Konect Linlithgow March 2019 by Konect Magazines

MARCH 2019

linlithgow

PLUS: HEALTH & BEAUTY, Garden Project, and more LOCAL FEATURES inside! The monthly community magazine for the Linlithgow area

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THIS ISSUE

TO OUR MARCH EDITION

elcome to the March issue of Konect. It’s good to see the first signs of spring out and about, and to be able look forward to the clocks going forward at the end of March. If you’re keen to get those spring cleaning and decorating jobs done around the house or to make a start on the outdoors jobs, try and use local businesses to help you whenever possible. The charity piece is a little different this month – it’s a special project being run by Disability West Lothian, to collect oral histories of how disabled people have shaped and influenced West Lothian over the past 50 years. Turn to p8 and if you or anyone you know may be able to help, do get in touch with them. We have an update from Transition Linlithgow on their electric bike hire scheme, and most of our usual columns are here. Thanks for reading the magazine and supporting local businesses and organisations.

P15 Charity: Back to the Future project............ 8 Health & Beauty...........................................10 Gardening: gardens are good for you!... 11 Interiors: Spring Tips...................................13 Puzzles..........................................................14 Sport: GymKarma........................................15 Property Matters..........................................20 Linlithgow by Electric Bike.........................24 Vet’s Tip.........................................................25 Parenting: Let me entertain you!..............26 What’s On......................................................28 Clubs & Classes..........................................28

COVER IMAGE: Spring flowers in your home.

Konect is delivered monthly to 7500 homes and businesses in Linlithgow, Linlithgow Bridge and the surrounding area. Copies are also left at the library, post offices and other locations.

HELEN-JANE SHEARER

CHARLENE GAFFNEY

E: editor@konect.scot

M: 07772 941899 E: charlene@konect.scot

Editor

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Account Manager

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Windows & Doors Kitchens Bathrooms Garage Conversions Sun Lounges & Orangeries Conservatories Roofline

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

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

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12.00 midday - 3.00pm at the Livingston Reminiscence Centre, The Centre. Please join us for tea, coffee, and information about the project, and see our miniexhibition which includes a vintage wheelchair salvaged from Bangour! There’s been much debate in the media recently about the voice and representation of disabled people, sparked by the release of the movie The Upside this January, where the lead character has quadriplegia; the role is played by Bryan Cranston instead of a disabled actor. So it’s interesting that local charity Disability West Lothian is currently undertaking a study of influence that disabled people have had on the urban landscape of West Lothian in the past 50 years. Called “Back to the Future West Lothian,” the project will be an oral history of the influence disabled people have had on many aspects of life such as public transport; the accessibility of public buildings, changes in educational facilities; health care facilities; parks, paths, and many others.

Invacar Did you have one of these cars? What school did you go to? What clubs, groups or activities did you participate in? Do you have any vintage disability aids lurking in the loft? If you, or an older relative, are happy to talk about your experiences of living with a disability in West Lothian, the Back to the Future team would love to hear from you.

“Older people with a disability can be quite invisible,” says Debbie Forsyth, Volunteer Project Coordinator. “You may not see them out and about especially if they have mobility issues; but we’re keen to capture their heritage.” 8 | LINLITHGOW

Volunteers from the project will meet you wherever is convenient for you – in your home, or at the Disability West Lothian office in Pumpherston (which is fully accessible), to hear about and record your experiences. The volunteers are trained in oral history, and at the end of the project the recordings will be kept at the West Lothian Local History library, and a booklet and short video will be produced. Gordon Mungall, Chair of Disability West Lothian, explained how the project came about: “There have been a lot of changes in the past 30 years, since Disability West Lothian was set up, so this is an opportunity to look back on what it was like living in West Lothian with a disability in the past to see how disabled people have driven change.” Disability West Lothian (DWL) started in 1976 as a grass roots organisation and founded as a company in 1988. DWL works with people with disabilities to improve the quality of life of disabled people by promoting the ideals of the Social Model of Disability. If you would like to be involved in any way, to share your stories, or to volunteer to help collect the stories, to help at events or in any other way, please contact Disability West Lothian via the details below. Facebook: “Back to the Future, West Lothian” Website: www.disabilitywestlothian.org

Call Debbie Forsyth Back to the Future Project Co-Ordinator, on 01506 774030 or email debbie.forsyth@disabilitywestlothian.org Back to the Future West Lothian is Heritage Lottery Funded.

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HEALTH

Why has Fat got such a bad name? Think eating fat makes you fat? Think again. Switching your low-fat habit for a love of healthy fats is the enlightened way forward for weight loss.

There’s a growing awareness that food manufacturers are creating low-fat, fat-free “healthy” food by replacing the fat with sugar to mask the lack of flavour; making us eat and buy more. However, the smart dieter now knows that eating a moderate amount of healthy fat will not only keep you fuller for longer but help to curb food cravings. So how has this fat phobia happened? Why has fat got such a bad name? The problem is that people label all fats the same. They’re not. Like everything in the food world there are the good and the bad. Recent research shows that it’s only the transfats that are bad; clogging your arteries and causing inflammation. They’re in many processed/diet/ready-to-eat foods, refined vegetable/hydrogenated oils, margarine and processed meats. They increase the shelf-life of foods and shorten yours. The good healthy fats are what your body needs: to provide essential fatty acids that the body physically cannot produce itself; to boost your immune system and keep your joints supple and your skin soft. You’ll find them in: coconut oil; olive oil; avocados; nuts; seeds; dark chocolate; nut butters; free range eggs; oily fish such as mackerel and salmon; and naturally organic dairy. These good fats are a crucial part of a wellbalanced meal, so aim to include a moderate amount of them: combined with fibre and protein they’ll help you lose weight. For more inspired information on how to lose weight get in touch check out www.nutriclub.co.uk or call Louise 07837 794112. Classes and 1-2-1 coaching available in Linlithgow. 10 | LINLITHGOW

Why You Should Probably Just Take The Leap You’re not happy with your life. You’ve accepted you’re not happy. But are you motivated to change it?

Many people find themselves in just this situation, and they don’t make a change until something serious forces them. Death, divorce, and redundancy are some of the unfortunate events that it takes for a lot of people to make a change. They suddenly find themselves stuck between a rock and a hard place and finally perceive there to be no risk in making the change. This usually results in a positive outcome and they wish that they’d had the courage to make the change sooner. Consider this; Most people overestimate the risk of change, and underestimate the risk of staying the same. If you’re not happy with your current situation then the chances are that by making a change you will experience the same or better. Don’t be frightened to try something new. Be terrified that you’ll come to the end of your life never having experienced real happiness and fulfilment. That is the scariest prospect of all. You don’t have to wait to hit rock bottom to make a change. You can take the leap at any time. Would you wait for a ship to sink before jumping to a life raft? No, you would jump on a life raft as soon as you sensed danger. Don’t wait until you’re drowning before you make your leap. The life coaching column is contributed by Erica Douglas. Erica lives in West Lothian and is a Cognitive Coach & Therapist. See her “LifeHeal” facebook page at facebook.com/LifeHealCoaching

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GARDENING PROJECT

How good do you want gardening to be for you? New Year’s resolutions are far behind us and Spring’s arrival is always a bit fickle so how keen are you to get out into the garden and restore you mind and body with some creative gardening? If you are one of the more reluctant gardeners can we persuade you to turn your thoughts to the wonderful and very fashionable Oriental Hellebores? No matter how reluctant you are it won’t take too much effort to plant one of these most rewarding plants in your garden and if you are lucky enough to already have some in the garden it will take even less effort to go out into your garden armed with scissors and snip off a few heads to bring indoors. If you are treating yourself to a new plant they enjoy being planted in soil that is neither too dry

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nor too wet and where they will get a little sun and little shade. Do cultivate the soil well before planting. They should be placed somewhere you will see them at this time of year, we sometimes enjoy a new one flowering in a pot by the front door, only planting it in a permanent position after flowering. Floating the heads in a bowl of water indoors really delights the soul and proves the point that even a little something from the garden is good for you!

HELLEBORES: Floating the heads in a bowl of water indoors really delights the soul The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

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INTERIORS

If you are up for it and are looking to make the transition from the winter blues into a more bright and airy home; here are 5 spring interior design tips to inspire and get you started. Refresh your wallpaper and paint - An easy way to make a change to your interior design is by refreshing the paint or wallpaper of your homes’ rooms. A fresh lick of paint or injecting some patterns or colour through the use of wallpaper is a great way to give your home a spring update. Nonexpensive options such as standard paints and removable wallpaper mean that refreshing your homes’ wall should be both cheap, and easy. Invest in new window coverings - White crisp plantation shutters look to be 2019’s must have for your home. FSC Certified Basswood plantation shutters are not just environmentally friendly but also provide ideal shading and look fantastic both inside and out! Fresh voile drapes and roller blinds also give a cotton fresh feel to your interior space and enhance light control. Go Vintage - Another on-trend style is vintage interior décor. Whether you own rental properties or are just looking to refresh your family home, going vintage is a bold style statement which won’t disappoint. Everything from cabinets to light fixtures can be sourced from vintage furniture specialists to give your home more of a touch of nostalgic, romantic feel. Get Creative - Getting creative involves a little bit of arts and crafts, and if you enjoy this some ideas include making simple artwork to hang on your walls, or making tabletop ornaments out of recycled materials. Even creating a living display out of old containers and filling it with soil, moss and plants can make a huge difference to your interiors. By tapping into your creative side you can refresh your home at very little cost. @KonectMagazines

Give your Furniture a Facelift - Another spring interior design tip that won’t cost the earth is to give your homes’ furniture a facelift. Ideas include repainting picture frames and window sills, re-upholstering chairs, or giving table and countertops a fresh coat of lacquer or paint.

Whatever your situation, or your tastes and interests, there are literally thousands of ways you can prepare your interiors for spring. Hopefully the five tips above are enough to give you some inspiration to get started! This article and illustrations were contributed by Harvey Bruce Interiors. www.harveybruce.co.uk Williamson’s Garden Centre, Uphall, West Lothian, EH52 6PA LINLITHGOW | 13

CROSSWORD

Solution in the April edition of Konect

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SUDOKU

Sudoku Solution on Page 31.

PUZZLES

ACROSS: 7. Sea between Europe and Africa (13), 8. Created, designed (8), 9. Perfectly fair or flat (4), 10. Normally, typically (7), 12. Unwanted plants (5), 14. Holding device (5), 16. Copenhagenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s country (7), 19.Astonish (4), 20. Tropical fruits (8), 22. Celebrated, toasted (13) DOWN: 1. Green leafy plant (4), 2. Picture house (6), 3. Fabric (7), 4. Wedded woman (5), 5. Dust might cause this! (6), 6. Chart of dates (8), 11. Answer (8), 13. Tomato sauce (7), 15. Organize, oversee (6), 17. First working day (6), 18. Waste material (5), 21. Foot digits (4)

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SPORTS

November 1962: 19 of us on a mass blind date organised by Barry Donnelly who, courtesy of a road accident, had an overnight grey streak down the centre of his black mane. Poor Beryl got the last choice, (me). “What has this to do with gymnastics?” you ask. Well, the occasion was the Christmas dance at I M Marsh College - the ladies’ equivalent of Loughborough for men - the foremost Sports Colleges in Britain. When our girls, Jo and Sue, were 7 and 5 respectively, Beryl took them along to West Kirby gym club where they commenced successful gymnastic careers lasting till their late teens. Beryl played a major role in the growth and success of the Club until her death over 30 years later, becoming a highly respected coach and judge and lifetime president of the club. West Kirby produced Britain’s first female World Gymnastics gold medallist, Beth Tweddle, who inspired the next generation. Thus gymnastics is close to my heart. My chest has swelled with pride as progressively higher medals were won; my heart has pounded with nerves as a risky move was attempted; I’ve suffered sympathy pains at times of injury. Above all, I watched the ability and life confidence of my girls grow with every new move they mastered, every level achieved, every medal won. So I vigorously recommend you consider gymnastics as a leisure activity for your child or

grandchild. An ideal place to start (600 members can’t be wrong!), would be Livingston-based West Lothian Artistic Gymnastics Club, where balance, strength, flexibility, agility, coordination, endurance, selfconfidence, persistence, social skills should all improve rapidly under the dedicated guidance of their outstanding coaching team. There are many disciplines recognised by the Federation Internationale de Gymnastique plus a few unrecognised. Artistic gymnastics is the bestknown: six disciplines for men, (floor exercise, pommel horse, still rings, vault, parallel bars and horizontal bars), and four for women (vault, uneven bars, balance beam and floor exercise). Your West Lothian Club, (est.1985), offers classes starting from toddlers all the way through to adults, for recreational members or committed competitors. The club has produced many Scottish Internationals and even a competitor in the Commonwealth Games (Ellie Russell). The coaches are top-notch under head coaches John Campbell and Becki Campbell, so your “baby” would be in the ideal proven environment. An operation like WLAGC, is no fluke. It requires a vision, then a plan and crucially the people with the will, energy and ambition to make it all happen and keep it driving forward. It’s impossible to remain unimpressed by the scale and efficiency of the WLAGC: the classes are merely the tip of a huge iceberg. Beneath the surface lie crucial fundraising schemes (donations or ideas gratefully welcomed!), coach development, summer camps, competition organisation, competition entries, competition/leisure trips abroad, plus the usual demands common to all businesses. Every day must be like a complicated tumble run! It’s exhausting just to contemplate! But what a job they do in providing a safe, efficient, consistent and aspirational environment for youngsters to grow! Respect! www.facebook.com/westlothiangymnastics 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.

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T: 01506 827110 M: 07778 339980 E: wafsltd@btconnect.com www.weldfabsolutions.com Unit 13 Links Court, Boâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ness, EH51 9UD

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PROPERTY MATTERS

Cheap is not always cheerful As any retailer knows, these days we are all up for a bargain and we are all looking to make a saving. That’s perfectly understandable, but there are real pitfalls to being thrifty. I recently decided to switch to a different brand of shaving product, having used the same one for over thirty years. My decision was made purely on price, which had steadily increased to the point where I began to feel that I simply wasn’t getting value for money. I was prompted to look at alternative options when a different brand of razor regularly started appearing in sponsored adverts online. The repeated awareness of the new brand name and my now wavering loyalty to my existing one pushed me towards trying the new product. The initial ordering system was very straightforward with monthly repeat orders customised to my personal requirements and the speed of delivery, free gift, quality of the packaging and the general presentation of the products were all very impressive.

So far so good. However, after trying the new razor for the first time, the experience was disappointing and reminded me of a low quality disposable product which was quite a surprise. I initially put it down to it being different rather than of inferior quality however after several weeks of persisting, I eventually concluded that the product was not of the same premium quality I had been used to and, despite the new product being 50% cheaper, I reverted to my original brand. Although the convenience, branding, ordering service, packaging, marketing and price were all excellent, the customer experience fell short when it came to using the product: it simply did not fulfil its brand promise. This kind of 20 | LINLITHGOW

company and brand experience applies to all products and services: the final proof is to be found in how they perform.

The same is true when it comes to estate agents. The ultimate test of an estate agent is the price they can achieve for your property. Again, like the razor story, some people are tempted by lower marketing and selling costs – only to find that they might have made much more money from the sale if they had invested in a better service. Online estate agents, and for that matter many high-street agents, might sell your property more ‘cheaply’ but they will often do so by cutting corners – for example, by not investing in experienced staff or industry-leading marketing. Or they may, particularly in the case of online agencies and call centres, quite simply not have the requisite local property market knowledge to enable them to break through the ‘price ceiling’ for similar properties in your area. This could mean that you miss out on (tens of) thousands of pounds in the final sale price for your property. In the end, the cheapest option really can turn out to cost you the most…and that’s definitely not something to feel cheerful about. 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

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delivering more Put yourself in safe hands with our highly experienced legal and property teams.

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One of the new electric bikes available for hire A low cost electric bike hire scheme has arrived in Linlithgow. Brought to the town by Transition Linlithgow, Linlithgow’s environmental charity, the electric bikes have been funded by the Energy Saving Trust Scotland and Transport Scotland electric bike grant fund.

Wendy Graham, Travel Project Co-ordinator at Transition Linlithgow, said “We are delighted to offer electric bikes for low cost hire in Linlithgow. Electric bikes are changing the way that people travel – allowing people to cycle further than they normally would; and making cycling accessible to people that might not otherwise be able to cycle up Linlithgow’s hills. We hope that by letting people see how easy to use, fun, and practical electric bikes are, through our low cost hire scheme, that more and more people will consider electric bikes for their journeys rather than travelling by car, easing congestion on our busy high street”. Users can hire an eBike from £7.50 for 3 hours use; £15 for a full day; and £30 for a weekend’s hire. The charges have been kept as low as possible and are to cover maintenance, repair and servicing costs not covered by the grant funding. The bikes can be hired from Transition Linlithgow’s community hub – Unit 5 – based at Braehead Business Units, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, EH49 6EP. All users are supplied 24 | LINLITHGOW

with a helmet, lock, and all the accessories they need depending on their journey at no additional cost. From special bags for transporting laptops by bike, to bags for doing a grocery shop, all users are catered for.

The electric bikes in question are Raleigh Motus Grand Tour bikes – specially chosen for their step through frame, accommodating riders of all ages and abilities. This frame type is exceptionally helpful for people who might struggle a little bit physically to lift their leg over a high step frame, whether due to injury or age. The initial grant is for 3 electric bikes - if the initial hire is successful Transition Linlithgow will seek funding for further bikes. For more information visit www.transitionlinlithgow.org.uk/linlithgowelectric-bike-hire or email contact@ transitionlinlithgow.org.uk or call 01506 844182 to book. This article was contributed by Transition Linlithgow. Transition Linlithgow has worked for 10 years taking action on local issues of sustainability and climate change. See www.transitionlinlithgow.org.uk @KonectMagazines

VET’S TIP

Diabetes Diabetes is not just a disease which humans have to deal with, it is more common in pets than you might think. Symptoms can vary but often include an increased thirst and appetite, more than often urination, or weight loss. Treatment of a lack of naturally occurring insulin, which causes diabetes, is relatively simple – the hormone is administered to control glucose levels. In pets the difficulty has traditionally been in how to monitor glucose levels. The best way was to take blood samples. But they had to be in a stressful clinic environment with blood being taken regularly over an eight to ten hour period to see how glucose levels fluctuate through the day. However, recently innovations mean that vets can now attach a sticky sensor - which is about the size of a £2 coin - to the skin so is able to monitor glucose levels. The sensor lasts up to 14 days, so two weeks of continuous glucose monitoring without needles. This provides far more data, including overnight which previously we have been unable to collect and allow much better monitoring and management of our patients. Because of the time the sensor is on we often just put a jumper/ medical pet shirt on the animal so they don’t scratch it off. So, don’t put off getting your pet checked for diabetes, it is a lot more simple and easy than you might think. The Vet’s Tip is contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 8 Preston Road. Call: 01506 844 165, or visit: www.westportvets.com

BUSTER THE DOG

PARENTING

Socks @

Let me entertain you!

Jumpstation

A wise friend said to me recently that oing Wild you grow with your child. She is already G the proud owner of a teenager so while she now has a whole new set of challenges to contend with, there are a lot of stages of parenting that are in the rear view mirror for her. It’s kind of like parenthood is an obstacle course; every now and again you come across a new hurdle that you have to work out how to tackle. But once it’s behind you, you don’t need to worry about it any more. When my girls were babies I knew where to find all the best changing facilities, feeding rooms, and places that were breastfeeding friendly. When they were potty training I knew where every toilet was within fifty paces and the fastest route to get there. For now I know all the best soft-play hangouts and places to go for lunch where I can get a kids box full of things they will actually eat. But what comes next? My eldest, of course, is always the first one to venture into unknown territory. And she is now reaching an age where I need to think outside the box a little more often to come up with new and interesting things to do. She’s too 26 | LINLITHGOW

old for a lot of the soft play places but too young to go off on her own yet she is just raring to go…somewhere! So I’m faced with the latest hurdle of coming up with new and different things to try now that she is a bit older. So if, like me, you find yourself in no-man’s land somewhere between threenager and teenager here’s what I’ve come up with so far to keep the kids out of trouble. Kids Go Wild run woodland activities, classes and workshops for kids and big kids alike. There are weekly Little Boots sessions for younger kids, while older ones can enjoy all manner of bushcraft and outdoor activities as they learn and explore in the wild. Den building, tree climbing, campfires, mini beasts, tool skills…what could be better? JumpStation Trampoline Park with its interconnected trampolines and activity zones is jam-packed with fun for kids with energy to burn.

They offer trampoline classes if the kids really want to learn or general jumps sessions if they just want to play. They even offer the likes of disco nights, fitness sessions, and a dodgeball league. Look out for Tots Time sessions for pre-school children. Edinburgh International Climbing Arena does Clip ‘n Climb sessions on cleverly designed walls and fun climbing challenges. I’d say my daughter was probably feeling equal parts fear and curiosity the first time we took her but she was totally hooked! It is a great new challenge and there is nothing like the sense of achievement they get when they reach new heights. The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls.

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Would you like your business included in the children and families pages of Konect? Please contact us if you would like more information, our details are on page 3.

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CLUBS & CLASSES

March

RUNS UNTIL SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 2019 Brick City at Blackness Castle: Brick City is a celebration of iconic buildings from cities around the world, carefully recreated in LEGO® bricks by artist Warren Elsmore and his team. Included in normal castle admission price. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Rangers on 0131 652 8150, email rangers@hes.scot for information. SATURDAY 9TH MARCH Red Priest, Truly Mad Baroque: Hosted by Linlithgow Arts Guild, Linlithgow Academy 7,30pm. Music by Bach, Vivaldi, Albinoni, Tartini. Tickets from Far From the Madding Crowd, online at Linlithgowartsguild.co.uk or text/phone 07731 614179. £14/£6. SATURDAY 16TH MARCH Antique, Vintage & Collectors Fair: The Linlithgow Heritage Trust is holding an Antique, Vintage & Collectors Fair at Linlithgow Academy on 16th March 2019 in aid of the new Linlithgow Museum. 9 am - 4 pm. Admission £1, children under 14 free. Raffle, tea, coffee and home baking, and also a pop-up café, run by Mannerstons, selling hot food and ice cream. SATURDAY 16TH MARCH Coffee morning: Come along and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee and a selection of cakes, in support of a scout trip to Namibia in July, which four Linlithgow scouts will be participating in. All welcome! 10:00 – 12:00, Cross house, next to The Vennel car park, 50m from the Cross, Linlithgow. £3 for tea/coffee and 3 portions of cake. Raffle tickets will also be for sale. SATURDAY 30TH MARCH Easter Coffee Morning: 4th West Lothian Scout Group will be hosting their annual Easter Coffee Morning at Cross House on Saturday 30th March from 10am - 12.30pm. Please join us to enjoy some delicious home baking with a cup of tea or coffee. We look forward to welcoming you. DONATIONS OF BLOOD will be welcomed at any one of the four Sessions run by the Blood Transfusion Service which are taking place on Sunday 17th and Monday 18th March in The Low Port Centre in Blackness Road, Linlithgow as follows: • Sun 17th Mar: 10.30am-12.30pm & 2.00pm-3.40pm • Mon 18th Mar: 2.10pm-4.00pm & 5.30pm-7.30pm New donors, (i.e. anyone in good health over the age of 17 years) are always needed and they, along with all the existing volunteers, will be welcomed along to the Sessions to ensure that hospital demand for blood and blood products can be met in the coming days ahead.

LINLITHGOW FILM SOCIETY

Linlithgow Academy Theatre, Braehead Road, 7:30pm. Adults £6, Concessions £5, Under 16 £4. See www.linlithgowfilmsociety.org.uk • Mon 4th March 2019 - BREATHE • Mon 18th March 2019 - DEATH OF STALIN

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. 28 | LINLITHGOW

SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... LINLITHGOW NEW LINLITHGOW BSL GROUP LISTING Are you a BSL user or have learned British Sign Language and don’t want to lose the skill? This group meets at the West Port Hotel for a BSL chat. Anyone welcome, Deaf and hearing of various levels from interpreters to beginners attend the group for a chat in this wonderful language. We meet every two weeks during term time and occasionally for holiday events. For dates please check out our facebook by searching “Linlithgow BSL group.” Alternatively you can contact Alice Lane on 078168 29946.

LINLITHGOW LONGCROFT TABLE TENNIS GROUP (LLTTG) The club will restart for the new 2018/19 season on Wednesday 5th September. The LLTTG meets every Wednesday night from 8.15pm to 9.45pm in the Longcroft Hall, Philip Avenue and gives an opportunity to play Table Tennis in a friendly and not too competitive atmosphere. Open to everyone and we have a mixed range of ages and ability. No special kit is required. Bats can be provided. Cost is £3.00 per night or £2.00 for under 18’s. For further information please contact Allan Scott on 01506 842602.

RAINBOW UNITS (Girls aged 5 - 7 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. BROWNIE UNITS (Girls aged 7 - 10 years old) take place on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding. org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com. GUIDE UNITS (Girls aged 10 - 14 years old) take place on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org. uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

SENIOR SECTION UNIT (Girls aged 14 - 25 years old) take place on Friday night. For more information please visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved or alternatively you can email us on westlothiangirlguiding@gmail.com.

POSITIVE PATHWAYS – BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Meets in the Canal Tearoom at 6.30 pm on Thursdays fortnightly. The group is led by a trained bereavement listener. £3 per meeting which goes towards the cost of hiring the tearoom. There is no magic formula which will take away the pain, but by listening and sharing with others, it is often possible to lessen the sense of isolation, chaos and despair felt after the death of a loved one. You will be warmly welcomed. For further information contact Sheila Rae by phoning or texting 07719 966273 or email sheila.ruth.rae@gmail.com. Bereavement Support Team St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow.

2ND LINLITHGOW GIRLS BRIGADE Girls Brigade P1 – S6. Come and join in the fun 6.30 Wednesday evening in term time. St Michaels Kirk Hall, Cross House. Contact Captain Clare at 2ndlinlithgowgirlsbrigade@gmail.com 2ND LINLITHGOW BOYS BRIGADE Meet at Cross House on a Thursday evening. Anchor Boys (P2-P3) 6.30pm-7.30pm; Junior Section (P4-P6) 7.00pm-8.15pm;Company/Seniors (P7-S6) 7.45pm-9.45pm. You can contact us on facebook at 2nd Linlithgow Boys Brigade or email us at linlithgowBB@outlook.com.

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CLASSICAL PILATES CLASS – FIRST CLASS FREE! Linlithgow Bowling Club on Thursdays at 10am. Improve posture, flexibility, strength and stability with classical pilates. For booking and further information contact Maria on 07513 116490, e: mariahybszerpilates@gmail.com or check our website mariahybszerpilates.weebly.com NUTRICLUB Nutrition-focussed weight-loss classes in Linlithgow. To learn more about healthy eating and nutrition focused weight loss, get in touch with Louise. Tel: 07837 794112 www.nutriclub.co.uk www.facebook.com/ nutriclublinlithgow. SANGSCHULE We are a friendly and informal group who meet together to sing and learn new songs from our tutors. Meeting most Wednesdays in term-time in Linlithgow Academy staff room, 7.30-9.30pm All welcome, no experience needed, no need to read music. Under16s must be accompanied. More details from Susan on 01506 843592, and on our website www.angelfire.com/folk/ sangschule/programme LINLITHGOW NIBBLE & NATTER Are you over 60? Looking to get out and meet some new people? Come and join our weekly get together in Longcroft Hall, Linlithgow, where we enjoy coming together and meeting new people. Have a chat and a choice of biscuits and cakes with a cup of tea. A welcoming atmosphere awaits you! Cost is just £1 and all are welcome. If you’d like more info get in touch with Cyrenians OPAL (Older People, Active Lives) service on 01506 815815 or e: opal@cyrenians.scot LINLITHGOW WRITERS CIRCLE We meet every second Wednesday in the Linlithgow Tap in Linlithgow, from 7.30pm until 10pm. It’s for aspiring writers in and around Linlithgow to come together and write, share our work for critique and make some writing friends. It’s free to come along. For further details e:linlithgowwriters@gmail.com or findr us on Facebook. 2ND WEST LOTHIAN SCOUTS The Scout Hall, 6 Dog Well Wynd, Linlithgow. Beavers (age 6-8) meet Wednesdays; Cubs (age 8-10.5) meet Mondays; Two Scouts troops (age 10.5 -14) meet Wednesdays and Thursdays. Contact Group Scout Leader Nick Moody at scouts2wl@hotmail.co.uk. Substantial waiting lists for all sections - new adult volunteers always welcome. THE CARING CAFE Low Port Centre, 1 Blackness Road, Linlithgow, EH49 7HZ. The Caring Cafe is a meeting place where people with dementia and their carers have a chance to meet others in a similar situation. Meets monthly on the 3rd Wednesday of every month 10am-12noon (Lunch available after the café in the Lowport Centre cafeteria). For people who are able to attend safely on their own or who are accompanied by someone to support them. Contact Margaret or May from Linlithgow Link on tel: 01506 845137 or e: co-ordinator@linlithgowlink.org.uk LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS Are you and your staff interested in improving speaking in public and leadership skills? Do you know about Toastmasters? Linlithgow Speakers is a local voluntary group that can help develop these skills. We are looking for new members in Linlithgow. Come and visit on Tuesday night (we meet every second Tuesday at 7.30 at the Low Port Centre in Linlithgow. Please contact me for more info: Sheila Fraser 01506 650953 or 07968 233324. LINLITHGOW KEEP FIT CLUB We meet every Thursday from 19:00-21:00 at the gym at the rear of Linlithgow Academy. We have limited spaces for new male members. We resume on the 27th August. Call Brian on 07984 930235 or e: gallacherbrian@hotmail.com for further information. LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA We meet weekly on Monday 7.30-9.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. We are a friendly group and welcome players aged 16+ with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent. New

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Players from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us in advance on: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com or search for us on Facebook BADMINTON CLUB Small, friendly club meets Wednesday evenings at Lowport Centre, 7-9pm. We are looking for new members who have played before. Adults only. LINLITHGOW & DISTRICT EMBROIDERS GUILD Linlithgow and District Branch of the Embroiderers Guild meet the last Wednesday of the month in Linlithgow Academy Library from 7pm till 9pm, September to May. Variety of Speakers and classes. Beginner or experienced, or not a stitcher all are welcome. SUNSHINE SINGALONG Kirk Hall, St Michael’s Parish Church, second Thursday every month 12-1.30pm. Caring for those living with memory loss. Light lunch then singing your favourite songs. A warm welcome awaits you, no church connection needed, just turn up on the day. Disabled parking in the Vennel Car Park adjacent to Kirk Hall. SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB Star and Garter (Above the lounge), Station Road. Thursday nights 7pm – 9pm. For the over 50s to find out what you can do with your computer, laptop, iPad/tablet or smartphone device. Enjoy the experience; learn and share! Contact: Tom Lambert, Linlithgow Computer Club. Call 07418 331656 or just call in. PHYSIO LED PILATES The Scout Hall in Linlithgow, Monday evenings 6pm & 7pm and Sunday mornings at 10am. The Old Pavilion in Linlithgow Wednesday evenings 6:30pm. At Physio Led Pilates you can feel assured that exercises will be performed safely, effectively and modified to the appropriate level for you under the expert guidance of an experienced Physiotherapist. For booking and further info please see www.physioledpilates.com FORTH VALLEY ORIENTEERS Come and try orienteering! Learn to navigate with map and compass with FVO club coaches. Junior classes (9-13 years old, with or without parent). Adult newcomer classes for all ages. £5 per session. Contact Jen Lenoard on 01506 843552 or e: membership@fvo.org.uk for more info. MALE VOICE CHOIR We meet every Monday from 19:45 in the Rugby Club. If you would like to come and try us out please do. Or if you have any questions please phone Chris Thomas on 07823 884802. STEP TOGETHER FAMILY SUPPORT Support for those affected by the addictive behaviour of a loved one. Being in a close relationship with someone struggling with addiction can be a painful, frustrating and lonely journey. Our group focuses on establishing healthier relationships with our loved one and others, restoring balance to our lives and developing more helpful coping strategies. We meet in the evening on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday each month. For more info call or text 07592 226917. LINLITHGOW BRIDGE CLUB Meet every Tues and Thurs in the Burgh Halls, 6.45pm. Play starts at 7p.m. New members are always welcome. If you are looking for a partner or would like more information please contact the club president Gwen MacLeod on 01506 846700 or email gwenmac37@icloud.com

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT CHARITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR OTHER LISTINGS. SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.KONECT.SCOT

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BRIDGE COLUMN

March

There’s plenty to see and do in March in West Lothian...

The West Lothian Variety Show takes place at Howden Park Centre on Sunday 17th March from 14.00. Celebrate talent of all ages across West Lothian, with performances from young and old all coming together to present an afternoon of music and theatre. Tickets are just £5 so don’t miss this fun event for the whole family. Also at Howden Park Centre, for the adults amongst us, the hit comedy “Dirty Dusting” on Wednesday 28th March is a hilarious, feel good comedy sure to have you laughing out loud. For the kids, a Teddy Bears Picnic at Almond Valley always goes down a treat! Afternoon tea costs £9.95/ adults and £4.95/kids. Bring along your favourite teddy bear, doll or soft toy! In Linlithgow, on the 6th April join the Linlithgow Arts Guild for a concert of Violin and Piano featuring Lana Trotovsek and Maria Canyigueral. The award multi award winning pair will be at the Academy Theatre from 19.30 for an evening of musical excellence. If you’re thinking ahead to sunnier times, tickets are on sale for two festivals. Party at the Palace returns, featuring a line-up of Wet Wet Wet, Deacon Blue, KT Tunstall to name a few. Also, new this year at Jupiter Artland, following on from the success of Romanti-Crash, “Jupiter Rising” will take place in August. Don’t miss out on the chance to secure your tickets for both of these events as they’re sure to sell fast. The new Visit West Lothian website has recently launched. With a completely refreshed appearance, updated venue listings and a comprehensive What’s On section, it’s the one stop shop for finding out what to see do in West Lothian. Follow us on social media to stay up to date with the latest attraction information: www.facebook.com/VisitWestLothian www.twitter.com/SeeWestLothian www.instagram.com/VisitWestLothian 30 | LINLITHGOW

Tricky Bidding Conundrum

You are sitting East holding this: K J 6 4 2 4 K 9 4 3 K Q 6 Dealer South passes. Your partner East bids 1 . North overcalls 1 . You bid 1 . South passes. Partner bids 2 . North passes. What is your next bid? There are several (semi) plausible answers, but which is best? SOLUTION 1. 2 is best. If partner bids 3 , follow with 3 . 4th suit forcing. Partner will likely bid 3NT with something in hearts. 2. 3 NT is a good pragmatic solution if 4th suit forcing is not in your repertoire. 3. 3 . Showing support for partner’s good club suit. 4. 5 . My bid and not a good one (having no aces) despite seeming justified by the Losing Trick Count, which may explain why it went down giving us a bad result on that board. (Apologies to partner.) 5. 3 . Not a good bid because it suggests a diamond shortage. Many thanks to professional Douglas Piper for his help in solving this puzzle. The Bridge Column is contributed by John Samson. John is a member of the Pentland Bridge Club and the Balerno Bridge Club. Feedback to jsamson23@hotmail.com with heading ‘Konect – Bridge Column’.

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

APPLIANCE REPAIRS JOINERY Create Enhanced Spaces 6 Home Appliance Repair 6 Domestic Joinery BATHROOMS & KITCHENS & Maintenance Services 22 1st Choice Living 5 Geoff Vinter Joinery 4 Bathgate Bathroom LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Studio 22 Beatsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Building Supplies Paragon Bathroom 18 Solutions 5 S and S LAWNS Home Improvements 16 Green Thumb Lawn Service 4 BOILER SERVICES The Gas Engineer 6 LOCKSMITH CVC Locksmiths and COMMUNITY Security 6 Cyrenians Volunteering 14 MARKETING/LEAFLETING COMPUTER / PHONE The Leaflet Lady 32 REPAIRS Sprint Computer Repairs 23 MOBILITY SERVICES Ableworld 9 CURTAINS & BLINDS Harvey Bruce 12 PHOTOGRAPHER Gretchen Laird ELECTRICIAN Photography 27 SL Electrical 6 Task Scotland 7 PLASTERING Nu Walls 6 ESTATE AGENT Drummond Miller 23 PLUMBING & HEATING Turpie & Co 21 SERVICES Dewar Plumbing 7 FENCING, RAILINGS, GATES McLellan Plumbing 18 Welding & Fabrication Solutions 19 PROOF READER Many Pens 4 GARDEN CENTRE New Hopetoun Gardens 11 TRUSTED TRADER SCHEME GARDEN DESIGN / West Lothian Trusted MAINTENANCE Trader Scheme 12 Evergreen Balerno 19 West Lothian VET & ANIMAL WELLBEING Garden Maintenance 6 Mackie & Brechin 25 GARDEN FURNITURE AND YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SCHEME BUILDINGS Developing the Young Champfleurie Estate 2 Workforce 27 GLAZING REPAIRS CR Smith 17 HEARING AIDS & SERVICES Hear-here 7 @KonectMagazines

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Biting, 4. Agreed, 9. Rubbish, 10. Icons, 11. Teeth, 12. Lifting, 13. Impressions, 18. Develop, 20. Super, 22. Elbow, 23. Execute, 24. Breast, 25. Adapts. DOWN: 1. Bursts, 2. Table, 3. Neither, 5. Grief, 6. Erosion, 7. Design, 8. Philosopher, 14. Movable, 15. Instead, 16. Adverb, 17. Creeps, 19. Lawns, 21. Plump.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 14

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Universal Appeal Ltd. M: 07729 911858 W: www.universal-appeal.com E: info@universal-appeal.com

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