 www.ekco.co.uk EDINBURGH 0131 343 6007 Abbeyhill Industrial Estate EH8 8HL

DALGETY BAY 01383 667 048 Western Approach Rd KY11 9XP

UPHALL 01506 857 007 54 West Main Street EH52 5DW

Recipe & Food Notes bY Anne Pinkerton

“Cookery for Every Household”

Recently, walking about Edinburgh’s West End, I was given a leaflet about famous people who had lived there. From a cook’s point of view the most interesting person of the area was Florence B Jack of Athol Crescent. She really was the Scottish Mrs Beaton and perhaps the Athol Crescent Cookery School’s greatest teacher. (The school became the core of Queen Margaret’s University). She was extremely practical in her ideas about food, cooking and the skills needed to run a household on a budget; things we very much need today. I was inspired to buy her book and to my delight found it on Amazon from a charity bookseller. “Cookery for Every Household” was published in May 1914. In the preface she explains, “As an active teacher, I have found that even the best books frequently assume in readers a knowledge which they do not in fact possess...This book is not merely a recipe book...many trifling but necessary details are included.” She ends saying, “As attractively prepared food is so important to the health of everyone, and as it is easy to rest upon one’s achievements and fall into a groove, I strongly urge all who are charged with the cooking for a household to try new dishes, so as to introduce variety into the daily bill of fare.” The style of language is a little stilted but in all else she is 100% correct. There are parts of the book we don’t need to know about today; (napkin folding, how to use a hanging meat safe...) but the food uses a wide range of fruit and vegetables and is practical to cook at home. There were some topics missing - no recipes for salmon but ten ways to serve cucumber hot! The cooked puddings are delicious. Chestnut and custard pudding caught my eye. She explains how to stuff olives with pimento, sardine or lemon and how to make Rowan or Mountain Ash jelly. Thankfully all are to be found on

supermarket shelves today. She even tells how to make Chapel Window cake. It is Battenberg cake but with 3 colours of sponge cake sandwiched together with apricot jam and surrounded in marzipan. Hers cost 1d per slice, mine more like 45p! Near the end is a chapter on herbs and spices. “Success in cookery depends to a large extent upon the proper use of seasonings, flavourings and spices.” With such good teaching available, how did food at home gain to such a poor reputation? The answer, I think, is the marketing of food multinationals who want us to think we can’t produce good, interesting food for ourselves. We can. It can be a pleasure to share these skills and involve children so they too will be able to enjoy sharing and preparing food. Chicken Cardinal 1 chicken jointed; or 8 pieces of thighs or drumsticks. Some stock (from a cube today) 250g button mushrooms 1/2pt tomato sauce (from a jar today) 12 cherry tomatoes Salt black pepper Method Brown the chicken in an oven proof casserole dish. Add the sauce and stock to cover the meat. Cover and cook gently till tender, approx.1 hour. Fry the tomatoes but do not burst them. Sautee the mushrooms in a little butter. Take the chicken from the casserole and put in another dish with the tomatoes and mushrooms. Keep warm. Boil the chicken sauce till thick and glossy, then pour over the rest of the ingredients and serve with rice, boiled potatoes and a green salad.

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Stuffed Tomatoes 4 or 5 large ripe tomatoes 2 tbsp bread crumbs 2 tbsp chopped left-over cold meat, e.g. chicken or ham,

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1 teaspoon chopped parsley 1 shallot chopped, fried in a little butter Salt, pepper, pinch dried mixed herbs 1 tbsp. of the gravy or sauce from the meat or a little white sauce Method Remove the stalk and hollow out the fruit careful not to puncture the skin. Keep the inners and sieve them and add to the stuffing. Make the stuffing by mixing together the rest of the ingredients. Pile loosely into the tomatoes and bake for about 20 minutes in a moderate oven 160oC. till browned. Note: the above stuffing can be varied according to taste and materials to hand. Add a few chopped mushrooms, grated cheese or use cooked rice or pasta, or again any nicely cooked vegetable such as peas, asparagus tips cauliflower etc. or use less stuffing and bake an egg in the tomato instead.

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WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information Now in it’s 5th year, Livingston Cricket Club in Murieston Valley and Livingston Round Table are holding another beer festival. It will held on Friday 15th to Sunday 17th April at Livingston Cricket Club in Murieston. £5.00 ticket price includes the entrance fee, first pint of beer, and a free commemorative glass. There will be 12 beers on offer plus 2 ciders. Good quality locally brewed beer is the theme for the 3 days and there promises to be a fantastic selection of quality beers at £2.70 per pint. NOTE: The Friday is ticket only and has limited places. Visit tinyurl.com/livibeerfest to find out more! Canal trips at Broxburn: Take a short trip on the Union Canal, run by the Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society, in their restored narrowboat “Bluebell.” Trips take place on the first Sunday of each month from April to October and last approximately 1/2 hour. Cost is £3.00/adult, £2.00/child. All monies go back into maintaining the boat. Meet at Port Buchan, Broxburn. Members of the public can also charter the boat with driver and crew for birthday parties, walking groups etc. The passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drink on board. See http:// www.bridge19-40.org.uk

Daily from Friday 25th March until Sunday 17th April Easter Eggcitement at Almond Valley Heritage Centre The farm is alive with the cheeps and bleats of baby animals, who will be introduced to you at handling and encounter sessions. Grab your clue sheet, sharpen your pencil, and tear around the farm collecting clues on the springtime trail. Look out for hidden eggs that might win you a prize. In the craft area you can make bonnets, masks and other springtime decorations. See www. almondvallery.co.uk

Sunday 2nd April Easter Fun Run in Beecraigs Country Park Annual run organised by West Lothian Run. 2k, 5k & 10k fun runs. Registration opens 9.30am, 2k run starts at 10.20am. Or register online at www.westlothianrun.org

Saturday 9th April Before Beecraigs Ever wondered how Beecraigs Country Park came to be the park it is today? Delve into Beecraigs’ hidden past and find out about its earlier land uses, with the West Lothian Country Park Rangers. Suitable for all. Meet: Sutherland Building, opposite the Visitor Centre. Time: 2pm-4pm. Cost: free. Book with the Rangers on 01506 844516, email: mail@beecraigs.com

Saturday 16th April West Lothian Highland Society monthly ceilidh Monthly Ceilidh at Strathbrock Community Centre,

Broxburn. 7.30 – 11.00pm. Music by Dick Black’s Band. Guests – Piper-Alvis Kerr. Singer – Robert Hardie. Cost Members £5.00. Non-Members £6.00 each. New members welcome, contact John Sneddon 01501770911.

Sunday 24th April Public open event – Charity Zumbathon In aid of the Eileen Smith Foundation. Hosted by Jo Zumba from Livingston, 12.30pm - 2pm at Inveralmond High School, Livingston (Assembly Hall). Donation box & raffle tickets for admission, draw for two prizes (T-shirt design by MickMick Designs & Flex Fitness 5 free Hatton Boxing classes) will be at end of session.

Friday 6th & Saturday 7th May Toccata Ladies Choir Annual Concert Howden Park Centre, Livingston, 7.30pm Musical Director: E. Howat; Accompanist: D. Finlay; Baritone: I. McLean; Keyboard: P. Horsfall; with guests. Tickets £11 from Howden Park Centre Box Office, tel: 01506 777666 or www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk. For more information see www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

library information Almondbank Library Shiel House, Shiel Walk, Craigshill, EH54 5EH T: 01506 283133. E: almondbank.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 9am - 6pm. Thurs 9am - 7pm. Sat 9am -1pm. Graphic Novel group 4:30 - 6:00pm Thurs 14th, & 28th April, and 12th & 26th May. New members welcome. Adult Book Group 5:30 - 6:30pm Thurs 28th April and 26th May. New members welcome. Book Bug sessions 2:00pm Tues 5th, 19th April and 3rd,17th and 31st May. Come along and join in with stories songs and rhymes.

Carmondean Library Carmondean Connected: Carmondean Centre, EH54 8PT T: 01506 777602. E: carmondean.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Mon & Fri 10am - 5pm. Tue & Thu 10am - 7pm. Wed 11am - 5pm. Sat 9am - 1pm IT buddy here from 1—4pm on a Friday for any help with computers - help is free and no need to book. Carmondean also has a CIS office where you can ask about council services—eg Housing Benefit, Council Tax, repairs to council houses---10am-5pm Mon to Fri --closed for lunch between 1and 2pm and 9-12 on a Sat.

Lanthorn Library Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6NY T: 01506 777700. E: lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times: Mon 10am-3pm. Tues & Fri 11am-5pm. Wed 11am-4pm. Thurs 10am - 7pm. Sat 9am - 1pm The Lanthorn Library, continues to be an important part of the Community, we look forward to welcoming our customers, old and new, making use of this valued service in the years ahead.

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clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... Jog Scotland

Jog Scotland groups around Livingston aim to get people outdoors and get fit whilst meeting new friends. There are groups suitable for beginners to advanced at different locations and times around Livingston. Check out jogscotland.org.uk.

MS Society afternoon meetings

Group meeting in the afternoons once per month at Dobbies, for those who can’t make the evening meeting. Support group to help people with MS, emotional, financial difficulties and to signpost them to legal and other help. Call Alison Ritchie on 01506 201439 or email viadoc@hotmail. co.uk for more details and the date of this month’s meeting.

Lothian Running Club

We welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6. Training sessions in and around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park. For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub.co.uk.

West Lothian Clarion

Cycling club - Our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk

West Lothian 50 Plus Network

New members always welcome for social, educational, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.

The Livingston Players

Amateur theatre company always pleased to welcome new members with or without experience. For more information please contact Carol, Membership Secretary, on 01506 881398 or see www.livingstonplayers.co.uk

Livingston FC

League players and juniors, social and corporate events. Almondvale Stadium telephone 01506 417000 or see www. livingstonfc.co.uk

Livingston Speakers Toastmasters Club

A fun & friendly way to improve your Communication & Leadership skills. Our meetings are always entertaining and educational. We meet at West Lothian College, Livingston. Alternate Thursdays 7:15pm to 9:30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more. For more info see -www. livingstonspeakers.org.uk http://www.facebook.com/ LivingstonSpeakers

Livingston Ramblers Group

We are a non profit walking group with members from around Livingston including Bathgate, Armadale, East, West and Mid Calder, Kirknewton, Blackburn, Uphall and Broxburn. We have 3 walking groups. Thursdays, once a fortnignt offering walks of 5 – 8 miles, starting at 10.00 am. Saturday Challenge walks starting at 7.00 or 7.30 am, walks include Corbetts and Munros. Sunday Venture walks start at 8.00am and offer a variety of walks of 7-13 miles, from coast to hills. You are welcome to try any of our walks. Contact 01506 880980 for further information. KONECT

Baby and Toddler activities

Kidzeco Livingston, 3a The Centre, Almondvale South, Livingston, EH54 6NB Monthly sling meets (Baby Wearing West Lothian). Please contact Kidzeco Livingston on 01506 238283 for more information. Large family area with feeding/changing area and play area for children too!

CRAIGSHILL New Town Roller Girls

Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/NewTownRollerGirls or email newtownrollergirls@hotmail.co.uk. Please contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you.

West Lothian Rhythmic Gymnastics Club

Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, EH54 5LU. Rhythmic is gymnastics with rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. We welcome all girls from 5 -18 year old, from beginners to Elite level. For more information contact Liz McNeill – 01506 434789 or 07710 472213.

Craigshill Good Neighbour Network

Practical help, social and volunteering opportunities to socially isolated people of all ages in Craigshill and South Howden. Lunch club, Tuesday social club, optional transport to and from clubs, outings and befriending. Almondbank Centre. Tel 01506 435851.

Lodge Almondale Social Club

Our Social Club convenor cordially invites all members, associate members and their guests to visit our social club. The Social Club is open every evening and Saturday afternoon (except Sunday and meeting nights) with Live Music, Dancing and Bingo every Saturday evening and Bingo every Wednesday evening. Non members welcome. Masonic Hall, Craigshill Rd East, Livingston EH54 5DT Tel: 01506 439418.

Trampoline Classes for children

Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill 6 years + . Please call 01506 412314 for more info.

Craigshill Thistle u15’s

Training Tues 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm at Craigsfarm in Craigshill 3g pitch. Friday at Craigswood sports centre playing fields 6.30pm - 8.00pm weather permitting (if weather is bad Friday’s training is held at Craigsfarm 7.30 - 8.30 pm). For further details contact Mark on 07951 528398.

Parents Together West Lothian

Support group for families with child on the Autism Spectrum. Meet up once a month for a chat and a coffee, regular guest speakers. First Thursday of each month (during school term). For more information contact parentstogetherwestlothian@live.com

New Town Entertainers

Rehearse at Craigsfarm on Mon and Wed from 7pm for annual pantomime production. Open to anyone over 14 yrs. Membership is £10 adults and £5 under 18s. For more information please contact Jan Dignon on 01506 431803.

Daisy Drop In

Almondbank Centre, Craigshill Information centre for parents/carers of pre-school children. Drop in, play and have fun! Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 12 noon, Mon & Thurs afternoons 1.30pm - 3.00pm.

clubs & classes Daisy Drop In Playgroup

Letham Community Wing, Craigshill: Playgroup for 2 - 5’s. Take eligible 2’s. Opening Hours: Mon - Fri 9.15am - 11.30am, Tues, Wed & Thurs afternoons 12.30pm - 2.45pm. Tel: 01506 238998 or email: daisydropin@hotmail.co.uk for more info.

Craigshill Dance Class

Fridays 2 – 3pm. Starts November 6th. Join Craigshill’s new intergenerational dance class for people over 60 and their families. There will be traditional and modern dances, no partners are required and everyone is welcome from 0 – 100. Classes will run every week except during school holidays, at The Craigshill Thistle Pavilion, Maree Walk. Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality, so everyone can take part. Every child must have a participating adult. £1 Individuals / £3 Family of 3 or more, payable each week. Can’t come but want to know more? Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239 or Jane on 07473 102 669. www.generationarts.co.uk

SANDS Lothians (Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Society) Support group meets 2nd Monday of every month at 7-9pm Pregnancy support group – as and when required. Mother and toddler group- for women who have other children but want to continue to chat and meet others who understand For further information see http://sands-lothians.org.uk. Current venue Craigsfarm Community Centre, Maree Walk, Craigshill – but venue changing in 2016 please contact SANDS before attending.

DEANS

13th West Lothian Scouts

Deans Community Hall Beavers: 6 - 8 years. Tues 6.30 - 7.30pm Cubs: 8 - 10 years. Thurs 6.30 - 8.00pm Scouts: 10 -14 years. Thurs 7.00 – 9.00. We are also looking for new leaders or helpers to help out on the nights. All are welcome. Please contact Steven Graham steven_graham1@ gmx.co.uk or by phone 07786638442 or 1506 630360 after 6.30pm.

Yoga for people with health conditions

Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road. Wednesdays 1.152.30pm. Call Joanna on 07436 102726 for more information.

Livingston Station Playgroup

Livingston Station Community Centre. Spaces available for 2 – 5 yr olds. Mon-Thurs 9.30-11.50am, Fri 9.15-11.30am. £4 per day plus £1 per wk for healthy snack. Contact us on 07954 044260 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on facebook for more info.

Deans Community High School Playgroup

Care and education for children from 2 years 6 months. Dean Community High School, Eastwood Park, Livingston. Mon-Fri 9.10am – 11.10 am term time. £20/week, or flexible days at £4/session (min of 3 per week). For more information please phone Claire or Lesley on 01506 282155 and ask for playgroup between 8.45am and 12.15pm, or pop in any time for a visit.

Pilates for people with health conditions

Livingston Station Community Centre. Fridays 10.30-11.30am. Call Joanna on 07436 102726 for more information.

Diabetes UK West Lothian Voluntary Group

Regular group meetings are held on 1st Wednesday of each month (not January) at 7-9pm at Inveralmond Community High School, Willowbank, Ladywell Livingston. For more info contact may@dukwl.info or by phone 01506 834 877 Mob: 07708 919 064. www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org. We also have Facebook and Twitter pages.

Lothians MS Support Group

Open to anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis, family & friends. Informal fortnightly meetings for support, information and activities. Membership and meetings free. Fortnightly meetings are at the Ability Centre, Livingston, EH54 8PT on a Tueday 7pm–8.30pm. Contact the Ability Centre on Carmondean Road on 01506 491750 for more information or facebook page: Lothians MS Support Group.

Deans Art Club

New Deans Community Building. Tuesdays 7 – 9pm. Beginners welcome. We are a friendly class, £2 per adult per week, paints provided. For more information please call Jim Tripney on 01506 418838.

Kiddies Corner

Carmondean Community Centre. For Preschool Children. Tues 9.00am – 12 noon. Child minders available Mon & Wed 9.00am – 12 noon. For more info tel 01506 439568.

West Lothian Breast Cancer Support Group

Meets on the first Tuesday of each month, in the Ability Centre, Carmondean, Livingston, from 7pm-9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 01506 655739.

Livingston United Parish Church

Meets on Sundays at Nether Dechmont Community Centre, Fells Rigg. 8.45 – Eucharist. 9.30 – All-age Worship. 10.00 – Children’s Group, Discussion Group and Coffee Bar. 11.00 – Traditional Service. Transport can be provided – call 07806 628506 to arrange. Also meets on Thursdays at Lanthorn Community Centre, Dedridge, at 10.15am for Holy Communion. www.lupc.org.uk.

Ukulele Club

Deans Community High School Every Tuesday from 7pm starting on the 2nd February. All are welcome no standard required, absolute beginners to experienced. It’s for anyone who wants to play the Uke and have fun. If interested please just turn up. £2 to cover room hire.

DEDRIDGE Space Academy Children’s Club

Carmondean Community Centre. Tuesdays 6:30-7:30. Please contact Tina on 07834 970 409 or email tina@yogamed.co.uk. See www.yogamed.co.uk

Monthly club for primary aged children held on the last Friday of each month from 1.30-3.30pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre. Games, stories, songs, science, crafts, cooking and more – free of charge. Visit facebook.com/ lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information.

Livingston Fiddlers

JYHS Badminton Club

Yoga

A group of amateur musicians who meet for regular practise sessions in Deans and play for local events. New members always welcome. Must be able to read music and not suitable for complete beginners. Fiddle/accordion or any

other instrument considered. Venue - St Andrews Church Hall, Deans, Livingston. Time: most Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm. Contact secretary: eric@livingstonfiddlers.co.uk. Tel 01506 654 189. www.livingstonfiddlers.co.uk

At James Young High School on Saturdays. Open to school children in the Livingston area of any age or ability. Primary School age (P1-P7) 9am - l0am. High School age (S1-S6) l0am - 11am. Contact: Ann (01506 438717) or Joyce (01506 462430). KONECT

Dedridge Spiritualist Church

Crofthead Community Centre, Templer Rise. Wednesdays 7.30pm. We are one of the oldest running spiritualist church in Livingston. We have been serving the community since 1985. We have a different medium every week. No admission fee. Find us on Facebook and website:dedridgespiritualstc hurch.co.uk

Livingston Camera Club

Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge. We meet every Monday evening at 7:15pm - 9:30pm. All welcome. Annual subscription £25, weekly attendance £2.50 (concessions available). Annual programme of visiting speakers, members digital, print & AV evenings, internal & external competitions, tutorials and outings. The central aim of the club is to encourage individual members to share ideas, knowledge and experience, and develop their photographic skills. www.livingstoncameraclub.org.uk. Email – contact@ livingstoncameraclub.org.uk Facebook – www.facebook.com/ livingstoncameraclub twitter – www.twitter.com/LiviCamClub

Café Connect

Friendly community café with homebaking and refreshments Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:30-12. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 415837

The Lanthorn Toddlers Group – Music Makers

Meets on Mondays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. From 9:45 to 10:45 - £1 per session

The Lanthorn Toddlers Group – Parent & Toddlers

Meets on Fridays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge From 10:00am to 12 noon. Snack provided - £1 per session. Contact Susanne Brunton at lanthorntoddlers@gmail.com Or find us on Facebook Lanthorn Toddler Group.

Cafe Connect Extra

For those suffering with dementia and their carers. 1st Wednesday of the month 2pm-3:30pm. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 415837.

Lunch Club

12:30pm every Thursday for any over 60s. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 41583.

Bump and Baby Group

Dedridge Baptist Church. For precrawling babies and their carers - Mondays 9:30-11. Come and have a cuppa and a natter with other new and expecting parents while your little one enjoys themselves.

Penumbra

Unit 20 Grampian Court, Beverige Square, Dedridge. Every fortnight from 14 March 2012. For anyone experiencing mental health problems : the group can help people who need information on illnesses, understanding from others in similar situations or even just a chat to get out of the house. For more information contact: cinderbelle@hotmail.co.uk or 07854 316139.

Crofthead Hickory House Playgroup

Crofthead Community Education Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, EH54 6DG. For children 2-3 years. Mon-Fri 9.1511.15am term time. £4.50/day includes healthy snack. For more info call 01506 467650, email crofheadhickoryhouse@ gmail.com or visit www.croftheadhickoryhouse.co.uk

West Lothian Self-Help Group

A free self-help group for adults living with depression, low mood and anxiety or those who support others. We meet

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the first Wednesday of every month at 6.30 -8.30 within Crofthead Farm, Dedridge, EH54 6DG.

Parent and Toddler Group

Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Tues: 12.30 – 2.30pm & Wed: 9.15 – 11.15am. £1.00 0 – 5 years old. Tel 01506 203683. Craft, snack (lunch on Tuesdays), sports, outings & visitors.

Livingston & District Amateur Radio Society (LaDARS) Full amateur radio station at the club operating on the High Frequency and VHF bands. Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, Tuesdays 7-9 pm. Training can be provided to achieve all levels of the amateur license by fully accredited assessors and trainers. Happy to assist with your radio and electronics projects or just to get you started with amateur radio as a hobby. Come along and speak to the world. See our website uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/ms0liv/ or just come along on any Tuesday.

Brighter Days

Support group for families living with ADHD and assosciated disorders. The group meets once a fortnight on a Thursday at Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge 7 – 9pm. For more info see www.brighter-days.com or email brighter_ days@rocketmail.com. Kids club coming soon - every Saturday weekly for children. Activities available will include arts, crafts and music.

1st Livingston Girls Brigade Company

The Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Meet on Wednesday evenings. Explorers (P1-3) 6.15pm till 7.15pm. Juniors (P4-7) 7.15pm till 8.30pm. Brigaders (S1+) 7.15pm till 8.45pm. For further information email 1stlivingstongb@gmail.com or phone Holly Morrison on 01506 420225.

5th Livingston Boys’ Brigade

Thursdays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Anchor Section P1-P3 meet 6:30 to 7:45pm. Junior Section P4-P6 from 6:30-8:00pm. Company Section P7 to 18 years from 7:30 to 9:45pm. For further information contact Stuart Dalgleish 01506 440303 or email admin@5livingston.co.uk. Baby and Toddler activities Kidzeco Livingston, 3a The Centre, Almondvale South, Livingston, EH54 6NB. Monthly sling meets (Baby Wearing West Lothian). Please contact Kidzeco Livingston on 01506 238283 for more information. Large family area with feeding/ changing area and play area for children too!

Livingston South Community Church

With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates.

Lanthorn Readers

Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Informal and relaxed reading group. Free. Group meets monthly and is an ideal way to have some fun and lively discussion over tea/coffee & biscuits. New members always welcome. Please contact 01506 777700 or lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk

Lanthorn Book Bashers

Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Are you aged between 8 – 11 years old? Come and join the Library Book Bashers. We meet once a month on a Thursday at 6.15pm to discuss our favourite books. New members welcome. Please call 01506 777700 for information.

clubs & classes Livingston Amateur Flute Ensemble A voluntary group for learning and improving technique of playing flute, percussion, recorder & keyboard. We play a variety of music. Everyone is welcome from experienced players to those wishing to learn and those who played at school and want to get back to playing. Our classes cater for adults and children from 6 years. Thursdays 7 – 9 pm in Crofthead Farm Community Centre, Livingston. For further information please contact Alice on 01506 462623. Email mgolshan@btinternet.com

ELIBURN 14th West Lothian Scout Troop

Peel Primary School. Girls and boys. Beavers (6-8yrs) Mon 6.15-7.15pm, Scouts (10-14yrs) Mon 7.309pm, Cubs (8-10yrs). Thurs 6.30-8pm £20/£25 per session, 3 sessions per year. Contact Mary Tel 01506 416620.

Sunshine Break, SPPA (Scottish Pre-School Play Association) Group

Eliburn Community Centre, Peel Primary School Toddlers, Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9.00 – 11.00am After school club for Primary 1-7, Mon – Thur 3.15 – 6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00pm, during school holidays 8.30am – 5.30pm. Tel 01506 415492.

Church of Christ

Community Wing, Toronto Primary School. Tues 7.30 – 9.00pm, All girls aged 10 years upwards, £17 per term. Tel 01506 418285.

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

Livingston 20 Milers Cycle Rides

Monthly free guided ride organised by volunteers from West Lothian Sustrans Group. 20 milers are at the easy to moderate level, suitable for occasional and less experienced cyclists to encourage cycling for leisure and commuting. We favour easy paths and gentle gradients where possible, and aim to avoid heavy traffic. We will wait on stragglers, help with punctures. The rides are not suitable for unaccompanied children. We meet monthly at Howden Park Centre, details on our web or Twitter page. Email: livi20milers@outlook.com Web: http:// livi20milers.blogspot.co.uk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ LMilers

KNIGHTSRIDGE Messy Church

Garden Place, Eliburn, EH54 6RA, Livingston Service Times: Sunday Bible Study and Sunday School 10.00 am.; Worship Service - 11.15 am; Tuesday Bible Study - 7.30 pm.

Monthly time of craft, celebration and food for all the family held on the first Sunday of each month from 4-6pm at Mosswood Community Centre. Free of charge, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit facebook.com/ lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information.

HOWDEN

Baby/Toddler Stories and Singing Sessions

GOSH - Group Ostomy Self Help Led by volunteers, we are there to help, advise, encourage and discuss problems which may arise in the management of members’ Stoma, from time to time. Members can exchange views on how they manage their Stoma, and beginners can pick up tips on the best way other Ostomists have found to solve problems. Remember, you are not alone. We meet in St. Johns Hospital at 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of each month in OPD4. All Ostomists and their partner/friend are invited. For more info contact Alistair on 01506-822695.

29th West Lothian Scout Group

Community Wing, Toronto Primary School. Cubs Mon 6.308.00pm, Beavers Wed 6.30-7.30pm, Scouts Wed 7.30-9.00pm Tel 01506 441852

14th Livingston Rainbows

Community Wing of Toronto Primary School. Tuesdays 6.30 7.45 pm. Girls 5 years old and attending school. Tel: Rainbow Guide Leader on 07532 182197

Braid House Day Centre

Labrador Avenue, Howden. Social activities for older members of the community. Bowling, art, music. Drop-in service for people who can make their own way to Braid House and can have lunch and join in a range of activities. Cost £5. For more info contact 01506 430615 or see www. braidhouse.co.uk

Livingston Art Association

Howden Park Centre. Day and evening classes in painting and pottery for all levels. For more details call 01506 440449 email liviartassoc@msn.com or see www.livingston-artassoc.org.uk.

14th Livingston Guides

Knightsridge Early Years Centre, Cameron Way. Mon, Tues, Thur: 09.15 – 11.15am or 12.45 – 2.45pm – “In Betweenies”. Wed: 1.00 – 2.00pm – “Baby Peet” - stories and singing, baby/ toddler drop in 1.00 – 3.30pm. For more info tel 01506 444970

LADYWELL West Lothian Diabetes UK Group

Inveralmond Community High School, Ladywell, EH54 6HW. Meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm. See http://www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org

Rosebery Centre for Dementia Care

Day care for people with all types of dementia. Stimulating activities, counselling and training and support groups for carers. Volunteers always required. Tel: Nancy on 497046. Email: info@roseberycentre.org.uk. Website: www.roseberycentre. org.uk

Almond Valley Baptist Church

A Church for you and your Family! Sunday School and Worship services starting at 11am. Meeting at the Newyearfield Farm Community Centre on Hawkbrae in Livingston. Contact phone number 07570 790862 or email at avbc@btinternet.com

Kids Club

Forrestbank Community Centre. A varied programme of educational games, art & drawing, children 5-9yrs. Mon 6.00 - 7.45pm £1 per week – term time only. Tel 01506 430035

Ladywell Neighbourhood Network

28 Heatherbank, Ladywell. Community services in Ladywell, a range of social groups including craft, lunch club, fitness. Befriending service and much more. For more information call 01506 437746 or see www.ladywellnn.org.uk KONECT

Ladywell Star Community Football Club

Inveralmond Community High School. A range of teams and fixtures. See www.ladywellstarcfc.co.uk

SPPA (Scottish Pre-School Play Association) Group Newyearfield Farm. Toddlers Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 09.30 – 11.30am. Tel 01506 462458

Memory Cafe

Newyearfield Farm Community Centre, Hawk Brae, EH54 6AB. For those suffering with dementia and their carers. Runs the first Thursday of every month 2pm to 3.30pm.

Slimming World - NEW!

Cedarbank Baptist Church, Cedarbank, Ladywell, EH54 6DR Thursdays 5.30pm and & 7.30pm. Contact Lisa on 07736 316400

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE Livingston Village Playgroup

Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village. For children 2yrs 3 months to 5 years. 9.30 - 11.30am Mon - Fri, £4/session including snack. Child can attend between 2 & 5 sessions a week. For more information please contact the placement secretary 01506 417343.

Livingston Village Parent and Toddler Group

Livingston Village Primary School, Community Room 2. Mondays & Wednesdays 9-11am. For babies and children aged 0-5 years accompanied by an adult. £1 per family. Termtime only. For more information email livitoddlers@yahoo. co.uk or visit www.facebook.com/livitoddlers

The Wooly Quilters Craft Group

Room 24 Livingston Business Centre, Kirkton South Road, Livingston. This self help group is the ideal place for help and craft chat with a cuppa while you sew or knit! Variety of crafts from patchwork & quilting to knitting & spinning. We meet Wednesday evenings 7pm - 9pm. For more information email: woolyquilters@gmail.com or find us on facebook

MURIESTON Bankton Mains Bowling Club

Free Coaching Lessons for both Adult and Junior bowlers. Junior Coaching is on every Tuesday 5pm till 6pm and Sunday 11am till 12am for children aged 8 till 16 years old. Memberships available now for Full, Family, Social, and Junior members. Special deal for Family Membership. Hire of the function hall available. For more info go our website at www.banktonmains.co.uk or phone 01506 460233.

OTHER AREAS Livingston Highland Society

Monthly ceilidhs on a Saturday between October and April. Each month we have a different band and guest artist. New venue Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn (previously at Lanthorn Complex). £5 each, new members welcome, contact John Sneddon 01501 770911 for dates and more details.

The Tree Club

Office at 19c South Bridge Street, Bathgate. West Lothian’s only afterschool club for children and teenagers with additional support needs. Stimulating and creative activities with high staff to child ratio. See www.thetreeclub.org.uk

The Stone Ring

40 King Street, Bathgate. Beginners Self awareness & Development. Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) £6.50. Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month. 7-9.30pm (approx) £5. Thai Chi Fridays - 6.30-8.30pm (approx) £25 per month.

West Lothian Baking Club

We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £2 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.

West Lothian Royal Scottish Country Dance Society

Classes in South Church Hall, Uphall Starting on Thurs 17th Sept 7.30 to 9.30pm. 10 weeks through to the 19th Nov, then starting the 7th January through to 10th Mar 2016. £3 per week. Teacher Mrs Margaret McGregor. Dancing for fun & fitness, any new beginners very welcome. For more info contact Sandra Cheyne, tel 01506 430600 email sdcheyne77@yahoo.com. To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details. www. konectdirectory.co.uk

Solution to March Crossword

Livingston South Community Church

Livingston Cricket Club

Cricket fixtures as well as a busy social calendar. See http:// livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel 07799 025795

Livingston Bridge Club

Meets every Wednesday from the first Wednesday in September until the last Wednesday in March at Bankton Mains Bowling Club, 6.45 for 7.00 pm start. Contact Dorothy Doak 01506 437977 for more information.

KONECT

Across: 1 Neat, 3 Ignorant, 9 Natural, 10 Navel, 11 Early, 12 Oceans, 14 Sewing, 16 Absent, 19 Potato, 21 Tiger, 24 Pulse, 25 Fearful, 26 Nineteen, 27 Used. Down: 1 Nonsense, 2 Actor, 4 Gallop, 5 Ounce, 6 Advance, 7 Till, 8 Crayon, 13 Startled, 15 Woollen, 17 Betray, 18 Coffee, 20 Agent, 22 Gifts, 23 Open. 61

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Bookkeeping 6 Bathrooms 1st Choice Living 31 Anderson Home Improvements 42 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 43 Duffy Mclean 14 Ekco 51 S & S Home Improvements 29 Beauty Bespoke Beauty Lounge 25 Builder Almond Building Company 49 Building Surveyor David Hastings 34 Cafe/Tearoom Little Whispers Sanctuary 53 The Coffee Cup Cafe 6 Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh 37 JWG Car Care 37 Car Service & Repair LVS Garage Services 5 M & S Auto Solutions 54 MBA 6 Caravan Service & Repair Auto Fitness 37 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Aquatec 13 Cleaning Doctor 13 Hydro-Kleen 34 Carpets & Flooring Kelly’s Carpets 35 Catering Food Creations 53 Chiropody/Podiatry Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 22 Cleaning Services C and W Cleaning Services 34 Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd 34 Donald Does It All 39 Dusters Cleaning Services 34 Clothes & Fashion Original Factory Shop 19 Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance 26 Balance 4 Me Reflexology 25 Little Whispers Sanctuary 53 Youyen Thai Massage 26 Computer Services Sprint Computers 55 Dentist Bankton Dental Practice 63 No 9 Dental 22 Dressmaking/Alterations Just Sew 19 Driving Instructor Vivid Driver Training 13 Electrician D B Electrics 46 Electric Al 39 Riddell Electrical 49 Simply Electrical 39

Estate Agent Castlebrae Sales & Lettings Ltd 64 Turpie & Co 44 Florist Every Occasion 53 Furniture & Furnishings Broxburn Bargain Centre 18 Shapes 2 Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd 40 Garden & Landscaping A A Landscaping 36 All Year Round Landscapes 46 D Greaves 47 GF Garden Services 4 Green Thumb 7 Greenhart Landscaping 47 JGM Landscapes 47 Riccarton Garden Centre 36 TruGreen 10 Garden Buildings Champfleurie Estate Ltd 11 Gifts Original Factory Shop 19 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 31 Hairdresser Back II Black 26 Mr Fella & Me. Bella Sassoon 25 Heating Services Duffy McLean 46 Home Help SCRT 24 Hotel Hilcroft Hotel 33 Joiner Geoff Vinter Joinery 43 GR Construction 14 T&N Joinery 10 Kitchens Anderson Home Improvements 42 Duffy Mclean 14 Ekco 51 S & S Home Improvements 29 Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady 15 Locksmith Saltire Lock & Security 39 West Lothian Locksmith 42 Mobility Ableworld 23 Med-Ecosse 32 Mobility Scooter Repairs 55 Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland 4 Optician Lothian Optical 27 Painter/Decorator Braekirk Decorators 39 DM Decorators 14 JD Decorators 39 Nu Walls 46 TML Decor 49 Tru Decor 46

Pet Services Animal Magic 40 K9 Friends Dog Walking 41 Morven’s Dog Grooming 41 Piano Lessons Livingston Piano Lessons 21 Plastering Nu Walls 46 Plumbing Services Almondvale Plumbing & Heating Services 30 BJ Fleming 42 CMI Plumbing & Heating 31 EPH 43 Livingston Plumbing Co 49 Property Maintenance Done N Dusted Property Maintenance 6 Restaurant Hilcroft Hotel 33 Imperial Palace 4 Signwriting SignCentiv 40 Telecoms Services John McGraw 49 Tiling Service With A Tile 46 Stewart Wilson Tiler 14 Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader 28 Tuition Elizabeth and Michael Cochrane Maths 21 Livingston Piano Lessons 21 Sax Lessons 21 Vet Riverside Veterinary Practice 41 Windows 1st Choice Living 31 DC Window Studio 14

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free.The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Editor: Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk KONECT

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