Konect Livingston December 2023

DECEMBER 2023

HEALTH:

GARDEN PROJECT:

The community magazine for Livingston

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s we head into the festive season, I’d like to thank all the businesses, local expert contributors and organisations who have been part of another wonderful 11 issues of Konect in 2023.

Always focusing on making things better, some of the topics we’ve covered this year include foraging for wild food, local clubs including West Lothian Netters, organic veggie boxes for a good cause, support for veterans with sight loss, the local blood donation centre, coping with baby loss, tackling loneliness for older people in the community, and making sure every child goes to school with a warn coat, thanks to West Lothian School Bank. We’ve touched on mining history, some lovely local walks and wonderful wildlife photos; we’ve shared local job opportunities, and much more.

To round off the year, our charity feature is Blood Bikes Scotland. Run entirely by volunteers from within our local communities, they operate throughout West Lothian and beyond. With the NHS under so much strain, Blood Bikes Scotland provide it with an incredibly valuable support service. See pages 8-9 and please consider a wee donation.

We don’t produce a January magazine, so we’ll be back with a February magazine.

We wish you all a very happy holiday season and a peaceful new year.

THIS ISSUE Charity: Blood Bikes Scotland...................... 8 Thought of the Month....................................12 C&C: Murieston Art Group...........................13 Puzzles.....................................................13 / 33 Health: Yoga - WD40 for the Body!...........15 Film Review: Chicken Run - Dawn of the Nugget..................................................18 Property Matters: Top of Market Service..............................................................22 Garden Project: Indoors Festive Displays............................................................29 What’s On........................................................30 Local Environment: An Early Invasion.......32 Clubs & Classes.............................................36

Konect is delivered to 20,000 homes in selected areas of Livingston and Uphall, alternating between two areas of 10,000 homes per month.

It is also available online: konect.scot/subscribe

All enquiries, E: editor@konect.scot M: 07854 492638 LIVINGSTON | 3

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When Blood Bikes Scotland were asked to help with the urgent transport of medication from Birmingham to Dundee, they were part of a critical relay operation to save a life with a ground-breaking treatment.

The cargo was an extraordinary medication consisting of donated human faeces, a lifesaving treatment called a faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) which is used to tackle really serious cases of C-difficile. The assignment illustrates very well much of Blood Bikes Scotland’s work - sometimes unglamorous, but absolutely essential.

Blood Bikes Scotland (BBS) is a voluntary organisation which supports the NHS by transporting, free of charge, blood and other test samples from wards to laboratories. They also deliver medication to patients’ homes, and support GPs, District Nurses, care homes and community hospitals with transport of small, urgent items.

“Behind every journey made on the bikes, there’s a patient – someone is waiting for a critical test result, medication, equipment or urgent medical notes,” explains David O’Rourke, Threemiletown resident and Operations Manager at Blood Bikes

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Scotland. And the many thousands of journeys not only save the NHS a significant amount of money, but mean the fast transport network is in place to help save lives, as in the case of the FMT relay.

The bikes can get through traffic quickly – especially useful during rush hours – so they can get pathology samples to labs quickly, or urgent medication to patients who need it. Other items needing transport include surgical instruments and, believe it or not, physical files of patient notes or x-rays urgently needed by medics.

While speed is of the essence for much of their work, the biggest benefit is cost avoidance for the NHS. By being on-call to provide transport free of charge, BBS saves the NHS a significant amount of money that would otherwise be spent on their own vehicles and drivers, external courier services and taxis.

Blood Bikes Scotland cover the Lothians, Forth Valley, Borders, Fife and Tayside, where they have service level agreements in place with each of the NHS Boards. Sister organisations support NHS Boards elsewhere in Scotland and the UK, and they all work together in relays when necessary to cover long distances.

Whilst not blue-light vehicles, the incredible value of the service provided by blood bikes is formally recognised in that, like the emergency services, their vehicles are exempt from road tax.

Riders are out in all weather conditions. A fleet of 15 motorcycles is supplemented by five cars to transport larger equipment (although they have been known to strap a walking frame to the back of a motorcycle on one occasion when it was urgently needed!) The motorcycles are modified to allow larger loads to be carried, with panniers and a tray on most of them. The Nationwide Association of Blood Bikes (NABB) have recently negotiated with Yamaha to build

* All figures relate to financial year 2022/2023

custom, manufacturer-approved bikes so, like police bikes, they come from the factory ready to ride. The custom bikes are based on the Yamaha Tracer 9GT, and Blood Bikes Scotland will be progressively expanding their use. The fleet also includes one Zero electric motorbike suitable for short fast runs.

A team of 188 volunteer riders and controllers works 70 operational shifts per week across the five regions. BBS delivers its service 7 days a week, including public holidays, and in 2022/23 they received 7796 requests for transport and saved the NHS over a quarter of a million pounds – money that can be used directly for frontline services instead.

Volunteer riders, controllers and everyone involved provides the service completely free of charge.

It’s a fundamental principle of BBS Scotland since its inception that no-one takes a salary.

The monthly overhead for the charity of running the bikes 365 days a year (tyres, insurance, fuel, maintenance and repairs) is around £6000*. The service is entirely dependent on donations from the public, grant bodies and corporate sponsors; they take nothing from the NHS or Scottish Government, so they are grateful for every single donation. You can raise money for Blood Bikes Scotland while shopping online, completely free of charge to you – see the sidebox for details.

They were once once called on to take a teddy bear to a distraught little girl in the Royal Edinburgh Hospital who had left it behind and was unable to settle. Teddy promptly arrived by motorcycle (which was on its way anyway with other jobs for the hospital) to the great relief of the girl, her parents and the nurses. There are some things whose value you just can’t measure.

GIVE AS YOU LIVE – free and easy way to raise money Shop with a huge number of retailers via Give as You Live, and a percentage of your purchase value is donated to BBS. Please see www.giveasyoulive.com/ join/bloodbikesscotland Direct donations are also welcome from the public and businesses. See ways to donate at www.bloodbikesscotland.co.uk/donate

VOLUNTEER! Volunteers are always welcome to join the current team of 188 volunteers covering the area including the Lothians, from Tayside and Fife to the Borders and as far west as Forth Valley. Riders need an advanced riding qualification.

Non-riding volunteers are also welcome; every shift needs a Controller, the point of contact between the NHS and the riders.

Please contact BBS at the details below.

For more information see: www.bloodbikesscotland.co.uk Blood Bikes Scotland is a charity registered in Scotland, No. SC049314.

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LIVING WELL

The holiday season is a time for joy and togetherness, but for someone with dementia it can be a confusing, stressful, and challenging time.

To help, we have created a list of simple yet impactful ways to support a loved one with dementia over the Christmas period.

Create Familiarity: Introduce changes slowly, decorating with familiar ornaments and maintaining a consistent holiday routine where possible. A familiar environment can provide comfort and reduce anxiety for someone with dementia.

Sensory-friendly Celebrations: Opt for soft lighting, gentle music, and minimize noise.

Creating a calm atmosphere can help prevent sensory overload and ensure a more enjoyable experience.

Simple, Meaningful Activities: Engage in activities that hold sentimental value.

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Wrapping presents, listening to holiday music, or reminiscing with photo albums can spark positive memories and connections.

Mindful Socialising: Keep gatherings small and intimate to avoid overwhelming your loved one.

Provide a quiet space where they can retreat if needed.

Focus on the Positives: Think about what you can do together rather than what you can’t.

Remind visitors not to turn things in to a memory test (e.g. “who am I?” or “can you remember who gave you that gift?”) and refrain from correcting or arguing with the person Patience and Flexibility: Understand that plans may need to be adjusted. Be patient and flexible, adapting activities to your loved one’s comfort level and energy.

If you need help or advice over the festive period, you can contact Alzheimer Scotland on their 24-hour Helpline: 0808 808 3000.

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

Autumn is a lesson in letting go. Leaves are changing and falling as they make way for next years growth. Leaves drop and this nourishes the trees over the winter and conserves their resources; a process called abscission, helping trees retain water and stopping them blowing over.

It’s a beautiful act of self-preservation.

Trees let go in order to stay healthy and alive. The trees’ annual decluttering process might initially inspire us to let go of a few things ourselves - material things, broken things, meaningless things, too many things. So it is a good time to go through the cupboards, belongings and begin getting rid of anything that’s not needed. In clearing out the old we are ready for the new.

“Sometimes letting go is an act of a far greater power than defending or hanging on.” Eckhart Tolle Be honest, be bold, reflect, release, let go.

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)

DECEMBER CROSSWORD The crossword solution will be published in the February edition of Konect

It might be we can let go of thoughts or beliefs that no longer serve us. When we cling onto limiting beliefs, it prevents us taking in new ideas and stops us from moving forward. Ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu said, “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”

We often struggle to let go of the long and light days, summer brings people together. There is less energy around so we have to conserve energies. Autumn is also associated with the metal element corresponding to the lungs and colon; both associated with letting go.

ACROSS: 1. Effortless (4), 3. Ghosts (8), 9. Kill (7), 10. Part of a helmet (5), 11. Current (12), 14. Winter sport (3), 16. Sports competition (5), 17. Used for listening (3), 18.Amazing (12), 21. Heart beat (5), 22. Simplest (7), 23. Pirate’s hoard (8), 24. Procedure (4).

DOWN: 1. Keep fit (8), 2. Severe (5), 4. Garden tool (3), 5. In spite of (12), 6. Watch carefully (7), 7. Certain (4), 8. Self service stores (12), 12. Playing field (5), 13. Intimidate (8), 15. Implicate (7), 19. Perfect (5), 20. Blemish (4), 22. Make a mistake (3).

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HEALTH

YOGA – 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 LIVINGSTON | 15

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has ripple effects on education, economic empowerment, and community well being.

SolarAid’s impact so far: • 2.3M lights distributed worldwide • 4M people in sub-Saharan Africa reached by clean, safe, affordable light • $290M saved by families a year

Kingsway Electrical Ltd has recently joined forces with SolarAid to bring light and hope to communities in need.

SolarAid is a leading charity dedicated to combating poverty and climate change through solar energy solutions in rural hard to reach places in sub-Saharan Africa. The alliance is set to illuminate the lives of those without access to reliable electricity, making a real impact on everyday lives, and by donating 1% of all solar sales, Kingsway Electrical is helping to achieve this.

Reflecting a shared commitment to making a positive difference in the world together, Kingsway Electrical and SolarAid aim to bring light to remote areas, which also

This collaboration between Kingsway Electrical and SolarAid is a beacon of hope, signaling a brighter and more sustainable future for communities in need.

As these two entities come together, they illuminate the path towards a world where energy access is a universal right, and no community is left in the dark.

This article was contributed by Kingsway Electrical, Baird Rd, Kirkton Campus, Livingston EH54 7AZ

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Aardman has created gems over the years. The Wrong Trousers is a true classic of stop-motion. Every time we get to the train scene, I cannot help but be enthralled by the creative set piece.

This creativity continued into the first Chicken Run film. It’s a fun, unique and great film in Aardman’s filmography. But in the year 2023, the quality of animation especially family-friendly animation has skyrocketed in quality. This year alone we had Puss in Boots: The Last Wish which was an incredible piece of art.

So, heading into Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget, the long-awaited sequel to the original, I had high expectations. Leaving the film, I’m more confused than anything.

On the one hand, it is a beautiful film with bright and colourful stop-motion animation that is some of the best I’ve seen in years.

And certain scenes had me grinning from ear to ear. When this film works it’s a great time.

On the other hand, there are many story beats I found to be lazy and poorly written.

Some of the story is riddled with cliches that I feel 15 years ago would have got a pass but now I feel like it screams the writers do not know how to write child characters. At the end of the day, the film comes out just before Christmas and honestly, it’s worth a watch during the festive period - while I found it lacklustre it might be fun with the whole family.

Available on

from 15th December

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

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PROPERTY MATTERS

All Sellers Receive Top-of-Market Service!

Only a handful of estate agency brands in West Lothian are known to handle the top of the market – million-pound-plus properties that warrant the type of marketing that’s in keeping with the status of both the property itself - and its owner.

At Turpie and Co, we are proud of our reputation for selling exclusive homes.

However it is not only the properties’ value that has supported this reputation – it’s the style and service level behind the sale that is especially appreciated by our clients.

These are discerning sellers who expect not only professional photography, extensive specialist marketing and exposure, agentled videos, expert-accompanied viewings, online sales tracking etc, but also a degree of discretion, understanding and sensitivity. Oh yes, and a good measure of proactivity as well as superb negotiating skills.

Our clients naturally wish to be treated as an individual with a unique set of circumstances, with care and respect, and an attention to detail that demonstrates that we really have listened to their needs. Our guidance, in return, is straight-

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talking advice with integrity - not just telling our clients what they want to hear!

This approach lies at the core of our business and is a reflection of every director and staff member at Turpie and Co. It is unthinkable that these values should be watered down according to the value of the property - they apply to all our instructions! We hope that every one of our clients, be they selling a onebedroom flat, a terraced house, a cottage or a family home, feels as cherished and valued as a client selling a country estate.

Why not put us to the test, we’d love to help you move – whatever you’re selling.

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.

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Using waterproof bowls, like old chamber pots, or brass jelly pans, its is easy and fun to create your own indoor display.

We always put a 2cm layer of fine gravel in the bottom to hold any excess water. Then fill up with a houseplant compost and you’re ready to go.

If you are including candles a tall pillar candle sitting on the gravel is the safest choice to avoid it falling over. The main plants we use are Hyacinth bulbs (the ones in these pictures are the festive/Roman variety where each bulb has several fragrant flowers, smaller than the usual large single fragrant flowers from forced regular hyacinth bulbs; short Tete a Tete daffodils; Christmas Rose Verboom; ivy plants. To decorate the top of

the display use moss (rake out some from your lawn!), pebbles or small fir cones.

The flowers last longer if you keep them in a cool light position so think about moving them in and out of warm and cool rooms to suit your festive entertaining. Water when the compost feels dry.

The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens.

Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.

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Discover the Creative Hub: MURIESTON ART CLUB Meeting in Murieston Village Hall, the Murieston Art Club has been a hub for artistic expression since its inception in 2004.

The club is not just for experienced painters; it's an open door for beginners too. The club's membership is mainly of retirement age, many of whom haven't picked up a brush or pencil since their school days. Here, you don't need to be a brilliant artist – the emphasis is on learning and enjoying the process.

The class provides a friendly environment for members to explore a wide range of artistic techniques. From pencil and charcoal to watercolours, acrylics, and oil painting, there's something for everyone.

Members also enjoy going to places that offer outdoor inspiration for future projects.

An experienced tutor teaches the class and is available to provide guidance, ensuring that members receive expert instruction.

The club meets most Monday mornings between 10:00 and 12:30. Currently, the annual fee for membership is £20.

In addition, each class is charged at £6.

These costs make it accessible for all art enthusiasts to join in on the creative fun.

Murieston Art Club is not just about art; it's about camaraderie too. Tea, coffee and biscuits are on hand and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. Some members have been part of the class for a couple of decades, while others joined as recently as this September.

If anyone is interested in joining, they should contact Janet at janetdicksondickson@bt.internet.com

SATURDAY 2ND DECEMBER CHRISTMAS FAYRE Broxburn Parish Church is holding its annual Christmas Fayre from 12.00 noon to 3.00pm. With stalls, home baking, Christmas hampers and crafts you’ll find some lovely gifts and treats. There’s a tombola and raffle too and the children will be able to meet Santa (£1.50).

Entry to the Fayre is free, with tea tickets, providing tea/coffee, cakes and home baking, priced at £3.00.

Broxburn Parish Church, East Main Street, Broxburn SATURDAY 9TH DECEMBER FRIENDS OF POLKEMMET COUNTRY PARK VOLUNTEERING SESSION - The ranger service and Friends of Polkemmet meet on the 2nd Saturday of every month from 11.00am - 12.00pm to carry out practical conservation tasks and to help maintain the park. If you would like to help out feel free to pop along. The meeting point is outside the Ranger Office. No experience necessary and tools will be provided. Facebook: 'Friends of Polkemmet' SUNDAY 17TH DECEMBER WEST LOTHIAN PRODUCERS MARKET - Local and Scottish businesses and producers of food, drink, home and hand crafted items.

11.00am - 3.00pm, Livingston Cricket Club, 10A Murieston Valley, Livingston, EH54 9HB THURSDAY 28TH DECEMBER FESTIVE THURSDAY NIGHT MARKET - Join us for a special festive night market at the wonderful indoor main hall at Strathbrock Community Centre. Fantastic local produce, a great meet up with friends and an opportunity to get some New Year supplies in to celebrate in style! 5.00pm - 8.00pm. By West Lothian Producer’s Market, see Facebook: 'West Lothian Producers Market' for details.

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LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Well, I didn’t expect to be writing about waxwings arriving on our shores so early in the season but here we are! Over the last few weeks, there’s been an irruption of these stunning birds across the U.K., which is much earlier than usual.

The ones I’ve photographed in Edinburgh arrive like clockwork to the same street, at roughly the same time each year (if my Facebook memories are anything to go by) but this is more than a month before that date.

Every few years there’s a boom in numbers and it’s usually because the crop of berries has been poor in Scandinavia and Russia.

Instead, they’re over here feasting on rowan berries of all colours in some of the most random places. This was taken behind Tesco in Dunblane (wildlife photography is very glamorous), although there have been some in Edinburgh, Livingston, and Bathgate. The biggest flock has been seen in Elgin, with one video showing numbers exceeding 500! That would be a sight for the eyes and a treat for the ears, to see them wheeling around or chattering at the tops of trees.

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Eating between 800-1000 berries a day the bohemian waxwings can get drunk on berries which have over fermented and flocks have been known to simultaneously hit windows on their drunken adventures around town.

If you’re wondering where the name comes from, it’s because of the little flashes of colour on their wings, which resemble wax. Easy!

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

DECEMBER SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page 13.

XX.See Seepage page38 XXfor forsolutions. solutions. page

The c page

DECEMBER SUDOKU

The crossword puzzle can be found on page XX. See page XX for solutions.

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The c page

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

MURIESTON ART GROUP We’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.

LIVINGSTON CAMERA CLUB *NEW SEASON MEMBERSHIP* - If you are interested in improving your photography in a friendly atmosphere, we are always keen to welcome new members.

We can help you with advice, encouragement, examples, and inspiration. Our activities include regular presentations by guest speakers and members, internal and external competitions (both digital and print), and workshops and outings.Please visit www.livingstoncameraclub.org.uk for more detail on how to join us for the upcoming season.

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

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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 NETTERS Recreational 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 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 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 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.

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 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 - 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 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

LIVINGSTON | 37

Centre from 10.00 - 12.00am every Tuesday. Contact Chris Cosgrove for information on 07778 704860.

LIVINGSTON SUBBUTEO CLUB TO the Livingston -SOLUTION Intending to restart NOVEMBER CROSSWORD 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 no cost.

Great fun1.for everybody!

More ACROSS: Trumpet, 5. Cycle, 8. Luckier, information from11.

Nancy Burgoyne 9. Attic, 10. Sweet, Worship, 12. Expire, on 01506 419904 or email 14. Teases, 17. Tobacco, 19. Conch, burgoynenancy49@gmail.com 22. Rules, 23. Caravan, 24. Discs, 25. Destroy.

DOWN: 1. Tells, 2. Uncle, 3. Painter, CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO 4. Thrown, 5. Chair,HUB 6. Catches, 7. Escapes, & WELLNESS - Dedicated 12. Entered, 15. Escorts, yoga studio13.inPebbles, Carmondean, 16. Forced, 18.Build Casts,strength, 20. Never,flexibility 21. Handy.

Livingston. and resilience, and support mental SOLUTION TO SUDOKU health, joint pain/illness/injury recovery.

Iyengar ON PAGE XXyoga 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 CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both Disclaimer: Theface publisher cannot in person and to face, as accept are responsibility for loss weekly or damage caused our social groups: Coffee by error in the printing of an advertisement.

Morning; monthly Mental Health We do not endorse any advertisers in Support Group, Evening Support this publication. All material is accepted Group & Bereaved Carer Support for publication on the understanding it is Group as well as groups for Young copyright free. No part of this publication Carers and Youngwithout Adult Carers. may be reproduced prior consent of Regular Social Groups for Adults the publisher. with disabilities. Power of Attorney Publisher: Publications Ltd. Clinic (faceLothian to face) & Benefits Geddes (phone House, Kirkton Livingston, Advice or faceNorth, to face).

For West Lothian EH54 6GU. information: T.: 01506 Design: 448000 Magazine E: office@carers-westlothian.com Alan Stewart Design W: www.carers-westlothian.com T: 07729 911858

38 | LIVINGSTON

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

MACMILLAN CANCER INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer – yourself, a relative, friend or carer.

Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others.

Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way.

Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit 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 INFO.

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 1. Trumpet, 5. Cycle, 8. Luckier, 9. Attic, 10. Sweet, 11. Worship, 12. Expire, 14. Teases, 17. Tobacco, 19. Conch, 22. Rules, 23. Caravan, 24. Discs, 25. Destroy.

DOWN: 1. Tells, 2. Uncle, 3. Painter, 4. Thrown, 5. Chair, 6. Catches, 7. Escapes, 12. Entered, 13. Pebbles, 15. Escorts, 16. Forced, 18. Casts, 20. Never, 21. Handy.

SOLUTIONTO TOSUDOKU SUDOKU SOLUTION XX ON PAGE 33

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement.

We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

Publisher: Lothian Publications Ltd. Geddes House, Kirkton North, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 6GU. Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858