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TO OUR DECEMBER EDITION
THIS ISSUE
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nother year nearly done; another year here at Konect of endless discovery about the local area! Even though I have been doing this for nearly ten years, it really is a fresh discovery every month putting together the editorial. I hope you find the same reading it. I love all the Christmassy adverts in the December issue. One thing that kept coming up as I was putting this issue together though is how much need there is in the community, how many people are finding the festive season difficult - and, crucially, how many people locally are working hard to make it better for everyone.
Our charity of the month, Dignity Boxes, is a new one set up by a West Lothian resident who realised there is a need for people to be able to access help “without having to ask and without having to thank anyone,” hence the word “dignity”. She is focussing on toiletries, see the article on pages 8-9. Our sports writer has been looking at the wrestling scene locally; there is a bracing walk around the loch at Caldercruix to discover; Magic Festival tickets to win; and all the other usual columns and one-off discoveries. Wishing all our readers a fantastic holiday season. We don’t produce a magazine for January, so the next one will be the February issue. A huge thank you to all our advertisers who make this magazine possible, without them it wouldn’t happen. Please continue to support local companies and organisations.
P8 Charity: Dignity Boxes.................................. 8 WIN: MagicFest Tickets..............................10 Gardening: Festive Garden.......................13 Health & Beauty...........................................14 Property Matters..........................................16 Sport: Smack Me Down..............................23 Vet’s Tip.........................................................24 Walk: Around Hillend Loch........................26 Parenting: All I want for Xmas...................28 Music Review...............................................30 What’s On......................................................32 Puzzles..........................................................34 Clubs & Classes..........................................36
Konect is delivered monthly to 7500 homes and businesses in Linlithgow, Linlithgow Bridge and the surrounding area. Copies are also left at the library, post offices and other locations.
HELEN-JANE SHEARER
CHARLENE GAFFNEY
JENNY THOMSON
Email: editor@konect.scot
07772 941899 charlene@konect.scot
Email: jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk
Editor
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CHARITY OF THE MONTH
“ The aim of the Dignity Box is to promote self-worth and dignity by allowing those in need to take what they cannot afford, without having to ask or thank anyone.”
“I’d like people to be able to have essential toiletries and personal hygiene products without having to ask, and without needing to thank anyone” says Isabel Dosser, a Livingston resident who is rather surprised to find herself at the helm of a new charity which is set to grow massively in 2019. Isabel is a lecturer in nursing at Edinburgh Napier University, where she has worked for 15 years after a 30 year career in nursing, specialising in palliative care. She is very wellversed in issues of care, dignity and choice. “During a nursing conference in April this year, I attended a workshop on poverty. Someone in the group mentioned a box they have at their organisation where women can help themselves to free sanitary products. And the thought just lingered with me.” Isabel is retiring next year and wanted a small project to set up to give something back to the community. “The idea of the box of free products kept coming back to me. I knew that sanitary products are now freely available in many places, so I decided on boxes of other basic hygiene products, to be made available on a self-serve basis in areas of the Lothians where people are experiencing hardship and deprivation.” Speaking with the Foodbank, the clothing bank and other organisations, it was clear that no-one else was focussing on toiletries, and people were generally receptive to the idea. So Isabel drew up a proposal for the project and presented to it to her employer, Edinburgh Napier University, who were very supportive.
Isobel 8 | LINLITHGOW
Isabel managed to get local supermarkets to donate the boxes themselves; Edinburgh Napier University promoted Dignity Boxes internally, agreed to collections points at each of their three campuses, and arranged an official launch and publicity. With donations of products in from the university collection points, Isabel was soon ready to put the first box out in the community. Social Bite in Edinburgh were keen to take it; and on @KonectMagazines
launch day in mid September Isabel found herself and her project in the local press and on Forth Radio. Since then, the uptake and requests have been almost overwhelming. “There is clearly a need for this that wasn’t being filled. It would be easy to get distracted onto lots of other products, but we are keeping the focus on just these six toiletry items.” Each box contains around 20 products, including shampoo/conditioner, shower gel, soap, shaving foam, deodorant, toothpaste/ toothbrushes. The boxes are placed with organisations where people can discreetly help themselves, and are refilled monthly. With an instinct for business that is going to stand this charity in good stead, Isabel has assembled a board of directors for Dignity Boxes, and is in the process of applying for registered charity status which will allow them to take monetary donations too. Monetary donations will enable them to establish a website, reimburse fuel expenses for volunteers who refill the boxes and collect donations and so on. And at some point she will need to look at premises, as her home is quickly becoming overrun with donated products! Isabel’s family have thrown themselves into it too, with her husband in charge of the stock control spreadsheet at home, and each of their three adult children contributing ideas, suggestions and support. Isabel has a waiting list of organisations who have requested a box. She wants to ensure she can sustain the ones she has out first of all, with regular refills. If you can help at all, please see the information below and get in touch with Isabel, so that she can ensure the organisations on the waiting list receive their box quickly! This article was contributed by Helen-Jane Shearer after meeting with Isabel Dosser. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines
Donate! Donations of shampoo/conditioner, shower gel, soap, shaving foam, deodorant, toothpaste and toothbrushes are needed. You don’t need to spend more than a pound or two; just pop an extra shower gel or toothpaste in your regular grocery shopping and it will make all the difference. DROP-OFF POINTS: • The Beauty Box (Bathgate) • Personal Design Studio (Mid Calder) • Dedridge Dental Practice (Livingston) • Edinburgh Napier Merchiston Campus • Edinburgh Napier Craiglockhart Campus • Edinburgh Napier Sighthill Campus Or, please contact Isabel and she will collect your donation. If your organisation can be a drop off point for donations, please get in touch as more donation points are needed – anywhere in the Lothians.
Volunteer! Volunteers are needed to collect products from donation points and to develop relationships with organisations who have boxes, and to top up the boxes monthly. Also if you can contribute skills such as website design, social media, fundraising, please contact Isabel. Facebook: @DignityBoxes Email: i.dosser@napier.ac.uk Dignity Boxes is awaiting its SCIO registration number.
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WIN! A pair of tickets to Edinburgh MagicFest’s futuristic magic show ‘The Miracle of Christmas Future”
This Christmas, Edinburgh MagicFest present The Miracle of Christmas Future, a collaboration between Scottish magician-scientist hybrid Kevin Quantum, and high-tech Swedish wizard Charlie Caper. Age-old sleight of hand is fused with state-ofthe-art technology, and phenomenal illusions with incredible science, to create a glimpse of a world not too far away from our own. There will be levitations, predictions, misdirection, innovation, science-fiction and science-fact, blended together with expert showmanship from two performers at the top of their game. This show is for magic fans, Christmas fans, future fans, sci-fi fans… for humans who want a special festive experience that will blow their minds and leave them smiling as they float out of the door. 27th - 30th December 2018 @ The Traverse, Edinburgh. Shows at 2.00pm & 7.00pm Tickets: £22, £20 (conc), £15 (u5’s) Book at www.magicfest.co.uk To win a pair of tickets to the show on 27th December 2018 at 7pm, simply answer the following question: What country is Charlie Caper from? Email your answer, along with your name and postcode, to win@konect.scot Closing date for entries 15th December. Winner will be chosen at random after the closing date and informed via the email address used to enter. See www.magicfest.co.uk for more information on the festival, and their free exhibition of photographic illusions “Now You See It, Now You Don’t” at the Scottish Storytelling Centre/ Museum of Childhood, 13 December 2018 - 26 January 2019 (check website for exact opening hours during holiday season)
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GARDENING PROJECT
Although the winter days are very short by using some outdoor lights you can include your garden in the festivities and add a lovely extra dimension to your home over the winter. A lantern glowing at your front door shows your visitors that there is already a warm welcome waiting for them. The light could come from a real candle or there are many artificial battery powered candles that contain a timer that turns them on and off. Lighting your patio with decorations on the table, or perhaps a small statue, and leaving your curtains open creates a lovely picture from indoors. A security type light mounted on the house wall above the window or patio door illuminates the scene very effectively. Using low voltage outdoor LED fairy lights
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around an arch or embracing a small tree or large shrub adds sparkle to the scene and this doesn’t have to be just for Christmas – they look great in the New Year snow!
The view from the house is very inviting in the evening The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40years.
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HEALTH
Weight Loss for Christmas? Losing weight over the Festive season is unlikely for most people, however if you’ve been trying to eat healthily and don’t want to undo your good work – here are some suggestions to keep you on track. 1. Eat a healthy breakfast - This will stop you snacking and power you through till lunch. Try porridge or wholegrain toast with eggs.
2. Keep moving - Try and get outside every day for fresh air and activity – walking is an effective exercise that will reduce your stress too. 3. Have a small snack before going out - If you are going to a party/event, having something to eat beforehand will ensure that you don’t arrive starving and go for the high fat/sugar options. 4. Don’t pick at buffet food - Take your time and choose mainly from the veg options then add a little protein (meat/fish). 5. Wait 20 minutes - It takes the stomach 20 mins to recognise that it is full – by eating slowly and mindfully you are less likely to overeat. 6. Set a limit for drinks - You are more likely to stick to a certain number of drinks if you think about it before going out – alcohol contains a lot of calories which quickly add up. 7. Get to bed early - A lack of sleep can lead to weight gain; your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol which increases your appetite. Try and stick to a set bedtime most nights. On behalf of nutriclub, may I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year. To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise for information on nutriclub classes at Xcite Linlithgow. Facebook: /nutriclublinlithgow T: 07837 794112 (Louise) W: www.nutriclub.co.uk 14 | LINLITHGOW
How To Deal With Disappointment There are many quotes about failure and why it is an essential part of life. A well-known one is that the only people who don’t fail are the people who never tried anything new. Of course never trying anything new is a failure in itself.
If you choose to put yourself out there in life and in business, failure and the subsequent feelings of disappointment are inevitable. This knowledge doesn’t make those feelings any easier to deal with. Failure tends to happen when you’re trying to grow. It happens when you’re already outside your comfort zone and in a fragile and vulnerable place. In your comfort zone it’s easy to be strong, you’re at your most confident. When you practise failing, recovery periods get shorter each time as you learn the art of resilience. You get to know how to come back fighting. These might include: • Channelling negative energy in a positive way – really feel the disappointment or anger, and then use that ‘negative’ energy as motivation to succeed at your next idea or project • Music – songs that encourage particular emotions can help you work through the disappointment and anger, likewise songs that emote feelings of success and achievement can be used to help you prepare for your next stab at success • A long walk in the rain or physical exertion – this can really blow away the cobwebs and gets rid of the negative energy • Regrouping – take time out to be with family and friends, allow people to lift your energy, and then when you’re ready, try again. • Reflection – reflect on the failure with someone who understands • Be brave – remember that everyone fails, there is no success without failure The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. She co-hosts weekly Mind & Soul Clinics at The Retreat Livingston and The Retreat Linlithgow where the focus is on holistic healing and wellbeing. @KonectMagazines
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PROPERTY MATTERS
Everything is better in real life! High street agents get a 5% better price than onliners in almost threequarters of cases, claim. Having recently visited Pitlochry after an absence of several years, I was saddened to see the number of empty shops dotted along the high street. Sadly, this is a reflection of many towns around the country and is unfortunately a result of our huge appetite for online shopping. I regularly purchase goods online, mostly for convenience, but also the availability of certain items that could prove challenging to find locally. has seen the second highest growth in Having said that, I still enjoy the physical Scotland with increases of around 13% over experience of shopping, particularly when the past 12-18 months fuelling a mini boom looking for a certain item of clothing or a across the county. This is great news for special gift for someone, so having the sellers and the temptation in this market is to balance of online shopping and high street think that everything will sell and that buyers retail probably suits most people. Seeing will pay the highest price for the privilege. large department stores such as Frasers This however, can be a dangerous strategy and Debenhams closing stores around the to adopt. A recent survey by an independent country is very sad but not surprising given consumer advice group for house sellers the enormous pressures on the overheads (The Advisory) states that internet-only required to operate these types of businesses. agents are very reliant on property portal They are also the most vulnerable in terms websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla to find of competition from online shoppers given buyers (*although they cannot advertise on the range of products they carry when the all portals such as onthemarket.com). This is likes of Amazon will probably mirror a high not a surprise to anyone within the industry percentage of it. nor should it be a surprise to consumers So how does this relate to property? Well, for given the fact that these types of agents promote that their business model is a number of years we have enjoyed a very based around adverting on the internet. buoyant housing market and West Lothian 16 | LINLITHGOW
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The findings in this report are however worth considering given that surely, EVERYONE who is selling their property wants to achieve the best price possible, and it appears that across the board, full-service Estate Agents consistently perform better for their clients than the modern breed of online, self-service agents or advertising agents.
In addition to the result that your agent achieves for you, the importance of the ‘customer journey’ cannot be overlooked either and how you are advised, guided and supported throughout the campaign. The comfort of a regular meeting with your Estate Agent at their office to discuss things such as viewing feedback, website statistics, local sales patterns etc often provides the necessary comfort and assurances needed to facilitate a stress-free sale, particularly in times when the market slows, and a lack of viewing activity can dent the confidence of even the most experienced seller.
So, what’s all of this got to do with the high street in Pitlochry? Well, everything really! Like the retail sector, the service industry has also had to change and adapt to market conditions and demand for alternative choices and this can only be a positive thing for the consumer. The key things to consider though are that how each different type of service would affect the money in your pocket, how it would affect you as an individual and how the whole house selling experience will make you feel as you hand the keys over to the new owner. It’s worth bearing in mind that Every Estate Agent advertises online…..you only get one chance to achieve the best price for your house and, in my own experience as a consumer most things are better in real life!
The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines
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SPORTS
Even in 1848 when the first wrestling troupe was formed in France by Jean Exbroyat (who issued the headline challenge) the name of the game was “entertainment”. On drizzly Saturday afternoons in the 1950s, with no alternative way to avoid homework, sometimes I’d be forced to watch the wrestling and listen to the lugubrious Kent Walton. It took me a while to realise that it was just that - entertainment but highly skilled and risky entertainment, exemplified by the comic Les Kellett and later Big Daddy. The Saturday afternoon TV slot raised Professional Wrestling to unprecedented heights so by the mid 60s the dominant Joint Promotions was running some 4500 shows a year across the country. The lifeline of Professional Wrestling is like a long-term love affair with the public - hot and cold, up and down; currently it’s hot, thanks again to ITV and WWE. I still don’t know whether the big fights - the title fights - are serious, so I put the question to Michael Chase. A successful wrestler himself, Michael founded Reckless Intent, Lothian’s foremost Pro Wrestling School, in 2012, with some grant aid from the Prince’s Trust. He explains that the choreography and prearranged outcome of wrestling bouts all the way to world title level, is an open secret. Only youngsters believe and eventually they get wise just as they do to Father Christmas. “It’s all about creating drama, personalities for the audience to love and hate, heroes and villains. We aim to transport people away from their problems and into a fantasy world for a few hours.” His school boasts three high-profile coaches: Michael, Jam O’Malley and ICW star, Chris Renfrew. There are regular coaching sessions for juniors (10-15) and adults (16+), also fitness and personal training sessions. 28 year old Michael aims to produce the talent for his wrestling shows from the school and @KonectMagazines
so far so good. Watch especially for Jack Morris and Theo Doros from the 25 on the books, who travel up to 50 miles for Michael’s sophisticated, demanding, high-intensity training and coaching. He sets a high bar, with zero tolerance of substance abuse, slacking and ill-discipline. He’s desperate for his pupils to reach the heights denied him by a spate of injuries. Reckless Intent runs monthly shows at the Murieston Scout Hall in Livingston plus other shows across Central Scotland. Michael makes it abundantly clear that wrestling is a tough and dangerous game. Wrestlers suffer inevitable pain and injury but for those with the requisite determination, strength, resilience and aptitude there’s a good living to be made. He’s shooting for the stars and hopes one day to see a pupil wearing a Championship belt but first he’s laying strong foundations. Now what’s 500 francs in sterling after 170 years inflation? Bring it on Jean! MURIESTON SCOUT HALL SHOWS 2019 • March 2nd • April 6th • May 4th • June 1st • July 6th • August 3rd • September 7th • October 5th • November 2nd TRAINEE EVENTS FROM THE RECKLESS INTENT PRO WRESTLING SCHOOL • February 3rd • Mid April (TBC) • December 8th Full schedule at www.reckless-intent.com The sports column is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer. LINLITHGOW | 23
VET’S TIP
BUSTER THE DOG
fitbark The hands-on role of checking on the health of an animal is the main reason I became a vet. But increasingly technology is giving me an extra bit of help. Lifestyle gadgets used by humans, such as the Fitbit, have been adapted for pets so their condition can be monitored and recorded 24 hours a day. At Westport, we use devices, made by US data company FitBark, on dogs which allow us to track minute-by-minute activity such as distance travelled, calories burned and even the animal’s behaviour. It might sound like something out of an episode of Dr Who but the science bit really does work and can be used to speed up treatment and therefore make the rehabilitation of a loved pet quicker. Ongoing medical issues can be monitored by the devices and early signs of disease can also be detected. This is done through recording mobility, anxiety levels, sleep habits and even skin condition. Sometimes we are able to adjust a dog’s medication though an app which links the clinic to owners. The equipment is also rugged and waterproof, despite being lightweight. It even survives a dog’s jump in a pond or river and has a battery life of six months. And it is not just us vets who can get involved. A dog’s progress can be followed by the owner by linking a pet’s device to a Fitbit, Apple HealthKit or Google Fit device. The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 8 Preston Road. Call: 01506 844 165, or visit: www.westportvets.com 24 | LINLITHGOW
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WALK
A
AROUND HILLEND LOCH,
Caldercruix
A gorgeous early November morning was met with a choice of a visit to B&Q or a bracing walk outdoors. A conversation with a friend decided on a walk at Hillend Loch near Caldercruix. It’s a place that has memories for me, more of which later.
The loch is 1.5 miles from Caldercruix station or 4 miles along the A89 from Blackridge, and is an ideal location for a walk. If you take the train regularly from West Lothian to Glasgow via Airdrie, you will be familiar with the sight of the loch as the railway skirts along metres from the water in places. My companion picked me up from Caldercruix station and we drove to a carpark on the A89 on the south side of the loch, over from the now closed Owl and Trout pub. Access to the loch is via a short track beside the pub. You have two choices after a short walk, to either go right over the south side or left to the north side of the loch. We chose to go left, the more rustic route for which in wet weather I recommend wellies or walking boots. The reservoir has an interesting history. It is one of the oldest in Scotland, built in the 1790s. Its purpose, apart from the storage of water, was to help fuel the paper mills and steel works of nearby Airdrie and Coatbridge. At the time of its construction it was the largest in the world, and it remains a testament to a golden era of Scottish industrial development. At one point 26 | LINLITHGOW
during its construction phase it employed 1500 people.
Veering right along a metalled path you have a choice of either walking along the top of the dam wall or a slightly gentler lower path. Carry on for about 300 yards and you then start to take a rough path along the north side. The area is rich in vegetation and owners of nearby land have replanted a wide range of trees. At this time of year with them shedding their leaves there is a delightful panoply of colours contrasting beautifully with waters of the loch. In terms of bird life the loch is populated with a range of gulls and guinea fowl. As you carry on round the loch you will find a planked path which was a godsend given the boggy conditions in places underfoot. As you carry on round you come to a wooded bluff. This is one of the more interesting parts of the walk, as you walk along the shore you will find numbered stones, the origin of which caused much discussion with my companion. We speculated if these had been milestones of the old Glasgow- Edinburgh road which runs close by. However if you walk into the woods (which is well worth doing, the trees are mature pine and
beach) you will come across the shell of Auchingray House, and the land about was part of the estate. The shell of the house shows what would have been an elegant late classical style, built in the 1820s. Its owner was Robert Haldane who commissioned the property, drained the land and planted the woods; he was one of the founders of the Scottish Congregationalist church in the early 19th century. The house was extended in the 1920s and was later owned by the Stenhouse family who built an insurance empire, and they rented the house to John Colville of Colville’s Steel fame. It caught fire in 1937, and was gutted because, according to local reports, the drive to the house was snowbound and the firehoses were ineffective due to the loch freezing over. The ruined shell of the house echoes an era of Scotland’s wealth created by the commercial barons that made Glasgow second city of empire. As to the stones, speculation centred did they marked the boundary of the estate? Coming out of the woods there are a couple of stones where you can sit down and admire the waters of the loch. Bring a thermos or what ever your tipple is to refresh you on @KonectMagazines
“The reservoir has an interesting history. It is one of the oldest in Scotland”
your route round. Due to the exposed nature of the loch many of the trees show signs of wind sculpting as they drunkenly defy the elements.
At the head of the loch you come across a small path that leads to the main road and the Bathgate to Airdrie cycle path. Opened in 2010 the path allows cyclists a chance to traverse safely. As you walk along you will see the local fishing club buildings, which has a wee refreshment snack kiosk which is open in the @KonectMagazines
summer. Fishing permits are also available in the summer for £10 a day and the loch has some of the finest brown water trout, so in the summer for the less active there is a chance to catch your tea!
You can either walk along the shoreline or the cycle path; having hiked vigorously we chose to take the cycle path. You carry on for about a mile and a half and pass the local sailing club, which holds memories for me of being on the loch on a freezing January day in a wetsuit jibing and cutting and capsizing as I learnt to sail small dinghies. The site is now owned by Monklands Sailing club and they offer lessons in the
summer months… if only I had known that then!
For a Sunday walk this can be either done easily along the cycle path or for the more adventurous a full traverse round the loch takes about two hours. If there is a downside it’s that there are no facilities in terms of food and drink. The area around it is clean and affords excellent views and quirky points of interest that warrant further investigation, and is certainly better than a trip to B&Q.
This month’s walk feature is contributed by Paul Spencer, a lover of the open spaces of Scotland. LINLITHGOW | 27
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PARENTING
Gingerbread
All I House want for Christmas is...
Workshop
I don’t want a lot for Christmas. There is just one thing I need…some time to actually enjoy it! Sound familiar? Christmas is my favourite time of year and I squeeze every last ounce of Christmasiness I can out of the season. But if there is one thing Christmas usually is not for parents, it’s relaxing. Shopping, wrapping, shopping some more, ferrying the kids from one Christmas party to the next…mums (and dads!) are the driving force behind Christmas and for the most part we get no credit for it thanks to the big man himself sneaking down the chimney on Christmas Eve to steal our thunder (and a few mince pies while he’s at it). Once kids are in the picture we parents take a willing backseat and sometimes miss out on the fruits of our labour; instead spending too much time fretting about the festive fandango we have to deliver. That is until the big day arrives and we breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy a few hours of Christmas morning magic…at least until it’s time to start cooking Christmas dinner. If you are finding yourself stressed out about the Christmas shopping this year try following the ‘five gift rule’…don’t get me wrong 28 | LINLITHGOW
I’m not suggesting you’ll get away with giving just five presents to your kids but it is a sure-fire way to focus the mind. The Five Gift Rule:
1) Something they want
Toys, toys and more toys. That’s the name of the game for me. But doubtless I will also spend countless hours in the likes of Build-a-Bear and Smiggle at The Centre, Livingston filling my sack for my girls. 2) Something they need
Pretty much anything the kids need from now on is sure to be ‘part of their Christmas’; socks, hats, toothpaste… anything is fair game to keep the present-opening frenzy going longer. So even a trip to the supermarket can be fruitful. 3) Something they wear
If you’re having a clear out to make room for new clothes, why not do a good deed this Christmas and donate your pre-loved good quality children’s clothes to the likes of Kidzeco or Kids Love Clothes and make someone else’s Christmas.
4) Something they read Pop into Waterstones in The Centre or the Little Owl’s Room at Far From The Madding Crowd in Linlithgow and pick up the perfect picture book or paperback present. There’s nothing better on a manic Christmas day than a five-minute time out reading a book. 5) Something for all the family Take the family to the Five Sisters’ Zoo Illuminations, check out the Panto at the Regal in Bathgate or Howden Park Centre in Livingston, enjoy Christmas Afternoon Tea at Almond Valley, or just buy a new board game and enjoy some cosy family nights in during the holidays. Whatever is on your wish list, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! Until next year folks… The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls. @KonectMagazines
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They all live in little boxes
Are you hanging up your stocking on your wall? Well, are you? Punk? I hope it can cope with a giant box set because that is what the record companies are peddling this year
The main contenders are both from 1968, to allow the justification of a 50th anniversary set. Competing for the most luxurious collection of vinyl you don’t want, books you won’t read and CDs that you wish had been released on their own are The Beatles and The Kinks, presenting massively expanded versions of the White Album and The Village Green Preservation Society respectively. “Hey”, they say, “you’ve waited this long, now you can finally hear our stoned studio chatter and run troughs before you die. That will be £130 please.”
The Beatles release is a curious hybrid, a successful remix of the album by Giles Martin alongside demos and early takes. Elements previously buried are highlighted, harsh tones are blunted. The technique works well on recognised misfires such as “Birthday” which now explodes midway through the track even if the song itself cannot be rescued. “Cry baby Cry” moves from a spooky, almost solo, Lennon into a startling psychedelic full band performance. In places though the harsh notes that added jarring strangeness to some of the more saccharine McCartney material are lost. The Kinks box draws from a smaller pool of original album tracks, and presents a bewildering number of b-sides, mono, stereo, live, radio and tv session versions, alongside no less than four sides of Vinyl. Much of this material was available until very recently on a packed 3CD issue for under £10. You pays your money, you takes your choice. Or someone else does, if you’re lucky.
The monthly music review is contributed by James Kerr. James presents the Regal Music Club show on Regal Radio (www.regal-radio.net) and is a member of the local band ‘Snakeskin Shoe Review’. 30 | LINLITHGOW
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LINLITHGOW PLAYERS The Linlithgow Players are staging Cinderella: A Fairytale by Adam Peck, at the Linlithgow Burgh Halls from Thursday 17th January until Saturday 19th January. Cinderella is one of the oldest and best loved fairytales of all time but this production will bring it bang up to date. Gone are the ball gowns and glass slippers, replaced by some jazz and sparkly black boots! The show tells an updated version of the classic fairytale story starring a feisty Ella and a bird watching Prince and replaces the usual ugly sisters and dame with the vile step brother and sister and their mean mother. The audience will get an ‘up close’ unique experience, with seating all around the stage and will also enjoy some toe-tapping live music, composed specially for the show.
Frog lightweight quality kids’ bikes available in store. Get your order in to avoid disappointment this Christmas.
And if you have loved the Players’ pantos in the past, rest assured that there are some nods to panto in this more contemporary version of Cinderella. Audience participation and baddybooing are still in store for you! So, will Ella’s feathered friends help her find the magic of love? Come along to this enchanting piece of family theatre to find out. The show is recommended for children aged 6 and above and adults of all ages! Tickets £12 Adult and £8 Concession. Burgh Halls, 17th - 19th January 2019, 7pm start time for evening performances and 2.30pm start for Saturday Matinee
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Tickets available from Far From the Madding Crowd and Online at www.linlithgow players.org.uk. Reservations and block bookings call 07847 735077 This article was contributed by the Linlithgow Players @KonectMagazines
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LINLITHGOW SCOUT POST FRIDAY 7TH DECEMBER Mulled Wine and Shopping Event - In aid of West Lothian Riding for the Disabled. Come along to our Festive Evening at Mannerstons for some mulled wine, mince pies, a quiz & exclusive shopping! Tickets £10, available in advance from Mannerstons Farm Shop & Cafe or can be reserved by emailing: wlrda2012@gmail.com FRIDAY 7TH DECEMBER Variety Concert - Come along and enjoy our fundraising concert whilst supporting a scout trip to Namibia in 2019, which four Linlithgow scouts will be participating in. Our performers are: the Octoberists band from Linlithgow Academy, members of the Home Grown ladies’ choir (folk songs), Magic Matt (ex- Linlithgow Academy pupil), and the Undecided band from Lanarkshire, who will be performing classic rock and folk material, as well as a song specially written for this concert. Raffle and games at interval. 7pm (doors open 6:30pm) Linlithgow Academy. Tickets £10 adults, £5 children (includes a drink and a snack) from Far From the Madding Crowd or at the door. For further details email build.namibia.lt@gmail.com or call Alison on 07814 576682. SATURDAY 8TH DECEMBER Ruisi String Quartet - Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild, Linlithgow Academy 7,30pm. Pucell, Bartok and Beethoven. Tickets from Far From the Madding Crowd, online at Linoithgowartsguild.co.uk or text/phone 07731 614179. £12/£6 SUNDAY 9TH DECEMBER Winter Warmer Walk Linlithgow - Come along on a guided walk with Historic Environment Scotland rangers, to explore Linlithgow Loch and Peel. Discover the animals that make the loch their home and learn how this extraordinary place was created. Free but booking essential. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot SUNDAY 16TH DECEMBER Baubles for Bliss - Buffet, raffle, disco and a special guest! Shopping from local businesses. 11am-2pm, in aid of Bliss, for babies born premature or sick. Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn. Tickets £15 (under 1s free). Contact Coady on coadiak@gmail.com for info on how to purchase tickets. RUNS UNTIL SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 2019 Brick City at Blackness Castle - Brick City is a celebration of iconic buildings from cities around the world, carefully recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore and his team. Included in normal castle admission price. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot for information. 17TH - 19TH JANUARY 2019 Cinderella: A fairytale by Adam Peck - by Linlithgow Players. Linlithgow Burgh Halls, see page 31 for details SATURDAY 19TH JANUARY 2019 The Gesualdo Six - Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild. St Michael’s Parish Church, 7,30pm. A capello spiritual to light hearted singing. Tickets from Far From the Madding Crowd, online at www.linoithgowartsguild.co.uk or text/ phone 07731 614179. £14/£6a
32 | LINLITHGOW
1st - 15th December 2018. Delivery to EH29 post codes only. Only 25p per card. Guaranteed delivery before Christmas. Available at: Tesco, Spar, Sainsbury’s, Wilson’s Newsagents and Far from the Madding Crowd. www.linlithgowscoutpost.org.uk
CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIRS
– SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS AND CAUSES
1st December - Jupiter Artland’s Christmas Fair - boutique craft stalls, live music, mulled wine and delicious seasonal street food, Santa’s Grotto, festive Donkeys and Christmas Tree yard and more. www.jupiterartland.org 7th December - Christmas Fair, West Lothian College, Pavillion B, Executive Suites. 9am – 4pm. Gifts, craft stalls, homebaking, raffle and tombola, in aid of Neil’s Hugs Foundation 7th December - Springfield Primary School - 9.30am 12.30pm 8th December - “Christmas Presence” at The Barn 9am 12.30pm. By Strength and Soul, Netherton Farm, ML7 5TT. www.strengthandsoul.co.uk. Yoga session and Christmas Market. 9th December - Dogs Trust West Calder 12pm - 3pm. Santa Paws, refreshments, tombola. Entry – bring a present for a Centre dog!
WHERE TO FIND SANTA – BESIDES THE FAIRS
Linlithgow Canal Centre: 2pm on 15th, 16th, 22nd & 23 Dec Union Canal at Broxburn: The Bridge 19-40 Union Canal Society is running Santa Boat Trips 1st,2nd, 15th & Dec. Four trips each day at: 11am, 12 noon, 1pm or 2pm. Pre-book tickets online. £10 per person. www.facebook. com/events/185092282385380/ Santa’s Farmyard Cottage: Almond Valley Heritage Centre, 8th, 9th, and daily from 14th - 24th Dec Kidzeco: 15th December Meet Santa in the Bathgate store, book a timeslot with Kidzeco 1pm – 3pm. 20-24 George Street, Bathgate, EH48 1PW. Tel. 01506 815534 www.kidzeco.net The Bridge Inn at Ratho: Santa Breakfasts - Meet Santa and his elves for fun and games, craft activities and photos. Full Scottish breakfast, or mouth-watering home-made pancakes with maple syrup will keep tummies full as Santa and the elves spread their festive cheer. 8, 9, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 24 Dec, two sittings, 9.30am & 11am. Tickets £15 per person. Opening weekend, December 8th & 9, tickets £12 per person. To book call 0131 333 1320 or email info@bridgeinn.com.
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COMMUNITY
The Rotary Tree of Light 2018
As the population increases in age, dementia and other age-related illnesses are on the increase. It is fitting, therefore, that there is a fund-raising effort at Christmas to support the work locally of those who care for the people whose lives have been blighted with bodily or mental infirmity.
This Christmas, the Rotary Club of Linlithgow Grange is again running Linlithgow’s Tree of Light which the club hopes will provide a focus for remembrance and, in turn, help those who are living with life-changing impairments and the charities that support them. Linlithgow Grange Rotary Club hopes to raise a significant amount for local organisations including Carers of West Lothian, Linlithgow Link, Linlithgow Community First Responders and the Sunshine Singers. The club’s own Benevolent Fund will also receive a smaller amount for disbursement to smaller local good causes. Thanks to the support of generous sponsors Alan Steel Asset Management, @KonectMagazines
Robert Bennie and Sons, RGM Solicitors, and Stewart Electrical, as well as Linlithgow Town Centre BID along with a number of other businesses and individuals, this tree, located outside Linlithgow Library, is dressed with blue lighting as a beacon to show there is hope and light in the bleakest of circumstances. For those that wish it, names and dedications will be shown on the panels erected in the old library building windows as well as on the website: www. linlithgowtreeoflight.org.uk.
Donor forms and envelopes can be found at a variety of places in Linlithgow including the Library, RGM, A Wee Mindin’ and a number of shops that will be displaying a Tree of
Light sign in their window. Once the forms have been completed, the form and donation can be handed over in its sealed envelope to either RGM Solicitors, the Line Gallery or A Wee Mindin’.
The Tree of Light is a Tree of Celebration too: a new birth in the family, a new job or a graduation, or some other success worthy of commemoration are all good reasons to share the joy with others as well as a public display of fond remembrance. This article is contributed by the Rotary Club of Linlithgow Grange. More information can be found at www.linlithgowtreeoflight.org.uk or on Facebook @ LinlithgowTreeOfLight LINLITHGOW | 33
Solution in the February edition of Konect
34 | LINLITHGOW
We’re sorry that the grid for the November crossword was wrong, and hope you enjoy this month’s crossword as usual.
CROSSWORD
SUDOKU
Sudoku Solution on Page 38.
PUZZLES
ACROSS: 1. Connect to another (6), 4. Yarn, twine (6), 9. Mature (7), 10. Problem, concern (5), 11. Bend (5), 12. Places of work (7), 13. Differentiate (11), 18. Identical (7), 20. Fang (5), 22. Having had water removed (5), 23. Hammering (7), 24. Leaders, monarchs (6), 25. Business, company (6) DOWN: 1. Diminish (6), 2. Sweetheart, paramour (5), 3. Most statuesque (7), 5. Robber (5), 6. Bugs (7), 7. 1978 musical set in 50s (6), 8. Meeting with doctor (11), 14. First letter (7), 15. Unfastening, removing knots (7), 16. Kill (6), 17. Long-haired, unkempt (6), 19. More advanced in age (5), 21. Pungent vegetable (5)
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We’d like to wish all our readers and customers a wonderful festive season.
It’s been another year of endless discovery here at Konect; thank you for sharing your stories, experiences and endeavours. We celebrate all things West Lothian and West Edinburgh, with a special focus on the Linlithgow area in Konect Linlithgow. A huge thank you to all our advertisers who make this magazine possible. Without them it wouldn’t happen. Please continue to support local companies and organisations. Our social mission is to help charities who are doing essential work in our local community. We are inspired by the care, energy and resourcefulness of people we see doing fantastic work and we want to play our part by supporting them with what we do best spreading their message using the deep and wide reach that we have built up over the years. If you would like to be part of Konect in 2019 in any way, please drop us a line.
www.konect.scot @KonectMagazines
@KonectMagazines LINLITHGOW | 35
BRIDGE COLUMN
CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
Bridge Puzzle
LINLITHGOW
This month’s column is devoted to a tricky puzzle: A straightforward auction leads to a contract of 3NT South Deals None Vul A K 4 3 2 8 9 7 5 4 6 5 3 9 9 Q Q
N
7 7 5 2 J 10 J 9 8
W
E S 8 A A A
6 6 K K
Q J 10 K Q J 10 8 6 2 10 7 4
5 4 3 3 2
West
North
East
Pass Pass
1 3 NT
Pass All Pass
South 1 2NT
West leads QC. How do you make the contract? This puzzle was provided by Ken Brown who is a member of both the Pentland and Balerno bridge clubs. Answer in the February edition of Konect. The Bridge Column is contributed by John Samson. John is a member of the Pentland Bridge Club and the Balerno Bridge Club 36 | LINLITHGOW
LINLITHGOW LONGCROFT TABLE TENNIS GROUP (LLTTG) The club will restart for the new 2018/19 season on Wednesday 5th September. The LLTTG meets every Wednesday night from 8.15pm to 9.45pm in the Longcroft Hall, Philip Avenue and gives an opportunity to play Table Tennis in a friendly and not too competitive atmosphere. Open to everyone and we have a mixed range of ages and ability. No special kit is required. Bats can be provided. Cost is £3.00 per night or £2.00 for under 18’s. For further information please contact Allan Scott on 01506 842602. RAINBOW UNITS (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. BROWNIE UNITS (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. GUIDE UNITS (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. SENIOR SECTION UNIT (Girls aged 14 - 25 years old) take place on Friday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/ get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. POSITIVE PATHWAYS – BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Meets in the Canal Tearoom at 6.30 pm on Thursdays fortnightly. The group is led by a trained bereavement listener. £3 per meeting which goes towards the cost of hiring the tearoom. There is no magic formula which will take away the pain, but by listening and sharing with others, it is often possible to lessen the sense of isolation, chaos and despair felt after the death of a loved one. You will be warmly welcomed. For further information contact Sheila Rae by phoning or texting 07719 966273 or email sheila.ruth.rae@gmail.com. Bereavement Support Team St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow. 2ND LINLITHGOW GIRLS BRIGADE Girls Brigade P1 – S6. Come and join in the fun 6.30 Wednesday evening in term time. St Michaels Kirk Hall, Cross House. Contact Captain Clare at 2ndlinlithgowgirlsbrigade@gmail.com 2ND LINLITHGOW BOYS BRIGADE Meet at Cross House on a Thursday evening. Anchor Boys (P2-P3) 6.30pm-7.30pm; Junior Section (P4-P6) 7.00pm-8.15pm;Company/ Seniors (P7-S6) 7.45pm-9.45pm. You can contact us on facebook at 2nd Linlithgow Boys Brigade or email us at linlithgowBB@outlook.com. CLASSICAL PILATES CLASS – FIRST CLASS FREE! Linlithgow Bowling Club on Thursdays at 10am. Starting on 12th April. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information contact Maria on 07513 116490, e: mariahybszerpilates@gmail.com or check our website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.com
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NUTRICLUB Nutrition-focussed weight-loss classes in Linlithgow. To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise. Tel: 07837 794112 www.nutriclub. co.uk www.facebook.com/nutriclublinlithgow. SANGSCHULE We are a friendly and informal group who meet together to sing and learn new songs from our tutors. Meeting most Wednesdays in term-time in Linlithgow Academy staff room, 7.30-9.30pm All welcome, no experience needed, no need to read music. Under-16s must be accompanied. More details from Susan on 01506 843592, and on our website www.angelfire.com/folk/sangschule/programme
LINLITHGOW NIBBLE & NATTER Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet some new people? Come and join our fortnightly get together in Longcroft Hall, Linlithgow, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people. Have a chat and a choice of biscuits and cakes with a cup of tea. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you! Cost is just £1 and all are welcome. If you’d like more info get in touch with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) service on 01506 815815 or e: opal@cyrenians.scot LINLITHGOW WRITERS CIRCLE We meet every second Wednesday in the Linlithgow Tap in Linlithgow, from 7.30pm until 10pm. It’s for aspiring writers in and around Linlithgow to come together and write, share our work for critique and make some writing friends. It’s free to come along. For further details e:linlithgowwriters@gmail.com or findr us on Facebook.
2ND WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS The Scout Hall, 6 Dog Well Wynd, Linlithgow. Beavers (age 6-8) meet Wednesdays; Cubs (age 8-10.5) meet Mondays; Two Scouts troops (age 10.5 -14) meet Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact Group Scout Leader Nick Moody at scouts2wl@hotmail.co.uk. Substantial waiting lists for all sections - new adult volunteers always welcome. THE CARING CAFE Low Port Centre, 1 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ. The Caring Cafe is a meeting place where people with dementia and their carers have a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am-12noon (Lunch available after the café in the Lowport Centre cafeteria). For people who are able to attend safely on their own or who are accompanied by someone to support them. Contact Margaret or May from Linlithgow Link on tel: 01506 845137 or e: co-ordinator@linlithgowlink.org.uk
LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS Are you and your staff interested in improving speaking in public and leadership skills? Do you know about Toastmasters? Linlithgow Speakers is a local voluntary group that can help develop these skills. We are looking for new members in Linlithgow. Come and visit on Tuesday night (we meet every second Tuesday at 7.30 at the Low Port Centre in Linlithgow. Please contact me for more info: Sheila Fraser 01506 650953 or 07968 233324. LINLITHGOW KEEP FIT CLUB We meet every Thursday from 19:00-21:00 at the gym at the rear of Linlithgow Academy. We have limited spaces for new male members. We resume on the 27th August. Call Brian on 07984 930235 or e: gallacherbrian@hotmail.com for further information.
LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA We meet weekly on Monday 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. We are a friendly group and welcome players aged 16+ with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent. New Players from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us in advance on: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com or search for us on Facebook
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BADMINTON CLUB Small, friendly club meets Wednesday evenings at Lowport Centre, 7-9pm. We are looking for new members who have played before. Adults only.
LINLITHGOW & DISTRICT EMBROIDERS GUILD Linlithgow and District Branch of the Embroiderers Guild meet the last Wednesday of the month in Linlithgow Academy Library from 7pm till 9pm, September to May. Variety of Speakers and classes. Beginner or experienced, or not a stitcher all are welcome. SUNSHINE SINGALONG Kirk Hall, St Michael’s Parish Church, second Thursday every month 12-1.30pm. Caring for those living with memory loss. Light lunch then singing your favourite songs. A warm welcome awaits you, no church connection needed, just turn up on the day. Disabled parking in the Vennel Car Park adjacent to Kirk Hall. SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Star and Garter (Above the lounge), Station Road. Thursday nights 7pm – 9pm. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device. Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Contact: Tom Lambert, Linlithgow Computer Club. Call 07418 331656 or just call in.
PHYSIO LED PILATES The Scout Hall in Linlithgow, Monday evenings 6pm & 7pm and Sunday mornings at 10am. The Old Pavilion in Linlithgow Wednesday evenings 6:30pm. At Physio Led Pilates you can feel assured that exercises will be performed safely, effectively and modified to the appropriate level for you under the expert guidance of an experienced Physiotherapist. For booking and further info please see www.physioledpilates.com
FORTH VALLEY ORIENTEERS Come and try orienteering! Learn to navigate with map and compass with FVO club coaches. Junior classes (9-13 years old, with or without parent). Adult newcomer classes for all ages. £5 per session. Contact Jen Lenoard on 01506 843552 or e: membership@fvo.org.uk for more info.
MALE VOICE CHOIR We meet every Monday from 19:45 in the Rugby Club. If you would like to come and try us out please do. Or if you have any questions please phone Chris Thomas on 07823 884802. STEP TOGETHER FAMILY SUPPORT Support for those affected by the addictive behaviour of a loved one. Being in a close relationship with someone struggling with addiction can be a painful, frustrating and lonely journey. Our group focuses on establishing healthier relationships with our loved one and others, restoring balance to our lives and developing more helpful coping strategies. We meet in the evening on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month. For more info call or text 07592 226917. LINLITHGOW BRIDGE CLUB Meet every Tues and Thurs in the Burgh Halls, 6.45pm. Play starts at 7p.m. New members are always welcome. If you are looking for a partner or would like more information please contact the club secretary Sally Douglas on 07906597128 or email sallyadou@gmail.com.
TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.KONECT.SCOT
LINLITHGOW | 37
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
APPLIANCE REPAIRS Home Appliance Repair
31
ARTISAN & FINE FOOD Sebastian Kobelt - Pâtissier • Chocolatier 30
BATHROOMS & KITCHENS 1st Choice Living 5 S and S Home Improvements 25
BOILER SERVICES The Gas Engineer
BUILDING SERVICES S & R Builders
6 10
CLEANING: HOUSE / OFFICE Time for You West Lothian 19 COMMUNITY FACILITIES Lothian Buses 11 COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES Yoga With Amy
31
COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 18 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce
EDUCATION West Lothian College ELECTRICIAN SL Electrical Task Scotland
ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller LLP Turpie & Co
22 20 6 7 18 17
FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES Welding & Fabrication Solutions 4 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens GARDEN DESIGN / MAINTENANCE Evergreen Balerno
13 12
GARDEN FURNITURE AND BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate 2 38 | LINLITHGOW
GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith
SOLUTIONS
21
SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
HEARING AIDS & SERVICES ABC Hearing 39 Hear-here 7 JOINERY Create Enhanced Spaces 6 Geoff Vinter Joinery 10
LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and Security 6 MARKETING/LEAFLETING The Leaflet Lady 40 MOBILITY SERVICES Ableworld 15
ACROSS: 7. Organisations, 8. Membrane, 9. Harp, 10. Schools, 12. Ashes, 14. Crabs, 16. Streets, 19. Zinc, 20. Politely, 22. Communication DOWN: 1. Free, 2. Bamboo, 3. Finally, 4. Caged, 5. Wishes, 6. Angriest, 11. Corridor, 13. Italics, 15. Become, 17. Estate, 18. Opens, 21. Lion
PLASTERING Nu Walls
6
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 34
RESTAURANT Heritage Indian Cuisine La Piuma Restaurant
5 4
PHOTOGRAPHER Gretchen Laird Photography 29
PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES Dewar Plumbing 7 McLellan Plumbing & Heating 6
SPORT & LEISURE Elevation Cycles
31
TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader Scheme 22 VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Mackie & Brechin 24
YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME Developing the Young Workforce 29
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. Magazine Design: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com
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LINLITHGOW | 39
