Cutting Edge
March 2017
A briefing note produced by West Lothian Council
for councillors and their communities
This publication has been designed to keep you up to date with events and activities in West Lothian,
and at ward level, over the coming months. We hope that you find the information in this issue
interesting. Remember to check the council’s website for news and information.
We compile and distribute Cutting Edge monthly. Please email [email protected]
Cutting Edge is also available online from www.westlothian.gov.uk
Community news on www.westlothian.gov.uk - This dynamic section is updated with local community
news and pictures on a daily basis. If you have good news, initiatives and achievements which you
would like to share, let us know. Please include a name and contact number. Email:
[email protected] Please encourage your friends and family to visit the website. You
can also visit the council’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/westlothiancouncil or sign up for our ealerts and regular E-bulletin at www.westlothian.gov.uk/email
Cutting Edge is produced by West Lothian Council’s Corporate Communications team. Email:
[email protected] or phone 01506 282001.
Ward one: Linlithgow, Ward two: Broxburn, Uphall and Winchburgh, Ward three: Livingston North,
Ward four: Livingston South, Ward five: Livingston East and East Calder, Ward six: Fauldhouse and
the Breich Valley, Ward seven: Whitburn and Blackburn, Ward eight: Bathgate, Ward nine: Armadale
and Blackridge.
Information relevant to all wards and members:
Councillors’ surgeries – the dates, times and venues of Councillors’ surgeries are available online at
www.westlothian.gov.uk/ as well as Council Information Service (CIS) centres and libraries.
CUTTING EDGE March 2017
Pages Index: 1 – 6 News from council and partners; 7 - 8 Community information; 9 - 19 Ward news
SPOTLIGHT – Be Online 2017
The council is supporting 'Be Online 2017'
fortnight, which runs until Sunday 12 March.
The annual event, which is organised by the
council's Adult Learning team, is a celebration
of the benefits of both being online and the
joys of learning something new. This year, the
theme is to let technology help you with health
and wellbeing and to discover if there is an app
or device which supports this. To mark Be
Online fortnight, the team has organised a
number of free events which are taking place
in Bathgate, Broxburn, Linlithgow, and Livingston. Everyone is welcome and, apart from the walking
football group, sessions are free. Local people are also being invited to take part in a digital challenge
and to help West Lothian to reach its 1,660 miles target. The aim is to allow participants to virtually
travel to West Lothian's twinned town Hochsauerland and back again by participating in local activities.
The goal is to reach 1,660 miles by recording distance using devices such as a smartphone, App, or
pedometer. Five hundred steps is approximately quarter of a mile. The digital challenge is open to all
ages and each submission will be entered into our free prize draw, with a chance to win a Fitbit Zip
Activity Tracker. To take part, sign-up online and log your distance at https://www.livingitup.scot/toolsservices/tools/community-challenges/2017/01/west-lothian-techathlon-challenge/ For fuller information,
contact [email protected] or phone 01506 282928.
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Contact us - Please email [email protected] or call 01506 280000.
Voter registration – West Lothian residents are being urged to make sure they are able to vote in
May's local government elections. You must be registered to vote by midnight on Easter Monday, 17
April, if you want to vote in West Lothian Council elections on Thursday 4 May. Anyone who will be 16 or
over on 4 May 2017 is eligible to vote, and the process has recently changed from household to
individual registration, so West Lothian residents are urged to make sure they are registered to vote.
For more details, please visit www.westlothian.gov.uk/voting
West Lothian Fairtrade Zone Steering Group - is reminding local people about Fairtrade Fortnight
and asking everyone to help by choosing products which support the drive for change for farmers in
developing countries. During Fairtrade Fortnight the West Lothian Fairtrade Zone Steering Groups is
asking local people to support a fair living for the farmers and people who produce the tea, coffee,
cocoa, sugar, fruit and a wide range of other products we all use on a daily basis. Fairtrade Fortnight
runs until Sunday 12 March. West Lothian’s Fairtrade town and village groups are joining forces with the
rest of the country to help ensure a fair deal for disadvantaged farming communities by holding a
number of events across the county. For more information about the campaign and how to get involved,
visit: www.westlothian.gov.uk/fairtrade or www.fairtrade.org.uk/fortnight

Whitburn Fairtrade coffee morning - takes place on Saturday 11 March from 10am – 12noon
in the Pentecostal Church, Reveston Lane - left at the Lidl roundabout. - £2.50 donation
payable at the door - children are admitted free.
Macmillan @ Bathgate Partnership Centre Cancer Information and Support Service - offers
anyone affected by cancer access to information and support and welcomes visitors with a friendly smile
and a listening ear. You may have cancer yourself, be a relative, friend or carer of someone with cancer,
or maybe you just want to find out more about cancer. The service provides:

A free and confidential drop in support service

Time to talk in a relaxed atmosphere

Help to access benefits and financial advice

Access to counselling provided by Cancer Support Scotland

Links to other relevant local organisations

Leaflets and books on cancer topics and help to access quality access quality internet sites for
cancer information and support
The service can be found in Bathgate Library, Bathgate Partnership Centre, South Bridge St, Bathgate
EH48 1TS and is open every Monday from 10am - 1pm and Thursday between 1pm and 3pm.
For fuller information, phone 01506 283053 or email [email protected]

Macmillan @ Strathbrock Partnership Centre Information and Support Service for people living
with cancer and their families in West Lothian is now open in Broxburn. The new service will be
available from Wednesdays between 1pm and 3pm and on Fridays from 10am to 12.30pm.
Adult Learning – An Introduction to Spreadsheets computer course is scheduled to start shortly in
Strathbrock Community Centre from 7pm - 9pm on Monday evenings. The free course will run for
ten weeks excluding public holidays and leads to SQA Int. 1 qualification. Participants should have
some skills in using a computer and saving files. For fuller information, contact John McGhee on 01506
282926 or email: [email protected]
Apprenticeship open day – takes place on Tuesday 7 March. As part of Scottish apprenticeship week,
the council’s Housing, Customer and Building Services team is holding an Apprenticeship Open Day at
Kirkton Service Centre for prospective electricians, joiners, plumbers, roofers, painters and plasterers. If
you are leaving school or unemployed and you would like an apprenticeship or you are unsure what
career path you want to go down, come along to the Apprenticeship Open Day and get all the
information you need on what is available. There are four sessions to choose from, which are packed
with information and fun. Times are: 9am -10.30am; 11am - 12.30pm; 1am - 2.30pm and 3pm - 4.30pm.
You’ll get to see some of our award-winning apprentices including electricians, joiners, plumbers,
roofers, painters and plasterers in action. Discover what the apprenticeships involve and ask any
questions over tea and cakes. To book yourself on to one of the sessions please contact Lauren Agnew
01506 283620. School leavers should speak to their school’s guidance teacher. There will also be a stall
in the Designer Outlet, Livingston, on Friday 10 March.
Advice Shop Volunteers - Kind-hearted volunteers are urgently needed by West Lothian Advice Shop
to support local people who have been called to attend a medical assessment in Edinburgh as part of
their claim for disability benefits. Volunteers are not asked to drive their customer to the appointment as
public transport is used. As a volunteer your expenses are reimbursed and full training is provided.
Generally the commitment to attend an appointment in Edinburgh is a few hours in the morning or the
afternoon. The equivalent of half a day, including travelling time, with volunteers accompanying
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customers to as few or as many appointments each month as they wish. An information session for
people interested in finding out more about becoming a volunteer buddy will take place on Monday 20
March at 2pm in Bathgate Partnership Centre. Everyone is welcome, to book a place and for more
information call: 01506 282923 or email: [email protected]
Sport and Outdoor Education - Emergency first aid at work For Sports Clubs and Coaches is a oneday course for sports coaches requiring first aid qualification or re-qualification. It takes place at
Armadale Academy from 10am - 4pm on Saturday 25 March. The cost is £24 for an accredited Club
place or £30 for a standard place. You can book at the following link:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/emergency-first-aid-at-work-tickets-31680094014
Active Fun Active Feet - bookings are now open for The West Lothian 'Active Fun Active Feet' Easter
Holiday Programme. The camps are taking place over the Easter Holidays for all pupils currently in P1
to P7 on Wednesday 5 and Thursday 6 April at Armadale Academy and Wednesday 12 and Thursday
13 April at Deans Community High School. Children will take part in a wide range of activities including
athletics, basketball, gymnastics, football, MultiSport activities, parachute games, playground games
and much more. The cost is £20 per child for two-day camps and £12 per child per day for individual
camps and will run from 9am -3pm. Bookings and payment can be made online at
http://activeschools.eventbrite.com/ For fuller information, please contact Ben Boatman (Active
Schools) on [email protected]
Linlithgow Rose Community Football Club - is running Frame Football sessions on a Friday evening
for children and young people who use a walking aid. Frame Football runs from 5 - 6pm at Linlithgow
Academy, and is open to children and young people between 3 and 16 years old. Sessions are free, and
there is no long-term commitment to attending required. If you know of someone who would be
interested, please let them know about the sessions. For fuller information, contact Kevin Ferguson on
[email protected]
Low Port Easter programme - There is plenty to keep the most adventurous young person busy at
Low Port Centre during the school Easter break. Multi-activity, mountain biking, bushcraft and canoeing
are just a few of the wide range of outdoor activities on offer. The Easter holiday programme takes place
from Monday 3 April until Thursday 13 April and is suitable for ages eight to 12 years. If you live outside
Linlithgow - Low Port Centre offers a minibus pick-up and drop-off service in Bathgate Academy,
Armadale Community Centre and Inveralmond Community High School. The centre also offer a wrap-around service for a small fee which enables parents/carers to drop children off at the centre from 8am
with end-of-day collection up to 5.30pm. Full details of the courses and costs are available online at
www.activewestlothian.com or call: 01506 284400 or email: [email protected]
Bookings will be processed on a first come, first served basis on receipt of booking and parental consent
forms with payment.
International Women's Day - takes place on Wednesday 8 March. This year, the theme for
International Women’s Day (IWD) is ‘Be Bold For Change’. IWD celebrates the social, economic,
cultural and political achievements of women, because visibility and awareness help drive positive
change for women.
Centenary Field - Dechmont Park has been named at West Lothian’s Centenary Field. Its designation
has been legally agreed between West Lothian Council, Fields in Trust and Poppyscotland. Every local
authority in the UK was encouraged to nominate at least one recreational space to be dedicated as a
Centenary Field to commemorate the anniversary of the First World War. Centenary Parks aim to create
a tangible, local legacy which will be valued by local communities for generations to come.
Commonwealth Day - West Lothian residents are being invited to attend a special flag-raising
ceremony to mark Commonwealth Day at West Lothian Civic Centre on Monday 13 March at 9.50am
with the Commonwealth Flag being raised at 10am. Children from all West Lothian primary schools will
be attending each representing commonwealth countries and Howden St Andrews primary school choir
will also perform at the event. Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth is a flag-raising ceremony dedicated to
marking Commonwealth Day, which is held on the second Monday in March every year. The event
involves councils, community groups and charities from throughout the British Isles.
Helium-filled balloons and sky Lanterns - The council has joined local authorities and organisations
such as Keep Scotland Beautiful and the National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) and the Scottish Fire
and Rescue Service in its serious concern about the release of ‘Sky’ or ‘Chinese’ lanterns and helium
filled balloons. The Council Executive has approved a recommendation to ban the release of heliumfilled balloons and Chinese-style lanterns from council land and property. The policy statement covers
releases on West Lothian Council owned or leased property and land, by council staff, leaseholders and
the public, and at any council endorsed or supported events including those not on council owned-land.
The release of helium-filled balloons and sky Lanterns has increased in recent years. These balloons
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and lanterns pose hazards to wildlife and livestock causing injury and death. Lanterns can also cause
injury to humans, damage to buildings, woodland, agricultural land and cause callouts to the Fire and
Rescue Services. The new policy will be implemented from Saturday 1 April.
West Lothian Libraries - If you recently got a new tablet etc. West Lothian Libraries can help you get
the most out of your new device. There is a selection of interesting eResources available to you 24/7
from the comfort of your home. A number of new eBooks have recently been added, along with new and
improved Ziptales for children. You can also download digital editions of many popular magazines and
comics, all free of charge. To find out more, visit www.westlothian.gov.uk/eLibrary

Family history workshops - To celebrate 2017 being the year of History, Heritage and
Archaeology, the West Lothian Family History Society volunteers are running workshops
throughout West Lothian libraries. These workshops are free and open to anyone. You will be
shown the best websites to use and how to use these websites effectively, hopefully enabling
you to go on and confidently use these resources independently. They are also available to
assist confident researchers who find themselves 'stuck' with their research. Booking is
essential. Please contact The West Lothian Local History Library on 01506 282491 or speak to
Linlithgow Library staff. Workshops will be running throughout the year. Dates are as below:
o Armadale Library – Saturday 11 March, 10am – 12.30pm
o Carmondean Connected – Saturday 1 April, 10am – 12.30pm
o West Calder Library – Saturday 13 May, 10am – 12.30pm
o Simpson Library – Saturday 3 June, 10am – 12.30pm
o Blackburn Connected – Saturday 8 July, 10am – 12.30pm
o East Calder Library – Saturday 5 August, 10am – 12.30pm
o Whitburn Library – Saturday 9 September, 10am – 12.30pm
o Fauldhouse Library – Saturday 7 October, 10am – 12.30pm
o Broxburn Library – Saturday 18 November, 10am – 12.30pm
The Voluntary Organisations and Childcare Training Calendar - for Spring and Summer 2017 is
now available to complete online from the following link: https://www.westlothian.gov.uk/voluntary-andchildcare-organisations-training-calendar This training is open to individuals that live, work or volunteer
in West Lothian and that are actively involved within a small voluntary organisation, community group or
childcare setting. This includes but is not an exclusive list: playgroups, children’s club, after school care,
parents school council, community council, community association, management committees and gala
committees. Childminders and private nurseries that provide a service within regeneration areas are
also included. To apply for training, complete the online form with appropriate authorisation where
required and mail to [email protected] As courses fill quickly, it is advisable to get your
complete forms in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Waste Services

Community Recycling Centre (CRCs) – Winter opening hours at West Lothian’s Community
Recycling Centres are now in place. All six centres, at Broxburn, Linlithgow, Oakbank,
Blackburn, Whitburn and Deans will open 10am – 5pm, Monday to Sunday. The last entry is at
4.45pm. For more information on what can be recycled at the CRCs, visit
www.westlothian.gov.uk
‘Seen Something? Say Something’ - The Council is again supporting the ‘Seen Something? Say
Something’ campaign, which aims to raise awareness of adult harm and encourages people to act on
their instincts if the suspect somebody may be experiencing harm or neglect, or is at risk of it. The
campaign also aims to educate people on the warning signs which could indicate an adult is at risk such
as: unexplained cuts and bruises; a refusal to talk about injuries; confusion about where their money has
gone; or the appearance of nervousness around certain people. Adult harm can take many forms from
physical, psychological, sexual or financial exploitation to neglect, with those who can’t look after or
stand up for themselves through factors such as personal circumstances, physical or learning disability,
age, illness or infirmity being at more risk. To report issues call: 01506 280000. Out-of-hours call: 01506
281028 or 01506 281029 for the Social Care Emergency Team. For fuller information, visit: :
www.westlothianchcp.org.uk/help-for-adults
Health Improvement Team (HIT)

Put Your West Foot Forward - is looking for new volunteers who can spare one or two hours each
week to join them in promoting walking and cycling across West Lothian. You will receive free
training, with a nationally recognised certificate and be able to join the volunteer network as well as
meet new people. The project is particularly keen to hear from 1:1 Buddy walk volunteers and health
walk volunteers in the Linlithgow. Places are still available for the Walk Leader training course being
held on Wednesday 8 March at Strathbrock Partnership Centre.Volunteering roles include walking
with groups, walking on a one-to-one basis, leading cycle rides, supporting all-ability cycling
sessions, maintaining bikes, and sharing cycling knowledge with others. If you would like to know
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
more about any of these roles, please contact the Health Improvement Team for an information
pack or for more details on 01506 775626 or email: [email protected]
Bike loan - is available to anyone in need who would be otherwise unable to acquire a bike.
Currently we have libraries in Mayfield Community Hub in Armadale, Stoneyburn Community
Centre, Adaptive Bike Library in Broxburn, Lanthorn Community Centre in Dedridge, The Vennie in
Knightsridge, Polbeth and West Calder Community Garden, Blackburn Homeless Unit, Strathbrock
Family Unit, opening soon at Cyrenians Farm in Kirknewton, with more future partnerships under
consideration. To borrow a bike or make a referral, please contact your local library or the Health
Improvement Team [email protected] or 01506 775626.
Litter pick - The council has teamed up with the Woodland Trust Scotland and Almond Housing
Association for a litter pick at East Woods, Craigshill, between 11.30am and 1.30pm on Saturday 18
March. Following the litter pick, lunch will be provided then take part in a magical woodland walk with
tree top performers, musicians and many more surprises. Booking in advance is essential so please
contact [email protected] or call 0330 333 5302 to reserve your space. Those taking
part should meet in car park of Quigley House, and please wear sturdy footwear and dress for the
weather. For more information please contact Eilidh Mair, Woodland Trust Scotland on 0343 770 5760.
Community Arts
Howden Park Centre
Livingston 01506 777666 www.howdenparkcentre.co.uk

Dialogues with Trees exhibition and workshops - Resident Artist Tansy Lee Moir spent the
early part of 2016 exploring West Lothian’s ‘treescapes’, including Calderwood and Beecraigs.
Her current exhibition at Howden Park Centre will be accompanied by a series of workshops
and talks until April.

Noel and Gertie - A perfectly-orchestrated trip down memory lane featuring songs, sketches
and scenes from some of Noel Coward’s best works, including Private Lives, Tonight at 8.30
and Blithe Spirit. Sunday 19 March, 2pm. Tickets £15 or £13 concession

Comedy Night - A night of great comedy featuring some of the UKs best talent, enjoy two top
comedians from TV and Radio and one experienced compère. Featuring: Iain Stirling, Hayley
Ellis. Carl Donnelly. Friday 17 March, 8pm. Tickets £14. Age 16+

The Little Mermaid - The beloved tale of The Little Mermaid is brought to the stage in a
fantastic and exciting interactive show, full of singing and dancing. Saturday 1 April, 2pm.
Tickets £12 adults, £10 children, £40 family of 4

Foster and Allen - International recording artists Foster and Allen are celebrating forty years
together in the music industry, so what better time to perform at Howden Park Centre for the
first time. The Irish folk duo have released over 30 albums, achieving album and video sales in
excess of 22 million worldwide. Sunday 2 April, 7.30pm. Tickets £20
Linlithgow Burgh Halls
The Cross, Linlithgow 01506 282720 www.linlithgowburghhalls.co.uk

Exhibition - Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh: Haft Paykar - Paintings Inspired by a Medieval
Persian Epic - Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh’s work explores the disciplines of Persian poetry
manuscripts, sacred geometry and Persian miniature paintings. This recent body of work is
based on one of the great works of Persian literature, Haft Paykar. Its central theme of selfknowledge as the path to human perfection is conveyed in rich and vivid imagery and complex
symbolism. Now until Sunday 16 April. Free entry

Gallery Tour with Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh - Join us for a guided tour and a more in-depth
look at the history, techniques and symbolism of these Persian style miniature paintings.
Thursday 9 March, 7pm - 9pm. Age 14+. Free, booking essential.
The Bathgate Regal Community Theatre – has a full programme of arts and entertainment during
March. For fuller details, check out the webpage: http://www.bathgateregal.org/whatson
Public Art
For more information contact: Camille Archer, Arts Officer - Visual and Public Art email:
[email protected] 01506 773871

Public Art in East Calder - A scale model and plans for the proposed new public art for East
Calder will be on display in East Calder Library for the month of March The design, by artist
Michael Johnson, incorporates mirror polished leaves to reflect whatever is in front of them; the
landscape and the viewer. A comment sheets is available for feedback. East Calder Library,
200 Main Street, East.
Projects for Schools
All projects supported by Creative Scotland, Youth Music Initiative. For more information contact -
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Nancy Douglas, Arts Officer (Learning) on 01506 773875 [email protected]. Fiona
Low, Senior Arts Office (Learning) on 01506 773873

Music and Sound for Moving Image - A five-week applied project aimed at engaging pupils
with various aspects of music technology. Pupils will be challenged with creating a soundtrack
for an animation created specifically for the project. April to May.

Stories and Songs - This project encourages children to make music and develop rhythmic
skills which helps to reinforce literacy across the curriculum, it links to geography and maths as
well as specific expressive arts outcomes for music. January to March.

Software Training Scotland - The session will provide delivery of a dynamic, stimulating and
fun 10 week course in creative music-making and sound production using iPad based
recording technology. Until June.

Ukulele Fling - This project will introduce primary children to music making through singing
and playing the ukulele and will work towards a shared learning experience in Howden Park
Centre’s auditorium. January to March.

Voice Beats - presents an opportunity for innovation combining Taiko drumming and vocals
developed through workshops over nine weeks leading to a final performance in Howden Park
Centre. January to March.

Sound Stories - A series of eight weekly workshops aiming to engage ASN pupils in music
making by encouraging them to explore their emotional responses to music. February to
March

Saturday Strings with RCS - An open access project giving children from P4 and P5 the
opportunity to begin classical string tuition. The project is promoted through the local primary
schools in the Armadale and Inveralmond clusters. These workshops are solely for
encouraging new starts to the programme and are designed to be fun, informative and
interactive. 10 September to 16 June

Voice Rocks - Voice Rocks aims to offer a group singing experience which is based on a
“Rock Choir” approach – singing songs chosen by the young people, taught in an easy to learn
style which does not require the ability to read music/formal. A showcase will follow the
workshops on Saturday 10 June. Saturdays to 3 June. Places are free but must be booked in
advance. Howden Park Centre. Classes - Juniors P5-P7 10-11.30am and 11.30am-1pm,
seniors 1.30pm - 3.30pm.

Creative Learning Network - Hidden Giants (creative producing company) will collaborate
with Head teachers and Education officers to take a more strategic approach to exploration of
how creativity can impact on a chosen priority area for schools, e.g. literacy. Network meetings
will be held quarterly with a strategic working group which will lead to prototype projects in
schools and the year will culminate with a Head Teachers meeting lead by the Head Teachers
we are working with reporting back to all Head Teachers and senior Education colleagues.
October to May 2017
Arts and Wellbeing
All projects currently running. For more information contact: Len McCaffer, Arts Officer – Arts &
Wellbeing email: [email protected] 01506 773870.

Moorehouse Pottery (Partner Organisation - Moorehouse School) To work with young
people aged 12-18 excluded from Education to develop pottery skills. January - March
On-going projects

HYPE (Partner Organisation - Youth Services) - To assist young people not engaging in
Education or employment. Current projects… Photography Course - to develop photography
skills and portfolios. Computer Course - to develop computer hardware and design software
skills. Venue: Livingston Station Community Centre.

Connect (Partner Organisation - Youth Inclusion Project) - To give young people within
Care Settings access to an arts programme. Young people are currently working with pottery
animation. Venue: Riverside Primary, Livingston.

Offbeat (Partner Organisations - YAP, Community Regeneration, Youth Services,
YWLC) - An alcohol diversion programme for Young people in Craigshill. The group are
currently working with a range of artists from special effects to dance. Venue: Riverside
Primary.

Moorehouse School (Partner Organisation - Moorehouse School) - An art initiative that
gives young students not engaging in mainstream education access to an arts programme.

Generation Dance (Partner Organisation - Generation Arts) - This long-established group
have been working on different dance routines and are working towards a performance for the
celebration event. Venue: Howden Park Centre.

East Calder Youth Club (Partner Organisation - Youth Services) - To provide a series of art
workshops. Venue: East Calder Community Centre.
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
Mid Calder Youth Club (Partner Organisation - Youth Services) - To provide a series of art
workshops. Venue: Mid Calder Community Centre.
Parks and Woodland - For fuller information on the country parks in West Lothian, contact the
following numbers or email addresses: Almondell and Calderwood 01506 882254
almondell&[email protected] / Beecraigs 01506 [email protected] /
Polkemmet [email protected] / 01501 743905

Country parks – March is officially the beginning of Spring. There is just a touch of greenery
beginning to appear , so keep an eye out for the white blossom of blackthorn, banks of
primroses and clumps of nodding snowdrops. As the days start to get longer, wildlife becomes
more active too and already birds are courting and nesting building is underway. When the sun
does happen to peek out from behind the clouds West Lothian’s country parks are the perfect
place to spend leisure time. Each of the country parks has a visitor centre where staff can
recommend walking routes and things to do. Refreshments are available at Almondell &
Calderwood Visitor Centre – confectionary, hot and cold drinks, ice creams and snacks.
There’s a café available at Polkemmet and the brand new Beecraigs Visitor Centre Hideaway
Café is due to open imminently. Two new partnerships within Parks and Woodland – Method
Studio (bespoke furniture craftsmen) who are now in the old Sawmill premises and Hideaway
Café in the new Visitor Centre, both within Beecraigs. All country parks visitor centres will be
on their winter opening times until the end of March.

Almondell and Calderwood - Work on a new path connecting the north car park with the
visitor centre is now complete, providing a safe off-road route. The surfacing of the track from
the north car park to the steps is also complete, providing year round access to this side of the
park. Almondell & Calderwood Country Park maintains its 4 Star Visitor Attraction award by
Visitscotland.

Beecraigs Country Park – Come in to the new visitor centre and admire views across the
Forth to Fife, towards the Pentland Hills and over to Edinburgh and East Lothian. Look around
the new interpretation area and shop or pop into the Hideaway Café for a hot drink and
something tasty to eat soon. The Park continues to be busy as visitors enjoy woodland walks
and trails, the play area, the skills area and mountain bike trails, the animal attraction and a
good all-round outdoor experience. We’re always looking for volunteers to help with work
around the park especially on the MTB trails and would encourage any volunteers to contact
Tracey Smith on 01506 284518 or email [email protected] or go onto the
Beecraigs Mountain Bike Facebook page for information on build and maintenance sessions.
Installation of the waymarkers for three new walking routes around the park is underway and
will be completed for Easter. These routes have been funded by a Landtrust Grant and will
provide longer distance walking routes around the Park, using the new paths completed in
January with the same grant. Beecraigs Country Park maintains its 4 Star Visitor Attraction
award by Visitscotland. Please note that the Beecraigs Visitor Centre telephone number has
changed to 01506 284516.

Beecraigs caravan and camping site - Beecraigs caravan and camping Site is open
throughout the year to touring caravans, motorhomes and trailer tents. As temperatures can
plummet in the Bathgate Hills over the winter, the camping season for tents closed in October
and will reopen on 31 March. However this winter the “Little Lodges” extend the “glamping”
season and are available for those looking for the convenience of warm, dry and cosy breaks find out more about the 4-berth or 6-berth Little Lodges at www.beecraigs.com Beecraigs
caravan and camping Site is graded by VisitScotland as a 4 Star Touring Park and was
awarded the 4 Pennant Gold Award by the AA.
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Beecraigs Animal Attraction - Now that spring is nearly here we are awaiting the arrival of
our Hebridean lambs. Lambing is a busy time in the farming world and the ewes need a
peaceful environment, that’s why we’ll be closing the viewing shed for a few weeks once
lambing starts. But don’t worry as soon as all the ewes have given birth it will be open again for
you to catch a glimpse of their tiny woolly lambs. March is also the month that we can start to
expect a few more calves from our Highland Cattle, so keep an eye on the fields as you can
often spot them curled up asleep near their mums. The Red Deer hinds won’t calve until May /
June time so there will be lots of activity on the animal attraction over the next few months.
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Polkemmet Country Park - Polkemmet is a great place for the family to visit with attractions
such as the Miners Play Area, Golf Course, Driving Range, Bowling Green, paths and trails,
Scottish Owl Centre, the Courtyard Café and the Bushcraft Shop – plenty to keep you and your
young ones occupied. Whitburn Green Network improvement proposals progressing. Detailed
design and costing of the proposals due to be worked up which will enable planning the
delivery of the project. Wayleave electricity works are being planned for Polkemmet Country
Park. This will involve Scottish Power putting the overhead power lines within the Park
underground which will improve the Park significantly. We are awaiting confirmation from
Scottish Power on start dates and timescales. Parks and Woodland have had discussions with
Scottish Power to avoid school holiday dates to minimise the disruption to visitors. Polkemmet
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
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Country Park maintains its 3 Star Visitor Attraction award by Visitscotland.Golf season tickets
are now on sale and available to purchase from the visitor centre. Prices start from just £105
for a year (including driving range tokens). Please phone 01501 743905 beforehand to check
availability. At the driving range, you can hit 100 balls for the price of 50 between 6pm and 7pm
Monday to Friday. At the golf course, you can play 18 holes for the price of nine before 12noon
Monday to Friday. Tee-off times are 8.30am – 4.15pm. The driving range is open from 10am –
8.30pm weekdays and between 10am and 5pm at the weekend. The last balls can be
purchased 45 minutes before closing. Clubgolf is a fantastic project, aimed at children aged 612yrs, which gets straight to the heart of Scottish golf, creating opportunities and access for
young people. Having already enjoyed phenomenal success, the programme, supported by
numerous partners continues to grow from strength to strength. Polkemmet Clubgolf sessions
are currently running five days a week, and range from stage one for complete beginners, to
the more-advanced on-course Junior Development Programme. Coaching costs £35 per child
for a 12-week block. For further information, or to book a place, contact the visitor centre on
01501 743905 or email [email protected]
Tree and woodlands work - Knowes Colliery - The project organised by Central Scotland
Green Network Trust (CSGNT) to fell the partly windblown area has been completed and the
area replanted.
o Polkemmet - Tree safety work complete
o Almondell - Creation of a new link path from the visitor centre to the North car park
completed. Tree safety work still to be completed
o Beecraigs - Planting is underway to complete the restocking of the last remaining
clear-felled areas. 2 path links have been surfaced with assistance of a grant from
LandTrust
o Tree and Woodland Management and Safety Action Plan - Action Plan and Tree and
Woodland Guidelines prepared and now due to go to PDSP in April.
Ranger Service events and activities - March sees the publication of this year’s Events and
Activities brochure. Look out for it on the website. There’s a variety of walks, talks and of
course the ever popular children’s activity weeks. We’ll be out and about in local parks across
West Lothian too, with our Wild Wednesday events during July and August. There’s something
for everyone to enjoy.The Ranger Service is now taking bookings for school visits for the
summer term and look forward to helping children learn about wildlife, nature and the
environment, in a fun and exciting way. All our activities link into the Curriculum for Excellence
and can be tailored to fit in with class projects. The Volunteer Ranger Service is a dedicated
group of students from Oatridge College who work hard across the district every Friday
completing projects including ecological surveys, path construction and fence building.
The ‘Friends of Beecraigs’ - is a constituted group and work alongside the Ranger Service to
improve the Park and make it a better place for everyone. If you would like to help improve the
environment, your fitness, meet other people or learn more about wildlife and conservation,
why not join the ‘Friends of Beecraigs’? For fuller information, please contact Tracey on 01506
848944 or email [email protected] or check out the ‘Friends of Beecraigs’
Facebook.
The Friends of Almondell - continue with their excellent work across the country park having
now developed a whole programme of works for this year. They meet once a month to carry
out a practical project that makes a real and visible difference to Almondell & Calderwood
Country Park and its visitors. From tree planting to path building and gardening, there’s
something for everyone. Look into the Friends of Almondell Facebook page for further
information and details of past projects. Friends of Almondell next meetings are Saturday 4
March and Saturday 1 April - if you would like to join the group, please contact Kirsty on 01506
882254 or email [email protected]
Friends of Polkemmet Country Park - are keen to help in developing future plans for the park
and to help with conservation and maintenance projects. If you want to get involved please
contact Hannah on 01501 743905 or email: [email protected]
Put Your West Foot Forward
You can take part in any of the Put Your West Foot Forward free walks. Don't worry if
you're not very active at the moment, or are recovering from injury or illness - you will be
able to walk at your own pace and there are always options of shorter walks. All walks are
led by trained walk leaders and last between 30 and 60 minutes. The groups are friendly
and welcoming and will support new walkers to build up their pace and distance. Check
the early March timetable below to choose a walk to come along to. If you have never
been to a walk before, please come along 15 minutes before the start time to have a wee
chat with the walk leaders. For more information or for a paper version of the programme,
please contact [email protected] Fuller details are also available on the individual
ward pages in this edition of Cutting Edge. Walks may be cancelled at short notice if weather conditions
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
make the walk unsafe. Please use common sense before leaving for a walk, and if in any doubt please
call 01506 775626 to find out if the walk is still on.
March
Monday 6
Time
10.15am
Town
Bathgate
Meet
Bathgate Partnership Centre
Walk
Mystery walk
Tuesday 7
10am
Craigshill
Craigsfarm
Canal west
Tuesday 7
10am
Armadale
Armadale Community Centre
Canal towpath west
Wednesday 8
10am
Linlithgow
Tesco
Mystery walk
Wednesday 8
7pm
Livingston South
Livingston South Station
Kirkton Park
Thursday 9
10.15am
Winchburgh
Greengrocer
Howden Riverside
Saturday 11
11am
Winchburgh
Tally Ho car park
Cycle path east
Community information
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Linlithgow Amateur Musical Productions (LAMP) - are holding a coffee morning in St
Michael's Church Hall from 10am - 12noon on Saturday 18 March. Ticket prices are £2.50 for
adults or £1 for children (under 12). A family ticket (two adults and two children) is £5. Tickets
can be purchased in advance from members of LAMP, or at the door on the day.
Friends of Girl Guiding Linlithgow - will be holding their spring coffee morning in Cross
House from 10am - 12noon on Saturday 11 March. All are welcome.
Bathgate West Nursery School - is holding a pies, peas and bingo night in the Royal British
Legion, Bathgate, on Thursday 30 March. Doors open at 6.30pm. Bingo starts at 7.30pm
Tickets, costing £2.50, can be purchased from the nursery. The ticket price includes a Scotch
pie at the interval. There will be lots of great prizes to be won on the night. For fuller information,
please contact the nursery on 01506 652004.
West Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group - next meeting will be held from 7pm on
Thursday 11 May at the West Lothian Ability Centre, Carmondean. The meeting will also
provide an opportunity for recently diagnosed men concerned about treatment choice to have
an informal chat with other men who have already experienced the various treatments and side
effects etc. All those interested are very welcome. For fuller information and advice, contact
David Coutts on 01506 846510.
Military Museum Scotland - The grand opening of the Military Museum Scotland in Wilkieston
takes place on 4 and 5 March.
Young at Heart social afternoon and tea dance – an entertaining afternoon with friends old
and new. Live music and entertainment with Gary Coupland. Takes place at Braid House Day
Centre from 1pm – 3pm on Friday 24 March. Aimed at over 50s, the cost is £2.50.
West Lothian Youth Foundation - is holding another Family Games Night Fundraiser to help
raise funds towards the Walk with the Foundation target It will take place from 7.30pm on Friday
10 March in the new Almondvale Suite at Livingston FC. There will be a number of various
different games and quizzes for both adults and children, with a buffet and disco on the night.
The bar will also be open. Tickets cost £5 per person or £15 for a family ticket, which will cover
two adults and two children To purchase a ticket, phone 01506 417000 and ask for the West
Lothian Youth Foundation or visit the webpage below: www.wlyf.org.uk/contact-us/
A family fun day - at the Church Hall, Church Street, Broxburn, from 1pm - 4pm on Saturday
22 April is to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. There will be something for all ages,
including mini zoo, second-hand children's clothes, toys and books, children's games, craft
stalls and a visit from Blaze the Bear, who is the local Fire and Rescue Service mascot. A
suggested entry donation is £2 per adult and £1 per child.
Pride of West Lothian Awards ceremony - will take place at Livingston Football Club's
Almondvale Suite from 6pm on 5 March. Tickets cost £35, and include a champagne reception
and three-course meal.
Charity quiz night - Pumpherston Bowling Club is holding a charity quiz night for Cancer
Research UK from 7pm on Friday 3 March. Every penny raised on the evening will go to the
charity. Entry is £10 per team, and there will be raffles and nibbles on the night. Teams can turn
up on the night, there is no need to pre-register.
Mid Calder Children's Gala - and Mid Calder Tartan Army are holding a ceilidh night in the
Masonic Lodge from 7pm on Saturday 15 April. The ceilidh will feature Ted Christoper and
friends, plus Robert Robertson and 5 strings. Tickets cost £12.50 and are available from the
Tartan Army or gala committee members or via email at: billetto.co.uk
West Lothian Armed Forces Day - will take place on the evening of Friday 23 June in and
around the West Lothian Civic Centre. Activities include: a parade marching off from St
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Margaret's Academy at 5.45pm, a short Service; and a variety of entertainment performances.
There will also be a number of information stalls and a selection of activities.
Fauldhouse Community Development Trust (FCDT)
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Opening hours - The Hub is open Mondays to Thursdays 9am - 4.45pm and Fridays 9am-3pm
(plus evenings and weekends as required).

Time to Focus Photography Group at The Hub - Timebank is facilitating a new group. If you
are interested in photography or video and like walking then come along and find out more.
Whether it's using the camera on your phone, an instant camera or a digital camera. All ability
levels are welcome. Contact Ann on 01501 773 699 or email: [email protected] or come
along on the day. It's going to be a light-hearted fun course. Tuesdays 1pm - 2.30pm, The Hub,
10 Main Street.
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FABTimebank - Do you have a list of things that you would like done and could do with a
hand? Do you have some time on your hands? Find out more about FABTimebank, a new way
of working together, swapping skills and having some fun. Application forms are available from
The Hub or download or from the website: http://fauldhouse.org.uk/projects/fabtimebank/ For
fuller details, contact Ann Holloway - FABTimebank Development Worker on 01501 773699 or
email: [email protected]

Time to Sing Community Choir at The Bield - A Timebank project. Contact 01501 773699 for
fuller details. 11am-12noon on Tuesdays at The Bield, Blackfaulds Court, Blackfaulds Drive.

Timebank Drop in at The Hub - A weekly drop-in café for Timebank members to meet,
exchange skills and have a tea/coffee and chat at The Hub from 10am – 12noon every second
Monday.

Monday Group at The Hub – meets from 2pm - 4pm every second Monday

Take a Break Craft Group - Do you need to get out of the house for a couple of hours? Would
you like to make some new friends or meet up with old ones? Why not come along to the Hub
every Wednesday afternoon. Open to all, from 1pm - 3pm.

Fauldhouse Footers - leave from The Hub at 10am on Thursdays. Walks around Fauldhouse
that are moderate and suit most abilities. New members to the group always welcome.

My Happiness Project at The Hub - Timebank is facilitating a new course, which will be run by
one of the Timebank members. An introductory session will take place on Wednesday 8 March
from 7pm – 9pm. Regular sessions will be held on the second Thursday of the month from 7pm
– 9pm..

Coffee morning - to raise funds for the Fauldhouse Christmas Tree will take place on
Thursday 30 March from 10.30am – 12.30pm.

Timebank Social at The Hub – takes place from 10.30am – 12.30pm on the last Friday of the
month.
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Blackburn, Seafield and District Credit Union - is available at The Hub from 12noon – 1pm
on Fridays.
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 1 – Linlithgow
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 8am on Tuesday 30 May. Venue: Low Port Centre.
Ageing Well - Contact Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.

Tea Dance - will be held in Linlithgow Burgh Halls from 1.30pm – 4pm on Tuesday 7 March.
The cost is £2.50.
Wedding Fayre - Linlithgow Burgh Halls wedding fayre takes place from 12noon - 4pm on Sunday 21
May. You can get 20 per cent off room hire if booked on the day (Weddings must take place before
December 2018). For fuller information, phone 01506 282720 or email [email protected]
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Come along on Wednesday 15 March at 10am
(9.45am for first-timers) at Tesco for a walk to the west of the canal. For more
information, or for a programme, please contact 01506 775626.
Dementia café - The Caring Café, Linlithgow is a meeting place where people who have
any form of dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for
support and social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and delicious home baking. Carers on
their own are also welcome, as are people with dementia who are able to make their own
way there. Come along for the whole session, or you are welcome to just drop in for as long as you like.
The café runs on the third Wednesday of every month from 10am - 12noon, at Lowport Centre, 1
Blackness Road, Linlithgow. The next meeting is 15 March. For further information, please phone 01506
845137 or email [email protected]
Linlithgow Library – 01506 283880
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World Book Day Treasure Hunt - To celebrate World Book Day, Linlithgow library is holding a
junior treasure hunt of authors and books from around the world on Friday 3 and Saturday 4
March.
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Bookbug sessions - are fun, free and friendly events open to babies, toddlers and their
families to enjoy together. The next sessions take place at 10.15am on Thursdays 16 and 30
March, Tuesdays 7 and 21 March and Saturday 18 March.

Storytime - Stories for pre-school aged children take place from 10.30am every Monday and
Friday during term time.

Linlithgow Readers - book group for adults. Come along and join us for an enjoyable
discussion and sharing of ideas – we’re all very friendly so don’t worry if you’ve never been to a
book group before. The next sessions are from 6pm - 7pm on Tuesday 7 March.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Linlithgow, click on
the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-and-scottish-borders/westlothian/linlithgow/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 2 – Broxburn, Uphall and Winchburgh
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 9am Thursday 15 June. Venue: Council Chambers, Civic Centre.
Weigh2Go West Lothian - is a free, weekly weigh-in service that provides help and support on losing
weight. There is also information and signposting on what's on in your area to help you maintain a
healthy weight. No appointment is necessary just drop in. Sessions take place at Strathbrock Community
Centre on Thursdays from 4pm - 5pm. For more information, contact the Health Improvement Team on
[email protected] or 01506 775626.
Ageing Well - Contact Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.
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Tea Dance - will be held in Uphall Community Centre from 1.30pm – 4pm on Wednesday 5
April. The cost is £2.50.
Let's get moving - The council's Health Improvement Team has organised a number of physical activity
classes, which are open to all. Just turn up to the classes at Strathbrock Partnership Centre on Mondays
and Thursdays from 5.15pm - 6pm. The cost is £2.50 per class, and there's no need to book.
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Come along on Thursday 15 March at 10am
(9.45am for first-timers) at the bus stop opposite the greengrocers for a ‘retracing the
railway’ walk to Kirkliston. Also, a mystery walk leaves from the Tally Ho car park,
Winchburgh, at 11am on Saturday 18 March.
Dementia café - The People's Café, Uphall, is a meeting place where people who have
any form of dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for
support and social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and home baking. The café runs on the
fourth Tuesday of every month from 11am - 1.30pm at St Andrew's Care Home, St Andrew's Court,
Uphall. The next meeting is 28 March.
St Nicholas Primary School - As part of their family learning to promote Health and Well being in
school, at home and in the local community, P7 at St Nicholas Primary School, Broxburn, invite all
parents and carers to a Tobacco Awareness Workshop from 2.30pm – 3pm on Wednesday 8 March.
Pop in for a tea or coffee and let the pupils share their learning with you.
Broxburn Library - 01506 775600
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Bookbug - sessions are from 10.30am - 11am on Tuesdays 14 and 28 March and Wednesdays
15 and 29 March and Saturday 25 March.
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Saturday morning - craft sessions take place from 10am – 12noon every Saturday

Thursday Reading Group - A book group for adults that meet once a month to discuss their
chosen book. All welcome and refreshments provided. The next session is from 5.45pm 6.45pm on Thursday 30 March

Chatterbooks - Children’s reading group for ages 8-11 takes place from 5.15pm – 6.15pm on
Thursday 2 March.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Broxburn, Uphall and
Winchburgh, click on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-andscottish-borders/west-lothian/broxburn-uphall-and-winchburgh/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 3 - Livingston North
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 8.30am Thursday 29 June. Venue: Council Chambers, Civic Centre.
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Come along to the community garden on
Tuesday 14 March at 11.30am (11.15am for first-timers) for a mystery walk. For more
information, or for a programme, please contact 01506 775626.
Dementia café - The Memory Café is a meeting place where people who have any form
of dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support
and social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and cakes. Carers on their own are also
welcome, as are people with dementia who are able to make their own way there. Come
along for the whole session, or you are welcome to just drop in for as long as you like. The café runs on
the third Thursday of every month from 2pm - 4pm at Newyearfield Farm Community Centre, Hawk Brae.
The next meeting is 16 March.
Ogilvie School Campus - A group of pupils from Ogilvie School Campus are looking forward to a return
trip to Braid House Day Centre, where they performed some Scottish Songs that they have been
learning as part of their Scotland topic.
Knightsridge Primary School - daffodil tea takes place from 10am - 12noon on Friday 10 March. All
members of the public are welcome to attend. Any cake donations would be greatly appreciated, and
these can be handed in to the school on the morning of the event.
Ageing Well - Contact Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.
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Singing for Health sessions – will take place at the Ability Centre Support Service,
Carmondean, on Wednesday 15 March. Refreshments, tea and coffee and social time is from
2.30pm -3pm followed by the sing-a-long from 3pm – 4pm. The cost per session is £1.20.
Carmondean Connected - 01506 777602
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Bookbug - sessions are fun, free and friendly events open to babies, toddlers and their
families to enjoy together. Each session lasts around 30 minutes and includes songs, stories
and rhymes. The sessions are a great opportunity to spend quality time with your child and
there is no need to book. The next session is from 10.30am on Thursday 23 March.

Reading Group - This group meets on the first Wednesday of the month to discuss their
chosen novel. The next session is from 2.30pm on Wednesday 5 April.

Storytime Sessions - For pre-school children take place from 2.15pm – 2.45pm every Friday
afternoon.
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IT Buddy - If you need some help with using a computer, the IT Buddy is available from
1.30pm – 3.30pm on Friday afternoons.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Livingston North, click
on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-and-scottishborders/west-lothian/livingston-north/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 4 - Livingston South
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 9am on Friday 3 March. Venue: Council Chambers, Civic Centre.
Ageing Well

Tea Dance - will be held in Howden Park Centre from 1.30pm – 4pm on Friday 17 March. The
cost is £2.50. For more information, contact Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.

A Ballroom and Latin dance class - for beginners meets at Howden Park Centre every
Wednesday. Registration is at 3.15pm, and the class takes place from 3.30pm - 4.30pm. The
cost is £3.50 per person, and there is no need to book. All sessions are suitable for the over 50s
and there is no need to have a partner. For fuller information, contact Avril on 01506 237950 or
07768 090 008.
Dementia café - The Café Connect Extra Café, Dedridge, is a meeting place where people who have
any form of dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support and
social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and home baking. Carers on their own are also welcome, as are
people with dementia who are able to make their own way there. Come along for the whole session, or
just drop in for as long as you like. The café runs on the first Wednesday of every month from 2pm 3.30pm at Dedridge Baptist Church, Quentin Rise. The next meeting is on Wednesday 5 March.
Inveralmond Community High School - spring fayre takes place from 11am - 1.30pm on Saturday 11
March. Stalls are available for £10. For information about taking a stall, phone 01506 438093 or email
[email protected]

The school is holding a Ladywell Regeneration event on Friday 17 March from 10am - 12noon.
The aim is to bring residents together to work for the betterment of Ladywell.

The school is holding a Health and Wellbeing evening on Wednesday 15 March from 6pm 7.30pm.
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Come along to Livingston South railway station
at 7pm on Wednesday 15 March (6.45pm for first-timers) for a mystery walk. For more
information, contact the Health Improvement Team on [email protected] or 01506
775626.
Lanthorn Library - 01506 777700.
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Mother’s Day Activity - Make your lovely mum a card and gift for Mothers Day.
From 10am – 12noon on Saturday 25 March.

Bookbug sessions – take place from 2pm on Thursday 23 March.

Blether and a Book - is an informal book group for book lovers. All welcome for a cuppa and
a chat. The next session takes place from 5.45pm on Thursday 30 March.
Storytime and Craft - Five minutes Peace/Peace at Last takes place at 2pm on Friday 17
March.
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Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Livingston South,
click on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-and-scottishborders/west-lothian/livingston-south/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 5 – East Livingston and East Calder
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 10am on Thursday 22 June. Venue: Council Chambers.
Dementia café - Forget-me-not Café, East Calder, is a meeting place where people who have any form
of dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support and social
contact, a cup of tea or coffee and cakes on the last Thursday of every month, from 10am - 12noon, at
East Calder Parish Church Hall, Main Street, East Calder. The next meeting is on 30 March.
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Come along to The Mall, Craigshill, at 10am
(9.45am for first-timers) on Tuesday 14 March for a walk to Pumpherston. For more
information, [email protected] or 01506 775626
Ageing Well - Singing for Health taster sessions for people aged 50 and over will be held
in the Good Neighbourhood Centre, Craigshill, from 10.30am – 12noon on Wednesdays
8, 15, 22 and 29 March. The first half-an-hour is tea, coffee and chat, followed by singing
from 11am. The cost per session is £1.20. For more information, contact Avril on 07768
090.
East Calder Library - 01506 883633

School visit - A group of local schoolchildren will be visiting the library on Friday 3 March to
celebrate World Book Day.

Book Group for adults – next meets from 5.45pm – 6.45pm on Thursdays 16 and 23 March.

Design an Easter egg – Aimed at junior members of the library, this event takes place from
2pm – 4pm on Friday 31 March.

Bookbug - The next sessions are from 10.30am – 11am on Mondays 6 and 18 March.
Almondbank Library - 01506 283133

Crime-Reading Group for adults - A new crime-reading group for adults meets for the first
time from 3pm on Wednesday 29 March. All welcome.

Almondbank Kid’s Book Group – is a children’s book group meeting in Almondbank Library
on a Thursday after school. Reading and activities for ages 8 - 11. Spaces are available. The
next sessions are from 3.30pm – 4.30pm on Thursdays 16 and 30 March.

Reading Group for adults – meets on the last Thursday of the month for an enjoyable
discussion and sharing of ideas. The next session is from 5.30pm – 6.30pm on 30 March.

Almondbank Sora/Graphic Novel Group - If you’re into comics (whether reading, writing or
drawing), then come along and meet some like-minded people. New members welcome. The
next session is from 4.30pm - 6pm on Thursday 30 March.
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Bookbug - The next sessions are from 2pm - 2.30pm on Tuesdays 7 and 21 March.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in East Livingston and
East Calder, click on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-andscottish-borders/west-lothian/east-livingston-and-east-calder/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 6 - Fauldhouse and the Breich Valley
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 8.30am on Tuesday 30 May. Venue: Council Chambers, Civic Centre.
Dementia Café - The Sunlight Café Fauldhouse is a meeting place where people who have any form of
dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support and social contact,
a cup of tea or coffee and cakes. Carers on their own are also welcome, as are people with dementia
who are able to make their own way there. Come along for the whole session, or you are welcome to
just drop in for as long as you like. The café runs on the second Thursday of every month from 1.30pm
– 3pm at Fauldhouse Partnership Centre. The next meeting is on 9 March.

The Café is holding a special ABBA afternoon of music, singing and reminiscence at the
meeting on 9 March – do come along and re-live those memories and sing the songs.
3G pitch - Bookings are now being taken for the 3G pitch at Fauldhouse Partnership Centre. Registered
youth groups can block book a third of the pitch for £12.50 per hour, full pitch £25 per hour and full pitch
for matches £37.50. Enquires should be emailed to [email protected] or phone 01501 773000.
Fauldhouse Library - 01501 773000

Health Week - Local school children have been invited to visit the library and take part in
healthy eating activities on Wednesday 29 March. Older children will also get the chance to
play library lingo.

Reading Group - The group meet on the second Tuesday of the month to discuss their chosen
novel. All welcome. The next meeting is from 6.30pm – 7.30pm on Tuesday 14 March.

Bookbugs - sessions take place from 10.30am – 11am every Thursday.

Friday Club - Stories and activities from 2pm – 3pm every Friday afternoon for children aged 5
- 7 years. Limited places available, please speak to library staff.

Busy Bees - Learn how to makes cards, jewellery, cross stitch and other crafts. Every Friday
afternoon from 3pm – 4pm for children aged 8 - 12 years. Limited places available, please
speak to library staff.
West Calder Library - 01506 771630

Author Visit - Scottish author William McIntyre will visit the library from 5.45pm on Tuesday 7
March.

The Lego club - will meet from 10am – 1pm on Saturday 25 March. If you are aged between
six and eight years old, and enjoy building things with Lego then come along and join in.

Bookbugs – take place at West Calder Community Centre from 10.30am on Thursday 23
March. Each session lasts around 30 minutes and includes songs, stories and rhymes.

Tuesday Book Group - meets on the first Tuesday of the month and all are welcome. The
next session is from 6pm on Tuesday 7 March.

Thursday Book Group - meets on the last Thursday of the month at 4.45pm and all are
welcome. The next session is from 4.45pm on Thursday 30 March.

Rowdy Readers - meets on the second Tuesday of the month and all are welcome. The next
session is from 6pm on Tuesday 14 March.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Fauldhouse and the
Breich Valley, click on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-andscottish-borders/west-lothian/fauldhouse-and-the-breich-valley/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 7 - Whitburn and Blackburn
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 10am on Monday 20 March. Venue: East Whitburn Community
Centre.
Dementia café - Answer House Dementia Café, Whitburn is a meeting place where people who have
any form of dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support and
social contact, a cup of tea or coffee and cakes. The café runs on the second Tuesday every month
from 2pm - 3.15pm at Answer House, Reveston Lane, Whitburn. The next meeting is on 14 March.
Weigh2Go West Lothian - is a free, weekly weigh-in service that provides help and support on losing
weight. There is also information and signposting on what's on in your area to help you maintain a
healthy weight. No appointment is necessary just drop in. Sessions take place at Whitburn Community
Centre on Mondays from 5pm - 6pm. For information, contact the Health Improvement Team on 01506
775626 or email [email protected]
Ageing Well

Tea Dance - will be held in Whitburn Bowling Club from 1.30pm – 4pm on Mondays 6 and 20
March. The cost is £2.50. For details, contact Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.

Singing for Health sessions – will take place at Whitburn Bowling Club on Thursdays 9 and
23 March. Refreshments, tea and coffee and social time is from 1pm-1.30pm followed by the
sing-a-long from 1.30pm-2.30pm. The cost per session is £1.20. For fuller information, contact
Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.
Whitburn Library - 01501 678050

Bookbug - sessions are fun, free and friendly events open to babies, toddlers and their families
to enjoy together. The next sessions take place from 10.15am on Thursdays 9 and 23 March.
Blackburn Connected - 01506 776500

Free computer taster sessions -These are timetabled to meet individual’s needs and last for one
hour. The sessions are ideal for people who have no computer experience and cover the areas of
word processing, using the internet and using e-mail. For details, contact the library on 01506
776500 or ask library staff.

Bookbug - sessions are fun, free and friendly events open to babies, toddlers and their families to
enjoy together. Each session lasts around 30 minutes and includes songs, stories and rhymes. The
sessions are a great opportunity to spend quality time with your child and there is no need to book.
The next sessions are from 10.30am on Tuesdays 14 and 28 March.

Lego club - Come along and use your imagination to create Lego masterpieces. Sessions take
place every Friday from 2.30pm - 3.30pm.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Whitburn and
Blackburn, click on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-andscottish-borders/west-lothian/whitburn-and-blackburn/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 8 - Bathgate
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 10am on Monday 13 March. Venue: Bathgate Partnership Centre.
Ageing Well - Contact Avril on 07768 090 008 or 01506 237950.

Singing for Health sessions – will take place at Boghall Community Wing on Thursday 16
March. Refreshments, tea and coffee and social time is from 1pm -1.30pm followed by the singa-long from 1.30pm - 2.30pm. The cost per session is £1.20.
Dementia Café - Bathgate Memory Café is a meeting place where people who have any form of
dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support and social contact,
a cup of tea or coffee and cakes. Carers on their own are also welcome, as are people with dementia
who are able to make their own way there. The café runs on the first Monday of every month from
1.30pm - 3.30pm at Rosemount Gardens, Mid Street, Bathgate. The next meeting is on 6 March.
Balbardie Primary School Parent Council - is holding a Ladies Night Out on Friday 3 March from 7pm
in Glenmavis Bowling Club to raise funds to refurbish the school playground. Tickets cost £10, which
includes a drink on arrival, canapés and entertainment.
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Come along to the former library, Hopetoun
Street, on Monday 13 March at 10.15am (10am for first-timers) for a walk to Glenmavis.
Rosemount Gardens - An arts and crafts group has now started at Rosemount Gardens,
Mid Street, Bathgate, from 2pm - 3.30pm on Wednesdays. The cost is £1.20 per person,
and sessions will take place weekly. For more information, contact Avril on 07768 090
008 or 01506 237950.
Weigh2Go West Lothian - is a free, weekly weigh-in service that provides help and support on losing
weight. There is also information and signposting on what's on in your area to help you maintain a
healthy weight No appointment is necessary just drop in. Sessions take place at Bathgate Partnership
Centre on Wednesdays from 6pm - 7pm. For more information, contact the Health Improvement Team
on 01506 775626 or email [email protected]
Bathgate Library - 01506 282910

Bookbug - sessions are fun, free and friendly events open to babies, toddlers and their families
to enjoy together. Each session lasts around 30 minutes and includes songs, stories and
rhymes. The next sessions are from 10am – 10.30am on Friday 3 March and 2pm – 2.30pm on
Tuesday 21 March. Bookbugs will also be out and about, at Boghall Community Wing, from
10am – 10.30am on Monday 6 March.

Bathgate Reading Group - is held on the second Tuesday of every month. Come along and
join us for an enjoyable discussion and sharing of ideas – a friendly group, so don’t worry if
you’ve never been to a book group before. The next session is from 6pm on Tuesday 14 March.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Bathgate, click on the
following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-and-scottish-borders/westlothian/bathgate/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017
Ward 9 - Armadale and Blackridge
Local Area Committees (LAC) – 10am on Friday 16 June. Venue: Council Chambers, Civic Centre.
Dementia café - Memory Cave Café, Armadale is a meeting place where people who have any form of
dementia, and their carers, can come to meet others in a similar situation for support and social contact,
a cup of tea or coffee and home baking. Carers on their own are also welcome, as are people with
dementia who are able to make their own way there. Come along for the whole session, or you are
welcome to just drop in for as long as you like. The café meets on the third Friday of every month from
10am - 12noon at Armadale Community Centre, North Street. The next meeting is on 17 March.
Put Your West Foot Forward: Join us on our free walks to meet new friends, discover
new walks in your area and improve your fitness. Our walks are led by trained walk
leaders and last between 30-60 minutes. Meet at Armadale Community Centre at 10am
on Tuesday 14 March for a town walk west. For more information, contact the Health
Improvement Team on 01506 775626 or email [email protected]




Armadale Library - 01506 282282

National Women’s Day - There will be a display in the library celebrating
National Women’s Day on Wednesday 8 March.
Bookbug - sessions are fun, free and friendly events. The next session is from 10.30am on
Monday 20 March.
School visit – P3 schoolchildren will visit the library from 2pm – 3pm on Tuesday 7 March.
There will also be a further visit on Tuesday 28 March.
Storytime - For 3-5 year olds takes place from 2.15pm - 2.45pm every Thursday.
Crafts - Come along to our craft desk and be creative from 2pm - 3pm every Friday afternoon.
Family History Workshop – will take place from 10am – 12.30pm on Saturday 11 March. Organised by
the Local History Library, this joint event is run by The West Lothian Family History Society and is part of
the year of History, Heritage and Archaeology 2017. The Family History Society asks anyone coming
along, to bring as much information as they can to help start their search. This is a free service provided
by the society.
Armadale Academy

Fashion show - Armadale Academy is hosting a fashion show with pop-up shop on Thursday
27 April at 6pm. Tickets cost £4. To book your tickets, or for more information, please contact
[email protected] or phone 01506 282145.

Spring concert - Armadale Academy students will be performing their Music Spring Concert on
Thursday 30 March at 7pm.. Tickets cost £4 and £2.50 for concessions. To book tickets
please contact [email protected] or phone 01506 282145

Drama - Armadale Academy will be performing 'Little Shop of Horrors' on Wednesday 28 and
Thursday 29 June at Armadale Academy. To promote the event, members of the cast will be
performing mini acts at Tesco in Bathgate on Saturday 11 March and Saturday 17 June.
Community police – for information about contacting community police officers in Armadale and
Blackridge, click on the following link: http://www.scotland.police.uk/your-community/the-lothians-andscottish-borders/west-lothian/armadale-and-blackridge/
WLC/Corpcomms/Cuttingedge/March 2017