Konect Livingston April 2024

HEALTH:

LIVING WELL: CLUBS & CLASSES:

spring is definitely underway as I write this - the finishing touches to the April issue have been done with sun streaming though the office window. Spring, with its unfailing return of buds and flowers every year, often brings an energy to get things done. You’ll find in the pages of Konect all the local businesses you need to help with whatever project you have on, whether you’re looking to tackle some spring cleaning or home improvement projects, or emerging from hibernation yourself and looking to get healthier.

Many of the local businesses advertising in this magazine have special offers and discounts for Konect readers - look out for the special offers and mention Konect when you contact them.

Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations. All

Assault on Precinct 13 is a truly iconic film. It has had a lasting impact even 48 years later. So, heading into Jericho Ridge it is hard not to see the Assault on Precinct 13 influence.

While a paper-thin comparison - the single location setting of being stuck in a police station while being shot at from all directions - the similarities are there. However, Jericho Ridge does a good job of not being overshadowed by the comparisons. It follows Deputy Sheriff Tabby Temple while she is trapped in her remote sheriff’s office because murderous attackers are targeting the office. The film has a vibe and aesthetic that can be described as nifty. The action takes place entirely in the sheriff’s office and does an incredible job at establishing the geography of the building. You never get confused about where everything is in relation to our characters. The great geography leads to efficacious action. While bullets can be seen flying across the screen, you never think about where they are coming from, you feel the dread and tension as you hope our characters make it out alive.

Nikki Amuka-Bird and Zack Morris do a good job as their respective characters and allow you to get sucked into this world. The dysfunctional mother-son relationship in this film felt genuine.

Jericho Ridge is a very good time. It is a film that is so well-acted and directed that it overcomes any flaws that may be present. Jericho Ridge will be in cinemas on the 25th of April. It will also be released digitally from the 29th of April.

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.

I’ve recently attended an online summit on living a joyful life with leading experts in mindfulness and compassion and it was quite fabulous.

We first have to become aware of what is flowing through the mind and by practicing mindfulness we begin to see and understand our default mode network (DMN) of commentary and dialogue arising with the mind. One of the leading experts in mindfulness would say that we have a strong DMN, and for the majority of people it is to the negative, and therefore cultivating joy in our lives takes energy and commitment to bring more balance internally.

Here are some comments from the leading experts on what joy is:

Richard Davidson: “Leading a joyful life is leading a life with purpose - sense of meaning, serving others.”

Sharon Saltzberg: “Wholeness of one’s being, integration, being who you are.”

Elissa Peel: “It it eudaemonia” - being content, having purpose, feeling connected and grounded. Appreciating what is in front of us.”

When you read these, what comes up for you? Make some notes, begin to bring joy as a potential in your mind. There is a difference between happiness and joy in that happiness comes from external circumstances whereas joy is more internal. What do you need to cultivate to bring more joy in your life? What can you let go of that’s depleting?

Pause and ask yourself what is your definition of joy and also what gives you joy in life? It’s so worth it!

Tina Gilbert lives in Livingston and teaches* yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk

(*Tue classes in person - Thu classes online)

APRIL CROSSWORD

The

ACROSS: 7. Sight (6), 8. Female relative (6), 9. Largest continent (4), 10. Fit and healthy (8), 11. Beetles, ants etc (7), 13. .Animal furs (5), 15. Invoices (5), 17. Considers (7), 20. Taking small bites (8), 21. Solely (4), 23. Distributed (6), 24. A capital city (6).

DOWN: 1. Fasteners (4), 2. Buccaneer (6), 3. Young children (7), 4. Sailing boat (5), 5. Involuntary action (6), 6. Menacing (8), 12. Loudest (8), 14. Harshly (7), 16. Hard work (6), 18. Drenches (6), 19. Feathered friends? (5), 22. Stolen goods (4).

Ensuring quality care for individuals in the comfort of their own home is a priority for many as they grow older. However, financing such care can be daunting for families, with many unaware of the funding that is available to them, regardless of financial circumstances.

The most common avenue for funding is through Self-Directed Support (SDS) offered by local councils, which is designed to help empower individuals to manage their care services, offering them control over who provides and arranges these.

In addition to any funding available through SDS, security benefits can also help to meet the cost of the care and support at home. These include: Adult Disability Payment - A new payment replacing Personal Independence Payment and Disability Living Allowance in Scotland for

those having difficulty with daily living activities or getting around because of a health condition or disability

Attendance Allowance – for people not claiming another disability benefit, who have reached State Pension age and need help with care or supervision during the day, night, or both Carer’s Allowance – for people caring for someone for 35+ hours a week that is in receipt of either Attendance Allowance or the daily living component of Adult Disability Payment.

By understanding the options available, funding and support can be secured so that individuals in need of care at home can arrange this without waiting for a crisis to arise.

For more information on accessing funding for care, contact Age Scotland on 0800 12 44 222 or visit their website: www.ageuk.org.uk/scotland

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

WD40 FOR THE BODY!

The physical decline and weakening of our bodies is a natural process as we age. Unfortunately. Most of us shrink away from the fact that this process starts around age 30-35.

It doesn’t need to be that way. We can (and arguably should) take ownership of the inevitable deterioration, affect the pace of such and support the body however we can.

Sacropenia is the term given to age-related muscle loss. After 30 we begin to lose as much as 3-5% muscle mass per decade. Most men will lose around 30% of their muscle mass during their lifetime.

For women the prognosis is worse. We also lose bone mass rapidly in the first few years after the menopause. Gulp.

Physical inactivity undoubtedly speeds up everything mentioned above. It is estimated that four to five million deaths could be averted each year if the global population was more active.

‘Functional movement’ is a term given to mobilising the body is such a way that it increases the capacity of the body to function as it should. The ability to bend, twist and push/pull weight are examples of this.

Yoga is an ideal example of functional movement. Providing you find a class that is suitable for you. Iyengar yoga specifically focuses on strength as well as flexibility and is perfect for the ageing body. The instruction is comprehensive and different pieces of equipment are used to cater for different levels of experience and mobility.

Eva Paterson is an Iyengar Yoga Instructor and studio owner based in Livingston. The majority of her clients are 40-50+ with several in the 70s. She wants to emphasise that yoga is not for the select few people who are young, slim and flexible. In fact, functional movement is much more important when

we start to experience some discomforts. “A surprising amount of discomfort and even pain can be alleviated with regular movement. Firstly, it is necessary get movement in, to see if the pain is due to inactivity or if it requires medical treatment. From that point we try to stretch into muscles and loosen things. Only after that we can try to build strength to maintain the openness we have created.”

“If you settle for discomfort, there is nothing surer than it eventually becoming significant pain. Find an experienced instructor and take ownership of your physical wellbeing. Your quality of life depends on it!”

Eva offers all new students a free trial class when starting a regular yoga practice. She wants to ensure that all students feel classes are relevant to them, as well as helpful. She emphasises that commitment to a weekly class is important, however, to reap any benefits.

One of the first benefits I noticed when starting to practise yoga regularly was managing to twist comfortably when reversing the car. We frequently perform twists in class, I have no doubt that this regular movement helped me to regain the mobility I had taken for granted when younger. Just one small example of the many positive effects that regular yoga has had on my general mobility and consequently my quality of life as I have aged.

Mary Crighton, age 64

This article was contributed by Eva Paterson, Yoga Instructor and Studio Owner at Choose You, Livingston. www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk

COME AND RUN WITH LOTHIAN RUNNING CLUB

A friendly and enthusiastic running club catering for all abilities, on road, track and trails!

Coached Sessions

Twice weekly coached group sessions, mixed ability groups. If you can run 5km without stopping there’ll be a group for you.

Tuesday Junior Track Session (£2)

Tuesday road session (FREE) | Thursday track session (£3.10)

Social Run

Each Wednesday we have a 5mile/8km social run around Livingston. Providing a safe and sociable option for your midweek run. With regrouping en-route to cater for mixed abilities. (Age 16+)

Membership

Adult membership is £20/year | juniors £10/year. Benefits include: Subsidised track sessions, free races, club training plan, coached group sessions

Contact us at:

Website: www.lothianrunningclub.co.uk

Facebook: @LothianRC

There is still time to plant some young strawberry plants to get a small crop this summer.

They are easier to look after if you can plant them in the ground and you’ll probably get bigger crops than if you plant them in pots or a special strawberry pot with planting holes up the sides. This is because they can go and find their own water supply and not be so reliant on you!

We recommend you plant different varieties if you have space, an early, mid-season (Wimbledon time) and a late variety. If you only have space for half a dozen plants go for a late variety now to give it a longer season to grow and bear fruit this year.

EARLY: try Malling Centenary, very sweet modern variety

MID: choose Elsanta, another modern variety with a delicious sweet flavour

LATE: select Malling Allure, sweet shapely juicy fruit (July)

NEW WORLD MINTED STRAWBERRIES

Half your strawberries into a bowl and add 1 tbsp castor sugar and a handful of chopped mint leaves (use spearmint or apple mint), leave for 30 minutes. 10 minutes before serving pour over a generous measure of New World Red Wine. Serve with a dollop of crème fraiche and a garnish of mint leaves. Enjoy!

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

I try not to get on my soapbox too much when writing these articles however, I can’t get something out of my mind.

Fearing it’d had been injured, I was on the phone to the SSPCA about one of last years cygnets (it was fine and got up to have a stretch, just as I connected with an operator, obviously!) I noticed it was trying to eat something on the ground without success. Turns out the potential item of food was a cigarette butt, which thankfully, it didn’t swallow.

To put it bluntly, I find the litter issue across West Lothian utterly disgraceful. I remember people coming to my school talking about litter, so this isn’t a new problem but it’s one which seems to be getting worse. I don’t think it’s an understatement to say that it’s everywhere you look, from riverbanks to paths, and seemingly worst of all, the off-ramps of motorways and roundabouts. Never mind around roadside lay-bys, where various vehicles park up and drivers seemingly don’t care to take their litter home with them (not all, I’m sure) The West Lothian

Litter Pickers do an amazing job at clearing the local area up but it’s a seemingly endless task. Whatever age you are, if you drop litter or throw something from your car, just stop it.

Litter has a serious impact on the environment in many ways and could be avoided if you act differently and take it home.

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Follow them on Facebook: @ScottishSistersPhotography

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SATURDAY 6TH APRIL

Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park Volunteering session - The Friends of Almondell's monthly practical project meeting. Volunteer group helping to conserve and maintain the 220 acre Almondell & Calderwood Country Park including the Oakbank extension. Please get in touch by contacting the Ranger Service on 01506 882254, or email almondell&calderwood@ westlothian.gov.uk to find out more about getting involved. Facebook: Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park

SUNDAY 14TH APRIL

Ramble & Chat, Harwood Water and Woods - With Almond Valley Nature Action Group, a monthly social walk with like-minded folk to blether about nature, climate action, biodiversity or whatever comes to mind. This

month, we’re starting in the village of Polbeth, following a circular route through a mixed species woodland, and walking alongside the Harwood Water river. Meet 2pm at the car park beside the playing fields in the centre of Polbeth. what3words.com/crispier.pencils.dabbled.

FRI 29TH MARCH TO SUN 14TH APRIL

Easter Eggcitement at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - Celebrate the wonders of springtime. Search for hidden eggs, crack the clues on the cheery chick trail, and get creative with colours and crafts. Meet the new arrivals on the farm and, over the Easter weekend, (29th1st), cheer on our famous plastic duck race. Included in admission at Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. See www.almondvalley.co.uk

THURSDAY 16TH MAY

West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - Help for men recently diagnosed and speakers on Prostate Cancer Research and from Macmillan team on “Improving the Cancer Journey.” Meet 7.00pm Crofthead Community Centre, Livingston.

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

ALMOND VALLEY NATURE

ACTION - A community group covering small projects throughout the River Almond Valley, aiming to help nature flourish and inspire our community to get involved in nature action. We meet monthly at weekends to explore different green areas and discuss nature, biodiversity, climate action, and share knowledge/personal experience. We occasionally organise workshops and additional events in our local projects. All welcome. Check our blog almondvalleynatureaction.blog for upcoming event details, or follow us on social media. almondvalleynatureaction.blog/contact/

MURIESTON ART GROUPWe’re a small friendly club meeting Mondays 10.00 - 12.30 (term time only) at Murieston Village Hall (behind Livingston South station, with large free car park). Qualified tutor @ approx £6 per week plus a current annual fee of £20. Lots of paper, paint and brushes available to those with no supplies. Tea/ coffee/biscuits provided. Email Janet.dicksondickson@bt.internet. com or just turn up for a trial session for a small charge. Beginners and experienced artists all welcome.

VISUALLY IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP WEST LOTHIAN - Come along and meet up with like-minded people who all have a visual impairment for support and a chat. Make new friends. Everyone is very welcome. Refreshments are available. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month 10.30am – 12pm (midday) in the Ability centre, Livingston North Partnership Centre, Carmondean Centre Road, Livingston EH54 8PT. For further information please contact: June - 07903540545 or Gwyneth - 07762152727

ROTARY CLUB OF LIVINGSTON

- The Rotary Club of Livingston has been supporting care/ community organisations in the Livingston area but it would be wonderful to be joined by new members who could bring different outlooks and experiences to the work we do. We meet at 8pm on a Wednesday evening via Zoom using Subtitling/Closed Captions

to facilitate members/visitors who have a hearing impairment. You are welcome to join us. Facebook: Rotary Club of Livingston. Visit livingston.rotary1020.org or contact secretary@livingston.rotary1020.org

LIVINGSTON SPORTING

MEMORIES CLUB - If you had a keen interest in sports as a youngster and still have a passion for chatting about sport, then Livingston Sporting Memories Club will be right up your street. We meet every Monday at Livingston Cricket Club, 10.30am12noon to chat about our shared love for sport and enjoy a cuppa and cake. Come along and join us, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Contact Isobel (07584 290726), Jenny (07909 645084).

WEST LOTHIAN TREFOIL GUILD

- 18+ Ladies group. Ecclesmachan Village Hall 1st Tuesday of month Feb - Jun & Sept - Nov plus other adhoc meetings. For information please contact trefoilguild@girlguiding.co.uk or 02078346242

WEST LOTHIAN NETTERSRecreational netball club for adults 18+. A welcoming inclusive group, no prior experience or knowledge of netball required. Wednesdays 7.158.45pm in the Sports Hall at West Lothian College. Cost £4.50. Also Junior club (age 11-16) Wednesdays 7-8pm at Inveralmond Community High School. Cost £2.50. Prebooking essential at bookwhen.com/ westlothiannetters

For more information, visit or send us a message at facebook.com/WestLothian-Netters-902394399845386

LIVINGSTON COMMUNITY

SHED - Join us at the Barn Cafe at Carmondean Community Centre, Netherdechmont Farm, Fells Rigg, Carmondean, Livingston EH54 8AX on a Friday morning from around 11:00am to 1:00pm for coffee, bacon rolls and a chat plus hear about our active projects for community gardens, photography, woodwork and excursions. We are also evaluating other crafts and activities. Membership is free and all are welcome. Please contact: livingstoncommunityshed@gmail.com

LIVINGSTON PROBUS CLUB - A local group for retired and semi-retired men who regularly meet to enjoy

interesting guest speakers and make new friends in a comfortable environment. We also join together for lunches, social nights, and occasional outings. We meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 10am–noon, Sept to May, in Deer Park Golf & Country Club and very warmly welcome new members. Interested? Contact Bill Nimmo, Probus Secretary, on 01506 853617.

LIVINGSTON LADIES PROBUS

CLUB - We meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at St Andrews Church Deans from 10.00am. You’ll find a varied programme of speakers, tea, coffee and good company.

For more details contact Karen Stewart on Duncoillie@sky.com

WEST CALDER BRIDGE CLUB (WCBC) - WCBC invites you to come along and play the challenging card game of Bridge. All are welcome from beginners to experienced players. Beginners can sit with more experienced players or have learning sessions. WCBC meets on Tuesdays 7pm until 10pm. The cost is £2.50.

West Kirk of Calder, West Main Street, West Calder, EH55 8EN. See www.westcalderbridgeclub.org.uk for further information and contact numbers.

LIVINGSTON AND DISTRICT AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETYWe are based in the Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, Livingston and are a member of the Radio Society of Great Britain. Meeting every Tuesday 19:00 to 21:00, our club brings together members of all ages in a licensed pursuit which is technical, scientific and promotes local and international friendship through radio. We provide training for all three levels of amateur operating licences in friendly and relaxed atmosphere E: cco_edin@ btinternet.com T: 07710 441423

13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP - Livingston Station Community Centre, Deans. We’re looking for more youth and adult members, and would like to hear from parents/guardians who would like to get involved as a sectional assistant or leader.

BEAVERS: Tue 6.30pm-7.30pm (ages 6-8)

CUBS: Thu 6.30pm-8.00pm (ages 8-10)

SCOUTS: Thu 7.00pm-9.00pm (ages 10-14)

If you are interested please contact Steven Graham on 07786 638442 or stevengraham162@gmail.com

WEST LOTHIAN PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP -

The West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group can provide help and information and the opportunity to talk to men with recent treatment experience to give 'man to man' background to help them make a choice of the treatment they may be offered. Please contact for more information Duncan Wallace on 01506 632309 or Gordon Stuart on 01506 651388 or check our website elprostatecancersupport.co.uk

LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS GROUP

- Walk with us every week on Thursdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Variety of walks to suit all abilities from challenging to gentle. All are welcome. For full walk details see: Ramblers webpage. www.ramblers. org.uk/scotland and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/livingstonramblers Contact us: info@livingstonramblers. org.uk or via Facebook messenger on Livingston Ramblers Group.

FUN LITTLE EDUCATIONPlaygroup available for children from 2 years old. Beech House Quarrywood Court, Livingston, EH54 6AX. Monday to Friday 9.30 - 14.30. For information contact Paulina on 07729 969989 or funlittleeducation@ gmail.com. All welcome.

LIVINGSTON SPEAKERS - If you've ever felt scared about public speaking, get anxious when giving presentations or avoid speaking up at meetings....then Livingston Speakers can help. We offer a safe, supportive environment where you can practice and get valuable feedback from the other members...and it doesn't matter if you make a mistake or freeze on the spot. We meet at Crofthead Farm Community Centre or online on Zoom please contact helen.toastmaster@ gmail.com or call 07733 100595 for more information.

LIVINGSTON UKULELE CLUB

- Meet every Tuesday 7.00pm - 9:00pm in the Carmondean community Centre "West Barn". From beginners to experienced players all are welcome. We charge £2 per evening to cover the cost of the hall. Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Website: livingstonukuleleclub. wordpress.com Facebook: 'Livingston Ukulele Club'.

DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR

NETWORK - Monday Coffee

Morning 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1. Tuesday ladies Lunch club 12.30 to 2.30 two course Lunch, Tea, Coffee then 1 Hour of Arts and Crafts / Games Cost £4.50

Friday Coffee Morning, 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1.00

T: 01506 416137, venue Crofthead farm, Dedridge, Livingston.

ART CLUB AT DEANS - Every Tuesday, 7.00-9.00pm, Deans Community centre (opp the Co-op). Come and join our friendly bunch. Bring your own projects or learn new skills. We give guidance/tuition in drawing, acrylics and watercolours plus specialist techniques like silk painting. Check out our gallery in the centre or visit our FB page 'Deans Community Art Club'. Contact Jim Tripney 07748 517452

29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT

GROUP - We are looking for new members. Beavers 6-8 years Thursday 6.30-7.30pm, Cubs 8-10 years Monday 6.30-8.00pm, Scouts 10-14 years Wednesday 7.009.00pm all at Toronto Primary School Community Hall. For more information please contact Group Scout Leader David Nicol on 07876 776012 or david29wl@gmail.com

MURIESTON COMMUNITY

GARDEN - Become a volunteer for a new community garden next to Livingston South Railway Station. Help transform rough ground into a beautiful, tranquil garden for all to enjoy. See details at www.muriestoncg.org.uk, follow Facebook page "Murieston Community Garden", or join private Facebook group "Murieston Community Garden Volunteers". Details will also be posted on the noticeboard at Livingston South Station. Help needed for building, gardening and administration. All welcome, no gardening experience required.

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPSAvailable for children from 2 years old. Daily session cost £9.00 per session, eligible 2 funding accepted. Locations:

• Crofthead Community Centre, Dedridge - Sessions available Mon to Fri 9.15am- 11.30am

E: crofthead@ communityplaygroups.org

T: 07904 623123

• Uphall Community Centre - Sessions available Mon to Fri 9.15am- 11.30am

E: uphall@communityplaygroups.org

T: 07939 252519

• West Calder Community Centre

- Sessions available Mon to Thurs

9.15am - 11.30am

E: westcalder@ communityplaygroups.org

T: 07985 645869

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.

SONGWRITING GROUP - Looking for new members. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm - 9.00pm. These are informal evenings aimed at encouraging musicians and songwriters (adults) of all levels and abilities who would like to share their idea, techniques and songs with others in an informal, friendly environment. For further information, please contact Annie on 07824 667889.

TABLE TENNIS CLUB - Thurs night 7.00pm - 9.00pm at Livingston Village Primary School. For more information contact Graeme 07368 921472

LIVINGSTON STATION PARENT AND TODDLERS GROUP - All parents/carers and toddlers are welcome to attend. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning during school term from 10am to 11.30am, Deans Community Hall. Cost is £1.50. Includes messy play. A snack is provided. For information contact Facebook “Parent and Toddler Livingston Station Deans” or Stace Mclauchlan on 07760 853310

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 nongiven. For more information see: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317

E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com

T: 01506 844274

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

SCOTTISH SENIORS COMPUTER CLUB - Do you need some help with your laptop, tablet or smart phone? We can provide friendly practical advice on using and getting the most from the technology. Come along as often Waterstone's Cafe in The Centre from 10.00 - 12.00am every Tuesday. Contact Chris Cosgrove for information on 07778 704860

LIVINGSTON SUBBUTEO CLUB

- Intending to restart the Livingston Subbuteo Club and looking for ex members or new starts who might be interested. Contact Malc on 07815 699186 - maddandad94@ gmail.com

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.

SOLUTION TO MARCH CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Neat, 3. Ignorant, 9. Natural, 10. Navel, 11. Early, 12. Oceans, 14. Sewing, 16. Absent, 19. Potato, 21. Tiger, 24. Pulse, 25. Fearful, 26. Nineteen, 27. Used.

DOWN: 1. Nonsense, 2. Actor, 4. Gallop, 5. Ounce, 6. Advance, 7. Till, 8. Crayon, 13. Startled, 15. Woollen, 17. Betray, 18. Coffee, 20. Agent, 22. Gifts, 23. Open.

MUSIC 4 U - Musical activities, fellowship and fun for people with dementia and their carers throughout West Lothian. We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month in Carmondean Community Complex (parish church section) from 2 - 3.30 pm. It begins with afternoon tea then musical activities delivered by people with dementia expertise and musical ability, all volunteers. There's no cost. Great fun for everybody! More information from Nancy Burgoyne on 01506 419904 or email burgoynenancy49@gmail.com

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Monday. Ante-natal yoga 5.45-6.45 and Vinyasa Flow 7.00-8.00pm Tuesday. Seasonal yoga 5.30-6.30 and Yoga Basics 6.45-7.45pm Wednesday. Iyengar yoga 6.00-7.15 & 7.30-8.45pm Thursday. Iyengar yoga 9.4511.00am Friday. Carmondean, Livingston.

E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk

T: 07810 824 195

W: www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook

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.

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

ACROSS: 1. Neat, 3. Ignorant, 9. Natural, 10. Navel, 11. Early, 12. Oceans, 14. Sewing, 16. Absent, 19. Potato, 21. Tiger, 24. Pulse, 25. Fearful, 26. Nineteen, 27. Used.

DOWN: 1. Nonsense, 2. Actor, 4. Gallop, 5. Ounce, 6. Advance, 7. Till, 8. Crayon, 13. Startled, 15. Woollen, 17. Betray, 18. Coffee, 20. Agent, 22. Gifts, 23. Open.

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

Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design

T: 07729 911858

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

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 www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510.

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NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT.SCOT FOR INFO.

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

Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858