AUGUST 2022
WIN! A round of golf for 4 + a refreshing round of 'Paradise Slush' drinks for 4 from "The Shack"
LOCAL CHARITY: LOCAL HISTORY:
PARENTING:
P20
W
e are running a Treasure Hunt in this issue! Local rum distillery Matugga Distillers has teamed up with Paradise Island Adventure Golf to to bring you an exclusive (or PARFECT!) giveaway for all the family. Win a round of golf for 4 plus a refreshing round of 'Paradise Slush' tropical slushies/drinks for 4 from "The Shack" at Livingston Designer Outlet. See their advert on p7. And get hunting – find the 5 gold medallions hidden within this magazine, then head to our website www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code on the cover to enter the draw. Full information and Ts & Cs are on our website. Our history feature this month also has a drinks-theme: looking at how Irn-Bru, originally made in Falkirk, was distributed in the early days and the incredible contribution of the company horses. After schools go back later in August, there are still plenty of things going on locally to get in involved in, check the What’s On Page. All our usual columns are here, including a local charity page all about the new Sporting Memories Club, based in Broxburn but accessible to all areas. I hope you enjoy the magazine this month, thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.
All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638 @KonectMagazines
THIS ISSUE Local History: The Irn-Bru Fleet.................... 8 Living Well: Senior Fraud Protection..........12 Life Coaching: School’s out, what now?...14 Hair: Hydration................................................14 Property Matters: Lifestyle Photography...20 Garden Project: Garden Glut......................28 Money Matters: Interest rates......................32 Puzzles.............................................................38 Parenting: Summer Fun List........................39 Local Environment: Avian Flu......................40 Thought for the Month...................................41 Film Review.....................................................42 Charity: Sporting Memories Club...............43 What’s On........................................................46
COVER IMAGE: August: Back to school!
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Spacious studio with adequate ventilation. All equipment provided
Y ou’re only one yoga class away from a good mood
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In Carmondean, Livingston Studio available to rent for classes and events
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Supporting mental health, joint pain, recovery from illness or injury. Building strength, flexibility and resilience.
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January 1937 – a huge Clydesdale horse lies stricken on the frosty ground of the Cow Wynd in Falkirk, having slipped on the ice. His massive bulk makes it impossible for anyone to lift him, although many locals have gathered - so many in fact that the police are involved to keep the traffic flowing. Someone has bought a mattress to try and make the horse more comfortable throughout the rescue operation, and people are offering him buns. But alas by the end of the day, in front of the large crowd and the devastated driver, the local vet has to shoot him to put him out of his misery.
The horse was the well-known and loved Clydesdale named “Carnera,” owned by Robert Barr’s soft drinks company. For the previous seven years he had been one of the “fleet” of heavy horses used to distribute the famous soft drinks, including Barr’s “iron brew,” to the surrounding area. At 19 hands 1.5 inches high (6ft 6inches at the shoulder) and weighing a ton, Carnera was said to be the largest working horse in the world at the time - although that claim is likely to be part of the marketing that the Barr’s developed around the horse. Spotting him at a farm in Perth in 1930, Robert Barr realised he would be a valuable addition to the fleet. He named him after a famous boxing champion of the time, and Carnera was given a board to wear above his harness, saying: “Carnera, reputed to be the biggest
working horse in the world.” As a promotional asset for Barr’s Carnera was a great success, well known and loved by the public. In common with other fine working horses, he was exhibited at agricultural shows and often won prizes. Barr’s marketing was always about strength and performance; and fittingly, the role of heavy horses was central from the beginning. The convoys of horses were a well-known sight, leaving the drinks factories fully laden early in the morning. Falkirk Council was concerned about the effect the volume of traffic had on other road users and on the underground sewers. In Glasgow, it was not unusual to see a convoy of 50 “lorries,” as the carts were known, drawn by 130 horses and carrying 5000 boxes leaving Barr’s Parkhead Works. It took extra trace horses to pull the lorries up Glen Brae for Slamannan, Shieldhill and beyond to get their soft drinks. Wooden crates filled with glass bottles full of liquid was a heavy business, and the heavy horses pulled flat-bed lorries, upon which crates of bottles were stacked. Fully laden they took about 60 – 70 dozen bottles, a total weight of about three tons, which they could pull at 3 miles per hour when fully loaded (or slightly faster if the driver walked beside the lorry.) The larger works employed a joiner in-house to maintain the lorries. While there were many soft drinks businesses in Scotland, the market for each limited by the area the horses could delivery to, so they weren’t initially in competition with each other in their geographic areas. Stirling, Kilsyth, Airdrie, Alloa and Linlithgow were the limits of where Barr’s of Falkirk could deliver to.
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IMAGE: Copyright A.G. BARR / Britivic plc
LOCAL HISTORY
All the companies were totally dependent on their horses; the West Lothian Aerated Water Works of Bo’ness was bankrupted by an epidemic amongst their horses in December 1905. The concept of “aerated water,” as soft drinks were originally known, took off rapidly at the end of the 19th century. The market was ready for it; the product had been gradually improved by various companies since the concept of adding carbon dioxide to water was first alighted upon in the late 1700s, and by the time the Robert Barr, a cork-cutter in Falkirk, entered the aerated water market around 1875, the likes of Schweppes and others had been in business for a long time. From its conception as a health tonic, aerated water broadened its appeal into a general drink and was considered a healthy option, and it was safe compared with what could often be contaminated tap or well water supply at the time. Sugars and syrups added gave exciting taste and a dose of energy. In Falkirk, in common with many other places, the foundry workers, miners and brick workers loved it, and coupled with the temperance movement, it was rapidly successful. Robert Barr’s sons opened a manufacturing facility at Parkhead in 1887 under their own initials. The recipe for “iron brew” was launched in April 1901 by jointly by Robert Barr Falkirk and AG Barr & Co Glasgow. Adam Brown, a famous highland athlete from Shotts, featured on the label design. It was not protected by patent and several companies in Scotland began producing iron brew. Barr’s were marketing savvy and they had a reputation for quality, and Barr’s own iron brew gained prominence. It was renamed Irn-Bru in 1946. A typical day for a Barr’s driver in the early 20th century consisted of setting out around 6am, walking beside the horse for around four hours. They would arrive in, say, Kilsyth around 10am, where they had four hours delivering within the town. The return journey was slightly quicker, but was finished off by stabling the horse, checked the harness and lorry and lodging paperwork; all in all a 12 hour working day. The horses were well looked after. AG Barr of Glasgow was reported in the Falkirk Herald in 1905 to have “comfortable, orderly stalls @KonectMagazines
"One of Carnera’s enormous hooves was kept by the Barrs as a reminder of his story, displayed in a glass cabinet at Parkhead until company headquarters moved from there to Cumbernauld in 1996. " for the 200 horses [which] should make these animals grateful. Thousands of human beings might envy them their lot.” Despite the introduction of motor transport (unsurprisingly AG Barr was an early adopter, and in 1904 the company had bought a motor wagon which carried 14 tons and could go at a rate of 8 miles per hour - much quicker than the heavy horses) it was slow in replacing the horses, as evidenced by their use even up until Carnera in 1937. Carnera wasn’t the first horse that Barr’s lost in an accident. Ten years previously in June 1927 the Falkirk Steeple was stuck by lightening. In a freak accident, one of Barr’s delivery horses just below it, delivering to a grocer’s on the high street, and was killed by the falling masonry of the steeple tower. The driver ducked out of the way of the debris and escaped with only cuts and bruises, and a young family in the house opposite also had a miraculous escape although their home was destroyed. While cooling down with your Irn-Bru this month, it’s interesting to think about the time distribution was limited to the radius a heavy horse could pull, and the incredible contributions these animals made. This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, using information from Geoffrey Bailey’s “A History of Falkirk in 10.5 Objects”, Falkirk Local History Society, Falkirk Herald archives, and Barr & Co’s published histories. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines. LIVINGSTON | 9
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RECIPE
This dish is full of delicious surprises – every bite is like a lucky dip of fantastic flavours and textures! Takes 30 mins and serves 4 people INGREDIENTS • 300g dried long-grain rice • 100g shelled broad beans • 100g fresh or frozen peas • 6 spring onions, sliced • 60g Gruyère cheese, grated • 200g cherry tomatoes, quartered • 16 baby gherkins, halved • 390g can artichoke hearts in water, drained & roughly chopped • 100g radishes, sliced • 4 tbsp fat-free vinaigrette• Juice of 1 lemon • Finely chopped fresh dill, to serve METHOD 1. Put the rice in a small non-stick saucepan with 450ml of cold water and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Cook over a gentle heat for 15 minutes, without letting the water boil —
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2. 3.
4.
5.
you want the water to just simmer. There’s no need to add more water once it's been absorbed (the steam will finish the job). Spread the rice over a baking tray and allow it to cool thoroughly. While the rice is cooling, blanch the broad beans and peas in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then leave to cool. Remove the broad bean skins by squeezing them between your thumb and forefinger and discard. Mix the broad beans, peas, spring onions and rice in a large salad bowl. Stir in the cheese, tomatoes, gherkins, artichokes and radishes. Whisk the vinaigrette with the lemon juice and stir into the salad. Season lightly, scatter over the chopped dill and serve.
This recipe was contributed by Slimming World Livingston. To find out more about Slimming World and how to join, visit slimmingworld.co.uk
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LIVING WELL
With the support of our Care Professionals, we want to protect older people in our community against scammers, and from losing valuable assets, independence and trust. Older people are targets due to isolation/ loneliness, financial stability and poor health . They are the fastest growing segment of population and decline in cognitive function can lead to poor decision making. COMMON FRAUDS: • Microsoft imitators gain access to your PC and control of confidential material • Fake charities • Telephone preference service – usually from overseas, asking for credit card details to complete registration. This service is free and therefore no such details are required. • Too good to be true – letters from a private banker from abroad claiming a large amount
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of money has been left to you therefore act swiftly to forward bank details • Courier scam – bank calls to say your bank needs to be collected, asking for PIN so gaining access to your account • Parcel delivery scams • PPI, debt recovery, prize draw, investment scams and many more… Victims of scams can be affected emotionally, physically, and mentally therefore it is crucial to look out for signs in changes of behaviour. If you think that someone has been scammed or is at risk of being scammed contact Action Fraud, a service run by the National Fraud Authority, on 0300 123 2040 or through their website www. actionfraud.police.uk. They will provide a police reference number and the report will automatically be passed on to the police. 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
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LIFE COACHING
, SCHOOL S OUT ....what now? I’ve talked about the benefits of diet for your hair in previous articles but I’ve never touched on hydration. So here we go…
Much like a plant needs water to grow, so does your hair. Water is a key ingredient that supports vitamins which contribute to your hair growth. Believe it or not, water makes up almost 25% of the weight of a single strand of hair. We all know drinking at least two litres of water a day is what’s needed for your body, but did you know that it will help the strength of your hair and help with hydration to your scalp which encourages hair growth? Dehydration immediately halts hair growth. Our hair needs moisture. When it doesn’t have the moisture it needs, hair ends will split or become brittle. This makes it difficult for hair to grow. It is possible for hair to stop growing completely if you’re not drinking enough water. Drinking water also triggers the energy that is transmitted at the scalp that runs to your hair’s end. When the roots are hydrated, this will eliminate problems like dandruff. We all know we should drink more water, do it for your hair!
The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.com 14 | LIVINGSTON
It never ceases to amaze me that we all seem to spend months waiting in anticipation of summer, those mythical endless days of sunshine and the longedfor breaks from routine. We imagine ourselves in a beautiful environment with lots of time to relax and do only those things that we want to do. Then, no sooner does our holiday roll round than those precious two weeks are over. We then spend the next few months looking back longingly and waiting for the next break, it’s almost as if our daily routines are places where we live half-lives waiting for the release that only holidays can bring. I am certainly not suggesting that there is anything wrong with looking forward to treats and adventures, taking breaks from our usual routines is necessary for both our mental and physical health but there are some useful things we could do for ourselves to help build a bridge between those precious holidays and our day-today life. A great place to start is to really think about what makes our holidays so special and bring some of those treats into our everyday lives whether that is time with our loved ones or space for hobbies and interests. The end of the summer might always feel sad if we tell ourselves ‘sun good, cold bad!’ and live the rest of the year anticipating our next break. We could all decide today to think differently about our day to day lives and bring some of that holiday excitement home. 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 @KonectMagazines
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-Kerr
Marc van Cartier-Kerr
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Using lifestyle photography to attract the best offer for your property When choosing a home, buyers’ preferences are heavily influenced by their lifestyle, and this becomes more and more true as people move up the property ladder.
So a truly effective property marketing campaign encompasses much more than information on the features of the house itself. It communicates a positive vision for what life could be like for the next owners of your property – for example it may be a focus on outdoors living, spending quality time with family, privacy, or space to relax and unwind.
designing your property campaign? This is where skilled, professional lifestyle photography sets a campaign apart. Lifestyle photography is based on a deep understanding of the type of buyer likely to be interested in the property. It captures the “personality” of the home, bringing it to life and showcasing the lifestyle that can be enjoyed here.
As agents, how do we convey all this when
One way of doing this is by using models in the shots.
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Besides showing scale and perspective of a room, using models helps prospective buyers to visualise themselves in the property - perhaps relaxing with a coffee on a deck outside, or reading in an easy chair. This help potential buyers to relate to the property and start to become emotionally invested in it. Another aspect of lifestyle photography is using carefully selected props
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SCALE AND PERSPECTIVE: Helping potential buyers to visualise themselves relaxing in the property to zoom in on lifestyle elements. Wine glasses and a well-stocked cheeseboard for the kitchen; high-end cosmetics in the bathroom; a floral centrepiece on a dining table or a board game – these are all examples of using lifestyle photography to evoke emotions relating to moments that a potential buyer can visualise enjoying here. For some properties, twilight images showcasing atmospheric exterior lighting is also a highly effective way
of firing the imagination and capturing the emotions. Using well-considered, high quality lifestyle photography attracts the attention of the buyers who are most likely to connect with the property and subsequently more likely to value it the highest. Turpie & Co are currently marketing Oakbank House, Bridgecastle, West Lothian, pictured. Scan the QR code for full property details.
The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing. @KonectMagazines
LIVINGSTON | 21
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At this time of year you can suddenly have a glut of produce in your garden.
It’s about to start with courgettes, then tomatoes, apples, grapes and so on. Our Purple Piglet Project has various recipes to help you cope with these gluts, starting with courgettes. CREAM OF COURGETTE SOUP
Fry a chopped garlic clove in oil till soft, add 1kg chopped courgettes, more oil and a crumbled stock cube and cook for 5 minutes. Add water to cover courgettes, bring to the boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from heat, add 250g Philadelphia Light Cheese,
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Courgette Soup 1 tbsp chopped chives, 2 tbsp chopped parsley, black pepper and lemon juice to season. Blend in a processor until smooth. Reheat and serve in bowls with a spoonful of natural yoghurt and some chopped parsley and chives. The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
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“I’m Greg, your Greensleeves lawn care expert, based in West Lothian.” Rather than run a regular advert in this space, I thought I’d just give you a little update instead… As usual, the first six months of this year have been super busy – when the sun comes out, people want to enjoy their gardens more, so attentions are drawn to their lawns. We have been improving lawns almost every day since I moved up from Yorkshire, at the start of the year, yet we still have a bit more space to take on new customers who are looking to enjoy the summer in their own garden.
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SPONSORED CONTENT
Will interest rates keep going up in 2022? This is a question that I’m regularly asked. The Bank of England raised interest rates three times in the first five months of 2022, from 0.25% at the beginning of the year to 1% in May.1 With further increases expected as policymakers seek to mitigate inflation, it might seem that the interest paid on cash could soon spike and potentially take some savers close to the Personal Saving Allowance (PSA) threshold. But interest rates are unlikely to go high enough for that to happen. The increases are mainly to fight inflation and once that’s come down again, interest rates might well do so too.
The uncertain outlook underlines the value of taking financial advice and making sure your money is working as hard as you want it to. Various tax allowances are often seen in isolation, but they can work effectively together, and the ISA
32 | LIVINGSTON
and the PSA are a good example of that. It’s also important to consider your personal goals and access advice to help you achieve them.
The value of an ISA with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested. An investment in Stocks and Shares ISA will not provide the same security of capital associated with a Cash ISA or a deposit with a bank or building society.
The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances. Calderwood Financial is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products
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SOURCE: 1 Official Bank Rate History, Bank of England Database, accessed May 2022
MONEY MATTERS
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AUGUST CROSSWORD
AUGUST SUDOKU ^^^ Sudoku solution on page 42
PUZZLES
ACROSS: 1. Deprive of food (6), 4. Scribble (6), 9. Complicated (7), 10. Meal of raw vegetables (5), 11. Additional (5), 12. Exactly alike (7), 13. Meeting (11), 18. Down-payment (7), 20. End of day (5), 22. Type of oil (5), 23. Result (7), 24. Process (6), 25. Holds firmly (6).
^^^ Solution in the September edition of Konect
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DOWN: 1. Private (6), 2. Allow to enter (5), 3. Krakatoa (7), 5. Beginning (5), 6. Sea mammal (7), 7. Not youngest (6), 8. Test (11), 14. Young dogs (7), 15. Hideous beast (7), 16. Fools (6), 17. Speaks (6), 19. Kind of turnip (5), 21. Increases in size (5).
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PARENTING
Beecraigs!
So, this year we have not gone away on a “proper” summer holiday for various reasons. I’ve got time off work to spend with the kids of course but I’ve been very conscious that I needed to fill that holiday void. I’m sure I’m not alone in worrying what you are going to do with the kids during the holidays. Trying to come up with grand plans for days out. Constantly on the lookout for special offers and deals so that you can actually afford it.
This year I asked my girls to make a “summer fun list” of things they wanted to do during the holidays. Mainly so that we could make the most of the times when I’m not working rather than wasting the mornings away trying to decide what to do. I figured at least that way I could manage their expectations if needed. And maybe spread out the more expensive days out between pay days! But in the end they always remind me that they don’t need all that much, it’s the simple things that they actually look forward to and remember the most. There were plenty of things on the list that don’t come for free and of course some of them don’t come cheap. But there were also things on the list that I wouldn’t even have @KonectMagazines
ime! Clobber T
thought would be enough to get them excited. And even though I told them all bets were off, that they could put anything on the list they wanted to do, and it could be anywhere (within reason)…I was surprised how many of the things were easy to tick off locally. They wanted to get a slushie from the bowling alley at Deer Park (not bothered about the ten pin bowling, they’d have been happy with a slushie and 50p to have a go at the “clobber the robber” arcade game). They wanted to go to their favourite play park… you know the one with the big thing, where we went that time with everyone, you know you park and then walk down to it (Eliburn Play Park for anyone else who couldn’t work that one out). They wanted to go swimming that’s not a swimming lesson at the place with the flumes (Xcite Livingston of course, even I knew that one). They wanted to see an alpaca (thank you Almond Valley Heritage Centre). They wanted to take the dog for a walk at
the place with the trees that look like the Forbidden Forest from Harry Potter (that’s Beecraigs Country Park in case you were wondering). So, in short, they made my job pretty easy all things considered. It’s possible they’ll bring out the big guns with a crazy request between now and when the schools go back but we’ve made it this far so I’m pretty hopeful. As it turns out it’s me that’s really missing the holiday, wishing I was sipping an icecold drink by the poolside… but for now I’ll have to settle for drinking diluting juice from a plastic cup while I dangle my feet in their paddling pool. Happy days! The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls. LIVINGSTON | 39
LOCAL ENVIRONMENT
There’s so much in the news at the moment, you may be unaware that Avian Flu is working its way through our wonderful seabird colonies again. This beautiful bird is a gannet, and was taken on the Bass Rock. This volcanic rock is home to the largest colony of Northern gannets in the world and in peak breeding season is bright white, caused by a mix of birds and bird poo! Unfortunately, along with great skua they appear to be bearing the brunt the impact this highly infectious disease is having. Whilst I was in Orkney earlier this year, the beaches were littered with dead birds who had all likely succumbed to the flu. To prevent this disease spreading through colonies, places such as the Isle of May, the Farne Islands (Northumberland) and Noss (Shetland) have closed to visitors. It’s also been found in birds of prey and gulls as they scavenge for food, so it’s not just limited to seabirds. As we get out and explore the coastlines this summer, you may well come across 40 | LIVINGSTON
either an unwell or dead bird and it’s important you do a couple of things. Do not go near or touch these birds and please keep any dogs well away. The Scottish Government website provides recommendations of who you should report your sightings to depending on numbers/ species. I do try to keep this article light but this is a really serious and sad situation, which not everyone is aware of. 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 @KonectMagazines
CHANGING MY ATTITUDE Two weeks ago, I slipped, fell on my front, my left arm moved out and before I knew it my arm was broken! Without needing an x-ray I knew, the pain was enough. Apart from my thumb I'd never broken a bone before and boy it just stops your life in its tracks! I'm super busy and then it just stops. Adding pain, inability to do things for yourself and the result is a difficult person to be around! Those of you that have been in a similar situation may well resonate with me.
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By week two I'd had enough of myself! I struggled to think positively about anything and noticed my mind has seriously swung to a strong negative default where all the dialogue was unpleasant, My mind searched for challenge, it was easy. I was hard to be around outside and inside my body. So week two, I changed my attitude. I actively decided to be grateful for all that I had in my life; the people, my varied work, my home and all the things in my life I love. I also started to appreciate all that my fiancé had been doing for me, without him then my life would've been very difficult. It felt like a total flip to the other side and it felt good. I had to actively work at it but it was so worth it. I no-ticed, made the decision and changed, simple as that. Anything is possible. 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)
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SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION TO JULY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
If you told me that in 2022 a film where Nicolas Cage plays Nick Cage would be released and that the film would be good, I truly wouldn’t believe you.
But it happened. In The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, Nicolas Cage plays a caricature of himself, who is broke and has a troubling relationship with his wife and daughter. But when the offer comes in to make a million dollars to attend a birthday party of super fan Javi Gutierrez (played by Pedro Pascal) he takes it not knowing that the CIA is very interested in Javi Gutierrez.
ACROSS: 1. Deaf, 3. Formerly, 9. Croquet, 10. Annoy, 11. Manufactured, 14. Era, 16. Cease, 17. She, 18. Nevertheless, 21. Coast, 22. Putting, 23. Everyday, 24. Asks. DOWN: 1. December, 2. Adorn, 4. Out, 5. Measurements, 6. Runners, 7. Yo-yo, 8. Sufficiently, 12. Chart, 13. Messages, 15. Average, 19. Exits, 20. Acre, 22. Pea.
SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 38
This film is simply funny. Nicolas Cage and Pedro Pascal are both great and have amazing on-screen chemistry that is fun to watch. Any time the two are on screen the film is funny and super engaging.
While the overall plot is very simplistic, it does do a few unique things to prevent it from feeling overly cliché. What doesn’t help is that the other characters surrounding Nicolas Cage and Pedro Pascal are very bland and nowhere near as entertaining. But at the end of the day, this film is simply an easy watch, and at 1 hour and 47 minutes it leads to a comedy that is worth checking out - when the jokes land they are hilarious and will make you laugh out loud.
The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent is on digital 8th July and on SteelBook, 4K UHD, Blu-ray & DVD 11th July.
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. 42 | LIVINGSTON
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
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LOVE to talk about SPORT? Sporting Memories Clubs are for older adults to come together to talk and reminisce about sport.
As well as a friendly welcome, our volunteers provide fun and inclusive social and physical activities on a weekly basis. We want you to share your sporting passions with us and tell us about your favourite teams, special sporting moments and heroes. All over a cuppa and a biscuit with like-minded people. Everyone is welcome to attend a Sporting Memories Club. Some – but not all – members are living with dementia or low mood, or are isolated; others simply enjoy the opportunity to meet other people.
At Broxburn United Sports Club we have one thing in common: a love of sport. We are inviting older sports fans to meet to talk and reminisce about sport at our weekly
SPORTING MEMORIES CLUB Albyn Park, 1 Albyn Place, Broxburn EH52 5BP Every Wednesday 10.30am to 12pm starting 27th July 2022 Our volunteers provide fun inclusive social and physical activities as well as a friendly welcome.
Everyone welcome. Refreshments provided. Please bring a small weekly donation.
If you know a family member, neighbour, or colleague who you think would benefit from coming along to a weekly club please tell them about this club at Broxburn United Sports Club, Albyn Park (starting 27th July!) We will meet every Wednesday from 10.30am to 12pm. Albyn Park is in Broxburn, anyone from anywhere is welcome to attend. There is car parking space and a bus stop outside so it is easily accessible. This article was contributed by Sporting Memories Foundation Scotland www.sportingmemoriesnetwork.com
The West Lothian Club is at Broxburn United Sports Club, Albyn Park, Greendykes Rd, Broxburn EH52 5BP . For more info please call Donna 07340 560306 or email donna@ thesmf.co.uk or s.stuart@busc.org.uk @KonectMagazines
www.sportingmemoriesnetwork.com LIVINGSTON | 43
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE... 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 SOCIETY - We 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 Email: cco_edin@ btinternet.com Tel: 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: Tues 6.30pm -7.30pm ages 6-8 years Cubs: Thurs 6.30pm - 8.00pm ages 8-10 years Scouts: Thurs 7.00pm till 9.00 pm ages 10-14 years 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 web site www. 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
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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 EDUCATION - Playgroup 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 UKELELE 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. DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR NETWORK - Monday Coffee Morning 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1.00 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 Contact No. 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 7.00-9.00pm 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.murieston-cg.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 PLAYGROUPS Available 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 Broxburn, Strathbrock Community Centre, Entrance B, Room GP3.
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1st Thursday of the month. As of January 2022 we are going to go back to the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. 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 - Thursday 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. A snack is provided. For more information contact Pat Campbell on 01506 410478 or 07730 537796. 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 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 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
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no cost. Great fun for everybody! More information from Nancy Burgoyne on 01506 419904 or email burgoynenancy49@gmail.com CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Missing singing? We're back, following Covid restrictions that apply, but still having fun! Why not come along and join us? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of material from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. To find out more or join us, please contact John Rankine on 01506 880029. We'd love to welcome singers from across West Lothian. 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 - Mon 7.30-8.45pm; Vinyasa/Yin - Tues 6.007.00pm and 7.20-8.20pm; Seasonal Yoga (gentle) - Wed 5.30 – 6.30pm; Yoga in Polish Wed 9.30-10.30am, Tai-Chi - Thurs 9.30-10.45am; Iyengar Yoga - Thurs 7.30-8.45pm; Yoga in Polish Fri 6.00-7.00pm. Carmondean, Livingston. E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk T: 07810 824 195 W: www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk or on Facebook CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. Services currently via Zoom/phone: 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. Virtual Power of Attorney Clinic & Benefits Advice and Counselling. 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.
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.
MACMILLAN INFORMATION & SUPPORT SERVICE Our hubs are open and we’re here to help. To make an appointment call 01506 283053. Tuesday Strathbrock Partnership Centre - Appointments 10.00am and 11.15am. Wednesday Bathgate Partnership Centre - Appointments 10.00am, 11.15am, 1.30pm and 2.45pm. Thursday Livingston North Partnership Centre - Appointments 10.00am and 11.15am. WE CAN HELP YOU WITH: Benefits advice, Emotional support, Cancer information, Grants, Blue badges, Treatment travel costs and much more.
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.
MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A
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TUESDAY 2ND AUGUST Ireland The Show - You've seen Riverdance, Mrs Brown, now see this.... an all-star cast of the Emerald Isle’s most talented singers and performers accompanied by the fabulous Keltic Storm band and world champion Keltic Fusion Irish dancers who starred in Lord of the Dance. An unmissable " Ireland the Show " that will take you on a journey through the decades of a globally loved culture. Howden Park Centre, 7.30pm, tickets £25 via www.howdenparkcentre.com/ article/74361/What-s-On SATURDAY 6TH AUGUST Keep our Park Beautiful - There’s always lots of jobs to do in the country park. If you'd like to join the Friends of Almondell and help to keep our park beautiful, why not come along to our next Saturday session - on the first Saturday of every month? Meet at the Visitor Centre in Almondell Country Park at 10am until 12pm. See Facebook page @friendsofalmondell UNTIL THURSDAY 11TH AUG Xcite Summer Holiday programme - Football, golf and multi-sports camps to first aid, swimming, junior life saving courses and gymnastics classes! Additional support needs (ASN) sessions are also available. For 5-11 years, an opportunity to keep kids active throughout the school holidays. Not only do our Coaches help your child to improve their physical skills, but also work with them to build confidence, self-esteem, and strong social 46 | LIVINGSTON
skills. Information, pricing and booking via www.westlothianleisure.com/current-activities/ summer-holiday-programme UNTIL TUESDAY 16TH AUGUST Summertime Discoveries - Almond Valley Heritage Centre summer holiday activities. Down in the woods there are quests and experiments, things to create, and strange stories to be told. Usual opening hours and entry fees, see www.almondvalley. co.uk SUNDAY 28TH AUGUST Summer Stroll, Linlithgow Loch - Come along on a guided walk to learn more about Linlithgow Loch and Peel. Discover what calls the loch its home, how it was created and what makes Linlithgow Peel a special place. This route is wheelchair accessible although does involve rough tracks and slopes. Please contact us if you have any access requirements and we will do our best to adapt the walk accordingly. 1-3pm, free, but booking essential. Contact Historic Environment Scotland Ranger Service 0131 652 8150, rangers@hes.scot SUNDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER Party in the Park - Music festival and family fun day, 12noon to 6pm, Kirkton Park, Bathgate. Live music and lots of kids’ entertainment, see poster opposite > > > SATURDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER Family Fun Day and Charity Dog Show - See poster on page 36. Craft stalls and doggy stalls, coffee and cake, ice cream, burgers, cake and candy. Livingston Cricket Club 10am – 3pm. @KonectMagazines