Konect Linlithgow July 2023

PROPERTY MATTERS:

The oldest alliance in the world is between France and Scotland, stretching back 800 years. Linlithgow has certainly seen its share of French royalty in residence. And with it being Bastille Day in July, my thoughts had turned to France, and it seemed a good moment to put the spotlight on the Linithgow Twinning Association this month. The link between Linithgow and Guyancourt near Paris goes back around 30 years – see the article on pages 8-9 and consider getting involved!

There is plenty going on locally this summer for all the family; various holiday clubs for the kids, and also events such as Art in the Garden at New Hopetoun Gardens (always worth a visit) and the next open day at Amondell Model Engineering is on 6th August – see the What’s On page. Whether you’re staying home or going away for the holidays, I hope you have a lovely summer. Thank you for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

LINLITHGOW TWINNING ASSOCIATION

For over thirty years, Linlithgow has enjoyed a successful town twinning relationship with Guyancourt, a charming French town located south west of Paris, near the magnificent Chateau of Versailles.

The twinning agreement was signed in July 1989, with the aim of promoting understanding and fostering friendships between our towns. Originally conceived in post-World War II Europe as a means to rebuild relationships between France, Germany and the UK, twinning has evolved into a wonderful opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds and cultures to connect and get along, all over Europe. It remains as important today as it was then, serving as a relationship builder. It is also a lot of fun!

Both Linlithgow and Guyancourt have a wealth of historical sites, museums, local festivals

and events all within easy reach – plenty of cultural treasures to share, strengthen mutual understanding and exchange ideas and perspectives. Participation in the twinning program is open to anyone living in Linlithgow and surrounding areas including individuals, couples and families. The only requirement is an interest in France and the French way of life. Participating in travel and cultural exchanges is one of the most enriching activities you can undertake, with immeasurable benefits both personal and to the wider community.

Best way to experience every day family life in a foreign country.... without hotel costs!”

“Beyond amazing - especially the Eiffel Tower and the party ‘til midnight” (Iona aged 8)

“Since 2004 we have cemented a firm friendship with our French hosts. They came to our wedding and we went to their retirement party”

While having some knowledge of French can be helpful, it is not essential as most French twinners speak some English. It can be, however, an excellent means of practising and improving your own French language skills. One of the key principles of our twinning relationship is that, in order to experience French culture first hand, we stay with host families when we visit Guyancourt and we host our French guests in our own homes when they visit Linlithgow. Although it may seem daunting at first, these exchanges have resulted in rewarding and lasting friendships.

The next Twinning visit is in October 2023, when Linlithgow welcomes the Guyancourt families. This visit holds a special treat as Les Falbalas, the Guyancourt ladies choir, will be joining the Twinning exchange and performing a joint concert with the Linlithgow Ladies Choir for all those involved with Twinning.

Over the 30 years there have been many exchange visits with other clubs, most notable Linlithgow Rugby Club had biannual exchange to Guyancourt for the France V Scotland Rugby match and the return match at Murrayfield. The Twinning association is trying to re-establish links with local groups, Ramblers from Linlithgow and Guyancourt meet and walk during exchanges, we are working with the Athletics club to build links for French runners to take part in Linlithgow 10k. The new cycle track in Linlithgow opens opportunities to rebuild links with French

A typical visit to Guyancourt is as follows:

• Travel to Guyancourt on Friday, arriving in time for a small reception at the Town Hall

• On Saturday there would be a trip organised e.g. visit to Chartres / trip around national Velodrome, followed by a party in the evening with excellent food, wine and entertainment.

• Sundays are normally free to spend time with hosts. In the evening shared supper with more entertainment.

• On Monday, there is just time for another short visit or fun activity before travelling back to Edinburgh.

cyclists, and there is interest in primary schools to form some links.

While there is no membership fee to join the twinning program, fundraising efforts are undertaken to cover expenses such as airport transfers, food and entertainment for visiting families. The same hospitality is reciprocated when Linlithgow residents travel to France. Please look out for these events and support us where you can.

If you would like to find out more about the Linlithgow Twinning Association, or to contact us about becoming involved, please contact us on lintwinsec@gmail.com

Excellent commuter links drive Cala buyers to Winchburgh

When couple Megan and Liam Riley decided it was time for a fresh start, finding a new-build home with excellent commuter links to Edinburgh and Fife was top of their priority list.

So, when the pair discovered Cala Homes’ (East) development Oakbank in Winchburgh was located in easy reach of a new junction designed to significantly cut the journey time from the village to the M9, they knew they found their dream location.

“We fell in love with the area very quickly, but the prospect of the new junction on the M9 cutting our journey time in half for both of us helped us make our final decision,” said Megan.

“We use the motorway most days, and now it takes just minutes for us to get onto the main route in and out of the village, which is ideal.”

The couple opted for the Cleland home style and after a showhome viewing, they purchased their new home in Winchburgh last May before getting their keys in October 2022.

The four-bedroom detached home boasts a spacious formal lounge and a generous open plan family kitchen-dining living area which connects to the garden, perfect for entertaining guests and extending the living space.

Megan continued: “It was the size of the kitchen living area that really sold the house to us, as well as

the stunning hallway. The showhome was styled so perfectly, it allowed us to envisage living in that house before we even bought it. Cala certainly break the stereotype of new-build houses having small rooms.”

Megan was charmed by the quaint village of Winchburgh and the raft of amenities it has to offer. She said: “Auldcathie Park is just a few moments’ walk from our new home and Liam and I enjoy taking a walk through the green spaces.

“We spend most weekends going into the city centre for lunch or dinner or take the short trip to South Queensferry for scenic walks around the shoreline. Our pace of life has changed completely since we moved here – it truly is a wonderful place to call home.”

She added: “The Cala East sales team were so supportive in the full process. I couldn’t speak any more highly of their professionalism and have since recommended Cala to multiple friends and family due to our fantastic experience.”

Located just 12 miles from Edinburgh city centre, Cala Homes’ (East) Oakbank development is excellently positioned with direct pedestrian access into the 85acre Auldcathie District Park.

The second phase of this impressive development of four- and five-bedroom detached and semi-detached homes has now launched, with only a final few homes remaining in the established first phase, with prices starting at £395,000*.

For more information about Cala Homes in Winchburgh, or to book a showhome viewing, please visit www.cala.co.uk/winchburgh or call 01506 669 575

No one likes going into hospital and sometimes the idea of staying away from home can be overwhelming, but there are some instances when hospitalisation is sadly unavoidable. So how can the number of hospitalisations be reduced?

• Keeping active: The benefits of being active physically and mentally are well known but for older people, options can often seem limited. Doing things such as crafts, drawing and puzzles keep the mind active, whilst gentle gardening or regular 10-minute walks can help maintain muscle strength.

• Regular hydration: Drinking regularly is key to avoiding health issues such as dehydration or infections and can also improve mood. It is recommended to drink 1.5L of fluid per day even if you don’t ‘feel’ thirsty.

• Good nutrition: Despite appetites decreasing over time, the nutritional benefits of maintaining a healthy and balanced diet are just as important. Meals which add extra vitamins and minerals to diets, such as Vitamin D and calcium can help combat conditions such as osteoporosis.

• A reliable and long-term GP: It is important to have a reliable and consistent GP, as with age medication will likely become more important. Family members or Care Professionals can help to notice ‘red flags’ such as unused medication, and small changes in chronic illnesses.

• Companionship: Getting involved with local groups and organisations or having someone else visit can complement family involvement by providing extra companionship to combat loneliness and isolation, which has been proven to improve general wellbeing and reduce the risk of hospitalisation.

The Living Well column is contributed by Home Instead Livingston. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046 or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston

OUT AND ABOUT THIS SUMMER

With the Spring pressure in your garden passed you deserve some fun time out of the garden, although not for too long as your plants may be desperate for water if the May drought continues into the summer!

Lesley is enjoying the magnificence of the gardens at Attadale in Argyll. The rockface and the sculptural branches here are as sculptural as the carved bench she is sitting on. We always get inspiration from visiting other gardens, whether from individual plants we haven’t seen before, the layout and setting of the garden or perhaps some clever design tricks.

Exploring and walking around a garden is the perfect place for chatting. Mind you, if your companion isn’t into gardening as much as you, the conversation won’t be

about gardening, but equally entertaining! We have had some of our best ideas for the business or our own garden when visiting gardens… even for our next holiday.

For inspiration of where to go next visit two inspiring websites:

www.scotlandsgardens.org

(The Yellow Book people)

www.discoverscottishgardens.org

(Pick up the Scottish Gardens Map 2023 at the garden centre)

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

“Should I Sell During the Summer Holidays?”

Some sellers feel that if they have “missed” the spring market, they should wait until September before selling their property; but there are solid reasons for marketing your home during the summer.

Firstly, your house is likely to look its very best. The bright days and long evenings mean that your accommodation will look light and airy, and any views from the house will be accentuated. Your garden will be in full bloom and adds real value to the purchaser’s perception of your home - they won’t just be looking at rooms! If it is a family house, children’s slide/swings etc. can only make the house feel more like a home - a real hot button for the family buyer. Longer evenings also mean that the opportunity for positive viewings is extended, as partners can view together.

Serious buyers do not let holidays, sports, etc. get in their way and are sometimes frustrated by the reduction in choice, as other sellers delay

bringing their property to market or sometimes withdraw their homes over the summer holidays. Those with children may be under some pressure to secure a property before the new school year and, as a result, could be prepared to pay a higher price in return for a swift purchase.

September is also a popular time for those moving jobs. They will certainly be hoping to move in towards the end of the summer so they can get the move out of the way before putting all their energies into their new position.

So, if you are considering the possibility of selling, why not help supply buyer demand for quality properties this summer. It could pay you handsomely.

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.

The bright days and long evenings mean that your accommodation will look light and airy, and any views from the house will be accentuated

IN SEARCH OF

Ghost villages abound in West Lothian. In the Victorian age of industry, workers’ housing was often hurried and cheaply constructed to serve new mines and works in rural locations.

Such industries often had a short life, leaving these remote homes empty, neglected and slowly falling into disrepair. Once demolished, their sites returned to agriculture or wilderness, leaving little trace in the landscape. Many were too short-lived to appear on maps, and few were ever photographed.

that Boghall Works and its associated mines never lived up to expectations and its owners increasingly turned their attentions to their other works in Uphall.

Starlaw Row, between Livingston and Bathgate, was such a ghost village, but was rather unusual in that some of its houses were dismantled and erected elsewhere.

Boghall (often referred to as Starlaw) Oil Works, was a bold enterprise begun in about 1867 to rival James Paraffin Young’s mighty Addiewell works. Its backers included a former partner of Paraffin Young and the local landowner and MP Peter McLaglan. It seems

The proprietors of Boghall Oil Works erected over 60 homes to house their workforce; thirty in Starlaw Rows, eight in Stable Rows. All but one of the eight victims of the terrible 1870 Starlaw pit disaster were residents of the Starlaw Rows. The location of the remaining twenty or so homes is unknown; – some might have been temporary huts used during construction of the works which continued in use as rough homes afterwards. A number were however of brick construction, as evidenced by an 1881 advertisement seeking contractors to take down twelve brick houses from Boghall and re-erect them at Uphall Oil Works. It seems that among the workforce of the appointed contractor was the fourteen year old Annie Allan, employed to chisel off the mortar from the old bricks at Boghall. She died when the gable end of one of the old houses collapsed and crushed her. A further ghost in a ghost village.

Seafield Law

Site of Starlaw Rows

STARLAW PIT DISASTER

In one of the worst accidents of the shale mining industry, eight men at the Starlaw Oil Works lost their lives in April 1870 when a fire broke out in the upcast (ventilation shaft) of this singlepit mine. Thanks to heroic efforts of a number of their colleagues descending and raising the pit cage in the adjoining shaft, most of the men were saved from the furnace by being hauled up in the cage adjacent to the fire in the most awful conditions. When the rope of the cage finally burned through, and the partition between the upshaft and the downshaft burned through, there were tragically eight men still left below who could not be saved. Seven were family men leaving widows and children. One, William Wands had been married just three months, and the eighth victim was just 17 years old. Five are buried in Bathgate Cemetery.

It’s not known where the Boghall houses were re-erected in Uphall station; a large number of new houses were built to serve the rapidly expanding Uphall Oil Works at that time. One possibility is that they formed the odd collection of buildings known as Office Rows.

Boghall Works closed in about 1880 and much of the remaining housing lay empty until sold to the West Lothian Oil Company who opened their new oil works at Deans, a mile to the east.

The village enjoyed something of a renaissance with a new school at Starlaw constructed with funds from the oil company. Little was invested in improving the housing however; the sanitary

filling them and causing a most disgusting smell.” A reliable piped water supply did not reach the village until 1895.

The West Lothian Oil Company collapsed in 1891, although by then many of the houses in Starlaw Row already lay empty. At that time, the Pumpherston Oil Company were reconstructing Seafield Oil Works on the site of an earlier failed enterprise. New housing was urgently required for new Seafield workers, therefore old rows at Starlaw were taken to house of Pumpherston Oil Co. staff, presumably as a temporary expedient. It seems that little was done to improve living conditions, and in 1914 it was reported that there continued to be only four privies to serve the thirty houses of Starlaw Rows.

During the 1930’s it seems that some of the internal wall between houses were knocked down to provide more spacious homes, but by the end of the decade the ten single room houses had been demolished, and the twenty room-andkitchen homes at Starlaw and the houses of Stable Row appear to have shared this fate soon after. Starlaw school closed in 1938 and was sold by the council a decade later.

The only surviving physical link with this lost community is Starlaw Cottage. This fine established home at the western end of Starlaw Rows is on the site of the Works Manager’s house or office, and might incorporate parts of the original building.

Our pets are our companions, our loyal friends, part of our families. So it’s hardly surprising that when it comes time to say goodbye, we can be left devastated. Everyone is different but a feeling of intense grief at a pet’s death is entirely normal. Give yourself time and talk to family or friends about your pet and your feelings, just as you would if a human member of the family had died – or call a pet grief helpline such as the one run by animal charity Blue Cross, the Cats Protection League’s Paws to Listen and the British Horse Society’s Friends at the End. Feelings of guilt are also natural especially if you had to make the decision to end your pet’s life so remind yourself you gave your pet a wonderful lifetime.

For children the loss of a pet may be the first time they have experienced death. Be honest and use straightforward words – “put to sleep” may be particularly confusing. Making a scrapbook, memory box or memorial in the garden may help both them and you to focus on treasured memories. We have a pet memory wall on our website, free for anyone to use, at www.westportvets.com.

Other pets may also feel the loss of a companion; dogs and rabbits for instance are sociable animals. Keep to their routine, give them plenty of attention and don’t rush into getting a new companion.

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

What does it mean to be true to yourself?

Across the Spider-Verse, the sequel to Into the Spider-Verse, tries to answer that question through its main characters and it also does so much more. Upon its release, Into the Spider-Verse became the best Spider-Man film ever made. Now in 2023, Across the SpiderVerse not only matched the earlier film but surpassed this to take the title. It’s simply a stunning work of art that captures the feeling and style of comic books like no other film. It is filled with detail, colours and sheer beauty that I haven’t seen in years. It’s a feast for the eyes and while at times it can be a bit much the animation truly makes this simply a must-watch film. But then you have the story: part-personal drama about lying to yourself and others and not being true to who you are, and “part-toxic dude bro”who doesn’t like it when you change the source material. It’s a film that expands on what was established in Into the Spider-Verse to continue the story of Miles Morales in ways that I don’t want to spoil. This film is the pinnacle of Spider-Man films. It’s nothing short of comic book art brought to life on the big screen, with the odd live action reference. I really do hope that everyone goes and watches this film on the biggest screen possible.

In Cinemas Now!

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.

^^^ Solution in the August edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Automatons (6), 4. Racket sport (6), 9. Female grandparent (7), 10. Two times (5), 11. Recorded sound (5), 12. Defrosting (7), 13. Not needed (11), 18. Spun by spiders (7), 20. Afterwards (5), 22. Monarch (5), 23. Copy (7), 24. Long for (6), 25. Concurred (6).

DOWN: 1. Disorganised (6), 2. Insipid (5), 3. Immature frog (7), 5. Additional (5), 6. Louder (7), 7. Toboggan (6), 8. Alliance (11), 14. Takes small bites (7), 15. Working out (7), 16. Frightened (6), 17. Buddy (6), 19. Mistake (5), 21. Torment (5).

JULY SUDOKU

Most of us know exactly how it feels when we think our lives are so full of chores and work that we struggle to carve out any kind of time for our loved ones or ourselves.

58mm Vertical [LEFT]

If someone dares to suggest that we relax for even ten minutes, we respond as if we’ve been asked to run around the block! ‘No time…too busy! ‘

But, what if we are burying ourselves in all those tasks because being constantly on the go means that we don’t have time to stop and think? Without realising it, we find ourselves using all that activity as a way to avoid focusing inwards and just sitting still.

This can be a long standing habit, but once we know that’s what we are doing there are a couple of things that we can choose to do instead.

Firstly, we can tune into ourselves and to our mood regularly, by asking, ‘how do I feel today?’ ‘what do I need?’ and then act on the answers. This will seem odd initially because most of us are so out of tune with our subconscious that this simple step can feel really hard to do and quite uncomfortable, but, as the saying goes, ‘practice makes perfect.’ We can decide today to be kinder to ourselves and only do what we know we will enjoy and begin a new habit of putting ourselves first.

Just imagine how much time we will free up if we just stop dashing about to please others and really focus on what is important to us?

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

WINCHBURGH SPEAKERS CLUB

- Would you like to join our friendly Winchburgh Speakers Club? The next block of sessions starts in August. If you interested in finding out more about Winchburgh Speakers Club why not come along, or send us a message to find out more about how it can help you develop your speaking skills and your confidence, in a warm and friendly environment. 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 (7.30 - 9.30pm). 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 Hetty Redwood for details, hettyredwood@gmail.com or 07719

603120

BADMINTON - LINLITHGOW -

We play badminton at Springfield Community Centre on Mondays 1012noon during school terms. Open to all. If interested please contact Diana Marchant 01506 848625 or 07789

295 301

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 - LINLITHGOWWednesdays - Longcroft Hall, Philip Ave, Linlithgow. Main Hall 8.00pm - 9.45pm. Annual Membership

£10.00, £3.00/night [Under 18’s £2.00] 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/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317

E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com

T: 01506 844274

LINLITHGOW STRING ORCHESTRA

- We are a friendly group who meet weekly on Monday’s 7.30-9.30pm (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 LOTHIANSupport 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 £20. Follow our Facebook page, visit www. westlothian50plusnetwork.co.uk or call 01506 635510

To include your Club or Class, please email details, up to 75 words, to editor@konect.scot

Not-for-profit groups are FREE. There is a small charge for businesses. See konect.scot for information.

SOLUTION TO JUNE CROSSWORD

WED 5TH AND 19TH JULY

SOLUTION TO JUNE CROSSWORD

Linlithgow Family Adventures - At Linlithgow Peel, with Historic Environment Scotland. Discover more about Linlithgow’s wildlife, history and landscape with fun filled-sessions featuring many hands-on activities. 10:00am-12:00pm. Free. Aimed at children aged 5 and over, but older/younger children also welcome to attend

SAT 1ST JULY TO MON 15TH AUGUST

ACROSS: 1. Airy, 3 Umbrella, 9. Dragged, 10. Fight, 11. Combinations, 13. Tissue, 15. Weasel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Inner, 21. Diocese, 22. Swelling, 23. Ales.

DOWN: 1. Audacity, 2. Realm, 4. Midday, 5. Refrigerator, 6. Legends, 7. Anti, 8. Agricultural, 12. Glistens, 14. Science, 16. Cordon, 18. Ideal, 19. Aids.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

Summer Adventures at Almond Valley - Something special is happening on every day of the school holidays, with a programme of drop-in activities, crafts and discoveries that all can join in and enjoy. Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. Tel: 01506 414957 www.almondvalley.co.uk

SUN 16TH JULY

ACROSS: 1. Airy, 3 Umbrella, 9. Dragged, 10. Fight, 11. Combinations, 13. Tissue, 15. Weasel, 17. Dictionaries, 20. Inner, 21. Diocese, 22. Swelling, 23. Ales.

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

M: 07729 911858

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

Coastal Capers - Come along to Blackness Castle and explore the seashore with the Historic Environment Scotland rangers. Make some art and learn about the creatures that live call the shore their home. 10-12pm. Free. Aimed at children aged between 8 and 12, must be accompanied by an adult. Older/ younger children also welcome to attend.

DOWN: 1. Audacity, 2. Realm, 4. Midday, 5. Refrigerator, 6. Legends, 7. Anti, 8. Agricultural, 12. Glistens, 14. Science, 16. Cordon, 18. Ideal, 19. Aids.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

FRI 13TH JULY

Wild Food Evening - With Author Mo Wilde & Napiers Bathgate, 62 George Street Bathgate EH48 1PD, 6.30pm. To celebrate five years in Bathgate and our founder Mo Wilde winning the prestigious John Avery Book Award, we are having a wild food themed evening at the shop. Mo is a research herbalist, renowned forager and recently won the Winner of the John Avery Award at the André Simon Awards 2022. Come along for a wild food evening, which will include: Meet the author Mo Wilde; Book signings; Book reading; Wild food canapes by Matthew Rooney; Botanical & fermented drink sampling; Intuitive tea making. Proceeds from the evening will go to a local charity close to our heart and mission, Beechbrae SCIO beechbrae.com

Book via eventbrite – search for Napiers Bathgate CIC

UNION CANAL CRUISES

Linlithgow Union Canal Centre is open on weekend afternoons until 24th September and weekday afternoons from 3rd July to 11th August.

Tearoom and museum at the canal basin open 1.30 – 4.30pm, regular short boat trips.

Weekends only: Avon Aqueduct cruise, 2.5 hours, starting 2pm.

9th July and 13th August: Afternoon Tea cruise, 2.5 hours

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.

30th July and 27th August: Boat trips to the Falkirk Wheel For booking and information lease visit bookings.lucs.org.uk

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

Magazine Design:

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