Welcome to March, when it can feel that the winter has more than outstayed its welcome and we grab onto every sign of spring! I love Francine’s approach to it in her Life Coaching column this month – we can’t change the weather but we can change the way we think about it! Joanne in her wine column is also hastening the approach of spring with some springtime sips to try.
We take a look at the River Almond this month in the feature on pages 8-9. We often publish walks to enjoy along different parts of the river and country park, so this time it’s a look at the river itself, its history and wildlife.
There is a wee mystery photo from the Seagull Trust in Ratho which the Trust would like some help solving, see page 10. And with both Wales and Ireland celebrating national saints days in March, the recipe feature looks at food from our Celtic neighbours.
I hope you enjoy the magazine this month. Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.
All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638
COMING BACK TO LIFE: OUR RIVER ALMOND
The River Almond, along with the Water of Leith and the Esk, was one of the main routes of incursion inland from the coast by Scandinavian and other settlers from around the 8th century, and as such had an important impact on the settlement of the Lothians centuries ago. “Almond” is an old Celtic word for “river”.
It’s hard to imagine the Almond as a navigable river nowadays for more than short lengths, as it has been very much changed by nature and, more significantly, by the various activities along its banks over the centuries. The industrial history of the central belt of Scotland can be traced in the form of numerous weirs, remains of mills and other riverside activities and for a long time the Almond had the dubious distinction of being one of the most polluted rivers in Scotland.
THE JOURNEY FROM SOURCE TO SEA
Rising at Hirst Hill, just north of Shotts (Lanarkshire), the Almond is joined in West Lothian by Breich Water at Seafield. Most of its catchment is in fact in West Lothian, where it flows past Whitburn, through Livingston and Mid Calder. Here, at the western end of Almondell Country Park, it is joined first by Murieston Water and then Linhouse Water via the “Linn Jaw”, natural falls three metres high. The river then passes over a weir where a Canal Feeder diverts water and carries it to the Union Canal three miles away at Lin’s Mill. After flowing under the Union Canal the river turns northwards, tumbles over a weir at Clifton Hall and is joined by the Brox Burn at Kirkliston. Just north of Edinburgh Airport it is joined by the Gogar Burn for the final stretch down to the Firth of Forth at Cramond. From source to sea the Almond is 28 miles long.
BONES!
A stroll along the Almond in the Almondell Country Park is very peaceful, but archaeological evidence suggests that at one time it was a site of violent conflict. The Almond was apparently an important boundary. It is not known definitively what the conflict was but it may have been when the Picts and Scots were defending against the Saxons as they moved up to the Forth. When Powies Path in Mid Calder was cut along the north bank of the Almond (centuries ago) a quantity of human bones, stone coffins and a small sword were found there.
The river was a source of power for various mills. The “West Mill” in Mid Calder, later named Wallace Mill (and after which the present Wallace Mill Gardens is named) was a grain mill which, according to a report in 1894, was “celebrated for the quality of its produce.” Flour and oatmeal produced here were sold as far afield as Glasgow, initially transported by horse-drawn vehicles and later via the Union Canal. There was a mill on this site from very ancient date, as there is a reference to “West Mylne of Calder” in 1590 in a list of tenants of the barony at the time. Another mill, the East Mill, stood at the
site of the present East Calder sewage works, and was also of very ancient date. It was in ruins by the late 19th century, but there is a reference to “Eist Miln of Calder” in the mid 16th century parish records. There was also a waulk mill (woollen cloth) and flax mills (cotton cloth) and bleaching in 18th century at various locations on the river, and forges and ironworks further upstream used the water to power hammers. New Calder Mill, about a mile further up the river from West Mill, was a paper mill that survived until much more recently, latterly producing cardboard for the packaging industry.
West Lothian’s oil shale and deep coal mining industries of the 19th and 20th centuries took a heavy toll on the River Almond. It is said that it ran “nearly black at times and oil and particles of coal dust had been seen.” From being a life-giving source allowing human settlement here, it was choking to death. The wildlife suffered and by 1884 angling on the river had ceased completely. The river was useless for agricultural or domestic purposes and it remained in this heavily polluted state for a long time, until the industries that polluted it fell into decline.
In recent decades, huge improvements to the water quality have been made by a partnership of organisations and councils, in recognition of the vital role a healthy river plays in a healthy community. A few years ago, The Forth Rivers Trust completed construction of the UK’s largest rock ramp on the Almond at Howden Weir, allowing Atlantic salmon and sea trout to return and to migrate upstream - a testament to how far the clean-up and rehabilitation process has come. Pollution from the defunct industries can still occasionally be a problem when the water level rises in abandoned pits and the polluted water is discharged, and the river still suffers from detergent pollution and run-off from the agricultural land. The East Calder sewage treatment plant was opened in 1969 to help deal with Livingston’s sewage needs, and treated effluent flows into the river under the Pipe Bridge. There are on-going concerns about sewage discharge in the river and various organisations working on continual improvement, including The River Almond Action Group.
WILDLIFE OF THE ALMOND
With the demise of mining and heavy industry, along with efforts to clean the river up, it is being repopulated by wildlife. There is a healthy population of brown trout, and Atlantic salmon and sea trout return every year. Stoneloach, minnows and stickleback also populate the Almond. Birds to be seen around the river banks include grey heron, dipper, comorant and the kingfisher if you are lucky. Increasing numbers of otter have been sighted in recent years. Leeches, midge larvae, freshwater shrimps, mayfly larvae can be found hiding under stones. Mallard ducks are common, and Daubenton’s bats take insects on the wing just above the surface of the water.
It’s easy to take for granted as it rushes past us on the way to the sea, but the Almond has been a vital part of the area for centuries - as an early transport route, a boundary between conflicting armies, a source of food, a source of power for local industry. It has suffered terrible pollution but now is being cleaned up and is once again a haven for wildlife and a recreational resource for us all to enjoy.
This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, Konect editor.
DO YOU KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THIS PHOTO?
This photo is from the archives of Seagull Trust Cruises in Ratho, who would like to draw on local knowledge to solve a mystery.
The photo originally came from the late Ronnie Rusack. Ronnie was owner of the Bridge Inn in Ratho and operated two restaurant barges on the Union Canal. He was a founder member and former Chairman of Seagull Trust Cruises.
The photograph shows a group of people leaving Ronnie's boat "Pride of the Union" at the aqueduct across the River Almond on the western outskirts of Edinburgh. The mystery is that the filename which Ronnie gave the photo is "KingSpain.jpg".
The man carrying the red lined coat resembles King Juan Carlos in the mid 1980s. The man in uniform looks like an equerry. Some of the people look Spanish and the uniform is Spanish.
There is no record of King Juan Carlos visiting Scotland. There was a short State visit to England in 1986.
It seems unlikely that this is the King of Spain but the group look important so who could they be?
There are few people alive who could have been involved. The young man leading (with the look of a Civil Servant) will be at least in his 70s now.
If you can shed any light on this photo, who the group is and why Ronnie would have called it the King of Spain, please contact editor@konect.scot
Billy Connelly famously said that there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes, and there can be no argument with that, if what we are talking about is stepping out into the rain in shorts and sandals or going out in winter chills.
But, the issues that so many have with adverse weather conditions has very little to do with what is going on in the sky above us and very much more to do with what’s happening within ourselves.
Although there are limited official statistics to tell us how many people are actually suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the link between grey skies and mood is clear and it’s no surprise that a rainy day can have a significant impact on our mood.
Going out in the rain, even wearing the right clothes, can dampen more than our spirits but there are some simple steps we can all take to change how we think about cold and damp weather. Sitting by a window in the daylight or wrapping up warm and getting out of doors for half an hour sounds simple but it is a really good place to start and even finding a calming soundtrack of falling rain to support our meditation could change our attitude to the rain falling on us as we walk.
Maybe we will always prefer sunny weather and blue skies but changing how we think about the winter and developing a new attitude is surely better than wishing months of the year away while waiting for spring.
The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk
Home Instead recently carried out research into people’s perception of dementia, revealing that 84% of people felt that more should be done to educate families about living with dementia.
In light of this, Home Instead have launched a dedicated YouTube channel ‘Home Truths’ designed to highlight the ‘real’ side of living with dementia. The channel features personal stories and helpful tips and advice to support people on the journey. Visit youtube.co.uk/homeinsteaduk or search ‘HomeTruthsDementia’ on social media.
Other findings from Home Instead’s research showed that:
• 39% thought dementia was a bigger threat than cancer.
• 38% were worried that a family member may have undiagnosed dementia.
• 64% of people thought home is under-utilised as a place to treat people with dementia.
• 45% said that looking after a family member with dementia meant they were unable to work as much as they used to.
• 52% said that they had less time to spend with their own children and partner because they were looking after a family member with dementia.
• 45% of people said that looking after a family member with dementia had left them struggling financially.
For more information or to read a full copy of the report, visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/newageing-index/
To find out more about the support that is available for families supporting a loved one with memory issues, contact Carers of West Lothian on 01506 448000.
The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian
Spring is in the air! Buds are bursting into bloom and the evenings are stretching out. The change is season invites us to swap our bold, fireside winter reds for something fresher and brighter. Spring is a time of renewal, and your wine glass should reflect that!
This springtime, think zesty, aromatic whites; perhaps an English Bacchus, bursting with elderflower and citrus, or a crisp Albariño with notes of sea salt and sunshine. Rosé season officially begins, with Provence-style pinks offering delicate strawberry and lime notes which are perfect for a picnic.
As temperatures start to rise, look out for light, juicy reds. I really like Fleurie from Beaujolais, it has gorgeous floral label and the wine has delicious notes of raspberry and very light tannins. Beaujolais and cool climate Pinot Noirs can be slightly chilled, making them delicious pairings with cold cuts of spring lamb or asparagus dishes.
Wine tasting in spring is an experience all its own. The fresh air sharpens your senses, making floral and fruity notes pop!
To celebrate the arrival of spring, I will be drinking a glass or two of Fiano di Sicilia, a white wine made on the island of Sicily. Fiano has a delicate floral nose, with a light perfume and bright citrus notes. The acidity is fresh and clean, and the wine perfectly pairs with grilled fish or seafood.
Spring is fleeting, but a glass of this will make it last just a little longer!
The monthly wine tasting column is contributed by Joanne Frette. Joanne lives in Juniper Green with her husband and three children. For wine recommendations, reviews and details of future tasting events, please go to swirlsipsocialise.com
Call Ian Mitchell now m 0780 678 7514 t 01506 203994
e mitch.i@hotmail.co.uk
At Turpie & Co, we provide three different options for homeowners who are considering selling their property. Each service is tailored depending on what stage you are at in the process of deciding whether to sell your property.
All of the services are free and come with no obligation to sell or to use our agency. They can offer invaluable advice when considering the sale of your largest asset. The information below should help you decide which valuation service is most suited to your needs.
ONLINE VALUATION - An ‘online’ or instant’ valuation is produced by various software platforms and provides an estimated valuation figure by using collated data of historic sales within your postcode area, and applying algorithms which take into account inflation as well as the prices of currently advertised properties. This in-turn produces an estimated valuation range for your property. These tools are often not accurate when compared with the valuation figures that an agent would provide a homeowner at an in-person valuation appointment.
Probable accuracy range between £50k to £100k depending on the price bracket your property falls into
DESKTOP OR VIRTUAL VALUATION - A ‘desktop’ or ‘virtual’ valuation is conducted via a pre-arranged telephone appointment or virtual meeting such as ‘Teams’ or ‘Zoom’. The agent will carry out the same research as they would for a physical (in-person) appointment, however they wouldn’t visit your property so the advice, guidance and recommendations would be based on their individual and company experience and track record of similar sales
in the area. A desktop valuation can be useful when you are planning to sell in the coming 3-6 months and are gathering information to allow you to set a realistic and affordable budget for your onward move etc. The desktop valuation is typically followed up by a physical in-person valuation when you are within 4 weeks of being ready to list your property for sale.
Probable accuracy range between £25k to £50k depending on the price bracket your property falls into
IN-PERSON VALUATION - This is a traditional physical appointment where the agent visits you at your property. The agent will carry out the same pre-meeting research as with the Desktop valuation, however will be able to provide a more comprehensive survey and appraisal of your home and provide more specific and bespoke recommendations on how to market your property and a more accurate valuation. This will include estimated Home Report value and anticipated selling price (these figures can often be quite different depending on the property, location and current market conditions)
An accuracy of within approximately £10k of the anticipated HR value with estimate of potential upside selling price (i.e. anticipated selling price - different from predicted HR value)
If you are thinking about selling your property in the coming months, please contact us to discuss which valuation option is right for you.
SCANSCANSCANMEME ME SCAN ME
The Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
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GET AN INSTANT ONLINE VALUATION by scanning the QR code is WORTH in 60 seconds
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with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
BOOK A TELEPHONE OR VIRTUAL DESKTOP VALUATION with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
BOOK A TELEPHONE OR VIRTUAL DESKTOP VALUATION
with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
MARCH CROSSWORD
The crossword solution will be published in the April edition of Konect. See p33 for this month’s Sudoku.
DOWN: 1. Wealthy (4), 2. Sculpture (6), 3. Motors (7), 4. Protrude (5), 5. Accompany (6), 6. Achievable (8), 11. Slinging (8), 13. Dicken’s character (7), 15. Type of gun (6), 17. Presume (6), 18. Mixes (5), 21. Zero (4).
Kestrels have been a bit of a sore spot for me when it comes to photographing them until recently. I’ve watched them hovering over a field, using their excellent eyesight to spot a mouse or vole scurrying around in the grass.
They can see in ultraviolet light, which allows them to see the urine trails around rodent burrows. They’re excellent hunters, and I watched this one stoop down from the tallest tree to grab this vole. Whilst they hover, they keep their head perfectly still. It’s well worth watching a video of it as it’s quite incredible to see.
I’ve been lucky to have a pair hunting not far from my house recently. They were very confiding, allowing me to walk under them as they perched on an overhead wire, where usually they’ve been quite distant.
I’m not one for naming wild animals but my husband has christened this one Kevin. You can tell it’s a male because it’s got a grey head, whereas the female is generally brown all over. They’re beautiful little birds and much like the foxes I saw last year, they come with a certain sense of nostalgia
as they featured heavily in the Animals of Farthing Wood.
It’s always enjoyable coming across wildlife like this in such an urban environment and though I hope they might nest over the summer, it’s unlikely given it’s quite busy but you never know.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
Calm down!! In March we start getting requests for summer bedding plants like the petunias and tuberous begonias in this window box.
But they are too tender to go outside until late April, so resist buying them if you see them at the supermarket. Instead there are lots of tougher plants like pansies, violas and Senetti to cheer up your pots until the tender summer plants can start to fill your garden.
Tuberous Begonias, like these yellow ones, with their great range of colours, have become very popular in recent years, probably since busy lizzies became vulnerable to the dreaded busy lizzie downy mildew. Resistant strains of busy lizzies are now fighting back but we have fallen in love with the begonias because they perform so well in our gardens, in borders and pots. There has been so much interbreeding of begonias that has given us a great range
of habits and colours, with different leaf colours as well.
If you have some of the unplanted hairy tubers you can start them off in little pots now but you must have a warm light space to grow them on until late April when you can start putting them outside. If you can’t offer them this protection just wait until they are available in garden centres at the end of April. They prefer not to be in full sun, enjoy regular watering and feeding and generally need no more attention, apart from your attention to sit back and enjoy their displays.
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
MARCH SUDOKU
The crossword puzzle can be found on page 22. See page 37 for solutions.
The UK is facing a challenging economic outlook in 2025, with concerns of a recession growing. As we approach the financial year end on 5th April, several key changes from the October 2024 budget could impact your finances.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT): From April 2025, the lower CGT rate increases from 10% to 18%, and the higher rate from 20% to 24%.
Employer National Insurance: NICs increase by 1.2% to 15%, and the threshold drops from £9,100 to £5,000, meaning more earnings are subject to contributions.
Private School Fees: From January 2025, VAT will be applied to private school fees, increasing costs for many families.
Income Tax Thresholds: frozen until 2028, pulling more people into higher tax brackets as wages rise.
Tax Efficient Savings: Using your £20,000 ISA allowance, before the financial year end, allows for tax efficient saving. Also, pension contributions are very tax-efficient, due to tax relief and possible employer top-ups.
Salary Sacrifice: If available, sacrificing part of your salary for pensions or benefits can reduce your taxable income and National Insurance bill.
With these changes ahead, reviewing your finances before the tax year ends is advisable. The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and the value may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.
The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.
The Money Matters column is contributed by Lucy Logan. Lucy lives in Calderwood and is the Principal of Calderwood Financial, an Associate Partner Practice of St. James’s Place.
SAT 1ST MARCH & SAT 5TH APRIL
Friends of Almondell Country Park
Volunteering session
The Friends of Almondell's monthly practical project meeting. Volunteer group helping to conserve and maintain the 220 acre Almondell & Calderwood Country Park including the Oakbank extension. We meet on the first Saturday of the month from 10.00am until 12.00pm and always welcome new volunteers. Please get in touch by contacting the Ranger Service on 01506 882254, or email almondell&calderwood@ westlothian.gov.uk to find out more about getting involved. Facebook: Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park. Please book a space (free of charge) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements: www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/west-lothiancouncil-ranger-service-60064115123 Email: rangerservice@westlothian.gov.uk
WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH
Older People Providers Fayre Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Stalls from the various providers, as well as a schedule of talks on a variety of topics. FREE ENTRY Doors open 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm
SUNDAY 9TH MARCH
Ramble and Chat
Join Almond Valley Nature Action for a gentle walk around Bellsquarry Wood in Livingston, from 2.00pm - 4.00pm. We will be sharing free wildflower seeds to participants, to help pollinators at home. More information on avnatureaction.wordpress.com/events and on our social media.
SATURDAY 15TH MARCH
Strictly Irish Dancers
Strictly Irish Dancers invite you to their fundraising St Patrick’s Day Concert for a fun evening of Irish dance, music and song. Canon Hoban Hall, Broxburn. Doors open 7.00pm. Please contact Margaret 07865 492137 or email strictlyirish@hotmail.com for tickets and info.
FRIDAY 28TH MARCH
The 2025 Spring Concert From the Bathgate Concert Orchestra. Conductor Steven Meikle. ENTRY BY DONATION, 7.30pm, Winchburgh Parish Church, 1 Millgate, EH52 6TT.
SATURDAY 29TH MARCH
BeeWalk
Join Almond Valley Nature Action in Livingston Village Park at 11am to help spot, identify and record bumblebees. No experience or knowledge required, participants will be given identification guide and free wildflower seeds to help pollinators at home. More information on avnatureaction.wordpress.com
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOTFOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
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EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
British animation staples Wallace and Gromit returned to our television sets this Christmas with their latest caper, marking the first time the buddying duo have starred in a direct sequel.
While the previous films reference each other, this film continues the plot of the Wrong Trousers (debatably one of the best pieces of animation ever) as Feathers McGraw returns to steal the blue diamond yet again. Aardman Animation’s previous film, Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, was not my cup of tea, but Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance
Most Fowl is a return to form for the studio. It features their unique and always funny sense of humour and clever action set pieces that push the limits of stop motion animation. Gromit is undeniably my favourite character in all of media; his facial expressions bring so much depth and emotion to a character that never barks, let alone talks, and the fact he can stand Wallace even after all these years is a testament to how much free accommodation will make up for his shortfalls. That is honestly my only criticism of this film - as per every previous film, that status quo ultimately resets upon the introduction and similar antics are brought to the forefront. Honestly, how many times do we have to see Wallace not believe Gromit? However, when Feathers McGraw and Gromit begin the chase scene on the canal boats, all is forgiven, and you fall back in love with these characters. A truly scrumptious film.
Available to stream on
The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.
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Two national saints days occur in March: St David of Wales and St Patrick of Ireland. It’s interesting to consider what traditional foods are connected with Scotland’s neighbouring Celtic countries. Both the political and social history and climate of Wales and Ireland have had huge influence on the crops and cooking of the people of these two lands.
Roman imports never influenced Ireland so food was limited to what flourished on this mild, Atlantic-weathered landscape. Oats, wheat and rye, a little later peas and beans, and then dairy cattle hence milk, butter and cheese became the staples and were very important exports. By the 16th century potatoes arrived, changing the habits and the diet of the pre-industrial population and in time led to the disastrous reliance on this one crop, causing the famine and massive depopulation of the whole island in the 19th century.
Wales is more mountainous and has poorer soils and a harsher climate than Ireland; but it has land links with England and became heavily industrialised in the 19th century. However, people in the two countries had similar basic cooking utensils which led to similarities in
Ingredients:
• 1kg potatoes. Maris Piper or King Edwards are best
• 100g butter
• Salt, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, a little oil
Method:
1. Peel the potatoes if you prefer but it is not necessary.
2. Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little till you can handle them.
foods. These were a flat griddle and a three legged cooking pot which stood in the fire on the hearth. Hence stews, soups, flatbreads, cheese, autumn fruit and nuts with the addition of the occasional luxury of meat or game became the cuisine of both countries.
Potato cakes, leek soup, Cawl, Bara Brith and Laver bread (nori seaweed) are the traditional foods of Wales. The Irish are proud of their Irish stew, soda breads, pancakes, beer, corned beef (salt beef) champ, Boxty (potato bread), colcannon (bubble and squeak) and cheeses.
All these dishes are good to eat while the days are short and not too warm. They are comfort food at its best and quickest, using ingredients most people have to hand and do not take a great deal of work - just slow, gentle cooking.
3. Oil or well-butter an oven proof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or some dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish. Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down.
4. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180o, for 1¼ to 1½ hours. Turn out to serve.
5. Serve with colds meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.
Leeks are the national symbol of Wales and are worn in the headgear of the armed forces on St David’s Day. They are good eating at this time of the year.
2. Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook the potatoes for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little till you can handle them.
Ingredients:
• 3 or 4 leeks sliced
• 1 onion finely chopped
• Chicken breast cut in 4 or 5 pieces
• 3 or 4 rashers bacon cut small
• 75g butter or some oil
• 2 tablespoons plain flour
• 3/4 pint milk, or mix of milk and chicken stock.
• Salt, pepper chopped fresh coriander, chives or parsley.
Method:
1. Peel the potatoes if you prefer but it is not
It’s a brave person to offer a recipe for this, as with most traditional food every family has its own way of doing it!
Ingredients:
• 1kg neck of mutton chops, chump chops or shoulder of lamb
• 500-750g potatoes
• 3 or 4 onions chopped
• 100g pearl barley
3. Oil or well-butter an oven proof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or some dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish. Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down.
4. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180o, for 1¼ to 1½ hours. Turn out to serve.
5. Serve with colds meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding.
• Depending on the time of year and family tradition: carrots, cabbage, kale, turnip, swede or parsnips
Method:
1. Brown the meat in a little oil (not traditional), put in an ovenproof casserole dish and layer up on top whichever other vegetables you fancy.
2. Brown the onion in the same oil, then add it to the meat. Add the barley and seasoning. Some say white pepper is needed. Add water to just cover the contents of the casserole.
3. Slice the potatoes and layer on top to make a lid. Bake in a medium oven for 2 hours or till the meat is very tender and the potatoes are brown and crispy.
This recipe and food notes were contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
FORGET-ME-NOT CAFE - Run by Alzheimer Scotland. A relaxed informal meeting place that gives people living with dementia, their carers, people who may have concerns about their memory or just want to a chance to meet others in a similar situation. East Calder Parish Church Hall, EH53 0HF, Last Thursday of the month, 10.00am – 11.30am. E: westlothianservices@alzscot.org T: 01506 533108
GIRLGUIDING - Girlguides have a range of groups from age 4-14. All girls are welcome to join in, learn life skills, do crafts, earn badges and go on adventures. Visit girlguiding.org.uk for times and days available across West Lothian.
MID CALDER COMMUNITY
HUB - Every Thursday 12 till 2.00pm. Institute Hall (Community Centre) Mid Calder. We have free teas and coffee along with cake and biscuits together with a warm welcome and friendly chat. Open to all. We look forward to seeing you soon. Any questions just pop in to see us.
MID CALDER WOMEN’S GROUP - Mid Calder Women’s Group would like to welcome new members. We are a group aged 60+ who meet each Monday at the Institute Hall, Mid Calder, from 12.45pm until 3pm. Cost per week is £3/member. We organise various activities including, games, quizzes, bingo, well being exercises and regular talks from external speakers and entertainers. We also arrange coach trips to places of interest. Interested? Please contact Jackie on 01506 883205
SUKHA YOGA - 'Sukha' means happiness, pleasure, ease or
bliss. If any or all appeal to you come along to yoga sessions. Every Wednesday in Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. Now two sessions availablechoose either 6.00pm -7.15 pm or 7.15pm - 8.30pm. Contact me for more info or to book. T: 07767 777044 E: ruth@sukha.co.uk
MID CALDER BABY & TODDLER GROUP - Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9am11.30 am in The Institute Hall Mid Calder. We have a huge toy selection, offer arts and crafts and supply a small snack. Adults can have a hot drink and a chat whilst the children play happily. Session costs are £1 for under 1s and £2 for over 1s. Follow us on Facebook or email: midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com for further details
EAST CALDER PLAYGROUP
- Mon-Fri 9.00-11.00am for 2-3 year olds @ The Dave King Partnership Centre. Lots of fun activities while learning through play. Stories, songs, craft, small world, sand, water, outdoor fun & lots more. For more information call /text 07748053340 or pop in and see us.
SINGERGIE CHOIR - Singergie is a totally free, singing for fun choir with 2 locations in West Lothian. MONDAYS: 7.009.00pm, The Village, Oakbank Road, East Calder. FRIDAYS: 10.00am – 12noon, East Calder Bowling Club. No auditions, no fees, no stress. Good songs, easy harmonies, friendship and fun. And you get a cuppa thrown in too. Won’t cost you a penny. No need to book, just turn up and you’ll be made very welcome.
WEST LOTHIAN LITTER PICKERS - We’re a group of over 3000 West Lothian residents, so if you want to help clean up your community, like we do, come join the group on Facebook “West Lothian Litter Pickers(Act Local Think Global)”. We organise group litter picks or put you in touch with a buddy in your area to get you started. We can even provide you with equipment at no cost to you.
EAST CALDER NEEDLECRAFT CLUB - We are back….We meet every Thursday evening from 6.30pm - 9pm at the Dave King Partnership Centre, East Calder. All crafts are catered for whether you are a beginner or experienced in your favourite craft, we want to welcome you to our group. Why not give us a try? Call 01506 882699 for more information.
EAST CALDER OVER 50s CLUB - Held in The Dave King Community Centre, Main Street, East Calder every Wednesday from 1.30-3.30pm (SeptemberMay) Please contact Gillian on 07415309886 for further details.
POTTER AROUND AT POTTER AROUND - Potter Around is a local pottery and ceramic painting studio based in Kirknewton. We offer taster sessions on the potter’s wheel for ages 5+. We also do clay imprints – a great memento to keep forever and we have a huge range of pre-made ceramics which are great for handprints, but also for people of all ages to paint. Our shop sells gorgeous handmade gifts including pottery and jewellery. Check our website for details: www.potteraround.co.uk
EAST CALDER SCOUT
GROUP - Providing fun and exciting scouting programmes for children in the local area, from age 6 upwards. We meet on a Monday or Tuesday, depending on the child’s age. Adults interested in becoming leaders will be made very welcome. We also hire the scout hall for one off occasions or for other groups to use, to benefit the local community. Find out more at our website: www.eastcalderscouts.uk
SLIMMING WORLD - East Calder Bowling Club, 255 Main Street, East Calder. Tuesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30pm, Wednesdays 9.30 & 11.30am and at Geddes House, Livingston, EH54 6GU on Thursdays 9.30. New and returning members always welcome. Contact Sue: 07803 520781
CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS
LADIES' CHOIR - Would you like to join in with some fun at our friendly community choir? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30 pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of materials from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. We’d love to welcome singers from across West Lothian. To find out more or to join us please contact John Rankine at lineone.net
SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD
CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB
Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts.coordinator@ gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.
- Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.308.45pm Monday. Ante-natal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.007.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.45-11.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston. T: 07810 824 195 E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk W: Facebook
CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN
- Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended –both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T: 01506 448000
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- A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centrecall to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk
WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.
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Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West
NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE WWW.KONECT.SCOT FOR INFORMATION.
