With the clocks back an hour and the nights closing in, it’s the season of fireworks, fairy lights, torchlight processions, spicy hot drinks and plenty of local Christmas fairs to attend over the next couple of months.
Too many local children though will be feeling the cold too much. School Bank West Lothian are running a Winter Jacket Appeal to ensure all local children have a cosy jacket to allow them to learn and thrive. Please see the article on page 38 and help if you can.
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a distillery tasting tour for two! Specialising in quirky tours of their whisky and rum distillery, which is based in the oldest building in the historic village, the tour includes tasting of at least 5 of their products. Don't miss the chance to win, see page 37!
It’s a good time to get some home improvements booked in of you’re wanting work done before Christmas. Please support local businesses and check the traders in these pages for quotes!
With a feature on the Livingston Community Shed, all our usual columns and a lovely autumn walk to enjoy, I hope you find the magazine interesting and useful this month.
IMAGE:
Community Shed - See pages 8-9 for our local charity feature.
Livingston Community Shed was created from an observation by a lady at The United Parish Church in Carmondean, two years ago, who became concerned that many elderly gentlemen were sitting around in the church café with no social contact or involvement in the community.
Issues of loneliness from bereavement were prevalent amongst the local elderly community and Shedders (as Community Shed members are known!) now often talk about the importance of the Shed in their daily lives.
A meeting was called via a newsletter organised by two charity workers, and from this a decision was made to register the group with the International Men’s Shed organisation. Early
meetings were held in a small storeroom above the church where a committee of trustees was voted in, and the current Chairman was elected.
Since those days 24 months ago the Shed has grown into a fully-fledged Scottish charity with a strong membership base of over 25 people.
In February this year, a ten-year community lease on a large area of
overgrown land, located at the South Barn of Carmondean Community Centre, was signed with West Lothian Council. The Shedders are now building a woodwork workshop and developing a large community garden with plans to construct greenhouses and raised beds for growing vegetables. The produce will be donated to a church café which provides a free weekly community meal to the residents of nearby Knightsridge.
The Shed has been given many tools and items of woodwork machinery donated by members of the public and associated Men’s Shed charities. As a result of this workshop the Community Shed has developed a range of community woodwork and garden services which are all provided free of charge. We only accept donations from those who can manage it.
A new development is a link-up with a special needs secondary school whose pupils come along to spend time working alongside the Shedders to develop their social inclusion skills and technical skills. This new project has developed further with a major education department project sending disaffected secondary pupils to work alongside elderly Shedders with a view to helping them overcome social inclusion issues by working alongside positive role models.
The Shed has now grown into a major community organisation supporting a range of services to young and old. It has active woodwork, gardening, photography and furniture refurbishment projects going on, as well as the proposed major renovation of the derelict farmhouse into a community workshop.
The Shed welcome new members no matter what their background is, and there are no membership fees.
For more information and to contact Livingston Community Shed, please visit: www.livingstoncommunityshed.scot
The Shed welcomes new members no matter what their background is, and there are no membership fees
This article was contributed by the Livingston Community Shed, a charity registered in Scotland number SCO52144.
Do you ever find that when life speeds up and you're going at 100 miles it can feel a little crazy?
Life is often fast-paced, it can be busy. So much to do, sort, prepare and plan. External and internal demands mean we find we are leaning into the next thing and not being present for this very moment.
Recently I had a warning shot that made me stop and slow down, pause and think things through. I was trying to fit too much into my day, rushing from one thing to the next, doing things out of character on automatic pilot.
As a mindfulness practitioner, I’ve reduced multi-tasking over the years as it is not mindful, but this day my old habit found its way back in! I’m not good at multi-tasking anymore either, I would much prefer to slow down and do one thing at a time with full awareness. The shock came when I realised I had a close call on two occasions in one day: the potential for fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Thank goodness for alarms. If you haven’t got them, go out and purchase them and make sure they work. I am truly grateful. That shock moment when the carbon monoxide alarm went off and I woke up from automatic pilot made me stop to reflect and reconsider my actions. I have been absolutely aware ever since and very grateful for the opportunity. Slow down, it’s essential.
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)
Staying physically active in old age is essential for maintaining good health and improving overall well-being.
Regular exercise can help prevent a range of health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. It can also help to maintain mobility, strength, and balance, which are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining independence.
Older adults can benefit from a variety of physical activities, such as walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, and strength training. It’s important to find activities that you enjoy and that are suitable for your fitness level and health status.
If you’re just starting out, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your exercise. Everyone should
break up the amount of time being sedentary throughout the day, and physical activity can include anything that involves moving your body more often - such as dance, gardening, or even housework.
Remember, it’s never too late to start exercising, and even small amounts of activity can have a big impact on both your mental and physical health.
There are organisations that run groups across West Lothian to help adults over the age of 50 stay active. For more information check out Home Instead’s What’s On Where Guide, which has a list of over 200 local groups and activities that are available across the local area for ageing adults.
Visit www.homeinstead.co.uk/west-lothian/ whats-on-where to view the guide.
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
INDIAN HEAD MASSAGE & REIKI
Do
One
Snickerdoodles
These gloriously-named classic American cookies are crisp at the edges, chewy in the middle and have a delicious cinnamon sugar coating.
Try them warm from the oven with a milkshake or hot chocolate – perfect for bonfire treats, and, as if you need another excuse, America is celebrating Thanksgiving this month!
Makes:
16, Ready in 35 minutes, plus cooling
Ingredients:
• 115g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g dark muscovado sugar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 175g self-raising flour
• 1½ tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. Line 2 large baking sheets with baking paper.
2. Place the butter and muscovado sugar in a large bowl and beat with a wooden spoon until creamed. Beat in the maple syrup. Sift over the flour and beat in with the wooden spoon to form a rough dough.
3. Mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon on a flat plate. Divide and shape the dough into about16 walnutsized balls (keep them roughly shaped – not smooth) and roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar. Place, well spaced, on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball of mixture slightly with your fingertips.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 13-14 minutes, or until deep golden brown. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar over the cookies. Leave on the baking sheets for 10 minutes then transfer to a wire rack and leave to cool.
“We have sent more computers to Ukraine in the past two years than the whole of the EU put together.”
“We” in this case isn’t Britain, or even Scotland, but a small charity based right here in East Calder.
Powered by a small but mighty team of local volunteers, Reusing IT sources computers (laptops, tablets, PCs) due for disposal by large businesses and the public sector. They refurbish and then redistribute them, both at home and abroad, to tackle the social inequalities caused by lack of access to a computer.
The current focus of the charity is on equipping classrooms in air raid shelters in Ukraine. Reusing IT’s founder Ross Cockburn has been on several trips to Ukraine to deliver devices, and recently met their Minister for the Digitalisation of Education. He explains, “Children can spend 4 - 6 hours a day in air raid shelters, or they have to stay home, unable to attend school because of the dangers of the war. What we are doing is keeping these children at home, educated, and alive.” The devices are essential for continuing their education as best as possible, despite the war.
Around a third of Ukraine’s population has left, and those who remain are fighting with everything they have to keep Russia out of Europe. Ross describes delivering a shipment of devices to Kyiv this year, and the noise, tension and above all the determination to resist as Russian
Ross (right) in Ukraine discussing Windows conversion process to TES Ukraine NGO distributing laptops
attack drones are intercepted around the city. “It takes us around 30 hours to drive the van full of devices from Scotland to Ukraine. It brings home to you just how close this war really is.”
A number of local volunteers came forward after a call-out in a Konect article in 2022, and as a direct result of their efforts, a lifechanging number of devices have made their way to Ukraine. The focus is on education but they have also helped social services and other government departments continue to deliver their programmes.
The need for devices at home for education was bought into sharp focus right here locally during the pandemic. It transpired at that time that too many families were trying to manage school and working from home either with one shared computer, or no computer at all. An accessibility rift opened up and Reusing IT worked tirelessly to try and ensure every child had a laptop at home. It is still an issue today, and besides their incredible effort in Ukraine, Reusing IT continues to supply devices locally to individuals, schools and charitable organisations working on eliminating digital exclusion.
Can you help?
1. Reusing IT always needs volunteers to clean and sort the computers and components that come in. Tasks such as removing stickers that identify the donors, cleaning the computers and so on, are vital and no technical expertise is needed at all. If you can spare a little time to help out they will be delighted to hear from you.
2.They also need volunteers to collect donations. The equipment comes primarily from medium to large businesses and organisations throughout Scotland which discard their computers once they are out of warranty. Volunteers are needed to take the van to collect them and take them to the East Calder depot..
Volunteers who show a certain level of commitment to the charity are offered the opportunity to accompany Ross on overseas humanitarian trips if this is of interest to them.
For more information please see www.reusingit.org
Contact Ross at:
E: ross.cockburn@reusingit.org
M: 07786 560744
T: 01506 884061
Reusing IT, Units 9 and 10, Camps Industrial Estate, near East Calder, West Lothian, EH27 8BF. Charity registered in Scotland number SC037716.
his article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after visiting Reusing IT. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines.
Fusebox
Lighting
Sockets
Showers
Fault
Repairs
Testing
Houseplants are not just for Christmas but they do make lovely gifts. And for younger members of the family cacti, succulents and carnivorous plants are fascinating and very easy to look after… until they go off to university without their plants!
But as we are now spending more time indoors with poorer weather and dark evenings, it is a good time to choose some new houseplants to cheer up and decorate your home. Also some old friends are maybe due to go on the compost heap as a kindness to you and them.
Most houseplants originally come from temperate rainforests and love the light levels we can offer them inside, but our rooms are generally too dry for them so they enjoy being arranged in a group to increase the humidity around them. Keep them in
their own pot covers so you can easily rearrange them or replace any poor ones. Some plants demand a warm room while other will cope with a cooler room. Jasmine, Hyacinth bulbs, Primroses and Cyclamen can be brought into a warm room when you have guests but pop them back into their cooler homes at night to make the flowers
Don’t
miss out! LATE NIGHT
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
The Gardening Project is contributed by Dougal Philip, New Hopetoun Gardens. Inspiring, informing and entertaining, for more than 40 years.
Open until 7:30pm on Thursdays November 14th, 21st & 28th
Free parking out of town & no crowds!
I haven’t been out on the local patch much lately and the plan for this month’s article was to use an image from my visit to the Isle of Bute today.
In my head, I’d have a picture of three otters doing a tap-dance on the rocks with an amusing story to go along with it. Unfortunately, wildlife doesn’t do what you want and apparently the otters didn’t get the tap dancing memo. It’s a bit rude, if you ask me. However, I was armed with the most delicious chocolate covered viennese whirl (or waltz, if you’re my husband. Not the type of dance I was looking for) and ambitions were high.
From this picture of a male stonechat, you can probably gather that my plans for the day didn’t quite work out. We did see an otter but we lost it as quickly as we found it, which is quite common with these mischievous mustelids.
We only had a few hours and otters can be tricky. I spent a week on Mull last month where I went nearly a whole week without seeing one, so a few hours was always
going to be a challenge. We did see plenty wildlife on our day out, including ravens, buzzards, eider ducks, a kingfisher, and too many herons. It was one of those days where you realise that wildlife watching can be more miss, than hit. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy this gorgeous wee bird instead.
This column is contributed by Clare Harte, who lives in West Lothian. Clare spends much of her time travelling around Scotland looking for and photographing our wonderful wildlife.
Follow her on social media as Clare Harte Photography for more wildlife content.
Connect with us by scanning the QR code, visiting bgateway.com/westlothian, or emailing westlothian@bgateway.com
The first thing that hits you is the pine infused air. Both refreshing and energising, it also carries a bite of cold, signalling the onrush of autumn. As if to confirm this, distant calls draw my eyes skyward, and I see my season’s first skein of geese heading south.
My walk today is in Selm Muir Wood, a tract of forest managed by Forestry and Land Scotland lying midway between the Lanark Road and the A71, yet easily overlooked.
Turn off the A71 towards Kirknewton on Station Road, and after 0.3 miles turn right onto Leyden Road. Then, after a further 1.3 miles, pull in at the forestry gate where a wooden sign states: ‘To Little Vantage and Thieves Road’.
I set off down the long, straight forestry track towards the heart of the wood. The twitter of small birds is all around. In an area cleared of trees to my right, a small group of grey wagtails bob through the air between occasional pools, foraging for insects. To my left, a flock of goldfinches scatter, disturbed from feasting upon thistle seeds. Along the right-hand side of the path runs a long, clipped beech hedge, oddly horticultural for the setting. Glancing southwards, fields slope up to the flanks of the elongated ridge of Corston Hill and cows lie, chewing the cud in leisurely fashion. As I walk, I enjoy the early autumn colours of the hedgerow. Ginger common carder bees visit late thistle blooms of purple, whilst boughs of rowan above hang heavy with berries of deepest crimson.
Soon, I arrive at the main body of the wood and a fork in the gravel road. Bearing right, I follow the road until it comes to an abrupt end. Here, it’s possible to turn left off the gravel onto a narrow track which threads
between the plantation conifers and a line of closely spaced beeches. The beeches are planted hedge-fashion, but each is now a small to medium sized tree thrusting slender branches upward towards the light. Their twisting, moss-coated trunks exude the mystique of a Midsummer Night’s Dream forest, and contrast with the bare, red-brown stanchions of pine to my left.
The path bends left and then right again, emerging to run alongside the main forest road. Here, purple heather blooms by the path, mixed with rowan and birch saplings, and with a backdrop of Scots Pine on the far side of the road. I cross another gravel track and continue alongside more beeches, slightly taller and more spaced here. I pass an area of younger conifers to my left and am kept on my toes by vaulting a few fallen trunks and hopping ditches. I come upon a little glade of young oaks, emerald leaves not yet rust-tinged by autumn, bearing nascent acorns. Shortly after, the path bends left and left again, signifying that I have rounded the western edge of my circuit.
I am now on a narrow track alongside the tumbledown stone wall separating wood and field, with Corston Hill to my right. A lonely raven croaks from a nearby pylon. I enter a stance of Scots Pine, weaving my way between the trunks, and soon I reach an area of cleared forest, scattered with the debris of felled trees. I hear a rasping shriek above my head – a jay! I watch as it curves through the air from the top of one pine to the next, its plumage a gorgeous mix of contrast and colour, from the white and black of rump and tail to rosy back and blue wing flashes. As I reach the far side of the clearing, a buzzard glides across at tree height, heading in the other direction. It is watched by a woodpigeon perched on a bare, isolated birch, pretending not to be there.
The final section of the walk is between pines across sun-dappled forest floor, upon which a variety of fungi are scattered. Upon the path I find delightful, delicate amber fronds of yellow staghorn. In some places, where larger pines have fallen, small dark pools have formed in the pits left by their upended root masses. In one of these, a large black beetle is thrashing around in the process of drowning. I proffer
GET THE ROUTE ON OS MAPS!
him a branch onto which to crawl, and, after some encouragement, he jumps aboard to be whisked back to terra firma. Without so much as a beetle-y ‘thanks’ he scuttles away, disappearing off into the undergrowth. I rejoin the main track by the clipped beech hedge near where I left it and, from there, it’s a pleasant march back to the car, in the gradually increasing warmth of the morning sun.
Time for me to beetle off now too – until next time…
Walk time approximately 1 hour, over a mixture of gravelled forestry road and narrow tracks, uneven and muddy in places.
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.
CREDIT: All image by William Weir
NOVEMBER CROSSWORD
^^^ Solution in the December edition of Konect
ACROSS: 7. Factual books (13), 8. Announced (8), 9. Concerts (4), 10. Large church (7), 12. Main artery in the body (5), 14. Small dog (5), 16. Removal of data (7), 19. Unsuccessful (4), 20. Clapping (8), 22. Protest march (13).
DOWN: 1. Leg joint (4), 2. Rides a bike (6), 3. Frightened (7), 4. Used for digging (5), 5. Slowly (6), 6. Female child (8), 11. Remote (8), 13. Get ready (7), 15. Eight pints (6), 17. Begins (6), 18. Artificial (5), 21. Work hard (4).
NOVEMBER SUDOKU
58mm Vertical [LEFT]
Blackness Bay Distillery is offering Konect readers the chance to win a Tasting Tour for Two!
The tour comprises the full 90-minute guided tour of Blackness Bay Distillery, taking in the history of Blackness and craft distilling of whisky and rum in Scotland through the ages to the present day, whilst sampling five or more of the products produced by hand on the premises.
The timeless method of the traditional Scottish twin copper pot still making of
whisky directly from malted barley is explained in detail with anecdotes of its perils and pleasures. The tour finishes with a toast to Mary Queen of Scots and her long connection to Blackness on Sea.
Winners every week through November! We are drawing a winning entry every week in November so there are four chances to win! For the chance to win, simply answer the following question:
WHAT TYPE OF SPIRIT DOES BLACKNESS BAY DISTILLERY PRODUCE?
A) Rum B) Whisky C) Both Whisky & Rum
Closing date for entries Sat 30th November 2024
Head to www.konect.scot/win or scan the QR code to enter your answer. Winners will receive a tour voucher from Blackness Bay Distillery which must be used within four weeks of receipt. Full T&Cs are on our website.
This winter, you can make a difference in the lives of children across West Lothian by helping provide the warmth they need to thrive in school.
A cosy jacket allows kids to focus on their education, free from the distraction of cold, damp clothing. For them, it’s more than just warmth—it’s the chance to learn and succeed. You have the power to make that difference in their lives.
Over the past eight years, The School Bank West Lothian has supported over 8,000 families facing financial hardship, providing vital uniforms, jackets, and footwear. This winter, we expect more than 300 requests for jackets for children aged 5 to 17. Here’s how you can help:
1. Become a sponsor: Buy a brandnew jacket for a specific child. Scan the QR code to register and we’ll contact you when a referral comes in. After buying the jacket, drop it off, and we’ll handle the rest.
2. Buy a jacket: Buy and donate a warm jacket (ages 5-17), which we’ll distribute to a child in need.
3. Make a monetary donation: Short on time? Donate online, and we’ll buy a jacket for you. Each one costs around £25 but every single contribution, no matter the size, is appreciated. See our website for full details.
4. Donate winter essentials: Pack a bag with new socks, tights, hoodies, gloves, and hats, and drop it off at any of our red collection bins located in supermarkets and community spaces across West Lothian. Visit our website for a full list of drop-off points.
5. Donate gently used items: If your child has outgrown their jackets or wellies, we can give them a second life! These can also be dropped into our red bins.
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 School Bank West Lothian. Charity registered in Scotland number SC046483. Visit: www.schoolbank-westlothian.org
Rita is a lawyer who is stuck in a dead-end job in Mexico. She is given a task that could change her life. She is enlisted by Emilia, a cartel leader who wants to fake their death and live her authentic life as the woman she’s always wanted to be.
France’s Oscar nomination for Best International Feature is one of the most unique films of the year, a crime redemption story featuring fantastic lead performances. Karla Sofía Gascón as Emilia is truly incredible. Giving a career-defining performance and one that deserves all the love come award season. In addition, Zoe Saldaña is wonderful and as someone so used to hearing her speak only in English, hearing her speak in Spanish was a shock. What I feel will be up for contention is the narrative. Some could view the thematic link, between the transition storyline and Emilia helping others find closure regarding cartel violence, to be problematic. However, I found the message to be that people can be forgiven, and anyone can do good and make positive change. It’s not perfect, though. I did find the ending to be kind of anti-climactic, and while it might be a hot take, I found Selena Gomez to be underwhelming.
Emilia Perez is a one-of-a-kind film. There is one aspect of the film that I haven’t even discussed, as I feel if you go in blind the opening scene will blow you away. This film should be on everyone’s watchlist. In select cinemas from Oct 25th and available to stream on Netflix from Nov 13th .
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.
SATURDAY 2ND NOVEMBER
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 12noon 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'
SUNDAY 17TH NOVEMBER
Autumn Concert - Linlithgow String Orchestra presents works by Vivaldi, Purcell and a Sequence for Remembrance. St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow. 7.00pm. Tickets £10/£8 on the door or in advance via linlithgowstringorchestra.uk
22ND NOVEMBER TO 31ST DECEMBER
Panto: Peter Pan - Reconnect Theatres present “Peter Pan” at Howden Park Centre. Tickets from £18 via howdenparkcentre.co.uk
EVERY SATURDAY
Bathgate Market & Car Boot SaleBathgate Outdoor Market 9.00am to 2.00pm. Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains.
WANT TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY AND NOT-FOR-PROFIT LISTINGS ARE FREE OF CHARGE.
E: EDITOR@KONECT.SCOT BY 15TH OF THE MONTH FOR FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE.
Did You Know?
Bellsquarry and Adambrae Community Council represent your area on issues important to you, such as future planning and development.
We’re a volunteer group representing residents of Adambrae, Bellsquarry, Brucefield and Brotherton.
Find out more at www.communitycouncils.scot
Your community council is looking for a Chairperson and more ordinary members
If you are interested in finding out more, please get in touch through our website or direct at enquiries.bacc@gmail.com
Our next meeting is at 7.45pm on Monday 2nd December at Bellsquarry Village Hall. Please pop in!
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 quality teas, coffees, freshlybaked cakes, and snacks. Open most Saturdays 10am - 12 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 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, 10.30am-12noon to chat about our shared love for sport and enjoy a cuppa and cake. Come along and join
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 West Lothian College. 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 SOCIETY -
We are based in the Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, Livingston and are a member of the Radio Society of Great Britain. Meeting every Tuesday 19:00 to 21:00, our club brings together members of all ages in a licensed pursuit which is technical, scientific and promotes local and international friendship through radio. We provide training for all three levels of amateur operating licences in friendly and relaxed atmosphere E: cco_edin@ btinternet.com T: 07710 441423
13TH WEST LOTHIAN SCOUT
GROUP - Livingston Station Community Centre, Deans. We’re looking for more youth and adult members, and would like to hear from parents/guardians who would like to get involved as a sectional assistant or leader.
BEAVERS: Tue 6.30pm-7.30pm (ages 6-8)
CUBS: Thu 6.30pm-8.00pm (ages 8-10)
SCOUTS: Thu 7.00pm-9.00pm (ages 10-14)
If you are interested please contact Steven Graham on 07786 638442 or stevengraham162@gmail.com
WEST LOTHIAN PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT 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 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'.
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.
SONGWRITING GROUP - Looking for new members. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month from 7.00pm9.00pm, in Uphall. 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 non-given. For more information
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 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
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.
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.
MACMILLAN CANCER
INFORMATION & SUPPORT - A free, confidential service providing a ‘listening ear’, emotional and practical support, help to access benefits/financial advice and other local services. Expert information for anyone affected by cancer –yourself, a relative, friend or carer. Face to face appointments at Partnership Centres in Bathgate, Livingston North, Broxburn, Fauldhouse and Blackburn. Short health walks leaving Bathgate Partnership Centre - call to book a place. Phone and email support also available. Please call 01506 283053 or email MacmillanWestLothian@ westlothian.gov.uk
WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS
NETWORK - Social activities for the over fifties. Run largely by volunteers we offer a wide range of interest groups to help you stay fit and healthy in both mind and body, whilst socialising with others. Something for everyone, but, more importantly, the chance to meet up and join in with old friends or make new friends along the way. Annual joining fee £24. Follow our Facebook page, visit www.westlothian50plusnetwork. co.uk or call 01506 635510.
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
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.
Magazine Design: Alan Stewart Design T: 07729 911858
Acrobatic Gymnastics combines the skill of a gymnast, artistry of a dancer, and the courage and excitement of an acrobat!
It is a dynamic visual discipline popular with spectators, with routines choreographed to music and including partnership work. Gymnasts work closely together, building up trust and responsibility for each other and developing skills in balance and dynamic elements, as well as floor skills, tumble, flexibility and body conditioning. Our classes provide an introduction to general and acrobatic gymnastics.
Gymnasts work in small groups by age and ability with highly qualified experienced coaches.
At Astro Gymnastics in Livingston we offer classes for all age groups. Our schedule can be found on Class for Kids and booked at astro-gymnastics-club.classforkids.io/ venue/1/astro-gymnastics-club
Astro Gymnastics West Lothian is located at:
5 Hutton Square, Brucefield Industrial Estate, Livingston, EH54 9DJ or general enquiries and bookings please contact us via:
