Konect Livingston October 2023

CHARITY:

LOCAL ENVIRONMENT:

Trees, glorious trees

WHAT'S ON:

We had fun with the Halloween themed cover this month, and as ever there are plenty of fun events on in the local area to cheer up that weekend when the nights start really drawing in – see the What’s On page.

It’s a family weekend for many, and on a sobering note the charity feature this month reminds us that for a surprising number of families, a member will be missing. In recognition of Baby Loss Awareness week during October, we’re publishing a feature on local charity Held in Our Hearts, in the hope that someone who needs to know about their caring and compassionate services this month will get the support they need; see pages 8-9. This is the season when our trees put on their spectacular autumn display of colours before the leaves fall the make for lovely crisp walks kicking through the leaves, through the many parks we are lucky to enjoy locally. So it’s nice that the local environment column focuses on trees this month – it’s all about recording and protecting ancient specimens. All our regular columns are included. I hope you enjoy the magazine this month and that you find it both useful and interesting. Thank you for supporting local businesses and organisations.

COVER IMAGE:

Halloween Events: See our What's On page for details

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

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

I spoke this month to a local resident who, having suffered a loss and then discovered the invaluable support of local charity Held in Our Hearts, is keen to make sure those conversations are possible for those who desperately need them.

“Of course there are some parents who don’t want to talk about it; everyone grieves in their own way,” she says, “But I found when I went to classes when my second baby came along, there were many parents who spoke about their loss there for the very first time. And I would not even have been able to get to those classes without the support of Held in Our Hearts.”

Baby and pregnancy loss is an incredibly traumatic time and can be very lonely.

Whether a miscarriage, stillbirth or baby loss, it is more common than you may realise – partly because people don’t speak about it, even if they want or need to.

Help is available. Held in our Hearts is a Scottish charity, originally founded in West Lothian, providing baby loss counselling and peer support to families. They say, “We can be there to hold your hand and walk with you on your journey, as you start to find a way to cope with your grief.” Their support is flexible and bespoke in recognition of the fact that everyone’s journey is different. They offer peer support by befrienders who are themselves bereaved parents, as well as professional counselling. There are support groups

It’s a topic many find difficult to talk about – parents who have lost a baby often don’t know who to talk to in their distress; friends and family can be unsure of what to say and afraid of saying the wrong thing.

for different categories - parents, grandparents, male bereavement, miscarriage, twins and multiple loss, pregnancy support and others. The support is there for as long as you need it, and it’s invaluable to be able to meet other families who have been through something similar, and who can validate your often totally overwhelming feelings.

Support groups run in Edinburgh (Craiglockhart) and West Lothian (Livingston), and Held in Our Hearts works with NHS Forth Valley, Fife, Lothians, Borders and Highlands. They also offer an innovative service in the Lothians called Hospital to Home where, in the immediate days and weeks following a loss, bereaved parents receive 6-8 visits in their own home. The aim is to encourage equity of care, as many with the most challenges in life are unable to reach out and often their grief becomes CPTSD. Hospital to Home support workers reach in so that so families don’t have to reach out The service is currently for families whose baby has died between 14 and 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Check in with them to let them know you are thinking of them. A call, message or card just to say you are thinking of them can mean the world and is better than not saying anything at all.

Check in with both parents. Partners, dads in particular often get forgotten about. They are dealing with their own grief as well as often looking after the mother and trying to “be strong” for everyone.

Don’t be afraid of saying the wrong thing; there isn’t really a “right” thing to say as everyone is different.

Held in Our Hearts are a Scottish charity providing baby loss counselling and peer support to families, with over 40 years’ experience of offering compassionate bereavement care in the community.

For more information, please see heldinourhearts.org.uk

Held in Our Hearts, Craiglockhart Centre

177 Colinton Road, Edinburgh, EH14 1BZ

Tel: 0131 622 6263

Email: info@heldinourhearts.org.uk

Scottish Charity No. SC024375

See also babyloss-awareness.org

Ask about the baby - provide the opening for them to talk if they want to. For people who have had a later loss, the baby often has a name, so refer to them by name. Questions such as “Does [name] look like his/her big sister/brother?” and so on provide an opening if it’s wanted.

Acknowledge Mothers Day, Father’s Day, baby’s birthday – recognise that those specific days are particularly hard.

How to support a friend or family member who has lost a baby

The impact of caring for a loved one

With the 10th of October marking World Mental Health Day, it is an important reminder of the need to prioritise mental health for everyone.

Often overlooked is the impact that caring for a loved-one can have on family caregivers, with 35% stating that doing so has had a negative effect upon their own mental health.

Caring for a loved one can be a profound act of compassion and devotion, but it often comes at a hidden cost: the impact on the wellbeing of family members. The emotional toll of providing care to a loved one and witnessing them deteriorate over time can lead to caregiver burnout – a crisis which catches countless families off-guard.

Family caregivers often experience anxiety, depression, and chronic stress. The constant worry, sleepless nights, and the rollercoaster

of emotions can be overwhelming. Financial stress and the strain on relationships further compound the issue. The stigma and uncertainty of seeking outside help can also isolate caregivers, with many left wishing they had sought advice and support sooner, before they often ultimately reached a crisis point.

By acknowledging the impact of caring for a loved one on family members, we can begin to remove some of the barriers to them seeking the help that they so desperately need. There are many organisations and services that exist to support family caregivers in West Lothian including Carers of West Lothian – 01506 448000.

Home Instead also offers free, no-obligation advice and signpost to other local support groups and information.

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

To be included in Konect, please contact us. Our details are on page 3. Join

TAKING A DAY OUT TO

Rest and Digest

We all live in such fast paced lives these days, juggling so many different activities and commitments. Taking time recently to slowing down, I have found to be essential. I realised I had been drawn into the social media addiction; looking at my phone several times a day discovering it creeps upon us slowly. I noticed my brain working at a fast pace, multitasking, all feeling too busy!

So I decided to take a day out with no commitments! A slowing down day of brain / body. I started the day with meditation to set my pace and did one thing at a time,

fully mindful. I limited my social media time, I walked by the sea taking in the fresh air, listening to sounds, smells and breeze on my skin. I met a friend for coffee and I continue to bimble ( walk without focus) to see where it took me. It was an amazing day, I felt rejuvenated rested and nourished. My mind slowed down, my whole being shifted to a slower state and I gave myself permission to take care and take it easy.

Kristin Neff, a researcher in self-care writes prolifically on this subject and its importance. When we care for ourselves we naturally look after and care for others better, we have more compassion and understanding. Self compassion is strongly associated with psychological well-being, feelings of happiness, optimism, curiosity and connectedness. Why would you not do this?

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)

Limefield Mains - an elegant constellation of bespoke build homes

Turpie & Co are delighted to announce the launch of the prestigious Limefield Mains development situated in a woodland setting between West Calder and Livingston.

These spacious new homes are designed with families in mind. With large bedrooms each featuring an adjoining en suite, open plan living/dining areas that offer a welcoming space to gather together, and verdant gardens that everyone can enjoy.

And, for an utterly bespoke home, there are also 14 self-build plots available so you can tailor your space to fit your lifestyle completely.

Located in West Calder this development is an excellent opportunity for growing families and commuters working in Edinburgh to enjoy a peaceful and spacious living environment within 30 minutes travel of the City Centre.

The Limefield Estate is home to the historic Limefield House, once the residence of James “Paraffin” Young, the founding father of the shale oil industry in West Lothian. Young often entertained the explorer,

David Livingstone at the estate on his trips home from Africa, and had a miniature version of the Victoria Falls constructed on Harburn Water, the stream that runs through the grounds as a tribute to his dear friend. As well as the picturesque Limefield Falls, you’ll have an abundance of country walks from the doorstep. West Calder is a thriving community with a selection of well-regarded schools and nurseries. In addition, the railway station offers a direct link to Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Both Clashmore & Blairvaich House Types are available for viewing and with preChristmas entry dates.

Contact the Turpie & Co sales team for further information and viewing appointments.

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.

SMALL AD BIG Impact

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DONALD DOES IT ALL

STILL TIME TO BURY SOME SPRING FLOWERING TREASURES

There is still plenty of time to plant spring flowering bulbs and what better way than in pots so you can move them to where you want to admire them later on?

Using daffodils as an example, you can plant just one type in a pot to make a bold display; choose three different varieties to get a success over as much as 60 days; select one variety and plant it with, say, hyacinth and crocus to get a beautifully curated display. Whichever recipe you choose we would recommend you plant in several layers, lasagne style, to create a really generous looking display. Plant bulbs three times their height deep, choosing the biggest bulbs as

the lowest layer and then upwards in descending bulb size. So for the mixed bulb pot - the daffodil bulbs first, then hyacinth then crocus, the flowers will all find their way past their neighbours to the top of the pot! Choose a frost proof pot with drainage holes and use a peat free Container & Basket compost, not bulb fibre for outside pots. A few pansies or violas popped into the top will give you a display all winter before your bulbs flower next year.

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

Re:cycle of the Penguindrum - Part 1: Your Train Is The Survival Tactic and Part 2: I Love You - are somewhat similar to the Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion films. It condenses the show’s footage into films while also adding some new footage to spice things up. Re:cycle of the Penguindrum’s new and old footage is stunning to look at. For an anime that is over 10 years old, both films look utterly gorgeous. The soundtrack that accompanies the visuals is also thrilling, the Survival Tactic songs are both excellent and drive their respective scenes forward. The whole soundtrack is simply incredible, and I feel the film would be a completely different experience without the score. Re:cycle of the Penguindrum’s story is, however, its biggest strength and in some ways its biggest weakness. The films can be confusing at times; there are constant flashbacks which do feel jarring, but once you get used to them they lead to a story that’s told at an excellent pace. It is a truly powerful message. By the end of Part 2 I was extremely emotional because of the perfect conclusion to its excellent narrative.

After finishing both films my first thought was, “When can I watch these again and how do I watch the show?” You’ll go from laughing at a penguin chopping up a cucumber to nearly crying over the character’s conclusions. Re:cycle of the Penguindrum is a truly great and must-watch film.

Re:cycle of the Penguindrum is released on Blu-ray on 6th November

The Film Review is contributed by Robert Ewing. Robert is passionate about film as an art form, and shining a light on films that may not be on people’s radar. Robert is from Kirknewton.

^^^ Solution in the November edition of Konect

ACROSS: 1. Used for drinking (6), 4. Warmed (6), 9. Impartial (7), 10. Sleepy (5), 11. Used for chewing (5), 12. Oblivious (7), 13. Contest (11), 18. Female grandparent (7), 20. Terrible (5), 22. Musical instrument (5), 23. Remove (7), 24. Simpler (6), 25. Windy (6).

DOWN: 1. Sound mental health (6), 2. Course (5), 3. Adore (7), 5. Additional (5), 6. Whirlwind (7), 7. Avoided (6), 8. Added pictures (11), 14. Citrus fruits (7), 15. Farm vehicle (7), 16. Disregard (6), 17. Showy (6), 19. Dimwit (5).

OCTOBER SUDOKU

I recently took part in a Woodland Trust ancient tree inventory workshop in Balloch Country Park, on the shores of Loch Lomond (This picture is in Glen Affric). We surveyed the park for what we thought might be worth adding to the inventory, primarily concentrating on ancient, veteran, and notable trees.

You might be wondering why this is important and I’m going to try and tell you in 250 words. An ancient tree is as iconic and important as some of our best known buildings but isn’t afforded the same protection. There’s a risk that if it’s not recognised as an ancient tree, it could accidentally be felled to make way for new buildings. It’s estimated only 10% of ancient trees have been recorded, how many could we be losing without realising?

These trees could be hundreds of years old, lived through so much history and are the lungs our plan-et needs to breathe through their ability to retain carbon. The Woodland Trust found ancient & long established woodland hold 36% of the 213 million tones of carbon (in living trees) produced by Britain’s woodlands, despite making up just 25% of all woodland.

You can take part in updating the ancient tree inventory by visiting the Woodland Trust’s website, understanding what to look for and adding any trees you think could be worth inspection. It’s a wonderful, easy, and free activity which helps protect our planet. You could also give it a wee hug whilst you’re there!

This column is contributed by Clare Harte and Kate Stevenson, who grew up in Edinburgh and now live in West Lothian. Together they run Scottish Sisters Photography and travel around the country to watch and photograph amazing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Follow them on Facebook: @ScottishSistersPhotography

SMALL AD

BIG Impact

To be included in Konect, please contact us. Our details are on page 3.

School Bank West Lothian predicts that over 400 local school children will need help to ensure they have a warm jacket and warm clothes to go to school in this winter. Many children across West Lothian are currently attending school with inadequate jackets and footwear which won’t keep them warm or dry and, in some cases, means they don’t even attend school.

For all ages between five and 17 across the next three months, over 400 jackets will be needed. There are several ways you can help:

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

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

3. Alternatively, you can make a donation. School Bank West Lothiann estimates the cost of a warm jacket to be £25 although any and all donations are gratefully received.

4. Or if your child has a jacket and wellies/ boots that they no longer use, it can be reused by the charity.

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

FRI 6TH OCTOBER & SAT 7TH OCTOBER

Oktoberfest - Hosted by Livingston 41 Club, at Livingston Cricket Club. See advert on page 35

THURSDAYS 12TH AND 19TH OCTOBER

West Lothian Producers Night Markets - A warm welcome from a community hall filled with local and Scottish businesses and producers of food, drink, home and hand crafted items. 5pm8pm Strathbrock Community Centre, 189A West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH. FB @wlproducersmarket

7TH TO 29TH OCTOBER

Silly Spooky Fun At Almond Valley, Livingston - Odd things happen at Almond Valley once the leaves fall from the trees and Halloween approaches. The dark corners of the old mill have been taken over by a family of crazy inventors, who are engaged in top secret experiments. Nobody knows the purpose of their bubbling pipes, flashing lights and strange whirling machines, but it's all rather odd and just a little bit scary. Our boffins have also to set up their equipment outside among the trees and fields where giant eyeballs gaze down at you. Are you being watched? Did that one just wink? Follow the trail, crack the clues, and solve the mystery. Come dressed as your favourite scary creature and become part of the fun. Standard admission prices, see www.almondvalley.co.uk Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. 01506 414957

EVERY DAY THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS; FROM 7TH TO 22ND OCTOBER, AND DURING THE DAY ON THE 28TH & 29TH OCTOBER

Pumpkin Patch at Almond Valley - Pick your own pumpkins from our all weather pumpkin patch, grab yourself a wheelbar-row and find your perfect specimen. With various shapes, sizes and colours to choose, picking your perfect pumpkins will be a challenge. The pumpkins can be discovered among the straw beneath the shelter of the barn, so there's no need for wellies. Find your way past smiling scarecrows, big bale monsters, and low-flying bats, to enjoy a happy seasonal celebration. Standard admission plus Pumpkins Prices £2

Munchkins, £4 Small, £6 Medium, and £8 Large. See www.almondvalley.co.uk

Almond Valley Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston, EH54 7AR. 01506 414957

EVERY SATURDAY

Bathgate Outdoor Market - 9am to 2pm. Parking available in Gardners Lane Car Park and Acredale Car Park. Access via Whitburn Road on the road between H&M and Home Bargains

SAT 28TH OCTOBER

Charity launch of Murieston Community Development Trust - All residents of Murieston and Bankton welcome. RSVP by 25th October to secretary@murieston-cdt.org.uk. Come and hear about:

- the needs of our local community

- successes of other development trusts

- our ambitions for Murieston

- plans for community improvements (Presentations 2pm - 3pm, discussion/drop-in 3pm - 4pm)

Murieston Village Hall, 2pm - 4pm. Murieston West Road, Livingston EH54 9HZ murieston-cdt.org.uk

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

LIVINGSTON

CAMERA CLUB*NEW SEASON MEMBERSHIP *

- If you are interested in improving your photography in a friendly atmosphere, we are always keen to welcome new members. We can help you with advice, encouragement, examples, and inspiration. Our activities include regular presentations by guest speakers and members, internal and external competitions (both digital and print), and workshops and outings.Please visit www.livingstoncameraclub.org.uk for more detail on how to join us for the upcoming season.

ROTARY CLUB OF LIVINGSTON

- The Rotary Club of Livingston has been supporting care/ community organisations in the Livingston area but it would be wonderful to be joined by new members who could bring different outlooks and experiences to the work we do. We meet at 8pm on a Wednesday evening via Zoom using Subtitling/Closed Captions to facilitate members/visitors who have a hearing impairment. You are welcome to join us. Facebook: Rotary Club of Livingston. Visit livingston.rotary1020.org or contact secretary@livingston.rotary1020.org

LIVINGSTON SPORTING

MEMORIES CLUB - If you had a keen interest in sports as a youngster and still have a passion for chatting about sport, then Livingston Sporting Memories Club will be right up your street. We meet every Monday at Livingston Cricket Club, 10.30am-12noon to chat about our shared love for sport and enjoy a cuppa and cake. Come along and join us, you’ll receive a warm welcome. Contact Isobel (07584 290726), Jenny (07909 645084).

WEST LOTHIAN TREFOIL GUILD

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

WEST LOTHIAN NETTERS -

Recreational netball club for adults 18+. A welcoming inclusive group, no prior experience or knowledge of

netball required. Wednesdays 7.158.45pm in the Sports Hall at West Lothian College. Cost £4.50. Also Junior club (age 11-16) Wednesdays 7-8pm at Inveralmond Community High School. Cost £2.50. Prebooking essential at bookwhen.com/ westlothiannetters

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

LIVINGSTON COMMUNITY

SHED - Join us at the Barn Cafe at Carmondean Community Centre, Netherdechmont Farm, Fells Rigg, Carmondean, Livingston EH54 8AX on a Friday morning from around 11:00am to 1:00pm for coffee, bacon rolls and a chat plus hear about our active projects for community gardens, photography, woodwork and excursions. We are also evaluating other crafts and activities. Membership is free and all are welcome. Please contact info@ livingstoncommunityshed.co.uk or 01506 495101

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

LIVINGSTON LADIES PROBUS CLUB - We meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at St Andrews Church Deans from 10.00am. You’ll find a varied programme of speakers, tea, coffee and good company.

For more details contact Karen Stewart on Duncoillie@sky.com

WEST CALDER BRIDGE CLUB (WCBC) - WCBC invites you to come along and play the challenging card game of Bridge. All are welcome from beginners to experienced players. Beginners can

sit with more experienced players or have learning sessions. WCBC meets on Tuesdays 7pm until 10pm. The cost is £2.50.

West Kirk of Calder, West Main Street, West Calder, EH55 8EN. See www.westcalderbridgeclub.org. uk for further information and contact numbers.

LIVINGSTON AND DISTRICT

AMATEUR RADIO SOCIETY -

We are based in the Crofthead Community Centre, Templar Rise, Livingston and are a member of the Radio Society of Great Britain. Meeting every Tuesday 19:00 to 21:00, our club brings together members of all ages in a licensed pursuit which is technical, scientific and promotes local and international friendship through radio. We provide training for all three levels of amateur operating licences in friendly and relaxed atmosphere 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 UKELELE CLUBMeet 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. 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.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 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 - Looking for new members. We meet 3rd Thursday of the month in Room GP3, Strathbrock Community Centre, Broxburn, Entrance B, from 7.00pm9.00pm. These are informal evenings aimed at encouraging musicians and songwriters (adults) of all levels and abilities who would like to share their idea, techniques and songs with others in an informal, friendly environment. For further information, please contact Annie on 07824 667889.

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

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

WEST LOTHIAN U3A - Retired or semi-retired and looking for a new way to spend your free time? Why not try u3a? u3a is a UK wide movement for retired or semi-retired people who wish to make new friends, continue learning in an informal setting, and keep active. Most groups meet at Uphall Community Centre. No formal qualifications are required and nongiven. For more information see:

W: u3asites.org.uk/westlothian/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestLothian-u3a-106310894889317

E: memsecwlu3a@gmail.com

T: 01506 844274

SCOTTISH SENIORS 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

E: office@carers-westlothian.com

W: www.carers-westlothian.com

SOLUTION TO SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

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

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

SOLUTION TO SEPTEMBER CROSSWORD

all volunteers. There's no cost. Great fun for everybody! More information from Nancy Burgoyne on 01506 419904 or email burgoynenancy49@gmail.com

ACROSS: 1. Pout, 3. Merchant, 9. Rescued, 10. Nails, 11. Mathematical, 14. Dud, 16. Metre, 17. See, 18. Appreciation, 21. Alone, 22. Relieve, 23. Dressing, 24. Plus.

DOWN: 1. Pyramids, 2. Upset, 4. End, 5. Considerable, 6. Animals, 7. Toss, 8. Supermarkets, 12. Attic, 13. Meanders, 15. Deplore, 19. Ideal, 20. Bald, 22. Run.

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

CHOOSE YOU YOGA STUDIO & WELLNESS HUB - Dedicated yoga studio in Carmondean, Livingston. Build strength, flexibility and resilience, and support mental health, joint pain/illness/injury

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

WEST LOTHIAN 50 PLUS

ACROSS: 1. Pout, 3. Merchant, 9. Rescued, 10. Nails, 11. Mathematical, 14. Dud, 16. Metre, 17. See, 18. Appreciation, 21. Alone, 22. Relieve, 23. Dressing, 24. Plus.

DOWN: 1. Pyramids, 2. Upset, 4. End, 5. Considerable, 6. Animals, 7. Toss, 8. Supermarkets, 12. Attic, 13. Meanders, 15. Deplore, 19. Ideal, 20. Bald, 22. Run.

on Facebook

CARERS OF WEST LOTHIAN

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

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

- Support and social activities for Carers, Young Carers and Disabled Adults. All our carers groups are offered blended – both in person and face to face, as are our social groups: weekly Coffee Morning; monthly Mental Health Support Group, Evening Support Group & Bereaved Carer Support Group as well as groups for Young Carers and Young Adult Carers. Regular Social Groups for Adults with disabilities. Power of Attorney Clinic (face to face) & Benefits Advice (phone or face to face). For information:

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

ON PAGE 33

SOLUTION TO SUDOKU ON PAGE XX

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

E: hello@alanstewartdesign.com

T.: 01506 448000

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com

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

W: www.alanstewartdesign.com