Welcome to the February 2025 issue of Konect, the first one for this year. We’re looking forward to another year of celebrating all things local and West Lothian, and focusing our articles on all that is best about our local area. Tina’s Thought for the Month column touches on this topic this month in a personal way for each of us – taking the time to appreciate the good things, which gives us more resilience to face challenges.
The Charity of the Month is Craigsfarm Community Hub, a local charity providing vital free mental health services in the community– in fact the NHS relies on them across the local area. The focus of their article is to promote their room hire facility, as by hiring their fantastic space for your event or celebration, you are directly supporting the great work they are doing; see pages 8-9 for details. William Weir’s walk feature at Calderwood reminds us that even places close home can give us a different experiences in different seasons. He shares his winter wonderland walk there last month.
And for eco-conscious shoppers, there is a new offering in Livingston. If you have not already visited the new Leith Collective store in the Designer Centre, take a look at the article on p36. There is much more of course! Thanks as ever for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations, I hope you enjoy the magazine this month.
At Craigsfarm, community is not just a place, but also a fulfilling experience.
Serving the community since 1969, community members experience meaningful and regular social connection at Craigsfarm Community Hub in Craigshill, Livingston.
MEANINGFUL SOCIAL CONNECTIONS: COMMUNITY WELLBEING & RESILIENCE PROGRAMME - Stress and anxiety can take a toll on our mental and physical health. Isolation, illness, financial worries, family issues, world events can all accumulate into a level of stress that starts to negatively impact our quality of life. That is why at Craigsfarm we have made improving the wellbeing of our community a priority. In the last year we were able to support over 500 people with their mental health needs.
To mark the start of 2025, we have launched our new Community Wellbeing and Resilience Programme brochure offering courses in yoga, mediation, intuitive dance, art and wellbeing, nature theory and Qigong Fusion. For those that prefer a 1-to-1 service we provide support through our active listening and counselling programme. We are also home to Andy’s Man Club Craigshill, on Monday
nights offering a safe, judgement-free and non-clinical environment to meet and talk.
The service also includes a one-stop information, support and signposting service offering support in linking with right support around finance, debt, employment, housing or anything else that can be of concern.
DAILY CONNECTIONS: MORE THAN A CAFE - Craigsfarm Community Café is housed is our modern community hub overlooking Craigshill park. The café is a friendly, welcoming place which serves a barista menu and provides the community with a place where people can meet, make connections and cement friendships. Open from 9am to 3pm Monday to Friday, the café has something for everyone, regardless of age. Children can use the café wall blackboard to inspire their creativity or use the local playground which is in view of the café, so adults can watch them play while still enjoying a coffee. There is a reading nook for those who like to while away the afternoon with a warm drink and a book.
The café also offers the community opportunities to engage with local services through the café pop-up events including:
• Coffee with a Cop. Community Policing programme where you can meet and talk to the community police team;
• VoiceAbility surgeries. The visiting advocate can support community
members to access benefits from Social Security Scotland, if they identify as disabled;
• West Lothian Adoption Family Placement Team. Foster Carer and Adopter Support and Recruitment;
• and much, much more.
THE HUB: THE HEART OF COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Craigsfarm offers flexible, bright, open and airy rooms for hire.
When hiring a space for an event at Craigsfarm it is more than a meeting space. For Craigsfarm, the workplace is more than just a site for professional endeavours; it is also an important gathering place where social connections are forged and nurtured.
Our open plan space can be broken down to individual rooms so that rooms can be configured to suit your workshop, meeting or training event. It can be hired as a space for meetings, training events, rehearsal purposes, conferences, presentations, yoga sessions and workshops.
Our café provides catering facilities for weekday events. The café space and outdoor green areas allow participants a space to unwind and gather between sessions.
HOW TO CONNECT - Our services are funded by donations and grants as well as through hiring of our beautiful rooms for training sessions, meetings and events. By hiring a room for your event or celebration, you are supporting Craigsfarm to truly make a difference and continue to help more people to have a better day, today and tomorrow.
Contact us at: info@craigsfarm.org.uk
This article was contributed by Craigsfarm Community Hub, Maree Walk, Craigshill, Livingston, EH54 5BP. Craigsfarm is a charity registered in Scotland, number SC020712
NOTHING CHANGES IF NOTHING CHANGES
There’s
a saying that goes, ‘You
will only change when the pain of staying where you are outweighs the fear of change.”
Let that sink in…
Is 2025 going to be the year something changes for you? Is 2025 going to be when you are honest that a dicky knee or hip is going to be much more than that if you don’t get movement into your life as a regular activity?
Are you going to stop denying that you need activity to:
• Have an extra 10 years active living
• Keep getting out of bed pain free
• Remain able to carry bags of groceries
• Play with children/grandchildren
• Manage perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms
Ageing can make you feel like you’re losing control of your body, your mind, and your life. But here’s what I know for sure—it doesn’t have to stay that way!
I’ve seen more and more assertive people in my classes who have identified their health ‘issue’ before it became an ‘issue’.
I’ve also seen several people who believed it was probably too late to turn things around (in relation to muscular skeletal pain), but were bold enough to try. And do you know what? For some it wasn’t too late!!
Since early 2024, I’ve had osteoarthritis in my lower spine with pain centred in my hip joints and down my legs. This badly affected my flexibility and I became really stiff and sore. In October, I read about a yoga class which claimed to be good for people like me, so, at
the age of 73, I decided to give it a try - and I’m so glad that I did! It was difficult at first, but I did what I could and gradually got more flexible. The stretching movements of yoga relaxed my muscles and allowed my joints to move more freely, so I’ve started to enjoy walking again. Now, after 7 weeks, my pain levels have drastically reduced and my outlook on life is much brighter. It just goes to show that you’re never too old or unfit to do yoga!
CAROL WILSON, LIVINGSTON
Powerful things happen when you make that shift from, “It’s not the right time” to “The future can be very different if I put in the effort!” It’s an awareness that a magic supplement or wishing/hoping/talking about change isn’t going to cut it. The driving factor for people like Carol is “‘I’m not happy with how I feel, and I’m not waiting any longer’” and they want to save time and energy by taking responsibility to get the issues sorted.
Last April I had a student say to me “I feel like myself again, maybe even better than that—and I didn’t think that was possible.”
Is 2025 going to be the year you regain control and start feeling good again, or will you still be aching and lacking energy in January 2026?
This article was contributed by Eva Paterson, Iyengar Yoga Instructor and founder of Choose You Yoga, Livingston. www.chooseyouyoga.co.uk
APPRECIATION & GRATITUDE
With so much difficulty and challenge happening in the world, it is quite difficult to see the good and appreciate what we have. But taking the time to do this is a wholesome act which helps us to create a little more balance in our lives. We often get caught in problem solving or focus on the negative. Appreciation and gratitude can radically alter our experience and evidence shows we maximise our potential for happiness. One of the most important elements is appreciating what we have, being able to see the good in difficult situations, not comparing yourself to others and practicing acts of kindness.
Why don’t you take time to list five things in your life right now that you appreciate, that give you pleasure or are especially meaningful to you. Reflect on a positive experience from your day, maybe something simple like the sun coming through your window, a bird on a branch. Try creating a regular habit of before going to bed listing three things you are grateful for from that day and continue doing this for a number of weeks. By building this practice into your life you start to shift the mindset away from the negative and move in towards more equanimity.
A wise ancient sage once said, “Think not lightly of good, saying, it will not come to me. Drop by drop, is the water pot filled. Likewise, the wise one, gathering it little by little, fills oneself with good.”
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)
Older People Providers Fayre
Home Instead West Lothian, with third sector organisations across West Lothian, is holding an Older Peoples Providers Fayre at Howden Park Centre on 5th March. The date coincides with the first anniversary of the launch of Carers of West Lothian’s Memory Information Support Team (MIST). Doors open at 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm
The event will showcase services and support available for older people across the local area. In addition to the fayre with stalls from the various providers, there will be a schedule of talks that will take place throughout the afternoon on a variety of topics. These will commence from 2:00pm onwards.
Home Instead’s Virtual Dementia Experience Bus will be attending. This state-of-the-art immersive experience allows a person with a healthy brain to experience what life might
be like for a person living with dementia. Supported by medical research, the experience uses technology to replicate the sensory changes associated with dementia. Participants wear googles, headphones and spiky insoles. They are then asked to perform everyday tasks but with distorted vision, loud noises and sensory overload which recreate what it’s like to have dementia. The immersive experience is followed by a debrief to understand what you have just experienced as well as useful tips and strategies to make the world a better place for people living with dementia. The unique insight offered by the dementia experience makes it ideal for anyone who has a family member or friend living with dementia, or comes into contact with people living with the condition.
ORGANISATIONS ATTENDING (more to be announced): Carers of West Lothian, OPAL Cyrenians, Ageing Well, Ladywell Neighbourhood Network, Spark, Sporting Memories, Food Train, Generation Arts.
Home Instead recently carried out research into people’s perceptions of dementia, revealing that 84% of people felt that more should be done to educate families about living with dementia.
The findings come from Home Instead’s ‘New Ageing Index’ - a survey designed to uncover the realities of growing old in Britain. Of the 1,000 people surveyed, 58% felt the Government should declare dementia a health emergency.
With nearly two-fifths of people (38%) saying they were worried that a family member may have undiagnosed dementia, it’s a topic which affects many of us, whether directly or through someone we know.
In light of this, Home Instead West Lothian, which specialises in dementia care for older
people at home, is pledging to arm people across the local area with dementia awareness and the know-how to support people living with the condition.
Working in partnership with local support groups and organisations, Home Instead will be holding various events throughout 2025 to help educate people and encourage open dialogue about dementia and how we can support those affected. For more information on these events, please see our website blog at homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian or follow our social media channels for updates.
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
At Turpie & Co, we provide three different options for homeowners who are considering selling their property. Each service is tailored depending on what stage you are at in the process of deciding whether to sell your property.
All of the services are free and come with no obligation to sell or to use our agency. They can offer invaluable advice when considering the sale of your largest asset. The information below should help you decide which valuation service is most suited to your needs.
ONLINE VALUATION - An ‘online’ or instant’ valuation is produced by various software platforms and provides an estimated valuation figure by using collated data of historic sales within your postcode area, and applying algorithms which take into account inflation as well as the prices of currently advertised properties. This in-turn produces an estimated valuation range for your property. These tools are often not accurate when compared with the valuation figures that an agent would provide a homeowner at an in-person valuation appointment.
Probable accuracy range between £50k to £100k depending on the price bracket your property falls into
DESKTOP OR VIRTUAL VALUATION - A ‘desktop’ or ‘virtual’ valuation is conducted via a pre-arranged telephone appointment or virtual meeting such as ‘Teams’ or ‘Zoom’. The agent will carry out the same research as they would for a physical (in-person) appointment, however they wouldn’t visit your property so the advice, guidance and recommendations would be based on their individual and company experience and track record of similar sales
in the area. A desktop valuation can be useful when you are planning to sell in the coming 3-6 months and are gathering information to allow you to set a realistic and affordable budget for your onward move etc. The desktop valuation is typically followed up by a physical in-person valuation when you are within 4 weeks of being ready to list your property for sale.
Probable accuracy range between £25k to £50k depending on the price bracket your property falls into
IN-PERSON VALUATION - This is a traditional physical appointment where the agent visits you at your property. The agent will carry out the same pre-meeting research as with the Desktop valuation, however will be able to provide a more comprehensive survey and appraisal of your home and provide more specific and bespoke recommendations on how to market your property and a more accurate valuation. This will include estimated Home Report value and anticipated selling price (these figures can often be quite different depending on the property, location and current market conditions)
An accuracy of within approximately £10k of the anticipated HR value with estimate of potential upside selling price (i.e. anticipated selling price - different from predicted HR value)
If you are thinking about selling your property in the coming months, please contact us to discuss which valuation option is right for you.
SCANSCANSCANMEME ME SCAN ME
The 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.
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
At Turpie & Co, we offer 3 different ways to have your property valued. Choose which option is best for you
Find out what your HOME is WORTH in 60 seconds
GET AN INSTANT ONLINE VALUATION by scanning the QR code is WORTH in 60 seconds
GET AN INSTANT ONLINE VALUATION by scanning the QR code is WORTH in 60 seconds
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GET AN INSTANT ONLINE VALUATION by scanning the QR code
BOOK A TELEPHONE OR VIRTUAL DESKTOP VALUATION
BOOK A TELEPHONE OR VIRTUAL DESKTOP VALUATION
with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code GET AN INSTANT ONLINE VALUATION by scanning the QR code HOME is WORTH in 60 seconds 3
BOOK A TELEPHONE OR VIRTUAL DESKTOP VALUATION
with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
BOOK A TELEPHONE OR VIRTUAL DESKTOP VALUATION with Steven or Kirsty by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
BOOK AN ‘IN-PERSON’ VALUATION at your property with one of our experienced property consultants by scanning the QR code
Testing
After strawberry plants we sell more rhubarb than any other soft fruit. Where does it all go, you must all have rhubarb growing in your gardens!
It is long lived, easy to grow and enjoys being in soil that doesn’t dry out in a sunny position. As well as being edible it is very ornamental in the garden with its big, bold leaves.
Now is the time to force some early growth. Cover your plant with a lovely rhubarb forcer or an upside down bucket to exclude all light and leave the plant to produce bright pink fresh growth, probably a month earlier than a plant that hasn’t been forced. You’ll still want to add some sweetness when you cook it - we avoid processed sugar and use ‘truvia’.
If you have the space you might grow two or three different varieties. Possibly the finest is Victoria which is a late variety which produces big crops of juicy and sweet stems. Timperley Early has a sweet flavour and is really good for forcing an early crop. Raspberry Red is probably the variety with the brightest red stems. There are several other varieties to choose
The gardening project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
Lemon Pot Puddings
These delicious individual hot lemon puddings are the perfect sweet treat after a hearty winter supper or Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
• 100g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
• 175g golden caster sugar
• Zest and juice of 2 large lemons (you will need about 120ml lemon juice)
• 4 medium eggs, separated
• 75g plain flour
• 130ml milk
• 2 tbsp flaked almonds
• Icing sugar, for dusting
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 180oC/fan 160oC/gas mark 4. Grease six 175ml ovenproof ramekin dishes with butter.
2. Beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Beat in the lemon zest then beat in the egg yolks, one at a time. Sift over half the plain flour and fold in, then fold in the lemon juice and milk. Sift over the rest of the flour and fold in. Gradually fold the egg whites into the mixture.
3. Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared ramekin dishes and sprinkle over the flaked almonds. Place the dishes in a large roasting tin and pour in enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the dishes. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden on top. Serve immediately, dusted with icing sugar.
Makes 6 | Ready in 40 mins
TIP - These puddings will form a lovely layer of thick lemon custard under the sponge topping so take care not to overcook them. They will still have a slight wobble in the centre.
For eco-conscious shoppers at Livingston Designer Outlet: The Leith Collective
There’s a new store in town and it’s challenging the ‘throwaway’ mentality of modern consumerism. The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet is encouraging everyone to shop sustainably and it’s already proving to be a hit.
The Leith Collective stocks a wide range of handmade goods – from clothing and jewellery, homeware and furniture, to toiletries and gifts – the majority of which have been created by reusing, recycling, reclaiming and repurposing items that may otherwise have been destined for landfill. Resident makers are committed to ditching single-use plastics and opting for eco-friendly alternatives throughout their entire creative process and the result is a shop full of truly unique items that don’t cost the earth.
Speaking about the store’s first few months in business, The Leith Collective founder, Sara Thomson, said; “Opening a store within Scotland’s largest designer outlet is a major milestone. Our makers now have a place alongside some of the world’s most iconic brands, which just goes to show how much consumer attitudes are changing. There is now a significant appetite amongst shoppers to support local artists, makers, crafters and designers, and a real demand for items that have been thoughtfully crafted with the future of our planet in mind.
Consumers are more mindful than ever about where they spend their money, they want to know where products have come from, and what impact the manufacturing process has had on the planet. And that’s exactly why The Leith Collective’s first few months at Livingston Designer Outlet have proved to be so successful.”
The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet is the latest addition to the multi awardwinning CIC’s group of stores which consists of sites at Edinburgh Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh Fort Kinnaird and Dundee Overgate.
The stores are not just retail spaces but hubs of creativity, hosting a range of inspiring workshops, exhibitions and initiatives designed to engage, support and inspire the local community, with the ultimate aim of creating not just a more sustainable retail industry, but a more sustainable future for all.
The Leith Collective at Livingston Designer Outlet, Almondvale Avenue, Livingston, is open Monday 9am - 7pm, Tuesday and Wednesday 9am - 6pm, Thursday - Saturday 9am - 8pm, Sunday 9am – 6pm
This article was contributed by The Leith Collective. For more information please visit www.theleithcollective.com, email info@ theleithcollective.com, or call 07447 659 999.
a winter wonderland
With the hum of the snack van generator in my ears, I join the path from Oakbank car park by the A71, heading towards Calderwood. The snows that blew in with the New Year still lie one week on, crunching, compacted and re-frozen beneath my feet.
Initially, I follow the path along by the main road. The route takes me down some steps, over the Linhouse Water gushing below, and roughly parallels the main road until joining a small access road heading towards the main part of Calderwood. After clocking the temperature (-3oC), I’d been wondering whether this was the best day for my walk. But how wrong am I. The freezing temperatures have rendered the everyday fascinating. The roadside bushes
bear remnant snow dotted along their branches like balls of cotton wool. Ploughed snow lies at the side of the road in great dirty, icy blocks looking like quartzite boulders, surfaces furred with centimetre-long ice fronds. Concentric ice bubbles in one puddle look like the Yellowstone hot spring in monochrome, another is like an abstract painting; even the smallest of twigs are spiked with ice crystals as if cut from rare geodes.
Following the signs for Calderwood and then the green waymarkers, I bear right at an intersection, keeping to the main path. It is then the sound of the Murieston Water that I hear, far below to my left. Mature and stately trees guard the route at intervals. At one point I turn a corner to find a beech tree staring at me. Staring? Multiple ‘eyes’ are peering eerily at me from the near side of the trunk. Not real eyes of course – these are the places where branches have been shed as the tree has grown, leaving eye shapes. In fact, since at this latitude branch growth occurs predominantly on the southfacing side of the trunk, these features can be used to determine which direction is south. I take out my phone to check and find the bearing is remarkably accurate.
Soon, I am passing through birch woods, the low sun casting long shadows of the slender trunks across the snow. Gradually, I become aware of many small birds in the trees around me, flitting from tree to tree, constantly calling, feasting on the catkins. It’s hard to make them out, but I notice they have finch-like beaks, and a deep notch in the tail. It’s not until one alights on a branch right above my head
that I can truly appreciate their beauty. Blushed with crimson on the forehead, chin (below a little black ‘beard’) and upper breast, fading into a pale belly almost as white as the snow – they’re redpolls! A flock of forty or so are gradually working their way through the forest past where I am standing. Their plumage makes them appear slightly embarrassed at being caught gorging themselves, but they need not be. They are on the UK red list of bird species and, particularly in these conditions, need any boost they can get. Intrigued, I pick one of the catkins. It disintegrates between my fingers into a thousand seeds which fall to pepper the snow at my feet, and I immediately appreciate the bounty on offer here.
The woods give way more open country - scrubland dotted with lichen-encrusted hawthorn - which today feels more like Siberian tundra. I pass a stance of tall pines on a little hill before descending to meet the path coming from Mid Calder (another possible starting point for this walk). I turn right at an information board to begin the return leg and soon pass a frozen pond. Opposite the pond, I take a small detour off to the left. I duck under a fallen birch and down, down I go. Thankfully, the snow-covered slope is kind to me and I arrive, dignity intact, standing by the Linhouse Water at a bend in the river. Opposite is a little waterfall created by a small burn draining into the river from height. Today, however… today it is Narnia. The week of freezing weather has created a miniature cathedral of ice. Three-foot icicles glisten behind a thin curtain of falling
GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!
water and hang all around like chaotic crystal organ pipes. Below, while the central stream remains unfrozen, on either side the rocks are a coated in a cascade of clear ice formations, all the way down to the river below. And it’s not just the waterfall itself; along the far bank to the left, arrays of icicles hang in multiple rows like dragon’s teeth, while to my right the frozen river surface reflects the winter sun like hammered bronze.
I just stand there for a while, absorbing the scene around me, reluctant to pull myself away. I thank my luck for happening upon this enchanting experience. Eventually, I start back towards the car, my step a little lighter as I go. You know, it just goes to show, you could jet off to Lapland or Val d’Isère, but sometimes Winter Wonderland is to be found right here, on our doorstep.
Calderwood is part of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park and has been designated a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’ for its mix of ancient woodland, grassland and wetland. Be prepared for walking on rough tracks.
This article was contributed by William Weir. William is a scientist and amateur writer/ photographer who lives locally. In his spare time he enjoys exploring the trails and wild spaces of West Lothian and the Pentland Hills.
FEBRUARY CROSSWORD
58mm Vertical [RIGHT]
We all know who Christopher Reeves is. He is the icon who brought Superman to the big screen. However, due to utter tragedy, he was paralysed from the neck down, and his life changed forever. Once a fictional Superhero, he becomes a real-life superhero for the disabled community, particularly the disabled people suffering from paralysis. Told from the perspective of his family and friends. Super/ Man: The Christopher Reeves Story is a truly powerful documentary that follows the life of Christopher Reeves before and after the accident. It is a truly harrowing story about never giving in and fighting for what is right. Seeing the formation of the Christopher Reeves Foundation and how he pressured politicians on both sides of the aisle so that more research and funding could be put into paralysis is both hopeful and a real gut punch as we know how this story ends. Despite seeing how his family continue to strive for change, it is beautiful. We also hear them recount who their father was to them and see how this tragedy still affects them this very day. My biggest issue with the film is that there is only a brief discussion of the controversies around Christopher Reeves striving to find a cure - I wish it had dived deeper into this. However, the film is not about that. It is about the legacy of Christopher Reeves and how he was a reallife superhero, and with that goal in mind, the film is perfection.
Available to buy on digital platforms
The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.
^^^ Solution in the MARCH edition
ACROSS: 1. Fasten to (6), 4. Enquiring (6), 9. Reduce length (7), 10. Loosen (5), 11. More (5), 12. Stretches (7), 13. Twisted together (11), 18. Requiring (7), 20. Not inner (5), 22. Assists (5), 23. Needing a drink (7), 24. Hurried (6), 25. Stopped (6).
DOWN: 1. Reply (6), 2. Type of fish (5), 3. Small country house (7), 5. A trick (5), 6. Severe (7), 7. Lubricate (6), 8. Enquire into (11), 14. Used for sewing (7), 15. Worship (7), 16. Fasten (6), 17. Ragged (6), 19. Hand out (5), 21. Trials (5).
FEBRUARY SUDOKU
SAT 1ST FEBRUARY & SAT 1ST MARCH
Friends of Almondell Country Park
Volunteering session - The Friends of Almondell's monthly practical project meeting. Volunteer group helping to conserve and maintain the 220 acre Almondell & Calderwood Country Park including the Oakbank extension. We meet on the first Saturday of the month from 10.00am until 12.00pm and always welcome new volunteers. Please get in touch by contacting the Ranger Service on 01506 882254, or email almondell&calderwood@ westlothian.gov.uk to find out more about getting involved. Facebook: 'Friends of Almondell & Calderwood Country Park'. Please book a space (free of charge) via the West Lothian Council Ranger Service’s Eventbrite page, so that they can update you if there are any changes to the session arrangements: www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/west-lothian-councilranger-service-60064115123
Email: rangerservice@westlothian.gov.uk
SATURDAY 1ST FEBRUARY
Winter Wildlife Wander - Join a Historic Environment Ranger to celebrate World Wetland Day and discover why the wetland of Linlithgow Loch is so important for wildlife. Meet at Linlithgow Peel, 1.00pm - 3.00pm. Free but please book via www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place
THURSDAY 6TH FEBRUARY
West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - Provides help and support for men recently diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. Next meeting, which includes guest speakers, is at 7.00pm on Thursday 6th February at Crofthead Community Centre, Livingston, EH54 6DG. All welcome.
SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY
The AC/DC Experience - The AC/DC Experience perform classics from both the Bon Scott and Brian Johnson eras such as
“Highway To Hell”, “Shoot To Thrill”, “Back In Black”, “Whole Lotta Rosie”, and many, many more. The AC/DC Experience provide a live show second only to the legends themselves. 7.30pm, Re-connect Regal, Bathgate. Tickets £26/£24 via reconnectregal.com
SUNDAY 8TH FEBRUARY
Through the Night with Henry PurcellExperience a magical night filled with the enchanting music of Henry Purcell performed by the talented Dunedin Consort. St Michaels Parish Church, Linlithgow. 7.30 – 9.30pm, doors open 7.00pm. Pre-concert talk 6.30pm. Tickets £20/£10/£6 via eventbrite
MON 10TH TO THUR 13TH FEBRUARY
West Lothian Gymnastics February Holiday Camp - Members & non-members welcome. Our fun and focused camps will include games, challenges, prizes and time to consolidate and learn new skills on vault, bars, beam and floor. Monday-Thursday: 9.00am-3.00pm. Packed lunch required. Full camp £120, single day £35. Craigwillow Centre, Willow Grove, Craigshill. Tickets via: west-lothian-gymnastics.classforkids.io
SATURDAY 15TH FEBRUARY
Auld Pals - Mark Cox & Jane McCarryHowden Park Centre, Livingston. A special up close and personal show featuring Mark Cox and Jane McCarry, best known for their iconic roles as Tam and Isa in Still Game. The evening promises to be filled with fun, laughter, and will be a unique opportunity for the audience to delve into the lives of their beloved TV characters. Times: VIPs 6.15pm, Show 7.30pm. Duration: 2 x 1 hour with 20 minute interval. Tickets £27.50/£47.50 VIP +BF via www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk
WEDNESDAY 5TH MARCH
Older People Providers Fayre - Howden Park Centre, Livingston. Stalls from the various providers, as well as a schedule of talks on a variety of topics. Free entry. Doors open 1.30pm, last entry 4.00pm.
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
EMAIL EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
SPORTS, HOBBIES, LEARNING, SUPPORT GROUPS & MORE...
MURIESTON COMMUNITY
CINEMA - Monthly thought-provoking community film screenings in a welcoming and friendly environment. One Sunday a month at 7pm in Murieston Village Hall (walk through the tunnel at Livingston South Railway Station). Feel free to bring your own cushion or camping chair for extra comfort. BYOB for a drink and chat afterwards. More info and tickets: murieston.org.uk/community/cinema Email: cinema@murieston.org.uk
WEST LOTHIAN PICKLEBALL
CLUB - Discover the excitement of Pickleball with West Lothian Pickleball Club! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, our friendly sessions are perfect for all abilities. Join us every Thursday from 6:45 pm to 8:45 pm at Deans Community High School. All equipment is provided, and your first session is FREE! For more information, contact us at westlothianpickleballclub@gmail. com. Don't miss out on the fun—see you on the court!
ASTRO GYMNASTICS WEST
LOTHIAN - We offer gymnastics, freestyle, tumble, adult and aerial classes. From 18 months to adult. Classes on Mondays, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday. 5 Hutton Square, Brucefield Industrial Park, Livingston, EH54 9DJ. See astrogymnastics.co.uk
MURIESTON COMMUNITY CAFE
- Not-for-profit pop-up community cafe selling freshly made soups, sandwiches and cakes with quality teas and coffees. Open most Saturdays 11.00am-2.00pm at Murieston Village Hall - through the tunnel at Livingston South Railway Station. All welcome - reasonable prices, vegan and allergen-free options and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Dogs welcome outside - benches and dog bowls provided. Also seeking volunteers to join friendly volunteer group - no experience needed, training provided. Come along for coffee and a chat. cafe@murieston.org.uk
MURIESTON COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT TRUST - We are a charity working together to create a vibrant community for all in Murieston: protecting our open spaces, improving our community facilities and activities, facilitating local groups. New members warmly welcomed. Membership is free, open to residents of Murieston, and enables you to
vote on local issues. More trustees and volunteers are also sought. Join or get in touch at: murieston-cdt.org. uk email:secretary@murieston-cdt. org.uk
ALMOND VALLEY NATURE
ACTION - A community group covering small projects throughout the River Almond Valley, aiming to help nature flourish and inspire our community to get involved in nature action. We meet monthly at weekends to explore different green areas and discuss nature, biodiversity, climate action, and share knowledge/personal experience. We occasionally organise workshops and additional events in our local projects. All welcome. Check our blog almondvalleynatureaction.blog for upcoming event details, or follow us on social media. almondvalleynatureaction.blog/contact/
MURIESTON ART GROUPWe’re a small friendly club meeting Mondays 10.00 - 12.30 (term time only) at Murieston Village Hall (behind Livingston South station, with large free car park). Qualified tutor @ approx £6 per week plus a current annual fee of £20. Lots of paper, paint and brushes available to those with no supplies. Tea/coffee/biscuits provided. Email Janet.dicksondickson@ bt.internet.com or just turn up for a trial session for a small charge. Beginners and experienced artists all welcome.
VISUALLY IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP WEST LOTHIAN - Come along and meet up with like-minded people who all have a visual impairment for support and a chat. Make new friends. Everyone is very welcome. Refreshments are available. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month 10.30am – 12pm (midday) in the Ability centre, Livingston North Partnership Centre, Carmondean Centre Road, Livingston EH54 8PT. For further information please contact: June - 07903540545 or Gwyneth - 07762152727.
ROTARY CLUB OF LIVINGSTON
- The Rotary Club of Livingston has been supporting care/community organisations in the Livingston area but it would be wonderful to be joined by new members who could bring different outlooks and experiences to the work we do. We meet at 8pm on a Wednesday evening via Zoom using Subtitling/Closed Captions to facilitate members/visitors who have a hearing impairment. You are welcome
to join us. Facebook: Rotary Club of Livingston. Visit livingston.rotary1020. org or contact secretary@livingston.rotary1020.org
LIVINGSTON SPORTING
MEMORIES CLUB - If you had a keen interest in sports as a youngster and still have a passion for chatting about sport, then Livingston Sporting Memories Club will be right up your street. We meet every Monday at Livingston Cricket Club, 10.30am-12noon 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 ad-hoc meetings. For information please contact trefoilguild@girlguiding.co.uk or 02078346242
WEST LOTHIAN NETTERSRecreational netball club for adults 18+. A welcoming inclusive group, no prior experience or knowledge of netball required. Wednesdays 7.15-8.45pm in the sports hall at St Margaret’s High School. Cost £4.50. First session free -just turn up and play. For more information, visit or send us a message at www. facebook.com/p/West-LothianNetters-100069336074443. To add your child to the waiting list for our junior club, please email wljuniornetters@gmail.com
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. We welcome bridge players from intermediate through to very experienced players WCBC meets on Tuesdays 7pm until 10pm. The cost is £3.50. WCBC address is: West Kirk of Calder, West Main Street, West Calder EH55 8EN Further information and contact telephone numbers can be found on our website: www.bridgewebs.com/ westcalder
LIVINGSTON AND DISTRICT
AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETYWe are based in the Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, Livingston and are a member of the Radio Society of Great Britain. Meeting every Tuesday 19:00 to 21:00, our club brings together members of all ages in a licensed pursuit which is technical, scientific and promotes local and international friendship through radio. We provide training for all three levels of amateur operating licences in friendly and relaxed atmosphere E: cco_edin@ btinternet.com T: 07710 441423
13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT GROUP - Livingston Station Community Centre, Deans. We’re looking for more youth and adult members, and would like to hear from parents/guardians who would like to get involved as a sectional assistant or leader.
BEAVERS: Tue 6.30pm-7.30pm (ages 6-8)
CUBS: Thu 6.30pm-8.00pm (ages 8-10)
SCOUTS: Thu 7.00pm-9.00pm (ages 10-14)
If you are interested please contact Steven Graham on 07786 638442 or stevengraham162@gmail.com
WEST LOTHIAN PROSTATE
CANCER SUPPORT GROUPThe West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group can provide help and information and the opportunity to talk to men with recent treatment experience to give 'man to man' background to help them make a choice of the treatment they may be offered. Please contact for more information Duncan Wallace on 01506 632309 or Gordon Stuart on
01506 651388 or check our website elprostatecancersupport.co.uk
LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS
GROUP - Walk with us every week on Thursdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Variety of walks to suit all abilities from challenging to gentle. All are welcome. For full walk details see: Ramblers webpage. www. ramblers.org.uk/scotland and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ livingstonramblers. Contact us: info@livingstonramblers.org.uk or via Facebook messenger on Livingston Ramblers Group.
FUN LITTLE EDUCATIONPlaygroup available for children from 2 years old. Beech House Quarrywood Court, Livingston, EH54 6AX. Monday to Friday 9.30 - 14.30. For information contact Paulina on 07729 969989 or funlittleeducation@ gmail.com. All welcome.
LIVINGSTON SPEAKERS - If you've ever felt scared about public speaking, get anxious when giving presentations or avoid speaking up at meetings....then Livingston Speakers can help. We offer a safe, supportive environment where you can practice and get valuable feedback from the other members...and it doesn't matter if you make a mistake or freeze on the spot. We meet at Crofthead Farm Community Centre or online on Zoom please contact helen.toastmaster@ gmail.com or call 07733 100595 for more information.
LIVINGSTON UKULELE CLUBMeet every Tuesday 7.00pm-9.00pm in the church hall, St Andrew's Church, Deans, 4a Glen Road, Livingston. From beginners to experienced players all are welcome. We charge £2 per evening to cover the cost of the hall. Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Website: livingstonukuleleclub. wordpress.com Facebook: 'Livingston Ukulele Club'
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.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
- For children age 2-5 years. Armadale, Bathgate, Crofthead Farm, Fauldhouse, Uphall and West Calder. Morning sessions 9.15-11.30am, £10.00 per session. Full Day sessions 9.15am-2.00pm, £22.00 per session. Funded Places available.
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.
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
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
Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information: T.: 01506 448000
E: office@carers-westlothian.com
W: www.carers-westlothian.com
GENERATION ARTS - Creative activities for people aged 50 and over, either living at home or in care with complex needs. Online and offline activities in West Lothian such as a dance dvd, art demos, reminiscence, recipes, music and song playlists, dance and song classes. Creative activity and learning can unlock memories and skills that have been lost and creates a spark of joy for all. Contact generationarts.coordinator@gmail. com or phone 07521 358 239 for further information.
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 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
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
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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
CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN
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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.
- Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support
NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT.SCOT FOR INFO.
