Konect Livingston February 2023

Welcome to the February issue of Konect, the first one for this year. The beginning of the year tends to be when we think about health, well being and making positive changes for the year. If you’re looking for a fun way to keep fit and meet people, West Lothian Netters could be perfect for you! See their article on page 34, and of course the Clubs & Classes section on pages 35 to 37 lists many suggestions for activities of all ages in the local community.

And if you’re considering a new career at this time, take a look at the Skoosh Careers column on page 33 and contact David to see what’s possible!

With the cost of living crisis, welfare issues and service strikes very much on everyone’s minds, we've pulled up an article from the archives on some historical benefits cuts locally and the repercussions it had during the mining strikes in 1925 and 1926. I hope you find it interesting.

Thanks as ever for reading the Konect and supporting local businesses.

Local History: Benefits Cuts, how West Calder reacted .................................... 8

Living Well: Eat Well, Stay Well ................ 12 Charity: Adventure with Dementia ........... 13 Hair: Not behind the chair 14 Thought for the Month 14 Property Matters: How long has it been on the market? .................................. 22 Garden Project: Art in the Garden........... 28 What’s On: Comic Art Exhibition .............. 30 Skoosh Careers 33 Puzzles 33

C&C: West Lothian Netters 34 Film Review: Aftersun ................................ 38

COVER IMAGE: Why not give West Lothian Netters a go? See page 34 to find out more!

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

LOCAL HISTORY

BENEFITS CUTS: HOW WEST CALDER REACTED

Benefits cuts, austerity measures, local authority budgets stretched to the limit, households struggling to make ends meet, social unease bubbling over into demonstrations and strikes in some places. Sound familiar?

The date is August 1926 and a group of protesters are gathered outside the council offices in West Calder to protest against benefits cuts – specifically the withdrawal of the subsistence food allowance paid to destitute mining families during the miners’ strike.

At that time, payouts and benefits were still largely based on the “Poor Laws” that had been in place for centuries. The Parish Councils administered funds raised for “poor relief” payments, and although the beginning of the 20th century saw the introduction of many of the social services that developed into the modern welfare state, means testing still tended to be inconsistent and you had to be destitute before you would be eligible for any help.

In the local mining industries – both coal and shale - times were very tough in the years following the First World War, and the early 1920s also saw competition from cheap coal and oil overseas putting pressure on Scottishproduced coal and shale-oil. This pressure was

Welfare and You in 2023

The West Lothian Advice Shop is a free, impartial and confidential service to help the people of West Lothian with a focus to alleviate poverty and to promote inclusion and equality through advice, assistance and advocacy. The offer advice on benefits, energy, money/debt and housing issues. Phone lines 01506 283 000 are open:

• Mon to Thur: 8:30am to 5:00pm

• Friday: 8:30am to 4:00pm

transferred to the workers in the form of reduced pay and this led to unrest and striking. Some mines closed and competition for jobs was fierce. It was hard to get a job and when you did, pay was very low and working hours long. Quotes from former miners illustrate: “When I left school [in 1926], I waited about a year to get a job” and “These were the times when you’d come up the pit, and there were five or six men standing and waiting and looking for your job.”

In 1925 shale miners went on strike to protest against wage reductions, and the following year saw a general strike, initiated by the coal miners, who were protesting against pay cuts and increased working hours. This had a knock-on effect on the shale industry too as the shale industry depended on supplies of coal for heating the retorts. So the context was one of hardship and depression. The Scottish Board of Health told the Parish Councils of West and Mid Lothian that if a man “voluntarily abstained from work” (i.e. went on strike) he was not eligible to receive poor relief funds, but if his wife and children became destitute they would normally be eligible for relief under the Poor Act of 1845. So mining families in the West Calder had been receiving food vouchers to keep them from starvation during the strikes of 1925 and 1926. However West Calder Parish Council had paid out so much in relief to striking miners that it was heavily in deficit and decided, in August 1926 after

LEFT: Ma Moore (right) and the protesters outside the Council offices, 20th August 1926

“These were the times when you’d come up the pit, and there were five or six men standing and waiting and looking for your job”

reviewing its finances, to withdraw even this subsistence allowance in order to save money and try and balance its books. The withdrawal of this relief in 1926 meant that families faced starvation. A certain Mrs Sarah Moore of Addiewell, who had previously petitioned the Council for an increase in relief payments in 1925, now arranged for a group of local women to gather in front of the Council offices for a peaceful protest. They were joined by a large crowd asking for relief, which was refused. There was shouting and stones thrown, and police were called to break up the protest with a baton charge.

The outcome was that the Parish Council was told by the Board of Health that they must address the destitution in the locality, either by paying relief to the striking miners or by paying out of the poor funds on the basis that the families were medically certified to be destitute

and “physically requiring relief”. It didn’t address the bigger picture and eventually the miners were forced back to work and obliged to accept less pay and longer working hours. Mrs Moore, or “Ma Moore” as she affectionately became known locally, went on to become a community leader and was one of the first female councillors, a pioneer of the labour party who worked tirelessly for social justice and for better working and housing conditions, and especially better conditions for children. Moorelands, in Loganlea, is named after her.

The causes and effects of benefits cuts are very different today - and thankfully total destitution and starvation are no longer the bars to reach before help is available – but the question as to how society handles welfare is as relevant today as it has ever been.

using material from the book “Ma Moore and the West Calder protest” by the West Lothian Local History Library and www.addiewellheritage.org.uk. Both resources contain more information on conditions for local families, the protest itself and its repercussions (Article first published in Konect in 2013).

This article was written by Helen-Jane

Gisbourne

MAIN IMAGE: The former West Calder Parish Council office, West End, West Calder

LIVING WELL

At the beginning of each new year, the rich indulgence during the prior months finds many of us reassessing our overall health and new diets.

When it comes to healthy eating, every food group is important. This includes carbohydrates – the high energy group that fuels everything we do, however low carb diets have been adopted by people wishing to achieve significant weight loss. Before we stampede to throwing our loafs of bread in the bin, is this diet safe and appropriate for everyone?

Famous low carb, high fat diets helped give carbs a bad reputation, but it’s important to understand there are healthy high-carb foods needed to perform essential bodily functions and physical activities.

What to eat on a low-carb diet:

• Unprocessed whole grain like brown rice and whole wheat pasta

• Fruit and vegetables such as bananas and sweet potatoes

• Legumes – beans and chickpeas

What to limit:

• Highly processed grains/cereals e.g. white bread, sweetened cereals

• Highly processed snacks, cookies & pastries

• Fizzy and sugary drinks

Evidence shows low-carb diets aid weight loss and manage blood sugar levels however experts believe that long-term low carb intake can affect a person’s overall health, and therefore you should always consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet.

For more information on losing weight, visit: www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/

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

A new community disabled vehicle is available to people with age-related illnesses in the Broxburn and Uphall area, thanks to a fantastic fund-raising effort by local organisation Smile along with the residents of Middleton Hall Care Home and the community.

The fully accessible van, with hoist and ability to take oxygen tank, seats six plus one wheelchair or five plus two wheelchairs. The goal is to reduce isolation of senior members of the community by facilitating day trips, activities, shopping, family events and medical appointments.

Smile is a non-profit Community Interest Company that provides activities for people living with dementia and agerelated illnesses in Broxburn, Uphall and expanding into neighbouring villages. The “Adventure With Dementia” fundraiser saw residents of Middleton Hall and members of the community completing a virtual cycle and walk around the ring road of Iceland at the end of last year to raise the funds needed. The purchase of the van was also part-funded by the Lottery and a generous donation from the Masonic Lodge of Broxburn and local community donations.

Besides enhancing the lives of Middleton Hall residents, the vehicle is available for hire within the community for people with agerelated illnesses, such as church or social group outings

On-going funding is needed to help with maintenance, fuel and other running costs of the vehicle. If you’d like to help maintain this invaluable community resource for

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our senior residents, please donate via the GoFundMe page. All contributions hugely appreciated.

Donate at www.gofundme.com/f/ smile-adventure-withdementia

For more information on Smile and to contact them regarding the vehicle, please see www.smileelderlyactivities.co.uk

WORKING WITH ANXIETY SKILFULLY

Anxiety is a natural response to being human, according to Chris Pacheco, a Buddhist writer. He says when we try to control our anxious feeling instead of accepting them, we end up making them worse.

He quotes Alan Watt’s law of reversed effort, meaning when you try to stay on the surface of the water, you sink but when you try to sink, you float, when you hold your breath, you lose it! If we try to force something it will backfire and the opposite will occur.

As the late Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese peace activist and mindfulness teacher, would say, “The only way out is in.” What a profound statement! So if we bury and suppress, anxiety is likely to increase. Therefore, can we engage with experiences and open to how we feel with fluidity and with no expectation or outcome and see what happens. It can be edgy but potentially bring change. The paradox is that when we accept things as they are, change happens by itself. During stress and uncertain times we need to remember anxiety is a normal part of being human. If we force ourselves to be different, we might feel more miserable. Is it possible to embrace our anxiety by doing the following:

1. Name it – however you are feeling - sad, angry, anxious etc.

2. Feel it to heal it – don’t push it away, be curious to what is happening

3. Bring a mindful presence without judgmentexplore the body and mind

NOT BEHIND THE CHAIR

There is more to our wonderful industry than many think. Every programme you’ve watched, every catwalk show, every music video, magazine cover, there will have been a hairstylist.

Last year I went through an extensive audition process which has landed me as a member of The Fellowship for British Hairdressing F.A.M.E Team. The Fellowship Academy of Merit and Excellence offers myself and fellow team members a platform for exposure within the hair industry and the opportunity to establish myself further to hopefully one day be able to give back into education and developing young stylists.

This year is already looking exciting for me. We already have a couple of trips to London for photoshoots which will hopefully be published. A potential trip to Italy to immerse ourselves in the product brand Davines. Hair shows. Fashion weeks. All headed by our lead mentor who is 3 times British Hairdresser of the Year, Sally Brooks.

I really cannot wait to get started, and I hope to bring you all on the journey with me. Keep an eye on our socials! It’s set to be exciting!

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)

This column was contributed by Steph@Wonderland www.wonderlandlivingston.com

How long has it been on the market?

Many people who are selling their property understandably become anxious if, after a few months on the market, it still hasn’t sold.

If you ever find yourself in this position, evasive action should be taken to avoid your property losing value – even if you are content to wait until a buyer is found. The reason is that the longer your property sits on the market the lower the price expectation. Everyone in the market should have been offered your property and even those entering the market will most likely know how long it has been for sale as the property portals usually state when a property first became available.

Good quality marketing is all good and well and is essential in presenting your property in the best way possible. However this is only one part of a very complex process and it is easy to overlook the ultimate aim of the marketing campaign. This of course is to achieve a successful sale at the highest possible price. High quality, professional marketing tends to reach a wider audience which in turn produces a higher number of viewers. These viewings then convert to offers and it is the role of a skilful negotiator to maximise the sale price for you at this point. It’s never widely publicised but the selling prices achieved between different selling agents varies significantly, which has been particularly revealing in the buoyant sellers market of 2022, so it is worth ensuring that your property is in the most capable and experienced hands.

Kerb appeal and the internal presentation of a property are important in any market and these factors are generally calculable in terms of the value and price achieved in a sale regardless of market conditions. The property market will undoubtedly react to the current transitional economic climate as we move through 2023

and buyers will become less forgiving in terms of the condition of a property versus the asking price, or the price they are willing to pay, than they have been of late. It is therefore not unreasonable to expect that if a seller is looking for or expecting ‘top dollar’, the property must be in top condition too.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to maintain your price and your saleability, and our firm offers a free, no obligation home audit to help identify why your property hasn’t sold and how a bespoke campaign, unique to your property, will attract buyers. We will advise you how to get the absolute highest price the market will pay for your home and discuss the difference between functional and cosmetic issues, and how easy-to-fix and inexpensive problems may be costing you money.

If you are thinking about selling in 2023 or are interested in discussing and reviewing your current sales campaign, please contact our Sales Director, Gillian Greenwell, for a confidential, no-obligation chat.

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.

This is the month to be indoors enjoying the view of your garden and making plans for any gardening projects for the coming year.

Which rooms have the best views of your garden and what are you seeing? Have you got bird feeders and a birdbath in sight, perhaps some evergreen shrubs giving life to the view, a few flowers showing, like winter flowering heathers or Lenten Hellebores, and a piece of art for your eyes to rest on?

‘Fry the friendly dragon’ was on display as part of our art in the garden summer event here at New Hopetoun Gardens. He was created by Justin Starke and Joy Parker and was a great favourite with our visitors. In July and August every year we install original works of art by artists working in Scotland in our demonstration

gardens, both to entertain our visitors and to encourage them to install some exterior art pieces in their own gardens. Viewing them from inside is a particularly great addition to your winter garden scene.

Perhaps you know someone who would like to put a piece into our art in the garden event this summer, get them to contact us! Meantime what might you add to (or create for) your garden this year by way of a piece of art and how you might place it alongside some new plants to create a delightful feature?

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

Fry the friendly dragon

The comic, supported by Heritage Lottery Scotland, has been made up from memories and stories from members of the Kirknewton community. The exhibition and comic also features work from Kirknewton Primary School children who researched local history and produced their own comics.

Tony Foster, who has co-ordinated the exhibition, explains, “The Kirknewton Story is a good example of how the medium can inform all ages on any subject, in this case making history come alive.” Stories include Dr William Cullen, Burke and Hare, Waterloo Tower, the Secret Bunker, the JFK Assassination and the Kirknewton Unexploded Bomb.

Colin Maxwell, writer, explains his involvement, “Tony knew my background in historical comics. The book tells the story of the village based around the basalt rocks that can be found on nearby hills. It starts in prehistoric times with the formation of the rocks and ends with a piece of Charles Jencks public art made of basalt being constructed in the village. Everything from Romans to flying saucers are covered in the intervening years. Obviously, it will be of great interest to locals who perhaps don’t know much about the history of their home, but to outsiders, the wealth of artistic talent that has been involved makes the comic quite unique. We have the cover by the late Ian Kennedy, then pages within by artists who’ve worked on 2000AD, Marvel and DC comics.”

Everyone in Kirknewton got a free copy of the book. You buy a copy at the exhibition and enjoy the artwork, the original script and modern comics by some of the artists. You can get a copy of the Kirknewton Story

ON THE CAT WALK

All animals need exercise and cats are no different. You might be considering buying a harness and talking your cat for a walk. While this may be possible if you start when they are a kitten, but it’s really not recommended for the following reasons:

• Cats are naturally cautious and want to explore at a pace that feels safe for them. They will want to be able to hide, run away or avoid potential threats without restriction.

• Cats are very attached to their home and need to feel they always have access to this. Being taken on a lead takes them into new territory and prevents them from being able to access their own space.

• If the lead is dropped or they escape their harness they are likely to bolt in order to reach a place of safety and will be at risk from cars on the road and other threats.

• Dogs have a high chase drive and, if they see a cat, may try to run after them. Being on a lead or harness makes your cat vulnerable to all sorts of dangers like this that they would naturally avoid.

Rather than using a harness and leash to provide access to the outdoors, the RSPCA recommends providing your cat an enclosed outdoor space with cat-proof fencing.

ACROSS: 7. Not occupied (6), 8. Musical dramas (6), 9. Vehicle for hire (4), 10. Opposite (8), 11. Not as dark (7), 13. Old coin (5), 15. Regularly (5), 17. Culinary herb (7), 20. Very cold (8), 21. Relax (4), 23. Large fight (6), 24. Hinder (6).

DOWN: 1. Mother (4), 2. Disappear (6), 3. Piled up (7), 4. Connects (5), 5. Closer to (6), 6. Railway coach (8), 12. Casual (8), 14. Haggle (7), 16. Votes for (6), 18. Scratch (6), 19. Repairs (5), 22. Fizzy drink (4).

FEBRUARY SUDOKU

New year, love, and all that…

The New Year has come and gone, and now it’s the month where love is in the air!

You may well have made some New Year resolutions. Whether you stuck to them is a different matter! One of your resolutions might have been to find a new job or make a career change.

And even if you’re getting some loving from someone else this month (wink wink), the question is: are you loving your career right now? And if not, are you showing yourself enough love to do something about that?

We know from experience that putting something off for long enough means we probably won’t do it at all.

We also know that acting on our feelings, and then seeing it through, is the first and biggest step to making a change in our lives. A common saying originating from a Chinese proverb tells us “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. So if you’re worried it might be too difficult, or too draining, or you’re not quite sure where to start, just remember that you’re not alone in feeling that way.

You can overcome those feelings by staying focused on the upsides, and the end goal of whatever it is you want to achieve.

So before that New Year spirit fades away completely, grab the moment and capitalise on it now – before February is out and the Easter Bunny’s visit is just around the corner!

The careers column is contributed by David Brown. David runs Skoosh Careers – find out more at www.skooshmycareer.com

The new year is often a time to set goals and attempt to form new healthy habits. On 1st January 2017 after arriving home from a night out, I started my search for a netball club. A club that didn’t take things too seriously and would welcome an unfit, inexperienced player like me!

Luckily, I stumbled upon the West Lothian Netters Facebook page and I’ve been hooked ever since.

West Lothian Netters began in January 2016, the first ‘Bounce Back to Netball’ (BBN) club in the area. Our ethos is to be a safe, inclusive and fun space for people to play netball together. We are non-competitive and welcome anyone over 18, regardless of previous experience, ability or fitness level.

Exercise is known to benefit our mental health through release of endorphins, increasing self-confidence and the camaraderie of meeting people and building our social circle. Many members of the Netters have experienced these benefits including an opportunity for people moving to the area to make friends and new mums to get out of the house.

We play Wednesdays 8-9.30pm in Inveralmond Community High School with occasional friendly matches, festivals and social events throughout the year.

If you fancy improving your fitness, making new friends and having fun, why not come along and give West Lothian Netters a go?! We would love to see you!

Get in touch on westlothiannetters@gmail.com or via Facebook.

Book in at bookwhen.com/westlothiannetters

First session FREE with code: NETBALLNEWBIE2023

This article was contributed by West Lothian Netters

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

WEST LOTHIAN NETTERS - Recreational netball club for adults 18+. A welcoming inclusive group, no prior experience or knowledge of netball required. Wednesdays 8-9.30pm at Inveralmond Community High School. Cost £4.50. Also Junior club (age 11-16) Wednesdays 7-8pm at Inveralmond Community High School. Cost £2.50. Pre-booking essential at bookwhen.com/westlothiannetters

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

LIVINGSTON COMMUNITY SHED - Join us at the Carmondean Community Centre Tuesdays at 7pm (Yellow Room) and Fridays at 11am (Barn Café). We have a range of interests, but our primary role is to provide a space where members can meet and chat. We hope to offer wood working, electronics, technology and other crafts and are actively seeking our own premises. Membership is free to all adults over 18. Please contact info@ livingstoncommunityshed.co.uk or 01506 495101

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 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)

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

SCOUTS: Thur 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 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 to gentle. All are welcome. For full walk details see: Ramblers webpage. www.ramblers.org.uk/scotland and on Facebook: www.facebook. com/livingstonramblers. Contact us: info@livingstonramblers.org. uk or via Facebook messenger on Livingston Ramblers Group.

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

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

LIVINGSTON 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 Morning10.00amto12noon,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 Contact No. 01506 416137, venue Crofthead farm, Dedridge, Livingston.

ART CLUB AT DEANS - Every Tuesday, 7.00-9.00pm, Deans Community centre (opp the Coop). 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.muriestoncg.org.uk, follow Facebook page "Murieston Community Garden", or join private Facebook group "Murieston Community Garden Volunteers". Details will also be posted on the noticeboard at Livingston South Station. Help needed for building, gardening and administration. All welcome, no gardening experience required.

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

• Crofthead Community Centre, Dedridge - Sessions available Mon to Fri 9.15am- 11.30am E: crofthead@ communityplaygroups.org T: 07904 623123

• Uphall Community CentreSessions 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 semiretired 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 - 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 - 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 semiretired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non-given.

For more information see: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/ home Facebook: www.facebook. com/West-Lothianu3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274

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 no cost. Great fun for everybody! More information from Nancy Burgoyne on 01506 419904 or email burgoynenancy49@gmail.com

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 6.00-7.00pm 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 YogaThurs 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.

MACMILLAN CANCER

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

WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £20. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510

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

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

SOLUTIONS

SOLUTION TO DECEMBER CROSSWORD

The title feels very poignant; the film could be described as a sunburn which only with Aftersun can be soothed and eased into something truly beautiful.

I felt a whole range of emotions watching Aftersun, ranging from times in France playing arcade games like Time Crisis surrounded by older teens to how I feel at present. When I walked out of the film, I didn’t originally feel this way about it. If it wasn’t for the stellar performances by Paul Mescal and Frankie Corio then I feel the film simply wouldn’t work. It is built upon them as the foundation, so if that foundation is flawed in any way the film falls apart.

Charlotte Wells simply did a fantastic job with the direction. From the way it lingers on shots to the creative and confident editing, screams someone with tons of experience behind the camera - which makes it even more surprising that this is her first feature.

I would be lying if I said this wasn’t a must-watch film. It will leave you thinking and in powerful ways haunt you. I couldn’t stop thinking about it for hours even days afterwards, which just shows how powerful cinema can be. Upon listening to Under Pressure featured in the film, it all clicked into place and I had to do my best to hold back the emotions. I’ve never experienced a feeling like that before.

Aftersun is available to stream on Mubi. It will also be available on DVD and Blu-ray February 2022.

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.

ACROSS: 7. Tomato, 8. Around, 9. Dead, 10. Restrain, 11. Scatter, 13. Cries, 15. About, 17. Good-bye, 20. Familiar, 21. Need, 23. Reveal, 24. Grease.

DOWN: 1. Done, 2. Bandit, 3. Journey, 4. Harsh, 5. Horror, 6. Entirely, 12. Cabbages, 14. Courage, 16. United, 18. Donkey, 19. Girly, 22. Easy.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON

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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