Konect Livingston December 2022

We’re delighted to team up with West Lothian Gift Card this month to offer you the chance to win a £25 gift card! We love the West Lothian Gift Card as it supports local businesses and is an easy Christmas gift idea. See page 34 for more details on the scheme and add one to your shopping list. And get hunting for the chance to win a card too! Find the 5 gold medallions hidden within this magazine, then head to our website www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code on the cover to enter the draw. Full information and Ts & Cs are on our website.

Festive traditions, seeing family and exchanging gifts is lovely, and those of us who can enjoy these things are very fortunate - because many can’t. Without support many won’t even see Christmas let alone enjoy it. If you are a regular Konect reader, you’ll have read our many features through the year on community initiatives and local charities, and these organisations need your support now more than ever. Here are some of the comments we’ve had from local charities we’ve featured: “We were amazed by the response when our charity was featured in Konect. Several new volunteers came on board and new supporters contacted us as well. Highly recommended for local coverage that people actually read!”

“Thank you so much Konect as this will all help us to continue to provide free counselling to young people across West Lothian.”

Of course, without our loyal business advertisers we wouldn’t have a magazine to print the information, and without your custom they wouldn’t have a business to advertise. So, to every one of you who has ever called someone from the magazine, a business or a charity: thank you, it truly makes a difference. Have a fantastic festive season!

Local History: The Deans Century ................... 8 Hair: Don’t you, forget about you ................... 14 Thought for the Month .................................... 15 Living Well: Support for dementia at Xmas 16 Property Matters: Destination West Lothian - Home 20 Local Environment: Beauty in the detail 30 Garden Project: A rose for Xmas by any other name .............................................. 32 Puzzles ........................................................... 34 Competition: WIN! West Lothian Gift Card .... 34 What’s On 36 Charity: Winter Warmer Appeal 37 Film Review 42

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: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638

DEANS CENTURY

Over the course of a century, a mindboggling amount of labour transformed the fields into one of West Lothian’s most productive shale oil sites with seven mines and a crude oil works, then removed it all and replaced it with the Deans we see today.

The first Livingston Station works were opened here in 1884, and the industry dominated every part of local life until the last miner’s rows and the bings were dismantled in the 1970s, just under a century later. Though there is little left to see today, it has nevertheless left its mark in Deans - not just in the few buildings that do remain, but more importantly in the collective memory. It has been landscaped, built on and incorporated into Livingston but still retains its own community memory of what was life in Livingston Station.

Before the arrival of the shale oil companies, the land was a mixture of cultivated fields and woodland. There is some evidence

of medieval farmsteads and possibly an ancient standing stone at Starlaw. In 1884 though, change came with the opening of the Livingston Station oil works here by the West Lothian Oil Company, on the Edinburgh to Bathgate railway. Due to mismanagement the venture was unsuccessful until the Pumpherston Oil Company took over in 1894. They restructured the site as the Deans Works, and the village of Livingston Station was built by them to house its workforce. It was fairly typical of many mining villages in the area. The Pumpherston Oil Company had a good reputation for providing reasonable facilities for its workforce. The housing consisted mainly of terraced rows of two-roomed houses with gardens and, as was noted in a housing survey carried out in 1914, “a generous scullery”. One room was the living room with the kitchen range for cooking and heating. The other room was where the family slept. Frequently there were two families in each small house due to shortage in housing as

THE

Driving around Deans industrial estate, it’s difficult to imagine that you are driving over the site of shale mines that sunk to depths of hundreds of feet and of a towering bing that dominated the landscape for miles around.

“

Before the arrival of the shale oil companies, the land was a mixture of cultivated fields and woodland ”

the works expanded. Some houses had coal cellars, and the houses on the end of each terrace had an attic bedroom with a window on the gable wall, attracting a slightly higher rent. The village also incorporated drying greens and play areas. Initially there was no piped water for the houses, so water was hauled in by the householder from shared standpipes in the streets. Also shared were the toilet facilities – some shared between two houses, some for many more.

A small amount of further accommodation for Deans workers was at Deans Cottages, thirty six two -roomed houses that had been built by the West Lothian Oil Company and located to the north of the works. The rows formed three sides of a square, with shared privvies in the centre of the square. The M8 now runs straight through the square.

Typical of many mining communities, there was a healthy social life in Livingston Station. An annual summer gala, outings, and the life that revolved around the “store” - the local branch of the successful West Calder Cooperative on the Main Street. Pumpherston Oil Company built a community centre – the Institute - incorporating a library, bowling green and other facilities including showers: the 1914 housing survey notes that “spray baths are to be had at the Institute, for a small charge.”

PIT PONIES

Ponies were used to haul hutches of shale up from the pits. Unlike coal mines, shale mines had more headroom, up to 10ft, so here not only ponies but much larger horses were used underground, even after the introduction of diesel engines. They lived in stables underground, rarely coming up to the surface, and their living conditions depended on the mine manager. Happily it seems that Deans No 5 Mine had a good reputation for looking after their horses. There were 35 horses in the underground stables and each one had a lad assigned to look after it – ‘pony driver’ was one of the first jobs boys used to get in the mines.

The ostler in charge of the underground stables at Deans No 5 Mine was strict about the conditions his ponies were kept in. His son Jock Gibb started work as a pony lad when he left school at the age of 14 and describes his first pony:

“His name was Star and I used to take him a tattie, but after munching his potato he also used to love having a wee bit of my piece at break time each day. Most of the miners were very fond of their ponies and took them titbits everyday. As a wee pony Star only pulled one hutch at a time and if he decided it was too heavy laden, he was quite capable of tipping the tail chain and getting out of it. After a few months, I was promoted to a much bigger and stronger beast called Bob. He was almost as big as a horse and could pull several hutches fully laden. As the ostler, my father was very strict about the condition the pit ponies were kept in and always watched they were never taken into too low a working. He was very proud of the many certificates which the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals presented to Deans No 5 Mine.”

Pit

Pit ponies were brought up from the mines about once a year. Many were taken to the annual West Lothian Agricultural Society’s show in Linlithgow, where the were judged for appearance and condition.

Pony in a West Lothian shale mine

There were seven mines in the Deans Works: Mines 1 and 2 known as Caputhall, Deans No 3 known as Starlaw, and Deans Nos 5,6, and 7. They had their share of mining accidents, which were sadly not unusual across West Lothian. Fatal accidents in the Deans mines are recorded at various times as a result of falling shale, runaway hutches and explosions.

Competition from cheaper sources of oil led to the closure of West Lothian’s oil works. The

Deans works closed at the end of the 1940s and over the next three decades the buildings and village were dismantled. Most of the works buildings were taken down in the 1950s; the miner’s rows were demolished during the course of the 60s and 70s; the huge bing was quarried in the 70s and used as construction material for the M8.

The workers who lived in Deans Cottages would have found it ironic that the shale they dug up from the ground and piled high on the bings would eventually be taken down again and used to lay a motorway right over their houses. The new Deans is continually evolving as part of Livingston, whilst building, literally, on its mining roots.

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne, editor of Konct magazines, using resources from Hendrie, W.F. 2000 “Images of Scotland, Livingston” Tempus Publishing Ltd, Stroud; the Almond Valley Heritage Trust; and www.scottishshale.co.uk. First published in Konect in 2011.

As we all know December is that month in the year where everything is manic. My focus this year is just not buying in to that narrative.

I am going to pencil in time for myself right through this month because it should be a lovely time of year despite the fact it’s freezing outside and the nights are drawing in on us with darkness and it feels like there’s a million things to do. Taking care of ourselves should be a priority.

Ease yourself a little stress this holiday season and be sure to make time for yourself. Like fully pencil it in to the diary!

This time of year beauty brands you love and almost all your favourite products will be discounted or with extra goodies and Who doesn’t love a bargain right? Grab your favourite shampoo and conditioner while it’s on offer with some freebies attached and save yourself some pennies as we know it all counts coming up to Christmas.

If you can’t fit in a visit to the salon, be sure to schedule in some ME time, lock yourself in the bathroom for an hour or two, forget your problems. Be sure to grab your favourite hair treatment, book, face mask or even a glass of wine and relax.

Merry Christmas and all the best wishes from everyone at Wonderland. <<< Christmas haircare boxes in stock at wonderland! Wine not included

The Hair column is contributed by Sophie Laidlaw. Sophie is Director @wonderland Livingston. www.wonderlandlivingston.com

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 judgment - explore the body and mind

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)

Be who you’ve always been... a film buff

At Care UK being a film buff doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home.

Award winning, person-centred care for over 40 years.

If you’re considering care call 0333 060 5547.

Trusted to care. careuk.com/edinburgh

LIVING WELL

Christmas can be confusing to someone living with dementia, and can be a stressful time of year for those that care for them. To help prepare, we’ve developed a list of 10 top tips:

1. The first 3 rules of dementia care: don’t argue, don’t argue and yes you’ve guessed, don’t argue – this is especially important at stressful times

2. Maintain familiar routines where possible.

3. Introduce decorations or other changes slowly

4. Give time to rest, be quiet and relaxhave designated quiet spaces with less stimulation available

5. Ask visitors to stagger their arrivalslarge groups can be overwhelming and make it difficult for the person to engage in conversation (especially if they have hearing or sight loss too)

6. Keep it simple - provide food and drink that’s familiar and in small quantities – lots of food can be visually overwhelming and off-putting

7. Use music and reminiscence – why not involve the whole family in creating personal playlists?

8. Focus on the positives and what you can do together rather than what you can't

9. Don't make it a memory test e.g. “who am I?” or “can you remember who gave you that gift?”

10. Look after the carers – check in with those loved ones who are carers. Make sure they aren’t running themselves ragged and can take a break. 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 Livingston. Contact them for advice and support on 01506 346046 or see www.homeinstead.co.uk/livingston

As property agents, we don’t just deal in the bricks and mortar of homes. A home is embedded in its environment, and the location is as important as the building itself. An integral part of presenting homes for sale is to promote the benefits of the local area. Here in West Lothian we have so much in terms of beautiful countryside, local businesses, leisure pursuits and above all a great community spirit. In addition, easy access to the cities as well as the Highlands makes it a very desirable location geographically, When assisting people to find a home here, we’re conscious that more and more they are buying into a lifestyle. While there may have been a tendency in the past to view West Lothian as a good commuter location - and it is an excellent commuter location - the past few years have made it clear that to view it as only that is to disregard the wonderful lifestyle that can be enjoyed right here.

With our deep local knowledge and expertise, we’re able match those needs and aspirations with homes available. We have invested in creating a series of market-leading location videos, to more vibrantly share the benefits of our area with the increasing number of buyers from further afield who are looking for all we have to offer.

And we’re also delighted to have recently launched a new lifestyle magazine, In-house, with the

aim of providing a further channel through which to promote the area to incoming buyers.

In-house is a high quality printed publication which showcases and celebrates West Lothian as home in the fullest sense of the word. Within it, we promote some great local businesses and amenities, as well as featuring articles on local lifestyle and recreational opportunities. It also showcases the spectacular houses that West Lothian has to offer and some of the wonderful houses that we’ve sold.

For buyers viewing properties here who are not familiar with West Lothian, In-house is a valuable resource that we can hand to them, and is a development of the electronic newsletter we’ve been producing for over 10 years. The magazine format encourages readers to peruse the content in detail at their leisure, refer back to it, and to appreciate the benefits of buying in West Lothian - enhancing the attractiveness of all the homes we’re marketing here. It also complements our other marketing channels, putting clients’ properties in front of the right buyers who are prioritising those important lifestyle elements.

The launch issue, Autumn/Winter ‘22/’23, of In-house is out now and a copy can be obtained from the Turpie & Co office at 5-9 Edinburgh Road, Bathgate, EH48 1BA.

If any local businesses feel they are aligned with our brand and would like to feature in the next issue of In-house, please contact Craig Turpie (craig@turpies.com ) or Gillian Greenwell (gillian@turpies.com ).

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.

Watch the launch video

It can be easy to overlook the ordinary or the things we see everyday. I have to be honest, I usually walk past mallards but when I was out looking for otters on the Water of Leith there were a group of ducks hanging out in the shadows and it made for quite an appealing setting.

Female ducks never quite have the eye catching colours of the males. They can sometimes be thought of as unremarkable but much like the humble house sparrow, there is beauty in the detail of their mottled plumage. Then there’s that flash of purply blue towards the end of the wing, the jewel in the crown if you ask me.

I had been hoping she might’ve had a little wing stretch or stuck out her foot a little but no, she was quite content preening her feathers. After breeding season is finished, ducks tend to become flightless for a few weeks as they go through their annual moult so I suspect she was just paying close attention to the feathers and getting herself in top condition for winter.

The Water of Leith is a wonderful place to go

for a long walk with plenty wildlife to be seen including kingfishers, dippers, otters, and even a fox if you’re lucky! With BBC Winterwatch basing themselves in Edinburgh for the next series (usually at the end of January) you might even be able to spot the crew at some point too.

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

This gorgeous plant is called Helleborus Maestro, one of many hybrid hellebores resulting from crosses between the Christmas Rose and the Lenten Rose that you will find in garden centres over the next few months.

Its flowers start to appear at the beginning of November and it carries on flowering until March. It has evergreen leaves that are very bold looking in the border and is very easy to care for in the ground or a big pot. It is happy in sun or partial shade in any soil that is free draining but doesn’t get too dry.

It gets about 30cm (12”) tall and spreads about 45cm (18”). Incidentally it is resistant to deer and rabbits if these like to come into your garden. You’ll find it sitting amongst other ‘Gold Collection’ hellebores on the plant benches,

some of the others have even more striking leaves but they don’t all have such a very long flowering period, at a time when we are a bit short of flowers in our gardens.

Every garden should have one or two of these stunning plants but they also make wonderful presents for family and friends. When the flowers appear each year they’ll think of you and will give so much pleasure year after year. Why not pop it into a large frostproof pot for a gift that they can just sit on the patio or by the front door and enjoy. What on earth will you give them next year?

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

Hellebrous Maestro

WIN and SUPPORT LOCAL

BUSINESSES

WITH WEST LOTHIAN GIFT CARD!

The West Lothian Gift Card launched last year and can be spent within a wide range of businesses across the county, including retail, hospitality, leisure and services, and with both national brands and local and independent businesses. This winter and festive period, step up for West Lothian, and show support by thinking local first. Not only is the West Lothian Gift Card a present to your loved one, it’s also a gift to the entire community – supporting local businesses, jobs and livelihoods across West Lothian. For an individual gift, or for organisations wishing to reward staff, it helps make our communities vibrant, keeping money circulating locally, and giving a practical gift that will be truly appreciated. Flexble! Select a value from £5 to £500 to suit your budget! To purchase please visit scotlandgiftslocal.com/ product/west-lothian-gift-card For a chance to WIN a £25 West Lothian Gift Card, simply find the 5 gold medallions hidden in the pages of this magazine, then visit www.konect.scot/win to enter the prize draw. Full details and Ts & Cs are on our website. Closing date 10th December 2022

WISHING ALL OUR READERS & CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Thank you for reading Konect in 2022 and supporting local businesses and organisations.

We look forward to another year of all things local, interesting articles, competitions and great offers.

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IF YOU RUN A BUSINESS

Contact us about being included in Konect and getting your business in front of over 45,000 local readers!

“The response from Konect has been incredible to the point that I am currently working through a backlog of appointments (about 8 weeks worth). I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Konect magazine to anyone starting up a new venture as it is worth every penny.” Konect Advertiser

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IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN A COMMUNITY GROUP OR CHARITY LOCALLY

We can list your organisation in the Clubs and Classes section FREE of charge.

We may also be able to feature you as “Charity of the Month”.

“The Konect article led to an increase in visits to our website, offers of volunteer hours and also people joining us to start their counselling journeys or improve their awareness of mental health by enrolling on a course.” Featured Charity

• IF YOU HAVE AN INTERESTING STORY

Relating to the local area or a local personality, we may be able to feature you.

“It’s a great magazine, enjoying the newer sections that have come in over the last year or so.” Konect Reader

All enquiries, please email editor@konect.scot www.konect.scot @Konect Magazines

SATURDAY 3RD DEC

Keep our Park Beautiful - There’s always lots of jobs to do in the country park. If you’d like to join the Friends of Almondell and help to keep our park beautiful, why not come along to our next Saturday session - on the first Saturday of every month? Meet at the Visitor Centre in Almondell Country Park at 10am until 12pm. See Facebook page @friendsofalmondell

SUNDAY 4TH DEC

Inveralmond Christmas Craft Fair & Fun DayInveralmond High, 11am – 2pm. Shopping, Santa’s Grotto, Christmas gifts, face painting, tombola, raffle and much more.

FRIDAY 9TH DECEMBER

Christmas Concert at Carmondean - Concert by Toccata Ladies Choir, Livingston United Parish Church, Carmondean. 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Tickets £7. www.toccataladieschoir.co.uk

DAILY UNTIL SATURDAY 24TH DEC

Santa’s Grotto at The Centre, Livingston - Santa’s Grotto is nestled at the heart of the giant Christmas Tree near New Look, offering little ones the chance to meet the man himself and share their Christmas wish-lists, ahead of the big day. Bookings are required to visit Santa and we advise people to secure their spot early to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be pre-booked by visiting www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/Livingston - prices start from £5 per child, with a £1.50 booking fee when booking online. Bookings can also be made in person on the day of your visit, subject to remaining availability.

MONDAY 12TH TO THURSDAY 15TH DEC

Santa for Little People - A special mid-week offer at Almond Valley Heritage Centre. Ideal for toddlers, nursery-goers, or anyone else who doesn’t need to be in school. Visit Santa in his magical farmyard cottage, have a good chat, and recieve an early Christmas present. Tickets must be booked in advance and cost £10 per child (or £8 if included in a valid annual pass). As a special bargain, these tickets also provide FREE ADMISSION to the whole of the Almond Valley site

where you can meet the animals, and play all day. Admission for accompanying adults (max 2 per child) is charged at a bargain price of £5, payable on the door. See www.almondvalley.co.uk

SUNDAY 18TH DEC

DecemberWest Lothian Producers’ Market - Livingston Cricket Club, 10 Murieston Valley, Livingston. 11am-3pm. Teas and coffees served inside the club. Fresh and tasty produce, crafts and more. All welcome. www.facebook.com/wlproducersmarket

EXTENDED OPENING HOURS ON THE 9TH , 10TH, 11TH, 16TH, 17TH, 18TH & 23RD DEC After-Dark Sparkles at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - On these special days, we stay opens ‘till the stars come out and the moon begins to shine. A trail of tiny lights will guide you on a magical journey through the woods to the land of the reindeer. Our sheltered play spaces will be brightly illuminated, and our orchard barn will be alive with the sights and smells of Christmas. All this is included in the price of your standard admission ticket. Arrive at any time of the day to explore, play, and meet the animals and then stay on a little later to enjoy the lights and special atmosphere after dark. Our tearoom will be serving a special supper menu to keep you warm and refuelled. We open as usual at 10am, the last admission is at 18.30, and the site closes at 20.00, although the farm areas are closed off at 17.00 as the animals need their beauty sleep. Entry is by standard admission ticket (or pass). For peace of mind, these can be purchase online advance of your visit, see www. almondvalley.co.uk (If you plan to visit Santa, Santa tickets must be booked in advance, in addition to your admission ticket).

DAILY UNTIL WEDNESDAY 28TH DEC Winter Exhibition - Livingston Art Association is holding its annual exhibition at the Visitor Centre at Almondell and Calderwood Country Park. Exhibition and sale of work, Visitor Centre is open daily except 25th/26th Dec. 10am to 4pm (closes for lunch 12.30 to 1pm). www.livingston-art-assoc.org.uk

DAILY UNTIL SATURDAY 24TH DEC Rendezvous with a Reindeer at Almond Valley Heritage Centre - This experience can be enjoyed as a special addition to your visit to Almond Valley and takes about 15 minutes (from 14.45 to 15.00). The cost is £50 for a group of up to four people (including at least one adult), This charge is in addition to standard admission charges to Almond Valley. See www.almondvalley.co.uk

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.

Many children across West Lothian are currently attending school with inadequate jackets which won’t keep them warm or dry and, in some cases, means they don’t even attend school.

Local charity School Bank West Lothian anticipates the need for over 400 jackets for children aged between five and 17 across the next three months and have launched an appeal highlighting ways the public can help:

1) Become a Sponsor and buy a brand-new jacket. Once registered you will be contacted when a referral for a child is received. It’s then up to you to buy a jacket and hand it over before School Bank West Lothian pass it on to the child.

2) You can also donate brand-new socks, tights, hoodie, gloves and hats to go into a pack with each jacket or you can buy a warm jacket which will be kept in stock and then given to a child when a suitable referral is received.

3) Alternatively, you can make a donation. The organisation estimates the cost of a winter warmer jacket for a primary school child to be £25 and £30 for a high school pupil, although any and all donations are gratefully received.

4) Or if your child has a jacket that they no longer use, it can be re-used by the charity.

Checkout the pinned post at the top of their Facebook page 'TheSchoolBankWestLothian' for more details and links to register or donate.

This article was contributed by School Bank West Lothian, registered charity number SC046483. www.schoolbank-westlothian.org

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

LIVINGSTON COMMUNITY SHEDJoin 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 - 9.00 pm 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 GROUPWalk 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 £1.00

Tuesday ladies Lunch club 12.30 to 2.30 two course Lunch, Tea, Coffee then 1 Hour of Arts and Crafts /Games Cost £4.50

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

Contact No. 01506 416137, venue Crofthead farm, Dedridge, Livingston.

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

29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT

GROUP - We are looking for new members. Beavers 6-8 years Thursday 6.30-7.30pm, Cubs 8-10 years Monday 6.30-8.00pm, Scouts 10-14 years Wednesday 7.00-9.00pm all at Toronto Primary School Community Hall. For more information please contact Group Scout Leader David Nicol on 07876 776012 or david29wl@gmail.com

MURIESTON COMMUNITY GARDEN

- Become a volunteer for a new community garden next to Livingston South Railway Station. Help transform rough ground into a beautiful, tranquil garden for all to enjoy. See details at www.murieston-cg.org.uk, follow Facebook page "Murieston Community Garden", or join private Facebook group "Murieston Community Garden Volunteers". Details will also be posted on the noticeboard at

Livingston South Station. Help needed for building, gardening and administration. All welcome, no gardening experience required.

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

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

E: crofthead@communityplaygroups.org

T: 07904 623123

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

E: uphall@communityplaygroups.org

T: 07939 252519

• West Calder Community Centre - Sessions available Mon to Thurs 9.15am - 11.30am

E: westcalder@communityplaygroups.org

T: 07985 645869

WHITBURN AND DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB - A local association for retired and semi-retired men to meet for fellowship and friendship. Meetings are held at the Hilcroft Hotel each Wednesday morning at 9.30 and usually conclude around 12 noon. An extensive programme of speakers is planned throughout the year and periodic lunches, dinners and outings are planned. Interested? Contact Rod Dow (Probus Secretary) on 01506 462772 or come along any Wednesday morning for a coffee and a warm welcome.

SONGWRITING GROUP - We meet 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm9.00pm. 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 semi-retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and non-given. For more information see: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274

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

LIVINGSTON SUBBUTEO CLUB

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

MUSIC 4 U - Musical activities, fellowship and fun for people with dementia and their carers throughout West Lothian. We meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month in Carmondean Community Complex (parish church section) from 2 - 3.30 pm. It begins with afternoon tea then musical activities delivered by people with dementia expertise and musical ability, all volunteers. There's 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 6.007.00pm and 7.20-8.20pm; Seasonal Yoga (gentle) - Wed 5.30 – 6.30pm; Yoga in Polish Wed 9.30-10.30am, Tai-Chi - Thurs 9.30-10.45am; Iyengar Yoga - Thurs 7.30-8.45pm; Yoga in Polish Fri 6.00-7.00pm. Carmondean, Livingston.

E: info@chooseyouyoga.co.uk

T: 07810 824 195

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

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIANSupport 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 Centrecall 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.

SOLUTION TO NOVEMBER CROSSWORD

One of the most romantic films I’ve ever seen weirdly enough starts with not only a death but a potential murder. Park Chan-wook is back after almost 7 years since his last film The Handmaiden and in my opinion, it was well worth the wait.

The film follows detective Jang Hae-joon as he investigates the mysterious Song Sea-rea, the wife of the suspected murder victim.

The film is beautiful in many ways. The cinematography is striking from the very first frame, the editing is lavish and unique, the cast is incredible. Everyone feels like real life people and are just engrossing to watch. Regular composer for Park Chan-wook, Jo Yeong-wook creates a score which is simply elegant and is so effective in many scenes.

Ironically enough this has similar story structure to Park Chan wook’s first film JSA. That film starts with an investigation which evolves into a film about unlikely people becoming friends. With Decision to Leave the plot reminds me of something you would see on Murder, She Wrote. Starting with a murder mystery and as you watch, it then slowly twists into becoming a romance film, and is something truly gripping and engaging.

Everything about this film is a showcase of a film-making genius showcasing his craft and it’s utterly spellbinding to watch. Decision to Leave is one of my favourite films of 2022 and I cannot wait for this film to get its physical release.

Keep an eye out when this film hits digital and physical platforms sometime 2023.

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. Concentration, 8. Uttering, 9. Easy, 10. Smashes, 12. Omens, 14. Knell, 16. Jollier, 19. Show, 20. Estimate, 22. Investigation.

DOWN: 1. Colt, 2. Access, 3. Entices, 4. Brags, 5. Stream, 6. Nonsense, 11. Munching, 13. Hostage, 15. Lawyer, 17. Limits, 18. Hefty, 21. Tool.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 34

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

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