Konect Calders March 2018 by Konect Magazines

MARCH 2018

WIN! Â£40 Gift Vouchers for New Hopetoun Gardens local SPRING INTERIORS: REVIVE YOUR SPACE! Plus businesses, Easter Holidays: Things to do in West Lothian community information GARDEN PROJECT: COME-AND-CUT-AGAIN & more! East and Mid Calder, Kirknewton & Pumpherston

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DISTRIBUTORS WANTED IN THIS AREA! Get paid to keep fit! If you are interested in helping us deliver Konect magazines, please email: distribution@konectdirectory.co.uk Good rates of pay, a few hours per month.

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

ay, the clocks go forward on 25th March! Not that you really have to remember nowadays as most phones and cars change automatically so your alarm goes off at the right time anyway – it tends to be just our oven clock that is an hour out for six months of the year! As we emerge from winter, outdoors jobs on the house and garden make their way up the to-do list. Whether for you these are just chores or a welcome chance to at last get back in the garden, there are plenty of local businesses and traders ready to help out! Schools break up for Easter on 23rd March for two weeks, so we’ve pulled together a list of things to do with the family West Lothian over the holiday. With three kids of my own, we’ve done pretty much all of these activities over the years and had some fantastic times, it really is worth exploring everything there is on offer locally. And on the topic of gardens, a trip to New Hopetoun Gardens is always a treat - it’s so much more than just a garden centre. So we’re delighted that they are generously offering Konect readers the chance to win £40 gift vouchers for Mother’s Day this month! Whether she is into gardening or not, New Hopetoun Gardens has plenty to offer. See page 41 for details and to enter.

Helen-Jane, Editor hj@konectdirectory.co.uk Cover Image: Springtime in West Lothian

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FEATURES Easter Holiday Activites Garden Project Health & Beauty Home Improvements Property Matters Music Review Recipe & Food Notes Parents in West Lothian Home Improvements Visit West Lothian

08 15 16 21 30 34 36 38 25 40

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku Mother’s Day Competition

32 41

COMMUNITY Clubs & Classes

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk ADVERT BOOKING DEADLINE: 15th of the month prior to print. ARTWORK/COPY DEADLINE: 18th of the month prior to print. Konect is delivered to 5500 homes in Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston every month. Copies are also left at the libraries, community centres, convenience stores and other locations within the area.

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Alexander Aitken Plastering 51 Dolphin Rd, Currie Call Sandy

07966 695595

Plaster work, rough casting, ceramic tiling & general maintenance A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

DUNFERMLINE 01383 741980 PENICUIK 0131 6035300

Pitreavie Crescent, Pitreavie Ind. Est., Dunfermline, KY11 8UT Eastfield Drive, Eastfield Ind. Est., Penicuik, EH26 8BA

Natural Paving Artificial Grass

Decorative Aggregates

Spring into action with a Garden Make Over from Beatsons Landscaping Centre! Slabs, Fence Panels, Decking Kits, Paving, Monoblock, Garden Furniture, Artificial Grass, Topsoil, Bark

www.beatsons.co.uk

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D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS

Kirknewton

No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business

Fencing • Decking • Patios • Removals • Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more.... Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com

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#11419-Edinburgh-92x128-Spring-TUF10-13feb18-R2-PRINT.pdf

15/02/2018

12:19

è Interior or exterior work è Home or business è Jobs big and small è Choose a local professional

Call Ernest for advice or a quote:

Landline: 01506 41 66 41 EDC Painters & Decorators, Skivo Farm, Livingston EH54 9AN @KonectMagazines

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EASTER HOLIDAYS 23RD MARCH - 6TH APRIL 2018

i es FR EE Ac t i vi t

Free for children up to age 16 at Xcite pools during the school holidays - Armadale, Bathgate, Broxburn, Linlithgow and Whitburn (not Xcite Livingston, which is discounted to £2.40).

Swi m

k e Explore freely around the old Ta k e t h e b i r village hospital with surfaced t o Ba n g o u tracks, large abandoned

buildings and grassy areas. Perfect for bikes, trikes, pushchairs and the dog! Make up stories and let your imagination run wild as you explore (no shop or toilet facilities). Signed just off the A89 near Dechmont.

Beecraigs Country Park Animal An i m a l Visit Attraction where you can see Highland s r e v Lo cattle, deer and sheep in the fields

and viewing shed. (The field paths can get a little muddy). Beecraigs also has a play park and visitor centre with toilets and cafe. www.westlothian.gov.uk/beecraigs Muiravonside Country Park near Falkirk has a small demonstration farm (acessible for pushchairs) with information about the animals, feeding times and an events program. After the animals, for something a little different, there is a sculpture trail to follow in the park highlighting nature and wildlife. Or head straight to the play park and cafe. www.falkirkcommunitytrust.org/venues/muiravonside

Ou t i n Na t ur e

Polkemmet Country Park and Almondell & Calderwood Country Park are great for just getting out for a walk or with the bikes, push-chair friendly tracks, play parks and places to play poo sticks. For a different environment, Blawhorn Moss near Blackridge is a boardwalk over layers of ancient peat, plantlife for those interested, and a fun stomp along the wooden platform for everyone else! www.nnr-scotland.org.uk/blawhorn-moss/ Walk around Linlithgow Loch, see the swans and other water birds. It’s about 2.5 miles for a full circuit, with wildlife and history information, or just enjoy the swans who normally congregate on the town side. Historic Environment Scotland Rangers run regular events, there is a wildlife walk here starting at the Peel (next to the Palace) on 27th March 10.30am. Free but booking essential, contact 0131 652 8150 email rangers@hes.scot

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need to get out of the house A b o o k a n d g Iftoyou shake off cabin fever but don’t a b e a n b want to do anything too strenuous,

families are always welcome at the local libraries to find a comfy seat and enjoy books together in the children’s section. Bookbugs sessions for preschoolers run regularly at most libraries as well as in Livingston shopping centres (both) and Kirknewton Church Hall. www.westlothian.gov.uk/bookbug

£3

a n d u n d er p

er c h i ld

A trip on the Union Canal from a t Linlithgow basin (operated by Ta k e a b oLinlithgow Canal Centre) on weekend afternoons, starting 31st March. £3/child.

Trips on “Bluebell” from Port Buchan, Broxburn on Sundays (operated by the Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society). Sit with the captain and try your hand on the tiller! £3/child. Easter Bunny boat trips from Port Buchan 31st March, 1st & 2nd April. (Check the facebook page for ticket information facebook.com/ bridge1940canalsociety) www.bridge19-40.co.uk/boat-trips Booking not necessary for either of the two locations, just turn up on the day.

Ea s t er Eg g f t s Trail, hidden treasure and Easter tr a i l & cr a crafts at Hopetoun House 1 and st

2nd April. Drop in between 12 and 4pm. £2.80/child www.hopetoun.co.uk/event/easter-eggcitement

Xcite West Lothian Leisure run holiday Ac t i ve ! programmes with multi-sports activities,

Easter details were’t available at time of print but check their website www.westlothianleisure.com/junior-activities/ holiday-programmes

Cairnpapple Hill in the hills t er e s t between Bathgate and Spe c i a l InLinlithgow is a short walk with very rewarding views at the top, and an ancient burial cairn you can go down into. Run by Historic Environment Scotland. Opens for the season 31st March. *No toilet facilities. £3.00/child (5-15) www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/ cairnpapple-hill

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£5

r c h i ld

pe a n d u n d er

So f t Pla y

The go-to option for rainy days and kids with too much energy! Each place has different activities and offerings. • YOYO (Bathgate) yoyosoftplay.co.uk £5/child (3-12) • The Hive Soft Play (Bathgate) www.thehivesoftplay.com £4.75/child (3 -12) • Play Bugs (Linlithgow) www.playbugs.co.uk £3.50/toddler, £4.50/child (over 3)

Deer Park, Livingston. From £4/child Bo wli n g (under 15) www.deer-park.co.uk/bowling

NOTE: Prices quoted are for one child entry. Check with the attraction for adult entry prices, family discounts and opening times before planning your day!

sor y pla y Bramble Cottage is a new Se nwildlife-themed imaginary and sensory place centre. Suitable for kids of all abilities. From £4.50/child (0-3) £5.50/child (4-7), £6/child (8-12) www.facebook.com/BrambleCottageplaycentre

Explore Blackness Castle or Ea s t er Linlithgow Palace for Easter clues g n i r e ! Not literally! But take some pals and solve lo p s and challenges, Friday 30 March Esc a p puzzles together to escape from a locked Eg g to Monday 2nd April. £3.60/child (5-15)

Paradise Island Golf, Livingston. From £5.50/child (5-16 years, less for under fives) www.paradiseislandgolf.com Livingston Jump Station trampoline park, Livingston, has a Tots Time 10am-12pm Monday to Thursday and 9-11am every Saturday & Sunday. £4/tot (0 - 4 years) www.jumpstations.co.uk

u nc e Ju m p & b o

Over

£5 per c hild

Scottish Owl Centre within Polkemmet An i m a l Country park. £5.50/child (3-15). Lo ver s www.scottishowlcentre.com Five Sisters Zoo, near West Calder. Daily handling, talks and feeds £9.95/child (3 – 15) www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk

Pa i n t & Cr a f t

Drop in to paint pottery, make jewellery, decopatch and more at Potter Around Studio, Kirknewton. They usually run holiday club and Easter egg hunt, although information not available at time of print. Prices vary, but for £5/child will cover a wee piece of craft to make and take away. www.potteraround.co.uk

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room at Escape Rooms Livingston. Suitable for children over 10. £35 for 2, £42 for 3, £48 for 4, £55 for 5 and £60 for 6 - www.escape-livingston.co.uk

Easter treat for all children Ta k e a Complimentary travelling on Bo’ness & Kinneil n i Railway Friday 30 March to s t e a m tr aMonday 2nd April. Wear a traditional th

Easter Bonnet for the chance to win a prize! Museum egg hunt. £6/child (5-15) www.bkrailway.co.uk Trips on the Maid of the Forth,

a t South Queensferry. With option to Ta k e a b ostop off at Inchcolm Island. Likely to spot

seals in the Forth. 2018 dates not avail at time of print. www.maidoftheforth.co.uk Xtreme Karting and Combat, Newbridge

Jump Station: An hour at & b o u n c e Livingston’s indoor Ju m p trampoline park for all ages and abilities. £10ppn or £9pp if pre-booked online 48 hours in advance. (Plus grip socks required, £2 per pair) www.jumpstations.co.uk Overboard Soft play £5.50/child (4 and over) www.overboardsoftplay.co.uk

Sh o wt i m e

Bathgate Cinema £6/child www.bathgatecinema.co.uk

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s Qualified in all aspects of painting, decorating & plastering ■ internal plastering ■ external/internal painting & decorating ■ ceiling / wall replacement ■ coving All estimates free, insurance quotes welcome Established 1985 3 Turner Street, Bathgate, EH48 4AR Tel 01506 634056, 01506 799840 or 07765 402012 nu-wallsdec@hotmail.co.uk

Suburban Window Cleaning Window cleaning Rhones cleaned & painted Free estimates for houses, offices, shops, pubs, clubs. Licenced and insured

Call Ian on 07834 685663

Craigcrook Joinery sMALL WORKS AND REPAIRS

John Wilson

07734 906812 jh.wilson@virginmedia.com 101 Mansfield, East Calder, EH53 0JF

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Weekdays 9am till 5pm

High quality timber garden products

Sat & Sun 11am till 3pm

Play Houses

Garden Sheds Garages/Workshops

Summerhouses Dog Kennels & Garden Stores

Picnic Tables

BBQ Shelters

Garden Seats, Benches & Tables

Table & Chair Sets

Log Edging & Log Roll Fence Panels,Gates & Posts

Gazebos/Pavilions

Arches Planters

Arbours Grow Your Own

Woodchip & Mulch Decking & Sleepers

Specialists in High Quality Timber Products and Wood Fuels at Competitive Prices For comprehensive information on all of our products please visit our website

www.champfleurieestate.co.uk

Phone 01506 847999 - E-mail sales@champfleurie.co.uk - Champfleurie Estate, Linlithgow, EH49 6NB

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KIRKNEWTON GARAGE.co.uk 1-3 Main Street, Kirknewton, EH27 8AJ

M.O.T s £35.00

FREE FIT TYRES

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

FREE BALANCING FREE VALVES FREE TRACKING CHECK

FREE RECOVERY 175x65x14........£35 FREE DIAGNOSTIC CHECK 185x65x15........£39 FREE PRE MOT CHECK 195x65x15........£39

•BRAKES • EXHAUSTS •CLUTCHES • BATTERIES •ENGINES • GEARBOXES •ELECTRICS • SUSPENSION • AIR CON • WINDOWS

185x60x15........£39 205x55x16........£38 205x50x17........£49 225x45x17........£48 195x70x15 8PLY.£50 205x65x16 8PLY.£53

ALL PARTS FITTED TO PRIVATE CARS AT TRADE PRICES ESTABLISHED 1950

Tel: 01506 885566

Max's Garage Doors Ltd Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors

For all Installations repairs and services

Tel. 07821 984 978

info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience

STEEL CONTAINERS FOR RENT Suitable for storing your stuff or run your business from here. Based on a farm near East Calder. £15 per week For more information call 07814 915552

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We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS

OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding Call Jim now for your free quote

07581 829297

Unit 47b, West End, West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8EJ

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7 Day Membership: £68.75 per month 6 Day Members: £61.88 per month, 5 Day Members: £51.56 per month Young Adult (18-19): £15 per month, Young Adult (20-21): £20 per month, Young Adult (22-25): £30 per month, Young Adult (26-30): £40 per month 12 ROUND MEMBERSHIP FOR £300 – contact us for details With the SGL affiliation fee of £12.60 Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge!

TRIAL ROUNDS FOR PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS AT £10.00 Club: 0131 453 4911 Mon-Fri Pro shop: 0131 453 3555 Sat-Sun

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Email: manager@baberton.co.uk Website: www.babertongc.com

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GARDENING PROJECT sprinkling of the compost. Water and sit on a warm windowsill. Cut just what you need when 10cm (4”) tall and you’ll get two or three crops from each sowing. Spicy flavoured seeds like rocket, oriental mixes and mustards add great flavour to basic salads whilst multi-coloured Lettuces will add a bit of excitement to green salads. Our customers are getting very excited about starting to grow again and are desperate to get into their gardens again as we get a few bright Spring days! As light levels increase you can start growing some salad crops on the windowsill and perhaps dig up some roots of chives and mint, pop them into pots and force them into growth inside on the windowsill. You don’t need to wait for it to warm up outside. Cut-and-come-again salad crops are really easy to grow. Sow seeds into shallow pots of seed and cutting compost covering the seeds with a light

Salad Crop The gardening project is contributed by New Hopetoun Gardens. Pick up more of their weekend garden projects from the garden centre.

Are you 35 this year?... or do you know someone who is? 35 is the ‘Gardener’s Birthday’ Send us their name, date of birth and address and we will send them a £35 Voucher to spend here at New Hopetoun Gardens!

New Hopetoun Gardens by Winchburgh, West Lothian, EH52 6QZ t 01506 834433 www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

DO YOU DETOX? We’re all full of detox rituals come the start of the year, but do you think to detox your scalp? First of all why is it a good thing? Well in order to grow healthy hair we must keep our scalp in tip top condition. It’s an extension of your face and common issues like blocked pores, dead skin, product, sebum and toxins can build up, so a detox once a month is a great idea to add to your beauty ritual. You can DIY it and make your own mask, check out www.thirstyroots.com for some ideas, or try out Davines Wake Up Circle Recovery & Purity Masks or Davines Naturaltech detoxifying exfoliation shampoo as an easier and less messy option!

We all may be struck by the confidence and happy energy which some people seem to have. Are they born with more confidence than us? Confidence actually grows from doing something well - it’s not a character trait or just something that lucky people have. So, we all can become confident by repeating a pattern which, in the natural course of living, becomes easier over time. But many of us have an internal critic - a ‘voice’ in our head which is negative and makes unhelpful comments. Of course, this makes creating change (such as New Year resolutions) much harder. But this negative voice is just a ‘pattern’ too. It’s only there because we’ve practised it not because it’s true. Often the voice is one we learned from someone in time gone by. Do we want it now, in the present? Our Observing Self - the part of us which can notice our thoughts and feelings and choose whether to give them attention or not - has a really important job to do. Letting that negative voice go on and on just makes us feel bad. Would we talk to someone else in the same way? So, let’s see what kindness and encouragement can do - not just to our families and friends. Just even for a month, let’s experiment ... let’s replace the inner critic with an inner friend - a coach who encourages us and is kind.

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.co.uk 16 | CALDERS

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 @KonectDirectory

Through high levels of training and teamwork, alongside the latest technology, we give patients time in order to provide the best individual solution Now at: 29 W Main Street, Uphall, EH52 5DN

Tel: 01506 857717 www.broxburndentist.co.uk no9dentalpractice

Wedding and Event Florist T: 01506 200206 M: 07816 673 204 E: vicky@vickysflowers.com

www.vickysflowers.com

AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk @KonectMagazines

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TJ’S BARBERS 159 MAIN STREET EAST CALDER

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY GENTS £7.50 SENIORS £4.50 BOYS £6.50

Tues - Fri 9am-5pm Sat 8am-3pm Price increase from 1st Dec

Don’t just put up with painful feet...

Foot Clinic

Elizabeth Storrie, Foot Care Professional 124 Main St, East Calder, EH53 0HD

Professional treatment for: • corns • ingrown nails • hard skin • hard-to-cut nails Call 01506 883379 for an appointment Available Mondays & Tuesdays : early, daytime and evening appointments

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We repair Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Ovens, Dishwashers and Washer Dryers

0772 965 1692

info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to tackle those cobwebs and give your home a good spring clean that will revive your space and perhaps inspire a fresh new look. Here are six tips to get you started: Think positive! Spring cleaning gives you the perfect chance to rethink your space and create areas that are tailor-made to suit your needs. What would you like to gain from your space? If viewed as a great opportunity to declutter and restyle rather than a list of chores, you are already one step ahead. Happy sounds are motivating, so pop on your favourite play-list. Peel off the layers Throws and blankets receive heavy-duty usage in cooler months, so ensure you wash/ dry-clean these before packing them away out of sight. Plus, stripping away layers offer more options when trying to create a new look. Walls & floors Rugs may not be necessary for warmer months, so consider a bare floor or replacing a winter rug with a lighter one in softer colours. Stains and marks will show up more in natural light, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a good time to professionally clean carpets, wipe walls, fill in holes from old hooks or repaint. Seasonal accessories Cushions, accessories and prints can be rotated according to season, colour or theme. Having your items on rotation means you are less likely to tire of them and have considered their function. This is also a good chance to declutter and donate items you have not used in the last year. Repair items Action repairs! Whether it be framing photos, hanging pictures, or restoring/polishing furniture, not only are you crossing off items on your to-do list (and regaining floor/storage space) - you will enjoy the treasures you have chosen to keep.

This article was contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors, G4 Williamsons Garden Centre, Houstson Mains Holdings, Uphall, EH52 6PA Freephone: 0800 756 5286 | www.harveybruce.co.uk

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Maintenance Regular cleaning of your couch, chairs, and blinds will maintain the quality of your textiles and improve the overall look, feel and smell. Open the curtains, polish the windows and enjoy the sunny outlook ahead! CALDERS | 21

Images courtesy of Harvey Bruce Interiors

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Contact: Geoff Vinter 07817 073 577 Joinery 01506 414 573 All types of joinery work including: Doors, Floors, Skirtings & Facings Kitchens, Custom Built Fitted Wardrobes, Decking & Fencing

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•All joinery work undertaken • Door repairs & replacement • Kitchen planning & installa�on • Solid, Engineered & laminate ﬂooring • Skir�ng & facings • Fi�ed wardrobes Bespoke joinery • Bespo • Home improvements

07432 495 285 01506 300 190 info@create.scot

Reviews and photos can be found at

www.trustatrader.com

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EPH

Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL

SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging

QUOTE KONECT

Currievale Plumbing

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT

Plumbing & Drainage Services Emergency call outs

01506 882 643

contact@ephltd.co.uk www.ephscotlandltd.co.uk 23 Bank Street Mid Calder EH53 0AS

Professional & reliable service Family business, over 15 yrs experience All plumbing work carried out

10% OFF on first job 07849 393364 • 0131 449 3071 123871

LB250

Currievale Drive, Currie

Virtuoso Composite Doors by Design up to 60% less Virtuoso Composite Doors Fully installed from £899

Upvc Doors Canopies Fully installed from £399

Upvc Doors

Fully installed from £599

French and Patio Doors .

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Fully installed from £1199

Fully inclusive prices www.upvcdoorshop.com For a no obligation quote Call: 01506 655202 CALDERS | 23

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We specialise in household alterations and repairs. To discuss your construction project, please call Colin on: or email:

Made to measure replacement doors - New Edinburgh Showroom

Call us for a FREE estimate:

2 East London Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4BH

0131 516 8654 www.dreamdoors.co.uk

To be included, please contact us. See page 3 for contact details.

CHARLES GAS CALOR GAS STOCKLIST Next to Clifton Garage, East Calder, EH53 0HS

07710 788457

charlesgas@btinternet.com

Full range of Butane, Propane & Forklift Cyclinders in stock. We also supply BBQ and Patio Gas for those summer months. We supply both business and domestic customers.

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VET’S TIP

Should I vaccinate my pet ? In a word, yes!

The chances are your pets are exposed to just as many infections (if not more!) as we are every time they leave your house; they drink from puddles, eat things they shouldn’t, happily roll around in mud, and all these things mean their immune systems are constantly working to keep them healthy. Against most infections their bodies do the job well and we see nothing more than an upset stomach or a cough for a few days before your pet bounces back to full health. But sadly there are some nasty infections lurking out there that can be much more of a threat, often proving severely debilitating or even fatal. Just like us the young and old are more vulnerable, but with some conditions even healthy adult pets are at risk. Luckily for us we now have vaccinations

Tillychance Dog Grooming Services 111 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EP

Please contact Suzanne on 01506 880015 s_buglass@hotmail.co.uk

Tillychance Dog Grooming Services

City & Guilds trained

against many of these conditions, which we can use to protect your pet, and so their incidence has decreased. Conditions like Parvovirus and Distemper are much rarer now than 30 years ago, but they are still around, we haven’t eradicated them, and the main reason we see fewer cases now is because of successful vaccination schemes. If vaccinations stop these conditions will return. Vaccines are available for cats, dogs, rabbits and even ferrets, so for more information on the merits of vaccination, contact your vet practice for help to keep your pet fighting fit.

For more information about vaccination please contact your vet practice The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Michael McCallum, B.V.M. & S. M.R.C.V.S. GPCert (Ophthal) The Lamond Veterinary Clinic

South Lodge Cattery South Lodge, Oakbank Road, East Calder, EH53 0JP

Going away on holiday or business? We treat your cat like royalty while you’re away... ● ● ● ●

Alistair Taylor

• • • •

BVMS MRCVS www.pentlandvetclinic.com 100% Small animal practice Modern surgical, medical, x-ray laboratory and dental facilities Boarding cattery available 24 hour Emergency Service

0131 451 5111

5 Riccarton Mains Rd, Currie, EH14 5PX 28 | CALDERS

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homesitting service individual attention collection & delivery service heated accomodation for the winter months 24 hour care microchipping service afflilated with local vet for your complete peace of mind

01506 880767 or

macalbani@aol.com to discuss your pet’s requirements Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 8am-12 and 4pm-7 Closed Sundays (except school holidays) @KonectDirectory

The longest serving vet prac�ce in West Lothian

LAMOND Veterinary CLINIC YOUR PETS ARE OUR PRIORITY MARCH & APRIL ARE VACCINE AMNESTY MONTHS. Restart rou�ne vaccines for your pet for the price of a booster

The Lamond Veterinary Clinic Limited Bankton Square, Murieston, Livingston EH54 9EY

Telephone: 01506 461 462 E: info@lamondvet.co.uk www.lamondvet.co.uk

PROPERTY MATTERS

Many estate agencies simply act as a broking service that matches people to property. However, most people are aware that there is far more to successful selling than this alone. Indeed, over 30% of property sales in this country fail to reach completion, falling through for various reasons. One of the main reasons is that a buyer simply gets cold feet and withdraws as a result of “buyer remorse”. This is a familiar phenomenon to estate agents and occurs when a buyer feels overwhelmed by the apparent enormity of the decision to buy and takes the more comfortable “low-risk” option and does nothing. Perhaps the buyer is offered another property that they prefer, or something else comes on the market that makes the price they have offered on your home look expensive. Your buyer may lose their job, or get a promotion. They might decide to get married or divorced; they might inherit or win a fortune, or their business may be experiencing difficulties. They could even die! Whilst these types of issues are generally unavoidable and naturally have a profound effect on people’s decision to move, the main problem concerns timing. Because offers in this country are not binding until missives have been concluded, the longer the time between offer and missives, the greater the opportunity there is for the buyer or seller to decide to withdraw. 30 | CALDERS

Good agents go to great lengths to help people move and seek to become very familiar with your circumstances and plans. An experienced Property Manager should be the same person who negotiates for you and who will be thoroughly involved in any linked transactions. This is why agents who achieve the best results don’t tend to have a separate “sales progression” department which is often located in a centralised call centre, or even worse, ask clients to manage this delicate process themselves. In general, clients appreciate a level of personal dedication and accountability provided by a single point of contact, which in turn leads to understanding, trust, and a speedy conclusion. 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. @KonectDirectory

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.

Exceptional service…unrivalled results! Call us on 01506-668448 to discuss house prices and market demand in your area. *Sale prices achieved above Home Report value, ranged from £1,000 to £35,000.

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

Solution on Page 46

CROSSWORD

Solution in the April edition of Konect

32 | CALDERS

ACROSS: 7. Swap over (6), 8. To be on a ship (6), 9. Not new (4), 10. Outside (8), 11. Angry (7), 13. Funeral fires (5), 15. Almost two pints (5), 17. Below (7), 20. Observing (8), 21. Story (4), 23. Educational establishment (6), 24. Required (6) DOWN: 1. Female sheep (4), 2. Recording room (6), 3. Burglars (7), 4. Belief (5), 5. Every sixty minutes (6), 6. Widest (8), 12. Inconvenience (8), 14. Combining (7), 16. Calculate (6), 18. Respect (6), 19. Foolish (5), 22. Vegetable (4)

@KonectDirectory

Linlithgow Loch, West Lothian. 55.980280Â°N, -3.5973411Â°W

sell with no upfront marketing costs Sell your home with Aberdein Considineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s West Lothian property experts and pay no upfront marketing costs until your property is sold. When navigating the property market, let us be your map and compass. Book a free valuation today on 01506 420800 or visit aberdeinconsidine.com

we know how the land lies www.aberdeinconsidine.com

MUSIC REVIEW

Duality Trying to keep up with new music is now the definition of running to stand still. In the time it is has taken for you to think “pretentious git” another 25,000 fresh songs have been uploaded online across more platforms than were worn in the entire history of glam rock. Moon Duo, psychedelic crush occult head rockers – you heard me – have a new single out called “Juke Box Queen” but since that track sounds a lot like Shaking Stevens vs Popcorn I am directing you back to their 2017 album Occult Architecture Volume 2. Volume 1 is a darker and rockier companion, in the area of poppy Fall riffs in places, but V2 beings in the melody, funk, and a lighter touch arising from a collision of Jerry Garcia, Prince and Echoes era Gilmour Floyd majesty. BUSTER THE DOG

The two man format is a natural for synth bands reaching from OMD to Air. No pesky drummers, just an obedient machine. The artificial nature of the distorted but carefully controlled electronica plays beautifully against the flowing San Francisco 1968 guitar solos. Influences from the best of early Hawkwind’s science fiction explorations also loom large, not least in packaging and title. In contrast, the seriously bigged up “Ruins”, fourth album by Swedish sisters duo First Aid Kit, is heralded as defying the boundaries of the folk pop harmony genre. It does this by being bland to the nth degree and never leaving you more than twenty seconds away from that country yodel that singers with no confidence in their lyrics substitute for meaning. If only I had written this sooner, it would surely have put a dent in their sell out tour and top three album chart placing. 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’.

EAST CALDER BOWLING CLUB 255 Main Street · East Calder · EH53 0EL Tel: 01506 497008 Email: info@ecbcnews.co.uk www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com

AGM Sunday 4th March, 11am. Full and Senior members urged to attend.

Memberships available All levels. Contact heatherwhyte@ rocketmail.com

34 | CALDERS

Function Suite for hire for members & non-members*

(*with sponsorship from a member)

Check our facebook page Sunday Bowling Competitions & up-coming major Invitational Competitions

@KonectDirectory

BLACK BULL INN Market Street, Mid Calder, EH53 0AA BLACK BULL INN Tel: 01506 882170 Market Street, Mid Calder, EH53 0AA Email: blackbullmidcalder@sky.com

Tel: 01506 882170

Email: blackbullmidcalder@sky.com

MID CALDER IS HOLDING IT’S FIRST EVER

Beer Festival 10th - 12th February Live Music Food available £5.00 entry

Available for anyone eating in with this advert 1 voucher per table with a minimum spend of £15 on food. Valid from 2nd January until Sat 28th Jan 2017. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

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@KonectMagazines

facebook.com/blackbullmc facebook.com/blackbullmc CALDERS | 35

FOOD & DRINK

Two national saints days occur in March: St David of Wales and St Patrick of Ireland. It’s interesting to consider what traditional foods are connected with Scotland’s neighbouring Celtic countries. People in the two countries traditionally had similar basic cooking utensils which led to similarities in foods: a flat griddle and a three-legged cooking pot which stood in the fire on the hearth. Hence stews, soups, flatbreads, cheese, autumn fruit and nuts with the addition of the occasional luxury of meat or game became the cuisine of both countries. Roman imports never influenced Ireland so food was limited to what flourished on this mild, Atlantic-weathered landscape. Oats, wheat, rye, a little later peas and beans and then dairy cattle and hence milk, butter and cheese became the staples and were very important exports. By the 16th century potatoes arrived, changing the habits and the diet of the preindustrial population and in time led to the disastrous reliance on one crop (causing the famine and the massive depopulation of the whole island in the 19th century). The Irish are proud of their Irish stew, soda breads, pancakes, beer, corned beef (salt beef) champ, Boxty (potato 36 | CALDERS

bread), colcannon (bubble and squeak) and cheeses. Wales is more mountainous and has poorer soils and a harsher climate, but it has land links with England and became heavily industrialised in the 19th century. Potato cakes, leek soup, cawl, bara brith and laver bread (nori seaweed) are the traditional foods of Wales. Leeks are the national symbol of Wales and are worn in the headgear of the armed forces on St David’s Day. They are good eating at this time of the year. These dishes are good to eat while the days are short and not too warm. They are comfort food at its best, using ingredients most people have to hand and do not take a great deal of work, just slow, gentle cooking. WELSH POTATO CAKE: • 1kg potatoes • 100g butter • Salt, pepper, thyme, nutmeg, a little oil.

METHOD: Peel the potatoes (if you prefer, but it is not necessary). Bring to the boil in a pan of water and cook for 3-5 minutes. Drain and cool a little. Oil or butter an ovenproof metal dish, put a sprig of thyme or dried thyme leaves on the bottom of the dish. Slice some of the potatoes and carefully arrange them in circles in the dish. Slice the rest of the tatties and gently mix together with the melted butter, salt, pepper, a little grated nutmeg and a bit more thyme. Turn all this into the dish and firm down. Cover with a circle of non-stick paper and bake in a hot oven, 180oC, for 1 to 1 ½ hours. Turn out to serve. Eat with cold meats, grilled chops or fried sausages or black pudding. The recipe and food notes are contributed by Anne Pinkerton. Anne is a local cook who believes that everybody can enjoy seasonal food and can have pleasure preparing meals for their family and friends. @KonectDirectory

IRISH STEW: A brave person to give recipe for this! As with most traditional food every family has their own way of doing it. • 1kg neck of mutton chops, chump chops or shoulder of lamb • 500-750g potatoes

• 3 or 4 onions chopped • 100g pearl barley

Depending on the time of year and family tradition: carrots, cabbage, kale, turnip, swede or parsnips.

METHOD: Brown the meat in a little oil (not traditional) put in an oven-proof casserole dish and layer up on top whichever other vegetables you fancy. Brown the onion in the same oil add to the meat. Add the barley and seasoning. Some say white pepper is needed. Add water to just cover the contents of the casserole. Slice the potatoes and layer on top to make a lid. Bake in a medium oven for 2 hours or till the meat is very tender and the potatoes are brown and crispy.

The Sky Kitchen

Telephone Orders Welcome

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01506 885115

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK (Closed Monday) FROM 4.30pm - 11.00pm

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@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 37

PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

...begin realising your potential using one “etch-a-sketch of life”, and a strong arm New beginnings are a double-edged sword. They are exciting, intriguing, exhilarating, but also scary, uncertain and intimidating. But change can mean growth, opportunities and realised potential. It’s widely suggested in the field of recruitment that March is the most popular month to jack in one job and move to another; in used car sales, that March is the busiest month; in law, that March is the most popular month to file for divorce, and in medicine that March is one of the two most popular months to give up smoking. So, it seems that the turn of a new year isn’t quite enough to compel us to act on those things which dissatisfy us in our lives, but after a couple of months we are ready to up-end the great Etch-a-Sketch of life and give it a jolly good shake. As in the world, so in the Jengaenga household … in the month of March we can look forward to going on a rare family holiday, to myself taking voluntary redundancy and accepting an exciting new job, to Penny turning 3 and starting nursery, to my husband becoming a British Citizen (at last), and to Quinn becoming independent of nappies during the day. This last one is particularly daunting as until very recently Quinn was unable to let us know when he needed a number 2 – one ruined rug and a binned cardi (I was trying in vain to save the rug) are testament to that. Phew. All of these daunting and thrilling prospects flitted through my mind as our little family unit arrived at the grand opening of the brand new KidzEco site in The Centre in Livingston. The 38 | CALDERS

kids seized the balloons and goodies bags offered by the friendly staff member at the door, and we were ushered inside to have a bit of a browse. Kidzeco are also on the cusp of new things – a new shop, new ventures in training, and new volunteers … but the same lovely atmosphere to welcome children and their grown-ups into. After a long browse and some to-ing and fro-ing from Quinn about getting his face painted in the children’s play area (in the end, he fro-ed) we had a look around the ‘behind the scenes’ areas, training rooms, baby class areas etc. We left with Penny having cried over a popped balloon, both of them having fought over the remaining balloon, having played with just about every toy on the shelves without actually buying any of them, but equipped with a new, Spider-Man t-shirt for Quinn – “Look Mummy, Spider-Man!”, and a hairbow for Penny. Proof if any were needed that, the more things change, the more they stay the same. 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! @KonectDirectory

Across the globe, the Kumon Maths and English Programmes advance students beyond their school level. Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment. Livingston Study Centre Ella Ritchie 07753 213626 Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

@KonectMagazines

kumon.co.uk

CALDERS | 39

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

The end of winter is here and it’s almost time for sunshine to greet Scotland again (…ish). With so many beautiful locations peppered across West Lothian, spring is a beautiful time of year to experience our attractions in all their glory!

This March, Almond Valley Heritage Centre is hosting Easter Eggcitement: a fun filled day spent handling all the cute springtime babies at the farm. There will also be a springtime trail for little ones to explore, gathering clues around the farm and looking for hidden eggs in a bid to win an Easter prize! This event runs daily from 24th March to 16th April. Spring is also a beautiful time of year to explore West Lothian’s historic past! You can visit the magnificent Linlithgow Palace, or take a trip to Scotland’s finest stately home Hopetoun House, reopening on the 30th, which offers lovely walking trails. Linlithgow Canal Centre is also reopening its doors after a chilly winter and will be open from

Saturday 31st – a fantastic day out for anyone looking to do something a little bit different. You can take a trip into town aboard ‘Victoria’ or if you fancy a longer, more relaxing trip, join an Aqueduct Cruise at any weekend!

In addition, why not head to Howden Park Centre and see a show? They have lots on this Easter season, including JHM Dance Academy – a show that celebrates 15 years of dance! This takes place on 24th and 25th.

We look forward to welcoming you to West Lothian this spring! Look out for our new West Lothian Visitor Guide 2017/18, which will be appearing in schoolbags & leaflet racks soon!

For 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

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!

To be included, please contact us. See page 3 for contact details. 40 | CALDERS

@KonectDirectory

WIN £40 gift voucher

from New Hopetoun Gardens! A visit to New Hopetoun Gardens is more than just a garden centre! Besides garden plants and expert advice, there are showcase small gardens to explore each season, themed gardens incorporating designer plant collections, a whole section devoted to pots, and much more. Besides being passionate gardeners, they stock a range of high quality gifts for gardeners and non gardeners, including a range of luxury food items and gifts for special occasions. The Orangery tea room on site sells their own baking, fresh soups, great coffees and teas and light lunches to be enjoyed overlooking a the themed gardens with a view to the River Forth and Fife! “We don’t simply sell you a plant and take your money. We really do care about our plants, and that’s why we do everything we can to make sure they perform in your Scottish garden, so you can enjoy them as much as we do” To win a £40 gift voucher for your mum to spend at New Hopetoun Gardens, simply answer the following question: What does New Hopetoun Gardens stock for non-gardeners? Email your answer, along with your name & phone number, to win@konectdirectory.co.uk Closing date for entries: Thursday 8th March 2018. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter. Address: New Hopetoun Gardens by Newton Village, West Lothian, EH52 6QZ Tel.: 01506 834 433 | Email: info@newhopetoungardens.co.uk | Website: www.newhopetoungardens.co.uk

Open: Gardens and Garden Centre: 10am-5.30pm | Tea Room: Open daily 10am-4.30pm (lunches served 11.30am-3pm)

@KonectMagazines

CALDERS | 41

COMMUNITY

THINKING OF TRYING A NEW ACTIVITY OR HOBBY?

For ideas of clubs, classes, social activities and hobbies in the local area, see the Clubs and Classes section (opposite page). The Ageing Lab at the University also has a list of classes they use, and activities include a new language, sport, exercise and dance classes, social groups and bingo, computer classes, and woodworking or handicrafts. Volunteers will be assisted in choosing their new activities by researchers from the University, and costs associated with those new activities are covered by the study including equipment costs and books.

“Trying different activities could help thinking skills as we age,” say researchers at Heriot-Watt University.

test a range of activities within existing communitybased programmes. We have designed it so that the findings will have real-world benefit.

They are encouraging Edinburgh and Lothians residents aged 65 years and over to try a new activity as part of a major research study examining how thinking and memory skills change as we age. The study will include 300 adults aged 65 and over who will undergo a range of cognitive and psychological assessments before they start their new activity.

“As we age, we may experience general declines in our thinking, memory and reasoning skills. There is, however, large variation in the degree of decline experienced. Keeping intellectually, socially or physically engaged have all been proposed as potentially protective.”

The activities chosen will vary in terms of the mental, social or physical engagement, but might include participating in language classes, taking up a sport or meeting new people in social clubs. After following their activity for 2-3 months, the volunteers will return for repeat assessments.

According to the research group’s recent “What Keeps You Sharp?” survey, almost 9 out of 10 people living in the UK believe there are things that can be done to maintain or improve thinking skills as we get older while two out of three people feel it is important to challenge the mind or to be physically active in terms of maintaining or improving thinking skills.[1]

Dr Alan Gow, from the Ageing Lab at Heriot-Watt University, explains: “Changes in our thinking skills are among the most feared aspects of growing older and can be related to a lower quality of life and a loss of independence. “People often think of these changes in terms of decline. While some people do experience this, others don’t. One suggestion for why some people retain their thinking skills better than others is because they keep mentally, socially or physically active.

Dr Gow continued: “We look forward to hearing from residents living in the Edinburgh and Lothians who are interested in taking part in this study to better understand if and how different activities might benefit our thinking skills.”

“In this study, we are asking people to take up an activity they haven’t done before, to see how becoming more engaged might benefit their thinking skills.

This article was contributed by The Ageing Lab, Heriot-Watt University

For more information about the study or to take part, please visit www.healthyageing.hw.ac.uk/research, email healthyageing@hw.ac.uk or call 0131 451 8009.

“In contrast to other studies which have been developed and tested in lab-based settings that may not translate to the real world, our study will 42 | CALDERS

@KonectDirectory

CLUBS & CLASSES

Firefly Arts Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk for more information on our current programme. Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE. www.firefly-arts.co.uk Lothian Running Club We welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6. Training sessions in/around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park. For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub.co.uk.

East Calder Bowling Club

Bingo every Sun and Wed 8pm– 9.30pm. Junior coaching (10 to 16 years old) every friday 2pm – 4pm. We can also coach adults, free, so come along and give it a try. Hats every Mon 6-30pm. See club website at www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com. Members can find details here of competitions, play by dates and club news. East Calder Jog Scotland Group

Meet every Tuesday at East Calder Health centre car park at 7pm. All abilities welcome, a social way to get fit, make friends and enjoy local countryside. Contact Dawn on 01506 883330 or 07806 772935 for more details. Yoga for Everyone

East Calder Community Centre. Wed 7.00pm – 8.30pm For further info contact Ruth Plevin: 01506204338 or ruth@sukha.co.uk East Calder Colts FC

East Calder Park. Soccer school every Friday night and teams for all ages groups please check website for details www.eastcalderfc.co.uk/ East Calder Old Folks Club

West Lothian Clarion Cycling club – our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk

East Calder Community Centre. Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Pensioners and nonpensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Secretary).

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.

East Calder Youth Club

West Lothian Royal Scottish Country Dance Society Classes in South Church Hall, Uphall - Starting on Thurs 17th Sept 7.30 to 9.30pm. 10 weeks through to the 19th Nov, then starting the 7th January through to 10th Mar 2016. £3 per week. Teacher Mrs Margaret McGregor. Dancing for fun & fitness, any new beginners very welcome. For more info contact Sandra Cheyne, tel 01506 430600 email sdcheyne77@yahoo.com.

East Calder Ladies’ Circle

East Calder Community Centre. Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1-3pm. Secretary: Mrs E Bennett, 73 Mansefield, East Calder, West Lothian EH53 0JE. East Calder Community Centre. Fri 6.15pm - 8.45pm. Ages 10 to 14 yrs. Cooking, football, baseball and other outdoor sports, pool, video games, board games and arts/crafts. Contact Gary Sneddon 01506 774473. New Mums Group

This group is for new mums of any age. East Calder Community Centre. Mon 11.00am – 12.30pm. Free. Contact health visitor via health centre for further details 01506 880582 Breast Feeding Support Group

East Calder Church Hall. Wednesday 11.30 am – 12.30 pm. Contact Health Visitors via Health Centre for further details 01506 880582

West Lothian Gymnastics Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, Livingston Pre school classes for boys and girls, learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility. Classes lead by fully qualified coaches and morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months 3 years and 35 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list. First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail.com.

Bingo

EAST CALDER

Now located in East Calder Community Centre. Mon-Fri 9am11am from 2 years. For the best introduction to your child’s education - lots of fun to be had! £5 per session. Contact Carol on 07748 053340.

Pilates Classes East Calder Community Centre. Thursdays 9.30 - 10.30am and 6.30 - 7.30pm (Beginners/Intermediate). Additional classes at Mid Calder & Hatton. Contact Mairianne 07912 963 851 for more details or email: pilates@bodyandcore. co.uk. See www.bodyandcore.co.uk & facebook.com/ bodyandcorepilates Ante-natal Yoga - Yamma Mamma Prepare for your Baby with Yoga birth preparation and fitness. Sunday morning 10am to 11.30am. For more details please contact Ruth on 07767 777044 or ruth@sukha.co.uk Forget-Me-Not Café East Calder Church Hall, Manse Court. Last Thursday of the month, 10am – 12pm. A meeting place for people with dementia and their carers of all ages. Drop in and join us for information, support and social activities. Supported by Alzheimer Scotland and East Calder Church. For more information please phone 01506 533 116.

@KonectMagazines

Pigeon Club, East Calder. Sun 8.00 - 10.00 All welcome Boys Brigade

East Calder Church Hall. Anchors (age 5 - 8) Fridays 6.30 - 7.30pm. Juniors (age 8 - 11) Fridays 6.45 - 8.15pm. Company Section (age 11-18). Fridays 7.30 - 9.45pm. Call Jean Gilchrist 01506 880367 East Calder Playgroup

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides

East Calder Church Hall, Main Street. Rainbows: East Calder Church Hall, Mon 6.30-7.30pm & Wed 6.15-7.15 Brownies: Kirknewton Church Hall Tues 6.30pm-8pm. Brownies contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 or Sally buchanan.sally@ btinternet.com Guides: Kirknewton Church Hall Mon 7pm-9pm and East Calder Church Hall Wed 7.30-9pm. Guides contact Fiona Wilson 07595 679117 fionamhwilson@sky.com. East Calder Scout Group

Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace. Beavers Mon 6.15 - 7.15pm (boys 6 - 8 yrs). Cubs Mon 7.30 - 9.00pm (boys 8 - 10 yrs). Scouts Tues 7.15 - 9.00pm (boys 10 - 14 yrs). Contact Jack Galloway on 077907 93889. eastcalderscouts.org.uk East Calder Youth Club For P6 to S4, Fridays 6.30-8.30pm. Entry £1. Contact Errin Anderson Community Education Worker 01506 871278

CALDERS | 43

East Calder Needlecraft Club We are a group of ladies who would like to invite you to our weakly Thursday meetings, between 7 and 9.30 pm in the Community Centre. We enjoy a range of needlecrafts including cross stitch, embroidery, knitting, crochet, sewing. Friendly tuition given. Our members range in age from 18 to 80. Outings include a trip to Hobby Craft in Glasgow, S.E.C.C. Also away day trips - something to please everyone. Tea and biscuits provided. Please contact 01506 882427 for more information. East Calder Old Tyme Dance Club East Calder Community Centre - We meet Tuesday afternoons from 1 pm to 3 pm, and dance to live music from Iain MacPhail, accordionist. Beginners/learners are very welcome to join us in this very friendly club. Slimming World Pigeon Club, Oakbank Road, East Calder Tuesdays at 3.30pm, 5.30pm and 7.30pm. Wednesdays at 9.30am and 11.30am. Contact Sue on 07803 520781 for more information. West Lothian Eagles – Aussie Rules Football We have just started and are looking for new players, of all shapes and sizes, beginners especially for free training sessions. Get fit, have a laugh, make new friends and play a new sport. We train mainly in East Calder football pitch on the Main St. on Monday evenings at 7.15pm but we also train on various other places throughout West Lothian. Check the facebook page for details. www.facebook.com/wleaglesarfc/

KIRKNEWTON Kirkie Kids Pop-up Softplay Pop-up Softplay for 0-5yr olds. £1.50 per family. Kirknewton Village Hall fortnightly on Tuesday’s at 1:30. Contact Amanda on 07814 055499 for further information. Kirknewton Toddler Group We are a long standing not for profit group that run every Thursday morning in Kirknewton church hall 9.30-12 for children aged 0-5 years. £1 per family with snack and coffee included. Mini & Me Music Group The Green Room Mondays (Fortnightly) 2pm-2.45pm. Songs, stories and rhymes just for the little ones. Meet other mums & make new friends. Contact Amanda on 07814 055499. Kirknewton Youth Group Village hall or Green Room. Fridays 6-8pm. For P7+. Please Contact Jennifer at jenniferkirknewton@gmail.com Kosy Kaff Kirknewton Village Hall. Fridays 4pm – 5pm term time. Free home baking, hot chocolate, games and activities for primary school aged children. See www.knec4jesus.org.uk for more information. Rainbows, Brownies and Guides East Calder Church Hall, Main Street. Rainbows: East Calder Church Hall, Mon 6.30-7.30pm & Wed 6.15-7.15 - Brownies: Kirknewton Church Hall Tues 6.30pm-8pm. Brownies contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 or Sally buchanan. sally@btinternet.com Guides: Kirknewton Church Hall Mon 7pm-9pm and East Calder Church Hall Wed 7.30-9pm. Guides contact Fiona Wilson 07595 679117 fionamhwilson@ sky.com.Bay and Toddler Group Kirknewton Church Hall. Parents/carers with tots aged 0-3 yrs, friendly group with play, stories and craft for the children and meet up and chat for the parents. Thurs 9.30-11.30am. Kirknewton Runners Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday at 19.30 Kirknewton Stompers Walking group, meeting at Kirknewton Park entrance on Park Terrace. Every Wed 7.30pm. Join the group on the community facebook page where people post details of the walk, or any other time they are walking.

44 | CALDERS

Hatton Sports Club Tennis and squash. Burnwynd, Kirknewton. Social and competitive play. LTA-qualified tennis coaches. Contact Carol Blamire 01506 880208 Simply Play Kaspars Out of School Care for Kirknewton. Kirknewton Primary School. Mon – Thu 3.15-6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00. Call 07871 791000 Kirknewton Women’s Institute Come and join us for a friendly evening of craft, demonstrations and fun. 2nd Thursday of each month, 7.15pm in Kirknewton Church Hall. Potter Around Arts and Crafts Studio at Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Pottery Painting, Potter’s Wheel, Decopatch, Jewellery Making, Oil Painting, Knitting and Crochet, Workshops and Kids Clubs, Parties. Open 7 days: Mon, Tues, Fri & Sat 10am – 5pm; Wed 10am – 9pm (if closed after 5pm please call 07815075387 for information); Thurs 10.15am–5pm; Sun 11am-4pm. For more information call 01506 238961, email chat@ potteraround.co.uk, see www.potteraround.co.uk & facebook.com/potteraround. Kirknewton Playgroup A happy and friendly playgroup for children ages 2 to 5 years. Open Tues, Wed & Fri 9.15am - 11.30am in Kirknewton Village Hall. Contact admin@communityplaygroups.co. Uk / 07593165100 or pop in and see us in the hall. £7.50 per session. Funded places are also available for eligible 2 year olds. Celtic Stepz Kirknewton Village Hall. Adult dance class to encourage adults back into dance and raise money for good causes. Wednesdays 8.15-9.30pm. Contact Cathy on 01506 881674 Book Bugs Kirknewton Green Room. Songs and stories for toddlers, 11.30pm – 12 noon Access 2 Employment Job Club Kirknewton Village Hall. Adult dance class to encourage adults back into dance and raise money for good causes. Wednesdays 8.15-9.30pm. Contact Cathy on 01506 881674.

MID CALDER Pilates Classes Mid Calder Institute Hall. Wednesdays 9.30 - 10.30am (Beginners/Intermediate). Additional classes at East Calder & Hatton. Contact Mairianne 07912 20963851 for more details or email: pilates@bodyandcore.co.uk. See www. bodyandcore.co.uk & facebook.com/bodyandcorepilates Mid Calder School of Dance Mid Calder Institute Hall. Highland, Disco Tues 6.00pm - 7.00pm and Fri 6.00pm - 9.00pm. Various ages. Contact Heather 01501733054. Star Harmonies Musical Theatre School. Mid Calder Institue Hall.Tuesdays 10-30-11am- Baby Starz; 11-15-11-45am- Little Starz. Other classes in Polbeth. Black Bull Inn Thursdays 6:10-7:10pm Liv’n Harmoneez Kids/Teenz Choir; 7:30-9:30pm The Liv’n Harmony Singers adult choir. Contact 07545 178310 for more information. See www.starharmonies.co.uk email: starharmonies.musicworkshops@gmail.com West Lothian Women’s Cycle Club Meet every Thursday at Mid Calder Primary School Car Park at 6pm. Get on your bike! All abilities welcome, should have own bike and kit. A great way to get fit, have fun and meet new friends around the local area. Contact Elizabeth Logan on 07515 161 307. Welcome Café Glenalmond Hall. Every Tuesday 10am-12noon. This is a Fair Trade Café all proceeds of which to the Vine Trust in Peru. Do come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and some home baking with friends.

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Cunnigar House Activity Group Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in Cunnigar House, Mid Calder, weekly Tuesdays (2-4pm). 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. at Cunnigar House, Mid Calder. Mid Calder Camera Club Institute Hall, Market Street. Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm. All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www.mccc.org.uk or call Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616. Mid Calder Colts FC Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-calder-colts.org. Contact Carole 883934. Contact@mid-calder-colts.org. Mid Calder Baby & Toddler Group Institute Hall, Tuesdays & Thursdays 9am-11am. £1 per baby / £1.50 per toddler per session, all welcome. Please email midcalderbabygroup@gmail.com for more details. Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Rainbow unit (girls 5 - 7 years) Wed nights; Brownie unit (girls 7 - 10 years) Tues nights; Guide unit (girls 10 - 14 years) Wed nights. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. Yoga Classes Masonic Hall. Wednesday evening class 7.30 -9pm. Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115. www.wholebodybalance.co.uk Folk Club The MidCalder Inn, Mid Calder. Meets every third Tuesday of the month 8pm at the “Tap Shop”. Choral Highlights Ladies’ Choir A choir of around 20 ladies, new members most welcome. An ability to read music is not necessary, just lots of enthusiasm with a focus on fun! We hold two concerts a year, in June and December. Accompanied by the excellent West Calder Brass Band. Available on request to perform at other venues eg fundraising, local clubs and sheltered housing. Wed 7.30pm - 9.45 pm in Kirk of Calder, Mid Calder. Please contact John 01506 880029; Janice 01506 437658; or Iris 01506 431410.

POLBETH

Star Harmonies Musical Theatre School Polbeth Harwood Church. Mondays: Drama: 6-6-40pm- P1-3; 6-45-7-25pm- P4-7; 7-30-8-10pm- S1+. DANCE: 6-6-30pm- Nursery-P2; 6-30-730pm-S1+; 7-30-8-10pm- P3-P7. Tuesdays: 3-15-3-45pmBaby Starz; 3-50-4-20pm- Little Starz; 4-20-5pm- Little Harmoneez. Other classes in Mid Calder. Contact 07545 178310 for more information. See www starharmonies.co.uk email: starharmonies.musicworkshops@gmail.com Polbeth W.R.I. 1st Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Come along for an interesting programme of talks and demonstrations. New members always welcome. Further info on 01506 435708.

PUMPHERSTON Uphall Station Creative Play Meets in Uphall Station Institute Hall. Tues 1-3pm and Thurs 9.3011.15am. Parents/carers of babies/toddlers age 0-5 very welcome. Supported by SureStart. Different play activities every week.

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Pumpherston United FC Four groups, including a soccer school for 5-12 yrs (Thur 6.00pm - 7.30pm); 1998 age group (Tuesdays); 1997 age group (Mon and Wed) and 1995 age group (Mon and Wed). Training at Pumpherston Recreation Park. For more information, please email feedback@pumpherston-united.co.uk The Look Group Outdoors activities in Almondell and Calderwood Country Park for ages 8-12. Meeting at Visitor Centre 10.30 - 12.00 Saturdays - not every Sat, check programme with the Rangers on 01506 882254.

WEST CALDER West Lothian Fibromyalgia Support Group Meets on the third Sunday of the month 1.30pm – 3.30pm, at West Calder Community Centre. New members always warmly welcomed. Join us for support, information, friendship, talks and outings. There is no group meet in July, August or December. See sites.google.com/site/wlfibromyalgia or call Sheila on 0844 887 2388 for more information. 18th West Lothian Scout Group West Kirk Hall, West Calder. Beavers Mon 6-7pm. Cubs Wed 6.16-7.30pm Scouts Thurs 6.30-8pm. Girls and boys 10.5 - 14 yrs. Contact Jean Walkinshaw 01506 873638. West Calder Walking Group Every Thurs at 12.30. Meet outside the Co-op, West Calder Main Street. Walk approx 1 hr then coffee/tea stop to finish. Call 01506 871773 for more info. The Wooly Quilters Craft Group If you are looking for some inspiration or motivation to get going then this self help group is the ideal place for help and craft chat with a cuppa while you sew or knit. We do a variety of crafts from Patchwork & Quilting to Knitting & Spinning, or to get you started try making our beginners quilt! We meet up on a Wednesday Evening from 7pm to 9pm at The Stick & Cane Shop, Unit 5 Polbeth Industrial Estate, Polbeth, West Calder EH55 8TJ. For more information: email: woolyquilters@gmail.com or find us on facebook.

CHURCHES West Kirk of Calder & Polbeth Harwood Church West Kirk of Calder Service 9.45am every Sunday; Polbeth Harwood Church Service 11.15am every Sunday. Minister: Rev Dr Jonanda Groenewald, 3 Johnsburn Road, Balerno, EH14 7DN. Tel 0131-261-7977 Kirknewton and East Calder Church Kirknewton Services 9:45 in the Kirknewton Kirk, Station Rd. East Calder Services 11:15 in the East Calder Church, Main St. Sunday School available. Crèche Available. Website www. knec4jesus.org.uk Mid Calder Services 10.30 every Sunday in the Kirk of Calder, Main St, Mid Calder. Sunday School and crèche available. Pumpherston services - The Kirk of Calder also holds fortnightly services on Wednesday mornings at 10:15 at the Pumpherston Institute Hall. The website www.kirkofcalder.com has full details of current activities/services. St Theresa’s Catholic Church Masses - 11.30AM every Sunday. 9am every Monday and Friday. 6pm every Wednesday. Confessions - After Mass on Sundays, or on request. www.livingstoncatholicparishes.co.uk 01506 880918 frpaul@livingstoncatholicparishes.co.uk.

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPING AKT Bookkeeping APPLIANCE REPAIR Home Appliance Repair ARCHITECT Plan It Design BARBER TJ’s Barbers BATHROOMS 1st Choice Living Bathgate Bathroom Studio BEAUTY Lisa Blair Beauty Therapy BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce BOWLING CLUB East Calder Bowling Club BUILDER Almond Building Company Build-It Dean Jones CAR BODYWORK JWG Car Care CAR SERVICE & REPAIR Kirknewton Garage CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett Carpet Cleaning CHILDREN’S NURSERY Angela Elizabeth Nursery CLEANING SERVICES Lion Cleaning Services COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers CONSERVATORIES CR Smith DANCE SUPPLIES Highland Dance Shop DENTIST Artis Dental and Implant Studio Currie Dental Care No.9 Dentist DOORS UPVC Doors DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIR DC Double Glazing ELECTRICIAN A&A Electrical Riddell Electrical Services ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine Drummond Miller Turpie & Co. FITNESS CLASSES Body and Core Pilates FLORIST Vicky’s flowers FOOT CARE Foot Clinic FUNERAL DIRECTOR Porteous Funeral Directors FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce GARAGE DOORS Max’s Garage Doors Ltd GARDEN & LANDSCAPING Beatson’s D Greaves Evergreen Balerno Green Thumb New Hopetoun Gardens Riccarton Garden Centre West Lothian Garden Maintenance

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17 20 26 18 5 22 18 20 34 10 26 14 12 12 20 39 20 41 25 40 19 18 17 23 6 4 6 33 32 31 17 17 18 24 20 12 4 6 10 7 15 5 4

GARDEN BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate GAS STOCKIST Charles Gas GOLF CLUB Baberton Golf Club GYM/HEALTH CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club HAIRDRESSER Jane & Friends HANDYMAN 1st Call Handyman JOB OPPORTUNITIES Developing the Young Workforce JOINER Craigcrook Joinery Create Enhanced Spaces Geoff Vinter Joinery KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces Dream Doors S & S Home Improvements LEAFLET DELIVERY The Leaflet Lady MOBILITY Scot Mobility MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Escapes PAINTER/DECORATOR Braekirk Decorator’s EDC Painters and Decorators Nu Walls PET SERVICES South Lodge Cattery Tilly Chance Dog Grooming PLASTERING Alexander Aitken Plastering Nu Walls PLUMBING SERVICES Currievale Plumbing EPH Plumb It PUBLIC HOUSE Black Bull RESTAURANT Al Borgo Sky Kitchen SECURITY SERVICES Circle Security STORAGE UNIT Storage Containers TAKEAWAY Sky Kitchen TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader TUITION Kumon Livingston Mark Wood (Singing and Piano) VENUE Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club VET Lamond Veterinary Clinic Pentland Veterinary Clinic WEDDING SERVICES Vicky’s flowers WINDOW CLEANING Suburban Window Clnr WINDOWS 1st Choice Living CR Smith DC Double Glazing

SOLUTIONS

27 13 2 17

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 33

27 40 10 22 22 22 27 47 48 19 6 23 7 10

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

28 28 4 10 23 23 26 35 37 37 13 12 37 14 39 4 2 28 28 17 10 5 25 6

ACROSS: 7. Tomato, 8. Treaty, 9. Swim, 10. Portions, 11. Absence, 13. Tipsy, 15. Argue, 17. Vinegar, 20. Gripping, 21. Ache, 22. Client, 23. Absorb DOWN: 1. Cobweb, 2. Warm, 3. Compact, 4. Start, 5. Decisive, 6. Stinks, 12. Equipped, 14. Diagram, 16. Rarely, 18. Adhere, 19. Dirty, 21. Also Disclaimer: 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, West lothian EH54 6GU.

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CALDERS | 47

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