Konect Livingston October 2022

Welcome to the October issue of Konect.

The cover features the beautiful Bathgate Hills. A new charity - Bathgate Hills Venture - aims to celebrate the hills, make them more accessible and encourage us all to benefit from this wonderful resource for mental and physical well-being that we have on our doorstep. See the feature on pages 8-9, and make it a goal to get out into our local hills at least once this month.

If you’re lucky enough to have apple trees and have spare fruit this month through to the end of November, Inchcolm Distillery would like to hear from you – they’ll pick and collect for an urban apple initiative they’re running – see page 11 and please contact them if you have more apples than you can use.

All our usual very practical and informative columns from our local contributors are included, I hope you enjoy them this month. As ever, I’d love to hear what you think!

Thanks for reading Konect and supporting local businesses and organisations.

All enquiries, E: M: editor@konect.scot 07854 492638

Local Charity: Bathgate Hills Venture 8 Thought for the Month 14 Hair: Am I losing it? 14 Living Well: 5 stages of aging 16

Property Matters: The best advice 20 Garden Project: Autumn planted pots 29 Spotlight: Responsible Recycling 30

Interiors: Paint like a pro 34

Parenting: Blown Away 36

Film Review: Shadow 40

Spotlight: Taylor Talks Trades 39

Feature: Solar System Trail 42 Puzzles 42

What’s On: October 46

COVER IMAGE: Bathgate Hills Venture - Photo credit: Kenneth McKenzie ISSUE

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

BATHGATE HILLS VENTURE

And, during lockdown, a lot of people discovered we have all these things on our doorstep in the wonderful Bathgate Hills, when more of us began to explore our local area looking for ways to stay healthy in mind and body. So the Bathgate Hills Venture was born.

“The aim is to celebrate the Bathgate Hills for their own sake and also for the huge mental and physical wellbeing resource that they represent for the local community”

“We’re a charity born out of lockdown,” explains Rosslyn Clowe, chair of Bathgate Hills Venture. “The aim is to celebrate the

Bathgate Hills for their own sake and also for the huge mental and physical wellbeing resource that they represent for the local community.” It became apparent that many people benefited from being able to access the hills during that time, and the charity aims to enhance the access and experience for people visiting the hills, as well as to help protect the heritage and natural environment here for all to enjoy.

Walks in nature, beautiful views, peace, wildlife, spectacular sunsets, heritage ... the ingredients for the restorative, healthy moments that we all need to take regularly.

IMAGE CREDIT: Digital Dreams Photography

The charity is made up of a diverse group of people, all volunteers and all with different skills and backgrounds to bring to the venture. It was spearheaded by Dylan Hampshire, who works for Historic Environment Scotland at Cairnpapple, and includes an author, a marine biologist, a videographer, a school teacher, a Celtic studies lecturer, a tax professional, a historian and an IT manager.

They have already secured funding and support for various projects. Coming up on 9th October is a storytelling day, part of Year of Stories 2022, in partnership with Reconnect Regal and Bathgate Youth Band, which offers events in Bathgate and Linlithgow for all ages. Besides their natural beauty, the hills are rich in history and heritage, and the storytelling day will reveal a lot of fascinating information you probably didn’t know; see the sidebar for more information on the programme for the day.

As a charity, they will be putting on regular fundraising events in the future and hope the local community will get involved with ideas and suggestions too for how the hills should be celebrated, enhanced and protected.

“We hope to help better signpost and improve access to various sites in the hills, install simple signage with QR codes linking to information and stories on the website, to improve access and enjoyment of the area for all.”

There are various projects on-going, and if you’d like to get involved as a volunteer in any way, the committee would be delighted to hear from you.

Contact Bathgate Hills Venture at: bathgatehillsproject@outlook.com

Visit the website at bathgatehills.co.uk

To enjoy the hills from home, you can find “Bathgate Hills Venture” “Bathgate Hills” and “Explore West Lothian” on Facebook

This article was written by Helen-Jane Gisbourne after speaking with the chair and other volunteers of Bathgate Hills Venture, which is a registered charity number SC051425. Helen-Jane is the editor of Konect magazines and lives in West Lothian with her family.

STORYTELLING DAY

SUNDAY 9TH OCTOBER

MORNING EXHIBITION, Linlithgow Burgh Halls 10:30am - 12:30pm

Stories and photos by local people about real or imagined life in and around the Bathgate Hills. Additional displays around towns in shops, bars and cafés. Free drop-in.

LUNCHTIME FORAGING WALK, Bathgate Hills 12 midday - 1pm

The Stories of the Plants: A morning guided Plant Walk with local herbalist and forager, Monica Wilde. Limited places, pre-booking is essential, tickets from Reconnect Regal and Napiers the Herbalists in Bathgate, £5.00.

STORYTELLING AFTERNOON, Reconnect Regal, Bathgate 2pm - 4pm ‘Voices of the People’ –Join Libby McArthur, Scottish star of River City, Taggart and Rab C, as she hosts an afternoon of storytelling over coffee and biscuits. Let’s give a voice to special memories in and around our beautiful Bathgate Hills – sharing stories that deserve to be heard. Tickets from Reconnect Regal, £1.00.

Evening of Live Storytelling, Reconnect Regal, Bathgate 7pm - 9pm

Enjoy famous stories as never told before! Stuff of myth, legend, fact and fiction … brought to you by our Regal panto favourites. Also featuring Bathgate Youth Band and Danceworld Tickets from Reconnect Regal, £5.00.

This event has been supported by the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund. This fund is being delivered in partnership between VisitScotland and Museums Galleries Scotland with support from National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players.

THE POCHLE PROJECT - AN URBAN APPLE COOPERATIVE

From now until the end of November we aim to collect as many apples as we can. We are able to pick, collect or, if you can deliver, exchange for juice.

The resulting surplus of apples will be processed, lovingly fermented and then skilfully distilled to produce an altogether different spirit. Pochle. A genuine representation of this land, its produce and its people, in a glass.

Developed in conjunction with students at Heriot Watt university, we hope the initiative provides a long-term opportunity for people to reduce waste from their gardens and support increased biodiversity throughout the urban realm.

GET INVOLVED AT OUR JUICE YOUR OWN DAY:

From 12.30pm Sunday 23rd Oct (booking required)

ANY APPLE! ANY CONDITION!

Please contact: chris@inchcolmdistillery.com to arrange and help.

A single hair has a lifespan of around 5 years, during that time it will go through three phases: Anagen, which is an active growth phase; Catagen, a transition phase where the hair is no longer attached to blood supply; and Telegen where the hair rests and eventually sheds.

Hair is the second fastest growing tissue in the body after bone marrow.

A new hair begins to grow as soon as it is plucked from its follicle, this is why we shouldn’t be worried when we wash our hair and notice shedding. Shedding is completely normal and when our hair goes through that telegen phase. It can be alarming but rest assured it is completely normal in order to replenish our locks.

The key to good hair growth is to keep the scalp healthy. I highly recommend a nioxin detox for 6 weeks between using your normal target shampoo regime to really focus on removing any impurities from the scalp and any blocked follicles. Exfoliation and massage are good for stimulating hair growth and improving circulation to the scalp and of course, drinking plenty of water.

Training our mind

There is a lot of difficulty in our world right now and along with challenges can come strong emotions within the body.

According to Christiane Wolf, 'equanimity' is being willing and able to accept things as they are in the moment, whether they are challenging, boring, exciting, disappointing, painful, or exactly what we want. Equanimity brings calmness and balance to moments of joy as well as difficulty. It protects us from emotional overreaction, allows us to rest in a bigger perspective and contains a basic trust in the course of things. It can be the eye in the storm, the calm centre that is grounded in the knowledge that everything is constantly changing and much of it out of our control. Equanimity enables us to “be” with whatever arises rather than fighting against it, being with whatever unfolds.

Of course this isn’t easy to do and requires practice in the small moments in life so that the larger moments in life we can become less reactive. I often refer to four phrases that help and might help you too to say them to yourself from time to time:

1. Can we embrace change with stillness and calm

2. Can we accept this moment as it is

3. Can we rest in not knowing

4. Can we find ease in stillness and calm

Think also of an old oak tree, firmly rooted in the earth, it is not moved by the changing seasons and weather patterns. It’s worth practicing.

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

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)

On average, you shed around 50-150 strands of hair a day. ..but did you know the average person has 100,000 – 150,000 strands of hair?

During our lifetime we experience agerelated changes and 70% of people will need some form of long-term care throughout the stages of ageing.

Many older adults find physical activity increasingly difficult, some experience emotional changes and start to withdraw and some will experience cognitive problems.

The ageing process is different for everyone, and no strict list of events are guaranteed to happen. However many of us may find we require assistance from family, friends, or Care Professionals.

1. Independence – Older adults stay home and can still look after all their needs, transportation, finance, and healthcare

2. Interdependence – Everyday tasks are starting to get difficult; the person is resisting help and may not feel comfortable asking for support

3. Dependency – Difficulties are becoming more noticeable; physically and possibly mentally too. Support may be needed with medication, monitoring physical conditions as well as with preparing meals or maintaining personal hygiene

4. Crisis Management – An event such as a fall, deterioration in the person’s condition, or hospitalisation result in immediate intervention and a need for drastically increased support

5. 24 Hour Support – The person requires round the clock support or monitoring Home Instead recommend having the Care Conversation as early as possible in this journey to get the right assistance in place before it reaches Crisis Management stage. If you are interested in learning what type of support might be suited to you or a loved one, call for some friendly advice today.

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

The best price starts with the best advice!

Over the past 12 months, we have continued to see some impressive rates of growth in property values across West Lothian. In this sellers’ market, it has appeared virtually a foregone conclusion that whichever agent you chose to sell your property, a buyer would be found within a few days.

Subsequently, vendors can often become less discerning over their choice of agent and may, understandably, be tempted to appoint the agent who charges the lowest commission percentage.

However, in this sellers market, this approach usually turns out to be a considerable false economy as the difference between a good agent and a mediocre one can be highly significant.

The difference between the cheapest and the most expensive agent is typically about 0.5% of the asking price, which represents a difference of £2,000 in fees on a £400,000 property sale. However, the ability of a good agent to set a new ceiling price, create a new market and negotiate the best terms is worth far more than this amount and this starts long before any offers are received.

Look for good practice - If unsure of the value, even some experienced agents will ask a surveyor for advice before visiting the property and inform sellers that a surveyor

will ‘support’ that particular agent’s valuation. Look out for this bad practice: it goes against everything that a professional estate agent should be trying to achieve. The truth is that it is not a surveyor’s job to drive the price on your property: the surveyor should simply be able to justify the valuation on a Home Report to a lender.

It is the role of the estate agent to drive the market forward or break the ceiling price in a particular area. It is only the most proactive estate agents who will have the latest market intelligence and an overview of how many active and credible buyers are currently in the market looking for this type of property in this particular area. Based on this too, good estate agents can often ‘create a market’ that may not even exist yet by packaging properties to target groups of highly specific potential buyers. You should look for one who has experience and a proven track record in achieving results for clients who have a similar property as yours, either in value, location, type etc. Above all, you are looking

The Real Selling Price of a property is the Offer Price Agreed minus the Professional Fees.

This real figure can often be overlooked when considering so many other things when choosing the right selling agent.

Offer Agreed Fees

Real Selling Price

e.g: For a property with a Home Report of £450,000, the following scenarios show the difference in the net figures received for the sale after agents’ fees have been deducted, and also the difference a well-negotiated sale can yield in terms of offer/ selling price in relation to Home Report value.

SELLING PRICE £450,000 (HR VALUE) £500,000 £540,000

AGENT’S FEE 0.5% 1.0% 1.0%

NET PROCEEDS OF SALE £447,750 £495,000 £534,600

BENEFIT TO SELLER (£) £47,250 +£86,850

* This table is a guide only and any combination of fees/selling price can apply in each case.

for best advice, based on the latest professional knowledge of the market.

Look for market knowledge - It’s worth examining how a different approach by two Estate Agents resulted in a different result based on the decision by the seller to choose the agent with the lower fees. Our firm was recently invited to conduct a market appraisal at two very similar properties in the same street. We expected a Home Report valuation to be in the region of £440k-£450k and, given the type of properties, coupled with recent sales we had achieved in the area, we anticipated a selling price significantly higher than this figure. We were appointed by one vendor to handle the sale of their property however the other vendor chose another agent based on their lower fee. The other agent was also local, very experienced in the area however inexperienced in handling sales at this value. Both properties were marketed and sold within a few weeks of each other. However the process, method of sale and outcome

was significantly different resulting in the difference in selling price of almost £90,000!

Get a better result - Low cost agents tend to rely on turnover of stock, rather than the actual amount of fee charged and with stock levels still in short supply, they may be more focussed on arranging the sale at any price, rather than negotiating the best terms for their client.

High quality agents have a reputation to protect, and they are passionate in their quest to secure the best price wherever possible. So in our above example, the additional £3000 in fees could actually have protected a potential net loss of almost £90,000! That’s £90,000 of real money and really highlights the importance of selecting the right company to handle the sale of your property. It’s your equity. So when choosing the right agent to sell your home, what is more important to you – low fees, or the most money in your pocket, and the security of a well-managed sale?

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.

If you managed to keep your summer pots watered during the three months of drought this summer they will still be looking pretty good at the end of September.

But autumn began in September and you need to bite the bullet and replant your displays to take them through to Christmas, unless you have a second set of pots that you can plant now!

If you plan to use the same compost you gave your summer displays you will need to tease it up to get air into it and add a slow release plant food to nourish your new performers. Little cyclamen plants will flower their heads off until well into December. Mix them up with some cheeky violas, winter flowering pansies and some evergreen leafy plants like ferns,

ivies, evergreen grasses, heucheras and euonymus. Don’t forget the ‘buried treasures’ by adding some little bulbs.

Your pansies will take over from the cyclamen at the turn of the year and with the little evergreen plants they’ll keep your pots looking delightful through the winter. Remember, you will need to check if they need watering every couple of weeks!

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

The world’s natural resources at finite, and some are in very short supply. At a fundamental level, recycling paper and wood can save trees and forests; recycling placstic means creating less new plastic; recyling metals means there’s less need for mining; and recycling glass reduces the use of new raw materials like sand. Of course, the reality is much more complex, but the fundamental process is valid nonetheless. Metals, for instance, are repeatedly recycled, while maintaining most or all of their properties.

YourJunk takes great pride in being a good waste solution for the environment. With all waste uplifted, over 98% of all waste is recycled. Our goal is to get as close to 100% as possible. We sort through all waste types to be as green as possible, letting our customers know, we always put the environment first, safely.

With every waste uplift, there’s more to the process than taking away from the property. The longest part is done away from premises - sorting all the materials so that they can be recycled. We sort everything out, to maximise the changes everything being put to the right recycling centre.

After any uplift, we sort through and then take to our registered recycling centre so it gets disposed of in the correct manner.

From single items, to multiple van

loads, YourJunk can assist with every type of waste. Cardboard, wood, metal, lead, brass, copper - an endless list....we make sure everything is recycled responsibly. If it can be thrown out, it can be picked up by YourJunk. Waste is our own personal responsibilty so even if you get someone to come and uplift your rubbish, it’s not them that’s liable, it’s you the customer, as it’s your waste. This is why it’s very important to use a registed waste carrier to make sure that you don’t receive a fine, which can be up in the region of £5,000.

If you need a 5 star rubbish removal company, and are looking for a free quote, get in touch with YourJunk by filing in our quote form over at www.yourjunk.scot, calling us on 0131 449 9275 or sending us a message on our Facbook page over at @YourJunkScotland.

This article was contributed by local waste specialists YourJunk, www.yourjunk.scot

The reason recycling is so important is that it prevents pollution, reduces the need to harvest new raw materials, saves energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, saves money, reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, and allows products to be used to their fullest extent.

1. CHOOSE A PAINT COLOUR

Start by planning how you want your room to look. Will you be using one colour for all the walls or including a feature wall? Think about complementary colours, contrasting colours, accent colours or whatever colour scheme suits your personal taste.

Tester pots are a good way to try out a colour beforehand. Paint colours can look different when dry or at different times of the day, so we always recommend testing out a few colours at different times before making a final decision.

2. PREPARE YOUR TOOLS

Every project is different and you may need different materials and accessories depending on your paint, design and the condition of your surfaces, but you are likely to need the following: paintbrush, paint roller, extension pole, drop cloths, paint tray, masking tape, sandpaper and filler.

3. PREPARE THE ROOM

Start by emptying the room, or pushing furniture in it to the centre. Cover the floor and furniture with a drop cloth to avoid any paint splatter.

For any painting project, it’s important to ensure that your surfaces are in good condition. If there are considerable flaws or signs of wear and tear you may need to do a bit of filling and sanding of any cracks and holes.

Next, apply painter’s tape or masking tape to the doors, light switches, windows and mouldings. This will make the painting process easier but if you’re confident you have a steady hand you can skip this step.

4. PAINTING

Once the room is ready it’s best to work from top to bottom.

• Start on the ceiling and work your way down. On a secure ladder, cut in along the ceiling with a brush. Then using a roller attached to an extension pole you can paint the rest of the ceiling.

• Repeat this process when painting the walls, use a brush for the edges and then a roller, remembering to work from the top to the bottom.

• When painting doors and windows use a small paintbrush, apply at least two coats of woodwork paint and remember to allow adequate drying time between coats.

• Lastly, paint the skirting boards. After you have sanded any cracks and taped off where the wall and skirting meet, you should apply two coats of gloss, satin or eggshell paint with a small paintbrush. Remove the tape and you are done!

For advice on the right paint or tools, contact the team in The Paint Shed Bathgate.

This article was contributed by The Paint Shed, Bathgate. The Paint Shed is an independent paint retailer, open to both the trade and public. The Paint Shed Bathgate stocks a wide range of top paint brands including designer paints such as Little Greene. Unit 10, Inchwood Park, Starlaw Road, Bathgate, EH48 2FY. Tel: 01506 334433.

Want to redecorate but not sure where to start? Learn the right process to paint a room with this easy guide.

I don’t know about you but at some times of year it feels like we spend a lot of time driving places. Holidays, family visits, collecting random stuff my husband has bought on Gumtree! There’s always something. We fill the time in the car as best we can with games and of course a few snacks thrown in for good measure…all to try to avoid the usual “are we there yet” chat. There’s inevitably a game of i-Spy at some point. Once you get past the predictable grass, trees, road (they rarely come up with anything original) it’s usually a wind turbine that someone will “spy” next. And it feels like this always leads to a lot of questions. Oh the joys of inquiring minds.

In recent months as we’ve been driving about the kids have been intrigued by the large areas shaved off roundabouts along the A71. Even I found myself wondering what on Earth was going on. I was practically giddy when I discovered the reason behind it and was able – for once – to provide an awesome answer to their questions. For anyone not in the know it was due to massive wind farm components being transported through West Lothian. This of course did nothing to allay their preoccupation with wind turbines. So we decided to see if we could get a bit closer to satisfy their curiosity.

Another mum - always the best source of wisdom - had suggested checking out Blawhorn Moss near Bathgate. We parked at the Blawhorn Moss car park where there is a handy visitor map detailing the various waymarked walking routes. We then followed an easy, short route to a newly extended boardwalk, which the kids were delighted to run around at top speed. As you look out across the moss you can see the wind turbines in all their glory. We were lucky to be there on a gorgeous sunny day so we could sit on the benches along the boardwalk and contemplate…what it would be like to climb

up one if it needed fixed and what would happen if you stood too close.

There was signage along the way with information about the wind turbines and the surrounding nature reserve. After COP26 earlier in the year the kids have both done a lot of learning at school about climate change and the benefits of reducing pollution so they were excited to know something about it already. And they loved the sculptures that lined the boardwalk inspired by the flora and fauna. They were jumping about pretending to be hair moss blowing in the wind and in the end it was all I could do to get them heading back towards the car park.

We still don’t know if a wind turbine can blow your clothes off (answers on a postcard please) but I can guarantee next time we spy one on a road trip we’ll have a lot more to talk about.

The parenting column is contributed by Laura Archibald. Laura lives in West Lothian with her family and their campervan Hank. She is mummy, wife, blogger and full-time personal assistant to her two girlie girls.

Taylor Talks TRADES

“I’m a people person. I like hearing people’s stories, and sharing mine.”

Jamie Taylor of Taylor Roofs is talking about his new podcast, “Taylor Talks Trades.” Now into its 11th episode, it’s a goldmine of insights into the minds of the founders of some of West Lothian’s leading trades businesses.

“I’d been thinking about doing a podcast for a long time. One of the reasons initially was that I wanted to show people what’s possible when you get into the trades,” says Jamie. “We’re dealing with a skills shortage affecting the roofing industry and other trades, so I want to show school leavers as well as older people considering a career change, what can be achieved.”

It’s already developed into a lot more than this. Jamie’s guests so far have been owners of local businesses including roofing, landscape gardening, stone masonry, groundworks and cleaning, to name a few. They all took different and sometimes unconventional routes to where they are now - running successful trades businesses, employing teams of people, and pushing their limits in personal and professional development. There’s one whose mum wouldn’t speak to him for year when he threw in the chance to pursue a career as an architect to work in the trades instead (she now works in his business and couldn’t be prouder); there’s the apprentice machinist who worked in three or four different sectors including recruitment, before finding his niche in landscape gardening; and many other stories.

Jamie’s own route into running Taylor Roofs, which now employs around 30 staff, was one that he forged entirely by himself in the face of a lot of external pressures and now runs alongside his wife Kelly. The podcast is a treasury of inspirational stories and insights into businessowners’ mindset and outlook that you otherwise rarely get a chance to see.

Podcast guests share the lows as well as the highs. It can often be lonely running a business. “It’s easy to get down, but when you take the time to look around at what you’ve achieved, you realise how far you’ve come. The podcast is about sharing that, it’s to be motivational. It’s going to be tough out there anyway, so let’s put some fun into it while we’re at it,” says Jamie.

While the podcast focuses on trades, much of the experiences and insights that are coming out are common to many business owners and Jamie is considering a series on other sectors too. “I don’t have a specific agenda for the podcast though. The YouTube channel builds trust in my brand if customers want to watch it before employing us. So it’s a brilliant way to connect with an audience.

But, I’m doing it simply because it feels like a good thing to do and people are enjoying it.”

Find “Taylor Roofs” channel on YouTube to watch Taylor Talks Trades.

The ingredients for a successful trades business:

After graduating university with a Computing Science degree and doing my honours project on AI (Artificial Intelligence), I can safely tell you how truly scary the tech is. While the tech is still far off from replacing humans, Shadow explores this from the viewpoint of people who have disabilities.

Every member of the production, cast and crew have different disabilities. Shadow follows three activists who hold a town meeting to discuss AI, but as the meeting goes on we discover their greatest threat could be with each other.

At just under an hour long, Shadow flies by at a quick pace. This is where I think the biggest issue of the film lies; it covers a lot of serious and important issues, but it crams so much in such a short time, I never felt the film really lets its ideas sit with us before moving quickly onto the next issue. What it does discuss is very fascinating and simply scary when you think about it.

I feel the true standout is the cast, who are simply fantastic and without their solid performances the film wouldn’t feel the same at all. The three leads are a delight to watch and do a great job at presenting the film’s message. By the end of Shadow, you’ll be sitting there thinking about what’s discussed and the horrors that await us if AI tech continues to evolve as it is doing.

INTERVIEW - The interview was attended by both Sarah and Simon, who are two of the writers of the film, as well as two of the main stars.

Q: AI is a big part of the film, Scott actively interacts with Tina on his mobile, and you reference 2001 A Space odyssey and Hal’s Legacy. How important was it to highlight the impact that AI will eventually have in everyone’s lives?

SIMON: I believe that when we are gone everything will go through AI.

SARAH: I believe once we are in the future –way in the future, I think the AI will take over.

Q: The film talks about separating the art from the artist. At times doing my research, art made by disabled people is seen as cute. Do you think the film can overcome people’s preconceptions?

SARAH: I am looking for strength, likeness, empowerment and because I am talking about serious things but in a light-hearted way, I guess I am looking not to be too serious and not wanting to put anybody down in particular.

SIMON: I want people to understand what AI will do as we go on and how we are treated differently.

Q: On a rainy day and you’re stuck inside what do you like to do?

SIMON: I watch my favourite movie of all time Crossroads.

SARAH: I like to stay inside and watch my favourite film which is also Crossroads.

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.

Near the Balvornie BBQ area in Beecraigs Country Park, you may have noticed two plaques in the wall of the building in front of the public toilets – a plain black one, and one inscribed with “I could be.”

They are part of an installation of 11 sculptures dotted around West Lothian, representing the solar system. Known collectively as the Kirkhill Pillar Project, they were installed in 2008 with the aim of recreating an unusual 18th century project - a model of the solar system, as it was understood at that time.

The Kirkhill estate in Broxburn was home in the 18th century to this project. The slightly eccentric 11th Earl of Buchan who lived here, David Steuart Erskine, fancied himself as a patron of the arts and part of the Scottish Enlightenment. He took it upon himself to offer poetry writing advice to Robert Burns, and when Walter Scott was ill in 1819 the Earl busied himself with funeral plans! Scott later graciously commented that Buchan's “immense vanity bordering upon insanity, obscured or rather eclipsed, very considerable talents…”

^^^ Solution in the November edition of Konect SUDOKU (7),

So it's perhaps no surprise that he decided to tackle a scale model of the solar system. Completed in 1776, it consisted of the sun and larger known planets made from stone, and the smaller planets from bronze. He also made a stone pillar, carved with Latin inscriptions and recording the astronomical equations he used for the size of the planets and their relative distances from the sun. The pillar had a belltower and cross. The Earl also predicted the position the planets will be in on 20th May 2255 (no-one knows why he picked this date, but it may be to do with the transit of Venus). He used a scale of 12,283 miles 23/100 to an inch for his model, an odd scale but the astronomical information on the pillar is apparently quite accurate.

This pillar is all that remains of the original model. It stood in the garden at Kirkhill in a bad state of repair until it was rescued and relocated to Almondell Country Park and renovated in 1988. It stands in front of the Visitor Centre. This location was chosen as Almondell House was built by Henry Erskine, the Earl’s younger brother.

At the centre of the modern model is the sun – a lightbox with a diameter of 1.83m on Broxburn Academy - appropriately cited as the Academy is close to Kirkhill House, the site of the original model. Ten further sculptures representing the eight planets, an asteroid and the dwarf planet Pluto are distributed to scale across West Lothian in their orbits. The plaque at Beecraigs represents Pluto, the furthest from the sun and which at that stage had recently been downgraded to dwarf planet.

Finding all 11 installations makes for a fun trail to complete with the children over the course of a few walks or bike rides, and gives a focus for some local exploring. Start with Pluto at Beecraigs, and work your way through the nine other installations planets until you get the sun at Broxburn Academy.

For the locations of all the installations, and more information see the Kirkhill Pillar Project website at www.kirkhillpillarproject.org.uk

Pluto in Beecraigs Country Park

Kirkhill Pillar in Almondell Country Park

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

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 - Broxburn, Strathbrock Community Centre, Entrance B, Room GP3.

1st Thursday of the month. As of January 2022 we are going to go back to the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month. 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

CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS LADIES' CHOIR - Missing singing? We're back, following Covid restrictions that apply, but still having fun! Why not come along and join us? We meet in Mid Calder at 7.30pm on a Wednesday. Our music consists of a wide range of material from musicals, traditional, pop favourites and lots more. To find out more or join us, please contact John Rankine on 01506 880029. We'd love to welcome singers from across West Lothian.

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 for businesses. See konect.scot for info.

8TH TO 23RD AND 29TH TO 30TH OCTOBER

Pumpkins, Tumshies and Tattiebogles - At Almond Valley Heritage Centre. Throughout the October break we’ll be gathering the harvest and feeling just a little bit spooky. There’ll be seasonal crafts, games and a scarecrow quiz trail. Trot down to the pumpkin patch and pick your prize pumpkin. 10am - 5pm, standard admission applies - no need to book - and pumpkins are sold according to their size. www.almondvalley.co.uk/events/special-events/ Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. Tel: 01506 414957

SUNDAY 9TH OCTOBER

Bathgate Hills Venture Story Telling Day - A day to celebrate our amazing local hills, with events at Linlithgow Burgh Halls in morning, and Reconnect Regal in afternoon and evening. The results of the children”s storytelling competition will be exhibited at Linlithgow Burgh Halls in the morning, a foraging walk in the hills with a local herbalist at lunchtime, a story telling workshop at the Reconnect Regal in the afternoon, and an evening of stories, skits, Bathgate Youth Band and drama at the Regal in the evening. All brought to you with support from Year of Stories 2022. For more information see bathgatehills.co.uk/2022/06/09/bhv-storytelling-day-oct-2022/

11TH - 14TH OCTOBER

Kids Autumn Art Camp - At Wexpressif, Geddes House, Livingston. Art workshops suitable for 5-12yrs. Painting to Printmaking, Crafting and Making to Animated Animals. 3.5hrs in a fun, friendly and engaging studio environment. See www.wexpresif.co.uk

SATURDAY 15TH OCTOBER

North Barn Quilters Exhibition - North Barn Quilters invite you to come and see their exhibition of quilts and watch demonstrationsU+002e Between 10am and 4.00pm at Carmondean Community Centre, Nether Dechmont Farm, Fells Rigg, Livingston, EH54 8AX. Cost: £3.00 (includes tea & cake). Sales Table. E:l northbarnq21@gmail.com

28TH AND 29TH OCTOBER

After Dark with the Tattiebogles - At Almond Valley Heritage Centre. In the dark evenings prior to All Hallows Eve, wind your way along illuminated woodland trails and encounter some astounding and magical sights.

Booking essential for this out-of-hours special event, see www.almondvalley.co.uk/events/special-events/ Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. Tel: 01506 414957

A technical error meant that the September crossword was printed with the wrong puzzle board. PO Y O

*Sorry!

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE 42

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 M: 07729 911858

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com TO INCLUDE EVENT HERE? COMMUNITY CHARGE.

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

BACK GROUP

• Have you been advised / told to get more exercise?

• Are you interested in exercise classes, BUT put off by joining a gym?

• Why not come along to the Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189A W Main St. Broxburn. EH52 5LH

• There you can exercise, weekly, with Physiotherapist supervision

WHO WE ARE

Back Into Circulation has been running as a community support group since January 1997. We have affiliations to Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland and St. John’s Hospital Physiotherapy Department.

The weekly 1 hour exercise session is supervised by staff from St. John’s hospital physiotherapist department.

Back into Circulation is made up of people of all ages and abilities. Our weekly sessions offer a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for those who:

• Have not exercised for many years, or

• May not like the thought of going to a gym We encourage everyone to go at their own pace – it is not a competition!

WHY SHOULD I COME ALONG?

• Exercise is good for you – and may help keep you out of hospital

• We are more likely to exercise regularly when we do it with others

• You will be with people who are in a similar situation to you

• Being around others is good for our mental wellbeing and can build confidence

You may also bring a friend or partner along with you for moral support. The monthly charge is £9.00. This covers the cost of hall rental and the Physiotherapist who takes each session. Referral to the Group is by GP or via St John’s Hospital. You can also refer yourself (but please check with your GP beforehand)