DECEMBER 2017
bathgate
Christmas Technology Survival Guide Plus local Walk: Muiravonside businesses, XMAS ! community Trail & Events information OFFERS & more! HEALTH & BEAUTY The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen
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PAGE 42
FIVE SISTERS ZOO ILLUMINATIONS,
M ESSA G E FRO M TH E ED I T O R
W
elcome to the December edition of Konect for Bathgate. If for you the end of the year involves lots of shopping, organising and jobs around the house, you’ll find all you need within the pages of this magazine – reduce your stress by picking one thing that you would normally do yourself and getting a local business to do it for you instead. A crisp late autumn/early winter day is a wonderful time to get out in the woods for a walk. Our walk feature this month takes you up to Muiravonside Country Park, which besides being a great place to go with the kids any time of the year, has a programme of Christmas events, see pages 38-39 for details This is a joint December/January issue as we don’t produce a magazine for January. We’d like to wish all readers and local businesses a great holiday season, and thanks for supporting Konect this year!
FEATURES Xmas Technology Survival Guide Garden Project Property Matters Health & Beauty Music Review Recipe & Food Notes Walk Feature Parents in West Lothian Visit West Lothian
8 18 20 26 33 34 38 41 42
COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku
40
COMMUNITY What’s On Clubs & Classes
43 43
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
46
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk ADVERT BOOKING DEADLINE: 10th of the month prior to print. ARTWORK/COPY DEADLINE: 13th of the month prior to print.
Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk
Cover Image: Tis the season! Wishing all our readers a wonderful Christmas
The Konect Directory is delivered to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen. Copies are also left at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.
/KonectDirectory
@KonectDirectory
KONECT BATHGATE | 3
The Foundry @ Christmas
WE ARE NOW TAKING BOOKINGS! Menu coming soon!
@thefoundrybar Alternatively, please contact a member of staff to discuss further details on
01506 636700
when spend minimum £20 (Offer from 01.01.18 - 12.02.18) *bring the voucher along with you*
Seasons Greetings & Happy New Year to all our customers! Start planning your Christmas celebrations now & book your table by calling us or visit: www.heritageindian.com Our Christmas Menu is available from 1st December 2017 till 7th January 2018 view our menu at www.heritageindian.com/christmas Christmas Day Open - 12.00pm - 8.00pm Christmas Day Special Price £24.95 (non veg) | £19.95 (veg) Per Person A La Carte Menu also available
Why not try our popular Lunch Menu or Sunday Buffet Heritage Special Lunch Thali Set or Business Lunch Menu Served 12pm - 2pm Thali Lunch served with a Starter, Main Dish & Side Order of Vegetables, Rice & Salad in one plate followed by Tea/Coffee. Business Lunch served with a separate Starter, Main Dish, Rice or Bread followed by Tea/Coffee.
from £6.95
14-16 North Bridge Street, Bathgate, EH48 4PS T: 01506 653012 / 01506 238829 www.heritageindian.com
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Central Scotland's One Stop Home Central Scotland's One Stop Home Improvement Design Centre Improvement Design Centre
APRIL OFFER: 6 Windows for £2995.00 (fully fitted) Roofline Maximum size, width + height, of each window combined 3500mm, includes standard finish T&C’s apply, offer is based on white windows and a maximum 7 openers.
COMING SOON Bespoke Garden Rooms
KONECT BATHGATE | 5
01501 763428 Boiler Service | Repairs | Replacement Gas. Oil. LPG.
info@wllg.co.uk www.wllg.co.uk
01506 536442
LOCAL, RELIABLE & PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE
6 | KONECT BATHGATE
We repair Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Ovens, Dishwashers and Washer Dryers
0772 965 1692
info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook
GIFTS | ACCESSORIES | CUSTOM DESIGN T: 18 - 20 Academy Street, BATHGATE, EH48 1DX
01506 650 950
www.thekiltstudio.co.uk KONECT BATHGATE | 7
PlayStation Move
SEASONAL
’Tis the season to stock up on batteries There are very few people whose Christmases won’t involve some kind of technology: not just presents, although even the simplest toys seem to come packed with tech these days. You might use technology to provide festive music, or to stream a crackling log fire from Netflix. Here’s how to make sure technology doesn’t trip you up during the festive season. Check what kind of batteries the children’s toys will need. Having a good stock of rechargeable AA and AAA batteries (and a charger!) covers most eventualities, but some manufacturers like to keep you on your toes by demanding LR44s or CR2032s or other arcane options. Don’t leave it to the last minute: relatively uncommon batteries can be hard to find at short notice, especially if you’re reliant on small shops. Look out your sharp scissors and a small Phillips cross-head screwdriver too: electronic items often come in plastic packaging that’s hard to get into, while larger toys can be secured to their packaging with screws or cable ties. Not every device that needs a charger comes with one so you might need to get additional chargers or adaptors. Check first, though: the charger you need for, say, a new Nokia is the same as for a Kindle or PlayStation 4 controller. If some of your gadget gifts are pre-owned something that can save you a great deal of money - check that the batteries still hold a charge, because batteries have a finite lifespan. For example, many PlayStation Move controllers being sold as-new on eBay have been sitting in warehouses for so long that their rechargeable batteries no longer hold a charge, even though they 8 | KONECT BATHGATE
are unused. Replacement batteries are easy to get, but not on Christmas Day. If Santa’s bringing a games console, it’s a very good idea to connect it to your broadband well in advance: there’s nothing more dispiriting on Christmas Day than having to wait hours for a system update to download before you can play anything - especially if your broadband has slowed to a crawl because everybody else in the street is trying to do the same thing. And if you’re planning a bit of multi-player gaming with make sure you have enough controllers. It’s a similar story with computers, tablets and smartphones: there have often been quite significant system software updates since they were made. There’s less pressure than with consoles, though, because while consoles tend to be quite huffy - Xbox Ones and PS4s often refuse to let you use online features until you’ve updated your system software - computers and mobile devices don’t demand you drop everything. Did we say “drop”? Unfortunately one of the problems with technology as presents is that some gadgets are eminently breakable. It’s worth checking if your home insurance or current account protects items such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops or TVs from accidental damage (and that the excess doesn’t make such coverage pointless) - and with mobile devices for children it’s an even better idea to put their gadget in a sturdy, scratchand impact-resistant case. That way you can be confident of a smashing time without smashing anything expensive.
Best in Scotland 2013, 2015 & 2016
GIF
T V O
UC The p HE RS erfect gift fo loved r your ones this X mas
RTY NIGHTS - Shows start For the 10pm finest authentic Indian cuisine
open until 1am details and Silver Award 2009-2012
Finalist
AA Rosette 2010/2011/2012
& 9th Dec ury tribute Fri 15th Dec uble XMAS tribute Sat 16th Dec PARTY NIGHTS LIVE ACTS - Shows start 10pm w Fri 22nd Dec Bar Karma open until 1am Call for more23rd detailsDec and Tribute Sat reservations Winner 2015, 2016 & 2017
Best in Scotland 2013, 2015 & 2016
Gary Greig 8th & 9th Dec Freddie Mercury tribute Fri 15th Dec Keri Taylor double tribute Sat 16th Dec The Diva Show Fri 22nd Dec Neil Diamond Tribute Sat 23rd Dec
01501 74
024 7 da st Main St, Whitburn, EH4701501 0QR 744 | Open 154 West Main St, Whitburn, EH47 0QR | Open 7 days from 5pm email: karmawhitburn@yahoo.co.uk email: karmawhitburn@ KONECT BATHGATE | 9
FRIDAY 2 Course Meal in YOLO Bar 2 Hours Karaoke Includes entry into ENVI £20.00 per head
SATURDAY 2 Course Meal in YOLO Bar 2 Hours Karaoke Includes entry into ENVI £25.00 per head
FRIDAY 2 Course Meal in YOLO Bar FRIDAY 2 Hours 2 Course MealKaraoke in YOLO Bar Includes entry into ENVI 2 Hours Karaoke £20.00 per headENVI Includes entry into
SATURDAY 2 Course Meal in YOLO Bar SATURDAY 2 Hours 2 Course MealKaraoke in YOLO Bar Includes entry into ENVI 2 Hours Karaoke £25.00 per headENVI Includes entry into
£20.00 per head
£25.00 per head
10 | KONECT BATHGATE
KONECT BATHGATE | 11
12 | KONECT BATHGATE
KONECT BATHGATE | 13
% W 10 8 O N ave 201 K O d s ad BO an ect 8 n 01 on r2 ek fo uot q
We go that extra mile! We provide luxury 3, 4 and 6 berth Bailey motorhomes to hire for 4 days, 4 weeks and everything in between.
All our motorhomes come fully equipped with everything you will need in order to have a fantastic motorhome holiday. We also provide a wide range of optional extras including mountain bikes, silent generators, gas barbeques, hampers and so much more.
All our motorhomes are the very latest top of the range 2017 or 2018 models.
See our website for full details: www.motorhomehire-scotland.co.uk
01506 243 111
5a Houston Mains, Dechmont, West Lothian EH52 6JU
Livery Street Bathgate EH48 4HS
Winter Service + MOT
£120
with this voucher.
Expires 31st March 2018
ACE EXHAUSTS & TYRES 01506 630 694 At Ace Exhausts and Tyres we have over 28 years experience looking after people and their cars. From our fully equipped garage in Bathgate, with our time served mechanics at Ace we offer a wide range of services for cars from M.O.T’s, Servicing, Tyres, Exhausts, Timing Belts, 4 Wheel Laser Alignment, Coil Springs, Engine Diagnostics and much more.
www.aceexhaustsandtyres.co.uk
16 | KONECT BATHGATE
Opening Times Mon-Fri : 8.30am to 5.00pm Sat : 8.30am to 12.30pm
3 Property Conversion 3 Lighting Solutions 3 Plumbing & Heating 3 Electrical Services 3 Kitchen Specialist 3 Bathroom Specialist
3 Fencing & Decking 3 All Trades 3 Real Wood & Laminate Flooring 3 Floor & Wall Tiling 3 Plastering
3 Locksmiths Services 3 UPVC Windows / Doors / Roofline 3 Roofing Works 3 Bathgate Based Company 3 Fully Insured
NO PAYMENT UNTIL FULLY SATISFIED - ALL WORK GUARANTEED
01506 651205
Tel: Mob: Email: morgan@domesticjoinery.com
07917 125498
www.domesticjoinery.com
REGISTER
171502
KONECT BATHGATE | 17
GARDENING PROJECT
USE YOUR GARDEN PLANTS TO MAKE A
Festive Wreath
At Christmas it’s traditional to decorate our homes with a wreath whose unbroken circle links the past to the present and on into the future – a lovely sentiment for Christmas which is the time when old and young family and friends come together. If you use a wettable floral foam wreath you can keep your wreath fresh using living foliage from your garden. Traditionally we might have hung it on the door, but you can sit it on a table inside or outside. Using evergreen leaves snipped off your garden shrubs is very attractive but it also reminds us of the days gone by when evergreen branches were brought indoors to remind folk
that Spring and new life would eventually come after the cold dark days of Winter. Once you’ve wet your wreath ring start pushing in short sprigs of foliage, working systematically around the ring. Keep the circle symmetrical and once you have covered most of the ring you can start adding some contrasting coloured leaves. Just remember after you’ve snipped off your bits and pieces from the garden, if you aren’t the main gardener, the gardeners shouldn’t be able to spot from where they have been snipped!
Festive Wreath The gardening project is contributed by New Hopetoun Gardens. Pick up more of their weekend garden projects from the garden centre.
Find the perfect gifts for all your family and friends! Our award winning giftshop is packed full of the most unusual and wonderful gifts. Also we have a great selection of houseplants to bring style and health to any home. The Orangery tearoom is a lovely place to meet up with friends this season. New Hopetoun Gardens by Winchburgh, West Lothian, EH52 6QZ t 01506 834433 www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk
18 | KONECT BATHGATE
s
ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Regular Garden Maintenance and Landscaping Grass cutting, turfing, paving, patios, driveways, mono blocking & fencing
Local, reliable, professional
ESTABLISHED 1985
Call Ryan: 07723 587389 or Email: ryantosney@live.co.uk Qualified in all aspects of painting, decorating & plastering ■ internal plastering ■ external/internal painting & decorating ■ ceiling / wall replacement ■ coving All estimates free, insurance quotes welcome Established 1985 3 Turner Street, Bathgate, EH48 4AR Tel 01506 634056, 01506 799840 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk
FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING REQUIREMENTS: Interior and Exterior Paperhanging Coving Plastering Free estimates
Tel: 07585 509 811 Email: manicstpainters@hotmail.com 71 Marjoribanks St, Bathgate, EH48 1AL
KONECT BATHGATE | 19
PROPERTY MATTERS
Be the first to know! REGISTER DIRECT
I’m looking for an old mansion that has a hidden underground cave filled with high-tech crime fighting gadgets.
There’s no question about it, buyers visit Rightmove and Zoopla because they provide easily-searched access to properties currently available for sale. Or do they? Certainly property portals are efficient and estate agents have embraced them for many years as being an important addition to their marketing toolbox. On the surface, people no longer apparently need to register with an estate agent when looking for a property. However, those buyers who do register directly, tend to find they are offered properties before they appear on the portals.
you might otherwise have missed. Additionally, because so many buyers register through the portals, by registering directly with agents you are demonstrating your commitment to buying in a specific area and you are more likely to be regarded as a viable and legitimate purchaser. This puts you in pole position to hear about opportunities to view properties as soon as they become available, often ahead of other buyers.
An increasing proportion of property sellers engage Estate Agents to market their home using more discrete marketing methods than overt portal or other advertising exposure. There are several reasons for this – maybe they want to test the market or they have not yet announced the move to their friends and family. Perhaps they simply don’t want to risk overexposing their property and want to keep it exclusive, available only to pre-qualified buyers that their estate agent has personally vetted.
Sometimes it’s the counterintuitive approach that pays off! So if you’re thinking of buying in 2018, why not register directly with agents who cover the areas that you are searching for property ahead of the seasonal flood of new properties coming to the market immediately after the festive period.
As a buyer, by registering directly with an estate agent you therefore put yourself at an advantage in terms of access to unexpected properties that 20 | KONECT BATHGATE
The monthly 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.
We don’t take a penny
from you until we have sold your house. No Sale, No Fee.* For your FREE valuation, simply telephone 01506 655183** or visit your-move.co.uk/nosalenofee
* Terms & conditions apply. See your-move.co.uk/nosalenofee for full terms and conditions. ** Calls may be recorded and /or monitored for training and/or data protection purposes. YOUR MOVE is a trading name of your-move.co.uk Limited, registered in England at Newcastle House, Albany Court, Newcastle Business Park, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 7YB (number 01864469).
22 | KONECT BATHGATE
EARA748-BATHGATE 07/2017
It pays to be with Your Move.
Linlithgow Loch, West Lothian. 55.980280°N, -3.5973411°W
sell with no upfront marketing costs Sell your home with Aberdein Considine’s West Lothian property experts and pay no upfront marketing costs until your property is sold. When navigating the property market, let us be your map and compass. Book a free valuation today on 01506 420800 or visit aberdeinconsidine.com
we know how the land lies www.aberdeinconsidine.com
Home-Start West Lothian Cameron House, 13a Fairbairn Road, Livingston
01506 415755
www.homestartwl.org.uk
Home-Start West Lothian has a proven track record of providing quality support and friendship to vulnerable families with very young children in their own homes and communities through volunteer befriending.
We seek people who understand how difficult it is to be a parent and can spare 2 or 3 hours per week to support a local family We are also looking for volunteers to help in our new Charity Shop in Whitburn. If you are interested in this, please call the shop directly on 01501 229073 Training and on-going support are provided, travel expenses paid
The next training course for home-visiting volunteers will start in February 2018 (date & time tbc) It runs for 8 weeks, 3 hours/week.
For an informal discussion, an application pack or to ask about any other volunteering opportunities with us, please call Carol-Anne Fordyce on 01506 415755 or e-mail coordinator@homestartwl.org.uk
Home-Start West Lothian is committed to equal opporunities PVG Scheme membership is required and we operate a Safer Recruitment Policy Scottish Charity No SC 029770 Company limited by Guarantee 280852
24 | KONECT BATHGATE
F F O F % O 110 0% KonneeccF tt th o i K ine w w ithagaz zinte! m g mascao un unt! i d d isco M17 ote: K Qu KM17 Quote:
•• •• •• ••
Window, Window, door door and and conservatory conservatory repairs repairs Solid and glass conservatory Solid and glass conservatory roof roof upgrades upgrades Conservatory Climate Control units Conservatory Climate Control units Secondary Secondary Glazing Glazing
0800 0800 977 977 8800 8800 || crsmith.co.uk/fix crsmith.co.uk/fix *Supercedes all other offers. Only valid when presented to technical assessor at point of sale. Minimum order value of £100 after discount applied. FIX from CR Smith reserves the right to *Supercedes all otherthe offers. Only in valid presented to technical assessor at pointCR of Smith sale. Minimum order value of £100 after discount CR applied. from CR Smith the right improve and amend products thiswhen publication, without prior notice. © Copyright 04/17. Registered in Scotland No. SC51530 Smith,FIX Gardeners Street,reserves Dunfermline, KY12to0RN. improve and amend the products in this publication, without prior notice. © Copyright CR Smith 04/17. Registered in Scotland No. SC51530 CR Smith, Gardeners Street, Dunfermline, KY12 0RN.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Should we follow the rules?? As we move towards the new year we start to feel the urge for change and every year I find myself chatting to clients that worry they shouldn’t wear their hair a certain length when they reach a certain age or that their hair colour is ‘too young’ for them and I’ve been thinking about this for a while. I truly believe that the sexiest thing about a person is confidence. So for example if I have a client in her 70s with long hair should I suggest cutting it off to ‘follow the rules’? I actually don’t think so. I think we should embrace the things that make us feel good about ourselves. It’s about time we owned our style, and although I will always recommend a style that is suitable, flattering and well done, I need to take in to consideration personality and what makes that person feel confident. Don’t cut your hair short because you’ve reached a certain age and that’s what the world tells you to do; cut your hair short because you want to and because it will make you feel more stylish and more confident. The same goes for colour - a good stylist will always recommend things to suit your skin tone and your hair type but should always keep in mind the maintenance of a colour, making it work with your lifestyle and most importantly your personality. If you feel confident it can change how you hold yourself and how your mood is day to day. I suppose what I’m saying is don’t let ‘the rules’ take away your sparkle: embrace your style and do what makes you feel your best.
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk
26 | KONECT BATHGATE
There are important reasons for taking care to choose what we focus on in our minds: the 'reticular activating system' will cause us to notice in our environment things which match what we're thinking about; the 'negativity bias' we naturally have as mammals which once faced frequent danger makes us notice things which could be harmful; and whatever we focus on creates neurochemistry - which makes us feel sad ... or anxious ... or whatever feeling matches that thought. Also, we have a sort of internal sat-nav or navigation system within our brain, which moves us towards the goals we set ... or not. Without goals, this 'habit organ' just does the same thing over and over. And even when we reach a point when we're determined to make changes, sometimes - like the foundations of a house with an unseen but crucial wobble - unconscious, limiting beliefs ruin our plans. I'm trained to advanced level in 'Psych-K' - a simple yet profound technique to work with the unconscious mind to replace old beliefs (which usually we learned from other people) with new, self-empowering ones. The neuroscientist Bruce Lipton (see YouTube / the Biology of Belief) recommends this technique as the most effective tool for belief change. In the New Year I'll be running a small, intimate group called 'An Adventure In Living'. Designed for women who want to make changes, we'll meet in my home for 6-8 weeks, focussing on 'Weight Loss and Emotional Wellbeing'. A free Psych-K session will be available to kick-start success. Please let me know if you'd like to join us or to know more. This column is contributed by Rosanna Veitch. “I have worked as a counsellor for 30 years, I see clients of all ages and with all forms of emotional distress in my peaceful therapy room at my home. Please feel free to call for a chat. Everyone is welcome, and I'm happy to adjust my fee if money is tight.” T: 0131 449 2580 W: www.effectivecounsellingedinburgh.com
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• Comfortable and stable with a built-in bean bag • Ideal to be used around the home • Great for dining, reading, hobbies and crafts
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removable lid • 5 litre pail with AbleworldUK • Folds down removable lid flat for easy • Folds down storage flat for easy Ableworld are the main mobility retailer in the • Max weight: approved as a Community Equipment Dispen storage 2 19 StDunnet Way, East Mains Industrial Estate • Max weight: 19 St Broxburn, West Lothian, EH52 5NN • Comfortable and stable NHS Vouchers Welcome Where Appl *VAT Exempt - Ask in Store for Det • Comfortable and stable with a built-in bean bag ONLY MRP - Manufacturers Recommended • Ideal to be used with a built-in bean bag Previous Price - Sold for ONLY 28 Days in Last 6 months at our N SAVE info@ableworldbroxburn.co.uk • Ideal to be used around the home E icMark Formally Wallace Motors at entrance to Industrial• Great for dining, Estate Insurance/Warranty is arranged by Ableworld UK Ltd and p % e S1A0V around the home Mark Bates Ltd t/a Premier Care, Premier House, London ked Pr On Mar % reading, hobbies andLincs, crafts Grantham, NG31 9SN who are authorised and reg 1ar0ked Prcan stores be found on: www.ableworld.co.uk • Great for dining, ice Financial Conduct Authority. FRN 308390. M On reading, hobbies and crafts
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Tel: (01506) 856565
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info@ableworldbroxburn.co.uk Tel: (01506) 856565 Formally Mark Wallace Motors at entrance to Industrial Estate
info@ableworldbroxburn.co.uk Further details on all our stores foundMotors on: www.ableworld.co.uk Formallycan Markbe Wallace at entrance to Industrial Estate Further details on all our stores can be found on: www.ableworld.co.uk
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- Manufacturers Recommended Price. through Insurance/Warranty isMRP arranged by Ableworld UK Ltd and provided Previous Price for 28 Days Last 6 months our NantwichRoad, Store Mark Bates Ltd- Sold t/a Premier Care,inPremier House, at Londonthorpe Grantham, Lincs, is NG31 9SN who are authorised and regulated the Insurance/Warranty arranged by Ableworld UK Ltd and providedbythrough Financial Conduct Authority. FRN 308390. Mark Bates Ltd t/a Premier Care, Premier House, Londonthorpe Road, Grantham, Lincs, NG31 9SN who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FRN 308390.
KONECT BATHGATE | 27
Ayrton Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve the West Lothian Ayrton Veterinary Hospital is proud to the Lothian Ayrton Veterinary Hospital to serve serve theWest West Lothian Community with the highest quality veterinary care. Community with the highest quality veterinary care. Community with the highest quality veterinary care.
• We offer specialised veterinary services offerspecialised specialised veterinary services inWe Orthopaedic surgery, Endoscopy and • • We offer veterinary services inOrthopaedic Orthopaedic surgery,surgery). Endoscopy and was Laparoscopy (key-hole Ayrton in surgery, Endoscopy and Laparoscopy (key-hole surgery). Ayrton was the first practice in Scotland to offer clients Laparoscopy (key-hole surgery). Ayrton was the first practice in Scotland to offer clients key-hole surgery.in Scotland to offer clients the first practice key-hole surgery. key-hole surgery. • Our out of hours emergency service is provided • byOur out of vets hours emergency service is provided our nurses here at the Hospital • Our outown of hoursand emergency service is provided by our own vets and nurses here at the Hospital andour on-call staffand are on-site for hospitalised by own vets nurses here at the Hospital and on-call staff are on-site for hospitalised patients 24 hrs and on-call patients 24staff hrs are on-site for hospitalised patients 24 hrs • We have a Pet Health Club that allows you to budget monthly for your pets’ • We have a Pet Health Club that allows you to budget monthly for your pets’ preventative andthat has addedyou discounts off of veterinary treatments • We have a Pethealthcare Health Club to budget monthly for treatments your pets’ preventative healthcare and hasallows added discounts off of veterinary and procedures. preventative healthcare and has added discounts off of veterinary treatments and procedures. and procedures. • • We and we we have havean anappointed appointedinsurance insurance Weoffer offerdirect directclaims claimsfor for insured insured clients clients and advisor here at the Hospital. • We offer direct claims for insured clients and we have an appointed insurance advisor here at the Hospital. advisor here at the Hospital. • • We practicewith: with:in-house in-houselaboratory, laboratory, Weare areaafull fullservice servicemedical medical and and surgical surgical practice radiography, ultrasound and endoscopy. • We are a full service medical and surgical practice with: in-house laboratory, radiography, ultrasound and endoscopy. radiography, ultrasound and endoscopy. • • When to stay stay in in the theHospital, Hospital,we wehave have Whenyou youand andyour yourpet petvisit visit us us or or have have to separate cat waiting areas and wards wards for theirHospital, comfort.we have separate dog and cat waiting areas comfort. • When youdog andand your pet visit us or have to stayfor in their the separate dog and cat waiting areas and wards for their comfort. Ayrton was awarded awardedHospital Hospitalstatus statusbyby Ayrtonisisan anaccredited accredited‘Veterinary ‘Veterinary Hospital’ Hospital’ and was the College ofofVeterinary Surgeons in 2009 (oneawarded ofonly only88in inScotland). Scotland). We theRoyal Royal College Veterinary Surgeons of We Ayrton is an accredited ‘Veterinary Hospital’ and (one was Hospital status by aredelighted delighted have beenawarded awarded International Cat (ICC) are totohave been ‘Gold’ International Cat Care (ICC)asasaWe a‘Cat ‘Cat the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in by 2009 (one of only 8Care in Scotland). Friendly Practice’ recognition of the the facilities our feline patients. Friendly Practice’ ininrecognition of Hospitals facilitiesfor forCat ourCare feline patients. are delighted to have been awarded ‘Gold’ by International (ICC) as a ‘Cat Friendly intorecognition ofand the Hospitals facilitieslike for our feline patients. Welook lookPractice’ forwardto meetingyou you We forward meeting and your pet, ifif you’d you’d likefurther furtherinformation information about our staffand and services,you please our website: about our staff please website: www.ayrton.org.uk We look forward to services, meeting andvisit your pet, if you’dwww.ayrton.org.uk like further information about our staff and services, please visit our website: www.ayrton.org.uk
T: 01501 01501 744736 T: 744736 BurnhouseIndustrial Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West T: Estate, 01501 744736 Burnhouse Whitburn, West Lothian, Lothian,EH47 EH47OLQ OLQ Burnhouse Industrial Estate, Whitburn, West Lothian, EH47 OLQ 28 | KONECT BATHGATE
DON’T GET LEFT BEHIND THIS WINTER...
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KONECT BATHGATE | 31
Bee Cleaner Dry Cleaning & Laundry
Don’t have a Smelly Christmas, have a Merry Christmas! Do you want your Christmas dinner to taste like everything else you’ve cooked this year? Or would you prefer a Clean Team cleaned oven? Beat the rush and book your oven clean in time for Christmas. Call 01506 432100 www.drycleanteam.co.uk
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• • • • • • • •
Dry Cleaning Curtain Cleaning Wedding Dress Cleaning Kilt Outfit Cleaning Duvet Cleaning Service Washes Football Kits Self Service Launderette
01506 632706
6-8 Livery Street, Bathgate, EH48 4HS www.bee-cleaner.co.uk
MUSIC REVIEW
The very next day you gave it away Are you hanging up your stocking on the line. Well, are ya? Punk? Giving the gift of music has fallen mightily since the days of old, when the Victorians would gather in the parlour and exchange CDs of Brothers In Arms or Life For Rent. “Ah mother”, Bob Cratchit sighs as he unwraps another 50th anniversary re-issue, “Heritage rock and streaming surely has taken the joy from this simple December pleasure”. The chill air of “will this do?” hangs heavy over the festively packaged double “Diamonds” from Elton John. Being only his sixth greatest hits, it seems reasonable that he should add to the air of mild disappointment from your cracker containing the plastic comb and not the miniature playing cards by not including (among many, many, more, to quote the ghost of KTel past) Kiss the Bride, Part Time
Love, Healing Hands, The One, Believe, and, most bizarrely given the purpose of this release, Step into Christmas. Fortunately you can find most of those if you shell out for the deluxe 3CD version. Just don’t be expecting no top five hit “Passengers”, dogg. Elsewhere, with £25 vinyl having been last year’s solution to the eternal problem of what to get dad and now nosediving in shops across the country, the fashion is for 40th and 50th anniversary editions from The Doors, Monkees, Moody Blues and their ilk, to replace those ridiculous 20th and 30th anniversary versions. Queen make a late entry to the genre with a spellbindingly expensive luxury issue of “News of the World” an album loved principally for its double "Champions/Rock You" A side single and science fiction cover. Bah humbug. The monthly music review is contributed by James Kerr. James presents the Regal Music Club show on Regal Radio (www.regal-radio.net) and is a member of the local band ‘Snakeskin Shoe Review’.
KONECT BATHGATE | 33
FOOD & DRINK
Salmon and Monkfish
Filo Wreath Festive Filo Wreath!
This festive wreath makes a great alternative to traditional roast turkey and can be prepared in advance the night before. Ingredients: Sunflower oil, for greasing 100g butter, melted 270g pack filo pastry, thawed if frozen 450g salmon fillet, skinned and diced 450g monkfish fillet, skinned and diced 225g cooked peeled tiger prawns 2 tbsp lemon juice 3 tbsp chopped fresh dill Salt and freshly ground black pepper Lemon wedges and dill sprigs, to garnish
Serves 6 Ready in 1 hr 30 mins, plus chilling time Tip: Filo pastry sheets can vary in size so simply cut to fit. Don’t worry if they tear, just place another piece of buttered pastry on top to cover the tear. 34 | KONECT BATHGATE
1. Use the sunflower oil to grease a 1.2 litre capacity ring mould, then line the mould with cling film. 2. Brush the sheets of pastry one by one with melted butter and use nearly all of them to line the ring mould. Overlap the pastry sheets slightly as you go and repeat the layers 3-4 times. Leave the excess pastry to drape over the side of the mould. 3. Mix the salmon, monkfish and prawns in a large bowl and stir in the lemon juice and chopped dill. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. 4. Spoon the fish mixture into the pastry-lined mould, pressing down gently. Fold the excess pastry in over the filling and top with more buttered sheets of pastry, cutting them to fit and completely cover the filling. Stamp small star shapes out of any remaining sheets of buttered pastry and place on a plate. 5. Cover the ring mould and the plate with cling film and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight). Carefully invert the ring mould onto a large baking sheet and then remove the mould and the cling film. Re-melt any remaining butter and brush all over the pastry. 6. Bake in a preheated oven at 190C/fan 170C/Gas Mark 5 for 40-45 minutes until the pastry is crisp and golden. Bake the pastry stars on a separate baking sheet for 5 minutes until golden. 7. Allow the wreath to stand for 5 minutes then transfer to a serving platter and decorate with the pastry stars. Garnish with lemon wedges and dill sprigs.
Selling out fast! Only a few spaces left! Book Now!
as Christm ! g n i m o c is
Party Dates at the New Almondvale Suite @ Livingston FC Only a few spaces left on 22ND DECEMBER! All other dates are sold out! You’ve got to be quick! £35 per person including a glass of bubbly on arrival
Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite
Mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff. Tickets just £35 per person requiring a £10 deposit.
Outside Catering from Food Creations Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multi-course meals for large numbers.
events@foodcreations.co.uk www.foodcreations.co.uk Tel 01506 412232 facebook.com/simonatfoodcreations
@Food_Creations
KONECT BATHGATE | 35
WALK
It’s hard to beat a woodland walk in late autumn, kicking through the leaves and taking in the spectacular colours of nature, to revitalise body and mind. Muiravonside Country Park is a fantastic place for such a walk, and it’s perfect for a trip with the kids. Last year, a sculpture and poetry trail was added to the park, providing a fun and informative set of wee landmarks to find, taking you through orchard and woodland. It ends up at the cafe and children’s play area; perfect. TO GET THERE: (7 miles) Head out of Bathgate on the A800 Mill Road. Turn right when you get to the A801 then take the B825 at the Bowhouse Rounadabout – there is a brown sign to Muiravonside. After 1 mile you will see the park entrance on your right. Park in the main carpark and start the sculpture trail by heading through the sculpture archway at the side of the carpark. The trail is marked by ‘Art in the Park’ way markers and map boards. Each piece is designed to highlight the magic and wonder of Scotland’s wildlife. Besides enjoying the lovely environment and views, you can find out about the natural world via an interpretation panel next to each piece. Each pieces is also inscribed with an excerpt from a poem from Kenneth Stephen’s book of children’s poetry, ‘Imagining Things’. The trail is suitable for all ages; part - but not all - of it is suitable for pushchairs - you can download a map from the Falkirk Community Trust website www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/parks/poetry-trail/ (or pick one up in the visitor centre) which indicates which bits are suitable for pushchairs, and also has suggestions of fun activities for kids to do as you go round the trail. After the owl seat sculpture, double back towards the play area and visitor hub buildlings. The kids can let off more steam on the play equipment, and you can grab coffees and light snacks in the Steadings Cafe. The cafe is run by the Action Group during the week as a training opportunity for young people with different needs, and during the weekends it is staffed by Falkirk Community Trust. It is open 10am to 4pm until Christmas. 38 | KONECT BATHGATE
Scanned by CamScanner
PUZZLES
CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Light wind (6), 8. Add up (6), 9. Not pretty (4), 10. Take away (8), 11. Tenth month (7), 13. Deprived (5), 15. Two times (5), 17. Remaining (7), 20. Booklet (8), 21. Assists (4), 22. Floats (6), 23. Unlocked (6) DOWN: 1. Horrendous (6), 2. Refute (4), 3. Childhood illness (7), 4. Investigate (5), 5. Barely (8), 6. Coerced (6), 12. Engaged (8), 14. Stopping place (7), 16.Gun or knife (6), 18. Bowed (6), 19. Nearby (5), 21. Pinnacle (4)
Solution on Page 54
Solution in the February edition of Konect
SUDOKU
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PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN
...appease your little drama queen with the help of onions Sometimes, when the children are being ultradifficult and driving me up the wall with their bickering and mischief (play VT montage of embarrassing/destructive public behaviour from Penny and Quinn), I do something that you might think is a bit wrong.
Penny says onion, she means that little yellow pill-shaped, dungareewearing comical henchmen of Gru in the Despicable Me movies. (play canned laughter track) So off we went to watch Despicable Me 3, complete with the beloved onions (minions).
I reminisce fondly about the time before I had children. (nostalgic music from the Hovis advert fades in)
Vue in Livingston do a great deal on weekend mornings where you can get into the cinema (admittedly to see kids films) for ultra-cheap so this little excursion didn’t break the bank, even with Penny’s snacks included. We settled down in the front row, arranged our snacks, and waited.
This was a time of endless weekend lie-ins, eating out in the evenings whenever we liked, having a tidy house, and above all, the disposable income to do all manner of spontaneously expensive activities that our hearts could desire. For example, before the advent of our precious progeny, Channa and I lived in Edinburgh. Being avid film fans, we each had an unlimited cinema card. UNLIMITED. And we took full advantage, several times a week, sometimes more than one film a day. No more that. (nostalgic music ends abruptly with scratched-record sound effect) The last actual trip to the cinema we had was the night before Penny was born. Well that’s not technically true … we did try about a year ago to take the babies to a Cbeebies cinema morning but Penny was too young to know what was going on, and Quinn just dashed around the cinema hall (play VT of Quinn sprinting round and round at x1.5 speed with Benny Hill theme tune overlaid) Needless to say, we left as soon as the main feature started to allow others to actually enjoy themselves. (Jengaenga family exit stage left) So a year on, it seemed like the right time to try again. Particularly as Penny’s new favourite thing is onions. Now you’re probably wondering if you’ve read that right, but bear in mind that when
What followed was about the noisiest 90 minutes of my life. Firstly, I had genuinely forgotten how loud a cinema could be (fade in high-pitched tinnitus squeak) – it was nearly more than I could handle yet it didn’t seem to bother Penny whatsoever. In fact, the only inconvenience this presented to her was that she had to shout each of her 400 questions about the plot to me “What’s that onion doing, Mummy?’ - at the top of her voice. Penny loved her first proper cinema experience, and was sad I was making her leave the screen at all (scene to be shot in black and white through rainspeckled window). When I tried to hurry her up by saying ‘Go on Penny, hurry!’, my little drama queen responded with a fabulous accidentally-theatrical statement worthy of an Oscar nomination … “But Mummy, I can’t go on!” Fin.
The monthly Parenting column is contributed by Nicola Jengaenga. Nicola lives in West Lothian with her two pre-schoolers and hubby Channa. They juggle hectic work schedules with the everevolving demands of their two tiny overlords and also squeezing in time for each other! KONECT BATHGATE | 41
VISIT WEST LOTHIAN
The month of joy, fun and festivities has arrived and we have some fantastic suggestions as to how to best enjoy your December in West Lothian. With everything from Christmas shows to Santa’s grottos you won’t want to be anywhere else.
The Five Sisters Zoo are going bigger and brighter this year with the return on their zoo illuminations. Thousands of lights illuminating enclosures, trees and plants creating what will be a truly magical Christmas experience. Wander through the Lost Kingdom, spot the wolves and lions, Santa and his reindeer and enjoy the tranquillity of the Japanese Garden. This event is on throughout December. The annual Hopetoun Christmas Fair is back and is a must-visit for those looking for unique gifts for special friends and family members. The dates are Friday 1st - Sunday 3rd of December. Whilst there why not check out Scotland’s finest stately home and make sure not to miss the State Dining Room which will be decorated fabulously for Christmas.
Almond Valley has a special guest arriving this month and we are sure you’ll be familiar with him… SANTA! He’ll be welcoming young visitors and handing out some early Christmas presents on the weekends of the 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th of December, then daily between 21st to 24th December. Much of Almond Valley will be decorated for the season and there will be a special chance to make your own Christmas decorations in the museum. As the year draws to a close head on down to Boness & Kinneil Railway for their Black Bun Specials on 30 and 31 December. This great day out for all of the family will include a complimentary traditional Scottish Hogmanay Black Bun and a hot drink whilst travelling aboard the nostalgic steam railway, juice and shortbread is provided for the kids. For an experience you will never forget this December visit the Boness & Kinneil Railway. With so many amazing events on this December it is a must to visit West Lothian. We Ho-Ho-Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year. For details on many more local Christmas events and parades go to visitwestlothian.co.uk/whats-on
NEWLAND CONCERT BRASS CHRISTMAS CONCERT
Bathgate High Church Hall, Gideon Street, EH48 4HB Doors open 6.30pm, concert starts 7pm. Admission £5 (school children free). Tea and coffee included. Always a popular event so get there early to get a seat! www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk 42 | KONECT BATHGATE
WHAT’S ON
CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... FRIDAY 1ST DECEMBER
A Christmas Celebration Concert - Tocatta Ladies Choir with the Whitburn Heartlands Band. Brucefield Church, Whitburn, 7.30pm. Tickets £6. SATURDAY 2ND DECEMBER
Christmas in Bathgate - At the Steelyard 1pm to 5pm. All free entry. Santa’s grotto, musical entertainment, street entertainers, face painting and more! Torchlight Procession at 4.15pm and Christmas Tree Lights switchon at 5pm. SATURDAY 9TH DECEMBER
Christmas Crafts - Come and try your hand at making a Christmas wreath. Materials will be provided. Suitable for families. Meet: Outside the Classroom, Polkemmet County Park Time: 2pm – 3.30pm. Cost: £3.80 per wreath. Booking essential, please contact the Countryside Rangers on 01501 743905, email: polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk SUNDAY 10TH DECEMBER
Newland Concert Brass Christmas Concert Bathgate High Church Hall, Gideon Street, EH48 4HB Doors open 6.30pm, concert starts 7pm. Admission £5 (school children free). Tea and coffee included. Always a popular event so get there early to get a seat! www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk
BATHGATE Lindsay Anderson Zumba New zumba class in Boghall primary school - community wing. Tuesdays 7-8pm. Facebook: zumba with lindsay. Mob: 07834183084 Email: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk Bathgate Fairtrade Group Bathgate Fairtrade is a small group and welcomes more members locally to promote fairtrade in Bathgate and West Lothian, providing information about fairtrade and opportunities to buy fairly traded food and other items with stalls in various locations. If you are interested or want to know more please contact the secretary Gillian Reid on 01506 653366 or email mrs_g@btinternet.com Rainbows, Brownies & Guides Rainbow units (girls 5 - 7 years) Tues & Wed nights. Brownie units (girls 7 - 10 years) Mon, Tues & Wed nights. Guide units (girls 10 - 14 years) Tues & Thurs nights. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. Bathgate & District Flower Club We are a friendly group who meet third Monday of each month, Sept to June (except Dec), 7.15pm in the United Reform Church Hall, Majoriebanks Street, Bathgate. We have a Floral Art demonstrator at each meeting who designs around 5 arrangements which are given as raffle prizes. The Club was established 50 years ago and we celebrate our anniversary year which began in Sept 2016. Contact Nan Tait, Chairman, tel 01506 676965
SATURDAY 16TH & SUNDAY 17TH DECEMBER
Bathgate History Group
SUNDAY 17TH DECEMBER
Simply Play Provides flexible after school care and holiday programmes for children aged 5-14. Our clubs are based in Simpsons Primary School Community Wing and Bathgate Partnership Centre. We offer a range of indoor and outdoor play experiences until 6pm Mon-Fri. Sessions are paid for as they are booked with no fee for `holding` an unused space. For more information visit www. simplyplay.org or call 01506 856444.
Christmas Deer Walks at Beecraigs - Accompany the Ranger as we feed the deer their magic food and make sure everything is OK for the work ahead. Wear warm clothes and sturdy footwear / Wellington boots. Suitable for families. Meet: Sutherland Building, by Animal Attraction, Beecraigs Country Park Time: 11am & 2pm. Cost: £3.80 adult, £2.60 child. Booking essential, please contact the Countryside Rangers on 01506 284516, email: mail@beecraigs.com Christmas at Kirkton Park - Carol singers and fireworks display 5pm – 6.30pm at Kirkton Park, Bathgate. Free entry. The carol singing will have the 50+ Network choir & Bathgate Churches together choir along with the Air Cadets band. Starting at 5pm with the fireworks starting at 6pm. Supported by the Bathgate Community Centre Management Committee.
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A friendly group who meet on Wednesdays at 2.00pm in the Tryst behind St John’s Church, Mid Street, Bathgate. We have interesting speakers on various topics with tea and coffee served. A warm welcome awaits old and new members. We meet from the first Wednesday in September through to the following April. For further information contact Dorothy on 01506 652505.
Any Dog ‘ll Do Rescue Group A friendly group of volunteers based in and around Bathgate. Looking for new members to help raise awareness and fundraise for the dog rescue charity. A good way to meet new, like-minded people and have fun at the same time. Contact Lyn Pattison on info@anydogildorescue.org to find out when the group will next meet and how to get involved.
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31st West Lothian Scouts Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7pm – 9pm Bathgate Concert Orchestra We are a friendly, enthusiastic group of musicians and are always happy to welcome new players of whatever level. We rehearse on Friday evenings during school term time from 7:30pm9:30pm at St John’s Church Bathgate. Anyone interested in coming along to join us should contact the Secretary Joan Proven at Joan_Proven@hotmail.com Tel: 0131 331 3187. See www. batchgateconcertorchestra.org.uk. You can also find us on facebook. West Lothian 50 Plus Network New members always welcome for educational, social, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www.westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm. Yoga Class For people living with long term conditions. Bathgate Community Centre, 5–6.30pm on Wednesdays. Class is run by KICC Active Lothian, a partnership with MS Therapy Centre Lothian. £5.50 per class or £20 for four weeks. First class is free! Call Joanna on 07436 102726 to book. Baby and Toddler activities Kidzeco, 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Range of baby and children’s activities including Hartbeeps, Yoga Babiez, Baby Sensory, Iyengar Yoga Warriors and Kids Iyengar Yoga Warriors. Please see our events page on facebook www.facebook. com/kidzeco for class times and prices, or call Kidzeco Bathgate on 01506 815534 2nd Bathgate Girls’ Brigade Meets on Wednesday evenings in St John’s Church Halls, Mid Street. Explorers P1-3 Girls: 6.15pm - 7.30pm. Juniors P4-7 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Brigaders S1-S6 Girls: 7.00pm - 8.30pm. Please contact Alison Weddell (Captain) on tel 07710 619264 or email alison.weddell@gmail.com for further details. The Stone Ring 40 King Street, Bathgate. Beginners Self awareness & Development. Mon 7-9.30 pm (approx) £6.50. Moot - Every 2nd Wed of the Month. 7-9.30pm (approx) £5. Thai Chi Fridays 6.30-8.30pm (approx) £25 per month. Bathgate Playgroup Bathgate Partnership Centre. Mon–Fri 9-11.30am and afternoon sessions Mon & Wed 12.30-3.30pm Newland Concert Brass Friendly band based in Bathgate. We welcome brass and percussion players of all ages and abilities. Training Band Mondays 6 – 7pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Junior Band Mondays 6.30 – 7.30pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Senior Band Mondays 7.45 – 9.30pm in the band hall on Belvedere Rd. For more information see the website at www.newlandconcertbrass.org.uk Regal Music Club The Regal Theatre, Bathgate. For anyone who loves music. We meet fortnightly on Wednesdays. 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Come along to chat, discuss, meet new people, eat biscuits. You don’t need to play or sing but if you do there is always a chance to perform. Check out the facebook page or just drop in. £2 including refreshments.
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Bathgate Reading Group Simpson Library, Bathgate. Meets on the second Tuesday of the month at 6.00pm, all adults are welcome. Bathgate Memory Cafe A meeting place and caring supportive group for people with dementia and their carers. The Memory Cafe runs the first Monday of every month between 1.30pm and 3pm at Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street, Bathgate (Sheltered Housing Complex). Contact 01506 533114 or just turn up and be assured of a warm welcome Friends of Polkemmet Country Park Group meets on the second Sunday each month between 10am – 12pm to carry out practical conservation projects in Polkemmet Country Park. Dates for 2015 are: 12/04; 10/05; 14/06; 12/07; 09/08; 13/09; 11/10; 08/11. Please contact the Ranger Service on 01501 743905, Polkemmet@westlothian.gov.uk or visit the Friends of Polkemmet Facebook page if you would like to join us. West Lothian Table Tennis Club West Lothian Table Tennis are a friendly club who are always happy to welcome new people who have played in the past or would like to pick up the sport for the first time. Whether you are seven years old or 70...Everyone is welcome! Meet at Bathgate Academy. For further information contact: David Stephen, Club Secretary david. stephen2@sky.com or 07979 095772. See www.wlttc.co.uk. Paranormal Investigation group based in Bathgate We’re looking for people to join our small group. Will meet on the first Wednesday of the month 7.30pm venue tbc. Investigations to be carried out approximately every 6-8 weeks at various locations around West Lothian and beyond so own transport essential. Both believers and skeptics welcome. Must be over 18. Please contact Tracey at ghost.scotland@outlook.com for further information. West Lothian Run Little Runners – free kids running classes, Sundays at Boghall Community Wing 11am – 12pm. See www.westlothianrun.org.uk for details and to register. Generation Dance Bathgate St Mary’s Hall, Livery St. Every Friday 10.30am– 11.30am. Join the community dance club for anyone over 60 years. There’s no need to book, just turn up. Regardless of your mobility, independence and experience, come along, try us and tell your friends. Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality. Everyone can take part. Suggested weekly donation £3. Can’t come but want to know more? Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239. www.generationarts.co.uk Royal British Legion Ex-service male/female organisation. The Club offers comradeship, social activities, e.g. golf, fishing and bowling events. Bingo, cabaret and dancing. Our function hall is available for hire by members, families and friends. Friday night bingo 8.00 pm; Karaoke Saturday night in the Lounge. Watch notice Board for special events. Bathgate Bridge Club Meets every Thursday from first Thursday in October until the last Thursday in May at EU Church Hall, Church Park, Marjoribanks Street, Bathgate. 6.45 for 7.00pm start. All Welcome. Contact Georgette Nicol 01506 203498 for more information. The Regal Youth Company Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate. Music workshops for 13-25 year olds - Monday evenings 7pm to 9pm, £2. Drama workshops for 13-25 year olds - Wednesday evenings 7pm to 9pm £2. For information see www.rycbathgate.com or contact us via our facebook page.
The Tree Club Office at 19c South Bridge Street, Bathgate. West Lothian’s only afterschool club for children and teenagers with additional support needs. Stimulating and creative activities with high staff to child ratio. See www.thetreeclub.org.uk Bathgate Theatre Company Ever wanted to be onstage or help out behind the scenes? Bathgate Theatre Company are always looking for new members to take part in their annual show which takes place in November with rehearsals usually being every Thursday from 7pm – 9pm at the Regal Community Theatre, Bathgate. Annual members fee £30 plus £10 insurance if going onstage. For more info contact the Secretary on bathgatetheatrecompany@gmail.com or visit our website www.bathgatetheatrecompany.moonfruit.co.uk Kirkton Park Tennis Club Welcoming new members to join our developing tennis club! The tennis courts at Kirkton Park in Bathgate have recently been resurfaced and are now open for use. For further information on our club go to our website: KirktonParkTennisClub.co.uk. You can also find us on Facebook. Learn, Play, Enjoy! Scottish Seniots Computer Club James Young Bar, Hopetoun Street, Bathgate. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device. Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Thursday mornings 10am - 12 noon. Contact : Chris Cosgrove. Bathgate Computer Club. Call 01506 656153 or just call in. Physio Led Pilates The Pyramids Fitness Centre, Bathgate, Friday mornings at 10am & 11am. At Physio Led Pilates you can feel assured that exercises will be performed safely, effectively and modified to the appropriate level for you under the expert guidance of an experienced Physiotherapist. For booking and further information please see www.physioledpilates.com West Lothian Sub Aqua Club Come along and join us on a Tuesday evening at Xcite Bathgate swimming pool. Not sure if scuba-diving is for you? No problem, we can offer you a taster ‘Try Dive’ to let you experience the freedom of diving. Training is carried out at your pace and our instructors are fully qualified and experienced divers so you will be in safe hands. As a not-for-profit organisation you will be surprised how little our training costs. To find out more, visit our website www. westlothianscuba.co.uk or come along to Xcite Bathgate at 8pm on a Tuesday for a chat by the pool. Nibble n Natter Fortnightly get together in Royal Scot Court, Bathgate, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people. Have a chat and a choice of biscuits and cakes with a cup of tea. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you! Cost is just £1 and all are welcome. Group run by Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives), 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot
WESTER INCH Wester Inch Parent & Toddler Group Thursday mornings 9am - 11am. £1 per adult and 50p per child. For more information contact us via our facebook page Wester Inch Parent and Toddler Group or email on westerinchtoddlers@hotmail.com Simpson Art Club We meet every Tuesday 7 - 9pm in the community wing of the Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. All over 18, including beginners, are welcome; Regular demonstrations and teaching from professional artists, work in all mediums. For further information email simpsonartclub@gmail.com. Contact 07762 933138. Centrepoint Church Simpson Primary School. Sunday Worship Gathering, Weekly 10:30am. Contact: Tom Jackson m: 07540391081 e: tom. jackson@centrepointchurch.org Messy Church Held by St. John’s Parish Church in Community Wing, Simpson Primary School. Third Thursday of each month 6.45pm-8.15 pm. Join us for fun, games, craft activities, stories and singing. All ages welcome. No charge, donations welcome. For more information contact Parish Minister, Rev. Duncan Shaw on 01506 653146 or westlothian@churchofscotland.org.uk or Rev. Zoltan Safrany on 07411 444 743 email safiref@gmail.com West Inch Netball Meet on a Tuesday night at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate. Arrive anytime after 7 pm, games played between 7.30 and 8.30 pm. £3 per person, per week. All are welcome. Doteki Karate Club Meet on a Monday night at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate, 4 – 8 year olds 6.30 – 7.30 pm and 8 years to adults 7.30 – 8.30 pm. No previous experience necessary. Wear a t-shirt, jogging bottoms and bring a bottle of water. For more information visit their Facebook page: Doteki Karate Club; email dotekikarate@gmail.com or phone: 07917351794. Football Star Academy Meet on a Saturday and Sunday morning at Simpson Primary School, Bathgate for boys and girls aged 5 and 8 years. Saturday’s Soccer School is between 11 am and 12 noon, Sunday’s Soccer School is 10.30 – 11.30 am. For more information visit their Facebook page: @ footballstaracademy1; email footballstaracademy@outlook. com or phone: 07903877987. TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CL ASS, EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK. CHARIT Y AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE, THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS. WWW.KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK
Activity Group Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in Rosemount Gardens, Bathgate - a mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815 or email opal@cyrenians.scot www.cyrenians.scot
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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
ACCESSORIES My Handbag Heaven 48 APPLIANCE REPAIR Home Appliance Repair 7 BATHROOMS Bathgate Bathroom Studio 15 Epiphany Kitchens & Bathrooms 12 BEAUTY Boho Chic Hair & Beauty 11 BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce 30 CAKE MAKER Angel Bakes Cupcakes 35 CAR SERVICE & REPAIR Ace Exhausts & Tyres 16 M&S Auto Solutions 6 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett Carpet Cleaning 7 CATERING Food Creations 35 CHARITY Home Start 24 CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES / ENTERTAINMENT Bramble Cottage 40 CHURCH Centre Point Church 33 CLEANING SERVICES Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning 32 COMMUNITY Bathgate Partnership Centre 36-37 COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers 39 CONSERVATORIES CR Smith 25 DIY/BUILDING SUPPLIES & HIRE Bathgate Hire Centre 13 DRY CLEANER Bee Cleaner 32 ELECTRICIAN D B Electrics 15 ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine 23 Drummond Miller 22 Turpie & Co. 21 Your Move 22 FOOD & GROCERIES Hornigs Haggis 35 FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce 30
GARDEN & LANDSCAPING TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE All Year Round Landscapes 19 Bluebird Radio Cars 47 New Hopetoun Gardens 18 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME WL Landscaping & Gardening 6 West Lothian Trusted Trader 32 GIFTS VET New Hopetoun Gardens 18 Ayrton Veterinary Hospital 28 HAIRDRESSER Riverside Veterinary Practice 29 Boho Chic Hair & Beauty 11 WASTE DISPOSAL HEATING SERVICES Bare Bins 6 Calum McKinley 16 WINDOWS Mech A Tech 6 1st Choice Living 5 JOB OPPORTUNITIES CR Smith 25 Lidl Recruitment 6 Developing the Young Workforce 7 SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 40 JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces 30 Domestic Joinery & Maint. Services 17 KILT MAKER & HIRE The Kilt Studio 7 KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces 30 S & S 31 Epiphany Kitchens & Bathrooms 12 LEAFLET DELIVERY The Leaflet Lady 2 MOBILITY Ableworld 27 Scot Mobility 17 MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Hire Scotland 14 SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER OVEN CLEANER CROSSWORD The Clean Team 32 PAINTER/DECORATOR David J Lane 30 Manic Street Painters 19 Nu Walls 19 PROPERTY LETTING & MANAGEMENT Your Move 22 PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Domestic Joinery & Maint. Services 17 PUBLIC HOUSE The Foundry 4 YOLO 10 RESTAURANT Heritage Indian Restaurant 4 Karma 9 ACROSS: 7 Type of fruit (6), 8 Opulence (6), Liberta Restaurant 5 9 Touch (4), 10 Start (8), 11 Modified (7), YOLO 10 13 Impede (5), 15 Remove from home (5), The Foundry 4 17 Water closets (7), 20 Calculation (8), 21 Horrid (4), 23 Male relatives (6), 24 Snub (6) ROAD SURFACING DOWN: 1 Manufactured (4), 2 Horse's fastest J & L Road Surfacing 19 pace (6), 3 Observed (7), 4 Chubby (5), 5 Specialist (6), 6 Piece of jewellery (8), SECURITY SERVICES 12 Splitting (8), 14 Advisory group (7), Circle Security 12 16 Cold (6), 18 Caring (6), 19 Slightly drunk (5), 22 Lie in wait (4)
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