Konect Linlithgow February 2025 by Konect Magazines

LOCAL HISTORY:

RECIPE:

LIVING WELL:

Welcome to the February 2025 issue of Konect, the first one for this year.

We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things Linlithgow and area, and focusing our articles on all that is best about our local area. Francine’s Life Coaching column touches on this topic this month in a personal way for each of us – taking time to focus on the good things is a habit that can change our lives.

The front cover shows an angle of the bridge at Linlithgow Bridge that you don’t usually see. It was a crisp golden January day and I was tracing the locations of the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge, standing on the bridge and pondering the drama this very strategic location has seen over the centuries. Very extensive research on the battle is available online thanks to the Battle of Linoithgow Bridge Society, and you can read my summary on pages 8-9.

And for eco-conscious shoppers, there is a new offering across at the Designer Centre in Livingston. If you have not already visited the new Leith Collective store in the Designer Centre, take a look at the article on p22.

There is much more of course! Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month.

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THE BATTLE OF LINLITHGOW BRIDGE

Underneath the Linlithgow sports centre and surrounding housing lies a battlefield, the site of an ancient child custody battle!

In 1526, Scotland’s king James V was still only 14 years old and the country was ruled by regents. Whoever had custody of the king controlled the country, and a series of nobles were supposed to have custody in turns. But Archibald Douglas, James’ stepfather (his mother Margaret Tudor had married him the year after losing her husband James IV at the Battle of Flodden in 1513) had refused to hand him over when his turn came to an end. He held the 14 year old king captive in a kind of luxury house-arrest at Edinburgh Castle, and set about grabbing power. Margaret meanwhile was based in Stirling Castle and dedicated to freeing her son. She must have

been completely estranged from her husband by this point.

After several attempts to secure her son’s release, Margaret arranged a force of over 10,000 men to march to Edinburgh to storm the castle, in September 1526. They were led by the Earl of Lennox. Linlithgow Bridge was a crucial and strategic point on the busy route between Stirling and Edinburgh as the main crossing of the River Avon. The bridge at the time was a wooden structure since replaced by many others, down to the 1960s construction used today. Archibald Douglas’ supporters in Linlithgow, under the command of the Earl of Arran, supplied 2500 men to attempt to block Lennox at the bridge and prevent him getting to Edinburgh.

With 200 men and the artillery at the bridge bought along from the palace and Blackness, Arran placed the rest of his force on the hill overlooking the Polmont and Torphichen roads. On the morning of 4th September 1526, the Lennox army appeared at Whitecross. Arran had made the most of his highly defensible position and Lennox realised that he could not take the bridge without unacceptable losses, even with his much superior numbers. Finding a ford upstream near the Manuel Priory, he led his men across the river there and attempted to force his way into Linlithgow. It was a bold move, attacking uphill and across boggy ground and it nearly worked; but just in time Douglas arrived with reinforcements from Edinburgh and beat Lennox back across the Avon. The battle quickly became a rout and, wounded, Lennox surrendered.

The young king James V was compelled to attend the battle with a large escort, and he did his best to help Lennox’s forces by feigning sickness and delaying the soldiers accompanying him until their commander threatened him directly. As soon as James heard of the result, he despatched one of his loyal soldiers ahead to assure the safety of his friend the Earl of Lennox. In an event that stayed with James V through his life, Arran’s son murdered Lennox while a disarmed prisoner, before James’ protection could arrive.

The Lennox Cairn, erected in the 1990s, marks the approximate site of the murder. It is located on the roundabout opposite the Linithgow Xcite leisure centre. There was a cairn raised at the time of the murder but it had long since disappeared. The garden around the cairn contains plants from badges that appeared on soldiers’ coats as well as in heraldic devices of the main combatants of Linlithgow Bridge. The red roses appear in the Lennox coat of arms.

When James was 16 years old he finally managed to escape his stepfather on his own. Leaving Edinburgh Castle in disguise, he made his way to Stirling and took up the crown of Scotland. Having become king aged just 18 months, he died aged 30 leaving in Linlithgow his 9 day old daughter Mary, Queen of Scots.

There is a Battle of Linlithgow Bridge walking trail with information boards, starting at the Avon Heritage Trail at Burgh Mills Lane. It takes you along the river to a point on the bank opposite the Manuel Priory where Lennox was forced to cross the Avon in his attempt to get round the blockade on Linlithgow Bridge. One gable end of the priory remains and is just visible through the trees.

For lots of detailed information see the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge Society’s website: www.bolb.org.uk

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne using information from the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge Society website and the information boards along the battle walking trail in Linlithgow.

Gable end of Manuel Priory visible on the opposite bank of the Avon. The nuns here would have tended the battleinjured and dying.

The peaceful walk along the Avon Heritage Trail was the site of vicious fighting

Let,s All Just SLOW DOWN

Life can be such a rush and we can hear ranting and rage wherever we are, whether that’s people honking their horns at the hapless soul whose car stalled at the lights or the ranting we hear about how the country is being run. It’s hard to prevent ourselves getting swept up by all this emotion but, a good place to start is by deciding to switch off and take a break from all those social media sites that tell us we are doomed and putting a pause or a permanent stop on scrolling through bad news headlines. This could be one of the best changes we could ever make for our mental and physical health. We could also decide that we are not going to take part in those gloomy and negative conversations that so many of us find ourselves engaging in without thinking.

It’s definitely true that we get more of what we focus on, and, if we look for it, we will find plenty of evidence that things are bad and that we all need to retreat indoors for the foreseeable. However, it’s worth remembering that the only thing we have any control over is ourselves and our own actions and we can decide what we want to spend our precious time thinking about. Focusing on what we are actually grateful for, whether that’s loved ones, friends or a favourite place to walk, has the potential to change our outlook and is a habit that will transform our lives.

The Life Coaching column is contributed by Francine Orr, NLP coach, hypnotherapist & reiki practitioner. Francine is based within Linlithgow Chiropractic on Wednesday afternoons and is also available online. See www.orrganise.co.uk

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Home Instead

recently carried out research into people’s perceptions of dementia, revealing that 84% of people felt that more should be done to educate families about living with dementia.

The findings come from Home Instead’s ‘New Ageing Index’ - a survey designed to uncover the realities of growing old in Britain. Of the 1,000 people surveyed, 58% felt the Government should declare dementia a health emergency.

With nearly two-fifths of people (38%) saying they were worried that a family member may have undiagnosed dementia, it’s a topic which affects many of us, whether directly or through someone we know.

In light of this, Home Instead West Lothian, which specialises in dementia care for older

people at home, is pledging to arm people across the local area with dementia awareness and the know-how to support people living with the condition.

Working in partnership with local support groups and organisations, Home Instead will be holding various events throughout 2025 to help educate people and encourage open dialogue about dementia and how we can support those affected. For more information on these events, please see our website blog at homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian or follow our social media channels for updates.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead West Lothian. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046, email info.westlothian@homeinstead.co.uk or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian

Home Instead West Lothian, with third sector organisations across West Lothian, is holding an Older Peoples Providers Fayre at Howden Park Centre on 5th March. The date coincides with the first anniversary of the launch of Carers of West Lothian’s Memory Information Support Team (MIST). Doors open at 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm

The event will showcase services and support available for older people across the local area. In addition to the fayre with stalls from the various providers, there will be a schedule of talks that will take place throughout the afternoon on a variety of topics. These will commence from 2.00pm onwards.

Home Instead’s Virtual Dementia Experience Bus will be attending. This state-of-the-art immersive experience allows a person with a

healthy brain to experience what life might be like for a person living with dementia. Supported by medical research, the experience uses technology to replicate the sensory changes associated with dementia. Participants wear googles, headphones and spiky insoles. They are then asked to perform everyday tasks but with distorted vision, loud noises and sensory overload which recreate what it’s like to have dementia. The immersive experience is followed by a debrief to understand what you have just experienced as well as useful tips and strategies to make the world a better place for people living with dementia. The unique insight offered by the dementia experience makes it ideal for anyone who has a family member or friend living with dementia, or comes into contact with people living with the condition.

ORGANISATIONS ATTENDING:

Lemon Pot Puddings

These delicious individual hot lemon puddings are the perfect sweet treat after a hearty winter supper or Sunday lunch.

Ingredients:

• 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing

• 175g golden caster sugar

• Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (you will need about 120ml lemon juice)

• 4 medium eggs, separated

• 75g plain flour

• 130ml milk

• 2 tbsp flaked almonds

• Icing sugar, for dusting

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 180oC/fan 160oC/gas mark 4. Grease six 175ml ovenproof ramekin dishes with butter.

2. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Beat in the lemon zest then beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. Sift over half the plain flour and fold in, then fold in the lemon juice and milk. Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in. Gradually fold the egg whites into the mixture.

3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared ramekin dishes and sprinkle over the flaked almonds. Place the dishes in a large roasting tin and pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden on top. Serve immediately, dusted with icing sugar.

Makes 6 | Ready in 40 mins

TIP - These puddings will form a lovely layer of thick lemon custard under the sponge topping so take care not to overcook them. They will still have a slight wobble in the centre.

After strawberry plants we sell more rhubarb than any other soft fruit. Where does it all go, you must all have rhubarb growing in your gardens!

It is long lived, easy to grow and enjoys being in soil that doesn’t dry out in a sunny position. As well as being edible it is very ornamental in the garden with its big, bold leaves.

Now is the time to force some early growth. Cover your plant with a lovely rhubarb forcer or an upside down bucket to exclude all light and leave the plant to produce bright pink fresh growth, probably a month earlier than a plant that hasn’t been forced. You’ll still want to add some sweetness when you cook it - we avoid processed sugar and use ‘truvia’.

If you have the space you might grow two or three different varieties. Possibly the finest is Victoria which is a late variety which produces big crops of juicy and sweet stems. Timperley Early has a sweet flavour and is really good for forcing an early crop. Raspberry Red is probably the variety with the brightest red stems. There are several other varieties to choose

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

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For eco-conscious shoppers at Livingston Designer Outlet: The Leith Collective

There’s a new store in town and it’s challenging the ‘throwaway’ mentality of modern consumerism. The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet is encouraging everyone to shop sustainably and it’s already proving to be a hit.

The Leith Collective stocks a wide range of handmade goods – from clothing and jewellery, homeware and furniture, to toiletries and gifts – the majority of which have been created by reusing, recycling, reclaiming and repurposing items that may otherwise have been destined for landfill. Resident makers are committed to ditching single-use plastics and opting for eco-friendly alternatives throughout their entire creative process and the result is a shop full of truly unique items that don’t cost the earth.

Speaking about the store’s first few months in business, The Leith Collective founder, Sara Thomson, said; “Opening a store within Scotland’s largest designer outlet is a major milestone. Our makers now have a place alongside some of the world’s most iconic brands, which just goes to show how much consumer attitudes are changing. There is now a significant appetite amongst shoppers to support local artists, makers, crafters and designers, and a real demand for items that have been thoughtfully crafted with the future of our planet in mind.

Consumers are more mindful than ever about where they spend their money, they want to know where products have come from, and what impact the manufacturing process has had on the planet. And that’s exactly why The Leith Collective’s first few months at Livingston Designer Outlet have proved to be so successful.”

The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet is the latest addition to the multi awardwinning CIC’s group of stores which consists of sites at Edinburgh Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh Fort Kinnaird and Dundee Overgate.

The stores are not just retail spaces but hubs of creativity, hosting a range of inspiring workshops, exhibitions and initiatives designed to engage, support and inspire the local community, with the ultimate aim of creating not just a more sustainable retail industry, but a more sustainable future for all.

The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet, Almondvale Avenue, Livingston, is open Monday 9am - 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am - 6pm, Thursday - Saturday 9am - 8pm, Sunday 9am – 6pm

This article was contributed by The Leith Collective. For more information please visit www.theleithcollective.com, email info@ theleithcollective.com, or call 07447 659 999.

PET CHEWS

February is Pet Dental Health Month and a good opportunity to check that you are looking after your pet’s oral health as it’s an area that’s often neglected - more than 80 per cent of dogs are thought to suffer from periodontal disease (inflammation of the gums).

In particular, I want to take a look at dental chews for dogs. There are stacks of these on the market, all promising to scrape away at the nasty plaque that builds up on your pooch’s teeth with various prebiotics, probiotics and ridged surfaces, but the most important thing to remember is that they not a substitute for cleaning your dog’s teeth. But as rather more dogs enjoy chewing than enjoy having their teeth cleaned, a chew can be a good supplement to a proper teethbrushing routine with enzymatic toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and helps to get to the tricky back teeth.

Not all chews are equal though. Many edible chews are very high in fat, so either choose one with a lower fat content or make sure you adjust your dog’s regular food accordingly.

For non-edible chews, make sure they aren’t too hard for your dogs – you should be able to leave a mark with your fingernail, otherwise you risk your dog damaging or breaking a tooth.

And a raw carrot makes a cheap but effective substitute for the shop-bought varieties!

Contributed by Stuart McMorrow, head vet at Westport Veterinary Clinic, 42 Mill Road, Linlithgow EH49 7SF. 01506 844 165 | www.westportvets.com

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If you or someone you know, has an interesting experience, an unusual job, does extraordinary charity work, has a crazy hobby..... get in touch via editor@konect.scot and we may be able to share it. (You need to live and/or work in the Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge area to be featured in this magazine)

FEBRUARY CROSSWORD

^^^ Solution in the MARCH edition

ACROSS: 1. Fasten to (6), 4. Enquiring (6), 9. Reduce length (7), 10. Loosen (5), 11. More (5), 12. Stretches (7), 13. Twisted together (11), 18. Requiring (7), 20. Not inner (5), 22. Assists (5), 23. Needing a drink (7), 24. Hurried (6), 25. Stopped (6).

DOWN: 1. Reply (6), 2. Type of fish (5), 3. Small country house (7), 5. A trick (5), 6. Severe (7), 7. Lubricate (6), 8. Enquire into (11), 14. Used for sewing (7), 15. Worship (7), 16. Fasten (6), 17. Ragged (6), 19. Hand out (5), 21. Trials (5).

FEBRUARY SUDOKU

SATURDAY 1ST FEBRUARY

Winter Wildlife Wander - Join a Historic Environment Ranger to celebrate World Wetland Day and discover why the wetland of Linlithgow Loch is so important for wildlife. Meet at Linlithgow Peel, 1.00pm - 3.00pm. Free but please book via: www.historicenvironment.scot/ visit-a-place

THURSDAY 6TH FEBRUARY

West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - Provides help and support for men recently diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. Next meeting, which includes guest speakers, is at 7.00pm on Thursday 6th February at Crofthead Community Centre, Livingston, EH54 6DG. All welcome.

SUNDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

Through the Night with Henry PurcellExperience a magical night filled with the enchanting music of Henry Purcell performed by the talented Dunedin Consort. St Michaels Parish Church, Linlithgow. 7.30 – 9.30pm, doors open 7.00pm. Pre-concert talk 6.30pm. Tickets £20/£10/£6 via eventbrite

SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY

The AC/DC Experience - The AC/DC Experience perform classics from both the Bon Scott and Brian Johnson eras such as “Highway To Hell”, “Shoot To Thrill”, “Back In Black”, “Whole Lotta Rosie”, and many, many more. The AC/DC Experience provide a live show second only to the legends themselves. 7.30pm, Re-connect Regal, Bathgate. Tickets £26/£24 via reconnectregal.com

THURSDAY 13TH FEBRUARY

Haydn and his legacy - With the Resol String Quartet, hosted by Linllithgow Arts Guild. The program focuses on Haydn, opening with his Op74, alongside quartets by Schubert and Bethoven, exploring the development of the quartet at that time. 7.30pm, Low Port Centre. Tickets £16/£6, via: linlithgowartsguild.org.uk

SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY

Friends of Beecraigs & Witchcraig Volunteer session - This month we will be continuing with the task of removing the old dilapidated fenceline boundary along the east end of the woodland at Witchcraig. This can be quite a labour intensive task so make sure you have you have a good breakfast! All tools and a full tool safety talk will be provided by the Ranger. If you have some, please bring along a pair of gloves with you, and wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Good sturdy footwear is also advised. Please bring along any snacks and drinks you require. No prior experience is necessary to take part in the sessions, new volunteers are always welcome! The session will run for two hours starting at 10.00am. Meet at the Korean War Memorial car park, located on the road between Linlithgow and Bathgate. Please book a space (free of charge) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements: www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/west-lothian-councilranger-service-60064115123

Email: rangerservice@westlothian.gov.uk

SATURDAY 22ND FEBRUARY

Pop Party Family Silent Disco! - Presented by Silent Knights. Put on your dancing shoes and join us for a fantastic Family Silent Disco at the beautiful Linlithgow Burgh Halls. Come ready for a night of fun and unforgettable memories! Grab your headphones and choose from three exciting music channels. 6.15pm – 8.00pm. Suitable for ages 6+, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets £9 + 76p booking fee, book via the what’s on page at www.linlithgowburghhalls.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH

Older People Providers Fayre - Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Stalls from the various providers, as well as a schedule of talks on a variety of topics. Free entry. Doors open 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm.

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

LINLITHGOW & BO’NESS PROBUS CLUB - We are a friendly and sociable club for retired and semiretired men and women. We meet every second Wednesday morning from September to May in Linlithgow Rose Social Club. Tea/coffee is available from 10.00am followed by a wide range of interesting talks. We also have occasional outings, meals, musical activities and fun games mornings. Visitors and potential new members are very welcome. Details and the current programme are available at www.bolinprobus.org

LINLITHGOW SPORTS CLUB - A friendly club with lawn bowls, squash and tennis on offer. For more info go to www.linlithgowsportsclub.com

LINLITHGOW SPEAKERS - Do you need to develop and improve your public speaking skills? We have been helping people in the Linlithgow area do that for almost 20 years. At our friendly, supportive and fun events, you will also improve your listening, thinking and leadership skills. Develop at your own pace and grow in confidence. When? Every second Tuesday. Where? Mel Gray Centre by Canal Basin. Dates and further info at www.linlithgowspeakers.org. uk. Guests are always welcome.

LINLITHGOW AND DISTRICT ART GROUPMixed group of amateur artists from beginners to more advanced members dabbling in mixed mediums. Professional tutors who develop our skills, outdoor painting trips, exhibition visits and gallery talks. Meet Tuesdays 7-9pm in the Community Hub 49 at the old library. We are a friendly bunch and welcome new members. Contact Brian E: brianmcdonagh1948@ gmail.com T: 07909 577272 or Margaret E: magsbruce1@bluehyonder.co.uk or T: 07906 021875. Facebook – Linlithgow & District Art Group

WEST LOTHIAN DADS OF NEURO DIVERSE CHILDREN - A support Group for Dads and Granddads of neuro diverse children, providing a safe space to talk about the additional challenges and benefits we face. We meet up at 7pm on the last Thursday of every month at Cross House, Linlithgow, EH49 7AL. You can Join the Whatsapp group by messaging Richard on 07788 583445

WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS CLUB - Would you like to develop your speaking skills, overcome nerves, gain confidence, build strong leadership skills, and improve your communication in a relaxed and friendly environment? Come along or send us a message to find out how Winchburgh Speakers Club can help. We meet fortnightly in Winchburgh Primary School (from mid-August to May). Contact: president@winchburghspeakersclub.org.uk

SAMBALISTIC - A friendly bunch of people covering all abilities and ages, enjoying drumming/percussion together. Practice - Thursday evenings during term-time at Linlithgow Academy (7.309.30pm). All instruments supplied. No musical

knowledge required. We offer performances throughout the year. You may have seen us at local galas/fairs! Why not come along and have a go? Or if you wish to discuss an event, just turn up on Thursday or email sambalistic@live.com

LINLITHGOW FLORAL ART CLUB - A friendly group who meet on third Wednesday of each month (Sept to May) in the Rose Social Club, Braehead Road, Linlithgow, 7:30 pm. Come along, bring a friend and sit back and enjoy an entertaining and colourful demonstration by a qualified demonstrator, followed by refreshments and a chat with your friends. All designs created in the demonstration are raffled. Contact Pamela Galloway for details, E: pjgalloway.18@gmail.com or T: 07742 060877.

WINCHBURGH ART CLUB - We meet on Thursday mornings between 9.30 – 11.30 in Winchburgh Community Hall.

Any level, any medium are all welcome. If interested, please contact 07980 321989 or email maureenandjohn1@hotmail.co.uk

WEST LOTHIAN EAGLES – AUSTRALIAN RULES

FOOTBALL - Come along and try Australian Rules football! We are recruiting for the 2022 season for both our men’s and women’s teams. If you’re looking for a new sport, new friends and looking to get fitter then get in touch today! No experience is required and our team of coaches are on hand to teach you all there is to know! We train at Linlithgow Academy every Thursday 7.00pm-9.00pm, see you there! Find us on social media.

W: linktr.ee/WestLothianEagles E: westlothianeagles@gmail.com

TABLE TENNIS - LINLITHGOW - WednesdaysLongcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm - 9.45pm. Annual Membership £12.00 [Under 18’s £6.00] Play Table Tennis in a friendly atmosphere. The Club has “Active Assured” status (West Lothian Council Accreditation scheme) and is affiliated to Table Tennis Scotland. For those of a more competitive nature there is the opportunity to represent our team in the Stirlingshire & Midland Counties League. Contact Allan Scott T: 07485 001819 E: linlithgowlttg@gmail.com W: linlithgowtabletennis.co.uk

WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

WEST LOTHIAN u3a - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non given. For more information see; W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317

E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com

T: 01506 844274.

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA - We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.309.30pm (term-time) at Linlithgow Masonic Lodge. Any players with a minimum standard Grade 5 or equivalent (no audition) from Linlithgow and the surrounding areas are welcome. Please bring music stands. Contact us via email: linlithgowstringorchestra@gmail.com through our website: linlithgowstringorchestra.co.uk or search for us on Facebook.

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T: 01506 448000

E: office@carers-westlothian.com

W: www.carers-westlothian.com

GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts. coordinator@gmail.com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@westlothian.gov.uk

WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit : westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510.

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SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Eels, 3. Checkers, 9. Contact, 10. Nicer, 11. Achievements, 14. Gem, 16. Paths, 17. Dye, 18. Explanations, 21. Comma, 22. Showing, 23. Domestic, 24. Ends.

DOWN: 1. Exchange, 2. Lunch, 4. Hit, 5. Conversation, 6. Excited, 7. Sure, 8. Caterpillars, 12. Eaten, 13. Messages, 15. Maximum, 19. Onion, 20. Iced, 22. Ski.

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

We all know who Christopher Reeves is. He is the icon who brought Superman to the big screen. However, due to utter tragedy, he was paralysed from the neck down, and his life changed forever.

ACROSS: 1. Eels, 3. Checkers, 9. Contact, 10. Nicer, 11. Achievements, 14. Gem, 16. Paths, 17. Dye, 18. Explanations, 21. Comma, 22. Showing, 23. Domestic, 24. Ends.

DOWN: 1. Exchange, 2. Lunch, 4. Hit, 5. Conversation, 6. Excited, 7. Sure, 8. Caterpillars, 12. Eaten, 13. Messages, 15. Maximum, 19. Onion, 20. Iced, 22. Ski.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 26

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:

Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

Once a fictional Superhero, he becomes a real-life superhero for the disabled community, particularly the disabled people suffering from paralysis. Told from the perspective of his family and friends. Super/Man: The Christopher Reeves Story is a truly powerful documentary that follows the life of Christopher Reeves before and after the accident. It is a truly harrowing story about never giving in and fighting for what is right.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

Seeing the formation of the Christopher Reeves Foundation and how he pressured politicians on both sides of the aisle so that more research and funding could be put into paralysis is both hopeful and a real gut punch as we know how this story ends. Despite seeing how his family continue to strive for change, it is beautiful. We also hear them recount who their father was to them and see how this tragedy still affects them this very day. My biggest issue with the film is that there is only a brief discussion of the controversies around Christopher Reeves striving to find a cure - I wish it had dived deeper into this. However, the film is not about that. It is about the legacy of Christopher Reeves and how he was a real-life superhero, and with that goal in mind, the film is perfection.

Available to buy on digital platforms

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

The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

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