Konect Directory The Calders August 2012 by Konect Magazines

konect the

directory

The Calders, Kirknewton and Pumpherston August 2012

WIN A meal for 2 at

Sky kitchen, East Calder Crossword Competition

Local History:

The Iron Age Hill Fort at Kaimes Hill

PLUS local businesses, community information and more!

Please remember to mention The Konect Directory when contacting advertisers

www.facebook.com/KonectDirectory

Message from the Editor

www.konectdirectory.co.uk

Hello neighbours As Guest Editor this month, I’m delighted to welcome you to the August issue of the Konect Directory. Summer holidays are here, there’s plenty to do and rain needn’t stop anyone from having fun. It certainly never stopped the Romans. Read James Thomson’s history of Kaimes Hill to find out what they got up to in the local area. Or be inspired by Tony Foster to see what’s happening in Edinburgh as Festival Time fast approaches. Happy holidays, whatever you decide to do! Emma Merchant

This month, you could win a meal for two at Sky Kitchen, East Calder, so try your luck with the crossword on page 32.

Congratulations to Mrs Margaret Ferguson of East Calder who won the crossword competition in the last issue.

The Konect Directory welcomes contributions such as old photographs, or short articles of local interest. The Editor reserves the right to edit any articles submitted for publication.

Contents Feature Article The Iron Age Hill Fort at Kaimes Hill Local Walk Pets Recipe

8 26 22 34

Thanks for reading the Konect Directory and for supporting local businesses!

Emma Merchant

Emma Merchant, Guest Editor emma@konectdirectory.co.uk 07762 817194

Children & Family Competitions & puzzles Prize crossword Community What’s on Useful information Clubs & Classes Index of Advertisers

38 32 38 39 42 46

The Konect Directory is delivered to homes in Kirknewton, East Calder, Mid Calder and Pumpherston. Copies are also left at the libraries, sports centre, convenience stores and various other locations within the area.

Advertising enquiries: Jenny Thomson 07824 469266 jenny@konectdirectory.co.uk

Design by Kumo Ink Ltd 01506 209 946 studio@kumoink.co.uk To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Front cover photograph by Jenny Thomson: View from Kaimes Hill

Various class options including 12 week beginners course in East Calder Contact Chris on 07946670294 info@dynamicmartialarts.co.uk or see website for details.

www.DYNAMICMARTIALARTS.co.uk Jeet Kune Do – Kali – Grappling – Self Defence

StrictlyHannah \ Make-Up Artist For any occasion that’s special to you... Strictlyhannah.wordpress.com strictlyhannah@gmail.com 07881 295 195

Honey Pot Ceramics Be amazed at what you can do...

● paint your own pottery ● make your own cosmetics ● design your own jewellery ● try out other craft activities ● birthday party packages ● preschool messy play sessions Clay course for children in the summer holidays Holiday activities & regular workshops See website for details and bookings

www.honeypotceramics.com

Honey Pot Ceramics 0131 333 6348 EICA Ratho, EH28 8AA

Open 7 days 10am - 5pm, open late Thursdays

by Ba

S e n so r

Rich and varied experiences to help your baby develop in every way

Come and

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Classes for Babies from birth to 13 months Classes run throughout Edinburgh, NEW CLASSES being held in Honey Pot Ceramics in EICA Ratho. Tuesday 10-10.40am.

Emma-Louise Beeson

0781 886 3334

edinburghcentral@babysensory.co.uk

www.babysensory.com

With this advert you may attend a FREE trial class or receive 10% off a Block Booking of 10 classes!

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shot to stun photography

spacious new studio open in east calder friendly, relaxed studio photography for all your family, affordable prices, clearly defined packages, no hidden extras, just high quality images. we specialise in pet portraits, as this cute pup might tell you.

www.shot2stun.com

07932 866 811

the studio, raw farm barns, almondell garden centre, east calder, eh53 0et

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

KIRKNEWTON GARAGE 1 - 3 Main Street

RECOVERY ANYWHERE IN WEST LOTHIAN ONLY £40

M.O.T s £35.00

LABOUR RATE £10 PER HOUR

•CARS & VANS •SERVICING TOP PRICES •EXHAUSTS PAID FOR M.O.T. FAILURES •WELDING SCRAP CARS WANTED - FREE UPLIFT

ESTABLISHED 1950

FULL ENGINE SERVICE FROM BARRY’S TYRES

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PRICE INCLUDES FITTING 175x70x13........£21 165x70x14........£23 205x65x15........£30 195x60x15........£30 215x60x15........£35 205x50x16........£40 215x40x17........£49 225x40x18........£60 225x35x18........£70 175x14x8PLY......£33

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Tel: 01506 885566

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£20 off FU

LLY REPA* GU IRS AR AN TEE

Quality, mobile car paintwork repairs at a fraction of body shop costs ✓Kerbed alloys ✓Bumper scuffs

✓Paintwork scratches

✓Minor dents ChipsAway Available: Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Franchisee Name now to arrange for Call ChipsAway F & N Georgeson now to arrange your free estimate

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* £20 discount only applicable to bookings over £100 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer only available through ChipsAway Franchisee Name until 31st January 2011. Please produce advert at time of estimate.

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

E RS T AI RAN P RE UA G Y LL

The Iron Age Hill Fort at Kaimes Hill By James Thomson

aimes Hill, a dramatic rock outcrop between Kirknewton and Dalmahoy, sits apart from modern population development. Here a series of archaeological excavations since 1893 reveals that for several hundred years in pre-history this was prime real estate, a bustling fortified community, in effect an enhanced symbol of wealth, power and defence - the name Kaimes coming from either ‘comb’, as the peaks resemble a cock’s comb, or from ‘kaim’ meaning camps or fortifications. Radiocarbon dating has shown that habitation was established by the early Iron Age around 1000 BC but, as up until the Roman occupation of Britain in 43 AD no written records exist, to fully understand this community and their leaders we can only rely on a series of assumptions. Defences up at Kaimes had started out with a modest single earthern rampart but improvements led to multiple walls being built until a series of three or four had been established. “Barracks” came in the form of an impressive total of thirty four hut circles, in itself a sizeable community for this period. Kaimes now ranked as a ‘multivallate’ or multiple rampart hill fort and in addition the Kaimes hill fort builders had deployed extra lines of defence in the form of a series of closely set upright stones. Known today as “chevaux de frise”, these were sharp projecting stones used as defence against attack from below. Unlike Classical Greece or Ancient Egypt, Iron Age Scotland was a world of simple rural settlement, one that at this time had no economic, political or religious need to build major tombs or ceremonial sites. So what drove this significant development at Kaimes? Possibly the threat of Roman invasion (its Empire was steadily expanding across Europe) may have spurred the Kaimes people to stay in place and maintain or even update defences, especially once Julius Caesar started expeditions into the south of England. Carbon dating shows some

roundhouses significantly pre-date the ramparts so it might be that a barely defended hill top community added the reassurance of some protection as the Romans marched towards Britain. The Lothians had many other hill forts, the most significant being on Traprain Law (Haddington), which was probably the centre of tribal power, with various smaller satellite sites on hills and outcrops including Dun Eidyn (Edinburgh Castle). Kaimes was certainly the major site near the ancient paths through the Pentlands connecting with the Iron Age hill forts at Braidwood and Castlelaw close to modern day Penicuik. Kaimes may well have moved between use as a permanent settlement and a seasonal meeting place but would help project prestige for whoever wanted to influence the immediate locality. Another theory is that such hilltop enclosures were originally new agricultural communities aimed at achieving social cohesion; there had been a long term downturn in climate from warmer, drier conditions around 2000 BC and agricultural land had been lost as low lying marsh areas proliferated. This may have increased the practice of moving to higher ground and the assumption that, at least to begin with, they were not chiefly military installations. A not dissimilar proposition combines agricultural changes with military use as competition between neighbouring groups for control of the remaining

As the Roman invasion of England and Scotland got underway the Roman Army had reached its pinnacle. For the simple rural settlements of Iron Age Scotland this was a far more organised military campaign than anything seen before.

in 122 AD to Hadrian’s Wall, which has been considered by some as the most heavily fortified border in the Roman Empire. They then moved north again and spent 12 years from 142 AD building the Antonine Wall, which stretched west from Bo’ness, before again abandoning their gains and consigning the Lothians to a kind of friendly buffer zone working strategically with the local tribes, perhaps with regular bribes of jewellery and wine. Nine miles south west is the Roman Fortlet of Castle Greg (Harburn), purportedly used during the Roman advance; four miles due north their later supply routes to the west ran through Newbridge; five miles to the south, a Roman Road ran along the far side of the Pentlands - so Kaimes was very close to all this activity.

Feasting was also likely to have been on the agenda during the period of the settlement at Kaimes, as dispensing prodigious quantities of alcoholic drink to followers was an important part of the political career of a prehistoric leader during this time. The ability to give feasts awash with alcoholic liquor was seen as a key part of a leader’s claim to rule. The only alcoholic drinks were mead (made from fermented honey) or beer; beer, however, was in those times a pretty weak concoction.

North across the Forth the Picts were also in the ascendant. With sporadic Roman manoeuvres and neighbourly aggression as the Picts tried to push the Romans south, it was no time to forget the benefits of a well defended hill fort. In fact the Firth of Forth itself had become Scotland’s main de facto maritime “military demarcation line” against the Picts and in the event of this tribe invading the Lothians the hill forts were an ideal second line of defence. As the first Roman advance would have been a far more organised military campaign than anything seen before, so the continuing diplomatic contact between Romans and buffer zone tribes could well have been seen as advantageous to any community or leaders who could show they had control of their respective hill fort.

Once the Romans arrived everything is likely to have changed, but not necessarily for the worse. Over a period of one hundred and fifty years Roman policies to the north of Britain became variable to say the least. They had first pushed beyond the Firth of Forth and established a significant frontier system of forts and watch towers, known as the Gask Ridge, around 70 AD which was the earliest Roman land frontier in Britain. They then retired their frontier south

Today a walk up Kaimes Hill will reward you with fantastic views, the obvious remains of grassy ramparts on the eastern side, and you see the ample supply of stone that would have been used during the heyday of this populated hill fort. What exactly caused it’s development may never be known in any detail but the fact that the fort’s main defences had been constructed in time for the arrival of the Imperial Army of Rome must hold a clue.

productive land lead to warfare, and that this then led to the conception of hillforts.

0131 477 1167 Fully stocked & fully trained professional Locksmiths 24 hours a day www.1stcall-locksmiths.com

D.J. LANE Painter & Decorator Graining & Marbling Faux Effects - All wallpapers specialist Lincrusta - Gilding - Painted Furniture Highly Skilled Kirknewton www.grainingmarbling.com

01506 884 949

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To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Macmillan Cancer Support

elping people affected by cancer in West Lothian

It’s a sad but true fact that 1 in 3 of us will be diagnosed with cancer at some time in our life and for the people who have cancer it’s often the toughest fight of their life. Macmillan Cancer Support is here for those people – and for their friends of family to help them on the journey from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond. .... for however long they want our support. Around 29,000 people are diagnosed with cancer every year in Scotland – and just under 1000 of them live in West Lothian. Macmillan offers support in many ways. Most people have heard about our Macmillan Nurses who give much more than just medical help – they offer emotional and practical support too in so many different ways. Macmillan also helps financially. It’s expensive to have cancer. Our Benefits Advisors help people are claim the benefits they are entitled to. We also give Macmillan Grants for people who are struggling to pay the cost of heating their homes or transport to hospital for their vital treatment. If you have questions about cancer why not visit the Macmillan Information and Support Centre at Carmondean Library, Livingston to speak to the team there. Alternatively you can go online at macmillan.org.uk or call our Support Line on 0800 808 00 00. Macmillan’s Information and Support service is available to everyone – not just people who have cancer. Your local Macmillan Benefits team is based in Bathgate and can be contacted by calling 01506 282900. If you have cancer or are a carer for someone with cancer please give them a call to find out which benefits you are entitled to. If you have cancer and are not currently receiving support from Macmillan ask your GP to refer you to Macmillan. There is a Macmillan Centre in St John’s Hospital, Livingston.

World’s Biggest Coffee Morning at Carmondean last year.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! ey it needs Macmillan gets 96% of the mon cted by to fund its services for people affe– that cancer from voluntary donations means people like you! ning The World’s Biggest Coffee Mor est is Macmillan Cancer Support’s bigg le to hold a fundraising event. We ask peopIn 2011, 160 coffee morning for Macmillan. raising people signed up in West Lothian, le affected over £34,000 to help local peop by cancer. Biggest Being part of Macmillan’s World’s. Take Coffee Morning is a piece of cake details. a look on our website for more a Coffee Once you sign up we’ll send you of the Morning kit to help you ever step e, or at your way. Why not have one at hom ? Our main work and get everyone involved is 28th date for Coffee Morning this year to hold one September but you can choose on whichever date suits you. millan’s For more information about Macand to sign World’s Biggest Coffee Morning website or up to host you own one visit our call us on 0300 1000 200. www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee

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KONECT SWB 92x128_AW 06/07/2012 11:28 Page 1

Working with ex-servicemen and women

www.scottishwarblinded.org

WHO DO WE SERVE? Scottish War Blinded provides assistance to ex-servicemen and women of the armed forces who now live with a visual impairment that may or may not be related to active service. WHAT DO WE PROVIDE? We offer a wide range of activities at the award-winning Linburn Centre, located in Wilkieston. Our facilities include a craft workshop, art space, training gym, skills kitchen, IT centre, and media lounge.

Our Outreach Service provides one-to-one support for members in a local community setting. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER? For more information on all of our services and becoming a member, please call us today on 0131 333 1369 or e-mail: enquiries@scottishwarblinded.org Scottish Charity No SC002652

Almond Valley Baptist Church A church for you and your family.

FOR BY GRACE ARE YE SAVED THROUGH FAITH; AND THAT NOT OF YOURSELVES: IT IS THE GIFT EPHESIANS 2:8 OF GOD:

11am and 5pm on Sundays; 2pm on Tuesdays Sunday School and Worship Services Meeting at the Newyearfield Farm Community Centre Hawk Brae in Livingston EH54 6AB

AlmondValleyBC@yahoo.co.uk

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

John Nothard

Property Repair Service • Electrical solutions • Landlord and home sellers electrical Test Certificates • Annual electrical testing and certification • Portable appliance testing

Mobile 07977 685656 email: propertyselec@aol.com

Domestic, commercial and agricultural Free estimates • Professional and reliable service

I provide expert advice on all building projects with a free consultation to determine viability.

D.B. General Builders ■ Fencing ■ Driveways ■ Decking ■ Landscaping ■ Monoblocking ■ Groundworks ■ Home renovations ■ Property maintenance

Call David on

07747 062426

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Plan-It

Chartered Building Surveyors Plan-It provide architectural services to home owners & businesses throughout Edinburgh and West Lothian. We are happy to help in the following areas:

Architectural Services Planning Permission Building Warrants Project Management Licence Applications We specialise in extensions and alterations

For a complimentary consultation please contact Bruce on

01506 884216 www.plan-it-design.co.uk

AKT Bookkeeping Tax Returns • Accounts, Bookkeeping • Payroll, CIS • VAT Phone Kevin on 01506 201459 from 8.00am to 4.00pm or email- akt.blue@blueyonder.co.uk

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Thought for the Month By Jackie Whigham Self-Betrayal

ny form of betrayal causes great suffering and stirs up anger within us. But the biggest and most painful of all is the betrayal of the Self. Deep down we always know when something is or isn’t right for us. We are given a very clear ‘yes’ or ‘no’ gut instinct on every situation in our lives. This instinct is a knowingness that goes beyond the mind and the five senses. It’s our internal guidance system that is trying to protect and guide us at all times. Pay close attention to your body and what it is directing you to do, particularly your solar plexus. When your stomach feels as though it’s going ‘into a knot’ or you’re feeling uncomfortable with

yourself or others, this is a form of inner guidance. Listen to it! When you learn to trust and follow your instincts, you will be lead onto the pathway to a happy and fulfilling destiny! So, the lesson is to become aware of what your body is telling you and then honour that truth no matter what! Learn to trust it above the opinions of others and always be loyal to yourself first - it’ll keep you in balance and at peace. Have a great day. Jackie works in Xcite, East Calder in Beauty Therapy. She is also a Transformational Life Coach. For more information - jackiewhigham1@aol.com www.jackiewhigham.com or call 07845239490

Summer feet! For an appointment call

01506 466 006 Livingston Chiropody & Podiatry 4 Bankton Square Murieston Livingston EH54 9EY

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Jewellery Workshop 144 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0HD

All jewellery & watch repairs

batteries, straps, restringing, stone replacement...

Jewellery designed & made PROFESSIONAL HIGH QUALITY HIGHLAND DANCE WEAR

Value for money, quality dance products including

shoes ~ patterns ~ swords ~ music accessories ~ books ~ gifts

All you need for Highland at the lowest prices.... We are based in East Calder, so email and arrange collection to avoid postal costs! Please contact us at

staff@highlanddanceshop.com Visit our online shop at www.highlanddanceshop.com

to your specification - every piece unique

Gold and silver jewellery for sale Engraving

01506 880590 jewelleryworkshop@wtnet.co.uk Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm

Licensed Tattoo Studio

153a Main Street, East Calder

To Book an Appointment call Charlie Tel: 07825 813461 Ă&#x160;

Sew You Looking for an outfit for that special occasion? Look no further... Wedding - Bridesmaid - Flower girl Mother of the Bride/Bridegroom Evening - Prom - Gala Day Dresses All made to your specification. Alterations also undertaken. Contact Julie - 01506 885849/ 07706 389828 sewyou@btinternet.com

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Joinery | Painting | Tiling | Sash Window Repairs etc

‘No job too small’...we will even change a light bulb. Kris Keegan Proprietor

Kris Keegan

Proprietor 9 Rosehill Place t. 07988 682 609

t. 07988 682 609e. info@westlothianhandyman.co.uk Eliburn, Livingston

e. info@westlothianhandyman.co.uk EH54 7DW w. www.westlothianhandyman.co.uk w.www.westlothianhandyman.co.uk

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Free Estimates Tel: 0131 466 0214 Mob: 07732 866 983 Email: gbeatsonelectrical@hotmail .co.uk

Brown’s Plumbing Plumbing – Heating – Gasworks

From tap washers to re-plumbs We undertake all plumbing work

0131 478 5356 07720 890 226 Free estimates

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Braekirk Decorator’s

First class decorator

64 Braekirk Avenue, Kirknewton, EH27 8BL

Interior and Exterior work Wallpaper hanging

Call Willie Jamieson 07779 186298 maryjamieson64@googlemail.com

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www.STORM-SHIELD.co.uk Building

Roofing INSURANCE

REPAIRS

MAINTENANCE

RENOVATIONS

Storm Shield roofing is a family run business with a reputation for honest, professional and skilled workmanship basin in edinburgh, we aim to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied with th e finished product

ROOFING & SLATING FLAT ROOFING PLASTERERS EXTENSIONS BUILDING WORK

ELECTRICIANS PLUMBERS TILERS JOINERS PAINTERS

FREE ADVICE AND ESTIMATES ON

0131 516 2876 07837 628 654 info@storm-shield.co.uk

26 Goodtrees Garden, Liberton, Edinburgh EH17 7RY To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

EPH

TELEPHONE ENGINEER

SCOTLAND LTD 10% OAP discount

ALL PLUMBING, GAS & ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN

New sockets fitted for phone, internet or sky •••• Removal of unsightly old wiring and sockets •••• Repair to internal phone and broadband faults •••• Old style phones converted to work on UK sockets I CAN SUPPLY AND INSTALL

QUOTE KONECT

WHEN BOOKING A BOILER SERVICE OR LANDLORD’S GAS CERTIFICATE

AND PAY JUST £50 + VAT

Easy to use big button amplified hearing aid compatible phone with hands free calling •••• Loud audio phone ringers with flash indicators

01506 882 643

Free estimates – no call out charge

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

123871

LB250

Contact John McGraw Tel : 0131 555 1314 Mob : 07771 927796

ALL AREAS – PROMPT - RELIABLE

B EDWARDS TILING SPECIALIST LOCAL WALL AND FLOOR TILER

All aspects of tiling undertaken including Kitchens, Bathrooms & Conservatories Using ceramics, porcelain, natural stone & mosaics Professional & friendly service

For a free estimate call Barry Mobile: 07944 176663 Home: 01506 432159 20

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Visit our showroom at:

Unit 10 Abbotsford Rise Dedridge, EH54 6QD www.stylerite-blinds.co.uk

08000 837071

Extensive range of curtains, blinds and accessories. Expert and friendly advice on all window dressings. ■ Vertical, roller, roman, pleated, velux, wooden blinds, conservatory blinds ■ Perfect Fit and intu blinds ■ Curtains & Accessories SPECIAL OFFER 2 pvc vertical blinds £120

*size restrictions apply

A & A Electrical Solutions Ltd Balerno All electrical work Private or commercial No job too big or small All work guaranteed Free estimates Professional and reliable service

Alan: 07969 929327

or email alskie@hotmail.com

Tile-a-ramic Specialist in ceramic, mosaic, porcelain & natural stone on walls and floors Under floor heating supplied & fitted Alan McChesney

Tel: 01506 871030 Mob: 07841 523624 www.tile-a-ramic.co.uk

Free estimates. All work guaranteed and fully insured

To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

Vet’s Tip:

Socialising Dogs - What it Really Means

he term socialisation gets banded about a lot, however, not many people really understand what it involves or how important it is. The majority of dogs I see for behavioural help, have had too little socialisation as puppies and this has affected them for the rest of their lives. To properly socialise a puppy means to gently expose them to all the things they will experience in everyday life. It is all about positive associations. This goes well beyond meeting people and other dogs - it includes different sights, sounds, smells and experiences. Puppies have a critical time-frame for development and must experience all these things before they turn sixteen weeks old at the very latest, otherwise the opportunity is lost and makes rehabilitation difficult. At puppy classes I

use the phrase ‘The Rule of Twelve’ which states that a puppy should be exposed to twelve different types of people, twelve different sorts of dogs, twelve different sounds and so on by the age of twelve weeks. A common mistake in socialising, is to let your puppy greet every single dog they meet and allow them to do what they want. Unsupervised play is the cause of a lot of problems, and can end up with dogs enjoying the thrill of winding up other dogs or becoming aggressive if they are the one being bullied. Socialisation is all about good experiences that set puppies up to be happy well-balanced dogs. Pet’s Tip written by Joanne Drysdale BSc - dog behaviourist at Edinburgh Dog Training, based in Kirknewton and Balerno. Group classes in Currie. See www.joannedrysdale.co.uk

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Midweek Membership. Play Mon—Fri, £135 with NO ENTRY FEE Young Adult (Age 18—30) Membership. From £63 with NO ENTRY FEE Full Membrships £180 plus entry fee which can be paid over 5 years Use our interest free direct debit scheme to spread the cost at no charge! Number of places are limited so to book your discounted trial round (£10) and for further details phone Club on 0131 453 4911 Mon—Fri Pro shop on 0131 453 3555 Sat—Sun email: manager@baberton.co.uk website: www.babertongolfclub.com Be part of the changing face of golf at Baberton!

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A walk through history: Heriot – Watt Campus By Karen Murray

ou might think the Heriot-Watt campus at Riccarton is a place for study and students only. But as with most Universities there is always much more going on. If you are someone who likes to take in some history as you walk, this is a great place to head to. You can begin the walk along Muirwood Road in Currie, then along ‘Donkey Lane’ by Baberton Golf Club and following the cycle path on Farm Road all the way to Riccarton before entering the campus; or you can simply park up in one of the visitor car parks and walk the campus trails only, depending on the time you have to spare. Once on the campus grounds walk up ‘The Avenue’ towards the Library where a marked trail begins on Cameron Smail Road. Stepping through a clearing in a hedge, you are confronted with the vista of a gorgeous manicured lawn. A century ago you would have been standing in the front garden of Riccarton House, home of the Gibson-Craig family with croquet on the lawn and the odd strutting peacock. The house stood where the library now stands and you can enter the library and walk up to the top floor to get an idea of the view from the house before it was demolished in 1956 after falling into a state of disrepair.

Walk past the fire pond, constructed for use in the event of fire in the house, and on to the ice house on the right. There is a deep pit used to store ice collected from the loch during the winter. Head north along the path to the plant collection. Where the kerbs end is one of the original entrances to the gardens and you should spot a small conifer on the left. This is part of the plant collection made by the Gibson-Craigs during the 19th century. The trail continues around the lawn and through the plant collection to the Velvet Walk – named for its fine turf. The Velvet Walk can get muddy underfoot if it is wet. This is a garden terrace leading to the Gibson-Craig family burial ground and while it is probably not as beautiful as it once was, it is a stunning garden walk.

The gardens date back to before 1750. The lawn is relatively unchanged, except that flower beds once surrounded the golden yew domes. The oval impression in the lowest part of the lawn was once a curling rink, flooded and frozen in winter. The trail - marked by wooden posts with arrows - takes you along the south terrace to the carriage drive, once the service approach to the house from the stables. Notice the remains of an old bridge overhead which connected the house to the gardens. 26

Images 1) Gardener’s Cottage 2) Sunken garden, where the curling rink used to be

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The American Buffalo Family History Column By Maureen McIntyre

he American buffalo would probably be extinct today but for one man who was born in Scotland. James Philip was born in Dallas, Morayshire – not Dallas, Texas – on 30th April 1857. His father was a farmer and the family farm was called Auchness. The 1871 census tells us that the farm was 1,000 acres and employed five labourers. The farm building had nine rooms with at least one window. We can assume from this that the farm was quite large and prosperous, and that the family was a large one – James had three half siblings and seven siblings. His father was married twice and James was the fourth son from his father’s second marriage, to Christina Smith. The family had been in Dallas for at least 100 years - James’s Great Grandfather also named James had married his wife Agnes Duncan in Dallas on the 18th August 1752. At the age of sixteen he left the north of Scotland and following in two of his elder brothers’ footsteps he sailed for America, arriving on the 29th April 1874, the day before his seventeenth birthday. By the age of twenty two ‘Scotty’ Philip as he had become known, had married Sarah Laribee whose sister was called Nellie. Nellie was married to Crazy Horse, leader of the Oglala Lakota people and leader of the war party who fought at the Battle of Little Big Horn in 1876 (but that is another story!) ‘Scotty’ became a very successful cattle rancher. He had spent his early days in America panning for gold in the Black Hills of Dakota and presumably was successful as by 1881 had a large ranch at Grindstone Creek which is close to the present day city of Philip which is named after him. He used the skills he had learned on the family farm in Dallas to make the ranch very prosperous but it was around this time that he began to realise that the native Buffalo were in decline and in danger of extinction.

He managed to capture five buffalo calves during one of his large cattle droves in South Dakota and the animals were kept safely on his ranch. By the early 1900’s the herd, which were pure bred animals, had grown to fifty and the US government gave him 3,500 acres of land to establish a national park to continue with the battle to save this magnificent creature. The park became a major tourist attraction, highlighting to all the plight of the buffalo and breeding pairs were sold to other ranches so that they could establish their own pure bred herds. James now had another nickname he was regularly referred to as ‘The Buffalo King’.

The Daily Northwester Newspaper dated December 18th 1922 carried an advert for Buffalo Meat that ran: ‘We have received a buffalo from the famous Scotty Philips herd’…’order now for a nice roast or steak’… ’Our buffalo will be on display at our market for a few days before we skin and cut him up’ …’come in and see him’!

James ‘Scotty’ Philip died in 1911 at the age of fifty three but he achieved his aim. I found a newspaper story from 1974 printed in USA which says that nearly every existing buffalo in the country was descended from his herd. An amazing achievement for a wee lad from Dallas! By 1922 the buffalo as a species would appear to have been saved. Genealogy is fast becoming one of the most popular hobbies in the country with people becoming addicted to finding out all they can about their ancestors. If you are just starting your tree or if you are having problems with any of your branches, please email me at rootsandbranches@hotmail.co.uk

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Prize Crossword

WIN a Set meal for 2 sit in or takeaway at Sky Kitchen, East Calder. See advert on page 10. Across 1. 3. 9. 10. 11. 13. 15. 17.

20. 21. 22. 23.

Cut short (4) Adversary (8) Error (7) Board game (5) Very eager (12) Informal (6) Small piece of food (6) Books giving meanings of words (12) Relating to the moon (5) Absence of sound (7) Moving very fast (8) Spheres (4)

1. 2. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Business (8) Start of (5) Written in rhyme (6) Now and then (12) Protect the eyes (7) Throw (4) Produced (12)

Down

8 10

12 14

15 16

19 20

12. Small bunches or groups (8) 14. Physics or chemistry (7)

16. Untie (6) 18. Lying within (5) 19. Add to (4)

Complete the crossword & send to: The Konect Directory, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD. Please include your name, address & phone number. Closing date for entries 15th August 2012.

Sudoku

Sudoku solution on page 37

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Food for August

My own Special Birthday Meal By Anne Pinkerton

n my family we have a tradition: on your birthday you can choose the menu for the main meal that day. My birthday is in August and ever since I can remember, the main dish I request has always been the same:- beef stew with runner beans. When I was a child we lived in Wiltshire, south England, and my Mother was a demon vegetable gardener. The beans in my birthday meal were always from the garden, as were the carrots. The carrots were thinnings, and really sweet, and the beans were Scarlet Runners, grown up hazel bean poles at the end of the garden. I have read since, that this type of bean came from Mexico in the 17th Century, and was first grown for its lovely scarlet or red and white flowers and attractive climbing habit. Runner beans then became a popular food for the Victorians. Now there are several varieties, some of which will grow in Scotland. But they are all tender, and a freak early frost can kill them in August, as I know to my sorrow. Runner beans are most delicious eaten as fresh as possible. They are in the shops from April, flown in from Zambia, but they are not quite as nice, so I try my luck growing them every year. The rest of the birthday meal was new potatoes with mint, and in the early days, for dessert, frozen Findus raspberry mouse. And I always asked for my birthday cake to be chocolate. Here are the recipes for my birthday favourites. My children have chosen

many different birthday meals, reflecting their changing taste in food. What would your family go for I wonder? Beef Stew (This is an economical dish and you can even use more vegetables or a little less meat. Serve with new or plain boiled potatoes and lightly cooked, finely sliced runner beans.) 500gm Stewing Beef trimmed and cut in bite sized cubes (Ask the butcher for Skirt, shin or hough beef cuts. These are the best cuts for slow stewing, but other stewing beef will make a good dish.) 100gm beef dripping, or half and half dripping and olive oil 500gm sliced in rings onions 500gm scraped or peeled, sliced carrots Plain flour, salt, black pepper and a bay leaf if liked In a large heavy- bottomed pan heat the fat/oil till smoking and fry the onions till browning but NOT burnt. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon, to metal colander or sieve placed over an oven proof casserole. This will let you collect any juices. Reserve as much fat as possible and use this to fry the carrots. Again drain them and use the reheated fat to fry the beef in batches. Do not try to cook all the beef at once as it will cool the pan and the meat will be tough by the time it is browned .If you are running out of oil/fat melt a little more to cook the beef. Drain the beef and add it to the casserole.

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Add any juice collected from the casserole to the fat in the pan and use as much plain flour as you need to soak it all up. You should have something that looks like dry bread crumbs. Over a low heat, slowly work in about a pint and a half of water; it will be a thick sauce. Bring to the boil. Try to avoid lumps, although they will cook out in the end in the oven. Pour the “gravy” into the casserole. There should be enough to cover the rest of the ingredients. If there is not, add some more water, season lightly, add the bay leaf if you like. Cover and cook in a very slow oven 130°C or slow cooker for 3 to 4 hours. Check the seasoning. The stew will be dark brown, glossy and because of the proportion of vegetables, slightly sweet. (It will be even better if you split the cooking time and reheat it the next day.) Cream for the runner beans ½ pint double cream Fresh Tarragon, Summer Savoury, Clove of Garlic, or Parsley

of dry goods. (If you use self-raising flour instead of plain, add baking powder at half this rate.) A little milk, or cold coffee. Cream the butter and sugar together using an electric beater, Kenwood or blender. Add alternately egg and flour/cocoa, mixing lightly till all the ingredients are used. You should have a light dropping mixture. Add milk or cold coffee to achieve this consistency. Put the mixture into either 2 lined sandwich cake tins, or all of it into one 8inch lined cake tin. Bake at 160°C or 350°F, a moderate oven, for between 20 to 40 minutes. Test with a skewer, it should come out clean. If you listen the cake will be silent. If it is still bubbling it is not quite cooked. Leave to cool. When cold, if you made one cake, cut it in two. Otherwise sandwich the two shallow cakes together with blackcurrant or black cherry jam and whipped cream, or Nutella or with chocolate butter icing.

Put the herb of choice and the cream into a heavy bottomed pan. Bring slowly to the boil and then set aside to cool, leaving the herb to steep. Lightly cook any green beans you like, and just as you serve them, pour over the flavoured cream and turn the beans in it. Chocolate Cake 3 large eggs lightly beaten Their weight in Butter and Sugar, The same weight as the eggs of:half-and-half plain flour/cocoa powder, sifted twice. To this you must add baking powder at the rate of 1 teaspoon full to each 4oz or 110gm To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

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Solution to Sudoku

Solution July 12 crossword

Across: 1 Slammed, 5 Eager, 8 Rites, 9 Vicious, 10 Perpendicular, 11 Fiddle, 12 Coffee, 15 Demonstration, 18 Restore, 19 Drunk, 20 Lists, 21 Seaweed.

Whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. The Konect Directory does not endorse any advertising material that appears in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding that it is copyright free. The Konect Directory accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd, Overton Farmhouse, Kirknewtonk, EH27 8DD. Editor :Helen-Jane Shearer 07854 492638 hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

What’s on August

Zumba with Kat Thursday 7-8pm Village Hall, Kirknewton. Class is from age 16 up or age 12 if accompanied by an adult. Contact 07940 245151 or see Zumba Kat on facebook. The Five B’s of the Pentlands Thursday 2nd August The Pentland Hills are home to lots of exciting and mysterious animals, but do you know what animals start with the letter B? Come along to Harlaw House Visitor Centre and learn about the five B’s of the Pentlands, with arts, crafts and activities. Meet: Harlaw House Visitor Centre Time: 1.30 – 3.30pm Booking: Drop in session Cost: Donations welcome Suitable for 5-10 yrs. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Conservation Volunteers – Vegetation Clearance Sunday 12th August We need your help to cut back encroaching vegetation at Harlaw and give the area a summer tidy up. Meet: Harlaw car park Time: 1 – 4pm Bring: Sturdy footwear and waterproofs. Gardening gloves if you have them. Booking: Essential Cost: Free Suitable for over 16 yrs. Kirknewton and East Calder Church annual holiday club Monday 13th August to Friday 17th August East Calder Church Hall. This year we have an Olympic theme “On Your Marks”. Through stories from Mark’s Gospel, the children will discover what it is like to be a member of Jesus’ team. Every morning 10.00am - 12.30pm. All primary aged children welcome to attend this fun-filled free-of-charge week but must be registered by an adult on their first day of attendance. For further details call Andrew Coutts on 885800 or see www.knec4jesus.org.uk.

What’s On at East Calder library this summ er Thursday 16th August - Summer Reading Challenge Medal Ceremony Full details and more information available in the library ScotlandsPeople is pleased to announce a new method of paying for credits - pick up a voucher in the Library. Startups are £7.00, Topups are £5.60

Story Lab is the theme of the 2012 Summer Reading Challenge at East Calder and Pumpherson Libraries What is Story Lab? It’s a five-sided hi-tech HQ that attracts stories from all over the world and sends them spinning throughout the city – and beyond! It’s the place to read, collect, share, create, transmit and broadcast stories Like all Summer Reading Challenges, Story Lab will be divided into three stages, and as you read books over the summer, you will collect stickers to help the Story Lab kids to complete each stage. On completion, you will receive a medal and certificate. Stage 1 – Bronze Bronze coin – To retrieve an ancient bronze coin from the vault beneath the museum, you’ll need to read two books. Stage 2 – Silver Silver mirror – Moving on to the river (site of Olympic activity and arts) the next stage is to recover the silver mirror from the banks of a small island. You do this by reading two more books. Stage 3 – Gold Gold medal – The final stage is to retrieve a golden medal hidden in the Olympic Park. Again, you need to read two more books to complete the challenge Summer Holiday Activities for Children Activities available locally. Check : Almond Valley see www.almondvalley.co.u k West Lothian Leisure www.westlothianleisure.com Potter Around www.potteraround.co.uk Honey Pot Ceramics www.honeypotceramics.com Saturday 11th August James Knight at Oakbank Bowling ClubCabaret, ticket £5.00. 8.30pm, all welcome.

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Useful Information East Calder Library information Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EJ 01506 883633 email: eastcalder.lib@westlothian.gov.uk Opening times Mon, Wed & Fri: 10.00am - 5.30pm Tues & Thurs: 10.00am - 8.00pm Saturday: 9.30am - 1.00pm Mobile library timetable Alternate Tuesdays in: Wilkieston Elmbank Wilkieston Hatton Inch Haig

1.15pm - 1.25pm 1.30pm - 1.40pm 1.45pm - 1.55pm 2.00pm - 2.10pm

Kirknewton Kaimes Crescent Sawmill Roosevelt Rd Churchill Way Braekirk

2.15pm - 2.50pm 2.55pm - 3.20pm 3.30pm - 3.40pm 3.45pm - 3.55pm 4.00pm - 4.10pm

Every Wednesday in: Mid Calder Spottiswood Cir 5.40pm - 5.50pm Spottiswoode Cre 5.50pm - 6.05pm Almondside 6.10pm - 6.25pm Post Office 6.30pm - 7.00pm Pumpherston Library information Pumpherston Library is now open in new location in the new primary school on the Drumshoreland Road. New telephone number 01506 280996 email Pumpherston.lib@westlothian.gov.uk New opening times Mon 14.00 - 17.00 Wed 14.30 - 16.30 Thurs 14.00 - 18.00 Follow the signs to the Library when you arrive at the school. Come along and check all the new technology, new books and new spacious interior. East Calder Medical Practice 147 Main Street, East Calder, EH53 0EW 01506 882882 To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospital 01506 523000 East Calder Commun 1st Tuesday of every ity Council Community Centre atmonth in the 7.00pm Kirknewton Comm 2nd Tuesday of everyunity Council Village Hall at 6.30pmmonth in the Mid Calder Commun 2nd Thursday of every ity Council Institute Hall at 7.30pmmonth in the . (Recess July and August).

Registration of Birth, Death and Marriage Registration Offices in West Lothian provide advice and assistance to anyone requiring information on the registration of births, deaths, marriages and civil partnerships, and issue copy extract certificates. We can conduct civil partnership ceremonies and give advice on recording a change of name. No appointments are necessary at East Calder Registration Office, situated within the library at 200 Main Street East Calder. The office is open 10 - 12 and 2 - 5 Monday to Friday.

To include your event here, please email hj@konectdirectory.co.uk

Last Post Times Kirknewton Post Office Mon - Fri 5.00pm then a few minutes later from the box near the level crossing. Sat 11.15am East Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.20pm Sat 11.15am Mid Calder Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.35am Pumpherston Post Office Mon - Fri 5.15pm, Sat 11.00am Collection from box at Livingston Delivery Office, Fairbairn Road, at 6.30pm

School Term dates

(from www.westlothian.gov.uk) Summer / Winter (Term 1) Tue 21/8/12 - Fri 21/12/12 Autumn Holiday Mon 17/9/12 - Tue 18/9/12 Mid-term Mon 15/10/12 - Mon 22/10/12

Inside & Out By Tony Foster

This year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe truly promises to be the greatest show on earth with more artists performing more work, in more venues, than ever before. Launching the 2012 programme Kath M Mainland, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society said: “I am delighted to be able to launch the 2012 Edinburgh Festival Fringe Programme. This promises to be the most exciting and exhilarating Fringe yet. This year sees 2,695 shows in 279 venues across the city, which is 6% more than ever before. “This is the Year of Creative Scotland and it is the year in which the world’s greatest sporting event, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, happens in London while the world’s greatest cultural event takes place in Edinburgh.

in Tony Benn: Will and Testament the former Minister shares some of his life experience. Two shows talking about the media and the Leveson Inquiry are One Rogue Reporter where former tabloid journalist Rich Peppiat spills the beans of his former employers and Journos is the world premiere of Adam Jordan Donaldson’s new play all about the world of journalism. For the first time Old Vic New Voices have joined forces with Underbelly to bring a season of new work to Edinburgh. Glory Dazed tells the story of a squaddie trying to re-adjust to civilian life and trying to win his ex-wife back. One Hour Only is a debate in a brothel between a first time punter and a first time prostitute.

The 60th anniversary of Her Majesty The Queen’s reign is marked with La Clique Royale - The Queen’s Selection which promises to be better than the Royal Variety Performance. Maurice’s Jubilee sees Julian Glover and Sheila Reid in a brand new play by Nichola McAuliffe and Tea With The Old Queen tells the true story of the Queen Mother’s butler ‘Backstairs Billy’.

As usual the Fringe attracts some well known names to Edinburgh’s stages. Comedian and former Family Fortunes frontman Les Dennis stars in Jigsy, the story of a comedian with over 30 years in the business; Educating Rita has Matthew Kelly and Claire Sweeney take on the lead roles in Willy Russell’s famous play. Re-Animator The Musical based on HP Lovecraft’s seminal piece, will see George Wendt, better known as Norm from Cheers make his second trip to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

There’s plenty of politics at this year’s Fringe too. Comedians Jo Caulfield and Alistair Barrie will star in Robert Khan and Tom Salinsky’s show Coalition while, in a piece of new writing from Rab C Nesbitt creator Ian Pattison, Des Maclean will tell the story of former Scottish Socialist Party leader Tommy Sheridan in I, Tommy. Election: A Silent Comedy takes a slapstick approach to policy and campaigning and

Once again the Fringe remains the home of comedy with established names like Alan Davies - Life is Pain here for the first time in a decade; Paul Merton’s Impro Chums will see him team up with Mike McShane, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster for an hour of improvised fun. Phill Jupitus - You’re Probably Wondering Why I’ve Asked You Here... is one of two shows the Never

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Mind The Buzzcocks team captain will be involved with at this year’s Fringe, the other being his free poetry show Phill Jupitus is Porky the Poet in 27 Years On. Rhod Gilbert: The Man With the Flaming Battenberg Tattoo sees a brand new show from the Fringe favourite; Sandi Toksvig Live: My Valentine will see the return of the comedian, novelist, actor, broadcaster, show-off and international treasure. Canadian favourite Greg Proops makes his return with a regular stand up show and with his well known Greg Proops Podcast: The Smartest Man in the World. As always at the Fringe there’s plenty for younger audiences including the bona fide celebrities like Elmo, Cookie Monster and Big Bird in Sesame Street Live – Elmo Makes Music. Dr Brown Brown Brown Brown Brown and His Singing Tiger will see the surrealist take his debut children’s show to Edinburgh. Kids shows come to the Fringe from all over the world: The American High School Theatre present Dr Seuss I Love You, whilst Flamenco for Kids promises to teach kids how to “Ole” with the best of them. Huggers – Free Festival Family Fun is a cabaret and on the top of a double-decker bus. Shlomo’s Beatbox Adventure... For Kids! sees the multiaward winning beatboxer find himself a new sidekick and Fringe favourite The Enormous Turnip is back for a tenth year. As more and more media attention in Scotland is consumed by the forthcoming 2014 referendum there are a number of shows dealing with Scottish identity. Two of Scotland’s comedy perennials tackle the big questions in Vladimir McTavish and Keir McAllister Look at the State of Scotland. Glasvegas – The Original 1977 Musical tells the story of Scotland’s other city and Communicado’s Tam O’Shanter brings together different pieces of Burns poetry to create a raucous piece of theatre. To advertise call 07824 469266 or 07854 492638

In total there are 47 countries represented at the 2012 Fringe. Canada gives us Return of the Lumberjacks which reunites comics Glenn Wool, Stuart Francis and Craig Campbell after they first performed at the Fringe as the lumberjacks 15 years ago. Italian shows include Waiting For Godot sequel We Are Not Here and Joseph, a live dance show using chatroulette and image manipulation. Talking of other countries if you do want to escape the Olympics and the Fringe there is a great day out for enthusiasts of Italian Cars and Bikes at Hopetoun House on Sunday 12th August. This is the only experience in Scotland bringing together Italian cars and bikes in the setting of the country’s finest stately home. Come and see your favourite Italian automobiles from Lamborghini to Fiat and Ducati to Lambretta set against the stunning architecture and grounds of Hopetoun. Enjoy club displays, trade stands, Italian themed food and drink as well as exploring the grounds of Hopetoun – details can be found at www.hopetoun.co.uk

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Clubs and Classes

sports, hobbies, learning, support groups and more... After School Club at Honey Pot Ceramics Fridays 1-5pm term time. Arts and crafts, each week there is a specific project which could include clay, jewellery or cosmetics. £10, booking essential. Pre-School Messy Play At Honey Pot Ceramics. Every Monday. Thursday and Wednesday from 10-11am. Bring your little one along for some glittering, sticking, stamping and lots and lots of messy fun. Booking essential. See www.honeypotceramics.com or call 0131 333 6348 for more info on both clubs.

EAST CALDER East Calder Jog Scotland Group Meet every Tuesday at East Calder Health centre car park at 7pm. All abilities welcome, a social way to get fit, make friends and enjoy local countryside. Contact Dawn on 01506 883330 or 07806 772935 for more details. Zumba with Lindsay Monday East Calder Church Hall 7pm to 8pm Wednesday Uphall south parish church Hall 6pm to 7 pm Check out my facebook page - zumba with Lindsay for more details or contact me at: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk 07834183084 www.zumba.com Ditch the workout and join the party East Calder Colts FC East Calder Park. We are currently recruiting for an U9’s team born 2002/2003. Please come along to our soccer school Mondays 5pm - 6pm, ages P2 -P4 at East Calder Sports Centre. Any information required re Soccer School or any of our teams please visit our website www.eastcaldercolts.co.uk or contact Coach Graham Hamilton on 07545 758385. All welcome. East Calder Bowling Club Bingo every Sun and Wed 8pm– 9.30pm. Junior coaching (10 to 16 years old) every Fri 2pm – 4pm. We can also coach adults, free, so come along and give it a try. Hats every Mon 6-30pm. See club website at www.eastcalderbowlingclub.com, members can find details here of competitions, play by dates, club news. Zumba with Lorraine Tues, Mid Calder institute hall 7.15pm -8.15pm Wed and Fri East Calder church hall 9.30am -10.;30am Thurs Mid Calder Primary School 8.30pm – 9.30pm Sat Mid Calder Institute Hall 10am- 11am Kids zumbatomic classes age 7 -12, East Calder scout hall Wed 3.45pm – 4.30pm, please contact Lorraine as spaces are limited. Lorraine Farmer 07816 835926, email lfarmer@f2s.com East Calder Ladies’ Circle East Calder Community Centre Second Thursday of the month, September to May at 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Contact Frances Shearsby (Secretary) on 01506 494591, for more information.

Yoga for Everyone East Calder Community Centre Wed 7.00pm – 8.30pm For further info contact Ruth Plevin: 01506204338 or ruth@sukha.co.uk Step Into Dance with Vicky East Calder Church Hall Highland, Cheerleading, Tap, Freestyle Disco, Ballet, Hip Hop and a boys-only Hip Hop. Classes for ages 2 to adult, on Thurs & Fri. See www.stepintodancewithvicky.co.uk for more information or contact 07719 646942 Boys Brigade East Calder Church Hall Anchors (age 5 - 8) Fridays 6.30 - 7.30pm Juniors (age 8 - 11) Fridays 6.45 - 8.15pm. Company Section (age 11-18) Fridays 7.30 - 9.45pm Calll Jean Gilchrist 01506 880367 Circuit Training Sunday’s 6 – 7pm East Calder Scout Hall, £3 per session. An instructor-led class of pre set workout stations, the complete body workout, suitable for all levels of fitness, 16yrs plus. Under 16s welcome with participating adult, see website for further details Please contact: Email ailsa@amcfitness.co.uk Tel: 07808 161634 Web: www.amcfitness.co.uk East Calder Playgroup Now located in East Calder Community Centre. Mon-Fri 9:15am-11:15am from 2 years For the best introduction to your child’s education lots of fun to be had! £4 per session. Contact Carol on 07748 053340 Rainbows, Brownies and Guides East Calder Primary School Rainbows Wed 6.15 – 7.15pm Brownies Tues 6.30 – 8pm & Wed 6.30 – 8pm Guides Mon 7 – 8.50pm & Wed 7.30 – 9pm Contact Gillian Maben 01506 880640 Karate East Calder Sports Centre Ages 5 - 15 yrs . Junior Class: Fri 6.00pm - 7.00pm Intermediate/Advanced Class: Fri 7.00pm - 8.00pm Wadokai Karate, both boys and girls welcome, £4.00/session. Contact David Ewing on 0131 657 2085 Patchwork Classes We run patchwork classes throughout the week at Marys’ Patch. Monday 10-12, 1-3, Tuesday 10-12, 1-3, Wednesday 9.30-11.30, 12.30-2.30, Thursday 9.30-11.30, 12.30-2.30 Saturday 10-2. Knitting classes also available. East Calder Old Folks Club East Calder Community Centre Last Thursday of the month, September to April 1.30pm - 3.30pm. Pensioners and non-pensioners welcome. Contact Carol Anne Murray (Secretary)

East Calder Youth Club East Calder Community Centre Fri 6.15pm - 8.45pm. Ages 10 to 14 yrs. Cooking, football, baseball and other outdoor sports, pool, video games, board games and arts/crafts. Contact Gary Sneddon 01506 774473 Scottish Slimmers Pigeon Club Tues 6.00pm Call 0800 362636 for more info. Toddler Clinic East Calder Health Centre 1st Tues of every month. Drop in for advice and support 1.30pm – 3.30pm Young Mums East Calder Community Centre Mon 11.00am – 12.30pm. Free. Contact health visitor via health centre for further details 01506 880582 Douglas Pilates See www.douglaspilates.co.uk or call 01506 870062 for class times and venue. Bingo Pigeon Club, East Calder Sun 8.00 - 10.00 All welcome Firefly Arts (Youth Theatre) East Calder Primary School Juniors (P5 - P7) Fridays 2.30pm - 4pm £2.50 per week (1st week free). Classes also availble in Kirknewton, West Calder & Howden Park Contact 01506 773883 EC Allsteps Cheerleaders East Calder Church Hall and West Lothian College Competitive cheerleading squad. Also adult squad fun class at East Calder Sports Centre Mon 9.00pm - 10.00pm. For more information see www.ecallstepcheerleaders.co.uk or call 07719 646942 Cathy Bird Highland Dancers in East Calder Community Centre Tuesdays 4yrs up, 5-30-6-20pm. Advanced Club in East Calder Community Centre Tues 6.30pm – 8.30pm tel: 07809 423592 email: cathybird.gb@gmail.com www.cathybirdhighlanddance.co.uk East Calder Scout Group Scout Hall, Calderhall Terrace Beavers Mon 6.15 - 7.15pm (boys 6 - 8 yrs) Cubs Mon 7.30 - 9.00pm (boys 8 - 10 yrs) Scouts Tues 7.15 - 9.00pm (boys 10 - 14 yrs) Contact Jack Galloway on 077907 93889 eastcalderscouts.org.uk Breast Feeding Support Group East Calder Community Centre Wed 11.30am – 12.30pm except during school holidays. Free. Contact Health Visitor via Health Centre for further details 01506 880582 Needlecraft Club East Calder Community Centre Thur 7.00pm 9.00pm Contact Sheila (Secretary) on 0131 333 2217

Adult Line Dance Class East Calder Pigeon Club Mondays: Beginners 7pm, Improvers 8pm, Advanced 9pm. Tel Cathy Bird 07809 423592 email cathybird.gb@gmail.com

KIRKNEWTON Zumba with Kat - NEW Village Hall, Kirknewton, Thursday 7-8pm. Class is from age 16 up or age 12 if accompanied by an adult. Contact 07940 245151 or see Zumba Kat on facebook Douglas Pilates Classes Designed to help achieve health and fitness goals through expertly designed exercises. Because classes are limited a maximum of 12 people, you will get plenty of personal attention. Classes are held on: Mondays Ratho Community Centre - 6pm Tuesdays Murieston Village hall - 9:15am West Calder Community Centre - 6:45pm and 8pm Wednesdays West Calder Community Centre - 6pm Grand Central Pub, Deans – 7:45pm Thursdays Dedridge Baptist Church - 8pm Fridays Kirknewton Church - 9:15am To contact Susan Douglas and for classes information visit http://www.douglaspilates.co.uk/

Potter Around Overton Farm, Kirknewton, EH27 8DD For all class bookings and more information call 01506 238961 or email chat@potteraround.co.uk. www.potteraround.co.uk Stories and Crafts for wee ones Mondays 10.30am-11.30am Storytelling followed by a related craft activity. £4.50 a session which includes tea/coffee and biscuits for parents. Warhammer Club Fridays 2.30 – 5pm/ £4.50 if you are bringing models and brushes,; £7.50 get a model and brush to keep. Craft Club Fridays 1.30 – 3.30pm Different arts/crafts projects each week incl. Glass, clay. Paintingm, jewellery. £10, all materials, drink and snack supplied. Scrapbooking club Alternate Thursdays 7.30 – 9.30pm. £7.50 includes tea/coffer/biscuits. Basic materials will be provided. Jewellery Workshops Alternate Tuesdays, 7-9pm. £15, booking essential. Oil painting classes with Kirsty McDiarmid. Mondays 7-9pm, Thursdays 10.30am- 12.30pm. Kosy Kaff Kirknewton Village Hall Fridays 4pm – 5pm term time. Free home baking, hot chocolate, games and activities for primary school aged children. See www.knex4jesus.org. uk for more information.

Clubs and Classes

sports, hobbies, learning, support groups and more... Kirknewton Runners Meet at Kirknewton Park every Monday 19.30 Kirknewton Rainbows Kirknewton Village Hall Wed 5.00pm - 6.00pm For girls aged 5-7. Please contact Gill Greaves for more information on 01506 883261 Kirknewton Starlets Kirknewton Primary School Babies class up to age 8 Thurs 5.30pm - 6.30pm. Junior/senior class Thurs 6.15 - 8.00pm. For info contact Trisha t.ewing@btinternet.com Kirknewton Play Group Kirknewton Village Hall Mon – Fri 9.00am – 11.15am Ages 2 to 5 yrs. £5.00 per session. Call in and see us during session times Toddler Group Kirknewton Church Hall Parents/carers with tots aged 0-3 yrs, fridndly group with play, stories and craft for the children and meet up/chat for parents. Thur 9.30 - 11.30am Kirknewton Women’s Rural Institute Come and join us for a friendly evening of craft, demonstrations and fun. 2nd Thursday of each month, 7.15pm in Kirknewton Church Hall Kirknewton Stompers Walking group, meeting at Kirknewton Park entrance on Park Terrace every Wed 7.30pm. Join the group on the community facebook page where people post details of the walk, or any other time they are walking Hatton Sports Club Tennis and squash. Burnwynd, Kirknewton Social and competitive play. LTA-qualified tennis coaches. Contact Carol Blamire 01506 880208 Firefly Arts (Youth Theatre) Kirknewton Village Hall Juniors (P5-P7) Tues 4.30 - 6.00pm £2.50 per week (1st week free). Classes also availble in East Calder, West Calder & Howden Park Contact 01506 773883 Cathy Bird Highland Dancers Kirknewton Village Hall, Fridays 3-6yrs 5.30-6.20pm; 7+ yrs 6.30-7.20pm tel: 07809 423592 email: cathybird.gb@gmail.com www.cathybirdhighlanddance .co.uk KASPARS Afterschool Club Kirknewton Church Hall. Afterschool care Mon - Thu 3.15 - 6.00, Fri 12.30 - 6.00. Breakfast Club Mon Fri 8.00 - start of school. Call 07871 791000

Kirknewton Pensioners Club Kirknewton Village Hall 1st Wednesday of Month 1.00pm - 3.30pm and 3rd Thursday of Month 7.00pm - 9.00pm Everyone aged 60 years and over welcome

MID CALDER Mid Calder School of Dance Mid Calder Institute Hall Tap, Highland, Disco Tues 6.00pm - 7.00pm & Fri 6.15pm - 9.00pm. Various ages Contact Heather 01501733054 Folk Club Meets every third Tuesday of the month at the “Tap Shop” The Midcalder Inn, Mid Calder at 8pm Calder Bells Glenalmond Hall, Mid Calder Rehersals Mondays 7.30pm New members welcome Mid Calder Mother and Baby Group Institute Hall Tuesdays 10.00 Please call Vicky Ramsay for details on 07515 495101 The Willows Playgroup School Lane, Mid Calder Recently refurbished, places available for children from 2 years. Mon – Thurs 9-11am. £4 per session. Snack provided, nappy changing facilities. For more information please contact Sam on 01506 882832. Zumba with Lorraine Tues, Mid Calder institute hall 7.15pm -8.15pm Wed and Fri East Calder church hall 9.30am -10.;30am Thurs Mid Calder Primary School 8.30pm – 9.30pm Sat Mid Calder Institute Hall 10am- 11am Kids zumbatomic classes age 7 -12, East Calder scout hall Wed 3.45pm – 4.30pm, please contact Lorraine as spaces are limited. Lorraine Farmer 07816 835926, email lfarmer@f2s.com Yoga Classes Masonic Hall Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.00pm Contact Linda Bibby 01506 884115 www.wholebodybalance.co.uk Mid Calder Colts FC Teams covering all ages, playing soccer 7s, 11-a-side and also a soccer school. For more information see the Colts’ website www.mid-calder-colts.org Contact Carole 883934 contact@mid-calder-colts.org Welcome Cafe Glenalmond Hall Every Tuesday 10am-12noon. This is a Fair Trade Cafe all proceeds of which to the Vine Trust in Peru. Do come along and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and some home baking with friends.

Rainbows, Brownies and Guides Rainbows Wed night Brownies Tues night, Guides Mon and Wed nights. Contact Katrina Wallace on 01506 883816 Mid Calder Toddler Group Institute Hall Tues 9.15-11.15, £1 per toddler. For more info, please call 07949159097 or email lindacarragher@hotmail.com Choral Highlights Ladies’ Choir Kirk of Calder Rehearse Sun 11.45-12.45pm & Wed 7.30 -8.45pm Repertoir includes songs from Musical shows, Scottish songs, Religious and Pop music. Perform 2 concerts a year, one in May/ June and a Christmas concert in early December. All concert venues considered. New members very welcome, come and join us! Contact: John Rankine, Musical Director LLCM (TD) on 01506 880029 www.kirkofcalder.com (Church Organisations) Mid Calder Camera Club Institute Hall, Market Street Wed 7:30pm – 9:45pm All levels of photographers are welcome. For more information, visit www.mccc.org.uk or call Fred Roe at 01506 202190 or Steve Collier at 01506 881398 or Gordon Scott at 01506 882616.

POLBETH Polbeth W.R.I. 1st Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Come along for an interesting programme of talks and demonstrations. New members always welcome. Further information on 01506 435708.

PUMPHERSTON The Look Group Outdoors activities in Almondell and Calderwood Country Park for ages 8-12, meeting at Visitor Centre 10.30 - 12.00 Saturdays - not every Saturday, check programme with the Rangers on 01506 882254 Myra Mackie School of Dance Classes in Pumpherston, Mid Calder & Broxburn Please see our website for full timetable and venues. Children from 2 years to adult. www.myramackieschoolofdance.co.uk incorporating our competitive cheer division The Scottish Starlets Zumba with Lindsay Monday East Calder Church Hall 7pm to 8pm Wednesday Uphall south parish church Hall 6pm to 7 pm Check out my facebook page - zumba with Lindsay for more details or contact me at: lindsayandersondance@yahoo.co.uk 07834183084 www.zumba.com Ditch the workout and join the party

Pumpherston United FC Four groups, including a soccer school for 5-12 yrs (Thur 6.00pm - 7.30pm); 1998 age group (Tuesdays); 1997 age group (Mon and Wed) and 1995 age group (Mon and Wed). Training at Pumpherston Recreation Park. For more information , please email feedback@pumpherston-united.co.uk

WEST CALDER 18th West Lothian Scout Group West Kirk Hall, West Calder Beavers Mon 6-7pm, Cubs Wed 6.16-7.30pm, Scouts Thurs 6.30-8pm. Girls and boys 10.5 – 14 years. Contact Jean Walkinshaw 01506 873638. West Calder Walking Group Every Thurs at 12.30. Meet outside the Co-op, West Calder Main St. Walk approx 1 hr then coffee/tea stop to finish. Call 01506 871773 for more info.

CHURCHES

Church of Scotland Kirknewton Services 9:45 in the Kirknewton Kirk, Station Rd. East Calder Services 11:15 in the East Calder church, Main St Sunday School and creche available Rev Dr AJ Groenewald 8 Manse CourtEast Calder EH53 0HF. 01506 884585 or 075 888 458 14. groenstes@yahoo.com website www.knec4jesus.org.uk Mid Calder services 10.30 every Sunday in the Kirk of Calder, Main St, Mid Calder. Sunday School and crèche available. Pumpherston services - The Kirk of Calder also holds fortnightly services on Wednesday mornings at 10:15 at the Pumpherston Institute Hall. The website www.kirkofcalder.com has full details of current activities/services. Polbeth Harwood Church Service 11:15 am every Sunday West Kirk of Calder Service 9:45 am every Sunday. Interim moderator : Rev Dr AJ Groenewald 8 Manse Court, East Calder, EH53 0HF. Tel 01506 884585

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