Konect Calders Feb 14 by Konect Magazines

konect FEBRUARY 2014

FEATURES

Interview with Mickey Weir He's here, he's there, he's everywhere . . .

The Douglas Method Interview with Susan Douglas

The Toning and Beauty Clinic Luxury beauty sanctuary

CHARITY

Bosom Buds of Scotland

PHOTO FEATURE

Vicky's Flowers S& OFFER ERS H C U VO cal from lo ses s busine

plus local businesses, community information and more!

East and Mid Calder, Kirknewton & Pumpherston

Welcome to the February konect, our first issue of 2014. We're looking forward this year to continuing to celebrate all things local. The front cover story is an interview with Mickey Weir, a Hibs hero in the 80s and 90s who is now involved in a new project in West Lothian.

Message from the Editor

Besides this, we have a couple more interviews for you in this issue - a local fitness instructor who is developing her own fitness method (I've personally benefited from her skills!); Vicky of Vicky's Flowers, who talks us through some of her gorgeous floral creations; and behind the scenes at the Toning and Beauty Clinic. And you may already be familiar with the work of West Lothian charity Bosom Buds of Scotland - it was a pleasure to learn more about their work, and they feature as our Charity of the Month this issue. So it's been a busy start to the year. We hope you enjoy the magazine!

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

Advertising enquiries Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk Charlene Gaffney 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk

Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory www.konectdirectory.co.uk The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston. Copies are also left at the libraries, sports centre, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Contents Features Mickey Weir

icare & Brownings

Toning & Beauty Clinic

Vicky's Flowers

The Douglas Method

Regulars Recipe and Food Notes

Charity of the Month

Competitions and Puzzles Crossword and sudoku

Community

Front cover photograph: Mickey Weir

What's on

Useful Information

Clubs & Classes

Index of Advertisers

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Konect Directory - Livingston Edition.indd 1

10/01/2014 09:27:29

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He’s here, he’s there, he’s everywhere… Karen Murray chats with former Hibs winger Mickey Weir “He's here , he's there, he's everywhere...” A very familiar chant if you were a Hibs fan in the 1980's and 90's with the addition of "he’s Mickey Weir". Michael (known to the fans as Mickey) Weir now lives a rather more sedate life in Kirknewton but his involvement in football has never stopped, more of which we shall talk about later. First a little more of the legend that is Mickey Weir - the football obsessed youngster from Pilton was signed to Hibs as a teenager from Portobello Thistle, initially helping to maintain the Easter Road ground as well as play football. It wasn’t long however before football became all he did, playing as a winger for the Edinburgh side. Mickey is not the tallest and his size was considered by some to be a drawback but he never let it bother him, getting around the pitch at speed of lightning - hence the "he’s here, he’s there, he’s everywhere..” chant. The Hibs website describes Mickey as having "craft and guile underpinned by boundless energy, an insatiable appetite for success and a genuine love for Hiberian". He was (and is) considered inspirational. I asked Mickey if he had a best moment from his footballing career and straight away he smiled recalling Hampden on 27 October 1991 when Hibs won the League Cup beating Dunfermline 2-0 to lift the Skol Cup. Mickey took centre stage and was in dazzling form, setting up the second goal to help Hibs win the club’s first trophy since 1972. Mickey was man of the match for that game, but he also recalls that while it was the highlight of his career, simply getting to play at the top level for the team you always supported as a child is his biggest achievement. Included in Mickey’s career was a short spell at Luton but he came back to Hibs where he felt at home and where he wanted to really make a name for himself. This he did in the aforementioned League Cup game. He ventured down south again on loan to Millwall, finally ended his playing career at Motherwell where he also coached. It was while coaching that he

discovered the likes of James McFadden, Stephen Pearson and Stevie Hammel, all top players and internationals. “I loved playing football and then coaching and would have continued but a back injury got the better of me,” he sighs. However, if you can’t play football what is the next best thing? Talking about it. Mickey was soon snapped up as pundit on various radio programmes, firstly on Talk 107 Radio and then with presenter Gordon Dallas and some other former players, he worked on a weekly podcast football show - Kickabout. That format was so successful that Gordon and Mickey have taken it a step further. Log on to www.westlothianondemand.com and you can watch the antics of the pair and their pals with special guests presenting Kickabout in all its visual glory, along with other programmes on this online tv on demand channel, such as entertainment, music and lots of community information and involvement. WLTV launched in October 2013. It is gaining new viewers daily with its coverage of local events highlighting ‘all the good that happens in our community’. The show pulls the big names in, particularly in sport through Mickey’s contacts but other stars have featured on the shows including Susan Boyle, James McAvoy and Irvine Welsh. Mickey laughs as he emphasises how much fun they have making the programmes. “On the sports programme, we enjoy some good natured banter and a laugh at some of the incidents that have happened in football and other sports through the week.” The programmes are filmed in a studio in Livingston but the team likes to get out and about in the community and it would seem from the programmes I have viewed that the presenters know how to have a good time, as well as how to promote a business. And that is the other side of WLTV - to promote other businesses, getting their message out to a much wider audience. “The community aspect is the most important part of what we are doing though,” says Mickey, adding

that the plan is for people with talents to make their own short videos and send them in. If you fancy yourself as a programme maker or a presenter, get involved, make your own little show and you might just get it aired. As I have discovered while writing the walking articles for Konect, West Lothian is a large and varied county and Mickey said much the same thing, amazed at the amount of talent coming from one county. “There are sports stars, musicians, singers and we want to showcase them all on West Lothian TV.” There are also plans to have an ex-pats show to bring West Lothian to those who are living away. The website is developing all the time and spreading to Edinburgh and Glasgow – you never know, if the success continues this channel could soon be nationwide. “That is the beauty of the internet,” acknowledges the erstwhile technophobe Mickey; “you can get your message across the globe at the click of a button!” Mickey is as enthusiastic talking about this new challenge and his presenting as he is when asked about his football career, but naturally combining both – i.e. talking all things football – is the perfect scenario. It would seem the football chant so familiar on the pitch still rings true – Mickey is still everywhere – this time on your computer screen! Mickey has two sons – so maybe one day, he will be watching them play football just as his proud dad, who very sadly passed away recently, used to watch him at Hibs, cheering him on to greatness. And if it is not his football skills he passes on, maybe it will be his presenting ones!

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As the awards started we came runners up in the Best Team and Best Patient Care categories. Going up to the stage to collect our certificates we were amazed. Then the announcement came that we had won Best Private Practice. Now we were starting to feel the evening was all a bit unreal.

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Spotlight on:

icare Pet Crem and Browning's Funeral Directors A new collaboration

“The idea behind this collaboration is to provide the same level of excellent service for all the family.” Alex Baxter of icare Pet Crem, Whitburn, is telling me about the new collaboration between his business and Browning's Funeral Directors. Alex set up his pet cremation service two years ago after being distressed at the lack of a sensitive and respectful cremation service for grieving pet owners.

Products such as caskets, urns, scatter containers and a range of memorial products are available for both services at Whitburn. This is the first collaboration of its type in Scotland, although it has been more common in the United States for a while. So far Alex reports positive reception to the idea. “Families that have used Browning's are pleased that they can now offer a service for pets too via icare Pet Crem".

The new collaboration with Browning's Funeral Directors suggested itself as a way of providing a service for the whole family – pets included – as well as helping both businesses keep costs down for their clients. Browning's is a long-established funeral directors and at their Whitburn premises they have arrangement rooms, viewing rooms and service rooms.

For more information regarding funeral plans or arrangements for all members of the family, please visit our website or contact Alex, Gary or Eric on any of the numbers listed in the advert opposite. Browning's Funeral Directors are here to help and advise in your time of need. Basic funerals start from £2400.

icare Pet Crem is now based at the same location.

For more information see www.browningsfuneraldirectors.co.uk and www.icarepetcrem.co.uk

Thomas Grieve & Son Funeral Directors 24 HOUR SERVICE

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

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

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Spotlight on

The Toning and Beauty Clinic

Luxury beauty sanctuary

shop for all beauty treatments from waxing, Near Uphall at the crossroads of the A89 shellac nails, facials, massage and so on, to and Station Road there is a hidden gem specialist treatments designed to improve, which owner Val describes as “a girl's make beautiful or just relax. designed Plus a new nail bestNear friend.” Toning andofBeauty UphallThe at the crossroads salon and specifically to target bar is planned for Called the near future. Clinic, has beenRoad open forissix thewhich A89 and Station there a years, cellulite. Acoustic Wave Therapy, has hidden recently gem which owner Val Fisher this machine is designed to break down onewhich of the rooms undergone describes as “a girl’s best friend.” The the fattyIn tissue forms the “orange Toningof and Beauty Clinic, which has peel” effect as cellulite. A fifteen is aknown machine exclusive a change been open for six years, has recently minute free trial salon. is available on request to this Called management and a change of management if you are interestedWave in trying this. This is Acoustic Therapy, is a undergone beauty clinic is a beauty clinic with a apparently the only salon in Scotland with this machine is designed withand a difference. Val Fisher, Proprietor difference. this particular machine. to break down the fatty tissue which forms the There are very are very few beauty salons The reception andpeel” toningeffect rooms are based Sharon, Therapist Val Fisher, Proprietor “orange fewThere beauty salons locally which offer toning so I visited in the cottage of the grounds of the large known as cellulite. A locally which to find out what it’s all about and house. These rooms have the Digislim fifteen minute free trial is available on offer toning so I visited to find out what was impressed by the enthusiasm, toning system and i-fit machine. They have request if you are interested in trying this. it's all about and was impressed by the professionalism and range of services a range of monthly toning membership This is apparently the only salon in Scotland enthusiasm, professionalism and range of on offer, as well as the lovely rooms options for toning and beauty – another with this particular machine. services on offer,were as well as the lovely rooms - the premises formerly a large innovative aspect of the Toning and Sharon, therapist - theguest premises were formerly a large guest house so every treatment room Beauty Clinic. The reception and toning rooms are based house so every room is each spacious is spacious andtreatment elegantly decorated cottage the grounds of are thefully large andwith elegantly decorated each with its its own en-suite bathroom, making for a very in the The salon’s fourofpart-time therapists house. These rooms have the Digislim ownluxurious en-suite bathroom, feel to the wholemaking place. for a very qualified, cover all treatments offered by the clinic toning system and i-fit advice machine. Theyeating have luxurious feel to the whole place. and are on hand to give on healthy a range monthly toning membership And luxury is what it’s all about. The Toning and and theofbest treatment for you. reallyit's is a all one-stop shop for all options for toning and beauty – another AndBeauty luxuryClinic is what about. The beauty treatments from waxing, nails, This year they are concentrating on and promoting innovative aspect of the Toning Toning and Beauty Clinic reallyshellac is a one-stop

Luxury beauty sanctuary

facials, massage and so on, to specialist treatments their wedding package. They have a fully qualified designed to improve, make beautiful or just relax. beautician/hairdresser and can offer the full beauty Body PlusConditioning a new nail bar is planned for the near future. works plus hair up or GHD curled and Airbase In one of get the rooms is a machine exclusive thisThe Toning airbrush make-up. The bride and her bridal To help you into shape and look your to best & Beauty Clinic can offer either a party can choice of treatments or a combination package.

Body Conditioning

Shrinking violet wrap Digislim toning : An initial course of 8 x45 min sessions are recommended with amazing results... Thiscover wrapall is applied To helpto you intoworkout shape and *Equivalent a get 3hour atlook the your gymbest *16 pads to areas with an oil which actually breaks down fat resulting in inchloss. The Toning Beauty Clinic can offer either a The benefits you&can expect: choice of treatments or a combination Nsl (non-surgical *Noticeable lifting and toning within firstpackage. treatment *Proven average lipolysis) inch losswrap of 6-11 inches *Reduction oftoning cellulite Digislim Again this promotes the breakdown of fat stores. This is a luxurious, natural base formulation An initial course of 8 x45 min sessions are Shrinking violet wrap : This wrap is applied with an oil which actually breaks down fat resulting containing shea butter resulting in hydrating and recommended with amazing results... in inchloss. improving your skin as well as inchloss. • Equivalent to a 3hour workout at the gym Nsl (non-surgical lipolysis) themachine breakdown of fat stores. This is a • 16 pads to cover all wrap areas : Again this promotesI-fit luxurious, natural base formulation containing shea butter resulting in hydrating and Consisting of a vibrating plate and animproving oscillating The benefits you can expect your skin as well as inchloss. plate. While you stand on this the vibrating • Noticeable lifting and toning within first motion helps the breakdown of fat. treatment I-fit machine: Consisting of a vibrating plate and an oscillating plate. While you stand on this the “Shrink Down-Tone Up” package consists of a • Proven inchbreakdown loss of 6-11 inches vibrating motionaverage helps the of fat. combination of toning, wraps and i-fit sessions. • Reduction of cellulite “Shrink Down-Tone Up” package consists of a combination of toning, wraps and i-fit sessions.

Beauty Clinic. The salon's four part-time therapists are fully qualified, cover all treatments offered by the clinic and are on hand to give advice on healthy eating and the best treatment for you. This year they are concentrating on promoting their wedding package. They have a fully qualified beautician/ hairdresser and can offer the full beauty works plus hair up or GHD curled and Airbase airbrush make-up. The bride and her bridal party can have everything done The “Peach Room” under one roof. Theeverything whole clinic a friendly, have donehas under one roof. welcoming atmosphere and is a restful haven in which The whole clinic has a friendly, welcoming to relax, pamper and haven tone. in They would atmosphere and is a restful which to relax, be delighted seewould you be so delighted do pop in next pamper and tone.to They to see time you are passing seepassing for yourself you so do pop in next time and you are and see for yourself what theyto have to offer. what they have offer. They run special offers every month and you can either

They run special offersmonthly every month and you can subscribe to their newsletter, either subscribe to theirWest monthly newsletter, see see Konect advert, Lothian Courier, Konect advert, West Lothian Courier, Facebook Facebook and Twitter @toningbeautysal and Twitter @toningbeautysal and, of course, and, of course, their new website. their new website www.thetoningclinic.co.uk.

20a Houston Mains Holdings, Uphall, EH52 6PA

enquiries@thetoningclinic.co.uk

We are situated on the A89 – past Dobbies, Williamsons Garden Centre & American Golf – just before the lights at the crossroads

Introducing the new NSL wrap £40 (normal price £50)

Achieve lasting inch loss results with this new NSL wrap. The NSL wrap is a luxurious, 100% natural base,96% organic formulation containing oils and shea butter leaving the skin beautifully soft and conditioned.

The “Blue Room”

Otherspecialist specialist treatments available: Other treatments available Microdermabrasion: gently thethe skin Microdermabrasion: gentlyexfoliates exfoliates skin Glycolic Peels: deep cleanses and improves Glycolic Peels:lines deep acne, reduces etccleanses and improves acne, reduces lines etc Non surgical facelift: lifts and firms the eye Non surgical facelift: lifts and firms the eye area and and redefines muscles. area redefinesfacial facial muscles. Every three to four months the Every three to four monthsthey theyengage engage the servicesof ofDr Dr Long Long for services forBotox, Botox,Sculptra Sculptraand and Restalyneand and have have all 2014. Restalyne allthe thedates datesfor for 2014.

FEBRUARY OFFERS

The Toning & Beauty Clinic

@toningbeautysal

Valentine Offer Offer available 11th - 14th February

Shellac Nails £20 (normal price £25)

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BOTOX CLINIC – Dr Long’s Botox Clinic Monday 3rd March 2014 BOOK NOW

CALL NOW TO BOOK: 01506 855105 17

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Photo Feature

Vicky's Flowers If it is possible to improve on the natural beauty of flowers, Vicky can do it.

If romance is in the air this February and you find yourself lucky enough to be planning a wedding, look no further than Vicky's Flowers for a local, talented and creative florist. We asked Vicky about some designs from her recent work and how she created them.

1 Flower-girl's calla bouquet with twisted wire and diamante detail:

Vicky says, “This bride liked all things sparkly and had her own brooch bouquet to use for the ceremony so I designed her bouquets to complement this. The flower girls' dresses were a shimmery purple colour so I made a collar of silver twisted wire surrounding the white/purple calla and with the addition of diamante catching the light it would give a sparkly

modern feel. I left the stems on the flower-girls' bouquet longer as I wanted it to be held like a wand."

2 Summer hand-tied bouquet:

6 This design can be made in a range of sizes, colours and flowers to suit the wedding and venue. Vases and light boxes can all be hired for the day.”

Vicky says, “When speaking to this bride about the flowers she found it hard to choose what she liked the most! However it was clear she preferred small and delicate varieties, the bridesmaids' dresses were a lovely bright coral pink colour so we decided it was best to go with a mixed selection of pinks rather than trying to match the dress material. I used hydrangea, ranunculus, lizianthus and mixed roses with touches of Gypsophila. I was really pleased with the results!”

4 Button-holes

3 Table centre or entrance display:

Vicky says, “A low level square arrangement with t-lights and collar of ivy surrounding. This style of design can also be made as a long top table display. A lovely design for a more intimate setting.”

Vicky says, “This is a minimal but particularly eyecatching design. This vase is approx 95cm high and the silver wire and purple vanda orchids are suspended in water with floating candles on the top. The vase is placed on an LED light box which adds another dimension to the design and is particularly effective when the lights are dimmed in the room for the evening celebrations!

see over the top! The aspidistra leaves were looped with the iris at the base and snake grass arranged at angular points to create contrast. I particularly love the bright yellow globes of craspedia through the design!”

Vicky says, “These three button-holes were made to complement bride's and bridesmaids' bouquets which were in the same style and flowers. The bride particularly asked for her bouquets to be finished with natural twine and I thought it would be a nice touch to finish the gents' button-holes in the same way. Flowers here are 'Lucky' white heather and September flowers and gypsophila.”

7 Hand-tied Bouquet

5 Pretty Table centre:

8 Ladies' wrist corsage selection

6 Funky Table centre:

Vicky says, “The brief for this corporate client was for a round, 'different' arrangement in blues and yellows and low level so people at the awards dinner could

Vicky says, “Stunning gold/yellow ranunculus are shown here. I added loops of bear grass to surround the flowers with lengths of wire with ivory pearl detail to add sparkle. Sometimes using just one variety of flower is more effective than lots of different varieties… especially when they are as pretty as ranunculus!” Vicky says, “These are all made with phalanopsis orchids but I added different accessories and created leaves with plain wire and bullion wire in different colours to co-ordinate with the outfits. I can create many different shapes and frames using wires and love experimenting with this sort of material. Wires and beads, diamante, sequins etc., all come in an amazing variety of colours and I often use these to add a touch of colour or sparkle.”

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Spotlight on

The Douglas Method New fitness method from local instructor Susan Douglas is all that you would expect a Pilates instructor to be: full of energy, fit, enthusiastic and knowledgeable about her work... except that she is absolutely not your typical Pilates instructor at all. In fact, as she explains to me, she calls her classes “Pilates classes” so that people know approximately what type of exercise it is. But after more than 20 years in the fitness industry and with many qualifications under her belt, she has developed her own exercise method which she is in the process of copyrighting as “The Douglas Method.”

it also integrates a number of other techniques. It is much more about meeting people’s health and fitness goals rather than slavishly following a predefined set of exercises.” Susan is well-qualified to develop her own method: after an early career as an aerobics instructor, massage training and personal fitness training, Susan worked for the Pilates Institute for several years, travelling to London, South Africa and Germany to deliver their syllabuses to new Pilates instructors.

So what is different about The Douglas Method and why is Susan doing this rather than teaching standard Pilates classes? “I love getting at the root cause of people’s problems, be it a niggling back pain, limited movement, or anything else preventing you from living life to the full.

"It is much more about meeting people’s health and fitness goals rather than slavishly following a pre-defined set of exercises."

"I found in all the years I did Pilates training that the ‘one size fits all’ approach wasn’t working for a lot of people and problems were going unsolved. So while the Douglas Method uses, and develops, Pilates,

But she became unhappy at some of the things she had to teach. Her own passion for fitness, knowledge of anatomy and physiology and years of experience told her that some of the moves are not good for everyone and may even be harmful. Moreover she was very concerned that it was possible for people to set up as Pilates instructors with very little training or anatomical knowledge and to be simply delivering a syllabus but without the understanding required to tailor it to individual client’s problems. Anyone who has participated in group exercise will be familiar with instructors saying things like, “if it hurts to do this exercise on your hands, do it on your elbows.” Susan though prefers to get at the root cause of why you might find it painful to do

Her track record speaks for itself, with many satisfied customers including some who have managed to avoid surgery by using Susan’s exercises. an exercise a certain way. And nine times out of ten she has found she can identify and fix it. Her classes of Douglas Method exercises have been running locally now for around seven years, and while it is a constant journey of discovery (she is always refining her method based on experience) she has never looked back. And her track record speaks for itself, with many satisfied customers including some who have managed to avoid surgery by using Susan’s exercises.

When she is not running her classes or doing personal fitness sessions, Susan can be found with her horses near home in West Calder.

Susan is so enthusiastic about The Douglas Method results that she is even working on a programme to train and license other Douglas Method Instructors.

What is pilates?

Officially launching The Douglas Method Training School will involve writing a handbook, getting the Method endorsed by National Qualifications Awarding bodies and endorsement by a medical body. “I’m not so good on the paperwork though,” she laughs, “so it might take a while!” So, moment of truth... at the end of our conversation I explain to Susan that I’ve got a niggling pain in my back preventing me from doing crunches properly. After watching me attempt a crunch and identifying what position I am in when the pain kicks in, Susan shows me some stretching exercises to do to relieve the muscle responsible for the problem. It works, and the next crunch is smoother and almost pain-free! See more on the Douglas Method plus the schedule of local classes at Susan’s website www.douglaspilates.com

Pilates is an exercise regime focussed on building core muscle strength with an emphasis on correct posture and alignment. It is named after Joseph Pilates who developed it in the early 20th century.

Classes available in: West Calder, Livingston, Linlithgow, Murieston, Ratho and South Queensferry

Instructor : Susan Douglas

Pilates & Fitness Expert: classes & personal training, plus instructor training, assessing & mentoring. Specialising in sciatica, ante & post natal, osteoporosis, back problems, MS & arthritis

Contact Susan on 07415 980812 susan.douglas231@gmail.com www.douglaspilates.co.uk

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Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573 All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, Decking & Fencing

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.9510 Sunday buffet 4pm - 9pm from Sunday 16th February 0 1 £ s under Kid £ 5.95 5 er und KidsFREE

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Regular a la carte menu also available 44

If you roast a slightly larger piece of meat or chicken than usual you will have leftovers to make into the next meal. A large chicken will feed 4-6 people hot but will leave enough meat to make a pasta sauce and the bones can be used for stock for soup for a third meal. It is a little fiddly picking off the cold meat from the bird but worth it when you have enough to add to a pack of stir fry veg which, with rice or glass noodles, then makes a weekday supper.

Stock from chicken bones Take all the bones, bits of skin you don't fancy and any jelly or tasty bits left in the roasting tin. If you roasted garlic, lemon or onion in the bird’s cavity, so much the better; add them all to the pot and cover with water and bring slowly to the boil. Boil gently for 20 minutes and then sieve the liquid into a scrupulously clean bowl or container suitable for freezing. Stock will keep in the fridge for 2 or 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it and use from frozen for soup, stews or cooking rice.

Leftover Cottage Pie

Recipe and Food Notes

Leftovers By Anne Pinkerton At first glance leftovers doesn't sound very appetising as a topic. However for busy people leftovers are a starting point for all kinds of good and economical things to eat. Much classic family British food relied on leftovers. In older household management cook books there was often a chapter on them but rather grandly named…. “Rechauffes.” Shepherd’s Pie, Beef Hash, Bubble and Squeak, croquettes, fish cakes and rissoles all needed leftovers as a main ingredient. Even small amounts of cooked vegetables and gravy

can become warming soup with a depth of flavour not obtainable from stock cubes. In July 2013 the Office for National Statistics announced that food prices had risen by 12% in the previous 12 months. Since then some food prices have dropped back but fruit is still 10% more expensive than last year. Don't let this depress you; we can use the food we buy carefully, waste as little as practical and still enjoy a varied diet. Cooking at home, planning ahead and being alert to special offers and reductions all play a part.

If you are not like me - a collector of old fashioned kitchen tools! - and don't have a hand mincer, use a food processor or even a hand wand to mince the meat from leftover roast lamb or beef. About 300/350g will give you enough for Cottage Pie for four people. 2 onions chopped 2 sticks celery 2 medium carrots grated 2 parsnips peeled and grated 1 leek washed and finely sliced little oil (sunflower or corn oil) for frying. leftover plain boiled or mashed potatoes salt and pepper to taste flour

boiling water for a couple of minutes to start the cooking process. This saves time and ensures the spuds are cooked. Cook at 180oC for half an hour till bubbling and the top brown and crusty. Serve with peas or cabbage if you want more veg but you can treat it as a meal in one. Left over pastry is really useful. Cheese straws, jam tarts, fruit turnovers and Eccles cakes can all be made from scraps.

Cheese straws pastry, puff or short will do. finely grated strong cheese - old and looking dried out is perfect black pepper and, if liked, paprika Pile the scraps of pastry on top of each other; try not to mush them together. Roll them out thinly into as regular a shape as you can. Cover 2/3 of the surface in grated cheese and seasoning. Fold the plain 1/3 over the cheese and then fold in again. Roll out, not too thin, and do the same thing again with more cheese. Roll out and cut into strips about as thick as your little finger. Bake at 200C for 10 minutes till pale golden. (Do not burn, as they go bitter).

Fruit turnovers or Eccles cakes

Method Heat the oil, fry the onions and then add all the other prepared veg. Add the minced meat and get all the ingredients really hot. Mix in 2 or 3 flat tablespoons of plain flour to take up any juice, cook a few moments. Add ½ pint water and bring back to the boil. The mixture should be thick. Put the meat in an oven-proof dish and cover with sliced cold, cooked potatoes, leftover mash or newly sliced and blanched potatoes. Add a few dots of butter or a little oil to help top brown in cooking. Blanching is just putting into

Puff leftovers are nicest but either will do. Roll out the pastry into a circular shape. In the middle put stewed fruit, apple is most commonly used but whatever you have will be good. For an Eccles type cake - mix currants, a little butter and soft brown sugar together and place in the middle of the pastry. Bring the edges together and seal. Turn the cake over and roll lightly. Slash with a sharp knife paint with a little milk and sprinkle with a sugar. Bake at 200C for 10/15 minutes till golden.

Puzzles Quick Crossword 1

16 17

Across 1. European country (7) 5. Scour (5) 8. Inflamed (7) 9. Precise (5) 10. Strict (5) 11. Operating room (7) 12. Painter (6) 14. Lethal (6) 17. Non professional (7) 19. Likeness (5) 22. Edgy, anxious (5) 23. Revised (7) 24. Father (5) 25. Harnessed to ride (7) Down 1. Types of transport (5) 2. Not tight (5) 3. E.g. Crete, Rhodes (7) 4. Tiny (6) 5. Stage set (5) 6. Oven cooked (7) 7. Torch power cell (7) 12. Made suitable (7) 13. Coached (7) 15. Once lived (7) 16. Destroys (6) 18. Including all (5) 20. Fourth month (5) 21. Finished (5)

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 54

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My diet sheet says I can have dressing on my salad - I wonder if chocolate topping, whipped cream and brandy butter goes with lettuce? 48

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What’s On and Useful Information February Friday 14th February Kisses for CLAPA Masquerade Musical Mayhem

At the Bankton House Hotel, Murieston, Livingston. 7.30 –12pm T’is the season of love...come and join some of West Lothian’s finest musicians and bands celebrate St.

Valentines Day as they raise awareness for CLAPA - Cleft Lip And Palate Association. Entertainment from: The Changes, Little Songbird, Danny Livingston, Cousin Kenny and more... Dress code on the night: Black and white attire with, of course, the choice of colourful masquerade mask - the brighter the better! This event is for over 18s only. Tickets: £6 each/£10 per couple. Available from www.facebook.com/ LynzieDray-MillArt-BanktonHouseHotel

Sunday 23rd February Jack & Jill Market Quality nearly-new baby and children’s market. Forty stalls bursting with quality nearly new baby and kids bargains! West Lothian College, Almondvale Crescent, Livingston 10:30am – 1:00pm

Opera Highlights

Four singers and a pianist – coming to a venue near you

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

Library Information East Calder Library Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EJ 01506 883633 or email: eastcalder.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri: 9.00am - 5.30pm Tues & Thurs: 9.00am - 8.00pm Saturday: 9.00am - 1.00pm

February Activities

Chinese New Year craft session for kids Sat 1st February 10am – 12pm Bookbug Mon 17th 10.30am-11am Book Groups Tues 4th and Tues 27th 6.45pm – 7.45pm Pumpherston Library Drumshoreland Road, Pumpherston, EH53 0LF. 01506 280996 or email: pumpherston.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon 14.00 - 17.00 Wed 14.30 - 16.30 Thurs 14.00 - 18.00

Bookbugs Bookbug West Lothian delivers free story, song and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children in local libraries, working in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust. Bookbug Bathgate is the first Friday of each month, 10.30am – 11.00am in the Simpson Library. Mobile library timetable Alternate Tuesdays in Kirknewton: Linburn Centre 10.00 – 12.00 Kirknewton Primary 13.15 – 14.15 Kaimes Crescent 14.20 – 14.45 Sawmill 14.55 – 15.15 Roosevelt Road 15.20 – 15.30 Brae Kirk Avenue 15.30 – 15.45 Roadman’s Way 15.55 – 16.15 Alternate Wednesdays in Mid Calder: Almondside 13.30 – 14.30

E-BOOKS ARE HERE! You can now register online and download up to 6 e-books from the library website www. westlothian.librarybooks.co.uk full instructions on login. EMAGAZINES Free digital magazines available to all Library customers Popular publications available 24/7. Easily read on any internet-enabled device. Go to – https:/www.rbdigital.com/ westlothian/zinio

Mid Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.35am Pumpherston Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.00am Collection from box at Livingston Delivery Office, Fairbairn Road, at 6.30pm

Tuesday 25 February 7.30pm Howden Park Centre

Tickets from: Howden Park Centre, Howden, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6AE Tel: 01506 777 666 www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk

EAUDIOBOOKS have arrived! – more information from your local library The library service is available 24/7, 365 days a year on www. westlothian.gov.uk

Useful Numbers

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

Spottiswoode Gdns 14.40 – 16.20 Market Street 16.30 – 17.30 Alternate Thursdays in Kirknewton: Kirknewton Primary 09.30 – 11.30

East Calder Medical Practice 147 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EW 01506 882882

St John’s Hospital

Supported by

The Friends of Scottish Opera

Touring Scotland 25 February – 5 April 2014 For more information and to book online go to scottishopera.org.uk

Scottish Opera is core funded by

Registered in Scotland Number SCO37531 Scottish Charity Number SCO19787 Registered Office: 39 Elmbank Crescent, Glasgow G2 4PT

01506 523000 Opera Highlights Ad 128x190.indd 1

15/01/2014 15:23

Charity of the Month

Fundraising

Bosom Buds of Scotland The mother of a local cancer patient was distressed by the lack of support for daily living with cancer and its treatment.... so along with her daughter (a breast cancer patient) and some friends, they set out to fill the gaps for other cancer patients. Since 2009 their West Lothian charity, Bosom Buds of Scotland, has brought dignity and hope to hundreds of women and men struggling with the daily challenges of living with cancer. I met Mags, the lady behind Bosom Buds, and Trish, a patient who has become an important volunteer in the charity. “Cancer affects absolutely every aspect of your life. It's in the hundreds of details of daily life, things we take for granted but that a cancer patient struggles with, as well as emotional well-being and the rest of your family – that is what Bosom Buds addresses,” they explain. Mags' daughter Kate was an extremely fit 23 year old when breast cancer

Bosom Buds are here for us in West Lothian when we are touched by cancer, as everyone will be at some point either directly or indirectly. All money Bosom Buds spends or donates comes from fund-raising activities - the generosity and support of the local community and local businesses.

struck. Although there are organisations that help younger people, for those over the age of 24 there was little support available locally. Chemotherapy is exhausting, and one thing Kate found, having been very fit before, was that you're too tired to go to normal fitness classes. One of the main services Bosom Buds offer is free fitness classes specially designed for cancer patients, where you can also meet people going through the same thing. These classes are run by Michael Smith of Personal Best in Armadale and there are classes at various locations in West Lothian. Michael is fully qualified to help cancer patients with their rehabilitation, as well as carrying out massage therapy and arranging a walking group. It affects everyone in different ways, but many lose their hair through chemo, including Bosom Buds Tough Mudder team 2013

Abseil from the Forth Rail Bridge 2013 eyebrows and eyelashes. Bosom Buds have an arrangement with a hairdresser to procure real-hair wigs which are free of charge to patients, as well as arranging eyebrow tattoos (via a local salon) for those who want them until their own eyebrows grow back. Working closely with the oncology unit at St John's Hospital in Livingston (to which they donate regularly) Bosom Buds also run pamper days for patients referred by St John's. I spoke to a patient whose life had fallen to pieces after her cancer diagnosis – a successful career women who lost her job and house within a short space of time and wasn't coping well. Until she was referred to “mindfulness” classes via Bosom Buds. “Mindfulness changed my life,” she says. “The classes helped me to manage my situation a lot better.” The classes are run by Tina Gilbert, a yoga and mindfulness instructor from Livingston. They are free of charge to cancer patients as well as their relatives and friends and have proved invaluable to many patients in coping with their situation. The activities of the charity are too numerous to mention here. From providing individuals with mastectomy bras through to donating nearly £50,000 to Breakthrough (the breast cancer research organisation) last year, the real contribution that Bosom Buds makes is incalculable – there is no way of measuring the emotional well-being, self esteem, even the will to live that can be given back through providing practical support with every aspect of daily living. As Bosom Buds say, “Cancer can take away your dignity, Bosom Buds helps get it back!”

Ladies nights, sponsorship events such as an abseil from the Forth Rail Bridge in June and October this year, and a “Bing Blazer” in May are examples of their activities. Teams under the Bosom Buds banner enter demanding events such as Tough Mudder and the Edinburgh Marathon. Anyone is welcome to get involved and every single contribution is valued. Contact Bosom Buds at info@ bosombudsofscotland.org to get involved.

Bosom Buds are especially grateful to Harburn House for the use of their beautiful premises for the pamper days, and to Rhoddy Stewart Photography who provides his services free of charge for the pamper days; Michael Smith of Personal Best in Armadale who goes over and above regularly by donating his time and skills at events; Policy Services of Grangemouth named Bosom Buds their charity of the year last year, and continue to fundraise and provide support; Atkin Framers of Livingston have been very supportive, providing prizes for events, fundraising and networking; Dobbies Livingston have nominated them as their charity of the year 2014 so there is a collection box at the tills (please drop your change in it next time you're there, every penny counts!) Dobbies also provide raffle prizes and host events for them. Many other local businesses an individuals donate raffle prizes, time and expertise.

Contact Bosom Buds on info@bosombudsofscotland.org www.bosombudsofscotland.org www.facebook/Bosom Buds of Scotland

Clubs & Classes

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

Kosy Kaff Kirknewton Village Hall Fridays 4pm – 5pm term time. Free home baking, hot chocolate, games and activities for primary school aged children. See www.knec4jesus.org.uk for more information. Douglas Pilates Classes

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

EAST CALDER Zumba with Lindsay Monday East Calder Church Hall 7 to 8pm Tuesday Simpsons Primary School Bathgate 7.15 to 8.15pm Wednesday Strathbrock Parish Church Hall, Uphall 7 to 8pm Facebook Zumba with Lindsay. Tel: 07834 183084 Dementia Cafe East Calder Church Hall, Manse Court Last Thursday of the month, 10am – 12pm. A meeting place for people with dementia and their carers of all ages. Drop in and join us for information, support and social activities. Supported by Alzheimer Scotland and East Calder Church. For more information please phone 01506 533 116. East Calder Jog Scotland Group Meet every Tuesday at East Calder Health centre car park at 7pm. All abilities welcome, a social way to get fit, make friends and enjoy local countryside. Contact Dawn on 01506 883330 or 07806 772935 for more details. East Calder Bowling Club Bingo every Sun and Wed 8pm– 9.30pm. Junior coaching (10 to 16 years old) every Friday 2pm – 4pm. We can also coach adults, free, so come along and give it a try. Hats every Mon 6-30pm. See club website at www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com. Members can find details here of competitions, play by dates and club news. East Calder Colts FC East Calder Park. We are currently recruiting for an under 10’s team born 2002. For information required regarding any of our teams please visit our website www.eastcaldercolts.co.uk or contact

Head Coach Rab McCulloch on 07920 482216. Let’s put the fun back into football. All welcome. Yoga for Everyone East Calder Community Centre Wed 7.00pm – 8.30pm For further info contact Ruth Plevin: 01506204338 or ruth@sukha.co.uk Bingo Pigeon Club, East Calder Sun 8.00 - 10.00 All welcome East Calder Old Folks Club East Calder Community Centre Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Pensioners and non-pensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Secretary). East Calder Ladies’ Circle East Calder Community Centre Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Secretary: Mrs E Bennett, 73 Mansefield, East Calder, West Lothian EH53 0JE. Young Mums East Calder Community Centre Mon 11.00am – 12.30pm. Free. Contact health visitor via health centre for further details 01506 880582 Boys Brigade East Calder Church Hall Anchors (age 5 - 8) Fridays 6.30 - 7.30pm Juniors (age 8 - 11) Fridays 6.45 - 8.15pm Company Section (age 11-18) Fridays 7.30 - 9.45pm Calll Jean Gilchrist 01506 880367 East Calder Playgroup Now located in East Calder Community Centre. Mon-Fri 9:15am-11:15am from 2 years For the best introduction to your child’s education - lots of fun to be had! £4.50 per session. Contact Carol on 07748 053340 Rainbows, Brownies and Guides East Calder Primary School Rainbows Wed 6.15 – 7.15pm Brownies Tues 6.30 – 8pm & Wed 6.30 – 8pm Guides Mon 7 – 8.50pm & Wed 7.30 – 9pm Contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640

East Calder Youth Club East Calder Community Centre Fri 6.15pm - 8.45pm. Ages 10 to 14 yrs. Cooking, football, baseball and other outdoor sports, pool, video games, board games and arts/crafts. Contact Gary Sneddon 01506 774473 Toddler Clinic East Calder Health Centre 1st Tues of every month. Drop in for advice and support 1.30 – 3.30pm Breast Feeding Support Group East Calder Church Hall Wednesday 11.30 am – 12.30 pm Contact Health Visitors via Health Centre for further details 01506 880582 East Calder Scout Group Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace Beavers Mon 6.15 - 7.15pm (boys 6 - 8 yrs) Cubs Mon 7.30 - 9.00pm (boys 8 - 10 yrs) Scouts Tues 7.15 - 9.00pm (boys 10 - 14 yrs) Contact Jack Galloway on 077907 93889 eastcalderscouts.org.uk Needlecraft Club East Calder Community Centre Thur 7.00pm - 9.00pm Contact Sheila (Secretary) on 0131 333 2217

KIRKNEWTON Kirknewton Starlets Kirknewton Primary School Babies class up to age 8 Thurs 5.30 - 6.30pm. Junior/senior class Thurs 6.15 - 8.00pm. For info contact Trisha on email t.ewing@btinternet.com Kirknewton Rainbows Kirknewton Village Hall Wed 5.00pm - 6.00pm. For girls aged 5-7. Please contact Gill Greaves for more info on 01506 883261 Toddler Group Kirknewton Church Hall Parents/carers with tots aged 0-3 yrs, friendly group with play, stories and craft for the children and meet up/chat for parents. Thur 9.30 - 11.30am

Designed to help achieve health and fitness goals through expertly designed exercises. Because classes are limited a maximum of 12 people, you will get plenty of personal attention. To contact Susan Douglas and for classes info visit http://www.douglaspilates.co.uk/ Hatton Sports Club Tennis and squash. Burnwynd, Kirknewton. Social and competitive play. LTA-qualified tennis coaches. Contact Carol Blamire 01506 880208 KASPARS Afterschool Club. Kirknewton Church Hall. Afterschool care Mon - Thu 3.15 - 6.00, Fri 12.30 - 6.00. Breakfast Club Mon - Fri 8.00 - start of school. Call 07871 791000 Potter Around Studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD Clubs including oil painting for both children and adults, jewellery workshops, fused glass, candle making, knitting, scrapbooking, kids craft club, Warhammer club. Craft shop, beads, children’s parties, baby prints and more. Plus drop in any time for pottery painting. For all class times, bookings and more information call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk. Kirknewton Play Group Kirknewton Village Hall Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9am – 11.15am. Ages 2- 4 ½ years. £5.00 per session. Call in and see us during session times. Kirknewton Women’s Rural Institute Come and join us for a friendly evening of craft, demonstrations and fun. 2nd Thursday of each month, 7.15pm in Kirknewton Church Hall Kirknewton Stompers Walking group, meeting at Kirknewton Park entrance on Park Terrace. Every Wed 7.30pm. Join the group on the community facebook page where people post details of the walk, or any other time they are walking.

Kirknewton Runners Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday at 19.30

MID CALDER West Lothian Women’s Cycle Club Meet every Thursday at Mid Calder Primary School Car Park at 6pm. Get on your bike! All abilities welcome, should have own bike and kit. A great way to get fit, have fun and meet new friends around the local area. Contact Elizabeth Logan on 07515 161 307. Mini Music Makers Glenalmond Hall, Main Street, Mid Calder, EH53 0AN Weekly interactive music classes on Thursday mornings in Mid Calder. Singing games and rhymes are used bring these interactive music education classes for pre-school children and their parents/carers to life. Booking enquires: claire.ashwood@nycos.co.uk, 0141 287 2943. Find out more: www.nycos.co.uk/mini-music-makers Mid Calder Mother and Baby Group Institute Hall Tuesdays 10.00 Please call Vicky Ramsay for details on 07515 495101 Baby Massage with Jo Stuart - NEW! Mid Calder Community Centre (opposite the Black Bull). Thursday mornings 10.30am -12. Each block lasts 5 weeks. Suitable for babies from birth to 1 year. Contact Jo for more information or to book a place on 07971696617 or email thestuarts22@hotmail.co.uk Myra Mackie School of Dance Classes in Livingston, Uphall Station, Mid Calder and Broxburn. Please see our website for full timetable and venues. Children from 2 years to adult. www.myramackieschoolofdance.co.uk incorporating our competitive cheer division the Scottish Starlets. Mid Calder School of Dance Mid Calder Institute Hall. Highland, Disco Tues 6.00pm - 7.00pm and Fri 6.00pm - 9.00pm. Various ages. Contact Heather 01501733054. Yoga Classes Masonic Hall Wednesdays afternoon class 1- 2.30pm and evening class 7.30 -9pm. Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115 www.wholebodybalance.co.uk

The Willows Playgroup School Lane Mid Calder. Children from 2 - 5 years (nappy changing facilities). Mon - Thurs 9 - 11 am. £5 per session (snack provided). Further information available from Karen on 01506 882832. Folk Club Meets every third Tuesday of the month 8pm at the “Tap Shop” The Midcalder Inn, Mid Calder Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Rainbows Wed night, Brownies Tues night, Guides Mon and Wed nights. To register please go to the Girl Guiding website, Parent’s sections. Mid Calder Baby & Toddler Group Institute Hall. Tuesdays 9am - 11am. £1.00 per parent/carer. New parents/carers, toddlers and babies welcome. For further information please email christiealldridge@hotmail.com Mid Calder Camera Club Institute Hall, Market Street Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www.mccc.org.uk or call Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616. Mid Calder Colts FC Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-calder-colts.org Contact Carole 883934 contact@mid-calder-colts.org. Choral Highlights Ladies’ Choir Kirk of Calder Rehearse Sun 11.45 -12.45pm and Wed 7.30 - 8.45pm Repertoire includes songs from Musical shows, Scottish songs, Religious and Pop music. Perform 2 concerts a year, one in May/ June and a Christmas concert in early December. All concert venues considered. New members very welcome, come and join us! Contact: John Rankine, Musical Director LLCM (TD) on 01506 880029 www.kirkofcalder.com (Church Organisations) Welcome Cafe Glenalmond Hall Every Tuesday 10am-12noon. This is a Fair Trade Cafe all proceeds of which to the Vine Trust in Peru. Do come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and some home baking with friends.

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POLBETH Polbeth W.R.I.