Konect Livingston June 2024

Ahidden army of volunteers keep our communities running in so many ways, from helping people in crisis with their most basic needs for food and shelter, through to keeping our local environment and main streets beautiful with floral displays. The first week in June every year is Volunteers’ Week, a time to highlight and celebrate this effort, as well as to showcase opportunities for more people to get involved. Volunteering is open to everyone. There is a Volunteer Fair in Bathgate on 5th June where you can learn about the range of organisations locally. One organisation featured in this issue is the Rosebery Centre in Polbeth, who are currently looking for befrienders – see the feature on pages 16-17.

How to create a beautifully fragrant summer planter; how to understand the different valuation options for your home; how to get the most out of a healthcare appointment; what’s on locally - whatever you’re up to with home, health or family, I hope you find Konect’s columns from our highly experienced, local expert contributors are helpful and interesting.

We also highlight the West Lothian School Bank’s annual summer appeal to help ensure all children can go back to school in August with their heads held high, see pages 8-9.

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

Not every child starts school in August with a new uniform, and this can profoundly impact their self-esteem.

At The School Bank West Lothian our mission is to ensure that every child experiences the same sense of belonging as their classmates and can look forward to returning to school.

Over the past eight years our charity has supported over 8,000 families facing

financial hardship, providing new uniforms, jackets, shoes, and school bags. We collaborate with various community professionals, such as Schools, Charities, Social Services, Women’s Aid, and The Advice Shop who have referred over 2,000 young people to us in the past year alone and demand is rising every year.

A new uniform can significantly reduce the risk of bullying, bolster self-confident, foster a sense of inclusion, and improve school attendance. That’s why we’re launching an appeal for donations of new and gently used uniforms, ensuring every child in West Lothian feels valued and accepted at school.

SPONSOR-A-CHILD AND BUY A UNIFORM PACK – scan the QR code to register and we’ll send you the details of items required for a child who has been referred to us (typically 3-6 items). After purchasing the items drop them off and we’ll arrange for their delivery to the family.

FILL-A-BAG WITH VITAL SCHOOL SUPPLIES - such as socks, tights, pencil case, stationery, and a water bottle. After you’ve packed your bag (you could use a school bag or draw string gym bag), simply drop it off at one of our numerous red drop-off points across West Lothian, conveniently situated in various supermarkets and community establishments. See our website for the full list.

MAKE-A-DONATION - donate to The School Bank West Lothian and we will buy items on your behalf. For example, £18 could buy a 5-pack of white shirts for a teenager, £45 would buy a pair of school shoes and jacket. The estimated cost of a full uniform pack is £140, although all donations are gratefully received. See our website for full details.

RECYCLE UNIFORMS – we enthusiastically welcome ‘good quality’ pre-loved uniforms that still have plenty of life left in them, including jackets (except items with school badges, blazers, or kilts). Items can be dropped into one of our red drop-off points. For further details, reach out to us via email at admin@schoolbank-westlothian.org or visit the pinned post on our Facebook page “TheSchoolBankWestLothian ” or our website at schoolbank-westlothian.org

This article was contributed by The School Bank West Lothian, Registered Charity No. SC046483

Collette Moran, Project Manger, with a Sponsor-A-Child pack

School Bank team, Fill-A- Bag

winning care homes

We’re proud to be recognised for our excellence in care, winning more awards than any other provider in the last three years. If you’re considering a care home, call 0131 516 7418 or visit careuk.com/edinburgh

Trusted to care

Cairdean House care home, Colinton Murrayside care home, Corstorphine Lauder Lodge care home, Portobello

Have you ever noticed how much your thoughts affect your mood, how they can take over sometimes making you feel worse?

Thoughts can be made up, imagined and often negative and conflicting. When this happens and you are not aware of it someone might say the wrong thing to you and you blow up at them. You feel bad for your reaction and the other hurt.

Life is full of different experiences; pleasant, unpleasant and neutral. We grasp the pleasant, reject the unpleasant and miss the neutral. The habit is often to re-live what we have experienced and over-analyse it: the what, why and where of the situation.

In mindfulness we pause or stop, acknowledge what is here in its entirety

e.g. what am I experiencing in my bodily sensations, feelings and thoughts, taking stock of the whole experience and allowing it to be fully here. Difficult experiences or challenges are part of life, but when we reject them we create more suffering. We also miss many simple things that are pleasant and wonderful happening all the time around us.

Spend the next week writing down at least once every day something good that has happened to you. Look at how it felt emotionally, what thoughts were present and notice the physical sensations.

Every day is full of life's challenges no matter how big or small and we can bring a sense of balance and equanimity when we see all experience, not just the negative. Give it a go.

Tina Gilbert lives in Livingston and teaches* yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk (*Tue classes in person - Thu classes online)

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Realistic MedicineIt’s OK to ask

Realistic Medicine means putting you at the centre of decisions made about your care. It is about moving away from a “doctor knows best” culture and recognising that a one size fits all approach to health and social care is not the most effective path for you or the NHS. This can apply to all different types of healthcare professionals including nurses, pharmacists, counsellors, physiotherapists and social workers.

When you understand what’s going on with your health, you can make better decisions about your care and treatment. Knowing the right questions to ask can make all the difference.

To help you get the most out of any health appointment, here are four questions it’s worth remembering to ask (also known as the BRAN questions).

B – Benefits: what are the benefits of my treatment?

R – Risks: what are the risks or possible side effects of my treatment?

A – Alternatives: are there any alternative treatments I can try?

N – Nothing: what happens if I do nothing?

Your health professional should explain to you the benefits and risks of your available options. They should also discuss the option of doing nothing and what effects this could have. You should expect to be given enough information and time to make up your mind.

By asking these questions you will be able to make an informed choice about the treatment and care that’s right for you.

For more information, visit: nhsinform.scot/campaigns/its-ok-to-ask

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

The service provided is exceptional and the experienced staff are excellent. The staff provide key information in relation to dementia and complete support to families and carers. The high standard of service and care shines through every day.

The Rosebery Centre, established in 1985, is dedicated to delivering a specialised dementia day care centre for older adults. We offer our services to residents within Livingston, the Calders, Pumpherston and Uphall. Our main objective is to provide a stimulating environment through activity-led day care whilst providing support and respite for carers.

The Centre is based in Polbeth Harwood Church, Monday to Thursday between 9.30am and 2pm. To provide the best experience we can we limit our attendance of members to 14 per day. Those who attend the centre are often referred via social work, but can be privately referred by family or carers.

Our day is structured, and our activities tailored to those living with dementia. We start our day with a game aimed at getting our brains working

before breakfast. We have our own highly skilled chef who provides a lot of home baking which is enjoyed with a tea of coffee. We then move on to some short burst activities, offering a wide range of activities which last no longer than 40 minutes at a time. This helps to keep members engaged and interested.

Lunch is served around 12pm which always consists of two courses, usually soup and a main or a main and dessert. These are always nutritional and suited to the members’ needs and preferences. This is a good time for socialisation and chat to occur between members. This will leave us time for one more activity in the afternoon before home time. We also provide day trips which include favourites such as canal trips, restaurant outings and we organise music therapy and pet therapy days. We organise four party events throughout the year which singers and performers attend to entertain our members.

The Centre is a warm, caring and safe space for those who attend. We have a dedicated staff team who are all highly

Befriending Service

The Rosebery Centre also offers a befriending service which covers Livingston and the Calders. This was launched in 2020 during the pandemic and offers face to face befriending. This can be in the beneficiary’s home, a local coffee shop or a place of interest. This is usually for a few hours per week and allows for those for whatever reason are not suited to the day care setting to receive some support to combat loneliness and isolation. We are always looking for volunteers who are PVG vetted to keep this vital service up and running. Please contact us on the contact details below if you are interested in helping.

I don’t know what magic you have but **** loves going to his club, so much so he starts asking on Saturday when he is going, he comes back smiling and far more articulate, and overall, you have given him a better quality of life and given me my life back, so thank you.

trained and passionate in dementia care. Our aim is to play to everyone’s individual interests and strengths, to create an environment built on laughter, fun and engagement.

The Rosebery Centre also creates a great social aspect for many living with dementia who may no longer be able to lead the fulfilling lives they once did. This can often lead to

the loss of friendships and can create isolation and loneliness, which in turn creates less stimulation and conversation. The Rosebery Centre allows those attending to create friendships with others, to converse and be part of something other than their home life. It becomes part of a routine and gives some purpose and quality of life back to those living with dementia.

This article was contributed by the Rosebery Centre, c/o Polbeth Harwood Parish Church, Chapelton Terrace, Polbeth, EH55 8SH. The Rosebery Centre is a charity registered in Scotland, charity number SCO21092. Contact Details: T: 01506 870651 W: www.roseberycentre.org.uk

Understanding Property Valuations and Market Appraisals

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.

The monthly Property Matters column is contributed by Craig Turpie. Craig is a director at Turpie & Co Estate Agents and Letting Agents with extensive knowledge of the West Lothian Property Market and over 20 years experience in bespoke sales and marketing.

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Fragrant plants included in a garden can turn a good-looking garden into an unforgettable one!

This old wicker basket is full of fragrant plants and you could move it around the garden with you, especially to a west facing evening ‘sundowner’ patio. Many fragrant plants smell best later in the day. You can use any container you have, but make sure it has drainage holes. This basket is lined with a bit of landscape fabric to stop the compost washing out.

The central plant with purple flowers is one of the perennial wallflowers (Erysimum Bowles Mauve). There are many different coloured forms to choose. The white flower is a small pink (Dianthus dwarf border

variety). Both of these waft their lovely fragrances into the air. At the back of the basket is a Rosemary and a Lemon Verbena, both need you to brush your hand over them to let their fragrance escape. Finally in the front right corner is a variegated Lemon Thyme which releases its richly smelling essential oils when you gently crush it.

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

It’s that time of year when adult birds are busy providing for what is likely a quickly growing brood of babies. This female stonechat was definitely bringing home a tasty (if you’re a bird) snack for her young, who would’ve been tucked away in the heather, out of my sight.

Why are they called stonechats? Well, for once it makes sense, their call sounds like two stones being tapped together. They’re a fairly common bird, with populations being a mix of resident and migratory birds. Quite often the male of the species is the more striking looking, usually to attract a mate, however I find the female stonechat a bonnie wee bird and she was far more keen to have her picture taken than he was!

This was taken at Sheriffmuir, which is behind Dunblane, however you can find these little rock dwellers (that’s what part of their latin name, Saixcola, translates to) in heathlands all over the country so places like the Pentlands are ideal for them. During lockdown there was a pair on the reed beds in Wester Inch, so they really can turn up anywhere.

I also saw and heard plenty skylark, which is always a joy as you watch them parachute down through the sky. It was brilliant to have my first cuckoo encounter of the year too, a true sign of spring’s arrival and the start of the challenge of getting a good picture of them. So far, cuckoo 1 - Clare 0.

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

The crossword solution will be published in the July edition of Konect.

ACROSS: 1. Well known (6), 4. Long curtains (6), 9. Grandparent (7), 10. Concur (5), 11. Flavour (5), 12. Loosening (7), 13. Marvellous (11), 18. Season’s crop (7), 20. Star sign (5), 22. Bet (5), 23. One of the three r’s (7), 24. Go back (6), 25. Alcove (6).

DOWN: 1. Brawls (6), 2. Breakfast, dinner etc (5), 3. Remove clothes (7), 5. Respond (5), 6. Piece (7), 7. Vehicle used on snow (6), 8. Make, produce (11), 14. Type of piano (7), 15. Turn aside (7), 16. Light rainfall (6), 17. Tree branches (6), 19. Mistake (5), 21. Elevate (5).

SATURDAY 1ST JUNE

Friends of Almondell & Calderwood 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. 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’

WEDNESDAY 8TH JUNE

Volunteer Fair - Interested in becoming a volunteer? Come along to our fair and find out about local volunteering opportunities. Jim Walker Partnership Centre, Bathgate, 1.00pm - 3.00pm

SUNDAY 9TH JUNE

Open Day at Almondell Model Engineering Centre

A fantastic family day out, with train rides on their new extended track through the woodland. Tea, coffee and snacks. Free parking, picnic area. 10.30am - 4.00pm. Drumshoreland Muir, Drumshoreland Road, Broxburn, EH52 5PF

SUNDAY 9TH JUNE

Ramble & Chat, Easter Breich Wood

With Almond Valley Nature Action Group, a monthly social walk with likeminded folk to blether about nature, climate action, biodiversity or whatever comes to mind. This month we are walking in Easter Breich Wood, looking for wildlife at the pond for Pond Watch weekend and explore the community woodland. Meet at the noticeboard at the Oakbank Cottages

Entrance, 2.00pm. Full details at: www.almondvalleynatureaction.blog/events

MONDAY 24TH JUNE

Food and our Earth 2024 West Lothian Climate Action Network Hub bringing together leading voices in production and distribution such as community groups, local growers, CDTs, farmers, food producers, private/commercial, statutory & support agencies to discuss Earth’s precious soil and the importance of local food production. There will be speakers and workshops on how food production affects climate change, poverty, inequality and health. West Lothian College, Livingston, 10.00am - 3.00pm. To book or more information: email Neil@wlcan.scot or call 07830 290242

SAT 29TH JUNE TO SUN 30TH JUNE

Spectacular Jousting

Experience exhilarating horsemanship and impressive skills at the brave and courageous knights battle it out, at Linlithgow Palace for Historic Environment Scotland’s annual jousting spectacle. Hear the thundering of hooves and the clash of lances as our four champions take to the arena for this spectacular show. Why not wander through the living history camps and meet some soldiers fresh from battle. Advance booking required to guarantee entry, see www.historicenvironment.scot

SAT 29TH JUNE TO THU 15TH AUGUST

Summer Adventures at Almond ValleySchools Out, it’s time to kick back and enjoy the fun of the summer. Daily alpaca feeding, meet the Clydesdales, animal handling, train and tractor rides and den building - how are you going to fit it all in one visit! Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR

PRE-LOVED CLOTHES SHOP

St Andrews Church Deans Wednesdays 9.30am – 1.00pm. Come along and have a look and enjoy a cuppa or bowl of soup in our community cafe. All money raised goes back into supporting the community.

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.

JUNE SUDOKU

JUNE SUDOKU

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

2009 was an incredible year for cinema; we had all-timers released in that year like Avatar and Harry Potter and the HalfBlood Prince. However, the film Coraline is in a way forgotten about. The stop-motion film was written and directed by Henry Selick who also directed The Nightmare Before Christmas. It follows the title character Coraline as she moves to a new home with her parents, who are constantly occupied with work. One day she discovers a door in her house that leads to another world. This world is the opposite of reality and is her dream world. However, there is more to this other world than meets the eye.

JUNE SUDOKU

Coraline is an utterly gorgeous film that has stood the test of time. Watching it on the new US 4K release was a feast for the eyes. Stop motion is truly a timeless form of animation and Coraline proves this. However, what is truly amazing about this film is the narrative. The film is so engaging and combines family entertainment and, in a way, horror to make a film that is in part a fun time and in part edgeof-your-seat tense. I was also shocked by how good the voice acting is. Everyone embodies their characters in truly amazing ways. Coraline is just an incredible film that everyone should watch, as it feels like a film of a bygone era when family films weren’t scared to be scary. Coraline is available to rent on all major platforms.

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

page 33. See page 38 for solutions.

JUNE SUDOKU

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.

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

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

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

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 GROUP -

We’re a small friendly club meeting Mondays 10.00 - 12.30 (term time only) at Murieston Village Hall (behind Livingston South station, with large free car park). Qualified tutor @ approx £6 per week plus a current annual fee of £20. Lots of paper, paint and brushes available to those with no supplies. Tea/ coffee/biscuits provided. Email Janet.dicksondickson@bt.internet. com or just turn up for a trial session for a small charge. Beginners and experienced artists all welcome. VISUALLY IMPAIRED SUPPORT GROUP WEST LOTHIAN - Come along and meet up with like-minded people who all have a visual impairment for support and a chat. Make new friends. Everyone is very welcome. Refreshments are available. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month 10.30am – 12pm (midday) in the Ability centre, Livingston North Partnership Centre, Carmondean Centre Road, Livingston EH54

8PT. For further information please contact: June - 07903540545 or Gwyneth - 07762152727

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, 10.30am12noon to chat about our shared love for sport and enjoy a cuppa and cake. Come along and join us, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Contact Isobel (07584 290726), Jenny (07909 645084).

WEST LOTHIAN TREFOIL GUILD - 18+ Ladies group. Ecclesmachan Village Hall 1st Tuesday of month Feb - Jun & Sept - Nov plus other adhoc meetings. For information please contact trefoilguild@girlguiding.co.uk or 02078346242

WEST LOTHIAN NETTERSRecreational netball club for adults 18+. A welcoming inclusive group, no prior experience or knowledge of netball required. Wednesdays 7.158.45pm in the Sports Hall at West Lothian College. Cost £4.50. Also Junior club (age 11-16) Wednesdays 7-8pm at Inveralmond Community High School. Cost £2.50. Prebooking essential at bookwhen.com/ westlothiannetters

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

LIVINGSTON COMMUNITY

SHED - Join us at the Barn Cafe at Carmondean Community Centre, Netherdechmont Farm, Fells Rigg, Carmondean, Livingston EH54 8AX on a Friday morning from around

11:00am to 1:00pm for coffee, bacon rolls and a chat plus hear about our active projects for community gardens, photography, woodwork and excursions. We are also evaluating other crafts and activities. Membership is free and all are welcome. Please contact: livingstoncommunityshed@gmail.com

LIVINGSTON PROBUS CLUB - A local group for retired and semi-retired men who regularly meet to enjoy interesting guest speakers and make new friends in a comfortable environment. We also join together for lunches, social nights, and occasional outings. We meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month from 10am–noon, Sept to May, in Deer Park Golf & Country Club and very warmly welcome new members. Interested? Contact Bill Nimmo, Probus Secretary, on 01506 853617.

LIVINGSTON LADIES PROBUS CLUB - We meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at St Andrews Church Deans from 10.00am. You’ll find a varied programme of speakers, tea, coffee and good company. For more details contact Karen Stewart on Duncoillie@sky.com

WEST CALDER BRIDGE CLUB (WCBC) - WCBC invites you to come along and play the challenging card game of Bridge. 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 GROUP -

The West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group can provide help and information and the opportunity to talk to men with recent treatment experience to give 'man to man' background to help them make a choice of the treatment they may be offered. Please contact for more information Duncan Wallace on 01506 632309 or Gordon Stuart on 01506 651388 or check our website elprostatecancersupport.co.uk

LIVINGSTON RAMBLERS GROUP

- Walk with us every week on Thursdays, Saturdays or Sundays. Variety of walks to suit all abilities from challenging to gentle. All are welcome. For full walk details see: Ramblers webpage. www.ramblers. org.uk/scotland and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/livingstonramblers Contact us: info@livingstonramblers. org.uk or via Facebook messenger on Livingston Ramblers Group.

FUN LITTLE 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 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. Website: livingstonukuleleclub. wordpress.com Facebook: 'Livingston Ukulele Club'.

DEDRIDGE GOOD NEIGHBOUR

NETWORK - Monday Coffee Morning 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1. Tuesday ladies Lunch club 12.30 to 2.30 two course Lunch, Tea, Coffee then 1 Hour of Arts and Crafts / Games Cost £4.50 Friday Coffee Morning, 10.00am to 12noon, cost £1.00 T: 01506 416137, venue Crofthead farm, Dedridge, Livingston.

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

29TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT

GROUP - We are looking for new members. Beavers 6-8 years Thursday 6.30-7.30pm, Cubs 8-10 years Monday 6.30-8.00pm, Scouts 10-14 years Wednesday 7.009.00pm all at Toronto Primary School Community Hall. For more information please contact Group Scout Leader David Nicol on 07876 776012 or david29wl@gmail.com

MURIESTON COMMUNITY

GARDEN - Become a volunteer for a new community garden next to Livingston South Railway Station. Help transform rough ground into a beautiful, tranquil garden for all to enjoy. See details at www.muriestoncg.org.uk, follow Facebook page "Murieston Community Garden", or join private Facebook group "Murieston Community Garden Volunteers". Details will also be posted on the noticeboard at Livingston South Station. Help needed for building, gardening and administration. All welcome, no gardening experience required.

COMMUNITY PLAYGROUPS -

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

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

E: crofthead@ communityplaygroups.org

T: 07904 623123

• Uphall Community Centre

- Sessions available Mon to Fri

9.15am- 11.30am

E: uphall@communityplaygroups.org

T: 07939 252519

• West Calder Community Centre

- Sessions available Mon to Thurs 9.15am - 11.30am

E: westcalder@ communityplaygroups.org

T: 07985 645869

WHITBURN AND DISTRICT

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

SONGWRITING GROUP - Looking for new members. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm - 9.00pm. These are informal evenings aimed at encouraging musicians and songwriters (adults) of all levels and abilities who would like to share their idea, techniques and songs with others in an informal, friendly environment. For further information, please contact Annie on 07824 667889.

TABLE TENNIS CLUB - Thurs night 7.00pm - 9.00pm at Livingston Village Primary School. For more information contact Graeme 07368 921472

LIVINGSTON STATION PARENT AND TODDLERS GROUP - All parents/carers and toddlers are welcome to attend. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning during school term from 10am to 11.30am, Deans Community Hall. Cost is £1.50. Includes messy play. A snack is provided. For information contact Facebook “Parent and Toddler Livingston Station Deans” or Stace Mclauchlan on 07760 853310.

WEST LOTHIAN U3A - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi-retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and nongiven. For more information see: W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317 E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com T: 01506 844274

SCOTTISH SENIORS

information:

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

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

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.

SOLUTION TO MAY CROSSWORD

ACROSS: 7. Mediterranean, 8. Revealed, 9. Anti, 10. Advance, 12. Refer, 14. Study, 16. Warmest, 19. Zinc, 20. Lemonade, 22. Demonstration.

DOWN: 1. Here, 2. Cinema, 3. Reflect, 4. Crude, 5. Inhale, 6. Tactless, 11. Detailed, 13. Hammers, 15. Doctor, 17. Minute, 18. Blush, 21. Drop.

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

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

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

MACMILLAN CANCER

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

WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS

ACROSS: 7. Mediterranean, 8. Revealed, 9. Anti, 10. Advance, 12. Refer, 14. Study, 16. Warmest, 19. Zinc, 20. Lemonade, 22. Demonstration.

DOWN: 1. Here, 2. Cinema, 3. Reflect, 4. Crude, 5. Inhale, 6. Tactless, 11. Detailed, 13. Hammers, 15. Doctor, 17. Minute, 18. Blush, 21. Drop.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU PAGE 35

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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

Magazine Design:

Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN - 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 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

NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510.

TO INCLUDE YOUR CLUB OR CLASS, PLEASE EMAIL DETAILS, UP TO 75 WORDS, TO EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT

NOT-FOR-PROFIT GROUPS ARE FREE. THERE IS A SMALL CHARGE FOR BUSINESSES. SEE KONECT.SCOT FOR INFO.

Disclaimer: The publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage caused by error in the printing of an advertisement. We do not endorse any advertisers in this publication. All material is accepted for publication on the understanding it is copyright free. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher.

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

Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858