Konect Livingston May 2016 by Konect Magazines

MAY 2016

livingston

FEATUREs

Scottish Owl Centre Go Your Crohn Way - by Kathleen Nicholls 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

Featured local propertIES

M e ss ag e f rom t h e e d itor

FEATUREs Scottish Owl Centre

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

18 20 40 44 48 50 52 55

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword

COMMUNITY What’s on & Useful Information Clubs & Classes

56 57

had the pleasure of visiting the Scottish Owl Centre within Polkemmet Country Park last month and speaking with the lovely couple who run it – Rod and Niccy Angus. Rod is inspirational with his knowledge of owls - read about the centre and how it came to be here on pages 8-10. Our Livi People column this month features a young person from Murieston who suffers from Crohn’s Disease is keen to promote awareness of the condition and has published a book about her experiences. And I hope you enjoy all our regular columns this month. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses.

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Advertising Enquiries

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

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. 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: Rod and Niccy Angus of the Scottish Owl Centre, Polkemmet.

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FEATURE

Great Grey Owl “Education, Inspiration, Conservation.”

“When was the last time you saw an owl in the wild?” is the question that Rod Angus, founder of the Scottish Owl Centre in West Lothian’s Polkemmet Country Park, poses to anyone asking why he has dedicated his life to these magnificent birds. “The answer,” he says, “is usually along the lines of ‘maybe once, a long time ago.’ There are over 200 species of owl in the world but hardly anyone has actually seen one.” There are very few visitor centres in Britain dedicated wholly to owls. As Rod explains, “It’s a totally different ethos here to a falconry centre. Falconry displays are all about the hunting prowess of the birds, which are very spectacular. Falcons and hawks have been kept and trained for millennia. But owls are wild nocturnal creatures. They are trained to the glove of course but they 8

are silent, stealth hunters, they swoop past without you hearing them – and they are slightly more likely to refuse to fly on demand!” So although the highlight of a visit to the Centre may well be one of the entertaining flying displays, the focus is not on dramatic hunting techniques but on everything to do with owls and their habitat. As Rod says,’’The owl becomes an environmental educator. Through the study of owls we can understand a broad spectrum of issues to do with conservation and natural history.” There are approximately 120 owls resident in the centre at Polkemmet, representing species from all over the world. The uniqueness of the centre, whose motto is “Education, Inspiration, Conservation,” means that it attracts people to study owls at all levels – from preschoolers to PhD students (they currently have a PhD student doing a project on owl communications). “No creature exists in isolation,” Rod says, “it’s all about their environment. Already by keeping them in captivity you’ve removed a bit of what it is to be an owl. So there is no petting of the owls here; the ethos is KONECT

always to make them accessible without dumbing them down to just fluffy big-eyed things. We want to inspire visitors with the wonder and the design of these birds. People love to learn so we give interesting presentations. I keep abreast of latest research and we discuss how to impart up to date natural history information to the public.” (You can hold the owls for photo sessions after the flying displays). Rod’s wife Niccy was formerly a teacher (secondary and nursery), so she designs educational material that is fun and interesting for kids from pre-school age. She also takes care of all the art and design side of the business, designing the signage and interpretative boards around the centre. Rod’s interest in birds dates back to very early childhood. He attended a boarding school in Kent and remembers watching the birds and reflecting on how they were so free (“a boarding school can be quite a traumatic environment.”) One of the teachers was a keen amateur ornithologist and encouraged Rod’s interest in birds; he ended up setting up a bird club at the school. He trained as a bird ringer in the 70s, and was employed at an RAF base to monitor and look after the bird and wildlife population. He was involved in a couple of foundational ornithological studies on the west coast - of buzzards and barn owls. He also helped establish the Machrihanish Seabird Observatory. “I took part in the British Trust for Ornithology’s Project Barn Owl in Argyll between 1995-1997, which involved knowing the owls’ habitats, tracking them, finding nests and counting them. Barn owls like ruined buildings best – they need to be sheltered and private. We discovered that the majority of Scotland’s small barn owl population is in the south west.” Rod had also attended an owl symposium at Chester Zoo, and on a family holiday visited a small private owl centre. They became increasingly inspired to set up their own owl centre, and Rod got his first owls in 2002, starting off by taking them to shows and doing flying demonstrations. They finally set up an owl centre in their home town of Campbeltown, converting an old hospital for use as both family home and owl centre. They ran it successfully for several years, but as their own children left home they eventually decided that in order to make the owl centre sustainable they had to move to the more populous Central Belt. They considered many options before choosing Polkemmet Country Park, where the old walled garden provided a good sheltered spot, in addition to the proximity KONECT

Rod, Niccy and “Sarabi”, the Milky Eagle Owl. to the new junction 4a of the M8. So after much hard work the new Scottish Owl Centre opened in 2011. Besides Rod who is obviously an authority on owls, the team consists of a senior keeper Trystan, who previously worked for the World Owl Trust, and a second keeper Lauren, from Armadale, as well as a valuable team of volunteers. The aviaries are carefully designed to give the owls their privacy and make them feel secure, but at the same time make sure they are visible to visitors. The owls which are used in flying displays are introduced to the public as chicks so they are used to being handled. The large purpose-built flying arena is an indoor area so they are not affected by the all-too-predictable rain and can fly every day. As Rod admits, keeping birds in captivity is very unusual for an ornithologist. But he says, “I don’t find it hard to reconcile; all our owls are bred in captivity and they are happily breeding well – if they were not happy they would not breed. It’s very unusual to get close up to an owl in the wild. Like any zoo, if we didn’t study them we’d never see them to learn about their needs and conservation issues surrounding them and 9

their habitat. Humans are intimately involved with the natural environment, and it’s essential to unde rstand it for humans and animals work together.”

Rod’s top five owl facts • O wls have eyes but they can’t move them. • O wls have ears but you can’t see them. • O wls have wings but you can’t hear them. • O wls lay eggs but they don’t build nests. • O wls hunt at night so you rarely see them.

And what do they do outside of work? Niccy is a member of Livingston Players (you may have seen her in their recent production of Steel Magnolias…) and of Shotts Opera Group, and is a keen hillwalker with Linlithgow Ramblers. And Rod’s interests outside of work? “Anything birdrelated but also classical music and opera and extensive theological reading.’’ Visit the Scottish Owl Centre in Polkemmet Country Park, 7 days a week April - August: 10.30am – 5pm (last entry 1 hour before closing). Admission charges apply, please see website www.scottishowlcentre.com for full details. Daily Flying Displays: 11.30am, 1.30pm, 3.30pm. There is ample free parking at the Polkemmet Visitor Centre car park, and a cafe adjacent (the Courtyard Cafe – separate from the Scottish Owl Centre, check cafe opening times direct with the cafe)

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My name is Kathleen, I currently reside in Murieston, Livingston, and I suffer from the incurable illness Crohn’s Disease. Crohn’s is a form of (IBD) - Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which causes inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, severe diarrhoea, weight loss, fatigue and malnutrition amongst other equally grisly symptoms. I was first diagnosed with the condition in 2010 after around two years of consistent pain upon eating. The pain was so severe I was often unable to walk or even stand upright. It didn’t matter how much or how little I ate, the pain was the same – and instant. When I was diagnosed I felt relief; validation. It was finally being confirmed that it wasn’t all in my head – my pain was real. That relief was swiftly followed by confusion and anger. Being diagnosed with a chronic illness is akin to dealing with grief. You go through many stages before reaching a reluctant form of acceptance. It gets a little easier to deal with as your knowledge grows and you learn to understand your body. For me this acceptance followed my first surgery and came from writing a blog about it. Writing about how my dodgy insides made me feel physically and mentally was a massive turning point in my recovery. I wrote for me – as a form of public diary. Amazingly, shortly after, people began to read my ramblings and I slowly built a readership from all across the globe! I was stunned and incredibly 14

Kathleen Nicholls grateful to have created such an amazing platform for patients to share their experiences. I soon found my blog being nominated for awards from health sites all over the world. The success of my writing spurned me on to write a book on my experiences. Last year I was lucky enough to find a publisher to take on my book and I’m now thrilled it will be available from May 21st this year! ‘Go Your Crohn Way – A Gutsy Guide to Living with Crohn’s Disease’. My aim now is to help others through my writing – I started selfishly writing to offload my own fears and now I am in a position where I can help others feel less alone. It’s a privilege I’ll never take for granted. It’s a terrifying time being diagnosed with a chronic illness, for the patients involved and everyone around them. I want to use my own experiences to show there is life after Crohn’s – and that it can be everything you want it to be. Go Your Crohn Way – A Gutsy Guide to Living with Crohn’s Disease by Kathleen Nicholls is published by Singing Dragon Publishers on 21st May. It is currently available from Amazon or on the Singing Dragon website. KONECT

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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.

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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

d How To Keep The Old MacdngonYoalur Song Clean While Not Losid Wellies In The Mu About a week ago I was sitting in the Centre in Livingston, taking a break from manic shopping with my two wee monsters, and the place was heaving and buzzing with kids’ chatter and varied squeals and moans according to each little cherub’s mood. “Mummy, she’s got my juice!” from a boy with a keen sense of justice and lack thereof … “Daddy, I want popcorn!” from a peckish pigtailed pre-schooler … “Mummy, I’m tired!” from a weary child in a superman onesie, complete with sewn-in sixpack … “Noooooooo give to me!” from an aggrieved, chubby-faced toddler … It twisted my heart to hear these things; I would dearly love to be rudely ordered to surrender some toy or foodstuff, but thus far my little boy Quinn who is coming up for 3 has delayed speech and only uses a couple of words sporadically. I’m constantly worrying about whether he will speak, how will it affect his ability to make friends if he doesn’t, will he be able to say “I love you Mummy.”? We do lots to encourage him, and just now the theme of our bedtime books is ‘farms’. Recently while driving we had a breakthrough - as we belted out a particularly rousing rendition of ‘Old MacDonald’ Quinn quietly interjected in the duckverse with ‘wack-wack’ (close enough for me and certainly surprising enough for me to nearly crash the car) so a trip to see some real ducks (and 20

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 !

other assorted residents of Old MacDonald’s farm) was soon high on the agenda. Cue a trip to Craigie Farm! It’s on the way to Queensferry through some pretty winding roads, and when we arrived we had a look for the animals. First up were the pigs and their piglets. Lots of interesting country smells around that area but after a bit of coaching Quinn was repeating ‘pig’ more or less perfectly! Next! Across a little road to the next field to see two ponies (I called them horses for simplicity and also so that the appropriate line in Old MacDonald would still scan smoothly) and after a little coaxing I got a whispered ‘hoss’ – superb! Next, to the chickens and their tiny baby chicks in their little hot house – after some spirited efforts to encourage Quinn to ‘cluck’, the actual noise elicited sounded a lot like a bad word so that project was quickly abandoned … After a quick bite in the café, and a trolley-dash in the farm shop (chicken stock, tablet, fresh bread; check, check, check!) we braved the newly gusty weather for a go in the play park just outside the café area. This area has been re-done with fake grass underfoot so it is now possible to partake in the sliding and swinging fun without looking like you’ve attended a wet Glastonbury. In the car on the way home we had another go of ‘Old MacDonald’ – I could see in the mirror a couple of words were mouthed as we sang. The only audible contribution from Quinn? The chicken noise which wasn’t quite ‘cluck’ … oh well.

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Homes & Gardens

Extensions West Lothian company 1st Choice Living provide their tips for a successful home extension project. Most people’s needs for their home change over time. More space, updating the home, changing the style – there are many reasons to embark on a home extension project! Many people are moving to a more open plan design, while others are investing to increase the value of their home, and for others the trend of working from home brings a need for a home office or two. But where to start? First of all, you might want to get a rough idea of whether or not you need planning permission, which can help give you some idea of costs. Just adding a porch or modifying the internal layout doesn’t require permission, nor do many other kinds of changes but you need to refer to the West Lothian planning page to be sure: http://www.westlothian.gov.uk/article/10804/ Householder-planning-application-guidance. Even then it helps to have a professional help you navigate the possibilities, because sometimes it gets tricky and a mistake made at this stage can be very expensive. Imagine you have decided on the approximate scope of your project - a stylish orangerie perhaps, or a single or double storey extension – you need to consider what the budget might be. We spoke to Derrick Findlay of home improvements company 1st Choice Living in Bathgate about things to think about when planning an extension: “The starting point is, ‘What is the purpose of the room to be?’” says managing director Derrick Findlay. The design and therefore the budget requirements start from there. “The

design is paramount and can transform the way you live”, he says. 1st Choice has an in-house architect to work on the design with you, advise on what is most likely to get planning permission, and apply for all relevant permissions all the way through to the final building warrant. Derrick’s top tip – go for the biggest extension you can with the space you have available. You may have to compromise perhaps on the interior decorating or other details, but in the end it is much easier to upgrade these than expand the walls another day! 1st Choice always offer a pre-install build meeting - all the details of your project are discussed at the outset, including right down to where the power points are going to go. They can be changed of course but it’s important to think through all the details and the interior design, think about where the sofa is going to be, where the desk is going to be. This is where you really think through the realities of living in your new space and the experts are there to help you.

“Once the design is right, the build is the easy bit,” says Derrick. It can be done any time of the year except when the temperature falls below 5 degrees. A responsible builder will ensure you have a schedule of work and a timeline so you have the reassurance of knowing that everything is on track. For larger projects that 1st Choice carry out, Derrick fully manages them himself and keeps in regular contact with the home owner.

Snagging stage. It’s a fact of life that sometimes things go wrong despite the best of planning, or perhaps your initial use of the space threw up some unanticipated problems. 1st Choice offer a 10 year warranty on labour and materials and, like any professional builder will stay in touch during the handover period and make sure the home owner continues to be delighted.

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Visit our bespoke kitchen & bathroom studio Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston EH54 6GU

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Stylish Tiling

by Stewart Wilson All aspects of tiling work undertaken including grout recolouring. Reliable and meticulous Based in Murieston, Livingston Tel for quote - 07811 339684

DM Decorators

Painting & Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Ames Taping • Wallpaper Hanging • Insurance Work No job too small • Free Estimates

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Currently recruiting new cleaners

De-Creased Ironing Service £25 for a black bin bag Free pick up & delivery

Call Rena on

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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

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DRIVER TRAINING

Operating across West Lothian and the surrounding area Prices start from £25 per hour or £230 for a block of 10 * * First lesson - 2 hours for the price of 1 * * Personalised service with structured, easy to follow lessons: Learner drivers

Motorway and refresher tuition

Pass Plus

‘New to the UK’ driver training

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Murieston & Mid Calder Private Hire “Our business is picking up” We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding Call Jim now for your free quote

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Airport & City Transfer Specialists Local & Long Distance Up to 8 Passengers Golf Trips Advance booking required

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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

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Improving homes all over

Please call Michael on

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

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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

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 38

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info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

The Countdown to Summer in West Lothian The clocks have gone forward; the nights are getting lighter and the final countdown to summer has begun! With the spring season in full force, some of our top attractions have now re-opened for the season. Take a stroll through Hopetoun House and Grounds, enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the canal at The Linlithgow Canal Centre or take a visit to Annet House Museum for a fun and educational day with the family. There are a whole host of events coming up throughout May, for you and the family to look forward to. The Festival of Museums will be taking place at Almond Valley Heritage Centre on the 14th & 15th May. West Lothian Rangers Services have also released their Events Program for 2016 which includes a number of outdoor activities for children

to enjoy throughout the summer at West Lothian’s country parks. With our final event in the May calendar being the West Lothian Highland Games which will be taking place in Bathgate on the 28th of May. So check out these fabulous events and let’s get excited about summer in West Lothian! If you haven’t seen our fabulous new Visitor Guide yet, then check out our leaflet stands at locations across West Lothian or you can simply check out our online version which is available on our website www. visitwestlothian.co.uk

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

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Featured local propertIES

South Lodge, Craigbinning

Hamilton Way, East Whitburn

Combining Scottish tradition and modernity in a great location

Country style and substance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; right next to the town

With panoramic views and a semi-rural location, South Lodge is a 4 bedroom property that effortlessly combines the best of tradition with the best of modernity. The house is just 12 years old and yet its Scottish vernacular style makes it look as if it has been an architectural feature of the landscape for over a century. It is a solidly built, double-fronted house with mansard windows, and is set in an acre of ground with substantial, easily maintained gardens and outbuildings over a 1 acre plot.

Set on an elevated position overlooking a large green, 6 Hamilton Way is a truly imposing 6 bedroom family home that is built in a pleasingly elegant Palladian style. The views to the rear of the house are out across mature trees and pasture, owned by a nearby equestrian centre. The house is on an exclusive estate, which is located around a large, central and well maintained village green, well away from the main road. It makes it an extremely safe place for children.

South Lodge, Craigbinning – Offers Over £499,000

Hamilton way, East Whitburn – Offers Over £475,000

West Lothian’s Premier Estate Agents www.turpies.com • telephone: 01506 668448

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

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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

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1. TLC200 time lapse camera 2. Bosch Isio cordless shrub/shear 3. Flymo Robot Lawn Mower 4. Garden Groom Midi hedge trimmer

TECHNOLOGY

Gadgets to make your garden grow 1

With the worst of the weather hopefully behind us, it’s time to turn to the great outdoors - and for many of us that means getting our gardens and hedges in shape. Technology can’t quite do the weeding or clipping for us just yet, but it can help in lots of other ways - including solving garden mysteries. If you’ve ever suspected that pets or other creatures have been damaging your plants, the TLC200 Green Camera is a weatherproof time lapse camera that’s designed to monitor your most precious plants and show you any skulduggery. At £139 it’s not cheap, but then neither are exotic plants that you might want to protect. As battery technology continues to improve, tool companies are coming up with ever more useful cordless devices for garden use. Bosch’s Isio Cordless Shrub/Grass Shear (£36) is a great example: it’s a rechargeable clipper for shrubs, hedges and grass, and there’s also an optional extension handle that means you can use it without bending down, and a sprayer tank that turns the device into a spray for pesticides or fertiliser. You can get all kinds of cordless garden tools now, ranging from hand-held clippers to enormous and faintly frightening tree limb loppers, but look for Lithium Ion battery packs, not the vastly inferior and less efficient Nickel Cadmium (NiCD). 48

We’ve been hearing about robot lawn mowers for years now, but every time we’ve looked at them we’ve been put off by the enormous price tags of around £2,000. That’s changing, and it’s now possible to get a decent sized robot lawnmower for around £800. At the time of writing the Worx WG790E is £774 (the RRP is £899) and the Flymo Robotic Lawnmower is £835 (£998 RRP). The Flymo has a working area of 400 square metres and cuts 30 square metres per hour, and because it’s virtually silent you can get it to do its stuff when everybody’s asleep - and its anti-theft system means you don’t need to worry that somebody will steal it while you’re in bed. It’s not completely autonomous - you need to fit a wire to show it the garden’s boundary, or it’ll get lost - but it’s starting to look like an attractive way to keep your lawn in great condition. One way to avoid cleaning up leaves is to prevent them from landing in the first place. Say hello to the Garden Groom Pro, which has clearly been inspired by those home haircut devices you see in catalogues: it’s a £99 hedge trimmer with its own collection bag, automatically storing and mulching the clippings instead of throwing them all over the path. You’re going to feel a bit silly using it but the reward is a relatively mess-free finish, although it’s worth pointing out that at 7Kg plus the weight of the cuttings bag it’s quite heavy for protracted use. There is a smaller version, the Garden Groom Midi, which is £59.99 and weighs 2.7Kg.

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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.

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Interiors feature

‘Cleaning the Oven? I’d Rather be Watching Outlander.’ by ecko

Four kitchen appliances to make your life easier It’s back! You know the programme? It’s the one where the married nurse in post-World War II Scotland gets mysteriously whisked back to the pre-Jacobite era and falls in love with a hunky Highlander. Outlander, based on the historical romantic novels by Diana Gabaldon, has been a massive hit and season 2 on Amazon Prime looks set to give an even bigger boost to the Scottish film industry. But what do we at Ekco love most about the programme? Is it the beautiful Scottish scenery, the authentic period costumes or the…well, the other bits? Actually no. It’s imagining how, in Castle Fraser, they can possibly serve several, culinary courses to hordes of hungry clansmen prepared only on a tiny cooking range. Nowadays, we would break out in hives if we had to prepare a feast for ten guests let alone a hundred, without a host of kitchen appliances within easy reach in our cooking triangle. There’s no doubt that life in the kitchen has become easier over the centuries and modern innovations from the simple electric cooker and kettle, to the microwave and food processor has revolutionised the way we live our lives. So what’s the latest in the line? Here are four new kitchen appliances from Ekco designed to make your life easier. 1. Quooker is a Dutch invention that’s replacing the need for a kettle. It’s a single tap which dispenses cold, hot and boiling water. If you’ve ever switched on your electric kettle and been amazed at how

quickly your power meter clocks up the energy, you’ll be delighted to know that the cost of running a Quooker is around 3p per day. 2. Pyrolitic self-cleaning ovens from top manufacturers like Neff and Siemens mean you’ll never have to break out the Mr Muscle again. A pyrolytic oven is cleaned when you lock the door and set the temperature to around 500 degrees. In the absence of oxygen, the intense heat reduces any baked-on food to ash which is then simply wiped away with a damp cloth. 3. Steam Ovens – The French call this type of cooking ‘sous vide’ and it’s been a popular culinary method for years in top restaurants. Now sous vide ovens are available for the home. Basically you steam cook your food in special pouches which not only helps to keep nutrients in, it saves on washing up. 4. Induction hob – The induction hob has been around for a while but is only beginning to be widely embraced. It’s a smooth ceramic surface which only heats up when the pot is placed on it. It has the speed and controllability of gas with the added safety feature of staying cool on the surface except under the pot itself. The beauty of these appliances is that they’ll give you even more free time than ever before – more time to rev up your broadband and catch up on Claire and Jamie’s latest bodice-ripping exploits – honestly, it’s the poor husband left at home I feel sorry for.

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

Seasonal Foods

seasonal pleasures like rhubarb for pies, fools or just simply stewed with yoghurt for pudding. If you need inspiration look at the website www.eattheseasons.co.uk for seasonal food information, tips and recipe ideas. Here is a homely dish using new season produce.

Rhubarb and Orange Pudding 250g new pink rhubarb cut into short lengths 50g butter 200g sugar 1 small orange, rind grated and juice strained 2 eggs, separated 1/4pt milk with the egg yellows beaten in 50g plain flour

Method Set oven to 160oC. Put the rhubarb into a 2 pint oven proof dish. Cream the butter, orange rind and 2 tablespoons of the sugar till soft. Beat in the rest of the sugar with the flour alternating with the egg/milk mixture. Add the orange juice, mix well. Beat the egg whites till stiff and gently fold into the rest of the pudding mix. Pour over the rhubarb and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The top will be firm and there will be a delicious sauce with the fruit at the bottom. Serve with cold, plain yogurt or Cornish cream.

May is the start of the new season for fresh local food. We’re lucky to have growing areas from the warmth of the Channel Isles and the west of Wales and the cooler areas of Scotland, giving us spring lamb, sea trout, Jersey Royal and Ayrshire or Pembroke potatoes, watercress, rhubarb and asparagus all ready at much the same time. People who like to gather “wild food” will be able to find nettle, dandelion and wild garlic leaves for more interesting salads, quiches or soups. We’ve become used to expecting a huge variety of fruit and veg all year but this has in some ways restricted what we eat. Fewer varieties of individual plants are grown for mass markets so we eat a smaller range of trace nutrients. There are always some staples on the shelves such as apples so perhaps we forget about

Rhubarb and Orange Pudding

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PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Solution in the June edition of konect

Across 7 A large sea (13) 8 Disclosed (8) 9 Opposed to (4) 10 Move forward (7) 12 Allude to (5) 14 Learn (5) 16 Not coolest (7) 19 Zn (4) 20 Fizzy drink (8) 22 Practical example (13) Down 1 Not there (4) 2 Picture house (6) 3 Think about (7) 4 Unrefined (5) 5 Breathe in (6) 6 Insensitive (8) 11 Thorough (8) 13 Mallets (7) 15 Physician (6) 17 Tiny (6) 18 Show embarrassment (5) 21 Let fall (4)

There’s life in your unwanted furniture and electricals

FREE & FAST COLLECTION You may not want your old sofa, table or fridge, but we do. We’ll collect them from your home and find them a new life. Your donations will fund our pioneering research and help save lives.

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CALL BHF EDINBURGH STORE 0131 341 2992 bhf.org.uk/collection © British Heart Foundation, registered charity in England and Wales (225971) and in Scotland (SC039426).

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MUSIC REVIEW

Crowds Chords and Cabaret by James Kerr, Regal Music Club

The Searchers might be the only group who could fight The Stones for title of longest running sixties band. They are also more likely to play The Regal in Bathgate, and so it was on the 9th April. The stage act was intact, three guitarists crowding around the drums, black suited, backs to the audience, suddenly spinning and breaking into the unmistakeable introduction to Needles And Pins - even if only as a feint, one example of the slick management of their material for maximum effect. Bassist Frank Allen takes most of the lead vocals, and clearly relishes his role as frontman (and straight man to the well-rehearsed spontaneity of lead guitarist John McNally). Allen, McNally, and “new boy” (only been in the band for thirty years)

Spencer James all sing, with the combined vocals being very strong. Speaking candidly, given the age of the performers, the strength of lead vocal and harmonies seemed nothing short of miraculous considering the deterioration in the voice of a certain Merseybeat contemporary. Inevitably there was an element of cabaret to the show, but this must have been the case at the beginning when the craft was learned on the package tours and the shows in the many hundreds of dance halls and theatres just like, possibly including, The Regal. The hits flowed, Sweets For my Sweet, Goodbye My Love, Take Me From What I’m Worth, and diversions into the decades of records that had the quality but not the airplay were received as generously, and deservedly so. Do yourself a favour and Google, say “Desdemona” from 1971. I know, right?

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To be included please call Jenny on 07824 469266 e: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk or Charlene on 07772 941899 e: charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Please contact Melissa: 07874 315 541 Facebook: every occasion flowers

Bouquets, Weddings, Funerals, Easter & much more KONECT

WHAT’S ON

Howden Park Centre has a busy programme of events including live music, dance, theatre, workshops and exhibitions. See their website at www. howdenparkcentre.co.uk for complete up to date listing or contact the box office: 01506 777666.

and Useful Information 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

Thursday 5th May Spring Walk in Calderwood Learn about this special site, its management and a chance to see the spring wildflowers. Suitable for: All (adults and older children) Meet: Gasworks Brae entrance, off Bank Street, Mid Calder. Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm. Cost: free. Please wear sturdy footwear.

To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

library information

Friday 6th & Saturday 7th May

Almondbank Library

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

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. Sora Comics and Manga Group 4:30 - 6:00pm. Thurs 12th & 26th May. New members welcome.

Saturday 7th May

Adult Book Group 5:30 - 6:30pm. 26th May. New members welcome.

Family Fun Day in aid of Cancer Research UK From 12noon at Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Inflatables, Climbing wall, bungee trampoline, stalls, cakes, icecream. Wristbands for inflatables £7 unlimited use.

Sunday 15th May Wildflower Walk Almondell is carpeted with wildflowers during the spring. Enjoy their colour and scent and find out their names and traditional uses on this afternoon walk along the banks of the River Almond. Suitable for: All (adults and older children). Meet: Almondell Visitor Centre. Time: 2pm-3pm. Cost: Free

Saturday 28th May West Lothian Highland Games in Meadow Park, Bathgate. 10am -6pm. West Lothian Highland Games returns to its traditional site this year in Meadow Park, Bathgate. Come along and enjoy traditional Scottish entertainment, including: Highland Dancing Competition, Pipe Band Competition, Solo Piping Competition, ‘Heavies” Competition, Veterans’ Road Race. Other great attractions include: Children’s Entertainment, Cookery Demonstrations, Craft Stalls... and more. See westlothiangames.com for more details. Admission: Adults: £5 - Children 5 & over: £3. Family ticket: £12.

Bathgate Regal Community Theatre - The Regal hosts an exciting programme of film, music, theatre, comedy and children’s events. For upcoming events see website at www.bathgateregal.org for complete listing.

Book Bug sessions 2:00pm. 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. KONECT

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

KONECT

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

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

LIVINGSTON VILLAGE Livingston Village Playgroup

Based in Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village. We are now part of Community Playgroups and are based in the large and bright community room of the primary school, with our own secure outdoor area. We run Monday to Friday 9.15am to 11.30am, offering early education through fun and play, with a wide range of resources, to children aged from 2 years. The cost is £7 per session and includes a varied and healthy snack every day. Pop in for a visit with your child, or please phone Cheryl or Lesley on 01506 417343 for more information.

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. Term-time 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

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

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.

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

Solution to April Crossword Across: 7 Vision, 8 Auntie, 9 Asia, 10 Athletic, 11 Insects, 13 Pelts, 15 Bills, 17 Ponders, 20 Nibbling, 21 Only, 23 Issued, 24 London. Down: 1 Zips, 2 Pirate, 3 Infants, 4 Yacht, 5 Sneeze, 6 Sinister, 12 Noisiest, 14 Roughly, 16 Labour, 18 Drowns, 19 Birds, 22 Loot.

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Accountant/Bookkeeping AKT Bookkeeping 6 Bathrooms 1st Choice Living 31 Anderson Home Improvements 38 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 43 Duffy Mclean 34 Ekco 51 Beauty Bespoke Beauty Lounge 25 Natrabrow 6 Builder Almond Building Company 40 Building Supplies MKM Building Supplies 4 Building Surveyor David Hastings 28 Cafe/Tearoom Little Whispers Sanctuary 55 Car Bodywork JWG Car Care 36 Car Service & Repair Auto Fitness 17 LVS Garage Services 5 M & S Auto Solutions 15 MBA 37 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Aquatec 27 Cleaning Doctor 27 Hydro-Kleen 35 Carpets & Flooring Kelly’s Carpets 33 Catering Food Creations 53 CHARITY British Heart Foundation 54 Children’s Activities/Entertainment Getting Gooey 21 Chiropody/Podiatry Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 22 Chiropractor ABC Chiropractic 17 Cleaning Services C and W Cleaning Services 35 Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning Ltd 35 Donald Does It All 38 Dusters Cleaning Services 35 Multi Level Contracts 4 Clothes & Fashion Original Factory Shop 19 Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance 26 Balance 4 Me Reflexology 25 Little Whispers Sanctuary 55 Youyen Thai Massage 26 Computer Services Sprint Computers 16 Dentist Bankton Dental Practice 63 No 9 Dental 22 Doors UPVC Doors 13 Dressmaking/Alterations Just Sew 19 Driving Instructor Vivid Driver Training 36

Electrician D B Electrics 46 Electric Al 39 Riddell Electrical 40 Simply Electrical 39 Estate Agent Castlebrae Sales & Lettings Ltd 64 Turpie & Co 45 FISHERY Bangour Fishery 6 Florist Every Occasion 55 Furniture & Furnishings Broxburn Bargain Centre 18 Garage Doors Max’s Garage Doors Ltd 40 Garden & Landscaping A A Landscaping 49 All Year Round Landscapes 46 D Greaves 47 GF Garden Services 47 Green Thumb 7 Greenhart Landscaping 47 JGM Landscapes 10 Riccarton Garden Centre 49 TruGreen 15 Garden Buildings Beatson’s 13 Champfleurie Estate Ltd 11 Woodford Timber 2 Gifts Original Factory Shop 19 Golf Club Baberton Golf Club 37 Hairdresser Back II Black 26 Mr Fella & Me. Bella Sassoon 25 Heating Services Duffy McLean 46 Home Help SCRT 24 Ironing Services De-creased Ironing 35 Joiner Geoff Vinter Joinery 43 GR Construction 34 T&N Joinery 12 Kitchens Anderson Home Improvements 38 Duffy Mclean 34 Ekco 51 S & S Home Improvements 29 Leaflet Delivery The Leaflet Lady 42 Locksmith Saltire Lock & Security 38 West Lothian Locksmith 28 Mobility Ableworld 23 Med-Ecosse 32 Mobility Scooter Repairs 16 Motorhome (hire/sale) Motorhome Hire Scotland 36

Painter/Decorator Braekirk Decorators 38 DM Decorators 34 JD Decorators 39 Nu Walls 46 Tru Decor 46 Parties/Party Supplies Katie’s Vintage Tea Party 53 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 28 BJ Fleming 38 CMI Plumbing & Heating 39 Dewar Plumbing 6 EPH 43 Livingston Plumbing Co 12 Property Maintenance Done N Dusted 27 Emerald Property 6 Restaurant Imperial Palace 53 Signwriting SignCentiv 10 Taxi & Private Hire Muriston & Mid Calder Private Hire 36 Telecoms Services John McGraw 12 Tiling Service With A Tile 46 Stewart Wilson Tiler 34 Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader 28 Tuition Cochrane Maths 21 Livingston Piano Lessons 21 Sax Lessons 21 Vet Riverside Veterinary Practice 41 Windows 1st Choice Living 31 DC Window Studio 34 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

We are now taking new NHS patients

Find out more about Dental Implants Patient Open Evening 31st May 2016 From 6.30pm By Appointment only Phone now to book your place

01506 46 46 46

Now Providing • Laser Dentistry (www.waterlase.com) • Minimally invasive Dental Implant Treatments

www.banktondental.co.uk KONECT

• Cosmetic Teeth Alignment with Ceramic braces 63

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7 Hopetoun Lane Bathgate West Lothian EH48 1PP