SEPTEMBER 2018
livingston
PLUS: Patterns For Living, Gardening Project, Puzzles, and much more inside! The community magazine for Livingston
TO OUR SEPTEMBER EDITION
THIS ISSUE
I
t’s one of those months when I am so excited by the breadth and depth of caring, creativity and energy that myself and other Konect writers dig up in West Lothian to write about. And we don’t even come close to covering absolutely everything that’s going on (although give me a few more years…). Browse through the articles and I hope you’ll see what I mean.
Our free-range sports writer David has been speaking to Livingston Boxing Club; I think the upshot is that whatever you think about the sport itself, the Club here is doing great things. I visited local charity Carers of West Lothian; in Linlithgow of course the Folk Festival is in full swing from 5th to 9th September; and there is plenty else going on, check the What’s On section. Our new Parenting columnist Laura kicks off her column with a charming article about the current craze of rock painting and hiding: if you’ve spotted brightly painted pebbles and so on dotted around in unlikely places, this article will enlighten you! Remember if you are involved in any events coming up in the autumn, do send in details, we list community and not-forprofit events free of charge in our What’s On section.
COVER IMAGE: See our carers feature on page 8.
P36 Carers of West Lothian................................... 8 Community Cement: WLCU........................13 Love Art Deco................................................18 Gardening: Keep summer going................19 Health & Beauty............................................20 Thought for the Month..................................23 Puzzles...........................................................34 Motoring: Electric Vehicle Myths busted....36 Property Matters............................................38 Vet’s Tip: Rabbits..........................................40 Music Review................................................42 Parenting: West Lothian Rocks!..................44 What’s On......................................................47 Sport:Livingston Boxing Club......................48 Clubs & Classes............................................49
Konect is delivered to 20,000 homes throughout Livingston, alternating between two areas of 10,000 homes each. Copies are also left at libraries, community centres, convenience stores, post offices and other locations throughout Livingston.
HELEN-JANE SHEARER
JENNY THOMSON
CHARLENE GAFFNEY
Email: editor@konect.scot
07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk
07772 941899 charlene@konect.scot
Editor
@KonectMagazines
Account Manager
Account Manager
LIVINGSTON | 3
4 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
è Interior or exterior work è Home or business è Jobs big and small è Choose a local professional
Call Ernest for advice or a quote:
Landline: 01506 41 66 41 EDC Painters & Decorators, Skivo Farm, Livingston EH54 9AN
Windows & Doors Kitchens Bathrooms Garage Conversions Sun Lounges & Orangeries Conservatories Roofline
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 5
AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or emailkevin@aktbookkeeping.co.uk
David DavidB BCarruthers Carruthers Architectural Architectural Technologist Technologist
DBC DBCarchitecture. architecture.
07713873698 07713873698
dbcarruthers@hotmail.com dbcarruthers@hotmail.com - 3D- Design 3D Design Packages Packages - Planning - Planning Applications Applications - Building - Building Warrant Warrant Applications Applications - Construction - Construction Information Information - Project - Project Management Management - Consultation - Consultation
6 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 7
CHARITY OF THE MONTH
“ Without CoWL I would have carried on feeling low and on my own trying to cope with my caring role ” “ I feel like there is a space I can go to so I get a chance to breathe regularly ” “ I am now accepting and understanding of my son’s condition and I am coping with it now ”
Life has a way of taking unexpected turns, and you can find yourself doing something you never planned on doing. This can be something fantastic ... or somewhat difficult. in place for that too,” explains Carolann. I met with a local charity this month who are “We provide one-on-one emotional support there for people who find themselves as either on the phone or here at the Livingston unpaid carers for a loved one. Carers of West premises; anyone who is struggling can call Lothian was set up 25 years ago by carers, for carers. “Generally, willingly taking on the us or drop in, and if there is someone role, it does mean that your own life can end available to see you, they will. You can also up on hold, your career impacted, social life phone for an appointment.” Carers of West impacted, and the emotional and practical Lothian are also happy to make the first call – effects on you are significant” says Carolann contacting yet another organisation Turner, one of the support workers at can be overwhelming, so if they Carers of West Lothian. have a name and phone A carer is a person of any age number and permission to The weekly carer’s who provides unpaid care call, they will do that. coffee morning is on a and support to a spouse, Wednesday. Just drop in They offer peer support partner, relative friends or between 10am and 12 noon through weekly coffee neighbour, who can’t live at Sycamore House (address mornings, which are independently without the below) for tea, coffee, cakes, very popular; they carer’s help. The support chat and peer support. Either have a counselling that a carer provides may to chat about your caring service, support groups, be emotional, personal care role, or to switch off and training such as stressand hygiene, cooking and relax in a supportive management, legal advice, shopping, acting as a environment. a powers of attorney clinic, representative and so on. and practical help. Subject to Besides the rewards, there can be hard funding, they also have access times, and self-care for carers to the Creative Breaks Fund which will allow carers to apply for a short break either with is essential. If you’re the one holding things the person they care for, or on their own together for someone else, you need to look after yourself, for your own sake and for the YOUNG CARERS - There are many children person who is relying on you. Anyone who under the age of 18 who are caring for a finds themselves struggling with any aspect parent, grandparent or sibling. They may of their caring role can access support from be heavily involved in nursing care, doing Carers of West Lothian. household chores, or spending time sitting with them for company; they may be helping “Carers may well have health issues their parents look after a younger sibling themselves, and we have various support 8 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
Support for people with learning and physical disabilities - Carers of West Lothian has this year been selected by West Lothian Council to provide information, advice and support for people with learning and physical disabilities living in West Lothian delivering many of the services that were previously provided by Capability Scotland in Carmondean’s Ability Centre. If you live in West Lothian and have a learning or physical disability Carers of West Lothian can support you with Benefits Advice, information on services, signposting/referrals to services, information on your rights, access to radar keys and a listening ear.
The carer’s walking group
because their parents have an illness or disability. Young carers may be subjected to extra stress because of the responsibility their bear, or their schooling and social life may be impacted. In whatever situation, the West Lothian Young Carer’s project can help. There are groups, outings, support in school, someone to talk to, and a range of other supports for young carers. The parent of one young carer said, “It gave my daughter something to look forward to, that was just for her. She had the most horrific year, but I can see she is getting through it and that has been with the support of the young carers staff.” CONTACT INFORMATION Address: Sycamore House, Quarrywood Court, Livingston, EH54 6AX Tel: 01506 448000 Email: office@carers-westlothian.com Facebook: /CarersofWestLothian
A coffee morning at CoWL
Carers of West Lothian is open Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm. Registered Scottish Charity No. SC019628. This article was written by Helen-Jane Shearer, after visiting Carers of West Lothian at Sycamore House, Livingston. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family. @KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 9
10 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
We specialise in household alterations and repairs. To discuss your construction project, please call Colin on: or email:
Extensions | Bathrooms | Kitchens Alterations | Structual Work Maintenance & Repairs | Landscaping Driveways | All Trades
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 11
12 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
COMMUNITY
West Lothian Credit Union: Community Cement When you drive you trust your fellow road users will be licensed, insured and not high on something; we trust our politicians to have the electors’ interests at heart; a careless car mechanic is bad enough but imagine similar shoddiness in a mechanic servicing a jet about to transport 350 passengers. That is one giant dollop of trust. We trust that fellow passengers are well-intentioned, not fanatics without respect for life. Our magazine prides itself on being community focussed. For a community to function efficiently, yielding good quality of life for its members, there must be large measures of trust, concern for fellow citizens, and respect for the rights and safety of others. Am I mistaken in sensing that breaches of basic trusts are rising? Are social media playing a role? So it’s a pleasure to report a practical and positive example flourishing here in our community in the shape of the West Lothian Credit Union. The first Credit Union started in 1849 in Germany and by 1900 they were established across most of Europe. As per the template, WLCU is member-owned and not-for-profit. “Credit” is misleading as both savings and loans are offered. A more accurate title would be “Community Union”. Today’s sophisticated beast operates under the auspices of the Financial Regulatory bodies, providing guarantees of the individual’s capital up to £85k. John McClay, 58, CEO of WLCU expands: the Union was founded by current chair Nancy MacGillivray in 1998 in a former church in Deans. In 2008, to accommodate growth, WLCU moved to Almondvale centre in Livingston. Current membership is 3000 adult plus 1400 juvenile being proactively encouraged to groove prudent financial habits. You can join individually, (I did online, it’s nimps!), or via an employer’s scheme. Some big names offer the salary deduction facility, like West Lothian Council, Fyffes, Weslo Housing. The WLCU has 5 paid employees and 25 volunteers - from board members to cashiers. Each year Board members are @KonectMagazines
elected by the membership to serve 3 years. John explains convincingly that for loanseekers, the Credit Union should be first call as they’re able to be more personal, flexible and understanding (like Banks and Building Socs used to be, remember?) “Something for EVERYbody” is the Union mantra in the fight to keep vulnerable souls off the dizzying merry-go-round of payday loan companies and sharks. Savers receive division of profits (i.e. dividends, not interest) as decided yearly by members. Deposits and withdrawals are executed at the office or online, (withdrawals credited at 3 p.m. daily). The Union is gearing up to roll out its mobile online loan app. All loan applications are vetted and determined by HUMANS not computers. John emphasises the Union WANTS to help in crises, unlike Banks that tend to offer to lend you an umbrella under a cloudless sky. By joining up - a simple online process - you can demonstrate that community trust is not declining but alive and well and living in West Lothian. Website: www.westlothiancreditunion.co.uk Facebook: West Lothian Credit Union This feature was contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer.
LIVINGSTON | 13
14 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Gardening/Exteriors pages. Contact details are on page 3.
ALL YEAR ROUND LANDSCAPES Regular Garden Maintenance and Landscaping Grass cutting, turfing, paving, patios, driveways, mono blocking & fencing
Local, reliable, professional
Call Ryan: 07723 587389 or Email: ryantosney@live.co.uk
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 15
16 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
D.GREAVES LANDSCAPE GARDENERS
Kirknewton
Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Gardening/Exteriors pages. Contact details are on page 3.
@KonectMagazines
No obligation FREE QUOTES Local Business
Fencing • Decking • Patios • Removals • Regular Garden Maintenance • Garden Design • Clearance and more.... Call Dan now on: 07970 700192 dgreaves@hotmail.com LIVINGSTON | 17
GARDENING PROJECT
As we move towards the autumn our summer displays in pots on the patio or at the front door can start to look a bit dowdy. It can seem too soon to replace them but something needs to be done. Hopefully you may have a few spare pots and can introduce a new star performer to take centre stage amongst your summer pots and lift the performance.
The small outdoor cyclamens are perfect for this role. They have been specially bred from various parents including the Persian Cyclamens that we can grow in cool indoor positions and they will perform well outside from now until the end of the year. You could plant small variegated ivies with them and
18 | LIVINGSTON
also bury some dwarf bulbs like crocus or tulips to take over the display next spring. If you are using compost from a summer planting you must tease it up to get air back into it and add a controlled release fertiliser as it will have been starved on nutrients. Remember to water regularly, they are your babies and rely on you for everything!
Persian Cyclamens at New Hopetoun Gardens The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40years.
@KonectMagazines
COMMUNITY
This season opens with a deliberately selected light but topical film “Battle of the Sexes” about the tennis challenge between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. (Guess who won!) There’s a truism - we only get the politicians we deserve but we also only get the community facilities we support.
Then love the recently rescued Regal Community Theatre in Bathgate. Pete Sneddon has leased the theatre complex, renamed it “Reconnect Regal Theatre” and is pouring his considerable energies into making it once again the Hub of local artistic activities. Rooms and even the main Theatre itself are available for hire and upcoming are concerts and plays (facebook.com/ bathgateregaltheatre).
In the fold snuggles the Bathgate Regal Film Society, formed in 1999. Gail Whyte, the secretary, has been integral from day one. A former teacher and bookkeeper, Gail boasts a passion for film that started when she was toddling, with “Casablanca” her all-time favourite. She tells me that the society owns all its own modern equipment; membership costs £25 for the season or £5 per night.
As can be gleaned from the programme below, the seven-strong Committee favours Classics including foreign, Independents and Contemporary films. To cover costs, a minimum £200 take is vital. So the average attendance of 40 just about covers it while a rare maximum 80 provides a welcome surplus. Refreshments are available from the centre’s bar facility.
Roger that! Play it again Sam. PROGRAMME:
Sept 5th - Battle of the Sexes Oct 3rd - The Death of Stalin Oct 31st - The Exorcist (Hallowe’en special) Nov 7th - Journey’s End Nov 21st - The Shape of Water Jan 9th - A Fantastic Woman Feb 6th - Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool Mar 6th - A Matter of Life and Death Apr 3rd - I, Tonya
All showings are at 7.30, all Wednesdays Membership £25 including entry to all 8 films in the season. Guest tickets and Hallowe’en special £5. Enquiries and details from Gail Whyte (email: gail_whyte@hotmail.com) A few miles across our breathtaking local countryside stands its architectural cousin, the Hippodrome cinema in Bo’ness. It shows a varied programme, from the current Blockbuster through live Opera and RSC Productions to Black and White classics. The feature is contributed by David Levin. David is a Liverpudlian living in West Lothian, and describes himself as a writer, sportsman, patriarch and dreamer.
Visit www.amazon.co.uk Search: L.T. Marshall @KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 19
HEALTH & BEAUTY
Struggling to lose Weight? Time to tackle your Stress When you are stressed over a long period, your body gets depleted of nutrients leaving it exhausted, and more likely to crave and overeat sugary, junk food. Excess cortisol breaks down muscle and encourages fat storage, especially the hardest to shift weight around the middle. Quite simply, in a stressed body, most diets are doomed to fail. For successful weight loss, make relaxation a priority and carve out some me-time: 1. Practice Deep Breathing every day – first thing in the morning, last thing at night. 2. Reduce your time on Social Media schedule when you go on it. The average person checks their phone/device 85 times a day – is that productive or making you feel better? 3. Practice Mindful Eating - eat at a table, slow down, chat and chew thoroughly. This relaxes your body and improves your digestion significantly. 4. Find an Exercise you like – exercise is vital for mental fitness; it reduces stress hormones and stimulates the release of endorphins – brain chemicals that act as natural pain killers, boost your mood and improve your ability to sleep. 5. Laugh – do whatever makes you laugh and do it more often. We laugh a lot at nutriclub! 6. Say NO –don’t let other people’s needs overwhelm your own - only do what you want to. 7. Up your Vitamins and Minerals – chronic stress can deplete important vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, various B vitamins, vitamin C and zinc – invest in a multivitamin to keep your levels in check. To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition-focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise for information on nutriclub classes in Linlithgow. Longcroft Hall - every Wed at 9.30am Bowling Club, Philip Avenue - every Wed 5.30pm Facebook: /nutriclublinlithgow Tel: 07837 794112 (Louise) e-mail: nutriclub@virginmedia.com Website: www.nutriclub.co.uk 20 | LIVINGSTON
Are You Worried About Worrying?
By far the most common issue I see with clients is anxiety. This can present itself as worrying, over analysing, mild OCD, physical conditions, claustrophobia, and agoraphobia. In the worst cases it can become debilitating. Here are a few tips and strategies which may help: 1. Delayed Worrying - Daily worrying, and you’ll know exactly what I mean if you are a worrier, is massively draining. It’s also a habit; it turns out, just like any other habit, you can break it by simply becoming aware of it and then replacing it with a new habit. Start by simply noticing when you’re worrying and use the ‘delaying’ technique. Note the worry down in a notebook and commit to worrying about it in 24 hours. All too often you completely forget to return to that worry, and you begin to see that most worry is just thoughts that come and go - they mean much less than you thought they did. 2. Will the problem be a problem in a year? - Is the problem or worry something that will still bother you tomorrow? Next week? Next year? Most problems are short term and aren’t worth the worry and concern we allocate them. Is it a real problem which needs to be addressed, or is it just a drama? 3. A Problem Shared…. Be honest with your family and friends. Explain what worries you and what makes you stressed. The more the people around you understand how you’re feeling, the more they can support you (and this can be reciprocated too). 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
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 21
hristmas
s Christmas
ble
22 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH
Life changes constantly - moving with life
I have stopped to truly appreciate how lucky I am to have my health, to be working and to love what I do, to have great friends around me (my family live the other end of the country and I see them every 12 to 18 months).
Why have I paused you might wonder, well one of my family members has just returned home from ST Thomas’s Hospital in London after having a triple heart bypass, he returned home only after five days, quite remarkable. He has waited for over six months for the procedure with patience and family support as his health deteriorated. Life can change any moment for anyone of us. As an oncology nurse I have witnessed
@KonectMagazines
this often over the past 30 years. One-minute life is normal and then overnight it can change. We are never really prepared for such dramatic changes such as these, but life constantly evolves in its own way. I am pausing to reflect therefore how luck I am at this moment to have what I have, but not only that, more importantly who I have in my life. We know life never stays the same and therefore it is important to appreciate and value our loved ones and what they do for us on a daily basis along all those everyday things we take for granted. Taking a moment right now, pause and tell your loved ones how much you appreciate them. Tina Gilbert lives in Livingston and teaches yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk
LIVINGSTON | 23
24 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 25
Braekirk Decorator’s First Class Decoration Willie Jamieson T: 07779 186 298 E: maryjamieson64@googlemail.com 64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton EH27 8BL External | Internal | Wallpaper hanging
26 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 27
Made to measure replacement doors - New Edinburgh Showroom
Call us for a FREE estimate:
2 East London Street, Edinburgh, EH7 4BH
0131 516 8654 www.dreamdoors.co.uk
30 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
All electrical services Fusebox Upgrades Lighting Sockets Showers Fault Finding Repairs Testing and Inspection
07841 331 888 email: electric_al@ymail.com facebook: electric_al
17th Edition qualified, ECS/CSCS Registered
@KonectMagazines
EPH
SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount
ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN
QUOTE KONECT
WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE
AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT 01506 882 643
contact@ephltd.co.uk www.ephscotlandltd.co.uk 23 Bank Street Mid Calder EH53 0AS
123871
LB250
LIVINGSTON | 31
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
32 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
ESTABLISHED 1985
FOR ALL YOUR DECORATING REQUIREMENTS: Interior and Exterior Paperhanging Coving Plastering Free estimates
Tel: 07585 509 811 Email: manicstpainters@hotmail.com 71 Marjoribanks St, Bathgate, EH48 1AL
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 33
PUZZLES
CROSSWORD We repair Washing Machines, Tumble Dryers, Electric Ovens, Dishwashers and Washer Dryers
0772 965 1692
info@home-appliancerepair.co.uk www.home-appliancerepair.co.uk Like us on Facebook
DONALD DOES IT ALL
making a house into a home ■ SLABBING & DECKING ■ PAINTING DECORATING ■ JOINERY WORK ■ AIMS TAPING & PARTITIONINGS Solution in the October edition of Konect ACROSS: 7. Absorb (6), 8. Worn away (6), 9. Wooden shoe (4), 10. Sailing (8), 11. Stealing (7) 13. Evil spirit (5), 15. Take away (5), 16. Ask for (7), 18. UK mnimum voting age (8), 19 Chilled (4), 21 Well known (6), 22 Decorated (6). DOWN: 1. Herb (4), 2. Locale (13) 3. Remaining (7), 4. Compassion (5), 5. Donations (13), 6. Fragments (8), 12. Authentic (8), 14. Reconciliation (7), 17. Stop (5), 20. Consumes (4).
Solution on Page 53
SUDOKU
34 | LIVINGSTON
DONALD STONE 01506 651212 or 07720 123216 no job too small ■ free quotations and creative advice
Please contact us if you would like your business included in our Home Improvements pages. Contact details are on page 3.
@KonectMagazines
z Deep Carpet/Rug Cleaning z Curtain Cleaning z Upholstery Cleaning
z Mattress Cleaning
z Stain Removal
z Dust Mite Elimination
z Odour Removal
z Fabric Protector
z Stone Floor Restoration
z Pet Accidents
Contact Bill Weir for more information:
T: 0800 695 7575 (freephone) T: 01506 536990 E: bill.weir@aquateccg.co.uk
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 35
MOTORING
Electric Vehicle Myths Busted Confusion surrounds the running and operation of electric vehicles (EV). Here, we try to clear that up. 1. You can’t boil the kettle while charging an electric car A National Grid report warned that home networks might struggle to cope with high-capacity car charging. However, EV owners with a low-capacity home network wouldn’t have a high-capacity charger, so there’s little chance of the network being overloaded. 2. EVs are more expensive than petrol and diesel cars The base price of an EV will be slightly more expensive, although manufacturers compensate by offering a generous specification so that with the government’s £4,500 zero-emission vehicle grant taken into account, they’re a pretty good deal, plus have low running costs. What’s more, as EV technology becomes more prevalent, costs will reduce – the new Nissan Leaf starts at £1,500 less than the old one. 3. They’re more likely to catch fire in a crash Concerns about crash safety are largely driven by a couple of high-profile Tesla Model S fires in 2013. The EV maker upgraded its underbody battery pack protection in 2014 but also noted that the odds of fires in its cars were “five times lower than those of an average gasoline car”. 4. You can’t drive them in car washes or when it’s raining Manufacturers carefully seal all of the electrified components to make sure there aren’t any problems using car washes, or driving or charging in the rain. 5. You can’t go very far Most electric vehicles now have a range in excess of 150 miles, with 200 miles becoming the norm.
36 | LIVINGSTON
6. There’s nowhere to charge them Long trips require a bit more planning, but charge point locator Zap Map indicates there are almost 15,000 connectors at more than 5,000 locations in the UK, with more added all the time. Plus, rapid chargers can provide 80 per cent of charge in about 30 minutes. 7. The batteries don’t last very long
Batteries do have a finite life but most manufacturers offer battery leasing for a monthly fee and will replace it for free when needed. Others offer replacement warranties, with five- to eight-year cover the norm.
8. EVs are less environmentally friendly across their life cycle The energy required to build an electric car can make it less environmentally friendly to produce than a traditionally fuelled car. However, a Norwegian study quoted by the BBC estimates an EV is about 10 per cent better over its life cycle, and that will continue to improve. 9. Battery disposal poses a huge environmental issue
It does, but the EV boom has encouraged lateral thinking to improve recycling rates, with companies taking used EV batteries for use elsewhere, such as home energy storage. 10. They’re boring to drive
Modern electric cars can be genuinely fun to drive, particularly thanks to the high-torque motors, which make acceleration brisk. Tesla takes this to extremes with its Model S, which reaches 60mph in less than three seconds – comparable to the new McLaren Senna supercar, with its petrolpowered twin-turbo V8. This article was contributed by James Baggot.
@KonectDirectory
Max's Garage Doors Ltd We can remove your Dings, Dents & Scratches BODYWORK & ALLOY WHEEL REPAIRS
OUR SERVICE INCLUDES: Stone Chips, Vandalism, Dents, Cracked Bumpers, Kerb Damage, Scuffed Alloys, Interior & Exterior Colour Coding Call Jim now for your free quote
07581 829297
For all Installations repairs and services
Garage Doors Electric Motors UPVC Side Doors Tel. 07821 984 978
info@maxsgaragedoors.co.uk 10 Years Experience
Please contact us if you would like your vehicle business included in our Motoring pages. Contact details are on page 3.
Unit 47b, West End, West Calder, West Lothian EH55 8EJ
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 37
PROPERTY MATTERS
Many estate agents will flatter you and promote themselves by claiming that they’ll get you the “highest price in the shortest possible time”. This is easy to say, but not so easy for most agents to justify or indeed deliver!
Effective property sales involve a combination of great presentation, attractive pricing and effective marketing along with a host of other techniques that facilitate a successful sale. One of the most powerful ways of securing a fast sale at a high price can actually result from minimal exposure – or rather exposure only to a select few! This “secret agent” concept is when a property is offered, “offmarket” and can often be hugely effective.
In essence, instead of bringing your property to market in the expected way with the usual initial exposure across the property portals, local advertising, window display, website, etc, it is made quietly known to suitable prequalified buyers that the property is “about to come onto the market”. This “advance notice” really excites buyers as they have privileged or exclusive access to a property that other buyers do not. During this pre-marketing phase buyers are more likely to make a strong offer rather than lose out. This technique is especially effective for properties that could possibly command an excellent price from one of a small pool of 38 | LIVINGSTON
buyers, or where the vendor wants to try a particular strategy for a short period of time without exposing the property to the open market.
Successfully achieving sales in this way however relies on good old-fashioned estate agency work including an ongoing bank of suitably qualified and credible buyers and not just relying on the internet to do this job for you. If you are considering selling your property, make sure you explore all options available to you before deciding what the best marketing strategy is for your property and circumstances. Sometimes a more creative approach can pay real dividends. 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. @KonectMagazines
VET’S TIP
Let’s hear it for Vet Nurses
Vet nurses are essential members of any veterinary team, subject to a strict professional code of conduct and ethics and required to undergo years of academic and practical study before qualifying.
The role of VN’s within the practice is increasingly vital in ensuring best standards of patient care and quality of service for clients. Many VN’s undertake additional study, obtaining Emergency and Critical Care, Anaesthesia, Animal Behaviour and other important qualifications. Some also provide clinical coaching and mentoring for student VN’s. While vets are ultimately accountable for the treatment of animals in the Practice, VN’s, who are also registered with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, are professionally accountable and must consistently demonstrate the high standards required by their professional body.
At the most basic level, the VN is adept at comforting an anxious pet and will ensure that the vet visit is as stress free as possible, but a VN’s role touches on every aspect of patient care, from advice on the phone to setting up for and scrubbing into surgical procedures, monitoring blood pressure, oxygen and carbon dioxide blood concentrations and then providing post-operative care, monitoring and wound management. VN’s also run many laboratory tests – typically blood and urine analysis to identify anomalies. VN’s position patients for x-rays, calculate drug doses, medicate patients via a variety of routes (by mouth, intramuscularly, into the vein for example). It’s safe to say that your vet practice couldn’t operate without its dedicated VN team. The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Michael McCallum, BVM & S, MRCVS, GP Cert (Ophthal), Vet Surgeon at The Lamond Veterinary Clinic
LAMOND Veterinary CLINIC YOUR PETS ARE OUR PRIORITY
ASK ABOUT THE LAMOND HEALTH CARE PLAN, GIVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO BUDGET MONTHLY AND SAVE MONEY ON YOUR PETS’ PREVENTATIVE HEALTHCARE The Lamond Veterinary Clinic Limited Bankton Square, Murieston, Livingston EH54 9EY
Telephone: 01506 461 462 E: info@lamondvet.co.uk
www.lamondvet.co.uk
40 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
BUSTER THE DOG
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 41
MUSIC REVIEW
Back to Frontmen
There is a theory gathering force that pop music, as you and I understand it, is approaching the end of an arc that will close off the term in the manner applied to Classical music - a form of composition and presentation drawing upon a range of recognised scales, melodic restrictions and instrumentation. At some future point people will write a pop song the way they may write a piece in the Baroque style, or Dixieland, by assembling the pieces and imitating the sounds acceptable within that genre rather than by letting out what is in bursting in their gut to escape. Consider the autotune indentikit content of Radio One or Kiss FM and it is difficult to argue that this phase is not already well underway. Miles Kane, almost Arctic Monkey and full time Last Shadow Puppet then, with Coup De Grace, presents a series of songs which parrot some
42 | LIVINGSTON
rock common denominator, throwing Marc Bolan flourishes over the blandest of not actual indie pop sounds in an effort to give some second hand authority to lyrics which, despite the assistance of co-writers such as Lana Del Rey, fail to rise above the borrowed glam robes. Proper mega popstar and principal Scissor Sister Jake Shears too wants to buy his way in to a new sound by aligning himself with New Orleans traditions, but his assimilation of Preservation jazz makes no po faced effort to be authentic and is all the better for it. If anything, his self titled album sounds like nothing so much as the songs you don’t entirely remember from the Scissor Sisters first two albums because they were overshadowed by the hits and it’s nice to hear those structures again for the first time. The monthly music review is contributed by James Kerr. James presents the Regal Music Club show on Regal Radio (www.regalradio.net) and is a member of the local band ‘Snakeskin Shoe Review’.
@KonectMagazines
VISIT WEST LOTHIAN
September in West Lothian
The kids may be back to school and summer may be quickly drawing to a close but there’s still plenty to do across West Lothian! In Linlithgow, the annual folk festival is taking place on the 5th – 9th September. Many artists are coming together to across the week to provide something for everyone’s tastes, with a fantastic mix of dance and song. The event will be headlined by the legendary Ralph McTell – an influential figure of the UK folk music scene since the 60’s. Over at Hopetoun House, the popular Classic Car Show takes place on Sunday 23rd. The event, set to the backdrop of the stunning house, will feature a range of vintage cars and motorcycles. If none of these are for you, West Lothian is the home to three beautiful country parks. Beecraigs, Polkemmet and Almondell &
@KonectMagazines
Calderwood provide a great opportunity for the family to get out free of charge to spend some quality time with nature. As September draws to a close, Halloween will shortly be with us! Keep an eye out for next month’s edition for full listings of Halloween events in the area. Until then, you can keep up to date with us using the links below. If there’s an event you feel we’ve missed, please do get in touch. Don’t forget, many attractions across the area are taking part in our “Passport to West Lothian” competition – prizes include a free Family ticket to Howden Park Centre’s Panto, Jack and the Beanstalk, to free entry to Linlithgow Palace and many more in between! You can still take part as participating venues will have a supply. For more details of this, visit our website at www.visitwestlothian.co.uk/passport. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/TeamWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian
LIVINGSTON | 43
PARENTING
Alas the summer holidays are over for another year! While a part of me mourns the seemingly endless days filled with the promise of quality time with the kids, for the most part I welcome the return of a somewhat normal routine and the end of having to come up with something ‘fun’ to do to fill any and all free moments. But truth be told the end of the holidays is not the end of quality time or the end of having to come up with things to do. If anything fun activities is a must over the first few months of term to ease the transition back into school. We are not really ‘planners’ when it comes to what we do at the weekends, tending instead to wait and see what mood we’re in. Then we mentally scroll through the list of possible things to do and scurry around coming up with a last minute plan to ‘make the most of the weather’. Over the last few months I’ve found the best way to give a bit of purpose to our outdoor adventures, whether it be a walk or a bike ride or just a trip to the park, is the latest craze of rock painting. It doesn’t matter if they are searching for painted rocks along the way or seeking out the perfect hiding spot for ones they’ve painted themselves my girls can’t get enough of it. So we recently hunted out some rocks to paint and had fun turning them into ladybirds, rainbows and princesses… although my youngest is only 3 so some of them were just, shall we say, ‘colourful’. 44 | LIVINGSTON
Then we loaded up a wee basket on the front of the bike and headed out. We are really spoilt for choice in terms of places to go so we headed out first along the Murieston Trail and round Campbridge Pond and then ended up hiding our rocks in and around Bellsquarry and Williamston Woods. It is a craze that has really taken off so we came home with almost as many as we hid. The girls were very happy with their haul and we will have a good excuse to head out again soon to enjoy the wilderness on our doorstep and hide the ones we found for someone else to find. So keep your eyes peeled when you are out and about and if you want to get involved check out West Lothian Rocks on Facebook to see where people have been hiding their rocks recently. Happy hunting!
The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her husband and two young daughters, and their campervan Hank. She enjoys trying new things and rare moments of peace. @KonectMagazines
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 45
46 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
WHAT’S ON
SATURDAY 1ST & SUNDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER On Location: Blackness - Blackness Castle 12pm – 4pm. Blackness has proven popular in recent times as a filming location, including the TV series Outlander. Come and discover more about the locations and techniques used for filming at Blackness, and enjoy arena performances through the day. Explore our medieval encampment, learn Gaelic songs, discover more about ‘waulking’ and get involved with crafts and stonemasonry. Included in castle admission price. Free for HES members. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot
FRIDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER Creatures of the Night - Beecraigs Country Park. An evening walk looking for signs of nocturnal creatures and listening out for bats and hooting owls. Bring a torch and wrap up warm! 8pm 9.30pm Suitable for families. Meet at the Sutherland Building at Beecraigs Country Park. Cost: £3.90/ adult £2.70/child. Booking essential, contact Almondell Visitor Centre on 01506 882254 or almondell&calderwood@westlothian.gov.uk
TUESDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER Dogs! Free microchipping, basic health check, health and training advice and information from The Dogs Trust. Beecraigs Country Park, 11am – 3pm. For more information see: www.dogstrust. org.uk/communityevents WEDNESDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER Information day for EU citizens Come and ask questions to a panel of immigration lawyers and experts about Brexit. Find out more about ‘settled status’, access to housing and social benefit, workers’ rights and other rights as EU citizens up to and after Brexit. See page 46 (opposite) for details.
FRIDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER Kids’ Cake Decorating Class Run by The Larder Cookschool, Livingston. Children will decorate 6 cup cakes, going wild with their imaginations, creating fantastic designs on @KonectMagazines
their cupcakes to take home and proudly show off. All ingredients and equipment included. For kids aged 5+, £27.50 per child. As well as having fun they will learn new skills in cake decorating, sugar crafts and icing. Unit 6 B2 Brewster Square, Brucefield Industrial Estate, Livingston, EH54 9BJ. For booking and info, call The Larder on 01506 412819 email courses@thelarder.org. www.thelardercookschool.org.uk SUNDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER Rotary charity Classic/Vintage Car Show A wonderful display of Vintage cars & motorcycles in the picturesque grounds of Hopetoun house. 10.30am – 4pm. Free parking. Adult entry £7.00, children free. Includes discount voucher to view house. Contact: davidalmondhill2@gmail.com SUNDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER Teens in the Kitchen Bring your teens along and let us teach them a new skill for life whilst they have great fun. The kids will prepare delicious food and all sit together in our unique dining room to eat their fabulous dishes for lunch. Expert tuition will be provided by the Larder team. This course is suitable for all ability levels. All ingredients and equipment included. £50 per teen. 11am – 3.30pm. Unit 6 B2 Brewster Square, Brucefield Industrial Estate, Livingston, EH54 9BJ. For booking and info, call The Larder on 01506 412819 email: courses@thelarder.org website: www.thelardercookschool.org.uk FROM SATURDAY 6TH OCTOBER Spooky happenings at Almond Valley Farm As the nights get darker, mysterious creatures emerge from the dark corners of the old farm at Almond Valley. Grab your trail sheet and look out for the clues on your spooky quest. Find your way through a world of magic and shadows with mysteries to solve, games to play, and some scary surprises around every corner. Get creative in the craft area where you can make spooky masks and manufacture monsters. All of this silly scary fun can be enjoyed any day from the 6th of October until Halloween during usual opening hours (10.0017.00) with no need to book in advance. Included in admission fee, Almond Valley Muesum, Farm and Discovery Centre, Mill Farm, Livingston, EH54 7AR www.almondvalley.co.uk WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE. EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE. LIVINGSTON | 47
Members of Livingston Boxing Club
SPORTS
ASK 100 PEOPLE...
...who is the greatest sportsperson of all time and three will answer Cassius Clay, 96 Muhammad Ali and one ANother, for example Zatopek, Bannister, Laver, Borg, Navratilova, Redgrave, Schumacher, Joyner-Kersee, Phelps, Federer, Bolt, Jordan, Pele, Woods, Messi, Nicklaus, Warne, Comaneci, Sobers, Campese, Indurain, Moses, Best or Lottie Dod (please Google her) ...….......space for your own choice. None will answer Beckham, (I hope).
You will know that Clay and Ali are one and the same and that what elevated him ultimately above the crowd was his scintillating wit, his razor-sharp intellect and his willingness to voice and unwillingness to compromise, his deepseated convictions.
Ali’s sport divides opinion just as he did. In the blue corner its supporters promulgate its character-building, its fitness, its “keeping kids off the streets and out of trouble” aspects whilst in the red corner its opponents condemn its savagery and contrived aggression. (N.B. At law, a boxer’s fists are deemed lethal weapons). Personally I have long admired the essential courage and the optional but inevitable post-fight respect.
“Commitment!” emphatically opines Allan Fleming when I ask him the major requirements for success in the sport. “Natural ability is a given but commitment and hard work will take a boxer a long way.”
Allan has been head coach at the Livingston Boxing Club since 2008. He boxed himself for the club until 2005 under the astute tutelage of Junior Atinlami. Today these two plus fellow volunteers, Keith Dodds and Lenny Hughes, devote much of their spare time communicating wisdom and experience to up to 35 aspiring boxers each club night (Mondays and Wednesdays 6 p.m.). The fee? £1. No not a misprint. And somehow, along with funds raised by their boxing shows, (watch for them!), the club self-finances; but support of any kind will be gratefully received and put to effective use. They also hope one day to receive some 48 | LIVINGSTON
funding from the local authority. All coaches are registered and CVP vetted.
They put down the red carpet for everyone adults, children 6 and up, keep-fitters, novice boxers, experienced boxers, welcome one and all. Under 10s (and anyone who doesn’t want to trade punches), are strictly “no contact”, but, says Allan, there is still immense benefit to be derived in balance, coordination, agility, self-confidence and physical condition. For those who do wish to compete, well there are some big boots to fill: a pair of size 6 actually, that belong to Elaine Greenan aged 34 and a pair of size 10 belonging to Adam Salata age 37, who two years ago brought unprecedented honours to the club by winning the Scottish championships at Welter and Super Heavy weights respectively. Allan mentions some youngsters he believes well capable of stepping into those boots, so watch out for Livingston talents climbing the rankings. And whatever your verdict on the sport, (mine’s a split decision), put your hands together for four dedicated coaches who give their time for free to teach West Lothian youngsters the lifetime values of fitness and self-discipline. Facebook: Livingston Boxing Club 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. @KonectMagazines
CLUBS & CLASSES
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... LIVINGSTON JOG SCOTLAND Jog Scotland groups around Livingston aim to get people outdoors and get fit whilst meeting new friends. There are groups suitable for beginners to advanced at different locations and times around Livingston. Check out jogscotland.org.uk.
MS SOCIETY AFTERNOON MEETINGS Group meeting in the afternoons once per month at Dobbies, for those who can’t make the evening meeting. Support group to help people with MS, emotional, financial difficulties and to signpost them to legal and other help. Call Alison Ritchie on 01506 201439 or email viadoc@hotmail.co.uk for more details and the date of this month’s meeting. LOTHIAN RUNNING CLUB We welcome runners of any standard. We believe that running clubs are not just for the elite (although we will let fast people join too). Suitable for all ages and we have a junior section from age 6. Training sessions in and around Livingston, meet at Inveralmond High, Craigswood Sports Centre and Dechmont Law car park. For more info see website www.lothianrunningclub.co.uk. WEST LOTHIAN CLARION Cycling club - Our aim is to help cyclists plan and reach their own goals through training with, and seeking advice and support from fellow club members. Weekly club runs leave from Linlithgow Leisure Centre and East Calder Sports Centre. See www.westlothianclarion.co.uk or email secretary@westlothianclarion.co.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK New members always welcome for social, educational, recreational and cultural activities. Monthly meet-ups, visits and day trips. Over 25 different activity groups, including arts, crafts, walking, theatre etc. See www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510. Office hours Mon - Fri 10am - 2pm.
THE LIVINGSTON PLAYERS Amateur theatre company always pleased to welcome new members with or without experience. For more information please contact Carol, Membership Secretary, on 01506 881398 or visit www.livingstonplayers.co.uk LIVINGSTON FC League players and juniors, social and corporate events. Almondvale Stadium telephone 01506 417000 or see www.livingstonfc.co.uk
LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS GROUP We are a non profit walking group with members from around Livingston including Bathgate, Armadale, East, West and Mid Calder, Kirknewton, Blackburn, Uphall and Broxburn. We have 3 walking groups. Thursdays, once a fortnignt offering walks of 5 – 8 miles, starting at 10.00 am. Saturday Challenge walks starting at 7.00 or 7.30 am, walks
@KonectMagazines
include Corbetts and Munros. Sunday Venture walks start at 8.00am and offer a variety of walks of 7-13 miles, from coast to hills. You are welcome to try any of our walks. Contact 01506 880980 for further information.
ALMONDVALE SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Muffin Break Café, Almondvale Centre, Livingston. 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! Tuesday mornings 10am - 12 noon. Contact: Chris Cosgrove. Livingston Computer Club. Call 01506 656153 or just call in. LIVINGSTON SPEAKERS TOASTMASTERS CLUB A fun & friendly way to improve your Communication & Leadership skills. Our meetings are always entertaining and educational. We meet at West Lothian College, Livingston. Alternate Thursdays 7:15pm to 9:30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more. For more info see - www. livingstonspeakers.org.uk, or find us on facebook @LivingstonSpeakers
BELLSQUARRY SPIRITUAL & PSYCHIC AWARENESS DEVELOPMENT GROUP Bellsquarry Village Hall. Every second Thursday 7:15pm - 8:45pm Please call or email Tracey 07754 499344 ghost.scotland@outlook.com for more info. BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Wednesday night. For more information visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can you can email us on us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
CRAIGSHILL ACTIVITY GROUP Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet new people? Come and join in our activity group in Craigengar Park, Craigshill - a mix of gentle physical activity, quizzes and games. We also love a good chat over a cup of tea! All welcome, cost is just £1 per session. Get in touch if you’d like more information, with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) on 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot
NEW TOWN ROLLER GIRLS Roller Derby team, meeting 9-10pm on Wednesdays at Craigswood Xcite. New members welcome, contact us via our Facebook page (/NewTownRollerGirls) or email newtownrollergirls@hotmail.co.uk. Please
contact us before coming to your first session so that we can sort equipment for you. WEST LOTHIAN RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS CLUB Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill, EH54 5LU. Rhythmic is gymnastics with rope, hoop, ball, clubs and ribbon. We welcome all girls from 5 -18 year old, from beginners to Elite level. For more information contact Liz McNeill – 01506 434789 or 07710 472213.
CRAIGSHILL GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK Practical help, social and volunteering opportunities to socially isolated people of all ages in Craigshill and South Howden. Lunch club, Tuesday social club, optional transport to and from clubs, outings and befriending. Almondbank Centre. Tel 01506 435851. LODGE ALMONDALE SOCIAL CLUB Our Social Club convenor cordially invites all members, associate members and their guests to visit our social club. The Social Club is open every evening and Saturday afternoon (except Sunday and meeting nights) with Live Music, Dancing and Bingo every Saturday evening and Bingo every Wednesday evening. Non members welcome. Masonic Hall, Craigshill Rd East, Livingston EH54 5DT Tel: 01506 439418. TRAMPOLINE CLASSES FOR CHILDREN Craigwillow Centre, Craigshill 6 years+. Please call 01506 412314 for more info.
CRAIGSHILL THISTLE u15’S Training Tues 7.30 pm - 9.00 pm at Craigsfarm in Craigshill 3g pitch. Friday at Craigswood sports centre playing fields 6.30pm-8.00pm weather permitting (if weather is bad Friday’s training is held at Craigsfarm 7.308.30 pm). For further details contact Mark on 07951 528398.
PARENTS TOGETHER WEST LOTHIAN Support group for families with child on the Autism Spectrum. Meet up once a month for a chat and a coffee, regular guest speakers. First Thursday of each month (during school term). For more information contact parentstogetherwestlothian@live.com DAISY DROP IN Almondbank Centre, Craigshill. Information centre for parents/ carers of pre-school children. Drop in, play and have fun! Open: Mon - Fri 9am - 12 noon, Mon & Thurs afternoons 1.30pm - 3.00pm.
CRAIGSHILL DANCE CLASS Riverside Wing, Craigsfarm. Wednesdays 5.306.30pm. Fridays 2.00– 3.00pm. Join Craigshill’s new intergenerational dance class for people over 60 and their families. There will be traditional and modern dances, no partners are required and everyone is welcome from 0 – 100. Classes will run every week except during school holidays. Seated / adapted dance for people with mobility aids and other challenges is our speciality, so everyone can take part. Every child must have a participating adult. £1 Individuals / £3 Family of 3 or more, payable each week. Can’t come but want to know more? Call: Joanne on 07521 358 239 or Jane on 07473 102 669. www.generationarts.co.uk
LIVINGSTON | 49
CRAIGSHILL ...cont. WEST LOTHIAN GYMNASTICS Craigwillow Centre. Pre school classes for boys and girls, learn gymnastics in a fun and dedicated full time gymnastics facility. Classes lead by fully qualified coaches and morning, afternoon and weekend classes available for children 18 months - 3 years and 3-5 years with direct progression to recreational pathway age 5 without waiting list. First class free, please contact westlothiangymnastics@gmail.com
DEANS CHOOSE YOU YOGA Carmondean House, Carmondean Centre South, Livingston, EH54 8PT. Mon 9.45-11.00am Seasonal yoga; 6.00-7.15pm Iyengar yoga; 7.30-8.45pm Iyengar yoga. Tues 6.00-7.30pm Ashtanga yoga; 7.458.45pm Vinyasa flow yoga. Wed 5.30-6.30pm Seasonal yoga; 7.00-8.30pm Bihar yoga; 8.30-9.10pm Meditation. Thurs 6.00-7.15pm Iyengar yoga; 7.308.45pm Iyengar yoga. Fri 9.45-11.00am Iyengar yoga;4.005.00pm Children’s yoga age 8-12; 5.30-6.30pm Vinyasa Flow yoga. For information please call Eva on 07810 824195 SANDS LOTHIANS (STILLBIRTH & NEONATAL DEATH SOCIETY) Support group meets 2nd Monday of every month at 7-9pm. Pregnancy support group – as and when required. Mother and toddler group- for women who have other children but want to continue to chat and meet others who understand. For further information see www.sands-lothians.org.uk. Unit 3, Carmondean Business Units, Carmondean Centre South Road, Livingston, EH54 8PT CRAFT ‘N’ STITCH CLUB Livingston Station Community Centre, Wed 1.30pm - 3.30pm. We do a variety of stitching and craft work and are looking for new members and new ideas, if you are interested in coming along to see us or joining us contact Grace on 01506 415719. RAMPAGING ROOKS JUNIOR CHESS CLUB Deans Community High School - Meets every Wednesday from 5:30-7:00. For further information contact rampagingrooks@gmail.com or just turn up during the session. Cost is £2 per session. SINGING FOR HEALTH Come and join our fortnightly singing group at the Ability Centre in Carmondean. No singing skills required! We enjoy doing our versions of classic songs together and have a great time while doing it. Cost is £1.20 per session – all welcome! Group run by Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives), 01506 815815, email opal@cyrenians.scot or visit our website www.cyrenians.scot YOGA Carmondean Community Centre, Mondays 6.30 – 7.45 and Tuesdays 6.30 – 7.30. Please contact Tina on 07834 970409 or email tina@yogamed.co.uk. See www.yogamed.co.uk DEANS BOWLING CLUB Bowling Season is April – October, Social Club open all year round 7 days/week (Mon-Fri
50 | LIVINGSTON
12:30 - 23:00 & Sat/Sun 11:00 - 23:30). Entertainment plus bingo every Saturday evening and bingo every Wednesday evening. Other social events such as quiz nights, race nights, fundraisers held regularly over the year. Hall available for bookings (ex Wednesdays or Saturdays). To our members & their guests, thank you for your continued support for our Club. Non members welcome. Applications open for bowling and social membership. Deans Bowling Club, 2 Main Street, Deans, Livingston, EH54 8BE. Tel. 01506 413789 or find us on Facebook. 13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS Deans Community Hall. Beavers: 6 - 8 years. Tues 6.30 - 7.30pm. Cubs: 8 - 10 years. Thurs 6.30 - 8.00pm. Scouts: 10 -14 years. Thurs 7.00 – 9.00. We are also looking for new leaders or helpers to help out on the nights. All are welcome. Please contact Steven Graham steven_graham1@gmx.co.uk or by phone 07786638442 or 1506 630360 after 6.30pm. YOGA FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH CONDITIONS Ability Centre, Carmondean Centre Road. Wednesdays 1.15-2.30pm. Contact Bijam on 07966 573 804 or email: info@yogawithbijam.co.uk LIVINGSTON STATION PLAYGROUP Livingston Station Community Centre. Spaces available for 2-5 year olds. Monday – Friday mornings 9.10 – 11.30. £5 per session and £1 per week for a healthy snack. Please contact us on 07525 156407 to place your child’s name on our waiting list or see us on Facebook for more information. LIVINGSTON FIDDLERS A group of amateur musicians who meet for regular practise sessions in Deans and play for local events. New members always welcome. Must be able to read music and not suitable for complete beginners. Fiddle/accordion or any other instrument considered. Venue - St Andrews Church Hall, Deans, Livingston. Time: most Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm. Contact secretary: eric@livingstonfiddlers.co.uk. Tel 01506 654 189. www.livingstonfiddlers.co.uk PILATES FOR PEOPLE WITH HEALTH CONDITIONS Livingston Station Community Centre. Mondays 11.00am 12noon & Fridays 10.30-11.30am. Contact Rhona at rhonawatt@btconnect.com DIABETES UK WEST LOTHIAN VOLUNTARY GROUP Regular group meetings are held on 1st Wednesday of each month (not January) at 7-9pm at Inveralmond Community High School, Willowbank, Ladywell Livingston. For more info contact may@dukwl.info or by phone 01506 834 877 Mob: 07708 919 064. www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org. We also have Facebook and Twitter pages. LOTHIANS MS SUPPORT GROUP Open to anyone living with Multiple Sclerosis, family & friends. Informal monthly meetings for support, information and activities. Membership and meetings free. Meet at the Ability Centre, Carmondean, EH54 8PT on the second Tuesday of each month, 7-8.30pm. For more information please contact Martin Donnelly, Treasurer on 07703 383431. DEANS ART CLUB New Deans Community Building. Tuesdays 7 – 9pm. Beginners welcome. We are a friendly class, £2 per adult per week, paints provided. For more information please call Sue Campbell on 01506 413447, or Eileen Griffiths on 01506 239576. KIDDIES CORNER Carmondean Community Centre. For pre-school
children. Kiddies Korner runs on a Tuesday and a Thursday from 9am-12.00. Parents, guardians and Childminders are all welcome. MINDFULNESS MEDITATION AND YOGA CLASSES Carmondean Comunity Centre. FREE courses and weekly dropin’s for cancer patients. Email: Tina@yogamed.co.uk for more information LIVINGSTON UNITED PARISH CHURCH Meets on Sundays at Nether Dechmont Community Centre, Fells Rigg. 8.45 – Eucharist. 9.30 – All-age Worship. 10.00 – Children’s Group, Discussion Group and Coffee Bar. 11.00 – Traditional Service. Transport can be provided – call 07806 628506 to arrange. Also meets on Thursdays at Lanthorn Community Centre, Dedridge, at 10.15am for Holy Communion. www.lupc.org.uk. UKULELE CLUB Deans Community High School. Every Tuesday from 7pm, except during July and August. All are welcome, no standard required, absolute beginners to experienced. It’s for anyone who wants to play the Uke and have fun. If interested please just turn up £2 to cover room hire. 2ND LIVINGSTON GIRLS’ BRIGADE COMPANY Meets Tuesdays in St Andrew’s Church Hall 4A Main Street, Deans. Explorers (P1-3) 6.30-7.45. Juniors (P4-7) 6.30-8.00. Brigaders (S1-6) 6.30-8.00. For further information email lazylaura@sky.com, phone Laura Brooks on 01506 418272 or find us on facebook. RAINBOW UNITS (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Wednesday and Monday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com. GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
DEDRIDGE KINGS CHURCH WEST LOTHIAN A family friendly church. Sundays 3pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre. Everyone’s welcome. More info at www.kingschurchwl.org DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK A local voluntary organisation offering Mother/Toddler Group, Lunch & Social Groups, Craft Classes, Gentle Exercise and volunteering opportunities. Based in Lanthorn Community Complex. Tel: 01506 416137 SPACE ACADEMY CHILDREN’S CLUB Monthly club for primary aged children held on the last Friday of each month from 1.303.30pm at the Lanthorn Community Centre. Games, stories, songs, science, crafts, cooking and more – free of charge. Visit facebook.com/lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information. JYHS BADMINTON CLUB at James Young High School on Saturdays. Open to school children in the Livingston area of any age or ability. Primary School age (P1-P7) 9am l0am. High School age (S1-S6) l0am - 11am. Contact: Ann (01506 438717) or Joyce (01506 462430).
@KonectMagazines
DEDRIDGE SPIRITUALIST CHURCH Crofthead Community Centre, Templer Rise. Wednesdays 7.30pm. We are one of the oldest running spiritualist church in Livingston. We have been serving the community since 1985. We have a different medium every week. No admission fee. Find us on Facebook and website:dedridgespiritualstchurch.co.uk LIVINGSTON CAMERA CLUB Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge. We meet every Monday evening at 7:15pm - 9:30pm. All welcome. Annual subscription £25, weekly attendance £2.50 (concessions available). Annual programme of visiting speakers, members digital, print & AV evenings, internal & external competitions, tutorials and outings. The central aim of the club is to encourage individual members to share ideas, knowledge and experience, and develop their photographic skills. www.livingstoncameraclub.org.uk. Email – contact@livingstoncameraclub.org.uk Facebook – /livingstoncameraclub Twitter – @LiviCamClub CAFÉ CONNECT Friendly community café with homebaking and refreshments. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9:3012. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 415837. THE LANTHORN TODDLERS GROUP – MUSIC MAKERS Meets on Mondays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. From 9:45 to 10:45 - £1 per session. THE LANTHORN TODDLERS GROUP – PARENT & TODDLERS Meets on Fridays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge From 10:00am to 12 noon. Snack provided - £1 per session. Contact Susanne Brunton at lanthorntoddlers@gmail.com Or find us on Facebook ‘Lanthorn Toddler Group’. CAFE CONNECT EXTRA For those suffering with dementia and their carers. 1st Wednesday of the month 2pm-3:30pm. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 415837. LUNCH CLUB 12:30pm every Thursday for any over 60s. Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. Contact 01506 41583. BUMP AND BABY GROUP Dedridge Baptist Church. For precrawling babies and their carers - Mondays 9:30-11. Come and have a cuppa and a natter with other new and expecting parents while your little one enjoys themselves. COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS CROFTHEAD Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, EH54 6DG. £7.50 per session. Manager: Alexis, contact 07591 734489. WEST LOTHIAN DEPRESSION SUPPORT GROUP A free self-help group for adults living with depression, low mood and anxiety or those who support others. We meet the first Wednesday of every month at 7.00 - 9.00pm within Crofthead Farm, Dedridge, EH54 6DG.
@KonectMagazines
DEDRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP Wednesdays 9.15am – 11.15am: Baby and Toddler group (children 0-5 years old)Fridays 10-11am: Little Fishes. (Children 0-5 years old) 50p per child. Crafts and snacks. 01506 415837 Facebook: Dedridge Baptist Church 0-5 groups. LIVINGSTON & DISTRICT AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY (LADARS) Full amateur radio station at the club operating on the High Frequency and VHF bands. Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre, Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge, Tuesdays 7-9 pm. Training can be provided to achieve all levels of the amateur license by fully accredited assessors and trainers. Happy to assist with your radio and electronics projects or just to get you started with amateur radio as a hobby. Come along and speak to the world. See our website www.LADARS.org.uk or just come along on any Tuesday. BRIGHTER DAYS Support group for families living with ADHD and assosciated disorders. The group meets once a fortnight on a Thursday at Crofthead Centre, Templar Rise, Dedridge 7 – 9pm. For more info see www.brighter-days.com or email brighter_days@rocketmail.com. Kids club coming soon - every Saturday weekly for children. Activities available will include arts, crafts and music.
1ST LIVINGSTON GIRLS BRIGADE COMPANY The Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Meet on Wednesday evenings. Explorers (P1-3) 6.15pm till 7.15pm. Juniors (P4-7) 7.15pm till 8.30pm. Brigaders (S1+) 7.15pm till 8.45pm. For further information email 1stlivingstongb@gmail.com or phone Holly Morrison on 01506 420225. 5TH LIVINGSTON BOYS’ BRIGADE Thursdays in the Lanthorn Community Complex, Kenilworth Rise, Dedridge. Anchor Section P1-P3 meet 6:30 to 7:45pm. Junior Section P4-P6 from 6:30-8:00pm. Company Section P7 to 18 years from 7:30 to 9:45pm. For further information contact Stuart Dalgleish 01506 440303 or email admin@5livingston.co.uk
BABY & TODDLER ACTIVIES Kidzeco Livingston, 3a The Centre, Almondvale South, Livingston, EH54 6NB. Monthly sling meets (Baby Wearing West Lothian). Please contact Kidzeco Livingston on 01506 238283 for more information. Large family area with feeding/changing area and play area for children too! LIVINGSTON SOUTH COMMUNITY CHURCH With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates.
LANTHORN READERS Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Informal and relaxed reading group. Free. Group meets monthly and is an ideal way to have some fun and lively discussion over tea/coffee & biscuits. New members always welcome. Please contact 01506 777700 or lanthorn.lib@westlothian.gov.uk LANTHORN BOOK BASHERS Lanthorn Library, Dedridge. Are you aged between 8 – 11 years old? Come and join the Library Book Bashers. We meet once a month on a Thursday at 6.15pm to discuss our favourite books. New members welcome. Please call 01506 777700 for information. LIVINGSTON AMATEUR FLUTE ENSEMBLE A voluntary group for learning and improving technique of playing flute, percussion, recorder & keyboard. We play a variety of music. Everyone is welcome from experienced players to those wishing to learn and those who played at school and want to get back to playing. Our classes cater for adults and children from 6 years. Thursdays 7 – 9 pm in Crofthead Farm Community Centre, Livingston. For further information please contact Alice on 01506 462623. Email mgolshan951@btinternet.com
ELIBURN CELEBRATE RECOVERY Livingston Free Church, 7 Jackson Place, Eliburn, EH54 6RH. Tuesdays 7.30 to 9.00pm. If you’re struggling with addiction issues come along or tel. Brian 07534 335528 Email brianwilsonferguson@outlook.com 14TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT TROOP Peel Primary School. Girls and boys. Beavers (6-8yrs) Mon 6.15-7.15pm, Scouts (10-14yrs) Mon 7.30-9pm, Cubs (8-10yrs). Thurs 6.30-8pm £20/£25 per session, 3 sessions per year. Contact Mary Tel 01506 416620. SUNSHINE BREAK, SPPA (SCOTTISH PRE-SCHOOL PLAY ASSOCIATION) GROUP Eliburn Community Centre, Peel Primary School. Toddlers, Tuesdays & Thursdays: 9.00 – 11.00am. After school club for Primary 1-7, Mon – Thur 3.15 – 6.00pm, Fri 12.30 – 6.00pm, during school holidays 8.30am – 5.30pm. Tel 01506 415492. CHURCH OF CHRIST Garden Place, Eliburn, EH54 6RA, Livingston. Service Times: Sunday Bible Study and Sunday School - 10.00 am.; Worship Service 11.15am; Tuesday Bible Study - 7.30pm. LITTLE JEWELS BABY AND TODDLER GROUP Free Church of Scotland, Jackson Place, Eliburn. Tuesdays 10-11:30am, term time only. Play time, craft, snack and songs for babies, toddlers and their parents/carers. 50p per family. For more information email littlejewelslivingston@gmail.com or find us on facebook @littlejewelslivingston
LIVINGSTON | 51
HOWDEN GOSH - GROUP OSTOMY SELF HELP Led by volunteers, we are there to help, advise, encourage and discuss problems which may arise in the management of members’ Stoma, from time to time. Members can exchange views on how they manage their Stoma, and beginners can pick up tips on the best way other Ostomists have found to solve problems. Remember, you are not alone. We meet in St. Johns Hospital at 7.30pm on the last Wednesday of each month in OPD4. All Ostomists and their partner/friend are invited. For more info contact Alistair on 01506-822695. ST MUNGO’S LIVINGSTON Come be part of our vibrant church community which meets every Sunday at 10.30am, St Margaret’s Academy. www.stmungos.org 29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP Community Wing, Toronto Primary School. Cubs Mon 6.30-8.00pm, Beavers Wed 6.30-7.30pm, Scouts Wed 7.30-9.00pm Tel 01506 441852 LIVINGSTON ART ASSOCIATION Howden Park Centre. Day and evening classes in painting and pottery for all levels. For more details call 01506 440449 email liviartassoc@msn.com or see www. livingston-art-assoc.org.uk. FIREFLY ARTS Firefly Arts provide fun and friendly theatre, film and drama workshops for children and young people (5 to 25 years) in venues across West Lothian. Call 08447 744496 or email admin@firefly-arts.co.uk for more information on our current programme. Firefly Arts Ltd, Howden Park Centre, Livingston, EH54 6AE. Website: www.firefly-arts.co.uk Email: admin@firefly-arts.co.uk LIVINGSTON 20 MILERS CYCLE RIDES Monthly free guided ride organised by volunteers from West Lothian Sustrans Group. 20 milers are at the easy to moderate level, suitable for occasional and less experienced cyclists to encourage cycling for leisure and commuting. We favour easy paths and gentle gradients where possible, and aim to avoid heavy traffic. We will wait on stragglers, help with punctures. The rides are not suitable for unaccompanied children. We meet monthly at Howden Park Centre, details on our web or Twitter page. Email: livi20milers@outlook.com Web: www.livi20milers.blogspot.co.uk/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/LMilers RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more
52 | LIVINGSTON
information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com. BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com. GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Tuesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
KNIGHTSRIDGE MESSY CHURCH Monthly time of craft, celebration and food for all the family held on the first Sunday of each month from 4-6pm at Mosswood Community Centre. Free of charge, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit facebook. com/lepyouth or call 07861 455121 for more information. BABY/TODDLER STORIES AND SINGING SESSIONS Knightsridge Early Years Centre, Cameron Way. Mon, Tues, Thur: 09.15-11.15am or 12.45-2.45pm - “In Betweenies”. Wed: 1.00-2.00pm - “Baby Peet” - stories and singing, baby/toddler drop in 1.00-3.30pm. For more info tel 01506 444970. RAINBOWS, BROWNIES, GUIDES Rainbow unit for girls aged 5-7, Tuesday nights. For more information see wwwgirlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or email westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com
LADYWELL CELEBRATE RECOVERY Forrestbank Community Centre, Forrestbank, EH54 6DX. Thursdays 1.30pm to 3.00pm. If you’re struggling with addiction issues come along or tel. Brian 07534 335528 Email brianwilsonferguson@outlook.com WEST LOTHIAN DIABETES UK GROUP Inveralmond Community High School, Ladywell, EH54 6HW. Meet monthly on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm. See www.west-lothian.diabetesukgroup.org ALMOND VALLEY BAPTIST CHURCH A Church for you and your Family! Sunday School and Worship services starting at 11am. Meeting at the Newyearfield Farm Community Centre on Hawkbrae in Livingston. Contact phone number 07570 790862 or email at avbc@btinternet.com KIDS CLUB Forrestbank Community Centre. A varied programme of educational games, art & drawing, children 5-9yrs. Mon
6.00 - 7.45pm £1 per week – term time only. Tel 01506 430035. LADYWELL NEIGHBOURHOOD NETWORK 28 Heatherbank, Ladywell. Community services in Ladywell, a range of social groups including craft, lunch club, fitness. Befriending service and much more. For more information call 01506 437746 or see www.ladywellnn.org.uk LADYWELL STAR COMMUNITY FOOTBALL CLUB Inveralmond Community High School. A range of teams and fixtures. See www.ladywellstarcfc.co.uk SPPA (SCOTTISH PRE-SCHOOL PLAY ASSOCIATION) GROUP Newyearfield Farm. Toddlers Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri: 09.30 – 11.30am. Tel 01506 462458 MEMORY CAFE Newyearfield Farm Community Centre, Hawk Brae, EH54 6AB. For those suffering with dementia and their carers. Runs the first Thursday of every month 2pm to 3.30pm. WEST LOTHIAN BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Meets on the Second Tuesday of the month in Oscar’s Ladywell from 7pm-9pm. Further details and information, contact Nan McDonald tel: 07855 238078. RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Wednesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com. BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Wednesday night. 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 every other Thursday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
LIVINGSTON VILLAGE LIVINGSTON VILLAGE PLAYGROUP Based in Livingston Village Primary School, Kirkton Road North, Livingston Village. We are now part of Community Playgroups and are based in the large and bright community room of the primary school, with our own secure outdoor area. We run Monday to Friday 9.15am to 11.30am, offering early education through fun and play, with a wide range of resources, to children aged from 2 years. The cost is £7 per session and includes a varied and healthy snack every day. Pop in for a visit with your child, or please phone Cheryl or Lesley on 01506 417343 for more information.
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON VILLAGE PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP Livingston Village Primary School, Community Room 2. Mondays & Wednesdays 9-11am. For babies and children aged 0-5 years accompanied by an adult. £1 per family. Term-time only. For more information email livitoddlers@yahoo.co.uk or visit www. facebook.com/livitoddlers RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Wednesday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com. BROWNIE UNIT (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com. GUIDE UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@ gmail.com.
MURIESTON LIVINGSTON ROUND TABLE Livingston Cricket Club, Murieston, EH54 9HB. The BEST young men’s club in the world: have fun, help your community and develop new skills. If you’re a man aged 18 - 45, why not come along to a couple of events and see what we’re all about? Business meetings 1st Thurs of the month; social event 3rd Thurs of the month. For more info please email membership@ livingstonroundtable.co.uk or text Join and your postcode to 60066. RAINBOW UNIT (Girls aged 5 - 7 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. BROWNIE UNIT (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 UNIT (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday & Tuesday 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 Thursday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.
@KonectMagazines
KINGS CHURCH @ WEST LOTHIAN A relaxed and friendly family church. Our meetings are a mix of modern worship, relevant teaching from the bible and fun activities for kids. Visit us online at www. kingschurchwl.org or contact connect@ kingschurchwl.org for more info. LIVINGSTON SOUTH COMMUNITY CHURCH With roots in Church of Scotland, Methodist, Scottish Episcopal & United Reformchurch since 1966. SCO Number 44088. We serve the south of the town, worshipping each Sunday at 10am. The 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month in Lanthorn Community Centre, Kenilworth Rise, 2nd & 4th Sundays in Murieston Village Hall. Sunday club for the children runs at same time as service. We are on Facebook, or e-mail livingstonsouthcommunitychurch@gmail.com for weekly updates. LIVINGSTON CRICKET CLUB Cricket fixtures & busy social calendar. See www.livingstoncricketclub.co.uk or tel: 07799 025795 LIVINGSTON BRIDGE CLUB Meets every Wednesday from the first Wednesday in September until the last Wednesday in March at Bankton Mains Bowling Club, 6.45 for 7.00 pm start. Contact Dorothy Doak 01506 437977 for more information. MURIESTON PARENT AND TODDLER Thursday 9.30am till 11am. Murieston Village Hall. £1.50 per morning.
SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION TO AUGUST CROSSWORD
ACROSS: 7. Organisations, 8. Feelings, 9. Poor, 10. Adapted, 12. Admit, 14. Event, 16. College, 19. Slit, 20. Pavement, 22. Opportunities. DOWN: 1. Free, 2. Wallop, 3. Pioneer, 4. False, 5. Ripped, 6. Annoying, 11. Develops, 13. Convent, 15. Nation, 17. Limits, 18. Spots, 21. Need.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 34
CHURCHES OASIS CHRISTIAN CENTRE Come and join us at Oasis Christian Centre, Fells Rigg, Carmondean for lively family worship with teaching from the Bible at 10.30am. We celebrate the Lord’s Supper every second week. For further details please visit our website at oasischristiancentrelivingston.org.uk.
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
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
LIVINGSTON | 53
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
ACCOUNTANCY & DOORS / WINDOWS MOBILITY SERVICES BOOKKEEPING DC Double Glazing 33 Ableworld / AMD Mobility 25 AKT Bookkeeping 6 UPVC Doors 7 PAINTING & DECORATING Mountain Enterprises Tax ELECTRICIAN Braekirk Decorators 26 Consultancy 6 DB Electrics 7 DM Decorators 33 APPLIANCE REPAIRS Electric Al 31 Home Appliance Repair 34 EDC Painters & Decorators 5 Riddell Electrical Services 32 John Caldwell Domestic Manic Street Painters 33 SL Electrical 30 Appliance Engineer 35 ESTATE AGENT PEST CONTROL ARCHITECT Bastion Property Envirotrap Pest Control 14 DBC Architecture 6 Management 4 Plan-It 11 PET GROOMING Turpie & Co 39 ARTIST / AUTHOR / Animal Magic 41 FINANCIAL ADVICE ENTERTAINER Link Housing Association 12 PET SITTING/BOARDING L.T Marshall 19 Alicat Purrfections 41 FLOORING BATHROOMS & KITCHENS Kirkton Flooring 30 PLASTERING 1st Choice Living 5 Anthony Jennett Bathrooms 31 GARAGE DOORS Nu Walls 26 Max’s Garage Doors 37 Bathgate Bathroom Studio 4 PLUMBING & HEATING Bespoke 27 GARDEN CENTRE Buyrite Bathrooms 10 New Hopetoun Gardens 19 SERVICES Dream Doors 30 Almondvale Plumbing And Riccarton Garden Centre 17 Ekco 28 Heating Services 32 Wyndford Farm Plants 15 S and S Home Plumb-It 11 GARDEN DESIGN / Improvements 56 EPH Scotland 31 MAINTENANCE BEAUTICIAN All Year Round Landscapes 15 McLellan Plumbing and Beauty Within Therapies 22 D Greaves Landscape Heating 32 BOILER SERVICES Gardeners 17 ROOFING The Gas Engineer 33 Evergreen Balerno 16 G Hughes Roofing Services 32 BUILDER GARDEN FURNITURE AND Almond Building Company 30 BUILDINGS TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE Build-It 11 Woodford Timber Scotland 14 County Cars 2 CAFE / TEAROOM GLAZING REPAIRS TREE CARE SERVICES Little Whispers Sanctuary 22 CR Smith 29 Evergreen Tree Surgery 14 CAR SERVICING, MOT & GOLF Trees4Scotland 15 REPAIR Baberton Golf Club 23 Formula 1 MOT 37 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME HAIR SALON JWG Car Care 37 West Lothian Trusted Trader Back II Black 21 CARPET & UPHOLSTERY Scheme 12 HANDYMAN CLEANING Donald Does It All 34 TUITION Aquatec 35 STS Home and Cleaning Doctor 35 Kumon Livingston 45 Business Solutions 7 CHILDREN’S NURSERY VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING ABC Private Nursery 45 HOTEL Lamond Veterinary Clinic 40 Dalmahoy Hotel & COMPLEMENTARY Riverside Vets 41 Country Club 24 THERAPIES YOUTH EMPLOYMENT Choose You - Yoga studio and JOINERY wellness hub 22 Create Enhanced Spaces 33 SCHEME The Wholesome Connection 22 Geoff Vinter Joinery 32 Developing the Young Yoga With Amy 22 TML Decor 26 Workforce 43 COMPUTER / PHONE REPAIRS LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Sprint Computer Repairs 6 Beatson’s Building Supplies 16 CURTAINS & BLINDS LOCKSMITH Harvey Bruce 26 CVC Locksmiths and DENTIST Security 3 No 9 Practice 21 West Lothian Locksmith 11 54 | LIVINGSTON
@KonectMagazines
@KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 55