Konect Broxburn December 2015 by Konect Magazines

e e r

December 2015/January 2016

broxburn

FEATUREs

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something about brass bands at Christmas! Cafe Mistura - more than just the local cafe Charity begins at home - River Kids s& Offer ers h c u vo cal from lo ses s e busin

plus local businesses, community information and more!

The new community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh

59 The Loan, South Queensferry, West Lothian, EH30 9SD

Tel: 0131 331 3451 | www.capitalvets.co.uk

Dedicated Small Animal Practice In House Laboratory, Imaging Suite and Operating Theatres, Separate cat, dog and rabbit wards, 10% Pensioner and Armed Forces discount OPENING HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY: 8.00am - 7.00pm SATURDAY: 11.30am - 100pm All consultations by appointment

FEATURE

M ess ag e from t h e e d itor not Christmas until you’ve Iourt’sheard a brass band....and writer Suzanne has been

looking at why we make this association, and where you can hear a brass band this month. The local Livingston and Broxburn Band as well as other local bands have a very busy programme, see page 8. It’s also not Christmas without pressies if you’re a child … and local charity River Kids, which has been going for 10 years this year and is run by a Broxburn resident, aims to provide toys for every child in West Lothian who might not otherwise receive anything – see page 33 for details. They accept donations of new and good-condition second-hand toys, and also collect for birthdays so if you’re clearing out toys either before or after Christmas please consider donating them to River Kids. We don’t produce a January issue, so would like to take this opportunity to wish all readers and customers a very happy Christmas. Thank you for reading Konect year and for supporting local businesses, we’ll be back at the end of January with the February magazine.

FEATUREs There’s something about brass bands 08 Spotlight on Be One IT 10 Spotlight on Tatta 16 Cafe Mistura 30 REGULARS Local Walk Village People Recipe and Food Notes

24 33 30

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword Sudoku

34 34

COMMUNITY What’s on Useful Information Clubs & Classes

36 36 36

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Advertising Enquiries CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

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

Advert booking deadline: 15th of the month prior to print. Artwork/copy deadline: 18th of the month prior to print. The Konect Directory is delivered to 7,400 homes throughout Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh. Copies are also left at the library, post offices, convenience stores and other locations.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our readers and customers. (stock photo)

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/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

Boogie Beat music & movement classes are great fun for preschool children! The classes are based on traditional nursery rhymes and classical fairy tales combined with a lively and active dance twist. Your nearest class is Ratho EICA on Thursdays. Boogie Beat is also available for workshops in nurseries & private parties.

“Boogie Beat, Boogie Beat clap your hands & stamp your feet!” Contact zoe@boogiebeat.co.uk or tel 07841 109730 to book! For full class timetable see www.boogiebeat.co.uk

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by Suzanne Green

Like many people, I associate brass bands with Christmas time. Every year, when I’m rushing around doing my Christmas shopping, the sound of a band performing carols stops me in my tracks. I feel moved by the music… sometimes my eyes fill with tears and it’s not the cold! The regal sounds of the horns stir me. And in my heart I hear the words of the carols, the message of Christmas. Perhaps connecting brass bands with Christmas originates with the street corner carols provided by the Salvation Army since the late 1800s. Over the years, many brass bands have formed all over the UK, based around communities and local

industry. The local Bathgate Band traces its origins to the earlier part of the 19th century: their first documented high profile engagement was to play for Queen Victoria at Linlithgow Palace in 1842! According to Stuart Gorringe, euphonium player in the Broxburn and Livingston Band, “Nothing much has changed over the last century or so – we play the same (although newer styles) of instruments, the same carols, and wear similar uniforms.” Most bands playing at Christmas are raising money for charity, encouraging a spirit of generosity and concern for those less fortunate. “We feel it’s our duty to play,” says Stuart, “but it’s also something we really enjoy because we see the pleasure it brings people.” There’s just something about a brass band at Christmas time!

Where you c an hear a brass band this Christmas: 3 December Broxburn and Livingston Band. 6.30 pm Christmas Lights, Blackhall, Edinburgh 5 December Broxburn and Livingston Band. 12.00 pm Broxburn Santa Parade, Main Street, Broxburn. Afternoon: Carolling in Livingston. Evening (from 6.30 pm): Christmas Tree Lights Switch On, Kirk o’ Calder, Mid Calder

13 December Bathgate’s Newland Concert Brass. 7.00 pm Christmas Concert, St John’s Church, Mid Street, Bathgate 14 December Bathgate’s Newland Concert Brass. 6.45 pm – 8.15 pm Christmas Carols, St John’s Hospital, Livingston

5 December Bathgate Band. 12.30 pm Christmas Charity Festival, Inverleith Park, Edinburgh

17 December Bathgate’s Newland Concert Brass and Carollers from St John’s Church, Bathgate. Evening, Wester Inch area

6 December Broxburn and Livingston Band. 2.30 pm Christmas Charity Festival, Inverleith Park, Edinburgh

18 December Bathgate Band & Bathgate Youth Band. 7.30 pm Christmas Concert, St. Mary’s Chapel, Bathgate

6 December Bathgate’s Newland Concert Brass. Noon –1.00 pm Christmas Carols, Tesco, Bathgate

19 December Broxburn and Livingston Band. 7.30 pm Annual Christmas Concert, Canon Hoban Hall, Broxburn

9 December St David’s Brass (Dalkeith). 6.30 pm – 9.00 pm Christmas on the Corner, Colinton Parish Church, Colinton 12 December Broxburn and Livingston Band. 7.30 pm Christmas Concert, Balerno Parish Church, Balerno

19-20 December Bathgate’s Newland Concert Brass. Morrison’s, Bathgate 20 December Broxburn and Livingston Band. 6.00 pm Christmas Concert, St Andrew’s Church, Clermiston

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

We buy used computer s . Bring your old machine in for a trade-in price .

“I like to solve problems,” is how Artur of Be One IT in Broxburn describes his job. Along with his business partner, Broxburn resident Kamil, they set up Be One IT on Greendykes Road two and a half years ago. And by “solving problems” Artur doesn’t just mean fixing a bug in your computer, laptop or tablet; he means that he takes a broad view when customers come in to purchase a computer. “I ask who will be using the computer and what it will be used for - family, gaming, office work, mainly browsing, and so on. Once we have a picture of what your needs are, we can recommend a computer that will best meet them.” That may be a computer off the shelf, or one that they make adjustments to so that it is tailored for you. They sell both new and reconditioned computers (desktop and laptop) and may be able to take in your old machine as a trade-in. When you take your computer in to Be One IT with a problem, Artur or Kamil will take it through a diagnostic process and provide you with a quote for fixing it. “We often spot other problems too that are not the main reason the customer is bringing the machine in, so can fix them at the same time as a preventative measure. We’ll update or install antivirus software as necessary and make sure your machine is clean up and returned to you in good health all round.” They also have a quick turnaround time on repairs to your favourite device - tablets and smartphones. Common problems include faulty charging or microusb ports, broken screens, faulty cameras or buttons (especially the home or power button on an

iphone) and of course liquid damage from dropping your phone in a puddle. They can repair most brands on the market. In the meantime, much like a courtesy car while your car is being fixed, Be One It have an internet cafe set up within the shop, where with three work stations and fast internet (150mb/second) you can call in for £1 per 30 minutes and get caught up with work/ordering your Christmas shopping/printing your boarding passes or whatever else you need to get done while your computer is being fixed. (“Cafe” is a mis-nomer; there is no coffee as there is a “no drinks near the keyboards” policy – they have a page on their website explaining how to recover your laptop from spilled drinks as it happens all to often). What do they offer that larger companies don’t offer? “It’s all about the advice and individual customer service that large companies don’t do well. We take the time to find out what you need, to explain things, and to get the best solution for you. We are often cheaper than large companies too, and can offer good quality re-conditioned computers as an alternative to a new machine.” Kamil ran another computer repair business locally for many years before joining forces with Artur to open Be One IT, so their combined experience and knowledge is invaluable. Both Artur and Kamil have been able to turn their hobby into a business. Artur used to be a keen gamer, and although now he doesn’t get much time, he’s well able to advise on a gaming set up – a fact that may be relevant if you are Christmas shopping just now… So whatever your computer needs, whether it’s to fix a problem or buy a new machine, call into your local computer shop and support a local business first. Artur or Kamil will be delighted to help you. Visit www.laptoprepairswestlothian.co.uk for more information or call into the shop.

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SPOTLIGHT ON...

“Want rid of that tattoo? We would love to help you!” Just as it takes research to decide on the right tattooist, it should be the same for choosing the right technician to remove it. Lesley Murphy, who runs Tatta, the laser tattoo removal studio in Bathgate, says, “We’ve seen many clients who have had treatments elsewhere left with half tattoos and scarred skin. It’s very important not to just choose the ‘cheapest’. Research the type and age of the laser, the experience and training of the technician, if the practice is insured, if they have certification, if the treatment being carried out under the correct conditions. Cheapest may become dearest if you need three times the number of sessions!” Lesley had a career in accountancy before deciding to do something totally different. She says, “I came across this idea whilst researching with my husband as he wanted to have his tattoos removed. I decided to get the training and learn about the lasers.” Tatta opened in Union Street in September 2014 and since then Lesley has treated many clients. Tatta uses the latest Q Switched Nd-YAG technology, designed to remove ink without damaging the skin. “We solely focus on tattoo removal and don’t carry out other treatments,” explains Lesley. “During my research I worked with a great guy who has researched, developed and removed tattoos in Cannisburn Hospital in Glasgow for years ... he’s been fantastic support and his wealth of knowledge is incredible. I also had connections with other Laser Physicians which made me confident in my choice of laser.” Tatta is certified by the Association of Laser Safety Professionals (ASLP) and fully insured.

Lesley Murphy The treatment explodes the ink into smaller particles that the lymphatic system can wash away. “If we all lived until we were over 200, our bodies would dissolve our tattoos, so the laser is really boosting a natural process,” explains Lesley. The sensation experienced when the ink explodes is mostly described as a feeling of being pinged by an elastic band. “We work closely with our clients to make their treatment as comfortable as possible whilst ensuring they are still getting results.” The number of treatments required depends on factors such as how much ink, the colour and type of ink, how deep the ink is, how the body reacts; a professional tattoo, as a guide, can take anything from 6 to 15 sessions to remove. “We see clients from all age groups with tattoos they regret: have their ex’s name, symbolise something that hurts them now, was a bad job in the first place or they are just fed up looking at it. Some clients are extremely distressed and it gives us great pride to be able to get them on their journey to change this. The clients get excited when they see the results but so do we! My aim was to have a studio which gave a feeling of comfort and homeliness as this is a difficult treatment to experience for the first time, along with ensuring we’re working in sterile conditions that fulfil all Health and Safety ad Laser useage requirements. All of my clients are nervous on their first visit but leave saying wasn’t that bad!

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UNISEX SALON WE WISH ALL OF OUR CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! OPENING HOURS Tuesday: 8:30am - 6:00pm Wednesday: 8:30am - 5:00pm Thursday: 8:30am - 8:00pm Friday: 8:30am - 7:00pm Saturday: 8:30am - 5:00pm

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Interiors feature

Choosing the right home extension by ecko

We could always do with an extra room couldn’t we? A new extension is ideal if you’re looking for an extra lounge, bedroom or even a home-office to save you from the grind of the daily commute. Then there’s the added and not insubstantial benefit of an extension raising your property value; up to 11% according to property guru and TV personality Phil Spencer. So, if the idea of adding a sunroom to your home appeals then here are some options to help you choose the right type for you. Classic sunroom – The classic sunroom is generally built in the same way as a standard extension and may therefore require planning permission and building warrants. You can have as many patio doors and windows as you like to capture the most amount of sunlight as possible but it has a solid roof which differentiates it from a conservatory or orangery. The finished result can be highly rewarding as long as you’re prepared to put up with a certain amount or turmoil and disruption to your daily life for a few months. Pre-manufactured sunroom – Becoming increasingly more popular, there are some companies who will custom-design your sunroom

then have it pre-manufactured offsite before delivering it and setting it up. The benefit of this is the convenience as it can be in place in a matter of weeks rather than months which means less of an inconvenience to the homeowner. The structure is as sturdy and weatherproof as a classic extension with a solid (or glass) roof and you can have the same number of windows and bifold, or other types of patio doors, as a classic sunroom. One of the newest products of its kind on the market is the spaceKube by Edinburgh and West Lothian home improvements company Ekco which uses a variety of sustainable materials such as larch and cedar to clad the exterior thereby adding contrast to the existing building. It’s worth noting that although a spaceKube style extension is built onto your home most times no planning permission is required which is a huge plus point. Conservatory – The conservatory has become the popular addition to many homes in Edinburgh and the Lothians due to it generally being more affordable than a full blown extension. The standard design is a low built wall with the structure and roof being constructed mainly of glass. If you do decide to choose this particular type of sunroom make sure you choose a reputable company, preferably through word of mouth. Also make sure it has enough insulation and that the windows are energy efficient enough to give you all round living. Do this and a well-constructed conservatory can give you years of pleasure.

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | BIFOLD DOORS | SUNROOMS

Many ideas, one solution At EKCO we’ve been supplying and installing top quality Pronorm German-built kitchens and bathrooms since 1999. We’re also one of Scotland’s top suppliers of Origin bi-fold doors which are designed to open fully and allow more fresh air into your home. And, if you need some extra space or simply a place to relax and unwind then we can create that lifestyle sunroom you have always dreamed of.

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01506 857 007 www.ekco.co.uk EDINBURGH 0131 343 6007 Abbeyhill Industrial Estate EH8 8HL

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BROXBURN ABLEWORLD

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WALK

The Blaeberryhill Circular Karen Murray makes the most of a local park whilst on the football run

As we’re all busy people, fitting in a brisk walk when we can is often all we can do, especially as the days are now shorter so evening strolls are either taken in the dark or not at all. And while I do partake in walking in the dark donning a head torch, it’s preferable to take one’s daily constitutional in the daylight when at all possible. So I take my chances when I can, a great opportunity being on the football run of a weekend morning. This is also an opportunity to find new places to walk when we’re at an away game, so I was pleased to be heading to Whitburn recently on a rare crisp, sunny autumn morning. The weather was on my side, so once the boys were dropped off for some pre-match warm up work, I took a look around me and discovered a path network very close by. The match was at

Blaeberryhill Park which is a lovely green space in a fairly built-up area of Whitburn. I love to find these little oases of shrubbery within urban areas and so I headed off along the first path I found discovering a sign denoting the 1.1 km Blaeberryhill Circular path. As the name suggests this path circuits the park starting near Briar Gardens and heading south along the western edge of the park between it and Croftmalloch Primary School. It then goes east across the park and north to rejoin the main Whitburn town path at Eppiestane Road. The path is an odd mixture of wide well-lit tarmac paths within housing estates and narrower, wet and muddy paths nearer the park within trees. I like this mixture however, turning a corner and finding something different, moving from views over the park to paths winding between houses. Unfortunately it was too late in the year for finding any blaeberries! The circular path is also part of the longer 3.8km Whitburn town path which starts at the west end of the town on Polkemmet Road and winds its way through the town to meet the East Whitburn to Stoneyburn path, again winding between houses and community woodland along the way. I didn’t have to time to take the longer path, as I had to at least see the second half of the match and be a good ‘soccer mom’ so I ended up taking in two circuits of the Blaeberryhill Circular path, adding in an extra spur to end up at the opposite end of the park from the football pitch, from where I could enjoy the boys’ game and the sunshine spreading its warmth along the length of the park. The boys hadn’t missed me, I had enjoyed a new walking route, some fresh air and exercise and made use of the spare time. All good, although the match was unfortunately lost. You win some, you lose some…and meantime I look forward to the next away match and the possibility of another new route. Parks and routes such as Blaeberryhill are to be found in most towns, and whilst they are not particularly walking destinations in themselves, they are ideal for getting some fresh air and exercise whilst you’re in town for something else.

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West Lothian’s Most Experienced Bathroom Specialists To arrange a free quotation call in to our newly extended showroom

10 Hopetoun Street, BATHGATE, EH48 4EU

01506 632913

or T: E: quotes@bathgatebathrooms.com

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.bathgatebathrooms.com

OPEN: Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm | Wednesday 10am - 1pm | Saturday 10am – 3pm (Or by appointment)

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Unit 9, Tartraven Place, Broxburn West Lothian, EH52 5LT

FREE WINTER CHECK *with this voucher

TOP WASH ONLY £4

*with this voucher

All Mechanical Repairs § MOT’s § Diagnostic Recovery § New Tyres § Part Worn Tyres from £10 Puncture Repairs £10 § Tracking £20 § Welding Services from £79 § Hourly Labour Charge £25 Even if you got your own parts or tyres we don’t mind we still fit them!

Mini Valet FROM £10 Full Valet FROM £25 Upholstery Shampoo ONLY £10 Hand Polish (Cars & 4x4’s) ONLY £25

Wash, Wheels & Wax Cars £5.50 4x4’s £6.50

50p donated to charity for every top wash WIN 06 Punto with full year MOT! Raffle tickets £2 (half donated to charity) 26

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Mackie

Veterinary Surgeons Ltd

Buster the Dog

Established

1 9 3 0

Brechin

“All creatures great and small, we care for them all” Our caring, experienced and dedicated veterinary team is committed to providing the best possible care for your pet, horse or farm animal in the Edinburgh, Lothian and Central regions. Our practice is modern, well-equipped and progressive, with a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare and advice.

24 HOUR ON-SITE EMERGENCY SERVICE 29 Main Street, Kirkliston EH29 9AE Tel: 0131 333 3203 www.mackieandbrechin.co.uk vets@mackieandbrechin.co.uk

David Hastings Building Surveyor BSc Hons., M.C.I.O.B., R.Maps., AMiAS

t: 07803 289714 e: wmachastings@gmail.com Thinking of having your house/office altered or extended or garage/loft converted? Call for free consultation. · · · · ·

We offer professional expertise in: Health & Safety to comply with CDM Regs April 2015 Preparation of Specification & Drawings Submission for Planning & Building Warrant Approvals Site & Financial Control Energy & Sustainability Issues

SG GARDEN SERVICES established 18 years

For all your garden needs Garden tidy-ups, lawns, hedges, treework, patios, driveways, fencing etc. Patio, decking & driveway cleaning service Contact Steve on

07891 029764 • 01506 885944 KONECT

Simply Electrical

For all jobs, big or small just SIMPLY call!

Darren Wemyss

Electrician P.A.T. Testing e: simplyelectrical@contractor.net

t: 07563 548348

Look on facebook page for deals of the week! www.facebook.com/SimplyElectricalElectrician

CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Tel: 0131 334 2080 Mob: 07768 632867 Ask for Kerr Middleton Rhone cleaning & repairs - cast iron or plastic Roof repairs - tiles or slates Moss removal, pressure washing Free estimates & advice given Over 35 years experience 28

LOTHIAN TELECOM SERVICES Business and Residential Telecom Services Home Network and Broadband engineers with over 30 years experience in the Telecoms sector.

T: 07770 389 614 E: lothiantelecomservices@gmail.com Here are some of the services we offer: § Network Wiring Installation (LAN) Cat5 & 6 Business or Home § Business Phone systems (subject to line type) § Broadband & Telephone Faults. § Telephone & Data Extensions. § Socket and extension shifts § Specialist telecom installations (out buildings, home offices, garages etc)

● Driveways ● Resealing ● Car parks ● Paths ● White lining ● Surface dressing ● Tarmacadam ● Monoblocking specialists Tel: 01670 898 690 Glasgow: 0141 530 5546 Mob: 07836 345 540 Edinburgh: 0131 516 7508 w: www.wtarmacadam.co.uk e: info@wtarmacadam.co.uk KONECT

GET 3 CARPETS THOROUGHLY DEEP CLEANED FOR THE PRICE OF 2 FREE no tion obliga s quote

All work is 100% guarante e for yo d satisfac ur tion

• Specialist Carpet Cleaning • Rugs - collected, cleaned and returned • Upholstery & Leather Cleaning • Stain Protection • Stone Floor Cleaning

Tel: 08000 463 422 Mob: 07789 007 072 www.hydrokleenscotland.co.uk Email: info@hydrokleenscotland.co.uk

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Cafe Mistura FEATURE

When Strathbrock Partnership Centre was created thirteen years ago, a cafe was designed in to act as a central point for NHS services coming together. It was to benefit visitors and patients at the Centre by giving them a space to rest between appointments, as well as to service quality food to the local community. But it was also to be a training facility for disabled adults to help them move into employment or volunteering. And so with the help of Capability Scotland, the Cafe Mistura was developed. I spoke to Karen O’Hare and Ian Bruce from Capability Scotland

Karen O’Hare has worked here since the beginning as the Senior Coordinator of the Cafe. She has all the usual challenges of running a cafe - negotiating with suppliers, developing the menu, getting feedback from customers, adhering to health and safety and food hygiene regulations and managing the second site in Fauldhouse - but she also wanted to use the cafe to train disabled adults in communication, customer service and basic food hygiene. The Council recognised that commercial outlets would not have the resources to invest extra time and money in training disabled staff, so they awarded Capability Scotland funding to do this as the individuals may not get this opportunity elsewhere. This is the only funding that Cafe Mistura receives, and other than this has been self-sufficient for the last thirteen years. The cafes support up to fifteen trainees at a time and employ six paid staff across the two sites. This achievement is testament to Karen’s vision, dedication and people skills. “It’s been a challenge. You need a good sense of humour to do this job!” Karen laughs. Ian, Operations Manager, was much more forthcoming about Karen’s role in building and maintaining the cafe. “The whole operation would grind to a halt without her. She has managed to source most of the produce from West Lothian, she builds relationships with small family-run suppliers to keep prices down, and she leads by example. No job is to small for Karen and the staff really respect this.”

by Laura Bilton

Karen says the part of the job she loves most is seeing the trainees change before her eyes during their 18-month placement. There was one lady in particular who stood out. “When she came here her head was down. She wouldn’t engage with us, she was scared and really shy. Fast forward 2 months and she was talking and confident. She had a real sense of self-worth. It’s amazing seeing those changes.” The cafe has managed to survive through the economic downturn by keeping good communication with customers to make sure that the service meets both their needs and the needs of the trainees. And, of course, by serving tasty, home-made food. The results speak for themselves; thirteen years later the cafe caters for 350 customers a day and has enhanced the skills, selfworth and well-being of around 70 trainees. “We would like people to come in and see for themselves the service that we provide. I would love to see Cafe Misturas rolling out across Scotland,” said Karen. So if you stay in Broxburn, or next time you’re passing through, please pop into the Cafe Mistura in the Strathbrock Partnership Centre - you will be safe in the knowledge that your lunch is making a huge difference. Opening times: Monday - Friday 8am - 3.45pm

13-15 West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5RQ

01506 855156

PIZZAS ● FISH ‘N’ CHIPS ● BAKED POTATOES ● KEBABS ● CURRY ● BURGERS Open 7 Days Lunchtime Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 2:00pm Evenings Sun - Thurs: 4:00pm - 12:00am Late Fri -Sat: 4:00pm - 1:00am Home Delivery Service 4:30pm - 11:00pm

HOME MADE ICE CREAM WINES & BEERS house red & white wines as well as a large selection of canned and bottled beers are available in -store and for home delivery!

MEAL DEAL

16” Margherita Pizza + 1 topping; 2 portions of chips & a large bottle of Iron Bru Take away or delivery

£12.99

HOGGIES

NEW 10” CHIPPIE BOX

£4.70

£9.20

A wrap filled with cheese and a choice of donner meat, ham or chicken. All hoggies come with chips, side salad, chilli sauce and a can of juice (garlic mayo - 20p charge)

1 hamburger or sausage 1 fish cake 4 chicken nuggets 2 haggis fritters 2 potato fritters 1 puddling black/white 1/2 chips or onion rings

Order online www.bravo15.co.uk, www.scoffable.com & justeat.co.uk

Christmas Day Celebrate

Have a fabulous Christmas Day at Harburn Golf Club or Kingsknowe Golf Club. Book your Christmas Day dinner and make your family Christmas celebrations extra special. See our menu online at www.foodcreations.co.uk/xmas15

Call 01506 412232 Email xmas15@foodcreations.co.uk KONECT

MUNCHIE BOX

PIZZA BOX FILLED WITH: chips, donner, meat, chicken pakora, vegetable pakora, chicken niggets, onion rings, fritters, pitta bread, sauce & can of juice

9” box £6.50 12” box £9.95

Offers cannot be used in conjunction with each other

Hogmanay at the New Almondvale Suite @Livingston FC

Welcome 2016 in style at the New Almondvale Suite with Food Creations • Roadrunner Disco • Party Games • Piper to welcome the bells Tickets are just £35 per person requiring a £10 deposit or only £300 for a table of 10

Call today on 01506 412232 or email samantha@foodcreations.co.uk 31

Recipe & Food Notes by Anne Pinkerton

Chocolate Chestnut Roll: Rather more complicated but amazing! For the cake: 35 g sifted cocoa powder and 1 tbsp sifted plain flour double sifted into the same bowl. 5 eggs, separated 150g caster sugar Melted butter for greasing the baking tin. For the filling: 175 ml double cream 125g chestnut purée (small tins are available this time of year in most supermarkets). 2 tbsp rum 30g dark chocolate - 60% or 70% cocoa, melted in a separate bowl over boiling water The traditional time to make the Christmas pudding and cake was “stir up Sunday”, the last Sunday before Advent. Although this tradition is slipping away it can still be a pleasure to make something special and traditional for Christmas. Here are two different cakes which are seasonal and a little bit different.

Line a flat baking sheet with nonstick paper and paint it all over with melted butter. Heat the oven 220oC.

Line an 8” cake tin with nonstick paper. Set the oven to 160oC

Beat the egg yellows with 2/3 of the sugar, using an electric whisk till the mixture goes pale and leaves a ribbon trail. In a second, scrupulously clean bowl, whisk the egg whites till stiff. Add the remaining sugar whisk till glossy. Mix about 1/3 of the cocoa/ flour to the egg yellows. Fold in 1/3 cocoa to the egg whites. Be gentle - do NOT knock out the air you have worked to get into the meringue. Then fold the yellows and the rest or the cocoa into the meringue. Lift from the bottom. Pour the mixture onto the baking sheet smooth out and bake for 5-7 minutes till springy when touched. Cover the cake with another sheet of baking paper and a wrung out damp tea towel. Quickly invert the whole thing onto the work surface and gently peel away the baking paper that it was cooked on. Roll up the cake in the new paper. Leave to cool.

Cream the fat and sugar together. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix thoroughly to get a moist cake consistency. If it seems a bit dry add a little milk, apple juice or booze. Fill the tin with the mixture and flatten the top. Bake for 75 to 90 minutes till a wooden skewer comes out clean. Leave to cool in the tin. When cold dress it up with white icing, marzipan or what ever style you please - nuts or glacé fruit make it look festive as does a ribbon!

Make the filling by whipping the cream to soft peaks and in another bowl mixing the rum and chestnut. Add the melted chocolate to the chestnut purée making sure there are not lumps. Slowly mix the cream into the chestnut and if needed add a little more sugar to taste. Unroll the cake. Spread the filling all over it and re roll in the paper. Set the cake on a special plate and decorate with whipped cream and anything else you like, grated chocolate, holly leaves a Santa or robin.

Mincemeat Cake: A very forgiving cake, you can change the sugar to white, add a little booze or change the dried fruit. 150g soft butter 150g light soft primrose or muscovado sugar 2 large eggs or 3 small eggs 225g self raising flour 225g mincemeat from a jar 100g currants 100g sultanas

VILLAGE PEOPLE by Suzanne Green

“Charity begins at home” Broxburn resident Wendy Simpson is the Charity Coordinator for River Kids, an initiative that helps underprivileged children in West Lothian. She is married to Paul, who works in the semi conductor industry, and has two grown-up sons, Martin and Daniel.

Wendy Simpson

What motivated Wendy to get involved in setting up the charity River Kids in 2005? She says, “I had two happy and healthy kids who had grown up in a safe and secure environment. But there are many children who don’t have that, and I wanted to try to make life a little better for them.” “Brummie” Wendy moved up to Scotland 30 years ago. When her own children were in primary and secondary school, she served on the PTA and School Board and “discovered I had a knack for getting people to give me things”. During this time, Wendy met Donny Hughes, who shared her desire to establish a charity that would benefit local children and children’s groups. When he became managing director of local radio station River FM, the plan for River Kids was drawn up and the new charity was born. Since then the radio station has closed, but River Kids has gone from strength to strength, this year celebrating their 10th anniversary.

West Lothian. But for want of a football he won’t get the experience that will help him realize his dream. If we can help and encourage every child in West Lothian to do what they would like to do, that is going to have a huge knock-on effect!”

The Toy Appeal is one of the River Kids’ best known initiatives, providing toys at Christmas time and birthdays for West Lothian children who might not otherwise receive them. “Since it was started, we have been able to provide toys for more than 44,000 children,” says Wendy. “We currently spend £10.00 per child on a gift. Each year we deliver to about 1,700 children – about 10 per cent of the school population.

Christmas deliveries go out during the first two weeks in December, this year with the help of all six stations in West Lothian’s Fire Service. But donations are gratefully received all year round – especially now that River Kids has begun giving birthday presents.

“I want to see children reach their full potential. Who knows, the next David Beckham may live in

To donate, volunteer or find out more about River Kids, please go to: www.riverkids.org.uk

KONECT

Wendy and her assistant Zoe showed me round River Kids’ Livingston headquarters, where stacks of toys, some clothing and toiletries (for older children) were being sorted according to age and gender. I noticed that while the donations for young children seemed plentiful, the gifts for older kids was a bit lacking. “We find that we receive a lot more for the younger ones,” says Wendy.

It was a delight to meet and interview this bighearted woman. Charity really does begin at home.

k 33

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD Solution in the February edition of konect

Across 1Effortless (4) 3Ghosts (8) 9Kill (7) 10Part of a helmet (5) 11Current (12) 14Winter sport (3) 16Sports competition (5) 17Used for listening (3) 18Amazing (12) 21Heart beat (5) 22Simplest (7) 23Pirateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hoard (8) 24Procedure (4) Down 1Keep fit (8) 2Severe (5) 4Garden tool (3) 5In spite of (12) 6Watch carefully (7) 7Certain (4) 8Self service stores (12) 12Playing field (5) 13Intimidate (8) 15Implicate (7) 19Perfect (5) 20Blemish (4) 22Make a mistake (3)

SUDOKU Sudoku solution on page 38

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LIVINGSTON LOCKSMITH 24hr Lock & Security

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Christmas in West Lothian With 2015, the national year of Food and Drink shortly coming to an end and 2016, the year of Innovation Architecture and Design fast approaching, we are starting to think about how to celebrate Christmas in style in West Lothian. Steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside West Lothian is the ideal place to enjoy Christmas. West Lothian is blessed with some of the finest eateries in Central Scotland and if you’ve still not booked your Christmas get-together there is still time to plan that special visit. Home to some of the world’s top fashion and lifestyle brands, West Lothian offers one of

the best shopping experiences in Scotland. Indulge yourself this Christmas with some luxury designer outlet shopping or immerse yourself in some good old fashioned retail therapy in Livingston’s main shopping centre. Whatever your taste, style or budget, you’re sure to find the perfect gift this Christmas. There is festive fun and entertainment planned for most of our towns and villages this Christmas and we’re told a very special person will be visiting us every weekend in December...... don’t miss out this Christmas!

For the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit www.visitwestlothian.co.uk,facebook. com/VisitWestLothian or twitter.com/ teamwestlothian

WHAT’S ON

and Useful Information

Where to find Santa

The Centre, Livingston:Everyday until 24th December. Book your slot online at thecentrelivingston.com, or just turn up – come early to avoid the queues! Cost to visit Santa and receive a gift is £4.50 Dobbies, Livingston: Santa’s grotto open on selected dates until 24th December. Tickets must be booked in advance. £6.99 to visit Santa and receive a gift. Call Dobbies Livingston on 01506 812000 or book online www. dobbies.com Linlithgow Canal Centre: Santa will be in residence in his grotto at the Basin on the 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th December from 2pm until 4pm. Each child will receive an age appropriate gift for £5 followed by a free boat trip for all the family. Come along and enjoy our log fire. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Livingston: Meet Santa at Santa’s Farmyard Cottage. Every Saturday and Sunday from 28th November, then daily from 19th 24th December. £3.50. Plus make your own Christmas decorations in the museum. Standard admission prices apply except for children visiting Santa. Edinburgh International Climbing Centre, Ratho: Friday, Saturday and Sunday 11th/12th/13th and 18th/19th/20th December and Wed 23rd December. Children 0-7, £10. Call to book a slot: 0131 333 6333. Take a sleigh ride and see Santa in his grotto. Receive a present from Santa, followed by crafts and face painting.

Saturday 5th December Broxburn and Uphall Christmas celebrations 10am-4pm. Santa Parade on Main Street Broxburn with Broxburn and Livingston Band12.00pm. Santa’s Grotto, Christmas Fayre, Teenage market and more.

Saturday 12th December West Lothian Highland Society monthly ceilidh Monthly ceilidh in Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn. Doors open at 6.45pm for a start time of 7.30pm. Band will be W.McFarlane, Piper - Alvis Kerr & our Guests are The McLean Sisters (Fiddlers). Tickets £5 To include your event here, please email editor@konectdirectory.co.uk or call 07854 492638.

Useful Information Broxburn Medical Practice Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn. Tel: 01506 771871.

Winchburgh Medical Practice Niddry Road, Winchburgh, EH52 6RX. Tel: 01506 890210.

Broxburn Library West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 2RH. Tel: 01506 775600. Email: broxburn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening Times: Please note new opening times are: Monday & Tuesday: 10am - 5pm, Wednesday & Friday: 10am - 3pm, Thursday: 10am - 7pm & Saturday: 9am 1pm. Bookbug Bounce and Tickle: Free song, story and rhyme sessions for babies, toddlers and pre-school children. Bring a grown-up to join in the fun! Tuesdays and Wednesdays fortnightly 10.30am.

clubs & classes

Sports, Hobbies, Learning, Support Groups & more... BROXBURN Broxburn Woodcraft Club A members Club located within the community wing of the Strathbrock Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. We have a fully equipped workshop supporting all aspects of woodworking including woodturning, pyrography, scrollsawing, the making of toys, furniture, musical instruments, walking sticks and more. For further information use the Contact Us facility on the website: www.broxburnwoodcraftclub.org Our hours are Mon & Tues 9am-9pm, Wed & Fri 9am-12 noon and 6pm -9pm, Thurs 9am-3pm and 6:00pm-9pm.

Broxburn Children’s Chatterbooks – NEW book group! Broxburn Library, West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5RH Love to read? Aged between 8-11? Want to join a bookclub? We choose books to read and also activities available. Meetings held every second Friday at 2pm, call the library on 01506 775600 for next date.

Livingston Highland Society Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189 W Main St, Broxburn Monthly ceilidhs on a Saturday evening between October

and April. Each month we have a different band and guest artist. £5 each, new members welcome, contact John Sneddon on 01501 770911 for dates and more details

Ladies only outdoor fitness sessions Albyn Park, Greendykes Road Mondays 7-8pm, with Broxburn United Sports Club (BUSC) and Burn-It. Doesn’t matter your size or level of fitness. BUSC and Burn-It aim to create a fun fitness session based outside to enable ladies to meet their goals. For more info contact Leigh Lauder on 01506 858057 or email l.lauder@busc.org.uk

Alive & Kickin Albyn Park, Greendykes Road A programme for older members of the community to remain active. Run by Broxburn United Sports Club and includes: Walking Football Tues 10.30am to 12pm, £3 per session with tea/coffee after. Walking Club on Thurs 10am. Community walk starting and ending at Albyn Park. Free, everyone welcome. Invigor8 Multi Sports Thurs 2-3.30pm £2 per session. Try new sports and learn new skills. Each session is 1 hour of the new sport plus an inspirational/ informative chat for 30mins. For more info contact Leigh Lauder at Albyn Park 01506 858057 or email ll.lauder@ busc.org.uk KONECT

Zumba for Kids Albyn Park, Greendykes Road With the Poco Loco crew – learn some rocking dance routines using different styles and rhythms. For girls and boys aged 4 – 12. Fridays 1.15-2.15 (P1-P3) 2.25-3.15 (P4-P7) cost £3 per week. To book please contact Greig Taylor on g.taylor@busc.org.uk or Nina Anderson on nina. anderson@live.co.uk or call 01506 858057

Broxburn Swimming Club We cater for swimmers from age 3 upwards and cover all levels of swimming from our Learn to Swim programme up to our top competitive squad. Learn to Swim Thursday night (6:00 - 7:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool; Friday night (6:30 - 7:00) - Broxburn Academy pool Squad Swimming Monday and Tuesday (7:30 - 9:00) and Thursday (7:00 - 9:00) - Broxburn Swimming Pool; Friday (6:00 - 8:00) - Armadale Academy pool For further information please contact: broxburn_asc@ hotmail.com Strathbrock Community Centre: 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Tapestry; U3A, Calligraphy group,Computer Drop-in; Keep fit/ Line Dance for over 50s; Zumba, Brownies; WRI; Drama group, Karate. Tuesdays: Playgroup; Spanish classes; Card making; Line Dancing; Irish Dancing; Ring Craft. Wednesdays: Playgroup, Tai Chi, Scrabble groupl Chatterbook Book Club; Bingo; Computer Beginners Course; Brownies/Rainbows; Dog Obedience. Thursdays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Art Group; Genealogy; Healty Respect; Lip Reading; Access to Employment; Drama; Hoola Hoop Class; Chilren’s Club, Youth Group; Guitar lessons, Tai Chi. Fridays: Playgroup (am and pm sessions); Carpet Bowling; after school club; Computer drop in; Tai Kwon Do; Polish Community Group; New Christian Life; Model Car Club. Saturdays: Guitar lessons; Dance classes; Tae Kwon Do; Computer classes; Weight Watchers. Please call Strathbrock Community Centre on 01506 771733 or email linda.sayers@westlothian.gov.uk for details of times and more information on any of the groups.

UPHALL Uphall Playgroup Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN For children aged 24 months and over. Open Monday to Friday 9:15 - 11:30am during term time. Choose 1, 2, 3 or 4 sessions per week. Each session costs £5 and includes a healthy snack. See http://www.uphallplaygroup.co.uk/ or tel 01506 854451 for further information.

The People’s Café Meets the fourth Tuesday of every month 11am - 1.30pm at St Andrew’s Care Home, St Andrew’s Court, 20 Hawthorn Place, Uphall. For people who have any form of dementia, and their carers, to meet others in a similar situation for support and social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and home baking. Come for the whole session or just drop in.

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Uphall Community Education Centre: Strathbrock Place, Uphall, EH52 6BN. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Carpet Bowls; U3A Singing for Pleasure; Zumba; Craft Group; WRI; Scottish Country Dancing. Tuesdays: Baby & Toddler; Uphall Outreach; 50+ Friendship Group; Walking Group; Indoor Curling; U3A Art Group; Taekwon-Do; Yellow Teapot Club; Youth Club. Wednesdays: Indoor Curling; U3A Book Group; Cairbrock Association; Parkinson’s Uk; U3A History Group; Tea Dance; Zumba; Fusion Youth Group; Tribe West Belly Dance. Thursdays: Indoor Curling Adults with Carers; West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network; Line Dancing; U3A Quiz Group, U3A Music Group; Karate; Yellow Teapot Club; West Lothian Y-Cats. Fridays: U3A Poetry Group; U3A Discussion Group; Children’s Club P3-P6); Reiki; Girls Group (S1 upwards) Please call the Community Centre on 01506 854451 or email denise.doig@westlothian.gov.uk for details of times and more information on any of the groups.

WINCHBURGH Little Flyers After School Club Winchburgh Community Centre, Craigton Park, Winchburgh, EH52 6RW. Open during term time, from the end of the school day until 5.45 p.m. Collecting from Winchburgh and Holy Family Primary Schools. Please contact 07518 176781 for more information or see http://www.littleflyersnursery.com/

Winchburgh Community Centre: Craigton Park, Winchburgh, EH52 6RW. Huge range of groups and classes including: Mondays: Junior Youth Club 7.00pm - 9.15pm. Tuesdays: Slimming World 6.30pm - 9.30pm. Wednesdays: Keep Fit 9.30am -10.30am; Computer Club 9.30am-12noon; Night Art 7.00pm-9.00pm; Dog Class 7.00pm-10.00pm. Thursdays: Morning Art 9.30am-12noon; Senior Citizens 1.30pm-4.00pm; Little Flyers 3.00pm-6.00pm; Childrens Club 6.00pm-7.30pm; Guitar Club 7.45pm9.30pm; Table Tennis 7.45pm-9.30pm. Fridays: Little Flyers 12 noon-6.00pm; Scouts 6.15pm9.15pm Saturdays: Children’s Activity Club 9.45am-12noon; Girls Allowed 7.00pm-9.00pm For more information on any of the groups please contact the Community Centre on 01506 890348 or email julie. witherwick@westlothian.gov.uk Winchburgh Community Council meetings are held second Monday of every month except January and July. See www.winchburghcc.org.uk

other areas Alternative Company Entertainers (ACE) Meet every Thursday in Whitburn academy at 7:00 – 9pm. Ages 5 to 105+. Contact acompanyentertainers@gmail.com or find us on facebook. West Lothian Baking Club We meet approximately every 6th Wednesday 7:30 – 9:30pm in Dechmont Hall to talk about all things baking related. No requirement to be the next Mary Berry! £2 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook. To include your club or class, email details to editor@konectdirectory.co.uk. Charity and not-for-profit groups are free, there is a small charge for other listings. See our website for details. www.konectdirectory.co.uk

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Bathrooms Bathgate Bathroom Studio 25 Ekco 19 Beauty Allure Skin Clinic 15 Beauty @ No. 20A 14 Final Touch Beauty 17 The Tan Stand 15 Blacksmith Big Red Blacksmiths 22 Builder DB General Builders 23 Building Surveyor David Hastings 27 Butcher John Lawson Butchers 9 Car Bodywork Bodyshop Edinburgh 26 Car Service & Repair D.K’s Autocare 26 LVS Garage Services 5 Car Valet/Wash D.K’s Autocare 26 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning C and W Cleaning Services 22 Hydro Kleen Scotland 29 Catering Food Creations 31 Chilren’s Activities/Entertainment EICA 13 Boogie Beat Music & Movement 4 Children’s Nursery Wee Gems 13 Cleaning Services Clean Bee Domestics 6 Cleaning and Maintenance 28 Strata Cleaning 28 Complementary Therapies Access 2 Balance 14

Computer Services Be One IT Sprint Computers Dance Supplies Highland Dance Shop Dentist No 9 Dental Electrician Simply Electrical Estate Agent Knight Bain Estate Agents Florist Just to Say Williamsons Food & Groceries Real Foods Funeral Director Thomas Brown Funeral Director Garden & Landscaping SG Garden Services Hairdresser Hair Design Mr Fella & Me. Bella Sassoon Healthcare ABC Hearing Heating Services Forth Heating Job Opportunities Action Group Kilt Maker & Hire Caledonia Scotia Kiltmakers Kitchens Ekco Locksmith Mackenzies West Lothian Locksmith Mobility Ableworld Med Ecosse

Solution to November Crossword

Solution to Sudoku Page 34

Across: 1 Trumpet, 5 Cycle, 8 Luckier, 9 Attic, 10 Sweet, 11 Worship, 12 Expire, 14 Teases, 17 Tobacco, 19 Conch, 22 Rules, 23 Caravan, 24 Discs, 25 Destroy. 38

11 29 13 12 28 4 6 6 40 4 27 17 14 20 23 7 6 19 6 35 21 39

Down: 1 Tells, 2 Uncle, 3 Painter, 4 Thrown, 5 Chair, 6 Catches, 7 Escapes, 12 Entered, 13 Pebbles, 15 Escorts, 16 Forced, 18 Casts, 20 Never, 21 Handy.

Oven Cleaner The Clean Team Painter/Decorator Nu Walls Paving W Tarmacadam Plastering Nu Walls Property Maintenance Cleaning and Maintenance Restaurant The Club Roofing Thomson Roofing Shoe Repair Mackenzies Soft Furnishings Style Rite Blinds Storage Unit Storedge Takeaway Bravo Tattoo Removal Tatta Ltd Telecoms Services Lothian Telecom Services Trusted Trader Scheme West Lothian Trusted Trader Venue The Club Vet Capital Vets Mackie & Brechin Windows 1st Choice Living DC Double Glazing Youth Group Broxburn Air Cadets

22 22 28 22 28 7 27 6 25 11 31 17 28 23 7 2 27 22 6 12

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