SEPTEMBER 2017
broxburn
Property Matters: Professional Photography Plus local LOCAL CHARITY: SMILE businesses, Garden Project: September community information & more! HEALTH & BEAUTY S& OFFER ERS H C U O V cal from lo ses s e in bus
The community magazine for Uphall, Broxburn & Winchburgh
P24
FEATURE
M E SSAG E FR O M TH E ED I T O R
W
e’re just settling back into post-summer-holiday routines, after weeks of trying to make the most of the all-toofew dry days this summer! Most readers will be aware of the local charity Jak’s Den (see information on page 10). This September Jak would have turned 18, and the Birthday Challenge this year is Challenge 18. Allison says, “We are trying to get folks to do something with the number 18 in it. And we’re encouraging local pubs and restaurants to encouraging folks to “buy a pint” - to donate £3 to Team Jak”. They have also organised a Birthday Bowlathon – details below.
Come along and celebrate Jak’s 18th birthday with 2 games of bowling at Deer Park, 10th September 3.30-5.30pm. Fizzy juice and chips and lots more goodies. Have fun in the fantastic Peter Beggs Photo Booth and join in our fun and games. Price £10 per person. Teams of 2,4,6,8. Choose your team name with the number 18 as part of it and book your place by phoning 01506 412302 or email info@teamjak.co.uk All our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations!
Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk COVER IMAGE: Wild flowers in September
FEATURES Jak’s Den Health & Beauty Garden Project: September Property Matters Music Review Local Charity: Smile Recipe & Food Notes Visit West Lothian Parents in West Lothian
10 13 16 24 26 30 31 32 33
COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES
Crossword & Sudoku
34
COMMUNITY
Clubs & Classes
36
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
38
ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@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 7,500 homes throughout Uphall, Broxburn and Winchburgh. Copies are also left at the library, post offices, convenience stores and other locations.
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@KonectDirectory
KONECT BROXBURN | 3
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as Christm ! g n i m o c is
Party Dates at the New Almondvale Suite @ Livingston FC
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Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite
Mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff. Tickets just £35 per person requiring a £10 deposit.
Outside Catering from Food Creations Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multi-course meals for large numbers.
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There’s life in your unwanted furniture and electricals
FREE & FAST COLLECTION You may not want your old sofa, table or fridge, but we do. We’ll collect them from your home and find them a new life. Your donations will fund our pioneering research and help save lives.
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LETTINGS
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9.30am–12.30pm
Principal’s Address 9.30am
INSTILLING CONFIDENCE INSPIRING INDIVIDUALS Choice for S5 and S6 pupils of SQA Qualifications or International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme School Bus pick-up at Haymarket Station West Lothian School Bus stops at Livingston, Mid Calder, East Calder, Kirknewton, Newlands, Balerno and Currie Up to 100% financial support available for P7 and S1 entry
George Watson’s College, Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 admissions@gwc.org.uk www.gwc.org.uk An Edinburgh Merchant Company School, Registered Charity SC009747
Annual Craft Fair
- Saturday 7th October, Strathbrock Parish Church’s Annual Craft Fair 10.30am to 3.30pm in Strathbrock Church Hall, Uphall. The Fair has been very popular with both local crafts people and those from further afield, with around 40 tables having been booked. There is a wide variety of crafts and stallholders; selling unique handcrafted gifts and products. Some stallholders are returning, but there are a lot of new stallholders coming to the area for the first time with some new and unusual crafts. A coffee bar will be open all day offering filled rolls, home baking and refreshments. Entry to the Fair is free, so why not start your Christmas shopping early or enjoy an afternoon out with friends!
Value for money, quality dance products including shoes, patterns, swords, music, accessories, books & gifts All you need for Highland at the lowest prices We are based in East Calder so email to arrange collection and avoid postal costs! Contact us at staff@highlanddanceshop.com Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com
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Serenity and Spirit Serenity And Spirit offers a range of highly effective therapies & support which can help return the balance and well-being to your life. I can assist you to break free from fears, phobias and the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety, worry and stress.
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
After the Summer sun has faded, has your hair too? The point of power to choose how to be in our lives rests in the Observing Self - that part which can notice what’s happening and make a conscious choice, rather than the automatic, repetitious stuff that makes up over 90% of living. Just like the learning of any pattern or habit, we can strengthen this ‘attention muscle’ through repetitive practice. Mindfulness - the art of nonjudgmental ‘noticing’ is supported by scientific findings which even describe changes to the brain’s structure - increasing our capacity for empathy, compassion, patience and self-control. We may agree that life feels much nicer and more manageable when we’re calm. So, perhaps we can gift ourselves with a few moments, here and there through our day, when we gently breathe out slowly and just notice what’s around and within. We don’t actually need to always comment or judge or control - sometimes it’s a relief just to notice ...
Sun and hair are not always the best combination; UV exposure can break down hair proteins causing hair to look dull, feel straw-like and weaken hair’s tensile and physical properties. Thicker hair can be more resilient to the sun’s rays, whilst finer hair will suffer more causing frizziness and potentially breakage. The best time to refresh your colour is after a holiday. Opt for a semi-permanent gloss to restore vibrancy and shine. Keep your scalp hydrated by drinking plenty of water and restore moisture levels with leave-in masks. If you haven't already, ask your stylist to add Olaplex to your colour which works by holding the bonds that are normally broken with chemical process and putting them back in place. Ugrade your shampoo routine to something more moisturising immediately after a sunny break. Wonderland loves the Davines ultra moisturising OI range.
Perhaps you can see your mind like a river - each thought a drop of water - one after another, making a stream. Perhaps you can sit on the river bank, just noticing ... and come home to yourself. And if the flow of the stream seems stuck or the din of its passing is just too loud, please consider calling for a chat 0131 449 2580. This column is contributed by Rosanna Veitch. “I have worked as a counsellor for 30 years and am delighted to have been asked to write a little column here. 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
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk KONECT BROXBURN | 13
We design beautiful and natural-looking dentures. We can make them lighter or more secure, and we appreciate how important it is for them to look right and fit comfortably. 9 East Main Street Broxburn EH52 5AB
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KONECT BROXBURN | 15
GARDENING PROJECT
September
is a good ‘tidy up’ time in the garden but it’s not all about plants fading. There are plenty of plants that bring fresh colour and vibrancy to your outdoor space! While super ground cover plants like Persicaria affinis superba and Ajuga Metallica crispa or the unusual white flowering Ajuga rep. alba are producing flashes of colour and suppressing weeds; other plants are sending up spires of flowers lifting the eye up and lightening the shorter days. Lysmachia Candella, Lysmachia Ephemerum and Physostegia Crown of Snow have white spires of flowers whereas Physostegia Rosea’s flowers are a cheerful pale pink. Verbena Bonariensis hovers over other plants beautifully this time of year with small bright flowers and minimal foliage it is a stunning contrast to the strong yellow and black flowers of Rudbeckia Deamii which flowers lower and well into autumn.
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September is a great time to plant up new beds as well as filling in gaps. Plants get some good growing conditions allowing them to establish their root systems before winter so they are ready to impress you with how much they have grown by the Spring. In the unlikely event of a dry September, do remember to water in your new acquisitions until they are established!
Rudbeckia Deamii The gardening project this month was contributed by Wyndford Farm Plants. All plants mentioned are available in stock at their garden centre, Wyndford Farm, Ecclesmachan, West Lothian, EH52 6NW. Tel: 07871 496732. www.wyndfordfarmplants.com
KONECT BROXBURN | 17
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PROPERTY MATTERS
The trouble is, “good enough” is simply not good enough! Amateur photography is often sign of amateur estate agency. Many estate agents think that it’s ok to take their own photographs. After all digital photography has improved everyone’s photographic skills, especially as it is now so easy to immediately check whether a picture is good enough to use for property marketing. The trouble is, “good enough” is simply not good enough! Amateur photography is often sign of amateur estate agency. The role of an Estate Agent is to maximise their clients’ sale prospects by ensuring that a property looks its absolute best. That’s why good quality Estate Agents use a professional photographer who specialises in property photography. There are many issues with property photography that are overcome by using a professional with the right skills, experience, creativity and equipment. If you look at many estate agents images online, you’ll probably see poorly colour-balanced pictures where whites come out a cold blue or jaundiced yellow. You’ll see hundreds of examples of converging parallels, where walls appear to fall outwards or inwards, or where entire buildings seem to be on the verge of falling over altogether. You’ll also see numerous underexposed shots which are light on detail due to the overpowering effect of a bright window in the shot, as well as untidy rooms because the agent has simply not bothered to think about the image being created. Disgraceful! 24 | KONECT BROXBURN
A professional photographer will, in almost every instance, also enhance images using sophisticated editing software. They can work magic by, for example, removing unsightly rubbish bins, scaffolding or vehicles and even insert a beautiful blue sky even though the photo might have been taken on an overcast day. When marketing your home, you only get one chance to create a superb first impression – one that will not only attract the right buyer, but which can also have a positive effect on maximizing your eventual sale price. So when choosing the right estate agent to sell your home, do make sure that you choose one who is as passionate about great imagery and that they always use a professional photographer. 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.
September September great month September Septemberis isis isa aa agreat great greatmonth month month for for photographs! for forphotographs! photographs! photographs!
Get Getexternal externalphotographs photographstaken takennow, now,then then Get Getexternal externalphotographs photographstaken takennow, now,then then you youdecide decidewhen whentotosell. sell.Call Calltotoarrange arrangean an you youdecide decidewhen whentotosell. sell.Call Calltotoarrange arrangean an appointment. appointment. appointment. appointment. * Terms * Terms and and conditions conditions apply. apply. Offer Offer valid valid until until 30th 30th September September 2017. 2017. *Property Terms * Terms and and conditions conditions apply. apply. Offer Offer valid valid until until 30th 30th September September 2017. 2017. Property must must be be onon market market before before 1st 1st April April 2018. 2018. Property Property must must bebe onon market market before before 1st1st April April 2018. 2018.
West West Lothian’s Lothian’s Premier Premier Estate Estate Agents Agents West West Lothian’s Lothian’s Premier Premier Estate Estate Agents Agents www.turpies.com www.turpies.com• telephone: • telephone:01506 01506668448 668448 www.turpies.com www.turpies.com• telephone: • telephone:01506 01506668448 668448
MUSIC REVIEW
Empirical evidence notwithstanding, it is the summer, and all over the country the shows are raking in the cash and pumping out the volume on the waltzers. The traditional test for a great pop single is how good it sounds coming out of a cranked up amp whilst you simultaneously fly away and towards the source at ten thousand miles an hour. Taking an undeserved critical kicking for their new pop direction, Arcade Fire’s “Everything Now” sounds like a distillation of the best of 1985, right at the cusp of when chart pop became a burden. An earworm of a melody plus in-built crowd participation makes this a strong contender to be spoken over as the guys in the control booth scan the crowd for girls who are trying to make their boyfriends jealous. A very close second goes to The Killers, who obliterate the memory of po faced smashes such as
“Human” with the tongue in cheek (and elsewhere) “The Man”. A collision between an already knowing Staying Alive machismo and Bowie-esque funk, this is docked a few points for a sluggish tempo and a punchline telegraphing “FAME!” shoved into your face like a duck hook when you didn’t pay enough attention walking past the stall and now have to play to stop your children crying. Honourable mention goes to Paramore with “Hard Times”. Getting in early for the summer this has already been out for a few months, but if the sun would stay out then this would be the ideal soundtrack for jewellery flying off and keys hitting the grass everywhere.
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’.
JOIN US...
and play in our November concert. New adult string players welcome Age 18 years + appx grade 5. Monday Evenings @ Linlithgow Masonic Lodge 7.30 - 9.30 pm For more information contact; Linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com
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CHARITY OF THE MONTH
Smile is a new charity based in Uphall and was set up to build an activity centre for the elderly in the local community. The aim is to reduce isolation and promote well being, as well as support families, friends and carers who are caring for loved ones with dementia or age-related illnesses. The charity was set up in March 2017 by Lynn Smith, who has been an Activities Organiser at Middleton Hall Care Home in Uphall for the past 13 years. She says, ‘Smile is an acronym for “Small Meaningful Interaction Links Everyone’ which is what the Smile Team aim to achieve for the residents of Middleton Hall and elderly community of Broxburn & Uphall.” Smile’s fundraising money will be used to build an activity centre and to run a weekly activities program providing opportunities for the elderly in the community to socialise. Middleton Hall Care Home has a building next to the home which used to be a tennis pavilion for the old house. This has been unused for some time and is in need of renovation. Middleton Hall staff and friends spotted that once renovated
it would make a perfect Activity Centre for the elderly, and decided to start fundraising to raise money for the project. Once complete, it will allow for an in increase the number of residents taking part in activities as the building has more space and will give the elderly community a centre they can be part of. “We have had several local groups including a tai chi class for older people, art and craft groups, music concerts, coffee mornings and an Irish dance troupe who are all interested in helping this succeed,” says Lynn. “Over the next few months we have several fundraising concerts, Come Dine With Me and sponsored events that can be followed on our facebook page.” If you are interested in supporting this project or have fundraising ideas to help build The Smile Activity Centre for our elderly community, please contact Middleton Hall Care Home on 01506 852469 and see the facebook page: www.facebook.com/smileelderlyactivities
The Clean Team
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FOOD & DRINK
Delicious Dessert!
A A classic classic with with a a twist, twist, this this creamy creamy rice rice pudding pudding has has added added coconut coconut milk milk for for extra extra flavour and is served with spiced apples flavour and is served with spiced apples in in a caramel sauce. a caramel sauce.
Ingredients: Ingredients: • 50g unsalted butter, • 50g unsalted butter, softened softened • 100g pudding rice • 100g pudding rice • 400ml full-fat milk • 400ml full-fat milk • 200ml coconut milk • 200ml coconut milk • 40g caster sugar • 40g caster sugar • 1 tbsp runny honey • 1 tbsp runny honey • 2 red apples, skinned, cored • 2 red apples, skinned, cored and cut into wedges and cut into wedges • 75g demerara sugar • 75g demerara sugar • 1-2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1-2 tsp ground cinnamon • 2 tbsp apple juice • 2 tbsp apple juice
Serves 4 Serves 4 Ready in 2 hours 30 mins Ready in 2 hours 30 mins
TIP TIP
You can use other fruit slices You can use other fruit slices instead of the apples – try instead of the apples – try peaches or pears or halved peaches or pears or halved apricots. apricots.
Preheat the oven to 150°C, fan 130°C, gas 2. Preheat the oven to 150°C, fan 130°C, gas 2. Use a little of the softened butter to thoroughly Use a little of the softened butter to thoroughly grease a 1.2-litre shallow ovenproof dish. grease a 1.2-litre shallow ovenproof dish. Tip the pudding rice into the buttered dish and Tip the pudding rice into the buttered dish and stir in the milk and coconut milk. Add the caster stir in the milk and coconut milk. Add the caster sugar and stir again. Bake in the oven for 45 sugar and stir again. Bake in the oven for 45 minutes. Carefully remove the dish and give the minutes. Carefully remove the dish and give the pudding a good stir, then stir in the honey and dot pudding a good stir, then stir in the honey and dot with a little more of the butter. Return to the oven with a little more of the butter. Return to the oven for a further 1 hour 30 minutes or until a golden for a further 1 hour 30 minutes or until a golden skin has formed and most of the milk has been skin has formed and most of the milk has been absorbed by the rice. absorbed by the rice. About 10 minutes before the rice pudding is About 10 minutes before the rice pudding is ready, melt the rest of the butter in a heavy– ready, melt the rest of the butter in a heavy– based frying pan over a medium heat. Add the based frying pan over a medium heat. Add the apple slices and fry for 1-2 minutes, turning once. apple slices and fry for 1-2 minutes, turning once. Sprinkle over the demerara sugar and cook Sprinkle over the demerara sugar and cook gently, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves. gently, without stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Stir in the cinnamon and apple juice and simmer Stir in the cinnamon and apple juice and simmer for a further few minutes until syrupy. for a further few minutes until syrupy. Stir the rice pudding (remove the skin first, if Stir the rice pudding (remove the skin first, if preferred) and spoon into bowls. Top with the preferred) and spoon into bowls. Top with the apples and syrup and serve. apples and syrup and serve. KONECT BROXBURN | 31
VISIT WEST LOTHIAN
As summer departs and autumn arrives there is a lot happening in West Lothian this September. It’s time to let loose at this year’s Party in The Park taking place on the 3rd and, as always, taking place in Kirkton Park, Bathgate! Come along to this family friendly free event to enjoy the last of the summer sunshine. Make a day of it and head into Bathgate town enjoying the shopping, cinema, museum, Xcite Leisure Centre and fantastic range of bars and eateries. This month marks the return of the legendary Linlithgow Folk Festival from the 6th – 10th. This
fun packed 5 day event will showcase some of Scotland’s best folk music talent and will offer a great deal of variety . So whether you want to get up and dance or sit back and relax this is certainly one to clear the diary for. Look out those bicycles and get involved with the Pedal for Scotland Event on the 10th. The Big Belter race shall be passing through the Bathgate Hills this year via Beecraigs Country Park and Torphichen so whether you are out to compete or show your support make the most of this action packed event. 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
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PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN
"Tap! Tap! Tap!"
... keep your cool when your mini-Ronaldinho won't stop mooning in the supermarket! This Sunday something alarming occurred – my toddlers disappeared. Both children, sweet of nature, slightly naughty, but charming in their innocence and pureness of heart, were unexpectedly replaced by two cheeky teenagers who lacked the ability to follow any basic instruction or in fact listen to reason at all. Sunday started with me being swiftly jabbed in the eye, and told ‘Wake up Mummy, this is Penny’s bed!”. “Back to bed now!”, I growled, but I was eventually forced to concede ownership of the bed. We traipsed out of the door some 40 minutes later for our weekly grocery-shopping ritual … We stood at the self-service tills, the kids messing about behind us as we scanned our shopping. “You two behave, please.”, I said with rather more hope than recent experience should have afforded me. I heard Penny reciting sections of the current favourite book “The Gruffalo’s Child”, and Quinn chanting ‘up, down, up, down, up, down’ – all sounded relatively innocent so we powered on. Little did we know that the up/down mantra from Quinn was accompanied by him actually pulling his trousers ‘up’ and ‘down’ in the queue, laughing and exposing his nappy each time to a crowd of shoppers who didn’t quite know what to make of it. Time to head to Bathgate Xcite Leisure Centre and get ready to experience our first Planet Soccer training session, where hopefully the coach, Graham, would be able to instil some discipline into our unruly children … What followed was a wonderful introduction to
football which was very age appropriate for my two. In fact it seemed to be an outdoor play and education session with footballs littered hither and thither. First off was Simon Says – where we followed instructions to sit on, ‘tap’, or lift up the ball as instructed … Quinn tried hard with this and, with superhuman patience, Coach Graham spent time physically picking up Quinn’s legs one by one to show him how to ‘tap’ the ball by resting one’s foot on top of it. He got the hang of it eventually and was extremely proud to be able to do it himself – “Tap! Tap! Tap!” - he actually had to be persuaded to stop … We then played ‘Pirates Treasure’ – a game designed to practise dribbling skills and teamwork which was frenzied and fun. Last up was the glory-filled excitement of goalscoring. But first each child had to identify the colours of at least two plastic cones and run to touch them before striking home a decisive shot at the Coach Graham’s prompt of ‘Shoot!’ Quinn did well with the colours and as the moment of triumph arrived he ran to the ball and … “Tap!”, his foot came to rest majestically atop it and he looked up with a grin, his chest swelling with pride in his ability. Well at least he has been listening at some point … 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 BROXBURN | 33
PUZZLES
BUSTER THE DOG
CROSSWORD
Solution in the October edition of Konect ACROSS: 6. Attractive (6), 8. Allow (6), 9. Bite persistently (4), 10. Chosen (8), 11. Ripping (7), 13. Acknowledge (5), 15. Quarrel (5), 17. Secured (7), 20. Non-military person (8), 21. Neat (4), 23 Suppose (6), 24 Surplus (6) DOWN: 1. Midday (4), 2. Reply (6), 3. Type of fruit (5), 4. Found (6), 5. Similarly (8), 7. Relieving (6), 12. Soonest (8), 14. Alter (6), 16. Special (6), 18. Unbroken (6), 19. Conceals (5), 22. Hurry (4)
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Solution on Page 38
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34 | KONECT BROXBURN
Mackie
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Established
1 9 3 0
Brechin
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“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.
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KONECT BROXBURN | 35
CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
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
Broxburn Swimming Club
CRAFTERS DESTASH SALE - SAT 2ND SEPT Strathbrock Parish Church are holding a Crafters Destash Sale on Saturday 2nd Sept from 10am to 12.30pm in Strathbrock Church Hall, Uphall. (EH52 6BY). Lots of Crafters are clearing out their craft supplies to offer you some crafty bargains. Fabric, wool, card making, beads, ribbons, jewellery making equipment, craft books, haberdashery and much more. Over 25 tables!! Crafting for business or pleasure, youth / childrens leader, teachers, bargains available, come and have a look. Cafe open, selling filled rolls, homebaking and refreshments. Entry free!! So pop in and grab yourself a bargain
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 9am9pm, Wed & Fri 9am-12 noon and 6pm -9pm, Thurs 9am-3pm and 6:00pm-9pm.
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. 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.
Church Street Baby & Toddler Group
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. New members welcome, contact John Sneddon on 01501 770911 for dates and more details
2 Church Street, Broxburn EH52 5EL. Every Thursday from 09.15-11.00 and is based in the Church Hall behind Broxburn Parish Church. Suitable for children from birth to 3 years. Each session costs £2 per and includes a healthy snack for the children and a cuppa & biscuit for the grown-ups. Visit our Facebook page for more information www.facebook.com/ BroxburnChurchStreetBabyandToddler
Ladies only outdoor fitness sessions
Craft Cuppa
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
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 (P1P3) 2.25-3.15 (P4-P7) cost £3 per week. To book please contact Aidan Forbes on a.forbes@busc.org.uk or Nina Anderson on nina.anderson@live.co.uk or call 01506 858057.
36 | KONECT BROXBURN
We are a small group of crafters who meet on Saturday afternoons 1-3 pm at Strathbrock Partnership Centre, Community Wing, entrance B. We meet to share expertise, have a natter and a cuppa. We would welcome anyone who wants to come along. For more info please email craftycuppaclub@mail.com or just come along!
West Lothian Iwama Ryu Aikido Club Broxburn Black Belt Academy, EH52 5BB, Broxburn. Dedicated to the traditional study and practice of Aikido through ken, jo and taijutsu. The club meets at Broxburn BlackBelt Academy Thursdays 8pm to 9:30pm. Come along and give it a try. For information please call 07784 006851 wliwamaryu@gmail.com
Broxburn Gymanstics Club
Broxburn Academy’s Dance Studio, Broxburn Fun filled gymnastics class for children in P1-P7. Hourly classes on Saturday mornings 10am (Beginner), 11am (Intermediate), Advanced 12pm. First week is a free no obligation trial. For more information please contact Gemma on 07775 900624 or broxburngymnasticsclub@yahoo.co.uk Website: www.broxburngymnastics.com Broxburn Scottish Women’s Institute (formerly SWRI) We meet in Broxburn Community Centre at 7pm on the 2nd Monday of each month from September to May. Contact: Fay Young , tel 01506 854141 or email fayyoungis@hotmail.com
Slimming World
South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30. Please call Lisa on 07736 316400
UPHALL 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.
St Andrew’s Court Activity Group
Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in St Andrew’s Court, Uphall, weekly Wednesdays (10am-12). 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.
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.
West Lothian Art
West Lothian Art is a group of enthusiastic amateur artists who meet regularly to paint, draw and chat in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere on Tuesday evenings between 7pm and 9pm in Uphall Community Education Centre. If you’d like to know more, please email us at info@westlothianart.co.uk
West Lothian U3A (University of the 3rd Age)
A group of retired people who like to keep their minds active by learning in an informal environment. We meet in Uphall Community Education Centre, Strathbrock Place, Uphall on the third Wednesday of the month at 2 p.m., when we have speakers on a variety of topics. U3A also has a number of interest Groups who also meet once a month, including Art Appreciation, Singing for Pleasure, History, Walking and Cinema. New members are always welcome – please contact the Membership Secretary Helen on 01506 655976. You will find a list of speakers and a full list of Groups on our website u3asites.org.uk/westlothian
Slimming World
South Parish Church, East Main St, Uphall, EH52 5HY. Tuesdays 3.30pm, 5.30pm & 7.30pm and Canon Hoben Hall, Broxburn, Wednesdays 3.30, 5.30 & 7.30. Please call Lisa on 07736 316400
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 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 7.45pm-9.30pm; Table Tennis 7.45pm-9.30pm. FRIDAYS: Little Flyers 12 noon-6.00pm; Scouts 6.15pm- 9.15pm SATURDAYS: Children’s Activity Club 9.45am12noon; 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
DECHMONT 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! £3 per meeting. Email wlbakingclub@yahoo.co.uk or find us on facebook.
Dechmont 50+ Arts Group
This group of enthusiastic amateur painters meet every Wednesday from 13.30 - 16.00 in Dechmont Memorial Hall to practice their art and socialise. There are a few membership places available and new members would be more than welcome irrespective of their painting skills. For more details email dechmontartgroup@gmail.com or visit their website at dechmontartgroup.wix.com/home.
Gentle Yoga
Dechmont Memorial Hall, Monday night 6.30-7.30pm at Dechmont Memorial Hall. Contact Rhona on 01506 811700 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
KONECT BROXBURN | 37
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
BATHROOMS Bathgate Bathroom Studio BEAUTY Allure Skin Clinic The Tan Stand
BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce
CAR SERVICE & REPAIR D.K’s Autocare CAR VALET/WASH D.K’s Autocare
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett CARPETS & FLOORING Land of Carpets CATERING Food Creations Desserts Paradise
CHARITY British Heart Foundation Jak’s Den
CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES / ENTERTAINMENT Broxburn Air Cadets CLEANING SERVICES Clean Bee
29 12 12 29 27 27 28 2 4 5 6 10 32 30
COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES Serenity and Spirit 12 COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers CONSERVATORIES CR Smith COUNSELLING Rosanna Veitch
DANCE SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop DENTIST No.9 Dental
DOORS uPVC Doors
ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine Drummond Miller Remax Turpie & Co.
FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce
6 21 13 12 14 8 23 22 40 25 29
GARDEN & LANDSCAPING Beatson’s Evergreen Balerno New Hopetoun Gardens WL Landscaping and Gardening Woodford Timber GARDEN BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate Ltd Woodford Timber HOME HELP Home Plan
HEATING SERVICES Capital Heating Hometech Mech A Tech
JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces
KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces Dream Doors LOCKSMITH West Lothian Locksmith
MOBILITY Ableworld
MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Escapes OVEN CLEANER The Clean Team
PAINTER/DECORATOR David J Lane Nu Walls Manic Street Painters Braekirk Decorators
PET SERVICES Playpals Dog Walking Ltd Katies Pet Point
PLASTERING Nu Walls
PLUMBING SERVICES Hometech
PROPERTY LETTING AND MANAGEMENT Campbell Stafford Estates RESTAURANT Dalmahoy Hotel & CC
SCHOOL George Watson’s College TANNING Sun Shack
TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE All The Fours
TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader
VEHICLE SECURITY Protect A Van
38 | KONECT BROXBURN
16 19 18 8 18 17 18 4
VENUE Dalmahoy Hotel & CC VET Mackie & Brechin Riverside Veterinary WINDOWS CR Smith
20 35 35 21
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON P34
28 5 8 28 28 22 28 15 14
SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD
30 8 28 4 8 34 35 28 5 9 20 11 7 39 19 27
ACROSS: 7 Reform, 8 Chosen, 9 Aids, 10 Stubborn, 11 Merrier, 13 Ankle, 15 Above, 17 Frisked, 20 Umbrella, 21 Lute, 22 Recess, 23 Gemini. DOWN: 1 Desire, 2 Foes, 3 Smashed, 4 Scrub, 5 Combines, 6 Petrol, 12 Reversed, 14 Arrange, 16 Bumper, 18 Eating, 19 Close, 21 Lamp.
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.
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