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TO OUR DECEMBER EDITION
THIS ISSUE
A
nother year nearly done; another year here at Konect of endless discovery about the local area! Even though I have been doing this for nearly ten years, it really is a fresh discovery every month putting together the editorial. I hope you find the same reading it. I love all the Christmassy adverts in the December issue. One thing that kept coming up as I was putting this issue together though is how much need there is in the community, how many people are finding the festive season difficult - and, crucially, how many people locally are working hard to make it better for everyone.
Our charity of the month, Dignity Boxes, is a new one set up by a West Lothian resident who realised there is a need for people to be able to access help “without having to ask and without having to thank anyone,” hence the word “dignity”. She is focussing on toiletries, see the article on pages 8-9. Our sports writer has been looking at the wrestling scene locally; there is a bracing walk around the loch at Caldercruix to discover; Magic Festival tickets to win; and all the other usual columns and one-off discoveries. Wishing all our readers a fantastic holiday season. We don’t produce a magazine for January, so the next one will be the February issue. A huge thank you to all our advertisers who make this magazine possible, without them it wouldn’t happen. Please continue to support local companies and organisations.
P30-31 Charity: Dignity Boxes.................................. 8 Gardening: Festive Garden.......................15 Property Matters..........................................16 Health & Beauty...........................................20 WIN: MagicFest tickets...............................22 Sport: Smack me down..............................23 Walk: Around Hillend Loch........................30 Music Review...............................................34 What’s On......................................................39 Parenting:All I want for Xmas....................40 Puzzles..........................................................43 Clubs & Classes..........................................43
Konect is delivered monthly to 10,000 homes throughout Bathgate and Torphichen. Copies are also left at the library, convenience stores, post offices and other locations around Bathgate.
HELEN-JANE SHEARER
JENNY THOMSON
CHARLENE GAFFNEY
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Editor
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CHARITY OF THE MONTH
“ The aim of the Dignity Box is to promote self-worth and dignity by allowing those in need to take what they cannot afford, without having to ask or thank anyone.”
“I’d like people to be able to have essential toiletries and personal hygiene products without having to ask, and without needing to thank anyone” says Isabel Dosser, a Livingston resident who is rather surprised to find herself at the helm of a new charity which is set to grow massively in 2019. Isabel is a lecturer in nursing at Edinburgh Napier University, where she has worked for 15 years after a 30 year career in nursing, specialising in palliative care. She is very wellversed in issues of care, dignity and choice. “During a nursing conference in April this year, I attended a workshop on poverty. Someone in the group mentioned a box they have at their organisation where women can help themselves to free sanitary products. And the thought just lingered with me.” Isabel is retiring next year and wanted a small project to set up to give something back to the community. “The idea of the box of free products kept coming back to me. I knew that sanitary products are now freely available in many places, so I decided on boxes of other basic hygiene products, to be made available on a self-serve basis in areas of the Lothians where people are experiencing hardship and deprivation.” Speaking with the Foodbank, the clothing bank and other organisations, it was clear that no-one else was focussing on toiletries, and people were generally receptive to the idea. So Isabel drew up a proposal for the project and presented to it to her employer, Edinburgh Napier University, who were very supportive.
Isobel 8 | BATHGATE
Isabel managed to get local supermarkets to donate the boxes themselves; Edinburgh Napier University promoted Dignity Boxes internally, agreed to collections points at each of their three campuses, and arranged an official launch and publicity. With donations of products in from the university collection points, Isabel was soon ready to put the first box out in the community. Social Bite in Edinburgh were keen to take it; and on @KonectMagazines
launch day in mid September Isabel found herself and her project in the local press and on Forth Radio. Since then, the uptake and requests have been almost overwhelming. “There is clearly a need for this that wasn’t being filled. It would be easy to get distracted onto lots of other products, but we are keeping the focus on just these six toiletry items.” Each box contains around 20 products, including shampoo/conditioner, shower gel, soap, shaving foam, deodorant, toothpaste/ toothbrushes. The boxes are placed with organisations where people can discreetly help themselves, and are refilled monthly. With an instinct for business that is going to stand this charity in good stead, Isabel has assembled a board of directors for Dignity Boxes, and is in the process of applying for registered charity status which will allow them to take monetary donations too. Monetary donations will enable them to establish a website, reimburse fuel expenses for volunteers who refill the boxes and collect donations and so on. And at some point she will need to look at premises, as her home is quickly becoming overrun with donated products! Isabel’s family have thrown themselves into it too, with her husband in charge of the stock control spreadsheet at home, and each of their three adult children contributing ideas, suggestions and support. Isabel has a waiting list of organisations who have requested a box. She wants to ensure she can sustain the ones she has out first of all, with regular refills. If you can help at all, please see the information below and get in touch with Isabel, so that she can ensure the organisations on the waiting list receive their box quickly! This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting with Isabel Dosser. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines
Donate! Donations of shampoo/conditioner, shower gel, soap, shaving foam, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes are needed. You don’t need to spend more than a pound or two; just pop an extra shower gel or toothpaste in your regular grocery shopping and it will make all the difference. DROP-OFF POINTS: • The Beauty Box (Bathgate) • Personal Design Studio (Mid Calder) • Dedridge Dental Practice (Livingston) • Edinburgh Napier Merchiston Campus • Edinburgh Napier Craiglockhart Campus • Edinburgh Napier Sighthill Campus Or, please contact Isabel and she will collect your donation. If your organisation can be a drop off point for donations, please get in touch as more donation points are needed – anywhere in the Lothians.
Volunteer! Volunteers are needed to collect products from donation points and to develop relationships with organisations who have boxes, and to top up the boxes monthly. Also if you can contribute skills such as website design, social media, fundraising, please contact Isabel. Facebook: @DignityBoxes Email: i.dosser@napier.ac.uk Dignity Boxes is awaiting its SCIO registration number.
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GARDENING PROJECT
Although the winter days are very short by using some outdoor lights you can include your garden in the festivities and add a lovely extra dimension to your home over the winter. A lantern glowing at your front door shows your visitors that there is already a warm welcome waiting for them. The light could come from a real candle or there are many artificial battery powered candles that contain a timer that turns them on and off. Lighting your patio with decorations on the table, or perhaps a small statue, and leaving your curtains open creates a lovely picture from indoors. A security type light mounted on the house wall above the window or patio door illuminates the scene very effectively. Using low voltage outdoor LED fairy lights
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around an arch or embracing a small tree or large shrub adds sparkle to the scene and this doesn’t have to be just for Christmas – they look great in the New Year snow!
The view from the house is very inviting in the evening The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40years.
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PROPERTY MATTERS
Everything is better in real life! High street agents get a 5% better price than onliners in almost threequarters of cases, claim. Having recently visited Pitlochry after an absence of several years, I was saddened to see the number of empty shops dotted along the high street. Sadly, this is a reflection of many towns around the country and is unfortunately a result of our huge appetite for online shopping. I regularly purchase goods online, mostly for convenience, but also the availability of certain items that could prove challenging to find locally. has seen the second highest growth in Having said that, I still enjoy the physical Scotland with increases of around 13% over experience of shopping, particularly when the past 12-18 months fuelling a mini boom looking for a certain item of clothing or a across the county. This is great news for special gift for someone, so having the sellers and the temptation in this market is to balance of online shopping and high street think that everything will sell and that buyers retail probably suits most people. Seeing will pay the highest price for the privilege. large department stores such as Frasers This however, can be a dangerous strategy and Debenhams closing stores around the to adopt. A recent survey by an independent country is very sad but not surprising given consumer advice group for house sellers the enormous pressures on the overheads (The Advisory) states that internet-only required to operate these types of businesses. agents are very reliant on property portal They are also the most vulnerable in terms websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla to find of competition from online shoppers given buyers (*although they cannot advertise on the range of products they carry when the all portals such as onthemarket.com). This is likes of Amazon will probably mirror a high not a surprise to anyone within the industry percentage of it. nor should it be a surprise to consumers So how does this relate to property? Well, for given the fact that these types of agents promote that their business model is a number of years we have enjoyed a very based around adverting on the internet. buoyant housing market and West Lothian 16 | BATHGATE
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The findings in this report are however worth considering given that surely, EVERYONE who is selling their property wants to achieve the best price possible, and it appears that across the board, full-service Estate Agents consistently perform better for their clients than the modern breed of online, self-service agents or advertising agents.
In addition to the result that your agent achieves for you, the importance of the ‘customer journey’ cannot be overlooked either and how you are advised, guided and supported throughout the campaign. The comfort of a regular meeting with your Estate Agent at their office to discuss things such as viewing feedback, website statistics, local sales patterns etc often provides the necessary comfort and assurances needed to facilitate a stress-free sale, particularly in times when the market slows, and a lack of viewing activity can dent the confidence of even the most experienced seller.
So, what’s all of this got to do with the high street in Pitlochry? Well, everything really! Like the retail sector, the service industry has also had to change and adapt to market conditions and demand for alternative choices and this can only be a positive thing for the consumer. The key things to consider though are that how each different type of service would affect the money in your pocket, how it would affect you as an individual and how the whole house selling experience will make you feel as you hand the keys over to the new owner. It’s worth bearing in mind that Every Estate Agent advertises online…..you only get one chance to achieve the best price for your house and, in my own experience as a consumer most things are better in real life!
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.over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
HAVE ‘YOURSELF’ A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS With Christmas fast approaching, everyone is looking for that perfect gift. We sell a lot of special Christmas gift packs during the festive season. They come in beautiful boxes, which saves wrapping and generally have ranges of products suitable for everyone. The interesting thing is that a lot of these packs work out much better value than buying the products individually. Some you get a whole product free, or more. I started looking at beauty and skincare products too and it seems across the hair and beauty world there are huge deals to be had during the Christmas madness. Do a bit of research on your favourite brands and see what they have to offer this Christmas and treat yourself or stock up for the year! Our favourite for big savings are Davines Oi haircare gift set, (availible at Wonderland Hair & Beauty) and Elemis pro collagen jewels skincare set (available online and elemis beauty stores).
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston.www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 20 | BATHGATE
How To Deal With Disappointment There are many quotes about failure and why it is an essential part of life. A well-known one is that the only people who don’t fail are the people who never tried anything new. Of course never trying anything new is a failure in itself.
If you choose to put yourself out there in life and in business, failure and the subsequent feelings of disappointment are inevitable. This knowledge doesn’t make those feelings any easier to deal with. Failure tends to happen when you’re trying to grow. It happens when you’re already outside your comfort zone and in a fragile and vulnerable place. In your comfort zone it’s easy to be strong, you’re at your most confident. When you practise failing, recovery periods get shorter each time as you learn the art of resilience. You get to know how to come back fighting. These might include: • Channelling negative energy in a positive way – really feel the disappointment or anger, and then use that ‘negative’ energy as motivation to succeed at your next idea or project • Music – songs that encourage particular emotions can help you work through the disappointment and anger, likewise songs that emote feelings of success and achievement can be used to help you prepare for your next stab at success • A long walk in the rain or physical exertion – this can really blow away the cobwebs and gets rid of the negative energy • Regrouping – take time out to be with family and friends, allow people to lift your energy, and then when you’re ready, try again. • Reflection – reflect on the failure with someone who understands • Be brave – remember that everyone fails, there is no success without failure The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. She co-hosts weekly Mind & Soul Clinics at The Retreat Livingston and The Retreat Linlithgow where the focus is on holistic healing and wellbeing. @KonectMagazines
HEALTH
Promises to self
Improving your relationship with yourself isn’t about self-indulgence – it’s a simple shift in mindset that helps you feel happier and more in control. While there’s no doubt that losing weight is easier with support from friends and family, your biggest supporter can actually be you. Here are five powerful promises we can make ourselves today.
The people around us – parents, children, partners, friends – are the most important things in our lives, and most of us know that investing time and energy in our relationships with them pays dividends.
Promise No.1: I will stop ignoring myself Promise No. 2: I will forgive myself Promise No. 3: I will be kind to myself Promise No. 4: I will big myself up Promise No. 5: I will make time for fun
Can you imagine regularly criticising, talking down to or just plain ignoring a person who’s really important to you, and the effect this would have on them? Yet this is the way we treat ourselves.
This month’s healthy eating column is contributed by Gaye Malcolm, a Slimming World Consultant from Bathgate. Gaye enjoys spicy food which fits beautifully with Food Optimising - and enjoys getting active with her friends at the horse riding.
There’s a relationship we’re all guilty of neglecting, though – the one we have with ourselves.
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WIN! A pair of tickets to Edinburgh MagicFest’s futuristic magic show ‘The Miracle of Christmas Future”
This Christmas, Edinburgh MagicFest present The Miracle of Christmas Future, a collaboration between Scottish magician-scientist hybrid Kevin Quantum, and high-tech Swedish wizard Charlie Caper. Age-old sleight of hand is fused with state-ofthe-art technology, and phenomenal illusions with incredible science, to create a glimpse of a world not too far away from our own. There will be levitations, predictions, misdirection, innovation, science-fiction and science-fact, blended together with expert showmanship from two performers at the top of their game. This show is for magic fans, Christmas fans, future fans, sci-fi fans… for humans who want a special festive experience that will blow their minds and leave them smiling as they float out of the door. 27th - 30th December 2018 @ The Traverse, Edinburgh. Shows at 2.00pm & 7.00pm Tickets: £22, £20 (conc), £15 (u5’s) Book at www.magicfest.co.uk To win a pair of tickets to the show on 27th December 2018 at 7pm, simply answer the following question: What country is Charlie Caper from? Email your answer, along with your name and postcode, to win@konect.scot Closing date for entries 15th December. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter. See www.magicfest.co.uk for more information on the festival, and their free exhibition of photographic illusions “Now You See It, Now You Don’t” at the Scottish Storytelling Centre/ Museum of Childhood, 13 December 2018 - 26 January 2019 (check website for exact opening hours during holiday season)
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SPORTS
Even in 1848 when the first wrestling troupe was formed in France by Jean Exbroyat (who issued the headline challenge) the name of the game was “entertainment”. On drizzly Saturday afternoons in the 1950s, with no alternative way to avoid homework, sometimes I’d be forced to watch the wrestling and listen to the lugubrious Kent Walton. It took me a while to realise that it was just that - entertainment but highly skilled and risky entertainment, exemplified by the comic Les Kellett and later Big Daddy. The Saturday afternoon TV slot raised Professional Wrestling to unprecedented heights so by the mid 60s the dominant Joint Promotions was running some 4500 shows a year across the country. The lifeline of Professional Wrestling is like a long-term love affair with the public - hot and cold, up and down; currently it’s hot, thanks again to ITV and WWE. I still don’t know whether the big fights - the title fights - are serious, so I put the question to Michael Chase. A successful wrestler himself, Michael founded Reckless Intent, Lothian’s foremost Pro Wrestling School, in 2012, with some grant aid from the Prince’s Trust. He explains that the choreography and prearranged outcome of wrestling bouts all the way to world title level, is an open secret. Only youngsters believe and eventually they get wise just as they do to Father Christmas. “It’s all about creating drama, personalities for the audience to love and hate, heroes and villains. We aim to transport people away from their problems and into a fantasy world for a few hours.” His school boasts three high-profile coaches: Michael, Jam O’Malley and ICW star, Chris Renfrew. There are regular coaching sessions for juniors (10-15) and adults (16+), also fitness and personal training sessions. 28 year old Michael aims to produce the talent for his wrestling shows from the school and @KonectMagazines
so far so good. Watch especially for Jack Morris and Theo Doros from the 25 on the books, who travel up to 50 miles for Michael’s sophisticated, demanding, high-intensity training and coaching. He sets a high bar, with zero tolerance of substance abuse, slacking and ill-discipline. He’s desperate for his pupils to reach the heights denied him by a spate of injuries. Reckless Intent runs monthly shows at the Murieston Scout Hall in Livingston plus other shows across Central Scotland. Michael makes it abundantly clear that wrestling is a tough and dangerous game. Wrestlers suffer inevitable pain and injury but for those with the requisite determination, strength, resilience and aptitude there’s a good living to be made. He’s shooting for the stars and hopes one day to see a pupil wearing a Championship belt but first he’s laying strong foundations. Now what’s 500 francs in sterling after 170 years inflation? Bring it on Jean! MURIESTON SCOUT HALL SHOWS 2019 • March 2nd • April 6th • May 4th • June 1st • July 6th • August 3rd • September 7th • October 5th • November 2nd TRAINEE EVENTS FROM THE RECKLESS INTENT PRO WRESTLING SCHOOL • February 3rd • Mid April (TBC) • December 8th Full schedule at www.reckless-intent.com The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. BATHGATE | 23
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WALK
A
AROUND HILLEND LOCH,
Caldercruix
A gorgeous early November morning was met with a choice of a visit to B&Q or a bracing walk outdoors. A conversation with a friend decided on a walk at Hillend Loch near Caldercruix. It’s a place that has memories for me, more of which later.
The loch is 1.5 miles from Caldercruix station or 4 miles along the A89 from Blackridge, and is an ideal location for a walk. If you take the train regularly from West Lothian to Glasgow via Airdrie, you will be familiar with the sight of the loch as the railway skirts along metres from the water in places. My companion picked me up from Caldercruix station and we drove to a carpark on the A89 on the south side of the loch, over from the now closed Owl and Trout pub. Access to the loch is via a short track beside the pub. You have two choices after a short walk, to either go right over the south side or left to the north side of the loch. We chose to go left, the more rustic route for which in wet weather I recommend wellies or walking boots. The reservoir has an interesting history. It is one of the oldest in Scotland, built in the 1790s. Its purpose, apart from the storage of water, was to help fuel the paper mills and steel works of nearby Airdrie and Coatbridge. At the time of its construction it was the largest in the world, and it remains a testament to a golden era of Scottish industrial development. At one point 30 | BATHGATE
during its construction phase it employed 1500 people.
Veering right along a metalled path you have a choice of either walking along the top of the dam wall or a slightly gentler lower path. Carry on for about 300 yards and you then start to take a rough path along the north side. The area is rich in vegetation and owners of nearby land have replanted a wide range of trees. At this time of year with them shedding their leaves there is a delightful panoply of colours contrasting beautifully with waters of the loch. In terms of bird life the loch is populated with a range of gulls and guinea fowl. As you carry on round the loch you will find a planked path which was a godsend given the boggy conditions in places underfoot. As you carry on round you come to a wooded bluff. This is one of the more interesting parts of the walk, as you walk along the shore you will find numbered stones, the origin of which caused much discussion with my companion. We speculated if these had been milestones of the old Glasgow- Edinburgh road which runs close by. However if you walk into the woods (which is well worth doing, the trees are mature pine and
beach) you will come across the shell of Auchingray House, and the land about was part of the estate. The shell of the house shows what would have been an elegant late classical style, built in the 1820s. Its owner was Robert Haldane who commissioned the property, drained the land and planted the woods; he was one of the founders of the Scottish Congregationalist church in the early 19th century. The house was extended in the 1920s and was later owned by the Stenhouse family who built an insurance empire, and they rented the house to John Colville of Colville’s Steel fame. It caught fire in 1937, and was gutted because, according to local reports, the drive to the house was snowbound and the firehoses were ineffective due to the loch freezing over. The ruined shell of the house echoes an era of Scotland’s wealth created by the commercial barons that made Glasgow second city of empire. As to the stones, speculation centred did they marked the boundary of the estate? Coming out of the woods there are a couple of stones where you can sit down and admire the waters of the loch. Bring a thermos or what ever your tipple is to refresh you on @KonectMagazines
“The reservoir has an interesting history. It is one of the oldest in Scotland”
your route round. Due to the exposed nature of the loch many of the trees show signs of wind sculpting as they drunkenly defy the elements.
At the head of the loch you come across a small path that leads to the main road and the Bathgate to Airdrie cycle path. Opened in 2010 the path allows cyclists a chance to traverse safely. As you walk along you will see the local fishing club buildings, which has a wee refreshment snack kiosk which is open in the @KonectMagazines
summer. Fishing permits are also available in the summer for £10 a day and the loch has some of the finest brown water trout, so in the summer for the less active there is a chance to catch your tea!
You can either walk along the shoreline or the cycle path; having hiked vigorously we chose to take the cycle path. You carry on for about a mile and a half and pass the local sailing club, which holds memories for me of being on the loch on a freezing January day in a wetsuit jibing and cutting and capsizing as I learnt to sail small dinghies. The site is now owned by Monklands Sailing club and they offer lessons in the
summer months… if only I had known that then!
For a Sunday walk this can be either done easily along the cycle path or for the more adventurous a full traverse round the loch takes about two hours. If there is a downside it’s that there are no facilities in terms of food and drink. The area around it is clean and affords excellent views and quirky points of interest that warrant further investigation, and is certainly better than a trip to B&Q.
This month’s walk feature is contributed by Paul Spencer, a lover of the open spaces of Scotland. BATHGATE | 31
Don’t get left out this winter
BUSTER THE DOG
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MUSIC REVIEW
They all live in little boxes
Are you hanging up your stocking on your wall? Well, are you? Punk? I hope it can cope with a giant box set because that is what the record companies are peddling this year The main contenders are both from 1968, to allow the justification of a 50th anniversary set. Competing for the most luxurious collection of vinyl you don’t want, books you won’t read and CDs that you wish had been released on their own are The Beatles and The Kinks, presenting massively expanded versions of the White Album and The Village Green Preservation Society respectively. “Hey”, they say, “you’ve waited this long, now you can finally hear our stoned studio chatter and run troughs before you die. That will be £130 please.” The Beatles release is a curious hybrid, a successful remix of the album by Giles Martin alongside demos and early takes. Elements previously buried are highlighted, harsh tones are blunted. The technique works well on
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recognised misfires such as “Birthday” which now explodes midway through the track even if the song itself cannot be rescued. “Cry baby Cry” moves from a spooky, almost solo, Lennon into a startling psychedelic full band performance. In places though the harsh notes that added jarring strangeness to some of the more saccharine McCartney material are lost. The Kinks box draws from a smaller pool of original album tracks, and presents a bewildering number of b-sides, mono, stereo, live, radio and tv session versions, alongside no less than four sides of Vinyl. Much of this material was available until very recently on a packed 3CD issue for under £10. You pays your money, you takes your choice. Or someone else does, if you’re lucky. 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’.
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VISIT WEST LOTHIAN
December into January Christmas is now very much here, with December being one of the busiest months in the West Lothian calendar! Howden Park Centre’s Jack and the Beanstalk is showing all throughout December – make sure you book early as tickets sell fast. Don’t forget, Santa will be fitting a few visits to West Lothian into his busy schedule, starting from the 8th December at Almond Valley Heritage Centre. Furthermore, again this year he will be touring the streets in his sleigh – thanks to The Garage, Whitburn. For a more traditional Christmas event, Burgh Halls will be running Christmas Wreath making sessions on the 16th. This will be led by the Head Gardener of Falkland Palace (a National Trust for Scotland site). Alternatively, if you’re trying to get away from Christmas for a little while, why not head over to Blackness Castle where Brick City has arrived. Featuring a variety of works by artist Warren Elsmore and his team, the event runs up until March and is included in normal admission prices. The models, representing
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a selection of iconic buildings from across the world, have all carefully been recreated in Lego bricks. Winners of the Royal Philharmonic Society award for Young British String Players, The Ruisi String Quartet, will be coming to Linlithgow Academy Theatre on Saturday 8th December. The quartet has established a reputation as a charismatic and expressive ensemble, delivering performances that are “strikingly immediate, committed and direct” (Chichester Observer, 2014). After the festivities of Christmas and Hogmanay, January is always a time to relax and making a start on those New Year’s resolutions! The weather may be a little chilly, but why not head over to one of West Lothians Country Parks for a relaxing trip out. Almondell & Calderwood, Polkemmet and Beecraigs are the home to a variety of walks suitable for the whole family. You can warm up at the Beecraigs Café, too. Many of these events require booking, so please do check the events section on our website for more details for these. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian
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CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIRS
– SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS AND CAUSES
December FRIDAY 7TH DECEMBER Mulled Wine and Shopping Event - In aid of West Lothian Riding for the Disabled. Come along to our Festive Evening at Mannerstons for some mulled wine, mince pies, a quiz & exclusive shopping! Tickets £10, available in advance from Mannerstons Farm Shop & Cafe or can be reserved by emailing: wlrda2012@gmail.com SATURDAY 8TH DECEMBER The Colliery Hub Craft Fair - Craft tables, raffle, car boot. All proceeds support community projects. The Colliery Hub, Polkemmet Business Centre, Whitburn, 01501 745932 SUNDAY 16TH DECEMBER Baubles for Bliss - Buffet, raffle, disco and a special guest! Shopping from local businesses. 11am-2pm, in aid of Bliss, for babies born premature or sick. Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn. Tickets £15 (under 1s free). Contact Coady on coadiak@gmail.com for info on how to purchase tickets. 14TH TO 28TH DECEMBER Jack and the Beanstalk - Panto at Howden Park Centre. £16 adults, £14 kids. See www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk for details or call box office 01506 340700 RUNS UNTIL SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 2019 Brick City at Blackness Castle - Brick City is a celebration of iconic buildings from cities around the world, carefully recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore and his team. Included in normal castle admission price. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot for information.
CO-OP FUNERAL CARE
in Bathgate has been privileged to serve many bereaved families in the Bathgate area for many years and we recognise that Christmas is a particularly difficult time for bereaved families. Bereaved families are invited to join us at our Christmas Memorial Service which will be held in our Funeral Home, 116 South Mid Street, Bathgate EH48 1DY. This will be on Sunday 16th December at 2pm. We will be remembering loved ones that we have lost, lighting candles and leaving memories on our Christmas Tree. We will also be serving refreshments after the service. WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
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1st December - Christmas Craft Fair & Fun Day, Lanthorn Community Centre, Livi, 12pm - 4pm. Free entry. Over 40 local craft suppliers providing all manner of gifts and crafts. Christmas photobooth, kids drawing table, raffle, tombola, Santa’s grotto. Organised by Razzmatazz events. 1st December - Jupiter Artland’s Christmas Fair boutique craft stalls, live music, mulled wine and delicious seasonal street food, Santa’s Grotto, festive Donkeys and Christmas Tree yard and more. www.jupiterartland.org 2nd December - Longridge Community Centre 12.30 3.30pm Write & post your letter to Santa! Tickets £3/£4 per child, reserve via longridgeca@outlook.com 2nd December - Christmas Fair at Potter Around, Kirknewton. Lots of beautiful pottery for sale. 7th December - West Lothian College, Pavillion B, Executive Suites. 9am – 4pm. Gifts, craft stalls, homebaking, raffle and tombola, in aid of Neil’s Hugs Foundation 8th December - Christmas Presence at The Barn 9am - 12.30pm. By Strength and Soul, Netherton Farm, ML7 5TT. www.strengthandsoul.co.uk. Yoga session and Christmas Market. 9th December - Dogs Trust West Calder 12pm - 3pm. Santa Paws, refreshments, tombola. Entry – bring a present for a Centre dog!
WHERE TO FIND SANTA – BESIDES THE FAIRS Linlithgow Canal Centre: 2pm on 15th, 16th, 22nd & 23 Dec Union Canal at Broxburn: The Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society is running Santa Boat Trips 1st,2nd, 15th & Dec. Four trips each day at: 11am, 12 noon, 1pm or 2pm. Pre-book tickets online. £10 per person. www.facebook.com/events/185092282385380/ Santa’s Farmyard Cottage: Almond Valley Heritage Centre, 8th, 9th, and daily from 14th - 24th Dec Kidzeco: 15th December Meet Santa in the Bathgate store, book a timeslot with Kidzeco 1pm – 3pm. 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Tel. 01506 815534 www.kidzeco.net The Bridge Inn at Ratho: Santa Breakfasts Meet Santa and his elves for fun and games, craft activities and photos. Full Scottish breakfast, or mouth-watering home-made pancakes with maple syrup will keep tummies full as Santa and the elves spread their festive cheer. 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 24 Dec, two sittings, 9.30am & 11am. Tickets £15 per person. Opening weekend, December 8th & 9, tickets £12 per person. To book call 0131 333 1320 or email info@bridgeinn.com.
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@ The Larder Cookscho ol, Bellsquarry
PARENTING
Gingerbread
All I House want for Christmas is...
Workshop
I don’t want a lot for Christmas. There is just one thing I need…some time to actually enjoy it! Sound familiar? Christmas is my favourite time of year and I squeeze every last ounce of Christmasiness I can out of the season. But if there is one thing Christmas usually is not for parents, it’s relaxing. Shopping, wrapping, shopping some more, ferrying the kids from one Christmas party to the next…mums (and dads!) are the driving force behind Christmas and for the most part we get no credit for it thanks to the big man himself sneaking down the chimney on Christmas Eve to steal our thunder (and a few mince pies while he’s at it). Once kids are in the picture we parents take a willing backseat and sometimes miss out on the fruits of our labour; instead spending too much time fretting about the festive fandango we have to deliver. That is until the big day arrives and we breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy a few hours of Christmas morning magic…at least until it’s time to start cooking Christmas dinner. If you are finding yourself stressed out about the Christmas shopping this year try following the ‘five gift rule’…don’t get me wrong 40 | BATHGATE
I’m not suggesting you’ll get away with giving just five presents to your kids but it is a sure-fire way to focus the mind. The Five Gift Rule:
1) Something they want
Toys, toys and more toys. That’s the name of the game for me. But doubtless I will also spend countless hours in the likes of Build-a-Bear and Smiggle at The Centre, Livingston filling my sack for my girls. 2) Something they need
Pretty much anything the kids need from now on is sure to be ‘part of their Christmas’; socks, hats, toothpaste… anything is fair game to keep the present-opening frenzy going longer. So even a trip to the supermarket can be fruitful. 3) Something they wear
If you’re having a clear out to make room for new clothes, why not do a good deed this Christmas and donate your pre-loved good quality children’s clothes to the likes of Kidzeco or Kids Love Clothes and make someone else’s Christmas.
4) Something they read Pop into Waterstones in The Centre or the Little Owl’s Room at Far From The Madding Crowd in Linlithgow and pick up the perfect picture book or paperback present. There’s nothing better on a manic Christmas day than a five-minute time out reading a book. 5) Something for all the family Take the family to the Five Sisters’ Zoo Illuminations, check out the Panto at the Regal in Bathgate or Howden Park Centre in Livingston, enjoy Christmas Afternoon Tea at Almond Valley, or just buy a new board game and enjoy some cosy family nights in during the holidays. Whatever is on your wish list, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! Until next year folks… The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls. @KonectMagazines
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We’d like to wish all our readers and customers a wonderful festive season.
It’s been another year of endless discovery here at Konect; thank you for sharing your stories, experiences and endeavours. We celebrate all things West Lothian and West Edinburgh, with a special focus on the Bathgate area in Konect Bathgate. A huge thank you to all our advertisers who make this magazine possible. Without them it wouldn’t happen. Please continue to support local companies and organisations. Our social mission is to help charities who are doing essential work in our local community. We are inspired by the care, energy and resourcefulness of people we see doing fantastic work and we want to play our part by supporting them with what we do best spreading their message using the deep and wide reach that we have built up over the years. If you would like to be part of Konect in 2019 in any way, please drop us a line.
www.konect.scot 42 | BATHGATE
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PUZZLES
CLUBS & CLASSES
CROSSWORD Solution in the February edition of Konect
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
ACROSS: 1. Connect to another (6), 4. Yarn, twine (6), 9. Mature (7), 10. Problem, concern (5), 11. Bend (5), 12. Places of work (7), 13. Differentiate (11), 18. Identical (7), 20. Fang (5), 22. Having had water removed (5), 23. Hammering (7), 24. Leaders, monarchs (6), 25. Business, company (6) DOWN: 1. Diminish (6), 2. Sweetheart, paramour (5), 3. Most statuesque (7), 5. Robber (5), 6. Bugs (7), 7. 1978 musical set in 50s (6), 8. Meeting with doctor (11), 14. First letter (7), 15. Unfastening, removing knots (7), 16. Kill (6), 17. Long-haired, unkempt (6), 19. More advanced in age (5), 21. Pungent vegetable (5) We’re sorry that the grid for the November crossword was wrong, and hope you enjoy this month’s crossword as usual
Solution on Page 46
SUDOKU
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BATHGATE NEW WEST LOTHIAN FENCING CLUB Friday nights in Bathgate Academy at 7pm. This class is for beginners, people who have fenced before, adults and juniors (aged 8+). First two classes free, all kit is provided. Our Tuesday class starts in 2019 email coach@fencing-club.co.uk for more details. Beginners very welcome. Come and have a fun night learning a new sport which is suitable for all.
KIDS FRIDAY CLUB Calling all P1-P7 children! Looking for some fun? Come & join us every Friday (during term time) from 2pm -3.30pm for a wide range of activities including face /nail painting, arts and crafts, games, baking, snooker and lots more. £1.50 donation per week. Bathgate High Church, Gideon Street, Bathgate. Email; info@bathgatehigh.com. COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS BATHGATE Bathgate Partnership Centre, 21 South Bridge Street, EH48 1TL. Manager Liz. Contact: 07591735823. Open Monday to Friday 9:15am to 11:30am, Mon & Wed 12:30 to 2:15pm. £7.50 per session. 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 aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday and Wednesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. Brownie units - (girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. Guide units - (girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on 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. Contact Nan Tait, Chairman, tel: 01506 676965.
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BATHGATE ...cont. BATHGATE HISTORY GROUP 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 Christine on 01506 656499.
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. 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.
31ST WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS Scout Hall, Majoriebank Street. Thursdays 7:00pm-9:00pm
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 7:30pm-9:30pm 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.
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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.
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 – 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. £2.00 including refreshments. 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 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.
WEST LOTHIAN GENERATION ARTS Helps people stay healthy mentally and physically by offering classes of seated dance, singing and arts. Classes are held in St. Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate, for over sixties, on Fridays at 10.30am and Howden Park Centre, Livingston, on Thursdays at 1130 a.m. Further info frome: generationarts.coordinator@gmail. com w: 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.
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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 info see www.rycbathgate. com or contact us via facebook.
on 01506 815815, email opal@ cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot
KIRKTON PARK TENNIS CLUB Interested in improving your tennis game? Check out our club info at KirktonParkTennisClub.co.uk We offer a free trial social session! Hope to see you on the courts soon. Learn, Play, Enjoy!
WESTER INCH
TORPHICHEN
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
BROWNIE UNIT (girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com.
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
SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB The Ballencrief, 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.
WEST LOTHIAN SUB AQUA CLUB Come along and join us on a Tuesday evening at Xcite Bathgate swimming pool. Not sure if scubadiving 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, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot 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)
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PILATES St. Mary’s Hall, Livery Street, Bathgate. Monday evenings 6pm for intermediate/advanced levels and 7pm for beginner/ intermediate levels. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information, contact Maria on 07513 116490 or mariahybszerpilates@gmail.com or check out website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.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.
OTHER AREAS WEST LOTHIAN CHOIR Armadale Community Centre, Thursdays 6pm - 8pm in Armadale Community Centre. Free, and no audition and no requirement to read music. For information email westlothianchoir@outlook.com COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS ARMADALE Armadale Community Centre, 7 North Street Armadale, EH48 3QB. Manager Arlene. Contact : 07592816761. Open Tuesday to Friday 9;15am to 11;30am £7.50 per session. CHOOSE YOU – YOGA STUDIO AND WELLNESS HUB Wide range of classes at our permanent wellness studio in Carmondean. Yoga classes include Iyengar, Ashtanga, Seasonal, Bihar, Hatha/ Vinyasa and Core Strength as well as yoga for kids, teens and men. We also offer Tai-Chi and Pilates. For a full list and timetable, please see our Facebook page www.facebook. com/chooseyouyoga, call Eva on 07810 824 195 or email info@ chooseyouyoga.co.uk for more information. TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.KONECT.SCOT
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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
JOB OPPORTUNITIES APPLIANCE REPAIRS Q2 Solutions (Quintiles) 11 Home Appliance Repair 35 JOINERY BATHROOMS & KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces 29 1st Choice Living 5 Domestic Joinery & Bathgate Bathroom Studio 29 Maintenance Services 4 S and S Home Improvements 27 LOCKSMITH BOILER SERVICES CVC Locksmiths and Security 35 The Gas Engineer 35 Building Services MARKETING/LEAFLETING S & R Builders 35 The Leaflet Lady 48 CAR SERVICING, MOT & REPAIR MOBILITY SERVICES Ace Exhausts & Tyres 12 Ableworld 19 M & S Auto Solutions 10 PAINTING & DECORATING CHURCHES Manic Street Painters 28 Centre Point Church 41 PLASTERING CLOTHING, FASHION & Nu Walls 35 ACCESSORIES PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES The Personal Touch 4 Dewar Plumbing 10 COMMUNITY FACILITIES McLellan Plumbing & Heating 28 Lothian Buses 47 PRESSURE WASHING COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES Scotwash Solutions 10 Yoga With Amy 22 PUBLIC HOUSE COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS The Foundry 6 Sprint Computer Repairs 36 RESTAURANT CURTAINS & BLINDS Heritage Indian Cuisine 5 Harvey Bruce 26 La Piuma Restaurant 6 Liberta Restaurant 13 DOORS/WINDOWS Liberta Takeaway 13 DC Double Glazing 28 ROOFING EDUCATION G Hughes Roofing Services 28 West Lothian College 37 TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE ELECTRICIAN County Cars 2 Bennett & Heath Electrical Services 29 TREE CARE SERVICES SL Electrical 35 Arbscape Tree Surgery 14 Task Scotland 10 Evergreen Tree Surgery 14 ESTATE AGENT TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME Drummond Miller LLP 12 West Lothian Trusted Trader Turpie & Co 17 Scheme 26 GARDEN CENTRE VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING New Hopetoun Gardens 15 Ayrton Veterinary Hospital 33 Riverside Veterinary 32 GARDEN DESIGN / MAINTENANCE WEIGHT LOSS All Year Round Landscapes 28 Slimming World - Bathgate 21 Evergreen Balerno 14 WHAT’S ON Enterprising Bathgate 7 GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Champfleurie Estate 24 Developing the Young Workforce 36 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 25 GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGN WD-58 10 HEARING AIDS & SERVICES ABC Hearing 18
46 | BATHGATE
SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Organisations, 8. Membrane, 9. Harp, 10. Schools, 12. Ashes, 14. Crabs, 16. Streets, 19. Zinc, 20. Politely, 22. Communication DOWN: 1. Free, 2. Bamboo, 3. Finally, 4. Caged, 5. Wishes, 6. Angriest, 11. Corridor, 13. Italics, 15. Become, 17. Estate, 18. Opens, 21. Lion
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 43
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