Konect Linlithgow October 17

OCTOBER 2017

linlithgow

2 FOR 1! AT PARADISE ISLAND ADVENTURE GOLF local Masterpieces in Miniature Plus businesses, community HALLOWEEN WHAT’S ON information & more!

A Spiced-Up Hill Walk S& OFFER ERS H C VO U cal from lo ses s e in s bu

The community magazine for the Linlithgow area

PAGE 08

FEATURE

ME S S AG E FROM THE EDITOR

W

e like highlighting slightly different things in the area, and this month it’s the Scottish National Bonsai Collection along the road in Ecclesmachan, see pages 8-9. Speaking of different, the walk feature is a wee bit different this month, as is the job description of the lady interviewed for the local people column.

All our usual columns are here. I especially love Nic’s parenting column this month, and we have a quick round-up of halloween events in West Lothian.. Paradise Island Adventure Golf in Livingston Designer Centre have put in a two for one course voucher for Konect readers – we thought it might be handy during half term…

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations!

FEATURES Masterpieces in Miniature Health & Beauty Home Improvements: Cosy Autumn Garden Project Property Matters Local People: Carolyn Holt Recipe & Food Notes Vet’s Tip Walk Parents in West Lothian Music Review

08 12 14 17 22 24 27 29 32 35 36

COMPETITIONS & PUZZLES Crossword & Sudoku

28

COMMUNITY What’s On Clubs & Classes

31 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

38

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CHARLENE GAFFNEY 07772 941899 charlene@konectdirectory.co.uk JENNY THOMSON 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk ADVERT BOOKING DEADLINE: 10th of the month prior to print.

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

COVER IMAGE: TRICK OR TREAT! See our Halloween-themed ‘What’s On’ section on page 31

ARTWORK/COPY DEADLINE: 13th of the month prior to print.

The Konect magazine is delivered 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.

/KonectDirectory

@KonectDirectory

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 3

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Frog lightweight quality kids’ bikes available in store.

Get your order in to avoid disappointment this Christmas.

Elevation Cycles, 103 High Street, Linlithgow

01506 845390 www.elevationcycles.co.uk

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 5

Book early for a fabulo us Xmas!

as Christm is coming!

Party Dates at the New Almondvale Suite @ Livingston FC

2nd, 8th, 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 22nd, 23rd December £35 per person including a glass of bubbly on arrival Special Sunday price for 10th and 17th December - £27 per person!

Hogmanay at the Almondvale Suite

Mouthwatering food, party games, high class entertainment and immaculate service from our friendly staff.

Tickets just £35 per person requiring a £10 deposit.

Outside Catering from Food Creations Food Creations can provide a range of outdoor catering for your Xmas celebrations, from simple buffets all the way to multi-course meals for large numbers.

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Design Design || Advice Advice || Manufacture Manufacture || Installation Installation 6 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 7

FEATURE

The National Bonsai Collection is open to the public to view 10am - 5pm within Binny Plants

No prizes for guessing, but what do you think links an Ayrshire master butcher, Binny Plants in Ecclesmachan and the Japanese Consul-General in Scotland? Answer: The National Bonsai Collection of Scotland.

When he retired, the late Bill Graham (d. 1983), a master butcher from Maybole, dedicated the last 30 years of his life to the ancient and gentle art of bonsai, building and nurturing a mammoth collection of 300 trees, known as the Graham Trees, and becoming a leading figure in the bonsai world.

Trustees are on site on the last Sunday of the month (weather permitting) 11am - 2pm.

LOCATION: Binny Plants, Binny Estate, Ecclesmachan Road, Uphall EH52 6NL 8 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

The National Bonsai Collection of Scotland was set up in 1984 by members of the Scottish Bonsai Association (SBA) as a horticultural haven where bonsai could be donated, cared for and maintained, as happened with many of the Graham Trees. A registered charity, the National Collection found its way to Binny Plants via a roundabout route - Malleny Gardens in Balerno (from 1986 – 2000) was followed by a move to Suntrap Gardens in Gogar, but when Suntrap shut down the Collection’s future looked bleak. To the rescue however, like some big-screen superhero, came Billy Carruthers, offering a home within the peaceful setting of Binny Plants and 14th August 2011 saw the National Bonsai Collection settled in West Lothian and officially re-opened by the Japanese Consul-General to Scotland.

The part of the National Bonsai Collection available for viewing by the public is situated in a red, glassfronted pavilion where about 15 bonsai are on show at any one time, the bonsai looked after by nine trustees, all time-generous volunteers. Their plans for the future include continuing to promote interest and involvement in the art and craft of bonsai through well-presented displays, and – funding permitting – installing a polytunnel on site to store trees, overwinter less hardy species such as maples, hold classes and demonstrations and generally spread the word.

Pines feature in the National Collection, as do beeches, larches, oaks and other species indigenous to Scotland, and these are complimented by more exotic varieties including a Persimmon, gifted from Xi’an, Edinburgh’s twin city in the People’s Republic of China. At 200 years old, one of the oldest trees in the Collection is a Japanese White Pine standing serenely on its plinth outside the pavilion, under a blue pergola.

It was imported 50 years ago and passed into the care of the Collection when its owner died. Bonsai not on display are fostered out between trustees for the ongoing and skilled job of maintenance.

Monthly meetings are held up and down the country by Scottish Bonsai Association (SBA) members to chat and work on their trees.

Thursday evenings at Almond Valley Heritage Centre in Livingston is the meeting place for the West Lothian Bonsai Group. Lee, a retired bank manager from West Calder is the group’s organiser, he’s also a trustee and Treasurer for the National Collection and has been under the spell of bonsai for 35 years. He tells me, “Once bonsai enthusiasts start talking about the subject, it’s difficult to shut us up”.

For a beginner to bonsai, Lee recommends starting with a larch sapling, (nurseries sell larch saplings for hedging), it’s cheap, grows quickly and it’s very forgiving – just what a beginner needs. Or the small-leaved cotoneaster would be good too. No specialised tools are needed to start with, just garden secateurs and wire to wind round branches which acts like a splint on a broken leg, helping shape the tree.

Margaret from Stoneyburn, a bonsai convert for 30 years, is President of the SBA and got interested in bonsai-growing for practical reasons because her dogs kept wrecking the garden, but besides, something in a pot is manageable, so bonsai was the perfect solution. She tells me that members of the SBA exhibit at shows throughout the year – Gardening Scotland in May attracted 150 - 200 exhibits, a forest of bonsai, including many from the National Collection.

With scissors in hand, and working on a 30cm tall, 8 year old Juniper, Sandie from East Calder who was a medical secretary before retiring, traces her love of bonsai back 30 years to when she saw a Scots Pine in the wild and was struck by its beauty. She started with a tiny self-seeded rowan from her garden. Brian, her husband, a former

What is Bonsai ?

Bonsai is a Japanese term meaning tree (bon) in a tray (sai). It is derived from an ancient Chinese horticultural practice called Penjing and has been around for well over a thousand years. Bonsai aren’t genetically dwarfed plants, any tree species can be used to grow one.

Royal Marine, soon followed in Sandie’s footsteps.

He’s working on a young beech tree and enjoys the hands-on of bonsai growing. The whole group feels their hobby is a powerful stress-buster.

Kenny, from Deans, is trimming a group of Golden Larch - he runs a bonsai class at the mental health resource centre in Broxburn’s Strathbrock Partnership.

As we drink tea in the wood-scented meeting room, I find out that the bonsai-grower aims to grow each species as it looks in nature, aiming to make it look natural, and bonsai is a mix of disciplines - 80 per cent horticulture, 20 per cent art. The best way to view or contemplate bonsai is to focus 2/3 of the way up the trunk, spaces are created between branches (otherwise it’s just a bush, says Lee) which let the eye see twists and turns, curves and curls. There are sixteen styles of bonsai, the informal upright style is easiest to grow but, everyone agrees, a tree tells the bonsaigrower how it wants to grow, though each person will have his or her own interpretation.

Looking at bonsai, says Lee – who is fascinated

by Oriental culture - you appreciate the workmanship, skill, time and patience involved and when it’s your own, you can picture the whole story from day one and how it’s turned out.

There’s satisfaction and a sense of achievement because you’ve created something beautiful.

So if you’re looking for a down-to-earth hobby, take a leaf out of the bonsai-growers’ book, and have a bash at bonsai.

For more information visit www.scottishbonsai.org Yvonne Macmillan lives in West Lothian and writes occasionally for Konect.

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KONECT LINLITHGOW | 11

HEALTH & BEAUTY

One of the most troubling things about being stressed is believing we can't control how we feel. So understanding how stress works can really help.

In our brain we have a basic, but effective, 'guard' - called the amygdala. As we evolved on the African plains over hundreds of thousands of years, our guard kept us safe from wild beasts, and it continues in just the same way today. As soon as it recognises a threat it sends stress hormones into our body. Our heart rate increases, we breathe more quickly, our muscles get filled with blood- so that we're ready to fight or run for our life.

Now that's all fine if we're facing real danger ... but modern life poses very different 'threats' for most of us. Thankfully, our 'thinking brain' or neocortex has developed to handle complex challenges. But it can't work so well when our guard is pumping stress hormones into our system which we don't actually need and have no way of dispelling.

Crucially, the guard can't tell the difference between a real 'threat' and something that's just inside our head. So whenever we worry we end up feeling alarmed, with our mind-body system unbalanced. And then we worry about how awful we feel too … Let's stop doing this to ourselves.

Let's be hopeful, and kindly to ourselves ... with a new plan to take care of our inner world. After all, if we don't, who's going to?

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 12 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

For some reason, snacking has become associated with unhealthy foods like biscuits, cakes and crisps – but it doesn’t have to be this way. Snacks can be low in sugar and fat, and support your overall healthy eating plan.

Here are some suggestions: Dark Chocolate: One or two squares of 85%90% dark chocolate – full of antioxidants, soluble fibre and minerals.

Fruit with nut butter: Match your banana/ apple with peanut/almond butter - you’ll be adding protein and a serving of healthy fats.

Berries: Combine a handful of blueberries/ raspberries/ blackberries with Greek yogurt - for keep you fuller protein and some digestion-friendly probiotics.

Apples: a great source of fibre and a high water content that will keep you feeling full.

Combine an apple with 5 almonds.

Oatcakes: Oats are high in soluble fibre, which helps to fill you up for longer. They’re also high in vitamins, minerals and betagulcans, which lower cholesterol. Top an oatcake with 1tsp peanut butter.

Nuts: Nuts of all kinds are excellent snacks.

Besides being packed with protein, they contain unsaturated To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition-focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise for information on nutriclub classes in Linlithgow.

Facebook: /nutriclublinlithgow Tel: 07837 794112 (Louise) e-mail: nutriclub@virginmedia.com for more information and/or to book your place

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www.ableworld.co.uk Ableworld are the main mobility retailer in the area approved as a Community Equipment Dispenser NHS Vouchers Welcome. *VAT exempt - ask in store for details. MRP - Manufacturer’s Recommended Price Previous Price - Sold for 28 days in last 6 months at our Nantwich store Ableworld are an Appointed Representative of MBL Insurance, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 13

HOME IMPROVEMENT

As the days get shorter, Harvey Bruce Interiors shows us how to create a cosy home you’ll love to come home to...

It’s that time of year again when the mornings get a little chillier and the nights draw in! Whilst we’re facing the awful return of darkness and typical British weather, there are a few things we can look forward too; Christmas, party dressing, and getting our homes all cosy of course!

ABOVE: Why not transform your existing furniture into something fun and stylish?

Harvey Bruce have a huge range of fabrics for furnishings and upholstery.

ABOVE: Basswood shutters provide a stunning look but are also practical as they improve insulation and heat loss through glazing by up to 40%!

MAIN IMAGE: Urban clay 65mm wooden venetian blinds provide a stunning backdrop to this beautiful bathroom.

14 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

Nu - Walls Prices start from £9.50 One Off Clean £12.00

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For a quote today, please contact: t: 07944 852 805 or visit us at: www.dustersonline.com

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GARDENING PROJECT

As the days shorten and we start retreating into our homes perhaps we should cheer ourselves up with some fresh houseplants?

They can bring life to our rooms and add style to our interiors. Many of them can also help to purify the air we breathe so bringing health into our lives as well! By choosing the right plants for the conditions you have you can enjoy this group of indestructible houseplants as permanent residents in your home.

The important thing is to identify the light conditions in the various places you would like a plant.

In very bright light, on a sunny windowsill, you can choose from many succulents all with interesting shapes – Jade Plant, Aloe, Cacti and the very fashionable Rhipsalis.

In a shady position, where you can only read a newspaper for an hour or two in the middle of the day, choose Peace Lily, Mother-in-law’s Tongue, Cast Iron Plant or trailing Sweetheart Vine.

Between these two extreme positions you would be able to read a newspaper all day. So this might be on a west or east-facing windowsill or up to 5ft (1.6m) away from a window. Try Dracaena, Spider Plant, Devil’s Ivy, Umbrella Plant, Zamiocaulas (sorry about its name!) or Christmas Cactus. For more details pick up our ‘purple piglet project’ leaflet from New Hopetoun Gardens.

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

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 17

The Clean Team

Covering Clackmannanshire, Edinburgh, Fife, the Lothians and Perth & Kinross

Professional oven cleaning service: ovens, ranges, hob, BBQ, microwaves or extractor unit.

Give us a call for a free no obligation quote

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

18 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

New name, same great service! Alba Oven Cleaning is now part of The Clean Team

www.drycleanteam.co.uk tel 01506 432100

01501 763428 Boiler Service | Repairs | Replacement Gas. Oil. LPG.

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 19

25BRPL16KonectDirectoryFullpage OCTOBER 2016#2.qxp_Layout 1 17/10/2016 17:53 Page 1

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Will

become a thing of the past?

If you currently own a family house and expect to move to somewhere “more practical” once the children have grown up, you might need to reconsider your plans.

According to recent research the current demographic shift to a low mortality/low fertility society is creating a new generation of future homeowner. As the population is living longer, people are lingering longer in their various life stages before moving on.

You can't move back in and live with us. Your Mother and I are moving in with your Grandparents.

One of the predictions is that by 2026, almost 80 per cent of the adult population will be ‘adkids’ - an amalgamation of adults and kids, who are quite happy to rely on mum and dad for longer, primarily as a result of higher housing and living costs. This, in turn, leads to an increase in the age at which these ‘Peter Pans’ leave home, get married, and have their first child, with a knockon effect on future generations. For example, women now have their first child at an average age of 26.7 years, and by 2026, this is predicted to rise to around 29 years.

It is predicted that parents will spend less time being ‘empty nesters’ and more time in the ‘sandwich’ generation, where they experience simultaneous demands from both their elderly parents (who are living longer), and the ‘adkids’ who haven’t yet left home.

So if you have teenagers and are pushed for space, don’t bank on them moving out in the foreseeable future. And if you are currently buying a property, perhaps you should consider purchasing something bigger than you currently need in order to provide enough space, perish the thought, for your extended family!

22 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

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.

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LOCAL PEOPLE

Carolyn Holt

“ You’re a what ? ”

Carolyn

Carolyn Holt gets some inquisitive looks when she tells people what she does for a job. She tells Konect about becoming a “doula” and the interesting conversations it sparks at parties.

“I first heard about doulas when I was studying midwifery. A doula is someone who supports and empowers other women throughout their pregnancy and birth, as well as in the postnatal period. They’ve been popular in America for longer, where a lot of women want to take back the ownership of their birthing experiences.

“One of the reasons I wanted to be a midwife was to spend more time with the women, and get to know them throughout their pregnancy. It’s quite difficult to do that within the NHS set up at the moment, but hopefully that will eventually change.”

Carolyn’s tutor planted the seed of becoming a doula. “My tutor suggested that after qualifying, this might be a good route for me to take if I wanted to make a difference to the care women receive.

conversation at parties when you’re talking about what you do for a living; “you’re a what?!” It does make for interesting conversation! I often find I’m told peoples’ birth stories, sometimes from a partner’s perspective. No two experiences are ever the same!

“I think having my training as a midwife definitely helps me to connect with the women I meet, as well as with midwives too. It’s really nice to have that follow up after the mums have their baby. I’m on hand to help women with even the little things after they’ve had their baby, such as entertain an older sibling or pick up things from the shops for them.”

Carolyn spends a lot of time researching different books to recommend to pregnant ladies and new mums. She also plans to expand her holistic services by offering reflexology and aromatherapy.

“For me it’s about being on the whole journey with the women. There used to be a bit of a divide between midwives and doulas, but now there’s better realisation that we’re all after the same thing; we all want a good experience for the woman and her family.”

Carolyn works across much of West Lothian and West of Edinburgh too. To find out more about Carolyn’s journey to becoming a doula, visit www.doula-la.co.uk where you can read her blog.

Now that Carolyn is established, and has her blog and website set up, she’s keen to raise the awareness of doulas. “9 times out of 10 it’s that

The local people column is contributed by Louise Taylor. Louise lives in Linlithgow and as well as writing, she likes running and researching family history.

24 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

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KONECT LINLITHGOW | 25

Golf & Leisure Membership @ Dalmahoy

FAMILY & UNDER 30’S MEMBERSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE We want to make golf accessible for everyone. With this in mind we have created two brand new membership categories with two core components in mind: flexibility and value.

NEW FAMILY COUNTRY CLUB MEMBERSHIP Valid for 2

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7 day access to Championship East and Resort West Courses Onsite driving range and 9 hole pitch ‘n’ putt Heated indoor swimming pool with sauna and steam room State of the art gymnasium Outdoor tennis courts Daily exercise classes Membership benefits pack with offers worth £500+ Annual reward programme for your loyalty

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or email golf@dalmahoyhotelandcountryclub.co.uk

dalmahoyhotelandcountryclub.co.uk Terms & Conditions:

Must sign up for a minimum of 3 months. The annual upfront payment option with 10% discount is non-refundable. Limited availability in each category. Standard membership terms and conditions apply. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult when using the swimming pool and tennis courts. Children must be 16 years or older to use the gymnasium and fitness classes.

26 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

FOOD & DRINK

A DI NGE NG S

Perfect Flavour Partners!

R

&O

PU

D

Chocolate and orange are perfect flavour partners and these lovely individual puddings taste delicious served warm with custard or cream.

Ingredients: 3 small clementines or satsumas, thinly sliced 175g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 175g caster sugar 3 large eggs, beaten 125g self-raising flour 50g cocoa powder, sifted 1 tbsp fresh orange juice 2 tsp orange zest Custard or cream, to serve

Serves 6 Ready in 1 hour 30 mins Tip: You can cook the puddings a few hours before serving then simply re-heat in the microwave. Turn out onto a microwave plate and reheat three at a time on High for 30-45 seconds.

1

Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4. Butter and line the bases of 6 x 175ml metal pudding basins with circles of baking parchment.

Place a slice of clementine or satsuma in the base of each basin and press 2-3 slices around the sides.

2

Put the butter and sugar in a bowl and, using an electric mixer, beat until pale and fluffy.

Gradually beat in the eggs then sift over the flour and cocoa powder and fold into the creamed mixture with the orange juice and zest.

3

Divide the mixture between the pudding basins and cover each with a square of pleated, buttered foil, scrunching it tightly around the sides of each basin. Transfer to a roasting tin and pour in enough boiling water from a kettle to reach halfway up the sides of the basins.

4

Bake for 1 hour, until the puddings have risen and are firm to the touch, and a skewer inserted through the foil of one of the puddings comes out clean. Turn out and serve with custard or cream.

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 27

PUZZLES

BUSTER THE DOG

CROSSWORD

Solution in the November edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Brave (6), 8. Keep back (6), 9. On top of (4), 10. Loudest (8), 11. Small rivers (7), 13. Looks at (5), 15. Perfect (5), 17. Laughed (7), 20. Confuse (8), 21. Consumes (4), 22. Light wind (6), 23. Inn (6) DOWN: 1. Type of cloth (6), 2. Not wealthy (4), 3. Financial resources (7), 4. Own up to (5), 5 Hitting (8), 6. Puzzle (6), 12. Inspected (8) ,14. Shake (7), 16. Gloomy (6), 18. Goes into (6), 19. Trimmed (5), 21. Jealousy (4)

SUDOKU

Mackie

Veterinary Surgeons Ltd

Established

1 9 3 0

Brechin

“All creatures great and small, we care for them all” Our caring, experienced and dedicated veterinary team is committed to providing the best possible care for your pet, horse or farm animal in the Linlithgow, Edinburgh, Lothian and Central regions.

Solution on Page 38

Our practice is modern, well-equipped and progressive, with a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare and advice.

28 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

Linlithgow Branch Surgery, 256 High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7ES Tel: 0131 333 3203 reception@mackieandbrechin.co.uk www.mackieandbrechin.co.uk

24 HOUR ON-SITE EMERGENCY SERVICE At our Kirkliston Surgery, 29 Main St, Kirkliston, EH29 9AE Tel: 0131 333 3203

VET’S TIP

Autumn

is a time for vets to see an easing-off of problems that have kept us busy over the summer – the fleas, ticks, and seasonal allergies such as pollen, which proliferate with the warmer weather.

But this season does bring its own hazards and there’s one in particular that not many people are aware of – horse chestnuts or conkers. Yes, those favourites of school children everywhere are actually poisonous to dogs.

The toxic elements of the horse chestnut are found in most parts of the tree but it’s the nuts on the ground at this time of year that are the biggest danger to curious dogs and puppies.

Luckily dogs would have to eat a fairly large amount for the dose to be fatal but smaller quantities can affect the stomach and the nervous system. Symptoms are generally seen around six hours after ingestion but can be as quick as

konect Helping your business get the wee lift it needs It’s a team effort

To join in please contact us!

See page 3 for contact details

an hour or as long as two days afterwards. They include vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle spasms, lack of co-ordination and excessive drooling. There is no antidote so treatment is a matter of trying to clear your animal’s system of the poison – contact your vet as soon as possible.

Conkers can also be a danger simply as a choking hazard and as a bowel blockage if swallowed so trying to stop your dog snuffling about under these trees is definitely the easiest way of avoiding any of these problems!

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

Keep your Friends o pet in tip heWaltehscatrepoprlatfn top shape from just £7 per month To find out more call us on

01506 844 165

or pop into the surgery

8 Preston Rd, Linlithgow EH49 7AU KONECT LINLITHGOW | 29

Taking place on the 24th of November in the stunning Burgh Halls, Linlithgow we will provide a red carpet and fizz reception, buffet and live entertainment from singer Megan Black and comedian Kimi Loughton and not forgetting our host - Mr Fabulous! 7.30pm – 11pm.

There will be a special guest speaker who will share with you her incredible story of struggles and strengths.

With a prize raffle not to be missed and a chance to truly help raise vital funds for a much needed local service we hope you will join us to launch West Lothian’s participation in the 16 Days of Activism campaign.

Tickets £30, via eventbrite.co.uk. Search for “16 days benefit” www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/16-days-benefit-tickets-37747385446 From 25th November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10th December, Human Rights Day, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign is a time to galvanize action to end violence against women and girls around the world.

West Lothian Women’s Aid is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation SC046887 30 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

WHAT’S ON SATURDAY 21ST OCTOBER

WHAT’S ON | LINLITHGOW SATURDAY 7TH OCTOBER Passacaglia Baroque Ensemble “Travels With Telemann” Linlithgow Academy Theatre, 7.30pm. Tickets: Full £12, Students £6. See www.linlithgowartsguild.co.uk for more information and tickets.

SAT 14TH OCTOBER - SUN 15TH OCTOBER A Fountain of Wine Prince Charles Edward Stuart has successfully attracted a large number of Jacobite supporters and is on his way to Edinburgh. He has decided to visit Linlithgow Palace en route where he has heard that the fountain in the courtyard may run with red wine.

Perhaps he will be in luck today! Included in the normal palace admission price. 12pm – 4pm.

TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER Linlithgow Holiday Club - Operation Hibernation!

With Historic Environment Scotland. Autumn is a busy time of year for Linlithgow’s wildlife. Find out what they need to do to get through the winter.

Suitable for children between 8 and 12. 10.30am to 12.30pm. Booking essential - contact our Ranger Service to confirm your place on this free walk.

Tel: 0131 652 8150 or rangers@hes.scot

Broom Making Calling all witches and wizards. Collect material and make your own Harry Potter style broom to be proud of. Perfect for Halloween. Suitable for families.

Meet: Balvormie Pond, Beecraigs Country Park Time: 2pm - 3.30pm Cost: £3.80 per broom.

Booking essential, call the Countryside Rangers on 01506 284516 or email mail@beecraigs.com SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER Joachim String Trio. Music by Schubert, Sibelius and Mozart Linlithgow Academy Theatre, 7.30pm. Tickets: Full £12, Students £6.

See www.linlithgowartsguild.co.uk for more information and tickets.

SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER Linlithgow Farmers Market The Cross, High Street, Linlithgow.

FRI 27TH OCTOBER TO SUN 29TH OCTOBER The Linlithgow ExFEARience As night falls, come to Linlithgow Palace as we get ready for Halloween. Tour the dark corridors of the palace, hear tales from the past and meet some unexpected characters along the way. £12.00 booking essential, member discounts available.

For information and booking please contact Historic Environment Scotland on 0131 668 8885 or email events@hes.scot

WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@KONECTDIRECTORY.CO.UK KONECT LINLITHGOW | 31

WALK

DIFFERENCE KAREN MURRAY SPICES UP A HILL WALK WITH SOME TUBING FUN! They say women are good at multi-tasking – I am actually not entirely convinced about that but I do like to try so when a friend suggested a walk in the hills ending in some tubing fun, I was up for the challenge.

The venue is the Hillend Snowports Centre on the outskirts of Edinburgh and a place I have begun several walks from in the past, but it is also home to not only the dry ski slope for skiing but a relatively new ‘tubing’ area. So this was our destination.

We parked at the bottom car park just off the A701 and headed off up the path clearly marked going up diagonally from the car park. There is an information board showing a variety of different routes but the Capital View circuit it quite a good option, which means turning left before you reach a set of steps.

The path is steep and quite narrow but not too difficult for most to manage. You will find a lot of dog walkers in the area so you might need to negotiate a few of those. If you stop every now and then and look back you will very quickly begin to get great views over Edinburgh.

You will come to a cross roads of paths where you go straight on following the way markers, passing a mound which is the 32 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

remains of an iron-age fort – of which there are several in ‘these there hills’!

A signpost and gate is the next landmark, at which point you could head straight up the hill and do some major hill conquering, but the easier option is to turn right – signed Capital View. You pass above the back the of ski slopes taking in more excellent view over the Firth of Forth. The city is laid out before you and you can see the Bass Rock on a good day as well as the Ochill Hills and beyond.

The waymarked route then descends on the other side of the skiing area and eventually ends up at the quaint little hamlet of Swanston. However, we climbed the stile over to the top of the highest ski slope and made our way down the side of the dry ski area to the café and ticket office, where we purchased our tubing ticket.

An hour of tubing fun was bought and we headed over to the dedicated area where there are four slides that reminded me a little of a water park abroad – minus the water and the scorching temperatures!

Grab an inner tube (hence the tubing moniker) – larger for bottoms like mine, or mini sized for small people. Take the travellator – a moving pathway that aids your ascent to the top of the slides – and pick the one you fancy. Straight and steep for speed or curvy for more giggles and a chance to end up going backwards.

I can vouch for how much fun this is – whatever your age. Just ignore the people there who are wondering where you kids are, or indeed take the kids as a treat for walking up the hill.

After a reviving beverage in the café, you can either walk down the road back to the car park, or cross over the bottom of

TUBING: Ticket purchased, ready to go!

I can vouch for how much fun this is – whatever your age. Just ignore the people there who are wondering where you kids are.

the ski slopes to pick up the path you walked up. The walking part of this is not very long but it is uphill – so a good work out, followed by fun and exertion at the tubing and a stroll back. All in all a good fun couple of hours.

THE VENUE Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Pentland Hills Regional Park, EH10 7DU. Tubing sessions are Friday 1pm-5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 5pm with sessions lasting an hour.

The walk feature is written

by Karen Murray. Karen lives in West Lothian and is passionate about walking in the great outdoors having been brought up to love walking by her Father (still hillwalking in his 80s).

TUBING: Great fun... with, or without the kids!

GRAB AN INNER TUBE!

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 33

VISIT WEST LOTHIAN

October

is the month of darker evenings and Halloween but no need to fear West Lothian has lots of amazing things on offer.

The fascinating character of Bonnie Prince Charlie is looked at in more depth at the beautiful Linlithgow Palace. The Fountain of Wine event will be held at the palace on the 14th & 15th and is included in the attractions admission price.

Take in some of the most beautiful classical music that Scotland has to offer with performances from The Passacaglia Baroque Ensemble, on the 7th and The Joachim String Trio, on the 28th, both at Linlithgow Academy Theatre. www.linlithgowartsguild.co.uk Get out into the crisp October air and explore the beautiful nature of West Lothian. Hopetoun House are hosting an event this month focusing on the Fabulous Fungi that can be found on the grounds.

Taking place on the 15th why not head along?

Halloween is upon us, so head along to Almond Valley for their Spooky Happenings event running between the 7th to 31st, mysterious creatures will emerge from the dark corners of the old farm so beware. Look out for any unwanted spirits down the dark corridors of Linlithgow Palace at the ExFEARience from the 27th – 29th. Tour the eerie palace ground, hear tales from the past and meet some unexpected characters along the way.

2 FOR 1 COURSES Please present this printed voucher offer at the paybooth.

The offer allows you to play both courses when you pay full price for one. It can only be used once and is valid for up to 4 people. Offer valid until 30th November 2017. Minimum transaction ÂŁ5.00.

Not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. No photocopies accepted, PIAG t&c apply, see in store for details.

With the nights getting darker indoor shopping is the perfect solution. Head along to The Centre and Livingston Designer Outlet to browse through a wide range of amazing retailers and grab a bite to eat at one of the many high quality food outlets.

For more information, or the latest on all the great things to see and do in West Lothian please visit:

Paradise Island Adventure Golf, Livingston Designer Outlet, Almondvale Avenue , Livingston, EH54 6QX

www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 34 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

"Dino-dress"

PARENTS IN WEST LOTHIAN

...accidentally smash the patriarchy while looking spiffingly prehistoric I’ve never given much thought to what my favourite cretaceous-era creature is (has anyone?) but in recent weeks I’ve been forced to ponder this matter, and submit to repeated questioning regarding my preferences.

The reason? Penny has discovered the world of dinosaurs. Upon meeting my youngest, if you do not already have a preferred ‘terrible lizard’, worry not; you will be assigned one.

“Mummy what is your favourite dinosaur? Mine is Tyrannosaurus Rex. Yours is Gallimimus.” I’ll take your word for it, Penny …

I’ll freely admit that my two-year-old can now name more dinosaurs than I can, and in some cases can actually explain the etymology of their names – “Mummy, triceratops means three-horn-face!”

How did this come about? Let me explain …

Several years ago, my brother who lives in the land of far away (actually no, it’s Cambuslang) recommended to us an app that his kids loved called “Storybots”. The gist of the app is that 5 colourful robots explain all manner of concepts from the colours to the days of the week, from software programming to dinosaurs, all through hilarious songs and various kinds of animation.

Fast forward through about 2 years of indifference to this app, and now both of my kids can’t get enough of it. The first set of songs on the app is about dinosaurs, and so they are now de rigeur in all their forms – particularly with Penny.

You’ll have read recently about the uproar caused when John Lewis announced they were introducing gender-neutral clothing. I’ve got to say I’m pretty pleased about this because in the past week I’ve been trawling various websites

and shops in the hope of finding clothing that depicts dinosaurs that aren’t wearing dresses, covered in love hearts, or in the act of applying lipstick. Ok, yes I’m exaggerating a bit but it is pretty striking how gender-specific clothing can be.

I saw a picture of one of these “PC-gone-mad” gender-neutral garments that has everyone up in arms – a canary yellow jumper with grey dinosaurs (yes Penny, they are Apatosauruses, thanks for that …) on it. As I gazed upon it, my lid failed to flip. My blood remained entirely tepid. My sanity remained as intact as my lifestyle will allow. I simply couldn’t figure out why someone would object to a wee girl wearing stuff that isn’t pink, and has a dinosaur on it. The mind boggles …

As it happens, I have a dress of my own that I call the ‘prehistoric apocalypse’ dress, which features volcanoes, lava, and proper-looking dinosaurs cavorting round its hem … I’ve just ordered a second identical one with the sole intention of cutting it up to sew a matching dress for Penny.

Maybe this is us unintentionally smashing the patriarchy, maybe my female offspring just loves what she loves. Only socio-cultural dinosaurs are likely to care.

The monthly Parenting column is contributed by Nicola Jengaenga. Nicola lives in West Lothian with her two pre-schoolers and hubby Channa.

They juggle hectic work schedules with the everevolving demands of their two tiny overlords and also squeezing in time for each other!

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 35

MUSIC REVIEW

As in the best tragedies, the great pop stars each have a turning point following which things are never quite as enjoyable again. Yes, they do. No, they do. They just do, right? Often this involves a left turn into an unfamiliar musical genre, intended to refresh but which serves only to alienate and raise suspicion of creative impasse.

Sometimes calypso is involved. Consider the twin 1983 horrors of Wings of a Dove by Madness and Right By Your Side by The Eurhythmics. Other methods include the jettisoning of melody, as with Britany Spears’ I’m A Slave 4 U (written by Prince by accident in his sleep), or latching on to proxy creditability - see Kylie’s attempt to become indie via the Manic Street Preachers (highest chart position 22).

So, to Superdrug perfume supplier Taylor Swift’s magnum opus “Look What You Made Me Do”

whereby the world’s highest paid female pop star takes part of a song by Right Said Fred and makes it worse. Seemingly under the delusion that the feelings of one multi-millionaire about being disrespected by some other multi-millionaires is of any interest to anyone that isn’t in the mirror, Swift manages to combine the worst qualities of atypical songs by earlier peaked musicians. Lazy rhymes are dragged tortuously over a melody with the complexity of a nursery rhyme, breaking down completely where the chorus should be. Combine this with the narcissism of the video suggesting the artist believes changing her outfit had created scores of unique and identifiable characters a la Bowie, and we are all in for swim off the deep end.

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’.

LIBRARY INFORMATION Linlithgow Library The Vennel, High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7EH Tel: 01506 775490 Email: linlithgow.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening hours: Mon & Fri: 9.00am - 5.00pm. Tue & Thur: 9.00am - 7.00pm. Wed: 9.00am - 3.00pm. Sat: 9.00am - 1.00pm.

STORYTIME: Stories and art activities for children 3-4 years during term time - every Monday and Friday 10.30am.

LINLITHGOW BOOK GROUP: Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6pm to discuss their chosen novel.

BOOKBUG SESSIONS: Stories, songs & rhymes suitable for all under 3’s and their grown-ups.

Council Information Service (located within the library) is open 9-2.30 Monday to Friday

36 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

CLUBS & CLASSES

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

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 email: linlithgowwriters@gmail.com or search for 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

LINLITHGOW AND 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.

SEEDLINGS – TOTS AND TODDLERS CHURCH St Michael’s Church Hall, Thursday’s 10-11am. Bring your 0-5 year old children or grandchildren for craft activities and singing. Coffee, cake, new friends. Just come along on the morning.

SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Star and Garter (The Bistro Café), Station Road. Wednesday 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: Dougie Baird, Linlithgow Computer Club. Call 07929 120129 or just call in.

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 01506 845137 or emailCo-ordinator@linlithgowlink.org.uk

PHYSIO LED PILATES

LINLITHGOW BRIDGE PLAYGROUP

MONTHLY MINDFULNESS MEDITATION & QIGONG CLASS

Chalmers Hall, Main Street, Linlithgow Bridge. Tue-Thu: 9:15 am - 11:45 am during term time. No minimum number of sessions. £7 per session. For more information contact lbplaygroup@gmail.com 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 information: 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 email gallacherbrian@hotmail.com for further information.

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA The Linlithgow String Orchestra for adults (18+) with a minimum standard Grade 5 meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge (2 Market Lane, Linlithgow). New players from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome.

Please bring music stands. Please contact us in advance on: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com or search for us on Facebook.

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 please.

PUB THEOLOGY Starting September. St Michael’s Parish Church at the Four Mary’s. Live bands, questions about life, beer and pub food. All perspectives welcome.

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 information please see www.physioledpilates.com Starting Sunday 12th March 1:15-3:45 at The Old Pavilion at Linlithgow Cricket Ground. FREE class for cancer patients (past and present) and their families / carers and friends - no experience required. Email: Trish@bosombudsofscotland for more information.

All details are on our website: www.bosombudsofscotland.org RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES AND SENIOR SECTION

Rainbow units (girls 5 - 7 years) Mon, Wed & Thurs nights in Linlithgow. Brownie units (girls 7 - 10 years) Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs nights in Linlithgow. Guide units (girls 10 - 14 years) Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri nights in Linlithgow. Senior Section unit (girls 14 - 25 years) Fri nights. For more information see www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

FORTH VALLEY ORIENTEERS Come and try orienteering! Learn to navigate with a map and compass with FVO club coaches. Newcomers classes will be running on specific Saturdays in September and October at Beecraigs Country Park.

Junior classes for ages 9-13 years old (with or without parent). Adult newcomer classes for all ages. £5 per session. Contact Jen Leonard on 01506 843552 or membership@fvo.org.uk for more information.

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, LINLITHGOW 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 information call or text 07592 226917.

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 37

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

BATHROOMS Bathgate Bathroom Studio Ellis & Scott BLINDS & SHUTTERS Harvey Bruce

10 4 15

BOOK SHOP Far From The Madding Crowd 36

CAR SERVICE & REPAIR MBA Specialist

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING James Burnett

CATERING Food Creations

CLEANING SERVICES Dusters Cleaning Services

COMPUTER SERVICES Sprint Computers

CONSERVATORIES CR Smith

COUNSELLING Rosanna Veitch

CYCLE SHOP & REPAIRS Elevation Cycles DOORS uPVC Doors

ENTERTAINMENT Code Nightclub West Port Hotel

ESTATE AGENT Aberdein Considine Drummmond Miller Remax Turpie & Co. Your Move

4 15 6 15 10 21 12 5 19 5 5 20 25 40 23 25

FENCING/GATES Welding & Fabrication Solutions 6 FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS Harvey Bruce 15

GARDEN & LANDSCAPING New Hopetoun Gardens 17 WL Landscaping & Gardening 16 Woodford Timber 16

GARDEN BUILDINGS Champfleurie Estate Ltd GOLF CLUB Dalmahoy Hotel & CC

38 | KONECT LINLITHGOW

2 26

HEATING SERVICES Mech A Tech

JOB OPPORTUNITIES Q2 Solutions

JOINER Create Enhanced Spaces Geoff Vinter Joinery

KITCHENS Create Enhanced Spaces Ellis & Scott LAUNDRY SERVICES The Airbnb Laundry LAWYER Aberdein Considine

LOCKSMITH WL Locksmith Company MOBILITY Ableworld

18 7 5 18 5 4

OVEN CLEANER The Clean Team

PAINTER/DECORATOR David J Lane Nu Walls PLASTERING Nu Walls

PROPERTY LETTING & MANAGEMENT Your Move

PUBLIC HOUSE West Port Hotel

ROAD SURFACING J & L Road Surfacing

ROOFING R & D Roofing

SECURITY SERVICES WL Locksmith Company

21

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 28

20 16 13

5

SOLUTION TO SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

18 15 15 15 25 5 18 16 16

TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME West Lothian Trusted Trader 19

VET Mackie and Brechin West Port Veterinary Clinic

WINDOWS CR Smith

4

7

MOTORHOME (HIRE/SALE) Motorhome Hire Scotland 11 NIGHTCLUB Code Nightclub

WASTE DISPOSAL Bare Bins

28 29

ACROSS: 6 Bonnie, 8 Permit, 9 Gnaw, 10 Selected, 11 Tearing, 13 Admit, 15 Argue, 17 Chained, 20 Civilian, 21 Tidy, 23 Assume, 24 Excess.

DOWN: 1 Noon, 2 Answer, 3 Apple, 4 Traced, 5 Likewise, 7 Easing, 12 Earliest, 14 Change, 16 Unique, 18 Intact, 19 Hides, 22 Dash.

The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication.

All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, EH54 6GU.

KONECT LINLITHGOW | 39

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