Konect Bathgate February 18 by Konect Magazines

FEBRUARY 2018

bathgate

Local History: Marvellous Merchiston HEALTH & BEAUTY Charity: Home-Start West Lothian

Plus local businesses, community information & more!

The community magazine for Bathgate and Torphichen

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PAGE 43

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

M ESSA G E FRO M TH E ED I T O R

elcome to the first edition of Konect for 2018 (we didn’t publish a January issue). Our Charity of the Month is Home-Start West Lothian, who offer support, friendship and practical help to parents with young children in the community to give the next generation the best possible chance in life. I interviewed them at their Livingston office – they are always looking for volunteers, see the feature on page 14. I’ve been looking a little into the history of the namesake of one of Edinburgh’s universities this month – if you have anything to do with Napier University you may be interested in the story of John Napier, see pages 8-9. All our usual columns are here. I hope you enjoy the magazine this month.

FEATURES Local History Garden Project Charity of the month Health & Beauty Home Improvement Property Matters Parents in West Lothian Recipe & Food Notes Music Review Visit West Lothian

08 12 14 16 19 22 31 32 33 35

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku

COMMUNITY Clubs & Classes

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

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: See our Visit West Lothian column for ideas of what do for Valentine’s Day (P35).

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.

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LOCAL HISTORY

If your home was garrisoned by soldiers and under threat of bombardment, you might pick somewhere else to get married. But 22 year old John Napier, namesake of Edinbugh Napier University, signed his wedding contract with his 16 year old bride at home in Merchiston Tower in just those circumstances in April 1572. The hobbyist mathematician and seventh Laird of Merchiston would probably have preferred to be remembered for his works of theology. He changed the world, but not in the way he imagined - his invention of logarithms is the work for which he is most celebrated.

John and his new wife moved to Gartness Castle (on the western edge of Stirlingshire today). He took the task of running the Napier estates very seriously. He was known in Edinburgh as “Marvellous Merchiston” as he was always working on ideas to improve productivity. He experimented with salt fertiliser, invented an apparatus to remove water from flooded coal pits, and built land surveyancing devices. Part of the inheritance was the title of the King’s Poulterer, and the “Pultrielands” at Dean Village - a plot of land for raising poultry to be supplied to the king on request.

John Napier was born at Merchiston Tower (now one of Edinburgh Napier University’s campuses) in 1550. We don’t know what he studied but he went to the University of St Andrews at the age of 13. There is no record of him graduating from there; he most likely finished his education in Europe, arriving back in 1571, aged 21, when Scotland was in the But Napier considered himself first and foremost a grip of a civil war in which his family was reluctantly theologian. The Reformation in Scotland was young, involved. Four years previously, Napier’s maternal it was a time of religious and political turmoil and he uncle Adam Bothwell, the Bishop of Orkney, had was a fervent protestant. In 1593 he published what performed the he considered to be coronation of baby his most important James VI after his and urgent work, “The Logarithms allowed the German mother’s forced Plaine Discovery of mathematician and astronomer Johannes abdication, and the Whole Revelation Kepler to show that the Earth was not at civil war ensured of St. John” - detailed between supporters exposition that the centre of the universe but revolved of the deposed the Pope was the around the sun. This breakthrough Catholic queen and Antichrist. He sought underpinned Newton’s theory of gravity supporters of the to alert the king to baby king (or rather, “the apparent danger of the Regent who of Papistry arising ruled in his minority). Merchiston Tower, being in a within this Island… .” fearing, like many, threat from strategic location, was garrisoned by the Regent’s Catholic Spain. men to prevent supplies reaching the Queen’s supporters holding Edinburgh. The Tower was Following the publication of the “Plaine Discovery” severely bombarded by the Queen’s men in May (which gained him international recognition) Napier 1572 in a failed attempt to gain control. Archibald worked on designs for various instruments of war Napier, John’s father, whose loyalties appear to - “designed by the Grace of God, and the worke have been ambiguous, probably stayed in the of expert craftsmen.” He was covering all bases, tower throughout, although it is unknown if the rest evidently, in the case of a Spanish invasion - if the of the family did. theological writings didn’t head off the catholic 8 | KONECT BATHGATE

threat, he wanted to make sure Scotland had some new weaponry! It included two kinds of burning mirrors, a piece of artillery, and a metal chariot from which shot could be fired through small holes.

exaggerated over time. With James VI on a fanatical quest to eliminate witchcraft, had Napier seriously been suspected of anything he would not have been spared. It’s more likely that the nightgown was academic garb, and that his incredible and diverse output led him When Napier had a problem with pigeons to appear eccentric eating his grain in the fields at Merchiston, and misunderstood.

At this time, Napier also turned his attention to developing he solved it by scattering grain laced with a means of simplifying the very long He moved back to alcohol on the fields; the drunken birds and complicated Merchiston with his were then easy to capture - a feat which calculations he family on the death no doubt fuelled the stories of his magical needed for his work of his father in 1608, powers in an age of superstition. on astronomy. From until his own death 1594 he worked on a in 1617. methodology, finally publishing what he called logarithmic tables twenty I visited Merchiston Tower last month to wander years and seven million calculations later, in 1614. It through the rooms and get a feel, if possible from was a mathematical breakthrough immediately taken this distance in time, of the building that was up enthusiastically by scientists as it saved them first and foremost a family home but swept up in years of calculations and allowed radical progress in turbulence. Its matter-of-fact integration into the astronomy and navigation. Napier University campus, with a modern corridor running right though it, somehow echoes for me He made other signification contributions to way the Archibald Napier carried on business mathematics including promoting the use of as usual; the marriage in the garrisoned home; decimals, and “Napier’s bones” - numbering rods and how John Napier’s monumental invention for multiplying, dividing and taking square roots and of logarithms was almost incidental to what he cube roots. Made of ivory, they looked a little like considered his main life’s work. One thing is for bones, hence the name. He also described a method sure, he would be very happy to see his home part of using metal plates in a box to rapidly perform of a place of higher education. multiplication and division problems - the earliest known attempt at using a type of calculating machine. For Napier, though, mathematics was a hobby, a means to an end that he worked on as and when he had time besides his theological work. The Statistical Account of 1795 says: “Adjoining the mill at Gartness are the remains of an old house in which John Napier of Merchiston, Inventor of Logarithms, resided a great part of his time (some years) when he was making his calculations. It is reported that the noise of the cascade, being constant, never gave him uneasiness, but that the clack of the mill, which was only occasional, greatly disturbed his thoughts. He was therefore, when in deep study, sometimes under the necessity of desiring the miller to stop the mill that the train of his ideas might not be interrupted.” Perhaps unsurprisingly he cut an eccentric figure. The Statistical Account also records he “used frequently to walk out in his nightgown and cap. This, with some things which to the vulgar appear rather odd, fixed on him the character of a warlock.” But stories of his supposedly magic powers have been

Merchiston Tower: Now one of Edinburgh Napier University’s campuses

This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Shearer. Helen-Jane lives in West Lothian and is the editor of Konect magazines. KONECT BATHGATE | 9

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GARDENING PROJECT

Floating Flowers

BRING OUTDOORS INDOORS

Floating Hellebores

We believe that every garden should be able to supply flowers or foliage to fill a small vase every week of the year… or to float in a bowl! Floating is the easiest way to arrange flowers and at this time of the year it is often the most comfortable way to enjoy them. The classic flower heads to float are these different hybrid hellebores that are starting to flower in our gardens. Just cut off the flower heads with a tiny bit of stem and float on clean water. As the month progresses try floating snowdrops upside down – it’s a wonderful way to see the double skirts that some of them have. Each week you garden may offer you some heads to float – in high summer roses make perfect displays. Just have fun experimenting! The gardening project is contributed by New Hopetoun Gardens. Pick up more of their weekend garden projects from the garden centre.

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MUSIC REVIEW

Let’s get metaphysical The single of the year is already out, so pencil in a break for compiling any lists for December. Following hard on the heels of the well-received album “Heavy Meta”, Philadelphia-based “insurgent poet and rock ‘n’ roll disruptor” Ron Gallo hits his fellow musicians where it hurts with the wonderful “Really Nice Guys”. A blistering 2 minutes 8 seconds kicking off with a sweet Velvets style riff, the raucous melody and studiously sloppy layered vocals bemoan the requirement to compliment your friend’s terrible band. As the arrangement breaks down into an approximation of the horrors we have all endured, the various punctuations of “Nice!” amount to that very rare thing, a genuinely funny musical joke. As with the best of Zappa however, it is easy to laugh but can you be sure that the joke is not on you?

“I say nice set, then I get upset because I feel so plastic”. I went quiet on one of the repeated listens as I realised that I had heard that “Nice!” before. Once you have enjoyed the single, head back to his most recent album. “Heavy Meta” came out in February 2017, but recently the single “Young lady, You’re Scaring me” has been popping up again in new music lists online. A good representation of the album, this previous single has the wild mercurial sound of electric Dylan, piling irregular meter and rhyme against rigid pop blues. “you’ll line my mattress with nails/ One for every time something psycho came out of your mouth...a sales pitch for the circus in your mind”. Elsewhere on “All the Punks are Domesticated” Gallo laments the fall of the outsider musician. “All of the freaks have gone to bed/All of the pioneers are saved for information tech”. Heavy Meta - 2017 album of 2018. 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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CHARITY OF THE MONTH

Sometimes when things are hard, knowing you’re not alone can make all the difference

Bringing up young children is a tough job. And if over and above the usual hard work of parenting, life is complicated by isolation, mental health issues, or a child with additional needs, it can quickly become overwhelming. Home-Start West Lothian provides friendly support at home for young families. By helping the parents, the children have a better chance at a good start in life, hence the charity’s name.

It was originally set up in Leicester, England, in 1973 by a woman who ran parenting groups. She noticed a lot of the mums wanted a oneon-one chat with her in addition to the group activities. So she started visiting them at home on a one-on-one basis, and Home-Start was born. There are now independent local HomeStart groups all over Britain. The West Lothian one has been in existence since 2000.

It’s really about having life experience and an ability to empathise, non-judgementally Sometimes when things are hard, knowing you’re not alone, you’re not a bad parent, that it’s normal to find it tough, and knowing that others have similar challenges, can make all the difference to how you cope. “Our volunteer befrienders visit at home, provide peer-to-peer support, lend a hand practically (such as watch the toddler while mum has a chance to have a shower in 14 | KONECT BATHGATE

peace), be a non-judgemental, confidential listening ear and provide signposting to local groups or services that may be able to support with specific issues,” explains Allie, Manager of Home-Start West Lothian. I met Allie and Carol-Anne, Volunteer Co-ordinator, at the Home-Start premises in Livingston. “The main difficulty people used to come to us for was social isolation; people moving out from Edinburgh or Glasgow for cheaper housing in West Lothian, but not having a network or knowing how to meet other young families, and struggling alone. There may be language barriers, health problems or other difficulties in addition to that. In recent years, we see a lot more families in crisis though - through domestic violence, poor mental health, disabilities, a whole range of issues.” Home-Start see people from all walks of life. “It makes no difference how big your house or your bank account is,” says Allie. If as a parent of young children you’re not coping, then that is pretty normal and help is available. And, while most of the families they help tend to be in crisis or have multiple challenges, it’s not all about crisis. “We have some families we help as they have triplets, and not necessarily any other challenges. Three babies is challenging enough!” Referrals for Home-Start’s befriending service can come from anywhere – health workers, social workers, GP and even self-referral. The choice as to whether to engage or not is with the family – it’s not like a formal social service where there may be mandatory engagement, although Home-Start may be supporting a family who already has social work, healthcare or other professionals involved. Navigating the numerous agencies that exist to help, and understanding the jargon thrown around, is one of the things the befriender can help with. It’s peer-to-peer support, where the parent/s and the Home-Start befriender work through things together. Volunteers are carefully matched to families to maximise the chance of the relationship being successful. “We work predominantly with young mums and single mums, but also sometimes with dads or both parents. And we are always looking for more volunteers.” Older volunteers are welcome - sometimes a grandparent figure is just what a young family needs. Every family’s needs are different, so a wide range of volunteers with

West Lothian Volunteers different experiences is ideal. Male volunteers are also welcome. “It’s really about having life experience and an ability to empathise, nonjudgementally,” summarises Allie. If you can spare two or three hours a week to make daily life just that bit less daunting for a local young parent, please contact Home-Start West Lothian on the details below. Contact Details: Telephone: Email: Website: Facebook: Address:

01506 415755 admin@homestartwl@org.uk www.homestartwl.org.uk /HomeStartWL Cameron House 13a Fairbairn Road, Livingston EH54 6TS

Home-Start West Lothian is a charity registered in Scotland, charity no. SC029770.

For this article, Helen-Jane interviewed Allie and Carol-Anne of Home-Start West Lothian. HelenJane lives in West Lothian with her family and is the editor of Konect magazines. KONECT BATHGATE | 15

HEALTH & BEAUTY

NewYear, NewYou?? As we start a fresh new season we tend to feel the need to spring clean, detox and update our wardrobes. But what about hair and make-up? We see a lot of people come to the salon looking to make big changes come January but sometimes all we need is a fresh approach to our hair rather than changing it just because we feel the urge for something new. When you visit your stylist really try and get the most from their expertise. Ask about the different ways you can wear your style; how versatile is it? a good stylist will talk you through the best ways to blow-dry your hair and give you ideas for easy up-dos and what staples you need in your ‘beauty wardrobe.’ Big on the catwalk for spring 2018 is lowslung simplistic buns, midi pony tails and really beautiful paired back blow dries. Less is definitely more this season. Ask what colours suit your skin tone, this will give you make up ideas and wardrobe ideas too. Your stylist is a wealth of knowledge so get the most from your appointment and ask all the questions. You will leave feeling inspired and ready to update your style!

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk

16 | KONECT BATHGATE

If we’re a passenger in a car or on a bus, we usually trust that the driver has a clear sense of the route to follow. If they don’t, we won’t reach our hoped-for destination. So, it is in the journey of life. Where do we want to go? What do we want to change? Our brain, being a ‘habit organ’, automatically repeats patterns of yesterday. If we want something different, we need a clear new route - or at least, to get us started, a strong sense of the sort of ‘place’ we’d like to go. Our brain needs a specific route to follow... a step-by-step plan of what to do each day to move us in a new direction. And then progress unfolds when we carry out that plan regardless of any unwillingness which may surface. After all, it’s entirely normal for us creatures of habit to resist change. But resistance is actually just energy like a passing breeze - not the more central observing self who is in the driving seat of our life. If we fail in our plans it can feel awful - perhaps even worse than not trying in the first place. But if we think of others we admire who strive despite difficulties, or we look back on the times we learned and progressed because of the difficulty we faced, we can see that challenge and discomfort are completely normal - and sometimes even helpful. 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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HOME IMPROVEMENT

February can be a dreich month, a good time to pay attention to your lighting. Could a quick update make it bright where necessary, cosy where wanted and as fashion-forward as anyone could desire? Brighten up your lighting • Using just one central pendant to illuminate a room creates a flat light with dark corners, making the space seem dull and small. If you are renovating, now’s the time to add wall lights, install some additional ceiling lights, or include some track lighting in cornices or bookcases. • To improve a boring lighting scheme quickly and easily, add extra lights at different heights – a table lamp in the corner, a floor lamp in another, maybe a clip light attached to a shelf. The aim is to create layers of light that come from different directions, and that you can adjust to suit your mood or the way you’re using the room. • Think about bulbs – save money by changing to LEDs, which last for years and are very cheap to run. How ‘warm’ or ‘cool’ they are is marked in kelvins - look for around 2,700K for a pleasant indoor light. Dimmer switches give flexibility to your lighting, but they’re not always compatible with LEDs, so check with your electrician. • ‘Smart’ lighting is the way to go – use a remote control or an app on your phone to dim your lights, switch them on and off or even change their colours.

Light up your winter MAIN IMAGE: Illuminate a corner of your living room – and provide a snuggly spot for curling up with a good book – by swapping a tired old floor lamp for a good-looking, on-trend new one. Slam Dunk floor lamp in antique brass, £175, Loaf.

ABOVE: Smart lighting systems are easy to use and surprisingly affordable. Tradfri dimming kit, from £15, PS 2017 Table Lamp, £25; both Ikea.

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PROPERTY MATTERS

It would not be unreasonable to assume that as a property comes onto the market, the instructed estate agent will post the property details on various property portals and wait for the enquiries to roll in. However, this approach is somewhat simplistic! Estate Agents need to take a much more strategic and proactive approach to handling new buyer enquiries. There is a fallacy surrounding property marketing in that many people think that a property sells as a direct result of the publication of its corresponding listing on a property portal. This is simply not true in most cases. In fact, the overwhelming majority of buyers who enquire about a specific property do not go on to buy it, but buy something else instead. This is because only limited information can be conveyed online, such as price, location, accommodation and condition. Yet the decision to buy is usually much more complex, and is something that cannot adequately be assimilated until the property is actually visited. So whilst it is important to choose an agent that advertises extensively online (every agent should be advertising your property on Rightmove, 22 | KONECT BATHGATE

Zoopla, Primelocation, S1 Homes) it is more important to choose an agent who knows what to do with an enquiry than simply putting the buyer on a mailing list! A good agent will use the best marketing to attract buyers, and then use their skill, training and judgement to help the buyer identify the right property â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which in all probability will not turn out to be the one about which they enquired. This effective method is one of the reasons that the best agents have such an excellent ratio of new applicants to sales agreed, which is of course to their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; substantial advantage. 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.

The best price starts with the best advice! In 2017, our company successfully negotiated more sales at prices above the Home Report valuation than at or below it, achieving an average of £8,031 extra for each of those clients.

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24 | KONECT BATHGATE

Rural charm goes hand in hand with convenience

Cathlaw Lane Some houses seem to sit naturally in the landscape and The Beeches is just such a home. Situated on a plot of around 1 acre in a semi-rural setting off a quiet country lane, and on the edge of the beautiful and welcoming conservation village of Torphichen, this stunning house has been skilfully designed and constructed to make the most of its imposing and beautiful natural surroundings.

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EARA748-BATHGATE 07/2017

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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

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30 | KONECT BATHGATE

PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

...be the right kind of frog as we leap into the New Year “Five frogs sat on a log. Four decided to jump off. How many remain? Still 5, because ‘deciding’ and ‘doing’ are not the same.” Most of us, including myself, probably like to think of ourselves as adventurous types, willing to try new things, and be spontaneous. In fact, a famous psychological study in 1948 by Bertram Forer showed that the vast majority of us will blithely accept almost any feedback that paints us in a good light – no matter how accurate it really is or isn’t. In reality, I’m much less devil-may-care today than I used to be. At one time I was pretty adventurous but these days I’m the sort who has only ever tasted one menu item from Subway; who, upon finding a well-fitting pair of shoes, buys them in every colour, and who simply cannot stray more than one or two shades from magnolia paint under any circumstances. So this year, I decided that instead of New Year’s resolutions, I would set a series of goals whose success could be achieved and built on throughout the year, all based around doing something new – completing a sign language qualification, doing a 50s dressmaking course, and completing a Couch to 5K program – but most importantly, trying a new type of activity with the kids every month. My kids are admirably open to trying new things, so I took my lead from them when I heard that a new type of play centre was opening in West Lothian – Bramble Cottage Constructive Play Centre in Bathgate. The new thing for me about Bramble Cottage is, it’s not a soft-play. Instead, it’s a physical and imaginative play arena, designed to stimulate little imaginations and promote pretend play. There are little cavern-like rooms where little ones can pretend to be in a supermarket, a kitchen, or a little

bedroom. I worried if Quinn would enjoy it to be honest because his speech and social play is very delayed and he tends not to join in such play at nursery, but almost at once my two made for the pretend kitchen area, and something brilliant happened. They began pretending - together. They were serving each other toast and coffee, putting clothes in the washing machine, pretending to eat from little plates. All the while, Quinn was saying thank you, repeating phrases he hears in that setting at home (“Watch out Penny, beans are hot hot hot!”) and responding to Penny’s pretend-play. Channa and I crouched at the little entranceway, mouths wide in awe. I loved the fact that we were able to sit in the café area and have our snacks (well-priced home-baking and coffee) while being well within earshot of our little cherubs – and while the air was rippled by a gentle buzz of laughter and chatter, it wasn’t the same loud, frantic, intermittent-injury laden environment that I’m used to at traditional soft-plays – it’s much more easy-going. And so one of my goals has borne fruit already – and it has shown me the importance of not just deciding to try something new, but of actually doing it too. Here’s to an adventurous 2018! 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 | 31

FOOD & DRINK

Spiced Bean &

Carrot Patties

Serve with salad and herb yoghurt dressing

This is a great recipe for meat-free Monday - or any other day of the week! Harissa paste is a fiery hot blend of spices from North Africa sold near the dried herbs in most large supermarkets. If unavailable, replace with 2 tsp curry paste or sun-dried tomato puree.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, peeled and chopped 2 carrots, peeled and grated 1tsp harissa paste 400g can cannellini beans, drained 400g can red kidney beans, drained 3 tbsp freshly chopped mint 100g fresh wholemeal breadcrumbs Vegetable oil for shallow frying Salad and herb yoghurt dressing, to serve (see TIP)

Makes 15 Ready in 35 minutes, plus chilling time 32 | KONECT BATHGATE

Method: 1. Heat the olive oil in a frying pan, add the onion and fry for 5 minutes until softened. Cool for 5 minutes then place in a food processor with the carrots, harissa paste, beans, mint and breadcrumbs. 2. Season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper and process for about 30 seconds until well blended. Shape the mixture into 15 small round patties. Cover and chill for 30 minutes. 3. Shallow fry the patties in hot vegetable oil for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper then serve with salad and dressing.

Tip: Serve these patties with dark green salad leaves such as baby spinach and watercress with chunks of cooked beetroot. For a quick herb dressing, stir lemon juice and freshly chopped mint into natural yoghurt and season to taste.

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KONECT BATHGATE | 33

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

This month we have everything from ballet to comedy so even if you don’t have a valentine this year you’ll be sure to still be in love… with West Lothian. A night at the theatre is hard to beat but a night at the theatre with Ballet West might just do it! Bringing the story of Giselle live to the stage at Howden Park Centre you will witness the story of a peasant girl named Giselle, who dies of a broken heart after discovering her lover is betrothed to another. This is a world class production that will be sure to pull on your heart strings. Showing on the 7th at 19:30pm. On Saturday the 10th head on down to Linlithgow Peel for a Wetland Wildlife Wander. This is certain to be a fun filled day of exploring and learning. You will tour the Peel with an incredibly knowledgeable guide as you stroll around this historic and beautiful area. Now we have two options, one for those with a Valentine’s date and for those without a date this

34 | KONECT BATHGATE

February 14th. For those who will be sharing an evening with a loved one then why not check out one of Linlithgow’s magnificent restaurants? With a wide range of high end and award winning establishments to choose from you won’t be short for choice in this Royal Burgh. Alternatively if you don’t have a date then head on down to Howden Park Centre to witness the comedy genius that is Jimeoin. His UK tour has been a smash hit and we are certain you will be bent double with laughter. Whatever you decide to get up to this February we hope you spend it in West Lothian. For more information, or the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit:

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian

PUZZLES

CLUBS & CLASSES

CROSSWORD

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... 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

Solution in the March edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Red fruit (6), 8. An agreement (6), 9. Water activity (4), 10. Pieces (8), 11. Non-attendance (7), 13. Slightly inebriated (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Brine (7), 20. Holding tightly (8), 21. Pain (4), 22. Customer (6), 23. Soak up (6) DOWN: 1. Spider’s trap (6), 2. Tepid (4), 3. Neat (7), 4. Begin (5), 5. Determined (8), 6. Smells badly (6), 12. Supplied with (8), 14. Line drawing (7), 16. Infrequently (6), 18. Cling to (6), 19. Unclean (5), 21. Plus (4)

Solution on Page 38

SUDOKU

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 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 Dorothy on 01506 652505. 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.

KONECT BATHGATE | 35

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.

36 | KONECT BATHGATE

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

The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, EH54 6GU.

KONECT BATHGATE | 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIR Home Appliance Repair

BATHROOMS Bathgate Bathroom Studio

BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett

CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SPORTS Kestrel Gymnastics Group CHURCH Centrepoint Church

18 30

CAR SERVICE & REPAIR Ace Exhausts & Tyres

CATERING Food Creations

7 4 33 4 34

CLEANING SERVICES Clean Bee Domestic Cleaning 33 COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers CONSERVATORIES CR Smith DOORS UPVC Doors

ELECTRICIAN D B Electrics

ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine Drummond Miller Turpie & Co. Your Move

FOOD & GROCERIES Hornigs Haggis

24 21 6 6 27 26 23, 25 26 33

FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce 30

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING All Year Round Landscapes 29 New Hopetoun Gardens 12 GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club 11 JOB OPPORTUNITIES Developing the Young Workforce 4 38 | KONECT BATHGATE

JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces Domestic Joinery and Maintenance Services

KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces S & S

LAWYER Aberdein Considine

LEAFLET DELIVERY The Leaflet Lady

30 18

WINDOWS 1st Choice Living CR Smith

30 39 27 40

MOBILITY Ableworld 17 SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON Scot Mobility 10 PAGE 27 OVEN CLEANER The Clean Team

PAINTER/DECORATOR Manic Street Painters Nu Walls

PROPERTY LETTING & MANAGEMENT Your Move

13 29 26

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Domestic Joinery and Maintenance Services 18

RESTAURANT Dalmahoy Hotel & Country SOLUTION TO DECEMBER Club 11 CROSSWORD Liberta Restaurant 7 ROOFING G Hughes Roofing

SECURITY SERVICES Circle Security

TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE Bluebird Radio Cars

6 10 2

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader 24 TUITION Kumon

VENUE Hilcroft Hotel

5 20

VET Ayrton Veterinary Hospital 28 Riverside Veterinary Practice 29

WASTE DISPOSAL Bare Bins

ACROSS: 7. Breeze, 8. Reckon, 9. Ugly, 10. Subtract, 11. October, 13. Needy, 15. Twice, 17. Staying, 20. Pamphlet, 21. Aids, 22. Hovers, 23. Opened DOWN: 1. Tragic, 2. Deny, 3. Measles, 4. Probe, 5. Scarcely, 6. Forced, 12. Occupied, 14. Station, 16. Weapon, 18. Nodded, 19. Close, 21 Apex.

5 21

KONECT BATHGATE | 39

Call now to boost your business Call Call now Call now to now boost to boost to boost your your business your business business

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Unit Unit 11, Unit 11, Waverley 11, Waverley Waverley Industrial Industrial Industrial Units, Units, Units, Waverley Waverley Waverley Street, Street, Street, Unit 11, Waverley Industrial Units, Waverley Street, Bathgate, Bathgate, Bathgate, West West West Lothian, Lothian, Lothian, EH48 EH48 EH48 4HY 4HY 4HY

Bathgate, West Lothian, EH48 4HY info@theleafletlady.com info@theleafletlady.com info@theleafletlady.com | www.theleafletlady.com | www.theleafletlady.com | www.theleafletlady.com

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